The Light and Darkby Crystal NightChaptersChapter One: Celestia's AdvisorChapter Two: Choices Chapter Three: Dark RegretsChapter One: Celestia's Advisor"I just hope you're doing the right thing." Luna and Celestia were sitting in their seats while enjoying tea and a slice of cake. "As do I." Three weeks before "What do you mean by "I don't desire the Crystal Empire anymore" ?" Princess Celestia, Princess Luna and King Sombra stood inside the throne room, looking at each other. "You heard me well, I don't want this kingdom." Luna stared at her sister, the look in her eyes made her worry. "Sister?" - Luna nudged her, using her left wing. The sudden touch broke Celestia from her deep thoughts. "I'm sorry, sister, but can we speak in a more private room?" The white alicorn glanced at Sombra, who replied with a nod. The princesses followed him, close by, their royal guards followed them. There was still cloud of distrust, apparently Sombra had his reasons. Something that Celestia noticed in his eyes. Sombra was acting different, the tone in his voice was soft and sincere, instead of being harsh. They entered a small room next to the throne room. Sombra closed the doors. "Please, take a seat!" Celestia looked at Sombra, with a deep breath she finally spoke. "If I know well, you must have a reason for your decision." The dark stallion nodded. "I do," - he paused "I don't wish to rule in this world, especially when everything is different." Celestia raised an eyebrow. She wasn't sure why Sombra was acting like this, but there has something else than that. "Different? What do mean?" - the lunar princess asked. Sombra sighed, he was getting nowhere with this discussion. "You are getting weaker?" - Celestia inquired. "Is that obvious?" - he asked, not very suprised by the question. Luna, at this point was confused, she glanced between her sister and Sombra. "I don't understand." "Do you still remember how Equestria was many moons ago?" - he asked Luna, who was now thinking. "Even before we first met?" "I..." Luna started talking, but was interrupted when her sister spoke. "A dark place filled with sadness." Sombra nodded his head. "Exactly, I know you don't like dark magic, but I'm sure you know how dark magic works." His eyes kept on Celestia. If there was something they both shared in common was dark magic, they knew how it worked. Luna, in the other hoof was slightly confused, but said nothing. "Dark magic comes from the fear and hatred, I know about that matter too well and I know what you're saying." Luna decided to intervene. "I still don't understand sister." She glanced at Luna with a sad expression. "Equestria was a dark place, without hope, even before we fight against Discord or Sombra. You remember right?" Luna nodded. "Now Equestria is a happy place, filled with joy. Do you understand now?" The lunar princess thought for awhile, until she finally gather the pieces together. "You're losing dark magic?" - she asked. "I'm not losing my magic, basically it's getting weaker." The Solar Monarch had an unsettling question in her mind that needed to be answer. "Tell me Sombra," Sombra gazed at her, he noticed her expression was different. "What will happen to you if dark magic no longer exists?" This time, Sombra was caught by surprise. He pondered, this a question he didn't thought. If dark magic was disappearing, did this meant he was going to have the same fate? "Honestly, I didn't thought about that, but I don't care." Both princesses stared at each other for a brief second before glancing back to Sombra. "Why?" - Luna inquired. "For what I have done." Sombra lowered his head and sighed. "Most apologies, I'm really tired." Celestia was about to ask something, however Sombra passed out, before he could hit the floor, his body was surrounded by a yellow aura. Celestia and Luna approached the dark stallion, lying on the floor. "How is he?" "He only passed out," Celestia answered "we should take him back to Canterlot. He's very weak." "Are you sure sister?" Celestia looked at her sister with a deep expression. "We can't just leave him here." Present Day Sombra stood in his new bedroom, offered by Princess Celestia. It was to kind of her to do that, even he really didn't deserve such treatment. Sitting in his reading chair, his eyes were focused on the pages, but his mind was still recalling the last events. Never in his life he thought he would see Canterlot, in this case live there, inside the castle. He kept his days busy by just reading, although Celestia had try to summon him for several times. Sombra knew well about about the castle staff fears, after all he could sense that fear. It was a very pleasent, regardless of that his magic was still very weak. In order for Sombra not to pass out again or worse, the royal blacksmiths made him a neckless along with Celestia and Luna's magic, that piece would make sure that wouldn't happen again. After a brief explanation as to why that happened. Two weeks before Sombra's eyes slowly opened, he felt his head was spinning and his body was weak. He tried to move a hoof, but his movement was stopped when a hoof softly pressed against his chest. "Careful, you're still very weak." Celestia replied with a her soft voice. Sombra turned his head to see her. "W-Where am I?" "In Canterlot, to be more precise, in the castle's infirmary." With some help from Celestia, he was able to sit straight on the bed. He still felt a little dizzy. "What happen?" "In the middle of our conversation, you passed out." The stallion lowered his eyes, glancing at his hooves. Luna, however didn't understand why that happened. "Is there a reason for that?" Still, glancing at his hooves, he spoke. "I presume you didn't tell your sister?" Although he wasn't looking at the Sun Monarch, he knew she shook her head. "This world is filled with happiness, something that