The Ever Changing Moon

by CommanderX5

Rating: teen
Tags: Dark, Alternate Universe, Nightmare Moon, Fluttershy, Adventure, Main 6, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
Length: 84942

The return of Nightmare Moon is coming, and with thestrals on her side, the Elements may not be enough. Now the fate of Equestria rests in the hooves of a young pureblood thestral, Fluttershy and the friends she made.

As written in prophecy, after a thousand years of banishment, the two faced princess shall return and change the world. Pureblood thestrals and their clans are awaiting her return, ready to support her.

Fluttershy, the decades old pureblood thestral, sought refuge in Ponyville after death of her parents. She’s faced many trials and hardships while forging many friendships and forming a small clan of her own.

Now, as the night of the two faced princess’s return is dragging near, it is up to the young pureblood and her friends to face her. Will they help Luna to surface and convince her to lead thestrals down the road of peace, or will they fail and Nightmare Moon will lead them down the path of conquest?

To make matters worse, Moon Shadow, the most powerful pureblood, may have plans of his own.

List of proof-readers:
7th Outpost - Prologue
EternityFlame - Prologue, chapter 1 part 1 and 2
LeprechaunPoni
Ankaru - Prologue
Fistfire
Word Worthy

Pre-reader:
Feather Note

Published 2016-03-27 21:50:02 UTC
Last updated 2020-08-16 23:33:36 UTC

Prologue

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Prologue

Curiosity and panic filled Twilight Sparkle as she trotted through a long hallway, wearing a saddlebag with her cutie mark inscribed on it while carrying Spike on her back. Her destination was the bedchamber of her dearest mentor.

Many thoughts and ideas crossed her mind as she glanced at the books and notepads surrounding her, wondering if the Princess had summoned her to discuss the upcoming Summer Sun Celebration. Maybe it was going to be a task of even greater importance, a chance to put her knowledge and magical potential to use. Surely the guard wouldn’t say; ‘Her Highness Princess Celestia is summoning you to discuss matters of great importance’ if it was going to be just another magic lesson. She couldn’t afford to be unprepared.

Twilight felt excitement pouring into the mix as a large smile formed on her face. Whatever task awaited her, she knew she was going to ace it.

“Ummm… Twilight,” Spike called, awaking her from her deep thoughts.

“Yes, Spike?”

“I don’t want to ruin your mood or anything, but I get the feeling that we’re gonna be hearing some bad news.”

“Bad news? What gave you that idea?” Twilight asked, looking away from her notes.

“I dunno…” Spike shrugged. “Maybe the fact that we passed at least five times the number of guard patrols we usually do. Maybe the fact that besides the guard, Canterlot’s streets are empty. Or perhaps the panicked maids and servants running around with bags on their backs seems to be a bit odd.”

Twilight rubbed her chin for a moment and glanced around before resuming her course. “They were? I’m sorry Spike, I wasn't paying attention.”

“But… but…” Spike kept his mouth open for a few seconds before closing it and massaging his forehead. He sighed and perched his head against Twilight’s soft mane.

Four unicorn guards saluted as they opened the door and stepped to the side. With but a quick glance, Twilight noticed that the tip of each spear was made of silver rather than the usual steel. A few small magical runes indicated their weapons and armor were enchanted to withstand more hits.

Maybe Spike’s right about something being up. The Princess had never felt the need for such security measures, Twilight thought before entering the bedchamber. Her attention focused on the tall alicorn sitting on the balcony.

“Your Highness, your student has arrived, as requested,” the guard called before closing the door.

Twilight half-bowed while Spike jumped from her back and followed her example, their heads lowered respectfully.

“My dearest student, it is always so nice to see you,” Princess Celestia said, walking from the balcony towards her bed. “There’s no need for formalities and we have much to discuss.”

Twilight stood up to her full height, quickly noticing a teacup levitating in her direction surrounded in a golden aura. Her horn lit as she took the cup with her magic. She could see her mentor making herself comfortable on her large bed while levitating her golden regalia to the side.

“Please make yourself comfortable,” Celestia said, levitating over two large pillows onto the carpeted floor.

Twilight nodded before approaching a nearby desk, placing her teacup on it while perching herself on a pillow. Spike did the same, sitting by her side.

Awaiting patiently for her mentor to speak to her, she took a moment to look around. There had been many remodeling attempts over the years devoted to fulfilling the need for a room of just the right size for the Princess of the Sun. Carefully arranged throughout the room were the most insightful works of art Equestria had seen, ranging from a faded oil painting of an ancient armored stallion to a childish scribble lovingly placed in a glass-covered frame enchanted with the most powerful preservative spell Twilight knew.

Thick oak bookshelves took up most of the wall space, crafted by a family of earth ponies over the course of centuries. Placed into those shelves in neat rows were books of history, philosophy and poetry that could bring tears to the driest eye and music to the roughest voice, each a beloved gift from one of her ponies throughout the years.

Even the bed seemed to shift throughout the ages as generations of the finest artisans devoted their time to creating the perfect resting place for their princess. The huge blue pillows that she and Spike were now seated on were softer than any cloud and sported golden embroidery in swoops and swirls, creating a perfect harmony with the star-strewn sheets on the bed, lit in the blaze of sunlight that poured through her open balcony.

Twilight took a quick glance at the violet rug covering most of the floor before looking back at her mentor, who had just finished taking another slow sip from her teacup.

“Twilight, my most faithful student,” Celestia said, placing her teacup on the nearby desk, smiling softly with a hint of sadness. “Do you remember the day I took you under my tutelage?”

Twilight nodded.

“You passed all written exams and practical tests perfectly. Your spot in the School for Gifted Unicorns was guaranteed. The final test where your task was to hatch a dragon egg was a test of character. No teacher expected you to actually succeed.”

Twilight nodded again. Over the years under princess’s care, she’d learnt more about the schooling system.

“During your entrance exam where you displayed your talent and outstanding power, an unheard of phenomenon took place.”

“The Sonic Rainboom?” Twilight asked.

Celestia nodded before continuing her story, “The Sonic Rainboom was responsible for unleashing your hidden potential. I am more than certain that you would have unleashed it sooner or later on your own, however…” She sighed and slightly lowered her head. “If not for this very event, I am unsure if I would have noticed your talent and decided to take you as my student.”

Twilight rubbed her foreleg nervously. Knowing that her dream becoming true was the result of a single event was making her wonder how different her life would have been without it.

“I will be honest with you. That Sonic Rainboom was indirectly caused by the artifacts I once wielded, The Elements of Harmony. Aside from your talent, I took you as my student with hope that one day you too would wield them for the greater good.”

Twilight nearly lost her balance on the pillow before as only one word escaped her mouth, “What?” Spike looked between her and the princess while rubbing the top of his head, deep in thought.

“I understand it must be difficult to take in, and for that I apologize.” Celestia smiled warmly and waved her forehoof. “However, I swear as the Princess of the Sun, that I have not been teaching you for this sole purpose. Over the years, I have grown attached to you. I saw great potential within you and wished to nurture it, possible Element Bearer or not.”

Twilight took a deep calming breath and reasserted herself before noticing two books levitating in her direction. One titled as ‘The Tale of Nightmare Moon’, while another was ‘The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide.’ She glanced at each book before they were placed on a nearby desk.

“What are those?”

Celestia spoke in a somber tone, “It is a prophecy of my sister’s return.” Twilight and Spike gasped, the history books never mentioned that the Princess had a sister. “I was planning to place it in the library for you to find. You would then most likely warn me. I would then disregard your warning and send you to Ponyville to make friends, where the Guide to the Elements would be awaiting in the local library. The Elements chose their bearers, so I had no doubt they would guide you and other candidates in mysterious ways, just like they did with my sister and me.”

She looked to the side, not daring to look her student in the eye. “I was hoping you and the other bearers would use those artifacts to save my sister from her corruption. However, due to unforseen circumstances I was forced to abandon this plan a year ago.”

“What do you mean?” Spike asked, raising his hand. “Are you saying you planned to use Twilight to save your sister, sending her to Ponyville without any knowledge but hints? Like a pawn in some sort of game?” He stopped talking upon seeing Twilight’s disapproving glare.

Celestia nodded. “Nightmare Moon hates only me, so I believed she would never attack residents of Ponyville out of malice, not being aware that among them were the Element Bearers. This plan was my best hope to save my sister without harming her.”

She took a slow breath and looked at her confused student. “Your mission, should you have chosen to accept it, would be to oversee the Summer Sun Celebration. I would ensure that other candidates chosen by the Elements would meet you. I had the greatest confidence you would lead them to victory, becoming their friends on your own free-will. However, if your friendship was forced, the Elements would not respond. I am truly sorry for planning to deceive you.”

Twilight smiled softly. “You have nothing to apologize for, Princess. You taught me and took care of me for years. If I could help to save your sister from corruption, even by being manipulated, I would do so without hesitation.”

“Thank you,” Celestia said with a forced smile before her ears drooped, her mask breaking as she displayed depression. “The reason why I am telling you all of this is because the situation had changed.”

“Changed, how?” Twilight asked, looking at the princess in concern. Never before she had seen Celestia in such a state, no longer the perfect and powerful ruler filled with confidence. “I can still try to find those artifacts and–” she was silenced by her mentor’s hoof.

“You will not for two reasons, my faithful student. Fluttershy, the candidate for the Element of Kindness is… no longer among us.”

Twilight felt like there was a battlefield in her stomach. Her ears drooped.

“Fluttershy’s funeral took place a year and a half ago. Even if the Elements found a suitable replacement, I am not willing to take such a gamble.”

Spike stood from his pillow and looked the princess in the eyes. He asked, “And the other reason?”

Celestia glanced at the balcony before looking back at her student. “Before I answer that, allow me to ask you a question.” Twilight nodded. “How much have you learned about thestrals over the years?”

Twilight cleared her throat and spoke, “Not much, Princess. Finding information regarding thestrals wasn’t easy as the only lead I had were two thestral guards loyal to you. They told me bits of information about themselves and their abilities, even allowing an experiment or two. Unfortunately, they always refused to speak about purebloods, even those responsible for their transformation.”

Celestia nodded before stepping off from her bed and spreading her large wings, now towering over her student. “Purebloods are low in number, but powerful, having mastered the use of dark magic. Their power grows with age and they possess the ability to turn ponies, griffins and other races. Ponies turned by them are generally called thestrals or vamponies.”

Twilight nodded eagerly, her eyes pleading to be filled with knowledge. Spike on the other hoof started biting his claws nervously, looking around at the shadows in fear.

“The relationship between the thestrals and other races has always been tense, their dark power and need to drink blood being viewed as dangerous and immoral. A pureblood’s ability to transform and control others was seen as a threat.” She took a slow breath. “Despite my sister’s efforts to show that thestrals can be a mighty ally to all of Equestria, the civil war was only a matter of time.”

Celestia glanced away from her student as she faced a dilemma. She rarely shared her past with her subjects, especially when it involved wars or defeated evils. More than once she had considered sharing her experiences with her student, but wasn’t sure Twilight was ready to learn about the darker part of Equestria’s history.

“After we failed to come up with a compromise, my sister took the thestrals’ side, transforming into the being known as Nightmare Moon. I tried to use the Elements myself to cleanse her from the corruption, but since I did not represent all six Elements, I sealed her in the moon instead.” A tear was sliding down on her face despite her efforts to keep a serious facade. “Sealing her in the moon was not my intention, but as much as I would like to, I cannot change the past.”

Twilight rubbed her chin as she tried to put the puzzle together. “Are you afraid that after your sister returns, she and the thestrals will start a civil war?”

Celestia nodded before levitating over a rolled scroll. “I cannot be certain, but I suspect that at least two pureblood thestrals are on my side, providing me with information and warnings.” She levitated the scroll onto the bed and lowered her head, her wings dropping a moment later. “If what their warning says is true, then the return of my sister is the least we have to worry about.”

Twilight yelped in surprise as she was grabbed by the large wings of her mentor and pulled into a tight hug. She felt tears dropping onto her head as Spike was pulled into the embrace, as there was more than enough space for both of them between two large wings and soft alicorn’s belly.

“Twilight, whatever happens from now on, remember that I care a great deal about you, and I treasure the years we’ve spent together. You’ve been the best student I could wish for.”

Twilight felt conflicted. For years she worked hard to make her mentor both happy and proud. Any praise she received from the princess was like a priceless treasure. Normally, she would be thrilled upon hearing such praise from her mentor… if not for the fact that the situation was so… grim. It felt so much like she was saying her last goodbyes.

“And you too, Spike, I appreciate your efforts to help Twilight with her studies. You were always diligent and very mature for your age, and for that I am proud of you.”

“T-thanks…” Spike responded, his voice muffled by the alicorn’s soft fur.

After being released, Twilight could see her mighty mentor looking down at her with a warm smile. “Twilight, I have a very important task to ask of you.”

“Y-yes… Princess?”

“Do everything in your power to keep Ponyville from rebelling against Nightmare Moon.”

Twilight blinked in confusion. She had been ready for everything… but had never expected that.

“According to the prophecy, my sister shall return after one thousand years of banishment. Her escape aided by the stars on the night of the thousandth year, and such an event is but two days away.” She glanced at the doors, which were heavily guarded from the other side. “I doubt even Nightmare Moon would dare to attack the capital without an army, and Ponyville is the closest town for her to announce her return.”

She took a deep breath and added, “Do not let the citizens of Ponyville anger her. Get on her good side. If she decides to take this little town under her wing, you and the town’s residents will be safe.”

Twilight couldn’t say a word, now speechless.

Spike walked towards the balcony and pointed outside before asking, “So this is why Canterlot is filled with guards and nothing else? You ordered an evacuation.”

Celestia approached. “I did. Didn’t you notice almost everypony leaving earlier?”

Spike crossed his arms and grinned. “I did, but Twilight was too busy with her books to even notice.”

Celestia chuckled before tickling the muzzle of her stunned student with a tip of her wing. “She does tend to get distracted by her studies very easily. I am counting on you to be the voice of reason when this happens.”

“You can count on me,” Spike said, poking his chest proudly.

Twilight sneezed before turning towards her mentor, now recovered from her shock. “You want me… to help the enemy?!”

Celestia raised an eyebrow. “The term; ‘enemy’ is quite subjective in this case.”

“But… but…”

“I have already instructed a few guards to help your family move to Ponyville to and settle in the local library. They should be ready to depart in a few hours. Your brother will stay in Canterlot to lead the Royal Guard and assist me, alongside Empress Cadence who has brought part of the Crystal Guard with her, but if my plan works there will be no need for them to fight.”

“What do you mean?” Twilight asked. The only way they wouldn’t need to fight would be if the Princess surrendered… or faced the enemy herself. Her throat quickly became dry while the battle in her belly turned into a full scale war. Please... let it not mean what I think it means.

Ponyville - Pink Welcome

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 1

Ponyville

Part 1 - Pink Welcome

The two pegasi guards gave another synchronized flap of their wings, the sunshine gleaming off of their golden armor as they towed an official chariot carrying an important VIP and not so important assistant towards Ponyville. The VIP being none other than Princess Celestia’s faithful student, Twilight Sparkle.

Despite the pleasant weather, Twilight’s mood was anything but cheerful as she stared at the castle in the distance, her head supported on her forelegs with her ears flattened against her head.

Only yesterday she had been reading books, happily studying in her private tower while being oblivious to the ominous threat looming over Equestria. Now she was on the way to Ponyville, ordered not to face and stop Nightmare Moon, but instead to ensure that her conquest will continue uninterrupted.

The feeling of hopelessness overtook Twilight as she wondered if she would ever see her mentor again. Would she end up under the tyrannical rule of the corrupted princess, unable to do anything despite her powerful magic and many years of studies?

Upon feeling Spike’s hand on her shoulder, she glanced at him, seeing concern in his eyes. She sighed and said, “I don’t know how to feel, Spike… knowing that Princess Celestia is going to face such a dire threat while we do nothing to assist her."

Both guards looked at each other for a moment, hiding their worry behind their stoic masks.

“Would you prefer being sent to defeat Nightmare Moon blindly,” Spike asked, “unaware of the danger because you were chosen by some ancient artifacts?”

“I would,” Twilight said, nodding. “At least I would have an opportunity to help my mentor and protect Equestria. I prefer risking my life to staying on the sidelines and doing nothing.”

“It can’t be helped,” Spike said before opening Twilight’s saddlebag, picking up one of the two books that the princess had provided. “It might be a good idea to read up on this, Twilight," he said, hoping that this might pull her out of her funk.

Twilight nodded, levitating the book up to her face with her magic. "You're right, Spike. Maybe I can figure something out."

Minutes passed as she read through the pages, skimming over it while picking up the most useful information.

Her arrival will change the world... She shall bring night eternal… Twilight thought, repeating two sentences in her mind. “Change the world? The world will become a frozen wasteland without the sunlight. Why would my mentor think that surrendering Ponyville to her will keep it safe?”

“Beats me,” Spike said, shrugging. “Still, you should trust the princess. Surely she knows what she’s doing.”

“I trust her, but it doesn’t make her plan any more appealing,” Twilight said before levitating out three rolled scrolls from her saddlebag.

“What’re those?” Spike asked.

“A map of Ponyville,” Twilight said as she unrolled one of the scrolls and took a quick glance. She rolled it and placed back in her saddlebag before checking the second one. “And this is a list of candidates for the Element Bearers. Princess Celestia instructed me to inform them about Nightmare Moon’s return before announcing it to the rest of the town.”

“Why?” Spike asked.

Twilight raised her forehoof in a lecturing gesture. “According to the princess; since they were chosen by the Elements, they must be individuals with great potential. They would be the first to rebel against Nightmare Moon. Best to make sure they won’t do that in advance.”

Spike rubbed his chin before glancing at Twilight’s horn. “Hmmm… Considering that you can levitate tons of weight and memorise hundreds of spells, if those other ponies are even half as extreme, we’re up for some fun.”

“Yes… fun,” Twilight murmured before pointing at the third scroll. “I will also inform the mayor of Ponyville. This scroll is a royal decree to replace the Summer Sun Celebration with a Celebration of Nightmare Moon’s return, as well as our surrender to her.”

“So in short,” Spike started, “we can’t beat them, we join them?”

Twilight sighed before looking over the wall of her chariot, her attention now fixed on Ponyville. Instead of tall buildings made of stone, she saw small colorful homes made of wood. While it was nowhere near as impressive as Canterlot, it did seem to have a charm of its own.

After placing her forehoof on the chariot’s wall, she gently grabbed Spike, preparing herself for the landing.

“We have arrived, Miss Twilight,” one of the guards spoke in a firm tone.

Twilight nodded before stepping from the chariot, approaching the tall stallions as she said, “Thank you, Sirs.” Even an upcoming world-ending crisis wasn’t a reason to forget about politeness.

The guards raised their heads proudly and flew back towards Canterlot, slowly disappearing into the light-blue sky.

Spike looked around as he stood between two lines of homes, scratching top of his head. “So… where to now?”

Twilight looked between her map and the pictures of the Element Bearers, analyzing the best course of action. “The closest place is Sugarcube Corner, so that should be our first stop.” She took a closer look at the picture. “There we should meet with a pony named Pinkie Pie, a potential Element of Laughter.”

“Is she a pink mare with a long pink mane?” Spike asked.

“Actually, her mane should be puffy, not long,” Twilight corrected as she shook her head. She glanced at Spike before turning in the direction he was staring at, noticing an approaching pink earth pony with a saddened smile. She took a quick glance at the picture. While the cutie marks were identical, the brightness of pink and shape of the mane were different.

“Excuse me,” Twilight called as she walked towards the approaching mare. “Is your name Pinkie Pie by any chance?”

“That’s me,” she answered with a firm nod before rubbing her chin. “Wait a moment…” Pinkie took a step forward, examining her suspiciously. “I know everypony in Ponyville, but I don’t remember seeing you two before? "Are you the ones my Pinkie Sense told me about?"

“Pinkie what?” Twilight asked before nodding hesitantly. “And yes, I arrived in Ponyville just a moment ago.” Much to her surprise, Pinkie's long mane puffed and brightened, and so did her fur, while her sad smile was replaced with a broad grin.

“I knew it!” Pinkie shouted and jumped, throwing confetti into air as it rained upon the newcomers. Twilight flinched as her attention focused on the slowly descending Pinkie Pie, the Laws of Gravity clearly not affecting her. “You know what this calls for?” Before Twilight could respond, she shouted, “A party!”

The moment she noticed the energetic mare galloping away, Twilight lit her horn, pulling said pony back with her magic. “Where are you going in such a hurry?” she asked, turning Pinkie around and placing in front of herself.

“To organize you a surprise party, duuuh,” Pinkie said with roll of her eyes, only to put forehooves on her mouth. “Nooo! I spoiled the surprise!”

“A welcome party?” Spike asked, now hopping in place from excitement. “Oh, I cannot wait!” He pointed at his parental figure and said, “Twilight is a total bookworm. The only parties we ever participate in are birthday ones. Ummm… no offense.”

"Only birthday parties!?" Pinkie gasped. "That's so sad!"

“Tell me about it,” Spike said, placing hands on her sides. “We were even invited for today’s birthday party by Moon Dancer, but with the evacuation going on, I doubt it will be happening.”

“Did you say Moon Dancer?” Pinkie asked. After seeing Spike’s nod she added, “She was one of a bunch of ponies that moved to Ponyville from Canterlot yesterday, and weehoo! That was a large party.” She stood up to her rear hooves and squeezed her cheeks with her forelegs. “And to think that I almost missed somepony’s birthday? I need to redouble my efforts immediately.”

“Excuse me,” Twilight called. “Can I have your attention for a moment, pleaseee!”

Pinkie sat and nodded, her ears forward.

Twilight took a deep breath and spoke, “I know this may be very difficult to believe, but during the upcoming Summer Sun Celebration, the corrupted sister of Princess Celestia will return from her thousand year banishment on the moon. Now, I know it sounds like a crazy-mare’s talk, but–”

“She’s returning tomorrow night!” Pinkie gasped. “Oh, my gosh, this is bad!” She trotted in place, nervously looking around. “I need to organize a welcome party for you and so many other ponies that arrived today, and then there’s a birthday party for Moon Dancer. And now I need to organize a welcome party for the two-faced princess for tomorrow evening. There's not enough time!”

"To be precise, she will return in two days early in the morning if Princess Celestia and the tale of Nightmare Moon is correct," Twilight corrected as the gears in her head moved. “Wait a moment, two-faced princess!?” She pointed accusingly at the panicking earth pony. “Did you actually know about her return?”

Pinkie once again held forehooves to her mouth. “Oh no! I did it again.” She circled around Twilight, leaving her in a cloud of dust before vanishing from her sight.

Twilight and Spike coughed, waving the dust away before they looked at each other in confusion.

“That was weird,” Spike said.

“That was more than weird,” Twilight said, rubbing her chin as she looked ahead with half-closed eyes. “She shouldn’t know anything about Nightmare Moon’s return.” She massaged her forehead. “Now that I think about it, nothing she did made any sense.”

“So, what now? Are we gonna search for her, or head to Sugarcube Corner like you talked about?”

“No,” Twilight said, shaking her head as she took out her map and list of the Element Bearers. “I made some calculations and set up an order of who we should visit before going to Mayor Mare. Our next destination will be Sweet Apple Acres.”

***

The double doors into Ponyville’s resident nightclub slammed open as Pinkie Pie galloped inside.

She slid to a stop in the middle of the dance floor after plowing through a table or two, yelling "Vinyl, we have a problem!"

The musician dropped the repair tools from her magic, turning away from her gutted loud speakers to look at the panicked mare. She fixed her glasses and asked, “Sup Pinkie? Did somepony push your panic button or what?”

“Worse,” Pinkie said, taking a few quick breaths while recovering from her non-stop sprint. “The two-faced princess that the bad pureblooded pony was talking about is coming! She will arrive during the Summer Sun Celebration and Fluttershy is still in her super-duper-years-long nap! This is a disaster.”

“What is all this commotion,” asked a grey earth pony with violet treble clef as a cutie mark. “Oh, hello Pinkie. What brings you here?”

“The two-faced princess is returning for the celebration!” Vinyl said with a relaxed tone. “With Flutters still napping, we kind of lack the smart leader pony to tell us how to handle it.”

Octavia stepped onto the stage as she adjusted her bowtie and cleared her throat. “In this case, allow me to ask you a question, Pinkie, since you know Fluttershy well. What would she do in your opinion?”

“I dunno…” Pinkie shrugged before rubbing her head thoughtfully. “I suppose she would welcome the princess respectfully and politely ask her not to conquer Equestria.”

Octavia raised her forehoof and spoke firmly, “As members of Fluttershy’s clan, it is our responsibility to welcome the returning princess and convince her that peace between thestrals and other races is possible.”

“I know, I know,” Pinkie said, once again in panic. “But she’s returning in two days, early in the morning and I already have so many parties on my schedule. How can I make it in time?”

Vinyl lowered her glasses and smirked. “Then allow the night-shift of the Party Patrol to help you out. I will prepare a party worthy of a princess, one she will never forget."

Pinkie smiled widely. “I knew I could count on you, let’s make this party epic!”

Ponyville - Dash and the Apples

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 1

Ponyville

Part 2 - Dash and the Apples

Twilight was deep in her lecture, reading the ‘Legend of Nightmare Moon’ and ‘The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide’ at the same time, levitating both books in front of herself as she walked towards the apple farm. Spike was on sentry duty to warn her if she was about to accidentally walk into a wall or another obstacle on her way.

“Hey, Twilight, can I ask you a question?” Spike asked, poking his caretaker’s head to get her attention.

“Sure, what is it?”

“If those blood-drinking creatures are so dangerous, why were they waiting for some banished princess to return? Wouldn’t they have tried to take over Equestria a long time ago?” Spike asked.

“Not really,” Twilight responded. “According to my research, thestrals as a race are weakened by the rays of the sun, becoming very vulnerable. Silver neutralizes their healing capabilities and they are weak to light magic and healing spells… which makes sense since they specialize in dark magic.” She added in a relaxed tone, “They have quite a few weaknesses, in my personal opinion.”

“Oh, right. I guess it’s not easy defeating the princess when she can raise the sun anytime she wants. Though they could still attack when she is asleep.” He shrugged. “No offense to your brother, but most of the guards he commands aren’t that reliable. You could probably knock out a bunch of them with your powerful magic, so how can they protect their sleeping ruler?”

“That’s a very good question, one I don’t have an answer for,” Twilight said with a hint of disappointment.

“No problem, I will just ask the princess,” Spike said as he opened Twilight’s saddlebag, taking out a fresh scroll, an inkwell and a feather. Twilight sighed before levitating him onto the ground, making sure that he wouldn’t spill the ink on her fur.

"You really want to bother the princess? What if she’s very busy or..." Twilight asked. Upon hearing the writing already in progress, she sat, crossing her legs in meditation and closing her eyes. "Alright, but be quick about it."

A moment of writing and a burst of green flames later, Spike looked at Twilight and said, “I just thought of something. If that returning princess…”

“She is referred as Nightmare Moon and as a two-faced princess in the tale,” Twilight pointed out, not opening her eyes.

“If Nightmare Moon returns from her banishment and brings night eternal, wouldn’t that mean that Celestia wouldn’t be able to raise the sun?”

Twilight gasped, her eyes snapping open open. “You’re right! But if that’s the case, how would surrendering Ponyville help? Defeating Nightmare Moon so Princess Celestia can raise the sun unhindered would be a better solution.”

“I dunno,” Spike shrugged before pointing at the sky. “By the way, doesn’t that pegasus look like one of the ponies we are looking for?”

“You mean the Element Bearers?” she asked before looking up, noticing a pegasus dashing through the sky at an impressive speed. A rainbow-colored afterimage following her. Twilight raised her foreleg to protect her eyes from the sun as she tried to take a better look. She took a quick glance at the pictures before saying, “She must be a candidate for the Element of Loyalty, there’s no doubt about it.” She lit her horn, shooting a spell into the air.

As expected, the spell exploded like a flare, attracting Rainbow Dash’s attention. She quickly shot another while waving her forehooves, a magical flare proving to be useful for more than just calling for help. “Over here!” she shouted, not taking her eyes from the approaching pegasus.

Rainbow Dash landed in front of Twilight with a loud thump, spreading dust around her hooves from the impact as her legs bent slightly. “Did you shoot those fireworks?”

“Those were flares, actually,” Twilight explained.

“Fireworks, flares, whatever. What matters is that they were pretty cool!” Dash said, wiping dust from her chest. She stepped forward with a smile. “If you wanted my attention, you sure got it. The name’s Rainbow Dash by the way.”

“Nice to meet you, Rainbow Dash,” Twilight said before placing forehoof against her chest. “My name is Twilight Sparkle, personal student of Princess Celestia.”

Dash took a step back. “Personal student, are you kidding?” She laughed before pausing upon receiving a firm glare. “W-wait, you're serious?”

Twilight frowned and stomped. “Do I look like I’m joking?”

“Prove it!” Dash said, now hovering above the ground with crossed forelegs.

Twilight blushed and looked to the side. While impressing her mentor was always a high-priority on her agenda, she never liked to show off in front of other ponies. She was studying hard to improve herself and help fellow citizens, not for the attention and praise.

"What are you, a chicken?” Dash asked with a smirk while her wings flapped slowly but steadily. “I knew you were bluffing, but I’d hoped you could at least try to prove me wrong.”

“Come on Twilight! Just one spell to wipe the grin from her face,” Spike pleaded.

Twilight sighed and spoke resignedly, her foreleg raised, “Fine, I’ll do it, but on one condition.”

“And that is?”

“I want you to listen to me, and seriously consider what I have to say,” Twilight responded. She was fully aware that being called a chicken was a simple trick meant to provoke her to do something, but she needed Dash’s attention.

“If you impress me, sure. However, don’t expect I will believe you’re the student of the princess without seeing something amazing.”

Twilight grit her teeth and closed her eyes, charging magic into her horn. Her spectator seemed to be an energetic athlete, so instead of casting a complicated spell, she need a flashy one. She opened her eyes and aimed at a nearby fountain, shooting a beam that turned it into a block of ice.

Seeing as Dash’s attention was now on the fountain, she grit her teeth and focused on the ground beneath the fountain, causing a small tremor as the large pile of ground was levitated upward. As sweat rolled down her forehead, Twilight held the massive weight in place, her legs shaking slightly from the four percent of levitated weight pushing her against the ground.

Just like a few bypassing ponies, Rainbow Dash gasped, her eyes wide. “Ohmygosh.”

“You think that’s impressive?” Spike asked before crossing his arms with a grin. “She’s just getting started.”

Twilight grinned, tearing off an ice fragment before slowly lowering the mass back onto the ground. She shattered the ice, creating a fog of ice crystals and forming a small rainbow. She followed it up with another spell, melting the ice before turning the upper part into a frozen replica of Celestia. She bit her lip and blushed at the misshapen appearance of her creation, incinerating it in a burst of flames before anypony could take a closer look upon her failure.

“So, do you believe me now?”

Dash turned around towards Twilight, her mouth still agape as she nodded, feeling excitement quickly replacing her shock. “That… was… awesome!” she shouted, spreading her legs in all directions.

“I’ll take that as a yes,” Twilight said before looking at the pegasus with a serious stare. “Now, I need you to listen to me carefully, this is important.”

“I am all ears,” Dash said as she landed on the ground and sat, staring at the unicorn expectantly as if awaiting a camp-fire story.

Twilight took a deep breath before speaking, “I know it might sound like crazy talk, but during the Summer Sun Celebration, a two-faced princess will return from her banishment.”

“Two-faced princess!” Dash shouted, sweating and shuffling her hooves nervously as she glanced away.

Twilight flinched, quickly recovering from the verbal assault. “Yes, two-faced princess, also known as Nightmare Moon according to this book.” She pointed at one of two books by her side. “She was banished one thousand years ago and will return soon.”

“I see,” Dash said, chuckling. “And you’re telling me this because...?”

“Because I was tasked by my mentor to ensure that nopony in Ponyville will rebel against her sister.”

“The princess has a sister?” Dash asked.

“I was just as surprised when she told me. The point is, if we welcome her and surrender, she may keep Ponyville, and maybe even the rest of Equestria, safe from the purebloods’ wrath.”

Twilight explained, “Purebloods and thestrals can drink blood and use dark magic, they are supporting Nightmare Moon and plan to attack Canterlot during her return. Equestria is in grave danger. Canterlot has already been evacuated, and being on Nightmare Moon’s bad side when the capital is invaded is the last thing we need.” Her head dropped, panting after her extensive monologue.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa, hold up a moment,” Rainbow said, raising a forehoof to stop the onslaught of words. “Are you saying that we should give in to Nightmare Moon? You could’ve said that from the start instead of blathering on.”

Twilight grinned sheepishly and blushed. “Sorry.”

“Uhmmm... why are you telling me this?" Dash asked, rubbing the back of her head in confusion. “Telling this to every single pony in Ponyville will take forever.” She puffed her chest. “Unless you want me to spread the news. I’m the fastest pegasus in Equestria after all.”

“I have a much quicker way to inform the town, so that won’t be necessary,” Twilight said, causing Dash to frown. “I’m going to inform the mayor and make a public speech. What I need from you is a promise not to fight or antagonize Nightmare Moon.”

Dash stomped angrily. “And why not fight her? Is the princess putting her tail between her legs and surrendering without a fight?”

Twilight stomped as well, glaring sharply. “She’s going to fight, maybe even expecting to lose, but she doesn’t want her subjects to suffer. Don’t you dare insult her like that!”

Before Dash could respond, Spike burped a gout of green, magical flame, a sealed scroll appearing from within. Twilight caught it with her magic and unrolled it.

“What’s that?” Dash asked as she flew behind Twilight, reading the scroll.

“Hey! It’s a private message from the princess, thank you very much,” Twilight said as she rolled the scroll and levitated behind her back. She glanced at Dash and said, “If you need to know, the princess had a plan to fight Nightmare Moon. It involved me, you and four other ponies to use artifacts called the Elements of Harmony to heal her from the corruption without hurting her. But since Fluttershy is no longer among us, the Elements won’t work.”

“F-Fluttershy,” Dash said and stepped back in a panic. “W-what do you know about Fluttershy?”

“Just that she was a candidate for the Element of Kindness and that she… has passed away.”

“Oh…” Dash said in relief. “How do you know her name?”

Twilight levitated the pictures and Guide to the Elements, presenting them to Dash. “I know only as much as my mentor told me. An event called a Sonic Rainboom that was somehow caused by the Elements as they chose their bearers. I don’t know too many details, but from what she has told me, she learned that all of the candidates were in Ponyville and obtained their pictures.”

“Was she spying on us?” Dash asked before stomping in anger. “Was she stalking Fluttershy!?”

Twilight shrugged. “Not really. Somepony was providing her with information. The princess asked me to inform each potential Element Bearer first, as she was afraid you would be most likely to fight Nightmare Moon.”

"Okay..." Dash said, sighing in relief. "As fun was talking with you, I have places to go, stuff to do, so... bye."

Before Twilight could say a word, the pegasus had already flown away, leaving a rainbow contrail in her wake. She rubbed her chin, staring at the sky suspiciously. “She was acting strange.”

"What do you mean?" Spiked asked as he grabbed the scroll from Twilight’s levitation and unrolled it.

“Just like Pinkie, Rainbow Dash wasn’t surprised when I mentioned Nightmare Moon. Instead, she seemed to believe in most of what I told her. They seem to know far more than they should.”

“You may be onto something,” Spike said, now reading the scroll. “Check this. The princess’ response may interest you.”

Twilight approached and sat next to Spike, her attention fully on the scroll.

My Dearest, Most Faithful Student, Twilight Sparkle

I fully understand your curiosity and will gladly answer your questions.

My connection with the sun, which helps me restore my magic, is also very useful in defending against the thestrals. I surround myself with a solar aura whenever going to sleep. Merely being in my presence weakens even the strongest purebloods.

As an alicorn, I am protected by a magical aura. It activates without my influence whenever I am in danger. The stronger the force that is brought against me, the more visible it becomes.

Because of those two factors, I am safe from any attempt at assassination and blood-drinking while mental barriers protect me from any assaults on my mind. I am certain that my defenses have flaws, but they give me enough time to wake up and fight off the intruders.

Now to your next question. I took measures to ensure that the purebloods wouldn’t be a threat, measures I am not proud of. However, Nightmare Moon possess enough power to fight against my control over the sun and the moon. Fighting for control will leave me greatly weakened and without the sun I will lose my main advantage. Even my solar aura can last only for a few hours without access to the power of the sun.

I hope my answers satisfy your curiosity.

Your Proud Mentor,
Princess Celestia

Twilight and Spike looked at each other, unsure what to say. After a moment of silence, Spike raised his head, looking at his caretaker with a relaxed smile and said, “Well… we’re doomed.”

“Are ya ready, Ditzy?” Applejack asked, her attention on the wall-eyed pegasus who was wearing goggles and a badge with ‘demolition for hire’ written on it. Her smile was wide, displaying her shiny fangs.

“I am! I am!” she shouted, flapping her wings in excitement.

“Alright,” Applejack said as she raised her forehoof. “On my mark, get ready, set…” Ditzy bent her legs, her attention focused on the barn.

“Applejack!” Dash shouted, performing a hard landing, her flank pressed against the ground, leaving a trial and dust behind her.

“What is it, Dash?”

“The student of Celestia is in Ponyville and she told me that the two-faced princess is returning for the celebration, while the purebloods are planning to take over Canterlot,” Dash said in a rush, taking a few quick breaths. “The day your thestral dad told us about while he was brainwashed by Moon Shadow is almost here. We gotta do something!”

“Well, that ain’t good,” Applejack said, now looking towards the farm. “Ah’d better inform Shackles ‘bout this. Maybe they can help.”

“Are you kidding me?” Dash said angrily. “That bastard killed Fluttershy’s parents for a bounty! He blackmailed us and then tried to dig out Fluttershy’s grave to get more bits, thinking she was dead, and now you want to ask him for help?! You can’t be serious!”

“And what do ya expect me ta do? Ah hate him as much as ya’ll do ever since Ah befriended Fluttershy. But not all purebloods are as kind, an’ we need all the help we can get.”

“And what about Nightmare Moon? From what the Princess' student told me, she will be coming to Ponyville soon. Princess Celestia wants us to surrender.”

Applejack rubbed her chin for a moment, her eyes widening. “Oh, ponyfeathers. Ah need ta cancel the Apple Family Reunion.”

“What, why?”

“Fer starters, some of ’em are monster hunters like me,” Applejack said, pointing at herself as her ears drooped. “Do ya think they’d welcome the two-faced princess with open hooves?”

Rainbow Dash rubbed back of her neck. “Yeah… I guess it would be kinda messy.”

Ditzy’s wings and ears drooped upon watching this exchange. “Does this mean I can’t destroy your barn now, Applejack?”

“Fraid not, Sugarcube.”

Ditzy groaned. Being a demolition mare for hire beat being a mail-mare hooves down.

Rainbow Dash looked between both of her friends and asked, “Didn’t Derpy’s family already rebuild your barn two years ago? Why you want it destroyed again?”

Applejack sighed. “It took a while, but Granny Smith finally trusts Hawkeye. Ah’d hoped that, with help of a few other Apples, we could rebuild it bigger with an extra room for Hawkeye ta live in. Hidin’ him in our small home ain’t easy.”

“Oh, yeah,” Rainbow Dash said. It was one thing for a family of hunters to accept their relative after he was turned into a thestral, and another to befriend a young pureblood thestral. But explainin’ to the entire town why a dead pony was suddenly alive was whole different level.

Applejack slammed her forehooves together. “Then it’s settled. Ah’ll inform mah family and send a letter to the guild. Dash, yer the fastest of us, inform the rest of the clan ‘bout what ya learned.”

“On it,” Dash said, saluting. She was about to fly towards Ponyville, but the yelling of Pinkie Pie caught her attention.

“Wait!”

“Huh?” All three mares turned to the source of voice, now staring at galloping Pinkie Pie.

Pinkie pressed her flank against the ground, sliding to a stop in front of her friends while breathing heavily. “The student of the princess, she–”

“We know,” Dash and Applejack said in unison. “Dash here was about to inform the rest.”

“There’s no time. We have a party to take care of!”

Both athletic ponies looked at each other in confusion while Ditzy flapped her wings in excitement and licked her lips. As a half-breed thestral, she always prefered the taste of cakes and muffins to blood, the only exception being if blood was the main flavour.

“Are you saying that Applejack isn’t here?” Twilight asked, standing in the shadow of a red stallion as he towered over her.

“Eeyup.”

“And she is attending a party?”

“Eeyup.”

“And Applejack’s friend, Rarity, is also attending this party?”

“Eeyup.”

“Do you know where said party is taking place?”

“Eenope.”

Twilight sighed and lowered her head. As if her day wasn’t bizarre enough, now she would need to add searching for a party to her busy schedule.

Author's Note

Since my editor finished working on chapter 1, I can upload each part with 2-3 days in between
( I planned to upload it later after my pre-reader would look into it, however he got very busy).
Uploading speed will slow down from chapter 2.

Also, even though each part seems to be rather short, I am always looking forward to your feedback.

Ponyville - Grave

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 1

Ponyville

Part 3 - Grave

Twilight kept walking with a frown on her face. She had already met two of the Element Bearers, only to find out that the remaining two are attending one of Pinkie’s parties with no clue where to find them.

Unsure what to do, she walked towards Fluttershy’s cottage, planning to visit her grave that, according to Big Macintosh, was located between the cottage and the Everfree Forest. While she didn’t know anything about Fluttershy, having learned about her only recently from her mentor, that wasn’t a reason to not pay her respects.

“Cheer up, Twilight. Maybe Pinkie or Dash told the others what you told the two of them. Less work for us to do,” Spike said as he rode on his caretaker while massaging her neck.

“I hope you’re right, because I want to get this done as soon as possible,” Twilight said, her attention focused on the cottage.

She walked over the bridge while admiring the view. She noticed several dens, either made by bunnies or filled with snakes, holes in trees for squirrels to live in and nests on the branches that housed various birds. Animals ran around without paying her any mind.

After finally reaching the door, she knocked.

A moment of waiting later, a tired voice came from the other side. “Who's there?”

“Hello, my name is Twilight Sparkle. I apologize for bothering you, but I’d heard from Big Macintosh that some of Fluttershy’s friends had moved to her cottage to take care of her animals.” Twilight continued with an apologetic tone, “I don’t want to be insensitive, but could I trouble you to point me to her grave, so I could give her my respects?”

After a moment of silence, the tired voice answered, “It is behind the cottage, not far away from here. Mr. Harry will lead you there.”

“Harry?” Twilight asked, “Who’s Harry?”

Much to her shock, the door opened, revealing a large brown bear. Twilight recoiled as she lit her horn, ready to restrain the beast. Spike leapt from her back and ran behind a wall.

“Harry the bear,” the voice responded as a yellow pegasus with grey covering most of her feathers and three sunflowers as a cutie mark appeared. “I’m Sunflower, nice to meet you.”

Twilight slowly approached and shook the trembling foreleg, occasionally glancing at the large creature. “P-pleasure.”

“There’s no need to be afraid. He is a well-behaved bear,” Sunflower said, stroking the bear’s leg with a hoof.

Spike emerged from his hiding spot and joined the group cautiously.

Twilight walked along uneasily, staring at Harry’s furry backside. She kept two meters behind as she followed him to Fluttershy’s grave, her assistant was ten meters behind, refusing to sit on her back.

Let's summarize what I’ve learned thus far. Pinkie Pie: a mare chosen to represent the Element of Laughter is a hyper-talkative, party-obsessed crazy pony. Somewhat fitting.

She gazed at the cloud-filled sky, lost in thought.

Rainbow Dash, an athlete with a big ego and even greater flying speed represents the Element of Loyalty. She isn’t as crazy as Pinkie, but seems to be hot-headed. She frowned. I’d better keep my eye on her.

Twilight looked behind, ignoring Spike as her attention focused on the lovely scenery: Birds and critters living carefree among the trees and fields of wildflowers. Fluttershy apparently took care of all these animals. Quite fitting for an Element of Kindness.

She looked at the sky thoughtfully. Taking care of snakes and a bear, exploring a dangerous forest. She must be either very brave or very reckless. She scrunched her eyebrows in confusion. Now that I think about it, Rainbow Dash was very protective when I mentioned Fluttershy. Maybe they were good buddies who liked to adventure together? Or they were rivals who trained and competed with each other, which is common for athletic pegasi."

“Ouch…” Twilight yelped as her muzzle ran into the bear's rear. She shook her head and looked up, noticing a paw pointing at the grave ahead.

She trotted around Harry, taking in the numerous bouquets of flowers surrounding the gravestone. A few lit candles were in the middle. In front of the grave was a young filly with a basket of apples by her side.

Twilight bit her lip as her legs turned to jelly. You’ve never met this pony, there’s no need to be nervous. Hearing a roar and seen him wave to her, she returned the gesture. “Thank you, Harry. It won’t take long.”

The bear nodded before walking to the side, plopping onto the soft grass. Spike joined Twilight’s side without taking his eyes from him.

“Who’re ya?” the filly asked, tilting her head to the side in confusion. “‘Ah don’t remember anypony livin’ in Ponyville with a lizard.”

Spike raised his eyebrow as he crossed his arms. “I am a dragon!”

Twilight cleared her throat and introduced herself, “My name is Twilight Sparkle, student of Princess Celestia.”

“And I’m Spike, her dragon assistant.”

“Welcome to Ponyville. Mah name’s Apple Bloom, nice ta meet ya.”

Twilight smiled. “It’s a pleasure to meet you as well. Are you related to Applejack, by any chance?”

“Yep!” Apple Bloom said. “Did ya meet mah older sister?”

Twilight shook her head. “I was hoping to talk with her, but she’s been dragged away to a party by Pinkie Pie.”

“Ya mean yer ‘Welcome ta Ponyville’ party? Pinkie always welcomes new folks with a party.”

Spike smiled and patted Twilight on the back. “See, what did I tell you? Either Pinkie told them or you can do it at your welcoming party. Less work for us.”

Twilight sighed in relief, her smile now relaxed.

“What brings ya ta see Fluttershy?”

“I was in the area and decided to pay my respects. I assume you’re here for the same reason,” Twilight answered.

“Makes sense, Ah guess.”

Spike took a few steps forward, pointing at the basket. “Aren’t apples an odd gift for a grave? They’ll turn bad.”

Apple Bloom jumped between Spike and the basket, pressing her muzzle against his nose. “An’ what’s wrong with apples? Fluttershy really liked apples!”

Spike stepped back in surprise. “Nothing’s wrong with apples. I didn’t mean to offend you.”

"Well, that's alright, Ah guess, as long as ya didn't mean it," Applebloom replied.

He pointed at the grave. “Why don't we share a moment of silence, in honor of Fluttershy?"

The filly nodded as she sat on Twilight’s right while Spike sat on her left.

***

After giving their farewells to Harry, Twilight and Spike agreed to accompany Applebloom on her way towards the farm.

“You miss Fluttershy, don’t you?” Twilight asked. Upon noticing a hesitant nod, she asked. “Can you tell me something about her, if it isn’t too much trouble? If you don’t want to, then I understand.”

“Ah don’t mind. Fluttershy was the best foalsitter Ah could have ever wished for. She helped mah family a great deal, everthin' from pest removal ta carin' fer our animals.”

“I see,” Twilight responded. “Was she friends with Rainbow Dash, by any chance?”

“Friends? They were nearly insep'rable. Dash and Fluttershy moved here from Clouds...somethin’.”

“Cloudsdale,” Twilight corrected, her theory proven to be true. “What was she like?”

“Very brave. Mah sister says that bein’ brave means beatin’ yer fears.” She took a quick breath. “Fluttershy beat lots of ’em.”

So Fluttershy was a risk-taking pony after all. She must’ve pushed her luck one too many times.

Ponyville - The Fallen King

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 1

Ponyville

Part 5 - The Fallen King

“As you already know, I was once a crystal pony, living with my family in the frozen north. We were well adapted to the cold and could grow crystals as construction material for our homes, occasionally facing attacks from monsters, dragons and raids from the yak tribes.”

Twilight nodded. Unlike Celestia, Empress Cadence was more willing to share past events, though she suspected that Cadence wasn't telling her everything.

“To help my fellow ponies, I researched a better way to channel our unique magic, creating a powerful artifact after years of hard work. I called it Crystal Heart. The artifact used our unique magic to protect our homes from the cold and invaders, in addition to causing my unexpected ascension. The ponies were so grateful that they chose me to be their leader.” She paused. “Twelve hundred years ago we expanded, creating an Empire that could almost rival Equestria.”

She placed a forehoof on her chest and continued, “Instead of earth pony magic I possess the magic the crystal ponies share, which is why my features become more crystalline the closer I am to the Crystal Heart.” She chuckled. “I even agreed to allow you research my magic types, and it sure has been a trip to remember.”

“What about the pureblood thestrals?” Twilight asked, levitated pen trembling and ready.

“Impatient, are we?” Cadence asked, rubbing the top of Twilight’s head playfully, who just rolled her eyes. “Purebloods were few in number and we were unaware of their existence. They are powerful creatures who can fly with bat-like wings and cast spells with their eyes.” After seeing Spike place a cup of water on the end table, she took a deep breath and drank it, wiping her mouth. “Thank you.”

“No biggie. I know satisfying her thirst for knowledge can be very tiring,” Spike said, lampshade still present on his head. “Once you’re done, feel free to join us downstairs and have some fun.”

“Will do,” Cadence said with a smile before looking back at Twilight. “Where was I?”

“Spell casting with eyes.”

“Oh, yes.” She coughed to clear her throat. “Lord Sombra was one of those creatures. He lead five other purebloods in an attack on my bedchamber one night. I woke up with numerous bruises and half of my magic spent, used to protect my body from the deadly blows. I was too young and weak to defeat all of them.”

“Did they drink your blood?” Twilight asked.

“Sombra drank it, and was overwhelmed with its power, using it against the guards while holding me hostage.”

“That’s terrible, no wonder you didn't want to talk about it,” Twilight said as her ears drooped. She gently placed her forehoof on Cadence’s shoulder while giving her an encouraging smile.

Cadence hung her head in sorrow. “Sombra paid a terrible price as the power corrupted him, destroying his wings during the battle and nearly turning his entire body into black mist. His mind was twisted as well. He became more cruel and power hungry, keeping me locked away even from his allies as his personal feeding bag.” She sighed. “But it wasn’t enough for him.”

“What did he do?”

Cadence continued, “He corrupted the crystal Heart and used its power. Love and happiness was no longer empowering it, but instead fear and hate. With it he enslaved my subjects and set his sights on Equestria.”

“But Princess Celestia stopped him?”

“Not alone,” the empress corrected. “Celestia and her sister Luna faced him together. They were much older than me and managed to overpower him and his allies while avoiding his army.”

“Wait a moment,” Twilight interrupted. “Alicorns grow stronger with age, so I understand that your blood wasn’t enough to let him win.” She murmured, “Not to mention his numerous weaknesses…” she raised her voice, “but what of the Crystal Heart?”

“Sombra used it to defend himself from the Elements of Harmony as their powers matched one another. Unable to win, he took the entire empire hostage.”

“How?”

“Sombra created a fail-safe in advance, one final trick he could use in case of his defeat. The corrupted Crystal Heart was connected to all of my subjects. While he didn’t have enough time to brainwash or turn them all into vamponies, he could still use their fear to power up the Crystal Heart enough to banish the empire. He used it in a gamble with the royal sisters, demanding their surrender.”

“And… and…?” Twilight’s forelegs trembled while her heart tried to escape her chest. “How did they stop him? Did Princess Celestia blind him with solar-flare? Did she teleport the artifact away? Or maybe Luna knew a useful spell to save the day?”

“If only it was that simple,” Cadence commented. “Sombra was on his guard against his foes, but had not expected to be betrayed by his allies. All purebloods by his side struck him down and secured the Crystal Heart before surrendering to the princesses.”

"Why did they betray him? I mean, being banished with the rest of the Empire doesn't sound good at all, but shouldn't they trust their leader? His gamble might have worked."

“You call it a gamble? I suppose, in a sense, it was,” Cadence said softly as she clenched her forehooves together, her ears drooping. “Sombra was mad, insane. He treated others, even his own kind, as tools. He probably thought of his slaves and even allies as cards or sacrificial pawns in his hooves.”

She looked to the side and wiped her damp eyes. “Purebloods may be masters of dark magic, but even they have their limits to how much they can handle before it twists their minds.”

Twilight bit her lip as she stepped forward, caught off guard as she had rarely seen Cadence depressed like this.

“He threatened my subjects without mercy. Tortured his prisoners. He mocked and beat me everyday before drinking my blood.” Cadence took a quick breath. “He attacked another pureblood just for being near my prison cell, then nearly killed him when he raised complaints about his cruel dictatorship.”

She paused upon feeling Twilight’s forehoof on her shoulder and seeing worry in her eyes. “You don’t have to relive such painful memories if you it makes you feel uncomfortable. I’m sorry.”

Cadence sighed. “I should be apologizing for worrying you.”

