My Little Pony: An Unexpected Return

Chapters

Prologue
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 17
Chapter 18

Prologue

"Are you sure Cadence wants the rubies?" a rugged-looking pony asked his boss.

"Most definitely, but grab amethysts just in case," Emerald Jackpot said, looking around in the cavern, dug up so long ago. " We don't want to upset her."

"You got it, Emerald," the worker said, trotting away.

"Emerald watched as he walked away, then turned back to the cave. She was worked for the Crystal Princess for many years now, and enjoyed every minute of it. Every day, Emerald and her crew went to the Crystal Cavern to collect precious gems to supply every order received from across Equestria. Their biggest orders were from cadence herself and a pony from Ponyville. I wonder who it is, Emerald thought.

Suddenly, a filly came running into the tunnel; frantically. "Emerald!" she cried.

Emerald turned towards her, surprised. "Sapphire? What's wrong?"

Emerald's sister, Sapphire Sunlight, came up to her, breathing choppily. "Emerald - Hurry - The Heart - Black roots - "

"Calm down, Sapphire. What exactly-"

"THERE'S BLACK MAGIC AT THE CRYSTAL HEART!!!"

Emerald froze in shock. Could it be...?

As they began to run towards the Crystal Empire's source of energy, all of a sudden the cavern began to shake. Emerald watched in horror as all of the crystals' colors began to fade - and all the colors rose through the ceiling.

Directly below the Heart.

" NO!" The crystal unicorn cried. She pulled the emergency lever near the exit. "Everypony out of here, NOW! We have to protect the Heart!"

Soon, all the ponies in the cavern came to the exit, but when they reached the stairs, they gasped and backed away.

Before them stood an old enemy, a grey unicorn with a black mane, a red-tipped horn, and furious red eyes. With an evil laugh, he lowered his head as his horn began to glow.

As his eyes began to emit purple gas, he laughed and said, 'So long, little ones.'

His horn gave a flash of indigo light, and then the cavern crumbled to the ground.

Chapter 1

The view any window in Canterlot gave was perfect. The one view the lavender alicorn loved, however, was the window that let her see her home, Ponyville.

Princess Celestia wanted Twilight at the castle more recently than ever, due to a message from Twilight's student, Starlight Glimmer. The letter said she was going to return from Canterlot High in a couple of days. Twilight was overjoyed, but something felt wrong.

"Twilight? You okay?" Spike asked, gliding over to her. Ever since the young dragon grew wings, he's been flying around wherever he went.

"Hey, Spike," Twilight said. "I don't know, it's just..."

"Something gettin' to ya?"

"It's real. I mean, I'm excited that Starlight's coming back, but... I don't know." The alicorn looked out the window again. "I feel something's happening in Ponyville. Something that could end badly..."

"Well..." Spike looked up suddenly, a fierce glow in his dragon eyes. "On the plus side, we'll be ably to go back soon."

"What do you mean, Spike?" Twilight asked curiously.

"Princess Celestia wants you at the mirror. Starlight's coming back."

...

Starlight looked around the little room where the portal was located. Nothing's really changed, huh? she thought, then giggled. The unicorn couldn't help but feel joyful about seeing her friends from Equestria, especially her mentor. It's been too long since she'd seen the Princess and her dragon.

Suddenly, there was a flash of pink, and Starlight got tackled in a hug.

"STARLIGHT!" Pinkie Pie cried with joy

Starlight giggled. "Hey, Pinkie!" When she saw the rest of the group, she gasped and smiled. "Hey, guys!"

As the ponies came in to hug their friend, they asked her about the other dimension.

"What's the fashion like there?" Rarity asked, eyes shining in curiosity.

"Uh, well... For starters, everyone wears clothes."

"WHAT?!? That's ridiculous!" Rainbow Dash cried in shock.

"I wouldn't call it 'crazy, Dash," Applejack sighed.

Flutershy raised her wing. "Um, well, I was wondering, how were you treated?"

Starlight grinned. "I was fine, thanks for wondering, Fluttershy."

As they talked, Twilight came charging through the door.

"Starlight!"

"Twilight!"

The two ponies, teacher and student, were finally reunited.

Hugging, they pulled apart and noticed each other were tearing up. Suddenly, Spike appeared in between them.

"Um... Did I miss anything?" He asked, completely lost.

Twilight looked at each other, then both rolled over laughing.

"Ahem... Your Majesty?"

The lavender alicorn looked up in shock. She'd been too busy laughing she didn't notice the guard standing at the door.

"Sorry for making you wait, Flash."

"No, the apology is mine," Flash Sentry said, blushing. "Princess Celestia needs you in the Royal Chamber. She said it was an emergency.

Twilight looked at her friends, then back at Flash. " Do you know what about?"

When I left, I heard her mention Ponyville had a visitor...'

"Oh, that's nothing."

"But they said this so-called 'visitor' - based on his appearance - could be somehow related with the return of...of...of-"

Rainbow Dash flew up to Flash and slapped him. 'Just spit it out!"

"SOMBRA! The return of Sombra!"

Chapter 2

"Are you sure Sombra's back, Celestia?" Twilight asked, voice filled with worry.

"I'm afraid so, child," the Solar Princess said, eyes concerned. "Cadence sent us a message about an hour ago, stating Sombra appeared out of the Crystal Cavern, causing it to collapse. Soon after, he obtained the Crystal Heart, and, well..." She looked at the younger ponies. "I'm afraid the Crystal Empire is lost again."

"NOO!!!" Rarity cried, voice filled with grief. "Who will send me my gems now?!"

She covered her eyes with her hoof, but uncovered them to see everypony glaring at her. "What?"

"Right," Celestia said.

"We gotta go help!" Applejack said. "We all were able to help blast Sombra back into oblivion, can't we just do it again?"

"But last time, he didn't have the Crystal Heart. He was at a weakened state..." Fluttershy stated, shivering. "But now he has it in his possession."

"And that's not the least of our concerns," Celestia continued. "A message came from Ponyville a few minutes ago, stating a 'shadow-pony' appeared from the sky. Either it is one of Sombra's servants, or..." She shook her mane. "I am about to leave for Ponyville. I want you all to come with me."

"You bet we will!" Rainbow Dash cried, pumping a hoof into the air.

As the Mane 6 walked away, Twilight held her student back.

"Someway to come back, huh?"

"Yeah... but, on the plus side, I'm back with you." Starlight wrapped her hoof around her friend's neck. "Besides, what's wrong with an adventure to start the day off?"

...

Even before the chariot landed, the group knew there was a major problem.

"Why is everything so..." Fluttershy started.

"Dark?"

A dark cloud covered the Mane 6's beloved home, making it appear as total night.

"Is Nightmare Moon back?" Rarity asked, looking on worryingly.

Pinkie Pie giggled. "No, silly. If Nightmare Moon was back, ALL of Equestria would be dark, not just Ponyville.

"Pinkie's right," Applejack agreed. And besides, that looks more like a cloud to me. Don't y'all agree?"

"Hmm..." Twilight looked up at the cloud. It was clearly magic being used, but not for offense...

"Princess Celestia? Didn't you say that the 'shadow-pony' fell from the sky?"

Celestia looked at her former student oddly. "Yes..."

"Well, if he did fall, obviously he'd be in pain. What if, just maybe, the shadow pony uses the darkness as a healing source? Since it's only over Ponyville, it could be how, the...um...'visitor'...heals himself."

Before Celestia could answer, the chariot landed with a soft bump in front of the Town Hall.

"Excellent thinking, Twilight," Celestia praised. "Let's see how you right you are."

"Oh, Twilight, Celestia! Thank goodness you all are here!" Mayor Mare came galloping towards them, her mane standing on its end. "I see you got my message?"

"Yes, Mayor," Twilight said. "Is everypony okay?"

"Ponyville's fine," the mayor said, then turned. "Come, he is this way."

As the ponies followed, Rainbow Dash looked at her home in disbelief. Literally, two days ago, it was one of the brightest days in Equestria. Now... It was just like when Twilight first showed up.

"Um, Mayor Mare?" Starlight cleared her throat. "What exactly did this pony look like?"

"Hard to say. He was completely surrounded in the darkness when landed - funny, since he fell from a white portal. As soon as he landed, it grew dark, and next thing you know..."

"Here we are now."

Mayor mare nodded. "The medic team took him to their operation room, and that's where he is now." She looked forward again. "Speaking of which, here we are."

Opening the door, Twilight looked at her friends. "If you don't want to come in, you don't have to. You can stay out here and keep guard if you like."

Starlight stepped forward. "I'm going in."

"Me, too!" Rainbow Dash cried.

"And the rest of us will stay out here," Applejack concluded. "Good luck, y'all"

"Ready, Spike?" Twilight said, grinning.

"You bet!"

"And I'll come in as well," Celestia said.

Twilight noticed a quiver of worry in her voice.

No, not worry...

Panic

Better not to ask...

As the small group walked in, they failed to notice the well-hidden figure sitting on the beams above them, staring with fierce reptilian eyes...

Chapter 3

"Mayor Mare? Why is everything so dark in here?" Spike asked, looking around nervously.

"Apparently, he heals better this way," the mayor replied. "Our medics tried patching him up on the operating table, but his skin began blistering underneath the light, causing him to roar in pain. Eventually, the medics just turned the lights off and left him to heal in dark - and it's working for him just fine."

"And when you say, 'roar in pain'..." Rainbow Dash started.

"Yes. Quite literally roared. Scared the horseshoes off of them."

The two alicorns looked at each other in shock. "What kind of shadow pony roars? Sombra doesn't do that!" Twilight stated in suspension.

Starlight looked at Celestia, and noticed that the Princess's eyes were dilated in fear.

"Princess Celestia? Are you alright?"

"Yes, yes... quite fine," Celestia practically gasped out. "W-We should probably move forward."

Celestia continued forward shakily, with Twilight, Starlight, and mayor Mare close behind. Spike would have followed as well, had Rainbow Dash not stepped on his tail.

"Rainbow Dash, what gives?" Turning, he was surprised to see her shaking as well.

"Spike..." She said, her pupils beginning to dilate in fear. 'I think we're being followed."

"Followed? Are you sure?"

