Day’s Scorn

Chapters

Prologue
01
02
03
04
05

Prologue

“The stars will aid in her escape," that phrase my seemingly dreamless slumber for almost a thousand years, despite my constant efforts to press onward. I knew that every day was a "new day", but how could it be a day spent pleasantly when one was all alone? So used to having a familiar face by my side to help guide me in my decisions and everyday life. The more I pondered what had happened, the more I realized how much I took my own sister for granted. When the day was done, I didn't have anyone to talk to about my own personal struggles and problems. Just myself. Me myself and I.

One would assume in time I would have gotten used to it. But, I did not. I was fatigued, paranoid for much of my days and yes, even my nights. My legs often felt as if they were thin twigs, ready to snap at any given moment.

Many mornings when I would rise to raise the sun, my stomach was doing flips. Occasionally I let it get the better of me. Even so, I did what I could to control it. I would never admit it to Cadence, or my own students, especially Twilight, but I indeed knew I was stressed.

Everyday and night was a reminder of my past mistakes. I hear ponies chat about how strong I was, how I was doing what I could for Equestria and having the country at my benefit. But in reality, it was both our fault's. Whether Luna would admit that or not, was another subject entirely. But there were many a night that I would just.. sob.. and there wouldn't be anyone to comfort me. What could I do? The damage had been done on both sides.

I knew deep down that I wasn't making the situation any better, especially for myself. While in my heart I had forgiven Luna already, I could not do the same for myself. I know I was better than that, and I should've acted as such then.. I was still young and naive, but that's not an excuse for the mistreatment of someone. Especially when it's someone you hold so near and dear to your heart.

To many of my guards surprise, I never ate. As horrible as that may sound, I just wasn't hungry. My emotions were in fact getting the best of me. This was.. fear. I had my worries about the country, yes but, this was something entirely different. The pinpoint was.. no it can't be.. could it?Abandonment? And it was ultimately my own fault. It was my fault I was afraid, if I hadn't banished her, we could have perhaps reasoned things out? Maybe I should have let her have a bit more night? What harm could it have done? My mind was racing. I couldn't go back and change it.. so I just.. now I had to learn from it and do better.

Perfect..

For me. For Luna. For the country. And whatever may happen, I can no longer dwell on the past. I will amend my past mistakes. I will strive for a more better, perfect, future. And when the stars aid in her escape, I know I'll be ready.

01

The Elements of Harmony. Both Luna and I had used them in the past to defeat the likes of Discord and King Sombra. With myself representing the elements of kindness, generosity, and magic. Luna representing loyalty, honesty and laughter.

To be truthful, I did not feel very kind or generous by what I had done to my sister. She was suffering and I had banished her, longing out the suffering for her. It certainly wasn't a generous act either. For I should have compromised for what we both wanted. We both want to rule, we both want what's best for Equestria. Nevertheless,!I was getting consumed by my own thoughts.

Though now, it didn't matter how much I thought about the elements or what had happened in the past. I couldn't change it. Nor could I change the fact that I wasn't connected to them anymore. They needed new bearers. But how in Equestria could I possibly find these elemental bearers on my own? Of course, I had the guard to always assist me, but I alone should be able to do this. It's my fault-half my fault-that Luna is imprisoned in the moon. It's also my fault that she's going to escape on this very night.

The day's still young, my mind doesn't feel young, but it's nothing I can't handle. Even if i'm not connected to the elements anymore, I must at least try to use them. It's all I ken do.

A solid knock fell upon the door that stood proud and regally across the long hallway that the throne room had. I figured it was just a guard reporting or informing me of some matter at hoof. I glanced out of the stained glass window that was nearest to me, though it was a bit hard to see where the sun was positioned at this exact time. I assumed it was nearing the lunch hour. I felt my stomach growl, despite my temptation to eat at the moment, I couldn't just walk out. Especially if this was going to be important.

I dipped my head, using my horn as a yellow magic aura appeared, carefully placing away some scrolls I was examining before my zoning out session. I placed them in a small lavender saddlebag that had a sun of the side of it. I then set it beside me.

Two white stallion guards, whom bore the golden armor that gleamed in the rays of colorful sunlight that entered the room. In between them, they escorted a purple mare with a purple-striped mane into my presence. I internally released a sigh of relief. It was rather nice to seeing a familiar face. I was confused though as to why Twilight had come rather than just sending me a scroll.

"Twilight Sparkle, my faithful student, how may I be of service?", I questioned, my gaze softening as I looked down at the much smaller unicorn.

She smiled and bowed politely before perking back up again,"Princess, I was just finishing reading a book of predictions and prophecies,"she paused and rubbed her neck with a hoof,"Which I borrowed from the Canterlot library, a very good book might I add,"She finally continued to her point,"I was just going to ask if you were aware that tonight marks the one thousandth year of Nightmare Moon's imprisonment?"