makes me feel so weak, I can't sense evil anymore. That's the reason why I'm weak, I can feel my dark magic fading away from me." When he finished speaking, his eyes stared at Luna. Luna, in the other hoof, saw in his eyes nothing but honesty, if what he was telling was true, what was going to happen to him? "I'm afraid I have to ask this, but what will happen if you lose your magic?" "Since I'm the essence of dark magic, I suppose I disappear. My magic comes from the most darkest desires of somepony's heart," - Sombra glanced at Luna "When we fought, I felt your dark side, which made me stronger, at least for awhile." He returned his gaze to the Princess of the Sun "But if everpony is filled with happiness, it's difficult for me to focus on dark thoughts." "Fortunately, there's a way to help you." - Celestia replied. Present Day A knock on the door disturbed Sombra's thoughts. If he was right, that probably one of Celestia's guards. Once more, he was going to deny another invitation from her, not because he hated it, but he wanted to be alone. Still, he had to ask, with a deep breath he spoke. "Yes?" "Princess Celestia demands your presence to her chamber!" Sombra raised an eyebrow. "She demands my presence in her chamber?". Usually, she would sent an invitation, but the choose of words meant something was different. "Did the princess said why?" "A proposal." Sombra glanced at the door. After a seconds of silence he replied. "I shall be there." Princess Celestia's Royal Chamber "I'm happy you decided to join me."- Celestia started with a soft smile. "Well, you demanded my presence and since I wasn't doing anything, why not? I need to stretch my legs." Thanks to Celestia, he was starting to enjoying having tea, that warm liquid was quite relaxing. "The guard told me you had a proposal." The white alicorn nodded her head. "It's true"- she stopped before taking another sip of tea. "Since you arrived here, you haven't done nothing much other than reading, which I find surprising, even for you." Sombra smiled, if there was something he really liked, was reading. "I'm a stallion with many secrets dear princess." "I know, that's why I want you to be my personal advisor." For a brief second, his magic failed, almost slipping the tea. "Could you repeat that again?" On the other side of the table, Celestia kept drinking her tea calmly. Chapter Two: Choices Chapter Two: Choices Three days after the proposal Once more, Sombra stood in his bedroom, sitting on his chair, infront of the large wooden table, not reading instead, taking care of some papers. Well, maybe some wasn't the right word. On right side of his table, there was a small space for the paper work that was ready to be send, which was empty. On the left side, a huge stacks of papers was gathered. The dark stallion sighed, maybe accepting the job was a bad idea. His eyes scanned the page contents, something about land marks and build stuff. Overall, something that made him sighed again. Probably he would take days to finish half of the paper work. On the right side, he could enjoy having more tea. He took another look at the stack of papers. "Somepony is skipping their duties." A knock on the door broke his thoughts, making himself more presentable and clearing his throat, he spoke. "Yes?" "It's me, Celestia." One thing he noticed was the lack of royalty. He always hated when ponies addressing him as Sombra, completely forgetting the King. Now that part was forgotten, but it still surprised him. "Enter please!" The door knob was surrounded by a yellow glow, Celestia emerged from behind the door, closing as she entered. Still using her magic, she grabbed one of the cushions, gently she placed next to Sombra. "How's going my advisor?" - she inquired while sitting down on the pillow. "Not doing well." - he answered with a boring tone on his voice. Celestia took some quick glances at the paper and she smiled. "You don't need to finish today, you know?" The princess looked at Sombra with her usual soft smile. "After all, you agreed on accpeting the job, right?" Sombra let out a huge sighed. "I did, now I'm regretting my choice." Celestia only giggled. Three days before "Could you repeat that again?" After taking another sip from her tea, she continued. "Since you arrived Canterlot, you haven't done much, other then reading and sleeping." The black stallion raised an eyebrow. "Just to make myself clear, I'm not lazy." Now was Celestia's turn to raised her eyebrow with a smile on her nuzzle. "Well, maybe a little." Sombra glared at the tea cup before lifting his eyes, locking into Celestia. "I know there's more to that." "Yes," - she paused to collect her thoughts. "I'm certain by now you know the truth about Nightmare Moon and Discord?" He nodded. "I am know for giving ponies a second chance, even if they don't seem to deserve one." Sombra nodded, fully understanding the princess's words. "Besides, you lived long enough, I'm sure you know a lot about Equestria not only the Crystal Empire." Sombra took a moment to collect his thoughts. Celestia was right, as usual, he did possess a lot of knowledge and she was giving him a second chance to live a normal life. Celestia was a honest pony, she didn't have reasons to lie to him or hide something. Finishing his drink, He put the cup on the table. On the other side of the table, Celestia waited for his answer. "Since you're giving a second chance, I guess I'll accept it." A smile appeared on Celestia's muzzle. "With one condition." Her brief smile fadded. "Which is?" "More tea." Present Day Celestia chuckled at the memory. Of all the conditions she had heard, Sombra's was probably the funniest of all. "Well, you still have a lot tea left." "I'm not complaining about the tea, but this paper work..." - Sombra huffed. Seeing his frustration, gently she wrapped her right wing around