Always and Forever

Chapters

Chapter 2: Dreams and Desperation
Chapter 3: Fireflies and Laughter
Chapter 5: Harmony and Stars
Chapter 1: Tears and Compassion
Chapter 4: Friends and a Gift

Chapter 2: Dreams and Desperation

Before dawn was scheduled to arrive, Luna awoke, snuggled against Artemis’ warm stomach fur. He was still sleeping. She settled down on the ground a little ways off, watching him sleep, a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. ‘He looks so cute when he sleeps!’ she admitted silently.

Artemis looked so peaceful, Luna almost regretted the fact that morning had to come. But she knew her job, and lowered the moon to usher in a new day. From her place in Canterlot, Celestia raised the sun in its place.

A little while later, Artemis awoke. He yawned and stretched, noticing Luna looking at him. He blushed slightly, then asked, “Did you sleep well, Luna?”

She nodded. “Better than I have in a long time.” She confessed.

Artemis smiled at this. “I’m glad.” After a pause, he spoke again. “Um, Luna, if it’s not too much to ask, may I ask why you were crying last night? If I can help in any way, I would be more than willing…” he looked at Luna nervously, hoping that his question wasn’t too overwhelming. He was starting to regret bringing up the topic when Luna answered.

“I-It’s a long story… I just have felt so lonely lately… it’s been that way for more years than I can count…” Luna’s ears drooped, and she sighed. “Of course you know about Nightmare Moon, and my banishment… and my return… everypony is afraid of me, and many hate me for what I did. When other ponies look at me, they see a monster. Even though I am no longer Nightmare Moon, that’s all they ever remember. I try to talk to them, make friends with them… all they do is run away… and even though she knows I have changed, my own sister Celestia still pays no attention to me… All I want is someone to be there for me. To comfort me. To listen to me. Even if they never ever truly understand me or my night. I just need… a friend. But… that’ll never happen. Who wants to be friends with a monster? Who could love Nightmare Moon? I don’t deserve love… or anything. I’m forever doomed to be a monster, hideous and evil. I’ll never be loved…” Luna choked on the last few words, turning away from Artemis in shame and grief, tears streaming down her face. She cried out in anguish, sobbing uncontrollably. “Never…” Luna collapsed on the ground, sobs racking her body.

“Oh, Luna…” Artemis did not know what to do. He felt obligated to help Luna, but he felt hopeless as to how. He walked over to where she lay. He gently lay a hoof on her shoulder.

Wrenching out of his grip, she quickly scooted back. “Get away! I don’t want to hurt you!” she half whimpered, half screamed. “Stay away from me! I’m a monster!”

Artemis pulled back, stunned. “Luna…” he whispered, eyes wide with astonishment. “Luna… you’re no monster! I’ve seen the real you… gentle, peaceful…”

Luna growled. “That’s not what everypony else thinks. I am a monster! Nopony will ever think otherwise! Believe me! I know!”

“Luna…” Artemis’ ears drooped dejectedly. “Please… this isn’t you… I know that deep inside the real you is waiting to come out. I saw it last night. You’re no monster. You’re just as scarred and broken as everypony else. You’re a real pony, with real feelings and emotions.”

“So you’re saying I’m weak?!” Luna snarled.

“No! No! That’s not at all what I meant! You’re the strongest pony I know! You have endured more hardship, more rejection, more loneliness, and more pain than I could ever dream of! And still, here you are. I could never handle that weight as well as you do. Luna, you are strong. You have heart. I admire that.” As Artemis said these words, he knew every single one of them were true.

Luna paused as she heard these words. She knew that Artemis meant what he said. This in itself overwhelmed her. She began to cry again, tears flooding down her already tear-stained face. Luna completely broke down. “I am in no way strong. I am so lonely, it’s all I can do to keep myself from going crazy. I am so depressed, I can barely hold back the endless flow of tears. I have suffered so much rejection, it would be a miracle for me to approach somepony without them running away in terror. I am so broken, I don’t know if I will ever be whole again. I’m so desperate… so helpless… so alone… so broken… I’m beyond hope now. Love and hope are but a mysterious fantasy… I’ll never know what love is like… I’m shattered… my heart is broken in a million pieces… impossible to be put together again… forever alone and unloved… I’ll be forgotten… nopony will even notice, let alone care when I’m gone… Life will go on without me… I’ll just be but a whisper, gone like the wind…” after she finished speaking, Luna whimpered weakly, stretched out on the ground, still crying out in pain and despair.

“Luna…” Artemis longed to sweep Luna into his arms, to hold her, to comfort her, to tell her everything would be alright… but he knew that now would not be the right time for that. Right now he felt utterly powerless to help the broken princess. “Oh, Luna…” he sighed. Artemis felt tears welling up in his eyes. He let them fall. “Luna… Luna… I wish there was something I could do…” Feeling hopeless, he lay down on the ground, crying softly.

Luna finally lay still, her eyes red from crying. Whimpering quietly, she finally closed her eyes. Luna felt a dim sense of peace as she let sleep claim her tired and exhausted body.

Artemis looked over at her, noticing she had stopped crying and had gone still. He cautiously walked over to her, gazing at her sleeping form. She looked oddly peaceful, lying there. Artemis did not want to disturb her, so he settled down on the ground a little ways off.