I kept my composure even though the subject was still touchy, and that's all I had really been thinking about. It was silent for a few seconds as I frantically tried to search for something to say and not have an outburst. I exhaled
"I did, but thank you for informing me again," I replied as I slowly stood up. I had been sitting all day, and I had to search for the elements myself. Fortunately I knew already where they were, but it was just a matter of summoning them. I used the same magical golden aura to put the saddlebag on my back. I stepped down the steps to where the smaller purple unicorn was standing, still staring up at me. I noticed a glimmer of hope and wonder sparkling in her eyes.

Twilight smiled awkwardly to my surprise and stepped back out of my path, but then started to trot alongside of me,"So, what's the big plan?"

I shook my head. There was barely even a plan, let alone a big plan. I gazed down at her as a soft smile spread across my lips,"You should not be afraid, my little pony, for it will be handled."

She didn't seem to hear me, kind of to my annoyance,"Are you going to have a heavier duty on night patrol? Oh! Or maybe if you didn't lower the sun-how could Nightmare Moon esc-"

"Twilight,"I said calmly, yet a bit stern as I bent down to her level, wrapping a wing around her side, smiling,"I can assure you it is nothing to be of concern about. While I appreciate it, especially somepony so highly educated as yourself, the sun and the moon must be risen and lowered. For it is what balances each and every day in Equestria. As for Nightmare Moon, she will be dealt with properly. Now.. for your next assignment.."

Her eyes seemed to twinkle as she pranced in place, her front hooves bouncing in place as well. She seemingly just bursting with excitement and was hanging on every word I was speaking.

I repeated myself,"For your assignment, I am sending you to Ponyville."

Her pupils went small and seemed to shatter as her jaw hung wide open in shock. She looked a bit horrified, as if i had just, well, banished her to the moon.

"What?!", she burst out, now a disappointed look upon her face,"Ponyville? But-but what's even in Ponyville? I mean.. nothing against them, but what's there that's not in Canterlot? Why are you even sending me there, Princess?"

I had pondered this for awhile, however I had settled on it a few days ago. I was sending Twilight to Ponyville to meet some new, real friends. She had isolated herself too much in Canterlot, I saw so much of me in her. Both good and bad. She was a very motivated, ambitious student. Very responsible. However, she also was alone most of the time. Whether she was lonely was another story, and I myself didn't know if she was or not.

I chuckled to myself,"Each and every city across Equestria has something new and diverse to bring to the land. Cloudsdale is for pegasi, for they help bring new weather everyday. Manehattan has a variety of business and aspiring artists. Canterlot is a place of charm, elegance and experience. For Ponyville, you'll just have to see for yourself what it's lik-"
"Forgive the interruption-but what do I need to do in Ponyville, Princess?", I questioned, looking up at her.

"I was just about to get there,"I replied calmly before continuing,"The one assignment I'll give you is to make some friend's,"I simply replied.
"Making... friends?", she looked confused,"Psh, friends? I don't need those, I have Spike and then there's Minuette, and Lemonheart, Lyra, and Moondancer, even though I haven't seen her in a minute..", she mumbled that last part to herself,"So making friends.. is this a sort of test?"

A test? Making friends? A test? I blinked. I suppose if that's how she wanted to view it, I'd let her,"Trust me, Twilight, everything will work out how it's meant to,"I assured her, giving her a small hug from my wing again,"I have a chariot ready, and if you need anything at your place, I can have a guard escort you there."

She looked as if she were going to faint,"R-right now? But-but that's so soon! What if we talk this over and-"

"Yes, right now. And don't forget, you will still be able to write to me if you ever need help or have a problem,"I gently explained further, hoping that she would finally be assured and would-to put it blatantly-get a move on.

She followed me close, a bit uncomfortably close,"But wha-wait.. where are you off too?"

I panicked only slightly, should I tell the truth? What would she say if I told her something about the elements? I figured I'd only give a vague response.

"I assure you, I am completely fine, Twilight. Now if you'll excuse me I have some matters at hoof to attend to," I simply waved her off before she was escorted once again by two guards.

I heard her let out a sigh as she seemingly begrudgingly followed alongside the guards. I was kind of upset I was sending her away. A pain stung my heart. Just like I sent my sister away. But.. this was different, she could always come to me if she needed anything, just as I know I would still need her. I did enjoy Twilight's company, but she was definitely overbearing at times. Finally, I had to push these thoughts to the back of my mind, making m way up a flight of long, twisted stairs. This section of stairs was in a hidden part of the castle, underneath one of the huge tapestries. In a small corner. A small light glowing orb from my horn lit the dark staircase as I slowly made my way up the staircase. On the top of the stairs was a brown wooden door, with the carving of a moon on the center of it. This was Luna's private study. I pushed the key into the keyhole and turned the door, it creaked open as cobwebs coated the room.