him, with a reassuring smile on her muzzle. "I know you can handle this by yourself." "I suppose I can." The Princess of the Sun scratch her chin, remembering the reason why she came to speak with Sombra. "There's something I need to tell you and I need your answer." Upon hearing that, he settled down the papers and glanced at Celestia with a puzzled expression. "Today there's a party at the castle..." Before she could continued, Sombra raised an hoof. "Let me guess, you want my presence in the party?" Celestia nodded her head, not surprised by the sudden question. He was a quick thinker, in some cases. "I'm sorry, but I must refuse such invitation." "Why?" - she inquired. "Me." Sombra saw her confused expression and tried to explain. "I'm sure most ponies know about me by now. Parties are supposed to be...happy, and with my presence there, I doubt about it." In a way he was right, his presence would cause some discomfort, but she didn't want him to be alone in such occasion. However, Sombra made his mind by returning his focus on the papers, not even waiting for her answer. Celestia sighed. He was right. She rose from the cushion and levitated back to the bed. "In case you might change ideas." Her horn glow harder, with bright flash of light, a black tuxedo appeared between them. Sombra's eyes were wide open, he had to admit the tuxego wasn't bad. He picked the tuxedo with his own magic and examined closer. The texture of the tuxedo was soft. He wondered. "Custom made?" The princess nodded. "If you excuse me, I have others matters to attend before the party." Celestia was heading towards the door, when Sombra spoke again. "Celestia," The princess turned her head back, looking at him. "how do you deal with the nobles?" In return, she smiled. "I don't." - she answered him, leaving behind a very confused stallion. The stallion glanced between the door and the tuxedo, with a sigh, he placed the tuxedo on the bed and went back to his work. His work didn't get any easier, but he knew what to do. One hour before the party The Princess of the Sun stood in the middle of the center hall, overlooking the last decorations, next to her was her sister, Luna, also checking some last details. The lunar alicorn glanced at her sister, for the last few minutes she didn't spoke, just watched everypony working. By experience, she knew something was troubling her sister, so she decided to ask about it. "Dear sister, is there something wrong?" Celestia shook her head, got off guard due to her thoughts. "Huh? Sorry, I wasn't listening. What did you ask?" "I asked if is there something wrong." "Don't worry, I'm only sad that Sombra declined the invitation." "At least he said why?" Her sister nodded. "Maybe is for the best. Not everypony thinks like you." The royal sisters continued their conversation, unaware of a new presence in center hall. "Well, I'm here!" Both, Celestia and Luna, turned their heads around, gazing at the well-dressed stallion. Celestia noticed a faint blush on his cheeks that made her smile once more. Chapter Three: Dark Regrets"Well, I'm here!" Both Princesses glanced at the dark unicorn. "We must say, you look rather...fancy." - Luna praised. The Solar alicorn nodded, this was in fact Sombra, wearing other things, besides his red cape. She continued to glance at him, even his mane was properly arranged, it still kept the flowing aspect but more in a short style. But what really caught her attention was his eyes. They weren't green with purple smoke, instead they were white. "Impressed Celestia?" - he asked, knowing the answer. "Very." "For an old tyrant, you sure know how to be properly dressed for the occasion." - Luna said with no amount of regret. Celestia glanced at her sister with a look of shock. "Sister!" "Don't worry Princess," - he said, stepping between them. "She isn't wrong in her words, but a stallion must always be presentable for this occasions." Sombra turned around, leaving the two Princesses behind. "Where are you going?" - Celestia inquired. He didn't looked at Solar Monarch. "Somewhere." After saying that, he left the center hall, unknown to them, he was upset. Celestia made sure Sombra did really left before speaking to her sister. "Why did you said that?" "We still don't trust him, neither should you sister of mine." Celestia frowned. Her sister had always been a stubborn pony. "If you don't mind, we need to get ready for the party." - said Luna, leaving Celestia by herself. Somewhere in Canterlot Castle Sombra was trotting away from the center hall, reaching to no destination. He just wanted some space. For whatever reason, Princess Luna's words rang in his head. Tyrant He knew that wasn't a lie, in fact, everypony in Equestria knew, maybe even the Griffons. Yet, that comment did really upset him. Was he...sad? Perhaps he was getting more soft, time does that to somepony. Either way, now he just wanted to be alone before the party started. He had much to think about. Party - Fifteen minutes after the party started Before the party could begin, Princess Celestia announced that the ex-tyrant, King Sombra was no longer an enemy and was living at the castle, not everypony seemed to enjoy the news, regardless they clapped. Sombra just stayed in the shadow watching their reactions. Most of them was concern, some fear and others, well...nothing. He decided to stay far from the party, but at the same time he wanted to be close. Celestia and Luna stood on top of the staircase, observing the party guests, making sure everpony was happy and enjoying themselves. The white alicorn smiled, so far everything was alright, even with the recent news. Her smile quickly faltered when she noticed a lone stallion standing in a far corner. It was Sombra. His expression said he wasn't having fun, but there was something else bothering. He gazed around at the guests, not amused