As he watched Luna’s chest slowly rise and fall in calm breaths, he thought about what she had said to him earlier. ‘Wow. She really is desperate right now. I had no idea the full extent of what she goes through on a regular basis. I would never last a day in her shoes. All the rejection, all the loneliness; it’s all too real for her. She longs to be loved. I hope that somehow, some way, I can be there for her… she seemed so grateful for my company yesterday. I think she really did feel at peace. It’s been who knows how long since she felt like that last! I’m glad that I could be here for her. I really do love Luna. I never fully grasped that until last night. I would do anything for her. I’m starting to get a feeling that Luna loves me back, she’s just too scared to really admit it. But I know now what I must do.’ He looked over at Luna with an intense love in his eyes. He knew his duty. Artemis would do whatever was necessary to help Luna.

Luna was dreaming, her mind swirling like a hurricane. It was cold, and the windswept, barren landscape seemed to spread on forever. Luna looked around her, seeing nothing but cold grey rock in every direction. Turning her eyes to the sky, she saw Equestria. Luna gasped. She was back on the moon! The harsh reality of this cut her like a knife. She collapsed on the cold, hard ground, sobbing. There was no life, nothing out here. She was truly alone again. She cried out, her anguished voice echoing into the silent air. In a last desperate attempt to escape the void, she took a flying leap, beating her wings furiously, teeth gritted as she sailed into the air. But it was no use. She was stopped abruptly by a force she could not see. She crashed into it headfirst, then plummeted down to the surface of the moon. She landed hard on her shoulder, her hooves scraping the ground. Whimpering, she rose shakily to her feet. There was no way out. She was yet again trapped on the moon. She cried out, her voice echoing through the void, then fading away like a vapor, dissolving into nothingness. She cried out again and again, even though she knew there would never be an answer to her desperate calls. She finally collapsed on the ground, tears streaming down her face. Her tears blurred her vision, clouded her eyes. She squeezed her eyes shut, as if she could squeeze the pain, loneliness, and desperation out along with the tears. Then she heard a voice, calling her name. She heard it quietly at first, but steadily growing louder. She rose her head, calling back. ‘I’m here! I’m here! Help me!’ she tried to scream, but no sound came out. She heard the voice again, louder this time. Suddenly a bright light blinded her. Everything around her was dazzlingly white. She was ripped out of her nightmare and spinning back into reality.

“Luna. Luna. Wake up!” Artemis was calling her name, bringing her back to reality. Luna’s eyes shot open. She was shaking uncontrollably, fresh tears streaming down her face. She let out a strangled cry, her eyes wide with fright. Artemis looked at her, concern and compassion in his eyes. Luna looked up at him, her sad, frightened eyes searching his.

“A-Artemis?” she whimpered.

Artemis pulled her to himself, wrapping his wings around her protectively. She leaned into his embrace, burying her face in his warm fur, still crying. “Luna… it’s alright… I’m here… it was just a dream… everything is alright… you’re safe…” he whispered these words to Luna, trying to console her and calm her down. He stroked her mane lovingly. Luna whimpered, looking up at him with searching eyes. Artemis just about melted. Her face was so innocent, so sweet, yet so unbearably sad. He gently lifted her face so it was directly in front of his. Gently he pressed his lips to hers in a passionate kiss. Luna’s eyes closed peacefully. Luna leaned in and kissed Artemis again, whimpering softly. Artemis’ cheeks flushed dark red as he met her embrace with equal passion. Artemis absentmindedly stroked Luna’s mane, pulling them even closer together with his other hoof. Luna finally pulled away from the kiss, breathless. She was blushing madly, a shy smile gracing her pretty face. As Artemis looked into her sparkling blue eyes, he knew with all his heart that he loved Luna with every fiber of his being. He gently brushed her mane back from her face, smiling shyly. “I love you, Luna. Forever and always.” He vowed.

It was then that Luna knew in her heart that she truly did too.

Chapter 3: Fireflies and Laughter

It was almost time for Luna to raise the moon. Luna walked the familiar path to the hill. She had gone back to Canterlot to freshen up after spending the morning with Artemis. She felt a little better, having washed her face with cold water, relieving the redness and dryness of her eyes from having cried so much. Reaching the hill, she climbed to the top. After Celestia lowered the sun, Luna used her magic to raise the moon. Her task complete, she lay down in her usual spot, hooves crossed in front of her, enjoying the quiet beauty of the cool night. She watched the fireflies flit around her, their tiny lights blinking in the semi-darkness. She smiled as one firefly landed on the tip of her hoof. She studied the little insect for a while before it flew away. She stood up, prancing around gleefully, fireflies flashing around her. Luna whinnied happily, playing with her new little friends.

From the bottom of the hill, Artemis watched with a smile as Luna played with the fireflies. He couldn’t help but giggle when Luna jumped back in surprise as a curious firefly landed on her sensitive nose. Luna sneezed, the firefly somersaulting away. With a grin and a giggle, Luna sat back down on the grass.

Artemis nickered a greeting as he walked up the hill. “Hello, Luna!”

Luna’s ears pricked up at the sound of his voice. “Hello, Artemis.” She flashed him a shy smile.

Artemis lay down beside Luna. “It really is a beautiful night tonight.” He commented, looking up at the sky. ‘But not as beautiful as you, Luna.’ He added silently. Luna smiled up at him, grateful that somepony actually appreciated her night. “Feel better, Luna?” Artemis asked her, his eyes radiating his empathy and protectiveness of her.

