Employee of the Month

by Gone For Now

Rating: everyone
Tags: Comedy, Slice of Life
Length: 55741

Nightmare Moon has returned! But, wait; she's working as a cashier at a fast food establishment? What?.....

Nightmare Moon tries to rebuild her life working at a fast food establishment famous for making abnormally unhealthy but delicious muffins, home to the Mcmuffin! But despite her good intentions and lack of ill will, it seems many past acquaintances are reluctant to give her a second chance. No matter, she's moved on from the lot of them anyway, the question is, will they be able to move on from her? At this point, it looks like a few restraining orders will have to be, in order.

((For those interested; here is also the credit to the beautiful Cover-Art))

Published 1970-01-01 00:00:00 UTC
Last updated 2015-08-09 00:41:15 UTC

Chapter 1: Choose to Stray, or Choose to Play.

Nightmare Moon appeared as if she were a husk as she just stared at one of the ovens in the back of the restaurant. She had deep bags underlining her eyes as she wore a satisfied smile while she just continued to watch over the baking muffins. And as she stood there like a zombie preparing this new batch, she didn't even notice the door to the restaurant had creaked open.

"W-WHAT IS THIS!?"

Nightmare Moon glanced over to see having entered would be Lightning Dust, already in uniform as she glanced around the back kitchen. There were piles of muffins stacked atop one another, with icing and other ingredients mixed in all forms.

Lightning Dust wore an expression of absolute horror, as she just looked at Nightmare Moon in shock. "Nightmare Moon, what, what is-"

Nightmare Moon smirked, as she pulled out another batch of muffins. "Ah welcome co-worker! While you all went home to recharge your mortal batteries, I have come up with a plan to defeat the enemy! We shall, bake before they wake, as I like to say! I have prepared dozens of muffins! With this there is no way we can fail! SOON, every other fast food enterprise will tremble in fear at the might of the Mcmuffin! And all who stand before us will either join us, or be crushed beneath our splendid business practices! Uhohohohoho!"

Lightning Dust fluttered on over to her in a panic. "No! No no no no no no no Nightmare! You can't do this!"

Nightmare Moon gasped. "And why not!? You dare question my assault strategy!? I'll have you know that despite being-"

But Lightning Dust just groaned as she swiped both hooves. "NO! Enough! You were supposed to go home after your shift yesterday!" She looked to Nightmare Moon in desperation, attempting to understand. "D-Did you stay here all night and just bake? Are you serious!?"

Nightmare Moon gave Lightning Dust a cold stare. "Those whom are dedicated to the battle, will overcome any obstacle to succeed."

Lightning Dust just paced heavily, as she just started scooping up muffins. "W-We gotta get rid of these before the others get here!"

Nightmare Moon frowned heavily. "And destroy our only means of taking the fight to the enemy!?" Her face darkened, "I cannot allow you to do this my supposed comrade. We are at the pinnacle of victory, yet you would take this away? It is unacceptable!"

Lightning Dust shook her head, both hooves stuffed with numerous muffins as she struggled to hold them all. "W-Will you stop playing around and help me!? Seriously Nightmare! We have to get rid of all these wasted muffins before any of our bosses see!"

Nightmare Moon's eyes saddened as she lowered her head and her horn started to glow. "Forgive me, I will do what I must."

Lightning Dust smiled with relief while holding the muffins. "G-Good, finally, I knew you had some sense to you."

Nightmare Moon took hold of the pegasi with telekinetic magic, before throwing her against another pile of muffins towards the back of the kitchen, causing even more to topple over her. "Yes, and it is that sense which will determine the victor on this day."

Lightning Dust emerged from the pile, covered in crumbs, icing, and sprinkles. She glared at the alicorn as her brow twitched and she commented in a cold tone, now beyond her level of patience. "That's,...it, RAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!" She charged the alicorn head on.

Nightmare Moon dodged her with ease before smirking. "Ah! Perhaps why you wish defeat is that you work for another organization? Whom may I ask? The Cookie King? Mendy's?" She stood defiantly before the pegasi as she continued to smile with satisfaction.

Lightning Dust snarled at her angrily, "You're just a crazy alicorn! Probably the biggest whack job in history!"

Nightmare Moon scoffed. "HAH! Yet history is written by the victor! Sassy words from the mouth of a traitor!"

And soon entering the restaurant would be Raindrops, accompanied by an older mare. They each wore smiles, conversing as they made their way inside casually. But as soon as they entered, they each paused, their eyes widening at the sight of muffins flying like bullets back and forth across the kitchen, accompanied by the spraying of icing as if it were no more than party confetti.

Raindrops glanced over at the mare before chuckling heartily. "Eheh, um, I'll head on over to clean some of the tables Ma'am!"

The older mare just sighed as she shook her head.

Nightmare Moon and Lightning Dust stood before the older mare minutes later. Both still a sugary mess as they each had a look of shame written upon their faces. They remained silent, awaiting the punishment which they each felt was lying in store.

The mare sighed heavily as she glanced back and forth between the two, then focused particularly on Nightmare Moon. "Now, Nightmare Moon, I'll let you off this time since you're still new. But, we can't have you doing double-shifts at your leisure. We also can't have you wasting muffins alright? We need to save them for the actual orders, that's a lot of muffins that can go to stale in the mean time."

Nightmare Moon bowed her head, "I understand Mistress. My Co-worker was correct, I was foolish."

The older mare sighed as she did a shooing gesture. "It's fine it's fine. Just don't let it happen again alright?"

Nightmare Moon nodded before wearing a look of pure determination. "Yes, of course! Mistress, at your command, I wish to return to the field of battle. I fear that the one known as Raindrops, might be combating the forces of the food industry as we speak!"

The older mare nodded as she shooed Nightmare Moon away again. "Sure thing. Just don't go causing anymore trouble."

Nightmare Moon faded away into a black mist, bowing her head one last time before disappearing. "As you wish."

Lightning Dust remained standing before the desk silently, before she sighed heavily.

The older mare now focused on Lightning Dust. "Give her some time Lightning Dust, she's obviously a little, different."

Lightning Dust raised a brow at the mare. "Where did you guys even find her? That alicorn doesn't seem right in the head at all."

The older mare smiled a bit. "To be honest, she came to us. But I to have wondered where she came from sometimes. But," she paused, taking a moment to think to herself before continuing, "I have a feeling all those answers will come shortly."

Lightning Dust scratched at the back of her mane. "Well, as long as you guys are cool with the way she acts then I guess I see no problem."

The mare nodded. "Yes, just watch over her for the time being. I'm sure she'll get the hang of it soon enough."

Lightning Dust nodded, "Sure thing. I'll just continue trying to teach her the ropes then." With that Lightning Dust decided to take her leave of the older mare as she just left the office room, ensuring to shut the door behind her on the way out.

The older mare then opened the drawer, taking out a couple sheets of paper regarding Nightmare Night's recent history. "Hm...."

Lightning Dust groaned as she made her way down the hall, back to the main lobby of the restaurant. "Well, back to wo-" but she paused, as she took notice of the fact that the whole restaurant was packed full of media ponies whom rushed the front counter.

"MS.NIGHTMARE MOON! WHAT HAS YOU WORKING AS AN EMPLOYEE AT MCMUFFIN'S!?"

"MS.NIGHTMARE MOON! DO YOU STILL PLAN TO PLUNGE EQUESTRIA INTO A STATE OF EVERLASTING DARKNESS!?"

"MS.MOON! WHAT'RE YOUR PLANS FOR THE THRONE OF EQUESTRIA!? WHAT OF PRINCESS LUNA!?"

"MS.NIGHTMARE MOON!" "MS.MOON!" "MS.MOON!" "MS.NIGHTMARE MOON!"

There was a constant barrage of questions, all relating to the mare of the hour, Nightmare Moon.

Nightmare Moon had her eyes closed as she smiled nervously before raising a hoof. "One answer, per order." She smirked.

And soon enough, all the news ponies began to pull out numerous bits, attempting to order as fast as they could.

One of them stated hastily. "I'LL TAKE A MCDOUBLE!"

Another one, a mare in particular shouted out. "I'LL TAKE TWENTY OF EM!!!"

There was a plastered grin spread from cheek to cheek on Nightmare's face as she snickered. "Heh."

While Lightning Dust just continued to stare at her in question. Wow, that's actually pretty, *conniving***. But she concentrated at the task at hoof, and saw that Nightmare Moon was actually getting them quite a lot of business. So she made her way to the back kitchen as she immediately assisted Raindrops whom was fluttering about, putting icing on muffins while placing new batches in the ovens. Lightining Dust immediately stopped beside her, tying on an apron in the process. "What's the situation Rainy!? Full report! Status!"

Raindrops immediately saluted Lightning Dust before nodding. "Yes Lightning! Um, we got nearly 20 orders so far!"

Lightning Dust's eyes widened as her jaw dropped. "2-20!?....In how long!?"

Raindrops appeared to be in a slight panic as she looked over all the reciepts. "A-About 3 minutes!"

Lightning Dust cringed as she now appeared panicked as well. 2-20 orders in the span of 3 minutes!? She gritted her teeth in desperation as she looked back hurriedly towards Nightmare Moon in distress. "N-Nightmare! We don't have enough horsepower to complete these orders in a sufficient amount of time to reach the ideal standards of customer service! WE have to pull back! Tone it down a little!"

Nightmare Moon smirked as she glanced back at Lightning Dust in absolute confidence. "Hah..."

Lightning Dust's pupils dilated. W-What's she planning!?

And in an instant, Nightmare Moon let off in a roar of satisfaction,"BEHOLD!" As suddenly manifesting in the kitchen would be shadow ponies in flight suits, as they bared no mind and paid no attention to Lightning Dust and Raindrops, before just assisting with putting cupcakes into the ovens and icing and sprinkles over numerous others, while one was putting sugar buns over muffins in the form of sandwiches. "Ahahahaha! Do you all see now!?" She pointed a hoof at the media ponies who watched in awe. "DO YOU SEE NOW GOSSIP PONIES!? THIS IS THE WALL OF DESPAIR THAT ALL FAST FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS MUST NOW TOPPLE! WHO WOULD BE SO FOOLISH TO STAND AGAINST US!?" She burst into a series of maniacal cackles at the cash registers before she suddenly coughed into her hoof, and then put on a gentle smile. "N-Now um, dearest customers, may I take the next order?"

The media ponies then burst once more into a series of questions followed by cheers of amazement.

Lightning Dust just watched Nightmare Moon in surprise as she soon bore another smile. Hah...

Raindrops glanced around the kitchen to see the shadow ponies still hard at work, as even telekinetic magic supported them in their efforts to cook, hastily speeding up the process. She chuckled a bit, "W-Wow. She's so cool? This is so amazing, isn't it Lightning Dust?"

Lightning Dust crossed her hooves in worry. "Yea, it is. Maybe it's a little too amazing."

Raindrops raised a brow at her. "What do you mean Lightning Dust?" She was skeptical.

Lightning Dust sighed as she closed her eyes halfway, glancing out the restaurant across the street at Cookie King's. "Not really a bad thing I would say. I guess, being amazing just so happens to draw a lot of attention. Sometimes, more unwanted than most."

And meanwhile, at Cookie King's, the restaurant was absent of all service. But standing at the window would be two ponies whom peered across the street with interest. However, one's eyes saddened as she turned with frustration. "Ugh! Really? How the heck did they manage to get an alicorn working for them!? That's just not fair business practice! Everypony knows Cookie King's is far superior! This is just foul play!" The mare bore a light green coat, more along the lines of turquoise, as her mane was a pale blue with streaks of white.

And with a sudden hoof raise from the second mare, the atmosphere of the restaurant changed entirely. Many of the other workers of Cookie King's just focused on that mare with silence and absolute attention, as it was obvious to them this meant she was about to speak. She bore a gray coat and long elegant black mane, with eyes as cold as ice. It was often those whom met her were bested by intimidation, but there was also a sense of class to this mare, frightening status that many did not possess. "What's the alicorn's name? Does anypony know?"

The turquoise mare nodded. "They're saying it's Nightmare Moon. I don't think it's smart to mess with her though."

The gray mare nodded. "Yea, I would assume the same. And we can't hope to inform the princesses, that'll only bring them more business and attention faster. So that only leaves us with only one logical alternative I'd say." She closed her eyes in silence.

All the workers focused on her with interest.

The gray mare opened her eyes with determination. "We'll toss her a deal." She paused and turned with a hoof swipe, purple eyes locked on each and every one of her fellow co-workers. "And should she choose to deny us, we'll simply show her that even without alicorn magic, there are other forms of entertainment, only pure, heart-driven talent can possibly produce." She adjusted her Cookie King hat.

Soon the restuarant burst into cheers.

"OCTAVIA!" "OCTAVIA!" "OCTAVIA!" OCTAVIA!" OCTAVIA!" OCTAVIA!"

And with the cheers, soon followed a pleased smirk upon the gray mare's face. "Hmhm..."

Nightmare Moon soon ported back to the kitchen as she had a look of intense concentration. "Status comrades!?"

Lightning Dust snapped at Nightmare Moon as she was dirty from head to hoof, covered in different assortments of icing. "STATUS!? You took over 100 orders! I lost count of all the darn muffins we have to make! Just toss the receipts in the trash after you finish each one!"

And soon, all the ingredients became outlined in a black magical aura as Nightmare Moon squinted, concentrating fully on using her magic to multi-task a multitude of muffins all at once. She let off a mighty roar as with high enthusiasm and spirit, she began her relentless onslaught of knocking out order after order! And with such precision, she was making absolutely amazing progress, almost as if her brain had gone in a state of overdrive and such actions had become second nature to her. Knives dipped themselves in icing, smoothly gliding across the surface of muffins, while bottles of dressing poured over numerous bowls of salads. "WE WILL NOT FALTER HERE!"

Raindrops appeared horribly inspired as she did a hoof pump. "RIGHT!"

Lightning Dust groaned in Raindrop's direction. "Don't indulge her you dolt!" But as Lighting Dust observed the alicorn at work, she to eventually felt as if she were becoming overwhelmed with inspiration, and she hated the idea. She just sighed again before beginning to help, using her speed and maneuvering abilities as a pegasi to glide through the kitchen, cleaning and replacing utensils, all the while, while tossing batches of new muffins into the ovens. She moved with grace and mastery, showing that she to had mastered this place.

And Raindrops continued to move as quick as she could around the back, calling out orders to ponies whose food was ready. Despite not being as powerful as Nightmare Moon, or swift as Lightning Dust, she would contribute the best way she was able.

While Nightmare Moon only continued to roar in the back kitchen, feeling as if it actually gave her more and more motivation.

Mcmuffin's was her new beginning, her redemption, and she would not let it topple so easily. This was the world she built.

And soon enough, hours passed, after what felt like another banishment sentence, the work day had finally come to an end. For Nightmare Moon, she was beyond satisfied. The three hadn't even noticed that the sun had already gone down ages ago, as they cleaned up the restaurant in the later hours. Nightmare Moon however, due to her hard work, Lightning and Raindrops felt her shift should, end early. She hung her uniform on a rack in the back, before poofing over towards the front entrance. The mare had slight bags beneath her eyes as she stated with a hoof raise. "Ah yes! See allies! This is what we can accomplish! TOGETHER! We are outstanding workers!"

Lightning Dust just shook her head with a soft smirk. "It's not like all that business is gonna suddenly raise your paycheck you know."

Nightmare Moon scoffed, "Hah! Suddenly? Perhaps not. Eventually? Most certainly." She glanced back at the two with a determined look and reaffirming smile. "With time, we will rise and take the throne of the fast food industry, we will rebuild this world from top to bottom." She looked up with a heartfelt expression. "Ah, to build yourself from nothing. The idea is actually quite, refreshing, if I do say so myself."

Lightning Dust just shook her head and shooed the alicorn away. "Go home already, get some sleep." She pointed at Nightmare Moon stubbornly with a groan, "And don't go coming here again and starting to bake without permission! SLEEP THE WHOLE TIME!"

Raindrops waved at Nightmare Moon. "Byyyyyyyyye Nightmaaaare!"

Nightmare Moon winked at her co-workers. "Hah! It seems even we alicorns must assure we get enough rest to be in the right mindset." With that, Nightmare Moon tossed a wave before casually making her way out of the restaurant, shutting the door behind her with telekinetic magic. Thankfully, all the reporters were now absent as well by this time of the day, although she assumed she'd have a few stalkers. And despite not worrying for the time being, she knew those questions she answered, would come back to bite her eventually.

Lightning Dust just shook her head, as she continued to mop around the floor. "Yeesh!"

Nightmare Moon took admiration in the city streets as she walked. Being on the border of Manehattan, she realized that this was her first time ever strolling openly in the land of Equestria at night, at peace. She smiled to herself, bathed in the light of the moon as the sight of the glowing white sphere managed to bring a look of slight discern to her, she frowned, keeping private thoughts to herself. "Lu-"

"So, you believe that with just a couple of powerful spells you'll win over this city?"

Nightmare Moon's eyes snapped wide as she immediately glanced back, as standing in the middle of the barren streets would be a lone figure. This figure had a large case by her side as her black mane coursed with the wind, and most disturbingly, a Cookie King uniform hat.

Nightmare Moon then glared at this lone individual. "Hah, so you're a worker at Cookie King's...."

The mare tipped her hat towards Nightmare Moon. "The one and only greatest fast food enterprise in the city, I must admit."

Nightmare Moon cocked her head back as she smirked. "Your dialect, it is elegant, you are not a mere commoner are you?"

The mare then took off her hat, as she stood up straight with a sudden gust of wind. "Does it matter?......"

Nightmare Moon appeared amused. "I think it does......"

They took a moment to just stare at one another in the street, only accompanied by the sounds of coursing winds.

The mare soon spoke however. "What do you believe you're accomplishing with what you did today? Did you think that flashing your magic around and the mere fact you're an alicorn would assure you rise up in the social status of the food enterprise?"

Nightmare Moon chuckled, "You speak as if this weren't expected."

The mare sighed. "I'll give you one warning alicorn, you can join us at Cookie King's, or perish at Mcmuffin's, the choice is yours. You are but a young pony in my eyes when it comes to the knowledge of the citizens and the ponies of the social structure, you are naive."

Nightmare Moon cackled, "HAH! Hahahaha! You think I would give in to such a threat!? Cookie King's dough is sub-par!"

The mare gasped before stomping a hoof. "Y-You take that back! I grew up on Cookie King's!"

Nightmare Moon cocked a brow at the mare. "You grew up on such filth!? It is no wonder you fear the rise of Mcmuffin's! It is only natu-"

Before the mare suddenly pulled out a cello, bathed in the moonlight. She glared at Nightmare Moon before raising her bow, slowing adjusting it to hover over the strings of the instrument. "You believe you know of status alicorn? You are no more than a filly in the face of a juggernaut, your measly forms of entertainment pale in comparison to the practices we have over at Cookie King's."

Nightmare Moon took a step back, as she flinched. W-What is this feeling?

The mare tilted her head back, with a cold stare. "Allow me to give you a taste of true power." Before suddenly running her bow and hoof over the strings, coursing them majestically, as her actions were followed by a sound which could only be described as heavenly. A gorgeous melody rung throughout the city streets, spreading from building to building, a soothing angelic tune which rolled on and on, riding with the very wind itself as many citizens began opening their windows just to hear it, caught in the trance of the amazing cello player below. Her talents were beyond comparison, and her skill undeniable, as she only continued to play on a whim.

Nightmare Moon trembled, as she couldn't believe what she was hearing. T-This was impossible! S-Such beauty! Here in the city!? Surely Cookie King's did not have such a cello player available to them on a whim!? She couldn't wrap her mind around it! This brought the mare to her lower frame, bowing her head in disbelief, still in shock at the magnificence of such a gorgeous song.

The cello mare soon tucked away her instrument as she sighed heavily, before trotting casually over towards Nightmare Moon. "I'm glad you see what you're up against. It tells me that you're smarter than you act." She smirked, "Cookie King's double Chocolate Chipper is far superior to the Strawberry Mcdouble. Do you believe that I would work there as my primary profession? Oh no no, I work there to show the world that only Cookie King's is worthy of having such serenity at all times. Of course, you are welcome there anytime as well, alicorn."

Nightmare Moon still trembled as she glared up at the mare. "Y-You fiend. The Mcdouble is far superior, you just never gave it a chance."

The cello mare just stared at Nightmare Moon for a moment more before peering on ahead. "Hah, fools and their muffins." She continued trotting on before calling out to Nightmare Moon. "Should you ever choose to make the sane choice, I suggest filling out an application and finding me to give you a personal recommendation. Should you decline." She glanced back, "I will not hesitate to destroy Mcmuffin's."

Nightmare Moon's look of intense rage intensified further as she slammed her hoof on the ground. "GRAH!" S-Such beautiful music! How could Cookie King's have such a cello player present!? It was absurd! Such attractive melodies could start its own concert if it wanted to let alone draw in customers for business! So this was the power of the Equestrian civil society. She trembled, still unsure if she had what it took in order to rise and outcook such monstrous foes. Nightmare Moon focused on ahead as she saw that even after the mare had departed, ponies were tossing bits in the area where she once stood. She frowned heavily. So this was the power of Cookie King's.

Chapter 2: We're Gonna Need More Horses (Fixed)

Lightning Dust just scowled at Nightmare Moon, whom sat scrunched beneath one of the tables at Mcmuffin's. It was the early morning, and only the two of them were present for the time being. "YOU DOLT! That's why you shouldn't have shown off! The workers at Cookie King are just as loony as you are! Now look at what you've gotten us into." Lightning Dust sighed heavily as she placed a hoof over her face in frustration. "And Octavia is a part of all this now to? I'm sure she's probably enjoying this. That mare always had some weird passion for defending the quality of those cookies." Lightning Dust lowered her head a bit, "And I'm sure she's still never forgiven me for that time."

Nightmare Moon was still distressed but caught on momentarily to what Lightning Dust said. "That time?" She immediately stood, a small trail of sweat coursing down the side of her head as she focused on the mare. "Is there something you might know comrade? Something that might help us best her? She must have a weakness, something we can use against her." She glanced to the lower left and grit her teeth in frustration. "I assume she knows more of me than I do of her, and I have not acquired enough status to be able to purchase one of these, media, services you mortal ponies indulge yourselves in. I see now the media ponies have their advantages."

Lightning Dust just looked at Nightmare Moon with tired eyes, ignoring her abnormal form of communicating again for a moment before turning around. "No, not some weakness. It's just something that happened a little while ago that she hates me for. It's not like I meant to do it, I never even expected her to be working at Cookie King's either. I mean, I was only being honest about how I was feeling."

Nightmare Moon pressed forward, persistent."Weeeeeeeeell, what was it?"

Lightning Dust glanced back at her, before looking up towards the ceiling. "It was a couple of months ago."

I was just trotting about Manehattan, minding my own business you know? I didn't mean any harm. But as I'm trotting I happen to see a billboard ad for the new White Macadamia Yummy Triple Choco Shake at Cookie King's. Looked pretty darn good at first glance, but you know, I couldn't get over that long name. So I just stood there on the side of the street, staring at it with confusion written all over my face. I didn't mean anything by it, all I wanted to know was why they decided to choose such a long name. I was thinking, wasn't that a little tedious to say when you wanted to order it? And as I was standing there thinking to myself, that's when she came along.

"Aha, taking admiration in the White Macadamia Yummy Triple Choco Shake I see." Even I was caught a little off guard by the idea that such a classy looking mare would approach me. I honestly thought she was some spoiled rich girl the first time I saw her, carrying around that huge case and acting like she was all high and mighty. There was something off about her, but, we still had no problems.

Lightning Dust just shook her head, as she continued looking up at the billboard. "Admiration? Hm, if you wanna call it that."

The mare laughed earnestly before appearing somewhat nervous. "W-What do you mean? You do love it, don't you?"

Lightning Dust just shrugged. "I mean, it's okay I guess. But I never really got why Cookie King's always felt the need to be so literal you know? I mean, okay, we get it, macadamia nuts and chocolate, mixed into some vanilla shake, but isn't the name a little long? It just doesn't flow right. They could've easily called it the Macadamia Shake, something easy." She paused with a shrug, "Their cookies are a little bland to, guess that's why I chose to work at Mcmuffins." She smiled brightly, "There's just something special about those muffins."

The mare was silent, as her face was darkened, covered in black shadow while a purple aura seeped from her very being. Soon she glanced up, her cold dead eyes looking seemingly into nothing itself. "So, you are the scum of across the street. I knew I smelt something foul."

Lightning Dust closed her eyes, beginning to laugh. "Ahahaha, yea, I'm-" her eyes snapped wide before she appeared shocked and in complete bafflement, obviously offended. "Wait a second! HEY! What did you just call me you prissy princess!?"

The mare glanced over at her as she wore no expression. "Those who insult the Cookie King are no less than scum. Foul ponies like you are not worthy of such quality food. But how could I ever expect you to understand? You work at Mcmuffin's." With that the mare just trotted off, going about her business while swaying left to right like a zombie, as if what Lightning said had stuck with her even after she'd left.

Lightning Dust sighed, shaking her head and crossing both hooves as she looked across the street at the Cookie King's establishment. "I guess I should've been weary of Octavia, I knew there were passionate fans of Cookie King's out there but, sheesh."

Nightmare Moon rose as she glared out the window of Mcmuffin's, straight towards Cookie King's. "So the King's right hoof mare is that worried that she'll be tossed from her throne? Little does she know I, NIGHTMARE MOON, do not give in to bribes and threats so easily."

Lightning Dust cringed a bit before looking at Nightmare tiredly. "You two are really taking this a bit too seriously aren't you?"

Nightmare Moon began pacing back and forth, head lowered, fully concentrated. "We must create an affective combat strategy to counter this this enemy. I witnessed her technique last night and her skill is unmatched. With such a weapon at her disposal, we have to pull out all the stops in order to topple that despicable establishment which threatens to cease our very existence." Nightmare Moon paused, only to look on with paranoia out the window straight at Cookie King's. While she did so, she noticed a small gray head watching from afar as well. Nightmare's eyes widened exponentially as she gasped, "SHE SPIES ON US!" Before ducking her head. "Hide you fool!"

Lightning Dust did nothing of the sort. "You know, I'm starting to think you all seriously love what you do."

Nightmare Moon glanced back at her, "Are you crazy!? The enemy is spying on us and you just stand there!?"

Lightning Dust just observed Nightmare Moon with tired, half-closed eyes before making her way out of the restaurant and over towards Cookie King's, not even caring for Nightmare Moon's warning. "Yea, you keep on doing whatever you're doing."

Nightmare Moon shook her head, reaching a hoof out towards the departing pegasi. "N-NO! Get back here! BLAST!"

Lightning Dust made her way across the street, only to pause in front of the window at Cookie King's. She stared blankly at the mare whose frame was lowered as that mare eyed the turquoise pegasi with suspicion. Lightning Dust just looked down at her with a blank expression, before casually fluttering on through the front door, immediately hanging a left and stopping in front of Octavia. "Hey, Octavia."

Octavia smirked as she rose from the window, before running a hoof through her mane. "Ah, Lightning Dust, have you come to negotiate peace with us? Surely you've made the wiser decision, seeing as your ally there believes she can topple Cookie King's."

Lightning Dust raised a hoof, "Listen Octavia, do we have to fight like this? Can't we just agree we all have our different food preferences and get on with our lives? There doesn't have to be any ill will between our restaurants, we're just workers there, nothing more."

Octavia chuckled, "Of course, just workers. I don't mind agreeing to a form of neutrality, but your lot fired the first shots. So it's only fitting you're also the ones to pay the price for your mistake. Should you admit that Cookie King's is superior, I will forgive these actions."

Lightning Dust sighed before shrugging. "But I don't like Cookie King's."

Octavia growled before swiping a hoof, turning around with a puckered lip. "Then, we have nothing to discuss here."

Lightning Dust rolled her eyes. "Really? Okay fine. Cookie King's is better than Mcmuffin's, you happy now? Seriously, let's stop trying to topple one another's businesses and just get back to how things were, we won't try to steal all the customers away from you guys this time."

Octavia smirked as she turned back to face Lightning Dust, "Good, now all that's left is the alicorn."

Lightning's expression worsened in that moment. "What?"

Octavia continued. "The alicorn. Make her admit it to, then I'll forgive you guys for what you did."

Lightning sighed as she glanced back at Mcmuffin's, then focused back on Octavia. "Leave her out of this, she's a nooby."

Octavia's brows furrowed. "A nooby who tried to steal all the customers."

Lightning continued. "She doesn't know any better. Seriously, just leave her alone Octavia. She's already got a lot to deal with seeing as she's an alicorn, but she's also my co-worker, I'm not going to put anymore pressure on her as is. Gotta look after my team."

Octavia raised a brow at Lightning Dust before glancing momentarily to the lower left. "Oh? That's funny, never expected to hear such noble words from a pony who was kicked out of Wonderbolt's Academy. Isn't that the primary aspect you learn there? Teamwork, that is?"

Mumbles went around from all the co-workers as they all were quite shocked by Octavia's sudden play.

Lightning Dust's face darkened as she just glared at the mare.

Octavia turned stubbornly from the mare. "I think we're done here, Lightning Dust."

Lightning Dust's eyes widened as she then fluttered on over towards the door, saying nothing more, leaving the restaurant.

Soon joining Octavia however would be her co-worker with the turquoise coat, pale blue mane and white streaks. She wore a worried expression as she shook her head, a little disappointed. "Octavia, aren't you taking this a little too personally?"

Octavia snapped, "NO! They're the ones who need to open their mouths and taste true sugary perfection!"

The mare backed away as she appeared a little freaked out. "You're acting weird..."

Octavia continued to appear highly frustrated as she recalled a certain memory.

She was but a filly, staring wide eyed up at something in particular. Soon appearing would be an older stallion whom greeted her with a warm smile, giving her a plate with a giant chocolate chip cookie covered in vanilla ice-cream. "Here you go little one."

Octavia took hold of the plate with her muzzle before continuing to blink up at the stallion, wide eyed. "Thank you sir!"

The stallion winked at her with a smirk. "Remember, you're always a Queen, here at Cookie King's!"

Octavia drifted back to the present as she calmed herself, easing up before glancing back at her co-worker. "I-I'm sorry Lyra." She paused with determination. "But we can't just forget what's happened. We have to remain sharp now, Cookie King's business is at stake."

Lyra nodded with a soft smile herself. "Yea, I get it. Just, don't let what they say turn you into a jerk."

Octavia looked to Lyra with determination. "Right." She then swiped her hoof, standing on both hind legs as she looked to the rest of her co-workers at the dimly lit restaurant. "My fellow co-workers! On this day we have come across a dangerous new enemy! An alicorn menace who threatens to topple the greatest fast food establishment in all of Manehattan! She knows nothing of our ways, and treats us as if we're actually on her level! Today we'll show her what it means to compete with us!" She clapped her hooves, "Get the candles! Unicorns! Dawn the chandaliers, with our sugary sweets and my knowledge and experience of the higher eschelon of Equestrian society! On this day, that alicorn will know that not even her natural born gifts can overcome our experience!" She looked to Lyra, smirking a bit.

Lightning Dust made her way back into the restaurant with a heavy sigh as Nightmare Moon didn't hesitate to approach her.

Nightmare Moon raised a brow at her, "So, what did she say!? What have you learned!?"

Lightning Dust looked to Nightmare Moon with an intense glare, obviously annoyed.

Nightmare Moon took a few trots back as her eyes widened as she shiftily avoided eye contact for a moment.

Lightning Dust looked towards the ground. "We're going to take everything from them."

Nightmare Moon blinked a bit, before she to appeared concentrated on Lightning Dust for a moment. In her view, she saw it, darkness seeping and pouring from the mare, an intense black void which shrouded her heart. Something has troubled you it seems. Before that serious gaze dissipated in but a moment, and she clapped her hooves. "Right! It seems that our relentless enemy has fired back, and the flags have risen! We will show them just what it means! To combat not only Mcmuffin's," she glared, "But the dread of night ITSELF!"

Hours later.....

Nightmare Moon, Lightning Dust, Raindrops, and three mute shadow ponies all stood on the outside of Mcmuffins, peering across the street with hooves crossed straight at Cookie King's. They each wore determined looks as the sun's light steadily graced them, rising up further and further as the seconds ticked on by. Nightmare Moon stood at the front as her nose wrinkled at the sight of her enemies.

Octavia and Lyra stood at the front of an opposing group, consisting of far more workers all adorned in Cookie King uniforms. Octavia wore a look of utter confidence as she ran a hoof through her mane at the pathetic sight. "You all do realize that I have been in this practice for years now no? What're you? But five and an alicorn? Let alone three of you aren't even real. It's pitiful really." She stomped a hoof, suddenly appearing annoyed. "You could've joined us! We could've had peace! But you chose to poke fun at Cookie King's! Now you must pay!"

Lyra spoke up then as well. "Guys, seriously, don't do this. Tell Octavia what she wants to here and we can get things back to normal."

Nightmare Moon scoffed, "HAH! As if we would submit to the likes of you! You all may be powerful, but we at Mcmuffin's shall show you, that true power comes from,...uuuuh, WITHIN! Yes." She smirked, appearing a little nervous since she was obviously bluffing. Within? What petty nonsense! True power came from having a distinct advantage, which they didn't have. Not only was she herself only but one alicorn, just subconsciously controlling three shadow ponies in this field of practice was exhausting, and not even they struck fear in their enemies. Her inherrant status would only get her so far, and she glanced left and right to her fellows, knowing they to were only mortals who grew tired much quicker than she. Nightmare Moon cringed a bit as she gulped, they were outnumbered, outgunned, and more than likely outmatched. But she was a veteran of the darkness, she would not allow her new world to crumble so easily.

