Sterling Spear was a good guard. Exceptional even. He did his job, kept his armor polished, followed orders, and never took unnecessary risks. He certainly never questioned Princess Celestia, or her decisions.
Until recently.
All his life, he had thought that Nightmare Moon was just an Old Mare’s Tale. Everyone had. An evil mare living on the moon? Ludicrous. But here he was, standing in front of the large, ebony chamber doors a very real pony. He wouldn’t believe it himself, if he hadn’t seen everything personally. The events that had brought him here only had happened a few weeks ago, and were still fresh in his mind.
To say the castle staff had been surprised when Princess Celestia had vanished, and the Nightmare Moon had appeared near the Everfree Forest, would have been an understatement. It had been utter panic. The only reason Captain Shining Armor hadn’t ordered an all-out assault on the area was because the citizens of Canterlot had nearly descended into anarchy, and required the Guards to try and maintain some semblance of order. Even after all his years of service, Sterling was still surprised at how easily most ponies would fly into a blind panic, especially the supposed ‘nobles.’ Three shops had been reduced to rubble, most others were robbed and/or damaged in some way, and someone had managed to set a public fountain on fire. However, there were no fatalities or serious injury, so there was that. At least the local law firms were having good business afterwards.
Even after Celestia had returned, an air of unease still filled the capital. Although everyone was relieved that she was unharmed, they were still nervous about who had returned with her.
Nightmare Moon herself.
Celestia’s return was greeted with great fanfare, which promptly ended when a second alicorn made her appearance. The princess had proclaimed that her long-lost sister had returned to all of Canterlot. Of course, she had to include why she had been lost. Naturally those present, having been raised with a holiday centered on a foal-gobbling monster, didn’t take it too well. At least it wasn’t as bad as the previous panic-induced riot, since most everything had been damaged already. Silver linings and all that. Thankfully, Celestia managed to pacify the crowd with a mere word before anything got out of hoof. Then the two retired to the castle, where the staff got their first close encounter with Nightmare Moon.
They all had been surprised that she was so…small. From all the reports, Nightmare Moon was at least as tall as Celestia, maybe taller, blacker than darkness itself, with razor-sharp teeth and a mane of crushed stars. The frail-looking pony that had arrived, however, was only slightly taller than most of the staff. In fact, some of the larger guards stood about a hoof taller than her. Her coat was a pale violet, and her mane was light blue, and looked like any other mane. Teal eyes had nervously scanned the crowd, not at all resembling the dragon-like slits that had been reported. She didn’t look like this terrifying monster born from the nightmares of small foals, but like a scared filly that clung to the Princess’ legs like she was her mother.
At the time Celestia had to physically block her from the Guards that were present, because they had tried to attack the supposed intruder on sight. Not that anyone could blame them, what the Princess being missing and suddenly appearing with an unknown pony. And an alicorn no less. The only known alicorn besides Celestia and Cadance was the one and only Nightmare Moon. Had he been there, Sterling would have probably done the same. Instead, he had reluctantly watched from his station in the tower above, just within earshot. While eavesdropping was considered highly unprofessional, Sterling thought it best to…keep up with all that goes on inside the castle walls.
She had claimed that Nightmare Moon had been destroyed by the ‘Elements of Harmony’ (which no one had ever heard of before, yet she had brought those back with her as well), and that the pony that was behind her, this long-lost ‘Princess Luna,’ was not a threat to anyone. At first, some of those present had strongly voiced their disapproval of the situation, and when a Guard moved to take her into custody, he was stopped with just a look from the Princess. None of the staff could recall Celestia having such a threatening glare in her eyes, and Sterling would swear to his grave that he could feel the air get hotter. He also thought he saw her mane become less like a flowing breeze, and more like a flickering fire, if only for a moment. While it could have simply been a trick of the light, no one wanted to witness their Princess’ fury, let alone have it brought to bear against them. Needless to say, most the staff at that point had decided to trust their princess’s judgement on the matter for now, and thought it best to not speak of the matter any longer.
