Surviving Secretsby Aetaes WolfChaptersDistant MemoriesTraitorSparkCapturedDefeatPreparingPartyExplanationsHomeFateful MeetingEpilogueDistant MemoriesEclipse’s hooves slap against the stone street as she dodges an oncoming changeling. It was disguised as a pink pony, but it was still a changeling. Thoughts swam around in the black mare’s head. How did this happen? Why is it happening? Is everyone alright? Is the princess safe? Eclipse pauses. The princess... Panic takes hold at the thought of the white alicorn. Is she alright? Is she injured? What if she’s captured? What if- “Don’t let fear control you.” Eclipse blinks as a familiar voice echoes through her head. “If fear takes hold, then it will fester, soon controlling your thoughts and emotions.” “Like the Nightmare did with Luna?” “...Just like with Luna.” Eclipse closes her eyes, letting the memory take hold. A black filly looks expectantly to her teacher, the white alicorn watching her warily. “Are you ready?” The filly nods. “Yes, Celestia.” The alicorn nods, her horn glowing in a golden light. “Be careful, Eclipse. Do not be afraid to tell me when to stop.” The filly doesn’t respond, just watches as the area is covered in shadow. Her golden yellow eyes scan the darkness surrounding her as she begins to wander, searching for something, but what is unknown. “Cr...l.......se....” Eclipse’s eyes widen at the voice, her ears flattening against her head. “That’s not my name...” “Cr....al...ose...” “THAT’S NOT MY NAME!” Eclipse screams into the darkness, what appears to be blood red smoke starts to seep from her eyes. She whips around when she spots a flash of silver. Her breathing comes out ragged as she begins to panic. Turning on her heel, she starts to run, only to crash into something, causing her to fall onto the floor. Groaning slightly, Eclipse rubs her head, her eyes widening in fear when she looks up. A silver colt with a dark grey mane stands before her, his midnight blue bat-like wings spread wide as his piercing red eyes boring into Eclipse’s golden yellow eyes, black smoke seeping out of his eyes. No words form in Eclipse’s mouth as she scrambles backwards, the colt following her with every step. “Rose.” “T-that’s not my name...” Eclipse whispers. “It is your name, whether you like it or not!” The colt snaps. “You are what you are, there is no denying it!” “No... No... I was a pony once... THEN YOU RUINED IT!” Eclipse gasps as shadows wrap around her throat, lifting her up into the air as she attempts to claw it away, as it is cutting off her oxygen. The colt snarls. “I SAVED you! If it were not for my actions, you would have died!” “DEATH WOULD HAVE BEEN A BETTER ALTERNATIVE THAN THIS!” Eclipse yelps as she is slammed against the ground, blood dripping from a cut that has opened up on her head. “Your ungratefulness I find offensive.” “I find... your actions offensive... father...” The colts eyes narrow. “I will teach you better respect!” “NO!” Shadows shoot from Eclipse, latching onto the colt as her eyes glow blood red. The colt screams as the shadows rip him apart, their hollow white eyes empty and emotionless. Eclipse closes her eyes as she begins to cry, shaking as sobs wrack through her body. Arms quickly wrap around Eclipse’s small form, she doesn’t have to open her eyes to know that those arms belonged to Celestia. “I think our lesson is finished for today.” Eclipse doesn’t respond, she just clings to Celestia as she sobs. The sound of a door opening and closing echoes through the room, hooves silently walking across the floor. “Aunt Celestia?” Celestia looks to the pink alicorn that had entered the room. “Cadance. I think Eclipse needs some time to calm down. Would you look after her today?” Cadance nods. “Of course.” Celestia smiles, nudging Eclipse over to Cadance, whom scoops the young filly into her arms, holding her close as her sobs quiet down, though her body still shakes. Cadance hesitates slightly. “I’m foalsitting Twilight today. Would it be alright-?” Celestia nods. “No pony is to know of her true nature. But perhaps a friend will be helpful to her studies.” Cadance nods, looking down to the terrified black unicorn. “How should I introduce her?” “Tell Twilight that she’s your sister. It’s better to hide what she is then it is for everypony to know.” Eclipse opens her eyes, blinking slightly at the sight before her. Changelings lay knocked out in front of her, red static emanating from their bodies. “Don’t let fear control you...” “But let only a little slip through if you have no other alternative...” Eclipse mumbles the rest of the sentence. She closes her eyes. “I remember a time, long ago...” Opening her eyes, determination washes over Eclipse as she starts running toward the castle. “I’m coming! Please be alright!” Her horns glows red as she shoots beams of magic at the changelings, having now entered the bulk of the fight, most of the changelings now disguised as rainbow-coloured ponies. Though through all the fighting, through all the chaos, Eclipse finds her thoughts wandering back to the strange changeling she had met earlier. She looks up to the sky, “Please let him be safe...” TraitorCrevdar’s wings vibrate with every move as he dashes through the air, dodging and fighting each changeling that gets in his way. All the while he finds his thoughts returning to Eclipse. Groaning, he lands, green fire covering him as he changes to his changeling form, though emerald green replaces the blue colour that the other changelings have. “Why can’t I get her off my mind?” He blinks. “Could... she have put a spell on me?” He thinks back to the taste of love she had left for him. Shaking his head, he rubs his temple with his hoof. “No, that couldn’t be it. Demon full of love...” He trails off, his thoughts rebounding back to the black mare, effectively causing him to space out. She’s a demon, that much is certain. But she was helping ponies get to safety, going as far as to make a safe house for them. Ignoring that, she seemed to be radiating in love, something you wouldn’t expect a demon to be full of. Everything about the black mare was strange, even how she introduced herself. “So... does the demon have a name?” “I do, but I have not used it in many years. But you may call me Eclipse.” “So, Eclipse isn’t your real name?” “The name has been dead and lost for over ten thousand years. Eclipse has become my name.” Eclipse said she had a name before her current name. So what was it? Why’d she change it? “Well, what have we here?” The voice snaps Crevdar from his thoughts. Looking up, his eyes narrow at the two changelings in front of him. He can see a third, though the third hangs back away from them. “Chip. Night.” Crevdar greets the two, though his voice is tinted slightly with disgust. One smirks, stepping forward so he stands directly in front of Crevdar. “I knew I recognized your odd colour. Figures we’d run into you here, traitor.” “Save your breath Chip.” Crevdar spits, glaring slightly at the other changeling, who is currently giggling to herself. Chip snorts, his blue eyes boring into Crevdar’s emerald eyes. “You still think running to the ponies is a better plan then what we are doing now?” “It’s logical, and I can eat, feeding off of ponies around me, unlike you who are starving. We could have lived in harmony with the ponies, we could have pleaded with the Princess and have her help us! You idiots have thrown that chance away!” Crevda snaps, his wings flaring out in anger. Night rolls her eyes. “You ran willing to the ponies. You tried to warn them of our plans. Guess that didn’t turn out so well, huh?” Crevdar smirks. “Oh. But it did work, didn’t it? The captain of the guard put up the protective shield to keep you out!” “We still got in, didn’t we?” “Wait...” Chip’s eyes narrow as he circles Crevdar. Crevdar just glares at the changeling as he shifts back into his disguise. Chip stops in front of Crevdar. “Why do I feel love coming from you?” Crevdar stiffens slightly as Night bursts out laughing. “Don’t tell me you actually fell for one of the stupid ponies?!” Chip joins in the laughter as Crevdar glares at the two as a light blush covers his face. After a few moments, Crevdar smirks. “She’s not a pony, per se...” This catches the attention of the two changelings. “Then what is she?” Crevdar’s smirk grows. “Demon.” The two changelings immediately jump back. “D-demon?! Surely you’re joking!” “Nope.” “B-but she didn’t cast a s-spell on you, r-right?” Night laughs nervously. “Oh, I don’t know...” Crevdar trails off, using his power to make his eyes pure red. “Did she?” The two changelings scream as they scramble to get away from Crevdar, yelling incoherent words as they do. Crevdar rolls his eyes as they return to their emerald green colour. “Morons...” “C-Crev?” Crevdar looks to the third changeling who slowly makes his way over. “Fang? What are you doing here?” The changeling shuffles slightly on his hooves. “I-I heard you were staying in Canterlot, so I... I joined the invasion s-so I could find you.” Crevdar perks a brow. “Why?” “T-to see if your offer still stands.” Crevdar smiles lightly. “You should have just come with me when I offered the chance.” Fang shrugs. “I didn’t realize which was the right choice until Chrysalis began the invasion.” Crevdar nods. “Disguise yourself and follow me.” Crevdar orders as he begins to walk away. Fang gives a quick salute, green flame covering him as he changes his form into a green earth pony with a short blue mane. Blinking his purple eyes, he quickly catches up to Crevdar and falls in step with him. “I will follow your orders, General.” Crevdar snorts. “You’re the only one that will. And I’m no longer a General, remember? That title was stripped from me at the time of my banishment.” Fang nods. “Right...” There’s a slight pause. “D-do you really think w-we can live peacefully among t-the ponies?” “I’ve been doing it for a while now.” Credvar simply states. “It’s possible, and I am able to feed from those around me. The others are too blind to see it.” “...Was that true?” Crevdar blinks. “Was what true?” “T-that you’ve fallen for a demon? A-and that the demon cast a spell on you?” Crevdar hesitates. “No spell has been cast on me. At least, I don’t think one has. As for your first question...” He sighs. “Truthfully, I don’t know. But... I think it’s possible that I have.” SparkSmoke comes from Eclipse’s horn as her breathing is heavy, the weariness from the battle beginning to take its toll on her. Many changelings lay before her fighting others, though the changelings are disguised. Eclipse scans her surroundings, her eyes flashing red as they allow her to see past the changelings disguises. Her hooves pound against the stone pavement as she makes her way through the hoard, dodging or defending from the oncoming changelings attacking her. A familiar flash of purple catches her eye as she skids to a stop, her eyes widening in surprise as she stares blankly at the purple pony a few feet in front of her, currently fighting off changelings. “Spark?” A pony slams into Eclipse, sending the two rolling across the ground. Eclipse groans, blinking open her eyes and staring into a pair of very familiar emerald green eyes. She blinks, noticing their position and blushing lightly, not noticing the blush on Crevdar’s own face. Crevdar is standing over top of Eclipse, practically pinning her to the ground. Silence overcomes the two as neither of them moves. Eclipse clears her throat, her voice coming out as a whisper. “C-could you get off of m-me please?” “O-oh, right...” Crevdar gets off of Eclipse, helping her get up. “Sorry.” Eclipse gives a sheepish smile, willing her blush away before Crevdar could see it, Crevdar just simply looking away, rubbing the back of his neck. Eclipse looks up to the purple pony, a blast of magic coming from her horn as she blasts a changeling away. Sucking in a breath, Eclipse takes a step towards her. “HEY, SPARK!” Crevdar blinks as he notices the purple unicorn face them, his eyes widening as she lets out a blast of magic. Eclipse’s horn glows red as she puts up a shield around them, the magic blast scattering around the shield as Crevdar stands there, shocked by how powerful both ponies magic seems to be. The blast soon dies down, the purple unicorn standing before them panting. With a simple wave of her head, Eclipse lowers the shield, her horn stopping its glow. She stands firm, not looking even a little tired from the magic she just spent. “Now now, Spark. Is that any way for you to treat an old friend?” The purple pony blinks, relaxing from her attacking stance slightly. “Eclipse?” She shakes her head, returning to her stance. “No, she’s dead! You’re just a changeling trying to mess with me!” Eclipse watches her for a few moments before closing her eyes. Her horn glows red, Crevdar and the unicorn both watching her, confused. A blue rose, made of pure crystal appears in front of Eclipse, matching the cutiemark on her flank. It is held up with her magic, tinted red from her magic aura. Eclipse opens her eyes, gently sending the crystal rose to the purple unicorn, whom takes it using her own magic. The unicorn studies the rose, tears soon forming in her eyes. “It is you...” Eclipse gives a small smile. “Hello, Twilight.” The purple pony slowly walks over to Eclipse, the rose now long forgotten. She stands in front of the black mare, studying every detail of her old friend, whom just watches her every movement. After a few moments, Twilight lifts up her hoof, slapping Eclipse across the face. Crevdar stares in shock, Eclipse’s head cocked to the side from the impact, her mane falling over her eyes, though she does not move. Angered tears fill Twilight’s eyes as she start to yell. “YOU ABONDONED ME! YOU LEFT WITHOUT WARNING, WITHOUT TELLING ME! YOU SENT NO LETTERS, NOT TO ME NOR ANYPONY ELSE!” She snaps, lowering her head as her voice coming out at a whisper. “I thought you were dead...” Eclipse turns her head to look at Twilight, tears falling down the purple unicorn’s face. “I... suppose I deserved that.” Her horn glows red as she picks up the rose, gently putting it in Twilight’s mane, causing the mare to look up at her. “I know, I should have told you where I had gone. I was unkind to let you think something had happened to me.” She lifts her hoof, gently wiping the tears from Twilight’s eyes. “But I came back, and I’m here now. And I can promise you, I’m not leaving again.” Twilight stares at her for a moment before embracing her, Eclipse quickly returning the hug. “I missed you.” Crevdar smiles lightly at the scene. Fang runs up behind him, panting as he skids to a stop. “Thought... I lost... you...!” He looks to the two mares as the part, now happily talking to each other, the battle long forgotten. “Who are they?” “The black mare is Eclipse, the other from what I’ve gathered, is Twilight.” Crevdar responds. Twilight looks over to the two colts, just