Broken Dawnby HIDEMYPASTChaptersPrologue - DefeatChapter 2 - My name is Princess LunaChapter 3 - What's going on!?Chapter 4 - LiesChapter 5 - 'Your name is Broken Dawn.'Chapter 6 - Any other morning.Chapter 7 - Debates.Chapter 8 - The Purity StoneChapter 1 - In the CastlePrologue - DefeatNightmare Moon knew a setback when she saw it. That rainbow beam, spawned from the 'magic of friendship'? Definitely a setback. An embarrassingly stupid one, too. Curses! She yelled inwardly. She was so close... Out of all her many, many attempts, this had been the closest she had come to exacting her revenge on the world. Never mind that. It's not over yet. It's never over. But, as worthless as the defeat had been, it could still hurt like hell. ''NOOOOOOOOOO!'' Almost involuntarily, Nightmare Moon found herself screaming at the top of her lungs. The burning sensation started at her hooves, and quickly shot through the rest of her body. Slowly, it faded, to be quickly replaced by another wave stronger and more powerful than the last. She reared upwards, hooves thrashing in a hopeless attempt to block the attack. I know I shouldn't reveal myself so quickly, wouldn't want to be caught...but...ow ow ow ow ow ow ow ow ow ow! A fresh burst of pain made her mind up for her. Gritting her teeth, she let herself melt away from Luna's body. Almost like dust being blown away from an old statue, she formed a small dark cloud and darted behind one of the cracked and broken sculptures that were scatted around the room. It's not much good as a shelter if they see me, but it'll do. The next moments passed slowly for Nightmare Moon. Had they detected her? Was it all over? The rainbow light slowly faded, leaving behind the sight of seven collapsed ponies. Breathing a sigh of relief, she glided out of her hiding place and surveyed her surroundings. Her eyes fell on the six ponies, still wearing their elements. ''Damn you all.'' She snarled angrily, but it came out as a hoarse whisper. Her voice was much weaker than she had expected - now that she thought about it, her strength was fading at an alarmingly fast pace. That could only mean one thing... Through the cracked window, a beam of sunlight struck the floor, illuminating the room with much more force than a normal sunrise. The cloud barely avoided it, knowing if she touched the beam in her current form she really would have been destroyed - and being destroyed did not fit into her plans of world domination. Slowly, the beam spread to cover the rest of the room, and she could feel the burning heat on her tail. Gotta hurry. Within a split second, the dark cloud had catapulted itself across the room using the last of her power reserve. She rocketed towards the six ponies just as they began to awake. Aimlessly throwing herself at the group of ponies in the hope of latching on to one of them, the last thing Nightmare Moon saw before everything turned to black was a pair of surprised, purple eyes. Twilight Sparkle yawned and drowsily fumbled with the library keys, being careful not to let a sleeping Spike fall off her back. She was tired out from the day of celebration, to the point where easy tasks like opening a locked door seemed almost impossible.. After the defeat of Nightmare Moon, she and her new-found friends had been named heroes, and in their honor a great party calling ponies from all around was thrown by the Element of Laughter herself. But now, all Twilight wanted to do was sleep. She didn't even feel like reading - a sign she was on the verge of collapsing. Carefully levitating Spike into his bed nest, she tucked his miniature blanket over him and whispered a goodnight. Crawling into her bed, Twilight quickly scanned the room to make sure no-one was watching. After she confirmed that there were no spies watching her from the shadows, lurking menacingly - or even worse, Spike - she reached under her bed and pulled her Smarty Pants doll towards her, hesitating for only a moment before cuddling it close. Slowly and comfortingly, she fell into sleep. Darkness, that was all she could see. Darkness and more darkness. Powerful. Ever growing and all consuming. Twilight felt terrified at the sight of it. It seemed to throb with an unseen red light, giving off the impression of fresh lava. Twilight had only seem something like this before once - at the gates of Tartarus. Almost without thinking, Twilight tried to back away from the horrifying sight, but she might as well have been trying to walk on thin air. For the first time since she arrived there, she realized her hair was lifting upwards and air was rushing past her, almost like... Almost like she was falling. Then her body tensed, and she began to shake uncontrollably. She was falling - into the darkness, to be exact. ''Not quite, Twilight. You are falling, but you aren't falling into darkness. You're falling into me.'' The voice seemed to come from all around, terrifyingly loud, beating at her ears like tiny knives. In the few seconds that she heard the voice, she felt like she wanted to die. Then it was gone, and Twilight screamed. The darkness closed in on her in less than a heartbeat, but to Twilight it seemed like an eternity. She was surrounded by black and red, pulsating with evil. She felt like it was contaminating her, and she screamed again, this time for help. For her friends, for her parents and her brother, for Celestia. But no pony came. Twilight jolted up in bed, knocking Smarty Pants to the floor. Breathing heavily, Twilight tried to calm herself down. She'd had nightmares in the past, but never ones like this. Not even ones where she turned her parents to plants, but she couldn't ever turn them back and everypony thought she was a murderer and- Twilight shook her head, chasing away her bad memories. ''I shouldn't be thinking about this.'' She muttered aloud, letting her breathing return to normal. Yawning, she retrieved her doll from the floor and pulled the covers back over her. ''Only a nightmare.'' She yawned, she snuggled down. She needed the sleep - Spike would doubtlessly be asking for all of the details again tomorrow, and Twilight wanted to be ready. Somewhere in the back of her mind, just before she fell asleep, she could swear she heard a laugh. Chapter 2 - My name is Princess LunaDespite her pep talk with her sister, Luna was still a nervous wreck. Even if they couldn't send her to the moon, normal ponies could still could still hate her - and being hated led to mean letters, being verbally abused every time she dared show her face, and in some cases assassination. They may even try to kill her sister for taking care of her! Oh, nonononono. We can't go out there, we can't go out there, I can't go out there... ''Luna, please just go out there..'' Celestia's voice was almost pleading now. ''Trust me, you'll be fine.'' We will not, Celly!. If we're dead next Sunday, we are blaming you! Luna yelled inwardly. ''Lulu. I can read minds, remember? We aren't going to die.'' ''Still blaming you.'' Luna sighed, wondering whether to argue more or just give in. After a moments thought, she decided it would do her more bad than good to stay out here. Even if she did refuse to go out, Celestia would probably just teleport her. Slowly, Luna stepped out from behind the curtains, terrified of what she was about to face - and was addressed with the one thing she never expected. Cheers. They were cheering... Were they really cheering her? ''Princess Luna, I presume?'' A lavender unicorn trotted up the stairs, a smile on her face. ''I'm Twilight Sparkle. I'll be helping you through your speech.'' Luna recognized that name... ''Twilight Sparkle, you were the pony that saved us! We are most grateful!'' Luna almost hugged the unicorn on the spot. Twilight grinned modestly. ''Not really. I couldn't have done it without my friends.'' She turned to the crowds. ''Now, to the matter at hand! I assume you have a speech prepared.'' Luna blinked. ''A...speech? No pony told us about a speech.'' Twilight's smile faded slightly. ''No speech? Oh, this...'' Twilight was cut off by the cheers raising in volume. ''Oh, they won't wait much longer. They want their princess. Can you do this, Luna?'' Twilight asked worriedly. Luna gasped happily. They were cheering her! She turned to Twilight. ''Do not worry, Twilight Sparkle! We shall go without!'' She announced, stepping up to the podium. ''Hello every pony.'' Luna addressed the crowds with a touch of grace. Instantly the cheering seemed to get louder, before dying down. The air was filled with anticipation, and Luna felt the gaze of everypony in Canterlot on her. ''My name...is Princess Luna.'' ''Oh wow Princess, that was amazing!'' Twilight was in total shock - Luna had managed to impress the crowds, as well as reassure them on the matter of Nightmare Moon. ''Are you sure you didn't have a speech hidden under your wing or something?!'' Luna chuckled. ''No, Twilight. We did not have a speech hidden under our wing, we promise. We just...Well, it's hard to explain. We have been planning what we would say in our head for a long time, just in case it made it's way into our nightmares and stopped them.'' Twilight frowned in confusion. ''Nightmares?'' Luna sighed, ears drooping. ''Yes, Twilight Sparkle. We have been having terrible nightmares of the citizens of Equestria hating us.'' Suddenly, she perked up. ''Today was hopefully the cure of those.'' Twilight nodded in understanding. ''I sort of get what you're saying. As a filly, I was terrified of failing my entrance exam to Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns, and I had nightmare after nightmare of failing. Then when I passed - becoming Princess Celestia's personal student - they stopped.'' Luna stopped in her tracks. ''Our sister's what?!'' Twilight blinked. ''School for gifted unicorns...?'' ''The next one!'' ''Oh.'' Twilight blushed. ''I'm Princess Celestia's student.'' Luna's gaze fell to the ground. ''Twilight, We...I'm sorry.'' ''Hm? What do you mean?'' Twilight asked, worry clear on her face. But Luna was gone. Don't follow the hoofprints, Twilight. Twilight scolded herself. But her curiosity was piqued - and she began to follow the trail left by Luna only moments ago. Luna ran faster than she ever had, using her wings to push her forward. She had to get to her sister, and fast. She saw her sister faster than she could stop, and ending up crashing into her at an alarmingly fast rate. ''Luna, what are-'' Celestia was cut short by her sister's harsh voice. ''You. Us. Locked room. Now.'' Luna snarled. She got up and brushed herself down. ''Come on, Celly. We have to talk about something regarding your personal student.'' Celestia's face transformed from worry, to anger, to understanding fear in less than a second. She pushed herself to her hooves, and followed her sister into her bedroom. ''How could you Celly?! You've practically damned her!'' Luna screeched, glad for the sound-proofing spell surrounding the room. She didn't have to hide her emotions for fear of the castle staff hearing her. ''Luna, calm down. You don't know the facts-'' ''We don't care! You taking on Twilight means making Twilight powerful - and being powerful means it, Celly! We don't want to have to deal with it again so soon!'' ''Neither do I, Lulu. I went through steps to prevent it from happening.'' Luna snorted, her anger far from gone. ''You did it for us, didn't you?'' Celestia didn't reply. ''You took her on so you could guide her to save us, putting her at risk! How could you?!'' ''What else could I do?! I missed you, Lulu! Everything was so bleak - I've lost so many these past two thousand years, without a shoulder to cry on!'' Celestia' s patience finally snapped. ''But what about everypony else, Celestia?!'' Luna yelled, stamping her hoof for emphasis. ''I've devoted everything to them, Luna! Aren't I allowed to be selfish just this once?'' Celestia's voice faltered. ''No!'' The next few moments where filled with an angry silence. Luna stared down her sister, fury in her gaze. ''Look, Lulu. She might not even be cursed...'' Celestia started. Luna growled. ''And if she is? What then?'' Celestia shook her head. ''I...I couldn't do what I did with you. Maybe we could reason with it? Ask it to leave Twilight alone?'' Luna sighed. ''Remember how well that went last time? It's still mad at us.'' She turned to the moon. ''We do not blame it...'' ''Her.'' Celestia corrected. Luna turned her gaze to the floor. ''What went wrong, Celly?'' ''I...I don't know, Lulu. I really don't.'' ''Princess Luna? Princess Celestia?'' Twilight called out, knocking on the bedroom door. The castle staff had told her Princess Luna had run in, in a blind rage, and the two had been in her bedroom ever since. After a long wait, the door finally opened. A purple hoof reached out and quickly yanked her inside. The room was pitch black. Twilight was about to ask what the hay was going on, but a bright yellow flash formed a gag in her mouth. ''Mmff!'' Twilight attempted to yell for help, but the gag made anything coming out of her mouth an incoherent mess. Suddenly, the lights turned on. ''Prinfffmm?'' Twilight's initial fear had manage to calm itself and double at the same time. ''Yes, Twilight Sparkle. We apologize for assaulting you like this, but we fear it is the only way to keep everypony safe.'' Luna's voice was level, showing no emotion. Deep inside Twilight, something stirred. Keep everypony safe...? You're a danger. Twilight kicked out in shock. She hadn't seen the princess' mouths move - had she? No, Twilight Sparkle. I am talking to you from somewhere else - and you need to get out of there. Why? Twilight answered back cautiously. Even if the voice was real, and not just her panic, that didn't make it trust worthy. You're a danger, a threat - and threats must be destroyed. The voice took on a mocking tone towards the end of her sentence, and Twilight felt a chill trickle down her spine. ''Twilight? You look like you've a seen ghost.'' Her mentor's voice broke her out of her trance, and for a moment Twilight considered telling her about the voice in her head. NO! That will make them even more suspicious. You need to escape! But why am I a threat? I haven't done anything! Twilight was starting to become really scared now. Oh, Twilight. The voice was almost humorous - was it's owner laughing at her fear? You haven't done anything wrong. They're scared of what's inside of you - me. I'm the Nightmare. Chapter 3 - What's going on!?The...Nightmare? Twilight was jolted from her mind conversation by a bright glare coming from the corner of her eye. Turning her head slightly, making sure not to blind herself, she saw with shock that it was coming from the two alicorn's horns. A spell. Twilight began to shake. Had the voice been right? Was Celestia going to kill