by their happiness. Happiness was like a poison to him, or at least it was thanks to the necklace. His eyes fell upon an open door that led to the gardens. Seeing that nopony was looking at him, he decided to have some fresh air. Slowly, he made his way to the gardens. Celestia saw everything and thought it was time to have talk with him. "I shall be right back sister." "Where are you going?" - Luna asked, sensing something was wrong. "I'm going to talk with somepony." The blue alicorn frowned, she knew who was that pony. "Careful." - she pronounced in a concern tone. Celestia, in return nodded and descended, passing several ponies, giving them smiles and some 'Hello', here and there, but she had a clear objective set in mind. Talk with Sombra. Now that she thought about it, Celestia never had a real conversation with him, besides that time at the infirmary and when she gave him the proposal. Other than that, Celestia knew nothing about his past, but that was about to change. Luna watched as her sister stepped outside, she was concerned. Sombra was still very dangerous. A lone stallion could be found outside in the gardens, sitting on a stone bench, gazing at the night sky. He had to admit, the Lunar Monarch did wonders with her night, of course he wouldn't dare say that to her. She didn't needed any more reasons to mock him. There was a gentle breeze in the air, it almost made the indoor party sounds go away. His mind was still filled with concerns and fears, especially regrets. "Mind if I join?" - a voice asked. Sombra turned his head around quickly and saw Celestia wearing a gentle smile. Her smile almost caused his heart to clutch, he had seen that smile a long time ago. It only caused more suffering. "O-of course." - he stammered, trying to hide the pain in his voice. Celestia however noticed, but said nothing. She would get there in time. That was all she needed. The two sat in a awkward silence, their eyes on the night sky. The silence was starting to bother Sombra, he took a quick glance at Celestia, who was still gazing at the sky, what really impressed him was the way she look under the moonlight. The moon was providing enough light to see her features, the colour in eyes seemed even more intense and her celestial mane was gently flowing in the air. Her expression showed she was relaxed, in peace with herself. Sombra gulped, in his mind, Celestia was...beautiful? His heart skipped a beat at that thought. Celestia glanced at him, still with a smile on her muzzle. He quickly looked back at the stars, praying that Celestia didn't see him. On the other hoof, she enjoying herself by seeing his reactions. Sooner or later, he was going to talk, if she had to guess, he was very close from doing so. After a couple of minutes, he sighed. "Why?" - he said, bluntly. She looked at him. "Why even bother to save me?" He turned his head to meet her gaze. "I only caused pain and misery because I couldn't control myself. Why save a monster like me?" "Because you have" - she placed an hoof on his chest. "a heart. Monsters don't have hearts." Sombra's eyes were wide open. She didn't consider him as a monster? "I don't know much about your past, only what Radiant Hope tould me." Sombra frozed at the sudden name. "Do you still remember her?" "Of course I do!" - he snapped. "She was my first and only friend," His voice was barely a whisper. "and I broke her heart." A single tear went down his muzzle, Celestia gazed the ex-tyrant with a sad expression. Sombra wasn't handling well with himself, not ever since his return. He was on a verge of a mental breakdown. He needed to said it, to clear his mind, to silence the voice within. He needed to be...honest. "Why can everpony else be happy but me? I just wanted a normal life, I didn't ask this." - he pointed a hoof at his red horn. "Why? Why do I have to suffer? Why did I have to lose my only friend, that truly cared about me?" Tears were falling down his muzzle, he didn't care. "To make things worse," - he took a deep breath. "I loved her so much...now she's gone. I didn't even said goodbye." At that moment, Sombra's mind broke at the sudden reality, she was gone and it was his fault. Everything bad that happened was because of him. He didn't deserve do live. The sobbing turned into a cry, filled with pain and sadness. It hurt Celestia seeing Sombra breakdown like this. Everpony assumed that King Sombra was nothing but a tyrant with a cold and dark heart that shared no emotions. Yet, right in front of her, there he was, the real Sombra. Celestia drapped a wing over Sombra's back. Without thinking, Sombra hugged the white alicorn with the strengh he could. She returned the hug. This remember her about Luna, when she return. She was so fragile and scared. The first couple of nights, Luna was afraid to sleep, so instead she would sleep with Celestia. Sombra and Luna shared a few things in common. "Sometimes life doesn't give us what we want, but we always have the option to change, even if everything seems to fall apart." - Celestia started in a serene tone of her voice, trying to calm down Sombra. "I know very well what you are feeling right now, for one thousand years ago my sister was on the moon, I had noone to talk about how I felt back then. I had to banish her and it caused me great pain. But now she's here, among us." She lifted Sombra's face with her hoof. "Ponies will forgive you, like when they did with my sister." After a couple of seconds, he spoke. "How?" "Give them a chance." Celestia smiled once more. "Do you trust me?" He nodded, wiping away the tears. "I do." They shared one last hug. Sombra was feeling slightly better, but the regret was still lingering in his mind. "Good, now let's dance, shall we?" His reply was small grin as they returned back to the party. "Are you ready?" The stallion took a deep breath and nodded at her. With her magic she opened the doors. I can do this!