Luna nodded. “I appreciate you being here for me. It means more to me than you will ever know. I could never repay you enough.”

Artemis just smiled. “You don’t have to. Knowing you will be okay is enough for me. I love you, you know.” He blushed as he said these words.

“I love you, too Artemis.” She reached up and kissed Artemis affectionately. Artemis gently pulled her to himself. She happily obliged, wrapping her hooves around him. She tussled with his mane. He kissed her forehead tenderly while Luna massaged his head with her hooves. He started to purr like a cat, loving the feeling of Luna’s hooves in his hair. Luna smiled at this reaction, and kept going. After a little while, Luna stopped. Artemis looked at her and smiled a lopsided grin. ‘He’s so adorable!’ she said to herself. She smiled back at him. With a coy grin, he kissed her nose. “Squee!” Luna blushed at the touch.

Artemis giggled. “You’re so cute when you do that!” he touched his nose to hers.

“Squee!” Luna’s cheeks felt hot.

“Aw! You’re blushing!” Artemis smiled shyly at her, feeling a blush of his own starting to form. He put his hooves on his cheeks, trying to hide it.

Luna noticed. “You’re blushing too, cutie.” She giggled.

Artemis playfully pinned Luna to the ground. “Ha! Gotcha!” he exclaimed. Luna squealed, but let herself be held down. “Aw, you’re no fun! Come on! Try to pin me down!” Artemis laughed, prancing gleefully around Luna, letting her get up. Luna and Artemis chased each other enthusiastically around the hill, laughing heartily. Soon enough, they tired of the game and collapsed in a heap, panting.

“That was fun!” Luna said, wiping tears of laughter from her eyes. She thought about it for a bit and realized that she hadn’t felt so free or laughed so hard in a long time. Artemis nodded his head in agreement, still trying to catch his breath. Luna saw her chance. She laughed mischievously, and jumped on top of Artemis, pinning him to the ground. “Gotcha!” she exclaimed triumphantly.

Artemis whinnied in surprise, then laughed. “I guess you did, didn’t you?” he reached up his head and planted a kiss on Luna’s nose.

“Squee!” she blushed and let Artemis up.

Artemis sat up and let out a yawn. “You know, cutie, I don’t know about you, but I’m kind of tired.” He stretched and lay down.

Luna lay down next to him. Artemis spread a protective wing over her, pulling her closer to him. She nestled in by his warm flank, sighing contentedly. The two slowly fell asleep, their bodies entwined together comfortably.

Chapter 5: Harmony and Stars

Artemis awoke the next morning, Luna still asleep against his flank. She looked very peaceful, and he did not want to disturb her. He realized that it was time to lower the moon. Artemis had seen Luna do it a few times, and thought ‘I might as well do it. Luna deserves to sleep in now and then. Besides, how hard could it be? All she does is lower the moon.’ He stood up and pointed his horn to the sky. Using his magic, he attempted to lower the moon. It was much harder than he expected, but he managed. By the time he was done, he was sweating and panting. Using so much magic was tiring. ‘Whew. That was tougher than I’d like to admit. I don’t know how Luna manages. She makes it look easy! Luna is way more powerful than I thought.’ Artemis looked over at Luna’s sleeping form, her chest rising and falling gently with every breath. He watched her for a while, eyes full of a new and intense love and protectiveness for the princess. His eyes wandered away from her and rested on the necklaces, still glowing vividly even as the sun’s light grew brighter. He went over to them and gently picked them up, pulling them apart, then tenderly holding the necklaces to his heart.

Luna awoke sometime later, the sun already high in the sky. She blinked at the light, the gasped and sat up. “I overslept! Oh, now I made Celestia lower the moon for me!” she gripped her mane with her hooves, frustrated, and started grumbling and reprimanding herself.

“Hey. Hey. Luna, it’s okay. I let you sleep. You were tired, and you deserved to sleep in this morning. I lowered the moon for you. No worries.” Artemis assured her, putting a comforting hoof on her shoulder. ‘Even though it was a little harder than I thought it would be…' he added silently. “Here’s your necklace, by the way.” He fastened it around her neck for her, already wearing his.

“Thank you, Artemis.” She breathed a sigh of relief. She yawned, and looked down at her necklace. “For the necklace and the extra sleep.” She smiled at him and kissed him on the cheek. He blushed at the touch.

“Your welcome, love.” He smiled shyly at her.

“How was it? Lowering the moon, I mean.” She asked him.

“Oh… well, it ended up being harder than I thought…” he admitted, his cheeks turning red with embarrassment.

“Don’t worry. It took me a few tries before it got easier.” Luna smiled reassuringly. Artemis gave her a lopsided grin. ‘He’s so adorable!’ she thought to herself, and she felt her cheeks grow hot. She covered her cheeks with her hooves, hoping Artemis wouldn’t notice. But he did, and giggled.

“You’re blushing, Luna.” He purposefully stated what she already knew. This only made Luna’s cheeks flush even redder. She squeaked, hiding her face with her hooves. Artemis teased her. “Hey cutie. Your face is red.” She squealed again, her cheeks turning dark red in embarrassment. Artemis kissed Luna’s hoof affectionately, still smiling his lopsided grin, giggling mischievously. He gently pulled her hooves away from her face, planting a kiss on her sensitive nose.