The Guards, however, were a slightly different story. Most believed that Nightmare Moon had somehow influenced Celestia’s mind, and was waiting for the perfect time to seize power of Equestria. The entire story was suspicious: these ‘relics’ suddenly appearing out of nowhere, and magically made Nightmare Moon good, smiles and happy endings everywhere, la-tee-da. Even if one of them had supposedly been wielded be Celestia’s own student, the whole situation seemed like a hoax. Sterling was one of the staunchest believers of this. He personally didn’t even believe that the two alicorns were related at all. However he, like all of the Guards, dared not to voice these concerns. Partially out of fear of their Princess’ wrath, but more out of caution of Nightmare Moon catching on to their suspicions.
And then there were the bat-ponies. Or, as they had introduced themselves, the ‘Thestrals.’ There had always been rumors that there was a type of pony that were essentially bat-like Pegasi, but they had never been able to be proven until now. The very day after Nightmare Moon had appeared, a group of them had appeared on the doorstep of the castle, claiming to be envoys of their species. Most of them had pale gray coats, with the occasional shade of blue or purple, and seemed to be much fluffier and bulkier than a normal pegasus. Their eyes were brighter, and more various in color, with yellows, oranges, blues, greens, and so on. Although, the way they reflected light which made it look like they glowed unnerved a lot of the staff. The slitted pupils didn’t help either. Creepy.
Apparently, they had lived in a secret village (In a location they were unwilling to divulge to anyone but Princess Celestia herself, which did nothing to ease the Guards’ concerns) for years before being discovered by Nightmare Moon. She had employed them as her Night Guards up until her banishment a thousand years ago. Ever since then, they had maintained a warrior-like culture, focusing on rigorous physical training, preparing for the day she would return. Now that she had, they wanted to volunteer as her Night Guards once again.
Naturally, the Royal Guards had wanted to turn these rather dubious individuals away, but Princess Celestia had welcomed them graciously. She almost cracked the walls with the force she opened the doors with. Her reaction to these freaks of nature only fed the mind-control rumors more. No one was happy about practically presenting Nightmare Moon with her own personal army, but their hooves were tied. There was nothing they could do without risking arousing Nightmare Moon’s suspicions.
Fortunately, Captain Armor had insisted that he test the newcomers himself, arguing that they would have to go through the same official Guard training that anyone else, no matter how much personal training they had gone through. Thankfully, Princess Celestia had agreed.
He had left out his true intentions: to test their loyalties.
However, their ‘training’ would not be completed for some time, and the law stated that the Princess(es?) were required to have at least one guard personally assigned to them at all times, despite their considerable power. And since there was now a new Princess, a new personal guard had to be appointed. So, the Captain had called for volunteers. Sterling had been the only one to step forward. As one of the more senior guards, he felt he would be the one best to keep an eye on Nightmare Moon.
It hadn’t been easy. He only had two hours free at the end of every twelve, during which the Captain would randomly assign someone else to the job while Sterling tended to personal matters. Food, drink, sleep, relieving himself, reporting on Nightmare Moon’s activities, things like that. Which wouldn’t be so bad, if she ever left her chambers! She simply stayed there all day and night, doing who knows what, and her only contact to the outside world was when Princess Celestia would bring her meals. He had been tempted to listen the door, but one of the first things Nightmare Moon had done was put up a soundproofing spell on her door.
Likely so no one overhear her plans, he thought to himself.
He shuffled his hooves, causing the pale violet armor he wore rattle around him. He still hadn’t gotten the damn thing fitted properly, so it was loose fitting and extremely uncomfortable. Apparently, a fair amount of Night Guard armor had been sitting in a warehouse somewhere gathering dust for last thousand years or so. Most of them were made to fit bat ponies, or at least a Pegasus, and so that Sterling’s Earth Pony frame had required longer straps to stay on. Unfortunately, in the rush to assign a guard to Nightmare Moon, there hadn’t been time to properly measure the armor for size, and so it hung awkwardly in some places. Getting those measurements wouldn’t be difficult, a few minutes and few cuts and the job was done. Not that he felt the need to, however. After Nightmare Moon was gone, this old piece of garbage would back in storage, or better yet, melted down into something useful. He couldn’t wait to be back in gold.
