The Chronicles of Moonshade part 3

The next day only ends up being a total disaster as I tried to do something fun for Nova. However the end result was a major fight that left me knowing that she hates me. Talking with Fluttershy, Twilight and mom just seemed to make the issue worse. To compound the problem I even abandoned Midnight for a time while trying but spectacularly failing to help Nova out. The Nightmare itself has also been for a change remarkably quiet and unless I focus hard enough unfelt.

  “So, how long have you known Nova and her special gift?” Mom asks as we land on my balcony, one of her wings covers my back lightly.

  *sigh* “Ever since..... Ever since the photoshoot. Something happened that caused her to get upset. Something I did, just like yesterday. I make one step forward and twenty back, that's how much of a screw up I am.” I open the door and follow mom inside, magically putting Midnight on his temporary perch before climbing into bed.

  “I promise I won't tell Celestia, and I don't think she hates you, just mad.” Mom says softly before leaving, giving a few orders to the guards outside.

As for myself I stick completely in my room for the next few days claiming I'm not feeling well. Most of the time is spent crying or sleeping as I neglect my own hygiene and Midnight is mostly kept locked up and forgotten except to feed him.The gifts from my birthday party are jumbled up in a heap against the furthest corner from me. 'No matter how hard I try..... I fail at everything I tried. I'm a huge failure.'

  “Hey Moon, Doctor Sun is here to see you.” Solar’s voice leaks through the doorway filled with extreme concern as nopony has seen me about in the castle since I got back, including my personal guard. Not even Discord has managed to break into my room.

  “Moonshade please, open the door. I understand that something is bothering you alot, but you can't stay locked up in your room forever.” Usually hearing his voice and seeing him is something I look forward to, but not this time. His tone drives Midnight into a near rage as I just tighten the blanket around me before I finally give in. My room is in its naturally cluttered mess and nearly fully dark as I open the door with a shadowy tentacle. Even though the door is barely open I can make out a large crowd of ponies outside with the two larger figures towering behind the rest. “Let me talk to her alone for a bit before you swarm her.” He warns as he is the first one through the opening, the door slamming shut behind him.

  “What's wrong Moonshade? I heard a little bit about what happened but I want to hear it from you.”

  His weight causes the bed to bounce some as he slides up next to me. Midnight hops over to me and tugs at a loose piece of the blanket, exposing my face. Thankfully it's dark enough to where he can't see my appearance. After twenty minutes of silence between us I finally answer in a quiet dejected tone. “I..... I seriously bucked up doc.”

  “How so?”

  “I..... I told Lily that..... I’m..... Not interested in her..... Romantically.” The words are heavily forced as I shrink into the protective darkness of my blanket. As I start to talk he eventually lights a candle. The harshness of the light is painful to my eyes causing me to tightly shut the lids.

  “Moon, when was the last time you bathed or ate?” His shock is clear as he takes in what he can see of me. Quickly he gets up off the bed and more light brightens the room. “We need some food up here, whatever her favorite is bring it quickly.” As the guard hurries he returns to my side and works on pulling the blanket off of me.

  The extent of my personal neglect is only increased as I'm fully exposed and a mirror is then pulled in front of me. My mane, tail and coat are filthy, dull and matted. My mane and tail are nothing but knots, twigs and clumps of dirt tangled in a heap. Its apparent I’ve lost some weight as my ribs are just barely visible. My hooves are a complete mess with the right forehoof being badly chipped. The worst I think are my eyes, while normally red the color is even more intense due to them being bloodshot and the black bags underneath. My miserable look only deepens as I finish examining myself.

  “How did she take the news?”

  “She..... She was extremely upset and I guess..... Dejected. We were..... Supposed to go and hang out, all eight of us.” My words are slightly garbled as I cover my muzzle and eyes with my hooves. “I didn't mean to hurt her, but I still ended up doing it anyway.”

  “Is that the only think that is bothering you?”