Suddenly placing a hoof against Nightmare Moon would be Lightning Dust, who wore a gentle smile. "Whatever happens, it's cool."

Nightmare Moon focused on her again in surprise. It was as if she'd forgotten that both Lightning and Raindrops had what she lacked, the experience and knowledge to combat this enemy. She was not alone. This brought a feeling of ease and comfort to the alicorn as she smirked softly to herself. Hah...For it was also important, to rally behind your fellow soldiers.

Lightning Dust made her way to the forefront as she peered at Octavia in particular. "Hmph!"

Raindrops then glanced over at Nightmare Moon, "Uuuuuh, what's going on anyway?"

But Nightmare Moon ignored her question, remaining just as concentrated as Lightning Dust.

Raindrops blinked a bit, shrugging before just continuing to give a mean glare towards Octavia and the others for no reason.

Soon all eyes focused on a large clock towards the end of the street attached to one building in particular. With each tick, their hearts raced. Soon it would begin, the moment they were all waiting for on this day, the rush hour of the fast food industry,....Lunch.

Nightmare Moon watched that clockhand shift up with each second, her eyes wide with anticipation before throughout the city, a loud bell sound rung out, alerting all that the fated hour had finally arrived. The hour of freedom for many, an hour of trial for some.

BRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And suddenly emerging down the street like a stampede of rabid animals, would be a multitude of ponies, some young, some old, all hungry as they each diverged and spread into different restaurants like the plaque. Although both groups of Cookie King's as well as Mcmuffin's watched with anticipation as another massive herd of ponies kept straight, Nightmare Moon and her allies stood there, unafraid. Nightmare Moon glared on over at Cookie King's staff with determination, before glaring ahead again. "Hoooooooooooooooooold!!!!"

Lightning Dust lowered her frame, not letting up and remaining just as focused.

Octavia and the others faced the oncoming stampede with just as much determination. But with more staff, also often came, more problems. Octavia glanced back to notice that some of her companions were now trembling, in fear for their lives. She cringed as she glared ahead again. "Do not falter! HOLD THIS LINE! We have superior numbers! We've dealt with rush hour many times before!"

One of the Cookie King staff members just backed away, shaking her head. "O-Octavia! T-There's too many of them! This is weird! It's been bad, but it's never been this bad before! We'll be overrun with orders! P-Please! Let's just go inside!"

Octavia scowled somewhat before glaring ahead again, feeling as if the very surface were trembling due to the amount of oncoming customers. And despite not admitting it, not even she was confused, baffled. W-Why were there so many ponies out today!? I-It couldn't possibly be due to the the alicorn!? Octavia glared over at Mcmuffin's group with a snarl and cocked brow.

And smirking at her would be Nightmare Moon herself.

Octavia's eyes widened as she appeared as if she were in a state of shock. I-Impossible, she anticipated this?

Nightmare Moon soon burst into wild cackles from across the street. "AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"

Octavia cringed as her expression sunk. She lowered her head, realizing what she must do. "Retrieve the samples."

Nightmare Moon's eyes snapped wide as she was suddenly thrown off guard. T-The what!?

Suddenly Octavia stood on her hind legs as she swiped a hoof. "SPREEEEEEEAD THE SAMPLES!" She now bore that cold look, the same expression Nightmare Moon saw the previous night. Octavia was now fully serious, only applying cold logic to her strategy. Still with fear in their eyes, her fellow co-workers spread themselves along the sidewalk, each holding trays of different assortments of cookies.

Nightmare Moon cringed as she watched this take place. W-WHAT!? They would give free food to the customers!? What form of madness is this!? Are they attempting to do themselves in!? They would sacrifice their own cookies just to succeed!? Savages!

"Nightmare."

Nightmare Moon glanced back at her companions then.

Having retrieved and now holding out trays of muffins would be Lightning Dust as well as Raindrops. Lightning Dust nodded to the alicorn then with a cold stare as she herself stated, "Sometimes sacrifices are necessary, if we want to succeed."

And as Nightmare Moon stood there, she wore a look of utter shock. "W-We would sacrifice our own muffins to succeed?"

Lightning Dust nodded plainly, "Of course. Samples are a necessity on days like this. We may not have as many ponies as Cookie King's, but we're smart enough to know that it'll take a lot more than just standing around looking pretty to pull in customers."

Raindrops nodded. "Mhm! I make sure to try samples all the time when I get the chance!"

But as they conversed, Octavia smirked in the background. "Heh..."

It was as if Nightmare's world went in slow motion from then on, as she glanced over to her right. Her ear twitched as her eyes widened, and she looked back over in Octavia's direction. Her pupils dilated as what she saw, only caused her to stare on in awe. A wave of dark energy poured from the mare, something only she could see. But it was dirty, rotten, foul. She looked to Octavia now, in complete worry as the mare only smirked back at her, and Nightmare Moon couldn't help but remain baffled. N-Not even this was your final move?

Lyra soon stood to her hind legs before calling out, "Incoming hungry workers, t-minus 7 seconds!"

Each group remained steadfast as they stood at their positions.

The stampede only continued to surge on, still trampling down the middle of the road like hungry dogs.

"SEVEN!!!!"

They pressed closer.

"SIX!!!!"

Raindrops gulped.

"FIVE!!!!!"

Lightning Dust continued to peer ahead.

"FOUR!!!!"

The shadow ponies each lowered their frames with a cupcake sample in hoof.

"THREE!!!!"

The Cookie King workers all stood there with fearful looks in their eyes.

"TWO!!!!!"

Nightmare Moon continued to peer at Octavia in bafflement and wonder. What is your source your darkness!?

"ONE!!!!!!"

Octavia ran a hoof through her mane before swiping her hoof. "RELEASE, THE FLIERS!!!!!"

The staff of Mcmuffin's all went wide eyed as Lightning Dust soon fluttered up, "Release the what!?"

Octavia's staff suddenly all dropped their trays of cookies, before emerging from the restaurant would be an assortment of pegasi workers each carrying bags of papers. They all spread their hooves, tossing the bags to their fellow co-workers who began to toss the papers.

And in that instant, the herd of hungry ponies arrived as they all began to navigate between Mcmuffin's and The Cookie King. But as they did so, many couldn't help but start picking up these assortment of fliars which laid about the area in curiosity.

Nightmare Moon also hurriedly picked one up as well with a curious look as her eyes snapped wide. "W-What? What is....what is-"

On the fliar was a picture of Nightmare Moon appearing elegant as she wore a classic smirk. But on her would be a pair of high knee socks as she sat in an awkward position, and circled would be her healthy mare figure as an arrow pointed to words on the bottom.

WANT THE TASTE TO GET NIGHTMARE'S SHAPE? TRY OUT OUR NEW NOCTURNAL SHAKE!

Then on the bottom, encircled, would be a picture of a pink fluffy pony munching on cupcakes.

Nightmare Moon was flushed red as she just remained silent and stared at the picture with a dead expression of absolute shame and embarrassment. Raindrops hurriedly looked over her shoulder to see, before her eyes widened as she turned away, coughing a little to release the tension. Lightning Drops made her way over as she observed also, before scratching at the back of her name. "W-Whoa, um, yeeeeea." She just glanced back, turning around like Raindrops as it was obvious the two pegasi wanted to say something, but didn't.

Nightmare Moon, Lightning Dust, and Raindrops all stood angrily in front of an office desk.

The older mare just sighed as she rubbed her forehead. "What? I was trying to help you guys out."

Nightmare Moon would look desperately to her boss before raising the flier. "L-Look what they did to me! They made a fool of my godly figure! And they're using my name without my permission! W-What a joke! The Nocturnal Shake!? Is this even allowed!?"

Lightning Dust just shook her head with both hooves crossed. "No, it's not."

The older mare lowered her head with yet another sigh. "I took the royalty fee. Obviously you're the mare of the hour Nightmare Moon so you'll get a percentage of what they make, but they'll probably get all the attention for basing their shake off you."

Nightmare Moon gasped. "T-This is absurd! I don't want the enemy to be getting loyal followers off of my appearance!"

The older mare shrugged. "Listen Nightmare, I'm trying to help you out here. Ever since I've met you, you've been a bit, um, ignorant to some of the way business works here in Equestria. Do you even know how to pay your rent? Do you even have a home for that matter?"

Nightmare Moon snapped, stomping a hoof. "I LIVE IN A BEAUTIFUL GORGEOUS CASTLE!"

Meanwhile on the border of Manehattan, a small wooden board snapped off the roof of a barren wooden hut.

The older mare continued. "You could use the bits." She paused before baring a serious expression. "And this was to teach you guys a lesson as well. Cookie King's is a business with a lot more backing than we've got. You're still in training Nightmare Moon and Raindrops & Lightning Dust alone isn't enough to keep the pace with the amount of workers Cookie King's has. We'll probably need to hire more workers to actually make a decent impact once the initial wow factor that you're an alicorn passes by. Also, it won't be long until everypony realizes what you did at Ponyville as well, so we've gotta be careful of that. Thankfully, most ponies aren't interested in searching for more reasons to be afraid in our crazy world. But we don't want Octavia going on causing trouble for you once we arrive at the point where ponies are weary of your existence Nightmare, she can make a very persistent foe if you attack her favorite cookie brand. It's better that we lay low for some time, you get to learn more of all the city itself, of the other restaurants, before going hoof to hoof with all them out there."

Nightmare Moon frowned heavily, as did the rest of them.

"Now you three finish up work for the rest of the day and don't go causing anymore trouble." With that the three took their leave out of the office, as the older mare just sighed as she glanced over the name of one of the potential workers with a raised brow. Hooves huh?

As the three made it out, they took a moment to gather into a huddle in the hallway outside the office.

Lightning Dust frowned a bit as she crossed her hooves. "Sorry guys, I didn't expect boss to go behind our back light that."

Raindrops raised a brow at Lightning Dust, "What about Mr.Buck? He'll help us won't he?"

Lightning Dust shook her head. "No I doubt it, he always takes a bunch of advice from her."

Raindrops sulked as she frowned heavily. "Right...."

Lightning Dust sighed as she looked to Nightmare Moon with crossed hooves. "But she's right about one thing, Octavia has way too much support and status from her plays and concerts to be taken on by sheer willpower alone. They say she's even friends with Vinyl Scratch and has took part in the Grand Galloping Galla's in Canterlot. This was probably more of a warning to us, or just an act of spite and annoyance on her part but maybe it isn't so bad. The LAST thing you want right now Nightmare is for somepony to be slandering your name. Maybe the way it works is the less attention, the better the situation for the time being." She tried to give the alicorn a reaffirming smile.

However, Nightmare Moon just kept her head lowered, as she began trotting back towards the main lobby solemnly.

Lightning Dust sighed again as she observed the mare and sulked herself.

Raindrops attempted to go after her, "N-Nightmare Mo-" before Lightning Dust grabbed hold of her, shaking her head. Raindrops then looked back in Nightmare's direction before whimpering a bit and glancing back at Lightning Dust, "You think she'll be okay?"

Lightning Dust nodded plainly before smiling a bit. "Y-Yea, she just needs more time to adjust. But I'm sure this is actually a good thing." She paused momentarily. "Nightmare may not see it yet, but in actuality, if we play along for now, it'll be that much better when we strike."

Raindrop's eyes widened as she then nodded in understanding. "O-Ooooooh."

And as Nightmare Moon trotted, she wore a cold calculating glare as well in deep thought. This isn't over, *Cello Pony***..

In another part of the city however, a tinier, less imposing figure trotted about. He was currently hidden in an alley as he wore a cloak to cover his body, and his long black mane was so long that it dragged along the concrete surface he remained upon. His body trembled as his eyes were wide and he looked down at his own hooves. "W-What? What has happened to me?" He glanced up towards the blue skies, before glancing back, attempting to take in all the sights and sounds. He steadily rose to all four hooves as he coughed a bit, and then began trotting closer towards a more open area of the city, while for the time being, remaining to be covered in shadow. He raised a brow at all the other ponies trotting about in curiosity. I survived? He lowered his head, I wonder, does that mean *she** survived to? He bore tired eyes as he glanced about wearily. *Perhaps it is best to acquire some sustenance first, before concentrating on such matters.

Two stallions trotted along the sidewalk as the day came to an end, while the setting sun hung lower and lower in the background with each passing second. They each relieved looks as one looked to his companion with a smirk. "No no I'm serious, she was looking at me even though she was a griffon. They're actually pretty cute sometimes even though they can be jerks for the most part!" He chuckled.

The other stallion shook his head, trying to understand but ultimately not getting it. "That's just freaky man!"

The opposing stallion shrugged before smirking. "Listen, if you don't treat life as an adventure. Don't complain when-" before they each paused to the sudden mumbling of somepony not far off, only a few feet in front of them. Their eyes widened as they stood there silently, glancing around for a moment before looking towards the ground, to see that the figure was that of a colt, window shopping.

The colt wore a raggedy cloak and had a long black mane which touched upon the surface, obviously in desperate need of a manecut. But what was most disturbing was the color of his eyes, they consisted of a crimson shade and the whites of his eyes were an ethereal green. He just stood there, talking to himself. "It seems Celestia still goes about her daily routine, excellent, this means I may have time to form the strategy of my initial strike. Luna shall be the first to suffer." He smirked a bit to himself before glancing towards his left to take notice of the two stallions. "Ah, peasants." Before raising a hoof at them, "I acquire some of this strange form of currency known as bits in order to purchase myself shiny rocks to consume and devour and rise to my former glory. Slaves such as yourselves will serve me well."

One stallion looked to his friend with a raised brow. "Is this kid serious? He's not serious is he?"

The other one's brow twitched as he blinked a bit at the kid. "Listen kid, we don't got any bits for you, now scram, get out of here."

The colt's eyes widened as he snickered a bit, before tilting his head back. "Ah, how amusing, the slaves believe they have a right to talk back to their master and future ruler? You two are no more than cattle, slaves to be collared and shackled once I take the reigns of this wretched world back once again." His voice was much higher, like that of a colt still in pre-school, yet he talked with quite an educated dialect. "Serve me now and save yourselves the punishment later. Or defy me and suffer the consequences, the choice is yours."

The stallions each looked to one another before glaring down at the colt, one stated seriously. "Beat it squirt."

The colt smiled, before placing a hoof over his face. "So you have chosen to defy me, this is disappointing. Graaaaah, well, it is a shame really. You two would've made excellent haulers for my carts of crystals. Alas, a King cannot keep track of all the troublesome mongrels in his kingdom. I will make this quick." He began trotting towards them, "Now come, come and face the might of the one who will rule this-"

And it was now the dead of night as the colt was stuffed upside down in the dumpster.

Eventually he flipped himself over as he had a swollen lower lip and right eye. He wore no expression for the time being, as he just remained in place there for another moment, in utter and complete shock. There was nothing but silence and the sounds of coursing winds as eventually, he lost it and began roaring. "WHAT!? I AM A KING AND I WAS TOUCHED AND BEATEN BY PEASANTS!? WHAT FORM OF MADNESS IS THIS!?" Sombra suddenly wore a look of fear as he glanced around hurriedly. N-No, this is not the world I once ruled, this world is,....different. T-These ponies, surely none would defy my right to their lives. Nopony is that idiotic, so it could only mean one thing. He glared, These ponies have all lost their minds, they are but insane, broken ponies.

The colt raised his head, appearing noble somewhat yet again. It seems that I, still have quite a lot of work to do. Before he began trotting on, going about his way as he continued to trot about the city now in the dead of night. Uncertain of this, strange new world.

Chapter 2.5: And We're Gonna Get Slightly Distracted!

The night was young, and the moon remained stationary, high in the sky.

In a penthouse located deep within the city, would be an elegantly furnished apartment room. Of course it was private, and within, yellow lights kept it alight, giving the room a warm comforting atmosphere. Even from the blackened city streets below, one could probably see it from afar. It was often assumed those who lived in such places were often of the higher class of Equestrian society. And they wouldn't be far from the truth. For this was the penthouse of two quite notable figures in the city, one whom often kept to herself, while the other was perhaps a little too outgoing. Sitting in a warm bath with her head leaned back as she had her eyes closed would be Octavia, soaking her coat as she just let off a heavy sigh before opening her eyes and peering towards the ceiling, deep in thought.

"Oi! Octaaavia!~"

Octavia glanced over towards the wooden door across the marble bathroom floor with a blank expression. "What Vinyl?"

"You going to be in there all night!? I got an event to go to! I'd sure like to take a bath before then!"

Octavia closed her eyes, obviously irritated.  "Vinyl, I had a long day at work today. Maybe you can take a bath after your event? Wouldn't that make the most sense? I mean, you're going to come back all stinky drenched in sweat anyway, so you might as well wait."

"Well,..... It's obvious that I'm not going to convince you so forget it." There was a slight pause, "Are you doing okay?"

Octavia's brows furrowed as she closed her eyes halfway. "Yea it's nothing. Just a small, inconvenience."

Vinyl, a snow white unicorn with two opposing shades of blue making up her mane, leaned on the opposing end of the door with a light smirk. She had her hooves crossed as she raised a brow, turning her head as if she were actually glancing back at Octavia despite the barrier which remained between them. She appeared slightly amused, but ultimately worried. "Inconvenience huh? I really don't like that word."

Octavia from within the bathroom just groaned, as she closed her eyes with a sigh. "It's nothing you need to worry yourself over Vinyl. I'm a big mare, I can take care of myself." She paused, "You just concentrate on your event okay? Don't go losing focus over my problems."

Vinyl frowned a bit, before baring a smile, trusting in her friend. "Alright, but if you need anything, remember I'm always-"

Octavia sighed again, heavily this time. "Goooooo to your event Vinyl!"

Vinyl called back out to her from beyond the door. "Okay okay okay! I got it haha, see you in a few Octy! I'll just head out early!"

Octavia kept her eyes closed as she remained in her bath, simply listening as she heard the sound of casual trots, before the sound of the front door creaking open, then slamming shut a few seconds later. She leaned her head back with relief. Finally, peaceful silence. She now wore a smirk as she snickered. "Heh, this is the difference between us Mare of the Moon. You're down there, and I'm up here. Maybe someday you'll actually realize the meaning of status, that it isn't some inherent birthright." She closed her eyes with a pleased smile. "At cookie kings, we're all kings and queen's. You could've joined us, instead, you chose to crumble." And as she laid there in the tub, still deep in thought, Octavia drifted back to another memory, one she often lost herself in.

Octavia was just a filly, being held back by a larger stallion. "NO! No please! Please don't take away Cookie King's!"

The older stallion kept her close, pulling her into a tight hug before closing his eyes. "D-Don't look Sweetie! Close your eyes!"

But Octavia had tears in her eyes as she constantly pushed against him, fighting back as she cried out towards a few shadowed individuals in the distance. They stood in front of a now vacant Cookie King's facility, as they turned to look at the crying filly. The workers were still loading some final goods into the remaining truck, as Octavia cried out, "PLEASE! Please don't take away Cookie King's!" She then clung onto the stallion's coat as she shook her head over and over again. "It was Daddy and I's favorite place to eat! W-Where will we go now after school!? Please! E-Everyfilly is a Queen-" She shut her eyes tight before shouting, "When we're at Cookie King's!!!!"

The shadowed stallion just peered in her direction as he then raised a hoof, in motion to one of the workers. "Retrieve the last Vanilla Triple Chocolate Supreme, and make it snappy." A light smirk crept onto the the shadowed pony's face as he sighed with pity.

Octavia's eyes widened exponentially. "No....."

The stallion holding onto the filly then picked her up as he broke off into a speedy trot! "Just look at me Sweetie! It's alright!"

The shadowed pony soon took hold of the cookie, before dropping it onto the ground. "King's and Queen's? Hah, don't make me laugh child, there is no such thing. Allow me to show you the truth of this world in all its glory." He raised his hoof over the cookie.

Octavia then reached out to him, both enraged and in grief. "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Before he crushed that cookie beneath his hoof, and Octavia watched it shatter into pieces before her very eyes. "This is the eternal truth of this world. From now on, this property will be put to much better use here in Ponyville."

The filly just remained there, as the stallion who held her only continued to run. Octavia's eyes were wide but her expression was dead, as she watched those shattered crumbs get pecked away at by pigeons, and it was as if her world had gone in slow motion. She only continued to focus on that broken cookie, the image of it etched into her mind as the two retreated from the scene.

Octavia soon snapped back to reality as she leaned forward in the tub and wrapped her hooves around herself and trembled, muttering, "T-That's not true. That's not the true." She soon glared ahead, stilling herself again and appearing determined. "I will show you all that you're wrong, about this world, about Cookie King's." She peered down at her reflection in the water, "Starting with you, you stubborn alicorn."

And she would never ever forget it, that final Vanilla Triple Chocolate Supreme of her childhood.

"And that is why! We must be ready whenever the threat arises! YOU, my loyal subjects must be prepared!"

And standing on the edge of a steaming pool of water, would be four squirrels with curious looks. They each looked to one another first then back at whomever was speaking to them, just blinking and appearing pretty clueless about what was exactly happening.

Nightmare Moon stood in the middle of this steaming pool and chuckled as she placed a hoof upon her chest. She was currently in what appeared to be a forest, or at least the surrounding area was that of a forest. She wore a confident smirk, a look of defiance. "Aahahahaha! You see! With defeat comes experience! I have only gained more knowledge in my attempts to rise in the Mcmuffin industry! It may take some time and patience! But you, yes, YOU ALL, will be some of the first to bare witness to the glorious rebirth of my uprising. I will do it the fair way, yes yes yes, I know my castle could use some work." Another piece of wood snapped from the roof of the wooden cottage in the background, before Nightmare Moon continued with an excited expression. "But everypony starts somewhere! AM I RIGHT!?"

The squirrels then all scurried back to the forest.

Nightmare Moon sighed heavily as she sulked, sinking deeper into the pool of steaming water as she glanced left and right. Surrounding the pool would be a ring of dark blue magic, as her magical aura dissipated from the pool before she nodded to herself. "That's a good temperature." Nightmare Moon leaned her head back as she swam around in the pool, obviously flustered and frustrated. "Why must making a living be so hard? SURELY there is an easier way to go about this. I-I mean, I'm a ruler after all! Perhaps I must consult the book of knowledge in order to become more powerful. Time is of the essence!" She soon scurried out of the pool of water and back to her cottage.

A book slammed upon the beaten wooden floorboards in her barren living room, as it was titled, DICTIONARY.

Nightmare Moon stared blankly at it as she had a raggedy towel wrapped around her neck. She soon lowered her frame, as she laid upon the floor, still staring at the book with wide eyes. She just looked down upon it, not saying a word. How do I use this artifact? Surely there must be some way in order to bring out its power. Might it just be a simple book? No, surely such a creation is not that simple. I am missing something here, an important piece of the puzzle. I must just figure it out. She flipped out the book to a random page, just staring at it.

Nothing happened, the book just remained on the floor.

Nightmare Moon frowned a bit. W-Why is it not working!? Surely it will give me some guidance! Or something,! She glanced up in deep thought, drifting back to what Lightning Dust told her about the artifact, as she attempted to find some answers in her memories.

Lightning Dust sighed, handing her the book with a tired expression. "You're an alicorn, so you could probably knock out reading all this in no time. Just remember, if there's anything you don't really understand, search it up in here. This thing has all the answers."

Nightmare Moon observed it as she flipped it upside down, right side up, left, right, in practically all directions. "How interesting! Comrade, how do I tap into its inner potential should I ever need it? It makes me glad you would entrust me with such a powerful tome."

Lightning Dust rolled her eyes as she was trotting away, before glancing back at the mare. "Just open it Nightmare, sheesh."

Nightmare Moon drifted back to the present. "I have opened it, and nothing has happened. What wicked sorcery is this? Have I been deceived?" Her nose wrinkled in annoyance as she just continued to stare at it, growing more and more annoyed with each passing second. She closed her eyes. "ARGH! NONSENSE! I will not be outplayed by some mere tome of power! I am Nightmare Moon! I am intelligent enough to figure out the means to this problem! I am from Luna herse-" but at that moment the alicorn cut herself off, before her eyes saddened and she spoke no more of that subject. "I-I mean, I am, I am my own alicorn now. I do not need Luna, she is her own alicorn as well." Nightmare Moon patted her cheeks as she shook her head and went back to focusing. "I-I can be just as smart as Luna, hah! Even smarter! I just need to concentrate! I may have not had any Equestria experience but I can learn everything just as she did, it's just gonna take some time!" Nightmare Moon then went back to peering at the book with a sense of absolute concentration.

Minutes drifted by, constantly.

Time drew on and on, and Nightmare Moon still focused on that one page, while nothing still happened. Her expression steadily sunk to one of annoyance, shame, and complete embarrassment before she flushed red at the realization she STILL wasn't getting it. She growled before tossing the book away and roaring at it. "ERAAAH!!!! NONSENSE!!! YOU THINK YOU CAN MAKE A FOOL OUT OF ME!?!"

The book just remained there, in the barren corner.

Nightmare Moon placed a hoof upon her chest. "I am NIGHTMARE MOON! You will show some respect!"

The book said nothing, only remaining there in the corner.

Nightmare Moon bared a look of defeat and shame once again as her face darkened and she appeared to have snapped. "IRK! Y-YOU, YOU WILL PAY FOR THIS YOU BLASTED TOME! BY THAT I SWEAR!" Her horn then started to glow as black fire began to surround her very being, she glared angrily at the book as soon, a speck of her fire touched the wooden floorboards and soon began spreading throughout the rest of her cottage. Nightmare Moon growled, "NOW IS WHERE YOUR- huh?" She raised a brow, glancing about as she noticed her cottage was slowly being consumed by flames. She gasped, "O-Oh no! MY, MY CASTLE!" She poofed out of her home almost immediately, looking on in despair from the air as her wooden home slowly crumbled into ashes before she could do anything. Soon enough the mare touched upon the ground with a saddened expression as she lowered her head in disappointment and more shame. "Ugh..." She drifted back to another memory, as she thought about something else Lightning Dust had told her in particular.

Lightning Dust had her hooves crossed, giving Nightmare a blank stare. "You shouldn't use any of your dangerous magic."

Nightmare Moon raised a brow. "W-Why!? It is the most efficient way of solving problems in the realm of darkness!"

Lightning Dust shook her head. "Not in this world. You said you want to rebuild your life right? Well if you go around doing mean things to everypony who annoys you, that's just another way of announcing you want to get locked up. So don't do anything stupid okay?"

Nightmare Moon shook her head in worry, "And should my inner desires to destroy all forms of life surrounding me consume me, what is my backup option to ensure my status does not crumble to the ground in this world!? Everything would be for a waste!"

Lightning Dust placed a hoof over her forehead with a heavy sigh, before looking to her and placing both hooves at her sides. "Alright! Listen, whenever you find yourself in a heavy jam, I want you to remember these exact instructions, so listen carefully."

Nightmare Moon took in a deep breath as stood on the border of Manehattan, some ways outside the city as she closed her eyes and then used telekinetic magic to pour the water of her natural pool, onto the remaining flames. She then lowered her frame as she stood upon the grass while she concentrated. She spread her wings as encircling her would be a ring of pure wind, escalating in acceleration and becoming increasingly visible, as the more pressure she applied the easier it was to see. And in an instant, the alicorn shot for the skies, high enough to the point where she could look over the entirety of the city. She glanced around momentarily with a worried expression as she remained elevated, where the stars laid in the background with coursing midnight clouds drifting on by accompanied only by the wind.

Look to the city lights, then look for the area with the least amount of them in the city. There should be a stream of houses, buildings, I'm sure you've seen at least a few of those in your lifetime right? Well I live down there in that neighborhood, just keep looking through the houses till you see the mailbox with my name on it. I'm not sure where you live, but remember one thing because I know this might be a bit tough for you. But I need you to listen to me really carefully here alright? Please, please please please please please-

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened as she looked over the city from above, and something she saw in particular caught her interest. In the heart of the city, she caught sight of an origin of exuding darkness. It was like a beam which shot for the stars, and she'd never seen anything like it. The thoughts slowly drifted from her mind as she just focused on it with wide curious eyes of her own.

Lightning Dust stomped a hoof at the time she'd stated this important instruction. "DON'T GET DISTRACTED ALONG THE WAY!"

And Nightmare Moon shot straight for that source of darkness which protruded from the heart of Manehattan. Utterly distracted.

Meanwhile, sitting on a couch in her home would be Lightning Dust. Her house was fair sized, as she sighed heavily while turning the channel upon the TV. As she flipped through the channels, all she was seeing were commercials aimed at the well known Photo Finish, which she could care less about. She had a bored look upon her face as she rested one hoof upon her cheek. "Nothing huh..."

"BIG SIS! BIG SIS! I'M HUUUUUUNGRY!"

Lightning Dust's eyes widened as she glanced back behind the couch, to see having entered the kitchen would be a tinier colt. She suddenly bared a slight smile as she fluttered up and over it. "Yea yea I'm coming alright? Give me a second." But as she fluttered she blinked a bit as she felt a sudden sense of unease in the air, then her brow twitched. She stood there silently as she just sighed and lowered her head.

The little colt tilted his head to the right in curiosity. "What's wrong Big Sis?"

Lightning Dust just stated simply. "I just had the strangest feeling, that somepony is doing something quite stupid right now."

Chapter 3: Our New Kingdom, The Fast Food War!

Sitting upon the edge of a building which rested at the heart of Manehattan while overlooking what appeared to be a stream of darkness which surged towards the very skies, was a small black colt. He wore a bored yet patient expression, almost as if he were waiting for something. He just continued to sit there silently, watching from atop the building as the origin of the stream of black magic laid in the middle of a dark alleyway. And as he continued to sit there and wait, eventually, his wait had finally come to an end. "Hm?"

Soon touching down in the middle of the alleyway would be an alicorn, her coat as black as night itself while her mane was like that of an ever-flowing cast of stars. She slowly trotted up to the stream of black magic, as she glanced it up and down curiously, not saying a word, even touching it as what little she did make contact with, simply flowed into her as if it were a part of her. She appeared slightly confused.

The colt however, wasn't, as he soon rose to meet the alicorn. "So, you did survive! Lady of the Nightmare!"

Nightmare Moon then immediately looked to her upper right towards the top of that building, still wearing a curious look. But upon spotting the one who spoke to her, her confusion only rose before she looked to this little colt with cold eyes. "Hm, I knew this was far too unnatural to be any ordinary pony. Who're you?" She paused for a moment, "By survive, I assume you are referring to my rebirth. But I cannot say for certain. For I cannot recall that I've seen you before, but judging by your appearance, you are no ordinary being by far."

The colt disappeared in the form of dissipating black shadows, before reappearing from shadow in the alleyway itself. He'd emerged from the concrete surface as he just stared blankly at the mare. "Graaaah, you wouldn't be far from the truth." He paused, "We fought together side by side if you recall. Do you not remember the realm of darkness? We managed to escape together, despite, that unfortunate last event."

Nightmare Moon stared blankly at the colt for a minute more before her eyes widened as if coming to a realization. She then staggered back a bit, "O-Oh, OH! You! Y-You're, him!? Uh, what was his name again? The Grah King?" She began to giggle, "Oh was that amusing."

The colt didn't appear amused as he stomped a hoof. "It's King Sombra you wench! My name is King Sombra!" He flushed red momentarily as he avoided eye contact with the alicorn. The Grah King!? A-Anypony would grah with frustration during such times!

Nightmare Moon burst into laughter more. "Ahahahahahaha! Yeeees yes yes yes! I do remember you! King Sombra, oh how interesting. So you also survived the escape, I'd thought you perished as well during our final assault." She eyed him up and down with slight amusement, before having to turn away and hide her laughter. "Pfffft, well, in hindsight I guess you did perish,....IN SIZE!"

King Sombra snarled, gritting his teeth angrily at her. "Y-You! YOU find this funny!? Why aren't you like this!?"

She turned to face him again before tilting her head to the right. "More than likely due to the fact I'm an alicorn. To return from beyond the grave is no easy feat, even our own magic has its limits. For you, immeasurably so. So it is of no surprise to me that you've suffered from some after-effects of your rebirth. I say give it some time, perhaps you will return to your original self, perhaps never, who knows."

King Sombra turned away with frustration. "GRAH! How absurd! To have been reduced to such a state is beyond insulting." He closed his eyes with yet another heavy sigh. "But I digress, the situation could've been much much worse." He glanced back at her with curiosity. "I assume you have been here longer than I have, which isn't surprising to me. Have you learned more of this strange world? It seems different from the one I recall. And why're you still here in this city? Are you not going to strike at the heart and dethrone Cele-"

Nightmare Moon shook her head. "Never."

King Sombra turned to face her again with half-closed eyes. "What?"

Nightmare Moon continued, "You heard me. I don't plan to take my fight to Canterlot. I've moved past that." She then turned away from the colt, simply looking towards the full moon with a thoughtful expression, remaining silent for she knew he'd probably want to give his thoughts on this. There was a strange form of companionship between the two, almost hinting towards respect.

King Sombra growled, his nose wrinkling in absolute annoyance. "Grah! I never took you for a coward! You seemed to be willing to do anything to get out of that place, and yet you run with your tail tucked once you've escaped? How pathetic! I misjudged you!"