"Positive. Can't you hear the-"

Suddenly, the two heard a low growl coming from somewhere in the room.

"Sp-Sp-Spike? If you were that hungry, you could have asked R-Rarity for more gems," Dash said, starting to cower in fear.

"Th-That's not me, I sw-swear!" Spike cried, also shaking. "I-I had a double serving for breakfast today!"

"So who..."

Simultaneously, they both looked up to see fierce aqua-green reptilian eyes staring at them. As they stared in wonder, their eyes were immediately filled with fear as the creature pounced onto them at the speed of light.

...

"When do you think they're going to come back?" Applejack asked, leaning against a tree with her hat tipped over her eyes.

Rarity looked at the building and shivered. "Oh, I do hope they are alright..."

Wait... can you guys hear that?" Fluttershy asked, raising her ear towards the building.

"Ooh, they're coming BA-ack!" Pinkie Pie cried in joy.

As the sound grew louder, the group of friends realized the sound were actually screams, and soon Rainbow Dash and Spike came flying through the door, scratched, burnt, and ultimately traumatized.

"Spikey-Wikey!" Rarity cried, running toward the young dragon. Holding him up, she looked at his bruised face. "Are you alright? Please say something!"

The only response she received was a groan and a cough of smoke from her friend.

Applejack and Flash helped Rainbow onto her hooves. 'What happened in there, sugarcube?" Applejack asked in a concerning tone.

"Uh..." Suddenly, the Pegasus gasped in horror. "Oh, my gosh! We gotta warn them!"

Rainbow tried to run back into the building, but on her first step she collapsed, crying out in pain.

Immediately, everypony gathered around her. Flash looked at her wounds and sighed wearily.

"It's pretty bad, but it should heal in time," he said worryingly. "For now, however, you can't walk - or fly - without some sort of support."

As the ponies helped her up again, a shadow flew over them, and soon Princess Luna landed in front of them.

"Is everypony alright?" The Lunar Princess asked, looking them over. "The Royal Guard told me that you all were here, and - " She stopped, seeing Rainbow and Spike injured. "what happened?"

"There's a new pony in town, and Mayor Mare wanted us to see him," Applejack began to explain.

"And, well, by the looks of it, this happened." Fluttershy summed up, shivering.

"He was so...so... scary!" Rainbow Dash cried. "He looked like a pony, but he had fangs... and dragon eyes... and his horn... it was-" She stopped. "Actually his horn was pretty cool..."

Spike coughed again, then opened his eyes wearily. "That's not all," he groaned. "He looked like a pony, but with the features Rainbow Dash, he also had a dragonish scent on him. Either he came from the Dragon Lands, or..."

"Wait," Flash raised an eyebrow. "Are you suggesting he's half dragon?"

"Well, that would explain his... er... features."

"But that's ridiculous, right?" Rarity asked, looking somewhat shaken by the news.

"I don't know, Rarity," Fluttershy countered. "A lot of weird stuff has happened today. It would be no surprise if this was true as well."

"Either way, I totally call throwing him a welcoming party!"

"PINKIE!" Everyone cried, glaring at her.

"What?" The pink mare asked innocently.

As the friends began to argue why they shouldn't give him a welcoming party, Luna looked at the medic center in curiosity. A pony that could be half-dragon? Only one pony she knew matched that description perfectly; However, she hasn't seen him since she was released from her banishment. Could it be...

"Princess Luna? Where ya goin'?" Applejack asked as she saw the princess approach the door.

"I think I know who he is," Luna replied firmly. "I'm going in."

Luna ran in, only second later for the group to hear a loud roar of rage and bursts of energy being shot from inside.

"They need help!" Pinkie cried.

"Come on, y'all! Let's go help our friends out!"

Chapter 4

"Hey, you guys? Do you know where Dash and Spike went?" Twilight asked, glancing around.

" More than likely, they turned back." Starlight soon shook her head. "What am I saying? It isn't like Rainbow Dash to turn back from a threat..."

"I... I don't understand... Where did he go?" Mayor Mare questioned, looking around frantically.

"What do you mean, Mayor?" Starlight and Twilight asked with concern.

"The pony... He was right here, on this table! Now he's gone!"

"I think that he's not the only thing that should be gone..." Celestia warned, lighting her horn and flashing it towards the ceiling.

The group gasped as they saw the Ponyville Medic Team hanging unconscious from the ceiling, held only by metal bars ripped from the table and fused with the ceiling.

"Where... How... Who did - Aah!"

"Mayor Mare?"

No response. The remaining ponies glanced at each other, then formed a protective circle, horns glowing with energy.

"Where are you/ Show yourself!" Celestia cried, her voice raised in defiance.

A chuckle was heard from somewhere in the room, soon followed by a low growl. ""You of all ponies shouldn't have come here, Celestia...:"

"You know him?" Starlight asked, looking at the white alicorn.

"We have a bit of a... history, so to say," Celestia replied, then called out, "I have come to speak on a truce!"

"A TRUCE!?!" the voice roared in rage. "How dare you even think of such a choice! You couldn't even agree to a truce after you banished my mother! Then you tried to get rid of me as well, and for what? Something that was BEYOND my CONTROL!!! Why should I trust you now?"

In response, Twilight stepped forward, spreading her wings as she began to speak.

"Look, buddy... I don't know what happened in the past, but things have changed, believe it or not. I assure you, Celestia is not the same as she might have been before. Why don't you come out and we can talk?"

The voice gave no sort of reply, leaving the group to stare at each other in confusion.

"Did you scare him off?" Starlight asked.

"No," Celestia said, and the mares noticed she was beginning to quiver in panic. "He's waiting."

"For what, exactly?" Twilight asked, looking around.

"The chance to strike."

Almost simultaneously, a column of purple fire came flying towards the group.

Celestia came forward and created a force field to block the flames, then shot a beam of energy in the direction in which the fire came from.

The light landed and caused a sudden flash of light in the room, letting the mares to see the visitor momentarily.

Twilight and Starlight gasped.

What on Equis is this?

The visitor was a silver colt with a black mane. His mane had a spiky design to it and a large strand of hair stretching out past his face, each tip having a purple tip. He had white spikes running down his back and reptilian tail, and two on each leg. He had a scaly underbelly, the color very similar to cobblestone. His eyes had a beautiful light green iris with a blue tint, and reptilian pupils. His wings were similar to that of a dragons', as well as his horns and fangs. Most disturbing, though, was his unicorn horn; It looked like it would be as long as an alicorns', yet it was bent down the middle, giving it a somewhat boomerang effect.

"Is he... an alicorn?" Starlight asked Celestia, voice full of worry.

Before Celestia could answer, however, two iron chains came flying in their direction, enwrapping Twilight and Starlight tightly and hanging them from the ceiling.

As Celestia watched in horror, the creature pounced onto the alicorn, knocking her to the ground. As he prepared to breathe fire, she teleported before he could. Reappearing behind him, Celestia kicked him into the wall in front of them

In response, he opened his wings and simply glided his way out of harm. He breathed fire, but this time used magic to create a dozen little will-o-wisps that floated around his body.

Well, this isn't going to end well...

The creature sent the balls of fire, one by one, in Celestia's direction. The princess was able to dodge the first five, but once hit by the sixth, she couldn't dodge the remaining.

When the smoke cleared, the enwrapped ponies gasped in horror as they saw Celestia on the ground, body covered in burns. They saw the creature close in on her, the lines on his horn beginning to glow purple.

"Any last words?" The creature snarled.

As if in response, the door opened.

"Moonshadow! It is you!"

"Mom?!" The creature gazed in wonder, the ran towards...

"Princess Luna?!"

Chapter 5

By the time Twilight's friends came galloping in to help, Luna and the visitor were helping Celestia up. The visitor looked slightly embarrassed, but mostly dignified, as if he was proud of what he did.

Whatever that was...

"Twilight!" Flash cried, fling up to his crush. "Don't worry, I'll get you and Starlight down!" As he and Spike worked on the chains, the other ponies looked at the visitor with a mix of wonder and horror. They've never seen somepony like him, but clearly he was powerful.

"So, uh... W-Welcome to Ponyville?" Rarity said, then chuckled nervously.

Behind her, Fluttershy gave a cry of fear and began to shiver.

Pinkie Pie wrapped her hoof around his neck, despite his protesting growl. "You've got to come to Sugarcube Corner! I'm totally going to throw you a - HEY!"

"Sorry 'bout that, partner," Applejack apologized, pulling Pinkie Pie back. "Ah'm Applejack. This is Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Flash Sentry. Of course, ya already met Spike, Rainbow Dash, Twilight, Starlight, and - um... er..." She faltered as he began to glare at her.

"...Right," the stallion said, then looked at Princess Luna. "When did you come back? Last I remember, you were banished to the moon... Not to mention you were still...'changed'."

"I've been out for a few years now," The Lunar Princess responded. "But last I remember, you were in the Dragon Lands with Psykari... What happened?"

"Um... excuse me?" Fluttershy asked nervously. "But, if you don't mind me asking... Who are you?"

The creature looked at her, and, to the Mane 6's surprise, his expression softened. "Might as well answer," he replied in a smooth, calm voice.

"My name is Moonshadow Meteor, Prince of Darkness, and Son of Psykari... and Princess Luna."

"WHAT?!?!"

"Whoa, whoa, whoa," Rainbow Dash said, leaning against the door frame. "You're mom... Is Princess Luna?"

"Yes."

"The Lunar Princess?"

"Yes."

"The one before us right now."

"...Yes."

"And you said your dad was Psykari..." Starlight said, looking at Moonshadow curiously. "Who's that?"

Moonshadow looked at Spike, causing him to back up. "I'm sure you know who he is."

"M-Me?!" Spike stuttered.

"Yes. Being a dragon, you've had to at least heard about my father."

"Psykari, Psykari..." Spike thought, then suddenly gasped. "You mean... The Psydra?!"

"Right on target... Spike, was it?" Turning towards the shocked ponies, he continued. "Before you ask, I'll explain it to you. There is only one Psydra born every ten thousand years, right when the one prior is about to pass. My father, Psykari, is the current one alive."

"But what exactly is a Psydra?" Twilight asked. "How come I've never heard about them before?"