noticing their appearance. “Eclipse, who’s your friends?” Eclipse looks over to the changelings, giving a small smile. “Them? Well, I don’t know who one is, but the other is-” “CREVY!” A pink blur slams into Crevdar, sending him a few feet away as the pink pony tackle hugs him. “What are you doing here?! I didn’t know you were here! Did you come for the wedding??” Crevdar squirms slightly the pink earthpony’s grip, attempting to push her away. “P-Pinkie Pie-! C-can’t breathe-!” The pink pony giggles, quickly letting him go as he collapses on the ground, coughing and trying to regain his breath. The pink pony turns to Twilight, waving to her. “Hi Twilight! Who’s your friend?” Twilight just blinks, her gaze shifting between Crevdar and Pinkie. “You two know each other?” “Of course! I know everyone, and I mean everyone in Ponyville!” Pinkie responds, bouncing over to Eclipse. “Hi, I’m Pinkie Pie, the bestest party pony around!” Eclipse giggles lightly at the pink mare, giving a smile. “Pleasure to meet you, Miss Pie! I am Eclipse, an old friend of Twilight.” Pinkie grins. “Nice to meet you, Eclipse!” She turns to Fang. “And what’s your name?” Crevdar stands up, shaking some dust from his coat. “This is Fang, a close friend of mine.” “H-hi!” Fang stutters his greeting. Eclipse looks to Twilight. “Spark, where were you going before you ran into us?” Twilight blinks, facehoofing. “How could I forget?! We need to get to the Elements of Harmony, and quickly!” Eclipse blinks. “Elements of Harmony?” The words were vaguely familiar. She closes her eyes, another memory taking hold. “Celestia?” “Yes, Eclipse?” “Where did you find me?” The white alicorn blinks, looking to the black filly sitting beside her. “I’m sorry...?” “I was asleep for a long time.” Eclipse states, looking up to her teacher. “Where did you find me?” Celestia thinks for a moment, looking out the window to the full moon. “My sister and I... We found you, many years ago, near the Tree of Harmony.” “And I was asleep, right?” Celestia nods. “Yes, you were. It was quite odd, you were... completely encased in crystal.” “Did you try to wake me?” “We did, but we could not get past the crystal encasing you. Something was preventing us, and I believe whatever it was, it was protecting you. After some time, the casing shattered on its own.” “And that’s how I woke up?” “Yes, that’s how you woke up.” “Helloooooo? Anypony home?” Eclipse blinks, jumping back slightly as Pinkie waves a hoof in front of her face. She coughs, turning her head as she fights the embarrassed blush rising to her face. “Come, we must get to the elements before the changelings overtake us!” CapturedIt wasn’t long before the group had gathered nearly all of the Element bearers, thanks to Eclipse’s ability to see through any disguise. Twilight had introduced each, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rarity. Twilight had informed them that only one remained, a rainbow pegasus named Rainbow Dash. The group was fighting their way through the bulk of the fight, Eclipse’s golden yellow eyes raking over the scene until... “THERE!” She yells, pointing to where the rainbow coloured pony was fighting off a duplicate of herself. Twlight’s horn glows, turning to face the two. There is a small pause as she hesitates, panic growing on her face. “I CAN’T TELL WHICH IS WHICH!” “I can.” Eclipse’s horn glows as she lets out a blast of magic, sending the disguised changeling that had pinned Rainbow flying into a wall. Rainbow blinks in surprise, gently getting to her hooves and looking over to the group. She opens her mouth to say something, but is tackled by Pinkie in a hug before she can say anything. “Pinkie-!” The Element bearers giggles as they all go to greet their friend, much to Rainbow’s annoyance. Eclipse smiles lightly scene, though stumbles. Crevdar catches her before she falls, helping back onto her hooves. “You alright?” Eclipse nods, leaning slightly onto him, which causes the brown colt to blush lightly. “Just... tired. I’ve used a lot of my energy in the fight.” The mares break apart, Twilight walking to Eclipse. “That was amazing, how are you able to see past their disguises?” Eclipse smiles. “That’s part of what I am, Twi. No lie can fool me, and my eyes can see through any disguise.” Twilight blinks, looking to her old friend in confusion. “What you are...?” Eclipse gets up from her position, walking over to Rainbow. “You are Rainbow Dash, correct?” Rainbow smirks. “The one and only!” Eclipse smiles lightly. “Pleasure to make your acquaintance! I am Eclipse, an old friend of Twilight's!” She turns to the others. “Twilight, all the Element bearers have been gathered; now you must lead us to where they are kept!” Twilight blinks, being broken from her train of thought. Giving a nod, she begins to run, the group following close behind her. Crevdar glance to Eclipse, concern flashing through his eyes. “Think you can handle the rest of the fight?” Eclipse chuckles lightly. “Are you concerned for me? You need not be, I have handled battles far worse than this, and survived.” Twilight’s face lights up as she spots the building the Elements were being kept in, though glancing back causes fear to show. Eclipse glances back, noting the army of changeling that had been following them on their heels. Twilight quickly opens the door, the grin on her face replaced with shock. A wall of changelings stood before them, blocking their way to the Elements. The group takes a step back, though turning around lets them see that the changelings that had been chasing them, had finally caught up to the group. Eclipse’s eyes glow red as she begins to gather power, her horn matching the glow of her eyes. Before she can release it however, a changeling slams into her, sending her into the wall, a loud cracking sound echoing through the area. She falls, cracks left behind from where she had hit the wall, landing on the ground with a thud. She shakily gets to her hooves, her magic fading as her eyes return to their normal colour, blood dripping down her forehead from a cut, and from they could see it was bleeding badly. She takes a step forward, stumbling and falling to the ground, her consciousness fading. “ECLIPSE!” Crevdar yells, immediately rushing to her side. The changelings walk closer to her, though Crevdar stands over her, his wing flared out as he stays in a protective stance. Eclipse’s blood drips down her face, falling onto the stone below, eating away at the pavement. A murmur ripples through the changelings once they take notice. “Demon.” “Monster.” “Devil.” “Beast.” “Savage.” “SHE IS NOT A DEMON!” Twilight snaps, her gaze falling on the black unicorn. Her ears flatten when she takes notice of the blood eating away at the stone. “...Is she?” Crevdar stands tall, not going down without a fight. He didn’t know what would happen to them. All he knew is that they had been captured. And without the Elements of Harmony, now they had no way of winning this battle. DefeatThey were being taken back to the main hall, where the wedding would take place, each being carried. Crevdar could hear voices coming through the large doors. “You won’t get away with this! Twilight and her friends will-” The doors open, the changeling queen looking at them for a split second before smirking. The pink alicorn, whom Crevdar recognizes as Cadance, looks surprised; Crevdar guesses she’s more surprised about the large group. Though when her eyes land on the unconscious body of Eclipse being carried on the back of a changeling, her eyes widen, shock mixed with horror reflected in her eyes. Chrysalis turns back to Cadance as the changelings dump the ponies onto the floor. “You were saying?” She turns to the group. “You do realize the reception’s been cancelled, don’t you?!” One of the changelings steps forward motioning to Eclipse. “That pony’s blood eats away at stone, it acts like acid!” Chrysalis blinks in surprise, pausing a moment as the information sinks in. She then nods. “Go, feed!” The changelings smirk, bolting out of the room, Chrysalis shutting the door behind them. She looks over to the green pod hanging from the ceiling. Crevdar doesn’t even have to looking inside to realize that Celestia is probably inside. “So now you house demons? I’d never thought you’d stoop so low. And you.” Her horn glows green as she lets out a blast of magic, hitting Crevdar and sending him flying a few feet back. The group gasps, Crevdar being forced back into his true form. Fang gulps, reverting to his changeling form before Chrysalis has a chance to hit him with magic. Chrysalis glares down at Crevdar as Fang stands protectively in front of him. “I should have known it was you who sent the warning to the Princesses!” Crevdar chuckles, weakly getting to his hooves. “I couldn’t just let you attempt the invasion without them knowing.” Chrysalis glares at him a moment longer before smirking, soon laughing as she walks to Twilight. “It’s funny, really. Twilight here was suspicious of my behavior all along.” She slides her hoof under Twilight’s chin, tilting her head up to look at her, though Twilight smacks her hoof away. Chrysalis flies over to Cadance. “Too bad the rest of you were too caught up in your wedding planning to realize those suspicion were correct!” She laughs. Applejack walks up to Twilight. “Sorry Twi, we should’ve listened to you.” Twilght shakes her head. “It’s not your fault, she fooled everypony.” Chrysalis smirks walking to the balcony. “Mm, I did, didn’t I?” She looks down to the chaos below. “This day has been just perfect...” Great. She’s singing now. Crevdar blocks out the annoyance as he slowly makes his way to Eclipse, who has yet to stir. His ears flatten slightly, as he slowly kneels down beside her. He can feel Twilight’s glare watching him, but he ignores that as he lightly nuzzles the black unicorn. “Please, wake up.” “Can you tell me what you remember before you fell asleep?” The black unicorn filly blinks up at her adopted sister in surprise, her ears flattening slightly. “B-before...?” Cadance nods. “The moment right before you fell asleep, I mean. Can you tell me that?” Eclipse thinks for a moment. “I remember... pain... I was in a lot of pain. The transformation from pony to demon... it was the most painful thing I’ve ever felt. I don’t remember much after that, blurry images and muffled whispers. So I don’t really know who put me in the crystal for ten thousand years.” Cadance nods. “Can you tell me of any earlier memories?” Eclipse nods. “I remember... a castle. Made of pure crystal. Father and Mother were the rulers of the castle. And a time... where alicorns were as common as any other pony.” Her ears flatten a she looks down. “Big sister?” Cadance blinks, surprised at being called “big sister,” though she smiles softly at the notion. “Yes Eclipse?” “W-will Father come back? Will he try to corrupt me too?” Cadance looks to the young filly, pulling her into her arms. “No. Even if he does, Aunt Celestia and I will make sure he stays away from you.” “P-promise?” “I promise.” Eclipse slowly blinks open her eyes, ignoring the throbbing pain in her head. She slowly sits up, though unable to contain her weight, and falls. Crevdar catches her before she hits the ground, holding her close in his arms. “You’re awake!” “C-Crev?” “My love will give you strength.” Eclipse blinks at the familiar voice, her ears perking. “C-Cadance...?” “What a lovely but absolutely ridiculous sentiment!” The other voice was unfamiliar. Eclipse closes her eyes, warmth spreading through her as Crevdar hold her. Crevdar can taste the love radiating from her, though ignores it. She’s awake, that’s all that matters. The two part once they feel something pass through them, Chrysalis’ screaming as a force field shoots her out, as well as the rest of the changeling army. Twilight rushes to Celestia’s side, whom was now laying on the ground, and helps her to her hooves. “Don’t worry about me, I’m fine.” Celestia casts her gaze to the two changelings and the demon. Fang shrinks back underneath Celestia’s gaze as Crevdar helps Eclipse to her hooves. “CREVY!” Pinkie exclaims, catching the changeling’s attention. “YOU DIDN’T TELL ME YOU WERE A CHANGELING!” “There was a reason for that...” Crevdar mumbles. Eclipse looks towards her former mentor, bowing her head. Crevdar and Fang walk toward Celestia, Twilight glaring at them. Once in front of the princess, Crevdar kneels down, Fang following his example as he does the same. “You’re highness,” Crevdar begins. “Though we come peacefully, we cannot make up for what our queen as done.” He looks up to the princess. “If you feel need to punish us as well, then we will not fight. Do what you believe to be right.” Celestia studies him for a few moments. “You were the one that sent me the warning, were you not?” Crevdar nods. “Fang fed me the information, and I passed it to you, so that you could defend yourself.” He looks to Cadance. “Though it seems I came a bit too late.” Celestia remains silent for a few moments, as the two changelings expect the worst. They are surprised when the see her smile. “If not for you, we would not have known about what was to come before it truly was too late. Therefore, I believe it’s only right that we allow you to stay, for helping us fight against your own to protect our kingdom.” The changelings stare at her in shock. “W-what??” Celestia places a hoof on Crevdar’s shoulder. “You both put yourselves in untold amounts of danger to help protect Equestria, even going as far as to have yourself banished in order to be of use. You have shown not only a great amount of courage today, but I believe you have also proved your loyalty to the kingdom.” Eclipse smiles lightly as the two changelings stare at the princess in a mix of shock and awe. Hoofsteps catches her attention; she turns to Cadance walking up to her. “Is... is it really you?” “Moonlight, moonlight, fireflies awake. Make a wish, and do a little shake.” Eclipse recites the old rhyme that the two did. Similar to the one Cadance and Twilight would recite to one another, though Eclipse much preferred night, so Cadance made a version of the rhyme just for her. Tears form in Cadance’s as the two embrace. “You just left, and you didn’t say where you were going or how long you’d be gone... I can’t believe you’re back!” Eclipse chuckles lightly as they part, a sweet smile on her face. “Did you truly believe I would miss my own sister’s wedding?” “But the question is, why? Why did you leave?” Twilight quietly asks as she walks up to Eclipse. Eclipse sighs, looking out the window at the damage below. “I believe... I owe you all an apology for leaving... and an explanation for my actions. Especially you, Twilight.” “That can wait.” Celestia smiles, turning to Twilight. “You have a real wedding to put together.” Preparing“So I will see you both at the wedding?” Eclipse asks, looking to the two, now disguised changelings. Crevdar opens his mouth to respond, but gets cut off by Pinkie glomping him, answering for him as she does. “Of course they are! And all of us are going to help them get ready!” Crevdar sighs, giving a small smile. “We don’t have a choice in this, do we?” The group was currently standing just outside the castle, on the steps, Cadance having gone with them. A whole of bunch questions were fired at Crevdar and Fang, whom answered as best they could. One question among them was “Why didn’t the magic shield affect them?” Crevdar had answered, “It keeps out threats only, since Fang and I aren’t threats, it had no effect on us.” While most of the Element bearers were wary of the two changelings, Pinkie was delighted at finding out her friend could shape-shift, and had started planning a wide array of pranks. Honestly, Crevdar will never understand that pony. Twilight had tried asking Eclipse why the changelings kept calling her a demon. Eclipse had simply smiled, telling her that such information would be better received after the wedding. Eclipse smiles giving a nod. “I believe my sister will be helping me get ready.” Twilight nods, giving a smile. “We’ll see you at the wedding!” The group waves, walking, or, in Pinkie’s case, bouncing away. Eclipse waved back to them, watching them walk off. “So...” Eclipse turn to Cadance when she starts to speak, both walking back into the castle. “You’ve taken an interest in one of the changelings, I see.” Eclipse perks a brow. Did she just get called out on a crush? By her sister of all ponies? Eclipse rolls her eyes, quickening her pace. “My love life serves no purpose for you.” Cadance smirks. “Oh, you just told me everything.” “I highly doubt that I did.” “So tell me, how did this start?