Yu-Gi-Oh! Friendship is Dueling 6: Nightmare's Awakening

Chapters

Duel 1: Waking Up
Duel 2: Lessons
Duel 3: Discovery
Duel 4: Dream Walking
Duel 5: Date Night
Duel 6: Dark Revival
Duel 7: Drama
Duel 9: Breaking the News
Duel 10: Regrets
Duel 11: Welcome to the fold
Duel 12: Confrontation
Duel 14: Settle the Score
Duel 15: Reflection
Duel 16: Confessions
Duel 17: Decisions
Duel 18: Rematch
Epilogue
Duel 8: Dreams
Duel 13: Apologies
Duel 19: My Heart Belongs to...

Duel 1: Waking Up

Burst stirred from his slumber, and opened his eyes. It had been one crazy weekend. He'd had his first date with Celestia, and he'd gotten sucked into a portal to Equestria. Right about now, the standard routine of high school was sounding pretty welcome. Burst got dressed, and headed downstairs for breakfast. 'Never thought I'd be so happy to be going to school.', Burst thought with a smile as he ate. After he finished, Burst grabbed his deck, backpack, and was out the door. Burst summoned his dragon wings, and flew to CHS. Burst's friends flagged him down as he landed and deactivated his dragon powers. "Hey everyone! What's up?"

"Nothing of interest.", Inferno answered. "Other than the girls wanting to know everything about their counterparts."

"I figured they'd ask us about that sooner or later.", Burst said with chuckle. "C'mon dude. Let's get today started." Burst and Inferno headed inside. But unknown to Burst, he was being watched. Nightmare had kept out of sight and had been observing him.

"So he goes to this school. I can also sense the Element Bearers of this world here too." Nightmare smiled. "Perhaps I should consider attending. This could be useful." And with that, Nightmare entered CHS. "I'd better find whoever runs this place." Nightmare wandered around, and found Principal Celestia's office. "How fitting." Nightmare knocked on the door, and was let in by Celestia.

"Is there something I can help you with?", Celestia asked.

"Yes. I just transferred to this school, and I'm in need of a schedule."

"That shouldn't be too hard." Celestia typed away at her computer. "Okay. Your schedule's all set. All I need is your name."

'I can't use my real name. One of the girls I saw in the dreamscape was from Euquestria. And I'm more than willing to bet she knows of my legend.', Nightmare thought. "Nightshade. Nightshade Crescent."

"Alright then Nightshade. Here's your schedule. You'd better head off to class now." Nightmare nodded as she left, and took a look at her schedule.

"So this is my first class." Nightmare looked at her schedule. "English. Should be easy enough." Nightmare found her way to the classroom, an entered.

"Oh. You must be a new student, correct?"

Nightmare nodded. "I just transferred."

"Well, grab any open seat." Nightmare then noticed Burst and an empty seat next to him.

'I know where I'm sitting....', Nightmare thought as she took the seat, and turned to Burst. "Hello there." Burst turned to face her.

"Hi. So is this your first day?", Burst asked.

"It is.", Nightmare said with a smile.

"Well, nice to meet you. I'm-"

"Burst Stream."

"Wow. How'd you know?"

"I...saw your win at Duelist Kingdom and Battle City. You're quite the skilled duelist."

"Thanks. But we should probably focus on the lesson Ms. Cheerilee just finished taking attendance." Class went on like normal, and ended before anyone knew what had happened. As the class left, Burst approached Nightmare. "Sorry, but I didn't get your name."

"Oh. It's Nightshade."

"Well Nightshade? Do you need help finding your next class?"

"I can find my way...but it'd be nice to have some extra help.", Nightmare said with a small smile. "Lead the way."

"Hm. From the looks of it you've got math next. Follow me." Nightmare followed Burst. "Okay. Here we are. Hope the rest of your day goes well.", Burst said with a smile.

"Thanks you. Same to you." Nightmare went to her class, and carried on with her schedule until lunch period. "Now's my chance to find Burst again." Nightmare made her way over to the cafeteria, and saw Burst hanging around his friends. She also noticed Sunset and the girls hanging around with them. 'They must be fairly close.' "It appears we meet again."

Burst turned, and saw Nightmare in his field of vision. "Oh. Hi Nightshade. How's your first day going?"

"Well enough.", Nightmare said with a shrug. "But besides you, I don't really know anyone."

"Careful with how you handle her Burst!.", Inferno joked. "Celestia might get jealous!"

"C'mon Inferno! I'm just helping her find her way around the school.", Burst countered. "As for not knowing anyone, let's fix that problem right now. These dudes here are some of the best friends I've ever known." Burst then pointed to each of the guys respectively as he named them off. "Inferno who's been my bro since freshman year, Steel, Gold, Ace, Ice, Shadow, Veenus, Fang, and Nightfall." As soon as Burst was done, Pinkie rushed up to Nightmare!

"Hi! I'm Pinkie Pie!" Pinkie then began to look over Nightmare. "Huh. Never seen you before. Your first day?"

"Yeah. It is. I'm Nightshade." Nightmare was caught off-guard when Pinkie squeezed her in a hug before dragging her to meet the other girls. "This is Sunset, Applejack, Twilight, Fluttershy, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Adagio, Aria, and Sonata! You wanna sit with us?" Nightmare was recovering from the initial shock and managed a reply.

"I suppose so. So what can you girls tell me about this place."

"It's a long story.", Applejack said.

"Trust me. I have experience waiting." The girls told Nightmare about how they started at CHS and how they met Burst and Inferno, the crazy events that happened during senior year, and the dueling tournaments the guys had competed in. "Quite impressive. You've been through many adventures."

"Yeah. It's been crazy. But I think we can all say we're glad it happened.", Twilight said with a smile.

"From the looks of things, Burst's quite the hero. So you all mentioned Duel Monsters." Nightmare then pulled out the deck that had materialized when she had arrived in the human world. "I've been learning about the game. So do you think any of you can teach me?"

"I'd say your best shot is Burst.", Sunset answered. "You wouldn't mind teaching her, would you Burst?"

"Not at all. Just hope she plays nice with Shining, Star, and Bolt. I'll teach you after school today. Sound good?"

Nightmare smiled. "I can't wait."

Duel 2: Lessons

The school day soon drew to a close, and Nightmare met up with Burst to learn Duel Monsters. When she saw him, she also saw three younger boys crowding him. "Okay you three. We might have someone new joining us today."

"So these are your students?", Nightmare asked as she approached and looked at the CMCB.

"Not really. I just taught them how to duel after they saw me win a tournament the school held during Sophomore Year. Since then, I've taught them all they need to know about dueling." Burst pointed to each of the CMCB. "Shining here is known for Xyz summoning, Bright Star uses fusion, and Bolt Dash is a synchro user."

"And what type of duelist do you fit under?"

"I know all the summoning types. But in terms of a deck, there's no monster I'd rather have by my side than Blue-Eyes White Dragon."

"I have a slight confession Burst. I actually know a great deal about the game. I just wanted to duel you."

"All you had to do is ask Nightshade." Burst activated his duel disk.

"Then let's dance." Nightmare activated her own duel disk themed after the night.

Burst: 8000
Nightmare: 8000

"Ladies first.", Burst said with a smile.

"Quite the polite move of you. I summon Dark Knight!" A knight wearing pitch black armor materialized on the field boasting 1800 attack points. "Then I'll set two cards and end my turn." 'Burst'll be in for a surprsie should he destroy my knight.'

"I draw! Sweet! I'll reveal Blue-Eyes White Dragon in my hand to special summon Blue-Eyes Alternative!"

"I activate my trap! Bottomless Trap Hole! When you summon a monster with 1500 or more attack, I can negate the summon and destroy the monster!"

'She made a smart move getting rid of one of my best effect monsters!' "Not bad. But I'm not through yet! I summon White Stone of Ancients and target him with Sage with Eyes of Blue to send both to the graveyard! Now I can special summon a 'Blue-Eyes' monster from my deck! I'll bring out Dragon Spirit of White! Now that he's on the field, I can banish one spell or trap card you control!" Nightmare's face-down vanished in a flash of light! "Now I'll tribute Dragon Spirit to bring out Blue-Eyes White Dragon from my hand!" Dragon Spirit vanished in a pillar of light, and Blue-Eyes stood in his place! "Attack Dark Knight! White Lightning!" Nightmare braced herself as Dark Knight was destroyed!

"Since Dark Knight was destroyed, you take his attack points as damage!" Burst winced as a stream of darkness crashed into his life points! 'Not the ideal result. But nonetheless, Burst also took damage.'

"I guess I'll end my turn with a face-down." 'Looks like neither of us walked out of that battle unscathed. This oughta be a good duel!'

Burst: 6200
Nightmare: 6800

"I draw! I summon a monster in defense mode and end my turn!" 'Little does he know that destroying my monster will help in bringing out one of my best cards!'

"In that case, I'll draw!" Burst looked at his cards carefully. "I guess I'll attack your monster! White Lightning!" Blue-Eyes fired his signature attack, and fried Nightmare's monster!

"Since you destroyed Mystic Tomato, I can special summon a DARK monster with 1500 or less attack! I summon Yubel!"

"Not so fast! I activate my trap! Champion's Vigilance! This lets me negate the summon of a monster, or the activation of a spell or trap! Then I can destroy that card!" Yubel was struck down in a blast of flame the second she hit the field.

'Perfect!' "Thank you! You actually helped me! When Yubel is destroyed, I can special summon the next stage of her evolution! Are scared of the dark? Behold!" A massive shadow crept onto Nightmare's field, and condensed into a monster. "Yubel-Terror Incarnate!"

"I guess I'll end my turn." 'Weird. Her monster's got no attack or defense points. Meaning it's gotta have a powerful effect! I'd better be careful when dealing with it!'

"My move!" Nightmare then looked at the cards in her hand. "I'll set this card for later, and end my turn. Now Terror Incarnate's effect activates! I destroy all monsters on the field!" Burst winced as a wave of darkness wiped out Blue-Eyes!

'Man! That thing's a field nuke! But at least I can still deal damage to her life points!' Burst was cautious as he drew his next card. "My turn! I'll play Return of the Dragon Lords to revive Blue-Eyes! Then I'll attack Terror Incarnate!" Nightmare smiled as the blast hit Terror Incarnate! When the smoke cleared, Terror Incarnate was still standing, and Burst's attack was reflected back at him! "AGH!" Burst cringed as he took the force of his own attack! 'On second thought...maybe I CAN'T inflict damage. Her monster's like a living Magic Cylinder and Mirror Force rolled into one!'

"Do you like her effect? I take no battle damage when she's attacked, and you take your monster's attack points as damage. Also, she can't be destroyed by battle." 'So how will you wake from this nightmare Burst Stream?', Nightmare thought with an amused smile.

"I guess I'll end my turn."

Burst: 3200
Nightmare: 6800

"I draw! I activate my trap! Compulsory Evacuation Device! I'll return Terror Incarnate to my hand!" Terror Incarnate vanished from the field! "Now I can bring out the final stage of Yubel's evolution!" A massive shadow appeared on Nightmare's field! "Yubel-The Ultimate Nightmare!" Ultimate Nightmare full materialized, looking even more fearsome than Terror Incarnate! "Then I'll attack your monster! And then Ultimate Nightmare's effect activates! You take Blue-Eyes' attack as damage, and he's destroyed at the end!" Burst cringed as Blue-Eyes was destroyed and he took Blue-Eyes' attack as damage! "I'll end my turn.", Nightmare said with a smile. 'So Burst? How are you going to get past my ultimate monster? I can't wait to see what you've got in store.'

Burst: 200
Nightmare: 6800

"Oh man! She's kicking Burst's butt!", Bright Star noted. "Not to mention that monster of hers has a pretty scary effect!"

"No wonder its called Ultimate Nightmare.", Bolt Dash said with a gulp.

"C'mon Burst! Rock the dragon!", Shining Spoon called out. Burst slowly got to his feet with a triumphant smile.

"Your monster's pretty good. But I think I've got a way to get around it! I draw! I'll discard a card to activate The Melody of Awakening Dragon! This lets me add two dragons with 3000 or more attack and 2500 or less defense from my deck to my hand! First I'll reveal Blue-Eyes in my hand to special summon Blue-Eyes Alternative! Your monster is safe from battle and protects you from damage. But she's vulnerable to card effects! Now I'll activate Alternative's effect! I can target and destroy your monster!" Ultimate Nightmare was struck down by a bolt of lightning! "The only downside is that Alternative can't attack, but he won't be sticking around for long! I play Trade-In to discard Blue-Eyes from my hand! Now I can draw two new cards! Nice! I play Dragon's Mirror! I'll banish the Blue-Eyes and Blue-Eyes Alternative in my graveyard, and the Blue-Eyes Alternative on my field! I fusion summon Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon!" A massive Blue-Eyes with three heads materialized as all three dragons swirled together! "And I'm not done yet! I play Silver's Cry! This lets me revive a normal dragon in my graveyard! Welcome back Blue-Eyes! Let's rock the dragon! White Lighting Barrage!" The two dragons fired a massive blast of white lightning! Wiping out all of Nightmare's life points! "And that's game!" Burst helped Nightmare up. "You did pretty well against me Nightshade. The only one to ever push me that far was Sombra back in Duelist Kingdom. Plus, that was a pretty fun duel!"