Sterling let his gaze drift to the polished floor, and he saw his reflection. The stallion that was there looked be twice his age under that armor. His once metallic silvery coat seemed to be fading with fatigue, from many long days and nights of service. For a moment, he considered removing his helmet to check his mane as well, but he knew his copper mane had lost its sheen long ago. His once piercing green eyes had become dull with age and exhaustion. He closed his eyes, and let himself drift away for a moment.
Maybe after Nightmare’s dealt with, I’ll request a vacation. He thought to himself. After all this, I’m sure the Captain will give me leave. Who knows? Maybe I’ll meet a nice mare while I’m away, settle down, and finally get Mother off my back about that. I’m sick of her weekly letters with pictures of single mares she knows. How she knows all about my personal life from halfway across Equestria, I’ll never know.
He allowed himself a small chuckle, and shook his head.
Ah, who am I kidding? I’ll never slow down enough to give a mare the attention she’d deserve. I’ll probably serve the crown until I get kicked out, or drop dead. A family sounds nice, but guard life doesn’t work well with that, and retirement’s just not for me. Although, there is that rumor about the Captain and Princess-
Sterling’s thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the chamber door clicking open. He immediately snapped to attention, a reflex built up from years of service to the crown. He was surprised to see Nightmare Moon herself exit, with Princess Celestia not far behind.
“Are you certain you are ready, Luna?” Celestia was saying. She seemed worried. “I have done this task for a long time, I can handle a few nights more.”
“Yes, sister.” Nightmare Moon replied. Sterling was surprised that her voice was so…weak. He had overhead a traveler from Ponyville-the town at which Nightmare Moon had revealed herself-that her voice was low and haunting, yet was so clear and powerful that one could feel it. This pony spoke with a voice that would make a sick kitten seem like an acclaimed orator. He fell into step behind the two alicorns, glad to finally move from his post, and eager to hear more.
Celestia spoke again.
“If you aren’t sure, then I will gladly-”
“I am sure.” Nightmare Moon cut her off, “It hast been too long since I have embraced the night sky. ‘Tis my charge, and I am ready to take it upon myself once more.”
She thinks she can just claim the moon? Sterling mentally scoffed, After what she has done, she’s lucky not to be in chains.
Celestia sighed, and a weak smile appeared on her lips.
“Alright, I understand.”
Nightmare Moon smiled back.
“Thank you.”
Thankfully, neither seemed to notice when Sterling nearly tripped out of shock.
They walked on in silence for a moment, the last few rays of day before sunset shining through the stained glass.
“Besides, I hast seen what thou hast done with mine night. I believe I did produce better work as a filly.” Nightmare Moon snorted.
She dares insult the Princess!? Sterling thought, outraged. She has no respect! Surely Celestia will not tolerate this!
He was shocked Celestia actually laughed.
“I have no doubt. Even after all these years, I could never come close to the art you produced.” She wrapped a wing around the smaller alicorn, and smiled warmly. “I look forward to seeing it again.”
Sterling tried to hide his shock and fury as he followed behind the two.
What is she thinking!? This is Nightmare Moon!She tried to kill her, usurp the throne, and plunge the world into eternal night! And now she is just giving the monster control of the moon!?
By now, he had no doubt. Princess Celestia was completely under Nightmare Moon’s enthrallment. He would report this directly to Captain Armor as soon as he could. Then they would have to figure out a way to free the Princess, and then confront Nightmare Moon herself. Perhaps they could secretly get in contact with the ponies that had used to Elements? But that would only work if any part of that story were true…
For now, Sterling decided he should bide his time. He was just one Earth Pony, he wouldn’t stand a chance against two alicorns alone. Not that he was afraid of dying. He had lost comrades before, and most of the time it could have just have easily been him. He had made his peace with that long ago, and was ready to give his life if the need arose. However, he wasn’t stupid. He knew there was a fine line between sacrifice and suicide.