Chapter One: Celestia's Advisor"I just hope you're doing the right thing." Luna and Celestia were sitting in their seats while enjoying tea and a slice of cake. "As do I." Three weeks before "What do you mean by "I don't desire the Crystal Empire anymore" ?" Princess Celestia, Princess Luna and King Sombra stood inside the throne room, looking at each other. "You heard me well, I don't want this kingdom." Luna stared at her sister, the look in her eyes made her worry. "Sister?" - Luna nudged her, using her left wing. The sudden touch broke Celestia from her deep thoughts. "I'm sorry, sister, but can we speak in a more private room?" The white alicorn glanced at Sombra, who replied with a nod. The princesses followed him, close by, their royal guards followed them. There was still cloud of distrust, apparently Sombra had his reasons. Something that Celestia noticed in his eyes. Sombra was acting different, the tone in his voice was soft and sincere, instead of being harsh. They entered a small room next to the throne room. Sombra closed the doors. "Please, take a seat!" Celestia looked at Sombra, with a deep breath she finally spoke. "If I know well, you must have a reason for your decision." The dark stallion nodded. "I do," - he paused "I don't wish to rule in this world, especially when everything is different." Celestia raised an eyebrow. She wasn't sure why Sombra was acting like this, but there has something else than that. "Different? What do mean?" - the lunar princess asked. Sombra sighed, he was getting nowhere with this discussion. "You are getting weaker?" - Celestia inquired. "Is that obvious?" - he asked, not very suprised by the question. Luna, at this point was confused, she glanced between her sister and Sombra. "I don't understand." "Do you still remember how Equestria was many moons ago?" - he asked Luna, who was now thinking. "Even before we first met?" "I..." Luna started talking, but was interrupted when her sister spoke. "A dark place filled with sadness." Sombra nodded his head. "Exactly, I know you don't like dark magic, but I'm sure you know how dark magic works." His eyes kept on Celestia. If there was something they both shared in common was dark magic, they knew how it worked. Luna, in the other hoof was slightly confused, but said nothing. "Dark magic comes from the fear and hatred, I know about that matter too well and I know what you're saying." Luna decided to intervene. "I still don't understand sister." She glanced at Luna with a sad expression. "Equestria was a dark place, without hope, even before we fight against Discord or Sombra. You remember right?" Luna nodded. "Now Equestria is a happy place, filled with joy. Do you understand now?" The lunar princess thought for awhile, until she finally gather the pieces together. "You're losing dark magic?" - she asked. "I'm not losing my magic, basically it's getting weaker." The Solar Monarch had an unsettling question in her mind that needed to be answer. "Tell me Sombra," Sombra gazed at her, he noticed her expression was different. "What will happen to you if dark magic no longer exists?" This time, Sombra was caught by surprise. He pondered, this a question he didn't thought. If dark magic was disappearing, did this meant he was going to have the same fate? "Honestly, I didn't thought about that, but I don't care." Both princesses stared at each other for a brief second before glancing back to Sombra. "Why?" - Luna inquired. "For what I have done." Sombra lowered his head and sighed. "Most apologies, I'm really tired." Celestia was about to ask something, however Sombra passed out, before he could hit the floor, his body was surrounded by a yellow aura. Celestia and Luna approached the dark stallion, lying on the floor. "How is he?" "He only passed out," Celestia answered "we should take him back to Canterlot. He's very weak." "Are you sure sister?" Celestia looked at her sister with a deep expression. "We can't just leave him here." Present Day Sombra stood in his new bedroom, offered by Princess Celestia. It was to kind of her to do that, even he really didn't deserve such treatment. Sitting in his reading chair, his eyes were focused on the pages, but his mind was still recalling the last events. Never in his life he thought he would see Canterlot, in this case live there, inside the castle. He kept his days busy by just reading, although Celestia had try to summon him for several times. Sombra knew well about about the castle staff fears, after all he could sense that fear. It was a very pleasent, regardless of that his magic was still very weak. In order for Sombra not to pass out again or worse, the royal blacksmiths made him a neckless along with Celestia and Luna's magic, that piece would make sure that wouldn't happen again. After a brief explanation as to why that happened. Two weeks before Sombra's eyes slowly opened, he felt his head was spinning and his body was weak. He tried to move a hoof, but his movement was stopped when a hoof softly pressed against his chest. "Careful, you're still very weak." Celestia replied with a her soft voice. Sombra turned his head to see her. "W-Where am I?" "In Canterlot, to be more precise, in the castle's infirmary." With some help from Celestia, he was able to sit straight on the bed. He still felt a little dizzy. "What happen?" "In the middle of our conversation, you passed out." The stallion lowered his eyes, glancing at his hooves. Luna, however didn't understand why that happened. "Is there a reason for that?" Still, glancing at his hooves, he spoke. "I presume you didn't tell your sister?" Although he wasn't looking at the Sun Monarch, he knew she shook her head. "This world is filled with happiness, something that makes me feel so weak, I can't sense evil anymore. That's the