"Thanks. I had fun too.", Nightmare said with a smile as she got up. "So was there some sort of lesson in that duel?"

"Ones I've already taught those three: To have fun in any duel, and that the duel's not over until the last card is drawn."

"Wise words."

"Well, I'm off for home. Hope your house isn't too far away." Burst then summoned Blue-Eyes and turned to face the CMCB. "You three better get home too."

"Bye Burst!", the three called out as they headed home. As they all went their separate ways, Nightmare pulled a specific card out of her deck.

"It's too bad I didn't get to summon you in this duel Nyx. But something tells me I'll get to bring you out soon. Now. Where to rest for the night?"

Duel 3: Discovery

Sunset was troubled as she sat in her room. 'It's not possible! There's no way!' Sunset's mind flashed back to stories she'd heard in her youth back in Equestria. In specific, the legend of the mare in the moon. The same story that told of Princess Luna growing jealous of her sister, and trying to bring about eternal night. And how Princess Twilight and her friends used The Elements of Harmony to purify her and free Princess Luna. What troubled Sunset, was how similar 'Nightshade' looked to Nightmare Moon's appearance. But how could she have possibly survived? And how did she get here? "There's gott be SOME answer to this..." Sunset whipped out her phone, and dialed up a number. "Gold? Something's come up. And it can't wait. Let's just say it concerns your little visit to Equestria. How soon can you come over? Okay. Good. See you then." Sunset didn't have to wait long when she heard the beating of wings outside. "Glad you could make it. Come on in Gold. You too Crimson. Help yourself to something out of the fridge."

"So what's the emergency Sunset?", Gold asked.

"It's about that new girl we met today. Nightshade."

"What about her? And what does this have to do with that trip to Equestria?"

"Gold...I don't think you and the others came back alone. Haven't you taken a good look at Nightshade? Doesn't she look familiar?"

"Familiar how?"

"A certain legend of Princess Luna's dark half?"

"Wait. Are you saying?"

Sunset nodded.

"But...how?! How could she even be alive? Shouldn't the Elements of Harmony have destroyed her?"

"I'm not so sure. From what Princess Celestia told me, The Elements of Harmony have the power to seal or purify. But she never said anything about destruction. So it's very possible some small piece of her essence survived. And I'm willing to bet she's spent all her time in Equestria gathering her strength over time. But she was probably missing something to return her to a physical body. Or at least, that WAS a problem for her. Until, you and the guys got sent to Equestria."

"Okay. But how do we factor into this?"

"Like we saw at Duelist Kingdom, Burst unlocked his dragonic powers and got super powerful monster to boot. Also, Burst gained powerful magic. And when he was sent to Equestria with the rest of you, it must have leaked out because he wasn't quite used to his new form. And I'll give you one guess who picked up on the source."

"Nightmare Moon. So she used the excess magic to make herself whole again, and tracked it through the portal. And you're saying she's here? In our school?"

Sunset nodded. "I'm not sure why she's here, but I don't think we should let our guard down."

"So what do we tell the others? We don't wanna panic everyone."

"Chances are, Nightmare's going to try and continue her plans for eternal night. But at the same time, we can't let her know we're onto her. From what I've sensed, she's got full access to her magic unlike us. And that makes us vulnerable. So at the moment, we wait for Nightmare to make her move."

"Sweet Celestia.", Gold said with a sigh. "Maybe we should have seen this coming. I mean, Burst's defeated the Sombra and Tirek of this world. Maybe we should have guesses she's show up again."

"Thanks for coming by Gold. We'd better sleep lightly tonight." Sunset kissed Gold goodbye. "Stay safe Gold."

"You too Sunset. C'mon Crimson. Let's head home."

"Coming!" Crimson swallowed the last contents of the soda he was drinking, and they were soon on their way. Sunset sighed as she contemplated their next move.

'What's Nightmare Moon doing here anyway? Just what is she planning?' Sunset then looked at the journal Princess Twilight had given her. 'If things get really bad, it wouldn't hurt to have some back-up on hand....

Duel 4: Dream Walking

Nightmare made sure there was nobody around to notice her as she made her way to the library. "Good. It looks like no one else is around. Now to set up my dwelling for the time-being." Nightmare used her magic to construct a bed made of books for herself. "This will do. Until I can construct my castle." Nightmare then looked at the setting sun. "Soon. The sky will be covered eternally with stars. And maybe...I won't have to be alone." Nightmare thought of Burst as the moon started to rise. "He would make a great lover. In fact, he's the entire reason I'm here. However...." Nightmare's thoughts flashed back to when she was in Burst's dreams. He was already dreaming of a girl. "It looks like I have some competition. But who knows? It could just be some silly crush. There's only one way to find out." Nightmare closed her eyes and went to sleep. When she opened her eyes again, she found herself in the dreamscape with her wings and old pony ears. However, she sensed a new magical presence. "Odd...." Nightmare honed in on the source, and found Midnight's dreams. "It would appear the counterpart for that unicorn that led the elements against me is not the same in many regards. This individual must be some sort of alternative aspect. Perhaps I should say hello..." Nightmare entered Midnight's dream. In it, Midnight was with her adopted family enjoying their company. "Well. It looks like you've made your dream a reality." Midnight spun around to face Nightmare. She could feel the powerful magic dripping off of Nightmare's presence.

"Who are you? And what're you doing here?!", Midnight demanded. Nightmare chuckled.

"Easy little one. I mean you no harm. In fact, we're very much the same."

"How's that?"

"Both of us were expelled from our hosts. The dark halves that they'd rather not keep." Nightmare then looked at Midngiht's dream. "But it appears you and I went down opposite paths after our respective defeats. I can see it in your dream. This family that's taken you in. They mean the world to you. Don't they?"

"If you EVER lay a hand on them..."

"I won't. All I'm saying is that you're quite fortunate. As for who I am, I am called Nightmare Moon. And I've yet to know your name."

"Midnight.", Midnight replied flatly.

"A fitting name indeed. Farewell." Nightmare left Midnight's dreamscape and hovered around to the dreams of the other girls and the guys. "It appears Inferno and Rarity hold great love for each other." Nightmare then moved onto the other couples. "The same could be said for Ace, Veenus, and Fang and their love for the sirens. Now, on to my main target." Nightmare floated around the dreamscape, and came upon Celestia's dreamscape. "Ah. Here we are." Nightmare entered Celestia's dreams and searched around them, but froze when she saw dreams of her and Luna. "It appears that this world's Celestia and Luna have a much more happy relationship than the ones I knew." A small tear escaped Nightmare's eye. "But that's not what I'm here for." Nightmare continued searching through Celestia's dreams, and soon found what she was looking for. The dream she found was of Burst and Celestia's first date, and their first kiss. "So they do have love for each other. However, I can think of ways to win Burst over.", Nightmare said with a smirk. "Hmm. But it'd be improper to do that since I don't know a thing about him. Now's as good a time as any to find out..." Nightmare floated across the dreamscape, and soon came upon Burst's dreamscape. As Nightmare entered, she was greeted with a sight she hadn't expected. "A door? Odd...." Nightmare opened the door, and saw into the dreams of Burst's past. She saw Little Burst playing with his parents. "They seem like such a happy family." But the tone soon changed. Nightmare saw Burst's dad leaving one day. And his father left, Burst chased after him. But no matter how hard he tried, Burst couldn't catch up to him. After that, Burst began to cry alone in his room.

"Why?....Why did he have to leave?", Little Burst sobbed. Nightmare's heat sank when she saw this, and decided to intervene. She put an end to the dream. Leaving Little Burst confused. "H-huh?" He then noticed Nightmare and stumbled backwards! Nightmare just stayed where she was.

"It's alright little one.", Nightmare said in a soothing tone. "It's over." Little Burst was cautious before inching a little bit closer. "You can come closer. I won't hurt you." Little Burst then ran into Nightmare's arms as the tears still streamed. Nightmare then rubbed Little Burst's back to calm him down. "Shhhh. It's alright. The bad dream has ended." Nightmare then wrapped her wings around Little Burst.

"I-it hurts!", Little Burst sobbed. "Why? Why did my Dad have to leave?!"

"There, there. I know how much it hurts." Nightmare's memories drifted to when she and Luna were sealed on Equestria's moon. "I know how painful it is when someone you love disappears from your life. But did your dad tell you anything before he left?"

"He did.", Little Burst sniffled. "He told me to not be sad that he's gone, just to be happy that we had good times together. Then he gave me this..." Little Burst pulled out the Blue-Eyes necklace his dad had given him. "He said as long as I wear this, he'll always be with me. But then....why isn't he here?"

"He meant you'll always be in here." Nightmare put her hand on Burst's heart. "As long as you remember him, he'll never leave you. Now. How about a little smile?" Little Burst dried his tears and smiled. "That's better." Nightmare was then surprised when Little Burst hugged her tightly.

"Thank you.", Little Burst said with a big smile. "Will...I see you again?" Nightmare's heart fluttered as she knelt down to Little Burst's level.

"Every time you dream, I'll be sure to come see you again.", Nightmare said with a smile. "Until then, goodnight Burst."

"How do you know my name?"

"I saw your dreams. I'll always watch over you Burst." Nightmare left in a cloud of mist, and Little Burst went back to his bed. Back in the real world, Burst smiled as he shifted in his bed.

Duel 5: Date Night

Burst woke up the next morning with a pleasant smile. "Must've slept better than I thought...", Burst thought out loud as he got out of bed and changed into his usual outfit. "Well, looks like today's going to be a good day." Burst went down to breakfast.

"Someone must have had a good dream.", Burst's mom said with a smile as she noticed her son's lively mood.

"You know? I actually did. In fact, I can almost remember everything that happened. But, time to focus on the waking world." Burst turned his phone on, and noticed a new text. "From Celestia." Burst opened up the text. "Free tonight. U have any plans?", Burst read. "None that don't involve you. What time? Send. I'll have to follow up with her when I see her before school starts." Burst finished his food and grabbed his backpack and deck. "See ya mom! I'll be eating out tonight! I got a date!"

"Have fun!", his mom called out. Burst flew off to school as he summoned his dragon wings, and landed as soon as he was close to the school grounds.

"Flying sure beats the bus." Burst went inside, and headed right for Celestia's office. "Morning Sunshine."

Celestia looked up from her papers and smiled. "It's nice to see something I look forward to in the mornings. I got your text a little while ago. So how about we head out at around seven tonight?"

"Sounds perfect. How about we go to karaoke tonight? From what Luna's said, you've got a lovely voice."

"And I wouldn't mind you serenading me." Celestia and Burst shared a kiss. "See you at seven. I trust we'll be flying with Blue-Eyes?"

"You know I go all the way for you.", Burst said with a smile. "Until then!" Burst went off to his classes with a smile. "Yup. Today's gonna be good!" As his first class was getting ready, Nightmare had noticed Burst's elevated mood.

"You sure seem happy."

"Sure am! I've got a date with the girl of my dreams tonight. We're hitting up the local karaoke joint. It should be pretty fun."

"So you're serenading your lady. How romantic.", Nightmare said with a smile. "Mind if I tag-along?"

"Well Nightshade....date's are kind of a two-person thing. That, I barely know a thing about you. I'm sorry."

"So be it.", Nightmare said with a shrug. 'Maybe I can spy on them in mist form....' "Have fun."

"Glad you could understand.", Burst said with a small smile. The rest of the day went by, and Burst spent a few hours toprepare for his date with Celestia. "Well, here goes nothing." Blue-Eyes then materialized and put his hand on Burst's shoulder.

"You'll do fine Burst. You've performed for entire crowds!"

"Yeah. But this is my first performance for the woman I love. Needless to say, I'm pretty nervous."

"Well dude. Keep calm, and rock the dragon!" Burst smiled as he and Blue-Eyes fist-bumped.

"Yeah man! Let's go pick Celestia up!" Burst and Blue-Eyes were soon out the door, and flew to Celestia and Luna's house. Burst got off of Blue-Eyes and knocked on the door. Luna answered.

"Celestia's almost ready.", Luna said with a smile. "Hope you two have fun."

"Thanks.", Burst said with a smile.

"Hope I didn't keep you waiting too long...", Celestia said as she came into view. She was wearing jeans, a light pink top with a yellow sun at the center, and her usual footwear.

"No period of time is too long for you."

"How sweet of you.", Celestia said with a smile. "I look forward to hearing you serenade me tonight."

"Then let's not delay." Burst helped Celestia onto Blue-Eyes. Celestia then wrapped her arms around Burst. "Glad to see you're holding on tight." Blue-Eyes took off, and they soon landed at the karaoke place. Burst returned Blue-Eyes to the monster world."So what song are you gonna sing?"

"I heard about your love of video games, and found just the song to perform." The two headed inside and Celestia pulled up the song she wanted to sing.

You're giving me too many things
Lately, you're all I need.
You smiled at me and said,

"Don't get me wrong, I love you,
But does that mean I have to meet your father?"
When we are older you'll understand
What I meant when I said,
"No, I don't think life is quite that simple."