Soon, they reached a balcony on the south side of the castle, where Celestia always raised and lower the sun and moon. As the three stepped out into the open air, a light summer breeze swept up around them. Nightmare Moon paused. She closed her eyes, and let the wind blow around her, as it gently played with her mane. She opened her wings stretched, letting feel open air for the first time in what must have been in weeks.
Celestia stepped up to her side.
“Are you ready, Luna?”
Nightmare Moon took a deep breath, and then opened her eyes. They were shining like stars, filled with determination. Sterling didn’t like it.
“I am, sister.”
Celestia smiled softly and turned to face the sun as it rested on the horizon, waiting for its nightly rest. She ignited her horn, and slowly guided the sun below the horizon, causing the sky to blaze in a brilliant sunset. One of the most beautiful sunsets Sterling had ever witnessed, as far he could recall. Although, it did seem a bit rushed, as though Celesita was anxious for what came next.
Once the sun had disappeared from the sky, and the reds, oranges, and yellows had faded to darkness, Celestia stepped back to stand next to Sterling, leaving Nightmare Moon alone towards the balcony’s edge.
The smaller alicorn looked back at them and smirked.
“Putting on a brilliant show today, are we?”
“I have been putting in a bit more effort as of late. I have something wonderful to celebrate, after all.” Celestia replied. Sterling noticed she sounded a bit…choked up? Perhaps she was trying to break free from Nightmare Moon’s spell?
Celestia glanced down at the plaza below them, where ponies could come at witness the Princess perform the task of the day/night cycle. Few ponies were ever present for the coming of night, as most were getting ready for bed. Some came to see the dawn, but most came for the Summer Sun Celebration. The plaza was empty tonight.
“I only wish there were others here to celebrate with us.” She said sadly.
Nightmare Moon looked down as well, and sighed.
“In the past, I would have wanted more as well. But, at least for tonight-“ she looked up at Sterling and Celestia “-an audience of two shall enough.”
With that she turned away from them, and lit her horn.
Celestia leaned over and whispered:
“You’ll want to pay attention to this, Sterling. I promise it will be grand.”
That didn’t fill him with confidence. Instead, he began to think rapidly. (Not panic, never. Royal Guards don’t panic.)
Are we too late? Is Nightmare Moon about to begin her plan? What is she going to do? What should I do? Do I have to face her-and possibly Celestia-ALONE????
Before he could decide on a course of action, Nightmare Moon spread her wings and lifted gracefully into the air, and with her…
…came the moon.
It rose in perfect sync with the one who called it. And as it rose, the moon seemed to pulse with light, like a heart that had come back from the dead. With each beat of the alicorn’s wings, the light grew brighter and brighter, until it was almost as bright as day. While he was concerned, Sterling had to admit: The moon looked beautiful.
Sterling held his breath, waiting for the evil laughter to start. It never came. Princess Celestia stayed seated, and Nightmare Moon hovered in the air, both basking in the light of the moon.
Well, the moon is up, and she hasn’t tried to conquer Equestria yet, so that’s a plus. I guess that’s it then. He thought, as he moved to escort them back, Once Nightmare’s back in her chambers, I’ll have to inform Captain Armor about this. He’ll have to decide what to do ne-
Princess Celestia stopped him with a hoof, not looking away from the spectacle before them.
“Wait.” She said, barely even a whisper, “She’s not done yet.”
No sooner had it been said, then sky erupted with stars. Hundreds upon thousands of stars, forming constellations that Sterling had never seen before. Nor could he recall seeing stars so bright and clear before.
The small specks of light swirled through the sky, twinkling and shining, swooping and soaring, and blazing with white light all the while. It almost seemed as if they were…celebrating? Dancing, even?
As the stars continued their grand dance, the sky itself began to change. No longer was it a dark, dull void. Instead, colors Sterling had never seen there before burst from the ether. Blues, and violets of all description, some shades he doubted had existed before now. There were even touches of orange and green here and there. It was as if the entire cosmos had come and joined the festivities.