Twilight removed her hoof and settled back onto her cushion. “It’s alright… I understand that those events were very harsh for you.” She levitated over another quill from her saddlebag, the last one damaged from fast writing now laying on the table next to the bed. “What happened to Sombra?”

“He was killed.” Seeing her shock, Cadence continued, “Celestia, merciful as she was, wanted him arrested, while her sister wanted him dead. Before they could reach a compromise, the purebloods delivered their leader a finishing blow.”

“What happened next? Were they imprisoned?”

Cadence shook her head, continuing with heavy tone, “I, as their victim, demanded their execution before they could turn or brainwash more ponies, trying to convince royal sisters that purebloods cannot be trusted. Celestia prefered them imprisoned, but Luna protected them, saying they could benefit Equestria as mighty allies if given a chance.”

“Allow me to guess the rest,” Twilight interrupted with a gesture of her forehoof. She stood up from her seat and levitated over a cup of cold water, giving her favourite Empress the break she so needed. “The Crystal Empire flourished under your leadership. Out of fear of the purebloods, you formed a big and well-trained army and gathered a large supply of silver weaponry.”

Cadence nodded, letting her faithful listener to continue as her mood slowly improved.

“Luna tried to show Equestria that thestrals could be trusted, most likely leading them to defend it against monsters at night, using their talents to her advantage.” She took a moment to drain her cup of water. “I assume Sombra’s campaign worsened their reputation, and after two centuries a civil war took place. Luna was corrupted or turned by those she protected and ended up being banished to the moon. The purebloods went into hiding while my mentor tried to hide their existence to avoid another war.” She wiped sweat from her forehead, breathing heavily.

“You get an ‘A minus’. You didn’t mention the part where your mentor hunted down the strongest purebloods so they wouldn’t become a threat,” Cadence commented, noticing two balloons forming on Twilight’s cheeks. A weak smile formed on her lips.

“That’s not fair! My mentor is very secretive and you know that!” She crossed her forearms and huffed, looking to the side.

"I'm just messing with you," Cadence responded. She stepped onto the floor and embraced Twilight with her wing before rubbing the top of her head. “Since your endless curiosity is satisfied for now, how about we have a little fun at the party?”

“Do we have to?” Twilight asked with a frown as she slid out of the embrace.

“Come on, it’ll be fun. We might not get another opportunity,” Cadence pleaded as she took off her armor, one piece at a time. She could see the hesitation last for a moment before it was replaced with a broad grin, as if Twilight had just been given a rare book.

“Alright, let’s do this. It’s a great opportunity to introduce you to my school friends.” Twilight looked up at her and asked, “Do you have anything to give Moon Dancer for her birthday? She’s sort of a fan of mine and she loves books.”

Cadence spread her left wing and pushed Twilight towards the stairs encouragingly. “If that’s the case, I can summon a large crystal and carve her a statue. Maybe a life-sized one will impress her.”

“I’m sure it will. She may even bombard you with questions about your magic that would surpass even my curiosity, I can see it now,” Twilight said before they both laughed.

“Maybe you should try to make more friends while you’re here. That pink earth pony for example,” Cadence suggested, stepping from the stairs and pointing at the mare in question.

“You mean Pinkie Pie? She’s like an upgraded version of Minuette with super speed. She’s way too unstable in my personal opinion,” Twilight responded, following her favourite empress.

After noticing Pinkie Pie's hyperactive dance moves, ten times crazier than Twilight’s wildest dance, Cadence laughed. “I love her enthusiasm already,” she joked, only for the earth pony to vanish from her sight and feel something taking a seat on her back. A moment later soft belly pressed against her ears while an upside-down head looked her in the eyes.

“I feel we’ll get along, friend-press Cadence.”

Author's Note

For those who were confused why Cadence was called an empress and why Crystal Empire is still around, I hope that this part cleared the confusion.

Ponyville - Preparations

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 1

Ponyville

Part 6 - Preparations

“So… if I understand correctly,” said a mature earth pony sporting a white mane and bow-tie, with a scroll adorning her hindquarters'. “You are asking me to gather all citizens of Ponyville to make an announcement that Summer Sun Celebration is going to be replaced.”

Twilight and Spike both nodded.

“And you want it replaced by a, and I quote, ‘Celebration of Nightmare Moon’s Return’,” she took a deep breath and added, “along with our surrender to the corrupted alicorn princess?” Her voice became sharper. “In short, you want us to betray Equestria and pledge our loyalty to an alicorn we’ve never even heard of? Do you take us for fools?”

Twilight kept her composure as she levitated over two scrolls. One being an order from Celestia, another a confirmation supporting said order by the Empress of the Crystal Empire.

After a moment of reading, Mayor Mare sighed. “What did we do to deserve this?” She looked around, her room full of shelves filled with scrolls and documents. The center of the floor and ceiling had inscribed symbols of Celestia’s cutie mark, something that would soon change. Will I be replaced by somepony else? Changes in leadership are always result of takeovers, peaceful or hostile.

She looked at the entrance into her office and called, “Summer Sun Celebration Committee, please enter.”

Twilight observed the gathering of ponies, recognizing some of them. When she had asked Mayor Mare to summon the ponies responsible for organizing the Summer Sun Celebration, she had expected the four potential Element Bearers would be among them and wasn’t disappointed.

“No need to say a thing,” Vinyl said as she fixed her glasses. “The night celebration is already being set up in the Town Hall and will be done yesterday.”

Octavia stepped up and spoke, “I will provide classical music, as planned. I am certain no changes in the musical departament are necessary.”

Pinkie bounced in place incessantly, as if she was more filled with sugar than usual. “And what about the party preparations? If she’s the Princess of the Night rather than sun, there’ll be need for a huge change of scenery, like flags, banners, wall color, ceiling, balloons, cannons, confetti…”

“I’ve got this covered, less talking, more breathing,” Vinyl said as she grabbed Pinkie by her shoulder and pulled her outside.

“I will assist with decorations and prepare some gifts,” Rarity said. “It is unfortunate that Empress Cadence left after the welcome party as she would be a good model. However, if Nightmare Moon is similar in size to Princess Celestia, I can make a dress that will fit her.”

Ditzy raised her forehoof and spoke, “My family couldn’t come to the meeting as they’re bringing supplies from Canterlot. But they promised to assist with the construction-related tasks.”

Rainbow Dash saluted. “The sky is clear and will stay that way. I just hope the Wonderbolts won’t get disbanded after this take-over. It would be a disaster!”

“Uh-huh.” Applejack raised an eyebrow. “We should be able to make enough food, but only with the Cakes' help. Ah canceled the reunion. Mah kin wasn’t happy ‘bout it.”

“Whatever for?” Mayor Mare asked as she stood from her seat. Apple family giving up on such event being hard to imagine.

“So we don’t get an angry mob. Mah kin ain’t known fer givin’ up easily.”

“Then it’s settled,” Mayor Mare said, stomping the floor. “I’ll inform everypony of this… unexpected change of plans and alter my speech accordingly. Thank you for your hard work, everypony. This meeting is adjourned.”

One at a time, everypony left. Twilight and Spike were about to go outside, but a voice from behind stopped her.

“It appears that you had already convinced my celebration committee in advance.”

Twilight smiled awkwardly, rubbing back of her head. “It was… easier than expected.”

***

The group of ponies walked outside of Town Hall, talking with each other.

“Dash, seriously?” Applejack asked. “Ah get ya want ta fly with these stunt fliers, but there’s more important stuff ta worry about.”

Rainbow Dash hovered over the ground, her forearms crossed and eyebrows drawn together. “Listen, AJ. Joining the Wonderbolts may be my goal, but there’s another reason I mentioned them.”

She landed in front of Applejack, grabbed her and shouted, “The important part is that the Wonderbolts are like heroes for all pegasi over Equestria!” She started shaking Applejack. “They can’t lose their jobs, AJ, or be captured on some sort of mission against Nightmare Moon! Think of the young ones, AJ, think of the young ones!”

Dash pushed Applejack to the side and started biting her own hooves. “What if they try to take down the two-faced princess, while I will end up as her personal guard? I can’t fight my childhood heroes.”

Vinyl approached Rarity, who wore a large hat and dress covering her head and back as protection from the sun. “Don’t you think that Pinkie is waaay more hyper than usual?” she asked, wiping sweat from her forehead.

Rarity glanced at the widely grinning and trembling earth pony, feeling as if only touching her would start a chain of explosions. “She’s been like this ever since that party yesterday. I’ve never seen her so energetic. And where did she get all that magic?”

“How much magic? Can you compare it with Twilight’s, Flutterbat’s, or our Wonderbolt-wanna-be?” Vinyl asked.

“Okay, now I’m curious,” Dash said, flying towards Rarity.

“Excuse me! Since when did I become your power-measuring device? Ask Vinyl. She’s a thestral just like me, yet far older and more experienced.”

Vinyl fixed her glasses, smirking. “Let’s say that drinking Pinkie’s blood now can put our kind into a month-long sleepless energy rush, or over a year-long nap.”

“Stop making such examples and compare our magic already,” Dash said impatiently.

“As you wish.” Vinyl chuckled before speaking, “Celestia’s magic is like a large falling meteorite, strong enough to destroy Canterlot. Twilight’s magic is like a smaller meteorite, capable of destroying a small town like Ponyville. Pinkie’s is shower of small meteors that have mostly burned up in the atmosphere and can leave large holes in lots of houses.” She pointed at Rainbow Dash, grinning, “Yours would destroy a barn or two before running out, at best.”

“Very funny!” Dash said with growing annoyance.

The musician stood on her rear hooves and placed forelegs on her hips. “You think that’s funny, just wait till you see the pranks I'm planning to pull on the two-faced princess.”

“Vinyl Scratch!” Octavia shouted. “You cannot possibly be considering using your magic and talents to do something so stupid?”

“Pretty much, yea,” she responded, shrugging. Upon noticing angry glares, she added, “Oh come on guys, I bet she has a great sense of humor.” She grinned and lit her horn, causing a manticore’s roar to sound underneath Pinkie’s hooves, who yelped and launched herself a mile ahead, causing an explosion of confetti in the distance. “This’s going to be the most exciting night I’ve ever had.”

Author's Note

This is it, the end of chapter 1.
Considering that my top editor is having connection issues and he is currently on chapter 2 part 2 right now in terms of editing, I will need to slow down uploading speed. My appologises.

Next chapter will focus on Nightmare Moon while showing thestral movements behind the scene.

Nightmare Moon’s Return - Arrival

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 2

Nightmare Moon’s Return

Part 1 - Arrival

Fancy Pants and Moon Shadow stood next to each other, staring at the symbol of banishment that slowly vanished from the moon. Waiting patiently in the ruined castle where their queen faced Celestia before her defeat. Both were wearing capes and scale mail armor with magical runes inscribed on their gear.

This was the night they were preparing for, a night they had awaited for centuries. Tonight the fate of Equestria, or maybe even of the entire world will be decided.

Before their very eyes, a black shape emerged from a purple mist. A tall black alicorn similar to Celestia, yet her wings, eyes and fangs bore similarities to a pureblood.

They bowed, their eyes flashing with power as set of magically enhanced blue armor levitated over, shining in the night under the light of the moon as there was no ceiling in the way. “Greetings, Mistress Nightmare Moon.”

“Oh my, I had not expected such a warm welcome,” Nightmare Moon spoke, gratefully accepting and putting on the gift. “It is a true joy to be greeted in such a manner. How long have I dreamed of being reunited with my subjects while enduring the frozen solitude?”

“It has been far too long, My Queen," Fancy Pants said, maintaining his respectful posture. “It is an honour.”

“Your purebloods are ready to do your will, as are their clans,” Moon Shadow added, not daring to look up.

“Thank you for showing your respect and support, now stand,” Nightmare said in a cold, commanding tone. “What are your names?”

“I am Fancy Pants,” he said, standing up as ordered. “I gathered those who are hoping for peace. Should you wish to unite our kind with the rest of Equestria, we have the resources and means to support it.” His eyes flashed as he summoned a large round table covered by a blue tablecloth inscribed with moons. A variety of food, several candles and elegant plates appeared atop of it.

“My name is Moon Shadow. I was over a century old when I witnessed your banishment. Because of the purge your wretched sister executed, I am currently the eldest.” He stomped in anger. “I have prepared my kin for this night. We are powerful and organized, ready to invade Equestria at your command.”

Casting a spell of his own, he summoned three seats made of the most expensive ebony, equipped with cushions as comfortable as a cloud. Various drinks appeared next on the table, from apple cider to bottles filled with blood.

Nightmare smiled and took a seat, bidding them to do the same. A mere taste of vegetable soup causing stars to appear in her eyes. Her wings spread while smile widened. While she didn’t need to eat or drink as she could live purely on magic, it brought her indescribable joy.

Saliva fell from her mouth as she exposed her fangs, struggling to maintain her manners as she ate dish after dish, drinking three bottles of wine and cider in a row.

“I hope our hospitality is to your liking,” Moon Shadow commented, eating a small steak himself. While his kind could eat sweets, hay and other types of pony food as long as their need for blood was satisfied, meat always tasted like a delicacy.

“It is beyond satisfying. You deserve great praise indeed.” She looked up at the sky as there was no ceiling to block her view. She grit her teeth, taking control over the moon and the sun. “That was quite unexpected.”

“I dare to ask, what was unexpected, Your Majesty?” Fancy Pants asked, releasing fork with salad from his magic.

“I expected my… sister… to put up a fight, yet she released her hold on the sun without resistance.” With little effort, several thousands stars formed on the sky, making it brighter and more spectacular than ever. The sky became her personal tapestry.

“Breath-taking,” Moon Shadow breathed in admiration, looking at the sky.

“May I ask, how long will this night last?” Fancy Pants asked curiously.

“Long enough to weaken Celestia and realize my plan.”

“Plan?”

Nightmare Moon levitated over a napkin, cleaning her mouth. “During my banishment, I had more time to interact with and get to know my other self than I would have wanted. While our goal is similar, the methods of achieving it differ. We made an agreement where I swore to Luna that if we ever returned, I would meet with our subjects and learn if peace is possible.”

Fancy Pants smiled, while Moon Shadow struggled to restrain his anger.

“Your Majesty, the longer you delay, the more time Celestia and Cadence will have to plan your capture. The Crystal Guard is well equipped against our kind. We do not have the luxury of time and action needs to be taken immediately.”

“I understand your concern, Moon Shadow,” Nightmare Moon said calmly, deciding to ignore the sudden interruption. “I wish for nothing more than to help your kind and punish Celestia for her transgressions, but I bear no grudge against the current generations of my subjects. I swore to judge them fairly.”

“For how long?” Moon Shadow asked, his forehoof slamming against the table. He blushed and lowered his head. “My deepest apologies.”

Nightmare Moon frowned in disappointment, her voice now filled with a cold edge. “It can take one day, or a few weeks. I shall not judge an entire nation without taking a measure of its people. Celestia will not escape her punishment, but should cold or lack of sunlight cause my subjects too much harm, I will raise the sun.”

She stood up from her seat and spread her wings. “I am grateful for your hospitality. You have earned my respect.” She half-bowed, the purebloods quickly returned the gesture. “Yet, I cannot waste more time in these ruins.”

“We understand,” Fancy Pants said, not daring to look at his rival’s angered face. “There is a small town nearby called Ponyville, a charming little community. May I suggest to visit it first?” Maps levitated from his saddlebag, a gift for his queen he thought would be most practical.

“Thank you, Lord Fancy Pants. I believe that your gifts will be most useful in our quest.” She opened a pocket dimension with her magic, glancing at the maps before storing them there. She closed her wings and prepared another spell, one that would let her travel undetected.

“Farewell, Mighty Lords. We shall meet again,” she said before turning into into a starry, blue mist, now heading towards Ponyville.

***

The silence lasted for a minute as Moon Shadow gathered his thoughts.

“If the two-faced princess refuses to lead us as our Queen, we should duel each other for leadership. Our kind needs one leader, not two.”

Fancy Pants stood from his seat and smashed the table. “That’s treason! You want to betray what we have been working for for so long? The very pony we have waited centuries for?”

Moon Shadow wiped a fragment of food from his chest and pointed at his rival. “You betrayed her first. Do you think I do not know about the anonymous letters you have been sending to Celestia all this time? The warning about our upcoming invasion?”

Fancy Pants looked to the side in silence, his eyes closed, yet face refusing to display any emotions.

“As long as Nightmare Moon keeps the sun restrained, Celestia is vulnerable,” Moon Shadow said, pointing up at the sky. “But it can change! We cannot wait even a week. If Nightmare Moon is defeated, our preparations will be for naught.” His eyes flashed as black mist surrounded them.

Fancy Pants waited for the mist to disperse, now seeing a large platform with six arms, each holding an orb that was once a powerful artifact. Five of six Elements were present.

“I can sense it. The power of the Elements is growing, waiting to be unleashed. Destroying their physical form will not neutralize their power,” Moon Shadow said angrily.

Fancy Pants sighed. He knew that he wouldn’t change the mind of his rival with words. Each passing day would be an opportunity for the princesses, armies, or a group of self-proclaimed heroes to defeat their queen. “I say, as much as I disagree with your decision, I know I won’t change your mind.” He sighed. “Still, I am starting to wonder. Do you really have the best interests of Nightmare Moon or our kind in mind? Or maybe it is vengeance that dictates your actions?”

Moon Shadow frowned and looked to the side in silence.

“I see…” Fancy Pants said. “If you are really going to walk such a path, a fight it shall be.” He spread his wings and flew up, giving his rival one last glance. “To ensure that both sides are equal in terms of skills and power, my wife will assist me against you and a pureblood of your choosing.”

“I agree to your terms. My brother and I will await your arrival at Ghastly Gorge. Farewell.”

Moon Shadow waited for his rival to leave before turning to the orbs, gritting his teeth. “Anypony stupid enough to touch the Elements will meet with their doom.” His eyes flashed red in the darkness as a wave of dark magic filled the room with various runes and traps.

Hiding the Elements would only delay their use, as they call upon their bearers in a mysterious way. Yet, no unicorn, pegasus or earth pony will survive what I have prepared for them. A grin of satisfaction formed on his face.

Bypassing tree after tree, Nightmare Moon was rapidly drawing closer to the little town. Each monster she passed made her wonder how could anypony settle so close to this forest. A forest that grew on ruins of the old capital as only the main castle survived the passage of time. What were once pristine marble floors were now overrun with cracks and plant growth.

She flew upward, returning to her physical form as she observed the town from the air. The simple, yet colorful decorations were clearly visible to her despite the darkness. She smiled. Such a simple and yet unique town, much more decorative than the towns of old. Her attention focused on a large home that seemed to be made of candy. Truly imaginative. Hopefully this new generation will appreciate the meaning of art.

How canst thou be so selfish at such a time?! Seeking acceptance for thestrals and ensuring equality between all races is more important than our own desire to express ourselves! We hath already spoken of this, Nightmare! 'scolded a voice from the back of her mind.

I haven’t forgotten our agreement, Luna Nightmare Moon thought as she examined her surroundings, now searching for local citizens. It doesn’t mean we can’t take a moment to admire the view.

After several minutes of searching for ponies in the oddly quiet town, she spotted a large gathering in front of a tall building. Ponies were slowly entering inside. Time to make my grand entrance. Her enthusiasm was slowly overcome by worry. It was one thing to be greeted by purebloods, her loyal allies she had led in the past, ponies that viewed her as a leader or even a goddess. Other races, however, saw her as an enemy, a traitor, corrupted and monstrous.

The ponies she was going to meet were her sister’s subjects, after all. No matter what, I must restrain my anger. I cannot allow them to provoke me.

Turning into a mist, she snuck into the building, reforming her body behind a shut curtain.

I need to show the grace and authority of a strong monarch. Display my power to gain their respect. Make them fear me so they will not fight back.

She rubbed her chin. Spreading fear was a good way to force the enemy to surrender and force them to listen, but was it a proper tool to gain their trust?

Maybe just a few bolts of lightning will do…

With her plan forming in her mind, she decided to think over the issue. I gave Luna my word and I’m going to keep it. If they attack, I shall retreat. I will conquer them only as last resort.

After taking a deep breath, she lit her horn, summoning a swirling vortex of thunderclouds as lightnings flashed in the room, causing a few yelps.

Turning into mist, she reformed on the balcony, towering over hundreds of ponies. Her leathery wings spread, head raised proudly while her armor shone from flashes of lightnings. She was about to introduce herself, but something distracted her from giving a speech.

Are those… banners with the symbol of the moon? She looked around, examining her surroundings. The walls were painted in blue and covered in star constellations, one reminding her of Ursa Major while another of Scorpius. Violet ribbons were sparkling in the cool night breeze, the hall lit by numerous sconces hung with exquisite blue-violet silk. Yet, the most unexpected decoration was a large banner titled as, ‘Welcome Back, Nightmare Moon.’

She blinked, blinded for a moment by three spotlights directed at her. Classical music filled the room as her attention focused on an earth pony playing a cello.

“Here she is, everypony. The Mare from the Moon and sister of our beloved and wise ruler,” Mayor Mare spoke, receiving a few shakes of heads and ‘you messed up’ glares from the crowd. Mayor Mare gulped and continued, “W-we a-are here to welcome her Highness Nightmare Moon back to Equestria and celebrate her glorious return.”

The tall alicorn raised her foreleg uncertainly, caught off guard by the clopping hooves and cheering crowd.

“Will you honor us with a speech, Your Highness?”

Speech?

We had a speech prepared in advance, Luna commented from the depths of her mind. Remember the time we spent practicing speeches in front of those moonstone statuettes? It made a good distraction from the monotony.

That’s true, we prepared a few should we return to Equestria, Nightmare Moon responded. Though none of them accounted for future generations remembering our existence, much less welcoming us so openly.

Then thou should improvise.

Nightmare Moon closed her wings and chuckled. “My, my, this night has not ceased to surprise me. I must commend you for your warm welcome. It makes me proud to accept you as my subjects once more.”

The crowd cheered.

Impressive start. Maybe mention how we expected hostility, or that we were forgotten, Luna advised.

She lowered her foreleg and continued with a regal tone, ”When I came here to announce my return, I had expected confusion and hostility. I expected no pony would remember my existence, yet here I am proven wrong.”

She spread her wings and descended from the balcony, landing on the platform next to Mayor Mare, who stepped to the side. The moment her armored hooves touched the floor, a large amount of confetti exploded in her face.

She brushed her face clean and grimaced, while Luna burst into laughter deep inside their mind.

I find nothing amusing in this unexpected distraction, Nightmare thought.

Luna continued between snorts and giggles, We think... the exact opposite.

I prefer to be shown respect rather than be treated as a filly, Nightmare snapped.

Thou art too serious for our own good. We once bore the Element of Laughter. Thou would do well to laugh along with our subjects.

We have no time for that. We should focus on our goal foremost. She looked over the crowd curiously.

“To whom do I owe this pleasant welcome? Who spread the news of my return?”

“I did, Princess! Umm, well, I spread the news of your return.”

The crowd split to reveal a lavender unicorn.

“I would like to thank you for your efforts, but I cannot do so properly without knowing your name.”

“My name is Twilight Sparkle,” she responded before bowing, the rest of the ponies following suit. “I am here to inform you that Ponyville and all of its citizens surrender to your mercy.”

“Surrender?” Nightmare Moon repeated. “I have not come here to conquer.”

“You haven’t?” Twilight asked in confusion as she raised her head.

“I came to announce my return, give a speech and judge if the future generations are wiser than those before them.” Nightmare Moon grinned, exposing her fangs, her voice now cold. ”Yet, I wouldn’t dare to refuse such a generous offer.” She gestured over the room. “Stand, my loyal subjects! If you’re so willing, I will gladly become your queen.”

Twilight sat as her eye twitched. She had just surrendered an entire town to a villain who wasn’t even interested in it.

Unnoticed by Nightmare Moon, a white unicorn with purple glasses was sitting with crossed forelegs, supported against a wall. She was giving her musician friend an annoyed glare, as it wasn’t her music that would welcome Nightmare Moon. Upon hearing the discussion between Twilight and the alicorn, she frowned and approached. “What about us?” She grabbed Pinkie Pie and Rarity by their shoulders. “We organized this awesome night-party. We’re like… the backbone of this skeleton, the pillar of this castle, the candles on the birthday cake.” With all eyes on them, Vinyl pointed at Twilight and continued, “This mare here’s just the student of some princess who informed us of your return." Twilight smiled awkwardly, taking a step back. “She doesn’t deserve all the credit.”

“So you're my sister's student. Interesting,” Nightmare Moon said, smiling menacingly.

Twilight wiped sweat from her forehead, chuckling nervously. For every step the alicorn took forward, she took two steps backward.

Nightmare Moon lit her horn, grabbing Twilight by her neck with her levitation. Upon hearing cries of panic coming from the crowd, she spread her aura to envelop the entire unicorn instead. “Was this celebration planned by my traitorous sister? Did she send you to welcome me and surrender this town?” she asked with venom in her voice, her glare like of a hungry predator ready to devour her prey.

“Y-yes…” Twilight said while flailing her limbs weakly, fighting back seeming to be a poor option at the moment.

Nightmare Moon sighed. “And for a moment I thought…” She released her and frowned. “If she wishes to make amends for her past transgressions, I cannot forgive her. I find it disappointing that this welcome was forced by her orders.”

Upon noticing the mare trembling in her shadow, she lowered her head and spoke, “I apologize for my violent behaviour. I shouldn’t unleash my hate for Celestia on you just because you are her student, especially after you surrendered to my leadership. Will you accept my apologies?” she asked, her voice firm but calm.

Twilight massaged her neck and looked into her predatory eyes. “If you’ll try to be less intimidating and restrain your anger.”

“Agreed.” Nightmare Moon raised her head and foreleg as she faced her subject regally. “Did everypony here pledge fealty to me willingly, or because it was an order?”

Murmurs erupted throughout the room, lasting for minutes as Nightmare Moon kept her judging stare.

Slowly, silence overtook Town Hall as a few ponies stepped forward. Applejack spoke first, “Most o’ these folks were just followin’ the wishes o’ the princess. And ya’re kinda scary.”

Rarity interjected, “However, you are also a princess. You once ruled alongside your sister and certainly deserve to sit on a throne again.” She pointed at Applejack. “And while I agree that you are a bit frightening, we hope that underneath your fearsome appearance is a kind ruler.” She lit her horn and levitated over a blue-silver dress with stars decorating it. A silver crescent moon symbol adorned the chest.

“My name is Rarity and I am the best fashionista in Ponyville. I made you a gift that will help you display your true beauty. Much more princess-like than your armor.”

Rainbow Dash said firmly, “Ordered or not, we accepted your leadership. We’re your team now. As long as you’re a good leader and care for us, we’ll follow you.” She rubbed back of her neck nervously, her tone suddenly lacking in confidence. “Just… don’t make us do mean stuff. That wouldn’t be cool at all.”

Nightmare Moon smiled, turning into mist before reappearing in the new dress while placing armor on the floor. “Thank you for your gift, Lady Rarity. Would you step forward?”

“Of course, Princess.” The fashionista half-bowed and stepped onto the platform, sitting next to Twilight.

“Have any of you heard of a race called ‘thestrals’?”

Murmurs of confusion filled the room as everypony shook their heads. Rarity bit her lip, her ears drooped and sweat covered her head. She glanced at her friends who shrugged in response.

“I have,” Twilight answered. “Why do you ask?”

Nightmare Moon narrowed her eyes as the unicorn wilted slightly under the glare. “Surely your mentor taught you some manners?”

Twilight cleared her throat before composing herself. “Why do you wish to know, Your Highness?”

“Much better.” Nightmare Moon glanced between the unicorn and confused crowd. “It appears that my allies went into hiding. Now I understand.” She raised an eyebrow and asked, “Has your mentor hidden the thestrals’ existence?”

“That’s the most likely scenario,” Twilight commented. “I read every history book I could find in Canterlot and none mentioned thestrals. Princess Celestia is very secretive, especially when it comes to the past.”

“I see,” Nightmare Moon said as her horn lit. Without any warning, she cast a spell upon Rarity.

***

“W-what happened?” the fashionista asked as she lowered her raised foreleg. Upon noticing everypony staring in her direction, some pointing at her and whispering to each other, she asked, “Do I have something on my face?”

“Rarity, your ears and teeth!” Dash shouted.

She poked her fangs as her eyes widened, her disguise was gone.

“As everypony can see, thestrals are living among you in disguise,” Nightmare Moon spoke firmly. “Their magic, strength and health is enhanced. While they are weakened by sunlight and white magic, they can see in the darkness and command dark arts.”

“T-to be f-fair,” Rarity spoke in panic, “I never learned any dark arts.”

“They also drink blood as it is the most important part of their diet,” Twilight added. “According to my research, they also eat meat, though they can do well without it.”

Rarity blushed. “I never ate even the smallest slice of meat.” She stomped. “Furthermore, I swear on my good name as Ponyville’s best fashionista, I never drank blood without permission.”

Twilight commented, “I got the impression you were the only fashionista in Ponyville.”

“Not helping,” Rarity responded, shooting Twilight an angered glare. “You can forget about the wonderful dress and saddle I planned to make for you as a gift.”

“S-sorry…”

***

Nightmare Moon chuckled before continuing her lecture, explaining difference between thestrals and the purebloods. Upon finishing, she called all thestrals to step onto the stage and revealed their secret.

She carefully observed everypony, studying their expressions while reading their emotions. A quick glance at the stage filled her with guilt. Ruining the reputation of a pony who had gifted her with an elegant dress was indeed unfair and somewhat cruel. I will make it up to you, Lady Rarity, even if I will need to force my subjects to accept you for who you really are.

Rarity’s head was lowered as she couldn’t look her family in the eyes. Twilight surprisingly tried to cheer her up, though it was a fruitless endeavour. Vinyl was relaxed and lay on the stage, leaning back against the wall. Ditzy was in the embrace of her mother who patted her gently. The other three thestrals sat between Rarity and Nightmare Moon, their heads raised proudly.

Pinkie Pie, who this whole time was sitting next to Rainbow Dash while struggling to contain her energy, was trembling as if in need to use filly’s room. “Can’t take this… anymore…”

“Pinkie?” Dash asked, poking her friend's shoulder. “What’s wrong? Well, besides the obvious.”

The party mare jumped onto the stage and stood on her rear hooves while placing forelegs on her sides. “What’s with all those frowny faces? So a pony or two drinks blood, big deal. It hurts just a tiny little bit.”

Dash facehooved while Miss Cheerilee asked, “You knew?”

“Of course I did. I freaked when I found out, but it didn’t get in the way of friendship.”

“Ah was angry,” Applejack said, stepping onto the stage, “but Ah was wron’. A good pony is a good pony, no matter what species.” She stood in front of Rarity, now facing everypony.

Cheerilee asked, “According to Princess Nightmare Moon, thestrals are ponies turned by purebloods. Who turned Miss Rarity and the others?”

Applejack and Rarity looked away, their mouths shut.

“Isn’t that obvious?” Pinkie asked, ignoring gestures to keep silent made by Rainbow Dash. “Rarity was turned by…” No noise escaped Pinkie’s mouth despite the fact she was speaking without a break.

Dash smiled and shouted, “Good job, Vinyl, that was a close call!”

The musician smiled proudly and fixed her glasses, the black-green aura around her horn visible as she manipulated soundwaves around Pinkie Pie. The color of her magic was no longer disguised under an illusion. “No biggie.”

Pinkie Pie placed her forehooves on her mouth. Not only had she almost revealed her friend’s biggest secret, she nearly broke a Pinkie Promise. She gave Vinyl an apologetic look, who nodded and removed her spell.

Dash flew onto the stage, landing with a loud thump. “Does it matter who turned them? They are still ponies. We should stick together.”

Pinkie nodded. “Exactly!” She pointed at random ponies and asked, “If a pureblood turned one of you, hopefully without any brainwashing, memory erasing, or mind controlling, would you like it if your friends turned on you? If your neighbours looked at you in fear?”

A tall pegasus flew onto the stage and placed his wing on Ditzy while nuzzling his thestral wife, who in return placed her bat-like wing on his back. “There’s nothing to fear. As a proud father and husband, I can tell you that much.”

Nightmare Moon observed the spectacle without interfering, ready to protect the thestrals in case of hostility. Much to her relief, she couldn’t find any hints of anger. What she saw was confusion, curiosity, some even showing fear, but no hate.

“Excuse me, Princess.”

She glanced down to her right. “What is it, Miss…?”

“Twilight Sparkle,” the unicorn reminded. “I would like to ask about your motives. If your goal isn’t the conquest of Equestria, what is?” She took a quick breath and pointed at the thestrals present on the stage. “Why did you reveal their secrets? Are you really going to bring forth an Eternal Night?”

The alicorn laughed and rubbed Twilight’s head, who frowned in response. “Curious, aren’t we? No wonder you are her student.” She withdrew her foreleg before raising her head arrogantly. “Luna worked hard to maintain peace, but fear and distrust led Equestria to a civil war. I am just trying to find out if our subjects have become more open-minded.” She added in cold sinister tone, “Otherwise, history will repeat itself and I will once again have to pick a side.”

“P-pick a side… I see,” Twilight spoke nervously. “Still, the prophecy states that you’ll bring about Eternal Night. If you don’t wish to hurt anypony, why would you do something that would destroy crops and freeze… this is not a laughing matter!”

“I disagree,” the alicorn responded, giggling behind her raised foreleg. After a moment, her laughter died off and she explained, “The phrase ‘Eternal Night’ should not be taken literally.”

“What do you mean, Princess?”

“Eternal Night means a world ruled by the creatures of the night, though I assume the prophecy was referring just to Equestria and the Crystal Empire.”

Twilight gulped, now realizing the meaning of the legend. Nightmare Moon wouldn’t keep the sun lowered to destroy the world. She would keep it restrained long enough for purebloods to defeat Celestia and the royal guard.

Their discussion was interrupted by the approach of Mayor Mare, who bowed in front of the alicorn. “As Mayor of Ponyville and its representative, I would like to inform you of our decision.”

Nightmare Moon spread her wings and spoke firmly, “Speak!”

“We wish to accept thestrals and learn more about them.” She stood up, noticing a warm smile, or at least warmer than Nightmare’s usual cold glare. “While most of us are confused, we have agreed to give them a chance. It is not the strangest occurrence that has happened tonight, after all.”

Nightmare Moon smiled broadly as she grabbed Twilight and Mayor Mare with her wings, causing them to yelp in surprise. “How long Luna and I have waited to hear those words! Let’s celebrate this most glorious of nights!”

Pinkie didn’t need to be asked twice as she bounced around the entire room, spreading confetti, balloons and throwing sweets in the air.

“Luna? What happened to her? Does she hear us?” Twilight asked.

“She does indeed, she’s…”

Twilight bit her lip when a slice of pie splattered against Nightmare’s face, interrupting her answer.

The alicorn wiped the syrup from her face before stealing a taste from her hoof, her glare cold enough to freeze the blood in Twilight’s veins.

Mmm… tasty. Was that blackberry? Would thou allow her to hit us with another slice?

Nightmare Moon frowned. How about… no!

Nightmare Moon’s Return - Power Struggle

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 2

Nightmare Moon’s Return

Part 2 - Power Struggle

Ghastly Gorge, the home of humongous creatures called Quarray Eels that lived in the many caves dotting the cliffs entangled by dark thorny vines. A perfect home for dangerous monsters, and a less than stellar place for exploration or a peaceful stroll.

This time however it served as a battlefield between four powerful creatures with echoes of ongoing battle, cold wind being a background for their struggle. They ran or flew between two large cliffs, ignoring the darkness of the night as they attacked each other with incredible ferocity.

The fight dragged on as none of the combatants were allowed to use any equipment, servants, or bottles of blood. Even drinking the blood of their foes wasn’t allowed, resulting in a two-hour battle of attrition and will.

The sky was a bejeweled tapestry with a massive pearl as the centerpiece, its light still somewhat visible despite the massive walls of the gorge blocking most of the sky. Each participant fought in their element, seeing through the darkness as if it was day.

Fleur de Lis galloped through what was left of a thorny forest while dodging thorns and shattered wood, her mangled and torn wings hanging limply and her illusory horn had vanished. A blood-stained steel lily was revealed on her flank by the patches of moonlight. Drops of sweat slid down her cheeks and muzzle, her panting steadily.

She looked up at her airborne opponent, Moon Shadow’s younger brother, Cornerstone. She caught a glimpse of his cutie mark, a wooden framework on top of a cornerstone.

I wish I knew more about my opponent outside of him being the mysterious brother of the strongest of the purebloods. Now that I think about it, he was silently living in his brother’s shadow, acting as more of a subordinate than a relative.

As Fleur had expected, Cornerstone summoned a rain of dark crystals that would weaken the flow of her magic through her body, aside from piercing it in multiple locations. He followed it with toxic geysers colored a putrid green-gray shooting from the ground, the very smell of the approaching bath assaulted her improved senses.

Fleur examined her options. If I will heal my wings, I can use them to escape the toxins with only the rain of crystals to deal with. Staying on the ground would force me to overcome two obstacles.

Not yet. My opponent still believes that I am grounded. I can’t waste the element of surprise, she thought as she kept evading the noxious spews beneath her hooves, relying on her agility and speed until she reached two humongous dead worm-like creatures, her ears drooped. Poor creatures. I hope their brethren didn’t get in Moon Shadow’s way.

Not wasting a moment, she crawled under one of the dead beasts, using it as a house-sized umbrella. With little effort, she stood up, lifting the massive weight on her back, while the river of toxic slop was rapidly approaching.

With a surge of strength, she jumped, landing on the second beast with a loud thump, using it as a safe island while the eel on her back shielded her from the rain above. Once the assault weakened, she threw the weight from her back and started climbing, jumping from stone to stone while evading additional projectiles and spells in form of black flame.

As she had hoped for, her opponent got impatient and flew closer, his wings hardened with magic and going for a finishing strike.

Hanging onto the surface of the cliff, Fleur waited and smirked as her eyes flashed red, her wings now healed and spread.

With a push of her hooves and flap of her wings, she backflipped, evading Stone’s attack. “I got you now.”

She followed her opponent, surprising him with outstanding speed and agility as his spells became ineffective because of reduced distance between them. The worse case scenario for a flying spell-caster when he allowed a faster direct-combat expert get dangerously close.

Without hesitation, Fleur grabbed his wing with her foreleg before delivering a punch against his back with her other hoof, sinking it into his flesh and blood.

The moment Stone crashed into sharp stones of the canyon, she delivered a finishing blow. Edge of her foreleg filled with power pierced the area right next to his heart. The pureblood screamed.

As she had expected, her foe had no magic left to recover his wound, more or less keep her away from tearing apart his insides, yet deep in her mind she asked herself why she missed the heart on purpose? Did she wanted her enemy to suffer longer, or was it pity and mercy, not wanting to kill unless necessary.

She retreated her foreleg and turned the stallion around, his bleeding back now lying on the stone and half-closed eyes staring in her own.

“This fight is over for you, yet it doesn’t need to end with your death and more blood on my hooves. Will you accept my mercy and surrender?”

The stallion nodded weakly, but said nothing.

Fleur’s eyes flashed as she commanded blood of her enemy to return into the wound on his back before closing it, her own forehooves now ironically clean of the red stain. “Can you fly?”

The stallion nodded.

Fleur gestured for him to follow her as she flew to search for her second foe, hoping against hope that her husband was still alive after such a long battle. She turned her head to look at her enemy and asked, “You have been silent during our entire fight and didn’t speak a word when your brother brought you here. Would you tell me why?”

“Why should I talk with the enemy?” Stone asked.

Fleur frowned. “We are rivals, not enemies. While I’m still angry at Moon Shadow for sending his subordinates to test our family by using our son as a hostage, we can’t afford to hate each other when we should work in unity.”

“So speaks the mare who mercilessly slaughtered those who foalnapped her son,” Cornerstone responded in annoyed tone. “They didn’t have a choice but to follow orders. Why did they deserved to die and I didn’t?”

Fleur looked away and bit her lip, her eyes closed. While her husband did his best to lead their clan in peace, whenever violence was necessary to solve a problem, she was the first to step in. She had trained her skills and power diligently over the centuries so her husband wouldn’t need to fight and to protect their clan if necessary.

Yet as years passed, she actually started to enjoy fighting. Following the principles of peace and unity her husband tried to spread helped her to keep her violent nature in check, yet if somepony angered her, there was no telling what she would do.

She looked back at her silent companion. “I must admit that I am not the most merciful pureblood, however, I do what I must to help us realize our goal. Killing you won’t bring us any closer to achieving it.” She raised her ears attentively and scanned her surroundings, failing to detect any signs of battle.

“My brother shares your point of view, yet he doesn’t at the same time.”

“What do you mean?” Fleur asked.

“He wants to strengthen and unite our kind. Ally or foe, he doesn’t want to kill those he viewed as worthy,” Stone stated. “Yet, unlike you, he won’t hesitate to take a life in order to realize his dream or kill those he sees as weak. I was already a sacrifice he decided to make.”

Fleur’s eyes widened. “Sacrifice?”

“He’s disappointed in my progress and sees me as a failure, that’s why he sent me to fight you… so I will help him win by buying him time while weakening your power. He expected I would die in this fight.”

Fleur stopped, pointing accusingly at her foe. “And you played along?”

“You don’t know how it feels, living in the shadow of a legend. Seeing disappointment every time he glares at me, never good enough whenever I am following his orders or participating in his trainings.” He lowered his head and sighed. “The banishment of Nightmare Moon was devastating for our race, but losing my mom and dad broke my heart. I couldn’t deal with my grief and it held me back.”

He shook his head. “In this fight, I would either make him proud or die trying. I made my peace.”

Fleur looked at Stone in pity. She knew that Moon Shadow was always demanding when dealing with allies, but from his own family?

“You’re wasting time,” the stallion said, waking Fleur from her thoughts. “Ghastly Gorge is quiet, too quiet. My brother most likely defeated Fancy Pants and is waiting for your arrival. That was his plan all along.”

Fleur nodded, redoubling her efforts. “There’s something I don’t understand,” she said, not bothering to look at her companion. “Moon Shadow was determined to prepare our kind for the return of Nightmare Moon. He even tested Miss Fluttershy, a young pureblood who should have been insignificant on the grand scale, yet he wanted her to be ready to assist in case if our queen would choose the road of peace. Why is he going behind the back of Nightmare Moon now?”

“For two reasons,” Stone responded. “He witnessed the banishment of our queen and the purge Celestia started. All powerful purebloods were killed so they wouldn’t pose a threat, our mother and father included.”

Fleur wilted, her head and ears fallen. She knew that the death of her own parents, as well as the parents of Fancy Pants was Celestia’s doing, but they both decided not to let the past guide them. They understood that the princess did what she had to do to delay another war. Yet some would care only about revenge.

Fleur frowned. He wants revenge against one who killed his parents, yet he didn’t care when his tests led Fluttershy’s parents to their deaths and is ready to sacrifice his own kin. What a hypocrite.

“My brother wants to protect our Queen from being banished again, but far more than that he desires vengeance on Celestia. He sees Nightmare Moon’s hesitation as a weakness that would doom her and our kind, so he decided to take the matters in his own hooves.”

Fleur looked at Stone and nodded. “I understand his motivation now, but why did he use you to distract me?”

Stone facehooved. “You still don’t get it, do you?” He pointed at her and continued firmly, “He knows your potential and sees you as a threat. You’re younger than Moon Shadow and Fancy Pants, so logically you should be far weaker than them, yet, because of your harsh and diligent training alongside drinking blood of athletes, your body was forced take a few years long sleep earlier to adapt to your new power.”

“He… knows?” Fleur asked as her heart beat skyrocketed.

“Yes, he does. You may be only seven centuries old, yet your power can rival a millennium old pureblood.” He flew closer, almost touching Fleur’s muzzle as his eyes half-closed. “You’re more powerful than your husband and your skills surpass even those of Moon Shadow. He knew that he couldn’t beat you and prepared accordingly.”

Fleur was about to ask another question, when her ear perked. She quickly turned towards the source of noise and flew at high speed. She landed on the stone platform as her pupils shrank. In front of her stood Moon Shadow without a scratch, though she could sense that he had spend a good deal of his magic to keep it that way. Next to him on the stone she could see her husband, lying in puddle of his own blood with only tiny bit of magic left to keep him alive, tears streamed down his cheeks as he looked at her in pain.

“F-F-Fleur… d-dear… it s-s-seems that I f-failed…” he struggled to speak, blood was dripping from his nose and mouth with every wet cough.

“You sure took your sweet time,” Moon Shadow spoke before raising his foreleg above Fancy Pants’ back. “I hate to do this to my honorable rival and such a mighty pureblood, however…”

“Wait!” Fleur shouted, pointing at Cornerstone who finally caught up and landed next to her. “I spared your brother, please, let my husband live!”

“Will you surrender and swear your loyalty to me if I do?” Moon Shadow asked.

Fleur raised her foreleg defensively and hesitated. If she played along, thousands of thestrals and many purebloods would end up joining Moon Shadow in his campaign against Equestria.

“Your hesitation is answer enough,” Moon Shadow sighed, his hoof descending towards Fancy Pants’ back.

Time seemed to slow to a crawl for Fleur, Moon Shadow’s hoof piercing through her dear husband’s ribcage in slow motion to crush his heart. She watched in numb horror as Fancy’s face twisted in a rictus of agony, frozen that way as Moon Shadow brought his magically sharpened wing down to remove his head. His precious lifeblood sprayed across them all as his head hit the ground.

Fleur grit her teeth, now overwhelmed by rage. Her only desire being to crush head of her foe with her hooves.

While other purebloods often practiced the use of dark arts for their offense, keeping their physical capabilities on an average level, she was always focusing on improving her body instead; from strength and agility to endurance. Her specialization in close-combat martial arts often left her at a disadvantage whenever she was out-ranged by her foes, yet it let her save more magic to heal wounds, enduring blow after blow while evading the strongest attacks thanks to her speed.

Her fighting style however required careful planning and strong focus, knowing when to defend or evade, patiently waiting for an opening to deliver a powerful blow the moment her enemy lowered his guard. This time however her calm and calculating mind was filled with rage. Instinct took over as she charged at Moon Shadow, ignoring the importance of strategy just to deal as much pain as she could.

Moon Shadow smirked as his eyes flashed. Everything was going according to plan.

Nightmare Moon’s Return - Acceptance

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 2

Nightmare Moon’s Return

Part 3 - Acceptance

Rarity rubbed her foreleg nervously, looking away from the eyes of Sweetie Belle while sitting in the corner of the room. Ignoring the ongoing party.

She heard hoofsteps to her right and saw her father, Honcho Flanks, approaching her. He asked warmly, “How are you feeling?”

"Oh, I am feeling just fine, perfectly fine,” Rarity responded in sorrow, her ears and head lowered. “My biggest secret was just revealed in front of the entire town, ruining my reputation. Tis just a minor setback, after all, nothing to worry about.”

Cookie Crumbles approached as well, placing a forehoof on her daughter’s shoulder. “When did this happen and how?”

“The spa,” she mumbled.

“Can you repeat that, please?”

“The earthquake at the spa was caused by powerful magic. It crumbled and almost killed me.” She took a slow breath. “Being turned saved my life.” She was caught off guard by a warm hug as she was pressed into her mother’s embrace.

“My poor poor sweetheart!”

Honcho rubbed his chin thoughtfully. “Is this why you got so good at sports, started wearing huge hats and became tired whenever we dragged you to our outdoor activities?”

“Yes, Dad.”

“Cool!” Sweetie Belle shouted, jumping onto her sister’s head as she started poking her fangs and rubbing her ears. “So you’re a night mare with super powers. Can I be like you?”

Rarity’s gasped in horror, ears straightened and eyes widened. “You are… not afraid?”

“Afraid of my older sister? Never!” Sweetie belle said, hugging Rarity’s muzzle from above and blocking her vision with her belly. “Mom, Dad, can I have fangs and powers like my sister when I grow up? Pretty please!”

“Sure you can, Sweetie,” Honcho Flanks said, glancing at his wife. “You won’t mind, dear?”

“Of course not.”

Rarity pulled the filly from her face and placed on the floor before raising an eyebrow. Upon hearing laughter, she glanced at her parents and asked, “You do realize she was not joking?”

“Does it matter?” Honcho asked.

Rarity facehooved. “Allowing Sweetie Belle to bowl was one thing, allowing her to explore the Everfree Forest alongside Fluttershy was crossing the line.” She hissed and added, “However, allowing her to become a blood-drinking creature like me is… is… I do not even have words to describe how insane it is!”

Cookie Crumbles shrugged. “Unicorn, bat-winged pony, makes no difference to us, am I right, dearest?” Her husband nodded.

“Say what?” Rarity spoke.

“We would love Sweetie Belle as a thestral all the same,” Cootie said before pointing at Rarity. “You could become an earth pony, pegasus, alicorn or even a timberwolf and we wouldn’t care less. You shouldn’t make such a fuss about it and just tell us your secret from the start.”

Tears ran down her cheeks as she whimpered and grabbed both of her parents in a strong hug. “I love you! Thank you so much for accepting me!” She tightened her hug while causing her parents discomfort they struggled to hide. “And I am really sorry for hiding the truth from you. I was afraid you would fear and hate me, when I should have trusted you, of all ponies.”

"We could never hate you, dear," said Cookie.

"That's right. We're your family, and families stick together, through thick and thin," added Honcho before he freed his foreleg from the strong embrace and rubbed top of Rarity’s head.

"Yea! Besides, you're the bestest sister ever, Rarity!" exclaimed Sweetie as she pounced on Rarity and hugged her neck from behind.

The embrace lasted for half a minute before Rarity released her family and wiped her wet face.

“Wait a moment.” Honcho Flanks asked suspiciously, “If Rainbow Dash didn't save your life, who did?”

Rarity sighed and asked, “Can you keep a secret?”

Fleur struggled to stand on her trembling legs, her vision blurry as blood was dripping from her gaping wounds. With the last of her power, she commanded some of the lost blood to return into her wounds, closing them.

She grit her teeth while glaring daggers at her opponent, who looked back at her from the higher ground. She could still sense reserves of power in him, while her own were almost gone.

She closed her eyes and slammed her foreleg against the stone, causing a quake form the impact, her eyes produce tears. If only I was a century older… if only I didn’t let him provoke me…

“This fight is over,” Moon Shadow said calmly, his face not displaying any emotions. Several whips levitated by his side, each being a mix of blood and dark crystals with a pulsating black aura. “Your husband was weak for his age, lacking skills to face the enemy directly. If not for his incompetence, I would not have enough power left to defeat you. I pity you for marrying such a failure.”

Fleur spread her wings, ready to rush against her foe, only to stop herself. She knew well enough that Moon Shadow always showed respect to Fancy Pants, which meant that it was yet another lie. He was playing her.

Under normal circumstances she would fight defensively while waiting for an opening to attack. Making up for her power disadvantage and close range with skills and speed.

This time however she let her enemy to provoke her on many occasions, rushing to attack when she should wait, lowering her guard just to deliver more blows. Her opponent however didn’t seem distracted by anything.

A chill went through Fleur’s spine. If Moon Shadow was expecting that his brother would die, he would probably stay calm and collected even if she’d killed him.

She had lost this battle of minds and she was now paying the price.

Moon Shadow grinned. “No need for mental games any longer, time to claim my victory.”

Fleur stood on her rear hooves, shattering two whips with her forehooves, only for more to restrain each other her legs. She no longer had the strength to free herself.

Wound after wound, her white elegant fur was covered in her own blood. She grit her teeth, refusing to give her enemy any satisfaction by screaming.

“Surrender to your master! To the master of all purebloods!”

The moment he was close enough, Fleur spit blood onto his face as it started burning it. Moon Shadow ignored the pain and spoke, “You are the most skilled warrior among our ranks, surpassing even me. Letting you die would be a waste I cannot afford.”

“I will not serve you! Not after you killed my husband when you could’ve spare him! Not after you decided to take actions behind back of our newly returned queen!”

“I would have forgiven you even if you didn’t spare my brother, while your husband was the unfortunate sacrifice I had to make to attain this victory. As for our queen, she is too slow to act, something that may lead to her downfall.”

Fleur frowned, her body becoming heavy and weak. “You were the most dedicated and willing to serve our returning queen, have more faith in her. If she said she will need time to learn more about ponies of this time before taking action, you should respect it like the rest of us.”

“She is making a mistake! I am going to protect her even if it means going against her wishes. I will punish Celestia for her past transgression and bring her down,” he responded, stomping, his whips tightening their grip as blood burst from Fleur’s legs. “Only after I put chains on Celestia and gift Nightmare Moon with Equestria, only then will she not be endangered by two alicorns, two armies and the Elements.”

He took a deep breath before raising Fleur’s tired head and asking, “Answer this. If you refuse to serve me and die, who will take care of your son?”

“You…” Fleur coughed up more blood, her life now at his mercy. She glared venomously at her foe and hissed, “You wouldn’t dare!”

“Your talents are too valuable to be wasted. If I have to use your son as hostage, so be it, and unlike the last time, it won’t be a mere trial.”