When you walk away
You don't hear me say,
"Please, oh baby, don't go"
Simple and clean is the way that you're making me feel tonight
It's hard to let it go

The daily things that keep us all busy
Are confusing me
That's when you came to me and said,

"Wish I could prove I love you,
But does that mean I have to walk on water?"
When we are older you'll understand
It's enough when I say so
And maybe some things are that simple

When you walk away
You don't hear me say,
"Please, oh baby, don't go"
Simple and clean is the way that you're making me feel tonight
It's hard to let it go

Hold me
Whatever lies beyond this morning
Is a little later on
Regardless of warnings the future doesn't scare me at all
Nothing's like before

When you walk away
You don't hear me say,
"Please, oh baby, don't go"
Simple and clean is the way that you're making me feel tonight
It's hard to let it go

Hold me
Whatever lies beyond this morning
Is a little later on
Regardless of warnings the future doesn't scare me at all
Nothing's like before

Burst applauded louder than anyone else for Celestia's performance! "Celestia...that was beautiful! Your voice...it sounds so heavenly!"

"Why thank you. Now. Can I hear the melody of my dragon?", Celestia asked with a giggle.

"Here goes nothing..." Burst pulled up the song he wanted to perform, and prepared to sing his heart out.

You are, my fire. The one, desire
Believe when I say. I want it that way
But we are two worlds apart. Can't reach to your heart!
When you say, that I want it that way

Tell me why! Ain't nothin' but a heartache
Tell me why! Ain't nothin' but a mistake
I never wanna hear you say
I want it that way

Am I? Your fire? Your one desire?
Yes I know! It's too late!
But I want it that way

Tell me why! Ain't nothin' but a heartache
Tell me why!Ain't nothin' but a mistake
Tell me why!
I never wanna hear you say
I want it that way

Now I can see that we're fallin' apart, from the way that it used to be. Yeah!
No matter the distance, I want you to know! That deep down inside of me!

You are, my fire. The one, desire.
Don't wanna hear you say!
Ain't nothin' but a heartache! Ain't nothin but a mistake!
I never wanna hear you say! I want it that way!
'Cuz I want it that waayyy

The crowd cheered, and Burst walked over to Celestia. "Well? How'd you like it?"

"Burst. Those rumors of your performances don't do you any justice.", Celestia said with a loving smile as she and Burst shared a kiss. "So what next?"

"How about I fly us home?"

"Isn't Blue-Eyes going to complain about you calling him out? I'm sure he and Saffira are on a date."

"Who said anything about Blue-Eyes?" Once they were outside, Burst summoned his dragon wings. "Hope you don't mind holding on to me."

"I believe I'll manage.", Celestia said with a smile as she held on to Burst as he flew her home.

"Here we are." Burst landed. "Hope the flight wasn't too bumpy. I've never carried a passenger before."

"It was lovely. I enjoyed the view." Celestia wrapped her arms around Burst. "Maybe we should do this again sometime." The two shared a kiss before Burst left. "Goodnight Burst."

"Goodnight Celestia." Burst flew home, and hit the shower before promptly putting his PJs on. "Yeah. Today was awesome." Burst went to bed. Still hearing Celestia's voice as he dreamed. However, he was being watched.

"It appears he and Celestia share quite a bond.", Nightmare thought out loud. She had observed their date in mist form. "Now. How to weaken it?" Nightmare then left to formulate her plan. Leaving Burst to his dreams.

Duel 6: Dark Revival

"I wonder if my magic has as great an effect it did back in Equestria.", Nightmare mused as she gazed at the moon. "Time to test it out." Nightmare focused her magic and tried to lower the moon. And to her surprise, she actually managed to keep the moon from lowering. "It appears my full power is slowly returning, but this form doesn't have the same power I possess in the dreamscape. But at least I know I can still access my magic. Now. Let's see if I can find any other powerful presences here." Nightmare scanned with her magic again, and found Sunset, Rainbow Dash, Inferno, Ace, and Ice. "It appears they all have some form of The Elements' power as well. To engage them all would be foolish. Especially if Burst were to join forces with them." Nightmare sighed. "It's not likely I'll find any promising minions. But it's worth trying another scan." Nightmare focused her magic, and found a powerful presence. However, this one felt...darker. "Interesting. Perhaps this warrants some investigation." Nightmare turned into a cloud of mist and traveled to the source.

The source of the dark presence...

'I'll never forget that humiliating defeat I suffered!', a shadow's thoughts swirled. 'So close! It was within my grasp! He was down to only 100 life points! And yet he managed to completely turn the tables!' As the shadow was fuming to himself, Nightmare had just arrived. 'Wait. What is this?' The shadow inched closer to Nightmare as she fully formed. 'I can sense great power from her. Who is this woman?'

"There's no need to hide. I can sense.", Nightmare called out. The swirl of shadow crept its way over to Nightmare. "There you are. You're quite the vengeful one aren't you?" The shadow tried to form a shape, but fell back into a formless swirl. "I believe I can help you with that problem. But if I do, you must do as I say. Are we clear?" The shadow seemed to try and nod. "Very well then." Nightmare focused her magic on the swirl of shadow. Slowly, it began to take the form of a man. As the shadow fully materialized, Sombra stood once again.

"Yes...YES! I have a body again!", Sombra said with a crazed grin before turning to Nightmare. "And it appears I have you to thank for it. So? Can I have the name of the beauty who's responsible?"

"I am Nightmare Moon. And I wish to bring eternal night to this world. And you are?"

"Sombra. Former duel champion. And I'd have ruled this world if it weren't for HIM. That little brat Burst Stream! Now, I can pursue my vengeance!"

"Funny you should mention him...", Nightmare began. "I can't let you hurt him."

"Heh. And what're you going to-" Sombra was cut-off when Nightmare got close to his face as her eyes became cat-like.

"Burst. IS. MINE. And if you touch him, I'll un-make you just as easy as I revived you."

Sombra scowled. "Fine. But what do you need me for?"

"Simple. I want you to keep an eye on Burst and his friends. You should still have the ability to become a shadow. That should let you move unnoticed."

"Perfect.", Sombra said with an evil grin. "I guess I'll get started now." Sombra turned into a shadow, and slithered off. Nightmare turned into her mist form, and returned to her temporary dwelling.

"I'd better keep a close eye on that one...", Nightmare said as she drifted off to sleep.

Duel 7: Drama

'Hmm. Now if I were that brat, where would I be right now?', Sombra thought. 'He's probably in high school if I'd have to guess his age range. He's not a Crystal Prep kid. So there's only one other high school I can check out....' Sombra showed up at CHS, and decided to shift into his shadow form. Soon enough, he spotted Burst. 'There you are! It would be so easy to force you into a duel with me. Then again, Nightmare could disintegrate me for even looking at you the wrong way. I must find another way to get at you.' Sombra followed Burst, and saw him talking with Celestia, and began to form a plan as he saw how they acted around each other. 'Nightmare said she wanted Burst. I think I know how to give him to her....' Sombra slithered off and simply waited to enact his plan. As the day went on, school eventually let out. Celestia had just packed up her things, and was on her way home. That is until she literally bumped into someone.

"Oh. Sorry about that." Celestia took a moment to get a good look at who she ran into.

"No problem.", Sombra said with a smile. "Though, I'd call this a pleasant run-in. Quite literally."

"You're quite the charmer.", Celestia said with a small smile. "But I'm afraid I'm already taken."

"Well. Whoever has you must be quite the lucky man."

"Well, he's a younger guy. But he's very sweet. The two of us have had pretty good relationship so far."

"Fair enough. But don't you think he's the least bit...immature?"

"Not as much as I'd have thought.", Celestia answered. "Sorry. But I didn't get your name."

"Sombra. The guy who got his butt kicked at Duelist Kingdom by a kid almost half his age. Burst Stream. That was his name."

"Funny. I'd have thought you'd have some sort of grudge match against Burst. He told me you were pretty mad when he beat you."

"No. I learned an important fact I forgot. There's always someone stronger. So can I get the name of the woman who's captured the heart of the dueling champion?"

"Celestia. And might I ask why you want to know?"

"Isn't Burst a bit young for you? Let's be honest. Do you really think you're going to be able to hold on to him?"

"To be honest? I don't really know. Why?"

"Burst has his whole life ahead of him. And he'll have plenty of chances to love. But you seem like a woman who needs someone who can stay with her. Just humor me with one date. That's it. And we'll see where it goes."

Celestia was hesitant in answering. She really did love Burst, but she didn't want him to miss out just for the chance of staying with her. She couldn't be that selfish. "I'll humor you. Just say when."

"Dinner tonight. My treat.", Sombra said with a smile. 'Looks like I've still got my charm.'

"Then I guess I'll see you then." Night soon fell, and Celestia prepared for her date. Luna however, noticed her sister's troubled mood.

"Tia? Are you really sure about this?"

"Maybe this is for the best Lulu.", Celestia said with a sigh. "For me and Burst. I don't want him to miss out on his life just so he can keep me."

"But you two are so happy together!", Luna countered. "Celestia, you've been the happiest I've seen you in years. And you're telling me NOW you're just going to give it up?"

"Luna. That's enough." Celestia rubbed her temples. "Look. I'm just not sure of things. If things go well with this date....then maybe I should call it quits with Burst." Celestia saw Sombra pull up. "I'd better get going." As Celestia left, Luna sighed.

"Poor Burst...." Meanwhile, Celestia was on her date with Sombra. And if she could be honest with herself, she was enjoying herself.

'Well, he certainly knows how to treat a woman. Not to mention he's the very definition of tall, dark and handsome. And he does have a bit more of a mature appeal to him. Maybe this won't be so bad.' As their date came to an end, Sombra took Celestia back home. "You sure know how to show a girl a good time."

"I'm glad I could see you smile.", Sombra said with a grin. "So can I give you a goodnight kiss?" Celestia was nervous, but went in for it. 'Perfect.' The two had just gotten started when Burst showed up.

"Hey Celestia? I was wondering why......" Burst was silent when he saw Celestia kissing Sombra. "Oh." Celestia was shocked to see Burst. "I....I better leave. Sorry for intruding."

"Burst, wait!" Celestia grabbed onto Burst's arm. "Burst, I'm sorry! It's just..." Burst put his hand up to Celestia.

"Celestia. Don't. You don't have to apologize for anything. I knew what we had wasn't going to last very long, but I'm happy it happened. We had fun while it lasted, but let's both be honest. A woman like you and a guy my age? It wouldn't have been forever. So, I guess this is goodbye." Burst summoned his dragon wings, and flew off for home. At the same time, Celestia let out a sigh as Sombra came up to her.

"Please be alright Burst. I'd hate it if you were hurt because of me.", she whispered.

"He's young. It'll take some time, but he'll heal.", Sombra said with a small smile. 'Just as planned.' "I...hope this didn't ruin tonight."

"I'll be alright. I think I just need to sleep this off. Goodnight Sombra."

"Goodnight Celestia." As Celestia went inside, Sombra smiled. "Why do I need to hurt you Burst? I've already caused you pain no physical wound could cause." Back at Burst's house, Burst had just gotten into bed. And he immediately burst into tears as he went to sleep. Wanting to forget the pain of what he just saw.

Duel 9: Breaking the News

The next day...

Burst woke up and stretched. He felt a bit better after the huge shock to his system last night, but it still weighed down his mood. Burst sighed as he got dressed. "I guess I'd better tell everyone about the news today. It's good to know I don't have to face this alone..." After he ate breakfast, Burst got his deck and headed for school.

"Have a good day Burst!", his mom called out.

"Yeah....good." Burst activated his dragon powers and flew off for school. "Might as well get this day over with.", Burst said as he walked inside. The day went by fairly normal, and soon enough lunch period hit. And when he went to see his friends, they noticed his mood.

"Hey buddy. You alright?", Inferno asked.

"Yeah Burst. You look pretty down.", Ace noted. "That's not like you."

"C'mon Burst. Talk to us.", Gold said. Burst sighed.

"I've broken up with Celestia.", Burst said flatly. Everyone's jaws dropped.

"Oh man...", Steel said.

"Dude. That's so brutal...", Ice added.

"That's horrible!", Shadow nearly shouted.

"I can't believe it....", Night said in shock.

"That's so sad...", Fang said as his eyes teared up.

"Hey, man. We're here for ya.", Veenus said with a small smile. The girls noticed and walked over to them.

"Gold? What's going on?", Sunset asked.

"Burst just broke up with Celestia.", Gold responded.

"WHAT?!", Pinkie screamed! Earning her some glares from the other girls.

"Darling! How did this happen?!", Rarity asked.

"You two seemed so happy.", Rainbow Dash noted. Burst sighed.

"It happened last night. I saw her kissing another guy. And from the looks of things, they had just come back from a date. But the worse part was seeing WHO she was kissing."

"I'm sure it can't be that bad...", Inferno began.

"It was Sombra.", Burst said flatly.

"No way! I thought you obliterated him back at Duelist Kingdom!", Rainbow Dash said in shock. "Now he's back and he steals your girlfriend?!"

"That's what happened.", Burst said sadly.

"That's a cryin' shame sugar cube.", Applejack said as she pulled her hat down.