Nightmare Moon just glanced back at him, little surprised by his temper, before smiling softly. "It is for that exact reason why I never plan to attack Canterlot Grah King." She continued looking towards the sky. "Look to the sky, to the beautiful stars and the full moon. Feel the air which surrounds you. It is for these reasons I will survive. It is for these reasons I won't go back." She smirked back at him, "I am done with regrets, wallowing in the darkness for so long has taught me that." She scratched at the back of her mane with a tired look. "There will come a time when I must make things right with Luna, Celestia, and their mortal allies," she turned to face him ultimately with a look of intent worry, "I'm not eager for such a day." Nightmare Moon began trotting around the alleyway then, suddenly full of energy. "But," her eyes turned cold as she glared at the colt. "For the time being, I have far greater threats to worry about. Ones that exceed our magic itself."

King Sombra suddenly appeared peaked with interest, "Grah? So you are distracted with another battle then? How interesting." He closed his eyes, lowering his head. "I can't say that I myself am quite ready to give up on taking back my Empire. But perhaps, it is best to lay low for some time." He glanced down at one of his hooves, "Regain my strength." He then glared at her intently, in curiosity. "But these threats you speak of, that is beyond our magic itself? What could possibly hold that form of power? Such news is troubling to me."

Nightmare Moon began to trot back and forth with a heavy sigh. "I know, it was troubling to me as well for obvious reasons." She looked to him, "The world has changed Grah King, it is no longer a world where we simply solve problems by overpowering the enemy. As you know, we were both defeated by something absolutely absurd as well, a form of magic undiscovered in the old days, the magic of friendship." She paused, "At first I couldn't understand how something so petty and sentimental could actually hold power, but after my revival it was then that I finally realized, the whole world has changed much from thousands of years ago. The time of magic has changed."

King Sombra remained silently, listening intently.

Nightmare Moon continued. "No longer are problems solved by simply decimating and overpowering your enemy, no, status is the new power. And the only way to gain it is through the ordinary working life. Thankfully I have acquired some powerful and knowledgeable companions in this sense. But-" she lowered her head with a frown, "It is still not enough. The enemies we face are far more powerful, possessing the talent and natural ability to draw in customers and entertain those around them. They are King's and Queen's of the new world, of the fast food enterprise. I have done my best to learn how to stop them, but, my strategies so far have fallen short."

King Sombra turned stubbornly from the alicorn before glaring back at her. "And what exactly is it about this new form of battle which makes it worth pursuing?" He raised a brow at her, making a slightly crooked frown. "Why rise in a world such as this through such means?"

Nightmare Moon looked to him with a light smirk. "Power, invulnerability, these are the things that come with rising in the fast food enterprise. Upon achieving the highest level of status, you will have respect like no other. It is certainly a world worth pursuing Grah King, should you choose to accept it for what it is. To go against it will only result in your turmoil, and likely banishment."

King Sombra lowered his head with a sigh. "Then, do I have a choice? I can do little as I am now anyway."

Nightmare Moon smirked. "So, are you saying you'll join me in this rise to power? In this conquest of the food enterprise and beyond?"

King Sombra scratched at the back of his mane. "Grah, well if it surely means that we'll achieve victory over our enemies."

Nightmare Moon smiled brightly as she chuckled. "Good good! I am quite happy you see things my way." She paused before raising a brow at him, "But I am curious, how did you know that I would be able to find you?" She tilted her head to the right, "With this darkness?"

Sombra glanced down towards the ground. "I didn't, I only did what I felt would draw you in if you were around this general area. I had no certainty of knowing whether or not you'd actually show up. I know only a few of us are able to see the remnants of darkness which originate from that twisted realm, but I only know of one whom has the power to actually see the negativity manifest in all its forms, even fear. I simply wanted to test my theory, thankfully it worked. Being alone in this state with no allies or means of returning to power, the situation would've been quite troublesome." He raised a brow at her, "And how have you not been pursued yet? You are still the same villain as you were when you'd been vanquished supposedly, so why hasn't Celestia and Luna sent their dogs after you?"

Nightmare Moon shrugged as she lowered her head. "Perhaps it is due to the fact I have not draw much attention to myself as of yet. News of my rebirth will spread with time, but for now, I am in no rush to attract Canterlot's attention." She tilted her head to the right, "Especially those children whom were responsible for my defeat, I'd rather avoid such troublesome encounters as long as I can."

Sombra cringed, "GRAH! Those children, how could I ever forget!? What a bunch of troublesome pests!"

Nightmare Moon rolled her eyes. "I can't say I disagree, but, they're the heralds of this new world of magic. We must do our best to ensure they are unable to touch us for the time being. Should we attract their attention, I'm fairly certain we can say goodbye to our newly gained freedom. But if we are able to start anew, to show this world that we mean to play by the new rules, we will be just as invulnerable as they are." She smiled at him, "We have been reborn Grah King, and together, we can rise again, we can live happily in this new world." She raised a hoof at him in an obviously welcoming gesture, actually hoping that he'd take hold of it, to show his loyalty.

King Sombra paused for a moment, just eyeing her hoof before smirking. "Heh...." He then took hold of that hoof.

There was a brief pause between the two as they remained in that hoof clutch.

Sombra soon spoke, breaking the silence however. "So, where are you staying? Surely you've constructed a mighty fortress to call home."

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened, as she turned a bit red before scratching at the back of her mane.

King Sombra and Nightmare Moon, each sat in a wooden chair as they remained silent. King Sombra in particular had his hooves crossed as his brow twitched and he appeared horribly irritated, while Nightmare Moon just continued to sit there shiftily in embarrassment. King Sombra spoke with annoyance, "So you don't even have a home!? Some new world this is! Hah! Don't make me laugh."

Nightmare Moon looked to him with her lower lip puckered, still embarrassed. "I-I told you! It was an accident that I lost it!"

Looking over the two would be Lightning Dust as she just sighed heavily, placing a hoof over her face. "So let me get this straight. You ended up burning down your house because you couldn't figure out how to use a dictionary? Then afterwords, wandered off, and ended up discovering this little colt here who looks no older than my brother was still alive after you two escaped from whatever realm you came from? Then you decided it'd be smart to bring him here along with yourself because you guys have no place to stay?" She crossed her hooves, just staring blankly at Nightmare Moon in particular, then eyeing the colt with interest. Her brow twitched as there was a drawn on silence before Lightning Dust just snapped at the mare. "WHEN I EXPECTED YOU TO GET YOURSELF INTO A JAM NIGHTMARE I DIDN'T EXPECT YOU'D MAKE YOURSELF HOMELESS AND BRING SOME KID HERE AS WELL! Are you serious!?"

Sombra just eyed her blankly. "This peasant is your companion? She seems quite feisty."

Lightning Dust growled at him. "Shut it squirt! You're the homeless one! So if anypony qualifies as a peasant, it's probably you!"

Sombra gasped in disbelief. "T-This! This PEASANT insults me in such a manner!? You speak to a king you wench!"

Lightning Dust scoffed, "Hah, a King!? Of what? Your own arrogance? Shut your trap kid, you're just a brat in my book."

Sombra's pupils dilated as his face darkened and he just lowered his head and wrapped his hooves around himself in silence.

Lightning Dust frowned a bit with a sigh before looking back to Nightmare Moon. "But listen Nightmare, this is pretty serious. You can't just go around burning down your own home on mistake. Did you tell your landowner? She's probably gonna be extremely upset."

Nightmare Moon shook her head. "Hm? Landowner? What is this Landowner you speak of?"

Lightning Dust just stared at her, not surprised. "The pony who let you stay in the house."

Nightmare Moon blinked a bit before raising a brow. "Hm? I built it myself, nopony let me stay in it. It was my own castle."

Lightning Dust ran a hoof down her face, moaning in discomfort. "Ooooh! How am I gonna deal with you two?" She paused before blinking a bit, nodding to herself and smiling. "Ah, I know. Just give me a second, I'll be right back." She then turned around, only to see another colt standing atop the stairs as it looked down curiously at the two who sat at the table. "Hey, go back to your room!"

The colt gasped then hurried down the hall, running into one of the rooms and shutting the door behind him.

Nightmare Moon blinked a bit, "I didn't imagine you to be one who bared children already. This is, quite surprising."

Lightning Dust flushed red before snarling at Nightmare Moon. "He's not my kid! He's my brother! There's a difference!"

Nightmare Moon closed her eyes with a slight smile. "Well technically I have two older sisters! So I understand!"

Sombra just sighed, lowering his head. "The two worst older sisters in the world might I add."

Lightning Dust raised a brow at her, "What, you have two sisters? Why don't you just stay with them!?"

Sombra couldn't help but snicker a bit at the comment. "PFFT!"

Nightmare Moon scratched at the back of her mane. "Um, we're not on very good terms at the moment I can imagine."

Lightning Dust just rolled her eyes, still not surprised as she made way for the front door. "Whatever. Alright, you two just stay here, and DON'T go messing around upstairs, that place is off-limits. If you want to do something, just watch TV. I'm going to go grab Raindrops, she lives by herself so you two should be able to stay at her place without any issues. Just don't go doing anything stupid that you might regret, seriously, if you have to, you two just sit right there the entire time!" She then made her way out, locking the door behind her.

Sombra and Nightmare Moon just looked at one another with curiosity for a bit, before then eyeing the TV.

Nightmare Moon currently had her face touched upon the TV screen in fascination. "It is not a portal, yet it shows us images of moments gone by without actually being there! T-This is amazing! What form of magic is this? And what is this barrier that blocks our path?"

Sombra eyed it with interest as well as he just stood on his hind legs, and raised a brow. "It must be some form of advanced telepathy, mind magic which is controlled by a far more powerful source." He smirked to himself, absolutely confident in his theory. "Grah, there must certainly be a wizard of which whom broadcasts these images to all of these magic amplifying boxes to inform his subjects of his greatest concerns. Look upon the portal box and see the scenes closely, and you to will notice." Upon the TV was Photo Finish, as they were highlighting the newest models whom were showing off their new dresses and costumes that'd been accustomed to their very figures.

Nightmare Moon began rubbing her lower muzzle with interest. "Hm, perhaps you are right Grah King."

"E-Excuse me?"

Nightmare Moon and Sombra's eyes widened as they immediately glanced back and at the top of the staircase. As standing there would be a tiny little colt as he just eyed them curiously, while appearing somewhat afraid as he hid behind a corner.

Nightmare Moon gasped, "L-Little Master!"

Sombra glanced over at Nightmare Moon with hesitance. "Didn't our leader tell him to stay in his chambers?"

Nightmare Moon nodded to him, "Yes, so this must be of utter importance." She looked to him. "What troubles you Little Master?"

The colt shook his head. "I-I just want to know what you two are doing with the TV."

Nightmare Moon and Sombra glanced back at the TV with raised brows.

Nightmare Moon then looked back to him, "TV? Ah yes, that's what it was called wasn't it. Do you know a lot of this Little Master?"

The colt nodded. "Mhm, Big Sis puts on lots of shows for me."

Nightmare Moon growled, lowering her head. "Blast, what is a show? If only I still had the tome."

Sombra looked to her with a raised brow. "Tome? What tome?"

Nightmare Moon looked to Sombra with a hint of sorrow. "It was a powerful tome I once possessed, but in my rage of being unable to unlock its power, it perished in the fires of my home. I believe if I had more patience, I could've unlocked the key to infinite knowledge."

Sombra nodded as he began rubbing his muzzle. "I see, I was familiar with tomes such as this. It was how I originally managed to acquire my dark magic long ago, so, it is of no surprise to me there'd be one that'd allow us to gain much needed knowledge in this world." He looked to her with a serious and inquisitive expression, raising a brow. "What was this tome called, might I ask?"

Nightmare Moon nodded to him. "It was known as, Dictionary. I believe the name is that of a powerful lord."

Sombra nodded. "Yes, a powerful lord, that does sound accurate. We must look further into this."

The front door slowly creaked open, and the colt in reaction, hurried back to his room.

Lightning Dust entered the house with a tired expression, as accompanying her would be Raindrops in a gray hoody. Lightning Dust raised a brow at the two, looking a bit skeptical about what they had going on. "Um, what're you two doing?" She then placed a hoof over her forehead before just groaning, "Actually you know what, no, I don't even want to know." She placed both hooves upon her sides while fluttering, "Raindrops is here to pick you guys up. So you two will be staying with her for the time being." She then crossed her hooves.

Raindrops waved at them with a smile. "Hi Nightmare! And nice to meet you new little pony. I'll be taking care of you guys now!"

Nightmare smiled brightly, "C-Comrade! It is good to see you!" Raindrops was one of her favorites, seeing as she always seemed to gain her approval. She glanced down at Sombra, "This is another one of our comrades, she is extremely resilient and helpful."

Sombra nodded to her, "Grah, it is a pleasure to meet you. I am known as King Sombra, a once mighty ruler."

Nightmare Moon smiled at Sombra with earnesty. As she then looked ahead with determination as Sombra made his way over to Raindrops and Lightning Dust. She smirked a bit. This is good, it seems that my new world is fortifying itself nicely. Just you wait Cello Pony, soon enough we will have enough force to defeat you. She looked down at her hoof with a grateful smile. We only need to have patience.

Meanwhile, sitting in a dark room with all lights focused on her would be Octavia. She just peered up at a shadowed figure, whom sat in a mighty throne higher up, in a room of indeterminable size. Octavia raised a brow, "What do you want? I was in the middle of enjoying my days off. You know I don't have time to keep you amused little girl." She spoke with  an obvious hint of discern.

The figure then turned its throne, revealing that it was an extremely small pony, more than likely a filly. It was shadowed as it rested its cheek on one hoof while tapping her throne's armrest with the other. "What is this I'm hearing about an alicorn working at Mcmuffin's?"

Octavia sighed heavily as she lowered her head and glared up at the shadowed individual. "I told you, I took care of it."

The tiny figure then just tossed a newspaper down at the mare as it slid across the floor with Nightmare Moon being on the front page. The publisher was titled, The Manehattan Matters. This figure then snapped, her voice obviously female. "YOU BETTER HAVE! Papa is gone for the next few weeks! And he trusted me to take care of things down here to prove myself! S-So, you better keep it together!"

Octavia growled a bit beneath her breath with an intense glare. This little brat.

The tiny figure then turned in her throne as she faced the opposing direction. "Now, you're dismissed! I don't want to hear anymore about this alicorn!" She paused before stating in an angered tone. "Don't make me go down there myself lady!"

Octavia bowed her head again as she turned with a heavy sigh. Just you wait you little brat, I'll bring down Mcmuffin's.

There was a slight tremble seen in the figure upon the throne, and Octavia couldn't determine if she was trembling out of anger or fear.

But it caused the mare to smirk, as she turned away, exiting the room upon doing so. And your whole world as well.

Chapter 4: The Defense of Lady Dealmaker

Nightmare Moon yawned, as she'd awoken the next morning in a great mood. She leaned up, currently sitting on a mattress upon the floor in a spacious room. The room was quite furnished with a couple of dressers and a few pictures hanging on the walls, mostly of Raindrops and a few unknown individuals. Nightmare Moon paid little attention to them as she just continued to wear a simple smile, in the form of a perfect sideways c while she also had bags beneath her eyes. She soon glanced down however, as she felt something was wrapped around her leg. She saw the form of a tiny black colt as he was snoring while drooling on her like she was some sort of pillow. She just blinked at him, before standing to all fours and shaking her leg and getting him off as he just laid there by himself now. She then leaned forward, yawning as she did so and arching her back in the process, in similarity to a dog when it woke up in the morning. She made her way over towards one of the windows, then spreading the curtain with telekinetic magic to take in the sun's full shine. She overlooked the neighborhood with interest while wearing a plain smile with an earnest expression. Well then, let us attack the day shall we?

Sitting at a dining table that same morning with deep bags also beneath her eyes would be Lightning Dust, accompanied by an older mare and older stallion, while a filly and a colt also sat nearby munching on their own salads. Lightning Dust sighed as she just continued to stare at her salad. She didn't say anything and only remained lost in thought, which caused the older mare and stallion to worry as they looked to one another first, before looking over at Lightning Dust, while the mare in particular opened her muzzle as if about to speak.

The older mare hesitated as she frowned slightly however. "L-Lightning, what's the matter sweetie? Is everything alright?"

Lightning's eyes widened as she looked over at them before laughing a bit, then shaking her head before closing her eyes. "Ahaha, um, yea everything's alright Mom. I'm just a little worried about work is all, things have been crazy recently." She lowered her head.

The older mare tilted her head to the right. "Is it about those two who came while we were out last night?"

Lightning Dust nodded. "Yea, they mean well, but I guess I'm just worried that they won't be able to handle what's coming. It's like ever since one came the situation has gotten more, complicated. I guess I just hope they can handle the pressure."

The older mare frowned a bit, "I'm worried more if you can handle it."

Lightning Dust sighed as she smiled softly at the mare. "I can handle it Mom, I told you I'll be fine."

The older mare wasn't convinced. "Well I can't help but worry sweetie, ever since that flight school debacle, you were depressed for quite awhile. I don't want you rushing yourself back into work, and with all these issues you're also considering moving out? I want you to rest a little while longer before you try taking on workloads like this." She paused, glancing down at her salad. "Yes I know you feel you have a lot to make up for with what happened to those ponies you met at flight school, but punishing yourself isn't going to do anything either."

Lightning Dust just frowned as she glanced over at her. "Just try not to worry Mom, please. Trust me when I say I'm better now."

The older mare frowned as well, followed by a sigh. "I'll try not to sweetie but I'm your mother, I can't help but worry."

Lightning Dust bared a smile, as she appeared lost in those words, the moment. "And that's exactly why you shouldn't. You guys love me and that's all I need at this point." She gave the two a cheeky grin, "I can handle some crazy co-workers of mine no problem!"

The stallion and older mare returned her smile earnestly.

The little colt munching on his salad just raised his fork to the air. "BIG SIS! WILL WE BE ABLE TO SEE MS. MOON AGAIN!?"

The little filly followed with a fork raise. "YEA YEA! I WANT TO SEE AN AWICORN!"

The stallion glanced over at Lightning Dust in worry, "About that Lightning; this alicorn, is she safe? I heard she has some, history."

Lightning Dust nodded with a smile. "Yea, she's cool." She looked down, a little distracted while chuckling a bit. "She's a little loony but she's also like a kid, attempting to find her place in Equestria. Sometimes I wish I could see the world, as she sees it."

Nightmare Moon cheered as she raised her fork to the air with magic. She was currently sitting at a dining table in the living quarters of the home she was staying in. "WHY, THIS IS STUPENDOUS! THIS MAGNIFICENT CREATION IS BEYOND WORDS!"

Sombra just stared at her blankly as he appeared a bit irritated with her enthusiasm. "Should you wish to be a cow, I suggest you go outside and bow to the grass." He was referring to her salad of course, which the alicorn continued to munch on happily in delight.

With a full mouth, she pointed her fork at him. "And what of you!? Do you not wish to partake in the dining ritual known as breakfast!?"

Sombra rolled his eyes. "Grah, I do not require such things. All I desire is crystals."

Nightmare Moon continued to speak with a full mouth and amused look. "Sho you eat wocks then?"

Sombra leaned forward as he slammed a hoof upon the table. "No, not rocks! They are not simply rocks!"

Nightmare Moon closed her eyes with a nod. "YESH! DO FORGIVE ME! SHINY WOCKS!"

Sombra rolled his eyes yet again with a groan. "Grah, forget it. You understand nothing."

Interrupting them from the kitchen however would be Raindrops as she was currently adorned in an apron. She was currently fixing herself a salad as she looked to Nightmare Moon and Sombra in amusement, before glancing down at her salad. "I'm sorry I don't have crystals for you Mister Sombra, I never expected anypony to enjoy eating those, plus they're expensive." She tilted her head to the right, looking at him curiously from afar. "Maybe you should visit the Crystal Empire someday." She blinked a bit. "I hear they have a lot of crystals."

Sombra's eyes widened "IRK!" Before he'd cringed and sulked, looking in a completely opposing direction in annoyance.

Nightmare Moon had her hoof over her muzzle, snickering deviously. "Uhuhuhuhu."

Raindrops made her way over to the table before lowering herself into a seat. She seemed enthusiastic, "It feels nice to have guests over! It'll be so fun to be able to head to work together from now on!" She paused, "Speaking of work, are you joining us Mister Sombra?"

Sombra smirked as he closed his eyes, resting one cheek on his hoof. "Heh of course I'm going to join this war. Should I manage to succeed, which I will, then I will be invulnerable as this Nightmare has said. It is a worthy price for such a fitting reward."

Raindrops blinked a bit before she began taking a bite out of her salad. "Well, I can't say I'm unhappy! It'll be nice having more faces around Mcmuffin's. And Boss said we could use more workers if we want to be able to actually compete with Cookie King's."

Nightmare Moon's face darkened as she stopped eating for a moment.

Raindrops looked over to her in curiosity. "O-Oh, sorry Nightmare, I forgot you don't like them very much."

Sombra raised a brow to the situation, before looking to Raindrops. "Whom is this, Cookie King? Is he another ruler of this world?"

Raindrops glanced over at the colt, somewhat amused. "Well by these terms, you can say that."

Nightmare Moon snickered. "Hah..." She then burst into laughter. "Ahahahahahahahahahaha!"

And while she was laughing Sombra and Raindrops just eyed her, Sombra with little interest, while Raindrops did so with surprise.

Nightmare Moon tilted her head back, "Ah how invigorating. Surely more allies will come to join us with time, and soon, our most dreaded enemy will be no more, her world shattered around her, her face in infinite despair." She licked her lips, "I can almost taste it." She dunked her head into her salad bowl. "OMNOMONOMNOMNOMNOM!" Munching at it like a wild creature as she was so excited and anticipated for what was to come, that she could hardly control herself. Raindrops and Sombra just watched with wide eyes from then on, speechless.

As they'd arrived at work only a few hours later, Sombra now stood in front of a large wooden desk, as he just stared blankly up at the older mare known as Boss. She just continued to eye him in silence as she raised a brow at his fellows whom were standing behind him. Of course them being Nightmare Moon, Lightning Dust, and Raindrops. "Who does this little kid belong to?"

Sombra closed his eyes with a sigh. "For the last time, how many times must I tell you ponies that I'm no k-"

Nightmare Moon immediately punched him in the face with a hoof, sending him flying and crashing to the side. "ME!"

Boss just stared at Nightmare with half closed eyes. "So you two know each other Nightmare? Isn't it a little much to be taking care of a child what with all the concerns you already have going on in your life? I hope I'm correct in assuming his history isn't as bad?"

Nightmare Moon cringed, "Arguably worse."

The older mare sighed as she rubbed her forehead. "I'm sorry Nightmare, then I can't hire him. This little colt is not only a little too young to work here officially, but if you two have some past complications, I'm not sure it'd turn out too well for us in the long run reputation wise. I also can't go off your faith alone that he can be trusted. I am only mortal Nightmare, I can't handle the both of you, and expect to save you both should everything come crashing down. And what's this about your home? Where are you two even staying?"

Nightmare Moon appeared panicked as she looked to the older mare in desperation. "But Mistress! He would be a valuable asset, y-yes I know that I have burned down my home, but that matters little! What matters is we gather all the forces necessary to defe-"

The older mare sighed, cutting off the alicorn with a hoof raise. "Enough Nightmare. I said-"

"Graaah! Then allow me to volunteer myself then!"

All present in the room suddenly went quiet as they looked to the origin of that voice in the far-off corner.

Sombra huffed as he staggered towards the front desk. "Graaaah, l-listen. If you truly are the general and the one who overlooks the battlefield, then I will stand by these ponies regardless. I need no compensation, all I need to acquire is this legendary status. I am stronger with allies rather than none, and if I must make sacrifices along the way I will do so. Allow me to offer my support, free of any debts, I will assist you all in taking down this fool whom would call himself the Cookie King. There is only one king present in this city."

Nightmare Moon snickered in the background. "PFT!"

Lightning Dust just slapped her up the back of the head with a hoof.

The Boss just stared at him silently for a moment.

Sombra glared right back at her with determination.

She sighed before shaking her head. "Well I can't argue with you if you just want to hang around and help out. Nightmare Moon is your guardian afterall so it'd make sense for you two to be together." She looked to him with a serious expression. "Anyhow, since you'll be an off the books worker, you have more freedom than the rest of us, use it well Mister Sombra. But that doesn't mean I want you causing any trouble for those whom actually do work here either." She paused with a slight glare, "Do you understand these terms?"

Sombra scoffed, "Hah! Of course I do. Do not take me for a fool General, I may be a king but I to am familiar with the art of war."

The Boss added on with a sigh, sulking in the process, "Not too sure about that." She paused before glancing around the room at all of them, baring a smile in the process. "Nonetheless, I'm happy you all are obviously trying. Which is why I to have been working on things in the background, I think you'll all enjoy what I have in store." She bore saddened eyes for a moment before regarding the lot of them with a confident smile. "Just lay low for a little while longer alright? Octavia might still be keeping tabs on the lot of you."

Raindrops commented with a salute. "WILL DO BOSS!"

Nightmare Moon added on with a smirk and head bow. "Of course Mistress, we shall not fail you! If it means combating that devious Cello Pony, I will do what I must." She smiled brightly with her eyes closed, as she raised her head and stood up straight.

Sombra smirked her as well before glancing over at Raindrops and Nightmare Moon with a raised brow. "Well then, shall you two teach me what it means to do battle in this new world. What did you call them again? Customers? I shall acquire the most satisfaction!"

Nightmare Moon then looked to Sombra with eyes of pure passion and love. "Oh Grah King, your support will be most appreciated in this battle. For with you on our side, I can only be certain we've gained a great advantage over the enemy. This is a glorious day indeed."

Sombra returned the look as his eyes to were filled with passion, pride, and love. "Graaaah, indeed. I know together, and with our new allies, surely we will make an unstoppable team. Heh, I'll be taking back the Crystal Empire in no time, and returning to my true and glorious form." He closed his eyes for a moment, before looking to her with a confident smirk. "And it's all thanks to you."

Nightmare Moon sniffed as she had tears in her eyes, "Oh Grah King!"

Sombra did a mane flip as he ran his hoof through his mane in embarrassment. "And surely with my skills I will be the best here as well."

Nightmare Moon gasped! "As if!" Before she hurriedly made her way out of the office.

Sombra growled as he disappeared in a poof of shadow, "I SHALL NOT BE DEFEATED!"

Raindrops then hurriedly made her way out as well, turning to nod to the boss before doing so. "W-Wait Sombra! You're not trained yet!"

Lightning Dust however just stayed, eyeing her boss for a minute. "Are you okay Boss?"

There was a lengthy silence between them.

Boss just leaned forward as she bore a smile towards Lightning Dust. "It's alright Lightning Dust, nothing to worry about."

Lightning Dust just continued to peer at her. "You know, I'm here if you ever need anything to Boss."

Boss glanced away from her before looking to the pegasus seriously. "Lightning Dust, you're a good mare."

Lightning Dust just gave a soft smile as she appeared enlightened by the comment. "Yea, I wish." She then looked back to the boss before turning around, preparing to take her leave from the office. "Just, if you ever need anything, I'm always here. I know Mr. Buck is around as well but-" her eyes saddened as she appeared somewhat skeptical, "You've been distant lately Boss, it's unlike you."

The older mare bared yet another smile towards Lightning Dust, as if reassuring her, but she said nothing.

Lightning Dust tossed her a wave and casual smile, before exiting the office and then immediately hearing some other disturbances.

Nightmare Moon was in the kitchen while there was a line making its way out of the restaurant itself. She scowled fiercely at the oven as standing beside her would be Sombra. "YOU'RE AN IDIOT! A FOOL! AN INCOMPETENT MORON! THE MUFFINS REQUIRE TENDER CARE AND MASTERY!! HOW COULD YOU MESS UP THE SHAPE!?" She closed her eyes as she scoffed, "BAH! NOT SURPRISING! IT SEEMS ONLY FEW ARE GIFTED ENOUGH WITH THE ART OF MUFFIN CRAFTING! MY SHADOW PONIES ARE BETTER THAN YOU ARE!" She paused, "OH, but how can I forget!? You more than likely had all your shiny rocks prepared for you and know nothing of actually putting in an effort!" She snarled at him further, with a deep passive growl.

Sombra was red in the face as he just snapped at her. "YOU SHUT YOUR MUZZLE WENCH! I'M DOING THE BEST I CAN! IT'S MY FIRST TIME ON THE BATTLEFIELD, THERE WERE BOUND TO BE CASUALTIES ALONG THE WAY! YOU KNEW OF THIS!"

Nightmare Moon glared at him. "ACTUALLY NO, NO I DID NOT! FOR EACH MUFFIN SACRIFICED FOR YOUR INCOMPETENCE, IS ANOTHER CHANCE FOR COOKIE KING'S TO GAIN THE LEAD ON US IN SUPREMACY! USELESS USELESS USELESS!"

Raindrops was panicking as she glanced back into the kitchen from the registers. "G-Guys! A little help here!?"

Nightmare Moon immediately pointed towards the registers as she puckered her lower lip. "TO THE REGI-STAR WITH YOU!"

Sombra's brow twitched as he looked to her in absolute annoyance. "GRAH! I can handle the ovens as well! STEP ASIDE!"

Lightning Dust whom was now fluttering behind them immediately bashed them both atop the heads. "IDIOTS!"

While Boss remained in her office, now wearing a cold look upon her face as her wooden door slowly shut itself with a creak.

Boss remained in her office silently for some time not making any movements whatsoever, before opening her drawer and pulling out a small headset. She took in a deep breath as she pressed the button which turned it on. She appeared horribly worried before there was a slight click sound, signifying that the headset had turned on. "B-Buck? Buck is that you? How're you? Are you alright?"

And currently, in a far off supposedly distant location, hidden on the upper levels of a large classical theater which often held plays, would be an older brown stallion. He currently wore a black hoody as well as a pair of sunglasses. He was behind a corner as what he witnessed appeared to be a large gathering of sorts, while he attempted to remain out of sight. Accompanying him would be two other ponies also in black hoodies. He clicked his headpiece as he muttered into it, "Hey Boss, everything fine with that establishment?"

"Y-Yea, I'm just worried about you at the moment."

The stallion chuckled as he raised a brow. "A-Ah thanks, good to hear. How's that um, alicorn doing?"

"She's fine, just as I told you she'd be. Still a little heavy on media attention but the more normal she gets, the more I expect things to die down. There was a run in with Octavia, but we've managed to work out a deal for now. Things seem to have quieted down."

The stallion raised his voice somewhat as he appeared flustered. "D-Don't let those kids mess with Octavia! You crazy!?"

"I've got it on this end okay? I'll take care of Octavia. But how're you Buck? Did you find her yet?"

The stallion then peaked around the corner again as he squinted a bit, focusing on the stage of the theater. There were multitudes of ponies gathered there, masses arguably. But he shook his head at the currently empty stage as he muttered. "W-We haven't seen her yet."

"Please, be careful. Y-You're playing with fire here Buck. You know how dangerous this one is. According to rumors, she's spread her influence throughout most of the city. There's a good chance whoever she is, she's inexperienced, only a passionate player would do these things." There was a slight pause in the mare's voice. "And I know the younger ones are dangerous these days, just look at Octavia."

The stallion was quiet however as he muttered into the headset, "One second Boss, it looks like somepony is coming out onto the stage." There was a lengthy silence as he looked on towards the crowds in confusion at first. They were all focused on a sole figure upon the stage, but as he glanced over at that figure himself, he began to tremble. "T-This, this can't be right. This is impossible."

"What is it Buck? W-What's wrong!?"

And upon that stage was a small pink filly as she wore a diamond tiara upon her head with a smirk.

The stallion staggered back in shock. "IT'S JUST A KID!?"

"WHAT!?"

Boss continued to listen as she was trembling with wide horrified eyes from the other side.

"I repeat! Operation Dealmaker is a child! Operation Dealmaker is a child!"

Boss just continued to sit there, petrified by the news. A-A child? How is that possible? "B-Buck! What's she look like!? Give me all the details you can! This is important information!" There is no possible way a kid could have such influence.

"Large tiara! P-Pink? I think her mane's purple!"

Boss's eyes widened in realization. RICH'S KID!? He let her have the reigns in his absence!? Is he crazy!?

Buck then immediately looked to his fellows as he shook his head then back down towards the stage. As suddenly all eyes in the crowd were focused on him and where he was hiding. The stallion's eyes widened as he then went back to focusing on the child in the middle of the stage, as he noticed that she was also looking at him with amused eyes and a plain smirk. A shiver went down the stallion's spine. "It's a trap.." He then looked to his two fellows accompanying him. "IT'S A TRAP! WE'RE GETTING OUT OF HERE! MOVE MOVE!"

"B-Buck? BUCK!?"

But at the scene, Buck and his companions turned only to see two abnormally large diamond dogs in suits with shades as they loomed over the group of three, before Buck just looked up at them, horrified, and they took hold of all three ponies.

Standing upon the stage the pale pink filly just continued to stand there as eventually, arriving upon her stage would be the three captured ponies as she spread her hooves and spoke into a mic. "Hello everypony! I thank you for coming to today's meeting! But it seems here that we have three ponies poking their heads around in our business! I say it's time they're awarded for their efforts don't you!?"