~” Eclipse groans, knowing there was no way out of this. “It happened during the invasion...” “And we parted ways after that, and then met up again when we ran into you.” Crevdar finished explaining, everypony and everyling having his full attention after Twilight had called him out on his crush on Eclipse, the group currently sitting in Twilight's room. “Wait, she kissed you?!” Fang exclaims, his eyes wide. Crevdar rolls his eyes. “Only on the cheek, but... yeah...” He can feel a light blush rising to his face. Twilight thinks for a moment. “I can explain why you felt that warm feeling when she did that.” Crevdar looks to her, having now gained his full attention. “The first reason is yeah, she did cast a spell on you. I remember she told me she can cast a protection spell on anypony if she kisses them, even if was just a quick peck on the cheek, though she rarely cast the spell this way, making you special. But the other reason...” She smirks. “I think you love her.” “WHAT?!” Eclipse exclaims, looking to Cadence with disbelief. “You love him.” Cadance repeats, smiling to her sister. Eclipse shakes her head, willing the growing blush on her face away as she frantically waves her hooves in front of her. “NO! Nonononono! We just met, I couldn’t possibly-” Cadance puts a hoof on Eclipse’s shoulder, making her snap her mouth shut. “You know I can spot love from a mile away. And from what I’ve seen of your interactions, you both care a lot for each other. I think you two would be well together, as long as you can keep a steady relationship.” “B-but, I just met him! Surely a pony cannot fall in love that fast!” “Love at first sight can happen, as it has happened. I’m surprised it happened to you, I thought you would have waited until you got know the pony, or in this case changeling, before falling for him.” Eclipse thinks for a moment, looking out the window of her bedroom to the garden below. After a moment, she sighs, currently hating the fact that Cadance is one of the few ponies who can read her like an open book. “What should I do?” “Talk to her, duuuh!” Pinkie states as if it was the most obvious thing in the world while rolling her eyes. “Talk to her?” Crevdar repeats, earning a nod from the group of ponies. “Talk to her about what?” “Your interests, your likes and dislikes would be a good start.” Fluttershy responds. “Talking? Just... talking?” “Well you have to get to know her, darling.” Rarity interjects, using her magic to run a brush through Crevdar’s mane, much to his annoyance. “Talk about your hobbies, what you do for a living.” “Ya also gotta make time for you two to be together.” Applejack adds. “Find ways for you to get to know each other!” “Time, alright...” Eclipse mumbles as Cadance runs a brush through her mane. “Anything else?” “Just a few things. You need to be kind, which shouldn’t be too hard to do...” “Be loving...” “Be compassionate...” “Be ready...” “Be willing...” “Remember to listen...” “And remember one...” “Last...” “Important...” “Thing.” “What?” “He/She loves you, too.” Party“Let’s get this party started!” Love is in bloom. A beautiful bride, a handsome groom, Two hearts becoming one A bond that cannot be undone Everypony was laughing and dancing, Twilight and Eclipse singing a duet together as the party went on. While Twilight had been the best mare for the wedding, Eclipse had been the maid of honour, in celebration of her return. She had been formally introduced to Luna, since she had left before Luna had come back. Cadance had found Eclipse an elegant smoky grey and gold dress that she was currently wearing, Rarity having dressed up Crevdar in a black tux. Eclipse glances to Crevdar, a small grin splaying on her lips. She tosses her mic to Pinkie, who easily catches it. With her... tail? ... Eclipse has decided not to question it. Eclipse balanced on her hind hooves, spinning as she grins, holding out her hoof to Credvar. Crevdar simply blinks. “What-?” “Come on, dance with me!” Crevdar chuckles sheepishly. “N-no, I’d rather-” He doesn’t get to finish his sentence as Fang shoves him towards the black unicorn. Eclipse grabs Crevdar’s hoof as he glares back at his friend, though soon finds himself laughing with Eclipse as the party goes on. “Did you see Fluttershy taking Twilight back to her room? I swear that pony can’t hold her punch! She was passed right out!” “Don’t forget Applejack having to drag Rarity back to her room, I think the punch was making her too emotional. Applejack seems to able to hold her punch just fine, though.” “I’m blaming cider on that one.” “Also, did you notice Rainbow sneaking off with Soarin?” “Soarin? You mean the Wonderbolt Soarin?!” “Mmhmm. I think there’s something between them~” The two ponies burst out laughing. Crevdar and Eclipse were sitting at a table, observing what remained of the party. Most ponies had left, but some remained and the music still played. “Wait...” Crevdar looks around. “Where did Pinkie go?” “She’s over there with Fang.” Eclipse states, pointing to the pink pony. Crevdar follows to where she was pointing. Pinkie was just in front of the sound system, fast asleep and cuddling up to Fang, who was also sleeping. The sight made the two ponies burst out laughing. Eclipse wipes a tear from her eye. “That will be awkward when they wake up tomorrow!” The two calm down as they watch they watch the remainder of the party, silence overcoming them. “...Rose.” Crevdar looks to Eclipse, confused. “What?” Eclipse sighs, looking up to the moon. “Crystal Rose. That... was my name. Before I became a demon.” “...Before?” Eclipse nods. “I wasn’t always a demon. I was a pony once, long ago.” “What happened to make you change?” “I promised Twilight that I would explain everything tomorrow. I’d rather wait until then to tell you as well.” Crevdar gives a small nod. Silence overtakes them once more, Crevdar using the time to study Eclipse closer. Her blood red main flows gently in the breeze, her golden yellow eyes reflecting in the light of the moon, the moonlight making her shine beautifully. Crevdar can feel heat rising to his cheeks as he looks away, not wanting to be caught staring. He couldn’t deny she was beautiful, as well as kind, and sweet. His ear twitches, noticing the music slowing down to a slowdance song. Crevdar pauses for a moment, a small idea forming in his head. He stands, catching the attention of Eclipse. He walks so he stands in front of her, holding out his hoof. “May I have this dance?” Eclipse stares at him form a few moments before a small smile makes its way onto her face. “Of course.” She takes Crevdar’s hoof. He smiles, leading them to dance floor. Carefully, they stand on their hind legs, Eclipse placing on hoof on his shoulder as she takes his hoof, Crevdar placing his free hoof on her waist. They soon start to dance to the music, swaying to the rhythm. Crevdar blushes slightly, looking away from Eclipse. “You look... lovely.” Eclipse gives a gentle laugh. “You’re looking handsome, yourself.” The comment makes the blush on Crevdar’s face worsen, as he mumbles a quiet “thank you.” A pause comes between them. Crevdar lets out a breath, looking into Eclipse’s golden yellow hues. “E-Eclipse... listen, I, uh... I-” Eclipse blinks, using her magic to shush him. “If you cannot use words to tell me, use your actions instead.” Her magic fades, Crevdar blinking slightly. He closes his eyes, leaning in. Eclipse’s eyes flutter close as she leans in as well, their lips connecting. The kiss was soft and sweet. Not needy, but loving. No words were needed, as they both expressed all they needed in the kiss. ExplanationsAuthor's Note WARNING! This chapter contains self-harm! It's brief, but still there! Explanations Everypony sat in a circle, the train heading to Ponyville already moving and the conductor having already checked their tickets. Eclipse’s horns glows red, using her magic to put a bubble of silence up around them. Twilight blinks. “Why’d you do that?” “I put up the bubble, for what I am about to say should not be heard by unwanted ears. Nor should any of you reveal my words to anypony, or anyling else. Am I understood?” Everyone in the room nods. Eclipse gives a small nod, looking to Twilight. “State your question.” “Alright... why were all the changelings calling you a demon?” Eclipse sighs. “Because I am a demon.” Silence is met with the response, Rainbow being the first to break the silence. “...What?” Twilight stares at her old friend. “I don’t understand, how can you be a demon?” Using her magic, Eclipse open the saddle bags she had brought with her, taking out a piece of parchment, and, to everyone’s surprise and slight horror, a knife. She holds the piece of parchment in front of her, holding out her arm just above it. Before anypony could stop her, she takes the knife, and slices open her wrist. Everyone stares at her in horror as she lets her blood drip down, landing on the paper below. It doesn’t take long before everyone notices the blood eating away at parchment like acid. Eclipse licks the blood off of her arm, as to not injure anypony or destroy any more objects, her wound now having fully healed. Twilight looks to Eclipse. “B-but... demons aren’t real! They’re just a story, a myth!” “Demons are real, Spark. I’m living proof of that.” Eclipse simply replies. “But... I wasn’t always a demon.” “You weren’t?” Rainbow asks. “Then what were you?” “I was a pony. Just like you.” Fluttershy stares at Eclipse. “How did you change?” “Once, long ago, there was a kingdom. The kingdom was powerful, and well respected. The ponies that resided in the kingdom were happy, for the rulers, two unicorns, ruled with a firm but kind hoof. The castle which they resided in, was made purely out of crystal.” An image appears in front of them, ponies running around happily, and two unicorns watching over them from the balcony of a crystal castle. “The rulers... were my parents.” The image changes, showing a young unicorn filly, her coat orange, and her hair brown, a green bow adorning her hair. She closely resembles Eclipse, having the exact same eyes colour as her and the same crystal rose cutiemark. Fluttershy blinks at the image. “I-is that you?” Eclipse smiles softly, giving a nod. “Yes, that is me.” The filly was sitting on her bed, looking out to the ponies below, her gaze sad. Eclipse watches the image. “I was very sick when I was younger, hardly able to move from my bed.” The door to the filly’s room opens, catching her attention. Two unicorns enter the room, the first a mare, with a light blue coat, an aqua green mane that fades to gold, tied back in a loose ponytail, her eyes purple, a green scarf was tied around her neck. The second was a colt, his coat aqua green, his short mane purple, his eyes green, a golden cross hanging from his neck. The filly smiles at the sight of them, the colt’s horn glowing green as he uses his magic to gently pick up the filly, setting her on his back. The three leave, the image changing to that of a garden, made purely from crystal roses. The colt was sitting down beside the filly, whom was sitting beside him, allowing her to lean on him. The filly watches the mare, whom is standing in front of them. At a guess, she was telling a story. “My siblings were always there for me, always taking care of me. They would take me to the garden, let me sit among the flowers. Aurora, my sister, would always tell me stories while my brother, Dawn Light, looked after me, made sure I didn’t become too weak.” The image changes, now showing a unicorn colt as he paces the castle’s throne room, his coat green, his short mane blue, his eyes amber, a golden crown resting atop his head. “My father became troubled by my sickness. He had thought to take me to one of the alicorns that had watched over the land, but he feared I would not make the journey. He also feared that if he sent a message to them, they would be to late when they came. So he turned to a new magic... a magic that corrupted him, turning him into a demon king of shadows. A dark, forbidden magic...” Eclipse’s eyes glow blood red, everyponies eyes glowing the same colour as she connects their minds. A silver colt with a dark grey mane stands before the filly, his midnight blue bat-like wings spread wide as his piercing red eyes boring into her, black smoke seeping out of his eyes. The filly had been injured badly, looking as if she could fall and die at any moment, though she was using every last bit of her strength to stand, looking up to her father with tear-filled eyes, the kingdom lay in ruins around them. “FATHER, STOP THIS! CAN YOU NOT SEE THE DESTRUCTION YOU’VE CAUSED?!” The colt glares at her. “You should be thankful, Crystal Rose. Everything I’ve done was to help you.” “HOW IS THIS HELPING ANYPONY?!” The colt’s horn glows with a black aura, the filly lifting up into the air. Shadow covers her form; her eyes glowing pitch black a she screams, the pain of the transformation almost unbearable. The memory fades, Eclipse’s eyes returning to their normal colour as she disconnects their minds. “My memory after that is fuzzy. I don’t really remember what happened, but I was put to sleep, encased in crystal. After ten thousand