“You pathetic, despicable creature! Have you no shame, no pride as a pureblood thestral? Your mercy is as false as your loyalty to our queen!” She burbled a response, yet carried on with her words despite the pain her wounds gave her. “You cry about having your own parents killed in the purge, yet you have slaughtered countless thestrals, many of them children and parents! You consigned your own brother to die just so you could win! You are worth less than the dirt on my hooves, less than a parasprite! When something doesn’t go your way, you throw a tantrum like a small foal that didn’t get the toy she wanted!

“I didn’t hear you. Would you mind repeating yourself?” He narrowed his eyes. “And I would suggest you to consider your words carefully.”

"I will... serve," she said, spitting the bit of long-rotted apple mush out.

Moon Shadow grinned, releasing his captive. “I prepared huge reserves of blood in my chariot, enough to restore our power and vitality. “His eyes flashed as his magic closed Fleurs wounds. “You are strong, surely you can still walk, or should I carry you?”

Fleur hissed and walked towards the nearest cliff wall, climbing with her trembling legs, her eyes closed, teeth grit, and her face covered in tears and sweat.

“That’s the spirit,” he spoke before closing his eyes, mentally communicating with his servants. The time has finally come. Begin phase one of ‘Operation: Eternal Night.

Nightmare Moon’s Return - A Walk in the Woods

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 2

Nightmare Moon’s Return

Part 4 - A Walk in the Woods

Twilight left Town Hall, following Nightmare Moon who was... talking with her parents. The dress was no longer present on the princess as it was taken away by Rarity for an emergency cleaning, all thanks to Pinkie Pie tripping while pulling a massive welcoming cake. Instead, the alicorn now wore iridescent blue armor, which only made her more intimidating.

Her mother, Twilight Velvet, was now cleaning the alicorn’s chest with a wet pink towel, trying to wipe the cream from her fur. The image of a powerful corrupted princess being main component of a giant cake covered in over a thousand miniature candles was still haunting Twilight’s mind.

How did Pinkie even manage to make so many tiny candles? she asked herself.

Twilight raised her forehoof to her mouth as she yawned. She had been on her hooves for an entire day and night, overseeing the preparations while her parents and Spike did their best to keep her relatively sane. Celebrating with her enemy for three hours straight did little to help.

To make matters worse, Nightmare Moon’s attitude proved unpredictable. One moment she unleashed her verbal fury on Pinkie Pie for insulting her, only to burst into laughter a moment later. Her regal and calm posture occasionally shifted between an harsh ruler, and a playful pony, often showing a lack of social skills no doubt caused by such a long absence. Maybe she has a mental disorder or split personality, which makes sense considering how much time she’s spent away from civilization. A way of coping with loneliness maybe?

Twilight shook her head and sped up, listening to their conversation.

“Forgive me for saying this, Miss Velvet,” Nightmare Moon spoke, “but I find it difficult to believe.”

“I am being honest, Your Highness. My husband and I, we were ready to attack you when you grabbed our daughter by her neck,” Velvet admitted, her glare firm and eyes narrowed. “She’s our daughter after all and you threatened her life.”

“Mom,” Twilight said, coughing to get their attention. “Don’t anger our new ruler and guest.”

Night Light puffed his chest and said, “Don’t underestimate the most magically talented family in Equestria.” He ignored the panicked shake of his daughter’s head.

Nightmare Moon chuckled and asked coldly, “Oh really?”

“Really,” Night Light responded with a confident smile.

***

The alicorn stomped. “I demand a tug of war in an hour against your family.” She pointed at the trio of unicorns. “My magic against yours! I would suggest something more in depth, but I am short on time.”

“We’d be honored,” Velvet responded before pointing at a huge oak tree. “Here’s our new home, which also serves as the local library. It even has a telescope.”

“Our little Twilight always loved stargazing and astronomy. You both should get along, Your Highness,” Night Light suggested.

Nightmare Moon glanced at Twilight with a weak smile.

“Hey, Twilight!”

“Spike?” Twilight asked as her attention focused on an opening door, revealing a sleepy Spike with a blanket attached to his tail and a pillow in one claw.

“H-hello Spike, up already?” Twilight asked, trotting towards her assistant.

“Not yet, but it’s hard to sleep with all the yelling.” He rubbed his eyes before pointing at the tall alicorn. “What did I miss?”

Twilight took a deep breath and explained, “We welcomed Nightmare Moon as planned and accepted her as our ruler. She revealed the existence of thestrals, Rarity being one of them.” She took a quick breath and continued, “Everypony was okay with it, we celebrated for hours, and now we’re giving Nightmare Moon a tour of Ponyville, updating Her Highness about historical events and modern Equestria. Oh, and she doesn’t want to destroy the world.”

“That’s great.” Spike yawned, stretching his arms. “Equestria is safe and no artifacts were needed.”

“Artifacts?”

“The Elements of Harmony, duh,” Spike said with sleepy eyes, his mouth was quickly shut by Twilight’s foreleg who was now smiling awkwardly.

“Please, don’t listen to him. Spike always talks nonsense when he’s sleepy.”

His eyes opened wide as he pushed Twilight’s foreleg away. “Rarity is a thestral?” He grabbed Twilight’s head and pressed his nose against her muzzle, now looking her deeply in the eyes. “Please tell me thestrals don’t drink dragon’s blood, or eat them!”

“No… I mean yes, I mean… only those strong and old enough to penetrate dragon scales, but now’s not the time,” Twilight answered hastily.

“I hope she’s in the ‘no dragon eating category.”

“Oh, for the love of Celest…” She paused, catching glare from the angered alicorn. “Rarity seems to be a honorable lady, she won’t hurt you.”

Spike sighed and wiped sweat from his forehead.

“Excuse me, young drake. Was your owner planning to use the Elements of Harmony against me?” Nightmare Moon asked, struggling to stay calm. Upon noticing hesitation, she raised Spike’s head with tip of her mane. “Speak, worm!”

“Your manners!” Luna admonished deep in her mind. Thou embarrass us with such a choice of words.

Upon noticing disapproval on the faces of Twilight’s parents and the drake’s trembling, she responded, “My apologies,” placing a forehoof on her mouth.

Spike spoke in panic, “Princess Celestia planned to use the Elements to heal you from corruption, but with Fluttershy’s death, one candidate was missing, please-don’t-hurt-me!”

Both Twilight and her assistant cowered on the floor with her hooves and hands on their heads.

“Is this true,” Nightmare Moon asked coldly while Twilight’s parents gave her questioning looks.

“Y-yes…” she responded as her ears drooped. She looked at the tall alicorn in fear, whose eyes were closed and breathing heavy. Twilight flinched upon receiving a hostile glare.

“Part of me wants to overlook this and not hold a grudge, especially since you are now my subjects.” She looked to the side and took a deep calming breath, trying to keep her anger in check. “Yet, a thousand years banishment on our own moon by the Elements is not something I can forget. The mere knowledge you had the potential to send me back into that cold prison is enough reason to distrust you.” She lowered her head shook it sadly, sighing. “It seems we will not get along.”

Vinyl Scratch trotted through Ponyville, her head raised high as she bypassed party guests, who were ready to take a rest after this eventful night. Her horn lit as she concealed sound waves around herself, her steps and humming not reaching anypony’s ears except her own.

She followed Nightmare Moon towards the local library, hiding on the other side of the large tree. “Now, how should I prank her?” she asked herself, thinking about her first prank.

***

Pinkie pushed a large cake towards Nightmare Moon on a platform with wheels, bypassing two lines of guests. Her cheerful trot was interrupted by a loud roar, startling her as she jumped ahead, slamming into the cake as it tilted towards the guest of honor.

Pinkie’s head emerged from under the cream as she licked her face clean. “Mmm… yummy.” The moment black angered head of an alicorn emerged, she asked, “Do you like it queenie?”

Nightmare Moon opened her mouth to respond, only for a loud burp to escape it. She blushed, trying to say something, “Call me Cakemare Moon the Queenie Meanie, and I am delightful.” She blinked in confusion as something twisted her words. Half of the crowd chuckled while the other looked at each other in confusion.

In rush of anger, she spread her wings and stomped, causing the floor to tremble. She yelled at Pinkie, only to start laughing beside her the moment Luna temporarily took over. Deep in the crowd Vinyl crossed her forelegs with a smug smile on her face.

***

“Would you share what you find so funny, my young subject?”

Vinyl stopped chuckling and opened her eyes, now staring at the unamused, towering alicorn. The aura around her horn vanished. “Hello queenie, how did you hear me?”

“I did not need hear you, my eyes are sharpest at night. You were following us for a while in the open.”

Vinyl fixed her glasses, rubbing the back of her neck. “Yea… I need to work on my stealth.”

“Are you the trickster who pranked me earlier?” Nightmare Moon asked coldly, pressing her muzzle against the Vinyl’s.

“Pretty much.” She shrugged.

Nightmare Moon grabbed the unicorn thestral with her star-filled mane, raising her above the ground. “I am in a very bad mood at the moment, so allow me to warn you!” She pushed Vinyl against the surface of the large tree and added, “Prank me again and I will personally test how long it will take for your ears and horn to grow back!”

“I would bet for it to take two days, give or take a few hours,” Vinyl said with a joking tone. “But sure, no pranks Your Queeny... I mean, Your Highness."

“You are a little too brave for your own good and lack respect for your elders.” She patted the top of Vinyl’s head. “Prove yourself useful and lead me to Fluttershy’s grave.”

“Her grave, why?”

“To give my respect to a fallen foe.”

Canterlot, once a cultural center of Equestria now felt abandoned, not a single soul in sight between the train station and the castle.

The only noise was rustling leaves under the wind and firm steps of proud purebloods. Large bat-like wings and fangs were displayed under the light of stars and the moon.

The powerful elite walked towards the castle with a thousand thestrals waiting for their command. A mix of turned unicorns and earth ponies, all keeping their distance from the castle as instructed.

An army of turned pegasi flew above the castle, observing the movements of the guards while ready to strike.

Royal and Crystal Guards in the thousands formed a ring around the castle with a large opening at the entrance.

Moon Shadow glanced at the approaching scouting party, a group of five pegasi thestrals wearing dark blue armor, well camouflaged to blend into the night. Similar to the armor of the Royal Guard, but thicker and a bit heavier. Metal claws were attached to their shoes and sharp blades on the leading edge of their wings.

“My Lord!” He bowed respectfully.

“Speak.”

He saluted. “Both the princess and empress are in the throne room, unguarded. Their armies are gathered nearby, keeping their distance from the castle.”

“Any enemy reinforcements nearby?” Moon Shadow asked, wondering if the enemy had kept a well hidden reserve.

“No reinforcements, My Lord. Their entire force is here.” He took a quick breath. “We scouted airships and chariots among their ranks, most likely to keep their ground force mobile.”

Moon Shadow looked at his followers and asked, “Do our armies have enough airships and chariots to intercept, should their guard move to Ponyville?”

“Yes, Lord Moon Shadow. They are too close to leave undetected. If they try, blood will rain.”

He smirked, closing his eyes. It was well known among his kind that blood-hypnosis allowed even a young pureblood to control their prey. Sending their own blood into a pony to manipulate their will at distance. For centuries, he kept such ponies in the ranks of Monster Hunters, as only purebloods could detect blood-control.

Now was the time to use his enemies for one last time. With both alicorns and the enemy army gathered in Canterlot, nothing can stand in the way of showing our queen what ponies really think of our kind.

With orders sent, he glanced at Fleur de Lis who was walking by his side, once again in great shape.

“You should be smiling. Today we will write history for the generations to come.”

Fleur looked away and frowned. She knew that there was a chance she would one day need to raise her hoof against Celestia, but she didn’t like it in the least.

“If you are thinking about informing Nightmare Moon of my campaign, I would suggest abandoning such hopes.” He grinned, satisfied by the glare he received in response. “I predicted such a move from your side and had all of your clan's messengers imprisoned.”

“She will find out about your transgression and punish you,” Fleur said venomously with narrowed eyes. “You are just delaying the inevitable.”

Moon Shadow shook his head. “I could not care less if she punishes me or not. Hesitation was our downfall in the past, and I will not allow it to stop us again.” He chuckled. “Besides, after I show our would-be queen the worst of ponykind, she will support my campaign instead of trying to stop it.”

Fleur stomped, driving her forehoof into the cobblestone street several centimeters and sending cracks spidering out across the well-maintained road. She removed her hoof from the new hole, shaking the dust and debris from it.

“I knew you would hate me, considering the steps I had to take to ensure my unquestionable leadership. I am not proud of my actions, yet I cannot afford to hesitate or waste time like our future queen did.” He raised Fleur’s chin with a hoof and looked her deeply in the eyes. “I would suggest that you redirect your anger towards Celestia for your son’s sake.”

She slapped the hoof away and took a deep calming breath. Her plan to inform the two-faced princess had failed, and all that was left was to hope that Nightmare Moon wouldn’t be fooled by whatever Moon Shadow was planning.

Eternal Night - Dream

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 3

Eternal Night

Part 1 - Dream

Nightmare Moon sat in front of a lonely grave, observing a picture of a pony chosen to unlock the Element of Kindness. Her very death was the reason that other potential bearers were now serving her.

On either side of Nightmare were two old pegasi and one brown bear.

Nightmare Moon contemplated in silence. Should she hate those chosen by the Elements? Should she hate Fluttershy?

“It’s your fault, you know.”

Nightmare Moon looked to her left, glancing at the old mare. “Whatever do you mean, little pony?”

“You’re… the two-faced princess,” Sunflower said with a tired breath. “Moon Shadow was preparing his kind for your return, testing them.”

Little Seed added from the other side of the alicorn, “Fluttershy suffered her parents’ deaths, enduring many trials, all because of you.”

The Princess of the Night took a step back as her pupils shrank. “If your words are truthful, your friend is a pureblood.” Upon seeing weak nods, she asked, “How did she die?”

“She’s sleeping, not dead,” Little Seed answered. “When she will wake up, we don’t know.”

Nightmare Moon raised her eyebrow. Now it all made sense. Thestrals gathered in Ponyville because their leader was here. Why would the Element of Kindness chose a pureblood thestral of all ponies? She needed answers and knew exactly how to attain them.

“I shall speak with your friend. Do not interrupt me. AM I clear?”

Both elderly pegasi nodded.

The princess lay on the ground, ignoring the confused trio as her side and shoulder now rested on bouquets of flowers. Her eyes closed while a blue aura formed around her body. A shining white thread made its way into the ground.

Nightmare Moon left the entrance of a large bird-house, sitting in front of a huge bowl filled with bird food, only for a blue head to emerge from it.

“If you are trying to be funny, Luna, I am not in the mood,” she said unamused as armor was still present on her body despite being in a dream. Luna however was wearing her blue-silver regalia, a decorative accessory not suited for battle.

“Good day to thee as well,” Luna responded before flying up, now hovering in front of Nightmare, looking around and next at herself in confusion. “Are we… shrunk?”

Nightmare Moon spread her wings, flying up to examine the dream from the air. The area looked like a giant version of Fluttershy’s home she visited not long ago: A large grassy field, river instead of a stream and long spacious bridge instead of a small one, a few tower-sized trees and one cottage the size of a castle.

Her attention focused on two humongous purebloods, each the size of a cottage which was already massive from her perspective.

Between those titans was a big yellow pureblood, a mare she recognized from the picture on the gravestone, yet, her eyes, fangs and ears were not disguised. The huge mare was embraced by the edge of a humongous wing, sitting on her haunches while nuzzling the large belly.

Nightmare's focus was interrupted by a blue pegasus racing with a large bird, flying in front of her. Luna flew over and pointed down, speaking, “We believe our sizes were reduced by Miss Fluttershy’s imagination like the others. Ponies in her dream are tiny indeed.”

Both alicorns flew towards the ground, noticing hundreds of ponies talking and playing with each other. Thestrals, pegasi, unicorns, earth ponies, all small when compared to Fluttershy, smiling and happy. Little animals like; mice, birds, squirrels were enlarged while large ones like; bear, manticore and a hydra were shrank to the size of ponies they played with.

“I see,” Nightmare Moon said to herself before looking at a confused Luna. “All ponies and animals are the same miniature size, getting along in peace. Fluttershy, cottage and all surroundings are unchanged, while those two must be her parents. Their sizes are enlarged.”

“What would this mean, Moon?”

“You’re the expert here, you tell me,” Nightmare said in a relaxed tone, not bothering to play the mighty ruler in front of her more peaceful half. The pleasant atmosphere calming her down.

Luna rubbed her chin thoughtfully before closing her eyes, smiling and clapping her forehooves. “Tis’ so simple.”

“Do tell.”

Luna pointed at the embraced Fluttershy, who allowed Rainbow Dash to land on her foreleg. “Miss Fluttershy dreams of her parents taking care of her, feeling like a little filly in their safe embrace.” She gestured over to the little ponies and animals. “Yet, as a pureblood, she felt stronger and bigger than ponies and critters, feeling the need to take care of them and protect them from harm.” She pointed up at the blinding sun as the sky was clear and a breeze pleasantly blew over their bodies. “She also wishes deeply for the sun not to bother her anymore, but instead to feel its pleasant warmth.”

She took a deep breath and continued, “Miss Fluttershy dreams of all races being equal and living in peace. Ponies, thestrals, animals and monsters alike, all under her care and protection. Such a lovely dream.”

“Lovely it may be, we have questions in need of answering.”

Both alicorns nodded and flew over, descending onto Fluttershy’s shoulders. The big mare seemed unaware of their presence, busy talking with her tiny friend and smiling cheerfully.

“Excuse us, Miss Fluttershy, we wish to speak with thou,” Luna spoke into her ears before two large red pupils glanced upon her.

“Her name is Luna and I am Nightmare Moon,” the taller alicorn spoke from the other shoulder as Fluttershy started glancing between them in panic. The giant, cheerful smile withered and died. “We wish to ask you a few questions.”

Much to the alicorns’ surprise, their bodies started to grow as Fluttershy jumped from her mother’s embrace and bowed, throwing them unintentionally onto the ground.

Luna and Nightmare Moon massaged their head and flank, respectively, and looked around, noticing how animals and ponies vanished while their surroundings became smaller with each passing second.

The groud trembled under the bowing and shaking Fluttershy as loud thumps reached her ears, which became even louder with each of Luna’s steps.

Once close enough, the princess lowered herself and levitated over Fluttershy onto the shoe on her forehoof. She presented the little yellow ball to Nightmare Moon and spoke, “This talk shall prove difficult when our subject thinks of us as mighty giants and cowers in fear.”

The taller alicorn nodded. Being the same size as the cottage and talking to a pony who shrank to the size of a bird would indeed prove difficult. Yet, part of her enjoyed the feeling of superiority as she hid a small smile behind her giant hoof.

Princess Celestia sat proudly on her throne, wearing her usual royal regalia while her horn illuminated the room, her face coldly impassive. It did little to hide her anxiety from her enemies, betrayed by her hastened breathing and heart beat.

Cadance sat by her side in green-gold armor, the same armor she wore at Twilight’s welcome party earlier today. A heart shaped crystal was located in the central part of her chestplate, similar ones of a much smaller scale were inscribed on leg-protectors, which went from her hooves up to her knees. Her glare was filled with hostility.

All light sources had been destroyed as at least forty purebloods stood in front of them.

Celestia quickly recognized one as an unicorn she had seen in the company of Fancy Pants, only now her horn was replaced with the signature bat-like wings and she had a different cutie mark, a blood-stained steel lily.

She’d had her suspicions that the leader of the nobility and most popular model in Equestria were pureblood thestrals, but hadn’t expected to meet one of them as an enemy.

One pureblood stepped forward, wearing a dark cape and armor with runes glowing red carved into it. “You are no longer protected by your cursed solar aura, my dear Princess. How long have I waited for this.” He bowed mockingly. “My name is Moon Shadow, leader of the second most powerful race in the world. If you surrender willingly, we will show you mercy.”

Celestia stood from her throne and spread her wings, trying to appear more intimidating. “I will not surrender to the likes of you, but I do not wish for unnecessary bloodshed.” She stepped down the stairs leading to her throne, her face still impassive.

“Let’s us resolve this conflict between us. No armies involved. Will you accept these terms?”

Moon Shadow stomped, cracking the floor under his hoof as his eyes narrowed angrily. “Do you take me for a fool? Thinking that I will let you kill me like you did with our ancestors?”

“You misunderstood me,” Celestia interrupted, waving her foreleg. “Leaders versus leaders. Two alicorns against you and the rest of the purebloods.” She glanced between her foes, accounting at least 36 purebloods with a diversity in age.

“Agreed,” Moon Shadow responded without a second thought before pointing at the mare by his side. “Before we begin, however, might I suggest a duel to let you warm up? My dear subordinate will volunteer.” He looked at her and asked, “Isn’t that right, Fleur?”

Celestia glanced at the approaching mare, who walked with the grace of a panther, giving the impression of both a delicate maiden and an experienced warrior. “You do realize that fighting me alone is suicide?”

“It is no longer my choice, Your Highness.” Fleur bowed respectfully. “I apologize for what I am going to do.”

Celestia raised her eyebrow, now understanding that her former allies had become her enemies against their will. She couldn’t be certain that Moon Shadow would show mercy to her subjects should she lose, but if her student had succeeded, Nightmare Moon won’t let him have his way.

Fluttershy added a few drops of blood into the teacup before taking it between her forehooves, drinking a few slow sips. After placing it back on the rounded table, she looked up, staring at the two towering alicorns.

It took a bit of reassuring from both princesses before she had calmed down enough to return to her normal size and stop quivering. Yet, she still viewed the princesses as mighty beings, and despite her best efforts, she failed to reduce their size in her dream.

Both alicorns levitated small teacups, drinking it with grace.

“So… if I understand correctly, I’m now sleeping inside of a coffin, while everypony except my friends thinks I am dead?”

“Indeed,” Luna responded. “Though we wish to know about the reason behind thy long dream.”

Nightmare Moon commented, “Your friends mentioned it was indirectly our fault.”

Fluttershy tapped her forehooves together. “It’s not your faults, Your Highnesses.” She whimpered, which sounded more like the squeaking of a little mouse for the alicorns, “I mean, maybe an itty little bit.”

“Meaning?” Nightmare asked.

Fluttershy hid her face behind her mane. “M-Moon Shadow… endangered purebloods to t-test them. His servants, they…”

Luna took off her shoe and placed her large hoof on Fluttershy’s shoulder, almost knocking her off balance by its weight. “Please, thou canst trust us.”

Fluttershy’s ears drooped as she gulped and nodded. “They… lured monster hunters to our mansion. My parents showed them mercy and were killed as the result.” Tears formed in her eyes as a few birds carrying tissues appeared out of thin air. “My friend Rainbow Dash helped me escape, and her parents took care of me ever since. They even let me drink their blood after I revealed my secret… though it took a little bit of convincing.”

“Twas quite kind of them,” Luna commented. “Such compassion and understanding is commendable.”

“Rainbow Dash has been helping me no matter what difficulties we faced. She’s the best friend I could ever wish for.” She took a deep breath, wiping tears from her cheeks. “Ditzy’s family fixed our new home, Pinkie brought me homeless animals and convinced Mayor Mare to provide funds for the food to feed them.” She took a quick breath. “Applejack turned from an enemy to a great ally. Rarity forgave me for turning her and showed her support.”

“Is this why thou wish to care and protect them?” Luna asked. “We saw thy tiny friends in your dream.”

Fluttershy blushed and nodded. “Y-yes…”

“You must miss your parents, their guidance and care,” Nightmare Moon spoke, receiving a weak punch in the shoulder from her counterpart.

“Thou art making her sad, Moon. Apologize,” Luna commanded.

“There’s no need,” Fluttershy interrupted, forcing a teary smile. “Back to your question, Lord Moon Shadow sent Applejack’s father to test me. I don’t wish to bore you with details, Your Highnesses… In short, I endured many hardships before breaking Hawkeye from his control.”

“Oh my,” Luna spoke with wide eyes and raised forehoof. “To do that, thou must have removed Moon Shadow’s blood. What is thine age, little one?”

“My age?” Fluttershy looked down nervously. “I’m not sure… how long have I been asleep?”

Both alicorns glanced at each other before Luna spoke, “We know not.”

Nightmare Moon asked, “What was your age when you fell asleep?”

“I was 85, though those who didn’t know my secret thought I was eighteen.” She raised her head and added, “Moon Shadow is over a millennium old.”

Nightmare Moon rubbed her chin. “So instead of falling asleep on your hundredth year, it was forced earlier by drinking powerful blood.”

“Y-yes…”

Luna smiled, looking at the dark alicorn. “Art thou thinking what we art thinking?”

“It depends if Miss Fluttershy will be loyal to us or not.”

“Of course I’ll be loyal… as long as you won’t try to hurt my friends.” She shrank in fear to the size of a filly and placed forehooves on her mouth. Becoming an enemy of a princess from legend was the last thing she wanted. “I’m sorry!”

“If thy friends do not foolishly turn on us, we shall not harm them, we swear upon our moon,” Luna spoke regaly, holding a forehoof against her chest.

“We swear on our honor and name,” Nightmare Moon added, repeating Luna’s action.

“T-then … I swear my loyalty to you, Mistress Luna, Mistress Nightmare Moon.”

The dark alicorn smiled. “We shall meet soon, my loyal subject. Sweet dreams.”

“T-thank you.” The moment both alicorns lit their horns, ready to depart from the land of dreams, Fluttershy flew up, hovering in front of their muzzles. “I forgot to ask. Did you return as Luna?” She pointed at the darker one, “Or as Nightmare Moon?”

“We allowed Moon to be in charge,” Luna answered.

“D-does this mean you w-want to c-conquer Equestria?”

“I haven’t made a decision on that yet,” Nightmare Moon stated. “We shall talk again very soon, young pureblood. Farewell.”

In an instant, both giants turned into mist, flying towards the gate in a cloud before it closed and vanished. Tiny ponies, critters and her giant parents reappeared as the dream continued. We shall talk very soon… What did she mean by that? Fluttershy thought, wondering what the darker half of the two-faced princess meant as her awareness slowly left her.

She returned to her normal size and relaxed into the embrace of her large father, discussion with the princess temporarily faded from her mind.

***

Nightmare Moon rubbed her eyes and raised her head to see two sleeping pegasi and a napping bear. She gently poked Little Seed, lowering her muzzle to his ear. “How long has your friend been sleeping?” she whispered.

“One and… a half a years,” the stallion said with a sleepy voice.

“Good.” Nightmare Moon lit her horn as she forcefully pulled the coffin from under the ground, shaking it.

Both pegasi bolted upright. “What are you doing?” Sunflower asked, barely keeping herself stable as the coffin emerged, dirt and flowers showering the area. The bear roared.

“Your friend has slept long enough, I know how to hasten her recovery.” The coffin shot open as the lid fell to the side and bounced on the ground. Nightmare Moon lowered her head as her horn touched the forehead of a peacefully sleeping Fluttershy, who wore a faint smile. She was interrupted by a hoof impacting her cheek as she staggered to the side.

Nightmare Moon growled and glanced to the side, recognizing the attacker as Rainbow Dash who gave a flying roundhouse kick that sent her airborne. Nightmare’s large wings spread and waved firmly, stopping her in mid air as she slowly descended onto the ground.

“What the hay were you trying to do to her?” Dash yelled as she hovered above the ground in front of the coffin while glaring daggers at the alicorn. “You may be my boss, but I won’t let you hurt my best friend!”

Nightmare Moon rubbed a new bruise as she narrowed her eyes again before taking off her armor and spreading her wings. Subject or not, she wasn’t going to let this transgression go unpunished.

Eternal Night - Mental Warfare

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 3

Eternal Night

Part 2 - Mental Warfare

“So ummm… let me get this straight… you know Fluttershy’s secret, right?” Dash asked from her uncomfortable position, lying on the ground with her forelegs restrained by the alicorn’s mane and sporting a pair of black eyes.

“Correct,” Nightmare Moon spoke coldly, towering over her brash subject as her bare forehooves rested against both of pegasus’ spread wings. She glanced at the elderly pegasi to her left and added, “Fluttershy’s oldest friends were kind enough to inform me.”

Upon noticing Sunflower and Little Seed’s nods, Dash asked, “You also found out about Flutter’s past by talking with her in her dream?”

“Luna had protected her subjects from nightmares in the past, talking with Fluttershy was foal’s play,” Nightmare Moon answered with a calmer tone, her expression relaxed.

Dash chuckled. “Yeah… foal’s play.” She swallowed. “Then, you tried to wake up Fluttershy, not hurt her, and I…” She gulped as words were stuck in her throat.

“You assaulted your queen, betraying me in less than a few hours after you swore your loyalty,” Nightmare Moon said before withdrawing her forehooves from Dash’s wings, meanwhile, her mane struck Dash’s nose playfully. “Equestria must be on the verge of collapsing if the Element of Loyalty would choose you of all ponies.”

Dash rolled her eyes. It wasn’t the first time she’d heard about the Elements, and while she didn’t know a thing about said artifacts, she felt deeply insulted.

Nightmare Moon raised her muzzle arrogantly as she released the forelegs of her captive. “Normally, I would not forgive such a transgression so easily, however, your friend and master spoke quite highly of you.”

Dash reasserted herself and asked, “Fluttershy… spoke highly of me?" She rubbed her chest pridefully. "Well... it's not that surprising, I'm such an awesome friend after all."

“She did, which is why I forgive you for your assault.” She pointed at black eyes as the pegasus winced. “We are even. Hopefully you have learned your lesson and will keep your hot temper in check.” She approached and patted the pegasus, much to her annoyance. “Now leave me be, disloyal subject. I have a pureblood to wake up.”

“R-right… I’ll inform rest of the team, with your permission.”

“Granted.”

Celestia looked down at Fleur in pity, hovering above her with strong flaps of her large wings. Although she only had a few small bruises, her shoes and peytral were shattered. Her foe struggled to stand on her shaking legs.

Fleur’s raised foreleg was a patchwork of pink fur and angry red burns, while whatever protection she had worn was now little more than scattered ashes.

Celestia glanced at the spectators, who observed her every move. They are testing my strength and studying my attacks, but why? Such information is not worth sacrificing a warrior of such skill and power.

Her train of thought was interrupted by Fleur who flew at her, her burns magically healed. Celestia shot broad beams of solar magic, her foe effectively evaded each of her attacks. The floor in the throne room gained a few new holes where her attacks melted the floor.

Before she could turn around, Fleur’s rear hoof delivered her a ticket to the kitchens three floors below, creating a large hole with cracks appearing on the floor of the throne room.

She coughed and shook the rubble from herself, still feeling the kick despite her alicorn protective barrier. Being a ruler and doing paperwork did little to improve her reflexes against a seasoned warrior. Her earth pony magic was no match for the enhanced strength and endurance of a pureblood, and her pegasus magic couldn’t rival Fleur’s speed and flight.

Celestia stood up and spread her wings, her horn charging a spell. She flew back into her throne room, closing her eyes as she released a blinding light. While she didn’t stand a chance in the physical department, her alicorn magic provided her with two massive advantages. Not only did it create a thin barrier which made her several times tougher than the oldest purebloods, but it also enhanced her spellcasting to an extraordinary level.

Though it did help that she was the Alicorn of the Sun. While a common pony would be blinded for a few seconds by her solar flare, thestrals and purebloods ended up temporarily weakened as well, becoming easy targets.

With her foe still busy rubbing her own eyes, Celestia lit her horn and charged, tackling Fleur before burning her in a magical inferno, restraining her power just enough to keep the pureblood alive.

“You have lost, Miss Fleur de Lis. Accept your defeat!” she commanded before landing on a part of the floor which wasn’t cracked. She winced at the sight of Fleur's charred hide.

The pureblood mare breathed heavily as her eyes flashed red, recovering some of the damage as her powers weren't at full strength, yet.

“She cannot surrender,” Moon Shadow spoke from his comfortable perch atop Celestia’s throne, a glass of blood in his forehoof. “Miss Fleur and her husband fought against me for leadership. After I killed Lord Fancy Pants, she refused to serve me.” He glanced at Fleur and asked, “Would you be so kind as to tell her how I changed your mind?”

Celestia glanced at her tired foe.

“My son is being held hostage…” She took a deep breath. “I must fight to the death, Your Highness.”

Celestia’s eyes alight with righteous fury as she sent a ray of solar magic towards Moon Shadow, who evaded the attack while the glass he was holding shattered into tiny, glowing pieces. It punched a glowing hole in her throne and the wall behind it

His subordinates scattered and took fighting positions, waiting for the order to attack.

Moon Shadow rubbed a small burn on his right cheek with a smirk. “I believe you are targeting the wrong opponent, Celestia. Defeating me instead of her will only lead to White Path’s death. My servants will see to it.”

The princess sent another beam his way in her anger, only for Fleur to fly in the way, screaming as her body erupted into solar flames, eating away the last of her magic reserves. Celestia took a step back and gasped, raising her shaking forehoof up to her face. It wasn’t the first time she had intentionally sentenced a powerful pureblood to death with her magic to keep Equestria safe. Yet, none of those executions had caused her heart to ache the way it was now.

In desperation she cast a cooling spell, extinguishing the flames as Fleur collapsed and lost consciousness, nearly half her body burned to the bone.

“It must be so much easier for you to kill our kind when you see them as a threat to your little ponies,” Moon Shadow spoke as he now towered over Fleur. “Not that I can blame you. By killing a few, you’ve saved thousands.” He pointed down at the unconscious half-burned body. “Yet, a friend, advisor or an ally, or a pony one knows personally is worth more than hundreds from the faceless masses. Hurts, doesn’t it?“

Celestia glared daggers at him and asked, “Why would she sacrifice herself to save you?”

“Save me?” he asked in surprise. “Your attack would hurt me at best. Unlike Lady Fleur, I was not exhausted from battling you.” Upon hearing an impatient stomp, he continued, “Don’t get the wrong impression, Princess. To defeat Fleur, I killed her husband before her very eyes. She refused to serve me without a proper motivation and was more than willing to betray me. Her death was unavoidable. All she did was to ensure her son’s freedom and safety.”

Celestia closed her eyes and took a few deep breaths, struggling to remain calm.

“Fancy Pants was gathering allies who were not interested in war, purebloods who hoped to negotiate a peaceful solution with you!” Moon Shadow shouted. “Now they serve me, whether they like it or not. Are you ready to kill them? To kill more ponies like Fleur de Lis?”

As silence continued for several seconds, he asked, “The choice is yours. Surrender your kingdom or kill more innocents, and do not expect me to make it easy for you.” He pointed at Fleur and added, “It was a fight to the death. Will you end her suffering, or should I?”

Celestia closed her eyes as her horn lit, tears slide down her cheeks as she choked out, “I… am so sorry.” She grit her teeth and turned her head as her golden aura surrounded Fleur's seared body, causing it to glow brighter and brighter, until it exploded harmlessly into a trillion tiny stars. “You have endured enough. I hope you will find peace.”

“So, you did it after all,” Moon Shadow said as he looked to the side. “I was actually going to heal Lady Fleur once our battle was over. I hope you are proud of this murder.” He pointed at his other followers. “I wonder, how many more innocents will fall to your magic this night?”

Celestia’s mane burst into flames against her efforts. She couldn’t deny it. She felt anger her enemies could use. She felt hesitation and guilt, afraid she would kill those who believe in peace. No matter how much she wanted to turn Moon Shadow into a pile of ash to end this conflict, focusing on one opponent would give other purebloods many openings to defeat her.

“Attack!”

Celestia took a step back as she woke from her inner thoughts, caught off guard as a blue aura levitated her out of the line of fire.

“Don’t let them break you,” Cadence advised as she took a fighting stance, ready to assist. While she lacked power and some of advantages Celestia had, she wasn’t as hesitant to fight.

Celestia nodded and charged her horn as she aimed her spell, yet a seed of hesitation was already planted, weakening her fighting spirit.

The Apples were well known for their hard and diligent work, physical strength, familial bonds and of course, farming apples. Such a tragedy it was when Hawkeye Delicious and Snow Sweet were announced dead, never to return from Manehattan as their bodies weren’t found.

The local branch of the Apple family never shared the cause of their deaths, and none of Ponyville’s residents dared to ask. Their grief was clear despite their attempts to hide it, lasting for months to come before they moved on.

What a shock it was when Mayor Mare and some of the guests from the celebration were invited to Sweet Apple Acres, only to be introduced to Hawkeye by Applejack. Their mouths were agape as they stood in front of the barn, staring at the tall stallion as if he were a ghost.

Mayor Mare was the first to speak as she looked at a sweating Applejack. “Are you trying to tell us that this stallion next to you is indeed your father?”

“He sure is,” Applejack responded, struggling to appear confident.

Mayor looked at Big Mac and asked, “Was the reason for hiding him from the public his blood-drinking nature?”

“Eeyup.”

“How long have you been hiding?” she asked, now pointing at Hawkeye.

“Mah daughter found me one an’ a half a year ago. Ah was servin’ a pureblood fer years before another one won back mah freedom in a fight. Ah won’t tell their name.”

Apple Bloom jumped onto her brother’s back and spoke, “Mah sis says we no longer need to keep this a secret thanks to a new princess.” She jumped into Hawkeye’s embrace and added, “Mah Pa is back and Ah’m happy Ah don’t need to hide him no more!”

After nuzzling his daughter and placing her on the ground, he bowed politely. “Ah’m sorry for hiddin’ from ya’ll. Ah’d be ever so grateful if ya accept me for who Ah’ve become.”

Mayor glanced at the crowd, each pony nodding hesitantly.

Cheerilee spoke up, “While the concept of letting a meat- and blood-eating type of pony near defenseless fillies isn’t something I would approve, I think that these are unusual circumstances.” She sighed. “I cannot deny that both young Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle love their family. As long as Miss Rarity and Mr. Hawkeye will behave and not harm any of my students, I will treat them as fellow ponies.”

The crowd nodded in agreement before smiling at the stallion. “Welcome back, Hawkeye Delicious,” they spoke in unison.

Members of Apple family smiled while Applejack felt like crying inside. Big Mac wiped tears from his cheeks.

“AJ!”

Everypony looked at the incoming pegasus, who stopped herself in front of the farm mare, hovering above the ground.

“Hey Dash, what… happened to yer face?” Applejack asked, pointing at her friend.

Rainbow Dash shook her head. “That’s not important.”

“Not important? Ya have a pair o' black eyes, an' one o' yer eyes is swelled shut, for Celestia’s sake.” She stomped. “Who gave ya such a beatin’?”

“Nightmare Moon did,” she said, quickly silencing her friend with a hoof before she could overreact. “I kicked her in the face a couple times. She just returned the favor.”

Mayor Mare fainted, and a trio of earth ponies -each with a different flower as cutie mark- followed her example a moment later. Everypony else gasped.

Applejack pushed the forehoof away, yelling, “Are ya insane? Why the hay would ya do that for?”

“A little misunderstanding on my part, but she got even and didn’t hold a grudge.” Dash flew closer to AJ’s ear and whispered, “Nightmare Moon used her magic on… you know who, and told me she will wake up soon.”

“Nightmare Moon’s nappin’?”

Dash facehooved. “Nightmare Moon isn’t napping, though she did seem kinda sleepy,” she whispered. “She used her magic on our friend and told me she -our friend- will wake up soon.”

“Ya don’t mean…”

“Yes, I do.”

“What am Ah still doin’ here? Let’s go!” Applejack shouted, gesturing for her family to follow her. She glanced at curious ponies and added, “Thank ya kindly fer commin’ here an’ acceptin’ mah Pa. Ah would invite ya for brunch, but Ah’m sure we all ate plenty already. Celebratin’ an’ stuff.” She tipped her hat and took off at a full gallop. Big Mac followed, with Hawkeye close behind and Apple Bloom anchored on his neck.

“I’ll tell the others!” Rainbow Dash shouted after them before flying towards the town. The reunion they all had been waiting for had finally come, and she couldn’t wait to welcome back her best friend. As crazy as this night was, it sure turned out way better than we expected. She grinned. If nothing goes wrong, we may even be able to reveal Flutter’s secret and no pony will mind…

Her grin vanished just as quickly as it appeared as she looked around in worry, her ears drooping. Oh… who am I kidding? We have a corrupted princess returning from banishment, Celestia’s student surrendering the town instead of fighting her, some sort of artifacts -Elements were they called?-, and a large thestral theat ready to strike against Equestria. There’s no way something won’t go wrong.

Eternal Night - Ambush

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 3

Eternal Night

Part 3 - Ambush

The pale light of the moon shone brightly over Fluttershy’s grave, which was now nothing but a large hole in the ground with the headstone sprawled a short distance away.

The pureblood’s coffin sat near the hole, surrounded by a strange group, which included a black alicorn, two elderly pegasi and a large bear. Nightmare’s magical aura enveloped the figure in the coffin.

Nightmare Moon raised her head and stood up, the glow around Fluttershy quickly fading as the ritual came to a close, hastening her recovery. The alicorn furrowed her brow as memories of recent events kept bothering her.

I cannot believe we are really doing this, Luna. Assisting in the recovery of the Bearer of the Element of Kindness, not to mention forgiving the Bearer of Loyalty. Those ponies were chosen to become our enemies and banish us back to that cold prison.

Our fight with each other was not set in stone, but was the result of our choices. We see nothing wrong in showing trust and forgiveness, turning potential enemies into allies, Luna responded.

The tall alicorn walked away from the coffin, approaching her armor which was now lying on the grass. She had already dirtied Rarity’s dress during the party and didn’t intend to damage her armor during her short spar with Rainbow Dash, taking it off before delivering a proper punishment. We are getting soft.

Luna replied, Ponies change, and so do we. We see nothing wrong with it. confusion apparent in her thought.

Nightmare Moon glanced at the pony in the coffin, and next at the half-asleep pegasi sitting next to it. “Miss Sunflower, Little Seed,” she called, receiving the expected attention. “Lady Fluttershy shall awake in a half hour or so. Once she does, please make sure she takes the time to adjust after her long sleep. I am certain she will have much to discuss with you, and her clan, too. I can speak with her after that.”

“I understand,” Little Seed said absentmindedly.

“Why such a lack of enthusiasm?” Nightmare Moon asked as she turned towards the stallion. “While I understand it must be difficult to stay awake so late at night for ponies of your age, I had expected a different reaction to your friend’s comeback.”

Sunflower rubbed her foreleg nervously. “That’s because... we aren’t sure what to think of it.” She took a slow breath and lowered her head. “Fluttershy never told us her secret. It was Hawkeye who helped us discover her true nature… before using us as hostages to test her.”

Little Seed nodded. “Fluttershy’s friends rescued us, and we have had over a year to think it over.”

Sunflower continued, “Greeting her after all this time… it may be a difficult experience for our tired old hearts.”

Nightmare Moon smiled faintly. “I understand. I will have a nice, long talk with Moon Shadow about his methods when I meet him again.” She looked at the bear and pointed at the coffin. “You are to guard your Mistress and her friends until her clan arrives, understood?”

Harry grunted in affirmation and plopped into a sitting position next to the coffin.

“Princess Nightmare Moon!”

The sudden call caught her attention as the alicorn looked at the galloping ponies. She glanced over her shoulder at the exposed coffin with a sigh. This is going to be difficult to explain.

Just be honest; we shall win our subjects’ trust with sincerity, Luna suggested.

Nightmare Moon rolled her eyes. Of course. Surely we can explain how we talked with a pureblood in her dream, only to pull her coffin from the ground to bring her back from the dead.

Tis the spirit we expected from thee, Luna cheered.

Nightmare Moon released a long breath before asking, “How can I help you, my subjects?”

Both ponies stopped in front of her. Moon Dancer was the first to bow as she hissed to her friend, “Minuette, show some respect.”

“Oh, right.” The sea-blue pony dipped into a quick bow with a sheepish smile.

Such interesting cutie marks, Nightmare thought as she looked at the hourglass, and next at the half-moon with three dark-purple stars. She raised an eyebrow upon a closer examination. Is fate making fun of me?

What do you mean? Luna asked.

Moon Dancer stood up, fixing her glasses before glancing at her book-filled saddlebag, making sure none fell out during her long gallop.

This pony bears a strong resemblance to Miss Twilight. Take away the glasses and saddlebag, add a bit of dye and they would look like twins. She glanced back at the cutie mark and added, It is as if our cutie mark merged with Twilight’s.

“Hello, I’m Minuette! I saw you at the party where everypony were celebrating your return. It’s so great to find out we had another alicorn princess.”

Surely tis not another prank? Luna asked, ignoring the present ponies.

We will find out in due time.

“Though your wings are waaay different than Celestia’s,” she said, jumping forward and grabbing one of Nightmare’s spread wings, waking the alicorn from her thoughts. “They look more like a thestral’s wings, but way bigger and longer. Are you an alicorn-turned-thestral by any chance?”

“Minuette, stop it!” Moon Dancer shouted in panic.

Nightmare Moon narrowed her eyes as she stared at the pony in annoyance, whose excitement and lack of respect for personal space reminded her of a certain mare who had dumped a large cake on her. She withdrew her wing with a sharp snap, causing Minuette to lose her balance and fall on her back. “It seems somepony needs to learn how to respect royalty,” she said sharply.

“Please forgive her,” Moon Dancer said as she approached and bowed. “M-my friend here didn’t mean to show disrespect. She’s just too excitable for her own good.”

"I can see that, but such a transgression requires some form of punishment." She raised her hoof to stop their protests. "That can wait, though." She lowered her head to the bowing subject and asked, “What should I call you, little pony?”

“M-Moon Dancer,” she stammered before looking up hesitantly.

“Miss Moon Dancer, are you related to Miss Twilight Sparkle?” she asked. “Your resemblance is hard to ignore.”

Moon Dancer stood up and magically adjusted her glasses. “You know Twilight?” Her face lighting up.

Nightmare Moon nodded. Is it just me, or does she have stars in her eyes?

“She’s my school friend and I’m a big fan of her’s. She’s so smart, has read so many books and is a student of the princess.” Moon Dancer pointed at the alicorn. “And I would have never guess she was given the responsibility of welcoming back Celestia’s sister.” The alicorn frowned at the mention of her sister’s name.

Minuette grabbed Moon Dancer by her shoulder and asked, “Who can’t contain her excitement now?”

Moon Dancer raised her forehoof to her mouth as her entire body seemed to become paler. Her ears drooped.

Minuette chuckled playfully. “Come on, don’t be like that.. If Princess Nightmare didn’t mind my excitement, surely she won’t mind yours.”

Nightmare Moon closed her eyes and shook her head. Bearer of the Element of Magic who likes astronomy. A pony named Moon Dancer with half-moon as a cutie mark. Both looking nearly identical. Element of Kindness being a pureblood. What’s next? Changelings becoming my allies? My... sister needing me to save her?

We find it to be quite amusing, Luna responded. We had hoped our subjects would change for the better over the centuries, and they have indeed.

Too many changes for this simple Nightmare.

Luna chuckled mentally. So sayeth our second personality, born from our grief, loneliness and desperation. A pony who became something more over the centuries and hath helped us deal with the very emotions she was born from.

Point taken, Nightmare thought before opening her eyes, only to find out that her subjects were no longer standing in her shadow. She looked around and behind, quickly noticing how Minuette and Moon Dancer were inspecting the coffin.

“Ummm… princess…” Moon Dancer started.

“Why is this coffin here? And why is there a hole in the ground next to a grave? Were you trying to raise the dead?” Minuette asked.

Nightmare Moon rolled her eyes. “Your assumption is not far from the truth.”

Moon Dancer’s eyes widened. “Really? I’ve heard that necromancy is a forbidden element of dark magic, extremely difficult to master and too dangerous to use. Did you read about it in the past, or maybe write a few books about it yourself?”

“Please, calm yourselves,” Nightmare Moon said as she raised her foreleg. Alright Luna, thus far being honest worked in our favour. Hopefully it is not going to change now. She cleared her throat and continued, “We were not trying to bring back Lady Fluttershy from the dead, as she was not dead to begin with.”

Both ponies tilted their heads to the side.

“Lady Fluttershy is a pureblood thestral who was in a deep sleep. We merely tried to hasten her awakening.”

“Really? That’s great!” Minuette said, jumping in excitement with a mischievous grin. “ I can’t wait to see the look on Mayor Mare’s face when we tell her.”

Moon Dancer glanced between the coffin and the alicorn before asking, “Is Miss Fluttershy… a peaceful pureblood?”

Nightmare Moon’s face scrunched into a badly suppressed smile while Luna laughed in her mind. “Calling her a peaceful pureblood would be an understatement. We received a very good impression of her when we visited her dream. Furthermore, she was chosen by the Element of Kindness.” She glanced at the excited pony who kept bouncing in place with a large smile. “Miss Minuette, I order you to not share this fact with the citizens of this town. Lady Fluttershy should be the one deciding when to share her secret.” She glanced at Moon Dancer and added, “This order includes you, as well.”

“Our lips are sealed,” Minuette said before zipping her mouth shut.

Moon Dancer sighed in relief before taking a step back. “Oh, right… I completely forgot!” She approached with a nervous smile. “Mayor Mare wishes to accommodate you in Town Hall for the night. Minuette and I volunteered to inform you.”

Minuette jumped ahead of her friend and nodded energetically. “Pretty much. We went to ask Twilight where we could find you, but she didn’t know. We were about to ask Pinkie to help us search for you. Luckly, a local musician told us where you were going.”

Accommodate us? We have no time to rest now. We should hurry and visit another town soon, Nightmare Moon thought.

Tis rude to turn down such an offer. Furthermore, we need to change our sleeping habits in order to judge our subjects, Luna answered.

You have a point. Nightmare turned and spoke regally, “Lead the way, my loyal subjects.”

Minuette nodded, skipping ahead of the tall alicorn. “Sure thing, follow me!”

Nightmare Moon followed with slow steps and a wide grin. “How rude of me. I said there would be a punishment, and I am not one to go back on my word.” The moment Minuette glanced back at her, she sent a piece of her translucent mane towards unicorn’s mouth, sealing it.

“Mmmmmm…”

“Half an hour of silence will teach you some respect and contain your excitement for a while.”

Minuette turned her head to the side with an annoyed “hmn…”

Moon Dancer glanced at the coffin and asked, “What about the pureblood? When will she wake up?”

“Veeery sooooon.”

Ditzy flapped her wings rapidly with her signature wall-eyed smile on her face. Dash’s hooves were pressed against her shoulders, keeping her safely grounded.

“Calm down, Derpy. We don’t need a hole in the ceiling,” Dash said as drops of sweat were falling from her face. Her wings flapping at fast pace. While she considered herself to be a great athlete with unmatched speed, keeping Ditzy from damaging her surroundings proved to be a challenge even for her.

The surrounding decorations were already a mess as Town Hall had suffered from hours long celebration. Tables with leftovers of food were all over the place. Ditzy’s father and mother alongside a few other volunteers were cleaning after the celebration, and fixing a hole in the ceiling would certainly slow them down.

“I'm trying, but it's just so wonderful!? First a new princess convinces the entire town to accept our kind, now she wakes up Flutt...!” she failed to finish as Dash’s forehoof sealed her mouth. Unable to contain her happiness, Ditzy embraced her friend in a tight hug. Her forelegs sank into Dash’s wings, squeezing her like a balloon.

Rainbow Dash gritted her teeth as her face slowly turned purple. When it comes to hugs, the half-breed thestral proved to be way more dangerous than even Pinkie Pie. Luckily, her forelegs weren’t trapped as Dash poked Ditzy’s shoulder and pointed at her own neck.

“S-sorry,” Ditzy said as her ears drooped. She quickly released her friend who fell onto the floor, gasping for sweet, wonderful air.

After a moment, Rainbow stood up and looked around, making sure nopony overheard their discussion. It didn’t surprise her when Pinkie Pie bolted outside. Most likely on her way to welcome back her sleeping friend.

Dash’s pupils shrank as a thought struck her. “No, Pinkie… No more parties tonight!” She flew outside, following her over-energetic friend.

Ditzy approached her parents at a cheerful trot, ready to share the great news. Though a mere look at her mother’s wide smile told her that she’d heard all the details. The hearing of a thestral wasn’t to be underestimated, after all.

Her walk was interrupted by a flash of light coming from the stage.

Curious, she flew towards it, only to raise forehoof up to her face, gasping.

Nightmare Moon kept walking towards Town Hall at an easy pace, side by side with Moon Dancer who kept admiring the sky. The night sky was dotted with a thousand tiny multicolored fireflies, all of this punctuated by the bright orb of a full moon. Minuette was bouncing around them, not bothering to slow down.

“If I understand correctly, Canterlot was evacuated because of me?” Nightmare Moon asked. While Twilight had provided her with a significant amount of information and historical events, she changed topics whenever asked about the current situation in Canterlot.

“I’m not sure. We were informed that there’s a threat to the capital and were evacuated to nearby towns until it is dealt with,” Moon Dancer said. “Ponyville was quite accepting despite its small size and low population. Many residents offered rooms in their homes, inns are now full and Town Hall will once again be filled with sleeping bags once cleaning after the celebration is over.” She shrugged. “By connecting the facts and using basic logic, I suppose your return was related to this threat but nothing more. If you were the threat, Ponyville would be evacuated as well.”

Nightmare Moon rubbed her chin. “I must agree. Despite my power, I wouldn’t be able to conquer the entire capitol on my own. I would need an army…” She stomped, causing Moon Dancer to flinch. “When I returned from my banishment, I was greeted by two purebloods who had united others of their kind. They are no doubt involved in this so called threat.”