reason why I'm weak, I can feel my dark magic fading away from me." When he finished speaking, his eyes stared at Luna. Luna, in the other hoof, saw in his eyes nothing but honesty, if what he was telling was true, what was going to happen to him? "I'm afraid I have to ask this, but what will happen if you lose your magic?" "Since I'm the essence of dark magic, I suppose I disappear. My magic comes from the most darkest desires of somepony's heart," - Sombra glanced at Luna "When we fought, I felt your dark side, which made me stronger, at least for awhile." He returned his gaze to the Princess of the Sun "But if everpony is filled with happiness, it's difficult for me to focus on dark thoughts." "Fortunately, there's a way to help you." - Celestia replied. Present Day A knock on the door disturbed Sombra's thoughts. If he was right, that probably one of Celestia's guards. Once more, he was going to deny another invitation from her, not because he hated it, but he wanted to be alone. Still, he had to ask, with a deep breath he spoke. "Yes?" "Princess Celestia demands your presence to her chamber!" Sombra raised an eyebrow. "She demands my presence in her chamber?". Usually, she would sent an invitation, but the choose of words meant something was different. "Did the princess said why?" "A proposal." Sombra glanced at the door. After a seconds of silence he replied. "I shall be there." Princess Celestia's Royal Chamber "I'm happy you decided to join me."- Celestia started with a soft smile. "Well, you demanded my presence and since I wasn't doing anything, why not? I need to stretch my legs." Thanks to Celestia, he was starting to enjoying having tea, that warm liquid was quite relaxing. "The guard told me you had a proposal." The white alicorn nodded her head. "It's true"- she stopped before taking another sip of tea. "Since you arrived here, you haven't done nothing much other than reading, which I find surprising, even for you." Sombra smiled, if there was something he really liked, was reading. "I'm a stallion with many secrets dear princess." "I know, that's why I want you to be my personal advisor." For a brief second, his magic failed, almost slipping the tea. "Could you repeat that again?" On the other side of the table, Celestia kept drinking her tea calmly.
Chapter Two: Choices Chapter Two: Choices Three days after the proposal Once more, Sombra stood in his bedroom, sitting on his chair, infront of the large wooden table, not reading instead, taking care of some papers. Well, maybe some wasn't the right word. On right side of his table, there was a small space for the paper work that was ready to be send, which was empty. On the left side, a huge stacks of papers was gathered. The dark stallion sighed, maybe accepting the job was a bad idea. His eyes scanned the page contents, something about land marks and build stuff. Overall, something that made him sighed again. Probably he would take days to finish half of the paper work. On the right side, he could enjoy having more tea. He took another look at the stack of papers. "Somepony is skipping their duties." A knock on the door broke his thoughts, making himself more presentable and clearing his throat, he spoke. "Yes?" "It's me, Celestia." One thing he noticed was the lack of royalty. He always hated when ponies addressing him as Sombra, completely forgetting the King. Now that part was forgotten, but it still surprised him. "Enter please!" The door knob was surrounded by a yellow glow, Celestia emerged from behind the door, closing as she entered. Still using her magic, she grabbed one of the cushions, gently she placed next to Sombra. "How's going my advisor?" - she inquired while sitting down on the pillow. "Not doing well." - he answered with a boring tone on his voice. Celestia took some quick glances at the paper and she smiled. "You don't need to finish today, you know?" The princess looked at Sombra with her usual soft smile. "After all, you agreed on accpeting the job, right?" Sombra let out a huge sighed. "I did, now I'm regretting my choice." Celestia only giggled. Three days before "Could you repeat that again?" After taking another sip from her tea, she continued. "Since you arrived Canterlot, you haven't done much, other then reading and sleeping." The black stallion raised an eyebrow. "Just to make myself clear, I'm not lazy." Now was Celestia's turn to raised her eyebrow with a smile on her nuzzle. "Well, maybe a little." Sombra glared at the tea cup before lifting his eyes, locking into Celestia. "I know there's more to that." "Yes," - she paused to collect her thoughts. "I'm certain by now you know the truth about Nightmare Moon and Discord?" He nodded. "I am know for giving ponies a second chance, even if they don't seem to deserve one." Sombra nodded, fully understanding the princess's words. "Besides, you lived long enough, I'm sure you know a lot about Equestria not only the Crystal Empire." Sombra took a moment to collect his thoughts. Celestia was right, as usual, he did possess a lot of knowledge and she was giving him a second chance to live a normal life. Celestia was a honest pony, she didn't have reasons to lie to him or hide something. Finishing his drink, He put the cup on the table. On the other side of the table, Celestia waited for his answer. "Since you're giving a second chance, I guess I'll accept it." A smile appeared on Celestia's muzzle. "With one condition." Her brief smile fadded. "Which is?" "More tea." Present Day Celestia chuckled at the memory. Of all the conditions she had heard, Sombra's was probably the funniest of all. "Well, you still have a lot tea left." "I'm not complaining about the tea, but this paper work..." - Sombra huffed. Seeing his frustration, gently she wrapped her right wing around him, with a reassuring smile on her muzzle. "I know you can handle