“Squee!” she squeaked.

“Haha! There it is!” Artemis laughed.

Eyes sparkling, she kissed his nose, wondering how he would react. Artemis blushed, but didn’t make a sound. She licked his nose testily. He blushed more, holding back a squeal. Luna giggled and pressed her nose to his. “Squee!!” he squeaked, hiding his red face behind his hooves.

Luna giggled. “You’re so cute!” she tussled his mane playfully. He smiled at her, laughing. With a more serious expression on her face now, she ran her hooves through his mane. He sighed, enjoying her touch. She massaged his head, and Artemis purred delightedly. She couldn’t help but smile.

“That feels good…” he purred, closing his eyes. Luna kept going. After a bit, she stopped. Artemis looked over at her, smiling appreciatively. “Thanks, love.”

“Artemis, do you think we could go back to Ponyville? Fluttershy invited me to spend the afternoon at her place.”

“Of course! Do you want me to come with you?” he turned to face her.

“Only if you want to. I feel confident enough to go there on my own, now that I know at least a few ponies aren’t afraid of me.” Luna offered.

“I have a few things to take care of. If you aren’t comfortable, I can always come. But if not, I will see you later this evening.” He smiled warmly at her.

“Alright. I'll go alone. I will see you later, then.” She said, giving him a quick kiss on the cheek before turning to walk down the hill.

“Love you, babe.” Artemis waved goodbye, then started down the other side of the hill.

Luna walked steadily down the path toward Ponyville, feeling a little nervous of how everypony would react when she got there, but was still excited to get to know her friends more. When she arrived at Ponyville, a few ponies just stared at her, eyes wide with fear. Some chose to ignore her presence altogether. Luna sighed, at least they were starting to get used to the fact that Luna wasn’t the monster they thought she was. She couldn’t help but smile when she saw Pinkie Pie bouncing enthusiastically towards her. “Luna! Good to see you!” Pinkie exclaimed.

“Hello, Pinkie Pie.” Luna nodded at Pinkie. “Fluttershy invited me over for the afternoon, so I’m on my way to her house.”

“Cool! That sounds like fun!” Pinkie said, bouncing around Luna.

Luna smiled at Pinkie. “It will be.”

“Well, I’ll let you get going then.” Pinkie said.

“See you later, Pinkie Pie!” Luna smiled, continuing own the path towards Fluttershy’s house.

Luna knocked on the door. Fluttershy looked out the window. Seeing Luna, she smiled and opened the door. “Hello, Luna. Come on inside.”

Luna stepped into the house. Looking around her, she admired the coziness of it all. “You have a nice home, Fluttershy.”

“Thank you, Luna. That’s very kind of you to say.” Fluttershy smiled shyly at her.

A little white rabbit hopped into the room, wiggling his nose at Luna. The little bunny grinned at her and hugged Luna’s leg. “Aw! A rabbit! He’s so cute! What’s his name?” Luna asked Fluttershy.

“That’s Angel.” Fluttershy answered. “I think he likes you!” she watched as Angel smiled up at Luna. “To be honest, he’s not normally this friendly around guests. But I think you two will get along just fine.”

“Hello, Angel.” Luna smiled sweetly at the little rabbit.

“Luna, would you like to see the other animals?” Fluttershy asked with her quiet voice.

“Sure, Fluttershy. I’d love too!”

“This way.” Fluttershy led Luna outside, Angel Bunny trailing after them.

Once outside, they had a big surprise waiting for them. Animals were running rampant through the yard: the squirrels scurrying up trees, the bears growling and lumbering through the flowers, chickens clucking and scattering feathers all over the place, and the goats were trying to eat the vegetables in the garden.

“Ah! The animals! They’ve escaped!” Fluttershy exclaimed, her voice louder than normal. Angel Bunny’s eyes grew wide.

“Do you want me to help?” Luna quickly asked.

“Yes, please!” Fluttershy said, running into the yard, begging the animals to stop running around.

Luna stood for a second, wondering how she could help. Then she got an idea. Luna glanced over at the chickens. They were squawking loudly and flapping their tiny wings, spreading feathers on the ground. Luna pointed her horn at them, and using her magic, the chickens levitated off the ground. Luna carefully carried them to the coop and gently lowered them onto the ground. Then she locked and secured the gate so the chickens could not escape. As she turned around, she noticed a hole in the wire. She used her magic to seal it up again.

While Fluttershy calmed down the bears, Luna turned her attention to the goats. Again using her magic, she skillfully made designed some ropes out of the long grass beside her. She looped a rope around the necks of the goats, and pulled them out of the garden. The goats were stubborn and tried to resist, but Luna was stronger. They soon obediently followed her out of the garden and back into their pen. Luna bolted and locked the gate. She looked around the pen to find the goats’ escape route. She soon found it: there was a broken board on the fence, and the goats had chewed a hole large enough for them to escape through. Luna quickly repaired it.

Fluttershy finally managed to calm down the bears. Turning to look at the rest of the yard, Fluttershy realized that all was back to normal. The chickens were in their coop, the goats were in their pen, and the birds and squirrels had calmed down also. “Wow! How did you manage to do all this in such a short time?” Fluttershy said, her eyes wide with surprise. “It usually takes hours for me to get all the animals under control.”

