My Friend, Nightmare Moon

Chapters

The castle
Magic and stars
Dreams and Nightmares
Friendship and Violence
Secrets and seekers
Dream fight
Discovery and Confrontation
Regret and Truth
Fixing mistakes
Her beautiful night sky
The end?

The castle

'How could they do this to me?! I haven't done a single thing to them but they were all mean to me, WHY?!' Amber thought as she flapped her wings and flew through the forest

Amber night had a nice sky blue coat with a navy blue main and tail with amber-colored stripes, Amber considered herself and nice and friendly filly to everypony she met but when she went to school she found out some rumors had been spread about her, saying she was just acting nice so she could take advantage of everyone's friendship and use them however she wanted, she tried to convince the others they weren't true but nopony believed her. as school continued through the days the rumors only got worse but throughout the days she had one friend who stuck by her until that very same friend became more and more distant, when Amber confronted her friend they told her that they shouldn't be friends anymore and with this Amber ran off without looking back and took to the air.

Amber had finally stopped flying to rest as she sobbed in the middle of the Everfree forest "She left me, all of them hate me, what do I do now?" she said out loud then she laid down on the grass below

"I'm all alone." she said when suddenly a horrible smell reached her nose so she covered her nose and sat up "Ew, what is that smell? it smells horrible." she said then she heard growling behind her and when she turned to look she saw a timberwolf starring right at her

Amber was frozen with fear as the timberwolf slowly walked closer and closer to her until it snarled and Amber quickly took to the air to escape its next attack but she wasn't fast enough as the timberwolf's claw hit her and knocked her into a nearby tree but out of fear for her life she quickly recovered and tried to fly again only to get a sharp pain as she started to flap her wings so instead she ran as fast as her hooves could carry her with the timberwolf hot on her tail

(Elsewhere)

Nightmare moon was floating through the corridors of the castle of two sisters, ever since the summer sun celebration when she was freed then defeated by the elements, she had successfully detached a part of herself off of Luna before the elements could destroy her and hid away until they eventually left, over the days she had been nothing but a small mist floating through the castle.

Nightmare moon growled "Curse that Twilight and her friends, reducing me to this pitiful state. I would head to ponyville and destroy them now but without a host body all I would do is get myself destroyed." she said as she returned to the room where the elements of harmony were first found

"I can't go back to Luna, she'll be a lot more resistant to me now, I need a new host, if I don't find one soon then I'll end up disappearing seeing as I have no way to recover my power." she said

(Amber)

Amber ran through the forest until she came upon a dirt path and with limited choices, she chose to follow it to see where it would take her until in the distance she could see some ruins of an old building and headed straight to it with the timberwolf still following her, Amber burst through the doors and found herself in a room where a small statue with plates on it sat in the middle

Nightmare quickly turned and saw Amber burst through the doors and land on the floor "Well, talk about luck, a brand new host just for me, she may be just a filly but she'll just have to do for now." she whispered to herself as Amber quickly stood up and ran behind the statue while the timberwolf walked through the doors

Amber was breathing heavily with her eyes shut tight 'What do I do? if it finds me then I'm a goner, what do I do?' she frantically thought as the timberwolf stepped closer to the statue

Nightmare flew over to Amber and whispered in her ear "I can help you."

Amber's eyes shot open as she stared at the blue mist beside her "Who are you?" she asked

"Who I am does not matter, I can help you get rid of this timberwolf but only if you allow me." Nightmare said and Amber looked unsure until the timberwolf started growling again as it took another step forward "I suggest you make a decision, now." she said

Amber nodded "Please help me, whoever you are." she said

Nightmare grinned as she entered Amber's mind then she began to take over her body making her signature wings appear along with a horn as Amber's coat and mane changed to her colors and all while it was happening the timberwolf stepped closer until he was right over Amber

Nightmare looked up at the timberwolf in disgust "Disgusting beast, BEGONE!" she yelled then she shot the timberwolf with her magic blasting him out of the castle and sending him flying back to the woods, and after he was gone Nightmare fell to the ground exhausted "No, I don't have enough power to stay awake, damn...it..." she trailed off as she fell unconscious

(2 hours later)

Amber slowly opened her eyes and looked around the room 'Ow, why does my head hurt?' she thought but once she started rubbing she felt a horn which surprised her and made her sit straight up as she rubbed it 'Is this a horn? how did I get a horn? this is so weird.' she thought then she felt something was off so she spread her wings out and looked them over but was surprised to find her wings had changed

'Whoa! my wings look so much bigger now, I bet I could fly from Cloudsdale and back fives times in five seconds.' she happily thought

"Ah, so you are finally awake, it's about time." A voice said and Amber quickly turned to find where the voice came from but she found nothing "To think I would fall unconscious from one simple magic blast, how annoying. but as long as I have a new host body. I suppose I can make up for this embarrassment." the voice said

"Hello! who are you?" Amber asked while looking around

The voice laughed "I am the soon-to-be Empress of Equestria and the bringer of eternal night, Nightmare moon!" Nightmare said

Amber gasped "You're Nightmare moon?!" she said

"Yes I am, and now. your body is mine!" Nightmare said

Amber felt something start to take control of her as her own vision began to darken "No, I won't let you." she said trying to resist

Nightmare simply chuckled "You don't have a choice little filly." she said slowly taking control

Amber shook her head "I WON'T LET YOU!" she said then Nightmare was suddenly repelled allowing Amber full control of her body again leaving Nightmare shocked

"How is this possible? you are nothing but a filly, you shouldn't have enough strength to resist me." Nightmare said while Amber was breathing heavily "Perhaps I underestimated the resilient minds of foals." she said

Amber caught her breath "Okay, can we talk normally now?" she asked

"Why should I waste more breath on you? I might as well try to take control of your body again. I doubt you'll be able to resist me a second time." Nightmare said

"Please don't do that anymore. it's scary and I just want to talk. please?" Amber said

Nightmare rolled her eyes "Very well, I will entertain you for a few moments longer before taking full control." she said

Amber nodded "Thank you for saving me." she said

Nightmare huffed "Do you believe I did that out of the kindness of my heart? I needed a new host and I couldn't let you die, or else it would be who knows how long before another pony comes along for me to possess. you are a means to an end, do not forget that." she said

Amber glanced down then back up "But you still saved me from being hurt by that timberwolf, and that's the truth. no matter what you say." she said with a smirk while Nightmare just huffed again "By the way, why do you want control over my body? I'm just a pegasus filly." she said

"Believe me, I would gladly take control of somepony who is bigger and stronger than you. but since there is none here, I will have no choice but to settle with you." Nightmare said

"You mean you can change who you possess?" Amber asked

"I can, but it takes a lot of my own energy to transfer myself to somepony else. and that is something I currently do not have a lot of." Nightmare said

"Oh," Amber said which made Nightmare raise an eyebrow

"Oh? is that all you have to say? just oh?" Nightmare asked then she chuckled "Everypony who has heard of me would run straight to the princess to get rid of me out of fear, but you just "oh"? it did not even sound sad or disappointed." she said

Amber looked down "W-well, I...kinda don't want you t-to go." she said

Nightmare was more than surprised "What? you don't want me to go? why would you want somepony as evil as me to stay within you?" she asked

"Because..." Amber stayed silent for a few moments then she looked back up "You're the first pony to not turn me away, and leave me alone." she said

Nightmare huffed "If you are talking about the timberwolf. I have already explained why I saved you." she said

"I know, but I also know that you could have left me to the jaws of that timberwolf. you could have turned away and waited for the next pony, but you saved me." Amber said then she smiled "So again. thank you." she said

"I grow tired of this conversation, it is time for me to take control of your body so I may have revenge on both Celestia and Twilight." Nightmare said then she attempted to take control of Amber's body again as Amber braced herself but all she felt was a small tingle which went away as fast as it appeared "What trickery is this? don't tell me that I don't have enough power to make another attempt on your mind. this is outrageous! she said

Amber smiled "Looks like you're not gonna hurt anypony anytime soon." she said

Nightmare growled "Do not think that you are safe. once my power is recharged I will take your mind and body." she said

"Well, until then I have time to get to know you better." Amber said

"Why do you wish to know more about me?" Nightmare asked

"Because I want to become friends." Amber said

Nightmare made a small headache come to Amber making her hold her head in pain "DO. NOT. CALL. US. FRIENDS." she said

Amber nodded "Okay, I won't call us friends. but what should I call us?" she asked

"Nothing, you are nothing but my soon-to-be new body. nothing more." Nightmare said

Amber looked down "Oh, okay." she said then she fully stood up "I should head back home." she said but once she opened her wings again she felt the same pain from before "Ow."

Nightmare raised an eyebrow "It appears your wing is injured." she said

"Thanks captain obvious." Amber said with a smirk

"I will cause another headache for you if you choose to not change your tone this instant." Nightmare said

Amber looked down "Sorry." she said

"Better, now as for your wing. I would heal it but with my power, as it is now. I can not." Nightmare said

"But I have to get home. my parents are waiting." Amber said

Nightmare chuckled "Then, by all means. go right ahead and get mauled by the first timberwolf you come across with no way to save yourself. and you won't be able to count on me this time." she said

"You mean I'm stuck here until my wing heals, and you are strong enough to protect me?" Amber said

"Yes." Nightmare said

Amber slumped to the ground "Oh no, what am I gonna tell my parents when I get back? "Hi mom and dad, oh where was I all this time? well, I was being chased by a timberwolf when I was saved by Nightmare moon, and now she's inside of my head talking to me". If they hear that story not only will they be confused but they'll try to get rid of you to." she said

"I am still surprised you want me to stay." Nightmare said

"Not only that but my wings look nothing like my old ones, and I have a horn. how am I gonna explain this?" Amber said

"I can easily disguise your body to hide your horn and wings so you will still look like yourself." Nightmare said

"You can?" Amber said

"But I doubt you will last long, so there's is no reason to hide your features. not when I will have full control soon." Nightmare said

"Oh." Amber said then she stood back up "I guess I should go and find someplace to rest since I'll be staying here for a while. do you know where the bedrooms are?" she asked

Very well, I will guide you." Nightmare said

Amber nodded "Thanks." she said but after only four steps forward she stopped and looked up

"Why have you stopped?" Nightmare asked

"It's night." Amber said

"Yes it is, what about it?" Nightmare asked

"I want to look at the stars and moon for a few minutes." Amber said

Nightmare was surprised "You want to look at the night sky? why?" she asked

Amber smiled "Because it's beautiful and I think of myself as the moon." she said

"What do you mean?" Nightmare asked

Amber looked down and frowned "During the day, the sun is all alone in the sky with no friends to keep it company as it shines down on the world and I don't like to be alone." she said then she looked back up at the moon and stars

"But the moon has so many friends with it in the sky, and the way they sparkle is like they are all talking to one another like real-life friends. which is why I like to think of myself as the moon, up there in the sky with as many friends as I want." Amber said

Nightmare stayed silent for a few moments "You...actually love the night and think of yourself as the moon?" she asked

Amber nodded "Of course, was it not clear?" she said

Nightmare shook away the shock and confusion "Let's get to the bedroom. you must rest as do I." she said

"Aw, just a few more minutes. I want to enjoy this view." Amber said

"Hm, Luna's room has a much better view of the night sky than a hole in the roof." Nightmare said

"Really? then let's head there." Amber said then she began trotting again

Nightmare guided Amber through the castle until they came upon a large door with Luna's cutie mark imprinted on it and once inside Amber saw there were a few rocks and cracks here and there but other than that, the room still looked well kept and on the side was an open and clear window of the night sky which Amber went straight to.