This is where, for the time being, the alicorn amulet was held as well as several other precious, powerful, dangerous artifacts. What I was looking for was a book rather than an artifact. Of course the elements were artifacts, and they were hidden under the floors of Luna and I's former castle, which was now overtaken by the Everfree forest.

To my surprise, the book was surprisingly easy to find. The glowing golden orb illuminated the room. The book was resting on a pedestal in the corner of the room. I looked above the pedestal. On the wall was a mirror, and it was broken. I froze a little. I couldn't even begin to imagine what Luna was doing and or going through when she used to barricade herself in here for hours.

I used my magic slowly to unlock the book and flip it open. Sitting down, I carefully read the ancient words. I knew I was playing with dark, powerful magic. The kind of magic that had corrupt King Sombra all those years ago. I took a few deep breathes before mumbling out the ancient words, my horn's aura turning a green and spouting black and red magic, rather than gold. My amethyst-fuchsia eyes turned a hideous shade of green color.

I had finished reciting the words and after awhile my horn and my eyes had returned to their familiar shades. I rubbed my eyes with a hoof and exhaled. In front of me lay the elements. They glistened in the golden aura that spouted from my horn. However, as I leaned down, I noticed they were all cracked. All of them were slowly falling apart. The only one however that was completely in tact, was the element of magic.

02

My eyes widened as I held the crumbled, broken pieces of the different shades in my hooves. I couldn't believe what I was witnessing, how in Equestria were they shattered? Did someone shatter them? Did I conjure up the wrong spell? Perhaps there was a way to repair them?

I stood up calmly and dipped my horn down, the golden aura around my horn lighting up the dark, dusty room again. Exhaling, as I used a repair spell, the shards of elements spiraling around me in a whirlwind of bright color. After a bright blaze of orange light, I sat down, looking upon the elements that were now intact. I smiled contently to myself. It had worked. I was pleasantly surprised as well. I didn't need anyone's help but my own! It was nice.. I did it by myself, no one even dared ask me for help. Things were surprisingly going according to plan. Perfect.

My one and only concern was where Luna would spawn once she escaped the moon. Certainly not any of the cities but Canterlot. Canterlot or our old castle. Those were where the elements had previously been, and she most likely was going to try destroying the elements. So the Everfree forest was where I needed to be heading.

I knew the journey was one I had to venture alone. It was my fault that Luna was imprisoned and was going to escape. I must face her alone. Besides, having guards or anypony else would just anger my sister even further and I didn't want that. What I did want was nothing more or less than a clean confrontation. If push came to shove though, that confrontation would soon turn into a clean fight. Even though I didn’t want to fight my sister, again, I also knew Nightmare Moon couldn’t be reasoned with, and fighting was going to be necessary. She would head straight, charging at me, most likely to kill me. But this time, I was stronger. I would not falter. I needed to protect myself and the rest of the country, even despite that the fact Luna had turned this way because of me. I had an obligation though to make my wrongs, and yes, even partially Luna’s wrongs, a right.

The unfortunate part in all of this though was I had to wait. I had to wait and dread these few hours before nightfall would come. I was developing a plan in my mind. Of where I would be when I lowered the sun and raised the moon. I would be at the center of our old castle, where the elements of Harmony once were.

However I couldn't activate them until Nightmare Moon was in my presence, otherwise activating them
before hand would just be a waste of their energy. They were precious artifacts for not only me and my sister, but for Equestria as well. Without these elements in Equestria, how could anypony live a meaningful, happy life? Friendship is everything, family is as well. Without generosity, kindness, honesty, laughter, loyalty, and magic-how could one find fulfillment in their relationships?

More importantly.. how could I live a meaningful, happy life? How could I find fulfillment in my relationships? Was my immortality a gift? Was it a curse? I could only imagine how blessed some ponies would feel if they had immortality.. and now.. why did I feel this feeling of dread falling upon me?

I took a step back, proceeding to exit the room. But before, I took a glance back. The room seemed even more dusty than it had been before. It seemed dirty, ancient. To a degree, it was. It hasn’t been in use for nearly a thousand years. I pondered cleaning it for my dear sister, so she could have a clean place to spend her leisure time. But then another thought occurred to me. I had no idea what would happen after Nightmare Moon was defeated. Would Luna even want to return with me to Canterlot? More importantly-could I even defeat her? What if she wasn’t defeated with the elements? What then? Surely I couldn’t flat out kill her. Banish her to Tartarus.. that was an option. Death.. I didn’t desire to be an option at all.

I then realized why I suddenly had all of these doubts clouding my judgement and more or less-my entire mind. This room whilst old, was also filled with powerful, ancient magic and artifacts as well. Both good and evil alike. The dark magic I had just used was still lingering in the air. I needed to exit as soon as possible. So without taking another glance behind me, I slowly and gingerly closed the door, my hooves clicking against the steps as I made my way down.