her? The glare got brighter, growing in power. She wouldn't. Just because she was hearing a voice? How did her mentor even know?! Was she just going to kill her for the fun of it, and the Nightmare, whatever it was, was just trying to calm her down..? Teleport! Now! I'll explain all of this later. The voice had been drained of all it's humor - now it was full of a fear that sent a chill down Twilight's spine. Suddenly, a bright flash filled the room, consuming the purple glow that suddenly winked out. The flash faded, and Luna let her power go. She steadied herself, weakness threatening to consume her, and she evaluated the area. Everything seemed to glow from the after affects of the cleansing spell, chasing away any darkness that may have lurked in the room. It was one of the most powerful spells known to ponykind, needing the power of two alicorns to perform it - and even then, it was incredibly draining. Luna gasped. She weakly rubbed at her eyes with a hoof. Had they been too powerful, destroying Twilght in the process of the spell? Had she panicked and teleported away? Did something force her to? Whatever the reason, nothing could change the fact that Twilight was gone. Twilight collapsed on her bed, fear and exhaustion taking over her body. She weakly crawled under the covers, determined to sleep. Her eyelids lowered, and Twilight fell into slumber. ''She's...gone?'' Celestia's voice no longer held her calm demeanor - instead it was filled with fear, worry and sadness. Luna nodded. ''We didn't kill her, don't worry. We could sense the traces of teleportation magic in the air.'' Celestia sighed. ''But Twilight would never have run from us without coaxing.'' ''We did use the most powerful spell in the world on her, just after pulling her into a dark room and telling her nothing about it.'' The elder sister shook her head. ''No. She trusts me as much as she does her own parents. She would've felt fear, yes, but on her own Twilight would've stuck it out.'' Luna bit her lip. ''You say 'on her own'. Do you fear the same as us? That the nightmare lurks in her, already awakened and strong enough to talk to her?'' ''Yes.'' Celestia couldn't say any more than that. Luna stomped a hoof, tail flicking in agitation. ''We will not give up so easily. If it can talk to her now, it can influence her dreams.'' Luna shuddered at the dark dreams she had endured whilst being coaxed into the darkness. ''We will go to Twilight Sparkle, in her sleep. We shall combat the nightmare and tell her the truth!'' ''Lulu, we're still weak. You ca-'' ''Celly, if we wait any longer it will be too late. This is happening even faster than...'' Luna trailed off, not wanting to talk about her past so soon. After a moment's silence between the two alicorns, the elder spoke. ''Go.'' Twilight was stood on a platform, looking down on the same mass of darkness that had haunted her dreams only a day before. This time, though, a dark shadow was stood beside her. ''You are the Nightmare, I presume?'' Twilight's voice held no fear - only thinly veiled curiosity. The shadow nodded. ''Good. Number one, why are you the reason my mentor tried to kill me?'' ''Twilight, I am not the only reason. I only told you that so you would not try to fight back.'' Twilight blinked. ''Fight back?'' ''Yes, Twilight. The truth is you are powerful. Me becoming a part of you amplified this power.'' Twilight took a step away from the figure. ''Woah, woah, woah. Stop right there. You're a part of me?!'' ''Yes. On the day you tore me away from Luna, I bound myself to you. On the day I tore... ''Nightmare Moon?!'' ''Nightmare Moon ceased to be the moment I entered your mind. Now only I remain - the Nightmare.'' Twilight frowned in confusion, putting her fear aside for a moment. ''The Nightmare?'' The shadow nodded. ''And now I need a name. What do you think, Twilight?'' ''I'm the one asking questions - and you still haven't answered the first one.'' The Nightmare chuckled lightly. ''Ah, yes. Of course. You see, Twilight, you are the most powerful mare in the world - you defeated Luna while she was stronger than normal. You could easily destroy Celestia.'' Twilight snorted. ''No.'' ''I didn't say anything.'' ''I knew what you were implying. I'm not destroying anypony.'' ''Are you so sure?'' Twilight was caught off guard at this. ''Of course! Well, I'd destroy you in a heartbeat, but that's not the point here.'' The Nightmare shrugged. ''Whatever you say. I can't do anything without your consent.'' Twilight blinked again, this time in shock. ''You...can't?'' ''No. I'm not as bad as you think - I only help ponies see the light, and when they do they're practically wailing for my help. Especially Luna. Twilight lowered her head. ''Luna let you do what you did?'' ''She did.'' ''That..'' Twilight trailed off. She tried to think of something to say that proved the Nightmare was wrong, that she was lying...but she couldn't. ''Well then, you may as well settle down. Even if I can't do anything, we can still talk. I'm wiling to tell you about my past.'' The Nightmare shook her head. ''No, scratch that. I want to.'' Twilight opened her mouth to reply, but suddenly everything seemed to get lighter. Her vision was filled with a blinding light, slowly taking on the form of a small alicorn. Luna. Chapter 4 - LiesThe magic surrounding the alicorn fizzled and crackled, before fading from the air completely. Luna wasted no time in stepping forward and beginning to speak. ''Twilight Sparkle, we have-'' Almost instantly The Nightmare lifted herself into the air and darted between Luna and Twilight, baring her fangs aggressively. ''Princess Luna.'' She snarled furiously, cutting the other pony off. ''You are in another's mind, unauthorized. Explain yourself!'' Luna saw through the stalling attempt - she had gone through this process many times before, and knew the best way to get past it was to wave a hoof dismissively and carry on trying to save the victim. ''Be silent, monster. We have come to-'' A flash of magic, and Luna found her mouth wedged open with an apple. Oh, of course Twilight had some memories of the exact same thing happening to her friend Pinkie that the Nightmare had picked up on. Luna growled behind the apple and spat it out. Life wasn't fair. ''You are not above me, Luna. Explain yourself now, or I will force you away from this place.'' Luna snorted at her opponent, knowing the Nightmare would never attack her while so weak - but even so she flared her wings in an attempt to make herself look bigger. ''Our sister is the princess of Equestria - both of us agreed we would traverse to Twilight Sparkle's dreams to save her from you.'' Twilight coughed, kicking at the ground awkwardly. ''I'm not sure I need saving.... The Nightmare can't do anything to me without my say-so, and she has a lot of knowledge. Do I need saving?'' Both mares turned to Twilight, never taking their eyes off each other. ''Yes!'' ''No!'' Twilight sighed. ''Well, uh, Princess, I could stop this at any time - didn't you think of that? It is my dream, after all.'' Luna narrowed her eyes. ''We did, Twilight Sparkle. But the truth is you do need saving!'' Twilight bit her lip, and looked up. ''That may well be true, Luna. But I'm confused as to who I need saving from.'' Luna blinked, and Twilight could tell it took her a few moments to process what she had just implied - and she knew Luna would probably fly at one of them if she didn't break the tension. She stepped between the two alicorns, waving a hoof to catch their attention. ''So could I please ask you a few questions?'' The Nightmare's eyes flashed. ''Ah, yes. Maybe we should find out why Luna tried to kill you before I enact my revenge.'' She said, her voice almost humorous. Luna's anger snapped, and sprang into the air. Swiftly darting forward she connected her hoof to the Nightmare's jaw. ''We have not attempted to kill anypony - especially not Twilight Sparkle!'' She yelled, furious. ''We knew you would sow your lies quickly, but this is a new low!'' The Nightmare brushed off the blow, and simply went to stand beside Twilight. She looked down at Twilight, eyes questioning as she sent a message through their mental connection. ''Can I tie her down? If we don't she'll try and escape.'' Twilight hesitated a moment, but eventually nodded. ''If it means figuring all this out, I guess you can go ahead.'' The Nightmare closed her eyes, focusing her magic into her horn, and Luna quickly became encased in rope, an anti-magic bracelet ring and a wing brace ensuring she couldn't escape. Luna yelped in surprised, writhing madly in a vain attempt to free herself. ''Twilight Sparkle! You are mistaken - we have not done anything wrong!'' Twilight sat down, ears flicking downwards. ''I'm sorry Princess - but I've no reason to believe you.'' Her horn flashed again, and Luna's vision suddenly flickered and faded. ''You have stolen our vision!'' Luna screamed, her frantic writhing increasing. ''Black magic! We expected more of you, Twilight Sparkle! Our sister spoke of you like you were a soldier of Light!'' The Nightmare winced at the metaphor, but Twilight stifled a giggle. Despite the seriousness of the situation, it was still kind of funny. ''I've blindfolded you, Luna. You can still see - but the material's stopping you from seeing anything but black.'' The Nightmare stepped forward. ''Now for the questions.'' She walked around to Luna, horn glowing steadily. ''I will use a truth spell on her, ensuring she won't lie as she has done so far. '' Twilight nodded in approval, eager to get to the answers ahead.. ''Right! Let's get this all sorted.'' Luna couldn't see anything, but she could tell the Nightmare had gone to stand beside her by her voice slowly growing in volume. She wasn't sure about having her enemy cast a spell on her - but she decided Twilight wouldn't let anything bad happen to her. ''Question one!'' Twilight sounded calm - but Luna knew better. She was hiding how eager she was to get to the truth, and also her initial fear at the fact she had tied up a Lunar Princess. Luna nodded, opening her mouth to speak her approval - but nothing happened. She tried again...and again, and again, and again - but she couldn't. That's right, my little Lulu. I'm not a stupid monster, as you liked to call me back then. If Twilight thinks all I cast was a truth spell, she's sorely mistaken. Now, say something mean...Not too out of character, that'd make her suspicious - wait, she doesn't even know you! Oh, this is just perfect. Now then...Let's see, what about... ''Get on with it already, you stupid mare! Or are you too dumb to remember what you were going to say?!'' Luna snarled, baring her teeth angrily. Twilight blinked and stepped back from Luna, the hurt evident in her eyes. ''Oh, yes, sorry Princess...'' What...What witchcraft is this?! Luna yowled inwardly. I am your better, release me at once! Be quiet Lulu - you'll do better staying silent than you will do kicking and screaming - and what's this about being my better? The Nightmare chuckled aloud - a cruel laugh that filled Luna with dread. You and I both know Twilight Sparkle is stronger than you, Luna. Take an empowering spell and place it inside that kind of magical ability...Well, I think this explains why I'm the one controlling you. Luna snarled angrily, and Twilight jumped. ''S-Sorry!'' She whimpered again, sitting down far away from the tied up Lunar Princess. Guilt bit at Luna, and she wanted to explain - but opening her mouth would probably just end in the Nightmare forcing her to her insulting Twilight. The Nightmare kicked her. ''Now, Luna. Be nice to Twilight.'' She said aloud. iNow get ready. She spoke again, this time to Luna alone. We have a lot of things to say to Twilight... Chapter 5 - 'Your name is Broken Dawn.'Twilight cast her gaze anywhere but the Princess tied up before her, afraid that even looking at her would upset the alicorn further. She didn't know what it was that had made Luna so angry. Maybe... Maybe she knows we're about to get the truth, and wants anything but that? The Nightmare's voice echoed in her head, making Twilight jump even though she'd heard it so many times that day. I don't want to believe that. I've only seen the worst of both of you. Let's just find answers, okay? Twilight knew she sounded tired and desperate, but after having your enemies and friends flipped around, she felt it was justified. ''Princess Luna, is it true you let the Nightmare do what she did?'' Twilight surprised even herself with that question, but upon a short reflection she realized she hadn't ever truly believed that. Luna stayed silent for a few moments, before snapping her teeth threateningly and spitting out a yes. Twilight tried not to show the shock that sprang up in her. So it's true... She thought sadly. Luna wasn't entirely innocent for what happened to her. She'd let it. ''Question two.'' Twilight hesitated. She wanted ask the big question - but at the same time, she was scared. She didn't want to know - but at the same time she did. Twilight sighed, deciding to leave it until last. ''Why? Why did you let the Nightmare become Nightmare Moon?'' She felt happy with that question - if things ever went back to normal, she'd be able to understand Luna a little better. Luna stayed silent for a lot longer than before, and the expression on her face was almost painful. She looked like she was about to burst into tears, but a sudden flash from the Nightmare's horn seemed to wipe it away. She was fighting the spell. The Nightmare informed Twilight, but her voice sounded a little guilty. Twilight brushed it off, deciding to ask her later. Luna shook herself again, drawing Twilight back to the situation at hand. ''Well?'' She prompted. ''I - We did it because of the power. She promised us power - and we got it. Eternal night was just an afterthought - no, a punishment - that we made when we realized ponies had started to hate us - all because we were better than them.'' Luna's voice was a harsh jeer, and Twilight flinched at the glare Luna shot at her. But Twilight wasn't satisfied. ''So Celestia made up all the jealousy and hate you felt?'' She inquired, starting to feel a little like an interviewer from The Celestial. Luna laughed. ''Of course not. She just directed it a different way. Oh no, we were jealous alright. Jealous of her!'' Luna struggled furiously, and Twilight could sense the anger rising. ''We were jealous of her power! She was the first princess, the better princess - and she acted it! You think she's perfect, don't you?'' Twilight hesitantly nodded. Luna screeched angrily, shaking herself. ''She changed because of me! I'm the reason your mentor is so perfect - because I made her wake up and see the truth!!' Luna's anger came to a head, and she almost managed