"Th-that's...so...sad...", Fluttershy sobbed.

"I'll have a root beer float waiting for you at Sugar Cube Corner.", Pinkie said as she patted Burst on his back.

"Thanks all of you. But I think I should just move on. I've had my first girlfriend, and I should have expected my first heartbreak too. Plus, let's be honest. What I had with Celestia wouldn't have lasted long anyway."

"Huh. He sure moved past the five stages of grief pretty quick.", Twilight noted.

"Trust me Twi. It still hurts. A LOT. But if I just wallow in it, then I'm going nowhere."

"Oh..C'mere!" Sonata scooped up Burst into a tight hug!

"That's nice of you Sonata......but I kinda need to breathe....!"

"Whoops!", Sonata said with an embarrassed smile.

"What she said, but with less mushiness.", Aria added.

"Never knew heart break was this bad...", Adagio noted.

"C'mon dude.", Inferno said with a small smile. "That root beer float's going to sound pretty good after today."

"Yeah.", Burst said with a slight smile. "See ya at Sugar Cube Corner." The rest of the day went by pretty quick, and Burst was just about to head to Sugar Cube Corner. That is, until a familiar face stopped him.

"Feeling a little down in the dumps?", Nightmare asked as she approached Burst.

"Yeah. Let's just say that I saw an upsetting sight last night."

"Wanna talk about it?"

"Sure. Why not? I've told most of my friends. I guess I forgot to tell you Nightshade. I broke up with my girlfriend last night."

"Oh dear. I'm sorry to hear that. What happened?"

"I found her coming back from a date with another guy, and I caught them kissing. Needless to say, I was pretty heart broken."

"Well, you seem to be a bit more stable when I last saw you.", Nightmare said with a smile.

"Yeah, I guess I....wait. What do you mean when you last saw me?"

Nightmare giggled. "I told you that you already knew my name. And that you would see me when you woke up, and that I'd find you."

"You...you were that girl I saw in my dreams. Well, thanks for helping me. Hey...I'm off to Sugar Cube Corner to get my mind off my heartbreak. Wanna come with?"

"I'd love to. Lead the way." Burst walked Nightmare over to Sugar Cube Corner, and they sat down at the counter.

"Here you are Burst.", Pinkie said. "Hope you feel better." Burst took the drink.

"Thanks Pinkie. I guess I really am feeling a bit better.", Burst said as he looked to Nightmare. "You want anything Nightshade?"

"Strawberry sundae.", Nightmare replied. Pinkie went off to get Nightmare's treat ready.

"I know I'm probably saying this too much, but...thank you. For visiting in my dreams when I was sad. Especially after last night. Plus, it also helped I had plenty of good friends to help me move on."

"I wouldn't know much about friends. I...never had many."

"That's not true. You've got me."

"Really?"

Burst nodded. "I wouldn't have brought you with me if I didn't think you were my friend. Besides, the whole group welcomed you. Of course we're friends!"

Nightmare smiled. "I suppose I should thank you as well Burst. I have so little here, but at least I'm not alone anymore."

"Alone? Don't you have a family?", Burst asked. Nightmare was silent. "Oh. Sorry Nightshade. I shouldn't have asked."

"It's fine you didn't know. I don't even have a place to stay."

"Well....maybe I can fix that last part. My place has an extra room. Nobody uses it, so..."

"Burst...", Nightmare said with a sly smile. "Are you offering me a place to stay at your house? I didn't think we were that far in our relationship."

"Wh-What?!" Burst blushed. Nightmare laughed.

"Relax. I'm just teasing you. It's not like we're dating." Nightmare then inched closer to Burst. 'At least...not yet.' "That's quite the generous offer. And I'll gladly take you up on it."

"Great! I'll let my mom know we'll be having an extra resident." Burst called up his mom, and notified her about Nightmare's situation. "Okay. We'll be home soon." Burst turned to Nightmare. "Well Nightshade, looks like we're gonna be under the same roof for a good while."

"I don't think I'll have any problem with that.", Nightmare said with a smile. Pinkie then handed Nightmare her sundae. 'One step closer...', Nightmare thought as she and Burst enjoyed their treats. "You're really sweet Burst."

"C'mon! That was too easy!", Burst said with a chuckle.

"I guess you're right." The two soon finished their treats and headed to Burst's house, and Burst's mom greeted them.

"Hello. You must be Nightshade. I'm Lumina. Burst's mother. I hope you'll find the room to your liking."

"Trust me. I've slept on worse." Nightmare set her bag down and took a deep breath. "Looks like I've found a better shelter." Nightmare then heard Burst knock on her door.

"Just wanted to let you know, dinner's going to be ready soon."

"Thanks."

"Oh, and feel free to knock on my door if you need anything. My room's upstairs."

"I'll keep that in mind.", Nightmare said with a smile. "And Burst?"

"Yeah?" Nightmare then walked up to Burst and hugged him tightly.

"Thank you. For everything."

"...You're welcome.", Burst said with a small smile. Burst headed for his room, and texted his friends. "New resident in my home. Nightshade's gonna be living with me. Plz try and help me make her feel welcome.' Burst sent the text, and powered down his phone. "Things are looking up." The rest of the day went by pretty fast, and Burst and his mom were joined by Nightmare for dinner. Soon enough, it was time for bed. "Time to turn in for the night." Burst stopped by Nightmare's room. "Goodnight Nightshade."

"Sweet dreams Burst.", Nightmare said with a smile as Burst headed for his room.

'At least today had a happy ending.', Burst thought with a smile as he drifted off to sleep.

Duel 10: Regrets

Celestia looked at a series of pictures on her phone, and let out a sigh. They were pictures of her and Burst during the dates they'd had. "I guess I'd better get over it. Even if he was quite boyfriend while we were together." Celestia then noticed a new text she had gotten. "I guess I could use a familiar face to talk to." Celestia drove to the coffee shop where the text had told her to meet at, and entered. "Hello Chrysalis." Chrysalis put down her coffee and addressed Celestia.

"Hello Celly. We need to talk."

"About what?"

"Your current lovelife."

"Says the original heart-breaker of CHS.", Celestia said with a joking smile. "So who told you?"

"Who else? Luna." Chrysalis's expression then turned serious. "Celestia. Luna's worried about you."

"It's because I broke up with my boyfriend. That's why she's so worried.", Celestia said with a sigh.

"Was he a jerk?"

"no."

"Did he cheat on you?"

"No."

"Did he hurt you?"

"NO!" Chrysalis was stunned by Celestia's outburst. "No. He didn't do anything wrong. In fact, he was perfect. Sure, Burst was younger, but he was always so happy and sweet. And he always had that wonderful smile. In many ways....he was the type of guy I was waiting for."

"Then why did you leave him?", Chrysalis asked.

"Because I didn't want him to miss out on his life just to stay with me. You see...I was Burst's first girlfriend. And now, I'm also his first heartbreak. But I guess my newest boyfriend is the definition of tall, dark, and handsome. And it doesn't help that he's quite the charmer."

"Well, I guess you've had the best of both worlds so far. So who's your new man?"

"His name's Sombra."

Chrysalis then spit out her drink! "HIM?! Celestia....PLEASE tell me I misheard you."

"No. You didn't. Why?"

"Celestia? Trust me. You want nothing to do with him. I remember the brief period I dated him."

"You two dated?"

Chrysalis nodded. "I dated him in high school. I fell for him, and we went out for a while. Our first date was pretty sweet, but things changed after that. I found out that he turned on the charm on every girl he came across. The guy's a total womanizer Celestia. Whoever you were with before, and forgive me for saying this, but you were totally stupid to give him up! I met Burst at Duelist Kingdom. And he's one of the sweetest guys I've ever come across. He was PERFECT for you!" Chrysalis sighed. "But if you're going out with Sombra, you might wanna keep your guard up. That's all I'll say. It's your choice." As Chrysalis left, Celestia looked at the pictures of her and Burst together.

"Burst..." Celestia held her phone close to her chest. "I never meant to, and yet I've hurt you so much. I'm so sorry...." Celestia returned home and soon went to bed. Her thoughts still pondering Chrysalis's warning, and how Burst might be dealing with this. "How did I mess it up so badly?" Celestia soon fell asleep. Hoping that the next day would bring a fresh start.

Duel 11: Welcome to the fold

Nightmare woke with a blissful smile, and stretched. As she opened the blinds to her room, she said words she'd never thought she'd ever hear herself say. "It's a beautiful day..." Nightmare got dressed, and walked over to the kitchen for breakfast. "Good morning Ms. Stream. Where's Burst at?"

"He should be down shortly Nightshade.", Lumina answered with a smile. She soon heard Burst's foot steps. "Just as expected."

"Mornin' Mom!", Burst said with a smile. "Hope you don't mind, but we might have an extra mouth joining us for breakfast." Blue-Eyes was trailing Burst.

"Hello!", Blue-Eyes said with a smile.

"Good thing I made extra", Lumina said with a chuckle and she got a plate for Blue-Eyes. "Enjoy you three." Blue-Eyes then turned to Nightshade.

"So who's the new girl Burst? Saffira told me you and Celestia had broken up, but I didn't think you'd move on THAT quickly!"

"C'mon Blue-Eyes! She's just living with me!" Burst then snuck a quick look at Nightmare. "Even if she is kinda pretty. But still, she's just a friend."

"So...that's a REAL Blue-Eyes?", Nightmare asked. Burst nodded.

"I can summon him because of the strong bond we have. I can also do this!" Burst called upon his dragon powers. "Pretty cool, right?" Burst then returned to his normal form. "Maybe you can try it out too." Nightmare got out her deck, and pulled out two monsters that were close to her. In a flash of light, Yubel and Queen Nyx fully materialized.

"Nice to meet you Nightie!", Yubel said with a pleasant smile. Queen Nyx was a humanoid figure with skin as pale as the moon, and dark purple hair wearing black and azure armor.

"It appears I'm in the presence of a legendary dragon.", Nyx said with a flirty smile. Blue-Eyes blushed!

"Y-Yeah. No need to be formal about that." Nyx giggled at Blue-Eyes' response.

"Relax. I know you're taken by the Queen of the Dragons. But give me a call if you're down to hang." Yubel and Nyx vanished in flashes of purple light.

"It looks like I've got some new friends that I already knew.", Nightmare said with a smile. The three finished breakfast, and grabbed their things for school.

"Hey Nightshade? I can fly on Blue-Eyes. It beats taking the school bus."

"Never rode a dragon before..." Burst helped Nightmare onto Blue-Eyes, and got on board himself.

"Let's go Blue-Eyes!"

"HOLD TIGHT!", Blue-Eyes called out as he took off! Soon enough, they landed at CHS.

"So how was your first flight?", Burst asked.

"It was incredible!", Nightmare cheered. Blue-Eyes then leaned down to Burst, and whispered to him.

"Don't forget! We've got that thing planned today!"

Burst nodded. "C'mon Nightshade! The day's not gonna wait for us." Nightshade followed Burst, and the two started their day. At lunch, Burst sat with Nightmare. "Say Nightshade? Wanna hit up Sugar Cube Corner after school today?"

"Hoping to get a sugar rush are we?", Nightmare asked with a mischievous smile.

"No. Just wanna show you something."

"Oh. Care to leak any details?"

"Nope! I pinkie promised."

"Hmph. You're no fun." The rest of the day went by in a flash, and Burst and Nightmare headed over to Sugar Cube Corner. "So what did you want to show me?" Nightmare noticed that all the lights were off as she and Burst entered, but they were switched on the second the two entered!

"SURPRISE!!", all of Burst's friends shouted! Nightmare was a bit shocked to say the least.

"What....what is all of this?"

"It's your party silly!", Pinkie chirped! "Didn't you ever have any kid of party when you were growing up?"

"..No. To be honest, no one's ever thrown me one before...."

"WHAT?! Then we're gonna make sure this one's your best EVER!" Pinkie almost dragged Nightmare by her ear, and showed her all the games and treats she had gotten ready. "And THAT is how you party!"

"I think I got the basics..." Nightmare was having the time of her life! She'd never had this much fun since...well, ever!

"I must say darling, your outfit is simply amazing!", Rarity said in awe.

"Oh. Thank you. In fact, its the only one I own."

Rarity was in shock. "No! No! No! That simply won't do! That's it! You're coming to my boutique this Saturday! We're putting together your wardrobe!"

"Quite generous of you.", Nightmare said with a small smile. Pinkie then popped up at Nightmare's side.

"Soooo? Do ya like it? Do ya? Do ya?"

"I won't lie. I can't remember having this much fun. Thank you Pinkie."

"Thank Burst silly! He texted us that he wanted to make you feel welcome!" Burst then approached the group.

"Burst....you really had this all done for me?"

"Of course! No one should be alone right?" Nightmare was speechless at Burst's kindness, and hugged him tightly. "Whoa! Where's all this coming from?" Nightmare's eyes were tearing up.

"No one's ever done something this nice for me before.....thank you."

"No problem.", Burst said with a smile as he returned the hug. "Now I think it's time for the next part."

"Next part?" Nightmare was stunned to find that Burst and his friends had gotten her presents.