I slipped out from underneath the tapestry, my crown slipping and falling, a crashing sound made as it hit the ground. I winced at the sound, my ears going back in discomfort. I glanced around, seeing if anyone had heard. To my surprise, no one had. I figured the guards were off on their lunch break.

I made my way down the hallway, passing the spacious hallways and ballrooms. As I walked, I felt a rather odd feeling over me, I felt as if I were in need of a nap. Of course there was no time for napping. No time to waste at all. It was just a meaningless escape from what I was about to face tonight. I was about to face my past, and future all in the present. How I acted now, what I said too, all affected what was going to happen. I had to act swiftly, but wisely. The two needed to cooperate. Yet I was also overthinking the situation entirely.

The small purple unicorn suddenly came to mind, and a soft smile soon graced my face again. With Twilight busy, this gave me some relief and comfort. I knew in my heart that she would be safer in Ponyville. Besides, it was better this way, especially if my plans went south,

I made my way down the spiral staircase, these stairs, unlike the secret stone ones that led to Luna’s former study chamber, were made of silky pastel colored fabric. Some of the best, and yes, most expensive fabric in Canterlot. After Luna’s banishment, the capital had not only been moved to Canterlot, but the all of the flooring in the castle was updated. It was once just the same as our old castle, stone and cobblestone. Some marble but not much. Equestria had changed so much since then. Part of me wondered whether or not Luna would be able to adapt and change with the times.

I put these thoughts to rest though as I made my way to my own chambers. The door was an archway that was a wooden door with a golden sun on the center, and precious gems coated the sides of it. These gems were all a golden shade, and shimmered a-mist the sunlight reflecting it. I used my magic to open the door, trotting inside quietly.

The room had a fireplace in the center, which was crackling and burning bright even still. It was more for decor rather than warmth, but it provided useful in the winter months. The bed and walls had shades of regal purple. Amethysts, lavenders, and many more. The pillows that sat quaintly upon the circular bed were lined with golden fabric. Everything, blankets, pillows, the comforter, were all plush soft.

Sitting down, I folded my hooves before setting the saddlebag down. I once again used my magic to levitate, however this time I removed my crown. I then set it neatly on the mantle that was directly above the fireplace. It would be safe here. Besides if I was more or less charging into battle, what use was a crown or other jewelry. I removed the small golden shoes as well, placing them on the side of the circular bed. I also removed the necklace that was around my neck. I slowly set the saddlebag back onto my back, and folded my wings back as well.

The same golden aura appeared from my horn, however it surrounded my entire presence. If I did not return, the next ruler of Equestria would know where to find my crown and other jewels. Part of my mind though, spoke directly to me. I knew I would return. No matter what went down in the Evergreen forest tonight.

03

Small specs of sunlight trickled through the dark, looming trees that stood above me. Perhaps my subjects and myself had judged the forest too harshly. As of right now, it was seemingly peaceful. There weren't any birds chirping. What there was though, was the gentle sound of leaves glowing in the wind, and bushes rustling. I knew that the night ahead of me though was going to be anything but peaceful. I was praying for the best silently, but ultimately expecting the worst to go down.

As I trotted through the forest, the trees seemed to get bigger, and the sunlight that had poked through, diminished. I tried not to be fazed by this, but it was hard not to be since the change was extremely noticeable. I just kept going despite my now present nerves.

Hearing a twig snap, I froze in place, quickly and without hesitation-setting up a golden aura which was a force-field around myself. The bush beside me kept rustling, and I prepared for the worst. Finally, whatever it was in the bush, showed itself.

With the head of a chicken, body of.. a small dragon and tail, and the feet of a chicken. A peculiar looking creature known as a cockatrice. I let out a sigh of relief, but made sure not to look it directly in the eyes.
I chuckled a little bit to myself,"Just a cockatrice, I'll just..", I stepped to the side of it, sweating a little bit to myself as I wasn't too fond of these animals. I was just glad it wasn't a manticore or something worse.
The cockatrice blinked and pecked at the ground, making some clucking noises. It stumbled around for a few seconds before hitting the force field. I blinked and then heard a screeching noise as it's shadow was cast above me.

Laughing nervously, I screamed before taking off in a sprint, not bothering to care that the force field had come off. I sprinted through the trees, vines and bushes, not caring where I was running at this point. I just wanted to get out.

Despite my carelessness, I managed to make it past the cockatrice. Exhaling, I slowly sat down. A sharp pain came over me as I glanced down, my back left hoof was throbbing massively. I clenched my teeth, it hurt very badly. Perhaps I have a thorn? As I leaned down, trying to examine it, I heard a voice.