Cheers rang out throughout the theater.

The stallion and his two female companions just remained there, subdued as the two mares accompanying Buck trembled with fearful looks. They had tears in their eyes he just glanced back at them. "R-Remain strong you two! It's going to be alright!"

The pink filly just chuckled softly as she looked at them with half-closed eyes from afar. "Now, who should I start with hm?"

Boss just continued to listen from the other end, absent of all color now as she wore only a fearful look.

One of the captive mares looked to Buck, tears streaming down her cheeks. "M-Mr.Buck! PLEASE! P-Please! I want to remain loyal! I-I...I love Mcmuffin's! I've loved it for so long! PLEASE! H-Help me!" She cried out, "I DON'T WANT TO LOSE MYSELF!"

Mr.Buck trembled with horror as he saw the fear in her eyes and he smiled to her softly. "D-Don't be scared, it's going to be alright okay? I'll fix this." He then looked to the pink filly. "L-Little girl! PLEASE! Take me but let them go! They're just kids like you!"

"BUCK!? WHAT'S GOING ON OVER THERE!?" Boss shouted from the other end.

The pale pink filly just looked to him with a cold look at first, peering into those wide eyes of his. And slowly and surely, a wide grin crept onto her face as she cackled wildly. "AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!" She just continued to laugh.

Buck's face darkened in despair as he just heard that mad cackling.

While Boss continued to listen from the opposing end, tears swelling in her eyes.

The child soon immediately paused, looking towards the stage lights with half-closed bored eyes. She muttered, "How noble of you Mister." She then looked to one of his companions with those same bored eyes. "But I don't take deals, I make them."

The stallion's expression sunk further, as he then went into a wild rage, while being subdued by the Diamond Dog's. "L-LET THEM GO!" He continued to shout and berate the child as she just trotted away from him, heading on over to one of his companions.

The pale pink filly paid little attention to him now, as she just strolled on over to one of the captive mares with a soft smile. She then tilted the mare's head back with interest, looking her in the eyes. But the mare didn't look back at her, she just continued to avoid eye contact. The pale pink filly just gave her a cold stare from then on, before closing her eyes and baring a bright happy smile towards the crowd, facing them, and then calling out. "These ponies did an awfully great job at finding me didn't they!? Maybe we didn't give them enough credit! Maybe they should receive bigger awards! What do you all think!?" The filly spread her hooves in delight as she chuckled happily.

The crowd let off a stream of excited cheers.

The mare just continued to shake her head, wearing a horrified fearful look, muttering to herself in desperation. "S-Somepony, save me."

Buck just looked to her, before he'd been pinned even further onto the stage floor. "PLEASE! JUST LET HER GO!"

The other mare whom was also held hostage just looked to her fellow as she to was sobbing. "D-Don't be afraid Blue Bell!"

The filly then glanced over at one of the diamond dogs. "STAND HER UP!"

The diamond dog nodded as he allowed the captive mare to stand, as he shoved her forward a bit. She stood there trembling fiercely before just shaking her head, attempting to back away but her path being blocked by the diamond dogs. "N-No please, not like this..."

The filly then wore a cold emotionless expression before lowering her head. "You are quite loyal to them aren't you? This, Mcmuffin's, that is. They chose you well in choosing to find me, but, they should've taught you better. There are a few places that're beyond convincing I admit, but-" she turned to face the mare with a smile. "There's never a worker who isn't."

The mare trembled still, gritting her teeth, absolutely desperate. "Y-You, YOU WON'T TAKE ME LADY DEALMAKER!"

The filly muttered with a sigh before giving the mare a cold glare. "I already have."

The mare then immediately stood on her hind legs, wearing a look of pure ferocity as she snarled, crying out as she suddenly pulled two muffins from her pockets, one in each hoof. "MCMUFFIN DOUBLE STANDARD!!!!! YOU'RE LOVIN IT!!!" She suddenly tossed the two muffins with absolute accuracy as they shot straight for the filly's muzzle, but the filly didn't react as she just continued to stand there.

The filly stomped a hoof, when suddenly leaping in front of her snatching the muffins with their mouth would be another diamond dog.

The mare gasped in horror. W-WHAT!?

Buck cringed as his eyes went wide with shock. T-This loyalty....

The pale pink filly just continued to smirk at the resisting mare with amusement.

While Buck remained lost in his thoughts of horror. It's, it's flawless. She has, *the ultimate defense***.

The second mare whom was also held captive cried out to her friend in desperation. "RUN BLUE BELL!"

The diamond dog just munched on the muffins happily happily. "MCMUFFINS! MCMUFFINS! DELICIOUS! SO DELICIOUS!"

The second mare just continued, sobbing wildly as she snapped at her friend. "DON'T JUST STAND THERE, RUUUUUN!!!!"

While the one known as Blue Bell, just continued to stand there, frozen with fear.

The filly started, "If you work for me," She paused, before stating with a maniacal grin "You will get  plus 20% base pay!!!!!!!!"

The mare was suddenly knocked off her hooves due to the sheer brutality of such an appealing offer. "GAAAAAAAAH!!!"

As Buck was still upon the floor, he cried out to the filly. "STOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOP!!!!!!"

The filly however continued relentlessly, monstrously. "Work for me," she grinned, "AND LUNCH BREAKS APLENTY!"

The mare then flipped to her side as if she were tripped and slammed to the ground. "EYAAAAAAAH!!!!" She crawled upon the floor, reaching out for Buck desperately as tears continued to roll down her cheeks. "S-Sir, please. H-Help me, I can't, m-much longer..."

But the stallion was frozen, unable to say anything as he just laid there, speechless.

The filly strolled up to the mare again casually, flipping her over, looking her in the face. She then grabbed a ticket from one of her nearby diamond dog guards. "And for all your glorious efforts!" She smirked, "A FREE TICKET TO LAS PEGASUS! ALL FEES PAID!"

The mare then cried out, tearing at her mane. "NOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!" Before she writhed around on the ground like a madmare, convulsing violently as she suddenly froze, "Eheh...." She had her eyes closed as she placed a hoof over her face. "AHAHAHAHAHAHAH! YES YES! OF COURSE I ACCEPT! I WILL TELL YOU EVERYTHING I KNOW!!! HEHEHE!" Tears streamed down her face as she just continued to laugh wildly in delight, suddenly grabbing hold of the ticket and licking it happily, broken.

The little filly looked upon her new pet with amusement, pleased. "I knew you would."

Buck just remained there, forced to kneel as he and the one mare left just had broken expressions. The stallion just trembled as he shook his head. "Y-You're a monster, a complete monster. S-Such deals, how could you? She was one of our finest, ran an establishment deep in the heart of the city and you just.....you just....you, you're no pony, you're a demon!" He shouted angrily at the filly.

The filly then tilted his head back with a smirk. "Soon you all will be working for me, and Mcmuffin's, will be mine. And every other eating place in this big city." She then took a few trots back before muttering, "Take them away, they will still be of use before we convert them."

And as the filly took a few trots back, she then smirked a bit in delight at the sight of a headset upon the ground. She of course picked it up and spoke into it with a happy tone, making cat lips in the process. "Oh? I didn't know I had a secret audience? How'd you enjoy the broadcast lady? Yes, I do imagine you're a lady right? Mhmhmhmhmhm," she grinned deviously, "Or should I say, Lady Muffin?"

On the opposing end Boss just trembled as she wore a look of innate rage. "You brat, when I find you..."

"You'll what? Hahahaha! Join me!? You heard what happened to your friend didn't you!? You'll end up the same dumb lady! I'm saving these ponies, I'm giving them more money! Better jobs than you ever could! You're time has passed you hag!"

The older mare snarled into the headset. "You care not for them! You would throw them under the bus at the first chance of a better deal! You are no dealmaker, you're a dealbreaker! There is no way you could truly give them all you promise! You're just an irresponsible little girl tossing around whatever bits she earns from her allowance! Listen here child, you are still young, you don't have enough experience to be making decisions of this magnitude. You think you can control all the business in Manehattan? Your father understood better, why, attempting to control everything never would never end up well. Cease this nonsense, or pay the price."

There was a slight pause between the two.

"Heh, HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!~"

And Boss in that moment just shut off the headset as it was only her now, in this silent room by her lonesome. Flashing into her mind would be Lightning Dust, Raindrops, Buck, and even, Nightmare. She closed her eyes as she smirked, "They'll be fine, I must do this."

Later in the day. Lightning Dust in made her way back into the office as she was covered in a ton of flour, frowning heavily with a look of exhaustion. "Hey Boss, so it looks like we're out of blueberry flavoring. Want me to put in the orders for mo-" but her eyes went wide as she saw that the office was completely empty, and all there was there was was a business jacket hanging on the back of one of the chairs. "Boss?" Lightning Dust made her way further inside, as she saw also upon the barren desk was a lone note.

Dear Lightning Dust,

You're in charge for now kid, I know you got it in you.

Also, I left you guys a gift. Make sure you get in contact with her, she's, *something else*, with cooking muffins.

And beneath the contact info would be the name as Lightning Dust raised a brow in reaction to it. "Derpy, Hooves?"

Chapter 4.5: Turn on the Lights, Turn off the Dark

Nightmare Moon stood upon a surface of black water as her eyes snapped wide, she paused to glance around momentarily. The world surrounding her was barren, only her and this black sea, alone upon this massive body of water. She peered down at her own reflection for a moment of contemplation, not saying anything. She then looked towards the sky, which consisted of only dark solemn colors and ashen clouds, a sky just as lonesome apparently. Soon enough she took a trot forward hesitantly, a little frightened of the water, of the idea of sinking. Nightmare's expression had sunk further before she made a crooked frown and lowered her head. Yes, it is just a dream. This is just a dream. An ordinary dream. Surely, I must be sleeping somewhere. But how does one end up here?

She came to a pause as she closed her eyes with a worried expression. S-Surely, there is a reasonable explanation.

"Is this what it feels like to be alone?"

Nightmare's eyes widened as she suddenly appeared fearful. The voice was familiar, and she recognized it almost immediately as her counter-part, her now distant sister Luna. She glanced around again, looking towards the sky for some form of origin for that voice.

"It's natural to be alone when nopony understands you. Many of us live in that world, and we never leave it."

Nightmare Moon lowered her head as her expression sunk further and she just said nothing, closing her eyes.

"Do not sob, do not cry, you're stronger than that. Put on the face your meant to make, shelter all emotions."

And soon enough, Nightmare's world melted away as the scenery had changed completely. The alicorn now stood upon the barren surface of the moon, as she slowly opened her eyes and noticed herself that the world she'd been standing in, had changed completely. She appeared to be in a nostalgic daze, as she stood upon this familiar rocky surface. She coursed her hoof over it for a moment, as if just to get a feel for its texture, to see if it truly were the same. A deep frown appeared on her face then, as she just looked down at the surface of the moon with pained eyes. She closed her eyes, almost refusing to acknowledge it anymore. She didn't want to, nor did she want to remember.

"Acknowledge the feelings of guilt, relish in them, do not run. What does a god have to fear? You *are** the fear."*

Nightmare Moon opened her eyes then as she did acknowledge where she was. She trembled somewhat as she attempted to stand firm and in place, putting on a strong face as she peered ahead towards the distant black. She focused particularly on the stars, specks of light which she now felt gave her some form of relief, comfort. A small smile crept onto her face, as she felt the pressure melt away, the angst.

"A light in the darkness can be one's greatest comfort. It's ironic isn't it? For the darkness has now found comfort in the light."

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened as she glanced to the lower left, as if thrown off by those words.

And suddenly in the next moment, her world had melted away again, as the alicorn now stood in a field of snow. She looked to the sky first this time, as she noticed it was partly calm weather with dark grey skies. She slowly turned her gaze ahead then, as what she saw caused her eyes to widen in surprise and shock. The mare then slowly began to trot towards that particular sight, uncertain but unable to turn away as well. In the distance was a kingdom of vast lights. But it was strange, she recognized it. It was the kingdom of Canterlot, but it had been torn from the mountain. Yet even so, it was still so beautiful, still so large in grandeur and fortified. As if it were laid out specially for her, like some kind of special gift-wrapped present. Nightmare Moon just continued to peer up at it, mesmerized. She had no words to describe the way she felt. Adoration, love, envy, joy? So many things rushed into her mind as she looked upon the gorgeous kingdom.

And as she looked upon it, the snow continued to trickle down and land upon her coat and muzzle. She soon glanced down at herself in surprise as a sudden and mysterious light had wrapped around her. Nightmare Moon observed herself in confusion as she was suddenly in a gorgeous sapphire dress, adorned with decorations of all kinds. She'd ran her hoof over the material in disbelief, such a thing being so alien to her she couldn't really wrap her mind around the idea of wearing it. Her black cheeks revealed a tint of crimson as she was obviously embarrassed by the idea of wearing something so beautiful, and she felt it didn't fit her whatsoever. And as she glanced down at herself, she hadn't even noticed the world around her had changed yet again, but she was still far too distracted.

"You're looking quite stunning."

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened again as she immediately raised her head, and then noticed that the world had changed again. She appeared fearful as she noticed that she was now standing in a location she was almost certain she'd never be welcomed in. It was a gorgeous ball room fit for the Grand Galloping Gala. She also noticed that ponies were dancing elegantly all around her but focused on their own lives and worlds, almost as if she didn't even exist. And as she just casually and eventually looked ahead, what she saw caused her look of fear to dissipate and melt away into one of heartache, as she just looked upon this figure with a look of sorrow, unable to say anything.

Standing before her also in a similar dress would be Princess Luna with her hoof stretched out, as if asking the alicorn to take it. "It's nice isn't it? This world? The lights? The idea of being adorned and surrounded by loving and caring subjects? It's all wonderful isn't it?"

Nightmare Moon opened her muzzle, as if about to say something, but she halted herself and then avoided eye contact with Luna.

Princess Luna continued with a blank stare and smile. "This world was ours, yet you chose to head down a different path?"

Nightmare Moon's expression worsened as she lowered her head and closed her eyes, sulking again.

Princess Luna only looked down upon her with a tired expression then. "I know I know, you can't take it."

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened as she looked upon Luna then in worry.

Princess Luna closed her eyes with a sad smile. "Some ponies are just meant to be alone. Isn't that right?" As Princess Luna slowly melted away to Nightmare Moon's horror, like sludge as she dissipated into the air, and slowly, the beautiful scenery of the Grand Galloping Gala surrounding her, had also began to crumble away. Nightmare Moon staggered back, as she just shook her head, watching as the ponies surrounding her continued to dance like mindless drones, dancing casually as they to disappeared along with the walls, the lights, and every other speck of this joyous world. Nightmare Moon watched as her vision began to go dark, as every source of light had slowly disappeared. As all her vision had slowly started to go black to the point where she wouldn't even be able to see her own hoof in front of her face, she stretched out one hoof, as if wanting to see it one last time in desperation. "Please,..." there was a slight crack in her voice, as she revealed a hint of vulnerability in her tone as she continued desperately. "Please, older sister, turn the lights back on."

Her world had gone dark.

"Lights? What?" Another voice had suddenly commented.

Nightmare Moon's world soon became bright as all she saw in front of her was a turquoise pegasus with a bright orange mane and a raised brow while wearing a Mcmuffin's hat. The pegasus had a look of confusion while also one of slight worry. Behind her would be a pale yellow pegaus with a green mane as well as a black colt with his hooves crossed in the background. The turquoise pegasus had a hoof resting over the alicorn's head as she just made a crooked frown. "What's with you? Were you having a bad dream or something?"

Nightmare Moon slowly opened her eyes as she then glanced at each of them, still a little dazed.

The pale yellow pegasus just looked to Nightmare Moon worriedly. "I mean, the lights have been on the whole time haven't they?." She then looked up towards the lights with a curious expression as she tilted her head to the right, still unsure what Nightmare meant.

Lightning Dust then snickered at the alicorn with a cheeky amused grin. "So you have nightmares now? That's kind of funny."

Raindrops then looked to Lightning Dust, "L-Lightning!"

Lightning Dust glanced back at her, flustered. "W-What!? It's true! I mean how could she have nightmares? Isn't that her thing!?"

Sombra commented in the background with his hooves crossed. "Grahahaha! First day and even I know when break is over!" He grinned at her with an amused smirk as he glanced to his left out the restaurant. "You best keep up alicorn wench!"

Lightning Dust then placed both hooves on her sides as she scratched at the back of her mane nervously. "Ah yea, about that." She then looked to Nightmare Moon in annoyance, leaning forward. "You can't just oversleep on breaks Nightmare! I thought you were getting enough sleep! Jeez!" She closed her eyes with a heavy sigh, leaning back and glancing to her upper right. "Well I can let it slide this time. I gotta talk with you guys about something important anyway, we also need to prepare for the new worker that's come- eh?" Lightning Dust paused as she suddenly looked upon Nightmare Moon while the others did as well, just as surprised as Lightning Dust was.

Nightmare Moon had tears drizzling her face as she sniffled and made a disgusting expression of absolute heartfelt joy. She muttered, "Oh, my allies! You have turned on the lights of this world. Y-You have turned on my lights. I cannot thank you enough!" She rose from the table she was sleeping on as she fluttered on over towards Lightning Dust and then spread her two front hooves, about to embrace her.

Lightning Dust gasped, "W-What!? EW! NO! Seriously go wash your face first at least! What the heck is with you!?"

Nightmare Moon then embraced the smaller pegasus, nuzzling her happily while Lightning Dust pushed her away angrily.

Raindrops and Sombra then just looked to one another with a heavy cringe in disgust as they just shook their heads and then saluted Lightning Dust in equal respect. They then closed their eyes and bowed their heads, mourning the loss in silence.

Suddenly the door to the restaurant creaked open then as all their eyes focused on the doors with wide curious eyes.

"U-Um, Hello. I-I'm supposed to be working here now?"

Chapter 5: Defeat the Cello Mare Part 1 - "Tick Tock, Tick Tock"

Nightmare Moon sat at a large round table which was situated by a short concrete division in a large beautiful food court area. Surprisingly enough the alicorn was in a, mall? She was surrounded by ponies all around who went about their own daily business while talking and conversing and just paying attention to their own private lives. Nightmare Moon happened to enjoy this type of atmosphere, it was one of the first times she felt so ordinary, so normal, as mortals liked to call it. However something else held also held her utmost attention, three ponies in particular whom also sat at that very same table she was. The alicorn wore a bright smile as she blinked a bit, just staring wide eyed at one particular individual. "The pleasure is all mine! It is always a grand occassion when we gain an ally in our new world! I will cherish your very existence, Derpy Hooves!" Nightmare Moon placed a hoof upon her chest and closed her eyes. "Let us learn and grow together! Such is the goals of mortals and those with status! And those with status must always have trustworthy companions!" Nightmare Moon was currently wearing a large thick gray hoody with an owl's face on it which stated, I'm a hoot! As she also had on a Mcmuffin's hat.

Sitting at the same table would be three others, while one was currently sipping on his pop and another sipped on her milkshake, and the third just continued looking up at Nightmare Moon with a slightly confused but innocent expression. The colt looked as if he should be in preschool, with a long black mane fastened into a ponytail for the time being. His eyes emitted a green misty aura, while they were also blood red. He to wore a gray hoody which said, I'm with stupid. But for the time being, the colt just continued to sip on his pop in boredom, eyeing the cup as well. The other two were mares, one possessing a pale yellow coat and turquoise mane while the other had a gray coat and bright yellow mane. The pale yellow mare wore a dark green shirt with a picture of the sun on it and three fillies dancing in a field while stating, It's always sunny in Fillydelphia! And the gray mare wore nothing as she just observed Nightmare Moon.

Nightmare Moon just continued to smile brightly. "So, what brings thee to these parts of Equestria!?"

Derpy just scratched at the back of her mane. "Uuuuum! Well I-" her eyes saddened as she hesitated for a moment but then returned the alicorn's bright expression. "I want to do more with muffins! I miss my old job but, I want to try this one to!"

Nightmare Moon nodded as she rubbed her lower muzzle and raised a brow at the gray mare. "Hmmmmm, well surely your skills with muffins will be most helpful! I will enjoy getting to know you more as we conquer the battlefield together, as well as make new discoveries in this world. I haven't yet gotten used to these, clothes. But I was told they would help keep my social life intact?"

Raindrops nodded plainly to Nightmare Moon with a soft smile as she closed her eyes and sipped on her milkshake. "Yep Nightmare. You're an alicorn so it's probably smarter for you to wear a hoody or something and not draw so much attention to yourself." She paused, "It's not bad to get attention but sometimes it feels nice just to blend in. Don't you agree?" She then glanced over at Derpy. "So Derpy! How're things going at Ponyville, I was surprised to hear you'd be working at Mcmuffin's! Is Dinky doing okay?"

Derpy smiled softly at Raindrops as she nodded hurriedly with an enthusiastic expression. "Y-Yes! Dinky is great!" Derpy's eyes suddenly went sad as she focused on the table before her, almost as if lost in her thoughts. "I know she misses home but, she's very tough!"

Raindrops to went sad as well as she put a hoof on Derpy's shoulder. "Well Derpy, we're glad to have-"

Nightmare Moon suddenly slammed her hooves on the table, leaning forward and getting in Derpy's face. "AH! So that is the source of your darkness! You have attached yourself to another mortal on a high emotional scale! This is troubling news indeed!" She sat back in her seat as she placed a hoof upon her chest again. "But worry not, that is why we're here. We will help you accomplish what you need to, and surely you will be able to return to your cherished one in the near future! For now, we must focus on the task at hoof. Our victory and assimilation over the entire fast food structure! As well as educating ourselves in the new world and become tyrannical masters!"

Derpy blinked a bit before appearing excited and approving fully. "OKAY!"

Raindrops sighed a little but still regarded Nightmare Moon with a smile. "You're so goofy Nightmare."

However, still sipping on his pop with a bored expression would be Sombra as he had one hoof resting on his cheek. "Speaking of tasks, should we not go gather more of these, house supplies? Surely with three bodies now Ms. Raindrops, your home will need far more items to keep us all satisfied." He began rotating his straw in a bored manner as he continued to speak, "Of course, this most certainly doesn't mean crystals will suddenly start being on the menu but, nonetheless, there are other priorities that need to be focused on."

"And it's certainly not, HOUSE SUPPLIES!" Nightmare Moon stated almost immediately.

Sombra glared over at her in annoyance. "Graaaah...."

Nightmare Moon crossed both hooves and leaned further on the table. "Lightning Dust stated that with the Mistress absent, now would be a best time to show what we had against Cookie King's, to show that we will not simply bow before the heel of such a mighty force! To show that we will fight and do what we must to succeed! I agree fully with this course of action, and believe we must discuss strategy in how we'll go about this." Nightmare Moon's eyes saddened as she lowered her head, appearing somewhat frustrated. "Of course Lightning Dust is not here for the time being, but, surely we can come up with something on our own. We must just figure out what."

Raindrops chuckled a bit as she looked to Nightmare Moon curiously.

Nightmare Moon caught this as she raised a brow at Raindrops. "W-What's with that face!?"

Raindrops shook her head. "I just noticed you've started calling us by our names now Nightmare, it's funny. Especially hearing you say Lightning Dust, she's always so hard on you. I never thought you'd say her name so casually like that."

Nightmare gasped as she turned away in embarrassment. "W-Well this is the social normality is it not!? We must call one another by our names! Such a thing is common as it was long ago!" She huffed as she closed her eyes, clearly embarrassed. "Grah King has not received any criticism for his name calling! Why must I? It hardly seems fair!" She raised a brow at Raindrops in that moment.

Sombra however cut in, "That's because I don't make such a big deal out of it." He continued to sip on his pop, "Idiot."

Nightmare Moon glared at him, "RRRRRRRRRRR!!!!"

Before Raindrops suddenly leaned over the table, spreading her hooves between the two. "So leeeeet's calm down shall we? Eheh."

Derpy Hooves began to giggle with her eyes closed before looked to all of them. "You're all so funny! I really like that muffin place has such nice workers! It might be harder to go home than I thought!" She closed her eyes as her smile widened from cheek to cheek.

Raindrops sighed with a relief as she muttered. "I'm happy to hear that." She then situated herself further into her seat as she took another sip of her milkshake and then looked to all of them. "Well, speaking of priorities I guess Nightmare Moon is right. Lightning Dust wants us to come up with some solutions, so we should probably do that." She leaned forward with an inquisitive look, "You guys have any ideas? I was thinking that Cookie King's is a very classical looking place most of the time, maybe we can do something like that?"

Nightmare Moon swiped a hoof, "NO! We must not sink to their level! That appeal is beyond pitiful! We are not that sort of fast food restaurant! We are our own unique creation! We shall best them by our own means! We shall remain traditional!"

Raindrops sighed as she raised a brow, "But that's the thing Nightmare Moon, what's traditional? Fast food hasn't been around forever."

Derpy's eyes widened as she clapped her hooves, "WHAT ABOUT A DELIVERY SYSTEM!?"

Nightmare Moon and Raindrop's eyes widened exponentially as they each looked to Derpy in surprise.

Derpy clapped happily. "I bet ponies would love it if they could put in orders for muffins!"

Nightmare Moon began to rub her lower muzzle in interest. "Hmmmm, but who would deliver these muffins?"

Derpy's eyes widened even further as she rose and raised a hoof happily, "I CAN DELI-"

Before Raindrops cut in, "Lightning Dust can deliver them."

They all looked to Raindrops in that moment in silence.

Raindrops continued with a serious expression. "She's an extremely fast flier, I've seen it. If ponies come to us with orders, she's probably the one who can deliver them the quickest." She then looked to Derpy with a smile, "But that's not saying you can't do it as well Derpy. You were a mail pony weren't you?" She appeared somewhat guilty, "But Lightning Dust said you told the boss about, other talents and that it'd probably be best if we focused on those? What exactly did she mean by that?" She raised a brow at her then curiously.

Derpy then blinked a bit before putting a hoof over her muzzle. "Um, Lightning Dust actually said she wanted me to keep it a secret."

Nightmare appeared offended as she rose with a scoff, "A SECRET!? WHY?!"

Derpy flinched as she scratched at the back of her mane. "She said she wanted it to be a surprise!"

They all just looked at Derpy in curiosity, but said nothing more of it, well besides Nightmare Moon who just groaned a bit. "I don't understand? Why can't we know of our own comrades special talents? Surely we all would benefit from it!"

Raindrops smiled a bit. "Well I'm sure Lightning knows what she's doing Nightmare, we've just gotta be patient."

Sombra suddenly hopped from his seat, as he began to trot off without saying anything.

Nightmare Moon immediately glared at him as he trotted off. "Where do you think you're running off to Grah King!? We haven't even finished the discussion yet! There's still a lot we have to talk about in our battle strategy!" She gave him a crooked frown.

Sombra glanced back at her with a bored expression. "I'm going to go see if there is anything of interest around this mall. Perhaps I shall find something, perhaps not, but I do believe I don't know enough of this world to offer any helpful ideas. I will go change that." He then continued to trot on as he made way up a pair of stairs in the distance while the others just watched him depart to go explore.

Raindrops squinted as she appeared a little uncomfortable with the length of his mane, for even his ponytail touched the ground. She looked to Nightmare Moon with a sigh before frowning even further. "What we must get him is a manecut, how's he trot around like that?"

Nightmare Moon looked to Raindrops then with wide eyes. "Oh, that! Well I believe it acts as some form of a black fiery cloak of shadow last I saw. Well at least he was able to do such things with it when we'd ran into one another previously." She smirked a bit, as if recalling a nostalgic memory.  "Although it seems now it has been reduced to nothing more than a minor inconvenience, perhaps he has yet to notice."

Raindrops frowned a bit with a pout towards Nightmare Moon. "Well it just looks unnatural for a colt is all, it's.... kind of feminine."

Nightmare Moon raised a brow at Raindrops. "Feminine? I have heard of no such thing."

Raindrops crossed her hooves, a little uncomfortable. "Well, um, I guess it's not that important. I just think we should discuss getting him a manecut, I'm sure he wants to come off as mighty king rather than a spoiled prince right? That would probably do him some good then."

Nightmare Moon just blinked at Raindrops curiously. "Oh I see, well this is surely another task on our list of priorities then after the war." She paused as she looked to Raindrops seriously in that next moment. "Might there be repercussions for him not cutting his mane?"

Raindrops shook her head, "Oh no no, I'm sure I'm over-thinking things! It's nothing to worry about!"

"Oh just look at her darling!" A tall slender elegant pale pink mare stood with her two front hooves cupped together in fascination as she had fascinated eyes looking upon a sole individual from afar. "She is absolutely stupendous!" The mare was adorned in clothes of royalty while wearing a top hat with a strange colorful feather attached to it. She was practically frozen with awe as she gazed on.

Standing in a store from afar, looking at different assortments of jewelry would be a gorgeous black filly. As she had her mane tied into that of a ponytail while wearing a dark gray hoody stating, I'm with stupid. She wore an inquisitive look as she inspected the jewelry.

The pale pink mare continued, blushing intensely at the awe-inspiring sight. "I-It is the first time I have come across such a beautiful specimen, such potential! Those crimson red eyes, and awry green mist. It must be a birth defect, but, it appears as if it were something out of a filly's tale! Such intensity, such expression. And that elegant black mane! Such volume! All natural! As if it were untouched for ages, like a preserved princess sealed away. And that dark spotless coat, as if she were the very essence of shadow itself! A gracefully tragic child! She would fit right in with the rest of the fillies darling! I MUST HAVE HER!" The mare stated psychotically.

Ponies whom were also trotting on the upper level of the mall just eyed the mare curiously, some a little creeped out by her outburst.

Adjusting his monocle beside the mare with a raised brow while wearing a very bright button up shirt would be a white stallion with a dark blue mane, combed to perfection. He appeared a little skeptical, "Love, I'm fairly certain that little child is not for sale." He raised a brow at the filly whom continued to inspect the different pieces of jewelry. "Although I do say her appearance is quite puzzling even to me. Surely she must hail from a foreign land, for she is certainly not a local here. I do wonder how one could acquire such eyes."

The pale pink mare then got in his face, almost insulted by his supposed ignorance. "WELL OF COURSE SHE DOES DARLING! In all of our travels across Equestria we have yet to come across a filly with such potential! Look at her taste!!" Her eyes saddened as she observed the young filly from afar, in wonder and amazement. "Surely she is from a noble family who spoils her greatly, out of my reach even as Canterlot royalty. Oh but surely I can find out her name, where she hails from! SURELY, that would be enough to satisfy me."

The stallion sighed as he adjusted his monocle again. "Well darling, if that is what you wish, we can go entertain you for a time."

The mare then didn't hesitate as she began making her way over towards the jewelry store with anticipation. She did a twirl of excitement, facing her companion as she chuckled happily. "Oh thank you darling thank you! One can always hope can't they!?"

Meanwhile in the jewelry store, currently inspecting some of the numerous pieces was Sombra. "Grah, such delicious pieces, only to rot away in this shop or worn upon the necks of peasants. A tragedy in all its forms." He sighed heavily as his eyes saddened.

"Now, THAT is quite an expensive piece you have there darling."

Sombra's raised a brow as he turned around and then glanced up, noticing a pale pink slender mare had approached him accompanied by a stallion. They both looked to be of royalty, which caused him to worry somewhat. Why do these two royal figures approach me?

The pale pink mare chuckled before placing a hoof upon her chest. "But where are my manners? My name is Fleur De Lis. Supermodel, modelist, and fashionista! I see you have quite the expensive taste as well love. Might I get your name?"

Sombra just glared up at her and sighed before turning back to the the necklaces. "No, now go away."

Fleur De Lis gasped as she appeared heartbroken at first before then cupping her hooves together again and appearing teary eyed. S-She's, SHE'S EVEN BETTER THAN I THOUGHT! SUCH ATTITUDE, SUCH SASS! SHE IS A *NATURAL**! *THE AUDIENCE WOULD ADORE HER! Her voice is a little deeper than usual, and that hoody is quite atrocious, so she's no doubt a tomcolt. But we can work with that, she wouldn't need to speak anyhow, all she need do is stand there and let her natural flawless features do all the work! Even Photo Finish would be in awe! Fleur De Lis coughed into her hoof as she then smiled a bit nervously. "C-Child, might I ask where you hail from then? Your appearance is quite different. Might you be a foreigner perhaps? Maybe from a region further north?"

Sombra glanced back at her then with a cold glare. Does she know who I am? BLAST! I should've known my renown and sheer fame would be unable to escape me so easily, surely I can just play it off and erase all suspicion from this fool. Sombra closed his eyes and lowered his head with a sigh. "N-No, I um...I uuuuugh, I was born here! I was simply, um..." He was panicking in his mind, absolutely unsure of what to say. BLAST, BLAST BLAST BLAST! What do I say!? What is something they would never associate with the old me!? Something that would totally erase all suspicion!? Something that- he paused. W-WAIT! OF COURSE!

Fleur De Lis just continued to look down at the filly with interested eyes as did her stallion companion.

Sombra continued, "I was born from peasants, and I've been here ever since. Happy now? I am no more than filth. I'm so pathetic I eat grass like a cow and cannot muster up the amount of status to purchase delicious crystals." He glanced back at her with wide sad watery eyes before looking back to his necklaces with that bored expression yet again appearing somewhat disgusted as he rolled his eyes due to having to act in such a manner. There, now leave me alone you pests, I am not King Sombra. He closed his eyes and smiled in satisfaction. Now, time to continue- then he'd been magically lifted against his will. WHAT!? W-WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS!?