  “No..... I..... I also got into an argument with the ‘friend' I wanted to help, now she hates me.....”

  “What have we talked about when it comes too taking things to personal?”

  “N..... Not to. Even if something may seem one way it could be the opposite.” Before either of us continue a knock comes from my door and a large tray of food is brought inside.

  “When you're finished eating go take  a shower and clean yourself up some Moon, I'll wait.” With a slow nod I begin to dig into the food. Midnight happily jumps up onto my shoulder and onto the top of my head, chittering happily. This is the first time since we've returned that I had any kind of close contact with him. “Seems someone is feeling better already.”

  I had no idea how hungry I've been and I have to force myself to slow down some. It takes me around twenty minutes to finish and as I do so Midnight hops onto the plate to finish off what is left. “Now, while you're cleaning up I want you to figure out why Lily got so upset and why your friend fought with you.”

  “O..... Okay” The words sound miserable and unsure as I step into the bathroom. Once the door closes I take some time and just release the pent up emotions as I wait for the water to warm up. With a hiss I step into the scalding sheet of water and immediately the loose dirt and other filth rolls out of my fur before I even begin to scrub. My coat somewhat complies as I work on cleaning and unmatting it with the aid of the soap. My mane and tail however are another matter, large chunks of hair fall out with trapped debris as I struggle to straighten it with a comb and alot of conditioner.

  After some time and alot of lost hair I finally get my mane and tail looking close to how it normally does and step out of the shower though still feeling down. Once I'm dried off and teeth are brushed I return to my bed and remove the bedding that was on it as I speak softly. “I think..... I think the reason Lily got so upset was that..... She wasn't expecting that answer. She was hoping that I'd return her feelings immediately. But I couldn't and she felt heart broken.” Once the fresh bedding is piled somewhat neatly I climb right back in. “As for my other ‘friend’..... She was just..... So angry when I tried to help her. I can't think of why she would get so..... Pissed off at me. Unless.....” I jerk up a little as I remember a few things. “It must have been because mom got involved. This pony..... Hates royalty and was..... Angry when she found out who I was related to.”

  “On, and why is it that she's afraid of royalty?” His question and stare causes me to shiver as I fight against telling him.

  “I- I can't..... Tell you, I promised her I wouldn't. But other than this secret I don't know what could cause her to be afraid.” It takes me ten minutes to finally answer him. Though Nova hates me I still can't go back on my word in hopes that someday she can begin to again trust me. “I..... I hope you understand doc.”

  He leans back and lets out a sigh. “I won't force you to go against your promise. How long have you known her?”

  “About a..... Month or so, though I've..... Only met her three times now.”

  “What did you try to do that got her so upset? Without divulging her secret.”

  “I..... I tried to throw her a birthday party the day after mine. I didn't know when she last had one or when her birthday even is. I just thought..... It’d be something nice and fun to try and..... Destress her. But that..... Didn’t go as planned.” My head flops hard back down to my bed as I hold back a sniffle.

  “I have a feeling that something about this mare is something you connected with. Is that true? Is that why you have been so intent on trying to help her out?” All I can do is nod again as I look at him pathetically. “But you can't talk about it huh? Let's switch back to Lily. She was set to be your plus one for the ball tonight correct?”

  “Yes, but I..... I don't know if she'll show up now. Even more..... I don't..... even know how I'd feel if she did appear. I want to apologize and make it up to her..... I just..... Don't know how though.”

  “Well saying sorry and explaining more thoroughly what you said and why you said it is a good start. Who knows what'll happen but I bet if she loves you than she'll be accepting of what you say and feel.” Before he can continue a knock interrupts us.

  “Sorry to intrude, but Rarity is here to help get you ready for tonight Moonshade.” Solar announces as she peeks inside.

  “Is it that time already? Well then I wish you well Moonshade. Have fun and don't worry to much about what Lily thinks. You’ll be ok.” He gives me an uplifting smile and hug before heading out the door. Rarity gives him a smile and nod before stepping inside along with Applejack, Fluttershy, Twilight, Rainbow and Pinkie. A rack carrying seven covered dresses follows them inside.