"Here's a little something from me.", Burst said as he handed Nightmare a box. Nightmare opened it, and found a phone inside. "It oughta help us keep in touch. I put the house phone, my Mom's number, and my own number on it already."

"Let each of us see it for a minute.", Inferno said. He typed like crazy, and handed it to Rarity. The group continued until everyone had typed something into the phone. Inferno handed the phone back to Nightmare."There you go! You've got all our numbers now! Hold on for a sec." Inferno digged into his pockets, and pulled out a card. "This oughta help you get some music onto your phone!"

"This next one's from me, darling." Rarity handed Nightmare a wallet. "It should help keep you organized."

Applejack handed Nightmare a six-pack of fizzy apple cider. "Here ya go sugar cube! Some of Sweet Apple Acres' best!" Pinkie handed Nightmare a cupcake, which she happily ate. The rest of the group handed her greeting cards with minor amounts of cash in them. Sunset and Gold were a bit hesitant when they saw their friends acting so at-ease around the former mare in the moon.

"Odd. I thought for sure she'd try to blast us right about now.", Sunset said with a puzzled look on her face. "She's certainly not acting like the Nightmare Moon of legend."

"Well, we better not arouse suspicion. Let's just give her our gifts." Gold and Sunset gave Nightmare gift cards to Sugar Cube Corner. "Welcome to Canterlot, Nightshade."

Nightmare smiled. 'They're quite the exceptional group of people. Maybe when I bring eternal night, I should give them all a place in my castle. I'd certainly like to keep people like these close to me.' Nightmare then looked to Burst. 'One especially close in particular...' "Thank you. I've never had anyone be this nice to me before."

"Hey. That's what friends are for, right?", Rainbow Dash asked.

"Yeah. I guess you're right."

"C'mon Nightshade.", Burst said as he put a hand on her shoulder. "Let's head home." As the two headed home, it began to rain. "Oh man. Well, no use running unless we wanna slip and fall."

"You wouldn't happen to have an umbrella?"

"No....but I've got an idea!" Burst removed his shirt and summoned his dragon wings. Using one of them to shield Nightmare while he used his shirt as cover. "There we go! Let's keep on movin'." As they walked, Nightmare couldn't help but stare at Burst. "What? Is there frosting left on my face?"

"N-no. It's just...I didn't expect you to be so well-toned."

"Well, I've got powers. I might as well train to keep them honed.", Burst said with a smile. "Of course, it also makes great exercise." The two soon arrived at Burst's house. "Just gotta get my keys...there we go!" Burst unlocked the door. "Home sweet home." Burst was about to head upstairs to take a shower when Nightmare stopped him. "Hm? Something up Nightshade?"

"Nothing. It's just...I wanted to thank you."

"Thank me? You've already said 'thank you' at the party. That's more than enough."

"No. I want to thank you properly..." Nightmare kissed Burst on the cheek leaving him reeling in surprise. "Thanks for a wonderful time."

"Y-Your welcome....", Burst said with a blush. "I'd....better hit the shower now...." Burst left for upstairs while Nightmare put the fizzy apple cider Applejack had given her in the fridge, and put the money she'd received in the wallet Rarity gave her. All the while she had a fond smile. 'It seems like I've chosen an excellent lover.' Nightmare soon found Burst coming down in his PJs. "I guess I caught the duel champion off-guard."

Burst chuckled. "Maybe. But I guess it was a pleasant surprise. I just might have to return the favor some time!", Burst said with a wink.

'And I'm looking forward to that day...', Nightmare thought with a smile. The rest of the day soon passed, and the house was all but silent. Burst was downstairs getting a glass of water when he turned to face Nightmare.

"AH!" Burst nearly jumped out of his skin! "Geez! Do you make any noise when you move?"

"I never thought about it. I just move.", Nightmare said with a shrug. "You really went all-out for me."

"You looked like you needed a friend. Especially since...well, you know. Everybody needs somebody.", Burst said with a kind smile. "Well, sweet dreams Nightshade. I'll see you tomorrow." Nightmare smiled as Burst went to bed.

"And I'll be waiting...."

Duel 12: Confrontation

The next day came, and Sunset couldn't take it anymore. Just what was Nightmare Moon planning? "AGH! This is so frustrating!"

"Something up Sunset?", Gold asked.

"It's about Nightmare.", Sunset said with a sigh. "First she tails you guys from Equestria, then she duels Burst and almost beat him, Burst and Celestia broke up, Sombra's back and he stole Celestia, and now all our friends are welcoming Nightmare like she's some sort of long-lost friend! And to top it all off, Nightmare's living under the same roof as Burst!" Gold put a hand on Sunset's shoulder.

"I know you're looking for answers Sunset. But going about it this way isn't gonna help you get them. I have a plan, but we'll need to wait until lunch period...." The day soon went by, and lunch period hit sooner than anyone would have expected. Gold and Sunset then put their plan into action. "Hey Nightshade? Can we talk for a bit?"

"I guess. Hope nothing's wrong.", Nightmare replied.

'It's weird. I'm getting a completely different energy from her. There's no malicious intent from her...', Gold thought to himself as he and Sunset led Nightmare to the hallway.

"So what did you want to talk about?"

"We know.", Sunset said flatly.

"Know what?"

"You can drop the act Nightmare Moon."

Nightmare let out an amused chuckle. "I expected nothing less of one of Celestia's former students. Bravo, Sunset."

"How did-?!"

"When I first came to this world, I entered the dreamscape. And the first dreams I peered into were the dreams of you and your friends."

"I guess that should've been obvious.", Sunset said with a frown. "But moving on. We know you're here to try and bring eternal night here! But why are you getting so close to Burst?"

"More importantly...", Gold began. "Did you revive Sombra?"

Nightmare sighed before answering. "He went against my orders with that stunt he pulled."

"And what was this stunt?"

"Stealing Celestia away from Burst.", Nightmare said sadly. "I told him Burst wasn't to be harmed. But I guess I should have been more specific."

"So it's your fault Burst was hurting so much!", Sunset accussed. But Gold held her back as Nightmare gave her response.

"Yes. It is my fault. I wanted Burst's heart, but Celestia already had it. Originally, I planned on seducing him so he would rule by my side when I brought eternal night. But now? Now I truly have come to love him for who he is. Someone like him is very rare. He's a sweet boy, and a good friend. And from the times I saw Celestia's dreams of him, an excellent lover. Now I have him. But I can't help but feel guilt over how he found his way into my arms."

"So.....are you not gonna bring eternal night?", Gold asked. Nightmare shook her head.

"No. Eternal night is still on my agenda. You've all become such good friends with already, so this brings me to my offer. Join me, and you shall live in my palace when I rule."

"We can't do that. We won't.", Sunset said sternly. "Haven't you once thought about the consequences of your actions?!"

"I'm truly sorry you feel this way. Until we clash you two." Nightmare walked away with a slightly pained expression on her face. Sunset and Gold were shocked. Was this really the same mare who was known for her cruelty and ferociousness?

"Maybe there's more to the dark side of the moon than we thought...", Sunset mused.

"Maybe she just found her light.", Gold added. "You changed. Is it all that crazy to think she could too?"

"Only time will tell. But for now? We'd better get back to our friends."

Duel 14: Settle the Score

Celestia had a serene smile as she returned home. Luna noticed Celestia's lifted mood. "I take it you and Burst are making up?"

"Yes. We are. I won't lie, I feel a whole lot better now that I've told him.", Celestia answered. "And he also told me to be careful of Sombra. You know how I thought he was joking about Sombra trying to take over the world?"

"It...wasn't a joke. Was it?"

"I'm afraid not. Although, what do I do now? Burst seems fine just being friends with me, but with the warning he gave me about Sombra I don't know how he'd take me breaking up with him. I'm scared to think of his face should he find out."

"Oh you needn't worry about that.", Sombra said as he materialized out of the shadows. Celestia and Luna were stunned! "It's too bad you didn't take Burst's word seriously. You've made this so much more difficult than I had originally planned." Sombra fired two blasts of dark magic! Knocking Celestia and Luna out! "I'll leave your little sister to deliver my message.", Sombra said with a wicked smile. As for you..." Sombra then slung Celestia over his shoulder. "You'll make the perfect bait. I already wounded Burst by stealing you from him. Now, you'll watch him fall." Sombra teleported himself to the location he'd set-up, and set down Celestia. Sombra then pulled out another card. "Shadow Spell." Celestia was soon in chains as she slowly regained consciousness. "Good. You're awake. Burst will come running when Luna delivers word that I've captured you. I have a few new tricks to show him." Sombra charged up his dark magic.

"That arrogance of yours is going to be your undoing.", Celestia said defiantly.

"How adorable. You have such faith in him." Sombra sat on a shadow throne, and waited for Burst to show up. Meanwhile, Luna had just regained consciousness.

"Nnnnngghh!", Luna groaned as she got to her feet. "Celestia!" Luna bolted to her phone and dialed Burst's number. "Burst! It's Luna! It's about Celestia! You were right about Sombra...."

"So he's taken her. Don't worry Luna. I'll get her back. I promise. I'll be careful." Burst hung up his phone, and texted his friends about the situation. He was almost out the door when Nightmare came up to him.

"Burst? What's wrong?"

"Celestia's been taken. I'm getting her back. And don't worry. I'll make it out okay." As Burst left, Nightmare steeled her gaze.

"I know Burst. I'll make sure you do." Nightmare turned into her mist form, and trailed Burst. At the same time, Burst picked up on Celestia's energy.

"Just hold on Celestia." Burst summoned his dragon wings, and took off for Celestia's location. He soon landed, and found Celestia chained up by the shadow spell. Sombra was waiting for him with a wicked smile.

"Now why does this feel so familiar?", Sombra asked as he summoned a duel disk from the shadows. "Last time I underestimated you. But now? I'm ready. And my new deck will teach you to oppose me!" Sombra and Burst activated their duel disks!

"We'll see about that..."

Sombra: 8000
Burst: 8000

"I'll take the first turn!" Sombra looked over the cards in his hand. "I'll set three cards and place a monster in defense mode. Your turn."

'I beat this creep before, and I'll beat him again! He'll regret using Celestia and taking her!' "I draw! I'll reveal Blue-Eyes White Dragon in my hand to special summon Blue-Eyes Alternative White Dragon! I'll attack your monster!"

"Just what I was hoping for! I activate all of my traps! Light-Imprisoning Mirror! This negates the effects of all LIGHT monsters on the field and graveyard! And my other trap! Royal Prison! This prevent us from special summoning monsters from the graveyard! Now for my final trap! I'll tribute the monster on my field to activate Crush Card Virus! Let's see those cards!" Burst showed Sombra the cards in his hand, and sent all monsters with 1500 or more attack, and Blue-Eyes Alternative was destroyed as the virus flooded the air. "Now you have to send three monsters with 1500 or more attack from your deck!" Burst frowned as he sent three monsters from his deck to the graveyard. "Already I've crippled you. And I haven't even made a dent in your life points!"

"I'll set two cards and end my turn." 'So he's built this deck specifically to lock-down mine. However, his spell and trap zone is still vulnerable. Not to mention I've still got a few monsters with high attack in my deck. He's gotten impatient as well as arrogant. A fatal combination.'

"My turn!" Sombra drew his next card. "Perfect! I play Terraforming! This lets me add a field spell from my deck to my hand! Now I'll activate it! Domain of the True Monarchs! Now I play Card Advance! This lets me conduct an extra tribute summon this turn in addition to my normal summon! I summon a monster, and tribute it to summon Caius the Shadow Monarch!" A massive creature formed from a pool of shadow on the floor! "Now that he's been tribute summoned, his effect activates! I can target one card on the field and banish it! I'll choose the face-down on the left!" Burst's Mirror Force card vanished in a swirl of darkness! "Now to attack you directly! Shadow of Fear!" Caius fired a blast of dark magic right into Burst's life points! "And since Caius was tribute summoned, Domain of the True Monarch's effect activates! Since I have no monsters in my extra deck, and I'm the only one who controls a tribute summoned monster, you can't special summon monsters from your extra deck! But I've tortured you enough for now. I end my turn."

Burst: 5600
Sombra: 8000

"Gotta say, I'm impressed. You made this deck with the specific purpose of crippling me. But I know your deck's weakness now too.", Burst said with a smile. "I draw! I play Trade-In to discard the level eight monster I just drew to draw two new cards! Then I'll discard a card to activate Twin Twisters! I can target and destroy up to two spell or trap cards on the field! Time to blow away Royal Prison and Light-Imprisoning Mirror!" Sombra scowled as two of his key cards were destroyed! "I end my turn with another face-down." 'Good duelists always have a back-up strategy.', Burst thought with a smile.

"I draw! I play Trade-In to discard a level eight monster in my hand! Now I can draw two new cards! Now I play Prohibition! I can declare one card name! Cards with that name, and their effects, can't be used! I declare Harmony Absolute! Let's see how you fare against me without that cursed card!" Sombra had a wicked grin. But it soon faded when Burst laughed. "What....WHAT'S SO FUNNY!??!?!"

'He really didn't think Blue-Eyes Absolute was my ONLY powerful monster did he?' "Ha ha ha ha ha! Don't you know Sombra? A good duelist always has a back-up plan! I'd be foolish if I relied on only one card to win!"