Fleur De Lis then made her way beside the filly as she lowered her head, peering into those crimson eyes with interest. "As I suspected, you are even more perfect than I imagined." She paused, "Since you are owned by none, then it is up to me to help you discover your destiny. Your blank flank will finally come to pass, and the world shall see you for the small fragile weak child you are in all its beauty."

Sombra just looked at her plainly with a groan. "What?..." His brow twitched. "DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM!? HOW DARE YOU!!! I'M-"

Fleur De Lis pressed the filly's face to her shoulder with a sniffle as she closed her eyes, taken back by the sheer purity of this moment. "Do not cry, there is no need to put on this front any longer. I will show you how to unlock your pure potential."

Sombra's eyes widened as he raised a brow at her. M-My true potential!? What does she speak of!? First she insults me and then claims to know the key to unlocking my true powers!? Grah! F-Fine, but she will come to regret this decision. His glared at her intensely. For the moment my true powers are unlocked she will be the first to become a slave for insulting me so gravely.

Suddenly pulling back a pair of curtains would be Fleur De Lis as Sombra now stood within a changing closet. He wore a blank expression as he was wearing an emerald dress and his mane was fastened into pigtails and his eyes were decked with auburn eyeshadow while his cheeks had also been patted down with makeup. He wore an easily troubled look on his face as he had his eyes halfway closed and his brow twitched. He was in deeply disturbed thoughts. S-Something, does not seem right about this. He looked to the mare, "Are you certain this will unlock my full potential? Something about all of this feels, off. I assure you I do not enjoy being deceived."

Fleur De Lis was in love as she just feigned softly. "Oooooh, isn't it adorable FancyPants?"

FancyPants clapped his hooves as he wiped tears from his eyes. "A-Absolutely marvelous job darling! I now see the potential you spoke of."

Sombra groaned heavily as he lowered his head with a confused expression. Graaaaaah! T-Then how come I do not feel it!?

In another part of the mall, two mares sighed heavily as they were currently sipping on their smoothies from Fruit Shack. They looked to one another with bored looks and frowned heavily. One muttered with a whimper, "How come every stallion is so boring here?"

The opposing mare shrugged with a sigh and a sip. "Because we've seen it all hun."

But that's when the other mare just appeared awestruck as she looked upon somepony in the distance. "Wait...."

The opposing mare then raised a brow at her friend before turning around and glancing back herself, only for her eyes to widen exponentially as well in disbelief, amazement, and surprise. "W-Wha, what!? Who, is, THAT!? That stallion is absolutely gorgeous!"

In the distance would be a tall slender pony, as black as night with a long massive unicorn horn. He had the most gorgeous figure they'd ever seen, with a beautiful mane which reminded them of Princess Luna herself! As if she had a younger brother! And that torso! So massive and bulky, almost as if he were hiding wings beneath that hoody! And such confidence, and intimidating dragon eyes. But who were those two mares that were hogging such a gorgeous stallion all to themselves!? What selfish ponies!

Nightmare Moon suddenly cringed heavily as a shiver ran down her spine while she trotted through the mall with Derpy and Raindrops.

Raindrops and Derpy then suddenly halted as they glanced back at Nightmare Moon in curiosity.

Raindrops was the first to speak, "Is something wrong Nightmare? You look sick."

Nightmare appeard confused herself as she just shook her head. "I don't know I just had, the....strangest feeling." She shook it off and then closed her eyes with a smile. "No matter! Strange feelings shall not best me! Let us press onward for more ideas!"

Meanwhile, ways away sitting by her lonesome in what appeared to be a lonesome cafe would be a single pegasus. Her mane was ruffled as she had deep bags beneath her eyes. She appeared distraught, as she just stared at the liquid surface of the substance in her mug.

"What is it Lightning Dust?" Standing not far off would be a unicorn stallion in a tuxedo, drying a mug with a piece of cloth.

She turned her head away from him with an annoyed sigh. "It's nothing..." She peered outside the window beside her, then down at the city streets below as it was apparent that wherever she was, she was situated on the upper floor of a particular building.

The stallion frowned a bit. "You haven't touched your cider."

She looked to him with tired half-closed eyes, that look of stress still apparent on her as she peered towards the table's surface. "That's cause I'm thinking." She sighed as she peered back down at her mug. "I can't help but get lost in thought. If I do this, then no doubt there will be trouble with not only Octavia, but even more ponies of the fast food enterprise I might not know about." She smiled softly to herself as her eyes saddened, almost as if she were lost in a sea of memories. "I've always had a habit of being too reckless."

The stallion sighed as he closed his eyes, continuing to clean the mug. "And sitting staring at cider isn't going to suddenly fix that."

Lightning Dust then took a couple of gulps from her mug before slamming it down, exhaling and then baring a guilty smile as she ran a hoof through her mane. "No, it won't. But hey, what can I do? They're nice ponies." She paused, "She's a nice alicorn."

The stallion looked to Lightning Dust with worried eyes. "What exactly do you expect to come of this Lightning Dust?"

Lightning Dust peered down at her mug silently for some time, as she closed her eyes before fluttering up and over towards the exit. She tossed a wave at the stallion upon exiting. "Maybe next time! Thanks for the cider mister, it's always the best!"

There was a lengthy pause as the stallion just stood there as he muttered to himself eventually. "And good-luck to you to."

Sitting in her penthouse, sprawled out onto the couch reading a Daring Do novel would be Octavia as she was also dawned in a robe. She wore a relaxed expression as she soon closed the book and then placed it on a glass table beside her couch as she leaned her head back and rest a hoof over her eyes. She sighed, looking towards the ceiling soon afterwords. "Why must you be so persistent, mare of the moon? Why must you resist the higher power which goes against you? Why must you all resist?" She closed her eyes, actually appearing sympathetic for a moment. "You all would've surely made great allies, but I do think it's about time that we brought this cold war to a swift end." She smirked a bit as she continued to peer towards the ceilings. "These hooves have been stained with too many crumbs to trust you all."

"Octavia, what're you talking about? Are you roleplaying again?" Vinyl stepped out of the bathroom with a toothbrush in her mouth as she had a raised brow and a bathrobe on as she trotted down the steps into the living area, just looking casually towards the couch.

Octavia immediately rose from the couch with a gasp as she flushed red and ran a hoof through her mane. "N-NO! I-I was, I was just talking about how those frustrating Mcmuffin's workers across the street are going to regret messing around with my job."

Vinyl added on as she continued to brush her teeth while peering out the window doors towards the city. "Side, job...."

Octavia sighed heavily with her eyes closed, leaning forward on the couch a bit. "It's not just a side job Vinyl."

Vinyl glanced back at her. "Well it's definitely not your main job. You're only working there because you like their cookies."

Octavia suddenly looked infuriated as her mane practically stood up and she gritted her teeth angrily, suddenly rising.

Trot trot trot trot trot!

Vinyl's eyes widened as she'd heard the sound of the hurried trots and turned, only to see Octavia in her face as the mare pressed her muzzle against hers in the form of an Eskimo kiss. She then sunk a bit as she just peered into Octavia's eyes with wide eyes of her own.

Octavia still appeared infuriated as she stated clearly and coherently. "IT IS NOT, A SIDE JOB! I am helping Cookie King's! A restaurant which puts passion into each and every crumb. It's in a class of its own! THE TOP! Don't insult me Vinyl!"

Vinyl just sulked as she then pulled the mare closer into the form of a hug. "Jeez, sorry okay? Didn't know you liked it that much."

Octavia pouted for a moment longer as she just returned the hug grumpily. "Hmph!"

Vinyl then released her from the hug as she made her way towards the steps leading up and into the bathroom again before lowering herself to sit as she just looked at Octavia curiously. "So is this really what you wanted to come all the way out here for?"

Octavia shook her head as she just faced the window and overlooked the city herself now. "No, it's not that simple. Mcmuffin's is a problem, but a minor one compared to the big picture. There's something far more important that I have to deal with, something even bigger."

Vinyl raised a brow at Octavia as she just continued to sit there. Her interest was now peaked, "Oh?"

Octavia continued. "A force that threatens to end Cookie King's if it got the chance, but I will never let that happen." She closed her eyes as she opened the sliding door which lead onto the porch as she let the wind blow into her face. "As long as I draw breath I-"

Vinyl just interrupted, making way for the bedroom casually. "Aaaaaaaand I'm going to bed."

Octavia flushed red again as she turned stubbornly towards Vinyl. "VINYL! I'M BEING SERIOUS!"

Vinyl now was serious to as she just continued to head into the bedroom. "And I'm secretly a Princess."

Octavia then frowned heavily as she began to make her way over towards Vinyl with a whine. "Vinyyyyyyl! Listen to me!"

Vinyl just began to moan and groan in return. "Octaaaavia no! This is getting too dorky even for me!"

Octavia just continued to complain. "Vinyl! I thought you were taking me seriously!"

And the two whined as Octavia pursued the unicorn all the way into the bedroom, begging and complaining.

As Nightmare Moon was still venturing through the mall with Raindrops and Derpy, she to appeared to be lost in thought as she observed all the ordinary ponies trot about and go about their daily lives. She then bore a soft smile, then peered up towards the second level of the mall and then closed those eyes as she took in a deep breath. "This is quite wonderful, I must admit. But-" her eyes went serious in that moment as she glanced down at her hoof. Peace cannot last forever, for we are still at war. Muffins will be lost, cookies will crumble, many will have full stomachs, but it cannot be avoided. We will do what we must to succeed. She glared ahead, It is time we end this neutral state!

Chapter 5.5: Those who trot among the Halls of Affection!

Nightmare Moon was currently overlooking a rack of multiple hoodies in one of the clothing stores. Apparently the only colors she was interested in were either black, purple, or dark blue. She had eyes wide with excitement the more hoodies she looked at as they were also marked with rather disturbing images such as skulls and crossbones or pony gas masks. "Ah these are just fabulous! Just my style!" She soon lifted one particular hoody with her telekinetic magic as she showed it off to Derpy and Raindrops who stood not far off. "Dearest allies, what do you think of this one? It's just fabulous is it not? Quite perfect for the occasional social gathering!" She gave a cheeky grin.

Derpy and Raindrops just eyed the hoody as Raindrops had a half-closed eye as she looked over it. Upon the hoody was a pony gas mask leaking a thick green substance as it was also marked with thick bold green letters which read, Don't Make Me Get Toxic.

Raindrops blinked a bit as she gave Nightmare Moon a nervous smile. "I-It's...It's great Nightmare. R-Right Derpy?"

Derpy nodded hurriedly as she smiled back at Nightmare Moon with a sudden cheesy smile.

Nightmare Moon's expression darkened as she looked down upon the two with an intense glare. "Do you not like it?"

Raindrops' expression sunk as she snatched onto Derpy hurriedly and she nervously pointed towards the entrance of the store that they came in from. "Y-Yeeeea! Derpy and I are going to go across the isle to another store Nightmare! We'll talk to you later!" The two then hurried away from the alicorn as they disappeared into the crowd, vanishing from her sight and going to another store apparently.

Nightmare Moon still kept that cold look as soon enough, it immediately dissipated. Her eyes saddened vastly as her cheeks turned a pinch of crimson and she lowered her head with a look of embarrassment and a frown. "You could've just said so....." She returned the hoody to the clothing rack before slowly making her way over to a corner and lowering her frame to sit. She closed her eyes and lowered her head further as she just sighed heavily and then peered at the ground. "Hmph! I bet Grah King would've liked it. He understands my style...."

"Aw, what's wrong hun?"

"Yea, why the long face? Those two weren't good enough for you?"

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened as she immediately raised her head and then glanced to her left with a look of fair curiosity as two different individuals stood not far off from her. She just blinked in confusion, "Oh um, hello. How may I assist you?"

Meanwhile Raindrops just stood beside Derpy in another shop as she wore a look a guilt. "You think I was too hard on her Derpy? I mean, Nightmare's face scared me for a split second but I forget that she has a different way of handling her feelings. She could've took that the wrong way." Her gaze drifted from left to right in deep reflection, before she stomped a hoof in determination and spoke to Derpy with a serious tone. "Yea, actually I'll be right back. I'm just going to go tell her that it doesn't matter what I really think and she should just go with what she likes because everypony has different opinions! I'll be right back Derpy." She nodded to the mare with a wide smile before turning around and trotting out of the store and disappearing into the crowd once again like before, alone this time.

Derpy just stood there however as she wore a bright smile as she picked out a shirt with various muffins on them.

When Raindrops arrived back in the shop, Pony Topic, she blinked a bit to notice that Nightmare Moon was no longer in the store. Soon her eyes immediately worried as she glanced about and muttered. "Where could she have gone? Did she come looking for us?" She placed a hoof on her lower muzzle and then glanced to her lower left still a bit worried as she frowned. "W-Well, I guess I could just tell her later?" With that Raindrops turned around and faced the entrance of the store again but then glanced back hesitantly in worry as her eyes fastened on the hoody which Nightmare Moon was looking at, as it was apparent she didn't buy it and left it on one of the random racks. This caused the pegasus to frown as she worried only more and then muttered in guilt of what happened. "N-Nightmare, where did you go?"

Nightmare Moon now stood outside a fairly large building that was quite colorful in every sense of the word. She was across the street of the mall as accompanying her would be two mares. She just peered up at this building, blinking a bit still pretty confused.

The two mares just continued to chuckle as they soon whispered to one another as they watched the stallion peer up at the building like a confused child. One of them spoke soon however with half closed eyes. "Come on, we've got so many wonderful things to show you."

Nightmare Moon blinked a bit as she looked to them still with a fairly curious expression of anticipation. "Ah yes! Most certainly, I look forward to these, wonderful things. You two are fairly kind despite not knowing me, I thank you for such kindness!"

One of the mares strolled up to Nightmare before placing a hoof on her chest and sliding it down. "Oh no no, we thank you."

Nightmare Moon's eyes were wide as she just peered down at this mare in confusion. She just glanced to her right with half closed eyes, unable to assess the reasoning behind such actions. "Ah I see, well I do not get what I've done to earn such generosity but-" she looked back to the mare grateful for her words, "It would be rude to turn away a possible ally yes? Socialization is quite an important thing is it not?"

The mare just looked back at her friend with a hearty chuckle. "Ahahaha! He's so dorky, I love it."

The other mare just nodded with a smile of anticipation. "Well hurry and get him inside! We're killing daylight here sister!"

The mare beside Nightmare Moon then took hold of the alicorn's hoof with a smile of eagerness as she just looked up at her with highly affectionate eyes and then began to lead her into the building. Nightmare Moon just wore a smile as well as she followed without question. But as she did so, she also raised a brow a bit in confusion as she just caught onto something the mare said. He?

Not far off, on the opposing end of the street trotting towards the mall would be a familiar mare who was wearing a white shirt with a thunderbolt upon it and torn sleeves. She had a lollipop in her mouth and although she appeared somewhat distracted, it didn't take her long to catch sight of something strange across the street. The mare was none other than Lightning Dust as she just peered at the group of three and her brow rose at the sight of the taller more familiar one. "Nightmare?" She still continued to wear that bored look. "I thought she was supposed to be with Raindrops, Derpy, and the kid? Who're those two?" She shrugged as she just continued to trot towards the mall in order to at least meet up with the others. "Hah, well I guess I shouldn't complain that she's making friends. She could use some besides us." But as the mare trotted, she took a moment to glance over and up at what the building was called, and as she did she just froze before cringing heavily and her turquoise cheeks flushing red in that moment as she covered her face with a hoof. "T-That, THAT IDIOT!"

As Nightmare Moon and the two mares stood in the main lobby of the building, Nightmare Moon glanced about as she noticed that for a main lobby this place was fairly dark and barren. It was just an empty dusty lobby. She raised a brow in confusion unsure of why she was brought here before simply glancing down at her two mare companions who'd accompanied her inside, remaining silent as she just observed.

Standing behind the main lobby front desk would be a stallion in a tuxedo as he wore a bright and fierce smile. "Ooooooh, nice catch girls, this one looks quite special. Where might you have found him?" He raised a brow at the two of them in curiosity.

One of the mares stepped forward as she chuckled beneath her breath. "Right across the street actually. I'm fairly certain even the Mistress would like a shot at this one. I can already feel it, he's a keeper. And you know how much the Mistress enjoys the special ones."

Nightmare Moon wore a bright smile. Ah, so they have a Mistress to? Then surely they must be true allies for our cause.

But the other mare cut in desperately. "B-But we get first dibs! We found him first! So, we should get first rights!"

The stallion behind his counter just chuckled as he nodded and closed his eyes. "We get it we get it. Now you three just go enjoy yourselves, I've opened up a room on the top floor. Just try to not make too much of a mess, we just had some ponies clean up in there."

One of the mares nodded as she just took the key with telekinetic magic before smiling at the stallion and nodding to him. "Don't worry, we'll make sure to try to not to make too much of a mess. We'll deliver this one to the Mistress after he's been properly trained as well."

The mare beside Nightmare nudged her with a snicker. "Ready for some fun love?"

Nightmare Moon just nodded as she chuckled back. "Ah yes, I am up for any form of challenge!"

The mare nodded back to Nightmare with a deep intense blush. "Ah such heart, you will be a fine subject for the Mistress."

With that the three then made their way to what looked like a run down elevator, as the mare who'd received the key inserted it into a slot near the elevator, turning it as soon enough, bright lights came on the elevator. There was a deep rumbling sound as the doors to the elevator soon opened, revealing a vibrant colorful pink inner furnishing to the elevator more elegant and beautiful than Nightmare Moon ever expected to see. Nightmare Moon was actually a bit stunned by it, as the mare beside her slowly guided her inside. "Let us be off then shall we?" And as the three made it in the elevator, they tossed a wave to the stallion at the front desk, as the doors to it just shut.

The stallion just waved at them with a soft happy smile.

But suddenly bursting through the doors with hoof stomps would be another mare with a turquoise coat and amber mane as she strolled right up to the front counter and growled at the stallion. "The three who just came in here! WHERE DID THEY GO!?"

The stallion gave the mare an extremely bored look as he just muttered. "Sorry hun, you missed your ride. You'll have to-"

The mare just then hopped onto the counter with a flap of her wings as she grabbed the stallion by his collar and glared at him intensely, fiercely as she appeared enraged. "SHUT IT! I KNOW WHAT THIS PLACE IS! NOW TELL ME WHERE THEY WENT!!!"

The stallion gave her a tired expression and a glare of his own. "And I am not obligated to tell you." He smirked a bit as he raised a brow at her in absolute amusement with a soft chuckle. "Don't you know who this building belongs to? You have no idea who you're messing with."

The mare just continued to glare at him tiredly herself. "I've heard stories, and my co-worker, the tall one, has no interest in your services. Now tell me where they went, she's innocent, she's got nothing to do with this place. I gotta look after her."

The stallion raised a brow at her with a slight twisted grin of surprise. "HAH! That was a mare!? I knew there was something off about her! Well even better, the girls will surely have fun with her knowing they have such a surprise in store for them! Wish I was there to see it!"

The mare's face darkened as her hoof started to tremble as she just continued to glare at the stallion, losing her patience as she just continued to give him an intense look of harbored rage. "T-Tell me where she is, don't make me do this to you."

The stallion just laughed again. "Do what!? If you know about this place, you know we can't be touched! You're just some stubborn kid! Time to stop playing make believe little girl! You just stepped into the adults play pen! Go home! Or else you'll-" before he could finish, a hoof connected with the stallion's face as he just felt himself fly back and into the wall as he crumbled down to the floor. He rubbed his cheek as he trembled a bit and then glanced up at the mare who now loomed over him. "Y-You idiot! WE HAVE CAMERAS!"

The mare just slammed her two front hooves together as she loomed over the stallion with a cold expression. "Good, then your Mistress can see just how serious I am about this. You're going to tell me where my co-worker is, or I'm going to pummel it out of you, got it?"

The stallion just trembled as he laid there on the ground and looked up at her still with a defiant smile. "You'll never get me to talk!"

The mare just grinned as she looked down at him with amusement. "I was kind of hoping you'd say that."

Nightmare Moon now sat by herself upon the bed of a gorgeous hotel room. She just blinked a bit as she continued to sit there, peering towards one of the pictures on the wall as she continued to wear a cheery smile. She closed her eyes eventually as she just continued to smile to herself. "Ah, this is actually quite nice. I do wish Ms.Raindrops or Derpy could've joined me in such a wonderful place." She then did a hoof pump as she appeared determined. "Right! Now is the time I educate myself in whatever my two new allies have to teach me!"

And exiting the bathroom of the room would be the two mares as they wore towels around their heads and they each just strolled on over to Nightmare Moon and one each sat on both sides of her, as they just wore expectant smiles while looking upon her.

Nightmare Moon just continued to sit there with wide eyes and a smile upon her face like a robot. Eventually she gradually started to appear nervous as she just blinked a bit and bit on her lower lip, unsure what this awkward silence was for. She just glanced down to her left and right as the mares just continued to smile at her eagerly, and she wasn't really sure why. She just continued to blink and sit.

One of the mare's ran her hoof down Nightmare Moon's chest. "Aren't you going to remove that hoody hun?"

Nightmare Moon blinked a bit. "OH yes! Right!" She then began taking off her hoody as she just stopped midway before blinking a bit and raising a brow and then glanced down at one of them in confusion. "Wait uuuuh, why am I taking off my hoody again?"

Another of the mares just chuckled as she sighed. "Aaaaaaaw, he's so clueless. Here sweety, allow me to make it more clear for you." The mare then leaned up as she just planted a kiss on the alicorn's cheek with a eager smile and just snickered to herself.

Nightmare Moon's eyes immediately snapped wide as her black cheeks flushed red. She then just started to tremble as her eyes drifted down to her lower thigh and she saw a hoof upon it. Her pupils dilated as she came to a sudden realization. "Oh,...OH!" The mare then suddenly let off a screech of panic as she scurried to the back of the bed and then placed her hooves in front herself as if trying to block them. "W-W-W-WAIT! HALT! STOP! CEASE! Y-YOU TWO, I DID NOT REALIZE THIS WAS THE RITUAL OF HASTY LOVE! I-I-I AM, UH, I AM NOT WHAT YOU BELIEVE ME TO BE! I HAVE NO SUCH INTEREST IN THESE THINGS!" She gritted her teeth nervously.

The two mares began to crawl towards her slowly and playfully as one stated. "Oh we know sweety, but don't worry, after we're done with you, you'll only be interested in, such things." She raised a hoof to her muzzle as she chuckled heartily to herself in amusement.

Nightmare Moon then started to tremble as she remained glued to the back of the bed post. S-SAVAGES! What, what is this!? Is such a thing normal in society!? The unfamiliar feeling of fear began to rise in her again. I know nothing of such things!

The mares continued to crawl towards her gradually with smiles of anticipation.

Nightmare Moon had to think fast, until an idea finally dawned on her and she realized the reasoning behind that strange comment earlier. The alicorn almost immediately removed her hoody as she spread her wings and then pointed a hoof to them. "WAIT! I-I'M, I'M A MARE! YOU HAVE ME MISTAKEN FOR ANOTHER MORE CAPABLE MATE! PLEASE, CEASE THESE ACTIONS AT ONCE!"

The two mares then just looked at each other with wide eyes and then back at the alicorn. One questioned, "Y-YOU'RE THE ALICORN!?" They just fell silent for a moment, looking upon Nightmare Moon in surprise before one was just like. "EVEN BETTER!"

Nightmare Moon cringed heavily with a gasp of bewilderment. "W-WHAT!?" And as the mares only got closer to her, she knew hurting them was against the social code of today's society, and she knew not of the situation she got herself into. She was ignorant of it, and so like a young filly she covered her head as she just curled up and covered herself with her wings. "W-WAIT! I'VE YET TO LEARN OF THIS!"

The two mares chuckled happily as they stated in unison. "Which is why we're now your teachers."

Nightmare Moon just looked upon them with dread in her eyes as soon, a darkness began to envelop the white of her eyes, realizing she had no choice and she would not be taken advantage of. She cared not for the rules, and soon an intense glare of discern followed as she focused on these two and she just remained silent, as a shroud of powerful magic began to envelop her as she focused on them. "Fine....."

SLAM!!!!

Suddenly bursting into the room would be a wheezing pegasus, one who was all too familiar to the alicorn. She took a moment to catch her breath as she eyed the alicorn with a tired expression, deep bags underlining her eyes. "NIGHTMARE!!!! STOP!!!"

Nightmare Moon then gasped with happiness as she rose. "C-COMRADE!"

One of the mares leaned up and back and glared at the pegasus. "WHAT!? How the buck did you get in here!? This room's taken!"

Lightning Dust then fluttered on over to the alicorn as she shoved the mares out of the way and then took hold of Nightmare's hoof in a hurried manner. "Nightmare! Get out of here, now! Teleportation! Anything! And don't ever come to a place like this again you got it!?"

Nightmare Moon gave the pegasus hurried nods now understanding her situation. "Y-YES! I WILL DO THIS!" She paused as she looked down at the bed sheets with a look of intense relief. "T-Thank you comrade, I was not sure what I would've done had you not showed up."

Lightning Dust just ran a hoof down the alicorn's face with a relieved smile herself. "I understand, now hurry up you dummy."

Nightmare Moon just smiled at her softly before stating. "Y-Yes, you are right. Let us take our leave now."

Lightning Dust closed her eyes as she muttered softly with a chuckle. "Yea...."

Before Nightmare Moon suddenly disappeared in a poof of sapphire smoke causing Lightning Dust to fall forward and slam her face against the back bed post and she suddenly appeared enraged as she rose in a panic. "N-NIGHTMARE!!!! NOT WITHOUT ME YOU IDIOT!!! I-I CAN'T TELEPORT LIKE YOU CAN! N-NIGHTMARE!?" And the mare appeared gradually panicked as she called out for the alicorn. "NIGHTMARE!? GET BACK HERE THIS INSTANT!!!" She huffed as she froze then, a sweat drop rolling down the side of her head.

Peering at her would be the two mares who now wore just plain cold expressions.

One of the mares spoke. "Who is this brat sis?"

The other replied. "One whose made a very very big mistake."

Lightning Dust gritted her teeth at them as she suddenly flapped her wings to the side and in a burst of speed and raced for the window of the room as suddenly blocking it off would be a barrier of green magic causing her to crash and fall to the floor again. She rubbed her muzzle as she steadily rose as her hooves trembled and she then raced for the exit of the room from which she came.

As Lightning Dust raced out into the halls of the top floor, they were grand vibrant halls almost like a maze. It was almost as if she were in a castle of royalty itself as the bright lights were almost blinding, with pure white marble floors and streams of mini chandeliers coursing down the halls. Lightning Dust then took a hurried trot before suddenly blocking her path would be one of the mares whose eyes were glowing a vibrant green color, as she struck the pegasus right in her cheek causing her to fly back, and unknowingly behind the pegasus would be the other mare who just kicked the pegasus in the back and caused her to tumble and roll across the floor.

One of the mares crossed her hooves as she just sighed. "Where do you think you're going?"

The other added in. "You took away the best prize we had, and you think you can just trot away?"

And suddenly an announcement came over an intercom in the form of an elegant yet frightening voice. "Attention my dear subjects, it seems we have an intruder in our midst. Do please deal with this form me, and punishment shall be dealt out accordingly."

Lightning Dust slowly rose as she just coughed a bit and frowned a bit. She slowly climbed to her hooves before immediately racing for any form of exit, more particularly, the elevator as suddenly emerging from their rooms would be an assortment of different ponies whose eyes were all glowing green as Lightning Dust immediately hung a left, she just cried out in irritation and ultimately absolute annoyance. "NIGHTMAAAAAAAAAAAARE!!!! YOU BIG STUPID ALICORN!!!! HOW COULD YOU LEAVE ME!?!?!?!"

And sitting outside the mall casually would be Nightmare Moon as she just sighed heavily. "Will she not hurry up? Keeping an ally waiting is quite rude." Nightmare Moon grumbled beneath her breath as she just continued to sit on the curb of a sidewalk.

"Nightmare!"

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened as she glanced back and caught sight of three individuals. "O-Oh, there you all are!"

It was none other than Raindrops, Derpy, as well as Sombra.

Nightmare Moon however focused on Sombra who was wearing a white dress, sunhat, as well as had his mane fastened into pigtails as he sucked on a lollipop. Nightmare Moon blinked a bit at him, before smiling brightly. "Nice style!"

Sombra nodded to her, "Thanks, it seems I have also acquired one of these jobs we spoke of."

Raindrops and Derpy then glanced down at Sombra, before each of them covered their faces with hooves. They each knew they'd have to explain the situation to Nightmare Moon later, but for the time being, they weren't even sure if she'd grasp what Sombra meant.

Raindrops then raised a brow at Nightmare Moon. "Where were you?"

Nightmare Moon just smiled a bit. "Well it seems I had gotten myself into a strange situation but Lightning Dust came to my assistance! She then told me to leave, I assume she will meet us soon enough." Nightmare Moon crossed her hooves and gave two confident nods.

Raindrops blinked a bit, "Lightning Dust is here? Where is she?"

Nightmare Moon then pointed a hoof at the building across the street. "There."

The other three then just glanced over and up at what the building was called, before both Derpy and Raindrops covered their muzzles with their hooves and then Raindrops scratched at the back of her mane, blushing a bit. "W-Well then, guess thaaaat's none of our business. I-Instead of expecting her to show up, how about we all just go grab some dinner before heading back to the house!?"

Nightmare Moon blinked a bit, objecting a little. "B-But she's still-"

Raindrops chuckled nervously and hurriedly, shoving the alicorn along. "Come on Nightmare, I'm sure Lightning Dust, um, well, doesn't want us getting in the way of her hobbies!" And as she did so, Raindrops then just grumbled beneath her breath and gave a pouting expression as she muttered to herself. "Shame on you Lightning Dust, how could you allow her to see you trot into such a place."

And with that the four made their way back into the mall hurriedly, back towards the food court general area.

Chapter 6: Defeat the Cello Mare Part 2 - "The Human Eccentric"

Nightmare Moon, Raindrops, Derpy, as well as Sombra now all remained situated at the food court from within the mall. However many of them wore hesitant and somewhat nervous expressions as they just continued to sit there at their table patiently.

Raindrops scratched at the back of her mane nervously. "Where is she? She said she'd do all the talking."

Meanwhile Lightning Dust made her way down a hall still in the other building as she came to a screeching halt before shaking her head. "NO, no no n-!" Before suddenly crashing and tumbling all over her would be a swarm of ponies as she let off a furious grunt. "ERAAAH!!!"

Nightmare Moon lowered her head as she remained silent, and appeared gravely worried.

Raindrops rose her head and continued. "Either way, I guess we'll have to go through with meeting this pony ourselves."

The rest of them looked to Raindrops in confusion then.

Raindrops continued with a sigh. "Well, Lightning Dust was supposed to be the one doing all of the talking but since she's too busy hanging out at that, um, place. I guess we'll just have to listen to what this pony were meeting has to say ourselves."

"So Lightning Dust won't be coming?"

They all then focused on the origin of that voice, as suddenly standing beside the table with a satchel would be a turquoise mare. She had a short mane with pure white streaks accompanied by darker blue ones as she didn't hesitate to take a seat and then glance around at each of them with half closed eyes and a serious expression before glancing down at her satchel and placing it flat on the table. "A shame."

Raindrops raised a brow at the mare in question. "L-Lyra!? You're the secret mare!?"

The mare revealed as Lyra Heartstrings just looked to Raindrops with those half closed eyes before glancing to her lower right with a saddened expression and giving a simple nod before looking to the rest of the group. "I am. While you all were discussing ideas about how to stop Octavia's cookie craze, I reached out to Lightning Dust sometime ago in regards to my own worries for Octavia." Lyra paused with a heavy sigh. "She hasn't been herself at that place, and she's definitely gotten worse over time. There's just no way I can continue to support her if it means just making her worse than she already is. Octavia needs to be shown that these cookies aren't the most important thing in the world." She glanced down at the table's surface solemnly. "But since my time in Manehattan is coming to an end, I wanted to give you guys any information I could about the situation. I hope you can make better use of it than I could, although it's not much."

All their eyes widened in surprise.

Raindrops blinked a bit in curiosity. "You're leaving Manehattan Lyra?"

Lyra nodded with a smile. "Yea, I'm heading back to Ponyville to live with Bon Bon again. I was only here because I needed a better location to host my Human Convention. But now that that's over and done with, I guess it's time for me to be heading back home." She closed her eyes with a chuckle before looking to them with a serious gaze. "But what's important here is that I inform you guys everything I've learned about Octavia since I came. She used to be a little more tolerant of the other businesses, but it feels like she's steadily been becoming more paranoid." Lyra fell silent for a moment. "There's only one other pony who can help you to a much greater extent." Lyra then pulled a folder out of her satchel as she slid that folder forward and her expression sunk gravely. "In this folder are the directions to Octavia's apartment room number, she lives further in the heart of the city. There she keeps her greatest weakness hidden away, the only key to defeating her."

The others gulped as they looked upon Lyra, only continuing to listen to her.

Nightmare Moon spoke with a raised brow and nervous expression. "S-So, her weakness,....is a pony?"

Lyra closed her eyes halfway as she muttered. "Heh, don't we all have that weakness?"

Nightmare Moon's gaze drifted down towards the table surface saddened.