"Wow, this is a better view. the sky looks so pretty from here." Amber said

Nightmare smirked "It does look breathtaking, doesn't it?" she said as she also watched the night sky through Amber's eyes

Amber then frowned and looked down "It's sad that I'll never see it again after you take control of my mind and body. I'll miss it." she said

Nightmare was surprised that she actually felt sad for the filly. a small filly who loves the night more than the day is not what she expected when she chose her as a host 'I can't let myself feel sorry for this filly. I am the empress of the eternal night. I shouldn't have feelings for this pony.' Nightmare thought but the longer she looked at Amber's sad face the more she felt sad for her 'Perhaps I should make an exception, this once.'

Amber moved away from the window and to the bed "Guess I should go to bed now." she said

"Wait a moment filly, I wish to tell you something." Nightmare said making Amber stop in her tracks "You are strong, very strong to be able to resist my takeover and not only that. but you love the night more than the day, and I consider those perfect conditions for a new servant." she said

"Servant?" Amber asked

"Yes, servant. you will assist me when I demand it, and when I want things done for myself. I will take over." Nightmare said

Amber gasped "Does that mean you won't take full control of my mind?" she asked

Nightmare sighed "Yes it does, be proud for becoming my first servant." she said

Amber jumped for joy "Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you. I promise I won't let you down." she said then she stopped jumping "And thanks for letting me enjoy the night." she said

"It is...my pleasure." Nightmare said with a small smile

"Oh right, I never told you my name. it's Amber night and, can I call you Moony?" Amber asked

"I would appreciate it if you would either call me by my name, or your highness, or your majesty." Nightmare said

"But your name is a mouthful and it doesn't sound right to me if I call you, your highness, or your majesty. so I'll call you Moony." Amber said

Nightmare sighed "Very well, I will allow this but do not call me that in front of others. understood?" she said and Amber nodded "Good, now it is time for you to sleep. Amber night." she said

"Okay." Amber said then she continued making her way to the bed then got in and covered herself "Goodnight moony." she said but Nightmare didn't say anything as Amber laid down and silently slept

"To think I would feel sorry for this pony. I should just take over her mind when my power is back...but that would mean she would be unable to witness my night sky when I finally bring my eternal night...perhaps it is best that I leave her be, for now." Nightmare said then she left herself fall asleep as well.

Magic and stars

Amber awoke the next day where she stretched her hooves and wings only to get another sharp pain in her injured one so she only kept them closed for now

"I believe you should not move your wing unless you want to feel more of that pain." Nightmare said

Amber nodded "Okay." she said while gently rubbing her wing then she stood up and got out of bed and just as she did her stomach growled "Hey Moony, is there anything to eat around here?" she asked

"I do not think so, anything edible in this castle is probably rotten." Nightmare said

"There has to be something left, let's take a look." Amber said trotting out of the room

Amber trotted around the castle looking for something edible but she wasn't having any luck considering nopony has been in the castle for thousands of years and she knew that the trees and plants outside would not have anything for her either since it was the Everfree so she just had to find something until she eventually came to the great hall and laid down to rest

Amber sighed "How am I gonna stay here when I don't have anything to eat?" she said

"Perhaps I can provide you food?" Nightmare said

"How?" Amber asked

"Transfiguration spells, I can make food for you." Nightmare said

Amber perked up "You can do that?" She asked

"A spell as simple as that is no problem for me and the last thing I need is you dying from hunger." Nightmare said

"Does that mean you'll have to take control for a bit?" Amber asked

"Yes." Nightmare said

Amber nodded "Okay, just be gentle." she said

Nightmare said nothing and immediately began her takeover making her original colors appear on Amber's body as her eyes turned into green slit ones and with that the takeover was complete and Nightmare had control over Amber's body

Nightmare sighed "Ah, it feels good to be able to move like a regular pony again instead of float around like some smoke." she said then she turned to one of the rocks inside the hall "Transfiguration, a spell so simple even a foal could cast it and I had more than enough years to master many spells, not counting my time on the moon that is." she said then she made her horn light up and turn rocks into Apples, small batches of hay, and corn "that should satisfy her hunger for now."

Nightmare slowly released her hold on Amber allowing her colors and eyes to return to normal

Amber groaned as she rubbed her head then she looked at all the food "Wow, I guess unicorn magic really does make life easier." she said as she stepped to the apples and began eating one

"You can praise me if you wish, I will take any and all." Nightmare said

Amber giggled "Your magic is really strong Moony, I bet even princess Celestia would be jealous." she said

Nightmare chuckled "Of course she would, her magic does not even compare to mine." she said

Amber finished her apple and threw it away "Can I ask you a question?"

"Very well." Nightmare said

"Could I learn these spells? you know, now that I have a horn." Amber said

Nightmare raised an eyebrow "What kind of benefit would I get from allowing you to learn these spells?" she asked

"Well, I can do things on my own, and wouldn't it allow me to be a better servant for you?" Amber asked

"Very well, I will allow you to learn these spells while I teach you myself as well." Nightmare said

Amber smiled "Really?" she asked

"Yes, Though I will warn you once, magic can be very dangerous if left unchecked. you will be forced to keep focus every day until you have fully mastered it and I will not be gentle about it, Are you still willing to learn magic Amber night?" Nightmare asked

Amber nodded "Yes, I want to do this." she said

"Very well, head to the library, I will guide you." Nightmare said

Amber nodded then made her way through the castle going the way Nightmare tells her until she came upon the library where there were books on every shelf and they were all pretty old but good enough to read

"Wait a moment." Nightmare said making Amber stop "I wish to know, why do you want to learn magic?" she asked

Amber looked down "W-well...you see, it's for you." she said

"What do you mean?" Nightmare asked

Amber looked back up "Well, you said before that you need to recharge your power and that you don't have enough of it which means that the more you use your power, the less you have. so I want to help by learning magic so I can help myself and you can rest." she said

Nightmare was silent for a few moments "You wish to know magic so you can help....me?" she asked and Amber nodded "You truly are a strange pony, to want to willingly help somepony like me, why?"

"Because we're frie-...I mean, it's my job as your servant to make your life easier, isn't it?" Amber said with a nervous smile

Nightmare smirked "you are already getting into your new role, if you keep this up then I may have you by my side when I bring my eternal night." she said

"Um, thanks, I guess." Amber said

"Now enough of this pointless chatter, we must get started on your magic lessons." Nightmare said

"Right, where do we begin?" Amber asked

"Go to the shelf on the left and take the book with a purple unicorn on it, we will begin there." Nightmare said and Amber did as she was told and took the book to the table sitting in the library "Go to page thirteen and start reading, I will guide you." she said

Amber did as she was told and began reading and as the hours passed by she continued doing what she was told until she eventually learned the levitation spell but could only lift a small rock off to the side so she continued practicing until she could finally lift one of the bigger rocks but she had been practicing for so long that the sun was now slowly dipping into the horizon

Nightmare noticed that Amber was exhausted from her training "Perhaps it is time you rest for the night." she said

Amber shook her head "No, I can keep going, I want to keep practicing." she said

"But won't you miss the night? not that I care." Nightmare said

Amber found herself between two hard decisions 'Practice or Night watch? Oh, which one do I choose?' She thought until she had finally gotten an idea "What if I make a schedule?"

"Really?" Nightmare said

"Of course, I'll make a schedule which will help both of us." Amber said

"I'm listening."

"Okay, so the plan is this, I'll train and sleep during the day so I won't have to miss the night." Amber said

"You would deliberately sleep and train through a whole day just so you can watch the night sky?" Nightmare asked and Amber nodded "I am unsure as to why you still surprise me at this point, I knew you loved the night but I did not think you would miss the day for it." she said

"I didn't do much during the day anyway so it's not much of a loss for me." Amber said then she began trotting out of the room "Now, let's go star-gazing." she said making her way back to Luna's room and going back to the window

Nightmare also watched the night sky "Hey Moony, guess what?" Amber said

"Hm?"

Amber pointed to one of the stars "I call that star over there Fin." then she pointed at another star "And that one Fum." she said

Nightmare raised an eyebrow "You named the stars?"

"Yep, I named a lot of the stars, as their friend I should know their name, right?" Amber said

"The stars do not have names, they are simply that, stars." Nightmare said

"I know, which is why I gave them names, did you ever name the stars?" Amber asked

"Of course not, I am not a foal." Nightmare said

Amber was surprised "You mean you never named the stars? not even once?" she asked

"No."

"But you were trapped on the moon for so long, you had to do something to pass the time." Amber said but Nightmare said nothing "Come on Moony, you can tell me if you did, I promise not to tell a soul."

Nightmare sighed "Very well, look to the window." she said and Amber did as told "Now look at the top left side of the moon." she said

Amber looked where Nightmare told her to and saw a star that was a red color "Wow, I don't think I ever saw that star before." she said

"Of course not, this star is well hidden by the moon, nopony would see it unless they know exactly where to look and I memorized where it was ever since I had returned from my imprisonment." Nightmare said

"What did you name it?" Amber asked

"Reina."

"What does that mean?"