to tear apart her bonds in her rage. Twilight noticed almost that Luna hadn't used the royal plurals. She prepared herself to ask her why, but Luna cut her off, her voice now quiet. ''But she's still the better sister.'' Luna whispered, and Twilight's deepest conscious realized that this sentence didn't feel as forced as the others. Twilight looked at the ground, and all was silent for a long time. Eventually, Twilight spoke. ''Princess Luna, did you try to kill me back at the castle?'' Another long silence filled the black-red cavern, the air filled with tension broken only by a cough or sneeze from Twilight. After a while, Luna sighed. Twilight snapped to attention, ears flicking upwards. ''Twilight Sparkle.'' Luna started, her voice soft. ''We did try to kill you, yes. But take note - our sister did too.'' Without warning, her tone and expression darkened significantly, sending a chill down Twilight's spine. ''Run, Twilight Sparkle. Run or face eternity on the moon.'' Twilight shot upright. ''What do you mean?!'' Luna shook her head, and in one fast move, headbutted the Nightmare away. Her concentration broken, the bonds holding Luna evaporated. She lifted herself into the air, moving quickly. ''We say what we say as ourselves, Twilight Sparkle. Run - but run from only who you believe to be the enemy here.'' She began to glow. ''We would tell you more, but a fiend has cast a hex upon us.'' She glared at the Nightmare, who glared right back. ''Luna!'' Twilight felt herself become lighter, like she was drifting upwards. ''Awaken, Twilight Sparkle - and try to escape this nightmare.'' And so, she did. Twilight staggered out of bed and collapsed on the floor, breathing heavily. She heard a sound from downstairs, and was about to investigate when a very important sounding voice changed her mind completely. ''Twilight Sparkle, open this door immediately! We are Solar Guards, and we have an order to take you to the castle!'' Twilight gasped, remembering Luna's last words to her. She scrambled around the room, gathering up items and throwing them into her enchanted saddlebags. She didn't need to be told to run - it was that or return to Princess Celestia and get zapped. ''Twilight? What's going on?'' Twilight turned sharply, and breathed out in relief when she realized it was just Spike. ''Look, Spike, I've got to go.'' She quickly resumed her packing, dashing about the room in a panic. ''You've got to go where? On a mission from Celestia?'' Spike sounded so confused Twilight ached with sadness at having to leave without saying goodbye to him - or any of their friends, for that matter. ''Is that why there are guards downstairs?'' Twilight sighed and stopped just in front of Spike, pulling him into a hug. ''I'm sorry Spike, but I think you'll handle all this better in your sleep.'' A simple spell later, and Spike was snoring gently. Twilight placed him in his bed, kissed his forehead lightly, and trotted swiftly downstairs like nothing had happened. ''Twilight Sparkle, we know you are in there! Open up now or we will force down the door!'' Twilight could hear the voice much better downstairs, and it's owner sounded annoyed and angry. She doubled her pace, gathering up food she could live off until she found safety. A loud thud came from the main room, and Twilight knew her time had ran out. The door was forced open, and all the guards rushed in to the sight of a glowing Twilight Sparkle blinking away. Twilight felt her hooves touch ground, and she lay there for a moment to gather her bearings. She recognized the area instantly - Fluttershy's house was right next to her. Just up ahead she could see the Everfree Forest. The castle, Twilight. The Nightmare spoke up, her voice reassuring Twilight. Twilight nodded and, without a moments thought, she set off towards the forest, and hopefully towards safety until she had sorted this mess out. She let her thoughts drift to the past hours. A few moments later, she made a decision. Nightmare? She thought to her new ally - she could call her an ally, right? Yes, Twilight? She answered. Twilight hesitated, preparing herself for her next words. Eventually, as the grass and trees around her changed to the Everfree's dismal tones, she spoke aloud for what she had decided to be the last time. ''Your name is Broken Dawn.'' Chapter 6 - Any other morning.For Applejack, the morning had gone drastically different to Twilight's. It started off like any other morning, with the sun drifting through her curtains and waking her dead on half six. Then she'd drowsily wake herself up for the next half hour before trudging into Applebloom's room and waking her up. If Applebloom didn't get up? She got the cymbals. ''Alright, alright! Ah'm up!'' Applebloom shot up so fast she ended up on the floor. She glared at her sister, managing to rub her eyes without breaking eye contact. The two sisters stayed like that until a shout from downstairs signaled breakfast was on the table, and if they weren't there in less than ten seconds they'd have to go without. Applejack broke eye contact, then when Applebloom wasn't looking, she swooped her into a hug. ''Sis!'' Applebloom didn't sound nearly as annoyed as Applejack expected, which just caused her to squeeze harder. ''Come on, Applebloom. Ya'll know the tradition!'' Applejack chuckled, and Applebloom sighed, but this game had been a part of their morning routine as long as Applebloom could remember, and she knew they'd never grow out of it.. ''Is this the button, sis?'' She poked the older pony's ear, grinning, and Applejack instantly released her. ''Eeyup!'' Applejack grinned, and ruffled Applebloom's long hair. ''Ah'll be downstairs, defendin' the food from Big Mac. You hurry now!'' Applejack closed the door behind her, and quickly trotted downstairs. ''There y'are.'' Big Mac smiled, feigning annoyance. ''Now hurry up n' eat!'' A few minutes later, Applebloom practically galloped down the stairs. 'Have ya'll left some fer me?!'' Applejack chuckled, and pushed Applebloom's plate towards her. The yellow pony was just about to tuck into the meal, when a knock came from the door. ''Ah'll get it.'' Applejack stood up, and made her way to the door. She flattened her hair with a hoof in case it was somepony with a sales pitch. Once she felt everything was order, she pulled open the door. That's when, for Applejack, this became unlike any other morning, and became much much more. The start of an adventure. ''So what ya'll are saying is Twilight's gone insane, tied Princess Luna up, an' then questioned her?'' Rainbow Dash nodded. ''Yeah. And then she just vanished At least, that's what I was told.'' She turned to the rest of the group. ''Any ideas as to what happened, girls?'' Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy and Rarity shook their heads, and a silence followed, leaving the five of them to their thoughts. The group had been assembled at Canterlot Castle, and were waiting for the Princess to finish Morning Court so she and Luna could speak to them in private. ''I just hope the poor dear's alright. She must have had a reason for assaulting a princess.'' Rarity's sudden voice broke the silence, full of distress and uncertainty. She began to pace. Dash shook her head, stomping a hoof against the polished floor. ''You know what? I don't believe for a moment that Twilight, a nerdy bookworm, would even think of attacking anypony, never mind Princess Luna. Reason or not, she must've been framed or something!'' She shot into the air, flapping her wings angrily, only to be tugged onto the ground by her tail. She landed on her hooves, face to face with a stern looking guard. ''No flying.'' He growled. ''Sorry.'' Fluttershy put a hoof on Dash's shoulder. ''That's a good point, I guess, but...'' She trailed off, not sure if the group wanted to hear her opinion. ''But?'' Pinkie prompted. Fluttershy ducked her head, hiding behind her hair. ''I think I read about something, once. I didn't think it was important back then, when Nightmare Moon was here, but...'' The grand doors swung open, interrupting Fluttershy mid-sentence. ''You may see the Princess now.'' The same guard who had scolded Dash herded them in, shutting the doors behind them. Applejack looked up at the Princess, and led the group to stand in front of her. ''Elements of Harmony, I hope you are well?'' Princess Celestia's voice was calm as always, but Applejack could tell she was hiding something. The group nodded in unison. Dash stepped forward. ''Uh,if you don't mind my saying Princess, where is Luna?'' Celestia sighed. ''She's right beside me, we had to cast an invisibility spell to hide her from the court.'' ''But why?'' Rarity asked, then realized she had just spoke out of turn to a princess. ''Sorry!'' She squeaked, covering her mouth with her hooves. Celestia smiled slightly. ''I shall leave it to Luna to decide if she wants you to know or not. And please, girls, skip the formalities.'' Applejack's eyes widened in shock. ''Skip the formalities, Princess?'' Rarity had reacted the most, drawing a gasp so large she pulled herself onto her haunches. ''But you're princesses, I could never speak to you as such!'' Celestia's eyes saddened, and she looked down at her sister. ''I have lost a friend today, girls. The filly I raised attacked and bound my sister, and one of our oldest and most deadly enemies made her do it. So, please, feel free to speak as you want.'' A silence filled A voice came from beside the throne. ''Celly, we think you should make us visible again.'' Celestia blinked. ''Are you sure, Lulu?'' ''It will help with the explanations.'' Celestia sighed, but decided it would, in the long run, turn for the better. Her horn shimmered gracefully, and like pulling a cover off a table, Luna was revealed. The group gasped again, this time in horror. Rarity moaned a little and collapsed with a thud, and even Dash fell backwards onto her haunches. Where they had expected the small and meek Princess Luna, there stood Nightmare Moon. Dash shot into the air again, and launched herself at the figure. ''You're back, eh!'' She snarled, and lifted her hoof to land a punch when a golden glow seemed to secure her in place. She felt herself being pulled backwards, and then she was dropped gently next to her friends. ''Rainbow Dash, do not fear us!'' Nightmare Moon whimpered. ''We only look like this because the true Nightmare cast a spell upon us.'' Dash sneered. ''Yeah, right! We can see through your ruse - you may as well be saying 'I tricked Princess Celestia and am about seven seconds away from killing you and everyone else!'' ''Rainbow Dash, I think I would know if this was really Nightmare Moon.'' Celestia's voice was stern. ''Now please, be still and let my sister explain.'' Dash grumbled and settled down, but she didn't take her suspicious gaze off the supposed Luna. Luna swallowed nervously. ''Okay. It started only a day ago, when we discovered Twilight was our sister's student - the first one in over three thousand years. And alongside being our sister's student came a great responsibility, a great power that many envied...'' Luna spoke for a while, describing how they had intended to cast a cleansing spell that had been discovered in the past 1000 years. If you were to combine the power of two immortal alicorn and then cast it, it would be strong enough to completely destroy any evil or dark manifestations. When that had failed, Luna had flown to Twilight and invaded her dream, where she found her and the Nightmare deep in conversation. ''Now wait just an applebuckin' second!'' Applejack stomped a hoof angrily. ''Are ya'll saying Twilight was talking to Nightmare Moon? In a calm and orderly manner? No fightin' or anything, just...talking?'' Luna nodded. ''Yes. And from what we heard, the Nightmare was just about to use her deadliest weapon when it comes to infecting ponies.'' ''Ah'm sorry, Princess, but ah really don't believe tha-'' ''Neither did I.'' Celestia stood up, her ears drooping. ''I never expected my sister to be infected by it... But, when I finally realized she was, it was too late.'' Pinkie Pie whimpered. ''I want to hear what else happened.'' Luna nodded at Pinkie gratefully, and carried on. As she explained the dream confrontation, her ears slowly began to droop and her head lowered until she was looking directly at the floor. ''...and after they tied us down, The Nightmare...she...'' Luna's voice wobbled, and she stopped. ''Luna?'' Celestia put a hoof on her sister's shoulder. ''It's okay.'' Luna nodded, and straightened her posture slightly. ''She was inside our mind, forcing us to say such horrid lies to Twilight.'' Her voice dropped to a whisper. ''She...She made us tell Twilight we tried to kill her. Then we managed to escape, and told Twilight to run. We wanted to tell her to run from the Nightmare, to us. But that fiend cast a hex on us, forcing us take on her form and preventing us from speaking a definitive word of truth to her.'' ''That explains the Nightmare Moon get-up.'' Rainbow grumbled. ''Would've been nice to know that earlier.'' ''We expected her to understand our message, and that we'd have her safe and sound by sunset, but....'' Luna cut off, and Celestia understood she couldn't go on. ''When I sent royal guards to retrieve Twilight, she must have panicked and misunderstood Luna's message as a warning to run from us. She teleported away, and hasn't been seen since.'' Pinkie Pie's hair deflated scarily fast, her expression plain and simple. Despair. ''And now Nightmare Moon...Twilight...'' Pinkie burst into tears. ''Noooo!'' She wailed. ''Twilight can't be evil! I don't want to fight heeeeeer!'' The group tried to comfort Pinkie, to tell her that wasn't true, but they couldn't find the words to do so - after all, the same worry was rooted in their minds too. Chapter 7 - Debates.Chapter 7 - Debates. Twilight was tired. No, that was too simple. 