"Typically, they keep to themselves. The Psydra species is, quite simply, a white dragon with incredibly powerful psychic powers. It possesses the magical abilities of an alicorn, only five times as powerful. It can also see the past, present , and future. However, the Psydra, knowing its abilities, stays in the Dragon Lands as the Dragon Lord's Adviser. Pretty cool job, but highly annoying when other ponies show up and ask for his advise."

"So that leads me to ask a question..." Flash said, looking at him.

"How did you're parents meet?"

As Moonshadow opened his mouth in response, Celestia let out a pained groan. He looked at her without pity, but soon sighed. 'We'll have to save that for later. For now, my aunt needs help." He paused, glaring at her with rage in her eyes. "No matter how much she deserved it."

The ponies backed up hesitantly as they saw his eyes give a quick flash of a hideous red color, quickly replacing his aqua-green irises before changing back to normal. He sighed, looking at them cautiously. "I... I'm fine."

"Uh... d-deserved it?" Applejack said, looking confused.

"Another story for another time. Come, we must take Celestia back to Canterlot," Luna stated, looking at her son, eyes filled with worry. What happened right there?

As they all galloped away, the medic team began gaining consciousness.

"Hello?" Doctor Horse called, rubbing his forehead. "Hello?" He sighed. "Great. Just great..."

...

Moonshadow flew alongside the chariot, rubbing his forehead as a throbbing forehead started to form. He had started to black out for a second as he glared at his aunt, but came to before he did, and saw that everypony was staring at him with complete fright.

What... What's happening to me?

Author's Note

If you guys want, I will change the story picture to match the story... though I thought it did...

Also, I am currently trying to find a scanner that ACTUALLY FREAKING WORKS-

*Okay, clam down... breathe in... breathe out...*
Phew...
So, yeah, you guys will see Moonshadow Meteor soon.

Chapter 6

"Princess!" The Royal Guards at the Canterlot Castle door cried in panic as the chariot landed, releasing the injured Celestia. "What happened?" They paled as they realized that Moonshadow was landing next to Flash, Twilight, and Princess Luna. As they raised their spears, the dragon-pony released a snarl and his horn began to glow.

"Who are you, and what have you done to Princess Celestia?!" The guards cried in defiance, but the group could see their eyes filled with fear.

"Relax, soldiers, this is - " Luna started.

"At ease!" Moonshadow cried, and suddenly the guards froze, then looked at each other in shock and backed down. "You're jobs are to protect the Royal family, not attack any member of the family - no matter how strange they look. Understand, soldiers?"

The soldiers stood in complete shock before answering firmly, "SIR, YES SIR!"

"Good. Now go back to your positions."

"Uh, sir... Pardon our rudeness, but we - "

"It's fine, soldier. I haven't been here in a thousand years... It's understandable that I wouldn't be recognized at first sight..." He sighed. "Anyways... Follow your instructions. Where are you supposed to be?"

"Oh - Right!"

As they walked back to the door, Rainbow Dash looked at the newcomer with a new light of respect. "Now that, was something I wasn't expecting... Yet so AWESOME!!!"

"Yes, Moonshadow is quite the pony," Luna replied, which got a smirk from her son. "Anyways, I want to apologize for not arriving earlier to help. I was checking on the Crystal Empire when I was told that I was needed in Canterlot."

"It's all good, Princess," Rarity stated, giving her mane a flip. "I will admit, though, your appearance was quite exquisite."

"Well... Now that all of you are here, let's get you all back into you're rooms, and then... Moonshadow, if you're willing?"

":Sure, Mom," Moonshadow said. "I have to admit, though, it's hard to tell a story on an empty stomach. Does anypony have any spare gems I can eat? I'm starving..."

The ponies turned to look at Spike, who was polishing a sapphire he held in his hand - next to the giant pile of gems he had just recently dug up. He looked up to find them staring at him.

"What are you - Wait, no - Oh -" He slapped his palm onto his scaly forehead. "Alright. Fine. But only a little bit..."

...

There was a knock on the door, and Princess Luna poked her head into the bedroom. "Moonshadow? Can I come in?"

"Hm? Oh, yeah..." The dragon-pony sighed, looking up from his bed. "Yeah, sure. The door's open, i guess..."

Luna sighed, then stepped through the door and began walking towards the bed. As she did, she looked around the room. Luna had hoped Moonshadow would've liked the door, being his old room when he stayed in Canterlot. Instead, his ears drooped upon the news, muttered a thanks, then walked into the room and closed the door behind him - the reaction his mother didn't expect.

'Moonshadow? Look, I'm sorry about the room, if you want to move - OW!" She winced as she stepped on shattered glass. Looking up, she was shocked to see the stained glass window on his high wall was completely shattered. "Wh-What happened?"

"Long story..." Moonshadow sighed again. "And the room's fine, Mom. It's just... I was gone for as long as you were - longer, in fact. A thousand years, give or take, banished from Equestria. I had no idea where I was, but I heard what happened when you were banished. It was almost scary, you know, not being able to do anything about your punishment... especially when you... Oh, I don't even know anymore!"

Luna wrapped her wings supportively round her son. "Look, child, the past is in the past. Now, you've come home, and you must forget what has happened. Instead, focus on what's happening right now. Now, Sombra has returned, and we need you're help to defeat him once more."

"Wait, did you say Sombra? As in the Shadhavar?!" Luna backed up quickly as Moonshadow' s eyes glowed red for the second time today. The dragon-pony began pacing back and forth his voice slowly rising in anger. "I thought he was gone for good! I remember SPECIFICALLY beating him to a pulp so you and Celestia could -" Suddenly he stopped. "Celestia..." he snarled.

"Moonshadow? Worry about that later. Why don't we meet with the Mane 6? Maybe telling them your story will help you think straight." She gasped to see her son's fury turn towards her. "Moonshadow?"

His eyes faded back to normal, and he fell against his mom's grasp. "Aggh..." He looked at his mom gratefully, then sighed. "Y...You're right, Mom... Let's go. I have a feeling they're gonna be on the edge of their hooves."

They're not the only ones... Luna thought as they walked to the Royal Chamber.

Chapter 7

"is everypony all snuggled up?" Moonshadow asked.

"Yessir," Starlight said, her voice ringing with curiosity.

For the special story, Moonshadow dimmed the lights a little and brought in multiple blankets so they would be comfy. As thank-yous and giggles flew around the room, the dragon-pony allowed everypony to get comfortable as he looked around the throne room. It has been an extremely long time since he last entered the room, and it has grown quite a bit, leaving him impressed. Stepping out for a bit, he noticed for giant stained glass windows alongside the hall. He was able to identify Celestia and Luna immediately, and he soon recognized Twilight soon afterwards. The one between Twilight and Luna, however...

Who the hay is that pony?

"That's Cadance," a voice said.

Startled, Moonshadow turned, horn glowing, to find Twilight, looking a bit startled himself. "S-Sorry, Twilight."

"No, that was my bad. I shouldn't have snuck up on you."

She came to stand next to him. "Anyways, like I said, that's Cadance. Princess of Family, Ruler of the Crystal Empire..."

So that's who replaced Sombra...

"And my sister-in-law."

Moonshadow turned in shock. "Sister-in-law, you say?"

"Yeah. My brother, Shining Armor, is her husband. They even got a daughter - Flurry Heart. My niece."

"Huh..."

Twilight looked at him curiously, searching for an answer. "What's wrong? Did you..."

"I don't know. I guess I just never thought about who replaced Sombra... After all, a lot can change in a thousand years, you know?" He sighed. "No, probably not. Never mind."

As Moonshadow began to walk back to the Throne Room, he felt a hoof on his shoulder. He turned to see Twilight looking at him softly. "It's going to be alright."

He gave a small smile, something Twilight wasn't expecting from him. "Thanks."

She blushed slightly, and they walked down the hall together, hides slightly brushing against each other.

...

"Alright," Moonshadow said, silencing the entire room almost immediately. "I'm about to explain to you what I am... Tell you what I did before my... banishment..." He sighed once more. "However, I'm going to let Mom explain the beginning of it, how she and Dad met. After all, she can do it better than I ever will."

"Thanks, Moonshadow," Luna said. "Now, where to begin.." She lowered her head to think, then rose it again and began to speak.

"Three thousand years ago, When I was born, my mother, Queen Galaxia, had a terrible dream - one that involved me being sent unwillingly to the moon. Though she tried to explain it to her husband - My father, King Cosmos - she could not find a satisfying answer. Finally, she and Father decided to go to the Dragon Lands to consult the Psydra for her advice."

"Wait, I thought Psykari was male!" Rainbow Dash cried in confusion, only to realize everypony was glaring at her. "What?"

"Well, if you'd let me finish, I'll explain," Luna sighed, then continued. "Days later, we arrived to our destination. Despite the explanation for our purpose of arriving, the dragons were still hesitant about us. Moments later, the former Psydra, Psykria, landed in front of us. She told them to leave and then turned towards us.

"My mother always said she was awed by the Psydra's appearance. She was old - you could tell by the faded light in her eyes - yet her aura was as strong as a supernova. Knowing what we came for, Psykria explained that I would be destined to be a determined alicorn, but be transformed through dark magic and be banished to the moon, yet I would be reformed soon after.

"After answering, her scales immediately started falling off. My parents ran to help as she collapsed, yet she smiled softly and whispered, 'Don't worry, my time has come...' She then disappeared with a soft glow, leaving behind nothing but a glowing white horn.

"Father went to pick it up, but backed up in surprise as it began to glow and change form. Soon, in its place laid a male baby Psydra - the next one in line.

"As my family looked on in shock, I crawled my way up to him and laid down next to its legs. He looked at me, cooed, and bumped my nose, causing me to coo and snuggle in to him." She stopped, and looked flustered for a moment. "At least, that's how Mother explained to me..."

"Ever since then, Mom and Dad have tried to see each other as often as they could," Moonshadow continued. "Finally, after 500 years of meeting each other, they got together and had me two-hundred and fifty years after that.

"Even though the Dragon Lord wouldn't allow my parents to marry, he did allow them to live in harmony in The Dragon Lands. As I grew older, my alicorn powers continued to grow stronger, and soon I became an alicorn - though it was slightly off, considering I have dragon wings instead of the typical pegasus wings.