"We'll see who's laughing after this! I tribute Caius to bring out Erebus the Underworld Monarch!" A pillar of shadow engulfed Caius, and a more fearsome looking monarch stood in his place! "Teach him to fear me! Since he was tribute summoned, I can shuffle a card from your hand, graveyard, or field into your deck! I'll return the set card to your left!" Burst's card was wrapped in shadow and returned to his deck. Burst then shuffled his deck, and put it back in its slot. "I'm not finished yet! Attack him directly Erebus!" Erebus fired a blast of darkness into Burst's life points! "I end my turn. All I need is one more turn, and you're finished!"

Burst: 2800
Sombra: 8000

"Duel's not over until the last card's drawn.", Burst said calmly as he drew his next card. 'And it just ended!' "I end my turn by summoning Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands to add a ritual spell from my deck to my hand! I end my turn."

"You're right.", Sombra said with a cruel grin. "Because the last card's been drawn! Attack his monster Erebus!"

"Now! I activate my trap! Curse of Anubis! This flips all effect monsters on the field into face-up defense mode and makes their defense zero!" Both Erebus and Manju shifted into defense mode!

"Hmph. You've bought yourself one more turn. But next turn, I can switch Erebus back into his mighty attack mode!"

"No. You won't! His defense will return to normal, but you can't change his battle position!"

"I end my turn with a face-down.", Sombra growled.

"My turn!" Burst drew his next card! 'Time to de-throne this tyrant!' "I play the ritual spell Chaos Form! I'll banish White Stone of Ancients to add Blue-Eyes White Dragon to my hand! Now I play The Melody of Awakening Dragon! I'll discard a card to add two dragons with 3000 or more attack and 2500 or less defense to my hand! Then I'll activate Chaos Form! I'll tribute Blue-Eyes from my hand to bring out Blue-Eyes Chaos MAX Dragon!" Blue-Eyes flew into the swirling vortex of chaos, and transformed into Blue-Eyes Chaos MAX! "Then I'll play Return of the Dragon Lords to revive Blue-Eyes! Now I'll attack your defense mode monster!"

"I activate my trap! Mirror Force!" The Mirror Force barrier went up around Erebus, but Chaos MAX shattered it! "WHAT?! AGGHH!" Sombra cringed as Erebus was obliterated by a flurry of light beams coming from Chaos MAX's wings!

"I forgot to mention that Chaos MAX inflicts double piercing damage when he destroys a defense mode monster!" Sombra's life points took a massive hit! "But I'm not finished yet! End this Blue-Eyes! Rock the dragon!" Blue-Eyes unleashed a massive blast of white lightning! Wiping out the last of Sombra's life points! Sombra was knocked back from the force of the attack! Once the duel was over, Burst ran over to Celestia and broke her out of her chains. "You alright?"

"I am now. It's a bit odd that the dragon's coming to my rescue.", Celestia said with a small smile. Sombra slowly rose to his feet, but was knocked down by a blast of magic before Burst and Celestia could notice.

"C'mon. Let's get you home. Think you can give us a lift Blue-Eyes?", Burst asked. Blue-Eyes nodded as Burst helped Celestia on board, and took off as Burst got on. They soon landed at Celestia and Luna's house. When they landed, Luna rushed up to Celestia and pulled her into a tight hug. Celestia then broke the hug, and walked over to Burst. "You don't need to say thank you."

"I know. But there's something I want to know. Burst? Do you think we could try again?"

Burst sighed. "Celestia. You left me just a few days ago. It's a bit too soon to go that far. Right now? I think I'd better go home." Burst got back on Blue-Eyes. "But....I am glad you're safe." Celestia watched sadly as Burst left.

"And I'm glad you came for me...." Celestia let out a sigh as she joined Luna inside the house.

Duel 15: Reflection

After Burst's second victory over Sombra...

Sombra groaned as he regained consciousness, and saw an incredibly angry Nightmare Moon staring him down. "Came to save the hide of your prospective boyfriend?", Sombra said with a smirk. "That'd explain why you took me down before I could charge up a blast."

"When I told you Burst wasn't to be harmed, I meant in ANY way."

"You wanted his heart, and I helped you obtain it. But just know one thing. You're far more cruel than I am. Especially since you stopped me from firing that blast at him."

"What are you talking about?", Nightmare demanded. Sombra let out a dark chuckle.

"Heh heh. None of my business. Go ahead. Have your boyfriend turn into an ice cube or a pale, lifeless shell. That's all that awaits your promised eternal night. A barren world slowly freezing over."

"You...you don't know what you're talking about!"

"Don't I? I'll leave you to your own devices for now. Me? I have a plan to make..." Sombra slithered back into the shadows. Leaving Nightmare alone with her thoughts. Nightmare then pulled out her phone, and pulled up a contact.

"Sunset? It's Nightmare. You know I wasn't involved with what happened today. It's just, there's something I want to know. Meet me at the school. Thank you." Nightmare turned into mist, and floated over to CHS where she returned to her regular form. Sunset soon arrived. "Thanks for coming."

"Just what did you want to know Nightmare?", Sunset asked.

"Sunset? What would've happened if I brought eternal night back in Equestria?"

Sunset sighed. "You really didn't think things through did you? If you had defeated Celestia a thousand years ago, everything would've changed slowly. Without the light from the sun, no plants would grow. That would mean a whole lot less food would be available. And with no heat from the sun, the planet would gradually grow colder and colder. Soon, all of Equestria would be a giant ice ball. And...a lot of ponies, or in this world's case, people, would die from starving or cold. And it'd be painfully slow." Sunset then noticed Nightmare's pained expression.

"Sombra was right.", Nightmare barely whispered as she came to a realization. "She knew. Celestia knew that would happen! That's why....!" And then it hit her full-force. "That's why she used The Elements on me and Luna! Why we were stuck on the moon for a thousand years! Why Luna..." The realization of just how much harm she had caused. "Why Luna was so hurt and alone all that time. Why she wouldn't talk to me for all those years...I hurt her.....When all I wanted to do was.....I need to go!" As Nightmare left, Sunset texted the others. She told them everything she knew, and about all the events that had transpired.

"Nightmare. Just what did you want to do for Luna?", Sunset thought out loud before meeting with the others. When they arrived, they were a mix of surprise and anger. Sunset told them the full story. "And that's her story up until now."

"And you're saying...this is the SAME girl we welcomed just yesterday? The same one staying with Burst?", Inferno asked.

"The same one who brought Sombra back?", Applejack asked.

"The one who was the reason Princess Luna was imprisoned on the moon back in Equestria?", Rarity asked. Sunset nodded.

"Isn't she also the one who tried to make it be night forever?", Rainbow Dash added.

"Yeah. All of those and more. Gold and I knew who she was, but we didn't want to risk causing a panic. She hadn't done anything drastic. Even if she was the one who revived Sombra, she regretted what he did to Burst. But...something changed her. Now, I don't think she has the same plans for this world. Especially after I told her what would happen if she had brought it. Sombra actually played some part in it. But most of all, I think Burst is the one who started her change. She picked up on his power in specific back in Equestria, and followed it here. Burst made her feel welcome, he introduced her to us, and he showed her things she's never known before. I never thought someone like her could ever change. But I did. So did the Dazzlings. And now that you all know this, here's the big question. What do you think of her now?" The group shared uneasy glances before each one gave their response.

"Well....I guess she's still pretty cool.", Inferno answered. "You said she regrets causing Burst's break-up, and she's not acting like the one you knew."

"Man...he's right. I mean, we only know the Nightmare Moon we've met.", Steel noted.

"Maybe, we should give her a chance.", Ace said.

"We were banished from Equestria, but we had each other.", Adagio said as she looked at her sisters. "But, Nightmare has no one." Veenus and Fang nodded in agreement.

"She didn't seem so scary...", Fluttershy added.

"She enjoyed the party we threw her!", Pinkie chirped! "You're only REALLY evil if you hate parties!"

"Ah don't think its fair ta judge her just because of her past.", Applejack said.

"Aj's got a point!", Rainbow Dash added. "It'd be pretty lame if we just started hating her because of what's already been done!"

"Indeed darling.", Rarity chimed in. "It wouldn't proper of us to do that to Nightmare after we just got to see a side of her no one knew about."

"Then I guess...all that leaves is Burst.", Sunset said. "But the only question is, how's Burst going to take it? And who's he going to choose in the end."

Meanwhile at Burst's house...

Nightmare had just arrived at Burst's house and went inside. Lumina greeted her. "Hello Nightshade. Did things go well today?"

"Things were....interesting. I just need to think about things.", Nightmare replied as she went to her room. Once she closed the door, Nightmare wept. Her mind drifting back to Luna and their banishment. 'Luna....I'm so sorry!'

Duel 16: Confessions

Nightmare was pretty quiet for the rest of the day. She barely said a word, and only came out for dinner. Her mind however, was a completely different story. Especially that night during her dreams. As she slept, her mind drifted back to Equestria. But the most noticeable difference was she had won. The sky was eternally blanketed with stars. But it was not how she had envisioned it when she and Luna were together. All around her, she could see ponies shivering. Some were about as pale as the moon that hung in the sky. Others looked like they had been starved. Nightmare flew off to her castle, and carefully examined the tapestries that hung from the walls. All of them depicting her defeating The Elements and Celestia and Luna. Nightmare then ventured down to where she knew they'd be if she had won. Nightmare soon found herself in the dungeon, and at a single cell. Celestia and Luna were inside. Celestia noticed her presence, and looked at her. The cold fury in her voice made Nightmare feel so guilty. So insignificant. "I hope you're happy. You got what you always wanted. Was the price worth it?" Celestia then looked down at Luna. "Do you finally understand what you've done now?"

"I-I didn't know...", Nightmare began.

"How could you? All you were was a selfish monster who wanted nothing more than to make yourself happy. And all it cost you was every life in Equestria." Nightmare tried to talk to Luna, but Luna turned her back to Nightmare. "And you took Luna away from me for a thousand years! None of this would have happened if you never existed!" The dream Celestia's words pierced Nightmare's heart, and the shock caused her dream to shift. To the day when she and Luna had returned from their banishment. Nightmare was so engrossed in her dream that she tried to talk to the ponies, but they all ran from her in terror.

"Wait! Please!", Nightmare pleaded. "I'm not the way I used to be! I don't want to hurt any of you!" But in the end, she was all alone. Her dream shifted again, and she found herself in her human form in pure darkness. There was nothing but her. Then, the words of Sunset and Sombra were swirling around in her head.

"Didn't you think of the consequences of your actions?", Sunset asked.

"Go ahead. Have your boyfriend turn into an ice cube. Or a pale, lifeless shell. That's all that awaits you in your precious eternal night...", Sombra mocked.

"I don't want people to hate me....", Nightmare began as her eyes started to tear up.

"Nightshade."

"I don't want them to be scared of me!" Tears began to fall from Nightmare's eyes.

"Nightshade!"

"I DON'T WANT TO BE ALONE ANYMORE!", Nightmare cried at the top of her lungs!

"NIGHTSHADE!" Nightmare opened her eyes to find Burst standing over her. "Thank goodness! You alright? It sounded like you were having a really bad dream." Nightmare took a moment to catch her breath before answering Burst.

"I was."

"If you don't wanna talk about it, I'll...."

"No! I need to tell someone. Actually....there's a lot I need to tell you." Nightmare took a deep breath. "Burst. Nightshade isn't my real name. And, I'm not from this world."

"Then who are you? And where did you come from?"

"My real name is Nightmare Moon. In Equestria, I was brought to life from Luna's jealousy of Celestia and tried to bring eternal night. I was defeated by the elements of harmony and banished with Luna to the moon for a thousand years. After all those years we escaped, but were defeated by the new bearers of the elements. Luna was separated from me, and I was nothing more than a pile of magical mist. That is, until you came to Equestria. You left a good amount of residual magic behind that I used to regenerate myself before I crossed over to your world. At first I wanted to continue my plans for eternal night. I'm the one who revived Sombra. And it's because of me that you've had your first heart break. I underestimated how vengeful he was. He would have done worse if I hadn't intervened. But after that, Sombra told me about the fate I'd condemn everyone to if I had brought eternal night. That the world would became a barren, frozen wasteland. I thought he was lying, so I called Sunset up. That's when I learned the ugly truth. The weight of all I'd done hit me at that moment. It was my fault Luna was banished for a thousand years. Why Celestia lost her sister! And now....I've hurt you too. I don't want to be feared or hated anymore! I don't want to be alone! But I probably screwed that up too. Because of me, you and Celestia are broken up. And you probably hate me don't you?" Tears were still flowing from Nightmare's eyes. She expected Burst to scream at her, or leave that moment. But then the unexpected happened. Burst got on her bed, and held her tightly. "Why....why are you doing this?"

"Because I don't hate you Nightmare.", Burst answered. "You're right. You did mess up pretty bad. Especially since you unintentionally triggered my first break-up. But you also tried to fix it. You visited me in my dreams, and helped me get on my feet again. The fact you care about me that much just makes me realize how much you want to make-up for your past."