'Tired' defined a pony after a day at work or school. Twilight was much more than tired. She could say exhausted, but that was only her physical state. She felt mentally wracked, something sleep couldn't fix. ''Twilight?'' Broken Dawn sounded concerned, for good reason. ''I think we should rest. We've got a long way to go, and we're weak and exposed right now.'' No. Twilight replied with her thoughts, determined to stay true to her promise of no speaking. I can't rest now. I need to figure all this out. ''But Luna herself told us she and her sister tried to kill you. What more do you need to know?'' Why. Twilight was starting to feel annoyed - she was starting to lose track of her thoughts, and she didn't feel up to mentally retracing her steps. ''Twilight, it's because of me. You've not read anything different, have you? Because I can guarantee it's not true. Broken's voice started to become more frantic, and Twilight decided to intervene before she could start worrying further. No, I haven't. But that's what I'm thinking about. How did they know, and why did they decide death was the right way? I mean, Luna only got banishment. Twilight's ears drooped. Why did she only get banished? ''Maybe she cared about Luna more. Broken's voice faded for a moment, and Twilight could tell by the slight twinges in her head that she was thinking hard about something. Go on? She prompted, her curiosity piqued. ''It's one of two things. Either she learnt from her past experience with Nightmare Moon, and many before that, resurfacing after a short punishment. Or...'' She trailed off. Or...? Twilight was starting to get annoyed again, and her trail of thoughts were completely shattered. She could only hold onto them and hope she could resume thinking once this little shred of conversation was over. ''She's feared you for a long time and decided it was much safer. Or she's hated you, and couldn't wait to kill you. Celestia's a very good actor.'' Twilight felt her hooves stop in shock, and she forced them to start moving again. Stop it. Broken, go back to sleep. Please. ''Of course, Twilight.'' With that, the presence she had felt since the conversation's start faded, leaving Twilight with her built-upon and confusing thoughts. Applejack and the rest of her friends were gathered in their large room. Princess Celestia had given them permission to stay while they decided what to do, even giving them one of the only rooms in the castle big enough to accommodate five ponies. Since they had arrived, the five had been locked in deep debate about what to do. ''I say we go find her.'' Dash's brash voice was full of an unmoving stubbornness. She had been circling the air since the talk had started, and she had been repeating that same sentence for the past ten minutes or so. ''Rainbow, fer the last time, as much as we'd love to save Twilight, we have to wait.'' Applejack sighed. ''The Princesses have a plan, you know that. They just need some time to work it all out.'' Fluttershy gently raised her voice. ''And anyway, the Princesses said the most likely place they've gone to is the Everfree Forest...'' She trailed off. Applejack frowned, confused. ''Sugarcube, what do ya'll mean, they?'' Fluttershy shifted in place. ''Well, the princesses said that there were two ponies in Twilight's mind, remember? So it makes sense to say they.'' Dash rolled her eyes. ''Saying 'they' implies Twilight's agreeing with that thing. No, I'm gonna stick to her.'' She spat the first words out angrily, increasing her flying speed until a few loose papers drifted out of place. ''Rainbow, please stop. You're moving all my notes!'' Rarity spoke up for the first time, levitating the misplaced papers back into a neat pile. Applejack noticed for the first time the books piled around Rarity. Dash slowed to a stop, and let herself drift from the air. ''Research?'' She asked. Rarity nodded, not taking her eyes off the book in front of her. Applejack lifted her head. ''Ya got anything, Rares?'' The white unicorn sighed and spun around to face the others. ''Quite a lot, actually. But it's not good news, any of it.'' Her ears drooped, and even her mane seemed to lose a little of it's life. ''Well?'' Pinkie spoke up from her corner where she had been moping. She had been inconsolable, and Applejack was starting to worry. Rarity sighed again. ''It says here that the thing infecting Twilight isn't an infection at all, more of a vengeful spirit burdened with immortality.'' Rarity had the five mare's attention now, and all but Pinkie had shifted to gather around her, listening intently. ''The books I've read all say the same thing - The victim is in complete control of what goes on until convinced that the spirit inside it has the right idea. The victim goes through three main stages before they reach what is known as 'Nightmare Mode.'' ''The spirit first begins to converse with the victim and through that it gains access from it's memories. This is followed up by twisting an event in the victim's life to turn it against others, forcing them to harbor a false hatred. Finally, the victim starts to fully listen to the spirit, to the point where they will run away to converse in peace, when they name the spirit.'' ''Nightmare Moon.'' Fluttershy whispered. Rarity nodded, and continued to read from her notes. ''After giving in to Nightmare Mode, the spirit gains full access to everything, and will often change to a nightmarish version of their host, hence the name Nightmare Mode. It will often be a alicorn-sized version of their race, with an intense amount of power that could match Princess Celestia. If it were to take on a strong host, say an alicorn or an individual with tremendous power, Equestria as we know it could be completely destroyed. The only thing powerful enough to stop the nightmare is an ancient power known as the 'Elements Of Harmony.' Without these, the bearer must be killed. There is only one other way to cure the victim, but it has only been used once, and has been passed off as a rumor.'' ''However, even after being cured by the Elements, the victim may still believe in the spirits ideals, and will attempt to continue what it started. After being freed from their spell, one victim was known to kill thirteen ponies and then herself. This has also been passed off as a rumor, though scientific evidence has been brought forth that may prove it true.'' A silence filled the room, stretching on long after Rarity had finished. It was broken only by a quiet sobbing coming from the corner. Chapter 8 - The Purity StoneApplejack gazed blankly at the grand room she and her friends had been gathered in, not really paying attention to anything. Since they discovered that it was impossible to 'free' Twilight without the Elements, all of them had been distant. Even Rainbow Dash, who had weakly tried to protest it wasn't all over, had fallen victim to the depression surrounding the group. Even news that the Princess' had made a breakthrough didn't lift their moods. ''Ah, Elements of Harmony. We are glad you could join us.'' Princess Celestia's voice startled Applejack, and she lifted her head to look at the tall figures. ''Princess.'' Applejack nodded respectfully, trying to keep the mournful tone out of her voice. Luna frowned. ''Applejack, what is wrong? We - I, can tell something is wrong.'' Applejack sighed, and looked to the ground. ''Please tell us we can save Twilight! There must be something other than the E-Elements!'' Dash's loud voice sounded unusually strained, and it was impossible to miss the desperate sadness she hadn't managed to hide. Both of the Princess' faces softened in understanding. Luna drifted forward and placed a hoof on the pegasus' shoulder. ''Rainbow Dash, I am sorry you had to hear that.'' Dash's eyes widened, and a strangled sob Applejack would never manage to forget escaped from the pegasus' mouth. Luna gasped at the reaction. ''O-Oh, no! Rainbow Dash, we did not mean it as though it is true!'' Pinkie lifted her head. ''N-not true?'' She sputtered, her voice shaky from lack of use. Celestia nodded, stepping forward to stand beside her sister. ''Not everything you read in books is true, especially theoretical ones. No, there is one other way.'' In less than a second, all of the happiness that the pink earth pony had been searching was returned. Grey, limp hair inflated and brightened. Hooves shot into the air in an excited bounce, and the grin all of them had been missing seemed bigger than ever. ''Really?'' Pinkie Pie's energetic voice seemed to send the first shakes of happiness through Applejack, and from the smiles on her friend's faces, she wasn't the only one. All of them shuffled closer, and Dash almost rocketed upwards. Luna and Celestia nodded. ''Yes.'' The sun princess looked upwards. ''The stone that only exists when it is most needed, created by us in case of an emergency.'' ''Where is it?'' Dash had came to a hovering stop, just above the group. Luna chuckled nervously. ''You must understand what we meant by emergency, Rainbow Dash. Ou- My sister meant it should be used when a very strong or important pony became...Let's say infected.'' She coughed, looking anywhere but the group. ''Like you?'' Fluttershy whispered, eyes wide. Luna nodded. ''And, being a very intelligent infection, I may or have not thrown it into an teleportation abyss, sending it Who-knows-where.'' The group's blank stares prompted Luna to speak again. ''In short, I sent it away and have no idea where it ended up.'' She chuckled again, this time much more nervously. ''And now you know why it wasn't used on me! Hooray!'' Dash facehoofed. Chapter 1 - In the Castle''Goodnight, sister. We shall see you in the morning!'' Luna called to her sister, closing her bedroom door behind her. Slowly, she turned to face her bed...and was instantly hit with a huge wave if happy nostalgia. ''It's exactly the same!'' She squealed, running over to the half moon shaped bed. Climbing into bed, she snuggled under the covers and fell asleep almost instantly. Luna bit her lip, trying desperately to hide behind her hair as she stepped up to the podium. Ponies stared at her, faces showing happiness, curiosity and more commonly hate. ''H-Hello Everypony. W-We have returned, as you can pro-probably see.'' She stuttered out, forgetting the first thing Celestia had told her to do - hide her accent. The effects of her slip-up were immediate. ''I knew it! I knew she still had that thing inside her!'' A brown stallion roared, stomping to the front of the crowd. A few ponies around him stomped their hooves in agreement. ''N-No!'' Luna squeaked. ''Y-you don't understand! We always speak like this! This is the royal we, yes?'' Luna's squeaky answer only served as a fuel for the fire before her. ''Ha!'' A light pink mare laughed cruelly. ''You think you're royalty?! Never! You're a traitor, if Princess Celestia had an inkling of sense in her she'd send you right back up to the moon!'' ''S-Sister would never do that!'' Luna weakly stomped a hoof down. ''She loves me!'' More cruel laughs from the ponies below, the whole crowd now laughing and taunting her. Luna tried to take a step back from the crowd, but tripped and fell. She lay there, not bothering to try and get up, tears streaking down her face. ''Luna?'' Out of nowhere, a hoof poked her in the side twice. ''Luna, wake up.'' Luna opened her eyes, and the first thing she noticed was she was no longer lying on the cold, hard floor of Canterlot but in her comfortable bed in the castle. Looking up, she saw Celestia stood over her with a worried expression on her face. ''Celly, what's wrong?'' Luna asked, pulling herself into a sitting position. ''I think the question is, Luna, what's wrong with you?'' Her sister replied, bringing a hoof to her face to wipe away tears Luna hadn't realized were there. Luna dropped her head, looking anywhere but her sister. ''Nothing, nothing at all dear sister! We are just fine.'' ''Ponies who are 'just fine' don't cry in their sleep, Lulu.'' ''We know.'' Was all Luna could say. After a brief silence, she slowly lifted her gaze to her sister. ''We know that far too well, sister.'' This time it was Celestia who dropped her gaze. ''I'm sorry, Lulu.'' ''We know.'' Luna lifted her forelegs to hug her sister. ''We're sorry too.'' The two sisters stayed like that for as long as they possible could, sharing their first hug in over two thousand years. Eventually though, they broke their embrace when a guard knocked on the door to remind Celestia that the two sisters needed to go out and address the crowds that were anxious to see their new princess. Celestia smiled down at Luna in the most reassuring way possible, and took her hoof. Twilight, this time, was woken by sunlight streaming through her window. Rubbing her eyes and lifting herself out of bed, the lavender pony walked towards the bathroom. On her way she passed the mirror. Glancing sideways, she did a quick check to make sure everything was in order. Mane, check. Tail, check. Coat, check. Hooves, check. Horn, check. Black on the end of horn, check. Nodding at herself in approval, Twilight trotted to the bathroom. Yesterday had been a long day, and Twilight was ready to take a nice long sho- ''What in the name of Tartarus?!'' Twilight yelled aloud, twenty seconds late. Running back to the mirror, she checked again, scanning the mirror frantically. Nothing. Same purple, not-black-tipped horn. Twilight blinked, feeling slightly embarrassed at her crazy reaction. It didn't. Shaking her head, she slowly made her way back to the bathroom and stepped into the shower. ''I just imagined it.'' She muttered to herself, then laughed aloud when she realized how dumb she must sound. ''Of course I imagined it!'' She said, more confident. She had big plans for today, and she wasn't about to let her runaway imagination get in the way! Half an hour later... ''Come on Spike! We're going to be late for Princess Celestia's speaking, and she want's me to be there!'' Twilight tapped the floor in impatience, slowly growing more annoyed with her assistant. Her assistant had been looking around the kitchen for a gem to eat for almost ten minutes, and Twilight knew they would be at least ten minutes late if they didn't leave in the next thirty seconds. ''I'm sorry Twilight, but I've been taking care of the Gem for ages, an- Aha! there it is! Coming, Twilight!'' A few moments later, Spike ran out of the kitchen, a sparkling blue sapphire in his hands and quickly jumped up onto Twilight's back. He wasn't very fast, even compared to Twilight, and Twilight being late meant she was going to try and hit top speeds to prevent being late. Twilight did exactly that. Luna didn't know when she had started shaking like a little filly, but the one thing she did know was she couldn't stop. ''Celly.'' She whispered to her sister. ''We're scared.'' Celestia looked at her sister, and gently nuzzled her. ''Please, Lulu. Try to be strong.'' ''But what if they hate us? What if they think We are a traitor and should be sent back up to the moon?'' Luna started shaking harder at the memory of her dream. ''Wh-What if-'' ''Lulu, think of it like this. Who's the one with the power to send ponies to the moon?'' Celestia's voice was almost stern. ''Y-You?'' ''Are you sure it isn't the ponies out there?'' Luna shook her head, confused. ''Celly, what is the point in tha-'' ''So why are you worrying if they can't do anything to you?'' Celestia now had a small smirk on her face. ''...'' Luna couldn't answer that. ''Exactly.'' Celestia laughed. ''Let's go, Lulu. And remember, Sticks and stones-'' ''May break my bones, but words will never hurt me.'' Luna smiled and finished her sister's favorite saying.