years, the casing broke, and I woke up. Celestia had started looking after me then, Cadance soon adopting me as her sister.” Eclipse looks to the ponies around her. Most of them having tears in their eyes from her memory. Though some, like Rainbow Dash, were trying to hide the fact that they were crying. Eclipse lowers her ears. “The reason for my not telling you sooner, Spark, was because Celestia had ordered me to keep my being a demon a secret, as to protect me. If anypony found out that a demon was still alive, living in the castle none the less... that would have caused chaos.” “Why did... why did you leave?” Twilight asks, her voice cracking slightly as she wipes the tears from her eyes. “Celestia had taught me many things, but some things; I needed to learn on my own. But, I was... searching, as well.” “For what?” “...A way to reverse this curse.” Eclipse whispers. Silence is met with the response. The train comes to a halt, Eclipse’s horn ceasing its glow as she takes down the bubble, rising to her hooves. “Come, this is our stop.” HomeThe walk through Ponyville was silent; nopony speaking after what Eclipse had shown them. Eclipse was silent as well, the pain of her memories taking its toll on her. Once nearing the library, Rarity was the first one to break the silence. “You were a Princess?” Eclipse chuckles lightly. “I still am, Miss Rarity. I am a Demon Princess of Shadows. But I am also a Princess of Equestria. After all, Cadance is my sister, thus making Celestia and Luna my aunts.” The group stops in front of the library, Twilight looking to Eclipse, her ears flat against her head. “Eclipse, I’m so sorry. I didn’t realize-” Eclipse simply smiles. “How could you? T’was by Celestia’s own orders that I kept this information from you.” She lets out a breath. “I have lived long past my time, and seen so much death, so much suffering...” She sighs, giving a light smile. “But here, now, I can finally see all the light, all the good that was stolen from me.” Twilight hugs Eclipse, the black unicorn quick to return her embrace. The soon part, Fluttershy speaking up. “So... where are you going to stay?” Eclipse blinks. “I... never really thought of that. I suppose I was going to see if I could find somewhere around here where I could stay. I believe my travels are finished.” “You could... stay with me... i-if you want...” Crevdar states, blushing slightly. Eclipse smiles, walking over to him and nuzzling him lightly. “I would like that.” Twilight gives a small smile, looking over to Fang. “Fang, you could stay with me and Spike in the library until we’re able to find you your own place to live.” Fang blinks. “R-really? T-thank you!” Twilight grins. “It’s no problem! Besides, it’ll give me a chance to study changelings more closely!” “Well, I think it’s time we all go and get some rest.” Eclipse states, earning a nod from the ponies around her. Each pony gave their goodbyes before going in their separate directions, Eclipse following Crevdar to their home. Crevdar smiles lightly. “You know, I’m kind of glad the invasion happened.” Eclipse blinks, looking to the disguised changeling. “Why?” “Because if it hadn’t, I would never have met you.” Eclipse smiles sweetly at the response, giving Crevdar a quick kiss on his cheek, making him blush. “I’m glad it happened, then, too.” Crevdar smiles, leading the way into the house. The house wasn’t big, just enough for two ponies. Right now, it was all they needed. The two head up the stairs to the master bedroom, getting into the bed and curling up. Crevdar wraps his hooves around Eclipse’s waist, Eclipse gently resting her head against his chest, listening to his heartbeat. Everything was peaceful, perfect. “...Do you think everypony knows?” “Mm? Knows what?” “That I’m a demon.” Crevdar smiles, gently nuzzling Eclipse, which she returns. “I don’t think Celestia would allow that information to get out, as long as it’s to protect you.” “Like how she didn’t say anything about you be a changeling?” “Just like that.” Eclipse smiles, lightly pecking Crevdar’s nose. “...Thank you.” Crevdar blushes, though gives a small smile, lightly kissing the top of her head. “You’re welcome.” As the two drift off to sleep, they can’t help but think back on the days leading up to now. Both thankful that they were able to meet, and both eagerly looking forward to whatever the future held in store for them. Author's Note And here marks the end of the story! Thank you everyone for your support, and I hope you enjoyed it! Fateful MeetingHooves pound against the stone streets as a black mare dashes through the streets, a grey filly holding tightly onto her as she carries the young pegasus on her back. The sounds of the raging battle echo all around them. The mare’s golden yellow eyes dart all around, her mind racing to find the quickest route to the safe house she has made. Skidding to a stop, the mare’s long blood red mane falls so it covers her right eye. Narrowing her eyes, her horn glows red as she lifts the filly off of her back, setting her down gently beside her. The filly whimpers from fear as he quickly darts underneath the mare, latching onto her arm. The mare bites back a smile as she scans her surroundings. “Stay close to me, understand?” The filly nods, her long golden mane bouncing slightly at the action as her green eyes dart around fearfully. The mare’s eyes flicker to where a flash of black catches her eye, her eyes narrowing slightly as she takes a defensive stance. Her horn glows red a she builds up power, her eyes glowing red. A changeling bursts out from its cover, heading straight for the pair. Concentrating her power, a beam of red magic shoots from the mare’s horn, hitting the changeling and blasting it into a nearby wall, effectively knocking it out. The filly looks up at the mare in awe as the mare’s eyes return to their normal colour, her magic dying down. The mare lets out a breath, taking a quick glance around. “You alright?” The filly nods. “Y-yeah, I’m- LOOK OUT!” The mare looks up in time to see a changeling heading directly toward her, though a brown and black blur slams into the changeling, knocking it into the ground as the pair get caught in their own fight. From what the mare could tell, a brown pegasus colt was fighting off the changeling. Blinking slightly, the mare furrows her brows in confusion. “He’s a changeling, too. Why is he fighting his own?” She shakes her head, nudging the filling toward a house that is encased in a magic shield. “Hide there, they won’t be able to get to you.” The filly looks back to the mare. “W-what about you?” “Others need my help. Don’t worry about me, I’ll be fine.” The filly nods, dashing for the house, the shield allowing her to pass as she quickly makes her way inside. The mare watches the filly, letting her guard down as she makes sure the young pony gets to safety. A changeling slams into her side; send her rolling onto the ground. She hisses slightly as the impact causing a cut to open on her face. She glares at the changeling above her whom as her pinned to the ground. The brown colt slams into the changeling, sending it flying a few feet away from the mare. The mare blinks, getting up and watching as the colt flies over to the changeling, grabbing its head and slamming it down into the ground, knocking it out. Panting slightly, the brown colt folds his wings neatly against him, his long black mane slightly ruffled from the fight. He turns to face the mare, his emerald eyes looking into her golden yellow eyes. “You alright?” “I’m fine.” The mare replies, ignoring the blood dripping down her face from the cut she had received. The colt narrows his eyes, walking up to the mare. “You’re injured.” He lifts his hoof to try and get a better look at the wound, but the mare slaps it away. “I don’t need your help, changeling!” The colt takes a step back. “How did you-?!” “My eyes can see through your disguise.” The mare simply replies, relaxing her stance slightly. “But you have yet to hurt me. Why do you fight your own kind?” “Long story...” The colt mutters. The mare simply nods in reply. Silence comes over the pair. The colt shifts slightly, moving forward and lifting his hoof towards the mare’s wound once more, causing the mare to take a step back. The colt sighs. “I’m not gonna hurt you.” “It’s not I who I am afraid will be injured.” The mare deadpans. The colt blinks in confusion. “Wha-?” He watches as the blood drips from her face, landing on the stone below them. His eyes widen slightly as he notices the blood starts to eat away at the stone, acting as a form of acid. He takes a step back. “D-demon-!” The mare tilts her head slightly. “I am.” “Th-then why are you helping ponies?! Shouldn’t you be causing them chaos?!” “I could ask you the same question.” The colt pauses a moment to think. “Fair point.” He relaxes a bit. “So... does the demon have a name?” The mare shrugs. “I do, but I have not used it in many years. But you may call me Eclipse.” “So, Eclipse isn’t your real name?” “The name has been dead and lost for over ten thousand years. Eclipse has become my name.” “Oh...” “...Does the changeling have a name?” The colt blinks slightly. “H-huh? Oh, it’s ah... it’s Crevdar...” “Crevdar...” Eclipse repeats. “That means “Changer”, does it not?” The colt nods. “I’m surprised you know its meaning.” Eclipse shrugs. “I may have been asleep for ten thousand years, but my knowledge is still vast.” The pair duck as a changeling comes flying overhead, smashing into the side of the building. Crevdar blinks, standing straight as he stares at the changeling. “You should probably find somewhere to hide until the battle is over.” Eclipse chuckles, walking past Crevdar as she runs her tail underneath his chin, a blush erupting on the brown colt’s face as blood rushes to his wings, sending them up into the air. “That’s awfully sweet of you, Crevy. But I assure you, I can take care of myself.” Crevdar stutters for a few moments before awkwardly coughing into his hoof, looking away from Eclipse as he tries to control the blush on his face. “Still, it’s dangerous out here, its best if you find somewhere to hide until the battle has passed.” “I would be more concerned about yourself, a demon’s wounds will heal quickly, a mortal’s wounds will not.” Crevdar thinks for a moment. Glancing to the wound on Eclipse’s cheek, he sees that it has already healed. “...Huh.” Smiling slightly, Eclipse walks forward, pressing a swift kiss to Crevdar’s cheek, causing blush to once again erupt on his face. Crevdar blinks, confused by the warm feeling spreading through him and the taste of love he is feeling in his mouth him from the gesture. “W-what was that for?!” “A gift, to help protect you in battle.” Eclipse simply replies, quickly turning on her heel and dashing down the streets. Crevdar stares blankly after her, ignoring the chaos around him. A smile makes its way onto his face as he spreads his wings out, taking into the air. He certainly won’t forget his encounter with the oddly sweet demon. Epilogue“Cadence! How much longer?” “Not much longer.” “You already said that on the train ride.” The pink alicorn laughs gently at her adopted sister, whom is currently blindfolded, and being gently guided by Crevdar, whom has a protected wing wrapped around her form. “Well, this time it’s true. We’re only a few feet away.” The train ride here was long, neither Crevdar nor Cadance telling Eclipse where they were going. Eclipse’s ears twitch as the sound of other ponies, the sunlight warm on her body as she huffs. “And why, pray tell, do I have to be blindfolded?” Crevdar chuckles. “Because it’s a surprise.” Eclipse pouts slightly. “But I wanna know now! I don’t like being blindfolded!” Cadance smiles, stopping as Crevdar and Eclipse stop beside her. “Well, we’re here anyway.” “So I can take off the blindfold?” “You can take it off.” Eclipse’s horn glow red as she undoes the blindfold, letting it slip off her face as her magic fades, blinking in the sun light, her eyes widening at the sight before her. Crevdar looks to Eclipse. “I know it’s not like before, but...” “No... no...” Tears form in Eclipse’s eyes as she smiles. “It’s perfect.” Cadance smiles. “Welcome home, sister.” Crevdar smiles, lightly nuzzeling Eclipse as she laughs, happy tears falling down her face. “Welcome to the Crystal Empire, Princess.” Author's Note Whoops, I lied! There was one last chapter! Short and sweet
Distant MemoriesEclipse’s hooves slap against the stone street as she dodges an oncoming changeling. It was disguised as a pink pony, but it was still a changeling. Thoughts swam around in the black mare’s head. How did this happen? Why is it happening? Is everyone alright? Is the princess safe? Eclipse pauses. The princess... Panic takes hold at the thought of the white alicorn. Is she alright? Is she injured? What if she’s captured? What if- “Don’t let fear control you.” Eclipse blinks as a familiar voice echoes through her head. “If fear takes hold, then it will fester, soon controlling your thoughts and emotions.” “Like the Nightmare did with Luna?” “...Just like with Luna.” Eclipse closes her eyes, letting the memory take hold. A black filly looks expectantly to her teacher, the white alicorn watching her warily. “Are you ready?” The filly nods. “Yes, Celestia.” The alicorn nods, her horn glowing in a golden light. “Be careful, Eclipse. Do not be afraid to tell me when to stop.” The filly doesn’t respond, just watches as the area is covered in shadow. Her golden yellow eyes scan the darkness surrounding her as she begins to wander, searching for something, but what is unknown. “Cr...l.......se....” Eclipse’s eyes widen at the voice, her ears flattening against her head. “That’s not my name...” “Cr....al...ose...” “THAT’S NOT MY NAME!” Eclipse screams into the darkness, what appears to be blood red smoke starts to seep from her eyes. She whips around when she spots a flash of silver. Her breathing comes out ragged as she begins to panic. Turning on her heel, she starts to run, only to crash into something, causing her to fall onto the floor. Groaning slightly, Eclipse rubs her head, her eyes widening in fear when she looks up. A silver colt with a dark grey mane stands before her, his midnight blue bat-like wings spread wide as his piercing red eyes boring into Eclipse’s golden yellow eyes, black smoke seeping out of his eyes. No words form in Eclipse’s mouth as she scrambles backwards, the colt following her with every step. “Rose.” “T-that’s not my name...” Eclipse whispers. “It is your name, whether you like it or not!” The colt snaps. “You are what you are, there is no denying it!” “No... No... I was a pony once... THEN YOU RUINED IT!” Eclipse gasps as shadows wrap around her throat, lifting her up into the air as she attempts to claw it away, as it is cutting off her oxygen. The colt snarls. “I SAVED you! If it were not for my actions, you would have died!” “DEATH WOULD