"Burst....there's something else I should tell you. I....I love you. At first, my attraction to you was purely physical. In fact it was almost purely lust. But....then there was all the time I spent with you. When you threw me that party. I saw who you were for more than your appearance. Someone like you is special. I was hitting on you those times you thought I was joking."

"Nightmare....I knew. I know how to pick up on things. I just didn't say anything because I was still a little shaken up about Celestia."

"So....do you still love her?"

Burst sighed. "Nightmare. I honestly don't know how to feel about her. Right now? I think I need to get some sleep." Burst then began to leave.

"Burst?"

"Yeah?"

"Could....I sleep with you tonight?"

"After what happened a few minutes ago, I think you're better off with someone to hold on to." Nightmare followed Burst up to his room, and they both settled into the bed.

"One more thing? Could you....call me Moon instead?"

"Sure. Moon.", Burst said with a small smile. Burst closed his eyes, and was about to fall asleep until he felt a mass on top of him Burst opened his eyes to see Nightmare sleeping on top of him.

"I can't help it. Your heartbeat's calming.", Nightmare said as she lightly nuzzled Burst's chest. Burst just smiled and wrapped his arms around her. "Goodnight Burst...."

"Sweet dreams Moon..." Sleep soon overtook them, and Nightmare's tears had ceased. Whatever awaited them, it was tomorrow's problem.

Duel 17: Decisions

Burst felt a warmth on his forehead, and stirred from his slumber. When he opened his eyes, he saw Nightmare kissing his forehead. "So is this your version of a wake-up call?"

Nightmare giggled. "It's better than the annoying blare of an alarm clock, right?"

"I won't lie. It is. C'mon. Today's not going to wait for us. Also...we'd better tell the others about your secret."

"Then I'd better remove my enchantment." Nightmare's eyes gave a dim blue glow, and returned to their natural cat-like form. "I bet it's kind of weird seeing my real eyes, huh?"

"Not really. They're kinda pretty. Anyway, we'd better eat." Burst and Nightmare headed downstairs, and ate breakfast. As soon as they got dressed, they got on Blue-Eyes and flew off to school. However, the rest of Burst's friends were waiting for him. "Inferno? What's everyone doing here?"

"Burst....Nighshade's not who she says."

"I know."

Sunset walked up to Burst. "Burst. Ni....Wait. What do you mean you know?"

"Moon told me last night. She was having nightmares about what would've happened if she won. And she also told me a lot more than that."

"Huh. Ironic. Nightmare Moon having nightmares.", Gold mused.

"So those are what your eyes really look like?", Rainbow asked as she examined Nightmare. "Cool!"

"I...thank you.", Nightmare said with a small smile. "I have one request of you all. Could you all call me Moon?"

"Ah don't think that's gonna be a problem sugar cube.", Applejack said with a smile. "Sunset told us all about your past. But we didn't think it fair to judge you from who we met and who you were."

"Still. You'll probably need to correct your name with Principal Celestia.", Twilight joked. Everyone let out a small laugh. As they headed inside, the intercom went off.

"Nightmare Moon. Please report to Principal Celestia's office. Thank you."

"Looks like I'll won't have to worry about correcting my name." Nightmare made her way to Principal Celestia's office. "So did Sunset tell you of my true origins?"

"Indeed she did. She informed me earlier today. But that's not why I called you here. It concerns Burst."

"Oh. You still have feelings for him. Don't you?", Nightmare asked sadly. Celestia nodded.

"Both of us have spent time with him. He's...really not like any guy I've ever seen before."

"Indeed. Someone like him is incredibly rare. You should count yourself lucky to have been his girlfriend."

"I know Nightmare. But I messed it all up by listening to Sombra. I'm going to be frank. Burst can only have one of us. And I'd say he's quite aware of that fact. When the time comes, let's both of us just try to respect his choice. I thought he was the one who needed to grow, but it was really me."

"Thank you for notifying me. I'll be on my way now." The rest of the day went by, and lunch period soon hit. Burst was sitting with his friends discussing his predicament with his friends.

"This is really wracking your nerves isn't it?", Inferno asked. Burst sighed.

"Yeah. On one hand I've got a girl who I've built a relationship with already, and who was also my first love and heart break. On the other hand there's a girl who's been alone almost all her life until I came along, accidentally caused my first break-up, but I've spent a substantial amount of time with her. The sad thing is that no matter who I choose, one of them gets hurt. And no Pinkie I can't just have both of them." Pinkie's hair deflated in response. "I've done some thinking, and I'm close to making my decision. I'll let Celestia and Moon know tomorrow. But right now? We've got Sombra to deal with. We're ending this tonight."

"Darn right we are!", Inferno blurted out.

"You're not leaving us out of the action this time Burst. I owe him for what he did to Sunset.", Gold said with a determined gaze.

"Then it's me, Inferno, and Gold against Sombra. Bring it in you two." Burst, Gold, and Inferno put their hands in.

"ROCK THE DRAGON!"

Duel 18: Rematch

Burst was walking home as school let out when he felt a presence. He turned around, and saw a monster staring at him. "I am Eidos the Underworld Squire. My master Sombra requests your presence for a final duel tonight at the duel park."

"Tell him I'll be bringing two friends along for the ride.", Burst said sternly. Eidos faded into the shadows. Burst then whipped out his phone, and texted Inferno and Gold the location of their showdown with Sombra. "Looks like we're gonna have a busy night...." Burst headed home and prepared his deck. When he was about to leave, Nightmare walked up to him.

"You're ending it tonight. Aren't you?"

"Sombra's gotta be stopped. As long as he's out there, he can strike at the people I care about. And I'm not gonna give him that chance."

"Burst?" Nightmare then pulled Burst into a hug. "Please. Come back safe." Burst nodded. At the same time, Inferno and Gold were talking with Rarity and Gold respectively about their fated showdown. Both told them to be safe. They met up with Burst, and headed for the duel park. Sombra was waiting for them when they arrived.

"Well, well. I didn't think you'd need any help to take me down.", Sombra said with a smirk.

"No. I just wanted to see if the three of us can beat you three times as bad!", Burst spat as he activated his duel disk.

"Plus, Gold and I owe you for what you did back at Duelist Kingdom.", Inferno said with a glare as he and Gold activated their duel disks.

"Then try and make me regret my actions.", Sombra said with a sinister grin as he summoned his duel disk and activated it.

Burst, Inferno, and Gold: 24000
Sombra: 24000

"I'll take the first turn!" Sombra took a look at his cards. "I summon Dark Blade in attack mode, and set a card! I end my turn."

"My move! I draw!" Burst looked at his hand. "I summon White Stone of Ancients! Now I'll target him with Sage with Eyes of Blue to send both to the graveyard! This lets me special summon a Blue-Eyes monster from my deck! I special summon Blue-Eyes White Dragon! But I'm not done yet! I'll reveal one Blue-Eyes in my hand to special summon Blue-Eyes Alternative! I'll attack Dark Blade with Alternative, and attack you directly with Blue-Eyes!" Sombra cringed as his life points took a massive hit! "I end my turn. Now White Stone of Ancient's effect activates! I can special summon a 'Blue-Eyes' monster from my deck! I'll bring out Dragon Spirit of White! Now that he's on the field, I can banish a spell or trap card you control!" Sombra scowled as his Light-Imprisoning Mirror card vanished in a flash of light! 'You'd think he'd have changed up his strategy a bit.'

Burst, Inferno, and Gold: 24000
Sombra:19800

"I draw! I'll place two cards face-down and end my turn.", Sombra said with a smirk.

"Then it's my move!" Inferno drew his next card! "I summon Black Stone of Legend and tribute him to special summon Red-Eyes Black Dragon! Now I'll play Red-Eyes Insight to discard a 'Red-Eyes' monster from my deck!" 'Time to scorch this creep for what he did to Rarity!'

"I don't think so! I activate my trap! Dark Bribe! I negate your spell and destroy it! But on the bright side, you get to draw a card."

"Yeah. And I can also scorch some of your life points!"

"Inferno Fire Blast!", Red-Eyes cried as he fired a massive fire ball into Sombra's life points! "I end my turn with two face-downs." 'So far we're at a good start. But I got the feeling Sombra's got worse monsters waiting in his deck.'

Burst, Inferno, and Gold: 24000
Sombra: 17400

"Heh. It's amusing that you think the three of you can beat me.", Sombra said with a smirk as he drew a card. "I'll let your hopes climb before I smash them! I play Double Summon! Now I'm allowed an extra normal summon this turn! I summon Dark Grepher and tribute him to bring out Caius the Shadow Monarch! I'll target and banish one card you control! Now, which one of your creatures has the honor of being banished? Hmmm. I think I'll get rid of Red-Eyes!" A pillar of shadow engulfed Red-Eyes! Removing him from the field! "And since Red-Eyes was a DARK monster, you take 1000 points of damage! Now...attack them directly!" Inferno cringed as Caius sent an orb of shadow right into his life points! "I'll end my turn."

Burst, Inferno, and Gold: 20600
Sombra: 17400

"Just keep this in mind. The more you hit us, the harder we strike back!", Gold cried out as he drew his next card! Now's the perfect time to strike back for what he did to Sunset!' "Let's see now..Perfect! I play Valhalla Hall of the Fallen! This lets me special summon a fairy-type monster from my hand since I have no monsters on my field! I special summon Archlord Kristya! I'll also set a card and summon another monster! I summon Star Seraph Scepter! His effect lets me add another 'Star Seraph' monster from my deck to my hand! And since I normal summoned a 'Star Seraph' monster, I can special summon Star Seraph Sovereignty from my hand! Now that he's been summoned, I can add a card to my hand! And it's another Star Seraph! That means I can summon it! I special summon Star Seraph Sword! I end my turn."

"I draw!" Sombra had a wicked grin as he saw the card he drew! "I play the spell card Shrink! This will halve Kristya's attack points! Destroy his archlord Caius!" Caius fired a blast of shadow that destroyed Kristya!

"I activate my trap! Solar Ray! This inflicts 600 points of damage to you for each face-up LIGHT monster on our side of the field! Last I checked, there was five including Burst's monsters!" Five beams of light pierced Sombra's life points! 'There's more than one way to get at an opponent's life points. This guy's impateint and arrogant. Hid pride is going to be his downfall!'

"That little light show stung just the least bit. I'll end my turn."

Burst, Inferno, and Gold: 19600
Sombra: 14400

"I draw!" Burst took a careful look at his hand. "Alright! I tribute Dragon Spirit of White to special summon Blue-Eyes White Dragon from my hand! Now I'll destroy Caius with Blue-Eyes Alternative's effect!" A bolt of lightning flew straight at Caius! But Sombra was prepared!

"I activate my trap! Destruction Jammer! Since you activated a card effect that destroys a card, I can negate the activation and destroy it!" Alternative's lightning bolt faded away, and he was soon wiped out in an explosion!

"In that case, I'll attack you directly! Go Blue-Eyes!"

"I activate my trap! Negate Attack!"

"Then I'll use my own face-down! Champion's Vigilance! Since Blue-Eyes is a normal monster whose level is seven or higher, I can negate the summon of a monster or a spell or trap card!" Sombra's Negate Attack was destroyed, and Caius was obliterated! Sombra then braced himself as Burst's other Blue-Eyes hit him directly with a blast of white lightning! "I end my turn." 'Sombra. The three of us are gonna take you down for good! I was strong on my own, but with Gold and Inferno we're unstoppable!'

Burst, Inferno, and Gold: 19600
Sombra: 11000

"You may have destroyed Caius, but I'm far from defenseless!", Sombra growled as he drew his next card. "I activate my trap! The First Monarch! I can special summon it as an effect monster with 1000 attack and 2400 defense! Now I'll discard a card and declare an attribute! I declare DARK! Now my new monster can be used as two tributes for a monster of the same attribute! I tribute The First Monarch to bring out Erebus the Underworld Monarch! Now I play March of the Monarchs to protect my tribute summoned monarch! Now he can't be targeted or destroyed by card effects! Then I'll play Hidden Armory! This lets me add an equip spell from my deck to my hand! Now I'll activate the equip spell I added! Megamorph! This doubles Erebus's attack points! Attack Inferno directly!" Inferno cringed as his life points took a massive hit from a stream of pure darkness! "I end my turn."

Burst, Inferno, and Gold: 14000
Sombra: 11000

"I draw!" Inferno looked over his cards. "I'll bring Black Stone of Legend to my hand! Now I summon him again and tribute him to special summon Red-Eyes Black Dragon in defense mode!"

"Your life points are safe.", Sombra said as he drew his next card. "But your monster is easy prey! Erebus!" Erebus brought his fist down on Red-Eyes!

'Now!' "Just what I was hoping for! I activate my trap! Red-Eyes Burn! Since you destroyed my Red-Eyes, I can inflict his attack points as damage to both of us! Both Inferno and Sombra cringed as they took damage! "That was for Rarity!"

Burst, Inferno, and Gold: 11600
Sombra: 8600

"You may have dealt some damage. But my monster still stands! And there's not a thing you can do to stop him!" Sombra drew his next card! "Destroy Star Seraph Sword!" Gold braced himself as Star Seraph Sword was smashed to pieces! "I end my turn."