  “Well Darling we don’t have much time so I thought we could start getting ready in your room and make our appearance from here.” Rarity and Twilight quickly set up mirrors, makeup and other assorted items.

  “But we still got what..... Six hours before the ball starts?”

  “Ah feel ya Moonshade, but with how long it takes Rarity ta us all gussied up we'll need the time.”

  Ignoring Applejack for the time the fashionista turns and gives me a very close inspection. “Don't fret dear, Rarity will help you look the best you possibly can tonight. The others know how to help themselves with the dresses.”

  With a smile I yet again return to the bathroom behind her. “Have you not yet used the items I got you for your birthday?” The regal alabaster mare asks as the door is shut.

  “No, I..... I was only going to use it for..... Special occasions like tonight, but much closer to when the ball starts. Plus..... I'm not..... Really sure how to use even a quarter of this stuff and have been to..... Upset To read the instructions.” My response comes as she turns on the shower and continually tests the tempurature until she’s happy with it.

  “Well I shall show you how each item works and explain what they do. Now into the shower.” With only a token grumble I step inside and Rarity begins humming happily as she uses the expensive high quality soaps, shampoo and conditioner on me. As she explains in lengthy detail all the ingredients in each item and how they help clean and shine I can’t help but notice the strong scent of lavender surrounding me. It takes a long time but eventually she turns off the shower.

  As I go to grab a towel she gives me this look of horror with a tone of voice to match. “You..... You wouldn't.....”

  “Ugh, alright, lets..... Get this over with.” Rarity takes a few minutes but eventually she comes back to reality though still giving me a weird look while she dries, combs, styles, files and shines me up.

  “WHAT HAY?! WE'VE BEEN IN THERE FOR LIKE..... FIVE HOURS RARITY!” I can't believe how much time went by in there. The others just look at me and laugh at my outburst. I can tell all but Rainbow Dash and Applejack are set to go to the main hall.

  “I know darling, but I had such a hard time with your mane and tail. And you did not help matters by your inability to stay still.” She scolds as she sits me down in front of a mirror. The rest go back to their own business and the conversations while kept quiet still is just a jumble of words mixed together. It takes another forty five minutes or so but finally I'm dressed and ready to go along with the others.

  “Twilight, you and Moonshade can accompany Luna and myself when the ball starts. The rest of you can wait on the main floor. Lieutenant Solar and her squad will be waiting for you.” Aunt Tia says after she greets us, giving both Twilight and myself a hug.

  “Nervous my little Moon?” Mom asks quietly as she sweeps me up in a wing hug. It's at this time I notice both mom and auntie are acting a little strangely.

  “Very, and..... A little worried. Also..... I'm..... Sorry I worried you and auntie so much this past week.” With a glance to Celestial I lean in closer and whisper in mom's ear. “And when you want to I'll..... I'll talk to you some more about..... Nova. And I'm sure Twilight knows her as well.”

  “I shall trust you on this Moon. But please, if things get to out of control with her do not hesitate to call for help.”

  “Thanks mom.” As we break apart Celestial motions for Twilight to stand behind her and to left as The dark blue alicorn stand on her right. As she's in place I stand across from the princess of friendship to the right of mom.

  With a fanfare of trumpets the four of us step forward as the curtain hiding us is drawn back. The sight below causes me to gasp as I search nearly frantically for a certain trio. I don’t even really pay much attention to the words of the day princess as I finally spot them. Almonds and Sunstreak are wearing classic black tuxedos but Lily is a whole different story.