HAVE BEEN A BETTER ALTERNATIVE THAN THIS!” Eclipse yelps as she is slammed against the ground, blood dripping from a cut that has opened up on her head. “Your ungratefulness I find offensive.” “I find... your actions offensive... father...” The colts eyes narrow. “I will teach you better respect!” “NO!” Shadows shoot from Eclipse, latching onto the colt as her eyes glow blood red. The colt screams as the shadows rip him apart, their hollow white eyes empty and emotionless. Eclipse closes her eyes as she begins to cry, shaking as sobs wrack through her body. Arms quickly wrap around Eclipse’s small form, she doesn’t have to open her eyes to know that those arms belonged to Celestia. “I think our lesson is finished for today.” Eclipse doesn’t respond, she just clings to Celestia as she sobs. The sound of a door opening and closing echoes through the room, hooves silently walking across the floor. “Aunt Celestia?” Celestia looks to the pink alicorn that had entered the room. “Cadance. I think Eclipse needs some time to calm down. Would you look after her today?” Cadance nods. “Of course.” Celestia smiles, nudging Eclipse over to Cadance, whom scoops the young filly into her arms, holding her close as her sobs quiet down, though her body still shakes. Cadance hesitates slightly. “I’m foalsitting Twilight today. Would it be alright-?” Celestia nods. “No pony is to know of her true nature. But perhaps a friend will be helpful to her studies.” Cadance nods, looking down to the terrified black unicorn. “How should I introduce her?” “Tell Twilight that she’s your sister. It’s better to hide what she is then it is for everypony to know.” Eclipse opens her eyes, blinking slightly at the sight before her. Changelings lay knocked out in front of her, red static emanating from their bodies. “Don’t let fear control you...” “But let only a little slip through if you have no other alternative...” Eclipse mumbles the rest of the sentence. She closes her eyes. “I remember a time, long ago...” Opening her eyes, determination washes over Eclipse as she starts running toward the castle. “I’m coming! Please be alright!” Her horns glows red as she shoots beams of magic at the changelings, having now entered the bulk of the fight, most of the changelings now disguised as rainbow-coloured ponies. Though through all the fighting, through all the chaos, Eclipse finds her thoughts wandering back to the strange changeling she had met earlier. She looks up to the sky, “Please let him be safe...”
TraitorCrevdar’s wings vibrate with every move as he dashes through the air, dodging and fighting each changeling that gets in his way. All the while he finds his thoughts returning to Eclipse. Groaning, he lands, green fire covering him as he changes to his changeling form, though emerald green replaces the blue colour that the other changelings have. “Why can’t I get her off my mind?” He blinks. “Could... she have put a spell on me?” He thinks back to the taste of love she had left for him. Shaking his head, he rubs his temple with his hoof. “No, that couldn’t be it. Demon full of love...” He trails off, his thoughts rebounding back to the black mare, effectively causing him to space out. She’s a demon, that much is certain. But she was helping ponies get to safety, going as far as to make a safe house for them. Ignoring that, she seemed to be radiating in love, something you wouldn’t expect a demon to be full of. Everything about the black mare was strange, even how she introduced herself. “So... does the demon have a name?” “I do, but I have not used it in many years. But you may call me Eclipse.” “So, Eclipse isn’t your real name?” “The name has been dead and lost for over ten thousand years. Eclipse has become my name.” Eclipse said she had a name before her current name. So what was it? Why’d she change it? “Well, what have we here?” The voice snaps Crevdar from his thoughts. Looking up, his eyes narrow at the two changelings in front of him. He can see a third, though the third hangs back away from them. “Chip. Night.” Crevdar greets the two, though his voice is tinted slightly with disgust. One smirks, stepping forward so he stands directly in front of Crevdar. “I knew I recognized your odd colour. Figures we’d run into you here, traitor.” “Save your breath Chip.” Crevdar spits, glaring slightly at the other changeling, who is currently giggling to herself. Chip snorts, his blue eyes boring into Crevdar’s emerald eyes. “You still think running to the ponies is a better plan then what we are doing now?” “It’s logical, and I can eat, feeding off of ponies around me, unlike you who are starving. We could have lived in harmony with the ponies, we could have pleaded with the Princess and have her help us! You idiots have thrown that chance away!” Crevda snaps, his wings flaring out in anger. Night rolls her eyes. “You ran willing to the ponies. You tried to warn them of our plans. Guess that didn’t turn out so well, huh?” Crevdar smirks. “Oh. But it did work, didn’t it? The captain of the guard put up the protective shield to keep you out!” “We still got in, didn’t we?” “Wait...” Chip’s eyes narrow as he circles Crevdar. Crevdar just glares at the changeling as he shifts back into his disguise. Chip stops in front of Crevdar. “Why do I feel love coming from you?” Crevdar stiffens slightly as Night bursts out laughing. “Don’t tell me you actually fell for one of the stupid ponies?!” Chip joins in the laughter as Crevdar glares at the two as a light blush covers his face. After a few moments, Crevdar smirks. “She’s not a pony, per se...” This catches the attention of the two changelings. “Then what is she?” Crevdar’s smirk grows. “Demon.” The two changelings immediately jump back. “D-demon?! Surely you’re joking!” “Nope.” “B-but she didn’t cast a s-spell on you, r-right?” Night laughs nervously. “Oh, I don’t know...” Crevdar trails off, using his power to make his eyes pure red. “Did she?” The two changelings scream as they scramble to get away from Crevdar, yelling incoherent words as they do. Crevdar rolls his eyes as they return to their emerald green colour. “Morons...” “C-Crev?” Crevdar looks to the third changeling who slowly makes his way over. “Fang? What are you doing here?” The changeling shuffles slightly on his hooves. “I-I heard you were staying in Canterlot, so I... I joined the invasion s-so I could find you.” Crevdar perks a brow. “Why?” “T-to see if your offer still stands.” Crevdar smiles lightly. “You should have just come with me when I offered the chance.” Fang shrugs. “I didn’t realize which was the right choice until Chrysalis began the invasion.” Crevdar nods. “Disguise yourself and follow me.” Crevdar orders as he begins to walk away. Fang gives a quick salute, green flame covering him as he changes his form into a green earth pony with a short blue mane. Blinking his purple eyes, he quickly catches up to Crevdar and falls in step with him. “I will follow your orders, General.” Crevdar snorts. “You’re the only one that will. And I’m no longer a General, remember? That title was stripped from me at the time of my banishment.” Fang nods. “Right...” There’s a slight pause. “D-do you really think w-we can live peacefully among t-the ponies?” “I’ve been doing it for a while now.” Credvar simply states. “It’s possible, and I am able to feed from those around me. The others are too blind to see it.” “...Was that true?” Crevdar blinks. “Was what true?” “T-that you’ve fallen for a demon? A-and that the demon cast a spell on you?” Crevdar hesitates. “No spell has been cast on me. At least, I don’t think one has. As for your first question...” He sighs. “Truthfully, I don’t know. But... I think it’s possible that I have.”
SparkSmoke comes from Eclipse’s horn as her breathing is heavy, the weariness from the battle beginning to take its toll on her. Many changelings lay before her fighting others, though the changelings are disguised. Eclipse scans her surroundings, her eyes flashing red as they allow her to see past the changelings disguises. Her hooves pound against the stone pavement as she makes her way through the hoard, dodging or defending from the oncoming changelings attacking her. A familiar flash of purple catches her eye as she skids to a stop, her eyes widening in surprise as she stares blankly at the purple pony a few feet in front of her, currently fighting off changelings. “Spark?” A pony slams into Eclipse, sending the two rolling across the ground. Eclipse groans, blinking open her eyes and staring into a pair of very familiar emerald green eyes. She blinks, noticing their position and blushing lightly, not noticing the blush on Crevdar’s own face. Crevdar is standing over top of Eclipse, practically pinning her to the ground. Silence overcomes the two as neither of them moves. Eclipse clears her throat, her voice coming out as a whisper. “C-could you get off of m-me please?” “O-oh, right...” Crevdar gets off of Eclipse, helping her get up. “Sorry.” Eclipse gives a sheepish smile, willing her blush away before Crevdar could see it, Crevdar just simply looking away, rubbing the back of his neck. Eclipse looks up to the purple pony, a blast of magic coming from her horn as she blasts a changeling away. Sucking in a breath, Eclipse takes a step towards her. “HEY, SPARK!” Crevdar blinks as he notices the purple unicorn face them, his eyes widening as she lets out a blast of magic. Eclipse’s horn glows red as she puts up a shield around them, the magic blast scattering around the shield as Crevdar stands there, shocked by how powerful both ponies magic seems to be. The blast soon dies down, the purple unicorn standing before them panting. With a simple wave of her head, Eclipse lowers the shield, her horn stopping its glow. She stands firm, not looking even a little tired from the magic she just spent. “Now now, Spark. Is that any way for you to treat an old friend?” The purple pony blinks, relaxing from her attacking stance slightly. “Eclipse?” She shakes her head, returning to her stance. “No, she’s dead! You’re just a changeling trying to mess with me!” Eclipse watches her for a few moments before closing her eyes. Her horn glows red, Crevdar and the unicorn both watching her, confused. A blue rose, made of pure crystal appears in front of Eclipse, matching the cutiemark on her flank. It is held up with her magic, tinted red from her magic aura. Eclipse opens her eyes, gently sending the crystal rose to the purple unicorn, whom takes it using her own magic. The unicorn studies the rose, tears soon forming in her eyes. “It is you...” Eclipse gives a small smile. “Hello, Twilight.” The purple pony slowly walks over to Eclipse, the rose now long forgotten. She stands in front of the black mare, studying every detail of her old friend, whom just watches her every movement. After a few moments, Twilight lifts up her hoof, slapping Eclipse across the face. Crevdar stares in shock, Eclipse’s head cocked to the side from the impact, her mane falling over her eyes, though she does not move. Angered tears fill Twilight’s eyes as she start to yell. “YOU ABONDONED ME! YOU LEFT WITHOUT WARNING, WITHOUT TELLING ME! YOU SENT NO LETTERS, NOT TO ME NOR ANYPONY ELSE!” She snaps, lowering her head as her voice coming out at a whisper. “I thought you were dead...” Eclipse turns her head to look at Twilight, tears falling down the purple unicorn’s face. “I... suppose I deserved that.” Her horn glows red as she picks up the rose, gently putting it in Twilight’s mane, causing the mare to look up at her. “I know, I should have told you where I had gone. I was unkind to let you think something had happened to me.” She lifts her hoof, gently wiping the tears from Twilight’s eyes. “But I came back, and I’m here now. And I can promise you, I’m not leaving again.” Twilight stares at her for a moment before embracing her, Eclipse quickly returning the hug. “I missed you.” Crevdar smiles lightly at the scene. Fang runs up behind him, panting as he skids to a stop. “Thought... I lost... you...!” He looks to the two mares as the part, now happily talking to each other, the battle long forgotten. “Who are they?” “The black mare is Eclipse, the other from what I’ve gathered, is Twilight.” Crevdar responds. Twilight looks over to the two colts, just noticing their appearance. “Eclipse, who’s your friends?” Eclipse looks over to the changelings, giving a small smile. “Them? Well, I don’t know who one is, but the other is-” “CREVY!” A pink blur slams into Crevdar, sending him a few feet away as the pink pony tackle hugs him. “What are you doing here?! I didn’t know you were here! Did you come for the wedding??” Crevdar squirms slightly the pink earthpony’s grip, attempting to push her away. “P-Pinkie Pie-! C-can’t breathe-!” The pink pony giggles, quickly letting him go as he collapses on the ground, coughing and trying to regain his breath. The pink pony turns to Twilight, waving to her. “Hi Twilight! Who’s your friend?” Twilight just blinks, her gaze shifting between Crevdar and Pinkie. “You two know each other?” “Of course! I know everyone, and I mean everyone in Ponyville!” Pinkie responds, bouncing over to Eclipse. “Hi, I’m Pinkie Pie, the bestest party pony around!” Eclipse giggles lightly at the pink mare, giving a smile. “Pleasure to meet you, Miss Pie! I am Eclipse, an old friend of Twilight.” Pinkie grins. “Nice to meet you, Eclipse!” She turns to Fang. “And what’s your name?” Crevdar stands up, shaking some dust from his coat. “This is Fang, a close friend of mine.” “H-hi!” Fang stutters his greeting. Eclipse looks to Twilight. “Spark, where were you going before you ran into us?” Twilight blinks, facehoofing. “How could I forget?! We need to get to the Elements of Harmony, and quickly!” Eclipse blinks. “Elements of Harmony?” The words were vaguely familiar. She closes her eyes, another memory taking hold. “Celestia?” “Yes, Eclipse?” “Where did you find me?” The white alicorn blinks, looking to the black filly sitting beside her. “I’m sorry...?” “I was asleep for a long time.” Eclipse states, looking up to her teacher. “Where did you find me?” Celestia thinks for a moment, looking out the window to the full moon. “My sister and I... We found you, many years ago, near the Tree of Harmony.” “And I was asleep, right?” Celestia nods. “Yes, you were. It was quite odd, you were... completely encased in crystal.” “Did you try to wake me?” “We did, but we could not get past the crystal encasing you. Something was preventing us, and I believe whatever it was, it was protecting you. After some time, the casing shattered on its own.” “And that’s how I woke up?” “Yes, that’s how you woke up.” “Helloooooo? Anypony home?” Eclipse blinks, jumping back slightly as Pinkie waves a hoof in front of her face. She coughs, turning her head as she fights the embarrassed blush rising to her face. “Come, we must get to the elements before the changelings overtake us!”