“I used my magic. It is very efficient, I must say.” Luna admitted.

“Thank you so much, Luna. I never could have done it without you. I’m sorry that you had to do this. I was hoping that we could have spent more time getting to know each other, not chasing animals.” Fluttershy sighed.

“It’s alright. It was kind of fun, now that I think about it.” Luna smiled.

“I agree.” Fluttershy said, smiling. “Now, why don’t I make us some lemonade? Lemonade is always refreshing.”

“Thanks, Fluttershy. That sounds lovely.” Luna followed Fluttershy inside the house, and sat down in a chair in the living room.

In the kitchen, Fluttershy hummed a quiet tune as she mixed together the lemonade. Then she got two cups out and carried the pitcher into the living room. Filling a cup, she offered it to Luna. “Here you go. Fresh squeezed lemonade.”

Luna took a sip. “Mm! This is delicious!” Luna smiled.

“Thank you. This is my special recipe. I’m glad you like it.” Fluttershy took a sip from her cup.

The two friends talked and laughed together for a while, enjoying each other’s company and getting to know each other. Finally, Luna glanced outside. “It’s almost time for the sun to be lowered. I had better get going soon. Thank you for letting me spend the day with you, Fluttershy. I really enjoyed myself.”

“I had a great time, too. We should do this again sometime!” Fluttershy said. “Have a wonderful evening, Luna. See you later!” Fluttershy gave Luna a hug, then walked to the door with her. Fluttershy and Angel Bunny waved goodbye as Luna trotted down the path. Luna waved back, then continued on her way.

Once Luna arrived back at the hill, she sat down and waited for Artemis to come. Just as he had promised, Artemis came trotting down the path. He waved at her as he climbed up the hill, taking a seat beside her.

“How was your day?” he turned to Luna.

“I had a great time.” Luna told Artemis all that took place at Fluttershy’s.

When Luna finished, Artemis smiled and laughed. “It sounds like you had a fun day.”

“I sure did. And how are you? What did you do?” Luna asked.

“Oh, I took care of some errands, the usual. Not too exciting.” Artemis answered. “But I do have something planned for tonight. I assume you have nothing major going on?” he glanced over at her.

“No. Why?” Luna questioned.

“Good. It will work out then.” Artemis said.

“What will?” Luna wondered.

“Oh, you’ll see.” Artemis smiled. “Come with me.”

Luna followed Artemis down the path and up a large hill, providing a beautiful view of the countryside. There was a blanket spread out on the ground, and a basket full of good things to eat. When Luna saw the picnic that had been set up for her, she smiled. “A picnic! How lovely!”

Artemis sat down on the blanket, Luna beside him. “I’m glad you like it. I thought a picnic would be a perfect addition to this beautiful evening, and a good way to end the day.” Artemis said, taking out two daisy sandwiches out of the basket and handing one to Luna. She nodded appreciatively and took a bite. The two sat in silence for a little while, eating their food and enjoying each other’s company.

Luna finished her sandwich, then said, “I had better raise the moon now.” Standing up, she walked to the edge of the hill. She pointed her horn to the sky, and the moon slowly rose into the sky, followed by twinkling stars. Her task complete, she returned to her spot on the blanket by Artemis.

Artemis moved the basket off to the side and lay down on his back. Luna did the same. The two alicorns lay together, staring up at the starry night sky. “The stars are so beautiful tonight.” Artemis paused. “No wonder you love the night so much. It really is peaceful. It’s a shame nopony stays out like this more often.” Artemis continued.

“Yeah. I’m glad that you appreciate it, though.” Luna said.

“Well, if it makes you feel any better, I think ponies love your night more than you realize. They appreciate the serenity and quietness the night brings, so they go to sleep and rest from all the activities of the day. Just think, if there was no night, nopony would get proper rest with the sun glaring on them all the time.” Artemis stated.

Luna pondered this. “Good point. I think maybe I just felt lonely because there was nopony with me whenever I raised the moon, and I always spent my days and nights alone. I just wanted somepony to be here with me, to be my friend. I never thought about what life in Equestria would be like without night to bring peace and rest.” Her ears drooped sadly.

Artemis held Luna’s hoof in his, and gave it a reassuring squeeze. “It’s alright, Luna. Nopony can blame you for feeling lonely. And now you have friends. You don’t have to be alone anymore.” He reminded her.

Luna smiled. “Thanks, Artemis. It does help a lot to have friends to be there for you. But I never could have done it without you, Artemis. I feel so much more at peace just knowing that you care. I am proud to call you my friend.” She turned to face him. “I love you, Artemis.”

“I love you too, Luna. Always and forever.” He smiled at her. “Together, I know we can get through this. Together, we will show everypony who you really are. They will see you as Luna, Princess of the night, not the monster they think you are. You will finally get a new start.”

“Together.” She repeated, a smile lighting up her face.

The two lovers lay side by side, still holding hooves, looking into each other’s eyes. The moon shined above, casting a soft glow onto all its gentle light touched. Overhead, the stars seemed to shine all the brighter as two shooting stars flew across the sky.