this by yourself." "I suppose I can." The Princess of the Sun scratch her chin, remembering the reason why she came to speak with Sombra. "There's something I need to tell you and I need your answer." Upon hearing that, he settled down the papers and glanced at Celestia with a puzzled expression. "Today there's a party at the castle..." Before she could continued, Sombra raised an hoof. "Let me guess, you want my presence in the party?" Celestia nodded her head, not surprised by the sudden question. He was a quick thinker, in some cases. "I'm sorry, but I must refuse such invitation." "Why?" - she inquired. "Me." Sombra saw her confused expression and tried to explain. "I'm sure most ponies know about me by now. Parties are supposed to be...happy, and with my presence there, I doubt about it." In a way he was right, his presence would cause some discomfort, but she didn't want him to be alone in such occasion. However, Sombra made his mind by returning his focus on the papers, not even waiting for her answer. Celestia sighed. He was right. She rose from the cushion and levitated back to the bed. "In case you might change ideas." Her horn glow harder, with bright flash of light, a black tuxedo appeared between them. Sombra's eyes were wide open, he had to admit the tuxego wasn't bad. He picked the tuxedo with his own magic and examined closer. The texture of the tuxedo was soft. He wondered. "Custom made?" The princess nodded. "If you excuse me, I have others matters to attend before the party." Celestia was heading towards the door, when Sombra spoke again. "Celestia," The princess turned her head back, looking at him. "how do you deal with the nobles?" In return, she smiled. "I don't." - she answered him, leaving behind a very confused stallion. The stallion glanced between the door and the tuxedo, with a sigh, he placed the tuxedo on the bed and went back to his work. His work didn't get any easier, but he knew what to do. One hour before the party The Princess of the Sun stood in the middle of the center hall, overlooking the last decorations, next to her was her sister, Luna, also checking some last details. The lunar alicorn glanced at her sister, for the last few minutes she didn't spoke, just watched everypony working. By experience, she knew something was troubling her sister, so she decided to ask about it. "Dear sister, is there something wrong?" Celestia shook her head, got off guard due to her thoughts. "Huh? Sorry, I wasn't listening. What did you ask?" "I asked if is there something wrong." "Don't worry, I'm only sad that Sombra declined the invitation." "At least he said why?" Her sister nodded. "Maybe is for the best. Not everypony thinks like you." The royal sisters continued their conversation, unaware of a new presence in center hall. "Well, I'm here!" Both, Celestia and Luna, turned their heads around, gazing at the well-dressed stallion. Celestia noticed a faint blush on his cheeks that made her smile once more.
Chapter Three: Dark Regrets"Well, I'm here!" Both Princesses glanced at the dark unicorn. "We must say, you look rather...fancy." - Luna praised. The Solar alicorn nodded, this was in fact Sombra, wearing other things, besides his red cape. She continued to glance at him, even his mane was properly arranged, it still kept the flowing aspect but more in a short style. But what really caught her attention was his eyes. They weren't green with purple smoke, instead they were white. "Impressed Celestia?" - he asked, knowing the answer. "Very." "For an old tyrant, you sure know how to be properly dressed for the occasion." - Luna said with no amount of regret. Celestia glanced at her sister with a look of shock. "Sister!" "Don't worry Princess," - he said, stepping between them. "She isn't wrong in her words, but a stallion must always be presentable for this occasions." Sombra turned around, leaving the two Princesses behind. "Where are you going?" - Celestia inquired. He didn't looked at Solar Monarch. "Somewhere." After saying that, he left the center hall, unknown to them, he was upset. Celestia made sure Sombra did really left before speaking to her sister. "Why did you said that?" "We still don't trust him, neither should you sister of mine." Celestia frowned. Her sister had always been a stubborn pony. "If you don't mind, we need to get ready for the party." - said Luna, leaving Celestia by herself. Somewhere in Canterlot Castle Sombra was trotting away from the center hall, reaching to no destination. He just wanted some space. For whatever reason, Princess Luna's words rang in his head. Tyrant He knew that wasn't a lie, in fact, everypony in Equestria knew, maybe even the Griffons. Yet, that comment did really upset him. Was he...sad? Perhaps he was getting more soft, time does that to somepony. Either way, now he just wanted to be alone before the party started. He had much to think about. Party - Fifteen minutes after the party started Before the party could begin, Princess Celestia announced that the ex-tyrant, King Sombra was no longer an enemy and was living at the castle, not everypony seemed to enjoy the news, regardless they clapped. Sombra just stayed in the shadow watching their reactions. Most of them was concern, some fear and others, well...nothing. He decided to stay far from the party, but at the same time he wanted to be close. Celestia and Luna stood on top of the staircase, observing the party guests, making sure everpony was happy and enjoying themselves. The white alicorn smiled, so far everything was alright, even with the recent news. Her smile quickly faltered when she noticed a lone stallion standing in a far corner. It was Sombra. His expression said he wasn't having fun, but there was something else bothering. He gazed around at the guests, not amused by their happiness. Happiness was like a poison to him, or