Prologue - DefeatNightmare Moon knew a setback when she saw it. That rainbow beam, spawned from the 'magic of friendship'? Definitely a setback. An embarrassingly stupid one, too. Curses! She yelled inwardly. She was so close... Out of all her many, many attempts, this had been the closest she had come to exacting her revenge on the world. Never mind that. It's not over yet. It's never over. But, as worthless as the defeat had been, it could still hurt like hell. ''NOOOOOOOOOO!'' Almost involuntarily, Nightmare Moon found herself screaming at the top of her lungs. The burning sensation started at her hooves, and quickly shot through the rest of her body. Slowly, it faded, to be quickly replaced by another wave stronger and more powerful than the last. She reared upwards, hooves thrashing in a hopeless attempt to block the attack. I know I shouldn't reveal myself so quickly, wouldn't want to be caught...but...ow ow ow ow ow ow ow ow ow ow! A fresh burst of pain made her mind up for her. Gritting her teeth, she let herself melt away from Luna's body. Almost like dust being blown away from an old statue, she formed a small dark cloud and darted behind one of the cracked and broken sculptures that were scatted around the room. It's not much good as a shelter if they see me, but it'll do. The next moments passed slowly for Nightmare Moon. Had they detected her? Was it all over? The rainbow light slowly faded, leaving behind the sight of seven collapsed ponies. Breathing a sigh of relief, she glided out of her hiding place and surveyed her surroundings. Her eyes fell on the six ponies, still wearing their elements. ''Damn you all.'' She snarled angrily, but it came out as a hoarse whisper. Her voice was much weaker than she had expected - now that she thought about it, her strength was fading at an alarmingly fast pace. That could only mean one thing... Through the cracked window, a beam of sunlight struck the floor, illuminating the room with much more force than a normal sunrise. The cloud barely avoided it, knowing if she touched the beam in her current form she really would have been destroyed - and being destroyed did not fit into her plans of world domination. Slowly, the beam spread to cover the rest of the room, and she could feel the burning heat on her tail. Gotta hurry. Within a split second, the dark cloud had catapulted itself across the room using the last of her power reserve. She rocketed towards the six ponies just as they began to awake. Aimlessly throwing herself at the group of ponies in the hope of latching on to one of them, the last thing Nightmare Moon saw before everything turned to black was a pair of surprised, purple eyes. Twilight Sparkle yawned and drowsily fumbled with the library keys, being careful not to let a sleeping Spike fall off her back. She was tired out from the day of celebration, to the point where easy tasks like opening a locked door seemed almost impossible.. After the defeat of Nightmare Moon, she and her new-found friends had been named heroes, and in their honor a great party calling ponies from all around was thrown by the Element of Laughter herself. But now, all Twilight wanted to do was sleep. She didn't even feel like reading - a sign she was on the verge of collapsing. Carefully levitating Spike into his bed nest, she tucked his miniature blanket over him and whispered a goodnight. Crawling into her bed, Twilight quickly scanned the room to make sure no-one was watching. After she confirmed that there were no spies watching her from the shadows, lurking menacingly - or even worse, Spike - she reached under her bed and pulled her Smarty Pants doll towards her, hesitating for only a moment before cuddling it close. Slowly and comfortingly, she fell into sleep. Darkness, that was all she could see. Darkness and more darkness. Powerful. Ever growing and all consuming. Twilight felt terrified at the sight of it. It seemed to throb with an unseen red light, giving off the impression of fresh lava. Twilight had only seem something like this before once - at the gates of Tartarus. Almost without thinking, Twilight tried to back away from the horrifying sight, but she might as well have been trying to walk on thin air. For the first time since she arrived there, she realized her hair was lifting upwards and air was rushing past her, almost like... Almost like she was falling. Then her body tensed, and she began to shake uncontrollably. She was falling - into the darkness, to be exact. ''Not quite, Twilight. You are falling, but you aren't falling into darkness. You're falling into me.'' The voice seemed to come from all around, terrifyingly loud, beating at her ears like tiny knives. In the few seconds that she heard the voice, she felt like she wanted to die. Then it was gone, and Twilight screamed. The darkness closed in on her in less than a heartbeat, but to Twilight it seemed like an eternity. She was surrounded by black and red, pulsating with evil. She felt like it was contaminating her, and she screamed again, this time for help. For her friends, for her parents and her brother, for Celestia. But no pony came. Twilight jolted up in bed, knocking Smarty Pants to the floor. Breathing heavily, Twilight tried to calm herself down. She'd had nightmares in the past, but never ones like this. Not even ones where she turned her parents to plants, but she couldn't ever turn them back and everypony thought she was a murderer and- Twilight shook her head, chasing away her bad memories. ''I shouldn't be thinking about this.'' She muttered aloud, letting her breathing return to normal. Yawning, she retrieved her doll from the floor and pulled the covers back over her. ''Only a nightmare.'' She yawned, she snuggled down. She needed the sleep - Spike would doubtlessly be asking for all of the details again tomorrow, and Twilight wanted to be ready. Somewhere in the back of her mind, just before she fell asleep, she could swear she heard a laugh.
Chapter 2 - My name is Princess LunaDespite her pep talk with her sister, Luna was still a nervous wreck. Even if they couldn't send her to the moon, normal ponies could still could still hate her - and being hated led to mean letters, being verbally abused every time she dared show her face, and in some cases assassination. They may even try to kill her sister for taking care of her! Oh, nonononono. We can't go out there, we can't go out there, I can't go out there... ''Luna, please just go out there..'' Celestia's voice was almost pleading now. ''Trust me, you'll be fine.'' We will not, Celly!. If we're dead next Sunday, we are blaming you! Luna yelled inwardly. ''Lulu. I can read minds, remember? We aren't going to die.'' ''Still blaming you.'' Luna sighed, wondering whether to argue more or just give in. After a moments thought, she decided it would do her more bad than good to stay out here. Even if she did refuse to go out, Celestia would probably just teleport her. Slowly, Luna stepped out from behind the curtains, terrified of what she was about to face - and was addressed with the one thing she never expected. Cheers. They were cheering... Were they really cheering her? ''Princess Luna, I presume?'' A lavender unicorn trotted up the stairs, a smile on her face. ''I'm Twilight Sparkle. I'll be helping you through your speech.'' Luna recognized that name... ''Twilight Sparkle, you were the pony that saved us! We are most grateful!'' Luna almost hugged the unicorn on the spot. Twilight grinned modestly. ''Not really. I couldn't have done it without my friends.'' She turned to the crowds. ''Now, to the matter at hand! I assume you have a speech prepared.'' Luna blinked. ''A...speech? No pony told us about a speech.'' Twilight's smile faded slightly. ''No speech? Oh, this...'' Twilight was cut off by the cheers raising in volume. ''Oh, they won't wait much longer. They want their princess. Can you do this, Luna?'' Twilight asked worriedly. Luna gasped happily. They were cheering her! She turned to Twilight. ''Do not worry, Twilight Sparkle! We shall go without!'' She announced, stepping up to the podium. ''Hello every pony.'' Luna addressed the crowds with a touch of grace. Instantly the cheering seemed to get louder, before dying down. The air was filled with anticipation, and Luna felt the gaze of everypony in Canterlot on her. ''My name...is Princess Luna.'' ''Oh wow Princess, that was amazing!'' Twilight was in total shock - Luna had managed to impress the crowds, as well as reassure them on the matter of Nightmare Moon. ''Are you sure you didn't have a speech hidden under your wing or something?!'' Luna chuckled. ''No, Twilight. We did not have a speech hidden under our wing, we promise. We just...Well, it's hard to explain. We have been planning what we would say in our head for a long time, just in case it made it's way into our nightmares and stopped them.'' Twilight frowned in confusion. ''Nightmares?'' Luna sighed, ears drooping. ''Yes, Twilight Sparkle. We have been having terrible nightmares of the citizens of Equestria hating us.'' Suddenly, she perked up. ''Today was hopefully the cure of those.'' Twilight nodded in understanding. ''I sort of get what you're saying. As a filly, I was terrified of failing my entrance exam to Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns, and I had nightmare after nightmare of failing. Then when I passed - becoming Princess Celestia's personal student - they stopped.'' Luna stopped in her tracks. ''Our sister's what?!'' Twilight blinked. ''School for gifted unicorns...?'' ''The next one!'' ''Oh.'' Twilight blushed. ''I'm Princess Celestia's student.'' Luna's gaze fell to the ground. ''Twilight, We...I'm sorry.'' ''Hm? What do you mean?'' Twilight asked, worry clear on her face. But Luna was gone. Don't follow the hoofprints, Twilight. Twilight scolded herself. But her curiosity was piqued - and she began to follow the trail left by Luna only moments ago. Luna ran faster than she ever had, using her wings to push her forward. She had to get to her sister, and fast. She saw her sister faster than she could stop, and ending up crashing into her at an alarmingly fast rate. ''Luna, what are-'' Celestia was cut short by her sister's harsh voice. ''You. Us. Locked room. Now.'' Luna snarled. She got up and brushed herself down. ''Come on, Celly. We have to talk about something regarding your personal student.'' Celestia's face transformed from worry, to anger, to understanding fear in less than a second. She pushed herself to her hooves, and followed her sister into her bedroom. ''How could you Celly?! You've practically damned her!'' Luna screeched, glad for the sound-proofing spell surrounding the room. She didn't have to hide her emotions for fear of the castle staff hearing her. ''Luna, calm down. You don't know the facts-'' ''We don't care! You taking on Twilight means making Twilight powerful - and being powerful means it, Celly! We don't want to have to deal with it again so soon!'' ''Neither do I, Lulu. I went through steps to prevent it from happening.'' Luna snorted, her anger far from gone. ''You did it for us, didn't you?'' Celestia didn't reply. ''You took her on so you could guide her to save us, putting her at risk! How could you?!'' ''What else could I do?! I missed you, Lulu! Everything was so bleak - I've lost so many these past two thousand years, without a shoulder to cry on!'' Celestia' s patience finally snapped. ''But what about everypony else, Celestia?!'' Luna yelled, stamping her hoof for emphasis. ''I've devoted everything to them, Luna! Aren't I allowed to be selfish just this once?'' Celestia's voice faltered. ''No!'' The next few moments where filled with an angry silence. Luna stared down her sister, fury in her gaze. ''Look, Lulu. She might not even be cursed...'' Celestia started. Luna growled. ''And if she is? What then?'' Celestia shook her head. ''I...I couldn't do what I did with you. Maybe we could reason with it? Ask it to leave Twilight alone?'' Luna sighed. ''Remember how well that went last time? It's still mad at us.'' She turned to the moon. ''We do not blame it...'' ''Her.'' Celestia corrected. Luna turned her gaze to the floor. ''What went wrong, Celly?'' ''I...I don't know, Lulu. I really don't.'' ''Princess Luna? Princess Celestia?'' Twilight called out, knocking on the bedroom door. The castle staff had told her Princess Luna had run in, in a blind rage, and the two had been in her bedroom ever since. After a long wait, the door finally opened. A purple hoof reached out and quickly yanked her inside. The room was pitch black. Twilight was about to ask what the hay was going on, but a bright yellow flash formed a gag in her mouth. ''Mmff!'' Twilight attempted to yell for help, but the gag made anything coming out of her mouth an incoherent mess. Suddenly, the lights turned on. ''Prinfffmm?'' Twilight's initial fear had manage to calm itself and double at the same time. ''Yes, Twilight Sparkle. We apologize for assaulting you like this, but we fear it is the only way to keep everypony safe.'' Luna's voice was level, showing no emotion. Deep inside Twilight, something stirred. Keep everypony safe...? You're a danger. Twilight kicked out in shock. She hadn't seen the princess' mouths move - had she? No, Twilight Sparkle. I am talking to you from somewhere else - and you need to get out of there. Why? Twilight answered back cautiously. Even if the voice was real, and not just her panic, that didn't make it trust worthy. You're a danger, a threat - and threats must be destroyed. The voice took on a mocking tone towards the end of her sentence, and Twilight felt a chill trickle down her spine. ''Twilight? You look like you've a seen ghost.'' Her mentor's voice broke her out of her trance, and for a moment Twilight considered telling her about the voice in her head. NO! That will make them even more suspicious. You need to escape! But why am I a threat? I haven't done anything! Twilight was starting to become really scared now. Oh, Twilight. The voice was almost humorous - was it's owner laughing at her fear? You haven't done anything wrong. They're scared of what's inside of you - me. I'm the Nightmare.