Lyra then looked to them seriously again. "But to answer the question, yes, there is no way you guys are going to topple the Cookie King's with pure business practice alone. Octavia's status level is far too high, she has gained it over numerous years of hardwork and practice, you guys are just fillies compared to her. Even with Derpy's superb baking skills, she is out of your league." But Lyra fell silent for a moment, "Although I do know there is one secret weapon you've all been working on in order to use at a pinnacle moment." She glanced over at each of them, "Did Lightning Dust tell you of it yet?" She then looked purely at Derpy, "Or did Derpy at least tell you guys what it was?"

Derpy eyes saddened as she lowered her head and then shook it, telling Lyra her answer.

Lyra just nodded plainly at Derpy. "I understand Derpy." She looked to the others again. "The time will come when you all must release the ultimate weapon against Octavia, but obviously that day is not today. First you all need to acquire the one key to defeating her, without this key piece of the puzzle, you all won't stand a chance against her. So remember, this is your utmost priority in toppling Cookie King's."

Nightmare Moon then burst out, unable to take the suspense any longer. "T-Then tell us already!"

Lyra closed her eyes and just nodded as she slowly unveiled the key to defeating Octavia as a bright light came from the folder and nearly blinded all of them from the sheer magnificence of it, while Sombra just sat there and then looked up for a moment and stated. "Surely they can tone down those bright bulbs of power, they're quite bright." Before looking back towards the folder contents blankly.

Having been unveiled would be a picture of a pony hugging onto a grumpy Octavia at the coast of Manehattan.

That pony was none other than Vinyl Scratch.

Lyra looked to all of them with a cold gaze. "Vinyl Scratch is the one pony you guys need to find. Once you inform her of the situation then I have no doubt she will do whatever she must to make sure Octavia lets go of this cookie craze for the better." Lyra sighed, "Sadly I do not have the means or time of contacting Vinyl myself, she is a famous mare busy with a lot of events. But not many know of Octavia's close relationship with Vinyl, most only assume they're acquaintances but it's much more than that. If you guys can get Vinyl to help you with this situation, and also release the secret weapon, I'm sure Octavia will acknowledge that this chaos needs to stop."

Raindrops nodded. "S-So we need to find Vinyl Scratch first? Is that it?"

Lyra appeared hesitant for a moment before just closing her eyes and smiling and just standing and removing herself from her seat and then nodding to Raindrops. "Yea Raindrops, that's all you guys need to worry about for now. Send a letter to me telling me how everything goes once this whole Cookie King business is over and done with alright?" She turned around swiftly then as she just trotted away from the group before glancing back at them. "Octavia makes sure to keep Vinyl some distance away from this sort of business so it might not be easy getting to her, Octavia knows just as well as the rest of us that that mare is her biggest weakness. So tread lightly you all." She then tossed them a wave as she just continued to trot away towards the exit of the mall, not saying anything more, questioningly.

Raindrops called out to Lyra again reaching a hoof out towards her. "L-Lyra wait!" But as the mare only continued to trot away, Raindrops just lowered herself into her seat with a heavy frown and crossed her hooves. "Sheesh, there's gotta be more to this."

"NIGHTMARE!!!!!!"

Their eyes widened yet again as they all looked in the direction of that familiar voice.

Trotting towards them with a torn shirt and a bruised eye would be none other than Lightning Dust as she appeared as if she were tossed through a tornado. She wore a furious expression, trembling with rage as she stomped over to the table and immediately seized Nightmare Moon by her hoody and then raised a hoof at her angrily as she just continued to tremble with rage. "Y-YOU!!!! YOOOOOOU!!!!!-....."

Nightmare Moon just looked up at Lightning Dust with wide confused eyes.

Raindrops almost immediately lunged across the table to grab hold of the mare. "L-Lightning! Stop! What're you doing!?"

Even Derpy appeared somewhat frightened of the mare as she just looked at Lightning Dust in confusion.

Lightning Dust had tears swelled in her eyes as she just puckered her lower lip before stomping off and away from Nightmare.

Raindrops called out to the mare then. "L-Lightning!? Wait!"

But before Raindrops could even rise from her seat, Nightmare Moon followed after Lightning Dust out of the mall.

The other three just watched as they looked to one another in confusion.

Sombra just groaned heavily and rolled his eyes and just pouted. "WHAT IS GOING ON!?"

As Lightning Dust stomped out of the mall and just continued to trot away, she was soon stopped as appearing in front of her would be Nightmare Moon who wore a blank expression as she looked over the mare. Lightning Dust almost immediately turned around before being forcibly turned around and stopped by Nightmare Moon who then continued to stare at her blankly and silently.

Lightning Dust bit her lower lip in irritation as she snarled at Nightmare Moon. "What do you want!? Leave me alone Nightmare!"

Nightmare Moon stated blatantly. "You are angry with me, knowing this upsets me just as much."

Lightning Dust swiped a hoof at the alicorn angrily. "Of course I'm angry with you! A-Are you a moron!? I don't get you!"

Nightmare Moon then then pulled the pegasus close before embracing her in a tight hug and just tilting her head up towards her with a hoof. "What's happened to you? You've been harmed. Who would do this to you?" Her brows furrowed a bit angrily.

Lightning Dust then shoved her away before taking a few trots bat angrily. "O-Of course! You left me alone in there Nightmare! I told you to leave but I didn't mean without me you jerk! I wanted you to take me with you!" Her eyes swelled with tears further as she just yelled at the alicorn, letting her emotions flow out. "I could've been hurt Nightmare! Those ponies are dangerous, that's why I went in there for you! Yet you just left me like I didn't mean anything!" She lowered her head as she began to sob, as if unable to hold in her feelings but wanting to hide them still, feeling ashamed she was crying like a child. "You just left me in there, like it was so easy to do. I-I get it, you're new to this world, you don't really get how things work but, but still, you've got so much. You're an alicorn, you have two sisters who can help you. I don't get why you're here, why you're wasting all your potential. You can have so much yet you waste it playing games with us lesser ponies." She glared at Nightmare Moon before stomping a hoof. "Some of us don't have as much as you! Some of us aren't as great and amazing as you are! We're just normal ponies! Ponies who don't have anything! Why is it I'm the one taking care of you!? Y-You,...you're just..." And Lightning Dust lowered her hind legs, raising a hoof to her face as she just continued to sob and cry, sniffling and covering her face.

Nightmare Moon then made her way over to the pegasus with a heavy frown as she just looked down at her as she then embraced her in a hug. Lightning Dust however just continued to sob as she soon didn't hesitate to embrace the alicorn tightly, as if seeking some form of comfort even from the mare she was angry at. But Nightmare Moon was far more upset by something else, as she held onto the pegasus she paid attention to the now torn white shirt, and the sudden wounds and bruises covering her. Her brows furrowed as she placed a hoof atop Lightning Dust's head and then questioned her in a soft tone, as if desperately wanting answers while also realizing that she was also in the heat of a bad position at the moment. "I-I apologize, if I'd known they were going to go this far, I would've done something far more severe." She chuckled somewhat. "But I had no idea, I knew not of what those ponies were capable of. I apologize for this."

Lightning Dust just kept close to the alicorn as she cried, unable to hold herself back as she kept Nightmare Moon close in her embrace.

Nightmare Moon looked down at her with half-closed and a blank expression. "But you've yet to confirm who the assailants were...."

Lightning Dust sniffled as she muttered angrily. "W-Who do you think? You're so clueless!"

Nightmare Moon ran a hoof atop the mare's head before continuing. "And did they do anything else questionable?"

Lightning Dust just began to breath heavily as she shook her head, still with her face practically glued to the mare's chest feeling a sense of comfort in her hold. "No, no they didn't. Stop worrying about me. I'm, I'm fine." Lightning Dust then pulled back a little as she looked down towards the pavement and stared at the concrete with a dead expression. "Let's just go back inside, and thank you Nightmare...."

Nightmare's eyes widened exponentially in reaction to that expression as she soon almost immediately appeared frustrated by it, disappointed, and extremely upset by how barren it was. Lightning Dust simply trotted away from her however.

Raindrops and the others stood near the entrance as Raindrops had a hoof raised to her chest in worry for her co-worker and friend as she muttered to Lightning Dust. "Lightning? Are you okay? What happened between you two? Do you need to go home?"

Lightning Dust just wiped her eyes with a hoof before giving a cheeky grin. "I'm fine alright! You guys just tell me what Lyra had to say!" Lightning Dust then looked down at Sombra in surprise as she raised a brow at him. "And what's with your outfit kid?"

Sombra blinked a bit at her as he gave her a crooked frown. "What, shut your mouth! Do not speak to me with such insolence!"

And Lightning Dust rubbed the top of the colt's head as she chuckled.

But Nightmare Moon peered ahead, absolutely annoyed as she just glared particularly at Lightning Dust. Her harmed body, somepony had touched her dear friend's head. Somepony had harmed her and hurt her in a manner that she could've prevented.

She wouldn't forgive these transgressions whatsoever.

Chapter 6.5: The World We Never Left, The World That Never Changed

Cake, Icecream, and Cupcakes! What else could anypony ask for!? But despite the friendly gathering, Nightmare Moon appeared utterly distracted. It was late at night; while Lightning Dust, Derpy, Raindrops, Sombra, and a small purple filly were all attending a gathering in Raindrop's home. The mood was vibrant and lively, and despite this Nightmare Moon couldn't seem to get involved. She just remained zoned out in one corner, peering towards the carpet while levitating a glass of milk at her side, as if she were just completely lost in thought while the others conversed and talked. She took a moment to turn her gaze towards Lightning Dust as the pegasus wore an annoyed expression and just ran a hoof over her face as it appeared as if she were discussing something at the table with both Derpy and Raindrops. Nightmare Moon focused on Lightning Dust further with those contemplative eyes, before looking back towards the carpet.

Meanwhile in the living room sitting on the couch and staring at a TV screen would be Sombra, as he still had his mane fastened into pigtails while licking an icecream cone. But sitting right beside him peering at him with wide eyes would be the new purple filly as she just blinked, observing him almost uncomfortably so. Sombra's brow twitched as he looked over at her. ".............What?"

The filly then placed a hoof upon Sombra's cheek and just simply began moving that hoof up and down.

Sombra closed his eyes in irritation, attempting to remain sane and patient as the filly did this. His brow continued to twitch.

The filly just continued moving her hoof up and down, just blinking as she did so, before she started pulling back her hoof and pressing it into his face and just rotating it in a circular manner as if she were playing with dough or pudding while Sombra just sat there.

Sombra then snapped, grabbing her hoof and getting in the filly's face. "WHAT IS IT YOU WANT!?"

The filly then just looked into his eyes. "Is this weal life?"

Sombra shoved the icecream cone into the filly's mouth.

The filly chuckled playfully as she just chewed, then leaning back and laying on the couch and kicking her legs in the air.

Sombra then joined the solemn alicorn at her side before appearing quite bored. "What's your issue?"

Nightmare Moon lowered her head somewhat as she glanced back at Lightning Dust before speaking absently. "I must speak with you outside, we will be taking a walk. Do not give them any sort of idea that we may be planning otherwise."

Sombra muttered as he glanced over at her with a raised brow. "In other words, we are planning otherwise?"

Nightmare Moon just sighed as she closed her eyes before rising and then muttering as she casually made her way towards the front door. "Do not be smart with me, now come. I will need your assistance with this." She wore an impatient glare as her face darkened.

Sombra suddenly wore a plain smirk as he appeared intrigued. "Ah, you're serious about this aren't you? Whatever that may be." The colt trailed after her then, ensuring to remain close behind as they made their way towards the front door of the house.

"Nightmare! Sombra! Where are you two going!?" Lightning Dust called out from the kitchen with both hooves firmly on her hips as she suddenly appeared skeptical. "We just got valuable information from Lyra and you guys are heading out? Come on I know we decided to make this a more relaxed occasion but, we've really got to figure out how we're going to convince Vinyl to help with Octavia."

Derpy and Raindrops nodded as they to looked back at the departing Sombra and Nightmare Moon with confusion.

Nightmare paused as she immediately lost that expression of impatience and looked over to Lightning Dust and the others in pure innocent bliss. "A-Ah! Do forgive me allies! We are simply taking a short walk! Such things help ease my stomach." She glanced to her lower left with a hurt expression as she made a pained frown. "Gah, t-there it goes again. It seems I'm not used to these....new foods."

Lightning Dust crossed her hooves worriedly before tilting her head to the right. "Are you going to be alright?"

Nightmare Moon focused on the pegasus again, and more particularly on her body. And once again she felt a seething rage swelling inside her as she practically trembled. "Why yes Lightning Dust, I will be rejuvenated in no time at all!" She then made her way out the door.

Sombra attempted to follow after her casually with a bored expression.

Then Raindrops rose as she crossed her hooves. "Sombra! Where do you think you're going!?"

Sombra looked over to the pegasus in bafflement as he was almost stunned by the fact that he was questioned. He shook it off however and just immediately put on a look of discomfort to play the part perfectly. "Ooooooh my tummy hurts, I must repeat her actions in order to feel utterly satisfied, I believe a walk will most definitely accomplish this." He then just trotted out the house casually while whistling.

Raindrops just looked to the other two with just a raised brow and perplexed look.

Lightning Dust and Derpy shrugged at Raindrops, just as lost as she was.

While the little purple filly just tackled Derpy then playfully. "Yaaaaaaay!!"

As Sombra made his way outside the house, sitting on the sidewalk past the front lawn would be Nightmare Moon who wore nothing, and just peered towards the night sky and full moon silently. Sombra just rolled his eyes before muttering, "Oh, how touching, give me a break." He then made his way over towards Nightmare Moon, standing a few feet behind her as he crossed both his front hooves while standing on his hind legs. He gave her a cold glare and raised brow, before burrowing his head into his shoulder somewhat. "Now what's this all this about with this walk nonsense? Grah, I do not wish to stand idly by and freeze half to death if it is not necessary you know."

Nightmare Moon glanced back at him in disinterest.  "Didn't you mention you were originally from the north?"

Sombra growled at her before stomping a hoof. "GRAH! Well I had slaves to keep my castle warm, and I also had my trusty cloak back then!" He closed his eyes before placing one hoof on his hip. "And that is besides the point. You failed to answer my first question."

Nightmare Moon lowered her head as she spoke in a solemn tone. "Do you remember where we came from Sombra?"

Sombra appeared a little thrown off for a second before he sighed and closed his eyes. "Of course, what of it?"

Nightmare Moon continued. "I believed this world to be different. That petty things such as friendship was a far superior form of magic compared to what we used to survive." She glared back at him. "Apparently I was wrong, even in a world such as this. There are those who would ignore the new world order. Those who would dare use physical means to bring harm to my allies using their natural inherent talents to take advantage of them." Her eyes closed halfway before she spoke in a cold direct tone. "There are those who would pathetically hold sway over those without as much power simply because they can, those who're just like me when I'd first returned."

Sombra crossed his hooves again before looking at Nightmare Moon with a bored look. "Of course there are you idiot."

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened as she looked at Sombra.

Sombra smirked confidently. "There are those whom are fit to rule, and those who are no more than meager slaves. The weaklings are crushed beneath the hooves of the mighty and strong. This belief rings true no matter what has changed in this world. This talk of status and friendship? I know not what exactly defeated you but I was bested by an enemy who was simply better than I was, well, with the assistance of a powerful artifact of course. But nonetheless, I have faced countless enemies who knew that the only means of succeeding was through pure innate talent. Those foes will always be around regardless of the time period were in." He chuckled eagerly. "It's just apparent that whomever these enemies are they are far superior at hiding this truth away in the shadows, it seems we're not so alien here afterall."

Nightmare Moon raised her head as she appeared lost again. "I see, so there will be times when it is alright to use my magic." She paused, "Well, I cannot say that I'm disappointed, only that it is a shame." She peered ahead with cold eyes. "It hardly seems fair for them."

Sombra tilted his head to the left in curiosity. "And who exactly are we speaking of that you'd go this length to be rid of?"

Nightmare Moon peered ahead with an uncaring expression. "The individuals whom of which desired to perform the ritual of filly-making. I know not of their reasons nor care." She paused as she spoke with a simple tone. "But they laid their hooves on her and brought harm to her, resorted her to shed tears in front of me. They will not be forgiven for these crimes." She then looked to Sombra as she frowned a bit, "So now they will suffer, and their mistress whom of which I must hunt will also pay dearly for her practice."

Sombra smiled a bit as he raised a brow at her. "Oh? So bold!"

Nightmare Moon rose to all fours before trotting a few feet down the sidewalk. "I request that you remain a safe distance away at times."

Sombra growled a bit. "Who do you think I am!?"

Nightmare Moon looked at him blankly. "Now a child within a mortal shell."

Sombra huffed as he closed his eyes. "Granted I am not as powerful as I was before, but under the cover of night, I am more than enough."

Nightmare Moon nodded to him plainly, obviously impatient as she raised a hoof and then suddenly emerging from pure shadow would be a tear in the realm itself. Leaking from this portal of impenetrable black would be shadowy purple tendrils which writhed and squirmed, caressing the alicorn's hooves as she didn't fear them one bit. She glanced back at Sombra with a tired expression. "Are you ready to go?"

Sombra muttered, obviously a little hesitant. "Are you certain you should be using that?"

Nightmare Moon smiled in delight. "Tonight is a special occasion, and I do not want to miss our work plans for such filth."

Sombra looked at Nightmare Moon in question, now a little more worried for her than he'd originally anticipated. ".........."

Nightmare Moon continued to smile at him with half closed eyes. "We will make quick work of these insects."

Towards the heart of Manehattan, at a familiar location, an irritated stallion wore an eye-patch over his eye and bruised face. He stood in the dusty lobby of the building with a heavy frown while still cleaning empty glasses with a cloth. His brows furrowed as he muttered to himself in the dark. "To think she got away, how absurd. She was just some pegasus brat. The mistress obviously isn't happy about this one bit." He lowered his head and closed his eyes with a heavy sigh. "And to think we lost that marvelous catch as well, an actual alicorn."

And suddenly what little light was exposed in the lobby had suddenly vanished completely. The stallion now stood in absolute darkness, unable to even see the nearest piece of furniture as even all sources of light that should've come from the outside were gone as well. It was inconceivable and he couldn't help but feel a hint of fear while being thrown off by it. He just stood there for a moment in surprise.

The stallion's eyes widened as he raised a brow. "W-What? What just happened?" His horn started to glow a vibrant green color as he squinted a bit, trying to catch sight of anything that might be in front of him or around him. But he saw nothing as he eventually just feel into an even deeper confusion before muttering to himself. "W-What's going o-" and at that moment the stallion staggered back before freezing completely in absolute fear as looking straight back at him would be a figure hidden in the darkness. He couldn't make out what it was but its eyes were locked onto him, hazy blue eyes with strange blue pupils, and all seeing, as if they were piercing into him. It was the silence which bothered him the most, for after noticing this strange ominous presence in the far back of the lobby it only continued to stare at him.

The figure spoke, but its voice was raspy and cold. "Where does your Mistress hide?"

The stallion trembled as he just moved back even further back before shaking his head. "A-As if I, as if I would...t-t-tell..."

The eyes didn't let up as the voice just returned, uncaring for his fear. "Should you not speak, I will simply find another."

The stallion just gulped again as he shook his head. "I-I, I will never betray the Queen!"

There was a looming silence for some time.

The eyes suddenly vanished into the darkness before the voice replied. "A shame."

And as the stallion stood there trembling fiercely, he was soon wrapped up by a physical force of pure shadow as he was then dragged back and into the pitch black, the light of his magic went out as he let off muffled screams that faded away in seconds.

Eventually as the stallion quieted down, the shadows of the lobby dissipated while the stallion was fainted in the back corner behind the counter while both Sombra and Nightmare Moon loomed over him. Sombra had his hooves crossed as he raised a brow at the stallion. "Well, at least they have loyalty. He would make a decent slave." Sombra shrugged before glancing over at Nightmare Moon in boredom.

Nightmare Moon however didn't appear satisfied in the least as she sighed. "How typical, no matter. We will take the items that allow us to gain entry into the secret passageway. Surely one of these maggots will tell us how to reach their leader."

"There will be no need for that darlings....."

Both Sombra and Nightmare Moon's eyes widened exponentially as they looked around in question, wondering where exactly the voice came from. Obviously through speakers placed about the room but who or where was this individual. Although any form of fear was absent from their expressions, they still wore hints of caution as they stood in place, simply listening intently. Nightmare Moon in particular called out to the voice. "Ah, so you are the one whom runs this kingdom. Will you continue to hide behind this foul Canterlot voice?"

The voice continued. "Mhmhmhmhm! Face you!? Dearest Luna, I will crush you if you so desire. To think that the mysterious sister whom I never had a chance to meet during my wedding, would come and greet me personally! You are far more interesting than I thought."

Nightmare Moon wore a grumpy look as she knew she'd been  mistaken but didn't question it.

The voice added on. "And who is this one? Your little slave?"

Sombra raised a hoof at one of the voiceboxes. "WHAT!? Why you wench! I'll wring your neck out when I find you!"

The voice chuckled. "Ohoho, fiesty. I like her."

Sombra's eyes widened as he just gritted his teeth and glanced to the lower right in shame and embarressment. "Grah!....."

Soon the doors to the elevator opened as within, a green thick substance oozed from it. The once beautiful elevator had now become no more than a carapace shell of what it once was, made up of a blackened crusty material with the green substance leaking from even the ceiling of the makeshift box. Standing inside would be two black creatures whom both Sombra and Nightmare had never seen before.

Sombra's eyes widened as he staggered back a little. "W-What? Disgusting, I'm not trotting in there."

Nightmare Moon glanced over and down at him. "Does getting a little dirty frighten you that much?"

Sombra rolled his eyes as he scratched at the back of his mane. "Grah, it seems everypony is picking on me today. Fine fine I will enter the stupid box. "He sulked as he began to trot towards it with a grumpy look and bickered while doing so. "Dumb stupid secret walk stupid could've done it by herself, instead drags me all the way out. I mean doesn't she know I have to keep up appearances now? Grah!"

Nightmare Moon raised her head and a brow. "Are you reeeeeeeeeally mumbling like a child?"

Sombra glared back at her and snarled. "NO! NO, I AM NOT!!!!!" He then stomped ahead and between the two black pony-like creatures into the elevator, trembling with disgust as he did so and wearing a sad expression. "So filthy, disgusting disgusting, this is just absurd."

Nightmare Moon rolled her eyes as she to trotted into the elevator with ease. She then focused on the black on both sides of her as the doors to the elevator shut and it starting moving. "It is as if they do not understand I have come here with the intent of punishing them."

The creatures then looked to Nightmare Moon and chuckled in delight before peering ahead again. "We do not fear for our petty lives while our darling Queen runs the hive." The two black pony-like creatures spoke in sync while wearing plain smiles like twins.

Sombra glanced up at one of them before speaking plainly. "Mhm, yep, tooootally fearless that one in the front was."

The black pony-like creatures just continued. "Her every whim we will obey, even if on our dying day. We will leap, jump and fall at her command. The hive will thrive as long as she stands. So do what you must to quench your anger, just do not put our Queen in danger."

Nightmare Moon raised a brow at one of them. "Isn't taking me to her quite contradictory to your philosophy?"

The black-pony like creatures replied in sync still. "Despite our concern for her safety, we will not disobey her hastily."

And eventually the doors of the elevator opened only to reveal a large massive underground domain. It was practically a canyon as in one sector there were numerous green pods which from within, appeared to hold ponies. The green liquid slime was not as abundant here, and there was a crafted stone path which lead to a far and mighty pillar, one withered into the shape of a massive throne. Parallel pillars coursed down the path on each side as tending to the green pods sector, would be numerous of the black creatures. They seemed endless in number and just fluttered around from pod to pod, ensuring they were getting cared for properly. The two creatures within the elevator stepped out, before bowing their heads for their two guests and allowing them to proceed. "In the heart of darkness, she waits."

Sombra and Nightmare Moon began to trot out slowly, as they were actually forced to look up somewhat in order to even catch sight of the apparent throne slab which the Queen situated herself upon. In a way it was like a crafted empire, and they wouldn't be surprised if this stretched to other parts of the city. As the two made their way down the path slowly, all eyes were locked on them.

Sombra wore an amused smirk as he peered up and ahead. "Impressive."

Nightmare Moon was silent as she just trotted casually up towards the throne.

Upon reaching it there were a numerous band of the creatures which guarded the massive stone slab. "HALT!!!" They shouted in unison.

Suddenly emerging at the top of the stone slab would be a larger version of the creatures, an apparent female and in a strange sense, she also appeared as if she were an alicorn. Nightmare Moon raised a brow at her in confusion then while the leader of this creatures just peered down at Nightmare Moon with interest. She eventually lowered her hind legs to sit as she just continued to observe her two guests for some time, before chuckling in delight. "Oho, now isn't this interesting. Luna and a child waltz right up to one of my many sanctuaries and have no fear whatsoever entering the very chambers of a swarm of changelings. Confidence must be your strong point hm?"

Nightmare Moon tilted her head to the right. "So you are the leader of these creatures?"

The Queen just cackled somewhat as she raised a brow. "And what else would I be?"

Nightmare Moon ignored that witty answer before continuing with a cold glare. "And why is it you do what you do? Do you not understand the rules of the new world? These methods are despicable, and they go against the ways of the fast food industry and status gain."

The Queen just blinked a bit before bursting into laughter. "Bahahahahahhahaha! What is this nonsense oyu speak of!? Fast food industry!? Status gain!? We have no need for such things, what you call food we call entertainment. It is just a form of passing the time for us. We do not abide by any laws, we do what we must to survive whether you pitiful ponies agree with it or not."

Nightmare Moon stomped a hoof, still glaring at her. "And so this gives you a right to harm individuals who play by the rules instead!?"

The Queen pulled her head back in confusion as she sat. "And what individuals have I harmed that is of concern to you? This is not Canterlot wench, and I do not waste my food. It is cared for properly, tended to every given day in their new-found lives."

Nightmare Moon's glare intensified. "You harmed a close ally of mine. For your sake I hope she did not simply slip your mind."

The Queen gasped before smiling and looking to her upper left. "Aaaaaah! You mean that intruder!? Well well well, harm is quite a bold statement considering," she immediately glared back at the alicorn herself, "Your ally decided it was necessary to invade my sanctuary and assault my guard, I say fair is fair. She should not have been trespassing. Do you intend to exact your revenge in such a manner that you do not even have the right? Even now I have granted you passage into my domain, and have shown you mercy even after assaulting one of my children, and now you have the gall to throw accusations? Is this what the hierarchy of Canterlot has come to!? Celestia would never resort to such tactics, choose your next words carefully sister of my enemy, for they could very well be your last."

Nightmare Moon just peered up towards her. "Yes, yes I do. You broke the rules of the fast food industry and even harmed my ally." She paused with a smirk before closing her eyes. "It is a shame that my dear sisters are busy with their own problems in a distant region." Nightmare Moon then peered back up towards her, wondering if this creature would catch the hint of how dire her situation was.

Queen Chrysalis did feel as if a sudden jolt hit her as she felt she'd come to an epiphany. W-What? Sisters? B-But there are only two alicorn sisters. What is the meaning of this!? Her eyes widened as she just peered at Nightmare Moon. "Who are you?"

Nightmare Moon suddenly disappeared in a void of darkness before reappearing behind the Queen. "Not, my sister."

Queen Chrysalis glanced back with a shocked expression.

A band of the rest of creatures immediately looked to their Queen with gasps. One cried out, "PROTECT THE QUEEN!!!!"

Sombra just wore a crooked frown as he peered up towards Nightmare Moon and placed a hoof over his face. "Truly now? Did she have to attack them here? I mean, certainly it would've been far more efficient to just wait for a better opportunity but nooo~ we must wait for the dramatic revelation! Pfffffft~" he rolled his eyes before suddenly rubbing his lower muzzle. "Family drama, graaaaaaah...."

"SIEZE THE LITTLE ONE!"

Sombra gasped as he then immediately leaped back dodging a barrage of magical blasts before snapping back at the changelings. "WHAT DID I DO!?" When a band of the creatures just touched upon the ground and immediately surged towards the colt and swung hooves at him, before Sombra propelled himself into a series of spins and dodges using his lighter more acrobatic body avoiding the blows magnificently. "Aha! It seems that I am far more impressive than I originally assumed. Now then insects shall we-" he got decked in the face with a hoof.

When suddenly the Queen had morphed into a new form, baring now a white coat, sapphire mane, and stallion's body as he wore a guard's uniform and blocked a spell which attempted to strike at her from the rear as she snarled with a chuckle. "So there was a third sister!?"

Nightmare Moon glared at the Queen who'd now transformed with little surprise as she answered her. "I doubt they'd acknowledge me as such." She smiled a bit before raising a brow at the Queen with a mighty chuckle. "A living nightmare differs from the sun and moon."

Chapter 7: Defeat the Cello Mare Part 3 - "Crumbling Illusions" - Part 1

Queen Chrysalis snarled as she leaped across endless rocky pillars, soaring through the air but now wearing the form of a tiny filly as she zipped and dodged numerous bolts of black magic, maneuvering between the rocks and pillars and around them in order to keep out of reach of her assailant. Pursuing her was a black mist as the mist took the form of a bear's claw which attempted to grab hold of her. Queen Chrysalis' eyes widened as she used one hoof to land atop one of the pillars before propelling herself into a spin and leaping to the side in order to dodge the claw's hold before changing form again and continuing to soar through the makeshift canyon on her wings. My children! You are to leave this place and secure your escape! Abandon all the pods! THAT IS AN ORDER!

The changelings all immediately paused as they wore looks of distraught yet they did not speak. B-But my Queen!

The black alicorn stood atop one of the peaks with a cold expression as she observed every movement of the shape-shifting creature as it attempted to remain out of her reach. Nightmare Moon's expression darkened as she disappeared in that instant as she'd gone in pursuit of the Queen herself as manifesting at her side was an endless assortment of makeshift magical weapons ranging from swords to axes to lances, as the alicorn now mimicked the Queen's actions maneuvering between rocks and pillars. She spoke simply, "Where do you think you're going?" As her eyes widened as her horn started to glow magnificently before letting off a magical blast in the Queen's direction.

Queen Chrysalis' eyes snapped wide before she halted atop one of the pillars again before raising a hoof and then swiping it down in an instant as her horn also began to shine brightly as appearing around her was a sphere of emerald hue which then blocked the incoming blast from the alicorn but destroyed the pillar she was once standing on, causing the Queen to remain suspended in the air as she was focusing on her own magical prowess to hold the spell in place. She gritted her teeth as she then grinned fiercely before yelling out to the alicorn. "S-SUCH AGGRESSION! ISN'T IT INTERESTING!? JUST HOW DIFFERENT YOU ARE FROM YOUR SISTERS!?" And as the dust from the blast cleared, the Queen didn't fail to notice Nightmare Moon was already looming over her with all weapons in position as they almost immediately surged straight down towards her, overwhelming the Queen and shattering her barrier as Queen Chrysalis was sent plummeting towards the stone surface below before slamming against it and rolling and tumbling before crashing into another rocky pillar.

Nightmare Moon pulled her head back as if readying herself before spreading her wings and then with a mighty flap, shooting herself towards the Queen's position as she spoke plainly. "You are awfully curious for a creature whose existence no longer holds any meaning."

Breathing heavily as she rose to all four hooves was Queen Chrysalis as she peered up at the alicorn with a fierce stare as she raised a hoof yet again and then swiped it to her side as her horn started to glow and she was protected by yet another green barrier. T-That is an order you blasted incompetent fools! Do *not** try this one! *She is not like Luna or Celestia! I want you all to escape this instant! She gritted her teeth tiredly as she squinted at the incoming alicorn. There are some things I need to figure out before I make my escape. But I cannot do this while worrying for the rest of you. So I demand you leave this instant, your mother will be fine.

The group of changelings all hesitated as they all looked to one another before nodding and then began to make their exits in mass exodus towards the numerous openings in this underground canyon as a swarm. Many of them were taking different routes to their escape.

Standing alone atop one of the rocky pillars was Sombra as he observed the creatures and muttered. "They are retreating?"

Nightmare Moon then immediately slammed upon the ground right in front of Queen Chrysalis, sending up dust and debris with her landing as she stared blankly at the Queen hiding inside with a hungry glare, lacking any emotion before trotting casually up towards her.

As Queen Chrysalis remained behind her pillar she tiredly tilted her head to the right. "H-Hah! What a child! A mindless juggernaut is all you are, and how exactly did Luna and Celestia contrive you? I am fairly curious of this. Humor me will you?" Queen Chrysalis focused on the mare with a desperate glare. This one is far too different. She consisted of pure raw magical prowess. She cared little for negotiation, and her magic was not balanced, it was overwhelmingly offensive. And even the Queen felt that she was dealing with something far too out of the ordinary. Who was this and where did she come from? This one was too unlike Luna and Celestia. She was a monster.

Nightmare Moon continued to stare blankly at the Queen before commenting. "They will undoubtedly learn of my existence in time. But I will remain on the path of the fast food enterprise, I will abide by this world's laws . I will be fair." She paused before giving the Queen a tired expression. "But sadly I cannot forgive you for the things you've done. You are too dangerous even for this new world." And with that, Nightmare Moon sidestepped as behind her surging towards the Queen's barrier was her black claw from earlier.

Queen Chrysalis' eyes widened as the claw immediately latched onto her barrier before gripping and shattering it.