  Her dress is mostly white with the trim, collar and middle skirt done in a light peach color.The outer most layer is very short, to the point it only covers the bump made by her tail. The peach layer is decorated in some kind of pattern of white but I can't make it out from this distance. The final layer starts out as white but ends in an uneven patter of dark scarlet. The bodice of the dress just two pieces of white cloth attached to a metal collar.one piece stretches along her back and disappears under the belt while the scond piece runs along her chest and belly. The belt is a light yellow color. Her shoes are green and look somewhat like mine. In her styled mane is a pair of lilies tucked against her right ear.

  As I keep looking a subtle smack with mom’s hoof brings me out of my thoughts just as Tia finishes her speech. With a smile the four of us glide down the stairs and make our way to the high table. Once we take our seats the rest of the room settle at their tables as well. I can see Twilight’s friends at one table closest to us. Lyra and Bon Bon have apparently joined Lily, Almonds and Sunstreak at another table.

  I smile as best I can without displaying a fang as Lily turns and looks our way. However her quck glance away causes me to frown as I wonder what she's thinking. With a little focus I reach out and forms a partial shadow copy consisting of just a head and one hoof under her table. “What do you want?” She hisses as I get her attention.

  “I just..... I'm sorry that I hurt you. Could we..... Talk about it once dinner is finished please?”

  “I guess, but you have alot to explain and make up for Moonshade.” She snarls before she drops the table cloth. With a sigh I cancel the spell just as dinner is being passed around.

  Before I can start eating Tia raises a glass and gently taps her knife against it. “Before we begin I want to propose a toast.” I look at auntie with a little trepidation. “Here is to my niece who for a long time was lost to us in more ways than one and found her way home.” I try to shrink into my chair as blood fills my cheeks at her words along with the gaze of the gathered ponies. “Please welcome her with respect into the ranks of the nobility.” The flush grows even brighter at the applause though I can't tell if it's just out of respect for the princess or genuine respect for me.

  “Did I embarrass you Moon?” Auntie asks with a chuckle as she looks at me along with Twilight and mom.

  “Yes, but also..... Just..... I don't know if they are sincere in their applause to welcome me or just respecting you auntie. Also I'm..... Nervous about talking with Lily later on.” I speak softly as I look down at my plate.

  “I'm sure everything will work out fine.” Twilight adds with a smile before we begin eating. All mom does is give me a smile, wink and nod. The rest of the meal for myself atleast is silent while the others talk happily amongst themselves. After I finish my meal I take a deep breath and slide my chair out.

  I mingle my way to the table where Lily and the others are siting. The entire way there Lily along with the rest of the room watches me. I partially succeed in that task as I step up beside her. “Are you..... Ready to talk now Lily?”

  “I guess, better now than later, let's find us a place to talk.” With a partial smile I follow, hopefully this talk will straighten things out. “So you have something to say?” Lily says once we find a spot to chat without anypony listening or watching us.

  “First, I'm sorry. I didn't ever mean to hurt you with what I said when I said I was unsure how I felt about you. I just..... I didn't want you to get your hopes up.” My head hangs as I speak with my ears drooped. “I never meant for you to get hurt.”

  “Then why didn't you tell me sooner huh? You waited what? THREE..... FOUR WEEKS BEFORE TELLING ME?” Her outburst surprisingly doesn't attract attention but does make me feel even lower.

  “I..... I’m..... I'm sorry..... I was just..... Confused..... I couldn’t..... I was unsure of how..... Please..... I'm sorry.” I am nearly laying on my belly once I finish and looks up at her pleading. All she does is sigh and her anger slowly drains.

  “I'm still mad Moon, but I..... Understand the reason.” She says after a few minutes. “Now stand up, it is embarrassing.”

  “Thanks, can I..... Can I have my first dance be with you?” I ask hopefully, a slight smile crosses my muzzle.

  “Sorry Moon, but I..... I just feel betrayed right now. I can't, sorry.” My smile falls as she turns and head back towards her table. As I watch her I again drop my head before turning to return to the head table. For the remainder of the dinner I don't notice anything that happens or is said until mom gives me a nudge.

  “Come Moon, we need to get you ready.”