"It means queen in another language." Nightmare said

"You know different languages?" Amber asked

"When you travel as much as I did, you pick up a few things." Nightmare said

Amber perked up even more "You used to travel? I thought you were only attached to princess Luna." she said

Nightmare chuckled "I am a being who uses ponies to advance my own power while increasing their own hate and jealousy for others, so yes I traveled. until I met princess Luna and I have never seen somepony have so much hate and jealousy in my entire life." she said then she laughed loudly "It was spectacular, using her to increase my own power but as I did, I suppose at some point her own jealousy became my jealousy." she said

"What do you mean?" Amber asked

"As I continued to possess Luna, I saw why she was so hateful and jealous and I couldn't help but understand it, her night is truly one of beauty, and yet the ponies only slept through it and only focused on Celestia's day. so I chose to give her a push in the right direction." Nightmare said

"You made her jealousy and hate increase to the point she turned into you with the mission to bring about eternal night." Amber said

Nightmare chuckled "It would have gone perfectly to, both Luna and I would prosper. she would have the night gain the appreciation it deserved and I would become empress and queen of Equestria, but Celestia had one more trick up her sleeve, the elements of harmony." she said

Amber looked back to the window and continued watching the night sky "That was some story, I liked it, in a way, but I want to hear more about your travels." she said

Nightmare couldn't help but smirk "Very well, I will tell you more about the places I traveled to before I met Luna." she said

Amber listened to every one of Nightmare's stories about where she traveled and how the ponies were back then compared to the present day ponies and she couldn't help but ask for more of them so Nightmare obliged and told her more stories of her travels until she eventually got back to the point where she met Luna and tried to bring eternal night.

"Wow, I can't believe the griffons were once nice to others and had a king." Amber said

"I will admit, seeing the griffons now is very surprising to how they were back then." Nightmare said

Amber smiled "Thanks for sharing your stories Moony, it made this night's star-gazing ten times better." she said

Nightmare smirked "Hm, now I believe it is time for you to sleep, the sun is coming up." she said and Amber also noticed the sun rising

Amber stood up "you're right, let's head to bed." she said as she went to the bed and laid down "Hey Moony?"

"Yes?"

"Can you tell me those stories again tomorrow night?" Amber asked

"Why would you wish to hear my stories again?" Nightmare asked

"Because they sound so cool, hearing about those other lands and how they used to be a thousand years ago, I can't help myself." Amber said

"Very well, I will retell the stories tomorrow night." Nightmare said

"Thanks, Moony." Amber said then she fell asleep and Nightmare followed shortly after

(Two days later)

As the days stretched on, Amber had become a lot more used to using magic thanks to Nightmares teachings, and during the night Amber was always treated to Nightmare’s stories about the world a thousand years ago while she looked up at the stars above and as two days had passed Amber discovered that her wing had finally healed enough for flight and decided that it was time to leave the castle

Amber trotted to the doors of the castle “Staying here was fun but I need to get home now.” she said

"A word of warning, if anypony were to find out about me-.”

“I know, they'll try to get rid of you but don't worry that won’t happen, I know how to keep a secret.” Amber said with a confident smile

”Very well, I will trust you to hold your tongue in front of others.” Nightmare said

Amber proceeded to open the doors and take a step outside where she began flapping her wings and took to the air and flew just partly over the trees of the Everfree heading back to ponyville but before she landed in the town she stopped at the edge of the Everfree and used the night to hide herself.

"Moony, can you change me back?" Amber asked so Nightmare used her magic to make Amber appear normal as she looked herself over "Thanks." she said

Amber trotted into ponyville and as she did she couldn't help but notice the stares she was getting and as she kept trotting she felt very uncomfortable until a mare came up to her

"Excuse me little filly." The mare said making Amber look up at her "Is your name, Amber night?" she asked and Amber nodded making the mare gasp "You're alive?!" she said

Amber was confused "What is that supposed to mean?" she asked

"I'm sorry, it's just...your parents had everypony looking for you and after we heard where you went..." The mare trailed off as she looked away then back "You need to go to your parents." she said

"Um...okay." Amber said so she headed to her house and knocked on the door where it was immediately answered by her mom who instantly gasped as soon as she saw Amber, her name was Lucy light and she had an orange coat with a yellow mane and tail and was an earth pony

"Oh my Celestia!" Lucy said who then picked up Amber and hugged her close "Onyx, get down here!" she yelled into the house

Onyx Came downstairs to see Lucy holding Amber "AMBER!" he yelled then he ran over and joined in the hug, Onyx had a purple coat with a purple mane and tail and he was a pegasus

"Um, hey mom and dad." Amber said

Lucy and Onyx let go of her and gave her a stern look "Don't you hey mom and dad us, where have you been? You've been missing for three days." Lucy said

Amber rubbed the back of her head "Um, I was flying through the Everfree when I got lost." she said

"We know you went into the Everfree, we questioned plenty of ponies to find out where you went, what we want to know is why." Onyx said

"Because...I..." Amber stuttered trying to come up with an excuse

"Tell them you lost a toy and went in to get it." Nightmare said

"I lost a toy and went in to grab it but I got lost." Amber said

Onyx moved closer to her "You went into the Everfree forest...for a toy?" he asked and Amber slowly nodded so he sighed "While I am upset that you went into the forest even though we forbade you to, I'm glad you're alright." he said making Amber sigh

"But that doesn't mean we won't punish you." Lucy said and Amber nodded "You're grounded until we say so, you'll come straight home every day after school, which means no going to your friends home either, understood?." she said and Amber nodded "Good, now go to your room, I'll have dinner ready in a moment." she said

Amber did as she was told and headed upstairs to her room, her room had a bed underneath a window with a dresser beside it, and on the right side was her closet and wardrobe, she headed to her bed where she opened it and looked up at the night sky

"I shouldn't have worried them so much as I did." Amber said

"Your wing was injured and my magic needed to charge, there was nothing either of us could have done during the moment." Nightmare said

Amber slumped down "Well, at least we're alright, we came back safely and now everypony can rest." she said then she looked back up "I'm guessing you're going to go to somepony else now."

"What would make you say that?" Nightmare asked

"Well, you said you would gladly take control of somepony who is much bigger and stronger than me but couldn't since there was nopony else but now there are plenty, which means you're gonna leave, right?" Amber said

Nightmare was silent for a few moments 'She is correct, now that my power is restored enough I can split off and possess somepony else but...perhaps I shall stay here a little longer.' she thought

"Moony?" Amber said

"I would gladly change at this moment but it would seem my power is still not charged enough for me to do so." Nightmare said

Amber smiled "Does that mean you'll stay?" she asked

Nightmare huffed "Only until my power is charged enough for me to leave, as soon as it is, I will leave you." she said

"Okay." Amber said but she wasn't saddened then a knock came on her door surprising her

"Amber, dinner is ready." Lucy said then she opened the door and stepped inside and looked around "Were you talking to somepony?" she asked

Amber got off her bed "Nope, I was just...talking to the stars, let's go eat." she said as she quickly left the room and Lucy looked around one more time then followed her shortly.

Author's Note

I had to rework this chapter so many times just to get it right when I felt it just wasn't right, please give me feedback on how I did so I can improve if you feel that I messed something up

Dreams and Nightmares

During dinner, Amber and her parents didn't talk about much except for how she was doing in school. it was a very uneventful dinner so afterward Amber simply went to bed and slept, but while sleeping Nightmare moon noticed that she was tossing and turning a bit.

“Hm, perhaps she is having a bad dream.” Nightmare said ”It is not my problem, she will be fine.” she said but she couldn't ignore Amber's tossing and turning nor could she simply turn away

“Perhaps I shall take a small peek, just to see what plagues her dreams.” Nightmare said then she stood up and stepped through a small portal and when she looked around she saw what looked like a school classroom and Amber in the middle surrounded by ponies who seemed to made of smoke

“I’m glad I never became friends with you.”

“To think you were gonna take advantage of our friendship.”

Amber shook her head “No, it’s not true, none of it is true.” she said

“Don’t try to lie, we heard everything.”

“Yeah, we can’t trust you.”

“Come on, let's get out of here, we shouldn’t hang around her.” With that, all of them disappeared. except for one

Amber looked up at the shadow pony “Please, you have to believe me, it's not true.” she said

“I thought I could but now, I see it was all lies, goodbye.” They said then they disappeared as well

“No, please don't leave me, PLEASE!” Amber yelled then she laid her head on the ground and cried “I don’t want to be alone.”

Nightmare watched the whole thing and couldn't help but feel, if only a little, bad for the filly. but she was still debating whether or not she should do something about but then two more shadows appeared.

Amber looked up at them and glared “I know it was you two! Spreading those rumors about me!” she said

One of them scoffed “And what if it was? What are you going to do about it?” they said but Amber stayed silent making both of them laugh

“What’s wrong? Aren't you gonna do anything? Or are you just gonna sit there and cry like a foal?” The other shadow said

"I...I'll tell everypony that you made it up." Amber said

The first shadow laughed again "As if anypony will ever believe you. there isn't a single one left who will stand up for you now." They said then both of them seemed to have grown in size

Amber shook her head "No, there has to be somepony left." she said

"There isn't."

"But there has to be." Amber said

The second shadow laughed "Face it, you're all alone now, and you'll always be alone." It said and Amber was going to say something but both of them stomped their hooves "No matter what you say, you can't run from the truth. you'll never have friends, ever again." It said

Both of them began walking to Amber, and she was too scared to move so once they reached her they easily towered over her.

"You're all alone." Both of them said and they repeated it multiple times as Amber covered her ears

"Stop it!" Amber yelled but they kept going until a small light appeared off to the side

"ENOUGH!" Nightmare shouted as she blasted the shadows away then she stepped to Amber who looked up at her and noticed that she almost looked like Luna but without any armor nor accessories "Are you alright?" she asked

Amber cocked her head "Moony? is that you?" she asked

"Of course it is." Nightmare said then Amber immediately latched onto her left foreleg in a tight hug

"You have no idea how happy I am to see you." Amber said then she looked up at her "What are you doing here anyway?" she asked

Nightmare removed Amber from her leg "I am also able to enter the dreams of those I possess and manipulate them." she said

Amber looked around "This is a dream?" she said then she looked back at Nightmare "And those pones were just my imagination?" she asked

Nightmare nodded "Yes, none of it was real." she said

"But it felt so real, and it was so scary." Amber said then she gasped "Wait, did you come here to help me get rid of them?" she asked

Nightmare turned away "Of course not! you were moving so much in the real world that it was becoming annoying, so I simply came here to get rid of what was causing it. nothing more." she said

"Oh." Amber said then she turned away herself "Well since the nightmares are gone now. I guess you'll leave." she said

"Yes, I will." Nightmare said as she turned away

"But, I hope you stay." Amber said making Nightmare look back at her only to see her pleading eyes

Nightmare sighed "Very well, I will stay a little longer." she said as she turned back to Amber who was smiling widely "But first, let's change this scenery."