“You'll protect us, right?" Minuette asked, her mouth finally freed from its bonds.

Nightmare Moon lit her horn, stopping Minuette in mid air before patting her on the head. “Do not get the wrong impression, my little pony. As my subject, you are under my protection, yet, I have not decided what to do with the rest of Equestria. I shall judge the ponies of other towns before deciding if peace is possible.”

Upon seeing how Moon Dancer looked to the side as silence lasted for a few seconds, Nightmare decided to change the topic. “Miss Moon Dancer, I find your name to be quite… interesting.” With her subject now looking at her curiously, she asked, “Would you share the story behind your name and cutie mark?”

Moon Dancer blushed as she fixed her glasses and next fiddled with her saddlebag. “Interesting indeed,” she said, chuckling nervously as she opened her saddlebag, scanning through several titles. “Speaking of interesting, I’m sure you’ll find this book to be most intriguing.” She grabbed a random book quickly, presenting it to the alicorn.

“One hundred one ways to brush your mane?” Nightmare Moon asked while reading the title, which only made Moon Dancer drop the book from her shaking forehooves. She glanced at her star-strewn mane and asked, “Are you implying my pride, my mane which displays the beauty of my night sky, needs additional care?”

Minuette laughed and said encouragingly, “Go ahead and tell the princess, don’t be shy about it.” She crossed her forearms and smirked. “Or should I do the honors?”

“N-no… don’t tell her!”

Minuette gestured for Nightmare Moon to get closer before whispering into her ear.

Nightmare Moon chuckled before giving a playful glance at Moon Dancer, who covered her head with her forelegs. “Oh, my… Quite an unique way of getting a cutie mark.”

“Moon shone brightly, missteps were made, and a cutie mark on the flank you get!” Minuette signed cheerfully.

Moon Dancer whimpered, wishing she would sink into the ground at this very moment.

The cheerful atmosphere was suddenly interrupted by a silver bolt, which flew straight at the alicorn’s cheek, striking against the nearly invisible barrier without any significant injury.

Minuette gasped before falling onto her four hooves as she was released from Nightmare Moon’s magic. Moon Dancer flinched as her eyes focused on a bolt falling onto the ground.

Nightmare Moon looked down at the projectile before raising forehoof up to her face, rubbing a small bruise under her ear. While she had expected violence from some of her future subjects who would fight her out of fear, being greeted so warmly had caused her to lower her guard.

Her ears perked up at the noise of incoming bolts, which bounced off her body. Should she be a thestral or a pureblood, such precise strikes would wound her greatly, maybe even kill her. She grit her teeth as she scanned her surroundings for the attackers.

Moon Dancer ran behind the wall of a building, levitating over Minuette.

It didn’t take long before several well armed earth ponies and unicorns emerged from behind various hiding spots. Each wearing a mask with odd looking goggles on their eyes while armed with crossbows. A quick glance at the surrounding rooftops told her she was being targeted by pegasi as well.

“Who are they?” Moon Dancer asked, peeking from behind her cover. “Watch out!”

Nightmare Moon lit her horn as the rain of bolts bounced against her violet barrier. While alicorn magic protected her from harm by weakening all kind of attacks without her influence, she didn’t feel like acquiring more bruises.

Why are they attacking us? Nightmare asked in her mind as she charged a spell, aiming at their foes. A few pegasi scattered from a nearby roof as her beam hit it, leaving a large hole. She followed with a few quick beams, forcing her foes to retreat behind cover.

We know not who they are, but their weapons are made to kill thestrals. Do they take us for such? Luna asked.

Minuette said our appearance is closer to that of a thestral than an alicorn. I wouldn't be surprised if these foals who are attacking us made this mistake, Nightmare responded. She staggered, yelping as her discussion with Luna was suddenly interrupted by a series of impacts on her wings, a mix of sharp pokes and a toasty sensation, probably a fire spell.

She looked behind her shoulder to examine her injury, seeing burned marks and two small dents on her leathery wing. She turned around and stomped in anger with both of her forehooves, summoning lightning against the attackers while unintentionally damaging the house.

“Watch out!” Minuette shouted as she tackled her friend, getting Moon Dancer out of the way before part of the ceiling could fall on them. Screams of panic echoed in the background as a few nearby ponies ran away.

Nightmare Moon bit her lip as she looked around. She was clearly outnumbered and surrounded.

We need to withdraw! Luna advised urgently.

Run away from these foals? Even in such numbers, they are no match for our might.

Luna mentally frowned. We would stain our honor by fighting those savages in this town. Thou would endanger our subjects who welcomed us with open hooves, and turn their homes into worthless rubble.

Nightmare Moon raised her barrier for protection from further attacks as she examined her options. While her foes were numerous, well trained and equipped with weapons, their speciality seemed to be fighting purebloods, not alicorns. And unlike the royal guard, they lacked the numbers and firepower of an army.

Should she fight them, she would dispose of the attackers one by one without losing too much magic, which was a precious and a very slowly regenerating resource for an alicorn. Yet, the town and residents would pay a great price as the result.

As ruler of this town, I am responsible for its residents. I shall withdraw and dispose of this trash without putting my subjects at risk. She spread her wings and flew up, evading further bolts and offensive spells before heading toward the Everfree Forest. As she had hoped, her assailants followed her.

Thou should spare one or two of these attackers. To judge ponies of this era, we need to learn why they target us, Luna suggested.

Nightmare Moon ignored the confused glances from her subjects as she turned herself into a violet fog, flying towards the sea of trees filled with various monsters, a perfect location to return the favour by ambushing those who dared to ambush her. Is not that obvious? There are those who still fear and hate thestrals, willing to kill them. The question is, how many.

We shall learn the truth in due time, Luna responded.

***

Moon Dancer peaked from behind her new cover, as did Minuette, their attention focused on the galloping ponies, each armed. Their cutie marks and faces were hidden behind their camouflaged cloth. Whoever were those attackers, they had one target.

“Let me at them!” Minuette shouted with righteous fury, her gallop was stopped by Moon Dancer’s magic. “Let me go! Our princess is being attacked, we need to help her!”

“I get the impression that she can take care of herself just fine,” Moon Dancer said as she placed her friend on the ground and pointed at the top of a large tree emerging from behind lines of homes. “We need to inform Twilight, she’ll know what to do.”

“Whooooaaa,” Pinkie said as her body shuddered, shaking her cyan ride as she was being held between Dash’s hooves.

“Woaaah… Careful there, Pinks. I don’t know why you’re so hyperactive tonight, but now’s not exactly the best time.” Rainbow Dash quickly recovered and kept flying towards the cottage, the additional weight not even slowing her down.

“Sorry Dashie, but it wasn’t me… I mean, it was, but this time I felt a doozy.”

“A doozy?” Dash asked before smiling. “It must be Fluttershy. She’s awakening after all.”

“Did you hear that?” Pinkie asked as her ears perked up. She pointed towards the town.

“Yeah, but whatever it is, it’ll have to wait. Fluttershy will wake up soon and I want to be there for her,” Dash said as she slowly descended, her sharp eyes now focused firmly on the open coffin in distance. Applejack, Hawkeye and Apple Bloom were already waiting there, while Harry the bear was napping near the hole, Sunflower and Little Seed sleeping between his paw and belly.

Rarity wasn’t far behind as she galloped toward the bridge, followed by three thestrals who were once members of the Cloudsdale clan which was lead by Fluttershy’s parents, turned from pegasi on their own free will. A little over a year ago she had hired them as assistants for her boutique, expanding her business a little by exporting clothing for pegasi to Cloudsdale thanks to her assistant’s guidance.

Before Dash could react, Pinkie pushed herself free from her hooves, falling down for at least seven seconds before stopping herself a few centimeters above the ground. Big Mac was quick to restrain the energetic mare before she could fire her party cannon at pony in the open coffin.

Already used to Pinkie’s antics, Dash descended, closing her wings the moment she landed next to Applejack as she now looked at Fluttershy’s smiling face.

“Yer finally here,” Applejack said with a weak punch to the shoulder. “Ah thought ya were faster than that.”

“Yeah, whatever,” Dash said, not bothering to look at the farm mare, her attention now on the pony inside the coffin. Even after a year and a half, she still wore the same peaceful smile. Instead of holding her forehooves together, she was hugging her own feathery wing as an illusion still hid her true nature.

Fluttershy rested comfortably against the soft inside as if sinking into a big pillow. The inside was still white and clean, lacking any sight of dirt or passage of time.

The beautiful reds of the cedar the coffin was made of appeared to still be in a great shape, though yellow paint was mostly scraped off due to Nightmare Moon pulling the coffin from under the ground. The pink butterflies decorating the top were barely recognizable.

“Whaaat? That’s it, no comeback?” Applejack chuckled before grabbing Dash by her shoulder. “Ya must be really into it if ya can keep yer pride locked tight.”

“We’ll tease each other another time. After all we went through all those years ago, I can’t wait to welcome Flutters back. We’re like an unstoppable duo, smart pureblood and master athlete, like a Wonderbolt team, one which shouldn’t be separated for so long.”

“Sureee…” Applejack said with a roll of her eyes.

“Why’re you so relaxed about this?” Dash asked as she gently took Applejack’s forehoof off her shoulder. “I still remember how you were all depressed for weeks after that fake funeral, knowing full well Flutters was alive. I could swear you missed her almost as much as me.”

“Oh, please. Ah may owe a lot to Fluttershy, a large debt Ah’ll never be able to repay to mah last days, but Ah’m not goin’ to be all sobby ‘bout it.”

“Apples ain’t for moping,” Hawkeye said as he puffed his chest. “We’re tough, hardworking and honorable, but not…”

“Mistress Fluttershy!” Rarity shouted as she galloped over to the coffin, tears dropping from her eyes. “You’re finally returning to us. Such a glorious night it is! I can’t wait to tell you about all that happened in past year. About our successes and failures, times of happiness and sorrow. Our clan will finally have our kind and caring leader and wonderful friend back!”

Hawkeye shook his head. “As Ah was sayin’, we ain’t that emotional.”

“Totally not as emotional and amusing as our favourite drama queen!” Dash said, grinning.

Rarity raised her foreleg defensively. “Drama queen? I’m not…”

“Drama queen Rarity, her majesty the queen of drama, it totally suits you!” Pinkie shouted as she struggled to free herself from Big Mac’s hold. “I’m always up for hugs, but you should wait for your turn, Big Mac, now it’s Fluttershy’s turn.”

“Eenope.”

Dash looked at Pinkie in worry as she whispered, “I know Pinkie’s energetic and all over the place, but tonight she’s really stepping up in her game.”

“Oh, I can’t wait! First we’ll go to the Sugarcube Corner where I can bring out an emergency birthday cake. I wonder, should I use the number of candles based on Fluttershy’s pegasus age, or for Fluttershy’s pureblood age? Whoooooaaa!” Pinkie said as she started shuddering, causing both of them to bounce around. “Next we can go to Town Hall and party all night and day… well, maybe just one night will do. I’ll need to stop after-party cleaning though. Maybe I can make some cupcakes and muffins with blood icing. I’ve plenty to share after all. Hey, Hawkeye, what’s your favourite flavour?” She finally wriggled free from Big Mac’s embrace, only for Rarity’s magic to levitate her back into his vice grip.

“My fav…” Hawkeye failed to finish.

“I bet it’s apples. Apple-cinnamon cupcakes with white icing and sprinkles it is. I could add a candied apple slice on top, as well.”

Applejack whispered, “She sure is. Maybe she ate several bags of sugar or drank lots of hard cider?”

Dash whispered back, “First she organized welcome parties for ponies from Canterlot. Next was Twilight’s welcome party before joining Nightmare Moon’s celebration. She’s barely slept in between. How she can still stand is beyond me.” She glanced at napping Apple Bloom on Hawkeye’s back, who released a slow yawn and rubbed her eyes. As bright as the sky was thanks to the stars and moon, it was still the middle of the night, after all. “Do you think parties and spreading cheer is the source of her craziness?”

“Ah hope not,” Applejack raised forehoof up to her face. “Pinkie may be all over the place, but she was never strong, an’ now she’s givin’ even Big Mac a hard time.”

“Vinyl did mention that her magic is quite strong tonight,” Rarity stated. “I fear my theory about spreading cheer and celebrating with others being the source of Pinkie’s unexplainable power is not that far from the truth.”

Suddenly, a long yawn left Fluttershy’s mouth as the pureblood stretched inside of the coffin, cracking the wooden walls on both sides with her forelegs. After several seconds that felt like minutes for everypony present, Fluttershy opened her eyes slightly, closing them a few times before they fully opened.

Tears streamed from Dash’s eyes as she burst into a broad smile “F-Fluttershy! You’re back!” In an instant, she grabbed her best friend in a tight hug with Applejack joining a moment later. “I missed you so so much!”

In spite of herself, Applejack closed her watery eyes as she tightened her hug, pressing her forelegs against Fluttershy and Dash’s wings. “Ah… Ah can’t thank ya enough! Ah’m so happy!”

Hawkeye raised an eyebrow at her daughter’s display of emotions, only for Apple Bloom to run up his neck and jump onto Fluttershy’s head, the only part of the pureblood’s body which wasn’t embraced yet. “Thank ya, thank ya, thank ya!”

“Mistress Fluttershy is finally back,” Rarity said as she wiped tears from under her eyes with a tissue. Sobbing and smiling as if watching a tragic romance play.

Her thestral assistants half-bowed in silence, wondering if they should interfere. Hugging a pureblood without permission was a high offense, yet their mistress didn’t seem to mind.

The ground trembled as Harry released two old pegasi from his hold and approached, grabbing Fluttershy, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash in a massive bear hug.

Big Mac’s happiness didn’t last long as his attention focused on Pinkie as she shuddered again, her color turning from pink to red, shaking in his embrace. Drops of sweat fell down his forehead as he felt as if holding an active volcano, ready to erupt at any moment.

Like a cannonball, Pinkie overpowered Big Mac’s hold, dashing directly towards the coffin as a large explosion of confetti followed.

Big Mac, Hawkeye, three pegasi thestrals and Rarity gasped as instead of their hugged mistress, all they saw was a multicolored cloud while a rain of confetti fell onto their fur.

Rarity raised her foreleg and pointed at the cloud as she asked, “Did Pinkie Pie just… explode?”

“I sure did! Now that’s what I call a big welcome,” Pinkie said as the cloud dispersed, revealing Pinkie lying on an unconscious bear, who was crushing Rainbow Dash, Applejack and Fluttershy under his massive weight. “That was really fun! I wonder if I could explode twice?”

Apple Bloom’s eyes were rolling in all directions as she held Fluttershy’s head in a vicegrip, lucky enough to avoid the bear’s weight as Fluttershy’s head was emerging from under the bronze mass of meat and fur.

What was once a presentable coffin was now nothing but splintered wood scattered all over the place.

Eternal Night - Awakening

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 3

Eternal Night

Part 4 - Awakening

The awkward silence lasted for several seconds as Fluttershy lay on the grass among the fragments of the shattered coffin, buried under a pile of her friends while wearing an Apple Hat.

Ever since Nightmare Moon and Princess Luna had visited Fluttershy in her dream and updated her about the recent events, she was more than eager to be greeted by her friends, expecting a touching reunion which would become the first chapter in her new and happy life.

An exploding Pinkie Pie and being buried under the weight of her friends was certainly not what she had in mind.

Fluttershy whimpered and slowly opened her eyes, looking at the beat up face of Rainbow Dash. She felt her friend’s muzzle press against her chin, two forelegs wrapped around her wings as well as her neck getting wet because of saliva dripping from Dash’s mouth. Applejack didn’t have it any better as her face was being ground into the dirt.

“L-let us help!” called a firm voice which seemed familiar, yet it was none of her friends.

“Eeyup!”

With a slow turn of her head, she noticed how Big Mac, Hawkeye and three of the survivors from Cloudsdale’s clan approached and pushed the bear aside. A dull thump followed the moment bear’s back hit the ground.

Both stallions helped her stand and Big Mac picked up Apple Bloom to examine her for any sign of injuries.

“S-she’s fine,” Fluttershy said while pointing at the filly, only to cover her yawning mouth. “Thank you…” Her eyes widened. “Wait, Big Mac? What are you doing here?” she asked in panic while taking a few steps back, tripping over Applejack with a yelp of surprise. She raised her head and pointed at the stallion while lying on her back. “Did Applejack… tell you about me?”

“Eeyup,” Big Mac responded, looking between his younger sister and Fluttershy.

“And… you’re okay with it?” she squeaked.

“Eeyup.”

Hawkeye patted his son on the back and said cheerfully, “It took mah daughter a while, but she come clean with the rest of the family. Big Mac was fine with ya bein’ a pureblood from the get go.”

“R-really?” Fluttershy asked in confusion.

“Eeyup,” Big Mac said, raising his head proudly. “Yer the nicest pony Ah’ve ever met. Ya looked after mah kin, protected mah sis and saved mah father.” He bowed. “Ah’ll repay ya for saving us. Ah swear on mah honor as an Apple.”

Fluttershy’s cheeks brightened red as she shook her forehooves in panic, sheepish smile present on her face. “W-what? N-no no no, I just did what was right. Nothing more.”

Applejack whimpered and massaged the back of her neck before standing up, only to notice her brother bowing to Fluttershy. “Huh, what did Ah miss?” She picked up her hat and placed on her head before giving Fluttershy a questioning stare.

Big Mac continued, still maintaining a respectful bow. “Yer too modest. Mah sister told me ‘bout yer troubles. All ya endured to keep us from harm.”

“She did?” Fluttershy said, glancing at Applejack as one of the pegasi thestrals helped her stand. “It wasn’t that bad. I’m used to it by now.” Her ears drooped as she held her forehooves together in a pleading gesture while displaying her puppy eyes. “W-would you please stop bowing to me? Pretty please?”

Before the stalion could respond, Applejack said, “Big Mac’s right, yer too modest. Ya deserve all thanks ya get, and then some.” The farm mare rubbed back of her head. “Aw shucks, Ah don’t care how humiliating it is, ya deserve it and Ah’ll swallow mah pride for ya.” She approached her brother and took his example, bowing. The three pegasi thestrals joining in a moment later.

Fluttershy bit her lip and looked down, her wings clamped tightly against her sides. “Applejack… not you too.” She sighed. “I asked for no more bowing to me, not for more of it.” She rubbed her foreleg nervously. “It’s really uncomfortable.”

“My turn, my turn!” Pinkie shouted as she fired her party cannon, starling Fluttershy while Big Mac and Applejack stood up and stepped to the side. “Here comes a big welcoming hug!” Two pegasi thestrals flew at the charging Pinkie, restraining her before she could crash into Fluttershy who spread her wings and raised her forelegs defensively.

“You’ve been away for too long! I missed you sooo much! And you missed your birthday! This calls for a super-duper extremely special welcome back party!” Pinkie took a quick breath before continuing, “I’m sooo happy you’re back and so sad you were gone for so long!” She burst into tears. “You did sooo much to make everypony happy, yet you were always depressed, always sad. It’s so unfair!”

“Excuse me, Mistress,” said third pegasus thestral as he pointed at the restrained mare. “This mare hurt you and tried to assault you for the second time. What kind of punishment should she receive?”

Fluttershy gasped. “Punishment? Heavens no!” She looked at the crying Pinkie, whose forelegs were straightened and waving, as if a foal trying to reach his mother while being held by somepony else.

“Hug, hug! Please!”

Fluttershy gulped. Her experience with Pinkie Pie had always been troublesome. Energetic nature and lack of respect for personal space made her too scary to handle. Yet today, Pinkie was literally exploding with energy, while the young pureblood could hear her heart beat which would almost rival the heart beat of a humming bird. She could sense an outstanding amount of magic as well. I feel as if by drinking her blood, I would fall asleep for additional year. Upon seeing tears and pout on Pinkie’s face, she pressed forehoof against her chest and exhaled, taking a few slow breaths. “Release Pinkie, please.”

"W-what, are ya crazy?" Applejack asked. "Do ya know what yer gettin' yerself into?"

Fluttershy spread her forelegs and wings as an invitation for the hug, smiling cheerfully. This is going to hurt. “Pinkie Pie deserves a hug after everything she did for me.”

Upon hearing her words, Pinkie’s smile was so wide it took up half of her face.

Both thestrals nodded and released Pinkie, who dashed right into Fluttershy’s belly. "Thank you! I missed you sooo much!"

Fluttershy’s pupils shrank as she was struck by the pink bullet, sent crashing into soft fur of the bear as two pink forelegs squeezed her. She felt Pinkie’s head sink into her chest and heard several loud cracks as her eyes watered.

Struggling, she returned the gesture, wrapping her forelegs and wings around Pinkie as she nuzzled her cheek. Despite the increasing pain, she felt the warmth she had missed so much. She slowly opened her eyes, only to see Pinkie’s pink fur turn red as her body vibrated. The magic she sensed in Pinkie increased in strength at alarming rate while her own reserves… were running out. Is she… draining my magic? But how? She bit her lip in panic, understanding what was about to come. She turned her head to the side and closed her eyes tightly with a whimper.

A wild-eyed Twilight galloped towards the Everfree Forest with her parents and friends following her, lines of homes behind her. Suddenly, her ears pricked up at the sound of an explosion, squinting against the brightness.

“What was that?” asked her worried mother, slowing down slightly.

“It came from behind Fluttershy’s cottage,” Moon Dancer pointed out, wondering if the awakening of Fluttershy had something to do with it.

“Whatever it is, we have no time to look into it!” Twilight shouted. “We have an alicorn to find and a crisis to stop.”

Fluttershy lay in a crater as she slowly awoke to a pounding headache, her body covered in bruises. In her embrace was an unconscious Pinkie Pie whose eyes were rolled back in her head, while saliva was dripping from her open mouth onto the fur on Fluttershy’s chest. “Well… that happened…”

“Lan’ sakes!” Applejack said as she ran over to the crater and looked down at her. “Ya alright, sugarcube?” Big Mac, Hawkeye, Rarity and the other thestrals joined as well.

“Been better…” she said, her statement punctuated by a coughing fit. Her eyes flashed red as the bruises on her body vanished.

Rarity’s horn lit as she levitated both Pinkie and Fluttershy from the crater, placing them softly on the ground.

Dash groaned. “What… was that noise?” She stood up and massaged her forehead, wishing she had the toughness of an earth pony.

Apple Bloom yawned and rubbed her eyes, only a few little scratches were visible on her fur. “What happened?” She peeked from behind Hawkeye’s neck, her attention now on Fluttershy.

“Just Pinkie Pie unleashing her highly explosive enthusiasm,” Rarity said, shrugging. “I must admit, it is rather unusual even for her.”

“Dash, are you hurt?” Fluttershy asked as she walked past her friends, ready to take the pain away with bits of her own magic.

“Nah, I’m fine,” Dash said with a dismissive shake of her forehoof. “What about you? How are you feeling?”

Fluttershy smiled. “I’m feeling alright. It's nothing my magic can't heal.”

“That’s not what I meant.”

“Um, I'm sorry, but I'm not sure what you mean,” Fluttershy said.

Rainbow Dash approached her and sat down. “Listen, Flutters, we’ve been a team for a long time.” She gently draped her foreleg around Fluttershy. “I tried my best to help, to protect you, but I failed. You’ve endured tragedies, faced dangers, undergone trials. For years I’ve seen you sad, depressed. Breaking and raising over and over. Yet one and half a year ago you were devastated.” She wiped her watery eyes and looked to the side. “You were sick and in pain, hurt by your enemy and by the words of your oldest friends, only to fall asleep when you tried to save Hawkeye.”

The thestral stallion nodded.

“Now tell me, after all this, after all that pain, how are you feeling?” Dash asked, concern clear in her voice.

Fluttershy looked up at the star-flecked sky to gather her thoughts. Everypony kept staring at her patiently and curiously. “I know it may sound weird, but I feel… fine.” Her ears drooped as she rubbed her foreleg nervously. “I mean, I’m starting to remember past events. I remember my parents and know they will never embrace me again.”

Dash bit her lip.

”I remember the painful experience and mean words when I was trying to save Applejack,” she continued.

The farm mare looked to the side and closed her eyes.

“Yet, despite all the past events I had to endure… I feel at ease.”

“But… how?” Dash asked and released Fluttershy as she struggled to understand.

The young pureblood lowered her head and held a forehoof against her chest. She replied calmly, “I find it hard to describe. It’s as if a large weight has been lifted from my heart. I just… feel at peace. As if all the pain and depression I have been struggling against is no longer there.”

A pegasus thestral who was now sitting in front of Pinkie Pie while keeping an eye on her, said, “This is the nature of thestrals and purebloods. Similar to phoenixes, each one hundred years we fall asleep not just to adapt to our increasing power, but also to heal our minds.”

Fluttershy nodded. “My parents told me as much, but it was my first time experiencing it. Now I understand what they meant.”

Dash asked, “So… you’re no longer sad?”

Fluttershy smiled warmly and nodded.

Dash’s eyes watered and mouth started wriggling as she struggled to maintain her composure. After a few moments, she placed her wing on Fluttershy and choked out, “C’mere,” before hugging her. She nuzzled her cheek, her tears darkening Fluttershy's fur. "You're happy at last after all these years. I wish you could stay like this."

Fluttershy blushed and leaned into the hug, patting her friend on the back. "There, there. Don't bottle it, let it go."

Applejack rubbed her eyes, not believing what she was seeing. "Whoa, Nelly. Now that's side of Dash Ah didn't expect to see."

A rush of joy filled the air, attracting the attention of an unconscious mare. Pinkie’s eyes fluttered open as she raised her head, noticing the warm honest smile she had wanted to see on Fluttershy for so long. She wiped tears from her cheek with a sniff and sat, savouring the moment as if eating the most delicious cake.

Apple Bloom leapt down from Hawkeye’s back and approached, now looking up at Fluttershy. “Ah want to thank ya for savin’ mah Pa! Yer the best foalsitter, an’ Ah’m proud to call ya family.” She jumped towards Fluttershy and hugged her neck.

Fluttershy sighed as she embraced the filly with her foreleg and her wing. “I know how much losing a family member hurts. I would give up my own life to spare others such pain.” She felt the embrace tightening. “Ever since I lost my family, I felt lost, unsure how to use my power and talents. I’m glad I could help your family and save you from what I experienced, Apple Bloom.” She looked to the side, her smile withering. “And I’m really sorry for putting your family in danger in the first place.”

Applejack rolled her eyes. “Ya can’t blame yerself for bein’ in the wron’ place at the wron’ time. So that jerk Moon Shadow made ya face trials and we got up rounded in them. It’s a small price for all ya did for us. Ah don’t know what we’d do without ya.”

Hawkeye stepped forward and added, “If mah memories ain’t fooling me, Ah was ordered to kill mah family. Yer very presence kept me from fulfilling that order.”

“Eeyup,” Big Mac nodded emphatically.

Fluttershy released the filly and glanced between their faces, each of them happy to see her, beaming with gratitude. Their very presence and words were proof that her life was worth living, and the challenges and struggles were worth facing. She looked at Pinkie who had calmed down, her magic no longer as enthusiastic as a few moments ago.

Her attention turned to three thestrals she recognized from the time when her parents were still alive. She noticed that their thestral nature was no longer disguised. “Ummm… forgive me, but while you all look familiar, I can’t recall your names.”

“Stormfang,” the tallest one spoke up, puffing his chest. “I worked at the Cloudsdale Weather Factory. Your father helped me out after I lost my job.”

“Ice Breeze,” the smaller one spoke up. His coat was sky-blue while mane was made of five lines; bronze, green, yellow, red and blue. His cutie mark being five scoops of ice cream. “Making ice cream is my speciality.”

“Soft Breeze,” another one said as he grabbed Ice Breeze with his forehoof. “I am his older brother. He makes the ice cream and I sell it. At least that was our job before the tragedy.” He lowered his head and sighed. “Your parents were our masters and our best customers at the same time. We… really miss them.”

"We all do, Soft Breeze, we all do," Stormfang added as he patted his younger brother’s shoulder. He looked back at his mistress and forced a smile. “But enough about the past, let’s talk about the future. You’re finally back, Mistress Flutterbat… I mean, Mistress Fluttershy. It’s an honor to be a part of your clan. We’ve heard a lot about your achievements.” He half-bowed, much to Fluttershy’s discomfort.

“We were hired by Lady Rarity shortly after you went to sleep,” Ice Breeze said, pointing at the fashionista before clapping his hooves in excitement. “My Lady, would you please share the good news with our mistress?”

Rarity emerged from behind Ice Breeze and poked at her own fangs. “You won’t believe this, darling, but Princess Nightmare Moon revealed our secret to the rest of Ponyville’s citizens, and they accepted us.” She held her forehooves together and added cheerfully, “Is not this a wonderful development? We no longer need to hide our secret.”

Rainbow Dash nodded as she stood up on her rear hooves and held forehooves on her sides. “How about we tell everypony about your secret? I’m sure it will turn out just fine.”

Fluttershy gasped and raised her forehoof to her mouth. “She really did it?” She looked around in panic. “Where is Her Highness Nightmare Moon? I thought she wished to talk with me.”

“Excuse me,” called a hesitant voice as Fluttershy looked at the source. She recognized the old pegasus as Little Seed, who was now peeking from behind the bear.

“Little Seed?” Fluttershy asked as she spread her wings and flew over, stopping herself in mid air the moment her friend hid behind his large cover. She bit her lip and descended with slow flaps of her wings, landing softly and gracefully. “Please… don’t be afraid of me. I promise I won’t hurt you.”

“It’s not... that I fear you,” he replied, slowly walking from behind the bear, Sunflower right behind him. He massaged back of his neck, feeling a weak pain in his old bones.

Sunflower spoke up, “We’re just…” she paused, searching for suitable word, “embarrassed.“

Fluttershy quickly noticed the pair's shivering and chattering teeth, in addition to their low body temperatures. “Were you waiting for me all night, in this cold?” Upon seeing a weak nod from both pegasi, she exclaimed, “But it is very unhealthy at your age! I can use my magic to heal your aches and keep you warm.” She tapped her forehooves together as she lowered her head. “I-If that’s okay with you, that is.”

“S-sure…” Little Seed said hesitantly, approaching Fluttershy. The rest of the group approached as well, though they kept a respectable distance.

Fluttershy turned and sank her fangs into her own foreleg, creating a bleeding wound. Her eyes flashed red as she charged her blood with additional magic and commanded it to levitate towards Little Seed. “I… I know it may be quite disturbing… but it is the only way I can use my magic to help you.”

Little Seed looked away from the blood, remaining silent. Drops of blood fell onto his back as Fluttershy’s magic spread across it, healing his aches while providing him with a pleasant warmth. He smiled, finding the experience somewhat pleasant, as if spending hours in spa or hot springs. “Thank you, Fluttershy.”

“Y-you’re w-welcome,” the pureblood responded, caught off guard by Little Seed’s gratitude. She looked at the old mare and asked, “What about you, Sunflower? Would you accept my help?”

“N-no need,” she responded, rubbing her foreleg nervously. Upon seeing a hint of sadness on Fluttershy, she added, “It’s not that I find your magic disturbing… but unlike Little Seed, I’m keeping myself in shape.” She massaged her shoulder. “On the other hoof, I suppose a bit of warmth wouldn’t hurt.”

“Oh…” Fluttershy said before shaking her head and displaying a cheerful smile. She held her forehooves together and suggested, “I can make some hot tea.” She looked at her other friends before pointing at her cottage. “Would you all like to join? I have enough for everypony.” She hesitated. “At least I did over a year ago, not sure if it’s still the case.”

Sunflower raised her head proudly. “Don’t worry about it, you’ll find enough for everypony. Miss Zecora has been providing us with variety of ingredients from the Everfree Forest.”

“Sounds good to me,” Applejack said while Hawkeye nodded.

“Eeyup.”

“Sure thing,” Dash said with fast flaps of her wings and big smile.

“Why are you so excited?” Rarity asked. “I had assumed you were not a fan of such events like tea parties.”

“You kidding? You can’t dislike drinking tea with Fluttershy around. Her teas are the best,” Dash said as she gave the pureblood a proud smile, who blushed at the complement. “Besides, it will be like the good old days.”

Rarity giggled. While being around Dash taught her that her athletic friend avoided all so-called “girly activities” like it was a plague, being around Fluttershy turned her attitude around.

Fluttershy glanced at Harry and rubbed her chin. I can’t detect any significant injuries, but those two explosions sure wore him out. I shouldn’t interrupt his nap.

“Is something wrong?” asked Little Seed as he glanced at the bear. “Are you worried about Harry?”

“A little bit. He looks very tired. I should pull him into his cave, or at least provide him with a pillow and blanket.”

“On it!” Pinkie said as she galloped into the cottage, only to jump down from a nearby tree with several blankets and pillows balanced on her head. “Thank you for choosing Pinkie's Party Delivery Service. We're the fastest one in town, free of charge, and if we won't make you smile in ten minutes, we offer a full refund and a free cupcake.”

Fluttershy covered her mouth with a hoof as she chuckled, finding herself enjoying Pinkie’s over the top antics for a change.

“But how can you give refund if...? Ohhh.“ Apple Bloom rolled off of Hawkeye's head laughing, as she was caught by Hawkeye’s hooves. “Good one, Pinkie!”

***

“Six seconds! Well, Ah'll be,” Applejack chuckled, “now that’s what Ah call a fast.” She looked at Harry, whose head sank into a few pillows with a few blankets over him. She poked Dash’s side and said, “Ah bet Pinks could steal yer title of the fastest pony in Ponyville if she tried.”

Dash rolled her eyes. “Six seconds? Oh please, I could get it done in four.” She smirked and crossed her forelegs. “By the way, AJ, how long would it take you to get Harry into his cave?”

Applejack looked at the cave as she examined the gap between it and the bear. “Ah dunno. He’s pretty big. If Ah had to guess, two minutes by pulling him inside a cart or five by carrying on mah back.” Upon hearing laughter from Rainbow Dash, she asked, “What's so funny?”

“You really want to know?” Dash asked as she pointed at her pureblood friend. “Hey, Flutters. How long would it take you to get Harry into his cave.”

Fluttershy blushed as she looked at Applejack and smiled awkwardly. “It w-would t-take a bit…” She looked at Dash. “Please, don’t ask.”

The pegasus said, “Don’t be so modest. I still remember how Harry fell asleep during a picnic. You got him into his cave in less than a minute.”

“She’s gotta be pullin mah leg. Are ya really that stron’, Fluttershy?” Applejack asked, giving Fluttershy a curious glance.

Fluttershy looked away, refusing to look Applejack in the eye.

“Ah would take less than a minute,” Big Mac pointed out.

“So would my sister Maud,” Pinkie said with her head raised proudly. “My family owns a rock farm and they’re all really good at lifting and carrying stuff… though not as good as they’re at breaking them into tiny pieces. Maud Pie is the strongest of us, so I think she would get Harry into the cave faster than Big Mac… On the other hoof, she’s rather slow unless the cave is collapsing or something dangerous is happening. Limestone is a faster worker, but she may not surpass Big Mac’s strength… Wait, what were we talking about?”

Stormfang spoke up, “After Mistress Fluttershy had her long rest, her strength has no doubt improved. I think she would best you and the Pie family.”

“Stop, please,” Fluttershy interrupted, hiding her face behind her mane.

Applejack chuckled. “Yer a pureblood, Fluttershy. Yer in a different league.” She poked Fluttershy’s side. “Ya don’t hafta worry bout me gettin jealous of ya.”

***

Fluttershy could hear cheerful laughter coming from her friends, and couldn’t help but join in. How long had it been since she could talk with them so casually? How long had it been since she could just enjoy the moment in the pleasant company of all the wonderful friends she had made?

“You won’t mind if I bring birthday cake to your tea party? You missed your birthday after all,” Pinkie asked from Fluttershy’s back.

The young pureblood looked at her rider, remaining calm despite Pinkie's sudden appearance. “S-sure Pinkie. I would love it.”

Pinkie gasped and ran behind the cottage, vanishing from her view.

“Wow, Flutters, you sure became braver,” Dash said as she caught up with her. “I still remember how you were flinching every time Pinkie caught you off guard.”

Fluttershy looked at her friend curiously before opening the door into her cottage, instantly ending up buried under her little friends. Birds, critters and even a seal now showered her with their affection the best way they knew how. She returned the gesture, welcoming back each of her friends by nuzzling or patting them with her hooves and wings, while she considered Dash’s words.

She does have a point. I was always wary of my surroundings, sometimes even afraid of my own shadow. Yet, now even the hyperactive Pinkie Pie failed to startle me, She thought before standing up, gesturing for her animals to give her some space. She held her forehoof against her own chest and closed her eyes. The weight of tragedies I endured must’ve affected me more than I thought. Life’s so much better to enjoy now when I can keep them at bay.

She opened her eyes and gestured for her friends to come in while maintaining a cheerful smile. She was about to go into the kitchen when her eyes set upon an empty basket. After searching between her little friends, she asked with a hint of disappointment in her voice, “Why wasn’t Angel waiting for me with the rest of you? Did he not miss me?” Her ears drooped.

“That’s not the case, Flutters.” Rainbow Dash smiled awkwardly as she approached her. “He’s just no longer with us.”

Fluttershy gasped in shock as her legs started shaking.

Dash bit her lip before correcting herself, “No no no, not like that. He just… moved on. No, that's not what I meant! What I mean is, he moved out.”

“Moved out?” Fluttershy sighed in relief, only to raise forehoof up to her mouth. “But why? Where is he?”

“No clue,” Dash shrugged, as did several birds and critters. “A few months after you fell asleep, he kinda left.” She stomped at realization. “Ah, right, he left a letter for you.” She flew upstairs and returned with the letter. “Two seconds, beat it Pinkie.”

“That bunny writes letters?” Apple Bloom asked.

“That bunny does waaay more,” Applejack answered. “Trust me, little sis, you don’t wanna know.”

Fluttershy opened the envelope and grabbed the letter between her forehooves, reading it aloud, “I am sorry Mistress Fluttershy, but while you have shown great potential to become a good leader, I cannot afford to wait until you wake up. Do not take it personally, but I need to find a master capable of appreciating and utilizing my talents. A job worthy of my skills. Not to be treated like a house pet.”

“Seriously?” Dash asked before frowning and crossing her forelegs. “I knew he was kind of an arrogant jerk, but not this.”

“I wish you the best of luck leading your clan. Hopefully we will meet again. Angel.” Fluttershy took a quick breath. “PS: Do not summon me with your magic. I will try to visit you when I will find an opening in my schedule.” She finished before placing the letter on a nearby bookshelf. “I suppose I was spoiling him a little. I hope that whoever he serves now will be kind and care for him.”

"You seem to posses quite impressive qualifications," said a firm female voice as two green eyes were focused upon a white little bunny, who was perched upon a stone with small stains of green goo. “However, how will your talents contribute to my hive?”

Angel exposed his paw as dark aura surrounded it, growing in size with each passing second. The moment he pointed it at two changelings in blue armor sitting at entrance to the throne room, both guards gulped, narrowing their eyes and taking a fighting stance.

The room for outsiders looked more like a cave covered in green goo and shining crystals. The throne itself was made of multicolored gems; mostly green, red and blue. Unlike Celestia’s throne, this one lacked a cushion.

Rare decorations were present which seemed to be more like trophies: A few paintings made by pony artists alongside lamps with illuminating gems, sturdy, but simple furniture crafted by minotaurs filled with potions and talismans from zebra lands and a pair of matching, gem-encrusted battle axes made in the griffon kingdom.

“While I admit you have proven your fighting skills by defeating three of my guards, I must remind you that changelings are not fighters but infiltrators. In battle our strength lies in ambushing our foes.” Chrysalis said from her spot on the throne, her head supported against her forehoof. She smiled devilishly. “On the other hoof, being able to find one of my disguised love collectors, follow him into one of my hive’s hideouts and infiltrate it. This is truly a talent that can be of use.”

She stood from her throne and approached regally, now towering over the little bunny who looked back at her with puffed chest and a prideful smile.

“The question is, will you manage to fool citizens of other races?” Chrysalis asked, seeing a firm nod. “Would you demonstrate?”

Angel raised both of his paws like a puppy and looked at the queen with fake watery eyes, his ears lowered flat next to his cheeks.

The queen chuckled. “Impressive use of your features. It should fool most races.” In burst of green flames, her appearance turned into one of a griffon as she exposed sharp talons to Angel, who narrowed his eyes and refused to flinch. “Yet, how will you fool predators like griffons or dragons?”

The bunny grinned as he focused magic in his paws before dark aura enveloped him.

Chrysalis blinked a few times before noticing Angel’s movements, his body nearly transparent. She patted the bunny with her hole-filled foreleg. “You are hired, my little spy.”

Angel canceled his spell and jumped in excitement.

Chrysalis walked back towards her throne while Angel followed, sitting on a shelf next to it. “My hive has grown in numbers substantially and recent events are making collecting love much more difficult.” Her horn lit as she levitated over a map of Equestria, pointing at Canterlot. “My spies reported about increasing thestral activity and an evacuation of Canterlot. Some of your former masters are leading an all out assault against it as we speak.”

Angel took a step back, gasping.

“I was considering using this conflict to my advantage, yet the Royal Guard did not engage the thestral army.” She sighed. “There is nothing I can accomplish with two powerful armies on the scene. For the time being, all I can do is observe what will come out from this power struggle.” She grinned. “Should those armies destroy each other, however, I can come up with many ways to use it to my advantage.”

Angel wiped sweat from his forehead. Working under many pureblood masters for centuries was enough to let him get attached to some of them. The idea of assisting changelings in a fight against them didn’t seem appealing.

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “Caring and loving master, yes, sure,” she said before looking to the side. She muttered to herself, “More like a lord of all evil.”

“I can hear you just fine,” Fluttershy scolded. “Angel isn’t like that.”

Dash sighed.

“Ah’ll be honest, Fluttershy,” Applejack interrupted. “Yer great at seein’ good in everypony, but sometimes the good is the only thing ya see.”

Apple Bloom poked her older sister’s foreleg. “Does that mean that Angel was secretly mean?” She gulped. “Or Evil?”

Applejack took a step back and chuckled awkwardly. “Ehehehe… Maybe.”

Ditzy spoke up, “Evil is a bit too strong of a word, but mean seems too soft in this case. Self-centered, greedy, prideful and trained for combat certainly, but also hard working and very loyal to those he viewed worthy. I suppose his biggest flaws were his pride in his work and the fact he rarely listened to his conscience. Most of it being result of working and learning from masters whose goals and methods were rather ruthless.”

She took a quick breath and continued, ignoring shocked glares from Hawkeye and Big Mac, while Applejack tried and failed to cover Apple Bloom’s ears with her hooves. “Working for Fluttershy’s kind parents calmed him a bit, but because he viewed them as weak and cowardly leaders, their influence was rather small.” She pointed at the confused pureblood. “Mistress Fluttershy gained his respect by facing many trials with bravery, though her long nap got in the way of redeeming Angel by showing him new peaceful ways.” She knelt in front of the filly and added, “So to answer your question, Angel isn’t evil, but he’s missguided. Not the nicest bunny familiar to have around.”

“Awww…” Apple Bloom whimpered in disappointed as her ears drooped.

Eternal Night - Storm on the Horizon

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 3

Eternal Night

Part 5 - Storm on the Horizon

Fluttershy walked from the kitchen with a tray laden with a full tea set balanced on her wings, her friends already gathered around the table.

She looked slightly to the left, seeing Apple Bloom as the filly smiled widely at her, already excited and happy for the tea party. I don’t remember her being that excited whenever I foal-sat her. She must’ve missed me way more than I thought. Hawkeye was sitting to the filly’s left with a prideful posture, with Big Mac to his other side following his example. Applejack had her foreleg wrapped around the filly with Rarity on the opposite side of the table.

Fluttershy looked to the right, unsurprised by Rarity levitating over a swarm of plates and silverware, all of them settling into perfect order on the table. Rarity’s assistants were sitting by her side, their posture the picture of propriety while trying to contain their excitement, though the youngest one’s trembling forelegs betrayed his nervousness.

Her improved hearing picked up on snoring upstairs, coming from Little Seed and Sunflower sprawled on the double bed. Poor dears, staying awake for so long in the cold must’ve wore them out. I’ll make it up to them tomorrow morning.

She resumed her walk as she looked ahead, now staring at Rainbow Dash who was holding Pinkie Pie in place, trying desperately to contain the excitement of the drooling party mare. The pony-sized birthday cake without candles present on the table most likely being the source of Pinkie’s excitement.

Her slow steps were interrupted by a noise coming from outside which grew louder with each passing second, one she picked up thanks to her improved hearing. Hawkeye, Rarity and her assistants looked around nervously, no doubt hearing it as well.

The noise became louder and louder before the door was torn off and part of the wall splintered, falling onto the floor with a loud thud. Fluttershy flinched as cups of tea fell from her wings, shattering into pieces.

“What in tarnation,” Applejack said, coughing alongside everypony else, waving her forehooves.

As the atmosphere started to clear, Fluttershy noticed a black shape emerging from the cloud of dust. “D-Ditzy?” Fluttershy asked as the grey mare came into view. Her senses picked up fast breathing as her friend was trotting in place with her face displaying pure panic. “Is something wrong?”

Much to her surprise, she was forcefully tackled to the floor while her forelegs and wings ended up pinned in a strong embrace.

“I’m so happy you’re back. I missed you so much!” Ditzy said as she squeezed Fluttershy even harder.

Fluttershy hugged Ditzy back, ignoring the pain and lack of air. “I missed you… too… You and your family helped me so much.” She grit her teeth as the embrace tightened. “W-where are your p-parents? And why you... didn’t wait... for me... with the rest of my friends instead… of flying here in such a hurry?” Upon being released, she gasped and held her forehoof to her chest. Her feathery wings were slightly rumpled.

Ditzy grabbed Fluttershy and lifted her above the floor as their muzzles pressed against each other. “We have a big problem! But you’re smart and good at healing, so you can help, right?”

“Help, how?”

Ditzy released Fluttershy and trotted over to where the wall used to be, pointing at the sky.

Everypony approached as two fliers carrying a charred pureblood thestral came into view.

Hawkeye and Big Mac formed a wall to block the gruesome sight. Applejack grabbed Apple Bloom and covered her eyes with her foreleg before heading towards the backdoor, despite Apple Bloom’s protests.

Rarity held her foreleg against her forehead and fainted onto the floor. An elegant couch levitated inside the cottage through the destroyed wall, landing on Rarity with a loud thump. In any other circumstance her assistants would chuckle. Instead, they fumbled to move the couch off of her, causing it to land on its side a short distance away.

“Lady Fleur!” three thestrals shouted in unison as the youngest one sealed his mouth as his cheeks turned green.

“W-what happened to her?” Dash asked as she hovered above the floor, resisting the urge to puke. Pinkie failed to do so as she ran into the kitchen to unload some of the recently eaten food. “Who did this to her?”

“W-was it… P-Princess Celestia’s doing?” Fluttershy asked as she flew over and examined the injuries on the pureblood.

“Now wait just a darn minute. Why do ya think it was the princess?” Applejack asked with a stomp. “Maybe it was one o’ them purebloods or that dirty coward Moon Shadow.”

Fluttershy’s eyes flashed red as she scanned for internal injuries and checked her alarmingly poor vitals. “Lady Fleur is a very powerful pureblood. Only Princess Celestia would have the power to cause such damage. Not to mention the burns were left by solar magic.” Her wings flapped rapidly as she started to bite her own hooves. “Oh, dear.”

A grey pegasus with a bronze mane and three bricks as a cutie mark approached his worried daughter and embraced her from the side. “Don’t worry, Ditzy, she’ll be alright. If anypony can help, Mistress Fluttershy can.” His breathing was heavy as he massaged his tired wings. While Fleur was slim for her size, she was still rather heavy to carry such a distance.

Fluttershy looked away from the near-dead Fleur and glanced at Ditzy and Twisty Vision, who stared back at her with hope and expectation. No pressure, no pressure at all. She gulped as her anxiety returned full force. The peace of mind her long nap had given her fled before the overwhelming responsibility.

Fleur, a powerful and very influential pureblood, was at death’s door, her life now in the trembling hooves of a young and inexperienced Fluttershy. For several long seconds Fluttershy’s body froze in place as the only sound in the room was ponies breathing and the loud ticking of the clock. Her vision became blurry before it was overtaken by darkness.

“Snap out of it!” Dash shouted as she shook her friend.

“Whaa? Oh, um.” Fluttershy opened her eyes and looked around in confusion. “I'm sorry.”

Dash shoot her a determined stare. “You’ve saved lives and dealt with greater wounds before. I wouldn’t be here if you hadn’t healed me at flight school. Have more faith in yourself. You can do it!”

“I agree,” Bright Eyes said firmly as she sat between her husband and daughter, her tired bat-like wings resting on their backs. “Mistress Fluttershy, nopony will blame you if you fail, but at this moment, you are the most experienced at healing injuries out of all of us.”

Fluttershy held her forehoof against her chest and took a few calming breaths. Saving somepony as important as Fleur was a great responsibility, and most of her experience came from veterinary care rather than healing ponies.

Rarity massaged her head before standing up, her vision slowly sharpening. Upon noticing a few bruises on her forelegs and feeling a weak pain in her back, she gave her traitorous couch an angered glare. She tossed her head in annoyance gave an offended "Humph!"

“Come on, leader, what should we do?” Dash asked. All pairs of eyes were now on Fluttershy, except Apple Bloom’s as Applejack kept her outside.

“A-alright,” Fluttershy said as she bit her lip. “Miss F-Fleur needs blood, lots of it…”

“Well, is that all?” Applejack said with a dismissive wave of her forehoof. “Tell ya what, take all ya need. There’s lots of blood in this here Apple,” she added with a chuckle.

Big Mac closed his eyes and said firmly, “Eeyup.”

“Why’re ya takin’ blood from a little Apple when ya have two big ones?” Hawkeye patted Applejack’s head who groaned and scrunched her muzzle in an annoyed frown. He pointed at his neck and next at Big Mac’s. “The buffet’s open an’ the apples are fresh.”

“Me too, me too! I’ll do anything for a friend. Well, maybe Fleur isn’t my friend yet, but I can take care of that later. Oh, we’re going to become besties, I can feel it,” Pinkie said with an ecstatic grin. “If it’s going to help, my blood is all yours.”

Dash shrugged. “You know you can always take blood from me. Using it to save some powerful pureblood from the Canterlot clan is just a big bonus.”

Upon seeing how her friends kept volunteering one by one, most already pointing at their necks, Fluttershy rubbed her chin. “Well, non-thestral blood would be the most effective. The quality of the blood needs to be high as well to increase the chance of a successful healing.” She pointed at Rainbow Dash, Applejack and Pinkie Pie, gesturing for them to step forward. Pinkie bounced forward and hopped in place while other two maintained their stoic demeanor.

“Vinyl once informed me that Lady Fleur always drinks the blood of athletes. Her servants even provide her with the Wonderbolts’ blood on special occasions,” Rarity spoke up, attracting Dash’s attention. “Rainbow Dash seems like a proper candidate for blood transfusion.”

“Sure thing,” Dash said, puffing out her chest. “Go ahead, Flutters. Take as much as you need. I can handle it.”

Fluttershy shook her head. “Your blood or Applejack’s seems like a good choice, but now that I think about it, Pinkie’s blood is our best bet.”

“Wait, what? Why?” Dash asked. Her ears drooped. It was humiliating enough how Vinyl made fun of her magic and Applejack of her speed. Now it turned out that her blood wasn’t good enough, either. She frowned in disappointment and crossed her forelegs.

“Pinkie’s blood is filled with a massive amount of magic. It would be too dangerous for me to drink it, but for a pureblood like Fleur it may be strong enough to save her life,” Fluttershy stated. She stomped with a determined smile, accidentally cracking the floor under her hoof. "Oops…” She cleared her throat before glancing at the party mare with a firm stare. “Pinkie Pie, I know I am asking a lot, but will you share your blood to save Fleur’s life?”

“Of course I will! You don’t even need to ask,” Pinkie said as she kept bouncing in place.

Fluttershy looked at Fleur in panic, sensing a significant slowdown in her heart beat. “There’s no time to waste, we have to hurry.” She looked at her friend apologetically and said, “I’m really sorry. I don’t have enough time to put you to sleep or numb you. Please, forgive me.”

“Okie dokie lokie.”

Fluttershy took a deep breath as her eyes flashed, turning her feathery wings into bat-like ones, growing two fangs from her teeth and making her ears longer and pointed. The three butterflies on her flank were now replaced with three bats.

Not wasting any more time, she pierced Pinkie’s artery with her fangs, sending as much of her natural anesthetic as she could with such limited time. Her eyes flashed red again as twin streams of blood floated from the two tiny wounds. She made similar marks on Fleur’s foreleg as she commanded the blood to fill her. “Lady Fleur is in no shape to drink blood on her own, so I’ll need to guide it myself. I will need quiet so I can focus.”

Everypony nodded, remaining silent for the process. Rarity and Big Mac were the first to turn away at the sight of the floating blood.