Eventually, Mom wanted me to help her and... Celestia... keep Equestria safe, keep it at peace. Though they were typically the ones to finish the job, I did all the... say, 'dirty work.' I fought the enemies, weakening them to the point where they can't even raise their heads so they can speak. That way, the alicorns could - "

Applejack yawned, then rose wearily. "Ah don't know about y'all, but Ah'm gonna hit the haystack. Today's been pretty eventful, and left meh pretty tired.

"Fair enough," Luna said, then rose as well. "I believe all of you should go to bed. We got a big day ahead of us tomorrow... Good night."

"Goodnight, guys," Moonshadow said, already walking off. "Hope you guys get a good night's rest."

"Goodnight, Moonshadow!"

Author's Note

I know what you're thinking... :twilightblush:

Chapter 8

Even after two hours of counting sheep, drinking at least a half-gallon of warm apple cider, counting her gems ten different times, and meditating for another half hour, Rarity couldn't even get a yawn to come from her mouth. The story Luna and Moonshadow told them was still on her mind.

It was only a legend that Rarity was told when she was a filly where she heard of Queen Galaxia and King Cosmos. True, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna had to have had parents, but nopony knew who they were.

At least now she had a straight answer.

Now, about sleeping...

Perhaps a walk would help me fall asleep, Rarity thought as she climbed out of bed. Hanging up her robe and taking off her slippers, she combed her mane and soon walked out of her room, closing the door softly behind her.

Upon turning, however, Rarity noticed Moonshadow walking down the hall ahead of her. Despite the silence, which multiplied any sound by a ridiculous amount, his hoof steps were impossibly silent.

Taking a step forward, the unicorn froze when he stopped and turned his head to see her.

"Couldn't sleep?"

"No, not really..." Rarity looked down, gathering her thoughts before looking up at him again. "What about you? New location unfamiliar to you?"

"First of all, I lived here for a good amount of my life," Moonshadow stated bluntly, leaving Rarity speechless. "Secondly, ever since I've become an alicorn, I never had to sleep. It's confusing, but I guess it makes sense, being the Prince of Darkness... I don't know. It confuses me sometimes, as well."

"Oh... I see. Well, since we're both up, might as well keep each other company, if you that's alright with you."

"Are you saying I wouldn't be?"

"Well...no...but - "

"Well, sounds like you are."

"N-No, that's not what I meant. I-"

Moonshadow laughed. "I'm just messing with you. Come on," he said, turning towards the door that led to the Royal Garden. "I've heard this has updated quite a bit.. I want to see it."

As they walked towards the door, Rarity looked at her friend and couldn't help but smile. Not even twenty-four hours, and she has another dragon friend... or at least, a half-dragon.

"Moonshadow? Do you know a pony by the name of Autumn Blaze?"

"Autumn Blaze?" Moonshadow looked at her in confusion. "No, the name doesn't sound familiar. Why?"

"Nothing big, really, but..." Rarity looked at his horn. "It's just that, well, Autumn Blaze is a Kirin, kind of like a nature pony, and her appearance is very similar to yours. I was thinking... It';s probably silly, but-"

"You were thinking I could be a Kirin as well."

She nodded.

"Well, I am most certainly not a Kirin, but this Autumn character sounds like a good friend to have on your side. I'd like to meet her sometime in the near future."

"I'll tell you one thing, darling, the Kirins are absolutely gorgeous!"

"Rarity!"

As soon as Rarity looked ahead of her, she ran headfirst into the garden door.

"Oof!"

Moonshadow couldn't help but laugh as he helped her up. "maybe have an eye out for objects ahead of you next time... especially major ones."

"Ha, ha, very funny," Rarity said, cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "Well, if you don't want my company..." She finished with a huff, then turned to leave.

"Wait."

Rarity turned to see Moonshadow looking guilt-stricken. "I'm sorry. Really. I didn't mean to laugh and hurt your feelings. Please stay... It gets awfully lonely by myself."

Rarity smiled kindly. "Apology accepted, darling. Plus, I was just messing with you - I wanted to see how you reacted. I must say, it was worth it." She giggled as her companion stared at her, completely lost at words. "Come on, let's open the doors."

Moonshadow nodded, then pushed open the doors. "Whoa..." he gasped.

"Oh, my goodness!" Rarity cried in horror.

The garden itself would have been beautiful. It was full of blossoming roses, lilacs, lavenders, and every kind of flower imaginable. It was truly breathtaking, but what ruined it was what was scattered all over the garden. It was full of Crystal Empire Guards, some already lost, but most still breathing.

"Moonshadow?"

The dragon-pony ran towards a dark-blue guard laying by the fountain. "Lazuli? Hold on, we'll get help, just-"

"Now...time," Lazuli groaned, his breathing becoming strained. "Sombra...too...strong...getting ready... to...attack...Canterlot..."

Rarity and Moonshadow looked at each other in shock. "What can we do?" Rarity asked.

"Seek...Psykari...only...he...can...help..."

His breathing began to slow down.

"Lazuli, stay with me!" The Dark Prince roared, voice cracking in worry.

"Good....luck....old friend...."

The Crystal Pegasus took a long, shaky breath, then...

"Is he..." Rarity whispered.

"No." Moonshadow lowered his head, his horn almost touching his friend's chest. Using his magic, he healed the wounds as best he could, allowing Lazuli's breath to become more steady.

Rising, Moonshadow looked at Rarity wearily. "Healing magic was never my skill, but he should be fine for now.." Suddenly, he collapsed by his old friend.

"MOONSHADOW!" Rarity cried, galloping towards him. She could see his chest rising faintly, and realized he was just resting from using the healing magic.

She sighed in relief, then looked at the dragon-pony in worry.

Rest easy, Moonshadow... You're going to need it...

Chapter 9

"Is he gonna be alright?" Applejack asked

"He'll be alright, don't worry," Doctor Hooves said reassuringly, yet looked at the unconscious pony with concern. "Using that healing magic took quite a toll on him, but he just needs to rest...I hope..." The doctor mumbled before clearing his throat and continuing. "Those Crystal Guards, however..."

"How many more are left?" Celestia looked at the medic seriously.

"Out of the three dozen? Less than half, including that one pony... Lazuli, right?"

Rarity nodded gravely. "Oh, I do hope they heal well."

"As we all do. Now, if you excuse me..."

"Thank you, Doctor, for coming out here from Ponyville," Celestia said, causing the medic to nod before he left.

Celestia turned towards the group of ponies in front of her. "Sombra has grown more powerful than I feared. He needs to be stopped." Turning towards the door, she added, "That is why I am going to help Cadance."

"By yourself? Are you insane, sister?!" Luna cried in outrage.

"Let's be honest, alright? Moonshadow is down at the moment, and we need somepony to rule in Canterlot while I'm gone. Which leaves you."

"What about me?" Twilight asked in annoyance.

"We need somepony with experience ruling over a kingdom."

""You really are such a nuisance," Luna sighed heavily. "However, you do have a point."

"I rest my case. I will pack my essentials and then be on my way." She turned to see two Royal Guards arriving to accompany her. "Alone."

"Good luck, Celestia!" the Mane 6 cried in harmony.

"Stay safe, dear sister," Luna said softly.

Celestia nodded, then walked out the door, sighing as she did. I hope I do...

...

"Since we have the spare time, I might as well continue with the story," Luna stated, clearly trying to clear the mood.

"Yeah... might as well," Starlight said, a grin forming on her face.

Pinkie Pie zipped out of the room, coming back in a few seconds later with a giant bucket. "And I got POPCORN!" she said, stuffing her hoof into the bucket and pulling out a hoof-full of the buttery treat.

"Where'd you leave off?" Twilight asked. "Moonshadow said that he was working at Canterlot after he became an alicorn... But how did that happen?"

"Well, to start things off, he became an alicorn while he was living in the Dragon Lands," Luna started. "As Moonshadow said, his powers continued to grow, but he was still unsure how to use them. Naturally, I wanted to get a tutor for him, as I had one, but Celestia refused the idea, considering he still lived in the Dragon Lands. Therefore, I took the opportunity to teach him the magic I knew.

"Now, being half-pony is hard, especially living in an area of full-blooded dragons. The dragons picked on Moonshadow, no matter how much his father and I protected. Still, he was able to have one friend - A young dragon by the name of Brisk. Unlike the others, she was a hydro-dragon, so she was picked on as well. Despite this, she and Moonshadow soon became friends.

"Then, one night, while Moonshadow was having a sleepover at Brisk's cave, a young dragon gang snuck in. They grabbed Brisk and started to take her away, but she cried out for help, awakening Moonshadow and caused him to run after the group.

"He found the group at the edge of the lava pit - the one place that Brisk cannot survive in. Once confronted, the gang begin to surround the dragon-pony. Instead of cowering, however, Moonshadow only grinned and lowered his horn Almost immediately, strange symbols formed around him, and he began to absorb a shadowy substance. The Dragon Gang watched in horror as the creature before them opened his eyes, then roared and blasted them all with a blast of indigo light.

"The indigo light sent the dragons into the lava pit, but it stunned Brisk, sending her in as well. Moonshadow cried out in horror, then jumped off the edge after her, pulling her in to keep her safe. As they fell, he was surrounded with a shadowy substance and transformed the both of them into shadows, moving them back onto the edge of the lava pit. As they changed back, Brisk watched in shock as Moonshadow began to glow purple and finally grew his wings."

Suddenly, the ponies heard a faint groan. "Talking about me saving Brisk?"

"Good ta see ya up, pardner," Applejack said, walking up to Moonshadow's bed.

"Good to be up," he said, rubbing his forehead. "Ugh...I really need to catch up on my healing magic. That took quite a large chunk of me..."

"You really cared about Brisk, didn't you?" Fluttershy said tenderly. 'You risked your own life to keep her safe."

"Yeah," he muttered, then suddenly his colors began to fade - his purple tips on his hair beginning to turn a light shade of gray, his eyes turning snow-white. "She was my only friend from the Dragon Lands - the one friend I could actually relate to." he sniffled, wiping away a tear. "I miss her."

"Oh, Moonshadow," Luna said, hugging her son as he began to cry.