Amber watched as Nightmare used her magic to change the whole area from a classroom to a soft meadow. there weren't any trees in sight, nor any buildings, or ponies. above them was a clear sky with the moon and stars, and Amber couldn't help but be amazed.

"Wow, it's like we're really outside. it's hard to believe this is all just a dream." Amber said

Nightmare laid down on the grass "This may be a dream, but I created the sky to be an exact copy of the real one." she said

Amber turned to her "What about this meadow?" she asked

"The meadow is fake. I made it up, but it does make for a relaxing spot to watch the night sky." Nightmare said as she looked up at the sky

Amber trotted over to Nightmare and laid down beside her "Yeah, I've never seen the sky so clearly, it's beautiful." she said

"That it is." Nightmare said

Amber stared up at the sky until she looked over at Nightmare and frowned "You're probably wondering about that nightmare I had, aren't you?" she asked

Nightmare glanced down at her then back to the sky "I was, but I chose not to ask about it, for it was none of my concern. You do not have to tell me anything." she said

Amber stayed silent for a few moments then took a deep breath "I was scared. not just of the nightmares, but about coming back to ponyville." she said and Nightmare remained quiet "I'm...not on good terms with the other colts and fillies, and I was scared of what they'd say when I came back. I guess my fear was a lot bigger than I thought." she said and added a small chuckle

"I told you you didn't have to tell me, and that it was none of my concern." Nightmare said

"Oh right, sorry. just forget about it." she said and after only a few seconds of silence, Amber felt something on her back and looked behind her to see Nightmare had put her wing on her back "Um, your wing is on my back."

"I know." Nightmare said so Amber smiled and made herself comfortable underneath her wing as she looked up at the night sky

"Thanks, moony." AMber said

Nightmare huffed "Enjoy it while it lasts, and don't expect me to do this again." she said and Amber simply nodded

(Elsewhere)

Princess Luna was traversing the dream realm and expelling any nightmares that were plaguing other ponies dreams until she had come across a dream that was surrounded by a purple fog

"This is strange, I have not seen this before." Luna said as she trotted closer to the fog "Perhaps I should investigate this one's dream." she said

When Luna tried to enter the ponies' dream, she was immediately pushed back out, so she tried again only to get the same result.

"This is unexpected, why can I not enter this ponies dream?" Luna questioned so she focused her magic "Perhaps if I remove the fog first, then I will be able to see whose dream it is." she said then she began blasting the fog

(Inside the dream)

Amber and Nightmare were silently enjoying the open meadow and the night sky. until Nightmare's eyes widened then she stood up making Amber look up at her confused.

"Moony? what's wrong?" Amber asked

"Somepony is trying to enter your dream." Nightmare said

Amber cocked her head "But who has the power to...enter..." she trailed off as she realized who was trying to enter "It's Princess Luna!" she yelled

Nightmare nodded "I should have known she would find this dream at some point, but I didn't think it would be this soon. I was careless." she said

Amber stood up "But why is she struggling to enter my dream? she's the Princess of the night." she asked

"I have been trying to hide your dream from her spying eyes. it would seem my power wasn't enough to fully hide it." Nightmare said

Amber frantically looked around "This is bad. if she finds out about you and me then she'll tell others, and I'll lose you." she said

Nightmare glanced at Amber with a raised eyebrow then turned away "I can keep her out, but it will take a lot of power." she said and Amber nodded then Nightmare focused her magic and blasted the sky causing a ripple across it

(Luna)

Luna kept her magic on the fog and was successfully weakening it until it, unexpectedly, grew stronger. surprising Luna.

"This fog is no normal fog, somepony is keeping me out." Luna said so she made her own magic stronger "I shall break through this spell, and see what secrets you are trying to keep from me." she said

(Dream)

Nightmare was struggling to keep up her own magic "It would seem Luna is a lot stronger than I thought, or perhaps I have gotten weaker." she said

Amber had an idea "Moony!" she yelled making Nightmare look back at her "Take control of my body and wake me up. that will cause the dream to disappear, and it will keep Luna from finding out." she said

"You don't order me, but I will comply." Nightmare said then she stopped her magic and stepped out of the dream where she began to take over Amber's body

(Luna)

Luna stopped her magic "The spell is disappearing? this will be my only chance. I must take it." she said

Luna quickly stepped into the dream to find an open meadow with a night sky, and that it was disappearing quickly so she looked around and found a small filly in the middle of the meadow

"Little filly, what is your name?" Luna asked as she trotted closer to the filly, but once Luna was close enough, she saw that the filly's body was slowly transforming into something else "What is happening to you?"

Amber looked up at Luna with Nightmare's eyes making her gasp "You're too late."

"It can not be." Luna said then the dream disappeared leaving Luna to simply stare ahead of her "Nightmare moon...is alive?"

(Amber)

Nightmare quickly shot up in Amber's bed "Was I fast enough? did she see?" she said then she looked out the window and noticed the sun was slowly rising

"Amber! it's time to get up!" Lucy said

Nightmare quickly transformed back to Amber and used her magic to hide her extra features just as Lucy opened the door

"Oh? you're already up? that's surprising. you never wake up this early." Lucy said

Amber shrugged "I was tired and went to sleep early?" she said

Lucy nodded slowly "Right, breakfast is downstairs. come down when you're ready and don't take too long." she said then she left

Amber sighed "Moony? are you there?" she asked

"Of course I am." Nightmare said

"Thank Celestia. you don't think Luna found out, do you?" Amber asked

Nightmare hummed "That is hard to say, we will simply have to wait and see what happens next." she said and Amber nodded

Amber left her bed and headed downstairs where she saw her father already eating his own bowl of oats. she sat in her own chair as her mom gave her another bowl of oats then she sat beside her.

Lucy noticed that Amber wasn't eating "Amber? is everything alright?" she asked

"Um, do you think I can skip school today?" Amber asked

Onyx stopped eating "Why? did something happen?" he asked

Amber shook her head "No, I'm...still a little shaken up from the Everfree. so can I skip school?" she asked

Lucy and Onyx looked at each other, then back at Amber "Amber, you were missing for three days. you missed too much school to just simply skip." she said and Amber looked down so she put a hoof on her shoulder "How about this? if you ever feel something is wrong then you can tell Cheerilee. I'm sure she'll be able to take care of it, and if she can't then you can come right back home."

Amber reluctantly nodded "Okay." she said

Lucy removed her hoof and began eating her own food as Amber ate her's. after Amber was finished eating she retrieved her saddlebags, and left her home to head to school, even though she really didn't want to.

"Wait a moment, where did that castle come from?" Nightmare asked

Amber looked over at the ponyville castle "Oh that? it belongs to Princess Twilight." she said

"Princess Twilight?! when did that pony become a princess?! Nightmare asked

"I think it was after she and her friends defeated Tirek." Amber said

"She defeated Tirek? perhaps Twilight is much stronger than even I had assumed." Nightmare said "Tell me, since she is a princess now. does that mean she is also an alicorn?"

"Yeah, except she doesn't have a flowing mane like the other princesses. I wonder why." Amber said

"This certainly changes things. not only is Twilight a lot more powerful, but she is also an alicorn. it would seem I will have to hold off on my own plans for the time being. until I can find a way to get rid of Twilight sparkle, I can't risk being seen." Nightmare mumbled

"Did you say something, Moony?" Amber asked

"Nothing that concerns you." Nightmare said

Amber simply nodded and continued on her way to school

(Elsewhere)

Luna burst through Celestia's doors as she was standing on the balcony, and as soon as she did. Celestia quickly turned to her

"Luna? you almost gave me a heart attack." Celestia said

Luna stepped into the room "Now is not the time for jokes sister. I have urgent news." she said

Celestia trotted over to Luna "What's wrong? you look like you've seen a ghost." she said

"Sister, Nightmare moon is alive." Luna said

Celestia gasped "That cannot be. she should have been completely destroyed by the elements." she said, "How do you know this?"

"I saw her, she was in somepony's dream, a filly. I wasn't able to get a good look at her before she transformed into her." Luna said "We must find her before it is too late."

Celestia nodded "I will send a letter to Twilight immediately. I am sure she will know what to do." she said as she trotted out of the room and Luna followed

Luna shook her head "One can only imagine the horrors that poor filly is going through right now."

(Amber)

"Are you sure you should be wasting your time like this?" Nightmare asked

Amber had taken a small detour to sugarcube corner to buy a cupcake which she was eating now while sitting on a bench

"Come on Moony, there's nothing wrong with getting a small snack." Amber said as she took another bite and swallowed "Besides, I'm not in a rush to get to school anyway."

Nightmare shook her head "Unbelieveable." she said "Out of all the ponies in Equestria to possess, I had to end up with her." she mumbled

"Did you say something, Moony?" Amber asked

"No."

Friendship and Violence

After Amber had eaten her cupcake she made her way to school, and this time she didn't make any detours since she was already late. Once she had finally arrived at school, Cheerilee was standing outside and was giving her a stern look.

"Amber, you are nine minutes late." Cheerilee said

"Sorry, Ms. Cheerilee. I guess I lost track of time." Amber said

Cheerilee sighed "I heard about where you went so I'll leave it at that this time, but you have to do better. this isn't the first time you've lost track of time." she said

Amber nodded "I will, I promise." she said

"I hope so, now come in. I need to get the class started." Cheerilee said as she stepped out of the way and allowed Amber to enter the school

As soon as Amber entered the school, she felt all of the foal's eyes on her, and only her. but she ignored them and simply trotted to her desk as Cheerilee trotted to her own desk and began to take roll.

"Why did I feel the eyes of all these foals on you?" Nightmare asked

Amber bent her head down "I told you I'm not on good terms with the other foals." she whispered then she sighed "I wished I stayed home."

"You could always just leave, there is nothing in your way." Nightmare said

"I would, but then my parents will get mad and I'm already in trouble for entering the Everfree. so I think I should stay here." Amber whispered then she heard some whispering herself, and once she looked over she saw a couple of colts whispering to each other while pointing at her "Hey, Moony? I don't think we should talk anymore."