CapturedIt wasn’t long before the group had gathered nearly all of the Element bearers, thanks to Eclipse’s ability to see through any disguise. Twilight had introduced each, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rarity. Twilight had informed them that only one remained, a rainbow pegasus named Rainbow Dash. The group was fighting their way through the bulk of the fight, Eclipse’s golden yellow eyes raking over the scene until... “THERE!” She yells, pointing to where the rainbow coloured pony was fighting off a duplicate of herself. Twlight’s horn glows, turning to face the two. There is a small pause as she hesitates, panic growing on her face. “I CAN’T TELL WHICH IS WHICH!” “I can.” Eclipse’s horn glows as she lets out a blast of magic, sending the disguised changeling that had pinned Rainbow flying into a wall. Rainbow blinks in surprise, gently getting to her hooves and looking over to the group. She opens her mouth to say something, but is tackled by Pinkie in a hug before she can say anything. “Pinkie-!” The Element bearers giggles as they all go to greet their friend, much to Rainbow’s annoyance. Eclipse smiles lightly scene, though stumbles. Crevdar catches her before she falls, helping back onto her hooves. “You alright?” Eclipse nods, leaning slightly onto him, which causes the brown colt to blush lightly. “Just... tired. I’ve used a lot of my energy in the fight.” The mares break apart, Twilight walking to Eclipse. “That was amazing, how are you able to see past their disguises?” Eclipse smiles. “That’s part of what I am, Twi. No lie can fool me, and my eyes can see through any disguise.” Twilight blinks, looking to her old friend in confusion. “What you are...?” Eclipse gets up from her position, walking over to Rainbow. “You are Rainbow Dash, correct?” Rainbow smirks. “The one and only!” Eclipse smiles lightly. “Pleasure to make your acquaintance! I am Eclipse, an old friend of Twilight's!” She turns to the others. “Twilight, all the Element bearers have been gathered; now you must lead us to where they are kept!” Twilight blinks, being broken from her train of thought. Giving a nod, she begins to run, the group following close behind her. Crevdar glance to Eclipse, concern flashing through his eyes. “Think you can handle the rest of the fight?” Eclipse chuckles lightly. “Are you concerned for me? You need not be, I have handled battles far worse than this, and survived.” Twilight’s face lights up as she spots the building the Elements were being kept in, though glancing back causes fear to show. Eclipse glances back, noting the army of changeling that had been following them on their heels. Twilight quickly opens the door, the grin on her face replaced with shock. A wall of changelings stood before them, blocking their way to the Elements. The group takes a step back, though turning around lets them see that the changelings that had been chasing them, had finally caught up to the group. Eclipse’s eyes glow red as she begins to gather power, her horn matching the glow of her eyes. Before she can release it however, a changeling slams into her, sending her into the wall, a loud cracking sound echoing through the area. She falls, cracks left behind from where she had hit the wall, landing on the ground with a thud. She shakily gets to her hooves, her magic fading as her eyes return to their normal colour, blood dripping down her forehead from a cut, and from they could see it was bleeding badly. She takes a step forward, stumbling and falling to the ground, her consciousness fading. “ECLIPSE!” Crevdar yells, immediately rushing to her side. The changelings walk closer to her, though Crevdar stands over her, his wing flared out as he stays in a protective stance. Eclipse’s blood drips down her face, falling onto the stone below, eating away at the pavement. A murmur ripples through the changelings once they take notice. “Demon.” “Monster.” “Devil.” “Beast.” “Savage.” “SHE IS NOT A DEMON!” Twilight snaps, her gaze falling on the black unicorn. Her ears flatten when she takes notice of the blood eating away at the stone. “...Is she?” Crevdar stands tall, not going down without a fight. He didn’t know what would happen to them. All he knew is that they had been captured. And without the Elements of Harmony, now they had no way of winning this battle.
DefeatThey were being taken back to the main hall, where the wedding would take place, each being carried. Crevdar could hear voices coming through the large doors. “You won’t get away with this! Twilight and her friends will-” The doors open, the changeling queen looking at them for a split second before smirking. The pink alicorn, whom Crevdar recognizes as Cadance, looks surprised; Crevdar guesses she’s more surprised about the large group. Though when her eyes land on the unconscious body of Eclipse being carried on the back of a changeling, her eyes widen, shock mixed with horror reflected in her eyes. Chrysalis turns back to Cadance as the changelings dump the ponies onto the floor. “You were saying?” She turns to the group. “You do realize the reception’s been cancelled, don’t you?!” One of the changelings steps forward motioning to Eclipse. “That pony’s blood eats away at stone, it acts like acid!” Chrysalis blinks in surprise, pausing a moment as the information sinks in. She then nods. “Go, feed!” The changelings smirk, bolting out of the room, Chrysalis shutting the door behind them. She looks over to the green pod hanging from the ceiling. Crevdar doesn’t even have to looking inside to realize that Celestia is probably inside. “So now you house demons? I’d never thought you’d stoop so low. And you.” Her horn glows green as she lets out a blast of magic, hitting Crevdar and sending him flying a few feet back. The group gasps, Crevdar being forced back into his true form. Fang gulps, reverting to his changeling form before Chrysalis has a chance to hit him with magic. Chrysalis glares down at Crevdar as Fang stands protectively in front of him. “I should have known it was you who sent the warning to the Princesses!” Crevdar chuckles, weakly getting to his hooves. “I couldn’t just let you attempt the invasion without them knowing.” Chrysalis glares at him a moment longer before smirking, soon laughing as she walks to Twilight. “It’s funny, really. Twilight here was suspicious of my behavior all along.” She slides her hoof under Twilight’s chin, tilting her head up to look at her, though Twilight smacks her hoof away. Chrysalis flies over to Cadance. “Too bad the rest of you were too caught up in your wedding planning to realize those suspicion were correct!” She laughs. Applejack walks up to Twilight. “Sorry Twi, we should’ve listened to you.” Twilght shakes her head. “It’s not your fault, she fooled everypony.” Chrysalis smirks walking to the balcony. “Mm, I did, didn’t I?” She looks down to the chaos below. “This day has been just perfect...” Great. She’s singing now. Crevdar blocks out the annoyance as he slowly makes his way to Eclipse, who has yet to stir. His ears flatten slightly, as he slowly kneels down beside her. He can feel Twilight’s glare watching him, but he ignores that as he lightly nuzzles the black unicorn. “Please, wake up.” “Can you tell me what you remember before you fell asleep?” The black unicorn filly blinks up at her adopted sister in surprise, her ears flattening slightly. “B-before...?” Cadance nods. “The moment right before you fell asleep, I mean. Can you tell me that?” Eclipse thinks for a moment. “I remember... pain... I was in a lot of pain. The transformation from pony to demon... it was the most painful thing I’ve ever felt. I don’t remember much after that, blurry images and muffled whispers. So I don’t really know who put me in the crystal for ten thousand years.” Cadance nods. “Can you tell me of any earlier memories?” Eclipse nods. “I remember... a castle. Made of pure crystal. Father and Mother were the rulers of the castle. And a time... where alicorns were as common as any other pony.” Her ears flatten a she looks down. “Big sister?” Cadance blinks, surprised at being called “big sister,” though she smiles softly at the notion. “Yes Eclipse?” “W-will Father come back? Will he try to corrupt me too?” Cadance looks to the young filly, pulling her into her arms. “No. Even if he does, Aunt Celestia and I will make sure he stays away from you.” “P-promise?” “I promise.” Eclipse slowly blinks open her eyes, ignoring the throbbing pain in her head. She slowly sits up, though unable to contain her weight, and falls. Crevdar catches her before she hits the ground, holding her close in his arms. “You’re awake!” “C-Crev?” “My love will give you strength.” Eclipse blinks at the familiar voice, her ears perking. “C-Cadance...?” “What a lovely but absolutely ridiculous sentiment!” The other voice was unfamiliar. Eclipse closes her eyes, warmth spreading through her as Crevdar hold her. Crevdar can taste the love radiating from her, though ignores it. She’s awake, that’s all that matters. The two part once they feel something pass through them, Chrysalis’ screaming as a force field shoots her out, as well as the rest of the changeling army. Twilight rushes to Celestia’s side, whom was now laying on the ground, and helps her to her hooves. “Don’t worry about me, I’m fine.” Celestia casts her gaze to the two changelings and the demon. Fang shrinks back underneath Celestia’s gaze as Crevdar helps Eclipse to her hooves. “CREVY!” Pinkie exclaims, catching the changeling’s attention. “YOU DIDN’T TELL ME YOU WERE A CHANGELING!” “There was a reason for that...” Crevdar mumbles. Eclipse looks towards her former mentor, bowing her head. Crevdar and Fang walk toward Celestia, Twilight glaring at them. Once in front of the princess, Crevdar kneels down, Fang following his example as he does the same. “You’re highness,” Crevdar begins. “Though we come peacefully, we cannot make up for what our queen as done.” He looks up to the princess. “If you feel need to punish us as well, then we will not fight. Do what you believe to be right.” Celestia studies him for a few moments. “You were the one that sent me the warning, were you not?” Crevdar nods. “Fang fed me the information, and I passed it to you, so that you could defend yourself.” He looks to Cadance. “Though it seems I came a bit too late.” Celestia remains silent for a few moments, as the two changelings expect the worst. They are surprised when the see her smile. “If not for you, we would not have known about what was to come before it truly was too late. Therefore, I believe it’s only right that we allow you to stay, for helping us fight against your own to protect our kingdom.” The changelings stare at her in shock. “W-what??” Celestia places a hoof on Crevdar’s shoulder. “You both put yourselves in untold amounts of danger to help protect Equestria, even going as far as to have yourself banished in order to be of use. You have shown not only a great amount of courage today, but I believe you have also proved your loyalty to the kingdom.” Eclipse smiles lightly as the two changelings stare at the princess in a mix of shock and awe. Hoofsteps catches her attention; she turns to Cadance walking up to her. “Is... is it really you?” “Moonlight, moonlight, fireflies awake. Make a wish, and do a little shake.” Eclipse recites the old rhyme that the two did. Similar to the one Cadance and Twilight would recite to one another, though Eclipse much preferred night, so Cadance made a version of the rhyme just for her. Tears form in Cadance’s as the two embrace. “You just left, and you didn’t say where you were going or how long you’d be gone... I can’t believe you’re back!” Eclipse chuckles lightly as they part, a sweet smile on her face. “Did you truly believe I would miss my own sister’s wedding?” “But the question is, why? Why did you leave?” Twilight quietly asks as she walks up to Eclipse. Eclipse sighs, looking out the window at the damage below. “I believe... I owe you all an apology for leaving... and an explanation for my actions. Especially you, Twilight.” “That can wait.” Celestia smiles, turning to Twilight. “You have a real wedding to put together.”