Chapter 1: Tears and Compassion

Luna, the princess of the night, stood atop the hill where she usually stood, preparing to raise the moon. Luna used her magic as she did every night, and the moon rose into the sky, along with the twinkling stars. Luna gazed up at her handiwork, admiring the peacefulness of it all. Now finished with her task, she lay down on the ground, hooves crossed in front of her, her mane and tail waving in the gentle night breeze. She sat in silence for a while, then sighed and lay her head on her hooves. Luna felt lonely. No one ever enjoyed her night. Everypony went inside to sleep, instead of enjoying the beauty and peace that night brought to Equestria. Not only did nopony seem to appreciate the night, nopony seemed to appreciate her either. Many feared her. Ever since Luna returned to Equestria after her banishment to the moon as Nightmare Moon, whenever she even approached another pony, they ran away. This saddened Luna. All she wanted was somepony to be her friend, even if they never truly understood her. But lately, it had been harder than ever. Because of this, Luna was constantly on the verge of depression, loneliness and hurt overwhelming her. Tonight, as she lay on the hill, her emotions got the best of her. She broke down in tears, letting them fall freely down her cheeks. Sobbing, she buried her face in her hooves. The reality of everything crashed down on her. In her heart, Luna knew that nopony would ever truly understand or accept her, and there was nopony for her to turn to, no shoulder to cry on, nopony to comfort her, nopony to listen to her, nopony to love her. After all, with her reputation as Nightmare Moon, who would dare love a monster like her?

As luck would have it, Prince Artemis happened to be taking a walk through the quiet hill country where Luna raised the moon nightly. The stately blue alicorn thought he heard the sound of crying close by, and went over to investigate. Artemis looked up on top of the hill and saw Luna, curled up in a shaking little ball, whimpering and crying. Artemis’ ears drooped compassionately. He recognized the pony as Luna, princess of the night. He had met Luna before, and knew that she was quite a friendly pony. In truth, he quite liked her. And seeing her like this made him very unhappy. He knew that she needed comfort. He walked slowly up the hill towards Luna, then lay down near her. Luna did not notice him. Nickering softly, he asked, “Princess Luna? Are you alright?” It was then he realized how stupid that must have sounded. It was clear through her tears that she was not feeling alright.

“Huh?” Luna looked up and saw Artemis’ concerned and sympathetic face. “Artemis? W-what are you doing here?” she struggled to choke back the tears, “I-I’m sorry you have to see me like this… I just…” Luna started to cry again.

“It’s alright, Luna. You can cry.” Artemis stretched his wing protectively over her back.

Luna saw the compassionate gesture and knew that she could trust Artemis. She whimpered softly and lay her head on his shoulder. Luna looked up at Artemis, tears still falling down her cheeks. Artemis looked into Luna’s sad blue eyes and just about melted. He wrapped his hooves around her shaking body, pulling her into a warm hug. She sighed contentedly and leaned into his embrace. Artemis wrapped her up in his wings, holding her tight to his chest. The two remained like that in silence for a while, enjoying each other’s company. It was Artemis who finally broke the silence. “Feel any better, princess?” he asked, tenderly stroking Luna’s mane.

Luna looked up at him. “I think so…” she sighed. Luna gazed into Artemis’ dreamy blue eyes. “I…” Leaning towards Artemis, she gently pressed her lips to his. Artemis’ cheeks flushed red. “I love you, Artemis.” She said, smiling shyly.

Artemis looked at her, not really knowing how to react to this at first. He gently held her face in his hooves, pressing his lips to hers, more passionately now. Luna kissed back, savoring the taste of his lips on hers.

They pulled back, their faces flushed and red. “I love you too, Luna.” Artemis whispered. ‘Always and forever.’ He added silently. Luna leaned against his broad, furry chest, enjoying the new found warmth and comfort. Completely at peace for the first time in many long years, she slowly drifted off to sleep.

Chapter 4: Friends and a Gift

Morning came. Luna awoke next to Artemis, who was still fast asleep. She smiled at his peaceful form. As usual, Luna lowered the moon, and the sun rose in its place. She yawned and stretched, then sat down to wait for Artemis to wake up. Soon enough, he did. Artemis sat up and rubbed the sleep out of his eyes. “How long have you been awake, Luna?” he wondered.

“Oh, about a half an hour. I get up to lower the moon every morning, you know.” She reminded him.

“Oh, right.” He scratched his neck in thought. “Hey, do you want to come to Ponyville with me? The ponies there are really friendly.”

Luna’s ears pressed flat to her head nervously. “Um… that may not be such a good idea… everypony is scared of me but you and Celestia, remember?” her eyes dropped their gaze, a tear sliding down her cheek.

Artemis’ face fell, he wanted so badly for her to trust him. “Luna, darling. Trust me. I will be there, helping you. The other ponies need to see that you are not the monster they all think you are. Come with me. Please.” He held out a supportive hoof. She hesitated for just a moment, but then placed her hoof in his.

“Okay…” she sighed, hoping she wouldn’t have to doubt her trust in Artemis.

Artemis gave her a reassuring smile, helping her to her feet. “Let’s go, then. Follow me!”

Luna and Artemis walked to Ponyville together, side by side. On the way, Luna kept looking up at Artemis with fearful, shy eyes. Artemis sighed sadly. ‘Poor thing. She’s so scared! I can’t believe everypony is afraid of her. She’s the one who is afraid. I don’t mean she’s scared of them, she’s scared of being rejected. I don’t blame her either. She really needs friends. She needs to be accepted for who she is. I have seen the real Luna, sweet and compassionate. She understands things that many ponies will never even begin to grasp. I am so privileged to have met her.’ Artemis thought to himself.