"And why is that?"

"I just don't want the others to think I'm weird. they already don't like me so I think it's for the best." Amber whispered

Nightmare scoffed "Let them talk, they do not matter to me and they should not matter to you as well." she said

Before Amber could say anything else, Cheerilee stepped to the front of the class

"Okay class, today we'll continue our math problems from yesterday." Cheerilee said then she looked at Amber "Amber, I'll work with you to catch you up later." she said and Amber nodded then she turned and began writing on the board

"Moony, what did you mean when you said that?" Amber whispered

"Whatever they say does not matter, you are already on a higher standing than them by being my servant. they don't matter." Nightmare said

"I...guess you're right, in a way." Amber said then she noticed everyone else get out a book so she did the same "I should focus on my work now. we can talk later." she said

(Elsewhere)

The mane six had each gotten letters from Twilight to meet at her castle so they were all headed there.

Applejack was the first to enter "Twilight? you there?" she called out

Twilight came out of her library and immediately ran over to them "Girls, I'm glad you came." she said

"Yo Twilight, what's all this about? is there another friendship problem?" Rainbow asked

Twilight shook her head as she levitated over a letter "I got this letter from Princess Celestia and you're never gonna believe what it says." she said

"Well, don't keep us in suspense darling." Rarity said

"Right." Twilight said then she floated the letter in front of her "Dear Princess Twilight, I have urgent news. while Princess Luna was traversing the dream realm, she came upon something that was thought to be long gone. Nightmare Moon is alive and has infected a young filly, who this filly is is a mystery. it is up to you and your friends to find this filly and save her from Nightmare moon's clutches. Luna and I will do what we can from here. sincerely Princess Celestia." Twilight read out the letter

"Nightmare moon's alive?!" Pinkie shouted

"How is that possible? we blasted her with the elements. there's no way she could have come back from that!" Rainbow said

"Oh dear, that poor filly. I hope she isn't hurt too badly by Nightmare moon." Fluttershy said

"What do you suppose we do, Twilight?" Applejack asked

Twilight levitated over a few books from the library "I've been working on a spell that will help us locate which filly has been infected, I still need some time to complete it though. so you and the others will investigate the filly's of ponyville to find out which of them has been infected." she explained

"Got it, let's get moving." Rainbow said then she flew right out the door

"Be careful. this is Nightmare moon we're talking about, she might have a trick or two up her sleeves. and if you find the filly or her, tell the others." Twilight said

"Don't worry Twilight, we know how to handle ourselves." Applejack said then she and the others ran out of the castle as Twilight went back to the library

(Amber)

After working with Cheerilee and getting caught up with the work she missed when she disappeared, Amber joined the other fillies and colts during recess but mostly stayed off to the side and away from the others.

"Hey Moony?" Amber whispered

"Hm?"

"Do you ever feel, you know, lonely?" Amber asked

Nightmare raised an eyebrow "I do not understand why you're asking me this." she said

"I'm just bored and felt like asking you, you don't have to answer." Amber said

"Wait, is this about what you said in your dream last night?" Nightmare asked

Amber looked down "M-maybe."

"Hmph, you think too much about it. I have been on my own for more than one thousand years, and not once did I feel lonely. do you know why?" Nightmare asked and Amber shook her head ”Because I did not care, all I focused on was the path ahead. I was going to be the empress of the night, why should I care if I had others with me or not?" she said

Amber nodded "So what you're saying is. as long as I keep moving forward, I shouldn't care about little things in my life." she said

"Um, sure."

Amber smiled "Thanks Moony, you really cheered me up." she said

'Even I am unsure if that was my intention with my speech, but it seems to have done something so I will leave her be.' Nightmare thought "You are...welcome." she said

Before Amber could say anything more, she heard giggling and turned to see two earth ponies. one was named Diamond Tiara, while the other was Silver Spoon, and both of them were trotting right to her.

"Oh no, it's them." Amber said

"Who?"

"Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, the two meanest fillies in school." Amber said

Diamond was the first to reach Amber "Hey, Amber, how's it feel to be alone and a blank flank?" she said

"Go away, Diamond Tiara." Amber said

Silver spoon trotted next to Diamond "Oh come on, we just want to know what it's like. I mean, it's not like we'll ever experience the real thing." she said with a small snicker

"Go away." Amber repeated

Diamond shook her head "What a shame, it seems after she returned from the Everfree, her mind has regressed. now she can only say two words." she said

Silver giggled "To be fair, was she really smart to begin with?" she said

Amber turned her head away and tried to tune both of them out

Diamond got an idea and snickered "Hey, Silver. why don't we just go and pick on someone who's even dumber than her, like Twist?" she said

Amber immediately turned back to them "You leave Twist alone!" she said

"Why? she's not even your friend anymore, why are you trying to defend her?" Diamond asked

"The only reason we're not friends anymore is that you spread those stupid rumors about me!" Amber said

Silver stepped forward "Hey, it's not our fault she was dumb enough to fall for those rumors." she said

"Why you!" Amber said

'Oh? is this hate I'm feeling coming from this filly? and it's directed right at those two. maybe I should give her a little push.' Nightmare thought then she used her magic to slightly increase the hate Amber was feeling for Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon

“Anyway, let's get out of here, Silver. let's leave her by herself." Diamond said as she and Silver turned and began trotting away

"Stop right there!" Amber shouted making both of them turn back to her "You think I'll let you say all those mean things about Twist and get away with it?!" she said

"Ha, and what are you going to do about it?" Silver said

Amber got down into a charging position as she readied herself

"Oh no! she's gonna charge right at us. I'm so scared." Diamond mocked as she, and Silver snickered.

Amber then charged straight at them, and since they believe she wouldn't actually do it, they weren't able to move out of the way in time as Amber hit both of them in the face, knocking them down. Everypony else on the playground looked on in shock and awe at Amber's actions. while Amber herself was smiling down at the teary-eyed Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon.

"Ha, and what's what you get. don't ever talk bad about my friends EVER again!" Amber shouted at them but the more she looked down at them, the more she saw their shocked and scared faces which made her calm down as she realized what she did "W-wait...I...What did I just do?"

Cheerilee had just stepped out of the building to call the foals back inside when she saw Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon on the ground, hurt and crying. so she quickly ran over

"Oh my goodness, what happened?" Cheerilee said

A colt, Pipsqueak, trotted over "It was Amber, she attacked Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon." he said

Cheerilee looked at Amber "Is this true?" she asked

Amber looked around at the other fillies and colts staring at her, then she looked back down at Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon crying "I-I didn't mean to, I swear. I don't know what happened, I was just so angry, and...I'm sorry!"

Amber opened her wings and immediately took to the skies before anypony could stop her. Amber flew very far from the schoolhouse out of fear and didn't stop until she reached a small hill, it was still close enough to ponyville so no one would have to worry, and she can get back there safer. Amber landed on the hill sobbing

"Why are you crying this time?" Nightmare asked

"Because I just hurt those two back there." Amber said

"And why is that not a good thing?" Nightmare asked

"I was told that no matter how mean a bully gets, you should never rise to their teasing, nor should you hurt them. cause, in the end. you'll be no different than them, and I never hurt another pony. I'm not supposed to be violent." Amber said then a thought crossed her mind "Wait. anger, violence, bullies, hate...that was you, wasn't it?" she asked

"What do you mean?" Nightmare asked

"Don't play dumb with me! you made me hurt them!" Amber shouted

"I merely gave you a little push, you hurt those two fillies all on your own." Nightmare said

Amber stood up "You used your magic and had me hurt them! you made me violent! why would you do that?" she asked

"Because as far as I'm concerned, you needed it. from what I could tell from your nightmares, you would never raise a hoof against them. don't you think it was time they got what they deserved?" Nightmare asked

"No! Violence is never the answer!" Amber said

"You may say that but admit it, you enjoyed hurting those two fillies. I could see it on your face." Nightmare said

"That doesn't matter-."

"Yes it does, if you deny that you enjoyed it then the guilt will eat you up, admit it." Nightmare said

"I'm not saying it!" Amber said

Nightmare chuckled "Well, you're not denying it either. admit it, Amber night. you enjoyed hurting those two fillies." she said

Amber growled "FINE, I enjoyed it but that doesn't mean I'll just start being violent, as I said before, violence is never the answer." she said

"Maybe it should be, maybe I'll start making you violent every time I feel like it." Nightmare said

"No!"

"And why not?!

"Because that's not what friends do to each other!" Amber said

"I have already explained this, we're not friends. you are a means to an end, nothing more." Nightmare said

"You can at least give it a try!" Amber shouted

”Why?! what could I possibly gain from friendship?!" Nightmare said

"Well, for one. you won't be so mean and alone anymore!" Amber said

"I have already told you, being alone doesn't bother me." Nightmare said

"And I don't believe you, everypony gets sad when they're alone. I bet you did to." Amber said and Nightmare remained silent "The other benefit of friendship is that you can share your secrets, and your problems with your friend. you can also just talk with them, understand them, and laugh with them." she said

"I still don't see the point." Nightmare said

“You also protect your friends, no matter the danger." Amber said

”Protect me? you would do no such thing." Nightmare said

"What about last night when Princess Luna almost caught you, I could have told Luna everything about me and you, but I didn't. because your my friend and friends don't betray each other." Amber said

Nightmare remained silent for a few moments "...You are really pushing this friendship onto me."

"Only because I want to be your friend, will you accept my friendship?" Amber said

Nightmare sighed "Fine, since you won't shut up about it. I will try out this...friendship, but if I find it doesn't work out then I am going to take your mind and body for myself, understood?"

"Alright, but first, I want an apology for what you did before." Amber said

"Really?" Nightmare said

Amber nodded "If you're serious about trying out friendship, then you have to apologize." she said

Nightmare sighed "Fine. I'm...s-sorry." she stammered

Amber smiled "Apology accepted. that wasn't so hard." she said

"I feel sick."

Amber giggled a bit then sighed "We should probably head back to school and apologize to Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon." she said

"I still believe they got what they deserved. foals like them need to be put in their place." Nightmare said

"Whether they deserved it or not doesn't matter, what does matter is that we do the right thing and apologize." Amber said and Nightmare simply huffed as she took to the skies and flew back to the school house.