"But...You can go see her now, right?" Spike said hopefully. "I mean, now that you're back, you can visit her...right?"

This only caused the stallion to cry harder. "It's...It's not that easy..."

"Why do you say that?" Twilight asked, almost regretting what would come next.

"She's...She's gone. While I was helping the Princesses in Canterlot... The Dragon Gang... They came back...and, well..."

"Oh,no," Starlight and Rarity gasped.

Everypony lowered their heads in sorrow as they heard what came next.

"They... They finished what they started...She's no longer here to visit."

Chapter 10

Moonshadow sat on the balcony, looking over Canterlot. Not having to sleep at night did have its perks - no need to switch watch on a mission - but it gave him too much time to think. And right now, the only thing on his mind was the conversation from earlier.

Brisk...Why did you have to go?

He looked over his body, relieved to see the color fully returned to his ear flap and hair tip. Moonshadow was shocked to discover his purple fading away when he was feeling depressed, and left the area immediately upon noticing. He went to his room and began to lose consciousness, and woke up about fifteen minutes ago, the color slowly returning.

"Moonshadow? Are ya good?"

He looked over to see Applejack standing by the door. she looked slightly tired, but there was no ignoring the worry in her eyes.

"Hey, Applejack," Moonshadow turned his attention back towards the view. 'It's hard, hearing her name after so long."

"Ah know it hurts, but why don't ya talk about it? Bottlin' it up ain't gonna make it any better, ya know."

"I'm not sure it's that easy..." Despite this, he couldn't hide the scratchiness in his voice, and soon he was panicked to find his color fading again.

"WHY THE BUCK IS THIS HAPPENING TO ME?!?!" He cried, and collapsed to the ground, sobbing his heart out.

He continued to cry, drowning himself in his depression. Just take me away...he thought. Leave me alone to die...

Suddenly, he felt pressure on all sides, and opened his tear-streaked eyes to discover his friends surrounding him in a hug. The love surrounding him brought the color back quickly. Wiping he nose, he sniffed. "Thanks, you guys. I really appreciate this."

"It's nothing, darling, really," Rarity said sincerely.

"After all, that's what friends are for," Twilight said, looking at everypony else. "Right, guys?"

Their agreement echoed through the night, causing Moonshadow to burst in laughter.

"Okay, okay," he managed to say through strained breaths, but suddenly he stopped, his eyes turning grey again. 'But still..."

"Applejack's right, dude," Rainbow Dash stated as a reminder. "You can't hold it in forever."

The dragon-pony looked at the group in front of him. They deserve to know about it, he thought to himself.

He sighed. "Alright. Take a seat, though; things could get a little rocky."

...

"From the Luna had me in front line, it was rare for me to return to the Dragon Lands," Moonshadow began. 'I was always having to go all across Equestria, fighting in Canterlot's name, yet i did have the one-weekend-a-month off to spend at home.

'"However, as time drew on, the weekend soon became one day a month, then every two months. It was hard, but even more so for Brisk. Not only was I her best friend, but I was practically her brother as well. We were so close to each other, it was almost as if we could read each other's mind... Well, I literally could read her mind, but that doesn't matter... Anyways, me not around was tough on us both, but at least we could still write each other letters - then we spent my whole day off catching up.

"What happened next, however, I never would have predicted.

"I was packing my belongings for my day off, which I was leaving for the following day, when there was a knock on my window. As i looked up in confusion, a young dragon came flying through the window, completely shattering it. The dragon was Brisk's younger brother, Tsunami. I was about to ask him what was wrong, but then I noticed the tear streaks on his scaly cheeks. He began to sob again upon seeing me, then hugged me tightly.

"Through gasps, he told me these words:

"'The Dragon Gang... They took Brisk...T-Tortured her...She was hurt, crying for help...C-Crying for you... And then...They-They-They...' He couldn't say anymore, due to him starting to cry again, but I knew what had happened. When I had saved brisk the first time, the gang told us they would finish the job when they got the chance to..."

"Oh, my gosh, Moonshadow. I'm so sorry," Fluttershy gasped, beginning to tear up as well.

"When I realized this, my vision got all fuzzy, and then..." Moonshadow stopped, a look of confusion overcoming his face. "It's hard to describe, but I lost focus. I let my emotions take over, and I didn't know what I was doing anymore. I remember hearing a lot of screaming, and a sort of pleasure in causing their pain... Until I regained my conscience. When I could see normally again, I gazed in fright as I saw Canterlot obliterated, one half completely gone, and the other side still burning.

"I was completely traumatized by the damage I saw...the damage I caused... I did the only thing I could think of: I fled. And to be honest, had Celestia not been battling Nightmare Moon, she would have been on my reptilian tail immediately. Instead, she came home after a victory to see her home completely destroyed...by...by me..."

Moonshadow went silent, trying to regain his breath as he began to fade again. "I...I can't say anymore. I'm sorry."

"We understand. Thanks for telling us what you did," Twilight said tenderly.

"If there's anything you need, just let us know," Starlight noted. "In cased you didn't know, I also happened to have been a villain in my past."

"Besides, it wasn't really your fault," Applejack reassured.

"Yeah," Rainbow Dash agreed. "Anypony would've gotten upset if they lost an old friend."

"That's it, though," Moonshadow sighed. "It was my fault..."

The mares looked at each other in pity, then hugged Moonshadow one more time before walking back to their rooms, leaving the dark Prince to look back at his actions.

Moonshadow looked at the open sky. "Why did I have to be like this?"

As if in response, a comet flew through the sky, which made him look at his own Cutie mark - a ash-gray meteor with a blazing purple trail.

The comet seemed to have answered his question quite obviously:

This is who you were destined to be, young one. Embrace it.

But what was there to embrace?

Chapter 11 Author's Note

I didn't intend this chapter to be too long, but hope you guys enjoy nonetheless! :derpytongue2:

Chapter 11

As Celestia flew to the Crystal empire, she couldn't help but think about the stallion at the castle. It is true that Moonshadow had been gone for a while, but did that mean he had truly changed? Then again, why else would he have returned from Limbo?

Those thoughts soon left her head, however, as she arrived at the Crystal Empire - or what was left of it. The entire empire was covered in dark spikes, causing many structures to have fallen. The sky was completely orange, with gray clouds covering the sun. Flying over the castle, Celestia could see many Crystal Ponies, their magic faded once more, in chains and mining the spikes that rose from the ground.

Lowering towards the castle door, she looked out over the courtyard. The Crystal Heart was no longer there - no surprise - but in its place were two cages, and in the cages were...

"Cadance! Shining!"

"Celestia? What are you doing here?" Cadance groaned, rubbing her head as she rose.

"I'm here to help you regain control of your empire.'

"No, Celestia!" Shining Armor cried, going to the edge of the cage to face the Sun Princess. "If Sombra finds out you're here, he'd have your head immediately! You need to leave, now!"

"Shining's right, Celestia," Cadance agreed. "The only thing Sombra's been talking about was getting revenge. If you want to protect us, go back to Canterlot. It's safer for you there."

"Not without you two," Celestia stated, charging her horn "Stand back."

When the two royal ponies did so, they noticed that Celestia's horn was beginning to have a purplish glow to it. Suddenly, her eyes flew open, expelling shadows and she blasted the cages, shattering them without setting off an alarm.

"How..How did you learn to do that?" Shining asked, looking somewhat horrified by what he just saw.

"It was an old trick I picked up," Celestia smirked, then turned away. "We must hurry. We need to leave before - "

"I WAS WONDERING WHEN YOU WERE GOING TO SHOW UP, CELESTIA..."

The Sun Princess turned to see the evil Shadhavar that took over the Crystal Empire. He looked the same from the last encounter, except now his eyes were now brimming with hate and rage.

"Sombra," Celestia stated. "We meet again."

"KING SOMBRA, PRINCESS," The Shadhavar growled. "AND NOW IT'S TIME I DEFEATED YOU, ONCE AND FOR ALL."

He laughed, lowering his horn as it began to charge with power.

Celestia began preparing a force field to protect herself, but before she could, two beams of energy - one pink, one blue - shot towards Sombra. Snarling, he dove into the shadows and created two black pillars, then resurfaced and shattered them, sending the shards towards the three impostors.

Together, they created a force field, but still the shards broke through. As they fell under the attack, Sombra shot beams of dark energy towards them , but thankfully the trio dodged it in time.

"Shining, you need to go warn Twilight and her friends!" Cadance cried.

"No way am I leaving without you, Cadance!" The stallion cried, wincing for just thinking that.

"Cadance is right!" Celestia insisted. "You can get there faster. When you get there, warn the Elements of Harmony, then tell my sister and Moonshadow. Now - "

Suddenly, she gasped and covered her mouth, paling as she looked at Sombra. The Shadhavar had frozen in shock, not expecting to hear that name after so long.

IT.. I-IT CAN'T BE...BUT HOW...? The Shadhavar thought in his head, paling at the sound of the name - the one thing that gave him nightmares when he slept.

"Wait, who's Moonshadow?" Cadance asked.

"There's no time! Now GO!!!" Celestia ordered.

"NO!!!" Sombra cried, but Shining was already gone. The Shadow-Pony looked at the two alicorns before him with a fresh wave of rage, but he couldn't hide the fear he had started feeling in his heart. "YOU THINK THAT JUST BECAUSE METEOR IS BACK, YOU CAN DEFEAT ME? I'D LIKE TO SEE YOU TRY!!!"

King Sombra charged, horn glowing, and Celestia and Cadance met him head-on, ready for a fight.

Chapter 12

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 13

Twilight and Starlight walked alongside each other as they talked. They tried to talk about major events that have occurred, but it all became small talk as the two biggest concerns continued to surface themselves:

1) Sombra was planning on attacking Canterlot as soon as he got the chance to, and

2) Equestria's best defender was departing, leaving a mostly defenseless kingdom, even if it was only for a few days.

"He'll be back before we even realize it, it's no reason to worry," Starlight comforted, but Twilight only shook her head.

"It's only going to get worse, Starlight. Once Sombra realizes Moonshadow's not here, he'll attack Canterlot with all he's got. How can we stand up to that Shadhavar without him?"