Preparing“So I will see you both at the wedding?” Eclipse asks, looking to the two, now disguised changelings. Crevdar opens his mouth to respond, but gets cut off by Pinkie glomping him, answering for him as she does. “Of course they are! And all of us are going to help them get ready!” Crevdar sighs, giving a small smile. “We don’t have a choice in this, do we?” The group was currently standing just outside the castle, on the steps, Cadance having gone with them. A whole of bunch questions were fired at Crevdar and Fang, whom answered as best they could. One question among them was “Why didn’t the magic shield affect them?” Crevdar had answered, “It keeps out threats only, since Fang and I aren’t threats, it had no effect on us.” While most of the Element bearers were wary of the two changelings, Pinkie was delighted at finding out her friend could shape-shift, and had started planning a wide array of pranks. Honestly, Crevdar will never understand that pony. Twilight had tried asking Eclipse why the changelings kept calling her a demon. Eclipse had simply smiled, telling her that such information would be better received after the wedding. Eclipse smiles giving a nod. “I believe my sister will be helping me get ready.” Twilight nods, giving a smile. “We’ll see you at the wedding!” The group waves, walking, or, in Pinkie’s case, bouncing away. Eclipse waved back to them, watching them walk off. “So...” Eclipse turn to Cadance when she starts to speak, both walking back into the castle. “You’ve taken an interest in one of the changelings, I see.” Eclipse perks a brow. Did she just get called out on a crush? By her sister of all ponies? Eclipse rolls her eyes, quickening her pace. “My love life serves no purpose for you.” Cadance smirks. “Oh, you just told me everything.” “I highly doubt that I did.” “So tell me, how did this start?~” Eclipse groans, knowing there was no way out of this. “It happened during the invasion...” “And we parted ways after that, and then met up again when we ran into you.” Crevdar finished explaining, everypony and everyling having his full attention after Twilight had called him out on his crush on Eclipse, the group currently sitting in Twilight's room. “Wait, she kissed you?!” Fang exclaims, his eyes wide. Crevdar rolls his eyes. “Only on the cheek, but... yeah...” He can feel a light blush rising to his face. Twilight thinks for a moment. “I can explain why you felt that warm feeling when she did that.” Crevdar looks to her, having now gained his full attention. “The first reason is yeah, she did cast a spell on you. I remember she told me she can cast a protection spell on anypony if she kisses them, even if was just a quick peck on the cheek, though she rarely cast the spell this way, making you special. But the other reason...” She smirks. “I think you love her.” “WHAT?!” Eclipse exclaims, looking to Cadence with disbelief. “You love him.” Cadance repeats, smiling to her sister. Eclipse shakes her head, willing the growing blush on her face away as she frantically waves her hooves in front of her. “NO! Nonononono! We just met, I couldn’t possibly-” Cadance puts a hoof on Eclipse’s shoulder, making her snap her mouth shut. “You know I can spot love from a mile away. And from what I’ve seen of your interactions, you both care a lot for each other. I think you two would be well together, as long as you can keep a steady relationship.” “B-but, I just met him! Surely a pony cannot fall in love that fast!” “Love at first sight can happen, as it has happened. I’m surprised it happened to you, I thought you would have waited until you got know the pony, or in this case changeling, before falling for him.” Eclipse thinks for a moment, looking out the window of her bedroom to the garden below. After a moment, she sighs, currently hating the fact that Cadance is one of the few ponies who can read her like an open book. “What should I do?” “Talk to her, duuuh!” Pinkie states as if it was the most obvious thing in the world while rolling her eyes. “Talk to her?” Crevdar repeats, earning a nod from the group of ponies. “Talk to her about what?” “Your interests, your likes and dislikes would be a good start.” Fluttershy responds. “Talking? Just... talking?” “Well you have to get to know her, darling.” Rarity interjects, using her magic to run a brush through Crevdar’s mane, much to his annoyance. “Talk about your hobbies, what you do for a living.” “Ya also gotta make time for you two to be together.” Applejack adds. “Find ways for you to get to know each other!” “Time, alright...” Eclipse mumbles as Cadance runs a brush through her mane. “Anything else?” “Just a few things. You need to be kind, which shouldn’t be too hard to do...” “Be loving...” “Be compassionate...” “Be ready...” “Be willing...” “Remember to listen...” “And remember one...” “Last...” “Important...” “Thing.” “What?” “He/She loves you, too.”
Party“Let’s get this party started!” Love is in bloom. A beautiful bride, a handsome groom, Two hearts becoming one A bond that cannot be undone Everypony was laughing and dancing, Twilight and Eclipse singing a duet together as the party went on. While Twilight had been the best mare for the wedding, Eclipse had been the maid of honour, in celebration of her return. She had been formally introduced to Luna, since she had left before Luna had come back. Cadance had found Eclipse an elegant smoky grey and gold dress that she was currently wearing, Rarity having dressed up Crevdar in a black tux. Eclipse glances to Crevdar, a small grin splaying on her lips. She tosses her mic to Pinkie, who easily catches it. With her... tail? ... Eclipse has decided not to question it. Eclipse balanced on her hind hooves, spinning as she grins, holding out her hoof to Credvar. Crevdar simply blinks. “What-?” “Come on, dance with me!” Crevdar chuckles sheepishly. “N-no, I’d rather-” He doesn’t get to finish his sentence as Fang shoves him towards the black unicorn. Eclipse grabs Crevdar’s hoof as he glares back at his friend, though soon finds himself laughing with Eclipse as the party goes on. “Did you see Fluttershy taking Twilight back to her room? I swear that pony can’t hold her punch! She was passed right out!” “Don’t forget Applejack having to drag Rarity back to her room, I think the punch was making her too emotional. Applejack seems to able to hold her punch just fine, though.” “I’m blaming cider on that one.” “Also, did you notice Rainbow sneaking off with Soarin?” “Soarin? You mean the Wonderbolt Soarin?!” “Mmhmm. I think there’s something between them~” The two ponies burst out laughing. Crevdar and Eclipse were sitting at a table, observing what remained of the party. Most ponies had left, but some remained and the music still played. “Wait...” Crevdar looks around. “Where did Pinkie go?” “She’s over there with Fang.” Eclipse states, pointing to the pink pony. Crevdar follows to where she was pointing. Pinkie was just in front of the sound system, fast asleep and cuddling up to Fang, who was also sleeping. The sight made the two ponies burst out laughing. Eclipse wipes a tear from her eye. “That will be awkward when they wake up tomorrow!” The two calm down as they watch they watch the remainder of the party, silence overcoming them. “...Rose.” Crevdar looks to Eclipse, confused. “What?” Eclipse sighs, looking up to the moon. “Crystal Rose. That... was my name. Before I became a demon.” “...Before?” Eclipse nods. “I wasn’t always a demon. I was a pony once, long ago.” “What happened to make you change?” “I promised Twilight that I would explain everything tomorrow. I’d rather wait until then to tell you as well.” Crevdar gives a small nod. Silence overtakes them once more, Crevdar using the time to study Eclipse closer. Her blood red main flows gently in the breeze, her golden yellow eyes reflecting in the light of the moon, the moonlight making her shine beautifully. Crevdar can feel heat rising to his cheeks as he looks away, not wanting to be caught staring. He couldn’t deny she was beautiful, as well as kind, and sweet. His ear twitches, noticing the music slowing down to a slowdance song. Crevdar pauses for a moment, a small idea forming in his head. He stands, catching the attention of Eclipse. He walks so he stands in front of her, holding out his hoof. “May I have this dance?” Eclipse stares at him form a few moments before a small smile makes its way onto her face. “Of course.” She takes Crevdar’s hoof. He smiles, leading them to dance floor. Carefully, they stand on their hind legs, Eclipse placing on hoof on his shoulder as she takes his hoof, Crevdar placing his free hoof on her waist. They soon start to dance to the music, swaying to the rhythm. Crevdar blushes slightly, looking away from Eclipse. “You look... lovely.” Eclipse gives a gentle laugh. “You’re looking handsome, yourself.” The comment makes the blush on Crevdar’s face worsen, as he mumbles a quiet “thank you.” A pause comes between them. Crevdar lets out a breath, looking into Eclipse’s golden yellow hues. “E-Eclipse... listen, I, uh... I-” Eclipse blinks, using her magic to shush him. “If you cannot use words to tell me, use your actions instead.” Her magic fades, Crevdar blinking slightly. He closes his eyes, leaning in. Eclipse’s eyes flutter close as she leans in as well, their lips connecting. The kiss was soft and sweet. Not needy, but loving. No words were needed, as they both expressed all they needed in the kiss.
ExplanationsAuthor's Note WARNING! This chapter contains self-harm! It's brief, but still there! Explanations Everypony sat in a circle, the train heading to Ponyville already moving and the conductor having already checked their tickets. Eclipse’s horns glows red, using her magic to put a bubble of silence up around them. Twilight blinks. “Why’d you do that?” “I put up the bubble, for what I am about to say should not be heard by unwanted ears. Nor should any of you reveal my words to anypony, or anyling else. Am I understood?” Everyone in the room nods. Eclipse gives a small nod, looking to Twilight. “State your question.” “Alright... why were all the changelings calling you a demon?” Eclipse sighs. “Because I am a demon.” Silence is met with the response, Rainbow being the first to break the silence. “...What?” Twilight stares at her old friend. “I don’t understand, how can you be a demon?” Using her magic, Eclipse open the saddle bags she had brought with her, taking out a piece of parchment, and, to everyone’s surprise and slight horror, a knife. She holds the piece of parchment in front of her, holding out her arm just above it. Before anypony could stop her, she takes the knife, and slices open her wrist. Everyone stares at her in horror as she lets her blood drip down, landing on the paper below. It doesn’t take long before everyone notices the blood eating away at parchment like acid. Eclipse licks the blood off of her arm, as to not injure anypony or destroy any more objects, her wound now having fully healed. Twilight looks to Eclipse. “B-but... demons aren’t real! They’re just a story, a myth!” “Demons are real, Spark. I’m living proof of that.” Eclipse simply replies. “But... I wasn’t always a demon.” “You weren’t?” Rainbow asks. “Then what were you?” “I was a pony. Just like you.” Fluttershy stares at Eclipse. “How did you change?” “Once, long ago, there was a kingdom. The kingdom was powerful, and well respected. The ponies that resided in the kingdom were happy, for the rulers, two unicorns, ruled with a firm but kind hoof. The castle which they resided in, was made purely out of crystal.” An image appears in front of them, ponies running around happily, and two unicorns watching over them from the balcony of a crystal castle. “The rulers... were my parents.” The image changes, showing a young unicorn filly, her coat orange, and her hair brown, a green bow adorning her hair. She closely resembles Eclipse, having the exact same eyes colour as her and the same crystal rose cutiemark. Fluttershy blinks at the image. “I-is that you?” Eclipse smiles softly, giving a nod. “Yes, that is me.” The filly was sitting on her bed, looking out to the ponies below, her gaze sad. Eclipse watches the image. “I was very sick when I was younger, hardly able to move from my bed.” The door to the filly’s room opens, catching her attention. Two unicorns enter the room, the first a mare, with a light blue coat, an aqua green mane that fades to gold, tied back in a loose ponytail, her eyes purple, a green scarf was tied around her neck. The second was a colt, his coat aqua green, his short mane purple, his eyes green, a golden cross hanging from his neck. The filly smiles at the sight of them, the colt’s horn glowing green as he uses his magic to gently pick up the filly, setting her on his back. The three leave, the image changing to that of a garden, made purely from crystal roses. The colt was sitting down beside the filly, whom was sitting beside him, allowing her to lean on him. The filly watches the mare, whom is standing in front of them. At a guess, she was telling a story. “My siblings were always there for me, always taking care of me. They would take me to the garden, let me sit among the flowers. Aurora, my sister, would always tell me stories while my brother, Dawn Light, looked after me, made sure I didn’t become too weak.” The image changes, now showing a unicorn colt as he paces the castle’s throne room, his coat green, his short mane blue, his eyes amber, a golden crown resting atop his head. “My father became troubled by my sickness. He had thought to take me to one of the alicorns that had watched over the land, but he feared I would not make the journey. He also feared that if he sent a message to them, they would be to late when they came. So he turned to a new magic... a magic that corrupted him, turning him into a demon king of shadows. A dark, forbidden magic...” Eclipse’s eyes glow blood red, everyponies eyes glowing the same colour as she connects their minds. A silver colt with a dark grey mane stands before the filly, his midnight blue bat-like wings spread wide as his piercing red eyes boring into her, black smoke seeping out of his eyes. The filly had been injured badly, looking as if she could fall and die at any moment, though she was using every last bit of her strength to stand, looking up to her father with tear-filled eyes, the kingdom lay in ruins around them. “FATHER, STOP THIS! CAN YOU NOT SEE THE DESTRUCTION YOU’VE CAUSED?!” The colt glares at her. “You should be thankful, Crystal Rose. Everything I’ve done was to help you.” “HOW IS THIS HELPING ANYPONY?!” The colt’s horn glows with a black aura, the filly lifting up into the air. Shadow covers her form; her eyes glowing pitch black a she screams, the pain of the transformation almost unbearable. The memory fades, Eclipse’s eyes returning to their normal colour as she disconnects their minds. “My memory after that is fuzzy. I don’t really remember what happened, but I was put to sleep, encased in crystal. After ten thousand years, the casing broke, and I woke up. Celestia had started looking after me then, Cadance soon adopting me as her sister.” Eclipse looks to the ponies around her. Most of them having tears in their eyes from her memory. Though some, like Rainbow Dash, were trying to hide the fact that they were crying. Eclipse lowers her ears. “The reason for my not telling you sooner, Spark, was because Celestia had ordered me to keep my being a demon a secret, as to protect me. If anypony found out that a demon was still alive, living in the castle none the less... that would have caused chaos.” “Why did... why did you leave?” Twilight asks, her voice cracking slightly as she wipes the tears from her eyes. “Celestia had taught me many things, but some things; I needed to learn on my own. But, I was... searching, as well.” “For what?” “...A way to reverse this curse.” Eclipse whispers. Silence is met with the response. The train comes to a halt, Eclipse’s horn ceasing its glow as she takes down the bubble, rising to her hooves. “Come, this is our stop.”