"Princess? What causes you such distress?"
I blinked, turning around as I heard the familiar voice,"Oh hello Zecora, I was just.. taking a walk! Getting a little breather on this fine day-as one does."
"I see.. now why is it that you come to me?"
I couldn't exactly tell her that I wasn't here for her, but I figured she could help with my hoof. I slowly stood up,"There was a cockatrice and I was running from it.. my hoof got sprained."
The small zebra smiled and nodded,"Come then before your hoof becomes aloof."

I dipped my head and followed her inside her tree hut, ducking my head so I didn't hit anything on the inside. Inside, it had a wooden base-naturally since she did live in a tree. There were several large pots, pans, and glass bottles that had some substances in them. I found myself wandered around, curiously as I examined my surroundings before sitting down on a small stool that was in the zebra’s hut.
She pranced over to me with a small green tinted glass jar, pulling her cap off with her mouth before pouring out a sticky, almost sap like material. I had never seen any sort of ailment or treatment before, so I stayed quiet.

“This is sticky sap, so you may find your way back onto the right map,”she gingerly told me as a small, appreciative smile lit my face as she rubbed the substance on my hoof,“I know why you are traveling in the forest Princess, I-though, do not wish to slow your efforts.”
My amethyst eyes blinked and I turned and met my gaze to the small zebra that stood before me. Zecora was known to be psychic and such, but how did she-

“You are wanting to defeat Nightmare Moon all alone, but beware of the darkening throne,” she told me.
The darkening throne? What does that mean? I felt some relief in my hoof as the sap sank into my hoof. Zecora didn’t say much as she brought over some scraps of cloth.

“Thank you, Zecora,”I dipped my head as I used my magic to levitate the bits of cloth, and wrap them around my hoof.
She dipped her head in a nod,“Of course Princess, but before you leave, I must heave,”she started before I stood up, walking beside her over to the door,“Celestia, despite what I’ve said, I believe you can decide what’s best for Equestria instead.”
I let out a large sigh of relief,“Thank you for those wise words, Zecora,”I gave a small smile and wave with my wing before starting to make my way back onto the journey to Luna and I’s old castle, but not before turning to say “thank you” for the hospitality.

But to my surprise, as I turned to say a simple “thank you”, Zecora’s hut was no longer there. It was if it simple vanished into thin air. A lump grew in my throat as a disturbing feeling started to fester inside me. No. I fought against these worries, but it was tremendously difficult. What had happened to Zecora and her hut? Was it all an illusion? It couldn’t have been, my hoof was still wrapped. Wasn’t it?

I glanced down at my flank, at my back hoof. Yes, the wrappings were still tight around my hoof. I just decided that it was my mind, and the forest itself playing tricks on me. I hesitantly continued.

Fortunately, I was nearing the end of the path. Light soon lit my path once more as I saw a clearing in sight. I was out of the woods, finally. It was one step, one accomplishment more to defeating Nightmare Moon, even if it was small. It just once again proved that I was capable of doing this, and more, alone. No guards. Just me. Just Celestia.

Now the castle was in plain sight, or rather-what remained of the castle. It was overgrown with vines, and other plants that had lurked in the Everfree forest. It had only continued to waste away as time went on. It was an eerie sight to see. The crumbled towers, the pillars that once stood proud and tall, were now only bits of dirt and dust. Just proving, nothing good can ever last.

I stopped myself, bewildered by my own thoughts! How could I think such a thing? That wasn’t true.. was it? But part of my brain screamed at me. It was all too true, as much as I wanted to deny it. It really was the inevitable. I thought back to my sister and I when we were fillies, how we used to prance over to Starswirl and show him what we had made. We’d make small arts and crafts out of gemstones. I remember Luna and I made a model sun and moon for him with paper, glue, and gemstones. In the middle of this was a bright shining star, representing Starswirl. I smiled at this thought. But I knew that I was right, it hadn’t lasted long.

Despite this, a small lightbulb went off in my head, perhaps if the good times can’t last, neither will the bad times. That was the hope I was clinging onto. I just hoped that that hope I had would be enough. Enough to harness the power and harmony of the elements to combat Nightmare Moon. The power to get me through this infamous night without dreading it, but I already was. I just had to have the strength, the courage, the magic. The preciseness to venture my way through

04

Now directly before me lay the crumbled remains of the once regal castle. A bittersweet sorrow flooded through my mind. So many memories both painful and wonderful were made at this now pile of ruins.

My mane flowed even more as a gust of wind shivered my now spread wings. I exhaled, taking a step. That's what I focused. Taking one step after another. Eyes gazing up towards the sky, I knew I would have to lower the sun in only a mere few hours. The last drops of sunlight before a seeming-less endless night. Those thoughts tugged at my heartstrings, but I managed to fight them off as I concentrated on still taking one step at a time.

By the time I had done this, I made my way to the small bridge that connected the two pieces of ground. I didn't want to risk my hoof getting caught in the ropes and unstable pieces of wood that lay scattered across the bridge. So I stretched out my wings even more before jumping into the now darkening blue sky. Despite the darkening of the sky, it illuminated my cream white wings perfectly. I flapped them, making my way over the bridge and right onto the front steps, or rather, what remained of the front steps.