Burst, Inferno, and Gold: 7400
Sombra: 8600

"You just turned the tide in our favor!", Gold said as he drew a card! "Since our life points are lower than yours, Erebus's attack is halved! Now to take care of this! I play Mystical Space Typhoon to destroy March of the Monarchs!"

"NO!", Sombra hissed!

"Now I'll tribute the two monsters on my field! I summon Gold-Eyes Crimson Dragon!" Crimson appeared from a pillar of red light and energy pulsing through his wings! "Now his effect activates! I can target and destroy a monster you control, and Crimson gains its attack points!" Erebus was destroyed in a blast of energy from Crimson's wings! "Attack him directly! Crimson Plasma Blast!" Sombra reeled as Crimson fired a blast of plasma from his mouth! Searing his life points! "I end my turn! That was for Sunset."

Burst, Inferno, and Gold: 7400
Sombra: 2800

"I'm not finished yet!", Sombra snarled as he drew his next card! He was only more enraged when he heard Burst chuckle. "What's so funny!?!"

'So now his true nature comes to the surface.' "For all that charm you put on, your true nature finally shows.", Burst said with a confident smile.

"Silence! I play Soul Charge! I pay 1000 life points per monster I want to revive! I bring back Caius and Erebus! Now I sacrifice both to bring out Caius the Mega Monarch!" A twisted of Caius that reflected Sombra's nature appeared! "Now I activate his effect! I can target and banish both of your monsters since Caius was tribute summoned! Then you take 1000 points of damage!" Burst winced as both of his dragons left the field! "Now to attack you directly!" Caius slashed at Burst's life points with his claws! "I end my turn."

Burst, Inferno, and Gold: 3600
Sombra: 800

Music to use at this moment:

'Time to end this!' "I draw! Yes! I play The Melody of Awakening Dragon! This lets me add two dragons with 3000 or more attack and 2500 or less defense from my deck to my hand! Now I'll play Trade-In to discard one of the level eight monsters I added! Now I can draw two new cards! Time for you to meet an old friend! I tribute Blue-Eyes from my hand!"

"No....NO!", Sombra howled as a ray of light fell on Burst and the guys' field!

"I summon Blue-Eyes Absolute Dragon from my hand! Then I'll play a custom card Gold had made! United Turn! Now Inferno!"

"I play my own Harmony Absolute! I banish Red-Eyes from my graveyard! I'll bring out Red-Eyes Absolute Dragon!" A pillar of flame appeared in front of Inferno, and Red-Eyes Absolute stood as the flames died down! "Your turn Gold!" Gold noticed a rainbow-colored glow coming from the top of his deck!

"I play the spell card Crimson Harmony! I tribute Crimson Dragon from my field!" A ray of crimson light engulfed Gold-Eyes Crimson Dragon! When the light faded, Crimson transformed! "I summon Gold-Eyes Crimson Harmony Dragon!" Crimson stood in a new humanoid form! Wearing crystal armor similar in color to the crystals that made up his wings! "Let's end this together!"

"TAKE THIS! OUR LOVE, OUR ANGER, AND ALL OF OUR HOPE! ROCK THE DRAGON!", the three boys screamed as their dragons fired a united rainbow-colored blast of energy! Vaporizing Sombra's monster! Sombra then watched in horror as his own shadow and deck began to disintegrate!

"NNOOOOOOooooooo!", Sombra screamed as there was nothing left of him! Destroyed forever!

"We did it!", Burst said with a winning smile!

"Good riddance.", Inferno said with a sigh of relief.

"It's over.", Gold said with an exhausted smile. The three friends each headed home. When Burst got home, Nightmare nearly tackled him!

"Hey. I came back didn't I?", Burst said with a smile.

"I was worried!", Nightmare said as she tightened her grip on Burst.

"Well I'm here now Moon. Your nightmare's over. I'll hit the shower. Then we can both get some much needed sleep." Nightmare was about to ask something, but Burst beat her to it. "Yes we can share the bed again." Nightmare beamed as she went to her room to change. The hot water of the shower cleared Burst's mind. As soon as he was changed, he went to sleep. He felt a familiar presence next to him, and found Nightmare next to him. Holding him in an intimate position with a blissful smile on her face. Burst's eyes soon closed as sleep began to overtake him too. 'Tomorrow's the hardest day of my life....'

Author's Note

Crimson Dragon's name has been changed to Gold-Eyes Crimson Dragon

Gold-Eyes Crimson Harmony Dragon
Attribute: Light
Level: 10
Type: Dragon/Effect
ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500
Effect: This card can only be special summoned by the effect of "Crimson Harmony". If this card would be destroyed by battle or by card effect, banish this card to negate the attack or card effect. At the end of the turn you activated this effect, special summon this card. Once per turn, you can target and destroy one monster your opponent controls: This card gains that monster's attack until the end phase.

Epilogue

The school day soon let out, and Burst and Nightmare headed for Sugar Cube Corner. Pinkie had prepared, and threw them a party for finding each other. Nightmare couldn't think of the last time she'd ever been so happy. She could barely contain her joy! As the party wound down, Burst approached her. "I take it you're having a good time?"

"The best.", Nightmare answered. "For the longest time, I felt so alone. Now..." Nightmare wrapped her arms around Burst. "I feel whole."

"Well today's about to get better.", Burst said with a smile. "There's one last surprise in store for you and some of the other girls."

"Oh?"

"Just watch!" Burst gathered Inferno, Ace, and Gold. Each of them took a microphone, put on a song, and they began to sing.

Burst
Inferno
Ace
Golden Rise

Although loneliness has always been a friend of mine. I'm leaving my life in your hands!
People say I'm crazy and that I am blind. Risking it all in a glance!
And how you got me blind is still a mystery. I can't get you out of my head!
Don't care what is written in your history. As long as you're here with me!
I don't care who you are, where you're from, what you did. As long as you love me!
Who you are, where you're from, don't care what you did. As long as you love me!
Every little thing that you have said and done, feels like its deep within me!
Doesn't really matter if you're on the run. It seems like we're meant to be!
I don't care who you are. Where you're from. What you did. As long as you love me!
Who you are. Where you're from. Don't care what you did! As long as you love me!
I've tried to hide it so that no one knows! But I guess it shows! When you look into my eyes.
What you did and where you're coming from. I don't care! As long as you love me baby!
I don't care who you are. Where you're from. What you did. As long as you love me!
Who you are. Where you're from. What you did. As long as you love me!
Who you are. Where you're from. I don't care! As long as you love me!

The four of them each headed to their respective girlfriend after they had finished performing. "I meant every word I sang Moon. I don't care about your past. I only know the you I love now." Nightmare was almost tearing up as she kissed Burst with everything she had. Burst was about to say something as Nightmare broke the kiss, but she put a finger to his mouth.

"Ssshhh." Nightmare leaned into Burst's ear and whispered to him. "Just let this moment speak for both of us." Burst and Nightmare held each other. Both sharing loving smiles as they looked in each other's eyes. The moment really said all that needed to be told.

Duel 8: Dreams

Nightmare was inside the dreascape. Surveying over the dreams of the Mane 7 and the duelists. However, she soon felt a disturbance. And it was coming from..."Burst?" Nightmare floated over to Burst's dreams, and her jaw dropped. Burst was in the form she saw him in back in the waking world. And he was bawling his eyes out. In Burst's dream, Nightmare saw Celestia kissing Sombra, and Burst falling to his knees at the sight of it. 'I suppose that I am now free to pursue Burst. But I was hoping is wouldn't fall under these circumstances.' Nightmare entered Burst's dreams. "It's been a while since I saw you last." Burst picked his head up as he heard Nightmare. "Hello again Burst. We've got to stop meeting like this."

"Y-You?", Burst asked as he dried his tears. "I saw you before. When I was a little kid. Why're you here again?" Nightmare walked over to Burst, and put her hand on his heart.

"Because you're hurting Burst. You feel great sorrow. And I can't stand to see you like this..." Nightmare then helped Burst to his feet and cupped his face in her hands. "It pains me to see you unhappy."

"That's really nice of you. But I just gotta get up and move on. I accept what happened, but that doesn't make it hurt any less."

"I know much of sorrow Burst. It's something I've become quite familiar with. Please. Let me help you."

"...Thank you.", Burst said with a small smile. "You know? I've seen you twice now and I don't even know your name."

"Oh, you know me Burst. You will see me when you awaken. But until then..." Nightmare wrapped her arms around Burst. "Just let go." Burst closed his eye and reflexively put his arms around Nightmare. "You're strong Burst. Things will be better when you wake up again. I'll be sure to find you. Goodbye for now Burst." Nightmare vanished in a cloud of blue mist and returned to her own dreams. 'I can't wait to wake up....'

Duel 13: Apologies

CHS towards the end of the school day....

The day was just about over, and Burst was at his locker grabbing what he needed as students began to head home. He was about to leave until he felt a familiar presence. Burst let out a sigh as he turned around. "Hello Principal Celestia." Principal Celestia approached Burst with a sad look on her face. "How can I help you?"

"Burst...please. Listen to me.", Celestia pleaded. "I left you for a completely stupid reason."

"Was it really stupid? Celestia, I'm about half your age. I'm just a young kid who's get the rest of his life ahead of him. You didn't want me giving that all up just for even the chance to hang on to you. You could never be that selfish."

"Sombra said the exact same thing. But he was wrong! And I was wrong for thinking that! Burst, I was the happiest I'd ever been when we were together! You were someone I'd been waiting my whole life for! And like a fool I gave you up." Celestia sighed. "I guess I was the one who really needed to grow." Burst took a deep breath and got up close to Celestia.

"Everyone makes mistakes. I just never imagined the day I'd see you make one. But...that's good. Mistakes help us learn. But I can't forgive you Celestia. Because I couldn't bring myself to hate you in the first place." Celestia's eyes began to tear up as Burst gave her a smile. "But that's not stopping me from accepting your apology." Celestia pulled Burst into a tight hug as tears began to flow from her eyes. Burst was hesitant, but slowly put his arms around her once again. "I won't lie. I missed this feeling."

"Me too....", Celestia said with a smile as the tears soon came to a halt. "So...what happens now?"

"I don't know. But I can't wait to make it up as I go along. I kept your number. Unless, you'd rather talk face-to-face."

"I...I'd love that.", Celestia said with a small smile. "Though now I have a new order of business to take care of. That joke you made about Sombra at Duelist Kingdom served as a good foil to how he's been acting around me."

"Celestia....that wasn't a joke. Sombra ACTUALLY tried to take over the world. He's a bad guy. He even temporarily severed Sunset and Rarity's cards. Trust me. You'd ditch him the second his true nature shows. Be careful."

"I will be." And with that, Burst and Celestia went their separate ways. The weights on their hearts completely lifted.

Duel 19: My Heart Belongs to...

Burst woke up the next day feeling uneasy. In truth, he'd hoped today wouldn't come. But on the other hand, there was no use denying the facts. Celestia. Moon. Today either one of them might walk away hurt because of HIS decision. 'I guess there's no use delaying things any longer.' Burst got dressed, brushed his teeth, and headed down for breakfast. Nightmare soon joined him with a confused look on her face.

"Burst? Why did you get up earlier?"

"Moon....", Burst sighed. "I have to talk to you and Celestia today. And it's something that can't wait. I think you know what that thing is." Moon's face saddened at hearing this, and put a hand on Burst's shoulder.

"Burst...I promise to be happy. If not with you, then at least for you."

"Let's not lie to ourselves Moon. Someone's walking away hurt today." Burst and Nightmare finished their breakfasts and flew to school on Blue-Eyes. "This is it." Burst and Nightmare headed into Celestia's office, and knocked on the door. Celestia answered.

"I've been expecting you two. Please, come in." Burst and Nightmare sat across from Celestia. Burst took a deep breath.

"As you both know, I've spent a good amount of time with both of you. And I know that both of you have feelings for me. That's what makes this hurt so much. I've gotten to know both of you so well. Celestia, you're a kind and wonderful woman. I'll always remember out first date fondly. I could never forget that lovely smile you have." Burst then looked to Nightmare. "Moon. You've been alone for so long. I was your first friend, and I introduced you to everyone. Heh. I changed the mind of one of Equestria's worst." Burst then sighed. "It's so tough because both of you want my love. In truth, this decision was almost impossible. But then I thought of something that helped me finally decide. Who NEEDS me? That's the question I asked myself over and over. Now the answer's clear..." Burst turned to Nightmare and smiled. "You were there when I was down the most, and helped me stand again. You were alone for so long, and I was the first one to truly know you. Moon, I'd be yours if you'd be mine." Nightmare's heart fluttered.

"Burst....are you sure?"

Burst leaned in and kissed Nightmare. All doubts melted away as Burst pulled out of the kiss. "Would I have done that otherwise?"

"He's right.", Celestia chimed in with a small smile. "You were alone for a thousand years. The time I've been single pales in comparison. You two better get going." Burst and Nightmare nodded as they headed off for class. As they exited, Burst found all of his friends waiting for him.

"So...who's got your heart?", Inferno asked. Burst and Nightmare smiled as they kissed each other.

"Does that answer your question?", Burst said with a smile as he and Nightmare headed off to class together.