  “O..... Okay. What..... What am I getting ready for?” I ask very quietly. ‘I just..... I just want to go to bed and never come out.’

  “You'll see my little moon.” With a sad sigh I follow. A few steps I notice a long procession of flag bearers and guards.

  “Wha.....” I Just look at them dumbfoundedly for a minute before something clicks. ‘No, nononono. Not going to happen.’ “Please..... Please don’t.....”

  “Why not?” auntie looks at me with a slight frown. Before she can continue a rukus comes from the main hall. It sounds as if someone is talking very loudly but I can't yet make out the words.

  ‘I bet its Discord making a scene. Or an accident happened.’ I chase after the trio of alicorns and once we pass through the doors what is being shouted causes me to stumble and trip till I'm right in front of the group of speakers.

  “..... Ah we were just talking about you ‘highness'. So nice of you to drop in.” His sneer follows me as I stand up face to face with the probable leader. “We were getting ready to shed some very important info that has been kept from you and the good citizens of Equestria. Tell me, do you even know who your father is?”

  “Guards arrest them now. Moonshade do not listen to them!” Auntie and mom shout at the same time. However the guards are blocked by a barrier of some kind.

  “Why is it you wish to hide the truth huh? Are you afraid she'll follow in his footsteps?” The dark gray unicorn says as he looks down at me. “I heard she inherited some of his abilities, along with that of her mother, Nightmare Moon.”

  ‘Who is my father? What has he done and what abilities?’

  Hushed whispers erupt through the room at the words. I glare at him along with the three royals. The solar princess speaks first in a very dangerous tone. “Moonshade is NOTHING like her father and.....”

  “Oh, then why hide it from her huh? My dear your father is none other thatn the Shadow King hisself. The true ruler of the Crystal Empire. His name is.....”

  “NOT ANOTHER WORD! MOONSHADE YOU ARE NOTHING LIKE HIM, BELIEVE ME!” Luna screams at the leader then me which only earns her a smug grin.

  “Kng..... Sombra.”

  ‘What? Who is he? I've never heard of him before.’ I just look up at him. “I have no idea who this King Sombra is. And he can't possibly be my father cause I was.....”

  “Yes you were born a thousand years ago. I know. King Sombra was alive at that time. Do you wish to know what he did?” Before he can continue the sounds of all three princesses trying to break in interupts us while the rest of the gathering flees to the farthest wall. “He enslaved an entire race. He turned cruel and power hungry. I even found he tortured and murdered his own subjects.” With a smirk he addresses the cowering crowd. “Do you want a princess that comes from such a lineage?”

  With a chuckle he turns and drops a book with Sombra’s name on it in front of me before leaving. Furiously the royal guard, Celestia, Luna and Twilight go to follow, leaving me withcthe book. As I turn to face the crowd the spell of fear wears off and all but Twilight’s friends, Lily, Almonds and Sunstreak are left staring at me in shock.

  ‘Is that..... Am I really related to such a..... Monster?’

‘Yes you are. Siding yourself with these weaklings goes against the very fabric of your existance. Its in your very nature to be on our side.’ The remnant says after its prolonged hiatus.Furiously I glare at mom and the sun ruler as they land beside me, attempting to wrap me in a wing hug.

  “Is it true? What he said, is it true?” I ask quietly as I look directly at the book. Both alicorn sisters stay silent as I shrug their wings off.

  “Moon you have to.....”

  “I SAID IS IT TRUE? YES OR BUCKING NO!”

  “Yes” Luna says meekly as she again tries to hug me. “.....”

  “WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME I WAS..... I WAS RELATED TO SUCH A..... MONSTER! WHY KEEP THIS A BUCKING SECRET FROM ME HUH?!” I scream directly in mom's face, my body shaking violently.

  “Please Moon, calm down we'.....” With a scream cutting Tia off I shed the dress and topple the four statutes of the four ruling alicorns and break them. Not caring which direction I'm going or what I might encounter.