"If I may, Twilight." The two mares looked up to see Moonshadow glide down to land next to them. "You will not be defenseless. I may suck at healing magic, but I will say that I am pretty decent at barrier magic. I can create a force field that will protect Canterlot until I return, and I can even teach the current captains here a few tricks I picked up while I was her the first time." He looked at Starlight, a smirk on his face. "By the way, did you know I am still the Commander of the Royal Guard?"

"You're WHAT?!?!" Starlight cried in shock.

"Yeah, why else do you think the guards at the door stood down upon seeing me?" Moonshadow turned back to Twilight. "Apparently, I was a legend that was passed between captains from my time to this day. But, anyways... I won't leave this place unprotected, i promise."

Twilight nodded, blushing slightly again as she sighed in relief. "Thank you, Moonshadow."

"You're not leaving until tomorrow, right?" Starlight asked, curiosity burning in her eyes.

Moonshadow chuckled. "You want me to finish my story, don't you? Well, yes, I am leaving tomorrow, so I guess I have time to continue. I warn you, however, this is the first time I will ever explain to anypony about my banishment, even if there is almost nothing to it."

"We'll understand if you get emotional," Starlight smirked.

"Not funny. Anyways...

"After I fled from Canterlot, I immediately went to the Dragon Lands - the only place where I thought it would be safe. My father welcomed me with a welcoming smile, but saddened upon hearing the news about Mom, and what I had done to Canterlot. He wasn't mad about what I did, but rather, he was upset that I let my emotions take me over. Same with Mom - not mad, just upset.

"For the entire year I waited for Celestia to arrive, I was regretting having to face her - and her wrath. I continuously tried to think of something to say that would calm her down, but I always came up blank. The only solution that was always resurfacing was to fight her, but I obviously didn't want to do that.

"Sooner rather than later, I heard news that Celestia was travelling to the Dragon Lands. When I heard this, I went to the edge of the Dragon lands to face her. Seeing me, however, seemed to only fill her with rage. She shot a beam of bright energy at me, enwrapping me very much like a lasso and pulling me up to her.

"Celestia, yelled at me, calling me a traitor for destroying her castle because she was battling Mom. No matter what I said, she only grew more enraged, as well as refusing to hear it. Then, she said something that completely changed my attitude on battling her:

"'I should have banished you alongside your mother. Both of you are monsters, never to be accepted in Equestria.'"

Twilight gasped upon hearing this. Would Celestia truly say something like that?

"But...Celestia didn't truly say that...right?" Starlight asked uncertainly.

"Unfortunately, she did," Moonshadow sighed. "But the way that I reacted was a completely different story.

"When I heard this, I first went slack with shock, then was filled with rage. I emitted a purple shock wave, releasing me from Celestia's grasp and knocking her back before I felt my power growing rapidly...making me feel unsteady, ready to burst.

"I looked into Celestia's eyes and saw only fear, and realize that was the source of my power. I blasted her with a massive beam of purple energy, which snapped her out of her momentary paralysis and began to battle me.

"The battle lasted for week straight, without a single break, and the results were obvious: Both of us were exhausted, both almost out of magic, yet I was the first to fall. As Celestia struggled to her hooves and walked towards me, I looked into her eyes and knew what she was planning to do with me: Plunge me into the darkness where I belonged. Looking closer, however, I realized that she was going to intend that I never returned to Equestria - unless as a ghost, of course."

"She was going to kill you?!" Twilight cried in horror.

Moonshadow nodded. "Keep in mind, however, she was not acting upon the Elements of Harmony. Instead, she was acting upon revenge for her kingdom.

"Before she could strike, however, Psykari landed in front of me, blocking me from Celestia. Though stubborn, he helped her realize that killing me would not be the correct answer. They decided, therefore, to send me to the one location that I could not escape unless summoned - Limbo. The last thing I remember was seeing their faces as I was sent away... Then, the next thing I knew, I was crashing through the sky towards Ponyville.'

"Geez, Moonshadow, I'm sorry," Starlight said sympathetically. "That must have been tough."

The dragon-pony shrugged. "It's fine, I guess. Hard to miss something when it was so long ago...Though it only felt like yesterday..."

"Hey, Moonshadow!"

The three ponies looked up to see Rainbow Dash above them, relaxing on a cloud.

"Rainbow Dash? What are you doing?" Twilight asked suspiciously.

"Well, I was going to ask Moonshadow if he wanted to come to the Wonderbolt track with me, thanks for asking."

"The Wonderbolt...track?" Moonshadow asked, completely bewildered.

"Yeah." The blue pegasus flew down to him and rubbed herself on his side. "Wanna go?"

"Um...Well..."

"You should go, Moonshadow," Starlight suggested, which was rewarded with a slap on the head from Twilight.

"But...I have to pack still...." Moonshadow started, not meeting Rainbow Dash's eyes as he began to flush furiously while she still rubbed him.

"OK, first off, Rainbow, back off of him. Clearly you're making him uncomfortable," Twilight stated, then looked at Moonshadow. "What do you have to pack?"

"Food...Survival kit...My armor..."

"Go ahead, Moonshadow." Starlight pushed him away. "Go enjoy herself."

Though still hesitant, he looked at Rainbow Dash - and gave a smile so mischievous, nopony knew what he would've done. Opening his wings, he was suddenly gone, leaving a singed spot where he was.

"Whoa!" Starlight cried.

"Geez! That pony's fast!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed in surprise.

Suddenly, Moonshadow reappeared again by Rainbow's side. "Too fast for ya/"

The smile on his face was so comical that everypony couldn't help but laugh.

Chapter 14

Upon seeing her childhood home, Cloudsdale, Rainbow Dash couldn't help but grin and look back to look at Moonshadow. "Come on, we're almost there!"

The stallion stopped by her, breathing heavily. His wing beat was continuously slowing down by the minute, and his fur was completely soaked with sweat.

"You...need...to...slow down..." Moonshadow stated through gasps. "Haven't...flown for...long distances...since...I fled...Canterlot...Whew..."

"Oh...Sorry, Moonshadow." Rainbow Dash turned towards the cloud city. "On the plus side, Cloudsdale is right over there. Think you can hold on for about another five minutes?"

"Yeah...Let's go..."

...

Moonshadow practically collapsed onto the clouds when he landed, sighing in appreciation.

"Wow." He looked up to see Rainbow Dash looking at him confused. "Are you really that tired/"

"Uh...maybe?" The stallion responded with a sheepish grin.

The pegasus laughed until she heard somepony cry her name.

"RAINBOW DASH!!!"

She turned to see an older pegasus fly towards her. He was a grayish-blue pony with a short rainbow mane and an unshaven face. He rammed into Rainbow Dash and crushed her in a hug.

"Oh, Rainbow! It's good to see you home!" Bow Hotfoot cried in joy.

"Good to see you to, Dad," Rainbow Dash struggled to say before squishing her way out of the hug. She waved her hoof towards her new friend. "Dad, this is Moonshadow Meteor, my good friend. Moonshadow, this is my dad, Bow Hotfoot."

"Pleased to meet you, Mr. Hotf - " Moonshadow started to say before feeling multiple eyes falling on him. Looking around, he noticed the other pegasi hiding from him and glancing at him from a distance, deciding if he was friend or foe. "Hey, Rainbow...I'll be right back."

"Huh? Hey, Wait!" Rainbow Dash cried, but already the dragon-pony was gone. "Ugh, what is WRONG with you ponies?!" She cried, looking at the hiding pegasi. "He constantly feels self-conscious, and you only made it worse!"

"Hey, Rainbow, calm your flank," Bow said reassuringly. "They just didn't understand, that's all."

"Yeah, okay," Rainbow huffed, but sighed and began to blush furiously. "I just hope he's okay..."

"Oh, so THAT'S why you reacted like that!" Bow laughed. "You got a crush on him!"

"I do NOT, Dad!" Rainbow cried furiously, but the statement only made her blush even harder until she muttered, "Is it... is it that obvious?"

Bow only laughed, then pulled rainbow Dash back to their house, with the young pegasus still blushing.

...

Flying into the sky, Moonshadow had a perfect view of the city. It was truly a magnificent place, and he would have appreciated it had he not been looking for a place of solitude. Finally, he settled for the stairs of an empty track area on top of a mountain.

Landing, he was instantly amazed by the area he landed in. The entire mountain it was on had a crop-top, completely flat so the whole area was perfect for training. Along the middle was a paved runway, with flags, hoops, and other obstacle courses around the runway. To the complex's left was a building, which Moonshadow assumed to be the main building - and made him that this was the old Wonderbolts Headquarters.

What the hay? He thought, looking at it again with reopened eyes. Not bad, but why the sudden change? He stopped in the middle of the runway, then used his horn to create a small circle that completely surrounded him. Closing his eyes and sitting down, the circle began to glow and start emitting strange symbols as Moonshadow began to levitate off the ground.

He had started meditating when he woke up after healing Lazuli, where he had a strange dream, one he was still trying to find the meaning of...

...He was standing in front of the Crystal Empire. All around him were fallen Crystal Ponies, along with a few Royal Guard soldiers. Standing before him was none other than Sombra, who snarled upon seeing him.

"You're going down, Sombra," he stated, but the Shadhavar only laughed. "I'D LIKE TO SEE YOU TRY, LONGMA..." Sombra cackled.

Before either could strike, however, there was a bright flash of light above them. Looking up, they could see a creature completely covered in light. It strongly resembled a pegasus, but it's tail was too long - in fact, it strongly resembled his...

The pony flew into the air, then it made a dive over Sombra. Upon impact, the pony cried, 'BEGONE, DARKNESS!!!' There was a bright flash of light, and then Moonshadow awoke to hear Luna talking about Brisk...

'There are so many questions to ask,' Moonshadow mumbled to himself. Sometimes, when he was alone, he said his thoughts out loud to help him see them better. 'First of all, am I what Sombra calls a 'Longma'? If so, are there others like me, too frightened to show their faces?

'Second, who was that pony? It might have been another dragon-pony, yet it's body resembled a pegasus too much - no horns, no draconic eyes...

'Thirdly, what darkness was the pony talking about? Was it Sombra, or is there another force that I have to be concerned - '

Moonshadow was ripped out of his thoughts when he heard the most bloodcurdling scream in his entire life.