An eerie creak was heard as I slowly and carefully made my way up the steps, and into the crumbles of the old castle. I could practically smell the dust on every single inch of the castle. My hooves clicked against the ground as my eyes shifted to the now abandoned castle. This was the only noise present other then a few minor creaks and water dripping down in some areas of the castle.

The tapestries that once hung so proudly over each of Luna and I's respective thrones were now in shreds. Merely just pieces of fabric, dangling from the walls. In a way, it broke my heart. It symbolized the brokenness of our once right bond. It symbolized the pain we had both caused each other. The tapestries could be mended rather easily by the help of some skillful crafts-ponies. As for Luna and I's relationship. Could it be so easily mended?

I didn't know the answer. Did I even want to? The future held so many possibilities, both good and bad alike. Again, I reminded myself though, that no matter what happened tonight, I would give my all. To protect Equestria, my subjects, and myself. If my sister wasn't defeated by the elements.. what choice did I have but imprisonment in Tartarus or.. worse.

I really was getting consumed in all of these thoughts as I shifted my gaze down towards where our individual thrones used to stand. They were no longer there. Most likely obliterated into several pieces at Luna's transformation, symbolizing one ruler of Equestria. In her turmoil though, she had given that one ruler position to me rather than taking it for herself. In a way, it made me feel sorry in a way. She had her own dreams and goals and all she wanted was to be my equal, and I took that away from her. She would either be bent on revenge or she would have to form new dreams and goals for herself if she so desired to.

Guilt tugged at my heart stings as I swallowed deeply, bowing my head to the floor and trudging deeper into what remained of the castle. My front hooves felt an odd sort of tension rising up in them, an unpleasant tingly-like feeling. It was a disgusting feeling. I despised it, I even attempted to physically shake it off, but it was no use. The feelings were still there. I took a deep breath, and even still, no use. It pained me. Greatly.

I gradually made my way down another narrow hallway, or rather, what was left of it. My hooves clicked against the now uneven stone floors. The glass panels and depictions of the past that once lined the hallway, music similar to the ones now present in Canterlot, were shattered across the floor. A small, sorrowful smile crept across my lips, remembering how Luna, Starswirl and myself had once roamed these halls together. Facing life’s challenges and threats, together as a team. I feel as if a part of Luna and myself had left when Starswirl, as well as the rest of the pillars, disappeared.

At the end of the hall was the contraption that once held the elements, however, now the orbs were empty since the shards were now in my care. I pondered over the idea of whether or not I should place the elements back into the contraption with the stone orbs sticking out of it’s sides, as if they were acting as arms. In a way it reminded me of the Tree of Harmony, only this was a robotic version.

Trotting around it, I tilted my horn as a golden aura lit up around it. I used my magic to brush off the cobwebs and dust that had covered it, almost like a snow of some sort. I sneezed as I caught a whiff of the heavy dust. I tilted my head down to the ground in an attempt to see if the contraption that stood before me would even move. It didn’t. I figured I would have to defeat Nightmare Moon the way I had done in the past, with the elements surrounding me rather than using the contraption that had once held them.

I took a step back from the contraption, and eventually turned around, making my way over to one of the broken windows. The sky was darkening. That same feeling that I felt in my hooves now surged over my entire body. My back hooves shook a bit. I shook my head, stomping my front hooves against the ground.

“No. I will not let mere anxieties drive me and defeat me,”I sternly told myself, staring at myself in the little remains of glass that encased the window. I dipped my head, staring at the sun and letting out a deep sigh, the golden aura once again glowing around my horn. I remembered when I was a filly, I would break out in a sweat lowering and raising the sun, but now lowering and raising the sun was a piece of cake. Lowering and raising the moon was a bit trickier though considering that it wasn’t my special talent. For a thousand years though, it was my duty, and thus I performed it to the best of my abilities.

The sun quietly crept underneath the mountains and trees that were in the distance. A various pallet of colors now shimmered across the evening sky. Once I had the sun at it’s correct position, I turned my attention towards the other half of the sky, which was now a dark shade of purple, and only glimpses of light blue poked out here and there. My horn now had a dark blue aura around it as it slowly moved the moon to it’s correct position in the sky. The dots and speckles in the moon, representing Nightmare Moon were still present. I let out a sigh of relief. It wasn’t time. At least, not yet. Part of me hoped that I had gotten the date wrong, but with the book of Equestrian Predictions and Prophecies, and Twilight’s reminder, I knew I hadn’t.