Chapter 3 - What's going on!?The...Nightmare? Twilight was jolted from her mind conversation by a bright glare coming from the corner of her eye. Turning her head slightly, making sure not to blind herself, she saw with shock that it was coming from the two alicorn's horns. A spell. Twilight began to shake. Had the voice been right? Was Celestia going to kill her? The glare got brighter, growing in power. She wouldn't. Just because she was hearing a voice? How did her mentor even know?! Was she just going to kill her for the fun of it, and the Nightmare, whatever it was, was just trying to calm her down..? Teleport! Now! I'll explain all of this later. The voice had been drained of all it's humor - now it was full of a fear that sent a chill down Twilight's spine. Suddenly, a bright flash filled the room, consuming the purple glow that suddenly winked out. The flash faded, and Luna let her power go. She steadied herself, weakness threatening to consume her, and she evaluated the area. Everything seemed to glow from the after affects of the cleansing spell, chasing away any darkness that may have lurked in the room. It was one of the most powerful spells known to ponykind, needing the power of two alicorns to perform it - and even then, it was incredibly draining. Luna gasped. She weakly rubbed at her eyes with a hoof. Had they been too powerful, destroying Twilght in the process of the spell? Had she panicked and teleported away? Did something force her to? Whatever the reason, nothing could change the fact that Twilight was gone. Twilight collapsed on her bed, fear and exhaustion taking over her body. She weakly crawled under the covers, determined to sleep. Her eyelids lowered, and Twilight fell into slumber. ''She's...gone?'' Celestia's voice no longer held her calm demeanor - instead it was filled with fear, worry and sadness. Luna nodded. ''We didn't kill her, don't worry. We could sense the traces of teleportation magic in the air.'' Celestia sighed. ''But Twilight would never have run from us without coaxing.'' ''We did use the most powerful spell in the world on her, just after pulling her into a dark room and telling her nothing about it.'' The elder sister shook her head. ''No. She trusts me as much as she does her own parents. She would've felt fear, yes, but on her own Twilight would've stuck it out.'' Luna bit her lip. ''You say 'on her own'. Do you fear the same as us? That the nightmare lurks in her, already awakened and strong enough to talk to her?'' ''Yes.'' Celestia couldn't say any more than that. Luna stomped a hoof, tail flicking in agitation. ''We will not give up so easily. If it can talk to her now, it can influence her dreams.'' Luna shuddered at the dark dreams she had endured whilst being coaxed into the darkness. ''We will go to Twilight Sparkle, in her sleep. We shall combat the nightmare and tell her the truth!'' ''Lulu, we're still weak. You ca-'' ''Celly, if we wait any longer it will be too late. This is happening even faster than...'' Luna trailed off, not wanting to talk about her past so soon. After a moment's silence between the two alicorns, the elder spoke. ''Go.'' Twilight was stood on a platform, looking down on the same mass of darkness that had haunted her dreams only a day before. This time, though, a dark shadow was stood beside her. ''You are the Nightmare, I presume?'' Twilight's voice held no fear - only thinly veiled curiosity. The shadow nodded. ''Good. Number one, why are you the reason my mentor tried to kill me?'' ''Twilight, I am not the only reason. I only told you that so you would not try to fight back.'' Twilight blinked. ''Fight back?'' ''Yes, Twilight. The truth is you are powerful. Me becoming a part of you amplified this power.'' Twilight took a step away from the figure. ''Woah, woah, woah. Stop right there. You're a part of me?!'' ''Yes. On the day you tore me away from Luna, I bound myself to you. On the day I tore... ''Nightmare Moon?!'' ''Nightmare Moon ceased to be the moment I entered your mind. Now only I remain - the Nightmare.'' Twilight frowned in confusion, putting her fear aside for a moment. ''The Nightmare?'' The shadow nodded. ''And now I need a name. What do you think, Twilight?'' ''I'm the one asking questions - and you still haven't answered the first one.'' The Nightmare chuckled lightly. ''Ah, yes. Of course. You see, Twilight, you are the most powerful mare in the world - you defeated Luna while she was stronger than normal. You could easily destroy Celestia.'' Twilight snorted. ''No.'' ''I didn't say anything.'' ''I knew what you were implying. I'm not destroying anypony.'' ''Are you so sure?'' Twilight was caught off guard at this. ''Of course! Well, I'd destroy you in a heartbeat, but that's not the point here.'' The Nightmare shrugged. ''Whatever you say. I can't do anything without your consent.'' Twilight blinked again, this time in shock. ''You...can't?'' ''No. I'm not as bad as you think - I only help ponies see the light, and when they do they're practically wailing for my help. Especially Luna. Twilight lowered her head. ''Luna let you do what you did?'' ''She did.'' ''That..'' Twilight trailed off. She tried to think of something to say that proved the Nightmare was wrong, that she was lying...but she couldn't. ''Well then, you may as well settle down. Even if I can't do anything, we can still talk. I'm wiling to tell you about my past.'' The Nightmare shook her head. ''No, scratch that. I want to.'' Twilight opened her mouth to reply, but suddenly everything seemed to get lighter. Her vision was filled with a blinding light, slowly taking on the form of a small alicorn. Luna.
Chapter 4 - LiesThe magic surrounding the alicorn fizzled and crackled, before fading from the air completely. Luna wasted no time in stepping forward and beginning to speak. ''Twilight Sparkle, we have-'' Almost instantly The Nightmare lifted herself into the air and darted between Luna and Twilight, baring her fangs aggressively. ''Princess Luna.'' She snarled furiously, cutting the other pony off. ''You are in another's mind, unauthorized. Explain yourself!'' Luna saw through the stalling attempt - she had gone through this process many times before, and knew the best way to get past it was to wave a hoof dismissively and carry on trying to save the victim. ''Be silent, monster. We have come to-'' A flash of magic, and Luna found her mouth wedged open with an apple. Oh, of course Twilight had some memories of the exact same thing happening to her friend Pinkie that the Nightmare had picked up on. Luna growled behind the apple and spat it out. Life wasn't fair. ''You are not above me, Luna. Explain yourself now, or I will force you away from this place.'' Luna snorted at her opponent, knowing the Nightmare would never attack her while so weak - but even so she flared her wings in an attempt to make herself look bigger. ''Our sister is the princess of Equestria - both of us agreed we would traverse to Twilight Sparkle's dreams to save her from you.'' Twilight coughed, kicking at the ground awkwardly. ''I'm not sure I need saving.... The Nightmare can't do anything to me without my say-so, and she has a lot of knowledge. Do I need saving?'' Both mares turned to Twilight, never taking their eyes off each other. ''Yes!'' ''No!'' Twilight sighed. ''Well, uh, Princess, I could stop this at any time - didn't you think of that? It is my dream, after all.'' Luna narrowed her eyes. ''We did, Twilight Sparkle. But the truth is you do need saving!'' Twilight bit her lip, and looked up. ''That may well be true, Luna. But I'm confused as to who I need saving from.'' Luna blinked, and Twilight could tell it took her a few moments to process what she had just implied - and she knew Luna would probably fly at one of them if she didn't break the tension. She stepped between the two alicorns, waving a hoof to catch their attention. ''So could I please ask you a few questions?'' The Nightmare's eyes flashed. ''Ah, yes. Maybe we should find out why Luna tried to kill you before I enact my revenge.'' She said, her voice almost humorous. Luna's anger snapped, and sprang into the air. Swiftly darting forward she connected her hoof to the Nightmare's jaw. ''We have not attempted to kill anypony - especially not Twilight Sparkle!'' She yelled, furious. ''We knew you would sow your lies quickly, but this is a new low!'' The Nightmare brushed off the blow, and simply went to stand beside Twilight. She looked down at Twilight, eyes questioning as she sent a message through their mental connection. ''Can I tie her down? If we don't she'll try and escape.'' Twilight hesitated a moment, but eventually nodded. ''If it means figuring all this out, I guess you can go ahead.'' The Nightmare closed her eyes, focusing her magic into her horn, and Luna quickly became encased in rope, an anti-magic bracelet ring and a wing brace ensuring she couldn't escape. Luna yelped in surprised, writhing madly in a vain attempt to free herself. ''Twilight Sparkle! You are mistaken - we have not done anything wrong!'' Twilight sat down, ears flicking downwards. ''I'm sorry Princess - but I've no reason to believe you.'' Her horn flashed again, and Luna's vision suddenly flickered and faded. ''You have stolen our vision!'' Luna screamed, her frantic writhing increasing. ''Black magic! We expected more of you, Twilight Sparkle! Our sister spoke of you like you were a soldier of Light!'' The Nightmare winced at the metaphor, but Twilight stifled a giggle. Despite the seriousness of the situation, it was still kind of funny. ''I've blindfolded you, Luna. You can still see - but the material's stopping you from seeing anything but black.'' The Nightmare stepped forward. ''Now for the questions.'' She walked around to Luna, horn glowing steadily. ''I will use a truth spell on her, ensuring she won't lie as she has done so far. '' Twilight nodded in approval, eager to get to the answers ahead.. ''Right! Let's get this all sorted.'' Luna couldn't see anything, but she could tell the Nightmare had gone to stand beside her by her voice slowly growing in volume. She wasn't sure about having her enemy cast a spell on her - but she decided Twilight wouldn't let anything bad happen to her. ''Question one!'' Twilight sounded calm - but Luna knew better. She was hiding how eager she was to get to the truth, and also her initial fear at the fact she had tied up a Lunar Princess. Luna nodded, opening her mouth to speak her approval - but nothing happened. She tried again...and again, and again, and again - but she couldn't. That's right, my little Lulu. I'm not a stupid monster, as you liked to call me back then. If Twilight thinks all I cast was a truth spell, she's sorely mistaken. Now, say something mean...Not too out of character, that'd make her suspicious - wait, she doesn't even know you! Oh, this is just perfect. Now then...Let's see, what about... ''Get on with it already, you stupid mare! Or are you too dumb to remember what you were going to say?!'' Luna snarled, baring her teeth angrily. Twilight blinked and stepped back from Luna, the hurt evident in her eyes. ''Oh, yes, sorry Princess...'' What...What witchcraft is this?! Luna yowled inwardly. I am your better, release me at once! Be quiet Lulu - you'll do better staying silent than you will do kicking and screaming - and what's this about being my better? The Nightmare chuckled aloud - a cruel laugh that filled Luna with dread. You and I both know Twilight Sparkle is stronger than you, Luna. Take an empowering spell and place it inside that kind of magical ability...Well, I think this explains why I'm the one controlling you. Luna snarled angrily, and Twilight jumped. ''S-Sorry!'' She whimpered again, sitting down far away from the tied up Lunar Princess. Guilt bit at Luna, and she wanted to explain - but opening her mouth would probably just end in the Nightmare forcing her to her insulting Twilight. The Nightmare kicked her. ''Now, Luna. Be nice to Twilight.'' She said aloud. iNow get ready. She spoke again, this time to Luna alone. We have a lot of things to say to Twilight...