at least it was thanks to the necklace. His eyes fell upon an open door that led to the gardens. Seeing that nopony was looking at him, he decided to have some fresh air. Slowly, he made his way to the gardens. Celestia saw everything and thought it was time to have talk with him. "I shall be right back sister." "Where are you going?" - Luna asked, sensing something was wrong. "I'm going to talk with somepony." The blue alicorn frowned, she knew who was that pony. "Careful." - she pronounced in a concern tone. Celestia, in return nodded and descended, passing several ponies, giving them smiles and some 'Hello', here and there, but she had a clear objective set in mind. Talk with Sombra. Now that she thought about it, Celestia never had a real conversation with him, besides that time at the infirmary and when she gave him the proposal. Other than that, Celestia knew nothing about his past, but that was about to change. Luna watched as her sister stepped outside, she was concerned. Sombra was still very dangerous. A lone stallion could be found outside in the gardens, sitting on a stone bench, gazing at the night sky. He had to admit, the Lunar Monarch did wonders with her night, of course he wouldn't dare say that to her. She didn't needed any more reasons to mock him. There was a gentle breeze in the air, it almost made the indoor party sounds go away. His mind was still filled with concerns and fears, especially regrets. "Mind if I join?" - a voice asked. Sombra turned his head around quickly and saw Celestia wearing a gentle smile. Her smile almost caused his heart to clutch, he had seen that smile a long time ago. It only caused more suffering. "O-of course." - he stammered, trying to hide the pain in his voice. Celestia however noticed, but said nothing. She would get there in time. That was all she needed. The two sat in a awkward silence, their eyes on the night sky. The silence was starting to bother Sombra, he took a quick glance at Celestia, who was still gazing at the sky, what really impressed him was the way she look under the moonlight. The moon was providing enough light to see her features, the colour in eyes seemed even more intense and her celestial mane was gently flowing in the air. Her expression showed she was relaxed, in peace with herself. Sombra gulped, in his mind, Celestia was...beautiful? His heart skipped a beat at that thought. Celestia glanced at him, still with a smile on her muzzle. He quickly looked back at the stars, praying that Celestia didn't see him. On the other hoof, she enjoying herself by seeing his reactions. Sooner or later, he was going to talk, if she had to guess, he was very close from doing so. After a couple of minutes, he sighed. "Why?" - he said, bluntly. She looked at him. "Why even bother to save me?" He turned his head to meet her gaze. "I only caused pain and misery because I couldn't control myself. Why save a monster like me?" "Because you have" - she placed an hoof on his chest. "a heart. Monsters don't have hearts." Sombra's eyes were wide open. She didn't consider him as a monster? "I don't know much about your past, only what Radiant Hope tould me." Sombra frozed at the sudden name. "Do you still remember her?" "Of course I do!" - he snapped. "She was my first and only friend," His voice was barely a whisper. "and I broke her heart." A single tear went down his muzzle, Celestia gazed the ex-tyrant with a sad expression. Sombra wasn't handling well with himself, not ever since his return. He was on a verge of a mental breakdown. He needed to said it, to clear his mind, to silence the voice within. He needed to be...honest. "Why can everpony else be happy but me? I just wanted a normal life, I didn't ask this." - he pointed a hoof at his red horn. "Why? Why do I have to suffer? Why did I have to lose my only friend, that truly cared about me?" Tears were falling down his muzzle, he didn't care. "To make things worse," - he took a deep breath. "I loved her so much...now she's gone. I didn't even said goodbye." At that moment, Sombra's mind broke at the sudden reality, she was gone and it was his fault. Everything bad that happened was because of him. He didn't deserve do live. The sobbing turned into a cry, filled with pain and sadness. It hurt Celestia seeing Sombra breakdown like this. Everpony assumed that King Sombra was nothing but a tyrant with a cold and dark heart that shared no emotions. Yet, right in front of her, there he was, the real Sombra. Celestia drapped a wing over Sombra's back. Without thinking, Sombra hugged the white alicorn with the strengh he could. She returned the hug. This remember her about Luna, when she return. She was so fragile and scared. The first couple of nights, Luna was afraid to sleep, so instead she would sleep with Celestia. Sombra and Luna shared a few things in common. "Sometimes life doesn't give us what we want, but we always have the option to change, even if everything seems to fall apart." - Celestia started in a serene tone of her voice, trying to calm down Sombra. "I know very well what you are feeling right now, for one thousand years ago my sister was on the moon, I had noone to talk about how I felt back then. I had to banish her and it caused me great pain. But now she's here, among us." She lifted Sombra's face with her hoof. "Ponies will forgive you, like when they did with my sister." After a couple of seconds, he spoke. "How?" "Give them a chance." Celestia smiled once more. "Do you trust me?" He nodded, wiping away the tears. "I do." They shared one last hug. Sombra was feeling slightly better, but the regret was still lingering in his mind. "Good, now let's dance, shall we?" His reply was small grin as they returned back to the party. "Are you ready?" The stallion took a deep breath and nodded at her. With her magic she opened the doors. I can do this!