I sat down on the cold ground, shuffling my hoof a bit. What could I do other than wait for fate to do it’s job? I could swiftly write a letter to the rest of the Canterlot Guard, but what good would that do? It would only be putting good colts and mares in way of harm. Equestria had already suffered from my foolish, careless mistakes, and this was a mistake-mine and Luna’s-I would give my all to make up for that mistake. I hoped that Luna would as well, that was the best that could happen. And as I stated before, the worst-

I had caught myself ruminating yet again. What caught me wasn’t my repetitive thoughts though, no, it was a sound of hooves running towards me. My pupils went small. Had Nightmare Moon escaped this quick? I glanced toward the sky. No, the dots and speckles were still present. Perhaps it was a guard coming to inform me of something? What or who else could it be? Then it hit me. But I didn’t have to think to know who it was. Nevertheless, I rose to my hooves, crouching down and spreading my wings. To be fair, I did have a very impressive wingspan.

Not to my surprise, a lavender unicorn with a purple striped mane was running right down the unstable hallway. Behind her, an orange earth pony with a blonde mane. A cream unicorn with a dark purple mane. At the back of the group was oddly enough, a pastel yellow pegasus with a light pink mane. To Twilight’s side was a bouncing pink pony with an outrageously curly mane. In the air, flying right towards me was a sky blue pegasus with a very bold rainbow mane.

I immediately stood up tall, folding my wings to my side and watching the six ponies come to a halt before me. They all immediately bowed before me, some of their noses touching the ground. Twilight stood in front of them, and after a few seconds she broke the silence.

“Princess! Thank Equestria you’re all right!”, she exclaimed, standing up as did the others that stood behind her and to the sides.

To put it lightly, I was for once not very excited to see Twilight. I had specifically told her to not worry about the signs of Nightmare Moon’s return. But on the other hoof, I did tell her to make some friends, which it appeared she had done so.
“I see you have made some new friends,” I forced a small smile as I looked down at all of the mares. They did look familiar, but I couldn’t quite put my hoof on their names.
Twilight looked surprised by this, and before she could respond, the orange colored earth pony spoke up.
“She sure did! It is mighty good to see you’re alright Princess,”she said, removing her hat respectfully.
I did appreciate this gesture, and a more genuine smile lit my face,“I assure you I am physically well as of right now, but I have to ask why you ponies are here?”
“Oo! Oo! I know!”, the pink pony jumped up and down,“Twilight was reading a book and saw the signs of Nightmare Moon’s return, all I was trying to do was throw her a ‘welcome to Ponyville party!’ I do that for eeeeverryy new pony in Ponyville! Then she was convinced we needed to find the ‘Elements of Harmony’ so that’s why we’re here!”, she explained very quickly and enthusiastically.

The cream unicorn stepped forward,“Darl-I mean, your highness,”she bowed respectfully once more, a frown spread across her face though,“Surely you weren’t planning on defeating Nightmare Moon alone?”

I sighed deeply yet again, lowering my head and meeting all of their curious eyes,“I am.. it is my duty, not only as the ruler of Equestria, but the one who banished her in the first place.”

“Well.. now that we’re here though, we can help you!”, Twilight chimed in.

“Twilight, I would gladly accept your help, but unfortunately I can not risk-“

“Uhh everypony, I don’t think now’s the time for chit chat, we got some blue smoke twelve o’ clock!”, the blue pegasus with rainbow hair shouted.
“Oo! Another guessing game? Another guessing-“

As I turned around, I could now see that the blue pegasus was right. There on a small grey platform that stood only a bit elevated to the contraption, was a form of sparkling blue smoke. I spread my wings once more.
“Everypony, get behind me this instant.”
“But Princess!”, the six objected in unison.

“Princess you say?”, came a booming, haunting voice from where the blue smoke had illuminated from. As hesitant as I was, I soon met the gaze of a pair of turquoise, dragon like eyes. Nightmare Moon.

05

"Does my crown no longer count, now that I have been imprisoned for a thousand years?", the dark figured questioned, stepping into the shades of silver and blue that reflected against the stone floor from the broken stained glass panels.

I stood silent, at least for a few minutes, my wings still remaining stiff and tall. I know I had to reply eventually, otherwise one of the others would give her a snarky remark which would just make things even worse. Her quarrel was with me, and me alone, not any of my subjects.
"No,"I replied, dipping my head down and then lifting it yet again,"It does not. The crown you are so desperately wanting will never belong to you, for it was never yours to begin with."

The black coated mare threw her head back and let out a cackle,"You fool! Do not lecture me with such meaningless words. The crown you bare wasn't entirely yours to begin with, isn't that right, Tia?", she spat.

Without saying another word, Nightmare Moon shifted her gaze from the ponies to the contraption that was the only barrier separating her from me. With a flash of blue light, and using her mane to spiral the entire room into a blue starry sky-like atmosphere, the stone pieces flew across the room.

I figured using my wings wasn't a strong enough barrier and lifted my horn up a bit, the golden presence flickering and soon a forcefield covered the six ponies and myself.