Chapter 5 - 'Your name is Broken Dawn.'Twilight cast her gaze anywhere but the Princess tied up before her, afraid that even looking at her would upset the alicorn further. She didn't know what it was that had made Luna so angry. Maybe... Maybe she knows we're about to get the truth, and wants anything but that? The Nightmare's voice echoed in her head, making Twilight jump even though she'd heard it so many times that day. I don't want to believe that. I've only seen the worst of both of you. Let's just find answers, okay? Twilight knew she sounded tired and desperate, but after having your enemies and friends flipped around, she felt it was justified. ''Princess Luna, is it true you let the Nightmare do what she did?'' Twilight surprised even herself with that question, but upon a short reflection she realized she hadn't ever truly believed that. Luna stayed silent for a few moments, before snapping her teeth threateningly and spitting out a yes. Twilight tried not to show the shock that sprang up in her. So it's true... She thought sadly. Luna wasn't entirely innocent for what happened to her. She'd let it. ''Question two.'' Twilight hesitated. She wanted ask the big question - but at the same time, she was scared. She didn't want to know - but at the same time she did. Twilight sighed, deciding to leave it until last. ''Why? Why did you let the Nightmare become Nightmare Moon?'' She felt happy with that question - if things ever went back to normal, she'd be able to understand Luna a little better. Luna stayed silent for a lot longer than before, and the expression on her face was almost painful. She looked like she was about to burst into tears, but a sudden flash from the Nightmare's horn seemed to wipe it away. She was fighting the spell. The Nightmare informed Twilight, but her voice sounded a little guilty. Twilight brushed it off, deciding to ask her later. Luna shook herself again, drawing Twilight back to the situation at hand. ''Well?'' She prompted. ''I - We did it because of the power. She promised us power - and we got it. Eternal night was just an afterthought - no, a punishment - that we made when we realized ponies had started to hate us - all because we were better than them.'' Luna's voice was a harsh jeer, and Twilight flinched at the glare Luna shot at her. But Twilight wasn't satisfied. ''So Celestia made up all the jealousy and hate you felt?'' She inquired, starting to feel a little like an interviewer from The Celestial. Luna laughed. ''Of course not. She just directed it a different way. Oh no, we were jealous alright. Jealous of her!'' Luna struggled furiously, and Twilight could sense the anger rising. ''We were jealous of her power! She was the first princess, the better princess - and she acted it! You think she's perfect, don't you?'' Twilight hesitantly nodded. Luna screeched angrily, shaking herself. ''She changed because of me! I'm the reason your mentor is so perfect - because I made her wake up and see the truth!!' Luna's anger came to a head, and she almost managed to tear apart her bonds in her rage. Twilight noticed almost that Luna hadn't used the royal plurals. She prepared herself to ask her why, but Luna cut her off, her voice now quiet. ''But she's still the better sister.'' Luna whispered, and Twilight's deepest conscious realized that this sentence didn't feel as forced as the others. Twilight looked at the ground, and all was silent for a long time. Eventually, Twilight spoke. ''Princess Luna, did you try to kill me back at the castle?'' Another long silence filled the black-red cavern, the air filled with tension broken only by a cough or sneeze from Twilight. After a while, Luna sighed. Twilight snapped to attention, ears flicking upwards. ''Twilight Sparkle.'' Luna started, her voice soft. ''We did try to kill you, yes. But take note - our sister did too.'' Without warning, her tone and expression darkened significantly, sending a chill down Twilight's spine. ''Run, Twilight Sparkle. Run or face eternity on the moon.'' Twilight shot upright. ''What do you mean?!'' Luna shook her head, and in one fast move, headbutted the Nightmare away. Her concentration broken, the bonds holding Luna evaporated. She lifted herself into the air, moving quickly. ''We say what we say as ourselves, Twilight Sparkle. Run - but run from only who you believe to be the enemy here.'' She began to glow. ''We would tell you more, but a fiend has cast a hex upon us.'' She glared at the Nightmare, who glared right back. ''Luna!'' Twilight felt herself become lighter, like she was drifting upwards. ''Awaken, Twilight Sparkle - and try to escape this nightmare.'' And so, she did. Twilight staggered out of bed and collapsed on the floor, breathing heavily. She heard a sound from downstairs, and was about to investigate when a very important sounding voice changed her mind completely. ''Twilight Sparkle, open this door immediately! We are Solar Guards, and we have an order to take you to the castle!'' Twilight gasped, remembering Luna's last words to her. She scrambled around the room, gathering up items and throwing them into her enchanted saddlebags. She didn't need to be told to run - it was that or return to Princess Celestia and get zapped. ''Twilight? What's going on?'' Twilight turned sharply, and breathed out in relief when she realized it was just Spike. ''Look, Spike, I've got to go.'' She quickly resumed her packing, dashing about the room in a panic. ''You've got to go where? On a mission from Celestia?'' Spike sounded so confused Twilight ached with sadness at having to leave without saying goodbye to him - or any of their friends, for that matter. ''Is that why there are guards downstairs?'' Twilight sighed and stopped just in front of Spike, pulling him into a hug. ''I'm sorry Spike, but I think you'll handle all this better in your sleep.'' A simple spell later, and Spike was snoring gently. Twilight placed him in his bed, kissed his forehead lightly, and trotted swiftly downstairs like nothing had happened. ''Twilight Sparkle, we know you are in there! Open up now or we will force down the door!'' Twilight could hear the voice much better downstairs, and it's owner sounded annoyed and angry. She doubled her pace, gathering up food she could live off until she found safety. A loud thud came from the main room, and Twilight knew her time had ran out. The door was forced open, and all the guards rushed in to the sight of a glowing Twilight Sparkle blinking away. Twilight felt her hooves touch ground, and she lay there for a moment to gather her bearings. She recognized the area instantly - Fluttershy's house was right next to her. Just up ahead she could see the Everfree Forest. The castle, Twilight. The Nightmare spoke up, her voice reassuring Twilight. Twilight nodded and, without a moments thought, she set off towards the forest, and hopefully towards safety until she had sorted this mess out. She let her thoughts drift to the past hours. A few moments later, she made a decision. Nightmare? She thought to her new ally - she could call her an ally, right? Yes, Twilight? She answered. Twilight hesitated, preparing herself for her next words. Eventually, as the grass and trees around her changed to the Everfree's dismal tones, she spoke aloud for what she had decided to be the last time. ''Your name is Broken Dawn.''
Chapter 6 - Any other morning.For Applejack, the morning had gone drastically different to Twilight's. It started off like any other morning, with the sun drifting through her curtains and waking her dead on half six. Then she'd drowsily wake herself up for the next half hour before trudging into Applebloom's room and waking her up. If Applebloom didn't get up? She got the cymbals. ''Alright, alright! Ah'm up!'' Applebloom shot up so fast she ended up on the floor. She glared at her sister, managing to rub her eyes without breaking eye contact. The two sisters stayed like that until a shout from downstairs signaled breakfast was on the table, and if they weren't there in less than ten seconds they'd have to go without. Applejack broke eye contact, then when Applebloom wasn't looking, she swooped her into a hug. ''Sis!'' Applebloom didn't sound nearly as annoyed as Applejack expected, which just caused her to squeeze harder. ''Come on, Applebloom. Ya'll know the tradition!'' Applejack chuckled, and Applebloom sighed, but this game had been a part of their morning routine as long as Applebloom could remember, and she knew they'd never grow out of it.. ''Is this the button, sis?'' She poked the older pony's ear, grinning, and Applejack instantly released her. ''Eeyup!'' Applejack grinned, and ruffled Applebloom's long hair. ''Ah'll be downstairs, defendin' the food from Big Mac. You hurry now!'' Applejack closed the door behind her, and quickly trotted downstairs. ''There y'are.'' Big Mac smiled, feigning annoyance. ''Now hurry up n' eat!'' A few minutes later, Applebloom practically galloped down the stairs. 'Have ya'll left some fer me?!'' Applejack chuckled, and pushed Applebloom's plate towards her. The yellow pony was just about to tuck into the meal, when a knock came from the door. ''Ah'll get it.'' Applejack stood up, and made her way to the door. She flattened her hair with a hoof in case it was somepony with a sales pitch. Once she felt everything was order, she pulled open the door. That's when, for Applejack, this became unlike any other morning, and became much much more. The start of an adventure. ''So what ya'll are saying is Twilight's gone insane, tied Princess Luna up, an' then questioned her?'' Rainbow Dash nodded. ''Yeah. And then she just vanished At least, that's what I was told.'' She turned to the rest of the group. ''Any ideas as to what happened, girls?'' Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy and Rarity shook their heads, and a silence followed, leaving the five of them to their thoughts. The group had been assembled at Canterlot Castle, and were waiting for the Princess to finish Morning Court so she and Luna could speak to them in private. ''I just hope the poor dear's alright. She must have had a reason for assaulting a princess.'' Rarity's sudden voice broke the silence, full of distress and uncertainty. She began to pace. Dash shook her head, stomping a hoof against the polished floor. ''You know what? I don't believe for a moment that Twilight, a nerdy bookworm, would even think of attacking anypony, never mind Princess Luna. Reason or not, she must've been framed or something!'' She shot into the air, flapping her wings angrily, only to be tugged onto the ground by her tail. She landed on her hooves, face to face with a stern looking guard. ''No flying.'' He growled. ''Sorry.'' Fluttershy put a hoof on Dash's shoulder. ''That's a good point, I guess, but...'' She trailed off, not sure if the group wanted to hear her opinion. ''But?'' Pinkie prompted. Fluttershy ducked her head, hiding behind her hair. ''I think I read about something, once. I didn't think it was important back then, when Nightmare Moon was here, but...'' The grand doors swung open, interrupting Fluttershy mid-sentence. ''You may see the Princess now.'' The same guard who had scolded Dash herded them in, shutting the doors behind them. Applejack looked up at the Princess, and led the group to stand in front of her. ''Elements of Harmony, I hope you are well?'' Princess Celestia's voice was calm as always, but Applejack could tell she was hiding something. The group nodded in unison. Dash stepped forward. ''Uh,if you don't mind my saying Princess, where is Luna?'' Celestia sighed. ''She's right beside me, we had to cast an invisibility spell to hide her from the court.'' ''But why?'' Rarity asked, then realized she had just spoke out of turn to a princess. ''Sorry!'' She squeaked, covering her mouth with her hooves. Celestia smiled slightly. ''I shall leave it to Luna to decide if she wants you to know or not. And please, girls, skip the formalities.'' Applejack's eyes widened in shock. ''Skip the formalities, Princess?'' Rarity had reacted the most, drawing a gasp so large she pulled herself onto her haunches. ''But you're princesses, I could never speak to you as such!'' Celestia's eyes saddened, and she looked down at her sister. ''I have lost a friend today, girls. The filly I raised attacked and bound my sister, and one of our oldest and most deadly enemies made her do it. So, please, feel free to speak as you want.'' A silence filled A voice came from beside the throne. ''Celly, we think you should make us visible again.'' Celestia blinked. ''Are you sure, Lulu?'' ''It will help with the explanations.'' Celestia sighed, but decided it would, in the long run, turn for the better. Her horn shimmered gracefully, and like pulling a cover off a table, Luna was revealed. The group gasped again, this time in horror. Rarity moaned a little and collapsed with a thud, and even Dash fell backwards onto her haunches. Where they had expected the small and meek Princess Luna, there stood Nightmare Moon. Dash shot into the air again, and launched herself at the figure. ''You're back, eh!'' She snarled, and lifted her hoof to land a punch when a golden glow seemed to secure her in place. She felt herself being pulled backwards, and then she was dropped gently next to her friends. ''Rainbow Dash, do not fear us!'' Nightmare Moon whimpered. ''We only look like this because the true Nightmare cast a spell upon us.'' Dash sneered. ''Yeah, right! We can see through your ruse - you may as well be saying 'I tricked Princess Celestia and am about seven seconds away from killing you and everyone else!'' ''Rainbow Dash, I think I would know if this was really Nightmare Moon.'' Celestia's voice was stern. ''Now please, be still and let my sister explain.'' Dash grumbled and settled down, but she didn't take her suspicious gaze off the supposed Luna. Luna swallowed nervously. ''Okay. It started only a day ago, when we discovered Twilight was our sister's student - the first one in over three thousand years. And alongside being our sister's student came a great responsibility, a great power that many envied...'' Luna spoke for a while, describing how they had intended to cast a cleansing spell that had been discovered in the past 1000 years. If you were to combine the power of two immortal alicorn and then cast it, it would be strong enough to completely destroy any evil or dark manifestations. When that had failed, Luna had flown to Twilight and invaded her dream, where she found her and the Nightmare deep in conversation. ''Now wait just an applebuckin' second!'' Applejack stomped a hoof angrily. ''Are ya'll saying Twilight was talking to Nightmare Moon? In a calm and orderly manner? No fightin' or anything, just...talking?'' Luna nodded. ''Yes. And from what we heard, the Nightmare was just about to use her deadliest weapon when it comes to infecting ponies.'' ''Ah'm sorry, Princess, but ah really don't believe tha-'' ''Neither did I.'' Celestia stood up, her ears drooping. ''I never expected my sister to be infected by it... But, when I finally realized she was, it was too late.'' Pinkie Pie whimpered. ''I want to hear what else happened.'' Luna nodded at Pinkie gratefully, and carried on. As she explained the dream confrontation, her ears slowly began to droop and her head lowered until she was looking directly at the floor. ''...and after they tied us down, The Nightmare...she...'' Luna's voice wobbled, and she stopped. ''Luna?'' Celestia put a hoof on her sister's shoulder. ''It's okay.'' Luna nodded, and straightened her posture slightly. ''She was inside our mind, forcing us to say such horrid lies to Twilight.'' Her voice dropped to a whisper. ''She...She made us tell Twilight we tried to kill her. Then we managed to escape, and told Twilight to run. We wanted to tell her to run from the Nightmare, to us. But that fiend cast a hex on us, forcing us take on her form and preventing us from speaking a definitive word of truth to her.'' ''That explains the Nightmare Moon get-up.'' Rainbow grumbled. ''Would've been nice to know that earlier.'' ''We expected her to understand our message, and that we'd have her safe and sound by sunset, but....'' Luna cut off, and Celestia understood she couldn't go on. ''When I sent royal guards to retrieve Twilight, she must have panicked and misunderstood Luna's message as a warning to run from us. She teleported away, and hasn't been seen since.'' Pinkie Pie's hair deflated scarily fast, her expression plain and simple. Despair. ''And now Nightmare Moon...Twilight...'' Pinkie burst into tears. ''Noooo!'' She wailed. ''Twilight can't be evil! I don't want to fight heeeeeer!'' The group tried to comfort Pinkie, to tell her that wasn't true, but they couldn't find the words to do so - after all, the same worry was rooted in their minds too.