After half a minute, Pinkie grit her teeth, struggling to maintain her balance on her legs and keeping her tired eyes from closing. It wasn’t the first time she’d hurt herself, often crashing into hard objects in her excitement. Though none of those situations made her feel like a fruit losing its juice. Sweat rolled down her forehead as she started singing, “A thousand drops of blood in the bottle, a thousand drops of blood! Drink one down and whadda ya get? Nine hundred ninety nine drops of blood in the bottle!”

Dash gulped, now somewhat thankful that she is not the one being drained dry.

Fluttershy’s eyes narrowed as she commanded Pinkie’s blood to energize Fleur’s body, repairing as much damage as she could. Although purebloods could command their blood to heal their injuries, silver and sunlight nullify their self-recovery capabilities. The fact that Fleur bore burns from solar magic didn’t make Fluttershy’s attempts any easier.

“Nine hundred seventy five drops of blood in the bottle, drink one up and… ya get… nine hundred four… drops…” she struggled to sing, looking at the ceiling and trembling uncontrollably, as if in desperate need of using the little filly’s room.

“I’m really sorry, Pinkie. Just say if it’s too much to handle and I will continue healing with Dash’s or Applejack’s blood instead,” Fluttershy suggested as she bit her lip at the sound of Pinkie’s macabre ditty, though one look at the other ponies present told her she wasn’t the only one feeling uncomfortable. Please, Fleur, hang in there. We’re so close.

“S-sure… thing,” Pinkie said as her tired body started tilting back and forth, “Nine… hundred…” Her face slammed against the floor as she fainted. Her tongue had escaped her mouth and lay limply next to her. A few critters ran over and stared at her in worry.

Fluttershy smiled warmly, exposing her fangs in all their pointy glory. “It’s working!” She could sense Fleur’s heart beating more strongly as the blood and magic did its job. A weak twitch of her foreleg followed soon after. Fluttershy sighed and wiped sweat from her forehead, her eyes no longer glowing as she stopped the transfusion. A quick lick on each pony's respective wounds closed them. “It’s done.”

“That’s great an’ all, but what ‘bout Pinkie over here,” Big Mac asked as he poked the limp mare. Pinkie’s always bright pink fur was now a pale grey, her mane and tail no longer puffy.

“Oh no!” Fluttershy exclaimed as she flew over and hovered above the floor, picking up Pinkie with her forelegs. “Pinkie, are you okay? Speak to me!” Her senses detected heart rate above the one of an average pony, yet dangerously under Pinkie's standards.

“Will she be alright?” Rainbow Dash asked in worry as she flew closer and hovered next to the young pureblood.

“Her life isn’t in danger, but she’s still far from perfect health,” Fluttershy said as she pushed Pinkie’s mane from her face and stroked her cheek gently. “I’m really, really sorry, Pinkie. I was so focused on helping Fleur that I wasn’t paying attention to your well being. I should’ve stopped earlier.” Her ears drooped. She felt a lump form in her throat as she fought back her tears. Hurting one of my best friends at the night of my rebirth... How could I be so careless?

“Nine huuundred something… drooops of blood,” Pinkie slurred as she half-opened her tired eyes. Her blurry vision slowly returned. “Ooooh… heeey Fluuuutteeeershyyy. Were youuu... worried abouuut meee?”

“Worried? Of course I was worried!” Fluttershy said as she pressed Pinkie’s cheek into the soft fur on her chest. “I’m sorry, I’m so sorry. I should’ve been more careful. Can you forgive me?”

Pinkie’s fur brightened and her mane puffed up as she nuzzled her friend’s chest. “Of course I’ll forgive you. You’re one of my best friends. Besides, I don’t mind sharing part of myself to help a fellow pony.”

“Oh Pinkie, thanks to you Fleur will survive. You’re so selfless. Next to Dash, you’re the best friend I could’ve wished for,” the young pureblood said as she started crying tears of joy. “I can’t thank you enough for everything you’ve done for me, or apologize for worrying you. But I’ll repay you for what you did for Fleur, I swear.”

Pinkie laughed. “Awww… those are the nicest words you’ve ever said to me.” She corrected, “Well, now that I think about it, you were always very nice and spoke lots of nice words, so I suppose those are some of the nicest words you said to me, but they make me happy.” She slid out from Fluttershy’s hold and landed on the floor, now looking up at her. “Besides, I should thank you for everything you did to make everypony happy and for taking care of all those cute poor homeless animals, and you certainly don’t need to repay me for helping a pony in trouble.”

“A pony in trouble? You helped save her life, Pinkie,” Rarity stated as she kept cleaning Fleur’s burns with a wet, soft cloth. Gauze, bandages and burn cream were sitting next to her.

Fluttershy blushed as she descended onto the floor, reasserting herself on her trembling legs. She was feeling a bit tired and dizzy for some reason. “Oh no no no, you’re the nicest pony who make everypony happy, and you deserve a reward.”

“No, you are!” Pinkie responded with renewed energy.

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “Will you both give it a rest? You’re both kind and selfless.”

Pinkie blushed. “Thanks Dashie. And you’re brave and caring.”

Dash sighed. “Will these compliments ever end?”

Fluttershy shook her head and glanced at the unconscious pureblood, noticing several burns from solar magic still covering her body. “Lady Fleur’s life is no longer in danger, but it should take several hours before she’ll regain access to her powers. Her body needs a solid rest and she’ll need to drink more blood once she wakes up.” She looked between her clan members, each of them more than eager to help.

“Ice Breeze, Soft Breeze, and Storm… ummm...”

“My name’s Stormfang, Mistress,” he supplied.

The young pureblood nodded as she pointed at them. “I order you to keep an eye on Lady Fleur and guard her until she wakes up, please.”

The trio saluted as they carefully picked up the taller pureblood and delivered her upstairs, only to push the bed to the side which revealed a secret passage into an underground hideout. Luckily, Fluttershy’s old coffin was kept in good shape and was big enough to accommodate Fleur, whose battered body and wings sank into the soft bottom.

“Mistress,” called Bright Eye as she caught Fluttershy’s attention. “I have a few blood packs at home. I can bring them for Lady Fleur to use once she gets better. May I?”

“S-sure.”

The female thestral smiled before flying out through the hole in the wall.

Twisty Vision rubbed the back of his neck as he poked broken planks. “Sorry for my daughter. I’ll get my repair tools and fix this damage in an instant. With your permission, Mistress Fluttershy?”

“G-granted,” Fluttershy said hesitantly. While she understood that the role of a leader now rested upon her shoulders, she certainly didn’t want to abuse it.

“Good job, Fluttershy, you saved the day again… erm... night, I mean,” Rainbow Dash said as she flew over and patted her on the back. “This long nap is the best thing that’s happened to you. You’re like a new pony.”

“Thank you,” she responded with a warm smile. “I’m just glad that everything turned out for the best.”

“Does this mean what I think it means?” Pinkie asked, bouncing in place.

Fluttershy blinked in confusion. “P-Pinkie… aren’t you exhausted?”

“Why should I be?”

Rarity rolled her eyes and replied, “You have shared your blood with Lady Fleur to save her life. If you have not noticed, darling, your body’s blood reserves were nearly cut in half.”

“Really? I don’t feel all that different,” Pinkie responded cluelessly, receiving a few gasps and looks of disbelief.

Fluttershy rubbed her chin. That’s very odd. Her body barely has enough blood to keep going and half of her magic went to Lady Fleur during the blood transfusion and healing. Yet Pinkie’s magic is as strong as before and might be making up for her lack of blood. Her ears perked up and eyes widened.

My magic… it has been drained? Now I understand. Not long after I sent Pinkie’s blood containing large amounts of her magic into Fleur, she recovered her losses by draining magic from me. No wonder I felt dizzy. But how? She relaxed her tense muscles and shrugged. It doesn’t matter. What’s important is that Pinkie is healthy despite a large loss of blood. I should keep an eye on her health though.

“Fluttershy, can we celebrate your return? Pretty please,” Pinkie pleaded, her ears flattened against her head while a pout was apparent on her face.

“A celebration? I don’t mind at all,” Fluttershy responded while maintaining her happy smile. Never before could I talk with Pinkie so casually without being overwhelmed by her energetic personality, much less keep my anxiety in check. I’m loving it. Her wings flapped cheerfully as she looked over at her friends.

“Ah wanna slice of cake,” Apple Bloom said as she entered through the hole in the wall, with Applejack right behind her. She jumped onto Fluttershy’s back and added, “Can we play hide and seek after the snack?”

“Sure, though it wouldn’t exactly be a fair game,” Fluttershy pointed out as she picked up Apple Bloom with her wings and tossed her upward playfully, catching her firmly in her feathery embrace. She poked the filly’s nose before pointing to her own ears.

“Fair or not, it will be fun.”

“I’m sure it will,” Fluttershy said, unable to believe how wonderful this night was. Even the responsibility of assisting a fellow pureblood wasn’t enough to weigh her down. “Maybe we should move this celebration to Sugarcube Corner? What do you think, Pinkie?”

“That sounds like a splendiferous idea!” Pinkie gave a wink and a salute. “One large order of PARTY,” she stood on her hind-legs and spread her forelegs as confetti exploded from her mane, “coming right up!”

Hawkeye and Rarity nodded while Rainbow Dash prance in place in excitement.

Fluttershy looked between her friends once more. “Wait a moment.” She pointed at each pony and continued, “Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Big Mac, Hawkeye, Ditzy, her family is already on their way… the Breeze brothers and Stormcloud are guarding Fleur. I can’t shake the feeling that we’re missing somepony.”

“Oh, you mean that stuck up yet very nice musician wearing a bowtie, and my super duper cool night-shift party buddy wearing those cool glasses?” Pinkie asked before taking a deep breath into her lungs. She ran towards the hole and shouted, “Heeey! Dj-pon3, you’re missing a super-duper welcome party!”

“You called?”

Everypony looked around in confusion, searching for the source of voice.

“Boo!”

Applejack flinched before looking back, noticing Vinyl waving at her in front of an open window. “Shucks, Vinyl, stop sneakin' around like that! Where’ve ya been?”

“Here and there, listening to all the cool events that are taking place. Waiting for the best moment to make my entrance.”

“Listening? Events?” Fluttershy asked as she approached the musician, wondering how she had managed to bypass her senses so easily. “Where’s Octavia?”

The unicorn thestral’s horn lit as she pointed at the window, only to levitate the graceful earth pony in, a perfectly presentable pink bow tie perched upon her neck.

“Forgive me… Mistress… for being late,” Octavia said between her breaths as she struggled to inhale more air, her trembling legs barely keeping her stable. She bowed.

“Please, don’t bow,” Fluttershy said as she ran over and helped Octavia stand and escorted her towards the nearby sofa, letting the tired mare sink into the soft cushion. “What happened?”

Vinyl sat next to the earth pony and said, “Oh, she’s just tired from searching for me all over Ponyville.” She whispered, “She needs to exercise more often.”

“I heard that,” Octavia said with an annoyed frown. “I am really glad you are back, Mistress Fluttershy, and I deeply apologize for my late arrival. After Rainbow Dash informed us about your glorious return, my carefree roommate decided to wander around Ponyville instead of heading here.”

Vinyl fixed her glasses. “Oh come now, Octy. I was doing important stuff.”

“You, doing something important?” Octavia asked with sarcasm before punching Vinyl in the shoulder. “If this was supposed to be funny, you failed to deliver the punchline.”

Vinyl frowned. “I’m not joking. I was doing recon.” She pointed at her cutie mark and next poked her own horn. “A bit of magic here,” she rubbed her left ear, “ears there and I learned a lot of important stuff Fluttershy should be aware of.”

“I’m listening,” Fluttershy said as her ears perked upward. “If this is something very important, don’t make us wait.” The rest of the group approached and sat in front of the musicians.

“Oh, this will be good,” Octavia said with a smirk.

***

Vinyl grinned. “You probably know that the two-faced princess revealed the existence of thestrals to the townsfolk, and they were fine with it.” Upon seeing a nod, she continued, “Did your friends tell you that the student of Princess Celestia surrendered Ponyville to Nightmare Moon?”

Fluttershy took a step back. “S-student of the p-p-princess? She’s in Ponyville?”

“Eeyup,” Applejack said before rubbing her foreleg. “Sorry for not tellin’ ya, sugarcube. It kinda slipped mah mind.”

Fluttershy gulped. “This is bad.”

“Why’re you so worried all of the sudden?” Dash asked. “She seemed kinda nice for an egghead.”

“You don’t understand,” Fluttershy said in a panic, her breath rate increasing in speed. “Princess Celestia nearly killed Lady Fleur for some reason. What if she sees us as a threat? If her student finds out about me…” She curled into a shivering ball and started stroking her own tail. “I’m scared.”

“Mistress Fleur was nearly killed?” Octavia shouted, falling from the sofa with a weak thump. “That’s horrible, where is she?”

Rarity levitated Octavia back onto the sofa and said, “Lady Fleur is recovering in Fluttershy’s secret room. The mistress healed her with Pinkie’s blood.”

“I helped!” Pinkie shouted cheerfully.

Applejack raised Fluttershy’s lowered head by her chin and asked, “Why are ya so scared? Yer a pureblood.”

Rarity nodded. “I must agree with Applejack. You possess unique powers and have a clan at your command.”

“You don’t understand,” Fluttershy said as she looked at Rarity in fear. “Only the most powerful and talented unicorn in all of Equestria would be worth the honor of learning from the Sun Princess. Not to mention the two millennia of knowledge she can learn from an alicorn.” She looked at Rainbow Dash. “I may be a pureblood and my powers may have increased, but I have heard stories of powerful unicorns whose raw power and skills could surpass even four century old purebloods.” She glanced at rest of her friends. “And if we hurt… what’s her name?“

“Twilight,” Rarity reminded.

“If we hurt Twilight, even in self-defense, her mentor will show us no mercy.”

Vinyl leaned back on the sofa with her hooves behind her head, a smile playing across her lips. “Speaking of Twilight. She’s now on her way to the Everfree Forest with her parents and a small search party. I could hear her panic from a mile away. Literally.”

“They’re really headin’ to the Everfree Forest?” Hawkeye asked curiously. “What are they tryin’ to accomplish by puttin’ themselves in danger?”

“To stop the monster hunters from hurting Nightmare Moon and starting a war… though I think the hunters are the ones in need of protection,” Vinyl answered with a relaxed tone. “I bet the body count will reach over a hundred.”

“A h-h-hundred,” Fluttershy said as she lost her balance. “Monster… hunters?”

Applejack stomped. “What in tarnation? Ah sent a message about a threat in Canterlot so they can be o’ use to the princess. Why are they in Ponyville?”

“I dunno.” Vinyl shrugged. “Speaking of Canterlot. I think it’s under siege… that, or two armies gathered to have the most epic staring contest in the history of Equestria.”

Fluttershy gasped as her body started feeling like a jelly.

Octavia facehooved. “How can you say this all so casually? Why didn’t you tell me any of this when I found you?”

“I didn’t want to ruin the surprise,” Vinyl said with a chuckle as she pointed at her roommate. “The look on your face was totally worth it.”

“Any more bad news?” Rainbow Dash asked with crossed forelegs. “Like maybe Cloudsdale having a civil war? Or the Wonderbolts being turned into thestrals and brainwashed to do evil deeds?”

“Nope,” Vinly said before jumping from the sofa and staring at the shocked eyes of Fluttershy. “I put in more effort than usual to get this intel for you, boss, so how do we deal with it?” She stood on her hind legs, punctuating each one with a poke to her foreleg. “We got the two-faced princess slaughtering some hunters. The student of the princess is venturing into the Everfree to salvage the situation. Celestia apparently banished Fleur to Ponyville after giving her the beat-down of a lifetime, and some sort of big party is going on in Canterlot. So, how do we deal with it?” She looked forward, only to look down as Fluttershy lay unconscious on the floor.

Upon receiving angered glares from the rest of the ponies present , Vinyl asked, “What… what?”

Rainbow Dash flew into the kitchen to get a bucket of water, while Pinkie pulled out a collection of musical instruments in attempt to wake up their fearless leader.

Octavia took a few deep breaths to calm her nerves before asking, “How… how did you learn about this all in less than an hour?”

“Octy, Octy, Octy. You should know me better than that.” Vinyl puffed her chest proudly. “I didn’t survive for so long without having an ace or two up my sleeve. When you have the hearing of a thestral and can manipulate sound waves, not much escapes your ears.”

Vinyl focused her magic on the carpeted floor, rolling part of it aside from direction of the stairs, only to pull a few planks which revealed a hidden compartment. Rarity gasped upon recognizing the box, shouting, “Hold on a second! Is that what I think it is?”

Vinyl nodded before opening the dusty box and levitating out a set of clothes. Not wasting a moment, she put on a black formal suit with purple stripes, white bowtie and golden sleeves. “You sure did nice work on those, Rarity, a perfect suit for some spying.”

Rarity narrowed her eyes. “You issued an order for those a few months ago! Did you just sneak into Fluttershy’s cottage, make some sort of a hiding spot and put those there to decay for so long?” She gestured between clothes and the hole. “Just look at them, in that dusty hole, and Celestia only knows how many wrinkles they have from not being cared for!” She stomped. “Give me one reason why I should not punish you for this crime against fashion!”

Vinyl shrugged. “Whatever, you wouldn’t catch me anyway.”

Rarity groaned.

Vinyl murmured to herself, repeating “secret agent mare” a few times as she levitated the second black uniform to Fluttershy, this one equipped with a long black cape with three pink bats inscribed on it. “Alright, Fluttershy, let’s get dangerous.”

Eternal Night - Unexpected Encounters

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 3

Eternal Night

Part 6 - Unexpected Encounters

What should I do? What should I do? What should I do? The question kept repeating itself in Fluttershy’s mind as she stared at the entrance to the Everfree Forest, the one she had always used whenever exploring, visiting Zecora, or just having a peaceful stroll among the befriended beasts.

Her breathing was quick, ears and wings were drooped and sweat covered her face. The peace of mind had been replaced with distress and fear by the challenges she now faced.

She took a quick glance at her loyal clan filled with friends and animals, each member except for Vinyl staring at her with worry. She gulped.

“Come on, Flutters. There’s nothing to fear, we have your back,” Dash said encouragingly.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac nodded firmly.

“Ya proved yer worth to be our leader. We trust ya and will fight for what ya believe,” Applejack said with a firm stomp.

“I must admit, we ended up in a very troublesome situation,” Rarity started while raising her foreleg. “Should we remain loyal to Nightmare Moon as we swore? Should we side with Princess Celestia against this unknown threat? Is facing or protecting those hunters even a good idea?”

Octavia stepped forward. “I understand it must be very overwhelming, Mistress, especially after your long absence.” She cleared her throat and pointed at the cottage. “If you wish, we can remain in your home and wait for Lady Fleur to recover. She is more aware of the current situation, after all. Her knowledge will help make up for your lack of experience.”

Vinyl took off her glasses and poked Octavia in the side, shooting her a disappointed glare. “By the time that powerhouse of a pureblood gets better, it’ll be all over.” She stomped. “I didn’t spy on sounds all over Ponyville to have all that intel wasted.”

“I agree,” Pinkie said as she bounced toward Fluttershy, who took a few steps back in response. “It’s no good to be late for a party, much less a bunch of parties.” She grabbed Fluttershy by her shoulder, causing her to whimper. “You did lots of great stuff before your long nap, and not long after you woke up, you found a way to save Fleur’s life.”

She grabbed Fluttershy’s head as their muzzles pressed against each other. “Just think about all the lives you can save and the cool stuff you can do. You can’t give up now!” She released Fluttershy’s head and ran by her, only to jump from behind Hawkeye, perching herself between Big Mac and Applejack.

Fluttershy held a forehoof against her chest and closed her eyes, taking a slow calming breath. They’re right. Enemies or not, I can’t let the hunters die. If I don’t talk with Nightmare Moon, she may believe that peace between ponies and thestrals is out of reach. And even if I can’t do anything to stop the fight in Canterlot, I can still soften the blow. Her eyes snapped open as she reared up on her hind legs, her wings flared and stare determined. “I don’t know how much I can do, but I wouldn’t be able to forgive myself if I didn’t at least try.”

“Don’t you mean we? We’re in this together,” Dash said as she flew over, now hovering in front of the pureblood.

“But… I wouldn’t want to put all of you in danger,” Fluttershy said, her voice no longer filled with confidence.

“Too late fer that, sugarcube,” Applejack said with a proud smile. “Ya put yer neck out for us more times than Ah care to count. We’ll do the same fer ya. Just like we Apples help each other, as a clan we’re stronger together!”

“Eeyup.”

The young pureblood glanced between each of her members. Each was more than eager to put their well being on the line. “What about you, Miss Octavia? You’re a musician, not an adventurer. If you wish to stay away from the upcoming dangers, I’ll understand.”

“I am grateful for your concern, Mistress, but I have been standing on the sidelines for too long.” She smirked. “Besides, somepony needs to keep Vinyl from slacking off, and she would certainly keep me from harm.”

“You bet,” Vinyl said as she placed her glasses back on her muzzle.

“Miss Ditzy, what about you?”

The half-breed thestral said cheerfully, “If you want me to talk with somepony to learn more about them, I’ll do it. If you want me to demolish something, I’m game.” She pranced in place. “I’m so happy I can be helpful.”

“And what about your parents?” Fluttershy asked.

“They prefer to build and repair. If danger is involved, I’m the most capable,” Ditzy said as she puffed her chest. “Just leave me with a few hunters for a minute, and they won’t have any working weapons to fight with.”

Fluttershy’s wings flapped as she flew over to Dash and whispered, “Is it me, or is Ditzy more eager to fight than I remember? Did something happened while I was asleep?”

“Let’s just say she started enjoying her demolishing job more than she should. She likes to destroy almost as much as she likes to help,” Dash whispered back.

“Oh my,” Fluttershy said, raising forehoof up to her mouth. “But she doesn’t want to hurt anypony, does she?”

Dash rolled her eyes. “Of course she doesn’t. She likes to destroy stuff, not hurt ponies.”

Harry roared from his spot behind the gathered ponies. The falcon and eagle sitting on his shoulders released a loud screech of their own.

Fluttershy descended and nodded. “Alright, everyone. As dangerous this journey will be, if we work together, we can overcome any challenge.” A loud cheer followed. “Vinyl Scratch, your magic and talents focus on detecting and manipulating sound waves. Will you lead us to Nightmare Moon and help us avoid the hunters and the princess’s student?”

“On it,” she responded with a salute.

“Harry, I need you to assist Little Seed and Sunflower in taking care of animals.” Upon hearing a sad growl, she added, “I know you want to help, but monster hunters are trained to hunt big animals. Besides, someone needs to hold down the fort. Sunflower and Little Seed are too old to defend themselves, while Stormfang and the Breeze brothers are guarding Lady Fleur.”

Harry nodded before turning around and walking back towards the cottage.

Applejack approached Apple Bloom and said, “Ah know ya want ta help, but yer youn’ and this is too dangerous. Not ta mention ya need yer sleep.”

“Awww…” Apple Bloom lowered her head.

“Don’t be like that, little sis, yer not ready for such responsibility. Just take a nap in the cottage till this mess’s over. Ah’ll tell ya a story ‘bout our adventures once we’re back,” Applejack said.

Apple Bloom sat and looked at her sister with forelegs curled up under her torso, eyes the size of plates, “But ya’ll will be back? Won’t ya?”

“O' course we'll be back, sis." Applejack stroked her younger sister’s mane while giving a reassuring smile. “Ya know Fluttershy won’t have it any other way.”

“Eeyup,” Big Mac said with a firm nod.

Fluttershy smiled at their conversation. “The rest of you, please return to the cottage,” she said, before turning to her bats. “Except you my little friends. It is very dark in the forest at night, so our group could use your help to scout ahead.”

With the bats flying towards the forest and her other animals heading back into the cottage, Fluttershy gestured for her friends to follow her. “Alright everypony, let’s do this!”

“Vinyl,” Octavia said in annoyance.

“What is it, Octy?”

“When Mistress Fluttershy told you to lead the way to Nightmare Moon, she specifically instructed you to avoid both the hunters and the princess’s student. Am I correct?”

“Yeah, what about it?”

Octavia facehooved before peeking from behind the tree and gesturing ahead. “What do you see there?”

Vinyl peeked from inside a bush, looking upon the spacious clearing. Ahead of her were at least ten unconscious and bound hunters with their shattered weapons scattered around the area. Before them were a group of unicorns and a young sleeping drake. She lit her horn, creating an invisible soundproof bubble.

“Why in Celestia’s name did you lead us towards the search party organized by Twilight Sparkle herself?”

“Chill, Octy. The royal pupil’s way ahead of the group. Besides, I heard a pony others refer to as Minuette complain about wounds left by bolts and blades,” Vinyl responded. “Surely our favourite pureblood medic would get angry if we avoided ponies in need of help.”

Octavia sighed. “Fair enough.” She raised her foreleg, holding it against her chest. “I shall speak with them and learn more about the events which transpired here.” She narrowed her eyes and pointed at Vinyl. “You, meanwhile, should inform the Mistress.”

“On it.”

“Not so fast, Vinyl. There is one more thing for us to discuss.”

The thestral rolled her eyes. “Vinyl, Vinyl, Vinyl… Would be nice if you called me Dj-pon3 for a change.”

Octavia groaned in annoyance. “You are to inform our Mistress about what happened here: About the unconscious hunters, about Twilight going ahead of her search party and Minuette being wounded. Do not hide any details, am I understood?”

“Yeah, yeah, whatever,” the thestral responded with a dismissive wave of her forehoof, the aura around her horn vanished as she walked away.

Octavia shook her head before stepping from behind the tree, walking casually towards the group. She looked at two unicorns sitting in front of the wounded pony, while casting some sort of spell. As she got closer, a few pairs of eyes and pointing hooves were directed at her.

“Who are you?” asked a blue stallion with dark-blue mane, his two half-moons cutie mark hardly visible in the darkness of the night. The trees blocked most of the light from the moon and stars.

“What are you doing here alone in this dangerous forest?” asked a white-grey mare with three violet stars as cutie mark, her mane a mix of violet and white stripes.

“I am Octavia, Octavia Melody,” she introduced herself, sitting in front of the group as her attention focused upon the wounded pony. “The recent events which transpired in Ponyville are the reason behind my searching for Nightmare Moon in this forest. I do not know how much I can do to stop this conflict, yet, I could not sit in Ponyville and do nothing.” She gestured at nearby hunter and asked, “Did those armed ponies attack you?”

“Not really,” Night Light said with a shake of his head. “When our daughter tried to stop this fight before it could escalate, she got into argument with the leader of those ponies.”

“They called themselves monster hunters,” Twilight Velvet spoke up. “They stated that their goal was to eliminate, and I quote; ‘The leader of the purebloods known as Nightmare Moon, a cursed pureblood witch.’ My daughter tried to negotiate…” She rubbed her foreleg nervously. “Let’s just say, they weren’t happy that Princess Celestia has surrendered the town to, and I quote again, ‘that demonic spawn’.”

Moon Dancer –who held Minuette’s forehoof as the wounded mare was gritting her teeth in pain– glanced at the tied prisoners. “Twilight tried to explain to them that Nightmare Moon is Princess Celestia’s sister, but their leader… Shackles was his name? Stated that they have their orders.” She took a quick breath. “He ordered a small squad to keep civilians out of harm’s way.”

“Actually,” Minuette said, wincing in pain as she held her other forehoof against the closed wound in her stomach, “he thanked for information and said to keep Princess Celestia’s student out of harm’s way… and escort the troublemakers back to Ponyville so they won’t get in the way.”

"There is very little difference in what we each said," Moon Dancer stated as she turned back to Octavia. “He then led the main force deeper into the forest. Twilight tried to teleport away, but those hunters were equipped with teleportation-disrupting crystals. Unable to talk this out, she tried to put those hunters to sleep with magic.” She sighed, continuing in a depressed tone, “They were equipped against such a spell, resulting in a fight.” She pointed at the sleeping drake, who was curled up like a napping cat, perched on a small bed of leaves. "Her loyal assistant, Spike, ended up getting hit with a spell in crossfire, resulting in his deep nap. We decided not to wake him up so he wouldn't rush into danger."

Octavia nodded. “Should I assume you tried to help Twilight Sparkle break through?”

“Correct,” Night Light said before once again focusing his magic upon Minuette’s wounds. “Those hunters were heavily equipped and well trained, but in terms of raw power, our family is the most powerful in Equestria. With the help of a few barriers, levitation and a lightning spell, we managed to knock them all out.”

Moon Dancer said with a hint of guilt in her voice, her ears drooped and head lowered “Minuette and I, we tried to assist, but we were too weak. I didn’t know any defensive spells and Minuette protected me.”

“H-hey… no biggie.” Minuette stood up and examined her healed wounds. “Nice job with patching my wounds, Velvet and Light. You got some talent there.”

“Thank you, young one. I knew learning basic healing spells for first aid wouldn’t be a waste of time,” Velvet said before her ears drooped. “Though, I had hoped I would never need to use them.”

“We’re glad we could be of assistance, especially for Twilight’s school friends. However, I would suggest a visit to the local hospital,” Night Light spoke up as he pointed at the visible cuts and bolt-marks. “We may be powerful, but my wife and I, we’re nowhere as knowledgeable as our daughter. It’ll be best if you got a professional's help.”

“Awww… I don’t want to leave Twilight on her own, much less miss all the action!” Minuette complained, only for her wounded foreleg to bend as she whimpered.

“I’m really sorry. If I weren’t so careless, you wouldn’t have gotten hurt like that,” Moon Dancer apologised as she helped support her friend's weight with her shoulder.

Tears slid down blue mare’s cheeks as she embraced Moon Dancer in a hug. “Are you kidding? I wouldn’t forgive myself if my friend was hurt, and I did nothing to help.” She released her friend, struggling to hide her pain as she massaged her foreleg. “Anyway, we can’t leave Twilight to face all the dangers on her own.”

Octavia took a few steps forward. “Speaking of Her Highness’ student, is she really searching for Nightmare Moon on her own?”

Velvet nodded. “After Minuette got hurt during the fight, she told us it’s too dangerous for us to come along. She asked us to escort Spike to safety, and Minuette to the hospital before teleporting away.” She shrugged. “We don’t even know where to find her.”

Night Light stomped. “I know she doesn’t want to endanger her friends and family, and that she has certain responsibilities and knowledge as the student of the princess, but we can’t let our daughter face all those dangers on her own.”

“I understand,” Octavia responded before fixing her saddlebag. I had better inform Fluttershy. She smiled apologetically. “I’m really sorry about what happened. I wish I could help, but considering the dangerous beasts and the presence of so many armed hunters, there is not much I can do.” She opened her saddlebag and picked up a first aid kit she had taken just in case Mistress Fluttershy was occupied. “I hope this equipment will prove useful. Please, take it.”

“Thank you,” Moon Dancer said as she levitated the gift over. “I’ll look to my friend’s health immediately.”

Octavia smiled and turned around. “I shall take my leave and return to Ponyville. I wish you all best of luck.” Her graceful steps were interrupted by something crashing through the underbrush. She stood immobile as the Mistress herself leapt over the bush, bypassing her and sliding to a stop in front of the blue unicorn. She could see her Mistress’ thestral features clearly despite the limited visibility.

“I came as fast as I could! Where does it hurt?” Fluttershy asked, her breathing quick as she examined Minuette’s features. After a few confused blinks, she looked around, flinching at the sight of several unconscious and tied up hunters, some sleeping, some with visible signs of electrocution. “What… happened here?” She glanced back to the unicorns and asked, “Who are you?”

“We’re Twilight’s best friends!” Minuette said cheerfully before bouncing around Fluttershy, ignoring her own barely closed wounds thanks to her rush of excitement. “You must be the pureblood Fluttershy, the one Nightmare Moon woke up with her magic after more than a year long rest. This is sooo cool.” She jumped forward, pressing her own muzzle against Fluttershy’s. “The name’s Minuette, nice to meet you.” She withdrew her head and grabbed her friend by shoulder. “And this is Moon Dancer.”

“My name’s Night Light, and this is my wife, Twilight Velvet,” the stallion spoke before rubbing top of his head. “Wait a moment, you’re a pureblood who slept for over a year? You look similar to that yellow pegasus my daughter had on her picture.”

“Daughter?” Fluttershy asked as her legs started to tremble. She gulped and asked, “You aren’t the parents of… the princess’ student… right?”

“We are.”

Fluttershy yelped before darting to a nearby tree and hiding behind it.

Octavia facehooved with all of her strength, leaving a small hoof-mark on her forehead. “Vinyl, you brain-dead fool. Can’t you do anything right at least one time… just once!”

“Are you sure you’ll be alright, sweetie?” Velvet cleared her throat. “I mean, Lady Fluttershy?”

“I will. I can see in the dark and my powers are most potent at night.”

“And what about those meanies with the weapons and stuff?” Minuette asked, her wounds no longer present thanks to Fluttershy’s quick aid.

“Minuette is right. You may qualify as a powerful predator and benefit from the darkened environment, but monster hunters are trained and equipped to fight against you,” Moon Dancer pointed out, twisting her forehoof in the dirt while biting her lip. “The forest is full of your greatest enemies. By simple logic, blood-drinking creatures like you should be terrified!”

Fluttershy gulped. “Oh, but I am afraid. Yet, I have a clan full of friends that will protect me, and I know this forest well.”

“Not to mention Vinyl, our lazy walking noise detector,” Octavia said with a chuckle.

Fluttershy looked at Octavia and nodded. “I agree, you should take them to Ponyville and update Mayor Mare about the recent events.”

“What? I didn’t say any of that,” Octavia said as she took a step back. She shot her approaching musical partner an angered glare and asked, “What did you do?” Her attention now on the aura around Vinyl’s horn.

“Thanks Octy, I’m sure we’ll need lots of luck on our adventure. Stay safe,” Vinyl responded.

Octavia frowned and stomped. “Fine, be like that, but if I find out you were slacking off again, your music collection will meet an unfortunate end. I hope I’ve made myself crystal clear.”

Vinyl’s left eye twitched, though nopony could see it thanks to her glasses.

Night Light spoke up, “Once you find our daughter, please, keep her safe. I fear she’ll put herself in great danger for the good of everypony.”

“I’ll… try,” Fluttershy responded hesitantly, failing to hide her lack of self-confidence.

“Are you certain we can’t accompany you?” Twilight Velvet asked. “We can defend ourselves just fine.”

“Oh, I don’t doubt it, but if those hunters see you in company of a pureblood, they will view you as traitors.”

“It’s a small price to pay for helping our daughter,” Velvet said.

“Besides, we already pledged our loyalty to Nightmare Moon, as ordered by Princess Celestia.” Night Light pointed at Fluttershy and smiled. “I doubt accompanying you will make much of a difference.”

“And what about… ummm…” Fluttershy glanced questioningly at the other unicorns.

“Minuette.”

“Moon Dancer.”

She nodded. “Who’ll escort Minuette and Dancer safely back to Ponyville? What if they are attacked?”

“Hey, we can take care of ourselves!” Minuette said with fire in her eyes.

“That’s debatable,” Moon Dancer commented.

“You have a good point, but we still wish to help,” Night Light spoke up.

“Is there anything we can do?” Velvet asked.

Fluttershy rubbed her chin, now thinking deeply. After a moment, she looked to the side and rubbed her foreleg nervously. “There is, yet, I doubt you’ll be interested.” She yelped as she was levitated over by Velvet who looked her deeply in the eyes.

“If it will help our daughter, anything!”

Fluttershy squeaked out, “A tiny bit... of your b-blood. Pleasedon’thurtme.”

“I'm sorry, dear, I got carried away," Velvet apologised and lowered Fluttershy to the ground. She glanced at her companions and asked, “Why blood, though?” Everypony except Moon Dancer shrugged.

“She most likely needs it to enhance her powers,” Moon Dancer spoke. “I’ve read some vampony novels, not sure how much of it is accurate.”

Fluttershy nodded. “It would certainly help me in case of danger and to heal wounds.” She smiled. “I could also transfuse it to your daughter, should she sustain heavy injury. Hunter’s bolts are umm…” she tapped her forehooves together and smiled awkwardly, “sharp… after all.“

“Will do, do you have a bottle or something to store it in?” Night Light asked.

Fluttershy opened her saddlebags in her search, quickly picking up a half empty bottle of water. She promptly used it to water the grass next to her foreleg. “Not the cleanest container for blood, but my magic will keep it fresh.”

Velvet nodded as she levitated over the bottle, only to cast some sort of spell at her and her husband’s foreleg. The bottle filled halfway with red liquid.

Fluttershy took a step back and gasped. “There’s a unicorn spell for that, too?”

Night Light grinned. “We’ll take it as complement.” Seeing his wife sway unsteadily, he supported her with his side, rubbing his head as his own dizziness hit.

“Thank you, I promise I’ll put it to good use.” Fluttershy turned around and walked towards the nearby passage, gesturing for Vinyl to follow.

“Are you feeling okay there, boss?” Vinyl asked as she walked beside Fluttershy towards the rest of the clan.

“Y-yes, just a little shaken,” she responded as her legs trembled with every step. “I drank some of the blood they gave me, and I was overwhelmed with powerful magic.” She took a slow breath. “It replaced what Pinkie drained from me earlier.”

“Nah, it’s not just the blood. You’re sweating bullets and I can hear your heartbeat even without using my talent.”

“'Consarnit, Fluttershy, where did ya run off to all of the sudden?” Applejack asked as she galloped ahead of the group, Dash joining a moment later.

“I bet DJ has something to do with it,” Dash said as she hovered over the musician.

Vinyl fixed her bowtie and suit on her neck. “It’s agent DJ Pon-003 to you. Also, congrats, you won the bet. I simply sent info that somepony is hurt, Fluttershy’s ears only. She reacts surprisingly fast to that stuff.”

Fluttershy sighed. “Turns out Twilight’s parents got it mostly covered. Luckily, they didn’t know about the involvement of purebloods in the ongoing invasion, or they wouldn’t have reacted so kindly to my presence.”

“Yeah, luckily,” Dash said sharply as she lightly punched Vinyl in the side.

“Chill, Dash, she would’ve talked it out like the pro she is,” Vinyl said as she patted Fluttershy on the back.

As the rest of the group was approaching, Vinyl heard a chattering sound punctuated by rapid breathing. “No need to tremble in fear, you got this, boss,” she encouraged.

“Tremble in fear?” Rarity asked. Upon not receiving any response as Fluttershy rubbed her cape nervously, she glanced at Ditzy.

The grey half-breed thestral approached and placed her wing on Fluttershy’s back. “Now, now, you don’t need to be afraid. The Everfree Forest may be filled with hunters led by your arch-enemy, but you’re not their target. We can avoid them.”

Dash rolled her eyes. “Where’s Octavia by the way? Don’t tell me you ditched her?”

Vinyl shook her head. “Nah, she just had other plans. She escorted the search party back to Ponyville and gave Mayor Mare an update.”

The pegasus narrowed her eyes and said, “I dunno about that. Sounds kinda fishy to me?”

Vinyl smirked as her horn lit, her gaze now on Pinkie, whose ear twitched. Without any warning, Pinkie jumped in between Fluttershy and Ditzy and grabbed them both in a warm embrace. “And you have friends who will protect you, so cheer up!”

“They aren’t the ones I’m afraid off,” Fluttershy said, not bothering to resist Pinkie’s hug. “Except the princess and Moon Shadow, the one I fear the most is Twilight, but I swore to keep her safe.”

“Twilight?!” Dash shouted and spread her forelegs. “I know you said how she’s the student of the princess and stuff, but how can you fear her more than the ponies who killed your parents?” She put forehooves on her mouth, seeing her friend’s drooping ears and fading smile. “S-sorry.”

Fluttershy took a deep breath. “I know it may be hard to comprehend, but that’s just how I feel.” She looked at Vinyl. “Lead us to Twilight and avoid hostile patrols, if it isn’t too much trouble.”

The musician nodded and walked ahead as Fluttershy followed with her friends by her side.

“Please, enlighten us, Mistress,” Rarity said, matching her steps with Fluttershy’s.

Seeing curious and worried expressions on her friends faces, Fluttershy spoke, “Shackles views me as an investment for his son. I doubt he’ll try to kill me when he has a more profitable target in sight.” She pointed at the musician. “We can avoid small patrols or overpower them if necessary, and I can use the forest and darkness if they chase us. Veil of Darkness is also an option, though I would leave it as last resort. I need to conserve my magic.”

“And what can one unicorn do that trained hunters can’t?” Applejack asked with a frown. “Don’t get me wron’, Ah know there are many bad apples in the guild Ah’m part of, and Ah don’t like how we put all thestrals in one basket.” She pointed at herself and narrowed her eyes. “Yet, Ah ain’t fan of bein’ insignificant. Not one bit. What’s Twilight have that we don’t?”

“I’m sorry if I hurt your feelings, it is just that…” Fluttershy paused and bit her lip, her ears drooped again. “My parents always told me to avoid the princess because of her power and fear of our kind. Yet, besides alicorns, in rare occurrences an earth pony, pegasus or a unicorn can be born with incredible potential. Just thinking about how the powerful princess could train such a talented pony to fight against my kind is sending a chill through my bones. I wish I could at least know what to expect."

She stopped and held a forehoof against her chest. “I’m no fighter, and even if I was, I wouldn’t stand a chance.” She started biting her own hooves. “What if she can bring flames from the sky to burn half of the forest?” Her breathing became faster and her eyes dilated. “What if she was trained to become a battlemage leading an army, or an archmage and equipped with powerful artifacts.” She grabbed her tail and stroked it. “What if she wants to kill me!?”

Pinkie yelped in surprise as she was grabbed by Fluttershy and hugged. “And if she would hurt you all to get to me, I would never forgive myself for that.”

“There, there,” Pinkie said while resisting the urge to cry, her eyes watering. She slid her forehooves from the embrace and patted Fluttershy’s back. “Please, don’t be sad, be happy. Twilight didn’t seem to be a pony who would do things like that. Not to mention she’s friends with that pink alicorn empress, Cadence was it? When I asked her why Twilight won’t join the party, Cadence said that Twilight prefers books and studying to social interactions, but she’s very kind at heart.” She smiled widely. “What I mean is, how can a kind bookworm be as scary and dangerous as you say.”

Fluttershy gulped and released Pinkie, resuming her walk as Vinyl was already far ahead of her. “I hope you’re right,” She said in squeaky voice. “I hope...”

Applejack slowed down to let Fluttershy catch up with her. “If yer afraid of her so much sugarcube, why do ya want to find her in the first place?”

“Because I promised her parents,” the pureblood answered.

“Why?” Applejack asked, one eyebrow raised.

“Because they begged and pleaded for me to.” She took a quick breath. “How could I say no to worried parents who want their daughter to be safe? I just couldn’t.”

“If that’s the case, why ya didn’t take them with ya? Surely they would help calm her down if Twilight decides to attack us.”

“B-because…” Fluttershy gulped. “If Twilight convinced her parents to help her… we wouldn’t stand a chance. Even if Velvet and Night Light weren’t trained for combat, their raw power surpasses mine twice over. Not to mention that they could possess superior theoretical knowledge about magic. How do you think they beat all those hunters?”

Applejack lowered her head and sighed. “Mah head hurts.”

“Hey, boss,” Vinyl called as she stopped and pointed at the nearby line of trees. “Do you remember how you said to avoid enemy patrols and stuff?”

“Oh, please, no,” Dash said before biting her lip.

Fluttershy’s ears twitched as she picked up several noises from all around her. Rarity’s ears did the same a moment later.

Vinyl added, “I hope you don't get mad, but I kind of lead us… to their leader.”

Dash’s face turned red as she facehooved. She grit her teeth and turned to Vinyl as their muzzles collided. “Why in Celestia’s name would you do that!?!”

“I had my reasons,” the musician said, shrugging.

“Dj. pon-3. If we get out of this, I’ll personally introduce you to a thundercloud!” Dash shouted.

Fluttershy stood still as if turned to stone while her clan formed a protective circle. Their attention now focused on the armed ponies walking from behind trees, surrounding them from both sides.

“Sir, we have an unknown search party,” one of the hunters said as he armed his crossbow and aimed at the group.

“Again? What’s wrong with ponies these days,” Shackles asked as he walked into Fluttershy’s view, wiping a few leaves and small branches that were stuck in his officer’s armor. His eyes became wide before he laughed. “Well, well, well, look who just walked out of her grave.”

“Y-you…” Fluttershy said before gathering her courage as she took a defensive stance, her wings spread and eyes narrowed.

Several hunters aimed their crossbows at Fluttershy upon noticing her bat-like wings coming from under the cape, as well as the fangs on her mouth. The pureblood struggled to maintain her fearless mask, which wasn’t very convincing.

Shackles spoke up, “Now I understand what that old pureblood tried to do.” He approached and asked, “What’s up with you purebloods and faking deaths? You sure seem to abuse this method a lot.”

“What’s wrong, brother?” Chain asked as he caught up, alongside Maud and Limestone Pie who were armed with crossbows and bracelets with silver blades, each twice the size of the ones used by other hunters. He focused on Fluttershy. “Is she the daughter of those we… You know…”

“One and the same,” Shackles answered.

Maud Pie turned her head slowly as she noticed Pinkie Pie among the crowd. “Pinkie?” she asked with a slightly less dull voice than usual.

Limestone gritted her teeth and stomped, smashing a nearby tree root. “Great, just great… First monsters and a dark forest, and now this. Can this night get any worse?”

Pinkie waved at her sisters. “Hey Limestone, hey Maud! What’re you doing here? Searching for large bugs in the forest?” She tilted her head to the side. “What’s your boss doing among those mean hunters, by the way?”

Limestone facehoofed.

***

Vinyl looked between Fluttershy and Shackles, and next glanced at the Pie sisters. The stage is set and everypony’s in place. Let’s get this party started. She fixed her glasses and grinned, now looking at her mistress. Let’s find out if you got what it takes to stop this conflict, Fluttershy. Are you the leader who can make the change, the one I have been looking for. She lowered her head and looked at the ground. Or if I should even bother to fight for unattainable peace in the first place.

Author's Note

For those who are surpriced by Vinyl's manipulative side and think it is out of character for her, I want to say that:
1) It is an influence from other purebloods. Being put into a world where her leader is playing dirty despite being the good one didn't give her a good example.

2) Her special talent and powers allow her to spy on sounds from miles away, so the amount of information she could gather for past 1 year and a half is massive. She certainly know way more than others do, so she know a lot about the hunters. She wouldn't put such a test on Fluttershy if the gathered info didn't tell her that it have a very slim chance to end peacefully. So please, don't judge her to harshly until next chapter is uploaded.

Confrontations - Diplomacy

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 4

Confrontations

Part 1 - Diplomacy

The air was thick with tension as the only sounds were ponies breathing and the moaning of the wind through the trees. Nopony dared to move an inch. Fluttershy and her friends stood on a small path among the trees, surrounded by at least fifty hunters equipped with night vision goggles.

Pegasi took sniping positions in the branches of numerous trees, masking their presence from the eyes of common ponies. The unicorns levitated their weapons while using trees for cover.

On one side of the path stood a group of blade-wielding earth ponies, with the tallest stallions carrying massive enhanced shields, big enough to stop both magical and physical attacks from reaching the group.

The last escape path was blocked by Shackles and his younger brother, who were flanked by Maud and Limestone. Both bodyguards were carrying silver blades half the size of a pony.

Liquid fear ran down the bodies of both the hunters and their prey.

Shackles maintained his composure as he looked around, examining the situation. I seem to have an advantage in numbers and caught them off guard. I’ve got them cornered.

He narrowed his eyes, giving the pureblood an intimidating glare, who flinched slightly before returning the gesture.

Yet, a cornered mouse can bite a cat. At death's door, they can fight most ferociously, and I can’t afford needless casualties. Shackles looked away from Fluttershy, now analyzing her comrades. I had suspected Applejack would turn against me, but Big Macintosh is a surprise.

He took a step back as his eyes became wide as plates. H-Hawkeye? Didn’t he die during a mission? Or maybe… He closed his eyes and grinned. Is this how you won the loyalty of Apple family, Miss Flutterbat? Very clever.

His gaze now rested on a wall-eyed bat-winged half-breed thestral. Two thestrals will go down easily to a rain of bolts if they resist, and I’m certain Flutterbat won’t abandon them. Those two hunters however will endure the silver bolts and fight back.

He glanced at the rainbow-maned pegasus who was gritting her teeth, hovering above Pinkie Pie while glaring between hunters with narrowed eyes. The party mare’s mane wilted and grew darker. One pegasus isn’t a threat since our wings are vulnerable to sharp projectiles. She’ll get grounded quickly. That baker however…

He looked to his left and right, not surprised that his elite bodyguards were staring at their sister. Maud maintained her well known stone-faced stare. Limestone grit her teeth while her forehead furrowed, looking more enraged than usual. It doesn't take a genius to see that my trump card won’t be able to fight effectively with Pinkie around, especially if she gets in the way. I can’t lose their loyalty.

Shackles frowned the moment his eyes landed on Vinyl Scratch, who remained relaxed despite being surrounded and yawned. Great, Miss Undying is here. With her and Pinkie on Fluttershy’s side, the odds are no longer in my favour.

“Brother, are you feeling alright?” Chain asked in concern. “It's not like you to hesitate like this.”

Shackles growled at his brother before silencing him with a hoof. He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. I have nothing to gain from this confrontation and too much to lose. My best option is to withdraw from this pointless gamble. He smiled slightly. On the other hoof, maybe I can get something out of it if I play it smart.

“S-sir, forgive me for interrupting your contemplation,” said unicorn officer from behind a tree. “But we are awaiting your orders.”

Shackles took a calming breath before speaking in a commanding tone, “Maintain your position, but don’t fire unless they try to attack or escape. I need to have a word with the young pureblood.”

“Sir, yes sir.”

With his subordinate relaying his orders to rest of the hunters, Shackles approached with firm steps and a confident smile. “Miss Flutterbat.”

“Y-yes?”

“If you value your life and lives of your clan– no– the lives of your friends, I would advise you to cooperate.” He gestured over the hunters positioned on the trees. “If you try to attack or flee, they will shoot you.” He displayed a fake smile and added calmly, “However, for a small trade, you all will be unharmed and free to leave.”

“R-really?” Fluttershy asked in surprise.

***

“Don’t listen to him! I bet he’s trying to trick you!” Rainbow Dash shouted. “There must be a catch, or he’s just lying.”

“Calm down, Dash, he’s speakin’ the truth,” interrupted Applejack. “Ah know mah former boss well enough. He may be a lyin’ snake, but he’d always keep his end of the bargain.”

“I’ll take that as a complement,” Shackles said with a proud smile. “Cheating during a transaction can ruins one’s reputation, which will work poorly in the long run.” He glanced quickly at his approaching bodyguards. “But before we get down to business, I’ll generously allow the civilians to step aside.” He pointed at Pinkie and Dash before adding, “Pinkie and the rainbow pony, scram.”

“What? There’s no way I’ll leave my friends!”

“Ummm, Dash,” Fluttershy spoke up, but was quickly silenced by her friend’s outburst.

“No, Flutters. I know you’re worried about all of us, but don’t ask me to abandon our team.” She slammed her forehooves together. “I won’t leave your side, even if it means death. We went through a lot and we're in this together!”

Fluttershy nodded silently before looking to the side as her ears drooped. She felt the guilt weigh on her heart as she wished her friends weren’t quite so loyal, for their own good.

Maud Pie walked towards Pinkie, ignoring the hostile glares from Hawkeye and Big Mac. “Let’s go, please.”

“But… I can’t leave my friends. Especially when they’re in trouble,” Pinkie responded.

“Oh, so you can’t leave your friends?” Limestone said with a growing anger. She stomped and shouted, “But you didn’t hesitate to leave your family!”

Pinkie lowered her head.

“Pinkie, please,” Maud said, her tone of voice failing to display her worry.

Pinkie sighed and approached Maud, easily sensing the storm of emotions her sister was experiencing. She knew Maud well enough to know that getting hurt would break her sister’s heart. She glanced at ponies behind and said, “I’m sorry.”

“S’okay sugarcube, yer family’s important,” Applejack said.

“You have nothing to apologize for. If anything, I’m relieved that your well-being won’t be put at risk,” Fluttershy said with a warm smile, no longer as tense as a moment ago.

“Shut your mouth, monster. Stop pretending you care about our sister!” Limestone shouted as she pointed accusingly at Fluttershy. “You’re the one who put her at risk in the first place.”

Fluttershy looked at the ground and rubbed her foreleg nervously. “But… I’m not pretending… I’m sorry if I offended you.”

Shackles smiled, knowing that the loyalty of his ace fighters was assured with this one simple move. “Let’s start with some questions, Miss Flutterbat.”

“S-sure,” Fluttershy responded as she recovered her composure.

***

Still kind and innocent, it will make this so much easier. He sat a meter in front of Fluttershy and asked, “First and foremost, what brings you and your friends here? I’m certain you were aware of our presence and the risk involved.”

“I was, but I couldn’t stand aside and do nothing.”

“Let me guess. You came here to aid Nightmare Moon?” He asked calmly. As silence lasted for a few seconds, he added, “Speak the truth and I’ll show forgiveness.”

Fluttershy gulped and shook her head. “Your guess is wrong.”