Looking up, he saw two uniformed pegasi. The uniforms they wore were blue, with yellow lightning bolts along the chest, hooves, and over their cutie mark. They had goggles, but they weren't on at the moment. The only difference he could find between the two were their manes - one was short, orange and dark yellow, the other snow white, and somewhat longer, but not by much. Apparently, the one who'd screamed was the orange-maned pegasus, since her mouth was wide open as if she was going to scream again.

The white-maned pegasus, however, looked more curious than frightened.

"Sorry for scaring you, sir," she said shyly. "My name's Fleetfoot, and this is Spitfire. Did you come for training? Because if so, we could really use - "

"Thanks, but no," Moonshadow replied. "I was just looking for a place to think. I'll leave now."

"Wait, what's you're name? You didn't tell us your name yet."

The dragon-pony looked at them sideways. "Moonshadow. Moonshadow Meteor."

"Moonshadow Meteor? Well, if that's the case, you really don't need to be a part of their team," a voice stated, and Moonshadow turned to see an orange-yellow pegasus wearing old Equestrian armor fly up to him. He had a red mane, hidden by his helmet, and a bronze shield on his back, along with a sly grin on his face. "Instead, you should consider our request from the last time we met."

"Flash Magnus? Is that really you?"

"Well, I suppose." The pegasus hugged his old ally. "It's good to see you, my friend."

Chapter 15

"Moonshadow! Where are you?!" Rainbow Dash cried as she flew through the streets of Cloudsdale. How do you lose an alicorn with dragon wings and a boomerang horn? she thought, looking around her.

"Okay, think," she mumbled to herself. "If I was Moonshadow, where would I - "

Suddenly, she heard laughter behind her, then a voice that said, "Oh, there she is. I told you I'd find her. Hey, Rainbow Dash!"

The pegasus turned to see Moonshadow flying alongside another pegasus, one who just so happened to be another of her friends.

"Flash? What are you doing here?" Rainbow asked, gliding up to them.

"Well, I originally came here to see you," Flash Magnus said, smirking. "I was at Canterlot when I heard you were gonna be here, so I thought it would be nice to visit you. I went to the track to see if you were there, but then I heard a bloodcurdling scream come from the runway. Landing, I was shocked - yet pleased - to see Moonshadow, alongside Fleetfoot and Spitfire."

"Oh, so you already met two of the Wonderbolts, huh?"

"Wait, WHAT?!?" Moonshadow cried, looking at her in horror. "Those...were WONDERBOLTS?!?"

"Um...yeah? What's wrong with that?"

"They're one of the strongest military forces Equestria has ever known. Now there... SHOW PONIES?!"

Flash laughed, then slugged his friend's shoulder. "Things have changed quite a bit since we were last here, Moonshadow."

"Guess he already told you his story?" Rainbow asked, looking at him.

"Yeah, we had the time to spare while trying to find you." He looked at Moonshadow again and laughed. "I can't believe you're back! We gotta tell the others!"

"The others? Are they here?" The dragon-pony cried in joy, looking around, then slapped his head. "Oh. Right. We're on clouds...can't be up here."

"Bingo." The two stallions cracked up again.

"Come on, fellas," Rainbow Dash said, putting her hooves around the two ponies, blushing as she did for Moonshadow. "Let's continue this conversation over lunch."

...

"So you knew the Pillars when you were in Equestria the first time, huh?" Rainbow Dash asked as she sipped her milkshake.

"Knew them? I was practically one of them, I fought alongside them so much!" Moonshadow guffawed, biting into his sapphire.

"You got that right, Meteor," Flash agreed, then looked at a confused Rainbow. "Do you want me to explain? Or do you want to find out for yourself?"

As Rainbow flushed, the two stallions couldn't help but laugh. Soon, however, the blue pegasus couldn't help but join in.

"You know what, why not? I got the time," she said, still chuckling.

"Well, it all started when we got word of a new creature in the very heart of Canterlot," Flash started. "This said 'creature' turned out to be Moonshadow. He looked as shocked as we felt, but we soon became acquainted, and after seeing his abilities, we asked him if he wanted to join us.

"Although he turned down the offer - he had just became the Commander of the Royal Guard at the time - wait..." Flash stopped when he noticed Rainbow staring at Moonshadow in shock. "You didn't know he was Commander?"

"N-No.. I didn't."

"Still Commander, Flash," Moonshadow said, grinning. "Please continue."

"Alright. Even though he turned down the offer, he requested that we ask for his assistance when needed - and to come visit often. We agreed, all sharing a good laugh, then we departed ways.

"We came to visit him at least once a month, the whole day filled with stories, fun, and nothing but laughter." The orange pegasus sighed, remembering the days they spent together, then looked at the dragon-pony seriously. "That confirms it. We are definitely meeting back up."

"But first, how about a race?" The two stallions turned to look at Rainbow Dash slyly. "I've been trying to challenge you to a race for a while now, but this was the only time to actually do so."

Moonshadow looked at Flash, who shrugged and grinned, then looked back at Rainbow Dash. "You. Want to race. Me?"

"Well, yeah. I saw how fast you launched this morning. You're clearly a challenge if I plan on holding the 'fastest pegasus' title in Equestria."

"Oh, really? Why do you say that?"

"I'm the only living pegasus who can successfully pull off a Sonic Rainboom. What can you do?"

"I can move so fast I can smash into a mountain and have it explode on impact, for starters."

Rainbow Dash laughed, but stopped when she noticed Moonshadow's face remaining the same. 'You're - You're serious?"

"Very much so. There used to be a giant mountain of black crystal surrounding the Crystal Empire, back when Sombra ruled. I flew into it as fast as I could, causing a massive explosion as the shards flew everywhere. You can ask Celestia or Mom - or even Lazuli, now that you think about it - if you don't believe me."

"Oh..." Rainbow Dash coughed, then grinned. "Still not backing down, though."

Moonshadow sighed. "Fine. Because you asked so kindly, I will accept you're challenge and race you."

Rainbow Dash quickly said, "I need to go to the bathroom," before speeding to the mare's restroom and beginning to blush furiously. He said yes, she thought giddily. HE SAID YES!!! she giggled and looked at herself in the mirror - her flushed face, her lively eyes. Is this what love feels like?

She took a deep breath, then sighed as she stepped out of the bathroom to hear Flash laughing and say to Moonshadow, "looks like you got a race going on, buddy."

Oh, you got that right, Flash, Rainbow thought as she began to blush again.

Chapter 16

"So, is it going to be you and me, or..."

"Ha!" Rainbow Dash snorted. "Of course not. You challenge one Wonderbolt, you challenge all of 'em!"

"But...I didn't challenge you," Moonshadow said, suddenly giving her a grave look. "You challenged me."

"Oh...well, you got a point. But - "

"Look, Dash, I'll race you. I'm fine with that. But I'm not racing anypony who's frightened of me. No exceptions."

"I was expecting you to say that. That's why I'm taking you to introduce yourself to them. That way, they won't have a reason to be scared of you."

"You really want me to race them, don't you? Well - "

"Nope! Come on!"With that, Rainbow Dash bit his ear and began to drag him towards the Wonderbolts locker room.

"Ow - Hey! That hurts - OW! Let go of my - OWW!!! Jeez!"

Despite his protests, she didn't let go until they were at the door to the locker room.

"You. In. Now."

"Ugh...you are such a pain in my flank," Moonshadow complained, rubbing his ear, but still walked into the room nonetheless, which got a grin and a blush from Rainbow Dash. Upon entering, he heard the white-maned pegasus - Fleetfoot was her name - talking to the other Wonderbolts about something...

"...had large bat wings, but - to be honest - he had one of the coolest hairstyles I've ever seen! It was a spiky black, with purple tips at the ends..."

They're talking about me, Moonshadow thought mournfully.

He turned to leave, but noticed Rainbow Dash was blocking his way. She went up to him and bumped his shoulder purposely and blushed, as if to suggest to him to just make himself known. Sighing, he stepped out of the shadows and cleared his throat. The Wonderbolts turned to see Rainbow standing with Moonshadow, and some eyes were filled in wonder and awe - but most were fear...

"Everypony...this is Moonshadow Meteor," Rainbow Dash said. "He's the son of Princess Luna."

The non-frightened Wonderbolts came up and introduced themselves - Soarin, Misty Fly, Thunderlane, Silver Zoom. The rest stood back, rigid with shock.

"Well, I guess you heard about Rainbow Dash challenging me against you all," Moonshadow sighed, clearly showing he did not want to do it. "Do you all accept?"

Spitfire and Soarin looked at each other, then grouped the ponies up. As they talked, Moonshadow tried to sulk away, but Rainbow Dash stepped on his tail, making him stay put - and have him yell in pain.

"OW!"

The Wonderbolts turned to him in shock as he began to flush furiously. He glared at Rainbow, who looked ashamed by what she did. "Sorry, Moonshadow...I just really want you to do this. Plus, this could be a way for you to join the team and - "

"And what? Become a show-pony? I'm a fighter, Dash - Showing my talents off isn't what I do." He turned away and mumbled, "That's why I don't want to be here."

"Oh, Moonshadow..." Rainbow started to say, but Spitfire came over to them.

"Alright, Meteor, here's the deal. Fleetfoot, Soarin, Misty, Thunderlane, Rainbow and I will race you - six on one. One full lap around Cloudsdale. First one done wins. You ready to lose?"

He looked up at her, his eyes giving off a dull red light. "I hope that's how you feel."

...

As the pegasi stretched, Fleetfoot noticed the dragon-pony sitting by the starting line, clearly thinking about something on his mind. Walking up to him, she asked, "Already set to race?"

He turned to face the Wonderbolt. "Not really. I just want to get this over with as soon as possible. I need to be back at Canterlot, preparing for my journey alongside Lazuli to find my father, not...here. No offense."

"None taken. We'll try to make it as fast as we can for you," she said, sitting down next to him. "You know, it's not a bad place to live. You know, Canterlot. If you ever need a place to stay...well..."

Moonshadow looked at her and was shocked to see her blushing.