As the dance went on and the sky swirled, he swore he could hear something. No, not heard. There wasn’t sound, not exactly. It was more like…he felt it, like it was resonating with his very soul. He couldn’t discern and particular beat or rhythm, but it didn’t seem to matter. It was…joyful. A song of pure, unhindered jubilation, echoing from the heavens above.
He saw lights begin to appear from the homes of Canterlot. Apparently, he wasn’t the only one that felt this way. Ponies all across Canterlot were waking, perhaps across all of Equestria. He could even see light appear in the windows of the Castle itself, and staff members wandering outside, all bearing witness to the spectacle in the skies above. It seemed she had her audience after all. And he was in the front row.
Suddenly, some of the stars separated from the others, and began to swirl around the blue alicorn that had called them. Faster and faster they spun, until she was fully bathed in their light.
Sterling snapped out of his awe, alarmed at this change. Again, his mind began to race.
Is this it? Something’s happening! Something really, really important! What do I do? WHAT DO I-
He became aware of the touch of a gentle hoof on his shoulder, and looked to his right. Princess Celestia and her warm, motherly smile greeted him.
She spoke.
“Do not fear, my brave little pony. All is well.”
She looked to the light before them, and at the pony within.
“I know about the rumors around the castle. And I do not blame you for distrusting her. But it is not needed. My sister is free. She is sane.”
She swung her gaze back at him, her smile growing wider. And…were those tears in her eyes? He had never seen her cry before.
“She is home.”
As they looked back to glowing ball before them, the light began to fade, and lower closer to the floor. The stars then returned to the dance above, leaving an alicorn in their place.
But not as she was before.
She was a little taller, almost Celestia’s height now. Her coat had become a midnight blue, and a mane that mirrored the celebration above, dancing and swaying to its own rhythm. She stood tall, with an air of confidence, as a completely different pony than the one had first come the castle.
Celestia cheered and bounded over to her, and scooped her up in a loving embrace, which the dark blue alicorn returned.
She guided…well, her sister, back inside with a wing, chattering and giggling like a school filly, showering her with praise. As they passed him, Celestia quickly leaned down and whispered to him:
“I told you it would be grand.” and left Sterling to process what had just happened.
He had never seen Celestia so…alive. Sure, he had seen her happy, such as when she was working with foals, but this…this was different. She seemed to genuinely love this pony, as any older sister would the younger. Sterling had dealt with mind-control cases before, and never had there been a reaction like this. Often the victim would form an attachment to their captor, but there was always a limit, a nervous tick, a tiny rebellion, something. Even if they were make-believe lovers. But this had none of that, not even a hint.
This was real.
“Um, Sterling? Sterling Spear, was it?” a voice called, snapping him back to reality.
The blue alicorn was staring at him, with a mixture of confusing and unease. Celestia was a bit ahead, looking back at them.
“Shall thee be joining us?” she asked. Her voice…it was stronger now, but still held a warmth and tenderness. It reminded him of a lullaby him mother used to sing to him as a foal.
Sterling shook his head, and snapped to attention. His armor rattling slightly, but he was starting to get used to it. Maybe he would finally get it fitted properly tonight.
“Yes, right away N-” he stopped himself. The mare before him…he wasn’t sure if this was Nightmare Moon anymore. After what he had just witnessed, he wasn’t sure what to believe anymore.
He saw her eyes. They were calm and caring, but old. Far older than his. They were eyes of a pony who had lived long, and done much. And had many regrets. So many, many regrets. Surely, no pony as evil as Nightmare Moon could have eyes like that, right?
In that instant of hesitation, Sterling Spear, one of the Royal Guards best and brightest, decided to take a risk.
“Right away…Princess Luna.”
Author's Note
((Holy crap I didn't expect this to get so popular so quick. It even got featured!~~(In four hours!~~
~~)~~ I have words right now, but thank you all!))