“Really? Than please, enlighten me,” Shackles said, quickly noticing as his investment, Flutters, was rubbing the back of her neck.

“I came here hoping I could stop this conflict before Mistress Nightmare Moon…” she struggled to push words our of her throat, “...slaughters you all!”

“Excuse me?” Shackless blinked in confusion.

Chain took a step back while hunters started whispering to each other.

Fluttershy stood up and continued speaking in panic, “Please, abandon this mission! Nightmare Moon isn’t a pureblood but an over one millennium old alicorn. Your weapons will be inefficient and she may not show you mercy.”

Rarity gasped at the sudden outburst of her mistress. She looked at Dash and asked, “Was Shackles not responsible for killing Mistress’s family? Why does Fluttershy care about safety of that monster?”

Dash rolled her eyes. “That’s Fluttershy for you, the forgiveness is strong in her.”

Shackless kept staring at his investment in disbelief for a few seconds before closing his jaw. “You expect me to believe that you care for the lives of those who want your kind dead? Those who killed your family?”

“It isn’t easy for me, but what happened can’t be changed. Losing my family isn't an excuse to let many ponies lose theirs. To leave children without their fathers and mothers, or let husbands and wives lose their loves ones.” She took a quick breath and held forehooves together in a pleading gesture. “Please, you have to believe me.”

Shackles chuckled before bursting into laughter.

Chain lowered his head in guilt and rubbed grass with his foreleg.

“Hey, AJ,” Dash called as she landed next to the farm mare. “You know this pony better than we. Is this laughter a good or a bad sight?”

“Ah dunno. Ah never seen this snake laugh so hard before. It’s kinda creepy.”

Shackles wiped tears from his eyes before speaking, “You do realize we’ll just kill more thestrals in the future if we survive this encounter, yet you try to save us. Why not let us die instead?”

Fluttershy narrowed her eyes, flared her wings and stomped. “Killing isn’t a solution. If it were up to me, I would disarm you and lock you in prison until you could face a fair trial for your crimes. And I would do the same with the purebloods and thestrals who abuse their powers. However, I wouldn’t wish death on even my greatest enemy.”

She panted, taking a moment to calm down as her wings and ears drooped. “I know you hunt down many dangerous beasts. Many of the thestrals you killed were violent and a threat to non-thestral citizens. The ponies here aren’t fully at fault, the conflict between our races started it all. I just want it to end.”

Shackles clapped his hooves, much to Fluttershy’s surprise. “Impressive speech, Miss Flutterbat.” He looked to the side and added sarcastically, “Not that your bunch of misfits can make much of a difference, but I can’t deny your efforts and bravery.”

“Take that back!” Dash shouted.

“Alright, your bunch isn’t brave,” he said in a joking tone, receiving annoyed glare from the pegasus. He shrugged and continued, “Listen, kids. What’s happening tonight is way over your head. Go home and let the grown ups play their cards.” He turned his back to Fluttershy. “Just one more question before I let your bunch go. Can you tell me more about what or who is Nightmare Moon?”

“Mistress,” Rarity interrupted. “This may be an opportunity to show those hunters the correct direction. We should be honest.”

Fluttershy rubbed her chin before nodding, now understanding Rarity’s suggestions. “Alright.” She turned from Rarity to Shackles and said, “Nightmare Moon is just one part of Two-Faced-Princess. The other one is Luna and she’s Celestia’s sister.”

“Oh really,” Shackles said with a hint of curiosity.

“Nightmare Moon was considering a peaceful solution and was testing it in Ponyville. If you keep attacking her, she may wage a war instead.” Fluttershy looked at the camouflaged hunters. “If you wish to protect the innocent, you should withdraw or help your princess in Canterlot instead of fighting her sister.”

Applejack spoke up,” Didn’t ya get mah letter? Ah wrote ‘bout the mess in Canterlot? It was an emergency one so ya should’ve got it quickly.”

Murmurs arose among the hunters while Shackles analyzed the newly gained information. Every emergency message has a single-use magical rune which transports it directly to our leaders. There was more than enough time to inform us and redirect our efforts to Canterlot, yet somepony concealed the information. The big picture is becoming clearer.

He glanced at Fluttershy and gave her a satisfied smile. “Thank you for providing me with such valuable information. Sparing you is paying back tenfold.”

Fluttershy narrowed her eyes as her bat-like wings flapped in aggravation.

Shackles waved his foreleg at his subordinates. “We’re leaving. Regroup with the main force and wait for your instructions.”

“Brother,” Chain spoke up.

“Yes?”

“Can I… talk with Flutterbat?” Chain kept rubbing his foreleg nervously. “My squad and I… we want to confirm something.”

Shackles rolled his eyes. “Fine, but be quick about it.” He was about to walk by his brother, but stopped and whispered into his ear, “You won’t get far in this line of work if you let your conscience get in the way. You’d better get it in check before it makes you do something you’ll regret.”

***

Fluttershy’s ears twitched as she tilted her head to the side at Shackles’ furtive words, her attention now on Chain. That’s odd, though now that I think about it, Chain has been avoiding eye contact with us the whole time. He’s acting nothing like when he fought my father.

Half of the hunters left with Shackles while those still present sheathed their weapons and came out from hiding.

Fluttershy sighed in relief and wiped the sweat from her brow. Oh, that was tense. Maintaining my composure like that is hard. I’ll need at least an hour of petting and hugging to work all this stress out. She shook her head and looked at her clan members, banishing the image in her mind of herself buried among her little critters.

Rarity was using a fan with five small gems decorating it, sending cool air towards her sweating face.

The Apple family started talking with the earth pony hunters, as most of them were Apples, as well.

Rainbow Dash hovered in mid air and looked around as if expecting an ambush.

Vinyl lay on a nearby tree, napping. Fluttershy raised her eyebrow at the odd behaviour of her subordinate, yet deeply wished she could be as relaxed herself.

Pinkie finished waving at her departing sisters and bounced next to the line of trees, sharing a platter of cupcakes she pulled from her mane with the remaining hunters.

Ditzy clapped her hooves in excitement before assisting the party mare, accidently tripping and pushing Pinkie into the unfortunate pegasus, whose face was now covered in pink, crumb-filled icing beneath the two mares. She shook her head and displayed a sheepish grin as the nearby hunters responded with a hesitant chuckle.

Fluttershy rubbed her chin at the scene, now deep in thought. I don’t understand. Why are these hunters so calm and hesitant? There was way less aggression towards us…

“Excuse me.”

“Y-yes,” Fluttershy responded as her attention focused on Shackle’s brother, awoken from her inner thoughts. After a closer examination, Chain seemed so much smaller and less intimidating than the towering stallion she once saw when she was in a filly’s body.

“I want to… to… to apologize.”

“Wait, what?!” Fluttershy took a step back and raised her foreleg in surprise. Am I dreaming?” She rubbed her eyes, but the scenery didn’t change in the slightest. It's too surreal. No way this is happening.

“I… we want to apologize for attacking your family's mansion,” Chain said as his ears drooped. A few nearby hunters took off their night goggles and nodded with saddened expressions.

Rainbow Dash landed in front of the stallion and shouted, “You’re sorry? Yeah, right, what kind of game are you playing?”

Chain sat and shook his head. “This isn’t a game. A lot has happened in the past few years at the guild. Enough to open my eyes.”

“Ah’d say he’s speakin’ the truth,” Applejack said as she approached with a few earth pony hunters whose features were no longer hidden under their camouflaging uniforms. Their cutie-marks were apple-related. “Turns out Shackles’ attempts to get in power made lotsa hunters question the guild’s intentions.”

Rarity raised an eyebrow. “Might I ask why neither you, nor Big macintosh knew nothing about it?”

Applejack stomped and rolled her eyes. “Gimme a break. Ah was avoidin’ the guild as much as Ah could, remember?”

A pony with six orange slices as a cutie-mark spoke up, “To be fair, this Apple here was never chatty with folks at the guild.” He poked Applejack’s side. “Not much has changed.”

Applejack laughed sarcastically. “Haha, very funny.”

Rarity asked, “And what of your family reunions?”

“We talk ‘bout lotsa stuff at our reunions, but never ‘bout our secret job,” Applejack explained.

“Eeyup,” Big Mac said with a firm nod.

Hawkeye opened his mouth, but was silenced quickly by several glances as hunters from Apple family surrounded him, following it with a rain of questions. “One question at a time, please,” he plead, unsure how to explain his survival. Being turned into a thestral and telling about it to fellow hunters was unheard of, especially without being impaled by a silver weapon.

Fluttershy sat and glanced at Chain curiously with her tail wrapped around her forelegs for additional warmth. Her cape was flapping against the wind. “When you and your squad killed the residents of my mansion and attacked my father, I witnessed most of the fight.”

“You did?” Chain asked and bit his lip.

“I used Veil of Darkness to hide my and Dash’s presence. We watched from the corner of the bedroom as my dad kept sparing your lives.” She continued with sharp voice, “Yet, you were oh so stubborn with your beliefs, shouting insults and refusing to listen to reason. What could possibly have changed?”

***

Chain sighed and looked away, taking a deep breath before looking back at the pureblood. “When I joined the guild, I truly believed that we were protecting innocent. I never thought there would be an exception among our enemies.” He raised his head and looked back at Fluttershy. “However, one can’t be blindly loyal forever with brother like Shackles.”

He glanced between Fluttershy’s clan members and said, “Don’t look at me like that. I know he’s greedy and has climbed up to the top on the corpses of others, but he’s certainly not stupid. Where most see only innocent ponies and evil monsters, he sees a way bigger picture. Working under him has taught me alot and I passed this knowledge to those willing to listen.”

He stood up and approached Fluttershy, who in response took a defensive stance. Rainbow Dash hovered above Fluttershy while displaying a suspicious stare.

“I learned that just like ponies, purebloods can be both good and evil. Also, not all thestrals are corrupted or brainwashed.” Chain's tone of voice became sharper as he continued, “Yet, even good purebloods expand their influence with trickery and manipulation. Even if they treat their servants with respect, they still turn ponies against their will.”

“Now we’re talking,” Vinyl said from her semi-comfortable spot on a tree, startling Chain whose head snapped towards her. “My former bosses and their followers weren’t proud of such actions, yet they found them necessary to keep up with competition and hunters. I bet after a few centuries they got used to it way too much. Your guild only added more wood into the fire, and oh boy, it sure is a hot one.”

“Agreed,” Pinkie said as her head emerged from leaves on the tree. “How about you all stop being mean to each other and do what I and Fluttershy do?” She spread her forelegs cheerfully and shouted, “Befriend everypony and every-non-pony!” Confetti fell from the sky, much to hunters surprise.

Chain put on his night vision to take a better look. “If only it were that easy. Old grudges don’t die overnight.”

“Of course it won’t be easy, but fighting each other only makes everything worse. Distrust and hate fuels this conflict, and it won't stop until both sides break this cycle,” Fluttershy said as she smacked one forehoof against another.

Chain shrugged. “I don’t know if it is too late for most thestrals and hunters, but your family was an exception. They followed their beliefs to their grave.”

“Low blow,” Dash interrupted.

“I didn’t mean to offend you.” Chain took a few steps forward and lowered his head. “I offer my condolences and apology. Hurt me all you want, there won’t be any consequences.”

***

Fluttershy stomped, leaving a dent in the ground. Thus far she struggled to contain her emotions, fearing her anger would only provoke the enemy. Being given permission to unleash her anger and a few punches upon the one who fought her father and his friends was quite tempting. She choked out, “Hurt you?”

Chain raised his head and nodded before pointing at his face. “I know an apology isn’t enough, and I can tell you were struggling to contain a lot of anger. You and your clan are no longer in danger, so hit me all you want.”

“Do you even know what you’re asking?” Fluttershy asked, “If I let my self-control slip, I don’t know what will happen.”

Dash asked, “Can I punch him for you, pleaseee?”

Chain stomped. “Stop hiding your anger.” He raised his forehoof and held it to his chest. “I killed many residents of your mansion and weakened your father, which lead to his death!”

Fluttershy’s pupils shrank as something in her snapped.

“Hit me, get even. I know you want to!”

Fluttershy jumped forward, pinning Chain against the grass with her forelegs while the other hunters looked away from the scene before them. She exposed her fangs threateningly and hissed. “Fine! We’ll get even. You and your bullies came to my home and ruined my life. You killed all our servants and friends, and my mom and dad. You meanies didn’t even listen to their pleas!” She took a quick breath as her eyes teared up.

Chain’s shock faded as he smiled and closed his eyes, awaiting for blows.

Fluttershy continued yelling, “All we wished for was to be left alone, to use our powers to help society in secret and stay out of this ongoing conflict!” She stomped, leaving a hole in the ground next to Chain's head. “Do you think we can get even if you let me hurt you? Well, you’re wrong. You won’t earn my forgiveness that way. It won’t bring my family and friends back!” Her wings started flapping and legs shaking. "If you want to silence your own guilt with pain," she snarled and pressed her muzzle against his, eye to eye, "you've got another thing coming! AM I CLEAR?"

Chain gulped and nodded hesitantly.

Fluttershy stepped from Chain and pulled him by his foreleg to a sitting position. “If you want to make amends, you’ll do it with actions rather than physical punishment.”

“A-actions?” Chain asked in confusion. The wrath of the pureblood he’d hurt in the past ending up being nothing like what he had expected. “But what can we do?”

Hawkeye whispered to Applejack, “Our mistress sure can get scary if angered.”

“She sure can. Though angry or not, she’s as peaceful as ever.”

Rainbow Dash placed a wing on Fluttershy’s back, who took a few calming breaths.

Fluttershy fixed her mane and saddlebag before speaking, “First and foremost, you and your followers must survive. My father spared your lives and you shouldn’t waste it on a lost fight against an alicorn.”

Chain nodded. “I’m certain survival is something my whole squad will agree on.” He glanced at his followers who nodded firmly. As dedicated as they were to the cause, they hadn’t lost their self-preservation instincts. Risking their lives for a pointless endeavour was anything but inviting.

“Furthermore, you should at least try to stop fighting my kind.” Fluttershy’s ears drooped. “I know that there are dangerous purebloods and thestrals out there. Even good ones who wish for peace still abuse their powers and turn ponies against their will. Yet, if the past centuries has proved anything, it was that hunting them only worsened the situation.”

“And what else can be done?” Chain asked curiously. “Purebloods and thestrals live by their own rules. Not even Princess Celestia can enforce laws upon them. Like I said before, your family was the only exception I know.”

Fluttershy smiled and said with growing enthusiasm. “Mistress Nightmare Moon can take charge of all clans like Luna did in the past. They can make and enforce rules for our kind. If this happens, purebloods and thestrals will be judged in courts fairly rather than hunted in this pointless conflict. We purebloods have always followed our traditions and a strict code and will enforce Nightmare’s rules on each other.”

Vinyl jumped from the tree without any noise and said, “Now that’s an outcome I can get behind.”

Rainbow Dash clenched her teeth, wishing for her hoof to make contact with DJ’s face.

Upon not receiving any response from Chain, Fluttershy continued, “I don’t know what will happen, but Equestria as we know it will change soon. I’m unsure how much my clan and I can accomplish, but we’ll do our best to keep Mistress Nightmare Moon from going on the warpath.” She pointed at Chain and added, “If you and your followers could stay neutral or help in Canterlot, it would help our cause.”

Chain chuckled while raising his forehoof up to his mouth. “I believe your wish will be granted soon, and my brother will be the one to fulfill it.”

“Huh… what do you mean?” Dash asked, now sitting next to the young pureblood. “Why and how would that jerk help us in the first place?”

“That’s simple. He has been considering a mutiny against our leaders for some time now. All he needs is an excuse and a little push.”

Fluttershy asked, “Munity?” She blinked in confusion. “Would you explain… if you don’t mind that is.” She rubbed edge of her tail between forehooves.

Chain nodded. “As I said before, my brother isn’t stupid. He could tell that something wrong was happening in our guild.”

“Meanin’?” Applejack asked as all clan members with exception of Vinyl approached Fluttershy. “Ah mean, besides the obvious.”

Chain looked around nervously. “We’ve been wasting too much time, so I’ll try to be brief. My brother believes that our leaders attain information from untrustworthy sources and don't even tell us most of that in the first place. They knew about Nightmare Moon’s return, and gathered hunters from all over Equestria near Ponyville a few hours ago. They even refused to follow important procedures and told us that Nightmare is a pureblood. Talking with you only confirmed his suspicions.” He took a quick breath. “I don’t know what he’ll do after we capture the guild leaders, but facing an alicorn is out of the question.”

Fluttershy closed her eyes and smiled brightly, exposing her fangs.

Hawkeye raised an eyebrow and asked, “What kind of procedures did yer leaders abandon?” Memories of his life as an elite hunter surfaced.

Chain nodded. “They refused to give all the hunters check-ups to ensure they weren't turned into thestrals or brainwashed. Not to mention that many hunters I failed to recognize were enlisted in this operation. The excuse for this was that we were short on time and needed to take immediate action.”

“It's kind of concernin’,” Hawkeye murmured to himself.

Rarity spoke up, “To be fair, taking action on such scale with only a few hours at their disposal does seem difficult.”

“And what if they purposely delayed this operation?” Chain asked. “What if they knew about Nightmare Moon’s return for days, about her being an alicorn and the troubles in Canterlot?” He turned around and gestured for his squad to gather together. “I need to join my brother and help him expose what lies behind the curtain. I’m certain that you have given him enough reasons to do so.”

“Wait!” Fluttershy called as she ran closer to Chain. ”If what you say is true, there may be many thestrals among your rank. What if they interfere?”

Chain glanced at Pinkie Pie and answered, “Shackles predicted such a possibility, which is why he has the Pie sisters guarding him at all times. He made sure they weren’t turned behind our leader’s back.”

“Oh…” Pinkie said. “Makes sense. I hope Maud and Limestone will be safe.”

Chain shot Fluttershy a smile. “Thank you for your understanding. I’m rooting for you. I hope the next time we meet, we won’t be on opposing sides.”

“So do I,” Fluttershy responded with a firm nod as she raised her forehoof towards her former enemy. He shook it in return before continuing on his way once more.

Rainbow Dash smiled proudly as she observed Fluttershy. “You’ve become a great peace-bringer, Flutters. Color me impressed.” Her attention quickly shifted towards the relaxed musician, the very one who brought this life-threatening experience upon them. “Though I cannot help but feel that somepony wasn’t honest with us this whole time.”

Applejack glanced at Vinyl with angered glare and nodded. “Agreed.”

Vinyl waved her forehoof dismissively. “Chill, girls. I set this up based on intel I gathered in the past few years. I knew that the doubts the hunters had would give our boss a perfect opportunity.”

Rainbow Dash grit her teeth and slammed one forehoof against another. “No more excuses! You and I need to have a talk. Right now! And don’t think you get out of it without a solid punishment.”

The musician chuckled nervously.

Confrontations - Motivation

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 4

Confrontations

Part 3 - Motivation

Celestia took a teacup between her trembling hooves, her magic no longer available to her. The heavy ring on her horn was a reminder of that. Dancing flames on a few candles on the table table lit the room, being the only source of light inside her prison cell.

Not having access to her precious sun for so long, as well as transferring part of her magic to Cadence after a long battle, left her greatly weakened. Only her strong will and buckets of water kept her awake and in a sitting position as sleep called to her insistently.

Slow sips of tea felt pleasant as the warm liquid entered her dry throat. Bits of sugar provided her with bits of energy she so needed.

In front of her was a pureblood whose actions led to her defeat. I knew killing purebloods in the past would fuel the wrath of their children. If vengeance is what he wants, I must take him away from my subjects, she thought before saying, “I am truly sorry.”

Moon Shadow lowered his glass of blood onto the table and asked, “What for?”

“For taking the lives of your parents. If you can show forgiveness to my little ponies, I will do whatever you want of me. Just give me a chance to atone for my crime.”

Moon Shadow raised an eyebrow. “You have nothing to apologize for. I would do the same in your horseshoes.” Celestia withdrew her head backward, surprised by such a response. He continued, “Do not get the wrong idea. I was enraged when I found out what you did and I swore vengeance. It took a few centuries before my mind ascended above such petty desire, and even now, a small part of me still hungers for revenge, but so far I have been able to keep it under control.”

Celestia kept staring at her captor while trying to comprehend what she just heard. She placed her forehooves on the table and asked, “If vengeance is not the reason behind tonight’s attack, what was?”

Moon Shadow raised his glass filled with blood and drank it slowly with his teeth, savoring each drop for at least a minute. Celestia lowered her forelegs to the floor and waited patiently. Remaining calm was top priority in her current circumstances.

The pureblood lowered an empty glass and smiled in satisfaction. “As I sought a means to defeat you, I learned much about the history of my race. Over time I learned how flawed we were. In other words, I learned that you were not the only one to blame for my parents’ death. It was also their weakness that led to their demise.”

“Weakness? I killed them only because they were growing too powerful,” Celestia interrupted.

Moon Shadow shook his head as his face displayed pity. “Being powerful doesn’t make one competent or mighty. Power is useless if used poorly.” He chuckled. “To be honest, those possessing power who fail to use it are even more worthless than those who are weaker but prevail against the odds.”

A thestral maid opened a bottle with blood and filled Shadow’s empty glass before refilling Celestia’s cup with tea. Moon Shadow pushed the glass to the side as it shattered against a wall, decorating the floor with glass fragments while painting the rusty wall in red stain.

“Purebloods in the past were pathetic and self-centered. They got what they deserved!”

Celestia maintained her composure, not flinching at the sudden outburst of her captor. Her firm and judging mask of a ruler she mastered over centuries once again hid any outward sign of her emotions. Yet her heart rate betrayed her shock.

“Individuals who aren’t eager to cooperate and are unable to show initiative whenever crisis arises deserve a humiliating defeat!” He took a calming breath. “Sombra was the first to take charge, yet his foolishness and greed led to his downfall. After his fall, purebloods turned to Luna for leadership and protection. She united them and gave them a goal to work for.”

He groaned. “Yet, purebloods of the past lacked skills and determination. When Equestria turned against my kind, they were too weak and incompetent to help Nightmare Moon win.”

Celestia interrupted, “I was against this conflict from the start as I trusted my sister, but my subjects were aggravated. Wendigos killed thousands before Equestria was formed. Only one century passed before Discord’s reign of chaos.” She took a quick breath as she kept talking restlessly. “When Luna and I ascended into alicorns and sealed Discord with the Elements, we tried to bring back order to Equestria while protecting our subj–”

“Enough!” Moon Shadow interrupted with a stomp, leaving a deep hoof-mark on the dusty floor. In the meanwhile, the maid entered the prison cell with a new glass. “I know everything. Sombra’s attack on the Crystal Empire and regular monster attacks after you overthrow his reign. Your subjects’ distrust towards us was justified since our ancestors tried to take over the Crystal Empire. I don’t hold a grudge.”

Celestia nodded hesitantly, deciding to listen for now. His motivations are an enigma. I must learn more to have hope for any negotiations.

Moon Shadow drank some blood from his new glass before wiping his mouth with a napkin. He continued, “One side proved that they can’t be trusted, while another felt fear and demanded safety. Ponies are a source of blood and servants for us while banishing thestrals from Equestria would kill a majority of them from hunger. There was no way to satisfy both sides, and this is what makes conflict inevitable. Only the leadership of Nightmare Moon kept us united.”

He took a quick breath, his ears lowered, wings spread and eyes narrowed. “Yet, when you banished Nightmare Moon, purebloods showed their weakness. They retreated and hid, everypony for themselves. None was capable of taking the lead, none was willing to cooperate. Some even wasted their strength competing with each other for what was left of our territory. Equestria proved superior and deserved victory.”

Equestria deserved victory? I am slowly starting to understand who I am dealing with, Celestia thought.

Moon Shadow pointed at the alicorn. “As the ruler of this nation, you did the correct thing. You led your subjects to battle, banished your sister who betrayed you and hunted down strongest purebloods before they could become a threat.” He clapped his hooves in applause. “Your actions were quick and decisive, as actions of a ruler should be.”

Celestia narrowed her eyes as her neutral mask started to crack. Being praised for doing something she regretted for centuries only fueled her anger and guilt.

“Yet, even a strong leader like you has its flaws. You spared younger purebloods and their clans while hiding their existence from the generations to come. Your hope for peace and consciousness gave us an opening to hide, regroup, grow stronger and invade this very night. You hesitated and look where it led you.”

“How dare you?!” Celestia snapped, alarming the guards at the entrance as the result, but Cornerstone calmed them down. “To wish death on your kind is cruel. What kind of twisted logic do you follow?” Her battered wings flapped in aggravation.

Moon Shadow rolled his eyes. “I am only stating the truth. A mighty race shows initiative, masters their skills and nurtures their power. A strong kingdom is united and ready for sacrifices to accomplish a common goal and crush their enemies. A good leader never hesitates to take firm actions and knows that end justifies the means.”

He smirked upon seeing furrowed forehead on the alicorn. “I knew that even without the sun, you would still kill many of my followers. I sacrificed Fleur de Lis to use your conscience against you, reducing my losses. By sacrificing one life, I saved many.” He shrugged. “I almost thought I failed as half of the purebloods disappeared in your solar flames. At least until I was informed that you secretly banished most of them from Canterlot. Such an irony that Cadence, the weakest of the alicorns, killed three purebloods, while you killed only Fleur.”

Celestia looked to the side. So he thinks that I killed Fleur? Good. I hope that Twilight or Luna healed her in time. She sighed and spoke as calmly as she could, “If I understand your logic, your decisive actions ensured your victory, while my hesitation and your cunning reduced your losses. By sacrificing one pureblood you saved many?”

“I see you’re beginning to understand. Hesitation was our downfall in the past, and now it became yours. For centuries I strengthened purebloods and their clans all over Equestria while eradicating this flaw from myself and my followers.” He raised his head arrogantly. “Tonight we are superior.”

“You haven’t won yet,” Celestia said, much to her captor’s annoyance. “You took over Canterlot, but Equestria will resist. Cadence now possesses half of my magic and her Crystal Guards were trained to fight your kind since Sombra’s death, similar to monster hunters who will only grow in numbers in response to your invasion. The Royal Guard is mobilized and my sister will overthrow your rule.” Much to her surprise, Moon Shadow laughed. “Are you too arrogant to see your own downfall?”

“Quite the opposite. You’re not informed enough to see that there’s no hope for you to win. Allow me to enlighten you.”

Celestia took a teacup between her forehooves and responded with a challenging glare, “I am listening.” She flapped her wings in discomfort, still feeling marks from chains on them and on her legs. Her physical strength partially returned.

“As you wish, fallen princess.” Moon Shadow bowed his head politely. “Let's start with monster hunters. You probably think of them as citizens who learned about thestrals and united to fight them.” He grinned. “But in reality, they are my creation.”

“You are lying,” Celestia said firmly. “What would you possibly gain from creating enemies?”

“More than you think,” Moon Shadow answered. “To train myself, my clan, all purebloods and thestrals in Equestria, I needed enemies. They needed to be strong enough to force us to act, yet too weak to defeat us or cause lasting harm.” His eyes flashed red as blood escaped his glass and started floating in circles over the room. “I controlled leaders with blood hypnosis, provided them with information and targets while limiting their actions if they became too much of a threat.”

The princess frowned. “Even so, this still cost the lives of many thestrals and put clans at risk.”

“Precisely. Their hunters eliminated the weak and useless, all the while strengthening the strong.” Blood levitated into his teeth as he licked his lips. “Century after century, purebloods were forced to improve their skills and replace dead clan members. Only pushed to our limits we could become a stronger race.” He rubbed his chest with a hoof. “We’re united, cunning, competent and lead large clans. Now a five-hundred years old battle-hardened pureblood is capable of defeating eight hundred centuries old pureblood from the past. The weak have been purged and the strong have taken their place.”

The alicorn narrowed her eyes and said with venom in her voice, “You created an organization that was killing your race just to strengthen those who would survive? Does your cruelty have no limits?”

“Tss, tss, tss,” Moon Shadow interrupted with a shake of his forehoof. “Says the princess who throws her own students into the river to teach them how to swim. Do you think I didn’t know about trials you force upon them? Your secret lessons, withholding information and manipulative challenges.”

Celestia groaned as her ears drooped.

“Truth hurts, does it? Your teaching methods may be tamer when compared to mine, but in the end we have something in common. Twilight Sparkle is but one example.”

“Don’t you dare!” Celestia shouted as her forelegs started to tremble.

“Your pair of the most talented students Equestria has ever seen, Sunset and Tempest were their names… I heard one of them lost her horn and the other one nearly lost her life because you put too much faith in their skills.”

“Enough!” Celestia shouted as she stood to her hooves while resisting the urge to slam them at the table.

“You gave them dangerous tasks, didn’t warn about the risk and interfered too late. You took too many risky gambles with those who trusted you. The problem with gambling against the odds is that sooner or later, you lose. Sunset and Tempest leaving Canterlot while hating you was a price to pay.”

“I take it you had spies among my castle staff to learn about it,” Celestia said in an attempt to change the unpleasant subject.

Moon Shadow shook his head. “If I had spies among your servants, I would personally recruit those mares. Regrowing Tempest’s horn in exchange for her loyalty would be a child’s play.” He grinned. “I would use their anger towards you to make them fight you tonight and break your spirit.”

“Then how do you know?” Celestia asked as she sat back onto her cushion, now more curious than angry. “What happened to them?”

“Fancy Pants was in charge of the Canterlot clan. He simply offered Tempest to restore her horn and Sunset to heal her permanent injuries in exchange for their neutrality.” He shrugged. “As for their whereabouts, I don’t know. They either live in a secluded area or left Equestria's borders.”

Celestia sighed in relief, yet guilt was still eating her from the inside. In order to unleash her students’ full potential, she more than once took a risk. Sunset and Tempest’s injury was the main reason she was more careful with Twilight. At least I know that Tempest can use her magic again. I hope she’s safe wherever she is.

“To be honest, I always had trouble understanding your teaching methods. Instead of sharing responsibility between all of your subjects to keep your kingdom strong and safe, you put a heavy burden on a selected elite and make them face dangerous challenges, just to let other citizens have a carefree life in luxury.”

Celestia answered calmly, “I needed ponies who would keep Equestria safe should I fail. My power is not absolute.”

Moon Shadow massaged his forehead. “There’s one flaw you haven’t considered. Your little ponies always look up to you and your selected elite for protection, yet they are useless on their own. While your captain and student are powerful and capable of facing the odds, the Royal Guard is a joke.” He turned towards the entrance. “Stonehoof, come inside.”

Noise of armored hooves stepping on the old floor echoed in the room. “Look at their might,” Moon Shadow said as he approached his guard and swung his forehoof at him with great force.

The massive shield used to block his strike broke into four fragments while the floor under guard’s hooves cracked in many spots. The earth pony thestral stood up on his shaking hooves with a hoof-mark on his foreleg.

“Just one of my followers can defeat ten of yours.” He chuckled. “On second thought, I think I am a bit to generous for your incompetent guards. Won’t you agree?”

Celestia looked to the side. I cannot deny it. My guards are mostly for show. I let centuries of peace to soften my army.

“Now, do you understand? Without you, the Royal Guard is useless while monster hunters are mine to control.” He gestured for his guard to return to his post. The fact that he pulled it off without tripping over was a show of great strength and durability.

“What about my sister? She may hate me for what I did, but she will disapprove of your regime,” Celestia pointed out.

The pureblood returned to his cushion and took another sip from his glass before sending his maids to bring them something to eat. “In the ruins of your old castle, Fancy Pants and I, we meet Nightmare Moon. I offered her an army to conquer, while my honorable rival offered support in peaceful negotiations with you. Guess what she chose.”

Celestia rubbed her chin. “She did not choose war, or else she would assist in fighting me.” She narrowed her eyes. “My sister must have wished for peace and you betrayed her.” She studied her captor's expression carefully while waiting for an answer.

Moon Shadow smashed his hoof against the table, breaking it into pieces. “She chose neither! She decided to visit random towns to learn if your subjects have changed, starting with Ponyville.”

Celestia’s eyes opened widely as she pushed aside fragments of the wooden table which landed on her a moment ago. “Then why did you invade? I thought your kind still respected my sister for everything she did.”

“Because she hesitated! It would take days or weeks before she would decide between war and peace, and time is a luxury she didn’t have.”

Celestia took a step back as her pupils shrank. “You feared hesitation would lead to another defeat and took actions behind my sister’s back!”

“Precisely. I am fully aware that the Elements are calling upon their future bearers so they can banish our queen back to the moon. Furthermore, you and Cadence with numbers alone would overpower Nightmare Moon and lock her in a dungeon. Her control over the sun can’t last long and we would be unable to protect her if she lost it.” He shook his head. “I couldn’t let history repeat itself. I worked too hard to take such a risk.”

Celestia closed her eyes and grit her teeth as her eyes watered. “I only wished to purge Luna from her corruption, not banish her.” She took a deep breath as tears started sliding down her cheeks. “When I used the Elements, they failed because I could not use them without my sister’s help. They banished Nightmare Moon, turned into stone-like orbs and refused to heed my call ever since.”

Moon Shadow shook his head. “Luna is not corrupted. She and Nightmare Moon are two faces of our Queen. One wrathful and one merciful. Yet, Fancy Pants provided you with anonymous letters. He wanted you to unlock the Elements in case Nightmare Moon would become insane from her isolation. I had to act before his plan would succeed and fight for leadership.”

Celestia lowered her head, now staring at fragments of the table in front of her forehooves. Now I understand. I abandoned my plans to send Twilight to Ponyville to unleash the Elements against my sister and instead told her to surrender Ponyville, just to prevent purebloods from starting a war. Yet, Moon Shadow started this war because he was afraid I would use the Elements against my sister or capture her with force. This is such a cruel irony.

She asked, “You started this war and took over Canterlot, but what will you do if Nightmare Moon will not approve of this invasion and turn against you?”

Moon Shadow walked through leftovers of the table and looked Celestia in the eyes. His size was similar to the size of an alicorn who was only a few centimeters taller. “I ordered leaders of the guild to send all their forces against Nightmare Moon while telling them she’s a pureblood.”

Celestia took a step back and raised her foreleg defensively. “Why would you do such a thing after all you did to protect her?”

“Simple. If Nightmare Moon is as powerful as you, which I don’t doubt, she’ll eradicate those pests with ease. Not only will it convince her that you ponies aren’t interested in peace, but all members capable of fighting thestrals will die. I even snuck some of my servants into their ranks to supervise the battle and ensure that all hunters die and to ensure Nightmare’s safety.”

Moon Shadow placed forehoof on his forehead, hiding part of his face as weak laughter escaped his mouth. Second after second, his laughter became more intense, almost becoming maniacal. It became clear that for this one moment, the leader of the mighty purebloods dropped his calm act, just enjoying himself. “As for leaders who are under my control, they are setting fire to the guild’s headquarters as we speak.” He cleared his throat. “My apologies for my outburst. It was unbecoming of me.”

Mirage didn’t think it was going to end this way for her. She was just a normal unicorn when her parents were killed by vamponies. When she was offered a chance to deliver justice to those who killed her family, she took it without hesitation. What a fool I’ve been... she thought in her mind as she helped pour oil all over the office she had been using for years, one fireball away from turning everything to ashes. Alongside her were August Rush, an orange earth pony, and Valiant, a male pegasus with a blue mane and silver coat.

The three of them were the leaders of a guild... a guild built on nothing but lies.

It was like being in a movie theater, only in chains and unable to escape. For years, she had been forced to see her body and mouth move under the control of the very pureblood that ruined her life when she was a child. She had been nothing more than a tool in his sick game. All those ponies I sent to their deaths... all those that I killed…

She hoped that somepony woulda stop him. Whatever afterlife was after this one, Mirage hoped that she would see him fall from above and burn in the darkest layers of Tartarus upon his death. Her two fellow ‘leaders’ were also pouring the oil. Like herself, they looked emotionless and didn’t say anything, but she knew deep down they were panicking, unable to save themselves.

Mirage was scared too at first. She didn’t want to die either, but after so many years of being a slave she was welcoming it. I just wish it wasn’t from burning.

Once the last of the cans were empty, she and the others met in the center. Her horn flared to life and a single spark of flames dropped down below.

Even under control, she screamed as did the other two as the flames overtook their bodies and their room. Every single inch of her was in an utter pain as she felt her flesh burn, her bones melt. Mirage didn’t bother fighting anymore. There was no point. As she felt herself fall, her burning pain soon faded into a cold lasting embrace.

The last sight she saw before she left this world was the flag of Equestria, her home, burning to ashes.

Celestia’s throat became dry. Ever since she learned about the hunters, she disapproved of their actions and marked their organization as illegal, yet didn’t take any further action against them. With hunters acting behind her back and purebloods viewing her as an enemy, she decided not to interfere, secretly hoping the hunters will keep thestrals from growing in numbers at the expense of her subjects.

The realization that they were but tools to prepare the enemy for tonight’s invasion struck her like a hammer. How could I be so blind… All those ponies and fighting, all that suffering…

“I see you’re speechless. Not that I can blame you,” Moon Shadow said with a smirk before returning to his cushion. His maid who entered the prison cell with two plates with food blinked in confusion upon seeing fragments of the table scattered over the room. Cornerstone rolled his eyes before they flashed brightly. Bits of blood from a bottle in Maid’s possession levitated towards the wood and merged it into a table. “Thank you.”

Celestia shook her head and wiped her watered eyes before asking. “What about Cadence and her Crystal Guard? You know they are a force to be reckoned with.”

“They are indeed,” Moon Shadow said with a nod as plates filled with food were levitated onto the table, from simple hay sandwiches to elaborate dinners that the castle chefs have always made for her. “I doubt Nightmare Moon will show interest in conquering the Crystal Empire, but should they try to retake Equestria, I am more than eager to face them on the battlefield.”

He pointed at the alicorn. “Besides, you were the biggest obstacle in my way. With you chained and my forces nearly unharmed, I have gained a major advantage.” He smiled. “Though I should thank you for your sudden pacifism. It made everything so much easier.”

Celestia sighed as she picked up a hay sandwich and took a bite. Her chewing was slow as she analyzed gathered information. Her adversary started eating as well with blood icing on every dish.

Two minutes of eating passed as the maid wiped leftovers from the princess’s face with a tissue. Celestia glanced at Moon Shadow as her anger was replaced with sadness, which she no longer hid behind her neutral mask. “Everything was pointless.”

“Excuse me?” Moon Shadow asked curiously as he lowered a slice of cake and placed it on his plate.

“You claim that hesitation is a weakness and proved it with examples I cannot deny. Yet, you are going for the opposite extreme,” Celestia said calmly as the sad tone didn’t leave her voice. “Taking actions too quickly lead to mistakes as you do not give yourself enough time to consider all options and outcomes of your decisions.”

“Are you trying to lecture me?” Moon Shadow asked before crossing his foreleg. “In that case, go ahead, amuse me. I shall listen to your wisdom before deciding if it is worth anything, considering your recent failures.”

Celestia ignored the clear insult and nodded. “In the past, purebloods proved to be very loyal to Luna and were willing to serve Equestria and follow our rules, yet ponies were too paranoid after Discord’s reign and especially after Sombra’s invasion, and didn’t give them a chance they deserved.” After taking a quick sip from her tea and clearing her throat, she continued, “Yet, over centuries, next generations became more peaceful and understanding. I believe they would overlook feeding habits of your kind and overcome their fears.”

She pointed at Moon Shadow as her voice became more serious. “However, your attempt to make purebloods more organized and dependable also made them more violent, cunning and merciless.” She asked, “Should Nightmare Moon decide to unite purebloods and their clans with the rest of Equestria peacefully, how would she accomplish that after your actions?”

“You believe I didn’t think of that? You once again underestimate me.” Moon Shadow raised his head arrogantly. “Let’s say that I tracked a very peaceful pureblood family and tested them. And while the older ones refused to fight back and got themselves killed, their child passed trial after trial while remaining loyal to her peaceful ideals.” He smiled proudly. “She always seeked a peaceful solution, created a clan of her own from different species and even recruited her enemies who tried to kill her. She goes by name: Flutterbat, or for citizens of Ponyville, Miss Fluttershy.”

Celestia’s eyes widened. “F-Fluttershy…” Her heart rate increased as she wondered if what her captor was saying was true. Does this mean that a candidate chosen by the Element of Kindness... is a pureblood? She asked with growing anger, “Were you responsible for her death?”

Moon Shadow shook his forehoof dismissively. “Oh, you wound me. Why would I kill somepony who braved all my trials with great results? No, she’s sleeping peacefully in her grave after surpassing my expectations. Nightmare Moon with her power over dreams is capable of awakening her at any moment, should she choose peace.” He smirked. “Lady Fluttershy would be way more helpful in achieving peace than Fancy Pants and Fleur. Trust me on this. All I did was get rid of her parents who were holding her back.”

“I see…” the princess said hesitantly. “So you planned ahead and prepared in advance.”

The pureblood nodded. “Indeed. If only our two-faced Queen, Mistress Nightmare Moon made her decision when we met her, I wouldn’t be forced to take drastic actions and fight my mighty rivals for leadership.”

Celestia sighed as her ears drooped. She lowered her head and said, “This is so sad…”

“Sad? Are you referring to your defeat?”

The alicorn shook her head. “I am sad because all your efforts, all this pain and suffering was for nothing.” She raised her head and looked into the red and confused eyes of her adversary. “When I was warned that you and your army would invade Canterlot, I decided to not use the Elements and was even willing to surrender to Nightmare Moon, just to avoid unnecessary bloodshed.”

“W-what?” Moon Shadow asked, now caught off guard.

“You strengthened your kind and provided Nightmare Moon with means to achieve an easy victory. My student was tasked to surrender Ponyville to Nightmare Moon.”

“Y-you… you lie!” Moon Shadow shouted as he stood up to his hooves. His brother’s ears straightened upward as he started to listen to the conversation with growing interest.

“Why would I?” Celestia asked with tears once against escaping from her eyes. “This invasion and all your attempts to protect Nightmare Moon was an unnecessary endeavour.” She held a forehoof on her chest and continued, “I felt great guilt for what I did to my sister and your kind while my subjects have changed over centuries. I was willing to set things right peacefully. You should know; you used my conscience against me in combat.”

Moon Shadow’s eye twitched as his breathing became rapid while sweat started forming on his face. His guards approached, looking at him in worry. “Are you saying… that I took actions behind my Mistress’s back... for nothing?” He raised his trembling forelegs and looked at his hooves. “Fancy Pants… Lady Fleur… I sacrificed them… for nothing?” He grit his teeth in anger.

“You sound as if they were important to you.” She winced in pain as she was pressed against the wall with a single hoof. Her captor stood on rear hooves and glared daggers at her.

“Important? Of course they were important! They were my rivals for centuries, my equals. They were mighty purebloods who deserved to share my rule.” He released the alicorn who started to take desperate breaths. “Sacrificing them was something I did with great pain. Pretending otherwise was anything but easy.” He slammed his forehoof against the wall next to Celestia’s head with a loud thump as the alicorn flinched to the side.

“B-brother…” Compersone said as he approached and placed forehoof on Shadow’s shoulder, who in response pushed him away. After reasserting himself, he asked, “Please, calm yourself before you’ll hurt or worse, kill our prisoner.”

Moon Shadow took a few calming breaths as he struggled to keep his eyes from producing tears. He kept his face out of sight from his servants, staring at the wall. “I need some time alone. Our talk is over. Put her back in chains and lock this cell tightly,” he said in commanding tone before turning around and walking outside. His maids saluted and levitated the alicorn towards the wall while two guards put chains on her four legs and both wings.

Celestia glanced at Cornerstone in confusion and asked, “What happened? Why such a large shift of attitude?”

Cornerstone looked back at the princess and spoke in a saddened tone, “My brother shows no mercy to those who he views useless, but showed great respect to those who impressed him. Fancy Pants and Fleur were important to him.”

The princess nodded. “I see. He hid it quite well when he sent Fleur to death.”

“Moon Shadow views consciences as weakness. If he has a goal in sight, he won’t show any sadness or guilt, no matter what horrible thing he commits.” Cornerstone turned towards the exit and added, “To be honest, I find this display of emotions very surprising. I suppose the knowledge that everything he did was for nothing broke his cold composure.”

Celestia asked in panic as she struggled against the chains, no longer feeling as weak as before. “This invasion is not at the point of no return. I kept the casualties on both sides to a minimum. If there’s a chance to end this conflict peacefully, I am still open for negotiations. I am even willing to surrender leadership to my sister if she promises to show mercy to my subjects.”

“I wish it was that simple,” Cornerstone said as he approached the exit. “My brother once said that only as a monster he can make our race strong and take actions necessary to ensure our victory. Such a role he chose for himself is not one he can so easily abandon.” He sighed. “At this point, I believe only Nightmare Moon can convince him to change his ways, unless his manipulations will change hers first.”

The door of the cell closed as Celestia was left in an empty dusty cell, fragments of wood decorating the floor. Cushions and the table with food were no longer present. The lack of windows and lit candles left her in darkness. She closed her eyes as tears started to escape, sliding down her cheeks. My dear student… my dear sister… Please, don’t let Moon Shadow fool you. Open your eyes, and end this pointless war.

Author's Note

I deeply apologize for such a massive delay. I suppose it took a long time until I got my inspiration back and I ended up focusing on my other projects, but now I am back and ready to finish this story. Hopefully my long break will not make me make too many continuity errors and drop the quality too much.

Special thanks to people who offered to proof-read this story:
Quiznak
Detsella Morningdew
Painkiller

I am not sure which one will be willing to assist me to the end, but hopefully we'll lead this story to a satisfying conclusion.

Confrontations - Ally or Foe?

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 4

Confrontations

Part 4 - Ally or Foe?

“You… you can’t be serious!” Chains shouted, almost pressing his muzzle against his brothers’. “You said yourself that hunting Nightmare Moon was suicide and a waste of time.”

“New circumstances convinced me otherwise,” Shackles responded, maintaining a calm and collected attitude. “The gain…”

“What gain?!” Chains interupted while his followers walked away, deciding to give them more space. “Have you hit yourself on the head or something? There’s no gain in certain death.”

Limestone spoke up from her position on Shackle’s left, “Hit on the head, not really, but there was that bolt that pierced his wing. Oh, and that traitorous medic…”

“Silence!” Shackles shouted and stomped, sinking his hooves into the muddy soil with a weak splash. “You will not undermine my authority.”

“I’m not, but…” Chains sighed, taking a moment to calm down. “Listen. Over the past years you showed me corruption inside the guild, something you took advantage of. Over those years, I saw how by blindly following orders led to some mistakes, how my devotion and beliefs that we were just and our enemies were purely evil blinded me to those with good hearts.”

He narrowed his eyes and poked his brother’s chest, an action that caused a few gasps among nearby troops. “I also learned that you’re not blind. You’re smart enough to see the big picture and recognize good from evil, yet choose evil for personal gain.”

Shackles slapped his hoof away and groaned, but said nothing in the end.

“We both have flaws and I can tell you’re a greedy bastard, but you’re the most cunning and smart pony I know. I can tell that my clever brother isn’t an idiot who would make decision this stupid, so please, be reasonable.”

Shackles lost his balance, landing on his flank as he massaged his forehead, his facial features showing growing discomfort.

“What’s wrong?” Chains asked, kneeling to his brother as his furious glare was replaced with worry.

“It’s… nothing.”

“Doesn’t seem like nothing to me,” Chains said as he held hoof against Shackle’s forehead, checking its temperature. “You may not look sick, but that last battle must have done some serious harm, and it will only get worse from here.”

“Sh… shut up. You know nothing. The reward-”

“Whatever gain you see in all of this isn’t worth digging deeper into this hellhole. The brother I know would quit while being ahead.” He narrowed his eyes. “You already earned enough riches and spilled way too much blood. Can’t we just quit and lay low?” He gestured at his subordinates, a large squad of at least two hundred hunters who kept a respective distance. “What’s more, the lives of many ponies are in your hooves. At least once in your life, don’t sacrifice others for your personal gain.”

Shackles pushed Chains away, now towering over him with spread wings. “You have grown soft. What happened to your determination? You used to hunt thestrals without hesitation and weren’t bothered by losing comrades in battle. In this business…”

“Just stop!” Chains interrupted. “The time when I believed in our cause without question is gone. There was a time I believed that hunters who lay down their lives to protect Equestria do it for the greater good. “He narrowed his eyes. “Now I see that we are simple pawns, sacrificed in battles that may not do Equestria any favors.”

Chains stood up and poked his brother’s chest as if challenging his authority, his eyes still narrowed. “I’ll be honest with you. In those past months I put up with your greed and manipulations in hope you would help me dig to the bottom of this. I put up with evil in hope to find and destroy greater evil, a great source of corruption.”

Shackles frowned with a smug grin on his face. “So in other words, you put your hopes in one puppeteer to defeat another? Or have I misunderstood you.”

Chains nodded as he lowered his hoof, his face still firm and impassive. “Somepony is pulling the strings, sending us to die this very night. I hope your rebellion will stop this foolishness.” He stomps as his hoof sinks in the mud. His chains, wrapped around his uniform, were far from clean as well. “I don't know why you want to send us to slaughter, but I’m stopping this, here and now.”

Shackles groaned. “Fool! If we withdraw now, all the riches I accumulated for us will be worth noth…” He paused as hoof smacked him in the cheek, leaving a hoofmark which he massaged a moment later. He looked back at his brother in shock. “So that’s your answer.”

Chains noded.

Shackles sighed as his ears dropped. “I suppose it’s foolish of me to risk the life of my family. Thank you for stopping me before I did something I would regret.”

Chains smiled slightly. He walked to Shackles’ side and wrapped his hoof over his shoulder. “This is what brothers are for. I’m glad you saw reason. For a moment I thought you’d become insane.” He shook his head, relief clear on his relaxed features. “Now the question is, should we lay low, try to get to the bottom of this… or-” he failed to finish as soft material with a heavy dose of sleeping powder made contact with his mouth. Whatever defenses he had against sleeping magic was gone.

He slowly realized that a familiar wing had picked this cloth up from his saddlebag when he wasn’t watching. Being backstabbed by his brother wasn’t something he expected. While he learned that his brother was a greedy bastard who would sacrifice others for personal gain, he always shared his gain with the rest of the family, looking after their futures. He was anything but prepared for such betrayal. “W-why…?” His eyes slowly became heavy as his chin soon made contact with the dirt and mud.

“Sleep well, brother. Once you wake up, Nightmare Moon will be dead and we will live a life of luxury on the side of the victor. There’s no need for you to take the risk, just leave everything to me,” Shackles said, gently stroking his brother’s sleeping head before looking up at Chain’s squad. “I order you to keep him safe. This is the only task you need to focus on, understood?”

The ponies nodded as two unicorns levitated Chains onto the back of an earth pony, heading in the opposite direction of where Nightmare Moon was.

Shackles stood up and turned around, his attention at the task ahead while thoughts of riches and temptations circled in his mind. He didn’t mind letting his brother and his squad sit this one out. He had more than enough bodies to throw at the problem, and riches and power wouldn't be worth as much if he couldn't share it with his family. He pictured his kin living in prosperity for generations to come and was going to make it a reality.

He needed to hurry though. The more he delayed, the more hesitation his subordinates would have, especially after what Chains said a moment ago. He still had the authority. Most still respected and feared him, and he was going to use it.

Fluttershy felt as if her hooves became heavier and heavier with each step taken as she followed an enthusiastic musician, who seemed more than happy to lead her towards the princess’ student. Her clan members kept giving her confused glances, occasionally sharing words of encouragement or glancing at their surroundings in search for an ambush.

Could she blame them for such confusion? Not really. After all on this very night they faced multiple unpleasant events with her head held high. But most undoubtedly wondered why meeting this Twilight was such a big deal?

Being awoken from her slumber by the two-faced princess? Quite an unique experience and great honor for a young pureblood, one many would envy her.

Leading efforts and personally healing Fleur de Lis, the mightiest and one of the most important purebloods in Equestria? She just performed her duty to her kin with honor, receiving support and encouragement from her precious friends.

Facing murderers of her family who ruined her life? She still couldn’t believe how well she handled it, a proof how much she matured as past Flutterbat would melt under pressure.

After all that, why meeting a single unicorn left her with this sense of dread? An understandable question that even Fluttershy had trouble answering.

Was it because she was going to meet the student of the sun-bringer herself?

At least when healing Fleur she knew what to do. With the hunters she knew the strength of her enemy. But with Twilight she had no clue what to expect. Was this mare going to be easy to befriend or overpower? Or were they going to get mercilessly smited by her powerful magic? Maybe said student had the ability to wield solar power itself, something she was weak against? It was the unknown that kept her on the edge.

She glanced at the serious, some smiling, faces of her followers and friends, hoping their lives weren’t going to end tonight.

“There she is!” Vinyl shoulded, pointing her hoof at the mare on the middle-part of the bridge. Her horn lit, and a simple sound spell later the noble student turned around and waved at them. “Your turn boss, go get her bat-tiger.”

Fluttershy flinched, nearly losing her balance as Twilight appeared in a flash of light two meters on Vinyl’s left flank. She spread her bat-like wings for the sake of balance, taking quick breaths to calm her nerves. As she looked at the unicorn, she gulped, sensing magic no less than three-times stronger than her own. Sweat slid down her forehead.