Queen Chrysalis froze in that moment as she'd been exposed, stumbling back with a shocked expression. S-SHE'S ONE TO TALK!

Appearing at her side was Nightmare Moon who still possessed a look of blind determination as she had a spell pointed at the Queen's now exposed head, her eyes widened as she let off that spell right towards the Queen with a sigh. "Another shame."

Queen Chrysalis however, almost instantaneously, changed shape as she was now in the form of a small filly as due to her reduced size, the spell had passed right over her before she trotted right between Nightmare Moon's front legs and then propelled herself into an upward kick, slamming Nightmare Moon right in her chest and actually causing the alicorn to gasp for air as Queen Chrysalis touched down on all fours once again before peering up straight towards that same area as her horn started to glow magnificently. "A SHAME INDEED!"

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened as she immediately disappeared in order to dodge that blast before reappearing on top one of the pillars and glaring angrily at the spot where she'd been caught off guard before focusing all her manifested weapons on that area as her black claw having emerged from a black portal surrounded by writhing tentacles squirmed. But to her dismay she found that the Queen had already disappeared, and then she caught on. Realizing that the Queen was never planning to actually fire off a spell at her, such a thing would never work against her and she knew that, it was all simply a ruse to get away. This of course annoyed Nightmare Moon greatly as she snarled beneath her breath and her nose wrinkled in frustration. The alicorn then turned away from that spot before glancing around hurriedly.

Suddenly appearing on a distant pillar was the filly version of Queen Chrysalis as she was huffing and breathing heavily while laying on her side. She gasped for breath as it was apparent she was exhausted and  needed a moment to be able to relax.

"Well, that was pretty impressive."

Queen Chrysalis' eyes widened as she immediately glanced over to her left to see that sitting atop one of the pillars was the child who'd accompanied the alicorn in here in the first place. He wore a smile as looked upon the tired Queen. "Y-You, you're the filly from earlier."

Sombra's brow twitched as he sighed, ignoring the blatantly false comment. He then looked to the Queen with a light smirk. "It seems that you've managed to secure your escape for now. I will not say anything. I actually do prefer the order of this new world myself, and so I would also prefer that we stick by the less violence rule that's been established." He tilted his head to the right. "Graaaaah, well of course this also relates to the fact that I am now a child stuck in this pitifully sad form. But eh, give yourself a pat on the back. You lasted fairly longer than I expected you would." Sombra paused, "But surely things have changed, I am almost certain Celestia's new pets are the top dogs now are they not?" He rolled his eyes before laying on his side. "As long as I stay out of there way, I shall be king again someday."

Queen Chrysalis looked at him tiredly as she muttered. "Who are you two?"

Sombra gave her a serious glare then as he smiled a bit before looking to the lower left tiredly. "Best we leave that in the dark..."

Queen Chrysalis then rose to all four hooves as she smiled at him a bit. "You do understand I will not let this slide. Are you so certain it is best not to inform her now of my location. Surely you understand that with the knowledge I've acquired here will be used against you."

There was a lengthy pause between them.

Sombra gave her a tired expression before sighing himself. "I do not operate in such a manner. This was between the two of you, my interference would tarnish the moment. You have earned your escape, so go now, before I change my mind."

Queen Chrysalis smirked before chuckling a bit. "I see, I will remember you as well child." She disappeared then before her voice echoed around the area in one last comment to Sombra before her departure. "I do hope you don't regret this in the days to come."

Sombra rose to all four hooves before patting himself off with a sigh. "In other words, I will regret this in the days to come." He then gazed around for a moment before thinking to himself in silence with a bored expression. Well then. He closed his eyes as he focused on speaking to Nightmare Moon through a form of more dark magic. Have you acquired her location yet?

Nightmare Moon snarled as she was wildly destroying the pillars with her manifested claw of shadow as she was also firing off magical blasts towards numerous massive rocks angrily. "NO! NO I HAVE NOT! THAT BLASTED COWARD!!!!"

Sombra commented tiredly. If she has yet to reveal herself it is more than likely that she used that opportunity to secure an escape route. It seems she possesses similar magic to us, seeing as she ordered the retreat for the rest of her kind, much like a hive mind. It is best to end this farce for the time being Nightmare Moon. Besides, we have bigger issues to worry about for now. We have let this distract us for far too long, the one who runs the Cookie King establishment is our biggest obstacle to ultimate power in the fast food enterprise yes?

Nightmare Moon gritted her teeth as she overlooked the rubble with still no Queen to be found as she then gazed back at the numerous green pods which housed sleeping ponies with seething frustration but also relief. Yes, yes you're right. For now then let us release these ponies so they can continue abiding by this new world's laws. It seems that this was indeed our victory for the time being.

The next morning, Nightmare Moon and Sombra sat tiredly in front of the three pegasus scolding them.

Derpy, Raindrops, and Lightning Dust glared at the two as Lightning Dust was the first to comment. "You two were out all night for that walk of yours!? Was that just some dumb excuse to go around playing games!? Really! You guys gotta start taking this seriously!"

Raindrops sighed as she commented as well with a heavy frown. "Yes, I have to say I'm quite disappointed in you guys as well. You really shouldn't lie to us to get out of work, besides we had a good lengthy discussion last night about what we were going to do."

Nightmare Moon frowned heavily as she closed her eyes and scratched at the back of her mane with a pout. "B-But dearest allies! I swear, if I could've sat through the meeting without feeling in pain I would've, this walk was an utmost necessity! I swear this to you!"

Lightning Dust put a hoof plainly on Nightmare Moon's chest in irritation. "No excuses Nightmare!"

Nightmare Moon whimpered heavily as she lowered her head in understanding like a puppy.

And as Sombra sat there he couldn't help but feel lost in thought about that Queen they'd met. Were they truly meant for this world? Had they really escaped the world they were from or were they playing make-believe? Avoiding the unnecessary battles for a certain amount of time, before everything that they believed they were avoiding would come back to bite them in the flanks. This world was certainly different, it was one which ran on laws which didn't result in physical harm of others for the most part, it was a world of fluffy goodness. The idea of how pure this world was made the past king cringe heavily as he ran a hoof through his mane to part his long black bangs. He closed his eyes and sighed as he continued to listen to their scolding. But he interrupted, "So, what is the next part of the plan?"

The three pegasus then looked to Sombra in surprise of his diligence to remain on target.

Lightning Dust then poked Nightmare Moon again. "See Nightmare!? That's how you should be!" She huffed heavily as she crossed her hooves as she smirked a bit. "It looks like Vinyl Scratch will be running a music event at the Manehattan Beach alongside the coast for the model's show ran by Lady Fleur De Lis! It'll be a big event and more then likely closed off to the public! So the way we're going to do it is we're going to drop down off in the ocean distant from the beach, from there we'll swim up to the beach and get instant access to-"

Sombra raised a hoof with a bored expression as he commented. "I can get us inside."

All their eyes widened at him as suddenly the group spoke in sync, even Derpy. "WHAT!?"

Sombra didn't even comment on how or why as he sat there with a blank expression, not wanting to explain. He thought to himself in silence. Well, for now until that supposed regret comes. I shall progress as much as I can in this new world.

Meanwhile the tiny pale purple filly upon the couch stared at the TV screen with interest as she blinked with wide eyes and a smile.

Upon the news channel was a media pony as she spoke. "Late last night some unnamed individuals managed to discover and release a massive group of captives from an actual underground hive beneath the very city itself! These acts of silent heroism are what makes this world shine at its brightest! To whomever those heroes are! This entire city thanks you! And those you saved thank you!"

Chapter 9: Prologues Can't Last Forever

Sombra eventually entered the banquet room of the mansion, sporting his brand new mane cut. It was extremely short in length and rough along the edges, and styled in a more naturally wild style as if it were ruffled. But as he entered the banquet room standing on his hind legs, he glanced around momentarily as he only saw food flying from one end of the room to the other. He wore a blank expression.

Nightmare Moon was standing atop the table. "Absurd! I dare not betray the Mcmuffin!" She used her magic to toss another muffin across the room as it slammed right into Derpy's face, who was too busy packing up some food for Dinky.

Sombra simply turned around, not wanting anything further to do with these fools.

Nightmare Moon leaned forward in that moment hurriedly, before being held back by Lightning Dust. "GRAH KING! WAIT! I-"

Lightning Dust covered her muzzle as she snarled angrily. "That's enough!"

Nightmare Moon crumbled to her belly as she reached out for the unicorn desperately in her mumbles. "MMMMPH!"

Sombra paused momentarily, before heading off again and shutting the banquet room door behind him as he did.

Sombra proceeded to navigate his way through the mansion, first proceeding back down the main corridor and into the main lobby. He was lost in the size of the home, and had a nostalgic recollection of his old home before his life ended the first time. A sly smile crept onto his face as he glanced around at the paintings on the walls to the chandelier on the ceiling. He continued on to the opposing end of the main lobby and went into another banquet room, this one was more empty and tidied up compared to the other. His eyes widened as he saw that on a nearby porch overlooking one of the gardens of the mansion was Raindrops, who wore a simple pleased smile.

Sombra made his way over to her, raising a brow. "What're you doing out here?"

Raindrops glanced back at him. "Oh hey Sombra! Just enjoying the beautiful night skies! Nice aren't they?"

Sombra glanced up at the stars before looking back at Raindrops. "Such things have never interested me."

Raindrops bore an amused smile, smirking slightly. "Hah, I expected you to say something like that." She tossed Sombra a casual wave before looking back up towards the stars. "Well have fun Sombra, I should still be here if you need me." She was silent from then on.

Sombra nodded plainly, before returning back to exploring the mansion. He made his way back into the banquet room, where he proceeded to another door on the opposing end, making his way through it which took him to another part of the mansion. Along the way he ran into two butlers who were busy conversing about an entirely different topic. Sombra couldn't help but listen in on their conversation.

"Have you heard the rumors? They say there is a new boss in town!" One of the butlers exclaimed.

The other shook his head. "Hah! Surely you must be joking! Nopony could ever replace Filthy Rich!"

The other replied to him in suit. "I'm not too sure about that, they say he had to return to his hometown to take care of some things!"

Sombra shrugged it off and continued on his way through the mansion. Soon proceeding on upstairs to where he was now standing in a long hall leading to numerous rooms on each side. He was drawn to one in particular where the sound of constant giggling and yammering could be heard from childish voices. He proceeded down the hall and found that open door, only to raise a brow before glancing inside. Within he saw a bundle of numerous child models who were playing with makeup and looking over themselves in the mirror. Sombra blinked a bit before muttering to himself, "Dark rituals? How disturbing." He shrugged, and proceeded to head further down the hall again.

Eventually Sombra opened one door which lead him to a room which immediately caught his interest. It was a library. He made his way inside, already familiar with the way all the books were categorized. He stopped before one particular shelf and pulled a random book from it, flipping through the pages quickly as if he were taking in all the information on each page in mere seconds. "Let's see if we can learn a little bit more about this world while we're here." He sighed a little however, sulking at the thought of doing so much research. Or perhaps, it was something else? His gaze drifted to the lower right in question, before he smirked again with satisfaction, closing his eyes.

"And what has you so amused? Hm?"

Sombra opened his eyes halfway before looking atop one of the large cabinets and catching sight of Nightmare Moon. "Many things."

Nightmare Moon was flat on her belly as she had one forehoof crossed over the other and raised a brow at the past king. "Oh do tell do tell!"

Sombra sighed as he continued to look over the book and spoke at the same time. "Where did you come from anyway?"

Nightmare Moon chuckled as she raised a devious brow. "Hah! I'm just as quick as you Grah King, perhaps even quicker. Surely you knew this? Is it a crime for me to explore this lovely little home to my heart's content as much as you do?" She grinned cheekily.

Sombra bore no expression, only continuing to flip through the pages. "Oh is that the reason? Surely you aren't hiding from your master who's failed to keep you on her leash yes? You two have gotten awfully close haven't you?" He glanced back up at her.

Nightmare Moon gasped, as suddenly black shadow shrouded her area she was in and she glared fiercely at him. "Master!? What is this nonsense you speak!? I have NO master! And I am on NO leash! You have gotten mighty confident to believe that you could insult me in such a manner! Who do you think you are whelp!?" She huffed before calming down and pouting, puckering her lower lip.

Sombra closed the book and exhaled heavily, before turning to face Nightmare Moon and peering up at her blankly. "I am King Sombra, that much is certain. But I'm starting to wonder if you've forgotten who you are." He continued to give her a plain stare.

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened before she looked away from him in hesitation. "W-What're you talking about?"

Sombra continued. "If you truly recall who or what I am Nightmare Moon, then you know I'm able to read into fear and despair quite easily, something you've been exuding since we've arrived here. It stinks, it wrenches, and I'm fairly curious why." He never let up.

Nightmare Moon cringed as she looked extremely flustered and irritated with his proclamation. "W-What? How dare you accuse me of such things! I, I fear nothing! I AM fear! I am a nightmare! What have I to fear!? Nopony can stand against me!" She growled.

Sombra lowered his head and gaze, momentarily making his way over to a table and sitting at one of the seats. He opened the book again, and leaned his cheek onto one hoof before reading the book in a bored manner. "Nopony but your sisters, isn't that right?"

Nightmare Moon flinched before gritting her teeth angrily. "Shut your mouth..."

Sombra rolled his eyes with a smirk. "Or no, maybe it's not your sisters. Maybe it's this comfortable lifestyle you fear losing. Maybe you've grown too attached to the idea of living in this world that you can't bear with the thought of losing it." He glared at her intensely from his new position. "Maybe you're forgetting our true mission and getting distracted with the idea of playing house in la la-" but Sombra paused as he noticed his pages become shrouded in an infinite black, and he glanced around noticing that darkness was now consuming the entire room while strange unknown entities writhed and wriggled in the background. Sombra felt a shiver run down his spine before he hesitantly turned, and only saw wide cyan eyes mere inches from him, staring straight at him. He stumbled back out of his seat.

The only solace in the darkness, those cyan eyes remained focused on him. "Is that truly what you believe?"

Sombra began to crawl back in reverse, a slight sweat drop coursing down the side of his head before he felt one of his hooves sink into the now pitch black floor like mud. He immediately raised it and pulled it free before muttering in irritation. "Enough..."

The gaze drew closer to him, inch by inch. "That our mission is a waste of time? That everything we've done is a waste of time? That all that we've accomplished and are trying to accomplish is a waste of time? Are those your true feelings? Mhmhmhm~ *amusing***."

Sombra was now the one cringing before he stood, and backed into a blackened wall. "Okay, I get it..."

And soon, emerging around the perimeter of those cyan eyes, tentacles emerged and began slithering towards the colt. "Perhaps you'd like to return to that place. Perhaps you'd like a reminder of what I can do? Surely such things would jog your memory." She cackled softly.

Sombra swiped a hoof angrily as his eyes were wide with paranoia. "NIGHTMARE THAT'S ENOUGH!!"

And suddenly the door to the library swung open, as standing in the open doorway was Lightning Dust, accompanied by Fleur De Lis. "So this is where you two runts were hiding! We come here to discuss strategy and here you two are playing around!?"

Almost immediately the darkness dissipated instantaneously as it returned to an absolutely normal library. Nightmare Moon stood in the center as she wore a surprised expression while looking at the two at the door. "O-Oh! Lightning, and...the other one."

Sombra crumbled to the floor as he still wore a petrified expression, breathing heavily, almost wheezing.

Nightmare Moon gave him an ominous silent glare from her position, not saying anything.

But Sombra spoke, soon catching the attention of both Lightning Dust and Fleur De Lis as well. "I'm not saying that it was all a waste of time. But-" he swiped another hoof at the alicorn, "You are overestimating yourself! You are getting too comfortable! Once this cello mare is dealt with! Once that insect is dealt with! What next!? You are too impulsive! You're like a spoiled child!" He gasped for air before struggling to all four hooves. "You are losing sight of your own plan, and even I can see it! You're not as certain as you pretend to be!"

Nightmare Moon got in his face before snarling at him. "And you are!? Tell me then mister, what is YOUR grand plan then!?"

Sombra got in her face right back as the two just continued to snarl and growl at each other like dogs. Sombra eventually spoke. "Well, I certainly have more skills than you when it comes to this new world of talent and rising up this so called social ladder!"

Nightmare Moon flinched as she looked down at him. "W-What!?"

Sombra continued. "What can you even do besides frighten ponies and draw attention to yourself!? For all they know you're still a villain! You're still this big bad monster! Otherwise you have no skills to carry on over! You're practically useless in that sense!"

Nightmare Moon's expression immediately sunk as her lower lip quivered.

Sombra rose hurriedly, before stomping out of the library and muttering on the way out. "Grah! Imbecile!..."

Nightmare Moon began to tremble as she crumbled, and stared blankly at floor, saying nothing.

Lightning Dust turned around, briefly attempting to trail after him. "Hey! Sombra wait!" She glanced back over at Nightmare Moon who was still looking lost and laying on the ground and then shook her head before trailing off after Sombra. "Ah buck..."

Fleur De Lis blinked a bit, as she made her way over to Nightmare Moon, lowered her frame and tilted her head up. "Hello there."

Nightmare Moon glanced to her lower right as she sulked. "What do you want?"

Fleur De Lis smirked as she ran a hoof through Nightmare's astral mane. "Oh, nothing. This is absolutely fine." She paused before rising to all fours. "Here, I brought this!" She placed a muffin in front of Nightmare Moon happily, before trailing off merrily.

Nightmare Moon stared at the muffin plainly before taking it nearly taking a bite, before crushing it to pieces.

Chapter 9.5: Children of the New World

Sombra was currently stomping down the hall angrily, while speedily trailing after him was Lightning Dust.

Lightning Dust grew more frustrated with the colt the longer he ignored her. "Hey, Sombra!"

Sombra continued to ignore her to the best of his ability as he kept trotting down the hall.

Lightning Dust eventually fluttered up and flapped quickly over and in front of him. "Hey! Listen to me!"

Sombra groaned as he looked up at her in irritation. "What do you want!? Can't you see that I'm-"

Lightning Dust cut him off immediately. "Annoyed? Childish? Grumpy? Yeah, I caught that."

"Sombra! Oh Sombra! Do not rush off like that! I'm sure she didn't mean it!" Fleur De Lis was hurrying over now, just as concerned.

Sombra and Lightning Dust both glanced back in the previous direction, catching sight of frantic unicorn.

Fleur smiled widely as she chuckled nervously, raising a hoof to her chest. "Surely we can all be civil about this whole me-"

"DID YOU THINK WE WERE DONE!?"

Fleur gulped and paused. "Eeep!" Suddenly she was shoved out of the way, as marching up was Nightmare Moon.

Nightmare Moon snarled angrily as if consumed by rage. "Get back here you whelp!"

Sombra closed his eyes and smirked. "Oh so your first brash and reckless display wasn't enough for you?"

Lightning Dust frowned heavily before sighing and getting in Sombra's way. "Back off Nightmare!" She looked fairly serious, glaring at her intensely. "Sombra is just a kid. Why're you two fighting like this all of a sudden? We all were so cool when we first arrived here."

Sombra snickered as he deviously glanced over at the alicorn. "Yeah, what's wrong princess?"

Nightmare Moon flinched as she hesitated upon seeing Lightning Dust. "Move out of my way!"

Lightning Dust swiped a hoof as she peered straight at the alicorn. "NO! Not until you tell me what's the matter!"

Nightmare Moon stomped a hoof as she now looked desperate. "I SAID MOVE!"

Lightning Dust snapped back again. "And I said no!"

Fleur De Lis got in front of Nightmare Moon, blocking her. "W-Wait a second now darling! Be civil! You're better than this!"

Nightmare Moon looked down at her in annoyance. "Well apparently not! Apparently I'm just reckless right!? I have no skills right!?" She growled. "I've gotten just about tired of his smart mouth! He's only some weak little pony! I'll put him back in his place!"

Sombra couldn't help but cut in. "Hah! And what makes you so special anymore!? You said it yourself! Friendship is the ruling magic of this world! Your little stunt with those bugs is all you're good for! While I'll take care of the real problem!" He cocked his head back with a cheeky confident smirk. "You can just stand back and watch as I rise and deal with the cello mare. Because you're obviously incapable."

Nightmare Moon growled fiercely, before screaming and forcefully shoving both Fleur and Lightning Dust out of the way with telekinetic magic. A pitch black tendril sprouted from the alicorn's shadow and then shot straight for the colt, whopping him in the face.

Lightning Dust attempted to wriggle free to no avail, snapping at the alicorn. "NIGHTMARE! STOP IT!"

Fleur De Lis trembled with a nervous look as she remained still, not wanting to become involved at this point.

Sombra flew down the seemingly endless hall, tumbling and rolling before gasping for air as he came to a gradual stop. "Grah! Violence violence violence! Didn't we already establish that that wouldn't work!? Yet it is the first thing you resort to!" He stood, swiping a hoof at her as he did. "I'm the one who gave us this opportunity!" And suddenly emerging in front of Sombra were black crystals which created a barrier and blocked oncoming tendril attacks and kept them at bay. "And I'm the one who will take care of the cello mare!"

Nightmare Moon gradually made her way down the hall as she wore an eager grin, not even taking the colt's spell seriously as she eventually arrived in front of those black crystals and continued to playfully assault them, not saying anything as they began to crack.

And as the black crystal barrier eventually shattered, immediately leaping out was Sombra with a hoof encased in black crystal.

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened as in that split second she could only eye the incoming colt.

Sombra shouted. "Stupid wench!" Before his hoof connected right with her face, and sent her flying and tumbling back herself.

Nightmare Moon rolled across the wooden floorboards before her tendrils latched onto the ground and brought her to a halt.

Lightning Dust, who was still stuck to the wall looked at Nightmare in both worry and frustration. "N-Nightmare! Let us go!"

Sombra breathed heavily as shadows began to surround him. "See! This is your problem! You are but a child! I may be the one trapped in this body, but you're the one who's childish antics will get us both caught!" His nose wrinkled in annoyance. "I knew there was something to worry about when I saw you attack that insect. I knew I saw hesitance in you when we arrived here.  But this only proves my point. You need somepony to constantly watch over you to keep you in check. You are now a pony's pet. You lack the mindset to be able to succeed in the fast food enterprise. You're born to be a rash tyrant, not a king, not a queen, but a bratty princess. You lack confidence."

Nightmare's eyes were wide as her hoof quivered as she felt the bruise on her swollen cheek. Her pupils dilated as she glared intensely at the colt and remained laying on her side, allowing her tendrils to strike as four now surged towards him. She snarled at him "Shut up! Shut up shut up shut up shut up!" She grinned fiercely as each tendril latched onto one of his legs and raised him to the air as she tugged at them intensely. "I lack the mindset to be able to succeed in the fast food enterprise!? I'm the one who brought you in!" She began to go off into a belligerent rant. "I'm the one who gave you this opportunity! And you think I'm the one incapable of helping us succeed!?"

Suddenly, Sombra's form dissipated into nothing but shadow as another shadowy form molded and formed in front of Nightmare Moon.

Nightmare Moon continued with her rant. "I'M-" before she immediately froze with shock.

Standing in front of her was Princess Luna with a disappointed glare. "Afraid? Little sister."

Nightmare Moon trembled as she laid on her side and muttered. "L-Luna? Luna I-"  before she was struck in the face again. The alicorn's eyes widened exponentially as a look of fear became more apparent and she attempted to crawl away from the haunting figure. "Y-You, you and these cheap illusions. Face me like a real unicorn!" She appeared frustrated yet frightened. "Do not play these mind games with me!"

Luna's form pressed forward. "Afraid of making some friends?" She struck Nightmare in the face again.

Nightmare forcefully rolled back as she coughed. "Do, do you think this will be enough to-"

And soon that form molded and turned into Celestia. "Afraid of disappointing your family?" As she raised a hoof at the alicorn.

Nightmare Moon raised a hoof at the image of Celestia before crying out. "OKAY STOP! STOP!"

And Sombra's shadows soon disappeared as it was revealed that he was the image , now standing in the position Celestia was once in as if he were about to strike the alicorn again and his hoof was encased in crystal. He glared down at Nightmare angrily, silently.

Nightmare Moon covered her head with both hooves as she trembled, and sniffled. "Please stop."

Both Lightning Dust and Fleur De Lis were silent as they looked upon the scene from afar worriedly, still stuck.

Sombra stood on his hind legs and looked down upon her. "For now you need to follow my lead. You're obviously in no shape to be leading, nor to be acting so high and mighty. Do you see now what you are? You may be strong Nightmare, but in the end you're a quivering child. You reign over the darkness, but here you are, sulking in it. Drowning in fear and despair. It is pathetic and you know it."

Nightmare Moon didn't say anything, as she continued to lay there with her head covered, trembling and sniffling.

Sombra's eyes saddened somewhat. "You helped me escape that place and I am grateful, but I am already gradually becoming more familiar with the way things work here while you are being left behind. Have you not realized yet what your reckless pursuit even means? Once this is all over, which it soon will be, you will draw the attention of those you fear. And look how you react, look how you quiver and tremble like a filly at the mere sight of them. Violence will not work against them. There is only the new world method, and you have yet to even muster the courage to understand this. You spoke so confidently when we first met again. Now? I'm not so sure."

Nightmare Moon began to snicker deviously beneath her breath.

Sombra's eyes widened suddenly. "What's so funny?"

Nightmare Moon cackled, "IDIOT!" As she suddenly screamed with intense ferocity, before all of her tendrils struck the colt and sent him crashing through the ceiling and onto an upper floor before she herself hopped up there, disappearing from sight in dust and debris.

At that moment Lightning Dust and Fleur De Lis were released from their telekinetic hold.

Lightning Dust gasped for breath as she wheezed. "Guh!....What's with those two!?"

Fleur De Lis raised a brow at the hole in the ceiling with concern. "This might actually be quite serious."

Lightning Dust looked at her with a raised brow. "Ya think!?"

Sombra gasped for breath again as he laid upon the floor on the upper level and his eyes began to emit a green fiery aura. But suddenly a black substance latched onto his eyes as he groaned and pulled at it. "AH! Disgusting! What is this!?" He tried to get it off to no avail.

Nightmare Moon snickered. "My own special touch! Do you like it!? Now what will you do without your petty visions?"

Sombra stood up straight as a calm demeanor overcame him. "I do not need eyes to sense you Nightmare." He appeared extremely focused and silent as his ears twitched, he immediately faced her direction down the hall with a blank expression.

Nightmare Moon began to cackle wildly. "Hahahaha! Fool! Are you serious!?"

Sombra immediately swiped his hoof then.

Nightmare Moon continued to cackle when she suddenly felt an uncomfortable jerk on her horn. "W-What!?" She glanced down at the floorboards as her eyes widened, for it was only then she noticed that Sombra's actual shadow had reached out to her position, and like a whip latched onto her horn. She growled, "What do you think you're doing!? Release my horn this instant!"

Sombra trembled as he struggled to keep her source of magic at bay. He kept his hoof raised as his eyes were still covered with the black substance. It won't last long on somepony as powerful as her, but maybe I can trick her. He pulled his hoof back in a jolting motion.

Nightmare Moon cringed as she felt a sting in her hoof again before looking up and seeing it was encased in black crystal. "WHAT!?" With that action her black tendrils disappeared and her darkness ceased. She was completely out of touch with her magic supposedly. "Irk!"

The black substance melted away from Sombra's eyes as he only stood now, glaring at the alicorn. "It's my win Nightmare."

Nightmare Moon lowered her head as her expression darkened intensely.

Lightning Dust who was already on the move made way for the hole leading to the upper level.

Sombra continued to speak. "Without your magic, you can no longer continue this meaningless act."

Nightmare Moon glared at him in that moment, as suddenly the lights began to flicker around the mansion, coming on and off as a deep ominous rumbling accompanied it. She continued to glare at him as the darkness began to seep from her very being and she only raised her head with a determined stare. Black magic had even spread over the hole in the floor, preventing Lightning Dust from entering the scene. Nightmare eyed Sombra, as if wanting him to understand what she was prepared to do to prove she wasn't powerless.

Sombra blinked a bit, before raising a brow at her. "What do you think you're doing?"

Nightmare Moon spread all four of her hooves, as if readying herself. "You might be right, Sombra, maybe this is all pointless for me. Maybe all that's waiting for me is my sisters despising me. Maybe, I can't succeed in the fast food enterprise."

Sombra stared at her plainly for a second, as his expression gradually sunk.

Nightmare Moon closed her eyes before chuckling softly. "Maybe, a world of nightmares, is the only one for me."

Sombra's eyes widened as he shook his head and he swiped his hoof in a panic. "Are you crazy!? Calm down!"

Nightmare Moon gritted her teeth. "And we can go there, TOGETHER!" She grinned fiercely as suddenly a bubble of magic surrounded their perimeter, and the world around them drastically changed constantly, as if they were jumping scenes in mere seconds instantaneously.

Lightning Dust knocked on the barrier blocking them to the upper level. "Nightmare! Nightmare what's going on!?"

Fleur De Lis glanced around her home as the lights flickered on and off the floors rumbled. "Oh my word."

Meanwhile downstairs, both Derpy and Raindrops now sat on the porch as Raindrops was eating a muffin.

Raindrops munched happily as she merrily glanced over at Derpy. "Derpy, why aren't you eating some!?"

Derpy frowned and whimpered as she stared at a box of muffins in front of her hungrily. "It'd be unfair for Dinky."

Raindrops nodded in understanding, before looking back out to the gardens being sprinkled with water. "Ah, it's so nice out here." When suddenly the porch began to shake and tremble. Raindrops glanced over at Derpy as they both looked horribly confused.

Inside the mansion, the children and butlers were all gathering into one massive group while most of them were in a panic.

Sombra's look of panic only worsened as he stared at her. "Nightmare! Stop this! Please!"

Nightmare Moon suddenly had a skeptical expression as the chaos around them never dissuaded. She leaned her head back before looking at him grumpily. "Oh? But what about all those things you said? Do you now admit I am still your superior?"

Sombra cringed heavily as he snarled in frustration. "Are you serious!? You're doing this just to prove a point!?"

Nightmare Moon leaned forward as she smirked. "Of course I am you idiot! Now, ADMIT IT!"

Sombra ran a hoof over his face before looking at her in annoyance again. "Fine fine fine! I admit it! Whatever you want! Please just stop this before it's too late!" The scenery around them continued to change as they were being pulled into an entirely different world.

Nightmare Moon began twirling her hoof upon the ground. "Oh? You don't sound very convincing Grah King."

Sombra snapped at her furiously. "DO YOU THINK THIS IS A GAME!?"

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened as she looked at him skeptically once again, insulted by his tone but remained silent in curiosity.

Sombra continued hastily. "Playing around in the dream realm will inevitably draw attention to us!"

Nightmare Moon sighed as she rolled her eyes. "Oh come on, all I wanted to do is give you a little scare. Look around you, we are enclosed in a small space. A tiny bubble disconnected from this reality. Showing you this is not nearly enough to have serious impact. All it is is a fraction of what I'm capable of. Temporarily pulling us into the world of nightmares cannot possibly affect anypony but those I choose."

Sombra groaned yet again as he persisted further. "Do you truly believe that? You act as if you're still the only pony in the world with control of the dream realm. You may have had that influence in the other world, but here, HERE!? Are you that blind to the obvious!?"

Nightmare Moon, now over her little tantrum, stared at him plainly in annoyance. "What're you on about?"

Sombra swiped a hoof yet again. "Haven't you realized you were both once the same pony!? She has just as much access as you! LUNA!"

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened exponentially as she shuddered.

Sombra hurried and trotted over to Nightmare in a panicked manner. "Now hurry and get us out of here before!-" and it was in that moment that all shifting realities and scenery around them ceased, coming to an immediate pause. Within their little bubble of the nightmare realm, the two were now in one single setting. It appeared to be a shabby run down castle library, massive in size. Sombra glanced around as a sweat drop gradually coursed down his head and he eyed the area nervously. "W-What, what is this?" It no longer appeared as if they were in the process of transferring to the nightmare realm, and had been taken there completely. Now fully within the dream world.

"Grah King! Grah King help me!"

Sombra's eyes widened further as he heard that soft petite voice. He glanced to his right where Nightmare Moon once stood as a look of dread came over him. Standing beside him was a filly, her mane being abnormally long much like his was when he'd first arrived in the world of the living. Her coat was black as night, her eyes a gorgeous cyan hue, and she began to tremble fiercely.

Sombra was dead silent.

The filly looked over at him. "W-What's happened to me!? Where are my powers!? Why am I like this!?"

Sombra attempted to theorize an explanation. A mortal shell, much like mine. So abusing her magic does have a cost in this world. But we're here, and she has no control of her powers. It can only mean we are now in the dream state, and somepony, has siezed control.

Suddenly a portal in the distance opened from afar, as something came through it.

Both Nightmare Moon and Sombra began to tremble exponentially as they both looked to the distant figure in despair.

Descending down upon the library ground was an all too familiar princess of the night, as she glanced around momentarily.

Nightmare Moon's look of fear became painfully apparent as she couldn't cease in her trembling, shaking her head and backing away.

Sombra glanced over at her in worry and irritation. "Nightmare, c-calm down. We'll get through this. Don't panic."

Eventually, Princess Luna's gaze turned towards the two children with a blank stare. "Oh?"

Nightmare Moon's psyche broke in that moment as she turned tail and ran. "Noooooooo!!!!"