Once the dust had cleared, Nightmare Moon let out another maniacal laugh, flapped her wings a bit before stomping on the contraption that once held the elements.

I heard a few small gasps from behind me, the largest one being notably Twilight's.
"Now you precious sun-lovers will never use the elements upon me and once I defeat you-", she met my gaze.

It was terrifying looking into those eyes. For I could only see my suffering sister. I had to remind myself though, that this was not Luna. This monster took Luna away from me and corrupted her once brilliant mind.
"-I shall bring forth the eternal night and rule Equestria, FOREVER!", I suspected she would let out another laugh, she did not, she blasted out a powerful spurt of blue magic from her horn, vanquishing the forcefield I was holding up.

I returned the favor by shooting out a blast of yellow, directly hitting Nightmare Moon in the chest. She stumbled back onto the wall, falling down as smoke clouded the area. I leapt into the sky, flapping my wings directly overhead of where Nightmare Moon was. She's down, now's my chance to use the-
"Princess Celestia!", a familiar voice cried as I peered down to see Twilight running toward where I was in the air, but also near where Nightmare Moon was down.

"Twilight I need you to take the others back to Ponyville-"

"We're not leaving you Princess!", shouted the blue pegasus with rainbow mane.

"Plus we still haven't found the elements,"whispered the yellow pegasus in the back.

A large blue aura lit and flashed, shrouding the room in darkness except for that blue light. It had come in a bolt of lighting from where Nightmare Moon had fallen against the wall. The dark coated mare rose up once again.

I used my horn to illuminate the room, causing Nightmare Moon to put a wing over her eyes and step back a bit. The aura I had created in the room was so bright, even some of the ponies stepped back a bit. All except one. Twilight. Of course.

The small purple unicorn lunges at the ground, scraping a hoof against the ground before charging at Nightmare Moon. She glanced up and winked at me. She was using this to distract Nightmare Moon while I harnessed the power of the elements.

Nightmare Moon looked disgusted as she raised an eyebrow at the purple mare charging towards her.
"You're kidding. You're kidding right?", she rolled her eyes as her gaze was set on Twilight. She then paused, winced a bit and directed her gaze back towards me.

She visibly clenched her jaw, narrowing her eyes before rearing back on her back hooves, throwing her front hooves in the air.
"No! Not again you fool! Stand back!", and with that a surge of powerful blue magic shot out of her directly hitting Twilight in the chest, she let out a screech as she immediately fell to her hooves.

"Twilight!", the five other ponies screamed in unison, trotting over to her. The blonde pony with orange coat had to physically restrain the blue pegasus from charging at Nightmare Moon.

I froze for a long while. It was as if time itself had stopped and all the colors faded from the world. As if I was the sole pony left in Equestria. The screech Twilight had let out echoed and rattled in my ears. I stared horrified, down at the small unicorn that lay lifeless against the stone floor. Her coat was ruffled in that spot that Nightmare Moon pierced. A small splotch of grey was also present, almost like a bruise. My mind twisted as I shifted my gaze to the black mare that stood, smiling malevolently at the pain she had inflected.

She had just deliberately harmed my most faithful student. She did this on purpose. She wanted to hurt Twilight. She wanted to see her suffer. She wanted to see me suffer. She wanted to see Equestria suffer. If anything I should be the only one to suffer. And yet.. I didn’t want to. I had such a feeling inside of me. It felt fiery. It felt as if someone had flicked a spark onto my heart and it was now engulfed in flames.

I felt my eyes darken as I swallowed the lump in my throat, the feeling-at least in my eyes-felt like when I was in the old study room. The dark magic. Surely it wasn’t that, I was just angry. My eyes felt much darker and heavier though. I became much more aware of my surroundings, and now could hear Nightmare Moon cackling like she had before.

Without another thought or hesitation, I levitated the elements from the saddle bag that was still on my back. To my surprise, the elements didn’t give the rainbow aura, it’s as if the entire room went into a bright flash of light, the same light that matched my magic aura. It’s as of Nightmare Moon and I were in a much brighter celestial plane.

“What? What’s going on?! You can’t possibly use the elements! You and Luna aren’t connected to them anymore!” , Nightmare Moon objected.

Without even replying, the flash of bright light faded to the dark room, as the elements shot out a rainbow and swirled around me. My eyes flickered from white to complete black as the rainbow shot out directly toward Nightmare Moon. I could hear her pleas and cries as the rainbow eventually engulfed her.

Another bright flash of light flooded my presence and Nightmare Moon’s, and it was as if we were in the celestial plane yet again. Or something similar. A damaged Nightmare Moon started to fade away into dust or sand it seemed.
Without even thinking, almost on impulse or something out of my control, my mouth opened to speak and finally give Nightmare Moon the answer to her question.
“That’s because I am not Celestia.”