“Not again! This forest just loves to mess up with my teleportation. At this rate I’ll end up in a tree or underground, grrr…” Twilight groaned, stomping, before turning towards the musician. “Was that sound magic? Wow. You totally need to tell me about it once this mess is over, sound-based spells are very rare and hard to perform,” she said as her tail flapped left-right in excitement. “My name is Twilight Sparkle, what’s yours?”

“Vinyl Scratch, but for mares like yourself, it's Agent DJ-Pon-the-third,” she responded, fixing her glasses.

“Agent? Oh, that uniform, I get it. Anyway, why are you here?” she asked while gesturing towards the rest of the approaching group. “This place is a battlefield full of hunters, hostile animals and one angered princess. Civilians should stay in Ponyville and wait for things to calm down.”

“Civilians? I have you know we’re anything but,” Vinyl said with a frown before gesturing at the rest of the group. “Thestrals, pureblood, former huntress. If anything, we're a special force.”

“Wait, what?!” Twilight asked, quickly turning and examining the group, which only made Fluttershy hide her face behind her bat-like wings. “Hey, I remember you! You’re all candidates chosen by the Elements. The princess was right saying you would be the first to jump into action.”

”Howdy, Twilight. We were lookin’ for ya,” Applejack spoke first, getting ahead of the group. “And yeah, obviously yer not the only one who wants to make things right, am Ah right?” She winked at Fluttershy, who silently nodded, yet refused to speak.

Twilight raised an eyebrow as she looked at the crossbow and a few bolts in an arrow case, both attached atop the pony's back, and she could tell more weapons hid inside this pony’s saddlebag. Her attention shifted to metallic bracelets, similar to the ones used by hunters as each was equipped with a protroclile blade. “You’re not an ordinary farm pony, Applejack... being an Element Bearer aside.”

The earth pony chuckled nervously. “Ya got me there, but Ah’m an ally, Ah assure ya. Mah's loyalty is to Flutters’ clan, not corrupted stuck-in-the-mud guild.”

“Eeyup.” Big Mac nodded in agreement.

Twilight examined the tall stallion, not spotting any offensive weapon, though she could see a sizable shield on the stallion’s back and a saddlebag way bigger than the one on his sister.

There was also a third Apple among the group, hiding most of his features under a cape, yet eyes shining red in the darkness of the night betrayed his secret. If I remember correctly, thestrals can hide their features behind illusions, but he… wait… she blinked, did she say Flutters… as if… She looked around, searching for one particular pony among the group.

There was Rarity wearing an elegant cape, a mix of bloody-red mixed with silvery-white, though other details were difficult to spot so late at night. Her eyes and ears revealed her species.

Pinkie Pie kept bouncing up and down with her usual smile, one fit for the Element of Laughter.

A grey mare wearing a helmet waved at her, flapping her wings enthusiastically while a wide toothy and fanged smile could be seen under her crossed derpy eyes. Why is she even here?

Finally there was rainbow-maned pegasus who seemed to be hovering over…

Twilight blinked. She could see pink mane and tail emerge from under the trembling cape, as well as a little yellow pointy ear, but what about the rest?

“Excuse me,” she said, addressing the hidden ball of trembling fur. “I know it may sound silly, but when Applejack said Flutters’ clan, she couldn’t mean Fluttershy, right… right?”

Her eyes became wide the moment the head of the yellow mare emerged from under the cape. Aside from pointy ears and red shining puppy eyes, the resemblance to a pony on the picture at the gravestone was impossible to ignore.

Twilight’s horn lit as she wrapped her magic around the curled pony, levitating her to her hooves. She ignored the screeching yelp, examining the pony with keen studious eyes. “Are those bat wings? And your eyes and cutie mark, no, this can’t be!” Not wasting a moment, she levitated the cape away, then teleported away black agent’s suit which earned her an angered glare from Rarity. With no clothes to get in the way, she could see the yellow fur clearly, confirming her suspicions.

Fluttershy stood still like a statue, refusing to take a single breath while sweat covered her entire body.

“Are you really Fluttershy? I thought you were dead.”

“It’s… a long story,” Rainbow Dash spoke up as she landed next to the bat-winged mare.

“Excuse me,” Rarity interrupted, though failing to get the attention of the studious mare. “First off, would you kindly stop examining Mistress Flutterbat like that? Second, please do NOT take off someone’s uniform against their will! It is both impolite and very disrespectful.” She levitated over the cape and black suit, putting it back on Fluttershy with her levitation.

“Mistress? Flutterbat? Wait!” her ears perked up as she pulled Fluttershy’s wing towards herself for a closer examination. “Those wings are way bigger and more sturdy than wings of your average thestral. But for you to be a pureblood.” She laughed. “Yeah, right, like the Element of Kindness would choose a user of black magic to wield it.”

“Hey!” Dash shouted, freeing Fluttershy’s wing before giving the unicorn a disapproving glare. “Are you saying purebloods can’t be chosen? I’ll let you know my friend here is the kindest pony I ever met. Race has nothing to do with it.”

Fluttershy kept staring back in confusion. “Element of Kindness, what are you talking about?”

Rarity sat between Twilight and Fluttershy, holding her hooves appologicaly. “My deepest apologies, Mistress. We forgot to mention that Twilight Sparkle informed us about the Elements of Harmony and that we were chosen to unlock their powers.” She chuckled nervously. “In our defense, a lot has been happening tonight, so it slipped our minds.”

“Elements… elements, where did I hear that word?” Fluttershy rubbed the top of her head, now deep in thoughts.

Twilight watched as the unicorn thestral bowed respectfully to Fluttershy who stopped her in turn. She took a deep breath and spoke up, “Alright, now I have even more questions. First, are you really a pureblood? It isn’t a prank?”

“Y-yes…” Fluttershy noded, her legs trembling and voice lacking any confidence. “I am. A young one though. Still not even one century-old.”

“One century you consider young? Most ponies wish they could say the same about themselves, but I suppose it comes down with the race.” Without hesitation, she opened her saddlebag, levitating paper and pen before writing down notes of the highest scientific value.

“Next question, why were you faking your own death?”

“I… didn’t fake it. I was just sleeping.” She raised her foreleg defensively before glancing at her friends.

“Ya kinda did, but it was Fancy’s idea,” Applejack pointed out.

“Interesting,” Twilight said, adding more notes at a quick pace, her pen heating up. “So sleeping for months or years is a thing. Is it similar to a bear's hibernation or something like that?”

Upon hearing an animal’s name, Fluttershy relaxed a little, no longer as tense. “It is more like the birth of a butterfly. Each hundred years we sleep for one year to heal our minds and adapt to great power.” She lowered her head as her ears dropped. A few bats landed on her shoulders in an attempt to cheer her up. “Though my rest was forced prematurely and it lasted longer than it should. I am still some years before my hundredth birthday.”

“I see, I see, and what’s up with the MIstress or Flutters clan?”

Fluttershy smiled sheepishly.

Rainbow Dash spoke in her stead. “Flutters is short for Fluttershy. It is our boss’s name and she’s a great one, I tell you.” She pointed at Rarity who held her head high. “She turned Rarity in order to save her life.” Then looked at Applejack. “The Apples were foes at first but she earned their loyalty, and then won Hawkeye’s freedom, and I tell you, it was the hardest thing imaginable, like one neverending nightmare.”

Applejack and Hawkeye looked at each other, then looked away, blushing.

Pinkie jumped from behind Twilight, starling her as she yelped and nearly dropped her notes. “And she made lotsa ponies and animals happy, though she was rarely happy herself, which was really sad and unfair.” Pinkie’s ears dropped as she started nuzzling Fluttershy’s side as if being a little kitty.

“Good, good,” Twilight said as she returned to writing her notes, her pen now minutes away from melting and paper from catching on fire. “So you're a respected leader who faced a lot of hardship, which led to your premature nap. Your territory is in Ponyville and you even managed to convince your enemies to join you. I take it you must have a strong adventurous spirit, bold nature, a lot of confidence and determination that helps you tackle problems head on. Oh, and fighting spirit as well. I bet you’re a seasoned fighter.”

“What?!” Everypony, including VInyl and Fluttershy shouted in unison.

“Why would you think that?” Dash asked as she launched herself into the air, shaking her hooves. “I mean, she is really cool and all, but bold and adventurous? What gave you that idea?”

Ditzy flew over to Twilight, landing smoothly as there was no sun to weaken her. “Fluttershy won over the loyalty of others by being calm, collected, kind, and thanks to her peaceful personality and understanding nature, but she’s also very shy and relies on others to give her courage. You’re a terrible judge of character.”

Twilight frowned and rolled her eyes. “Well, excuse-me for making assumptions about a pony I never met.”

“Are the questions… over?” Fluttershy asked as she tapped her forehooves nervously while in sitting position.

“Over?” She giggled. “I have like fifty more. We’re just getting started,” Twilight said with a wide grin while levitating over another paper.

Fluttershy took a step back, nearly falling over. “Fifty more!?”

Vinyl poked Twilight’s shoulder. “Sorry to interrupt this lovely Q and A, but aren’t you forgetting something?”

“Like what?”

Vinyl facehooved. “I dunno, like finding Nightmare Moon and stopping a slaughter? Those sound important.”

Twilight blushed. “Oh… oh… how could I forget?” Without hesitation she ran towards the bridge while pulling everypony with her levitation, earning a few surprised yelps as even Big Mac seemed powerless against the pulling force.

Once on the other side of the bridge, she glanced at levitated pureblood. “You can answer my questions while we search. I finally get to learn so much about purebloods, I’m so excited!”

Fluttershy just stared back dumbfounded. This wasn’t a warlock or an archmage doing sun-princess’s bidding, but a super curious, ever enthusiastic goofball.

“Now for my next questions: Is this true that purebloods become more powerful with age with no limits that holds back ordinary ponies?” Twilight asked, but before Fluttershy could say a word, another question followed. “For example, last summer I managed to get my levitation to lift forty tons of weight. How old a pureblood would need to be to lift such a weight? Do they lift it like earth ponies? Can they levitate stuff? What’s your lifting prowess?”

“F-fourty tons?” Fluttershy asked, her eyes wide. But before her fear of Twilight’s raw power could kick in, one warm enthusiastic smile and glance of those knowledge-hungry eyes calmed her down. There was no point to be afraid. After all, in terms of power and abilities she surpasses her friends, yet they still trust her. It wouldn’t be fair if she feared an innocent pony like Twilight for the same reason.

Ruins of her own castle, a place where she once shared power with her traitorous sister, a place of her banishment and her return, a safe oasis inside this monster-filled forest.

To think I would withdraw to this cursed place to avoid my pursuers. Oh the irony. She frowned as she observed the scenery from one of the towers, specifically one particular ravine with a bridge leading to the castle.

She didn’t really need the walls for protection or towers for higher ground in battle. She was perfectly capable of ambushing her enemies by using trees and magic to camouflage her presence. However, even she needed a moment to catch a breath and relax her muscles. Furthermore, even with her connection to the moon, she still required a long time to recharge her powerful magic.

While unicorn magic wasn’t as strong, it required only hours to recover. Regenerating powerful alicorn magic took days. She knew she could dispose of the hunters easily if she wanted, but the art was in winning with minimal cost. She wasn’t planning to rush her enemies, only to be left vulnerable for the days to come.

She looked up, now admiring the sky as it would soon become tapestry for her creativity. The moon that once served as her prison now displayed her dominance over Celestia. Why did she give up her control of heavenly bodies this easily? If she’s truly willing to surrender, her subjects don't seem to share her sentiment. She glanced at a spot on her wing that not long ago was hit by a silver bolt, now perfectly healthy.

Ponies of Ponyville gave me hope for peace, but this ambush filled me with doubt. Should I strive for peace even after taking so many lives, or join those loyal to me and rule with an iron hoof?

We cannot tell if thou is being poetic or overly dramatic.

“Luna?” Nightmare Moon said before standing and closing her eyes. Luna, where have you been? I haven’t heard from you in past three hours.

We didn’t want to distract thee in the midst of combat.

I see. And what is your take on our current situation? What do you believe we should do?

I believe we should welcome our guests, look.

“Huh?” Nightmare Moon felt her head turning due to Luna’s influence, directing her attention to the ravine. “Well, who do we have here?”

She narrowed her eyes as she tried to recognize the intruders, her dragon-like pupils set on her prey. “My sister's student, what a surprise, and who’s accompanying her?”

Despite the distance, she recognized faces of other ponies as a limited source of light wasn’t an issue for her. “I see Miss Flutterbat brought her clan with her, but why are they here?” She grit her teeth, feeling rising frustration. “Twilight did mention that there are Element Bearers in Ponyville and Fluttershy is the missing Element of Kindness, and they just happened to go towards the ruins with Elements inside. Coincidence? I think not.”

First, thou need not to talk to thyself, we can hear thy thoughts just fine. Second, there’s no need for hasty assumptions, Luna pointed out.

They are assumptions until proven true. Let’s spy on our little intruders to find out.

If spying is the name of the game, we may have an idea how, here’s what we should do… Luna said before sharing her plan as a little grin formed on Nightmare's lips.

“So in other words, you can use dark magic for manipulation of non-living objects and substances with great specialization in blood. It lets you heal yourself and others at a rapid pace, mend the greatest wounds, or make blood into the strongest acid for offense. I can’t believe that your species can use blood like a whip!”

Fluttershy nodded, then sighed as she lowered her head. She and her clan now ventured through numerous passages of the ruined castle, bypassing crumbling pillars and walls as dust seemed to scatter from even the lightest step. Be it an old dirty carpet or pure stone, small clouds of dust seemed to accompany the marching group.

“Now my next question is about the effect of silver and sunlight on your metabolism.” Twilight smiled awkwardly as her ears dropped, her tone wavering. “It’s not that I’m trying to learn more about your weaknesses! I already got some data from thestrals at the castle, but I do want to know how it is different between a pureblood and a turned pony… Ummm… are you tired?”

“N-no, just overwhelmed. It feels like your questions never ends. “Fluttershy smiled, not even forcing it, all her fears gone. As a studious pony herself who did well in school and enjoyed reading books in comfort next to a fireplace, she could relate to Twilight’s personality and her thirst for knowledge. “May I suggest we discuss after this once this conflict is over? Maybe during a tea party or picnic at dawn.”

“Sure, I’ll hold you on to that.”

Fluttershy nodded. “I’m looking forward to that. Maybe I can learn a thing or two as well.”

Applejack whispered to Hawkeye, “First she was terrified, and now they’re chattin’ buddies. Seems smart ponies stick together.”

Rarity picked up on the whisper. “Maybe we can expand our clan by one member. Having support of the princess’ student would be beneficial and increase prestige of our clan. Though I find Twilight’s lack of manners stunning, considering she was taught by Her Highness herself.”

Ditzy flew over to a nearby wall, poking it lightly. The moment it crumbled, a little “Oops,” escaped her mouth.

Dash rolled her eyes before poking Vinyl impatiently. “Are you sure she’s hiding here? We’ve been on the lookout, walking through those halls for minutes.”

“I sure am. My ears and magic are top tier. The Two-faced Princess is inside the room before us.”

The group entered into a large, empty chamber, immediately noticing what looked like a fountain at its center. Six arms extended from the central structure, each except one holding a large stone sphere on a small disk.

They quickly examined their surroundings, yet alicorn was nowhere to be seen.

“That’s odd. I’ve been hearing hoofsteps and breathing for the past few minutes. She must be here,” Vinyl said as she walked towards the source of the voice. She rounded the central structure, then stomped in aggravation. “Oh come on!”

“What’s wrong?” Dash asked as she flew, the others joining her a moment later.

Fluttershy blinked in confusion. Instead of an alicorn, they spotted a shadowy figure, one that was the shape of a pony but made of blue fog with numerous tiny stars shining on its body. Said figure shot Vinyl a raspberry before vanishing into nightness.

“A fake was doing all that noise? Was I just… beaten at my own game?” Vinyl sat, fixed her glasses and murmured, “Respect.”

Rainbow Dash made a quick round over the room, confirming that no one else was there.

“One, two, three, four, five…” Twilight levitated over a picture with similar-looking orbs. “Those must be the Elements that Princess Celestia mentioned. All turned to stone. The Element of Magic is still missing though.” She stomped in excitement before giving the pureblood a hopeful smile. “My mentor thought they were out of reach, but with you being alive, we can harness their power!” She sat and clapped with growing enthusiasm.

“Can somepony please fill me in on what's the deal behind those Elements. I keep hearing about them, but…” Her eyes became wide at realization as she remembered her parents teachings. “Wait… Elements of Harmony, the ones that banished the Two-faced Princess.” She gasped. “Are you saying we were chosen by them?”

“Precisely,” Twilight answered, smiling cheerfully.

Fluttershy took a step back. “Oh… I get it. You want to use the Elements to deal with Nightmare Moon. Well, it’s not happening because we’re not betraying her.” She turned around and spread her wings. “Everypony, we’re leaving.”

“I dunno, the Elements would prove quite useful to fix mess in Canterlot,” Vinyl pointed out as she kept searching, her face showing confusion.

“No! We are loyal to Nightmare Moon and to Luna, I swore it in my dream. I believe she can fix everything, but I refuse using the artefacts that banished her.”

“B-but…” Twilight said as her ears dropped.

“No buts,” Dash said.

“Ah’m with Fluttershy,” Applejack cut in.

“If she says no, so do we,” Rarity added, and soon Twilight was left alone on the other side of the room as others followed their leader and friend.

“Thank you, my loyal subjects.”

Everypony looked around in search of eoching voices, only for their attention to focus on star-filled fog berging into a familiar pony.

Fluttershy bowed with her friends following her example.

“Stand,” Nightmare Moon said as she eyed the group, giving them a proud smile. “See Rainbow Dash, you can learn a lot about loyalty from your leader.”

“You’re still on that? I apologised for assaulting you, give it a rest.”

The princess chuckled, though hiding it behind her hoof.

“You can conceal all soundwaves while in your fog form? Double respect,” Vinyl said as she fixed her glasses. “I like you more and more.”

Nightmare Moon ignored the annoying prankster as her attention shifted towards a trembling abandoned pony. She couldn’t tell if her sister’s student wanted to reactivate the Elements to use them against her, but it no longer mattered. No allies, no friends, all alone.

While powerful, Twilight was no match for her, and without help of Fluttershy’s clan the Elements wouldn’t heed her call. Now the question was, where does Twilight’s loyalty really lie?

Nightmare Moon approached the unicorn who walked backward in response, fear clear on her face. While there were still hunters out there that needed to be dealt with and some sort of mess in Canterlot that needed her attention, she could leave it for later. Is she really willing to become my subject, or will she prove to be my enemy? I must know before deciding her fate.

Pity we can’t use separated bodies. We could pull off a 'good guard, bad guard' routine on her, Luna suggested.

There’s no need for that. For interrogation, intimidation is the key. I’ll make her tell us the truth, Nightmare Moon answered mentally, displaying her fangs and spreading her wings. She was going to learn the true intentions of her sister’s student, one way or another.

Confrontations - Negotiations

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 4

Confrontations

Part 5 - Negotiations

“It appears your efforts to defeat me with the Elements has failed. Now, Miss Sparkle, what do you have to say for yourself?” Nightmare Moon asked as she towered over the little pony. Saying she didn’t find satisfaction in dominating over her sister’s student would be a lie. She actually found a bit of enjoyment in it, one she could savor for a minute or two.

Not hearing any response, she spread her wings and summoned a few thunderclouds for an intimidating effect. “Speak!”

“I… I… I came looking for you, not for the Elements.”

“Lies!” Nightmare Moon shouted as she wrapped her mane around the unicorn’s limbs, lifting her close to her face.

“Your Highness, please,” Fluttershy said in a pleading tone. “I apologize for daring to ask this of you, but could you be a little more gentle, pretty please.”

Nightmare Moon looked to the side, staring into the innocent eyes of Fluttershy.

Come on, Nightmare, we can’t say no to such a request. Just look into those cute little eyes, Luna spoke from within her mind.

But… but… Nightmare Moon groaned as she lowered the unicorn onto the dusty floor. This is the student of our hated sister. Can’t I torment her at least a little bit?

Absolutely not! Luna responded in a disapproving tone, causing Nightmare Moon to shut her eyes for a moment. We have no time for petty desires, and we disapprove of tormenting an innocent pony, no matter who she serves.

Nightmare Moon opened her eyes and sighed. Fine… but do not blame me if our enemies will no longer be intimidated by our presence.

We can live with that, Luna added.

Twilight walked to the side, stopping next to Fluttershy as if seeking her protection and support. “I r-really mean it. I wanted to s-salvage the situation before more ponies would lose their lives, I swear it on Celestia’s name.”

“What?” Nightmare asked with venom in her voice. “Mention her name again and see what happens. I dare you!”

“S-sorry!” Twilight hid behind Fluttershy, curling in fear. The pureblood bent her legs, gently stroking the unicorn’s head in an attempt to calm her nerves, which seemed to work a little.

The alicorn pointed at each orb, speaking, “Element of Laughter, Loyalty, Generosity, Honestly, Kindness, and lost Element of Magic. Why should I believe that you weren't trying to save lives by banishing me with their help?”

“Y-you g-got it all wrong.” Twilight stood on her rear hooves as she gestured at the lifeless orbs. “I admit that after learning that Fluttershy was alive I wanted to unlock the Elements, but not against you.”

“Then whom against, if I may ask?” Nightmare asked, a tone of curiosity in her voice. Her stare turned cold and unforgiving. "And watch your manners. You should address me by my proper title.”

Twilight lowered herself to four hooves, then pointed at a nearby hole in the wall which at one point served as a window. Canterlot Castle could be seen at a distance. “I hoped to use it against whoever is attacking the capital, Y-Your H-Highness.”

Nightmare Moon raised an eyebrow.

“She’s telling the truth,” Fluttershy said as she flew over to Twilight, now standing next to her. “Fleur de Lis was teleported to Ponyville after sustaining heavy injuries in battle.” Her ears dropped at the unpleasant memory. “Vinyl said that Canterlot is under siege and I believe her.”

Vinyl grinned. “You’re welcome.”

Applejack stomped, getting the alicorn’s attention. “Ah sent a message tellin’ those hunters to help in Canterlot, but those feather-brains came after you instead.“ She took off her hat and bowed, her head lowered apologetically. “Ah’m mighty sorry. Not all hunters are bad Apples, but someone seems to be pullin’ the strings.”

“Are you saying that attack on me was the result of some sinister plot?”

Fluttershy nodded. “Much is happening behind the scenes, Your Highness. We will share what we know.” She dropped to her knees, bowing as humbly as she could. “I beg you, please ignore the hunters and go to Canterlot. Only you can end whatever chaos and war is happening there.”

Other members of the clan bowed as well.

Twilight took their example, saying, “I understand that you hold a grudge against Princess Cel… my mentor, but she wishes to surrender to you and avoid conflict. There’s no point for ponies to suffer in this pointless war.”

Nightmare Moon watched her subject with a judging stare. Part of her felt uncomfortable as the ponies before her kept making requests, one after another. She couldn’t just fulfil every single wish her ponies threw at her, especially one where she would aid her traitorous sister.

“Stand,” the alicorn said in commanding tone as she approached the young pureblood. “Miss Fluttershy. I command you and your clan to share events that took place today and in recent years, anything worthy of my attention, and be brief for we wish to act with haste.”

“Yes, Your Highness.”

Nightmare Moon added, “Only after I know more shall I alter my plans.”

Twilight sat next to Fluttershy, ready to add her own bits of info while eagerly listening to her story. Others took her example.

“As I already told you when you visited my dreams to talk with me, Your Highness…” Fluttershy started, but was quickly cut off by Twilight.

“She can do that? Magic allows her to enter ponies’ minds and even interact with them? Fascinating. Can it alter dreams too?” She took out another piece of paper, writing down new information at alarming speed. “First magic used by purebloods, and now this. This adds fifteen new questions in need of answering.”

“Miss Sparkle!” Nightmare yelled, stomping her hoof as her voice echoed through the empty halls. “If you could cease your prattling, I would appreciate it.”

“S-sorry. I’ll be quiet,” Twilight said as her face became red like a tomato. She wrapped her own tail around her forelegs, curled her head a little and added in a squeaky tone, “C-continue.”

Fluttershy cleared her throat. “As I was saying, I already told you about Lord Moon Shadow and his cruel trials that lead to the death of my family. I am not sure when it all started, but for centuries he has been testing and training our kind and their clans. Leading monster hunters to my family’s home was but one of them.”

Applejack raised her hoof. “May Ah say somethin’?”

“Granted,” Nightmare said, looking at the Apple pony with mid-interest.

“When we meet the hunters recently and got a talk with that snake, Shackles, we learned that they were sent to kill ya and told ya were a pureblood, but nothin’ about assistin’ in Canterlot.” Applejack narrowed her eyes and pressed her hat against her forehead. “Even safety protocols were broken. For all Ah know, a bunch of thestrals could be among the hunters, and Ah get the feelin’ they serve Moon Shadow.”

“May I add something, Your Highness,” Rarity asked. Upon receiving a nod, she smiled and spoke up, “From what Shackles and Chains said, the hunter guild may have been manipulated for a long time, and they were used once against Mistress Flutterbat’s family.”

“I am fine with being called Fluttershy. We are friends, you don’t need to be so formal.”

Rarity sighed. “What I try to hint at is the likelihood that the monster hunters were manipulated for a long time. I mean, they have been at it for who knows how long, yet purebloods and thestrals still have a very strong presence in Equestria. And one would think that purebloods would do all they can to eliminate such a troublesome organization.” She tapped her hooves together. “It just… it just feels as if they were actors on a stage, all playing their own specific roles.”

Hawkeye massaged his head, his face showing signs of headache. “Ah… Ah remember.”

“Remember what?” Fluttershy asked as everypony looked at the stallion.

“Ever since ya saved me from blood control, some of mah memories have been hazy, but now Ah remember.” He groaned in frustration. “Mah former boss, Moon Shadow, he sent commands to us from a distance, speaking in our minds. But Ah overheard some of his conversations. He gave commands to leaders of the hunter’s guild. What… What if Rarity is right? What if that guild is just a tool he used…”

“Or created,” Rarity said, rubbing her chin. Seeing as Applejack looked at her with wide eyes, she added, “Think about it. Creating a guild that could fight purebloods and thestrals from the shadows, operating all across Equestria, equipped with the best equipment for the job is no easy task. Not only would it cost an insane amount of bits, but also quite a bit of ponypower. Surely purebloods and their clans would eliminate such an organization at its roots or, more simply, those who funded it.”

She paused, giving each clan member a questioning glance. ”Why would such an organization spring up to begin with? It certainly did not garner the Princess’ approval, and they seem to be doing a much better job at keeping the population of monsters and dangerous creatures in check rather than at eliminating thestrals. There is only one group I can see that would benefit from its creation.”

“Are ya sayin’ that pureblood started this organization and helped it thrive? He created his own enemies?” Applejack asked, her tail flipping nervously from left to right.

“It is a distinct possibility. After hearing stories about the guild from you, Applejack, a pony who once worked with them, I got the impression of a stalemate that has remained stagnant for centuries. It just… I found it to be odd. How could both sides fight each other, maintain the whole thing as a secret, and yet neither side managed to deliver a deciding blow. It seemed almost impossible.”

“Unless both sides are led by a single puppeteer,” Nightmare Moon said as she gave Rarity a proud glance. “Quite an impressive insight, Lady Rarity. Your theory is something a cunning pureblood would do. Though it feels... too cunning. It takes a little too much effort. The purebloods of old that we worked with were nowhere as resourceful.”

“Times change,” Vinyl said from her lying position, her back now supported against the cracked wall. “I worked for Fancy Pants quite some time, and I can tell that a lot of games were going behind the scenes. I dunno what kind of lazy purebloods you worked with in the past, Cool Princess, but the modern ones are way more proactive… and sadly also more aggressive.” She groaned. “If those purebloods back then were peaceful, then I can tell you that Moon Shadow succeeded in hardening his kind… and their hearts.”

Fluttershy lowered her head and whimpered. “When I was younger I was sheltered, but in these past years I’ve learned the harsh truth. I fear that my family was an exception.” She raised her head, looking at Nightmare Moon with pleading eyes. “But I believe it is not too late. Purebloods and their clans may have been hardened by his trials and mind games, but you can show them a new way, one that doesn’t involve violence.”

“I still haven’t made my decision. Is there anything else?” Nightmare Moon asked as she took off her helmet, her mane now flapping more freely on the wind.

“Well…” Fluttershy tapped her forehooves together. “If Moon Shadow really used the hunters against you, knowing full well that you would kill them, he may also be responsible for the invasion on Canterlot. I mean, he could always say that it was a counterattack for those ponies’ attempt on your life.” She flew up and raised her forehoof at the hole in the ceiling, showing the star-filled sky. “Or maybe he is using the lack of sunlight to strike at Princess Celestia… S-sorry, I didn’t mean…”

“It’s alright, Fluttershy. I can forgive you, given the circumstances. Continue.”

Twilight crossed her forelegs and frowned.

“Of course. If the hunters are used to convince you that war is the only answer, that would be the logical course of action. For all we know, he may be waiting to give you the throne and try to convince you to take over the rest of the nation.”

“W-what!? Give away the princess's throne...” Twilight shouted, but quickly sealed her mouth with a hoof upon receiving glare from Nightmare Moon. “I… I respectfully would like to point out that my mentor surrendered Ponyville to you, so I am most certain an agreement can be made that wouldn’t involve ruling over war-torn Equestria with an iron hoof.”

“Duly noted,” Nightmare Moon said as she scoffed at the unicorn. “Lady Fluttershy, I can tell that you believe that peace between ponies and thestrals is possible, even after the mind-games and all the blood spilled behind the curtain. Can you tell me about your own experiences and hardships you faced after arriving in Ponyville? I am quite curious about them.”

“Of… of course. I will try to be brief, but I believe that the first one was when Ditzy’s family accommodated me with a lovely cottage.” She looked over her shoulder, giving Derpy the warmest smile she could muster, who responded in kind. “I was depressed and broken, and they did everything they could to help me start a new life.” She glanced at the pegasus. “And Rainbow Dash did her best to raise my morale in all this hardship, taking care of me when I was sad and vulnerable.”

Applejack spoke up, “Ah remember how she saved my poor Winona from the snake's poison, then handled all mah critters and animal problems Ah had on the farm. She was like an honorable Apple, but to think there was so much more…”

“And I got Fluttershy lots of poor little homeless animals!” Pinkie shouted, jumping onto the cape on Fluttershy’s back from behind. The pureblood flinched in response, yet refused to cover in fear, rolling her eyes instead. “And then convinced other ponies to give her bits for food and make her home the most fun place for animals.” She closed her eyes, held forelegs against her cheeks and displayed a wishful smile. “And then the most memorable day came, a day when she accepted me as a friend. It was the hardest and most satisfying friendship I ever made, and so many animals were happier in the end.”

Fluttershy blushed as she gently lowered her friend to the floor. “I’m glad I could help. Healing poor animals is what I did in the past and I’m glad I could use my powers for good.” She nuzzled Pinkie’s cheek. “And I am most grateful for your friendship, Pinkie. You have such a caring heart.”

“Please continue,” Nightmare encouraged, a weak smile now present on her face. Her cold calm expression now replaced with a curious one.

“Of course.” The pureblood looked at Rarity. “Well, the next event worth mentioning was when Rarity lost her cat in the Everfree Forest…”

Celestia’s bedchamber was once a place where the Princess of the Sun rested and watched over the land. A place where she raised and lowered both sun and the moon every day and night. Now it served as an observation spot from which Moon Shadow monitored the conquered capital, as well as an enemy airborne army on the horizon.

The princess' regalia and crown now lay on the bed while enhanced armor once again covered the pureblood.

Instead of usual confidence and pride in his accomplishments, only confusion and guilt was present on his face.

Guilt… something he easily suppressed now haunted him with greater force.

It would be a lie if Moon Shadow said he didn’t do things he regretted, but no matter what deed he made or how many lives he ruined, the long-term outcome justified his actions. He always told himself that sacrifices he made led to making his species stronger and more organized.

Tonight however he had no such excuse. Even if he conquered Canterlot, overthrew mighty Celestia, and ensured the safety of the two-faced princess, no, his future queen, he accomplished it with unnecessary losses.

All this time he feared that hesitation would lead to Nightmare’s downfall, and this fear blinded him to the consequence that his hasty action entailed.

Fleur, Fancy Pants and those who fell in today’s battle. Those who may die as soon as Equestria's forces make their move. All of them lost for nothing. The war he started was unnecessary. All he needed to do was to put pressure on Celestia and trust Nightmare Moon, and the kingdom would have been surrendered to her.

In fact, if intimidation was all he needed to make Celestia surrender to Nightmare Moon, most of his actions to strengthen purebloods and thestrals also seemed unnecessary. But how could he have known that? Even if he recognized the softer nature and conscience in his enemy, there was still risk that she wouldn’t surrender without a fight. And then there were those cursed Elements.

Moon Shadow grit his teeth, piercing his own lip with his fangs as blood spilled onto the balcony. Self-hatred grew in his mind.

He was supposed to be a strong leader, making harsh and even cruel decisions to make his kind into an unstoppable force and help Nightmare Moon take over. And it’s not like he expected of others something he couldn’t accomplish. After all, he made his own clan a target for hunters more than once to keep it and himself in shape.

However, if the sacrifices he made were unnecessary, if his decisions were rushed, it just meant he was incompetent. Not fit to lead.

Master, please answer. hunters are closin’ on the ruined Castle. Yer orders?

Moon Shadow sighed, ignoring the pleas of his subordinate.

“Should I continue with the plan, or admit my mistakes to the Queen?” He stomped, causing cracks to form on the edge of the balcony and a few pebbles to fall down towards the streets of the city. “Celestia, why did you have to plant this seed of doubt in me? You cursed which!”

“Sir!”

“What!?” He turned around, looking at his soldier whose legs trembled fearfully under his unforgiving glare.

“My deepest apologies, but I have urgent news.”

“Speak!”

The bat-winged pony saluted. “We have detected a high number of changelings arriving in the city.”

Changelings? Why now?

“Some of them have disguised themselves as civilians that still didn’t evacuate or hid in their homes, but most seem to have been hiding on the other side of the mountain.”

“An entire swarm?” Moon Shadow asked as he walked inside. A few candles provided some light in the darkened bedchamber.

“Hard to tell, but still a significant force. We estimate around three thousand, but there may be more.”

Moon Shadow slammed his hooves together as if crushing an imaginary foe. An army in this number means that Chrysalis must be in the area. How dare she interfere. I tolerated those bugs until now, but I cannot allow them to do as they damn please.

“Sir!”

Moon Shadow looked over his shoulder, recognizing his soldier. What caught his eye was a little white bunny standing atop the helmet and a scroll in the thestral’s hoof.

“We found this familiar sneaking in the area while carrying a scroll. He said he’s delivering a message to you from the Changeling Queen.”

“Interesting,” Moon Shadow said, his eyes flashing with power. The blood on the balcony turned into a whip, picking the scroll from thestral’s hoof and delivering it to him. He narrowed his eyes. Now was not the time for guilt and self-pity. There was a bug infestation to resolve.

He glanced at the little familiar who seemed to follow him closely. Once a servant of purebloods, now a subordinate of the challenging queen. Should he consider him as a traitor? Or overlook this transgression?

Still, he didn’t see, nor sense any guilt, fear or hesitation in the familiar; emotions that would be present if the changelings had hostile intentions. Something didn’t seem right.

Twilight stared at Applejack in disbelief. “You said all those harsh words to her after everything she did for you? I mean… wow… it’s like you kept stabbing her already shattered heart. I know purebloods are durable and all, but how much mental and physical hardship can one pony face?”

“Ya think Ah don’t feel bad about that? Ah was too stubborn for mah own good, and mah experiences with monsters and other thestrals weren’t the nicest ones.” Applejack stomped. “It took some time, but mah view of her changed. Ah’m in debt that Ah’ll repay, even with mah own life.”

“P-please just d-don’t,” Fluttershy said in panic.

“Sorry to interrupt such an interesting and sad story, but hunters are advancing from all sides. If you want to make a move, Your Highness, now’s the time,” Vinyl pointed out.

“They are here, but why? I thought they abandoned this pointless hunt. Have they lost their minds?” Fluttershy asked as she flew towards the nearby window, peeking at the approaching force. She squealed, quickly withdrawing before somepony could spot her.

“Dagnabbit. This isn’t what Shackles said. What in tarnation is goin’ on?” Applejack asked in frustration, picking up her weapon while taking position at the closest entrance. Dash borrowed one blade-bracelet, now hovering in mid-air. Rarity picked a crossbow, taking a sniping position behind Big Mac and Hawkeye who took the frontline position. The large shield that was on Big Mac’s back now stood tall in front of them.

Fluttershy looked at the princess with pleading eyes. “Your Highness. Leave for Canterlot. We will keep them busy.”

“No.” Nightmare Moon stomped. “I will not leave my subjects behind. Furthermore...” She lowered her head down, her muzzle centimeters away from touching Fluttershy’s, “While I appreciate your initiative, I would prefer if you didn’t order me around. I believe I am in charge here.”

“Y-yes… of course… I just wish to minimize losses, both here and in Canterlot…”

“I am well aware,” Nightmare said. “We shall disarm them by destroying their weapons, but I won’t hesitate to kill if they threaten your lives. Hopefully I will intimidate them enough to avoid fighting, but in the end it will be up to what they do.”

“I understand... “ Fluttershy said hesitantly before addressing her clan. “You heard Her Highness, everypony. We must focus on destroying their equipment and intimidate them. That’s our top priority.”

“Got it,” Applejack said.

“Finally!” Derpy said as she flapped her wings while holding her hooves close to her chest, an enthusiastic smile on her face. “No weapon will remain in good shape with Derpy the Destroyer on the job.”

“Easier said than done, but I will do what I can,” Rarity said as she examined the sharp edge of her bolts. “I am not certain that a crossbow is best suited for this job, but I can always make them drop their weapons by targeting their limbs. Fluttershy can undo such an injury in the end if she’s given a chance.” She lowered her head and shook it. “I miss the more peaceful days. I think all this violence is getting to me.”

“What about the Elements?” Twilight asked as she charged power into her horn, focusing her levitation on the lifeless orbs. “Maybe they have power that can be used to win without hurting anypony.” Upon noticing as her magic kept being dispelled by an unknown force, she charged another spell and vanished in a flash of light.

“Where did she?” Nightmare asked as she scanned her surroundings for the unicorn. She noticed said pony standing atop one of the arms holding the Elements, trying to push the orb with her hooves. “No! You’ll activate the trap you fool!”

“Trap?” Fluttershy asked. “Oh no!”

“Trap?” Twilight asked as the arm she was balancing on started shining in red. Numerous magical runes became visible one after another and red magic moved between them, forming bloody veins. A red aura darkened more and more with each second. “Trap!” In an act of reflex she teleported, only to reappear in the same spot as powerful magic jammed her spell.

Nightmare Moon gritted her teeth, turning into a fog as she rushed towards Twilight, her reflexes kicking in.

Twilight’s horn was surrounded by a wide aura, summoning a magical bubble. The star-filled fog proved fast enough, reaching the unicorn before the shield closed around her.

Fluttershy could only scream in panic at the scene before her. Clouds of poison and streams of acid bursted from within the arm, blocking her field of vision. Numerous magical portals formed in mid-air, summoning and shooting arrows and spears made of pure dark crystals surrounded by black aura, quickly cracking and piercing the protective bubble. All that incredibly powerful magic, a nearly indestructible shield pierced in an instant.

The pureblood gulped. Even if she wasn’t experienced with the more harmful nature of dark magic, something she avoided as much as possible, she learned enough from her parents to know that this kind of magic was best at three things: Spreading curses, destruction, and piercing magical defenses. Only solar magic used by Celestia herself and strong resistances of thestrals and purebloods could effectively withstand its might. Magic of an average unicorn on the other hoof was very vulnerable. Even a weak mage using dark arts could pierce the protection of a much stronger unicorn.

To make matters worse, it seemed that both teleportation and levitation were useless against it.

The poison, acid, dark spears and arrows were just the beginning as black spikes emerged from the floor, stabbing upward into the cloud of poison. Arms of stone and the very platform shattered as rubble rained upon the area. A quick ‘Oof’ escaped Fluttershy’s mouth as a few pebbles struck her in the head, forcing her to raise her hooves and cover herself with her wings protectively. Other clan members defended in their own way, using shields, hooves or simply evading the incoming projectiles.

When she thought the trap was finally about to end, her heartbeat already triple its usual speed, large pillars made of stone with veins of red pulsating energy emerged from the ground, piercing the old floor. As she lowered her hooves, Fluttershy gasped. The pillars of stone together looked like the jaw of a large monster, which closed a moment later, crushing the target with merciless grip. When the cloud of poison and dust finally descended, all there was left was several tons of rubble.

Tears formed on Fluttershy’s eyes and her legs trembled. The magnitude of the trap seemed as if a pureblood or a group of purebloods put a massive amount of effort into making sure that whoever tries to retrieve the Elements would be turned into less than a mere puddle of blood filled with crushed bones. “N-Nightmare… Twilight… N-no…” Seconds dragged on like minutes as she walked forward, shaking left and right with each step.

She flinched as a wave of magic pushed the ruble aside, revealing a bruised figure.

Fluttershy could only stare in disbelief. Nightmare Moon was sitting, her legs injured as each was filled with bruises and bleeding cuts from top to bottom. Even Moon’s face wasn’t spared the scars. The armor was no longer present on the mare, most likely being melted into a puddle of metal with the acid. Speaking of acid, she could notice bits of it present on Nightmare Moon’s fur, and her coughing meant that some poison got into her lungs.

What also caught her eye was the way Nightmare Moon was sitting. Her injured legs and mangled wings were wrapped around something. Slowly, the wings and hooves were raised, revealing Twilight, whose face was pale and devoid of colors.

Without hesitation, Fluttershy rushed forward, accompanied by Rarity who levitated bandages, a first aid kit and a few bottles of Sparkle’s blood. “Nightmare Moon, Twilight! Don’t worry, aid is coming!” Her eyes flashed red as she opened one of the bottles of blood, levitating half of its contents towards the injured princess as it refueled the blood lost and closed her open wounds. Another portion of blood went through the princess’ fur, soaking the acid before falling onto the floor, melting bits of the stone. A few fragments of dark crystals were present as well.

“I… I’m… I’m alive…” Twilight finally spoke up, her pale expression regaining some colors as she walked forward on her shaking hooves, barely maintaining balance. She turned around and looked up. “You… you saved me… if not for you, I would be dead.”

“This is so wrong…” Nightmare muttered.

“Huh?” Twilight took a step forward. “Does it hurt? Anything I can do to help?”

Nightmare Moon stood up, towering over the little pony as she pressed her hoof against Twilight’s chest, her bones still aching from the experience and her throat somewhat sore. “You are the student of my cursed sister, pupil of my greatest enemy who banished me to the moon for a thousand years. You were chosen by the Elements as a Bearer of Magic, capable of banishing me back into that cold prison.”

Twilight walked backward, staring back in confusion.

“I should be intimidating you, facing you in battle or even taking your life so that the Elements could never be a threat.” The alicorn stomped and groaned. “And what did I do instead? I saved your life from a trap you walked into. I endured poison and gallons of acid. Rains of dark spears and crystals tried to pierce every inch of my body. I was even crushed under tons of stone… pushing my endurance to my limits, all to save your miserable life. This is wrong on every level.”

“W-well… when you put it that way…”

She lowered her hurting neck, pressing her nose against Twilight’s muzzle. “Do me a favor and don’t make me rescue you ever again. Saving you even once is more than enough.” She raised her head arrogantly. “Also, forget this ever happened and don’t tell anypony, nor my sister about what happened.”

“What, but why?”

“If my enemies will learn that I risk my life for others, they will most likely use hostages against me. I have good reasons to uphold my reputation, so not a single word.”

“You did a brave and selfless thing. There’s no need to be shy about it,” Fluttershy said as she gently stroked the alicorn’s foreleg. “This trap was dangerous even for someone as powerful as yourself, yet you put yourself in danger to save a pony you considered to be your enemy. You have a good heart, there’s no need to hide it.”

Nightmare blushed as she looked to the side, avoiding the grateful glances and warm smiles directed at her. “I… I blame Luna for that.”

Sure, whatever let you sleep at night, Luna joked, giggling mentally.

“No need to lie to yerself like that,” Applejack said.

“You were really cool,” Rainbow Dash added.

“Encore, encore,” Pinkie yelled, hopping in place.

“At first I served you because of the circumstances, but after such an incredible display of bravery, I wish to serve from the bottom of my heart,” Rarity added, respectfully lowering her head.

“Kindness isn’t something to be ashamed of,” Fluttershy commented. “Your selfless act just proves that you’re a worthy leader. We will stand by your side to the very end.”

“Eeyup.”

Nightmare Moon kept looking away, feeling uneasy at the constant praise. She was supposed to be the strong warlord that would intimidate her enemies, Luna was meant to be the kind-hearted ruler that ponies were supposed to look up to. How was she supposed to maintain that image after that?

Suddenly, a glint of something coming from the rubble caught her attention, and soon fragments of the lifeless orbs emerged from it, regaining their shine while turning into numerous little crystals. Oh no! Nightmare raised her forehoof defensively as the little crystals formed together into jewelry, each now decorating each bearer’s neck.

Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy, all receiving their respective Element with gems similar to their cutie marks.

“What just happened?” Rainbow Dash asked as she examined her necklace.

“Oh, no, no, no,” Fluttershy said as she quickly untied her Element, placing it gently on the damaged floor, only for it to turn into transparent bats and reassemble atop her neck. After a few failed attempts, she looked up with the most apologetic puppy stare she could muster. “I’m sorry, Your Highness. I can’t take it off no matter how hard I try.”

“It is alright, as long as the sixth Element remains missing,” Nightmare said, only for another glow to catch her eye. She looked up, seeing and sensing powerful magic as another orb formed before her very eyes, only to transform into some sort of crown.

She rolled her eyes. “Of course.”

She observed the Element of Magic descend, watching as it landed atop Twi… Fluttershy’s head. She blinked in surprise. “Wait… wasn’t Twilight Sparkle chosen to unlock the Element of Magic?”

Twilight quickly jumped forward, examining the crown. Both necklace and crown had a gem in the shape of a red bat. “I… I don’t understand. Can one pony use more than one Element?”

“Of course she can you fool! Luna in her prime represented the Element of Laughter, Loyalty and Honesty. My traitorous sister represented Magic, Generosity and Kindness,” Nightmare Moon explained while observing Fluttershy, who kept trying to throw away the crown. Of course, it was quite persistent and kept coming back.

“But I’m pretty sure my magic is a lot stronger than hers… no offense.”

“None taken,” Fluttershy answered before holding the crown firmly in front of her face. “Now listen here, Mister Magic, I appreciate choosing me to wield you, but I’m pretty sure there’s another pony more suited for this task. So I would be grateful if you reconsider the Bearer.”

Rainbow Dash landed and whispered to Applejack. “Is she really talking to it? Or are my ears deceiving me?”

“Ah see it too, but to be honest, it ain’t the craziest thin’ happenin’ tonight. Seems pretty normal actually,” Applejack replied.

“Eeyup.”

Nightmare Moon raised Twilight’s chin with a hoof. “Raw power isn’t enough to represent the Element of Magic. This element is so much more. It is a unifying force for the other Elements; it chooses born leaders, those who others trust.” She pointed at the pureblood, who simply continued her negotiations without a care for what was going on around her.

The princess continued her lecture, “Lady Fluttershy has created powerful bonds with her clan members over the years as they faced trials and hardships. They no doubt have proved worthy of their respective Element with actions and deeds. Her magic may be inferior, but other bearers trust her. She’s a great uniter who turned enemies into allies. She’s far more worthy than a shut-in scholar like yourself.”

Twilight’s ears dropped as she lowered her head in shame, whimpering sadly.

Fluttershy placed the crown on the floor once more and gestured at the unicorn. “Please Mister Magic. Give another pony a chance. Pretty please.”

Much to Nightmare’s confusion, the crown started to levitate away from Fluttershy, landing on Twi… on top of her own head. The gem in the shape of a red bat transformed into an onyx in the shape of a crescent moon. The princess poked the crown that now decorated her once bare head.

Magic, the Element that once favored her sister, now chose her? She looked at each Bearer who kept looking back at her with trust in their eyes. Could this be? That after a thousand years of solitude, the Element that was once used to banish her, the Element that her sister represented… now choose her?

A wide grin of satisfaction formed on her lips while a warm feeling grew in her heart. In the past, Celestia was the one who everypony trusted, the one who united others and led them. Tonight, however, after saving Twilight’s life and risking her own, she gained their trust and respect. The other bearers saw her as a worthy leader second only to Fluttershy.

But most importantly, the Element of Magic favored both her and Fluttershy over Twilight Sparkle.

In your face Celestia! Your student’s got nothing on me. Nightmare Moon mentally shouted.

Once we get this mess sorted, we’re so going to tease our sister about it. Luna stated, creating a few images of an annoyed Celestia in their mind. Though If we’re to save Equestria from war, forgiveness must be strong in us.

Forgiving her won’t be easy, but I suppose we can quell our desire for vengeance a bit. Besides, there’s one specific pony… NIghtmare Moon responded and glanced down, looking at the depressed unicorn, as if a scolded abandoned puppy. On the other hoof, I think I’ll give her a break.

Nightmare Moon’s ears perked up as she picked up noise of hoofsteps. Fluttershy, Rarity and Hawkeye immediately rushed towards the entrance, alarmed by the approaching force. The time to lead her subjects against the enemy had come. One thing was certain, she was going to ensure that her subjects survived. The question was, how many more lives was she going to take tonight, and how much blood would be on her hooves?

Confrontations - Teamwork

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 4

Confrontations

Part 6 - Teamwork

“I keep telling you, I am not brainwashed or manipulated!” Twilight shouted in frustration, standing between two sides eager to battle. One after another, more hunters entered the area from the stairs while a few pegasi flew inside through the holes in the roof. She pointed at herself and added, “I wasn’t turned, nor bribed. I am here by the order of Princess Celestia herself and I demand that you stop this foolishness.”

“If you’re Her Highness student, you should be helping us. Do you have any idea how many ponies this monster killed?” one hunter asked, a scar on the left side of his face barely visible due to lack of light. He shook his crossbow, gesturing at her. “Help us or step aside. Unless you already betrayed Her Highness and joined the pureblood.”

Twilight’s face turned red. “Betrayed?! You’re the ones betraying her! First, Nightmare Moon isn’t a pureblood, she’s an alicorn. Second, Princess Celestia ordered me to surrender Ponyville to her to prevent conflict, something you ponies ruined!”

“Surrender Ponyville to that monster? Like we’d believe in lies like that,” a pegasus hunter said as he and his squad aimed their crossbows at the dark mare.

“I… I’m not sure she’s lying. If we consider what happened tonight and what Chains said, what she says kind of makes sense,” another pegasus spoke, looking at his comrades with a hint of hesitation.

The officer aimed his crossbow at the hesitating pony. “Betray us and you’ll die traitor’s death. Orders are orders and the enemy must be eradicated.”

Twilight examined faces of each hunter, spotting hesitation and even fear on many faces, yet none lowered their weapons. The discipline must be enforced with harsh measurements. Princess Celestia would never allow her to kill a fellow pony, nor enforced orders to execute traitors. Those ponies must be really desperate.

“Enough talking. Assist us or step aside!” He gestured at his squad. “Aim, set…”

“No, stop!” Twilight shouted, summoning a protective barrier as if trying to separate the room with a wall.

“Fire!”

Rain of silver bolts assaulted her forcefield as Twilight grit her teeth, keeping the assault at bay. Much to her surprise, a few ponies threw gems with engraved runes in them, creating holes in her magical wall. She screeched the moment one bolt struck her forearm. Distracted, she released the output of her magic she directed towards the barrier.

She ducked and covered her head with her hooves as bolts flew over her head. Seeing as numerous hunters charged forward with melee weapons under coverage of bolts, she lit her horn, teleporting behind the massive ruble that was left after she activated a devastating trap.

“So much for negotiations, to battle!” Nightmare Moon commanded.

Twilight peeked from behind her cover as she could only stare at the battle before her. Applejack and Big Macintosh rushed to the frontline, deflecting projectiles with their shield and weapons, occasionally enduring them with their bodies, a display of durability given only to hardworking hardened earth ponies.

Rainbow Dash zipped between shots, delivering a punch or a kick to a few pegasi, only for a few bolts to pierce her wing, forcing an emergency landing as Dash’s chin slammed into the dusty stone. Twilight narrowed her eyes and concentrated, summoning a protective dome over the grounded pegasus.

Hawkeye held his massive shield protectively over himself and Rarity as they both kept distance, wary of silver bolts which worked exceptionally well against their kind. As if a sniper, the fashionista struck wings of a few pegasi, grounding them with enhanced bolts. Her attempt to harm earth ponies failed though, as they blocked her strikes with shields of their own, while unicorns summoned a much weaker version of Twilight’s barrier to keep themselves safe.