They finally arrived at the village. Artemis had been to Ponyville many times, and was normally greeted cordially by Pinkie Pie, a happy-go-lucky pink pony who was friends with practically everypony. But much to his surprise, Pinkie Pie was nowhere to be found. And looking around him, his eyes grew wide with surprise. Ponyville was deserted! ‘Where is everypony?’ he wondered. He scratched his neck in thought. “Um, Luna? Is it always empty like this when you come to Ponyville? I assume you have come here before…”

Luna sighed and shrugged her shoulders. “I told you everypony was afraid of me.” Her ears drooped sadly. “So much for making friends.” Luna turned to walk away, but Artemis stopped her.

“Luna. I told you to trust me. You will make some friends, I promise.” Artemis hoped with all his heart that he would be able to keep that promise.

“Alright…” Luna looked up at Artemis, trust evident in her expression.

Artemis led Luna through the empty streets of Ponyville, stopping in front of Pinkie Pie’s house. He motioned to Luna to hide behind the corner of the house. Artemis knocked on her door, then stepped back. Pinkie Pie opened the door, looking around cautiously. “Is she gone?” Pinkie whispered.

“Oh, you mean Luna?” Artemis asked.

Pinkie nodded vigorously. “But remember, it’s Nightmare Moon, not Luna. Luna is who she was before. And that was a loooong time ago!” Pinkie reminded him.

“Pinkie, you’re the one who’s wrong. Nightmare Moon is the one who is gone. Luna is good now. Luna is the friendliest pony is have ever met! All she wants is a friend! And all you do is run away at the sight of her. She is lonely, she has nopony to turn to. She is emotionally broken. But she is the sweetest pony, and she understands many things that none of you could ever begin to comprehend. You never gave her a chance. Never gave her a second thought. You should be ashamed, Pinkie Pie! Even you of all ponies don’t even let her approach you!” Artemis reprimanded Pinkie.

Pinkie’s eyes widened. Artemis had never spoken to her this way before. But she knew that Artemis spoke the truth. They never had really given Luna a chance. And she, who was friends with literally everypony, had turned coward and run away from Luna. Pinkie was ashamed. “I-I’m sorry, Artemis. You’re right. I never even gave her a chance. I’m such a coward… can you ever forgive me?” she asked.

Artemis had never seen his friend more serious, but he knew that that wasn’t enough. “Pinkie, of course I forgive you. But I’m not the one you really need to apologize to.” He beckoned to Luna. “Come on out, Luna. There’s somepony I’d like you to meet.”

Luna cautiously walked out from behind the house, her ears drooped, her eyes filled with fear and sadness. Pinkie’s demeanor changed entirely when she saw Luna. ‘That’s Luna? She looks so sad, so afraid. I can’t believe all this time we thought she was a monster. She really has changed!’ Pinkie bowed her head guiltily. “I’m sorry, Luna. It was wrong of me to run away from you like that… I never gave you a chance. I had no idea all you wanted was a friend. I should have been that friend…” Pinkie’s ears drooped sadly, realizing just how rude she had been and how truly lonely Luna must be.

“It’s alright, Pinkie Pie. I forgive you.” Luna said.

Pinkie brightened when she heard this, and gave Luna a big hug. “Thanks, friend.” Pinkie smiled.

Luna’s smile widened as she heard these words. ‘I have a friend!’ she thought happily.

Pinkie let go of Luna and bounced energetically out the door and into the street. “Come on, Luna! Come on, Artemis! I want you to meet some of my friends!” The two alicorns followed Pinkie down the road until they came to a pretty little house, hollowed out of a tree. Birds twittered from the treetop, and flowers grew around the path. “First stop, Fluttershy’s house!” Pinkie knocked on Fluttershy’s door.

Fluttershy opened the door a crack, peeking shyly out. When she saw Pinkie Pie, she opened the door all the way. “Hello, Pinkie Pie. Hello, Artemis. And who is this?” Fluttershy started to ask in her usual quiet voice. She suddenly recognized Luna, squealed, and jumped back.

“Fluttershy! It’s okay! Luna is a friend.” Pinkie Pie reassured her.

Fluttershy cautiously peeped out from behind the door. “Are you sure?” she asked quietly.

“Yes. Luna is one of the sweetest, friendliest ponies I have ever met. You and her would get along well, Fluttershy.” Artemis confirmed.

Luna shyly stepped out in front of Fluttershy. “Hi… I’m Luna.”

‘Wow. She really is nice.’ Fluttershy thought. “I’m Fluttershy. It’s nice to meet you.”

Luna smiled. “It’s nice to meet you, too.”

Pinkie Pie whinnied excitedly. “Whee! Luna has two new friends now!”

Fluttershy jumped, not expecting Pinkie’s shout. But she knew that what she said was true. Fluttershy could tell that Luna and she would get along very well. “That’s right, Pinkie.” Fluttershy smiled at Luna. “I can tell that Luna and I will be very good friends.”

“Where should we go next? I have tons of friends for Luna to meet!” Pinkie asked Artemis.

Artemis looked over at Luna, who at the moment was having a pleasant conversation with Fluttershy. Artemis was not sure how much excitement that the nervous blue alicorn could take. “Are Rarity, Rainbow Dash, or Applejack around?” he suggested.