"Look, Fleetfoot, I appreciate the offer, but I plan on staying in the Dragon Lands after this whole fiasco is done and ove with. Also, not to be rude, but... I don't necessarily like you. Please don't take it the wrong way." He crouched and spread his wings. "You should probably get ready."

The Wonderbolt looked up to see her teammates lining up for the race as well. Sighing, she got into position and glanced at Moonshadow, blushing as she did so.

"Hey, Fleety," Rainbow whispered. "Hooves off of him. He's mine."

"Did he ever say that?"

"Well...no..."

"Well, then, he's still up for grab."

"On your mark!" Silver Zoom cried, holding a green flag.

"You ready to go down, spiky-back?" a blue-maned pegasus taunted at Moonshadow. Misty, that was her name.

"Get Set!" Silver cried, raising the flag.

Moonshadow looked up at the crowd that had formed to see the race, then back at Misty Fly and gave only a sly grin.

"Go!"

The crowd cheered as the flag dropped, signalling the racers to begin. What caught everypony off guard, however, was when Moonshadow went straight up into the air. He continued his climb up until he was twice the height of the Wonderbolt stadium, then began to pummel to the surface of the starting line. As the crowd watched, they noticed a shadowy substance beginning to form around him, partially blocking him form view.

Suddenly, before he hit the surface, he began to spin in a circle, and continued spinning until he was a black sphere hovering a few feet above the surface. Then, with a gasp from the crowd, Moonshadow shot out of the sphere, completely surrounded by the dark substance and appearing like a comet.

As the Wonderbolts raced, they slowed as they heard a growing screech come from behind them. They turned to see what it was, but sped ahead immediately, yet were still blown aside as the comet flew past them.

Only one pony went back into the race, determined more than ever to win.

Rainbow Dash sped towards the comet as fast as she could, and was soon on its tail. She continued starting up a Sonic Rainboom, but she would have to begin a climb up into the air, which will lose space between her and the comet. Before she could decide what to do, however, the comet exploded and Moonshadow shot out, leaving a shadowy trail behind him - and leaving Rainbow Dash to choke on his dust.

"Wait...what? What was...what?

She sped for the finish line, where Moonshadow was waiting for her and the other Wonderbolts, who were directly behind her.

"What in the name of Celestia was that?" Rainbow Dash cried in shock.

"When I showed it to my soldiers the first time, they called it a 'Nightfall Bullet', and the name just stuck. Why, did you like it?"

"Like it? Like it?!" Fleetfoot flew up to him and pushed him back, laughing. "Moonshadow, that was one of the coolest things I've ever seen!"

"You have to teach us that trick! Think of the popularity it would get us if we - " Misty started, but stopped when Moonshadow gave her a dark look.

"The Nightfall Bullet is a tactical move - a form of fighting used in war. I only used it to quicken the race. However, I can't teach it to you all if you all plan to use it for simply a 'show.'"

Spitfire sighed at her teammates' attitude that was a respond at what he just he said. "Wait, you said you're soldiers. Are you a Captain?"

"Actually, I'm the Commander of the Royal Guard. Get it right."

Immediately, the Wonderbolts gasped as one and stood at attention, saluting him. "We thought your name sounded familiar, sir, but we weren't sure. I believe you used to lead the whole Solar Military, including - "

"Yes, the original Wonderbolts. That's why I was so furious to see you've all become nothing but a bunch of pretty-dressed show-ponies." The pegasi winced at his words, but looked up as he smirked. "Gotta admit, though, you all still have the speed of the Wonderbolts before you. They'd be proud, I'm sure."

Rainbow blushed as she realized he was talking to her, too. 'Now, about that Nightfall Bullet..."

Moonshadow sighed. "You know what? Fine. I'll teach it to you. Just...stop bugging me about it, alright?" Despite trying to keep a straight face, however, he couldn't help but start to laugh, and soon the Wonderbolts joined in with him.

Chapter 17 Author's Note

Sorry it took me so long to do an update - the real world caught up to me momentarily!

Hope you guys enjoy Chapter 17!
...: :yay:

Chapter 17

By the time Moonshadow and Rainbow Dash returned to the castle, night had fallen and both were weak from complete laughter. For hours, Moonshadow had been trying to teach the blue pegasus - and her friends - how to successfully create a Nightfall Bullet, but every time they tried, they ended up either blasting through the clouds or barely missing the pavement. Nonetheless, all were laughing their flanks off when the failed contender returned to the group. It was more hilarious, however, when Rainbow Dash made an attempt - She ended up creating a Sonic Rainboom and flying off away from the Academy a zillion miles per hour. When the sun began to set, however, the duo said farewell to the Wonderbolts and began their travel back to Canterlot.

"There you are!" Fluttershy called as the duo landed at the castle door. "We've been waiting for you to come back. Come on, Luna wants to show us something."

"Do you know what it is, exactly?" Moonshadow asked, his face having a serious look to it.

"Not yet. She just said to keep an eye out for you to until you returned. They're in the throne room."

"Well, what are we waiting for?" Rainbow asked. "Come on, let's go!" She sped off into the castle, leaving Moonshadow and Fluttershy outside.

"Oh, COME ON!!! Really, Dash?" Moonshadow cried, but chuckled as he turned towards Fluttershy. Come on, let's catch up to her."

"Alright," she said shyly, and they began to walk down the corridor side by side. As they walked, Moonshadow caught a whiff of lavender and vanilla in her mane.

"New shampoo, I'm guessing?" Moonshadow asked.

"Hmm?" Fluttershy asked, looking at him. "Yeah, I guess so. Do you like it?"

"It smells nice...like a meadow under the moonlight..." he said softly, then blushed and looked away. "So...yeah. I like it."

Fluttershy giggled. "just being hard on you, silly."

"Hey, Fluttershy..." Moonshadow said, suddenly going quiet and looking shy. "I...I wan to apologize for startling you when we first met."

"What do you mean?"

"I mean... When we first met, back in Ponyville...I...I guess I-"

"Startled me?" Moonshadow turned away in guilt, but soon a hoof was placed on his face as Fluttershy made him look at her. "Look, I'll admit you made me unsteady at first, but you didn't mean to. None of us knew who you were. I understand." Suddenly, she blushed slightly. "Plus, you did look a little intimidating at first."

Moonshadow's face went astonished at first, but he too blushed as he leaned into her hoof. Both looked into each other's eyes for a few minutes when suddenly Pinkie Pie appeared in between them, wrapping her hooves around the pair and dragging them away.

"Come ON, you two!" Pinkie cried as she continued to drag the two. "I am NOT waiting any longer!"

"PINKIE!" the two cried, but both began to laugh as the pink pony dragged the two into the throne room.

"About time!" Spike said as he saw them enter the room. "What were you two doing, anyways?"

"Well-"

"They were giving each other google-eyes!" Pinkie cried in joy, pushing the two together.

"OOOO!" The group cried as the two ponies blushed.

"Alright, calm down," Luna stated, but she couldn't resist smiling as well. "Now that Moonshadow and Rainbow Dash are back, I can finally show you all what I found."

Soon, the group was watching her as she levitated a large metal container into the room. It was obvious that the container was recently dug up, since there was still fresh dirt still on the top.

"What is that thing?" Applejack asked, poking it carefully.

"No way..." Moonshadow mumbled, walking up to it. "Is that..."

"Yes, child. This is, in fact, your time capsule." Luna unlocked it, allowing Moonshadow to show everypony what was inside.

He began to pull everything out, one by one, so his friends could see what was inside. There was a shard of black rock - "Just a reminder of destroying the Crystal Empire's barrier," Moonshadow said, grinning at Rainbow Dash, who blushed in response - a small sack of Soul Amber (a rare gem found only at midnight in an ancient battlefield), a fully functional pocket-watch, and a thick binder. Upon opening, the mares discovered the binder to be a photo album, full of pictures including Moonshadow, Luna, a pure-white dragon with sky-blue eyes ("Psykari," Moonshadow explained. "My dad.") - and an aqua-blue dragon with a frill around her neck and fins on her tail.

"Is that Brisk?" Starlight asked, looking at Moonshadow softly.

"Yeah..." Moonshadow mumbled, rubbing the necklace made of Brisk's scales he wore around his neck sorrowfully. "That picture right there... that was our first sleepover. We were both extremely excited to spend the night together..."

He sighed, then put everything back into the case, locking it and levitating it, carrying it by his side. "Thanks for finding it, Mom. I'm gonna go out for the night...I need some time to think. Good night, you guys."

"Good night, Moonshadow," they all said as he walked away silently.

...

"Aw, man!" Rainbow complained. "Really? He went with Fluttershy? FLUTTERSHY?! Why her?!"

"That's not a nice thing to say about them two, Dash," Applejack noted. "Ya gotta respect his decisions, pardner."

"But... Why her? What's so interesting about her?"

"Why are you being so hard on Fluttershy, darling? There's nothing wrong with those two being together," Rarity pointed out. "Actually, I think they're rather cute together..."

"Really?! Are you being serious right now!"

"Very much, Dash," Twilight stated firmly. "While I will admit you are not the only one who is...unsteady...by this news, it is important to understand that Moonshadow is his own pony. He's got a mind of his own, as well as the ability to make his own decisions. If he wants to be with Fluttershy, then they can be together. Don't try to stop either of them - please?"

"Ugh," Dash sighed. "Fine. You know what? Fine. Just fine. I won't mess them up. Happy?"

"I wouldn't say happy..." Pinkie said, grinning. "But I am sure EXCITED!!! They make such a cute couple! I totally call throwing their get-together party!"

"Is they're a party that you can't throw?" Twilight chuckled, and soon everypony was laughing.

...

Moonshadow opened his eyes to find himself on the castle balcony, the moon horrifyingly blood-red. The sky was pitch-black, with no stars whatsoever.

What's going on? Moonshadow thought shakily as he looked around. Suddenly, a ghostly cloud flew into his face. As he gasped in shock, he noticed the pure-red eyes staring into his own. The "shadow" lunged at his face, and Moonshadow's eyes flew opened and he found himself back in his room, his photo album opened and a message written on the page with the picture of him and Brisk -

"Feign memorandum possible protect DXvenge deport close, secretion terrace!"

But...what does that mean?

Chapter 18

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.