(A few minutes earlier)

Fluttershy was assigned to check on the fillies and colts at school to see if any of them were infected by, Nightmare moon. while trotting there, she saw a filly flying away from the school as fast as she could and she was going to follow, but soon after Cheerilee ran past her but stopped shortly after.

"Amber, wait!" Cheerilee called out to the filly but it seemed she did not hear her

"Oh, my. Cheerilee, what happened?" Fluttershy asked

Cheerilee tured to Fluttershy "Oh, Fluttershy. it was just a small fight at school." she said

"Oh dear, is anypony hurt?" Fluttershy asked

"Only minor bruises, thankfully. but one of the fillies flew off and I tried to stop her, but she seemed to fly much faster than usual." Cheerilee said

"I could go and find her for you." Fluttershy said

Cheerilee shook her head "I don't think that's a good idea right now. she seemed pretty upset when she flew off, maybe she just needs to calm down." she said and Fluttershy nodded "By the way, what are you doing here?" she asked

"I came to check on the fillies and colts. my friends and I fear something terrible has happened to one of them and wanted to make sure they're alright. is that alright with you?" Fluttershy said

Cheerilee nodded "It's fine. if you and your friends feel like one of the fillies and colts may be in danger, then we need to ensure they are safe." she said, so she and Fluttershy began trotting to the school house

Once they had arrived at the school house. Cheerilee, had the foals return to their seats and took one of them to meet Fluttershy alone. they had gone through each filly and colt without much problems until it was Diamond Tiara's turn.

"Hello, Diamond Tiara, how are you today?" Fluttershy asked then she noticed the ice pack being held to her face "Oh, what happened?" she asked

Diamond Tiara huffed "Another filly hit me." she said

Fluttershy gasped "Were you a part of that fight I heard about?" she asked and Diamond reluctanly nodded "Why did she hit you?" she asked

"I don't know! she just hit me for no reason!" Diamond Tiara said

"I don't think fillies would just hurt one another for no reason." Fluttershy said

"Are you calling me a liar?!" Diamond said

Fluttershy quickly shook her head "Oh um, no. I just think there might be a reason for this." she said

Diamond glanced at the ground "Okay, maybe I pushed the wrong buttons. but that doesn't mean I deserved to get hit." she said

"Has this filly ever hurt you or others before?" Fluttershy asked

"No, she hasn't. in fact, she never hurt me or others before, no matter what we did." Diamond said

"Really?" Fluttershy said and Diamond nodded "Do you think you can tell me the name of this filly?" she asked

"I think it was, Amber Night." Diamond said

'Didn't I hear Cheerilee call that filly that name?' Flutthershy thought then she looked back at Diamond Tiara "Thank you, Diamond Tiara. that will be all." she said so Dimaond nodded and returned to the school house

After Diamond Tiara returned to her seat, Fluttershy trotted to the door and waved Cheerilee over to her so Cheerilee followed Fluttershy outside.

"Fluttershy, is something wrong?" Cheerilee asked

"No, I just wanted to ask about a filly named, Amber Night?" Fluttershy said "I believe it was the same filly you called after."

Cheerilee nodded "Yes it was, she was the one who started the fight." she said

"Diamond Tiara told me Amber hasn't hurt anypony else before." Fluttershy said

"That's true, Amber isn't a violent pony. even I'm confused as to why she changed so suddenly." Cheerilee said

"Has anything happened to the filly before this?" Fluttershy asked

"Well, a few days ago. Amber flew off into the Everfree forest and went missing for three days, I heard she came back without even a scratch on her." Cheerilee said

"Oh my, The Everfree forest is full of dangers. to fly into the forest and disappear for three days, only to reappear unharmed is amazing." Fluttershy said

Cheerilee gasped "Oh no, what if something happened to Amber while she was in the Everfree!" she said

"Don't worry, I'll tell Twilight and she'll look into it. if something happened to Amber, I'm sure Twilight will be able to help." Fluttershy said

Cheerilee nodded "Thnak you, Fluttershy. if you're finished here, I need to get back to my class, I'll go visit Twilight later to see what she has to say on Amber." she said

"Okay. goodbye, Cheerilee." Fluttershy said then she began trotting away

(Amber)

Amber had just arrived at the school and while flying, she saw a yellow pegasus with a pink mane and tail trotting away from the school. Amber stopped flying for a moment to look at her.

"Hey, down there. isn't that-."

"Keep flying, Amber." Nightmare said

"Oh right, let's keep going." Amber said so she continued flying to the school.

Secrets and seekers

After Amber had arrived at the school, she wasted no time entering and coming face-to-face with Cheerilee and she wasn't angry nor happy.

"Amber, have you calmed down?" Cheerilee asked

Amber nodded "Wait, you're not mad?" she asked

"I am disappointed at what you did and a note will be sent to your parents, but right now you should just apologize to Diamond tiara and Silver spoon." Cheerilee said as she stepped to the side and allowed Amber inside

Amber entered the classroom and immediately felt everypony's eyes on her as she stood in front of them. Once Cheerilee had stepped next to her she called Diamond tiara and Silver spoon to the front.

"Now, Amber. please apologize to Diamond tiara and Silver spoon." Cheerilee said

Amber sighed but nodded "Diamond tiara, Silver spoon, I'm sorry for hitting you." she said

Cheerilee nodded then turned to Diamond and Silver "Now, what do we say after someone apologizes?" she said

Silver sighed "Apology accepted." she said

"Diamond?" Cheerilee said as she glanced over at her

Diamond rolled her eyes "Apology accepted, I guess." she reluctantly said

Cheerilee nodded "Good, now that that's done, we can move on to class. please return to your seats." she said so Amber and the others returned to their seats and class proceeded as usual.

(After school)

Once school was finally finished. Amber, along with the other fillies and colts, left the schoolhouse, but while walking down the dirt path. Amber was stopped as somepony called her name.

Amber turned around to see three fillies who were known as the CMC "Did you call my name?" she asked

Applebloom nodded "Yep, and I'm glad we were able to catch up to you before you flew off." she said

"Wait, why? wouldn't you rather avoid me like everypony else?" Amber asked

Scootaloo stepped up "We heard everything Diamond tiara said." she said surprising Amber

"And after how you hit Diamond tiara, I think it's pretty clear who we should believe between the both of you." Sweetie Belle said

"We're sorry for avoiding you, we should have known better than to believe Diamond tiara." Applebloom said

Amber smiled "It's...alright, I'm just glad somepony finally believes me." she said

Sweetie belle gasped "You know what we should do?" she asked making everypony turn to her "We should invite her to the clubhouse! we can have her join the cutie mark crusaders as we can all become friends!" she said

Scootaloo smiled "Sweetie, that's an awesome idea!" she said

"Yeah, the cutie mark crusaders can always use more members." Applebloom said

Nightmare chuckled "It would seem that by being violent, you have gained something good. maybe I should alway-."

"No." Amber said making the Cmc turn to her as Amber realize what she did "Um, I mean. I can't join you today, my parents want me to come straight home from school." she said

"Aw, oh well, there's always tomorrow. see you later, Amber." Sweetie said as she and the others trotted past her

Amber opened her wings and began to fly back home, but while flying she couldn't help but smile at the.

"I can't believe it, somepony finally believed me. I have new friends, and I'm so happy about it!" Amber said as she spun in the air

"Hm."

Amber stopped spinning "Moony? is everything okay?" she asked

"Everything is fine." Nightmare said

"I don't know, you're acting kinda strange." Amber said

"I don't know what you're talking about." Nightmare said

Amber raised an eyebrow "Don't tell me. are you jealous?"

"What? me? jealous? that's impossible, I am never jealous of anything or anypony." Nightmare said

Amber smiled "Aw, It's okay if you're jealous, they may be my new friends, but you'll always be my first and best friend." she said

"Shut up."

Amber giggled "We're almost home. I'm pretty hungry so I think I'll get myself some food once we get inside." she said but once she had gotten close enough to her home, she saw Princess Twilight, along with her friends, standing right outside of her home. talking to her parents so Amber stopped in midair.

"What are Princess Twilight and her friends doing at my house?" Amber said

Nightmare thought for a moment "That pony with the pink mane, the one we saw earlier. she must have learned something about you and told Twilight, they are probably here to investigate you." she said

"Wait, investigate me? does that mean they know about you? did Princess Luna tell them what happened in my dream?" Amber said while breathing heavily

"Calm down, if they knew about you and I then they would have confronted you directly. though, they are probably suspicious about you and have come to search you." Nightmare said

"What do we do? if Twilight uses some sort of mind spell on me then they might discover you to." Amber said

Nightmare chuckled "You forget who you are talking to, I was able to avoid being discovered by Celestia for the longest time, and by the time she knew about me, I had already taken full possession of Luna. if I am able to easily hide from Celestia then hiding from twilight should be even easier." she said then she cast a spell which made Amber's head glow for a few seconds

"This spell will keep me from being discovered by Twilight and her friends, but if I want to use it at its full power then I must keep a large amount of both power and concentration on it." Nightmare said

Amber nodded "Then, all I need to do is make sure I don't say anything that might give me away." she said as she landed

"Exactly."

Amber began trotting to her home "Okay, I can do this. just stay calm and watch what I say." she said

"That's strange, Amber is usually home by now." Lucy said then she peeked past Twilight and her friends to see Amber "Oh, there she is."

Twilight turned around and trotted to Amber "Hello Amber. you probably already know this, but my name is Twilight sparkle." she said

Amber thought for a moment "Should I bow? you are a princess." she questioned

Twilight waved a hoof "There's no need for that, and before you ask, you can just call me Twilight. there's no need to be so formal." she said

"Oh, okay." Amber said

Lucy trotted over "Amber." she said sternly making Amber slowly look up at her "I heard from Prince-..sorry, twilight. that you hit two fillies at school." she said making Amber look down "I want to know why."

"I...they were picking on me-."

"So you hit them? what have your father and I told you about rising to bullies teasing?" Lucy said

"To never give in, cause, in the end, I'll be no better than them. but they weren't only picking on me, they also made fun of my friend and I couldn't just sit back and let them." Amber said

"So you hit them because they were making fun of your friend?" Lucy asked and Amber nodded so she sighed "I'm happy you did it for someone else but you still hit somepony, so I'll have to talk to Cheerilee about giving you detention." she said

"What?! mom wait-."