Chapter 7 - Debates.Chapter 7 - Debates. Twilight was tired. No, that was too simple. 'Tired' defined a pony after a day at work or school. Twilight was much more than tired. She could say exhausted, but that was only her physical state. She felt mentally wracked, something sleep couldn't fix. ''Twilight?'' Broken Dawn sounded concerned, for good reason. ''I think we should rest. We've got a long way to go, and we're weak and exposed right now.'' No. Twilight replied with her thoughts, determined to stay true to her promise of no speaking. I can't rest now. I need to figure all this out. ''But Luna herself told us she and her sister tried to kill you. What more do you need to know?'' Why. Twilight was starting to feel annoyed - she was starting to lose track of her thoughts, and she didn't feel up to mentally retracing her steps. ''Twilight, it's because of me. You've not read anything different, have you? Because I can guarantee it's not true. Broken's voice started to become more frantic, and Twilight decided to intervene before she could start worrying further. No, I haven't. But that's what I'm thinking about. How did they know, and why did they decide death was the right way? I mean, Luna only got banishment. Twilight's ears drooped. Why did she only get banished? ''Maybe she cared about Luna more. Broken's voice faded for a moment, and Twilight could tell by the slight twinges in her head that she was thinking hard about something. Go on? She prompted, her curiosity piqued. ''It's one of two things. Either she learnt from her past experience with Nightmare Moon, and many before that, resurfacing after a short punishment. Or...'' She trailed off. Or...? Twilight was starting to get annoyed again, and her trail of thoughts were completely shattered. She could only hold onto them and hope she could resume thinking once this little shred of conversation was over. ''She's feared you for a long time and decided it was much safer. Or she's hated you, and couldn't wait to kill you. Celestia's a very good actor.'' Twilight felt her hooves stop in shock, and she forced them to start moving again. Stop it. Broken, go back to sleep. Please. ''Of course, Twilight.'' With that, the presence she had felt since the conversation's start faded, leaving Twilight with her built-upon and confusing thoughts. Applejack and the rest of her friends were gathered in their large room. Princess Celestia had given them permission to stay while they decided what to do, even giving them one of the only rooms in the castle big enough to accommodate five ponies. Since they had arrived, the five had been locked in deep debate about what to do. ''I say we go find her.'' Dash's brash voice was full of an unmoving stubbornness. She had been circling the air since the talk had started, and she had been repeating that same sentence for the past ten minutes or so. ''Rainbow, fer the last time, as much as we'd love to save Twilight, we have to wait.'' Applejack sighed. ''The Princesses have a plan, you know that. They just need some time to work it all out.'' Fluttershy gently raised her voice. ''And anyway, the Princesses said the most likely place they've gone to is the Everfree Forest...'' She trailed off. Applejack frowned, confused. ''Sugarcube, what do ya'll mean, they?'' Fluttershy shifted in place. ''Well, the princesses said that there were two ponies in Twilight's mind, remember? So it makes sense to say they.'' Dash rolled her eyes. ''Saying 'they' implies Twilight's agreeing with that thing. No, I'm gonna stick to her.'' She spat the first words out angrily, increasing her flying speed until a few loose papers drifted out of place. ''Rainbow, please stop. You're moving all my notes!'' Rarity spoke up for the first time, levitating the misplaced papers back into a neat pile. Applejack noticed for the first time the books piled around Rarity. Dash slowed to a stop, and let herself drift from the air. ''Research?'' She asked. Rarity nodded, not taking her eyes off the book in front of her. Applejack lifted her head. ''Ya got anything, Rares?'' The white unicorn sighed and spun around to face the others. ''Quite a lot, actually. But it's not good news, any of it.'' Her ears drooped, and even her mane seemed to lose a little of it's life. ''Well?'' Pinkie spoke up from her corner where she had been moping. She had been inconsolable, and Applejack was starting to worry. Rarity sighed again. ''It says here that the thing infecting Twilight isn't an infection at all, more of a vengeful spirit burdened with immortality.'' Rarity had the five mare's attention now, and all but Pinkie had shifted to gather around her, listening intently. ''The books I've read all say the same thing - The victim is in complete control of what goes on until convinced that the spirit inside it has the right idea. The victim goes through three main stages before they reach what is known as 'Nightmare Mode.'' ''The spirit first begins to converse with the victim and through that it gains access from it's memories. This is followed up by twisting an event in the victim's life to turn it against others, forcing them to harbor a false hatred. Finally, the victim starts to fully listen to the spirit, to the point where they will run away to converse in peace, when they name the spirit.'' ''Nightmare Moon.'' Fluttershy whispered. Rarity nodded, and continued to read from her notes. ''After giving in to Nightmare Mode, the spirit gains full access to everything, and will often change to a nightmarish version of their host, hence the name Nightmare Mode. It will often be a alicorn-sized version of their race, with an intense amount of power that could match Princess Celestia. If it were to take on a strong host, say an alicorn or an individual with tremendous power, Equestria as we know it could be completely destroyed. The only thing powerful enough to stop the nightmare is an ancient power known as the 'Elements Of Harmony.' Without these, the bearer must be killed. There is only one other way to cure the victim, but it has only been used once, and has been passed off as a rumor.'' ''However, even after being cured by the Elements, the victim may still believe in the spirits ideals, and will attempt to continue what it started. After being freed from their spell, one victim was known to kill thirteen ponies and then herself. This has also been passed off as a rumor, though scientific evidence has been brought forth that may prove it true.'' A silence filled the room, stretching on long after Rarity had finished. It was broken only by a quiet sobbing coming from the corner.
Chapter 8 - The Purity StoneApplejack gazed blankly at the grand room she and her friends had been gathered in, not really paying attention to anything. Since they discovered that it was impossible to 'free' Twilight without the Elements, all of them had been distant. Even Rainbow Dash, who had weakly tried to protest it wasn't all over, had fallen victim to the depression surrounding the group. Even news that the Princess' had made a breakthrough didn't lift their moods. ''Ah, Elements of Harmony. We are glad you could join us.'' Princess Celestia's voice startled Applejack, and she lifted her head to look at the tall figures. ''Princess.'' Applejack nodded respectfully, trying to keep the mournful tone out of her voice. Luna frowned. ''Applejack, what is wrong? We - I, can tell something is wrong.'' Applejack sighed, and looked to the ground. ''Please tell us we can save Twilight! There must be something other than the E-Elements!'' Dash's loud voice sounded unusually strained, and it was impossible to miss the desperate sadness she hadn't managed to hide. Both of the Princess' faces softened in understanding. Luna drifted forward and placed a hoof on the pegasus' shoulder. ''Rainbow Dash, I am sorry you had to hear that.'' Dash's eyes widened, and a strangled sob Applejack would never manage to forget escaped from the pegasus' mouth. Luna gasped at the reaction. ''O-Oh, no! Rainbow Dash, we did not mean it as though it is true!'' Pinkie lifted her head. ''N-not true?'' She sputtered, her voice shaky from lack of use. Celestia nodded, stepping forward to stand beside her sister. ''Not everything you read in books is true, especially theoretical ones. No, there is one other way.'' In less than a second, all of the happiness that the pink earth pony had been searching was returned. Grey, limp hair inflated and brightened. Hooves shot into the air in an excited bounce, and the grin all of them had been missing seemed bigger than ever. ''Really?'' Pinkie Pie's energetic voice seemed to send the first shakes of happiness through Applejack, and from the smiles on her friend's faces, she wasn't the only one. All of them shuffled closer, and Dash almost rocketed upwards. Luna and Celestia nodded. ''Yes.'' The sun princess looked upwards. ''The stone that only exists when it is most needed, created by us in case of an emergency.'' ''Where is it?'' Dash had came to a hovering stop, just above the group. Luna chuckled nervously. ''You must understand what we meant by emergency, Rainbow Dash. Ou- My sister meant it should be used when a very strong or important pony became...Let's say infected.'' She coughed, looking anywhere but the group. ''Like you?'' Fluttershy whispered, eyes wide. Luna nodded. ''And, being a very intelligent infection, I may or have not thrown it into an teleportation abyss, sending it Who-knows-where.'' The group's blank stares prompted Luna to speak again. ''In short, I sent it away and have no idea where it ended up.'' She chuckled again, this time much more nervously. ''And now you know why it wasn't used on me! Hooray!'' Dash facehoofed.
Chapter 1 - In the Castle''Goodnight, sister. We shall see you in the morning!'' Luna called to her sister, closing her bedroom door behind her. Slowly, she turned to face her bed...and was instantly hit with a huge wave if happy nostalgia. ''It's exactly the same!'' She squealed, running over to the half moon shaped bed. Climbing into bed, she snuggled under the covers and fell asleep almost instantly. Luna bit her lip, trying desperately to hide behind her hair as she stepped up to the podium. Ponies stared at her, faces showing happiness, curiosity and more commonly hate. ''H-Hello Everypony. W-We have returned, as you can pro-probably see.'' She stuttered out, forgetting the first thing Celestia had told her to do - hide her accent. The effects of her slip-up were immediate. ''I knew it! I knew she still had that thing inside her!'' A brown stallion roared, stomping to the front of the crowd. A few ponies around him stomped their hooves in agreement. ''N-No!'' Luna squeaked. ''Y-you don't understand! We always speak like this! This is the royal we, yes?'' Luna's squeaky answer only served as a fuel for the fire before her. ''Ha!'' A light pink mare laughed cruelly. ''You think you're royalty?! Never! You're a traitor, if Princess Celestia had an inkling of sense in her she'd send you right back up to the moon!'' ''S-Sister would never do that!'' Luna weakly stomped a hoof down. ''She loves me!'' More cruel laughs from the ponies below, the whole crowd now laughing and taunting her. Luna tried to take a step back from the crowd, but tripped and fell. She lay there, not bothering to try and get up, tears streaking down her face. ''Luna?'' Out of nowhere, a hoof poked her in the side twice. ''Luna, wake up.'' Luna opened her eyes, and the first thing she noticed was she was no longer lying on the cold, hard floor of Canterlot but in her comfortable bed in the castle. Looking up, she saw Celestia stood over her with a worried expression on her face. ''Celly, what's wrong?'' Luna asked, pulling herself into a sitting position. ''I think the question is, Luna, what's wrong with you?'' Her sister replied, bringing a hoof to her face to wipe away tears Luna hadn't realized were there. Luna dropped her head, looking anywhere but her sister. ''Nothing, nothing at all dear sister! We are just fine.'' ''Ponies who are 'just fine' don't cry in their sleep, Lulu.'' ''We know.'' Was all Luna could say. After a brief silence, she slowly lifted her gaze to her sister. ''We know that far too well, sister.'' This time it was Celestia who dropped her gaze. ''I'm sorry, Lulu.'' ''We know.'' Luna lifted her forelegs to hug her sister. ''We're sorry too.'' The two sisters stayed like that for as long as they possible could, sharing their first hug in over two thousand years. Eventually though, they broke their embrace when a guard knocked on the door to remind Celestia that the two sisters needed to go out and address the crowds that were anxious to see their new princess. Celestia smiled down at Luna in the most reassuring way possible, and took her hoof. Twilight, this time, was woken by sunlight streaming through her window. Rubbing her eyes and lifting herself out of bed, the lavender pony walked towards the bathroom. On her way she passed the mirror. Glancing sideways, she did a quick check to make sure everything was in order. Mane, check. Tail, check. Coat, check. Hooves, check. Horn, check. Black on the end of horn, check. Nodding at herself in approval, Twilight trotted to the bathroom. Yesterday had been a long day, and Twilight was ready to take a nice long sho- ''What in the name of Tartarus?!'' Twilight yelled aloud, twenty seconds late. Running back to the mirror, she checked again, scanning the mirror frantically. Nothing. Same purple, not-black-tipped horn. Twilight blinked, feeling slightly embarrassed at her crazy reaction. It didn't. Shaking her head, she slowly made her way back to the bathroom and stepped into the shower. ''I just imagined it.'' She muttered to herself, then laughed aloud when she realized how dumb she must sound. ''Of course I imagined it!'' She said, more confident. She had big plans for today, and she wasn't about to let her runaway imagination get in the way! Half an hour later... ''Come on Spike! We're going to be late for Princess Celestia's speaking, and she want's me to be there!'' Twilight tapped the floor in impatience, slowly growing more annoyed with her assistant. Her assistant had been looking around the kitchen for a gem to eat for almost ten minutes, and Twilight knew they would be at least ten minutes late if they didn't leave in the next thirty seconds. ''I'm sorry Twilight, but I've been taking care of the Gem for ages, an- Aha! there it is! Coming, Twilight!'' A few moments later, Spike ran out of the kitchen, a sparkling blue sapphire in his hands and quickly jumped up onto Twilight's back. He wasn't very fast, even compared to Twilight, and Twilight being late meant she was going to try and hit top speeds to prevent being late. Twilight did exactly that. Luna didn't know when she had started shaking like a little filly, but the one thing she did know was she couldn't stop. ''Celly.'' She whispered to her sister. ''We're scared.'' Celestia looked at her sister, and gently nuzzled her. ''Please, Lulu. Try to be strong.'' ''But what if they hate us? What if they think We are a traitor and should be sent back up to the moon?'' Luna started shaking harder at the memory of her dream. ''Wh-What if-'' ''Lulu, think of it like this. Who's the one with the power to send ponies to the moon?'' Celestia's voice was almost stern. ''Y-You?'' ''Are you sure it isn't the ponies out there?'' Luna shook her head, confused. ''Celly, what is the point in tha-'' ''So why are you worrying if they can't do anything to you?'' Celestia now had a small smirk on her face. ''...'' Luna couldn't answer that. ''Exactly.'' Celestia laughed. ''Let's go, Lulu. And remember, Sticks and stones-'' ''May break my bones, but words will never hurt me.'' Luna smiled and finished her sister's favorite saying.