“Um… I think Rarity has gone to Manehattan for a fashion show, and Rainbow Dash is working with the Wonderbolts today. Applejack is at home though. We should go there!” Pinkie said.

Artemis nodded in agreement. Looking over to Luna, he said, “Luna, I hate to interrupt, but Pinkie Pie is eager for you to meet another one of her friends. Fluttershy can come, too, if she wants.” Artemis offered.

Luna looked over at Fluttershy. “Sure, I’ll come.” Fluttershy said, smiling shyly.

“Okie dokie lokie!” Pinkie exclaimed excitedly. “Next stop, Sweet Apple Acres!”

Luna looked nervously at Fluttershy. “Sweet Apple Acres? Who lives there?”

“Oh, you don’t need to worry, Luna. My good friend Applejack lives there with her family. She’s very nice.” Fluttershy assured her.

When the ponies arrived at Sweet Apple Acres, Applejack tipped her hat at the group, a barrel of apples balanced on her back. “Howdy y’all. Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Artemis. Good to see ya. And who’s this?” Applejack greeted them with her distinctive country accent. When the cowpony realized who the stranger was, she almost dropped her load of apples. Her eyes grew wide. “Sweet Celestia! It’s N-Nightmare Moon!?”

“No, Applejack. This is Princess Luna.” Fluttershy reminded her. “She’s a very nice pony.”

“Are ya sure, Fluttershy? Nightmare Moon is a monster!” Applejack eyed Luna nervously. Luna’s ears drooped sadly, disappointed to hear the distrust in the cowpony’s voice. When Applejack saw Luna’s sad expression, she immediately regretted what she had said. Her own ears drooped in embarrassment and guilt. “Sorry, Princess… A-ah didn’t realize…”

Luna looked into Applejack’s green eyes and knew she was truly sorry. “I-It’s alright, Applejack. I forgive you. I’m used to hearing those kind of things said about me…”

Applejack set down her barrel of apples, then gave Luna a big hug. “Thanks, Princess. Ah’m sorry ah treated you the way ah did. Ah never thought very highly of you in the past, and was too busy running away to notice how you must have really felt. Ah’m glad that we can start over as friends now, Princess.” Luna smiled as she hugged her newfound friend.

They all talked together for a good while, until Applejack commented, “It’s gettin’ mighty late. The sun’s gonna be lowered soon. Y’all better be gettin’ on home now. It was nice talkin’ to ya. And it was sure mighty nice meetin’ ya, Princess! Don’t forget to stop by Sweet Apple Acres again soon!”

They said their goodbyes and parted ways. Fluttershy headed back to her cozy home, and Pinkie Pie bounced her way back to Sugarcube Corner.

Luna and Artemis walked together back the hill country just outside of Canterlot. They two alicorns arrived just in time for Luna to raise the moon. After her task was done, Luna and Artemis lay down side by side atop the hill.

“Did you have a good day?” Artemis asked, turning towards Luna.

“Oh, yes. Thanks to you, I made two new friends today.” She smiled at the memory.

Artemis grinned. “I’m glad I could be there for you.”

Luna reached over and kissed Artemis on the cheek. “No really. Thank you. I never could have done it without you. Because of you, ponies finally see me for who I am, not the monster I was. I can never thank you enough for all you’ve done for me.” Luna spoke with sincerity, meaning every word she said.

Artemis gently held her face in his hooves, lifting it so he could gaze into Luna’s sparkling blue eyes. “I already told you. You don’t need to repay me. Seeing you happy is the best payment I could ask for.”

The two lay quietly together, enjoying each other’s company, until Artemis spoke up. “I have something for you.” Luna’s eyes twinkled expectantly. “This is for you.” He handed her a necklace: a glowing crescent moon charm on a silver chain.

Luna gasped in awe. “It’s so beautiful!” she held the necklace in her hooves, examining its delicately carved swirls and curves. She kissed the charm tenderly. “I’ll treasure it forever.”

“I have one to.” Artemis showed her his matching necklace. “But there is something special about these necklaces, see. Hold out your hoof.” Luna held out her hoof, still holding her necklace. Artemis gently took the necklace from her and pressed it to his. When the two necklaces touched, they glowed bright like a lantern in the dark. Artemis smiled at Luna, watching her as she admired the glowing moon the necklaces had created.

Luna looked back up at Artemis. Her eyes searched his, and she just wanted to melt into his beautiful, ocean blue eyes. She felt her cheeks grow hot as he leaned in, pressing his lips to hers in a passionate kiss. She wrapped her hooves around him, bringing their bodies closer together. She leaned in to his embrace, kissing him again and again, not wanting to let go. She sighed deeply, closing her eyes blissfully. Artemis stroked her starry mane, and she moaned softly, feeling secure and at peace, her lips still pressed against his. They remained that way for a while, then Luna pulled away unconsciously, her tired eyelids becoming heavy, her breaths slowing a bit. She felt herself being carried, then lowered gently onto the ground. Even though she was only half awake, she felt a cozy warmth surround her, knowing that she was safe with Artemis. As she let sleep claim her, she heard a voice, as though in a dream. “I love you, my Luna. Always and forever.”

While the two lovers slept, their necklaces still glowed, an undying light shining through the darkness.