"No! I don't want to hear it, Amber. we'll talk more about this later. right now, Twilight wants to talk to you." Lucy said

Twilight was standing off to the side until she nodded "Right, I was hoping to talk to Amber in private if you don't mind." she said

Lucy nodded "Sure, you can go to Amber's room." she said then she turned to Twilight's friends as she trotted back to the house "Would the rest of you like some snacks while you wait?" she asked

Pinkie nodded furiously "I sure would!" she said as she hopped into the house along with everypony else

While Twilight's friends were busy eating downstairs, Twilight went to Amber's room with the filly where Amber sat on her bed while Twilight sat on the floor. then Twilight quickly cast a sound dampening spell on the room to keep others from hearing, she also cast it when Amber wasn't looking so she wouldn't get suspicious

"So, what does the Princess want with somepony like me?" Amber asked with a nervous smile

"I only want to ask a few questions. don't worry, this won't take any time at all." Twilight said

"Okay."

"My first questions concerns the bullies at school, have you ever hurt them before?" Twilight asked

Amber shook her head "No, usually I would just ignore them. but this time, I guess, they pushed the wrong buttons." she said

Twilight's horn glows for a few seconds as she nods "Okay, my next question is about you entering the Everfee forest. how did you get out of the forest unscathed?" she asked

"Be careful on how you answer this. you can not give her any hints." Nightmare said

"I...uh, I came across the castle of two sisters and stayed there for a while." Amber said

Twilight raised an eyebrow "Interesting, why did you stay at the castle instead of coming back to ponyville?" she asked

"I hurt my wing while I was in the forest, so I stayed at the castle until it healed." Amber said

"I see." Twilight said while her horn continued to glow for a few seconds as Amber spoke "Okay, last question. have you ever heard any...voices?" she asked

Amber quickly glanced away and back "W-what do you mean?" she asked

"Like, voices inside of your head telling you...certain things. maybe something about the eternal night?" Twilight said

Amber quickly shook her head "Nope, can't say I have. that would be super strange and weird to have a voice talking about eternal nights." she said as she nervously laughed

Twilight put a hoof to her chin as her horn glowed one more time then she nodded "Alright, that's all for my questions. thanks for cooperating with me, Amber." she said

"I-it was nothing, miss Twilight." Amber said as Twilight left the room and after she did Amber sighed a breath of relief "Thank Celestia she didn't find out." she said

Nightmare sighed "I was not expecting Twilight's magic to be so strong." she said

"Are you okay, Moony?" Amber asked

"I am fine. it took a lot more power than I had anticipated keeping Twilight from discovering me, but I was able to keep her back." Nightmare said

Amber smiled "As long as you're safe, that's all that matters." she said

"Hm."

Amber's stomach growled making her giggle "During the princess's visit, I totally forgot about lunch. let's go get something to eat." she said jumping off her bed and trotting out of her room

(Twilight)

Twilight and her friends left Amber's home, but not before Pinkie got a few more treats from Lucy.

Rainbow dash hovered next to Twilight "So Twi, was it her?" she asked

"I'm not sure." Twilight said "It doesn't seem to be her, but something just didn't feel right." she said

"What do ya mean by that, Twilight?" Applejack asked

"When I used my magic to scan her, I didn't pick up any traces of Nightmare moon. but some things just didn't add up right." Twilight said as she thought a bit more "First, there was the thing Fluttershy told me about, how Cheerilee said that Amber isn't a violent filly. yet it was after she came back from the Everfree when she hurt those two fillies."

"Mighty suspicious, if you ask me." Applejack said

"Then, while I was asking her questions that something else didn't add up right. she knew the name of the castle far into the Everfree, yet I had never seen her in the library before and after it had transformed into my castle." Twilight said

"Maybe she simply heard about it from one of her friends?" Rarity said

"I don't know, there aren't a lot of colts nor fillies who know of the castle, but that is a possibility." Twilight said "I'm just not sure if she's truly the filly who Nightmare is possessing, or not."

Rainbow groaned "All this thinking is making my head hurt, why don't we just wait till Princess Luna finds the filly's dream again so she can find out the truth for herself?" she asked

Twilight looked up at Rainbow "That...is actually a good idea." she said

"Of course it's a good idea, I thought of it." Rainbow said giving herself a pat on the back

"I'll send a letter to the Princesses tonight about our findings, it might help Luna find the filly who's possessed." Twilight said continuing her trot to her castle.

(Amber)

After she had eaten, Amber proceeded to return to her room until she was stopped by her mom

"What did you and the process talk about?" Lucy asked

"Um, she just wanted to ask me a few questions about what happened at school. nothing too interesting." Amber said

Lucy nodded "Speaking of school, I'm heading out to speak to Cheerilee about your behavior today." she said

"B-but-."

"Don't even try, I'm sure you apologized to them but the fact remains that you hurt both of them. I'll be back soon, and remember you're still grounded." Lucy said as she trotted out the door

Amber sighed "What am I supposed to do being stuck at home?" she said

Nightmare thought for a moment "Well, we could continue your teachings." she said

"Are you sure? we don't have the books from the castle." Amber said

"I have studied magic long enough to master their spells. remembering how to do it and how they work is child's play to me." Nightmare said

Amber nodded "Okay, we can practice in my room." she said then she began to trot to her room where she closed her door

"We shall continue practicing levitation, the book on the floor over there will do for now." Nightmare said

Amber moved the book in front of her and following Nightmare's guidance, she began to focus on her magic to lift the book but so far, she hadn't had any luck and barely got the book off the floor. she had been practicing for so long that Lucy had returned home while talking to Cheerilee.

"I understand that Amber should be punished for what happened, but after the whole Everfree. shouldn't we take it easy on her?" Cheerilee asked

Lucy shook her head "I can't go easy on her just because of what happened, if I do then something like this might happen again. we have to teach her that actions have consequences." she said

Cheerilee sighed "Alright if that's your decision. I'll give Amber detention tomorrow." she said

"Thank you, Cheerilee. if you want, you can come in and have some snacks." Lucy said

"Not right now, I have to get home myself. I have papers to grade and everything. we can talk more tomorrow." Cherrilee said

"Okay, stay safe." Lucy said as Cheerilee began to trot away then Lucy entered her home "AMBER!" she called out but didn't hear an answer back so she went upstairs to her door

Amber was too busy focusing on the book to notice her mom calling out her name and as she focused, she had finally lifted the book into the air and smiled "I did it! I finally did it!" she said

"Took you long enough. to think you would have this much trouble mastering one of the most simplistic spells." Nightmare said

Amber slowly spun the book around in her magic "And it's thanks to your teachings that I finally did it. I can't wait to see what else I'll be able to-."

"Amber?"

Amber gasped and dropped the book as she slowly turned and saw her mom "Mom? uh hi. when did you get back?" she asked with a nervous smile

"Just now, what were you doing and who are you talking to?" Lucy asked

Amber was panicking "Um, nothing. I was just playing with a book while talking to myself. you know I do that a lot." she said

Lucy looked around the room then she looked at the book and slowly nodded "Okay...well, I just came to tell you that I spoke to Cheerilee and she agreed to give you detention. it'll start tomorrow, alright?" she said

"Okay...I guess you'll be leaving now?" Amber asked

"Right...right, make sure you aren't too loud." Lucy said as she left the room but took one last look around then she closed the door

Amber sighed "That was too close."

"You need to be more careful. we'll end up getting caught at this rate." Nightmare said

"Right."

Lucy slowly trotted away from Amber's door lost in thought 'Was that magic? that can't be possible, Amber can't use magic. she's a pegasus. but there's no mistaking it, that was magic. what is happening to my daughter?' she thought

Dream fight

The rest of the day went uneventful. Amber mostly stayed within her room while Lucy prepared food downstairs. while preparing food, Lucy just couldn't take her mind off of what she had seen earlier with Amber. no matter what she thought, none of the things she could come up with could explain how Amber was able to lift a book using magic.

'Nothing makes sense. Amber is a pegasus, and pegasi can't cast magic.' Lucy thought then she sighed 'Onyx will be home soon. I'll tell him about this later.'

Amber stopped practicing for the day and decided to read a book instead, but she to couldn't take her mind off her mother.

"Are you sure she didn't see anything?" Amber asked

Nightmare sighed "If she saw something then we can expect some kind of visit from Twilight. or, she would have asked about it. she didn't see anything. besides, if she did then I may have to silence her myself before my plans are ruined." she said

"Moony! you can't hurt my parents!" Amber said

"And why is that?"

"Because they're my parents! and friends don't hurt each others' family!" Amber said

Nightmare grumbled "I am really starting to hate this...friendship."

"Hey, you said you would give it a chance. it hasn't even been a day yet. give it some time, I'm sure you'll like it in the end." Amber said

"I doubt that."

"I don't." Amber said and with that, she went back to her book

While reading her book. Amber heard the front door open and close, which made her put her book up and immediately run downstairs to greet her dad.

"Dad! you're home!" Amber said

"Hey, Amber. I hope the food is ready, the ponies at the weather factory worked us to the bone." Onyx said

Lucy came out of the kitchen and gave a quick glance to Amber but kept her soft smile "The food will be ready in a bit. you can rest until then." she said

Onyx simply nodded and went to their couch to lay down, and Amber joined him.

"What happened at the factory this time?" Amber asked

Onyx groaned "Some fool wasn't paying attention to a machine and accidentally produced a few rain clouds too early. luckily we were able to get rid of them before they ruined any pony's day, but it was just unnecessary extra work for us." he said

"Hmph, if a pony made a mistake like that under my watch. I would ensure he wouldn't make it again, or else." Nightmare said

Amber ignored Nightmare's comment "Oh, What happened to the pony?" she asked

"I don't know, but I do know this. the higher-ups won't take too kindly to his little mess up." Onyx said

Amber smirked "You know. if I was working with you, I bet I could make your work go faster." she said

"I'm sure you could sweetie, but again, you are too young to work at the factory. you'll just have to wait until you're old enough." Onyx said

"But I wanna help." Amber whined

"Wait until you're older. for now, focus on finishing school. okay?" Onyx said

"Okay."

Onyx gave Amber a kiss on the head, then he stood up and trotted to the kitchen "How is the food coming along?" he asked

"I just finished. we have corn, orange slices, and eggs on the side." Lucy said, showing off the plate of food for Onyx.

Onyx sniffed the food on the plate "it smells delicious. I can't wait to dig in."

Lucy trotted to the table and set the plates of food on it. once everything was set, they all sat down in the own chairs and dug into their food. while Lucy was eating she took a few glances at Amber and studied her closely, which didn't go unnoticed by Amber herself.