Sombra turned as she ran off and reached out to her as she scurried off further into the gigantic library. "WAIT!" But before he could finish, Princess Luna was already standing behind him, which caused the colt to freeze and not make any sudden movements.

Princess Luna remained focused on him. "Strange, I followed the disturbance here and all I've found is two children." She lowered her head beside Sombra's. "Do forgive me child. My name is Princess Luna, and it appears you two are stuck in a nightmare. Although, I could've sworn the nightmare originated in this very instance. I have seen no indicator of the cause. Might you know why that is?"

Sombra kept his eyes closed as he couldn't cease his trembling. I can't let her see my eyes! No matter what. "N-No, sorry."

Princess Luna wrapped a hoof around the colt, comforting him. "There is no reason to be afraid child."

Sombra continued to tremble as he said nothing, attempting to remain composed as best he could.

Princess Luna chuckled as she made her way in front of him and raised her hoof. "Now awaken from this nightmare." As she tapped him.

Sombra's eyes immediately snapped wide in that instant as he looked at Luna. "WAIT!" And disappeared right afterwords.

Princess Luna flinched as she saw the colt's gaze and appeared startled, despite the fact he was already gone. "Those eyes..."

Sombra slowly opened his eyes as he found himself back in the hallway from earlier. Surrounding the area was an awry blue mist, while looming over him was Fleur De Lis. "Sombra! Sombra are you alright!?" She continued to shake him desperately.

Sombra blinked, before wobbily rising to all fours as Fleur De Lis helped support him. He muttered, "Nightmare, w-where is she?"

"NIGHTMARE!"

Making their way through the hall was Lightning Dust, now accompanied by Raindrops and Derpy as they fluttered around, looking for Nightmare, each with worried looks. Raindrops raised both hooves to her head. "She just disappeared!"

Lightning Dust glanced over at her. "There's no way she'd just run away from everypony. She has to still be in the mansion."

The three were fluttering over what looked like a large circular clump of long blue mane.

Sombra frowned heavily as he made his way over to the clump of mane and began digging through it.

Lightning Dust, Fleur De Lis, and Raindrops all paused as they eyed the colt and what he was digging through.

Sombra eventually halted in the process, unveiling something to the rest of them as they all gasped, and he just sighed heavily.

Princess Luna was currently trotting through the library as she wore a steady frown and grumpy glare. "There is only one other I've met who acquired that manner of magic. But he is long gone, so who else could it be?" She glanced to her lower right. "Their appearance was shockingly similar however. A distant relative perhaps? That child may very well be responsible for this nightmare. I shouldn't have let him off the hook so hastily." She peered ahead with interest. "But his reluctance to leave has me curious, who is the other one?"

Hiding beneath a nearby table trembling was Nightmare Moon.

Princess Luna continued to trot nearby, as she eyed a particular table beside her with a blank stare.

Nightmare Moon covered her head with both hooves, closing her eyes as she continued to tremble.

Princess Luna smirked, as she closed her eyes. "How amusing, did you think you could hide from me child?"

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened as she scrunched up further as if to make herself smaller than she already was.

Princess Luna lifted the table she stood by, only to find nothing hidden beneath it. "Blast, well, no harm in guessing I suppose."

Nightmare Moon, who was hidden beneath a table further away kept her eyes focused on Luna from beneath it as she was at the opposing side of that particular section of the library, looking around for wherever she was hiding.

Princess Luna frowned in slight annoyance with a huff. "Oh come now! Surely you'd prefer waking up compared to having to endure this nightmare! If you are frightened because of the rumors you've heard I can assure you there is nothing to worry about!"

Nightmare Moon kept trembling as she remained hidden beneath the table.

Princess Luna continued with a bright and wide smile. "Nightmare Moon is no more."

Nightmare Moon crept back further as her fear only intensified.

Princess Luna washed away that smile almost instantaneously. Unless, this child is hiding for a different reason....

Lightning Dust looked down at what looked like a filly in confusion. "What happened to her!?"

Raindrops raised both brows. "She's so small."

Sombra pointed at her hurriedly. "She may need to recharge. But right now that's the least of our concerns."

Fleur De Lis looked at him with curiosity. "Recharge? L-Like a battery?"

Sombra nodded. "Yes, but as said, we can worry about such things later! We need to wake her up! Now!"

There was a long drawn on silence as Luna was lost in her thoughts for some time.

Princess Luna glanced around observingly for a second as she raised a brow. "Wait, this location, this is-"

Nightmare Moon began to crawl along the floor from a distance, as she crept towards one of the book cabinets.

Princess Luna's eyes widened in shock. "The old castle?"

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened as she impulsively moved for the cabinet hurriedly, hiding behind it.

Princess Luna's expression darkened as she spread her wings in anger and confusion as she rose. "What is the meaning of this!? How do you know of this place!? Who are you!? Show yourself this instant child!" She began recklessly moving furniture with her telekinetic magic as books tossed and tumbled and she cared little now for casual searching. She appeared desperate. "DO NOT HIDE FROM ME!"

Nightmare Moon continued to creep along a row of cabinets, attempting to avoid Luna at all costs. When suddenly a flung couch slammed into a particular cabinet and caused it to fall backwards, landing flat atop Nightmare's abnormally long mane. She felt a sudden jolt and tug at her head as she was forced onto her back. She yelped, before rolling over and attempting to free herself.

Princess Luna's eyes widened as she immediately looked in the direction of the yelp. She glared before moving all the book cabinets out of the way in a hurried manner, only to see the little filly attempting to free herself. "There you are." Princess Luna touched upon the ground as she began to casually trot over to her. She tilted her head to the right, "You two are up to something, and I want to know what.."

Nightmare Moon in her panic eventually came to a sudden pause. Her eyes were wide as she stared at her mane trapped beneath the book cabinet and she wore a look of intense fear. Around her, the library itself was beginning to crack, while currently only tiny streams of water began to leak from the ceiling. She closed her eyes, before putting on a determined expression. She then faced Luna, spreading her hooves and readying herself as she glared angrily at the alicorn. "If this is how it has to be! Then fine! But I won't be afraid of you!"

Princess Luna raised a brow in confusion. But it was at that moment she also took the time to actually look at the filly and her features before her eyes widened. She had wings, and a horn, but anything was possible in the world of dreams. "Hm, despite this she seems oddly familiar." She continued to eye the filly up and down as she asked in an impatient tone. "Who are you child? No more games."

Nightmare Moon closed her eyes for another moment, as her eyes then snapped wide and the filly went off into a loud determined roar of ferocity. And as she did, a blue mist emitted from her as she continued to concentrate and her horn started to glow as she screamed.

Princess Luna covered her ears as her irritation became more apparent. "What're you doing!? Cease this nonsense!"

But as Nightmare Moon didn't cease, suddenly large stone walls blocked Luna's path to her, and then surrounded the filly.

Princess Luna's eyes snapped wide as she was forced back by the sheer suddenness of the filly's control over the state of the dream. Princess Luna growled. "Do not be foolish child! I control this world! Who are you to suggest otherwise!?" She gritted her teeth as she pressed forward persistently, and cringed in deep annoyance as she found that she was actually being forced back by winds of pure momentum. S-She truly expects to keep me back? Why such persistence!? And how can she have so much control? And as Princess Luna only continued to get pushed back further, suddenly bursting from the ceiling was large streams of water at a rapid rate. What!? What is going on!? She eventually spread her hooves before her horn started to glow and she snapped angrily. "THAT'S ENOUGH!!!!" And she cast a powerful spell releasing a surge of destructive magic, blowing the walls to pieces before hitting the very location of the filly.

And leaping out from the rubble in that moment was the filly as she took the chance to retreat from Luna.

And as Princess Luna caught sight of her, she didn't fail to notice the filly's cutie mark which caused her to shudder. "What?"

There upon the black filly's flank, she saw a lone crescent moon.

And glancing back at her, the filly eyed Princess Luna momentarily in the heat of the moment.

Princess Luna made eye contact with the filly as she saw those cyan eyes, while she stood there in silence.

It was at that instance, that the entire library crumbled, suddenly being flooded by water.

Nightmare Moon's eyes snapped wide open as all she saw was blue, before impulsively rising and gasping for air as she immediately clutched onto the thing closest to her which was Raindrops, who eyed her with worry. Nightmare Moon, still in her weakened state, glanced around as she found she was sitting in a bathtub while Lightning Dust, Derpy, and Fleur De Lis were also all watching. Nightmare Moon's eyes were wide for a second as she looked down at herself before just gripping at her mane and screaming. "NOOOOOOOOOO!!!"

Meanwhile, Sombra stood at the doorway of the restroom before looking down at the tiled floors and covering his face with a hoof.

Prologue: Welcome to Mcmuffin, Home of the Mcmuffin!

A large brown stallion shifted uncomfortably in his creaky old chair as he sat behind his desk. "Ms.Nightmare Moon, was it?"

The mare nodded firmly as she stated. "Yes Sir."

The stallion started to tremble as he coughed into one hoof, before leaning forward, adjusting his tie, and then attempting to act a little more composed. He raised a brow at the alicorn before inquiring, "Ma'am, might you be aware of the fact that there was once a menacing entity known as Nightmare Moon who once descended upon these very lands? Is it foolish to assume that you, might be that very same entity, sitting here in my office at this very moment?" He bore a crooked smile as he attempted to remain composed and hide his trembling.

The mare's eyes saddened as her brows furrowed, she lowered her head before stating solemnly. "Yes, that would be me."

The stallion was now sweating profoundly before he rose from his seat with his eyes still closed. He then nodded to the mare before asking, "W-Would you give me a second please Ma'am? I must go consult with a co-worker of mine regarding your, application."

The alicorn looked to him in bafflement before sighing heavily, then appearing highly frustrated. "Sure."

He nodded to her again. "Thank you." He casually made his way out of the office, shutting the door behind him as he did so.

"T-This is crazy! She's the Mare of the Moon! And an alicorn! What's she doing at Mcmuffin's for a job!? Is this some sort of sick joke!? Of course I'm not going to hire her!" The stallion huffed before trotting back and forth in his panic as he stood at the back of the establishment, outside with one other, a mare in particular on her smoke break, as he couldn't seem to get his act together to return to the interview.

The mare wore a bored look as she then raised a brow at the stallion. "And why not?"

The stallion stumbled as he tilted his head to the right. "W-Why not? WHY NOT!? What do you mean, why not!? DID YOU NOT JUST-"

The mare closed her eyes with a sigh, before cutting him off with a hoof raise. "I heard everything you just said, which is exactly why you should hire her. Listen, I don't know what she's doing here, or why she did what she did, or even care for that matter. Do you not see a golden opportunity even when it's right in front of your face? We got an alicorn wanting to get hired at Mcmuffins. How often can a fast food enterprise say that!? How much you think ponies will pay for even a chance to see that, even if just to order a Double Mcmuffin?"

The stallion blinked a bit, before lowering his head. "I guess, I see your point."

The mare nodded. "Exactly, think about the oppurtunity here Buck, not the situation. Now you go back in there and conduct an ordinary interview. But here's the catch, no matter what happens, you're going to hire her. You already know she's got a bad history, so ignore that."

The stallion nodded before sighing heavily, making his way back into the establishment.

The mare smirked before looking back up towards the sky, continuing to smoke her cig. Mare of the Moon eh?

Nightmare Moon just continued to sit in her seat with a worried expression. M-Maybe it was too early to try something like this....

Soon the door creaked open as the stallion made his way back inside, shutting the door behind him as he entered.

Nightmare Moon's eyes immediately widened as she glanced back at him. "S-Sir!"

The stallion nodded to her casually, "Please, remain seated." He then made his way back behind his desk as he lowered himself into his seat and just stared at Nightmare Moon. "Ms.Moon, for starters, what has you interested in working at our establishment? What drew you to us? I can assure you this isn't a charity. We only take in hard workers who're dedicated to the job fully, might you be one of those workers?"

Nightmare Moon nodded. "Yes Sir! My ancient prowess and endless knowledge I pray are sufficient means to ensure this establishment become one of the mightiest fast food enterprises of all time! With the night by your side, you shall not fail!"

The stallion stared blankly at her. "I admire the enthusiasm Ms.Moon. Continuing on, what skills can you bring to this establishment?"

Nightmare Moon rose. "I am an alicorn, so my magic is quite on par with even the most skilled unicorns. Such use of magic can speed up even the busiest of days! I'm also familiar with leadership positions, should you ever need any to watch over the establishment!"

The stallion blinked a bit before closing his eyes and nodding. "Hm, those are some very valuable assets we could use here at Mcmuffins Ms.Moon, but I'm curious, you never really answered my first question. Let's focus on you for a moment shall we? I understand that you've gone through a rough patch in life, what do you believe working here will do for you? What do you get out of all this?"

Nightmare Moon fell silent for a moment before she looked to him more earnestly. "Yes, I have done some horrible things in the past. Not even I'm sure why I've returned here or where exactly I was sent off to in the first place, it's troubling to say the least. But-" she suddenly appeared passionate, prideful, energetic, "That only means that I've been given a second chance! A chance to start fresh! To make amends for the things I've done! Since I've returned I have learned that in order to be able to sustain myself and become a member of the normal working society, I must have one of these so called, jobs. I did further research and have learned that Mcmuffins is quite the popular fast food establishment and a common place for workers just beginning their journey. I believe that Mcmuffins can be my new beginning!"

The stallion remained focused on her for a minute more before nodding to her again. "Well Ms.Moon, if this is your new beginning, I do hope you find what you're looking for here." He bared a slight smile as he closed his eyes. "I believe that you deserve at least a chance to show us what you can do. And besides, if things go south, don't ever say your old boss never did anything for ya." He winked.

Nightmare Moon stared at him for a moment before exclaiming happily. "I am grateful for this glorious opportunity! I-I shall not forget this." She rose as she gave him a fair and determined nod before making way for the exit. "I will be here first thing tomorrow morning bright and early! I shall not let you down!" She bowed her head to him before making her exit out of the office gleefully, ecstatic about actually getting the job. On the outside she immediately let out in her Canterlot voice, "I DID IT! PRAISE BE TO THE GLORIOUS NIGHT!!!"

Many of the customers and her soon to be co-workers trembled as they hid behind counters and tables at that point.

And meanwhile as the stallion remained situated behind his desk in his office, he appeared to be on the verge of tears. What have I done?

The next day Nightmare Moon stood behind the counter with a cheesy smile planted on her face. She wore the uniform with pride as she stood tall and proud, peering at the door, waiting for the first customer. Yes, today is my first day! I shalt not let the master down!

"E-Excuse me?"

Nightmare Moon almost immediately turned her head ecstatically as she shouted in her co-worker's face. "YES!?!?!!?!!"

The co-worker trembled as she just raised a hoof at the Mare of the Moon. Although Nightmare Moon wore a plain goofy smile, she was still afraid of her as she muttered. "N-Nice to meet ya, my names, um, R-Raindrops. I-It's nice to meet you."

Nightmare Moon's face darkened as she appeared distressed. "What is this strange manner of hoof-raise I see before me?"

Raindrops gulped as she lowered her hoof then. "U-Um, a greeting? Maybe? I, I don't know. Please don't hurt me!" She frowned.

Nightmare Moon gasped, "And why would I hurt you strange pale yellow mortal pony!? Does the night possess a look of intimate danger!?"

Raindrops shook her head as she lowered her frame. "N-No, it's just, um, you're kind of-"

"Crazy?"

Nightmare Moon and Raindrop's eyes both widened as they immediately glanced back.

Suddenly making her way forward would be another pegasi, with a turquoise coat and bright orange mane. She was currently chewing on bubble-gum as she blew a bubble and popped it, before repeating the process. "You head onto the back Raindrops, I'll take the morning shift, you can grab the grill. We'll just switch it up later in the afternoon when there isn't as many customers around."

Raindrops nodded hurriedly as she rose and then whispered to the mare, "T-Thank you Lightning." Before hurrying onto the back.

The mare revealed as Lightning Dust nodded to her, before standing in front of one of the cash registers silently.

Nightmare Moon just continued to stare at this mare with interest. "Are you a veteran of the, cash, regi-star?"

Lightning Dust glanced over at the alicorn with a raised brow. "Uh, yea, veteran, whatever." She peered ahead again.

Nightmare Moon blinked a bit, tilting her head to the right. "Might you be able to train me in the art of the, regi-star later?"

Lightning Dust just sighed as she glared at this alicorn. "You're an alicorn, how do you not know about this stuff? Did you live under a rock your whole life or something?" She was legitimately curious as she stared at the alicorn with a look of annoyance yet curiosity.

Nightmare Moon raised her head higher before speaking in a enlightened tone. "This one's life consisted of a realm of pure darkness, where a mass of nightmares would gather to apply torment and misery to all wandering lost pony souls who would drift into its realm."

Lightning Dust just stared at her for a moment before looking ahead again, not saying anything.

Nightmare Moon now appeared distressed, "W-What!? What is it!? What is the matter with the pony of the pink chewy substance!?"

Lightning Dust continued. "Eyes ahead, we got a customer...."

Nightmare Moon gasped as she suddenly peered ahead, noticing a pony had made her way inside. The pony wore a purple business suit, had a brown coat and yellow mane, cut short to perfection. She appeared to be in a hurry. "DEAREST CUSTOMER! WE WELCOME THEE TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF ENDLESS MUFFINS! SHALT THOU ENTERTAIN THEE WITH A MIGHTY ORDER WORTHY ONLY OF KINGS AND QUEENS!?" She put on a wide smile from cheek to cheek, puffing up her cheeks some.

Lightning Dust just cringed as she lowered her head and covered her face with a hoof. "Ugh..."

The customer proceeded forward as she eyed the alicorn up and down. "O-Oh my. New here I presume?" She then coughed into her hoof before brushing off herself and glaring up at the alicorn seriously. "No matter! For starters I would like the double Mcmuffin with extra sprinkles, and do make sure the buns are crisp to perfection! I want my sugary delicacy of a breakfast at the highest quality!"

Nightmare Moon took a moment to look over the menu as soon her face darkened, and she possessed eyes of pure inherant rage. "You dare order what is not available on the master's menu? Extra sprinkles!? For such crimes, you must be punished." And soon the establishment itself began to darken as the lights flickered and everything began to shake, as she glared at this customer.

The customer just stared blankly at Nightmare Moon, eyes wide with confusion and ultimately shock.

Lightning Dust then pressed forward as she immediately got between the two and in front of the cash register. "NO NO NO! Gah! Let me handle this one!" She put on a smile, "Yes ma'am, that'll be 15 bits." She held out her hoof towards the customer.

The customer blinked a bit before nodding, "R-Riiiiiiight." She placed the bits in Lightning Dust's hoof before proceeding to a table to sit.

Lightning Dust placed the bits in the cash register before tossing a casual wave at the pony. "Thank you come again!" Before glaring back at Nightmare Moon with a slight snarl. "W-What the heck was that!? Were you planning to attack her or something!?"

Nightmare Moon gasped before scoffing. "Hah! Attack her? Nothing of the sort. I was simply about to consume her soul and trap it in a pit of everlasting darkness to where she would suffer endless torment and misery for making light of the master's menu."

Lightning Dust covered her face with a hoof before shaking her head. "L-Listen, you can't do that. Haven't you heard of the saying the customer's always right? It's something we live by here. And something as small as extra sprinkles isn't a problem. Got it?"

Nightmare Moon nodded plainly. "Ah I see, this one understands now. Such loyalty, what a noble establishment this is."

Lightning Dust nodded to her in approval. "Get it? Got it? Good! Now look snappy, another customer's coming!"

Nightmare Moon nodded in confidence, as she peered ahead again at the opening glass door. Another customer had made her way inside, as this one appeared a little more elegant than the last surprisingly. She had a short mane, very funny glasses, and a strange dress. Nightmare Moon bowed her head, "Oh dearest customer, what might thou wish to consume today at the most graceful of enterprises?"

Lightning Dust smirked. Thaaaaat's it.

The customer nodded. "Vwy! Zis is how all should greet zeir customers! I, PHOTO FINISH! Vwish for a strawberry Mcdouble!"

Lightning Dust bore an amused look. She's a little weird, but perhaps, she's just what this place needs. Lightning Dust then glanced back towards the grill, to see Raindrops toss her a happy wave, to where she waved back. She then went back to focusing on Nightmare Moon whom was still listening to the newest customer. She squinted a bit, Just hope she doesn't bring any trouble along with her.

Chapter 8: Defeat the Cello Mare Part 3 - "Crumbling Illusions" - Part 2

"H-Hey, Sombra, whose house is this?" Raindrops was obviously nervous based on her demeanor as she openly gazed around the interior of an elegant mansion fit for royalty. All of the walls were a bright pink shade, and it was as if every part of the mansion was sparkling due to how spotless it was. She gulped, ensuring to remain close to the colt as he lead the group into the main lobby area. Why had Sombra lead them here? How did he even know where this place was? Everything felt so strange at the moment but the group didn't question the colt, and for some reason Derpy nor Nightmare Moon really seemed surprised nor did they question Sombra's actions.

Sombra paused in the middle of the lobby area, right beneath the glistening chandelier overhead. He glanced back at Raindrops as he wore a bored expression. "Hm? Somepony who will help us. Don't panic." He peered ahead again, as he waited silently.

As Nightmare Moon was some distance behind both Sombra and Raindrops, she didn't seem uneasy, actually, she was fully content.

Lightning Dust was surprised by this as she raised a brow at Nightmare before fluttering on over to her. "H-Hey Nightmare? Are you sure Sombra knows what he's doing? Afterall he's just a kid, we could be trotting into something very wrong right now."

Nightmare Moon didn't hesitate to answer her question. "I trust him."

Lightning Dust flinched a bit before looking guiltily at the alicorn. "H-Hey I trust him, it's just I-"

Nightmare Moon glanced over at Lightning Dust with a fully confident smile. "Grah King is small and weak physically, but he is actually very competent. I have full faith he will bring us a great advantage." Nightmare Moon's eyes closed halfway then as she fell deep into thought about Grah King. Ah yes, he always was fairly competent wasn't he? Always so sure of himself, even in *that** place. *I often forget in life he was a king, a mighty king, and *a unicorn**. She glanced over at him seriously, as if respecting his past accomplishments. *To think he managed to learn the magic of fear and shadow as a mere mortal unicorn is impressive to say the least.

"SOMBRA! MY DEAR!"

All their eyes focused towards the top of a spiraling staircase in which hurrying down was a pale pink unicorn mare.

The pale pink unicorn chuckled happily in delight. "Oh I knew you would show up, I just knew it! My offer was just too good to deny wasn't it!? And it looks like you brought friends! This is great! The more the merrier! I'm sure you could use their support!"

Derpy who was behind the rest of the group suddenly flapped her wings and rose in excitement. "FLEUR!"

The pale pink pony's eyes went wide with surprise before she to returned that delighted smile. "Oh now if it isn't my favorite mail pony! Derpy, what might you be doing here!? Are you a friend of Sombra?" She picked up her pace, hurrying over to greet them further.

Derpy fluttered on over to her as the two embraced in a hug, before pulling back. "Y-Yes! And I'm also working here! It's very nice so far! I just want to keep working harder so everypony can see just how special muffins are!" Her smile brightened.

Fleur De Lis raised a brow at Derpy. "Muffins?"

"FLEUR DE LIS!?"

Fleur's eyes widened exponentially then as she suddenly looked beyond the group at the turquoise pegasus.

"The supermodel Fleur De Lis!? Wait wait wait, when did you all get so buddy buddy!?" Lightning Dust huffed.

Fleur De Lis just blinked for a few seconds more before glancing over and down at Sombra with a grateful smile. "Ah, I imagine it must be quite a surprise for this little one here to be familiar with me, I realize my name gets around often." She smirked. "Sombra here will be one of my next top models, with my skills this little unicorn will shine brighter than the very stars! Speaking of which-" Fleur strolled up to Nightmare Moon then, before placing her hoof firmly upon the alicorn's chest. "Don't think I didn't notice you Ms.Alicorn, it's not often I get such a prestigious visitor in my home. You were quite the talk of the town for some time, just where exactly do you hail from?"

Nightmare Moon just looked down at her blankly. "The realm of darkness."

Fleur De Lis' eyes went wide with surprise as she just stood there. "The what of what now?"

Nightmare Moon smiled as if intrigued by her curiosity. "Darkness! A land of eternal suffering and endless turmoil, a lot of bad ponies go there! Luckily we managed to escape unscathed, mostly, all it required was the destruction of the soul barrier which caused-"

Lightning Dust began shoving Nightmare Moon casually out of the way before snickering. "Yeeea yea yea!" Before glaring at the alicorn and pressing her muzzle against her's while fluttering in front of her. "Hey, keep it simple, she probably got lost at the first sentence."

Nightmare Moon nodded a bit while peering into Lightning Dust's eyes.

Raindrops suddenly made her way over to Fleur De Lis. "M-Ms.Fleur De Lis?"

Fleur De Lis who was still a bit focused on Nightmare Moon and Lightning Dust, then turned around to give her attention to Raindrops.

Raindrops continued nervously. "U-Um, so if Sombra is going to become one of your models? Does that mean that tomorrow we can-"

Fleur De Lis raised a brow in curiosity. "Tomorrow? What is happening tomo-" before she cut herself off and glanced up towards the ceiling. "Ah yes, that is tomorrow isn't it?" She smiled brightly at Raindrops. "You are referring to the event? Well of course if it means I will have one of my newest and most appealing stars there then most certainly. It will surely be the event to remember." She glanced over at Nightmare Moon again. "Although I'm fairly certain that just bringing her along would've gotten you inside even without my assistance."

Lightning Dust sighed before crossing her hooves and nudging in the alicorn's direction. "Sadly this one can't be seen in public like that. She's got some paranoia about her sisters." She paused and closed her eyes. "Even though they haven't even done anything yet."

Nightmare Moon frowned a bit and lowered her head nervously, as if distracted by the thought.

Fleur De Lis continued. "Sisters? Ah, so you're referring to the Princesses. Which ones might I ask?" She then glanced Nightmare Moon up and down briefly before smiling earnestly. "Ah nevermind, I think I've figured it out. Might you be on bad terms with them?"

Nightmare Moon huffed as she still appeared saddened. "Um, I imagine so..."

Fleur De Lis frowned a bit as she showed sympathy for the alicorn. "Well I do hope you clear things up with them eventually."

Nightmare Moon raised her head before closing her eyes and smiling at Fleur De Lis. "Y-Yes! I do as well!"

Sombra finally cut in again as the colt had already made it to the staircase. "Fleur, where might this place I need to go be?"

They all focused on Sombra in surprise with his lax demeanor.

Raindrops blinked a bit before placing her hooves firmly on her hips. "S-Sombra! Show some respect! This isn't your home!"

Sombra just looked at Raindrops silently with a firm blank stare for a moment before looking up towards the ceiling in a bored manner. "Does it matter? I am obviously a necessity, so it seems I have the right to treat this as my home as much as she does."

Fleur De Lis wasn't complaining as she actually looked infatuated with the unicorn. "Oh such a cold direct personality! It's perfect!" She shook her head, concentrating again before smirking. "Y-Yes, but to get started! Sombra we must start with your mane! I believe it is time we trimmed it, your current appearance is mesmerizing but, it does not match your personality. Let us focus on bringing out those lashes, putting emphasis on those alluring eyes! And adding even more focus on that intimidating aspect you possess." She raised both forehooves to her cheeks in absolute excitement. "Oh it shall be perfect! A short cut, wild along the edges! Such an adorable little rebel you will be!" She hurried on over to Sombra before shoving him along up the stairs. "C-Come, come come come let us go get started before the show tomorrow! You will be absolutely stunning, perfect in every way!" She also didn't fail to notice the others before shooing them away in a casual manner. "Do not be shy girls! My home is your home! There are plenty of rooms for you to stay! Ask one of the servants for directions if you happen to get lost!" She went back to focusing on Sombra as the two were making their way up the stairs.

The rest of them just gave the pale pink pegasus an estranged look.

Lightning Dust just didn't get it as she had her hooves crossed. "What could possibly be perfect about that?"

Nightmare Moon appeared lost in thought as she spoke, focusing on the marble tiles upon the floor. "It only makes sense, Grah King is special." Sombra was once a king, he is used to this sort of attention and glamour. It is only expected that he'd give off the vibe of a cold prince. Her eyes went cold in that instant as she was fairly serious. I only hope he doesn't let such things distract him too much.

Raindrops had a hoof raised to her muzzle. "W-Well I agree that Sombra is cute, but a model? Is he up for that?"

Lightning Dust pat Raindrops on the back. "Let's try not to worry about that for now! It looks like Fleur De Lis likes him, so let's just let them do their thing." Lightning Dust seemed eager as she smirked confidently. "Even better, we've got a distinct advantage now. With Fleur De Lis backing us up and Sombra in such a prestigious position, this is the perfect chance to advertise the restaurant tomorrow at the event! Vinyl will now surely meet with us!" Lightning Dust did a spin before cheering. "Haha! You hear that Octavia!? Soon enough you'll finally see that we're not so easily beaten by your cheap tricks and antics! This is going to rock, I can hardly wait for tomorrow!"

Nightmare Moon appeared fairly serious as she made a crooked frown. Hm, tomorrow huh? It is relieving to know that we are bringing this issue to a close, the cello mare is indeed a foe that I would enjoy no longer worrying about. Her frown intensified a bit as suddenly running through her thoughts would be a Luna as she suddenly appeared a bit fearful before putting on a hesitant expression and muttering. "H-Hey, um, might this event be, very public? D-Do you think I'd be safe going there? M-Maybe I should just, um, stay here at this castle."

Lightning Dust placed a hoof against Nightmare's side. "Hey, are you okay?"

Nightmare's eyes widened exponentially as she snapped back to reality. "O-Oh!" She glanced down at Lightning with a smile. "Y-Yes..."

Lightning Dust's lower lip was slightly puckered in suspicion as she grumbled before easing up and smiling at the alicorn. "Alright, just making sure. I'm hard on you, but don't you ever forget something Nightmare Moon." She closed her eyes and grinned. "I care about you. And of course you'll be alright there. You're an alicorn, nothing is going to hurt you you idiot. Seriously, what're you freaking out about?"

Nightmare Moon flinched a bit as she actually looked frightened, as if thrown off dramatically before recovering and smiling a little as she avoided eye contact with Lightning Dust before muttering. "I, I do care about you all as well." She'd cringed saying that particular word and she didn't understand why. She suddenly looked estranged. "More so than I expected." She paused before closing her eyes and smiling at Lightning Dust. "I-It is nothing comrade. Just, a thought." How long must I expect to live this life? Running away in such a manner.

Lightning Dust crossed both hooves again before smiling up at the mare. "See, that's what I like to see."

Derpy then fluttered over to the group of them before exclaiming in excitement. "Everypony! Shall we explore!?"

Raindrops nodded in agreement as she nodded hurriedly at Derpy. "Y-Yea! I've never been in a place like this before! So I'd like to see just how big it is!" She clapped her hooves a bit before glancing around again. "I bet there's all sorts of surprises hidden away in here!"

Derpy nodded before smiling softly at Raindrops. "There is! Lots and lots of cool surprises!"

Lightning Dust tilted her head to the right at Derpy. "So you've explored this mansion before Derpy?"

Derpy looked down at Lightning Dust still with that smile. "YES! It is veeeery big and pretty further inside!"

Lightning Dust shrugged before smirking a bit confidently. "Well, cool then! Let's go check it out!"

With that the group began to depart from the main lobby into another area of the mansion, well all except Nightmare Moon who just stood there again for a moment as she watched the group trot further away from her, as her expression steadily worsened while looking at them. The world around her was black, and they were a steady coursing light, fading away with the distance. She just stared at them trot away blankly before muttering to herself. "Perhaps, we are forgetting what we are, aren't we Grah King?"

As Nightmare Moon looked upon them before smiling again. "Bah! It matters not what they think of me. Not anymore."

Fleur De Lis and Sombra were situated in a large private barber shop located on a higher level of the mansion. The room itself was massive, consisting of many mirrors and different setups for other ponies to also get their mane's cut. Although Sombra and Fleur De Lis were the only ones there at the moment. As Fleur De Lis overlooked the colt, she felt lost in his presence, this was undeniable to her seeing as she admired the colt's natural beauty almost abnormally so. She smiled a little, "Maybe in a past life, you were a Queen."

Sombra only answered her in his expected bored tone. "Close."

Fleur De Lis raised a brow. "Erhm, Sombra might you be a-"

Sombra cut her off in that second however. "There is something I want to ask you."

Fleur De Lis' expression brightened as she smiled. "ASK AWAY!"

Sombra peered ahead silently before speaking in a curious tone. "This cello mare. Do you know her?"

Fleur De Lis raised her brow yet again, a little more confused than before. "Octavia? Yes I've seen a couple of her concerts."

As his mane was cut, he gazed at the marble ground again in deep thought. "Tell me everything about her musical prowess."

Fleur De Lis raised a brow at the colt as she cut his mane, a little confused.

Sombra wore a calculated expression. She has been a constant thorn in our sides. He looked ahead as he sighed, appearing bored yet focused, utterly confident. "I need all the information I can get before I confront her, sadly Nightmare is not made for such tasks."

Fleur De Lis blinked a bit, tilting her head to the right. "You know how to play an instrument Sombra?"

Sombra just blinked a bit, somewhat surprised before smiling and appearing somewhat dazed. "One could say that."