HomeThe walk through Ponyville was silent; nopony speaking after what Eclipse had shown them. Eclipse was silent as well, the pain of her memories taking its toll on her. Once nearing the library, Rarity was the first one to break the silence. “You were a Princess?” Eclipse chuckles lightly. “I still am, Miss Rarity. I am a Demon Princess of Shadows. But I am also a Princess of Equestria. After all, Cadance is my sister, thus making Celestia and Luna my aunts.” The group stops in front of the library, Twilight looking to Eclipse, her ears flat against her head. “Eclipse, I’m so sorry. I didn’t realize-” Eclipse simply smiles. “How could you? T’was by Celestia’s own orders that I kept this information from you.” She lets out a breath. “I have lived long past my time, and seen so much death, so much suffering...” She sighs, giving a light smile. “But here, now, I can finally see all the light, all the good that was stolen from me.” Twilight hugs Eclipse, the black unicorn quick to return her embrace. The soon part, Fluttershy speaking up. “So... where are you going to stay?” Eclipse blinks. “I... never really thought of that. I suppose I was going to see if I could find somewhere around here where I could stay. I believe my travels are finished.” “You could... stay with me... i-if you want...” Crevdar states, blushing slightly. Eclipse smiles, walking over to him and nuzzling him lightly. “I would like that.” Twilight gives a small smile, looking over to Fang. “Fang, you could stay with me and Spike in the library until we’re able to find you your own place to live.” Fang blinks. “R-really? T-thank you!” Twilight grins. “It’s no problem! Besides, it’ll give me a chance to study changelings more closely!” “Well, I think it’s time we all go and get some rest.” Eclipse states, earning a nod from the ponies around her. Each pony gave their goodbyes before going in their separate directions, Eclipse following Crevdar to their home. Crevdar smiles lightly. “You know, I’m kind of glad the invasion happened.” Eclipse blinks, looking to the disguised changeling. “Why?” “Because if it hadn’t, I would never have met you.” Eclipse smiles sweetly at the response, giving Crevdar a quick kiss on his cheek, making him blush. “I’m glad it happened, then, too.” Crevdar smiles, leading the way into the house. The house wasn’t big, just enough for two ponies. Right now, it was all they needed. The two head up the stairs to the master bedroom, getting into the bed and curling up. Crevdar wraps his hooves around Eclipse’s waist, Eclipse gently resting her head against his chest, listening to his heartbeat. Everything was peaceful, perfect. “...Do you think everypony knows?” “Mm? Knows what?” “That I’m a demon.” Crevdar smiles, gently nuzzling Eclipse, which she returns. “I don’t think Celestia would allow that information to get out, as long as it’s to protect you.” “Like how she didn’t say anything about you be a changeling?” “Just like that.” Eclipse smiles, lightly pecking Crevdar’s nose. “...Thank you.” Crevdar blushes, though gives a small smile, lightly kissing the top of her head. “You’re welcome.” As the two drift off to sleep, they can’t help but think back on the days leading up to now. Both thankful that they were able to meet, and both eagerly looking forward to whatever the future held in store for them. Author's Note And here marks the end of the story! Thank you everyone for your support, and I hope you enjoyed it!
Fateful MeetingHooves pound against the stone streets as a black mare dashes through the streets, a grey filly holding tightly onto her as she carries the young pegasus on her back. The sounds of the raging battle echo all around them. The mare’s golden yellow eyes dart all around, her mind racing to find the quickest route to the safe house she has made. Skidding to a stop, the mare’s long blood red mane falls so it covers her right eye. Narrowing her eyes, her horn glows red as she lifts the filly off of her back, setting her down gently beside her. The filly whimpers from fear as he quickly darts underneath the mare, latching onto her arm. The mare bites back a smile as she scans her surroundings. “Stay close to me, understand?” The filly nods, her long golden mane bouncing slightly at the action as her green eyes dart around fearfully. The mare’s eyes flicker to where a flash of black catches her eye, her eyes narrowing slightly as she takes a defensive stance. Her horn glows red a she builds up power, her eyes glowing red. A changeling bursts out from its cover, heading straight for the pair. Concentrating her power, a beam of red magic shoots from the mare’s horn, hitting the changeling and blasting it into a nearby wall, effectively knocking it out. The filly looks up at the mare in awe as the mare’s eyes return to their normal colour, her magic dying down. The mare lets out a breath, taking a quick glance around. “You alright?” The filly nods. “Y-yeah, I’m- LOOK OUT!” The mare looks up in time to see a changeling heading directly toward her, though a brown and black blur slams into the changeling, knocking it into the ground as the pair get caught in their own fight. From what the mare could tell, a brown pegasus colt was fighting off the changeling. Blinking slightly, the mare furrows her brows in confusion. “He’s a changeling, too. Why is he fighting his own?” She shakes her head, nudging the filling toward a house that is encased in a magic shield. “Hide there, they won’t be able to get to you.” The filly looks back to the mare. “W-what about you?” “Others need my help. Don’t worry about me, I’ll be fine.” The filly nods, dashing for the house, the shield allowing her to pass as she quickly makes her way inside. The mare watches the filly, letting her guard down as she makes sure the young pony gets to safety. A changeling slams into her side; send her rolling onto the ground. She hisses slightly as the impact causing a cut to open on her face. She glares at the changeling above her whom as her pinned to the ground. The brown colt slams into the changeling, sending it flying a few feet away from the mare. The mare blinks, getting up and watching as the colt flies over to the changeling, grabbing its head and slamming it down into the ground, knocking it out. Panting slightly, the brown colt folds his wings neatly against him, his long black mane slightly ruffled from the fight. He turns to face the mare, his emerald eyes looking into her golden yellow eyes. “You alright?” “I’m fine.” The mare replies, ignoring the blood dripping down her face from the cut she had received. The colt narrows his eyes, walking up to the mare. “You’re injured.” He lifts his hoof to try and get a better look at the wound, but the mare slaps it away. “I don’t need your help, changeling!” The colt takes a step back. “How did you-?!” “My eyes can see through your disguise.” The mare simply replies, relaxing her stance slightly. “But you have yet to hurt me. Why do you fight your own kind?” “Long story...” The colt mutters. The mare simply nods in reply. Silence comes over the pair. The colt shifts slightly, moving forward and lifting his hoof towards the mare’s wound once more, causing the mare to take a step back. The colt sighs. “I’m not gonna hurt you.” “It’s not I who I am afraid will be injured.” The mare deadpans. The colt blinks in confusion. “Wha-?” He watches as the blood drips from her face, landing on the stone below them. His eyes widen slightly as he notices the blood starts to eat away at the stone, acting as a form of acid. He takes a step back. “D-demon-!” The mare tilts her head slightly. “I am.” “Th-then why are you helping ponies?! Shouldn’t you be causing them chaos?!” “I could ask you the same question.” The colt pauses a moment to think. “Fair point.” He relaxes a bit. “So... does the demon have a name?” The mare shrugs. “I do, but I have not used it in many years. But you may call me Eclipse.” “So, Eclipse isn’t your real name?” “The name has been dead and lost for over ten thousand years. Eclipse has become my name.” “Oh...” “...Does the changeling have a name?” The colt blinks slightly. “H-huh? Oh, it’s ah... it’s Crevdar...” “Crevdar...” Eclipse repeats. “That means “Changer”, does it not?” The colt nods. “I’m surprised you know its meaning.” Eclipse shrugs. “I may have been asleep for ten thousand years, but my knowledge is still vast.” The pair duck as a changeling comes flying overhead, smashing into the side of the building. Crevdar blinks, standing straight as he stares at the changeling. “You should probably find somewhere to hide until the battle is over.” Eclipse chuckles, walking past Crevdar as she runs her tail underneath his chin, a blush erupting on the brown colt’s face as blood rushes to his wings, sending them up into the air. “That’s awfully sweet of you, Crevy. But I assure you, I can take care of myself.” Crevdar stutters for a few moments before awkwardly coughing into his hoof, looking away from Eclipse as he tries to control the blush on his face. “Still, it’s dangerous out here, its best if you find somewhere to hide until the battle has passed.” “I would be more concerned about yourself, a demon’s wounds will heal quickly, a mortal’s wounds will not.” Crevdar thinks for a moment. Glancing to the wound on Eclipse’s cheek, he sees that it has already healed. “...Huh.” Smiling slightly, Eclipse walks forward, pressing a swift kiss to Crevdar’s cheek, causing blush to once again erupt on his face. Crevdar blinks, confused by the warm feeling spreading through him and the taste of love he is feeling in his mouth him from the gesture. “W-what was that for?!” “A gift, to help protect you in battle.” Eclipse simply replies, quickly turning on her heel and dashing down the streets. Crevdar stares blankly after her, ignoring the chaos around him. A smile makes its way onto his face as he spreads his wings out, taking into the air. He certainly won’t forget his encounter with the oddly sweet demon.
Epilogue“Cadence! How much longer?” “Not much longer.” “You already said that on the train ride.” The pink alicorn laughs gently at her adopted sister, whom is currently blindfolded, and being gently guided by Crevdar, whom has a protected wing wrapped around her form. “Well, this time it’s true. We’re only a few feet away.” The train ride here was long, neither Crevdar nor Cadance telling Eclipse where they were going. Eclipse’s ears twitch as the sound of other ponies, the sunlight warm on her body as she huffs. “And why, pray tell, do I have to be blindfolded?” Crevdar chuckles. “Because it’s a surprise.” Eclipse pouts slightly. “But I wanna know now! I don’t like being blindfolded!” Cadance smiles, stopping as Crevdar and Eclipse stop beside her. “Well, we’re here anyway.” “So I can take off the blindfold?” “You can take it off.” Eclipse’s horn glow red as she undoes the blindfold, letting it slip off her face as her magic fades, blinking in the sun light, her eyes widening at the sight before her. Crevdar looks to Eclipse. “I know it’s not like before, but...” “No... no...” Tears form in Eclipse’s eyes as she smiles. “It’s perfect.” Cadance smiles. “Welcome home, sister.” Crevdar smiles, lightly nuzzeling Eclipse as she laughs, happy tears falling down her face. “Welcome to the Crystal Empire, Princess.” Author's Note Whoops, I lied! There was one last chapter! Short and sweet