Nightmare Moon, now in her fog form, charged at the enemy, ignoring the piercing projectiles which simply passed through her. One after another, she wrapped her star-filled limbs around numerous weapons, pulling them away from the enemy. Crossbows and more vulnerable equipment ended up crushed swiftly by her grab, while more durable ones were gathered together into a pile away from the battlefield. Disarming and relocating such a quantity of weapons took time though, giving the enemies opportunities to strike.

A few unicorns withdrew their weapons, focusing on casting offensive spells instead. Fireballs, lightings, arrows of ice, or a simple barrage of magical beams was sent against the fog that was Nightmare Moon as at least one spell struck her for every five cast. The fog seemed to be pushed back due to magical assault, forcing it to reform back into flesh and blood as the princess now had numerous new burns covering her body.

It seems that while she can ignore physical strikes in that form, she becomes vulnerable to magic. To make matters worse, taking away weapons from spellcasters won’t stop them from fighting. This is bad.

With the hunters' attention on the alicorn, Fluttershy snuck in towards Rainbow Dash to provide aid. Fangs struck her own foreleg, and she summoned her own blood to restore the pegasus' wing before licking her wound in order to close it.

“Watch out!” Dash warned, pointing at the approaching enemy. She jumped to her hooves, but was stopped from moving by a pureblood’s wing.

“Don’t worry about me, I’ll manage,” Fluttershy said as she opened her eyes widely, her pupils now flashing in red. The hunter who was about to swing his armed hoof stopped in his tracks. Whatever mental warfare began, the earth pony was losing. Sweat slid down the hunter’s face, his goggles cracked and fell to the ground in pieces, his teeth grit as his willpower finally broke. He dropped to his knees, now looking more like a terrified puppy.

“Was that ‘The Stare?’ Wow, I completely forgot you can do that. Thanks for the save, I’ll go help the rest,” Dash said with a salute, flying away to support the clan from the air.

“Applejack, Big Mac, over here!” Fluttershy called as she gestured at her friends, leading them towards a nearby pillar. A few bruised hunters chased them, only to be discouraged the moment Fluttershy opened her mouth.

Twilight pressed hooves against her ears, her eyes half closed. She could hear the verbal assault despite the distance and see as the pure strength of Fluttershy’s soundwaves pushed the attackers away.

“Oh my!” Fluttershy gasped, staring at her dizzy foes in confusion. “I don’t remember my voice being this strong. My powers and techniques have really improved. I need to be careful not to overdo it.”

Applejack and Big Mac showed signs of discomfort, but recovered quickly and approached Fluttershy who immediately started healing their wounds. As the healing was nearly completed, Applejack quickly jumped in front of Fluttershy, standing on her rear hooves as she blocked a silver dagger with her own belly.

“Applejack!” Fluttershy flew up, her eyes flashed red as she concentrated on bits of blood that now covered the floor, ordering said blood to rush towards the attacker's saddlebag, melting it alongside daggers inside it. While her magic proved ineffective against the silver itself, the rear part of each dagger seemed to be made of some other metal, leaving a stack of silver edges which wouldn’t be as easy to throw. The huntress escaped immediately.

“Don’t worry, it will be alright,” Fluttershy said as she licked an injury on her friend’s belly.

“Ah swear, as efficient as yer healing is, Ah still have hard time gettin’ used to it,” Applejack said as a weak blush appeared on her cheeks.

For a pureblood, she’s really caring for her friends, focused more on healing them than the actual fight. Twilight looked at the pureblood in confusion. What was happening before her was more than just a master/servant relationship. While she herself was more interested in gaining knowledge and studies over social interactions, she still recognized that the ponies before her displayed true friendship. Each member of the clan did their best to help each other, not showing fear as they gave each other courage.

So this is what true friendship is like. And they seem a lot stronger thanks to it. There was a bit of admiration she felt towards Fluttershy and her friends as she now understood why the Element of Magic chose her. As a hardworking student of the princess, she truly believed that one can only achieve great things with hard work, she believed that she should rely only on herself to get the job done. If the Element of Magic always picked great leaders, it was no wonder she was unworthy.

Even Nightmare Moon risked her life for me even though I am her enemy. I don’t know if I would be willing to do something like this for another pony.

Twilight watched as the unicorns kept pressure against the alicorn, keeping her from moving. Earth ponies and pegasi used this opportunity to engage Nightmare Moon directly, attacking with their silver blades similar to the blades inside the bracelets used by Applejack. The alicorn fought back with her hooves, though unable to hold her ground against numerous foes as the alicorn’s durability was put to the test against the enemy’s strength.

Despite the constant onslaught of blades and spells, Nightmare Moon managed to summon a spell, striking a few unicorns with lightning while leaving burned marks on their backs or heads. Were those lethal strikes? Twilight didn’t think so, but were just enough to knock a few spellcasters out of commission.

Twilight’s eyes became wide as she spotted Derpy, who all this time seemed to move from one pillar to another, as if an assassin trying to get close to the enemy without being spotted. Without hesitation, Derpy flew at the group of unicorns, diving into them as if a falling boulder. A collective yelp of pain could be heard from the cloud of smoke while numerous pebbles rained over the battlefield.

As the smoke finally descended, Twilight could see a few unconscious unicorns with Derphy stomping on their saddlebags and crossbows, destroying all kinds of mixtures and magical gems as rainbowlike liquid and fragments of crystals and wood now decorated the floor around the unconscious ponies.

Nearby earth ponies quickly rushed at Derpy, slamming her with their shields as if she was a volleyball.

Using this opening, Nightmare Moon turned into a fog, wrapping herself around the blades that previously were used to slice her body.

Fluttershy flew towards Derphy, grabbing her in mid-air before flying away from pursuing pegasi. Fortunately, Rainbow Dash intercepted the pursuit, knocking half of the pursuing ponies to the ground with aerial kicks while Rarity scared the rest with her crossbow.

With the chaos now raging on the battlefield, Hawkeye galloped away from Rarity, engaging enemies in direct combat alongside Applejack and Big Mac.

“Enjoying the view?”

Twilight flinched, her attention now on Nightmare Moon who reformed herself next to her. “You scared me.” She took a few quick breaths, trying to calm her hasty-beating heart.

“Oh, I am sorry, but I just can’t help but notice how you just sit here and watch as we are fighting for our lives.” The princess lowered her head and narrowed her eyes while raising Twilight’s chin with her hoof. “Now would you kindly cast a spell or two to assist us? Or is the student of my cursed sister really that useless?” she asked, venom clear in her voice.

“Oh, s-sure, but how…”

“I don’t care how you wanted to end this sentence! Any spell that can help us disarm the enemy will do you useless scholar. Just don’t stand and watch like a brainless idiot!” Nightmare Moon commanded before spreading her wings, flying back into the field of battle, summoning lightning spells in order to intercept the reinforcing pegasi.

Twilight gulped before brainstorming over her arsenal of spells, searching for the best one for the current situation. “I got it!” Her eyes became wide at realization. She shut her eyes close and bent her legs, then grit her teeth. Aura around her horn grew in strength with each passing second.

After several seconds which felt like a minute, she unleashed her spell, spreading a powerful wave of magic. Everypony except members of Fluttershy’s clan ended up wrapped in a lavender aura, unable to move a single muscle as if frozen in time. “H-hurry! I… I can’t hold them for long!”

Nightmare Moon and other ponies didn’t need to be asked twice, destroying any weapon that they could get their hooves on.

Growing headache, intense pains and strong desire to stop this torture, those emotions Twilight felt in each passing second as she kept the enemies imprisoned, knowing full well that she couldn’t give up just yet. Trying as much as she did, her legs bent and she collapsed, losing hold on her spell as sweat now covered her face. She breathed heavily as she raised her heavy head to look over the battlefield.

Most weapons were now either in fragments lying over the battlefield or stocked in a pile with broken blades. Every saddlebag was burned to ash and whatever was inside now covered the floor, be it liquid from potions or glass from bottles.

The hunters who were still conscious withdrew immediately, breaking their formation as pegasi flew away through holes in the roof or damaged windows. Earth ponies and unicorns picked up their comrades, forming a final defensive line near a wall, now more concerned about their own well being over killing their target.

“D-don’t worry, we won’t hurt you,” Fluttershy said as she slowly approached the cornered enemy. “If you surrender, we will aid the wounded. There’s no need for us to fight anymore.”

The hunters looked at each other in confusion, yet none dared to say a word.

“Y-you promise,” one hunter said.

“You seriously believe her?” another asked.

“Well… Shackles and Chains negotiated with her. I’d rather take my chances with her than with fighting.”

“Our Lieutenant is unconscious. I say we just forget about our orders and surrender.”

“But what if they’ll kill…”

“If they wanted to kill us, they would. I think they were holding back.”

Murmurs became louder and louder before the ponies nodded in agreement. They placed all their injured in one spot, then stepped to the side, lowering their heads as if awaiting judgement.

“Thank you, you won’t regret it,” Fluttershy said encouragingly before running towards the wounded, assisting each one with enthusiasm.

Twilight stood up on her trembling legs, approaching the group with slow steps as her strength slowly returned to her. After all they did to her, after all attempts on her life she’s still willing to heal them? How did she manage to preserve her innocent heart after all those hardships and trials? They may call her shy, but it requires a lot of strength to be this forgiving.

“Good job, Twilight Sparkle.”

She looked to the side and up, being met with a proud smile from the alicorn.

“See, you can be useful and efficient if you just put in some effort. All you needed was some… encouragement,” Nightmare praised, patting the unicorn on the back with her wing. “This was an incredibly strong spell, and for a unicorn, you maintained it very long. It would be a lie if I said I wasn’t impressed.” She withdrew her wing and narrowed her eyes. “Yet your initiative was lacking. You need to work on your reflexes and gain more field experience, my little sheltered pony.”

The alicorn poked the crown on her head. “Maybe when you learn a bit more about teamwork, the Element of Magic may consider you worthy.”

Teamwork… Twilight looked at Fluttershy who was now surrounded by her friends, all sharing encouraging words and smiles which clearly confused the nearby hunters. In the past Princess Celestia encouraged her to make friends, something she dismissed as a waste of time. Now however, she witnessed the strength coming from such a bond as Fluttershy seemed to be a great example, one worth following.

“Cool princess, we bring news.”

Twilight, Nightmare Moon and Rainbow Dash turned towards the source of the voice, spotting Vinyl who jumped inside through the roof, though not making a single noise upon landing. Pinkie Pie did the same, landing on Vinyl’s back.

“We bought you some time, distracting their boss. I see it was a time well spent,” Vinyl said, admiring the pile of destroyed equipment.

“It was like a game of tag with a lot of ponies, but they stopped playing a moment ago.” Pinkie sat, crossed her forelegs and frowned. “And it was just getting fun. I didn’t even get to say hi to Maud and Limestone.”

Vinyl shook the party mare from her back before fixing a bowtie on her uniform. “I think Shackles recognized it was a diversion and is heading here. Sadly, I get the impression he won’t be interested in negotiations this time around.”

Fluttershy wanted to speak, but Nightmare Moon beat her to it. “Shackles, the one who led the attack on your family, the one who took advantage of the corruption in the guild.” She grinned, allowing herself a sinister chuckle. “I am looking forward to meeting him. I’ll enjoy punishing this miserable being.”

Twilight looked at Fluttershy, who opened her mouth as if willing to speak, but closed it immediately and lowered her head, ears now flattened against her head. While Twilight didn’t get much time to spend with the kind-hearted pureblood, she suspected that Fluttershy wanted to protest, to ask Nightmare Moon to show mercy, but had decided against it. Not that she could blame her. According to Fluttershy’s story, Shackles hurt many ponies due to his greed and didn’t seem like somepony deserving forgiveness. Her ears perked up as she heard numerous hoofsteps.

Everypony looked at the stairs, now on guard with Nightmare Moon taking the frontline position, smiling despite unhealed bruises still present on her body.

While they managed to disarm a third of the enemy force, the true peace could be attained only after dealing with the enemy leader, and something told them that not using lethal force was going to be difficult, or maybe even impossible.

Author's Note

Special thanks to Sweetolebob18 for last minute editing.

Heavy Negotiations

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 5

Heavy Negotiations

The abandoned mines under Canterlot were certainly not a location Moon Shadow considered as a proper place for negotiations. For the past few centuries it had served the thestrals of Canterlot as a decent hiding location, but with the changelings in the picture, not expecting an ambush would have been no less than foolish.

He would never agree to enter into a potential trap, and so both sides agreed to negotiate at the entrance. No table, no cushions or chairs for leaders to sit at, no comfortable accommodations, only two leaders standing across from each other.

Moon Shadow stood at the entrance of a dark tunnel, seeing shimmers from crystals on the walls.

Behind him stood six purebloods between five to six centuries in age, his veteran fighters, and behind them were a hundred clan members armed to the teeth.

As much as he wished to bring a mightier force, he needed to keep most of his followers near forces made of ponies from the Royal and Crystal Guards, keeping them at bay while his brother with his elite guards secured the castle and the dungeon.

We may be outnumbered greatly, but this is a matter of quantity against quality. If something unexpected happens, we will withdraw to the castle and regroup with our main forces there, Moon Shadow thought as he glanced at his loyal followers, trusting their combat experience. Changelings may be numerous, but they pale in comparison to thestrals. We have many means to counter their deception and trickery which is their greatest asset, and in open combat, they can’t overcome our might.

He narrowed his eyes, his attention now on numerous green eyes staring at him from the tunnel. It seems the Queen has brought an escort as well. No matter. We can always seal the entrance to buy more time, and they can’t attack with full force through this small tunnel. The tactical advantage is on my side.

He looked down, seeing Angel gesturing with his paws ahead. He performed a respectful bow before walking to the side, now observing the negotiations from a dusty mining cart.

“So you are the one who has overthrown the mighty Celestia. I must say; I expected so much more,” said a tall bug-like figure. The shape of an alicorn, dark body with no fur covering it, armored back, green predatory eyes, thin buzzing wings, but most importantly, numerous holes in her limbs and horn.

Moon Shadow looked slightly up as the large bug seemed more than happy to tower over him, the top of his head only reaching her chin. He answered the Queen’s smirk with his own. “I wish I could say the same thing about you, but I don’t remember you and your kind ever standing up to Celestia, much less overthrowing her. Now, what do you want? I am too busy to deal with an infestation at the moment.”

“Sharp tongue, but you will change it after hearing my most gracious offer.” She gestured at herself, her head raised arrogantly. “Let's start with showing each other proper respect. My name is Chrysalis, Queen of the Changelings. It is a pleasure to meet you, Lord Moon Shadow.”

“The only pony that deserves to be called Queen is the two-faced princess, Mistress Luna, or her other counterpart, Mistress Nightmare Moon. Don’t expect me to give you such a privilege.”

“Is that so? And why would you remain so loyal to a pony who has been exiled a thousand years ago? Her time and her authority ended with her banishment,” Chrysalis stated, standing tall with no sign of hesitation on her face, her tone sharp but calm. Her words caused a hint of frustration to form on Moon Shadow’s forehead. “You have led almost all of the purebloods for centuries and united them under your leadership. You led an assault on Canterlot and bested Celestia. Why would you consider her a Queen when you have already proved yourself a king?”

Moon Shadow stomped and grit his teeth. “I bested Celestia only because Nightmare Moon took the sun from her. She was the one who united our kind in the past and will do so this very night.”

Changeling Queen smirked, displaying a smug face. “If that’s the case, then tell me, where is your Queen? Why wasn't she the one leading this invasion, why wasn’t she the one fighting Celestia? Why hasn't she ascend to the throne? Is she even aware of this invasion of yours?”

Moon Shadow looked to the side and groaned.

“Or maybe you took advantage of her powers, invading Canterlot behind her back while she kept the sun at bay?“ Chrysalis asked, leaning towards the pureblood.

“Since you have your eyes and ears everywhere, you should know that I did what I could to protect Nightmare Moon.“ He stomped. “Do not question my loyalty, Queen of Parasitic Bugs“

A few hissing noises came from inside the tunnel, a screech of protest and anger.

Chrysalis raised her hoof, silencing her subjects. “You can not fool a changeling, much less their queen. I can sense doubts and confusion in you. You know that you worked hard to unite purebloods and make them strong. Why offer her a kingdom on a silver plate when you did all the work?“

“Enough!“ Moon Shadow shouted and spread his wings. His eyes flashed red, forcing the queen to avert her eyes from the mental assault. “What do you want? Get to the point!“

Green flames surrounded the queen, revealing a mirror reflection of Moon Shadow. “I offer an alliance that will be beneficial to us both. We can provide you with very useful services… for a proper share in your conquest.“

Moon Shadow sat, then raised forehoof to his mouth and laughed. “Services? Share in my conquest. What a joke? You truly believe we require assistance from parasites?“ He blinked as a ball of green flame struck the ground in front of his hooves. He narrowed his eyes, maintaining his calm, and collected composure. “Did I strike a nerve?“

“I have been tolerating your insults but my patience has its limits. If not for the fact that your kind bested Celestia and took over her capital, I would tear you apart for your lack of respect.“

Moon Shadow approached with firm steps, staring the disguised queen eye to eye. “Alright. No more insults and no more mind games. What can your kind offer me, and be brief? I have matters to attend to.“

Chrysalis shifted back to her regular form and bypassed the pureblood. She looked around while numerous thestrals raised their weapons, observing her every move. “You control the capital and lead a truly elite force, but to control a whole nation you require numbers. Surely thousands of my shapeshifting infiltrators, spies and soldiers can provide eyes, ears and enforce your rule over a large territory.“

“We can extend our numbers,“ said a pureblood in the distance, a full plate armor covered his body while a pony-sized mace was by his side.

“Do not underestimate our intelligence,“ said another pureblood, this one wearing a black cape with a monocle on one eye. “We operated in the shadows for centuries and our clans can blend in.“

“True, but I doubt many will willingly join the conquerors. Recruiting, transforming and forcing loyalty will take a lot of time. Not to mention it will increase your need for blood and reduce the number of those you can feed on.“ Chrysalis looked over her shoulder, displaying a fake smile at Moon Shadow. “Why waste time and put your precious elite at risk when you can gain a large number of expendable forces to secure your territory? Surely you must think that.“

Moon Shadow maintained his passive stare, though he couldn't do much to hide his true emotions from a changeling. She offers praise, questions my loyalty, and even tries to use my ambitions. I must not fall for these tricks.

Chrysalis pointed at the sky, or rather at little dots, but those were not stars but airships and pegasi. “We can also aid you in the fight against the Crystal Empire. Unlike Equestria's incompetent guards, that little nation was preparing itself for conflict against purebloods and thestrals for centuries. They can cause a lot of harm or even stop your conquest, but they aren't prepared for my changelings. Divide and conquer as changelings say.“

“And where's the catch, what do you get out of this?“

Chrysalis chuckled. “Control of the Crystal Empire would be a start. My changelings will also be allowed to openly operate in Equestria and feed on ponies. You get the blood, we get their magic. There's more than enough to keep our hives well-fed.“

Moon Shadow raised an eyebrow. “'Feed on ponies', you say. And how do you intend to steal magic? I doubt anyone will feel any love or compassion to your kind in a conquered nation.“

“Emotions are but bridges we can use to drain magic from ponies. Positive ones are most potent, especially love as it allows a quick transfer of precious tasty magic without wasting a single drop. Deception proved to be the best tool to acquire it, but it became hard to feed a large hive this way. There are just so many ponies you can deceive without blowing your cover.“

Moon Shadow stated, “So you wish to feed on ponies using anger and fear.“

“Precisely. Once this conquest is over, ponies will become our livestock, something we can share. Half or even two-third of the transferred magic will be wasted that way, but with so many ponies in our reach, this won't be much of a problem.“

“So you waste plenty of magic if it is acquired through negative emotions, what a joke. No wonder changelings are inferior,“ said the pureblood with a monocle, receiving a hateful glare from the queen. “I assure you, we are nowhere near as wasteful with our donors.“

Chrysalis grit her gritted her teeth, now more visibly showing her attempts to keep her anger in check. “I tried to play nice, but my patience just ran out, so I will ask this only once, do you accept my offer?“ Numerous hissing noises came from inside the mine, a clear message that one more insult or arrogant remark would have grave consequences.

"So you finally revealed your true self. Good. I had no intention of negotiating with that fake mask of yours." Moon Shadow narrowed his eyes. “I admit, your offer would indeed be very beneficial to both sides and ensure my victory in this war, but do you truly believe I will trust the Queen of a species that relies on deception? Give me one reason why I should trust you. What will keep you from backstabbing me when I least expect it?“

Chrysalis smiled mischievously, her tone of voice suddenly relaxed and calm. “I expected you would bring this up. In this alliance, you indeed can not trust me completely, and I am well aware of the cunning mind games you and your bloodsuckers are capable of. To be honest, it is something I respect in you. We and our hives are quite alike.“

“Alike, you say. I suppose there is a bit of truth in your statement,“ Moon Shadow replied, deciding to play along. He could no longer afford to look down on Chrysalis. He needed to keep his pride in check. “This alliance would be on shaky grounds. Both sides may attempt to trick the other at any time.“

“So true, but this is something I would enjoy. A battle of wits. Being both your ally and a rival, conspiring against you behind your back while you do the same. I find this concept to be the most interesting.“ Chrysalis narrowed her eyes, her tone of voice now filled with authority. “But make no mistake. I need to feed my hive and I have ambitions of my own. If you refuse to let my changelings feed on the ponies, I will have to take some drastic measures, ones that will make your conquest ever so much harder.“

This was it, all cards were on the table. With no hesitation on his part, Moon Shadow spoke, “So keep your friends close and enemies closer. Or rather, I either cooperate and get something out of it, or we will have to fight for Equestria’s resources the hard way.“

Chrysalis lowered herself a little, now looking the pureblood eye to eye. “Exactly, but fear not. We can leave the backstabbing and mind games for after Equestria and the Crystal Empire are ours. It would be most foolish to turn on an ally when cooperation can benefit us so much more. I may be greedy, but I know better than to cross you until all the tasty ponies bow to us.“

Moon Shadow raised an eyebrow. “Your offer is indeed tempting, but it is not my place to agree. It is for Nightmare Moon to decide.“

Chrysalis sighed, then groaned as she looked back with pure disappointment. “I can't believe I felt respect towards someone like you. You have the potential to become a king and rule this land, but your blind loyalty to that Nightmare is holding you back. You invaded behind her back, yet lacks the courage to take another step. Only a fool starts something without intention to see it through."

"Your words won't change my mind. But I can pass your offer to..."

"This negotiation is over,“ Chrysalis shouted with venom in her voice, stomping.

Moon Shadow observed the Queen, not taking his eyes from her even for a moment as she walked into the tunnel, accompanied by her elite escort as numerous green eyes vanished one after another. Soon, there was nothing but dead silence.

He glanced to the side, but Angel bunny was nowhere to be found.

“Sir,“ spoke the pureblood in heavy armor who pointed at the castle in the distance with the moon and stars in the background. “With our clans keeping an eye on Equestrian forces, it creates an opening for changelings to strike. We should revise our security.“

“I agree. There is no way the Queen of Changelings would willingly walk away with nothing. She may also try to get back at us for rejecting her offer,“ said the pureblood with a monocle. The others further away nodded in agreement.

Moon Shadow nodded. There was no way Chrysalis was just going to let it slide. Still, joining forces with her would mean betraying Nightmare Moon, and there was no way he would join forces with those parasitic bugs. “Maybe Celestia was right. Maybe this invasion was a mistake after all...“ he whispered, quickly earning disapproval from his followers, their hearing capable of picking up even a whisper.

“No. I achieved victory and I will see it through. We are strong and united, we can overcome it.“ He glanced at the sky, his eyes now fixated on the moon as its shine calmed him down. “I shall overcome even a battle on two fronts. It is too late to back down. Now we can only go all in.“

He concentrated on communicating with his servants as he headed back to his stronghold. One raport after another brought a smile to his face. The moment when Nightmare Moon was going to slaughter the hunters was about to come, and convincing her to join him and lead this conquest would be a breeze afterwards.

Author's Note

I appologise for the long delay. New chapters are comming right up.

Ponyville - Party of All Parties

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 1

Ponyville

Part 4 - Party of All Parties

Twilight and Spike stood in front of a large tree, her base of operations and maybe even her new home. Both were hesitant to go inside as their eyes were now focused on numerous ponies talking with each other, occasionally eating something from numerous tables filled with food.

She glanced at Spike, who was hopping in excitement with a smile

“Let’s get this over with,” Twilight said, taking her first step. Her assistant ran ahead of her. The ponies waved at her and she returned the gesture, following Spike into the library.

“Twilight!”

“Moon Dancer?” Twilight said, her attention on an aproaching pony.

“I was counting on you to come to my birthday party and was really disappointed because of the evacuation. I thought we would never see each other again, or that something had happened to you,” Moon Dancer said with a hint of worry.

Lyra placed forehoof on Moon Dancer’s shoulder. “She was really worked up over it. It felt as if you were the only party guest she cared about.”

Twinkleshine pointed at their manes and spoke in a calm voice, “She always admired Twilight, even to a point of copying her mane-style. Can you blame her?”

Moon Dancer blushed and hid it behind her foreleg before stepping to the side as the rest of her friends surrounded Twilight, Lemon Hearts and Minuette quickly joining in.

Twilight noticed a few banners, some saying ‘Welcome Twilight and Spike’, while others read ‘Happy Birthday Moon Dancer’.

From the corner of her eye she saw a group of ponies talking with each other while sitting in a circle near the dining table. She recognized a few of them from the pictures of the potential Element bearers

“Oh Twilight, I’m so glad you came!” Moon Dancer exclaimed.

“Now that everypony is here, this party can really get started! I’m so excited!” Minuette said, embracing Twilight and Moon Dancer. Moon Dancer reflexively grabbed her glasses in her magic before they could fall to the floor.

Pinkie jumped in front of them and joined the hug, squeezing both unicorns in a vice grip. “And here I thought you’d have trouble making friends, but now I see you have five of them. That's so splendiferous! You’ll have the best of fun!”

Spike jumped onto Twilight's head with a pack of popcorn in his paw and a lampshade on his head. “Now that’s what I call a party. I’m starting to like this town.” He took off his lampshade, revealing a present tied with a ribbon. “Happy birthday Moon Dancer!”

“T-thank you…” she responded, levitating over the gift while struggling free of the crushing hug. After unwrapping it, a blush formed on her cheeks. “You… didn’t have to,” she said while a plush bear now levitated by her side.

“Do you like it?” he asked. “Twilight suggested a book, but what does she know? Speaking of books.” He reached into Twilight’s saddlebag and pulled out another wrapped gift. “I grabbed the gift she got for you before we left. You know how she gets when she's in a hurry; she'd forget her head if it wasn't on one of her checklists."

Not wasting a moment, Moon Dancer unwrapped the present with her magic, ripping off the material that separated her from the precious gift. A wide grin formed on her face as she nuzzled the book about astronomy. “Thank you, Twilight, I love it!”

“Awww…! C’mere,” Pinkie and Minuette spoke in unison as they grabbed Spike in a tight embrace.

Twilight groaned, feeling squeezed as she was trapped between her friends and two hug-lovers, surrounded by nearly a hundred party quests. To make matters worse, her ears barely endured the loud music. Oh, for the love of Celestia, can this day get any crazier?

She looked around, waiting several seconds for fate to throw something unpredictable at her. She was released from the hug, glancing about the library as nothing happened. No princess dropping from the ceiling, no ponies transforming into thestrals or any other race she was unaware of.

A minute went by before she decided to relax a bit and talk with her friends. It seems that my day just cannot get crazier than this.

***

Applejack and Rarity walked upstairs, as Twilight had requested politely to talk with them in private. They had been already updated by Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash about their interactions with her.

With a mixture of curiosity and worry, they stepped into the second floor and sat on the carpet in front of the waiting unicorn. Applejack was the first to speak, “So what is it ya wanted ta talk with us?”

“If this is about the return of the Two-faced Princess, we were already informed in advance.” Rarity pressed forehoof against her chest and raised her head proudly. “Worry not, darling, we will be on our best behaviour and greet her with the honor and decorum a royal deserve.”

“That’s exactly what I find suspicious,” Twilight said, walking back and forth.

“Suspicious? Whatever do you mean?” Rarity asked, laying her ears back in confusion.

“Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash and the both of you are acting very suspicious.” Twilight started circling the confused ponies who looked at each other, shrugging and shaking their heads. “When I informed each of you about the return of Nightmare Moon, none of you doubted me.” She took a quick breath. “Instead of calling me insane or demanding proof, you act as if you already knew about her return.”

Both mares took a step back, biting their respective lips.

Twilight jumped towards Applejack, her ears back and expression intimidating enough to scare a Timberwolf. “Applejack! You represent the Element of Honesty. Please tell me what you are hiding from me!”

“Ele-what?” What’re ya talkin’ about?”

Rarity was about to say something, but was silenced by Twilight’s angry glare. Aside from fast heartbeat and breathing, she sensed magic… a lot of magic.

As a fashionista and thestral turned only two years ago, she wasn’t the most experienced at using her powers and senses. Yet, she could already tell that Twilight’s raw power was enormous, far superior to Fluttershy’s. Her throat dried up and her legs felt like jelly. Messing up with the student of the princess herself was the last thing she wanted to do.

Twilight pressed her muzzle against Applejack’s and said, “Purebloods are planning to take over Equestria while we’re ordered to surrender to Nightmare Moon! If you know something, anything that could help, please tell me!”

She pulled her muzzle back and pressed a forehoof against her chest, breathing heavily. She continued in a pleading voice, “We’re on the same side. We must stick together in the hard times to come, so please, be honest with me.”

Both mares stared at each other; one with pleading eyes, another sweating and tensed.

“You can trust me… please.”

Applejack glanced at Rarity, who shook her head very slightly so that Twilight wouldn’t notice it. “Sorry, sugarcube. No can do.”

Twilight sighed and lowered her head, walking towards the bed next to the window, bypassing shelves filled with books.

***

Rarity and Applejack went back downstairs, taking seats in the corner of the room as they whispered to each other.

“Are ya sure we should keep her in the dark, Rares?” Applejack asked. “She’s the student of the princess. She’d be a mighty strong ally.”

“Or she could become our greatest foe,” Rarity interrupted. “Keep in mind that she views thestrals as enemies. Besides me,” she pointed at herself,” our clan has four thestrals and one thestral-pegasus hybrid. Not to mention that Fluttershy is a pureblood.”

“If she turns on us, a few kicks and words will get her back to her senses,” Applejack whispered, only for Rarity's forehoof to land on her shoulder.

“She may be a student, but she is not a pushover. I could sense her raw power and it is enormous, far above Fluttershy’s. Not to mention the consequences for assaulting the student of Princess Celestia.”

Their talk was interrupted by a sudden silence as everypony stepped to the side, forming two lines as they now looked at a tall pink alicorn standing at the entrance. Instead of wearing gold-like shoes, peytral and crown, which were popular royal accessories, she wore a green-gold armor. A heart shaped crystal was located in the central part of her chestplate, with smaller ones inscribed on greaves, which went from hooves up to knees.

On both of her sides were two crystal guards, covered in heavy crystal armor. Rarity noticed that the most protected part was their necks, but was too overwhelmed to care. Applejack grabbed Rarity before she could faint as a sofa levitated inside through the open window, landing on the floor with a weak thump while startling a few guests.

With a roll of her eyes, she placed Rarity on the sofa before joining the group of bowing ponies.

“Please, don’t bow,” Cadence said with a wave of her hoof. “I apologize for interrupting this lovely celebration, but I hoped to talk with the student of Princess Celestia, Miss Twilight Sparkle.” After waiting for the group to stand as murmurs filled the room, she asked, “Is she present in this library?”

Everypony nodded in confirmation while an energetic earth pony jumped from the crowd.

***

Cadence wore an awkward smile as she stared into the smiling face of Pinkie Pie, whose muzzle nearly reached her face. “Can I… help you?”

“Are you one of Twilight’s friends?” She paused and pointed at the group of unicorns, who waved at them. “She already has five, but to befriend two alicorns? That is so super-duper amazing that Twilight made so many friendships, I could learn a thing or two from her.”

“She is indeed a friend of mine. Celestia brought her to the Crystal Empire quite often, sometimes even leaving her in my care,” Cadence said while scanning the crowd in search of Twilight, only to be assaulted by confetti, which was shot from… a cannon. She spread her wings, stopping her guards from destroying the miniature artillery and slamming themselves into the energetic assassin.

"We're having a birthday party and a welcome party at the same time, wanna join? The more the merrier and I’ve never made a welcome party for a princess. I’ll just get another banner and write your name... oh, silly me, I forgot to ask for your name?"

“My full title is Empress Mi Amore Cadenza, however, I prefer to be called Cadence. I’m not a fan of formalities.” She rubbed the top of Pinkie’s head, bending down to her height while displaying a cheerful smile. “I would love to join in this celebration, once I talk with my friend. Deal?”

Pinkie responded by booping the empress’s nose with a hoof. “Deal!”

Before Cadence could react, she was pulled upstairs by her foreleg. She blinked in confusion, glancing between a reading unicorn and bouncing earth pony.

“Have fun,” Pinkie said before dashing downstairs, vanishing from her sight in less than a second while spreading dust from the older books.

“Empress Cadence!”

The alicorn waved her foreleg to disperse the cloud of dust, only to see her bowing friend. She rolled her eyes before saying,” What did I tell you about not bowing to me?”

“Ummm… to never do that unless we’re in front of important dignitaries?”

Cadence nodded as she sat and spread her forelegs. As she had hoped for, Twilight jumped into her embrace. “That’s more like it,” she said, adding her right wing into the hug.

“Would you like for us to perform our special greeting?” Twilight asked, her voice slightly muffled as her muzzle sank into the soft fur.

“Maybe another time,” Cadence responded, releasing her friend.

“So, what brings you here?” Twilight asked, staring up at her.

“I just wanted to see how my favourite scholar is doing before things get… complicated.”

The unicorn sat and chuckled, holding forehoof to her mouth. “Interesting way to describe the end of Equestria.”

“Aside from that, I am here to tell you that your parents should arrive here tomorrow morning. Your fine specimen of a brother still assists with evacuation, but if everything goes according to plan, he will join you in a few days.”

“Would you please call him by his name for once… wait, what plan?” Twilight asked, standing on her rear hooves.

Cadence recognized those eyes, curled forelegs and drooped ears. Those knowledge-hungry eyes were irresistible as it melted her heart. Even as an adult, her stare could make the most hardened hearts into mush.

She took a deep breath and said in no longer cheerful tone, “When the enemy invades Canterlot, Celestia will challenge their leader. Obviously he wouldn’t agree to a duel as he would be greatly outmatched, but…” She sighed. “Celestia will propose a fight between leaders. Alicorns versus purebloods. No armies will be involved in order to avoid… how can I put it delicately? To avoid the casualties of war.”

Twilight's eyes became plates and her throat a desert. Her voice shook as she spoke, "You will participate, too?"

She nodded. “Celestia wished to face them alone, but she’s no ruler of mine. She’s my ally, and I demanded to participate in the battle that will decide the future of ponykind.”

“And… if you both lose?” Twilight asked, her head lowered as she held back the tears in her eyes.

Cadence embraced her again, this time with one wing as she stroked her head with a hoof. “Celestia believes that her corrupted sister will become a merciful ruler, should we surrender willingly.”

"Please, don't worry about the future of Equestria. The Crystal Empire has maintained a well equipped army for situations such as these." She took a quick breath. “One year ago, after talking with Celestia, I ordered it to be expanded further in case of war." She looked down at Twilight with an encouraging smile. “The combined might of two armies will retake Equestria's freedom.”

“After months or maybe even years of war?” Twilight asked, withdrawing from the Empress’s embrace. “Something Celestia is trying to prevent.”

After a moment of silence, Twilight walked towards the bed, gesturing for the empress to lie on it. Cadence rolled her eyes at the special treatment she was receiving, perching herself on the bed while her friend sat on the small pillow on the floor.

“Cadence, can you do something for me?”

“If it is in my power,” she responded with a nod.

“Can you tell me everything you know about the purebloods?”

The empress paled as bad memories floated through her mind. She took a deep breath and composed herself on the bed. “Have you ever heard of an evil king?”

Twilight shook her head before levitating over a notepad and pen from her saddlebag, her ears straightened upward.

Cadence chuckled. Twilight… never change.

Confrontations - Tea and Machinations

The Ever Changing Moon

-

Chapter 4

Confrontations

Part 2 - Tea and Machinations

A huntress wearing a camouflage uniform and night goggles followed her commanding officer, observing Shackles and his bodyguards who were walking a small path through the woods. Earth ponies and unicorns were scattered nearby, keeping a moving perimeter in case of an ambush.

Pegasi hunters were already ahead, gathering all of the guild members in one location.

Sweet Snow, is Operation Eternal Night going smoothly? Are the hunters being slaughtered?

Ah fear not, Mah Lord, she thought, responding to her master in her mind. She kept walking, following Shackles with ten meters distance between them. Queen Nightmare Moon is huntin’ those who dare to search for her, but Shackles has no intention of findin’ her. Ah think he saw through this charade, as ya suspected.

I see. I suppose further action will be necessary.

What ‘bout you, Mah Lord? Was yer victory glorious? Sweet Snow asked.

It was… satisfactory. That cunning princess gave Cadence part of her power and helped her escape the moment we got the upper hoof. However, with the sun princess in my custody, It is only a matter of time before our species will control all of Equestria.

Sweet Snow smiled and chuckled quietly. Glad ta hear it. Ah shall follow plan B, Mah Lord.

Do it without delay. Those hunters have fulfilled their role and outlived their usefulness. Time to get them off of the chessboard.

Sweet Snow opened her saddlebag and grabbed the first aid kit. She unlatched it before growing fangs and sinking them into a small blood bag. She dropped it as she started to shake, empowered by the blood of her master. She glanced to the side at a hunter in medical uniform, who winked at her. She grabbed her crossbow and grinned. “Time for the hunters to become our prey.”

Shackles stopped in his tracks and spread his wings as an agonized scream split the night air. A series of cries followed, punctuated by the clashing of metal. It quickly ended, leaving a silence that not even the denizens of the Everfree dared to interrupt.

His bodyguards stood on their hind legs and grabbed their large blades between their hooves, their ears strained to catch any sound as they stared into the darkness.

Their leader squinted nervously into the darkness as drops of sweat slid down his forehead. His ears perked up at the thud of approaching hoofsteps as something crashed through the undergrowth. His breathing increased in speed.

“Help! Please!” A unicorn in a medical uniform jumped over a bush with a look of panic on her face.

Shackles sighed and asked, “What’s going on? Is Nightmare Moon attacking us?”

“No, one of us went berserk and started attacking everypony!” She hid behind a nearby tree as a bolt struck Shackles in his left wing.

His face contorted into a snarl and looked around. “Who’s the traitor?”

More bolts followed as Maud and Limestone parried them with their weapons, and used their bodies to shield him. Silver bolts bounced off their skin as if they were made of an indestructible stone.

Shackles narrowed his eyes as he spotted a camouflaged blur darting with unnatural speed between the trees, a stream of bolts flying from behind it like a deadly after image. It didn’t take long before another one bypassed his bodyguards and hit his shoulder. Being a pegasus made him most vulnerable to piercing projectiles.

“L-Limestone… attack t-that traitor!” He gasped, the earth pony more than eager to unleash her rage, destroying a few trees on her way to the would-be assassin.

“Maud, you stay here and guard me. It might be a trap.”

“Permission to attend to your wounds, sir,” asked the panicked mare who crawled from behind the nearby tree. She took a first aid kit from her scratched-up saddlebag.

Shackles nodded, turning his attention to the now retreating enemy. “Granted.” Much to his surprise, he felt something to pierce his shoulder, only now seeing that blood was being injected into his veins. A cry of agony tore from his throat as a wave of dizziness overwhelmed him, forcing him to his knees as the world went black.

***

Shackles slowly became aware of the earthy smell coming from the hard, rough surface he was laying on. He raised his head and opened his eyes.

Why did you abandon your mission, puppet? Asked a strange voice in Shackle’s mind. Killing Nightmare Moon is your primary objective.

I don’t know who or what you are, but get out of my head! Shackles responded, only now seeing that he is atop a floating island surrounded by tiny stars. A hooded figure descended in front of him. And don’t you dare call me puppet!

So you fight for control, interesting. The hooded figure bowed his head in a mocking gesture. I am Moon Shadow, but you may call me Your Lordship.

Your Lordship? Are you joking?

Moon Shadow shook his head. This is certainly not a laughing matter, but I see you fail to comprehend your situation. My blood is present in your veins. The faster you surrender to my will and obey me, the less painful it will be for you.

Shackles crossed his forearms. If you control me, why do you need me to surrender? Or maybe something gets in the way, hmm?

Moon Shadow chuckled. Clever as always, I see. I must admit, the distance and the incomplete ritual limits the power of blood hypnosis. He stomped. But make no mistake, I will break your will sooner or later.

Shackles jumped at the hooded figure, only to pass through it as if it was a ghost. He shook his head and stood up to his hooves with a frown. If you think I’ll throw my life away in this suicide mission, you’re wrong. Fighting an alicorn with nothing to gain? Only a fool would agree to that.

Moon Shadow laughed. Ah yes, your infamous greed can only be rivaled by your cunning. He pointed at another floating stone, or rather at the large pile of treasures appearing on it.

How about a trade instead?

A trade? Go on, Shackles said in his mind.

Purebloods have taken over Canterlot and soon all of Equestria will be ours. Maybe even the Crystal Empire. Your bits won’t be worth anything in this country without my say so.

So in short, you’re offering me a chance to join the victors in exchange for my services. What else will I get in return? Shackles asked with growing curiosity.

My offer is simple. If you kill Nightmare Moon, you and your family will be granted longer lifespans, high positions of power and several million bits.

Shackles glared suspiciously. So, a high-risk gamble with a big payoff. Still seems a bit suicidal. I don’t like playing against the odds.

Moon Shadow’s eyes flashed red as he stared intently at the officer. You were saying?

Shackles massaged his aching head. I meant… I would be a fool to refuse such a generous offer. How will I find my target though? The Everfree is a huge area.

Moon Shadow patted Shackles on the head. I will take care of that.

***

“I say we bury him under that tree,” said a familiar voice.

“No.”

“Come on, Maud. No one will miss him.”

“No.”

“Ugh… fine.”

Shackles massaged his forehead as he slowly opened his eyes and raised his head, seeing Limestone arguing with Maud. A unicorn thestral in a medical uniform lay unconscious between them, supported against a tree. A hoofprint was visible under her medic hat.

“You’re alive?” Limestone asked as she helped him stand. She pointed at the tied captive. “I was talking about the captured traitor…” She chuckled nervously. “I definitely didn’t want to bury you, boss.”

Shackles massaged his forehead in an attempt to relieve the headache that still pounded inside his skull. He took a moment to wipe the grass and dirt from his uniform. The bleeding on his wing and shoulder had stopped. “Report!”

Limestone saluted. “I chased that assassin quite a distance, but it got away. Coward was very quick on its hooves.”

Maud pointed at their captive. “I punched her.”

Limestone suggested, “Let’s kill this one and get out of here before more of those freaks show up.”

Shackles shook his head. “There won’t be any need for that. Leave her here. We need to regroup with the main force and eliminate Nightmare Moon.”

Limestone stood on her hind legs despite the heavy weapon weighing on her back. She spread her forelegs and shouted, “Are you crazy?!” Didn’t you say how foolish it would be for us to fight an ancient alicorn?”

“Don’t question my orders! I have a plan that will ensure our victory.”

Maud asked, “What about our guild leaders?”

“Leave them be. I have a bigger treasure hunt in sight.”

Limestone groaned. “Fineee… I hope that plan of yours is worth more than a pebble.”

Shackles ignored Limestone’s impertinent attitude as he spread his wings. He felt a renewed sense of strength and purpose. Final gamble it is. I’d better bring my A-game. He flew towards his subordinates, not waiting for his bodyguards to catch up.

Have you ever heard of the Castle of the Two Sisters? Moon Shadow asked in Shackles’ mind.

You mean the ruins of our old capitol? I know about it, but I haven’t heard the title ‘Two Sisters’ before, Shackles responded.

Lead your army there at a slow pace. I assure you, Nightmare Moon will get in the way.

Shackles grinned. I’m looking forward to that.

Moon Shadow opened his eyes and looked around. Empty prison cells inside a rusty dungeon surrounded him from both sides. His younger brother stood by his side.

“Did he resist?” Cornerstone asked. He no longer wore armor, having traded it for a black cape.

Moon Shadow nodded before placing the crown on his head, completing the set as he now wore Celestia's regalia on his hooves and chest. I should consider replacing these regalia with something black or just use armor instead. Not that I’ll need it once Nightmare Moon takes charge.

“From your smile, I assume it didn’t last long,” Cornerstone said.

Moon Shadow chuckled as they resumed their walk towards the biggest and most secure cell, receiving salutes from the thestral guards. The unicorn thestrals wore blue chestplates with red magical gems embedded in the middle for an additional boost, as well as shin guards and helmets with protection for their horns. Very long halberd levitated in their auras by their sides.

The pegasus thestrals wore black armor made of obsidian. Their bat-like wings were equipped with sharp edges of magically enhanced steel and claws were attached to their forelegs.

Earth pony thestrals formed a barricade in front of Celestia’s cell. Each was wearing a full set of violet plate armor, similar to the old armor used over a millennium ago. Intimidating spikes that were used in the past had been replaced with magical runes for protection from offensive spells. Each earth pony was equipped with a claw on the right forehoof and a large shield on the left one.

Moon Shadow kept staring at the prison cell in the distance. “While I couldn’t take full control, I used his greed to my advantage. His cunning and intelligence was easy to overcome thanks to his weakness.”

“Will he die?” Cornerstone asked with a neutral glance. As much as he felt pity for those who were used by his brother, the fate of this particular hunter didn’t bother his conscience in the least.

“He will, alongside all of his followers. I have no more use for them.” He lowered his head and sighed. “Such a pity. Shackles would have made a great addition to my army as a thestral and officer, but his ambition makes him too independent and unpredictable. He would betray us sooner or later.” He shrugged. “No matter, his death will serve a much greater purpose.”

Moon Shadow stopped in front of the reinforced prison cell with no windows in sight and a few magical wards on the doorway for additional security. Only big sturdy bars separated him from his prisoner. His eyes rested upon a battered alicorn who was chained to a wall. Her mane was unmoving and grey, drained of it's ever-present magic. Celestia’s wounds were covered in bandages and a big black restraining ring encased her horn.

In the middle of the prison cell was a round table covered by an elegant tablecloth with bats inscribed on multicolored squares. A teacup with steaming liquid was placed on one edge of the table while a glass filled with blood was on the opposite side. Two unicorn thestral maids stood on both sides.

Four guards on both sides of the entrance saluted as one of them spoke up, “We have prepared everything to your liking, My Lord. The dungeon is well secured against teleportation and heavily guarded.”

“Good,” Moon Shadow responded before pointing at the unconscious princess. “Untie her and wake her up.”

Guards nodded before following orders, taking the heavy metal off of alicorn’s legs and wings. They levitated the princess onto a prepared cushion before splashing cold water into her face.

Moon Shadow sat on a cushion on the opposite side with his brother guarding the entrance.

Both servants lit their horns as two candles lighted the dark room.

Celestia slowly opened her tired eyes before narrowing them. She asked in anger, “What do you want? Are you here to gloat over your victory?”

He smiled. “I waited for so long to see you defeated and at my mercy. Such a pleasant sight.” He perched himself on the cushion and added, “Now that I have you in my custody, we can have a little conversation on my terms.”

“Conversation? Oh, I'm sorry, I hadn't realized you wanted to talk. Would you like some tea? Maybe a tart or some crumpets?” she said, ending on a snarl. She gave him a droll look and added in anger, “No, after everything you have done to Equestria and even your own race, I have no desire to speak with you.”

“You’re going to be my prisoner for centuries to come, we may as well get to know each other better,” Moon Shadow said before raising his head arrogantly. “Unless you would prefer me to torture you for my amusement instead?”

The princess sighed and said in defeat, “What do you want to talk about?”

Fluttershy looked between Vinyl and Rainbow Dash, who were at each other’s throats. Part of her wanted to stop it, yet another felt too wounded by Vinyl’s actions to care.

“You disobeyed orders and lead us into the lion’s jaws!” Dash shouted as her wings flapped in aggravation, her ears shot up.

Vinyl shrugged. “Sorry buddy, I just had to be sure if… ouch.”

Dash’s forehoof trembled as it left a hoof-mark on DJ’s left cheek. “Shut up!” You’re no better than Moon Shadow, forcing Fluttershy to face trials without any concerns for her feelings.”

Vinyl sighed and her ears drooped. “Heh, way to make me feel like dirt.”

“You should! I’m starting to feel as if Fluttershy’s family was the only exception. Most thestrals and purebloods always play dirty.”

“Hmm…” Rarity frowned and turned her head in annoyance.

“That’s the issue,” Vinyl said while rubbing grass with her forehoof. “I worked for the best our kind has to offer, and I was disappointed. Yet Fluttershy’s family’s clan was too weak to survive.” She raised her head and glanced at the distressed Fluttershy apologetically, reminding of Fluttershy's family certainly being uncalled for. “I overheard some talks between hunters, many displayed doubts if what their guild was doing is right. I thought if anypony could, you would manage to show them a more peaceful path.” She smiled pridefully. “And you succeeded.”

Fluttershy’s ears drooped and she said in a sad tone, “If you had told me about this and suggested we negotiate with the hunters, I would have.”

“R-really?” Vinyl asked while raising her left foreleg.

Fluttershy nodded. “I rushed into the forest to save lives and stop the fighting. I wouldn’t want to miss such an opportunity.“ She held forehoof on her chest and added, “But it hurts to be manipulated, especially by a friend.”

“Ohhh... “ Vinyl said, suddenly out of words. Even Octavia has never hit me so hard in the guilt button before.

The young pureblood raised her forehoof and placed it on Vinyl’s shoulder as she was now looking her in the eyes. “Your abilities are proving to be superior to mine. If we’re to succeed, we’ll need your talents.” She continued in a determined tone, “For the sake of everypony, I shall face your trials and prove to you that I am worthy of your trust.” She removed her foreleg and held her forehooves together in a pleading gesture while displaying her puppy stare. “But please, should I fail to meet your expectations, will you try to keep my clan safe? Life is precious and deserves to be protected.”

Vinyl closed her eyes as she resisted the urge to cry. Did she just… throw her pride away… just like that? She grit her teeth. For a pureblood to admit that a thestral is superior, or to accept my trials for the sake of her clan is unimaginably humiliating. Her eyes watered behind her glasses as two words left her dry mouth, “You won.”

“Won? What do you mean? I was sure you still had some trials left for me,” Fluttershy said in confusion.

DJ puffed her chest and said firmly, “I was planning to give my best, should you convince Twilight and Nightmare Moon to our cause, but I changed my mind.” She pointed at herself. “This jerk here will help with no more tricks.” She half-bowed awkwardly, trying and failing to mimic the graceful bow of her friend. “Vinyl the Undying is at your service.”

“R-really?” Fluttershy asked. Upon seeing a firm nod, she continued, “I’m so glad to hear that.” She smiled warmly. “Will you lead us to Twilight or Nightmare Moon without any delays?”

“On it,” Vinyl said as she lit her horn and exposed her left ear. “One panicked bookworm coming right up.”

Twilight trotted quietly on the tips of her hooves with her horn casting an invisibility spell, making herself transparent and barely visible among the fauna and flora. While she fooled the eyes of a few hunter patrols, tricking their hearing wasn’t as easy. I suppose it’s for the best that my family and friends are on their way back to Ponyville. It’s much easier to avoid those armed ponies that way.

She peeked from behind the tree, her attention now on two unicorns checking the pulse of three bleeding pegasi. She bit her lip, her face turned green and her legs trembled. She sat and held forehoof on her muzzle, struggling not to puke. One of the pegasi had his neck snapped and his tongue lolled out of his open mouth, which was wet with blood and saliva. The other two didn’t have it any better as blood was still coming from their chests. Twilight gulped and grimaced at the unpleasant feeling in her throat.

They seem to have burns around their wounds, and… are those silver bolts on the ground covered in blood? I suppose Nightmare Moon used their own weapons against them, but struck them with powerful magic first.

She took a step back, only for her rear leg to step on a branch with a loud snap. Not wasting a moment, she teleported away, landing on top of a tree, luckily out of sight. After a moment of waiting for the hunters to leave, she released the air she was holding and took a few calming breaths, her attention now on the castle in distance. The barely noticeable dots surrounding it were most likely the Royal Guards and the thestral invaders.

It seems the battle hasn’t started yet. I hope Princess Celestia is okay. She sighed and lowered her head. I know Nightmare Moon is acting in self defense, and that you asked me to get on her good side, Princess. But the way she killed those ponies… what if she turns out to be a bigger threat than those purebloods? She carefully climbed down from the tree as her invisibility spell started to fail, flickering on and off without her control. First teleportation, and now this. I hope magic of the Everfree won’t mess up my spells when I need them the most.