Amber looked at Lucy "Is something wrong mom?" she asked

Lucy quickly shook her head "Oh, i-it's nothing. how are you liking the food?" she asked

"It's good." Amber said

Lucy nodded "That's good." she said

Onyx raised an eyebrow but shrugged it off "So Amber, how was school?" he asked and noticed that Amber seemed to have froze for a moment.

"U-um, well..." Amber remained silent

Lucy sighed "Amber, hurt two filly's at school." she said

Onyx was shocked so he turned to Amber and gave her a hard stare "Amber, what happened?"

Amber gulped "There were two bullies. they were making fun of me-."

"So, you hurt them because they were teasing you?" Onyx cut her off

Amber shook her head quickly "No! I didn't hurt them because they were teasing me! it's because they made fun of my friend! I didn't want them to talk about my friend like that and that sort of set me off." she said

Onyx sighed "While I understand defending your friend is right, hurting those two fillies was not the right way to go about it. you should have told your teacher instead of resorting to violence." he said

Amber looked down "I know."

Onyx turned to Lucy "Did you talk to her teacher?" he asked

Lucy nodded "yes, and we both agreed she should get detention for such behavior. it starts tomorrow." she said

"Good." Onyx said then he turned back to Amber "Finish up your food and hurry to bed, you have a long day tomorrow." he said

Amber simply nodded and finished the rest of her food. once she was done, she put her plate in the sink and returned to her room. Once she was gone, Onyx noticed Lucy was lost in thought about something

"Is something wrong?" Onyx asked

Lucy looked up from her food and shook her head "No, why?"

"You seem to be thinking about something. what's on your mind?" Onyx asked

Lucy sighed "It's just that...I think there's something wrong with our daughter." she said

"What makes you say that?"

Lucy glanced at the stairs then back to Onyx "I'm not sure how to explain this, but earlier when I came back from the schoolhouse, I went up to Amber's room to check on her. when I looked inside, I could hear her talking to somepony, but nopony was inside the room from what I could tell." she explained

"That is odd. maybe she was talking to herself? you know she does that sometimes." Onyx said

"Maybe, but that wasn't the strangest part. what was really weird was what I saw her doing." Lucy said. she then took another glance at the stairs and leaned over the table to Onyx "I saw her levitating a book off the ground using magic."

"What?!" Onyx nearly shouted so his mouth was covered by Lucy's hoof and shushed him as she looked at the stairs again then she slowly removed it "You saw her lifting a book with magic?!" he whispered a little too loudly

Lucy nodded "Yes, and I don't know what to do about it." she said

"Are you sure your eyes weren't playing tricks on you? I mean, Amber is a pegasus. we don't do magic." Onyx said

"I know what I saw, Onyx. there was no mistaking it, Amber was using magic." Lucy said

Onyx shook his head "Maybe you just need to rest, it's been a long day." he said

"You don't believe me?"

Onyx shrugged "It's kinda hard to believe something like that. a pegasus using unicorn magic. it just can't happen." he said

"I know what I saw, Onyx." Lucy said

"I'm sure you do, Lucy. but I'm just not sure if I can believe it." Onyx said

Lucy shook her head "First it was a fight at school, then Princess Twilight came to visit-"

"Wait, Princess Twilight was here? what did she want?" Onyx asked

"She said she wanted to ask Amber some questions. once they were done she just left." Lucy explained

"Damn, I could've met Princess Twilight if I stayed home. what a missed opportunity." Onyx said

Lucy rolled her eyes "And then, Amber is using magic. something is going on Onyx." she said then she stood up and rooted to the stairs and looked up at the top "Something is happening to our daughter, and I'm scared I won't be able to help her." she said

Onyx followed Lucy and gave her a tight hug from behind "Don't worry, I'm sure everything is fine. if something was going on with Amber, or if she was having any trouble, she would immediately tell us. she has no reason not to." he said then Lucy turned around to face him "Amber is fine, so let's calm down and sleep on it. when we wake up, everything will be just as it was, and you'll see you had nothing to worry about."

Lucy nodded "Okay, that sounds nice." she said. she gave Onyx a little kiss on the cheek before turning to the stairs "By the way, it's your turn to wash the dishes."

"Aw."

"Don't complain, you're the one who came up with taking turns." Lucy said and Onyx sighed as she giggled then trotted upstairs while Onyx returned to the kitchen

Amber was busy enjoying the night sky as usual "Mom was acting weird during dinner."

"I noticed this as well. perhaps she did see something after all." Nightmare said

Amber gasped "What if she tells the princesses?!" she said

"Calm down. while I'm sure she saw something, she can't tell anypony yet. who would believe her if she told them you just started using magic out of nowhere?" Nightmare questioned

"Hm, maybe you're right. but what if Princess Twilight comes back?" Amber asked

"We will cross that bridge when we come to it." Nightmare said

Amber simply nodded and went back to her star-gazing. but after a few minutes, a new thought popped into her head.

"Hey Moony?" Amber said getting Nightmare's attention "If the Princesses do find out about us, what will we do?" she asked

Nightmare chuckled "You're asking this now?" she questioned and Amber nodded so she sighed "First things first, I would immediately leave you."

"Wait, What? you would leave me?" Amber said

"Of course, if any princess found out about us, I am not risking getting caught." Nightmare said

"But...I thought we would be together forever." Amber said

"No. As I said before, I am not risking getting caught for any reason." Nightmare said

"But what if you do get caught and I'm not there to help you?" Amber asked

Nightmare remained silent for a few minutes "Then there won't be anything I can do about it and will have no choice, but to accept what happens to me."

"You would just give up?" Amber said

"Yes, though I do tell you this. if I am to leave this world for good, then I would leave without a single regret left on my mind." Nightmare said

Amber looked down then back up "Then, I'll make sure you're never forced to leave, and the princesses never find you. I swear on our friendship that I'll protect you, no matter what."

"Hm. we'll see about that." Nightmare mumbled

Amber sighed "We should probable get to sleep." she said

Nightmare rolled her eyes "Aren't you forgetting something?" she said

Amber thought for a moment "I practiced my magic, went star-gazing, and talked to you like always. am I forgetting something?" she questioned

"Not in the real world, in the dream world. if you fall asleep then there's the chance Luna might find your dream again." Nightmare said

Amber gasped "Oh my Celestia, you're right. after what happened yesterday, Luna will work harder to look for my dream. what do we do? I can't stay awake forever." she said

"We have two choices. we can either stay awake and hope she will one day give up her search, which won't happen. or, I am able to repel her from the dream." Nightmare said

"Isn't there a spell that can help us?" Amber asked

"I have been using the spell, yet Luna was still able to find your dream. I doubt the spell will work this time as well" Nightmare said

"Looks like we don't have any other choice. we have to keep Princess Luna from finding out our secret until the sun comes up." Amber said then she laid down in her bed "We just have to keep her from seeing me, right?"

"Yes. as long as she is focused on me, she'll be too busy to go looking for the owner of the dream." Nightmare said

"Okay. I'll make sure I stay out of sight." Amber said. she then closed her eyes and allowed herself to drift off to sleep

Once Amber reopened her eyes, she found herself in the same meadow from before. then the sky seemed to have rippled as Nightmare phased through it and landed on the ground in front of amber.

"You know, I think I like you better without your armor." Amber said

Nightmare scoffed "This form makes me look weak. how could anypony like it?"

"I don't think you look weak at all. you still look just as strong as you're supposed to be, just a little cuter." Amber said

"I am not supposed to look..."cute", I am supposed to look fierce and strike fear into the hearts of ponies." Nightmare said

Amber giggled "That might be a little hard if you always look like that."

Nightmare growled "Enough about my appearance. I am sure Luna will be here soon. you better go and hide before she spots you."

Amber nodded as Nightmare made a few trees appear. then Amber ran to one and hid behind it as Nightmare turned and waited patiently for Luna to appear.

Luna used her magic to its limit to try to find the small filly's dream, and hopefully Nightmare moon as well. While traversing the dream realm, Luna eventually found the dream she was looking for and noticed that the fog around the dream was a lot weaker, but it still wouldn't show her whose dream it was. so she entered the dream to find herself in the same meadow from before, and in the middle of the meadow was her. Nightmare moon.

"Nightmare moon." Luna said, trotting slowly to her

Nightmare moon smirked "Hello, Luna. it's been a while."

"Tell me whose dream this is, right now. I will not allow you to harm this filly any longer." Luna said

Nightmare chuckled "You misunderstand. I am not hurting this filly in any way. she willingly allowed me to enter her mind." she said

"More of your lies. nopony would willingly allow a monster like you to invade their mind. did you use a spell? or, did you threaten her?" Luna questioned

"I did nothing of the sort. I simply asked and she allowed me to enter. there's nothing more to it." Nightmare said

Luna quickly looked around "Where is she?" she asked

"Who?"

"You know who! the filly. this is her dream, so she should be here as well. where is she? what have you done with her?!" Luna asked as she charged her horn

"She wished to not be seen by you and is now hiding away." Nightmare explained

"If all you're going to try to do is deceive me, then talking is meaningless. I will expel you from this world and free the filly from your magic." Luna said taking up a fighting stance

"You will try, and you will fail. this filly's mind and body belong to me now, and I'm not planning on giving her up just yet." Nightmare said, also getting into a fighting stance

Luna was the first to strike, she shot a beam at Nightmare who immediately flew into the air. once in the air Nightmare fired a beam back down at Luna who used her magic to create a barrier that blocked the blast, then she to flew up at Nightmare and fired another beam. Nightmare fired a beam at the same time causing them to collide and cause a small explosion, she then moved through the smoke and charged at Luna. Luna thought fast and teleported herself out of the way before Nightmare could get to her, Luna then fired a beam which hit Nightmare dead-on and made her fall to the ground, also making Amber gasp as she watched the whole thing.

Luna landed a few meters away from Nightmare "Give up, Nightmare moon. I am clearly stronger than you, and more adept at magic. you can't win." she said

Nightmare groaned but smirked "where was all of this strength when we fought your sister?" she asked

Luna grit her teeth "What do you mean "we"?! you took over my body and tried to kill Celestia! there was no "We"!" she said

"And who was it that allowed me to remain within their mind?" Nightmare said with another smirk

Luna charged her horn "Silence yourself, or else."

"You know I speak the truth. back then, all you wanted was recognition and power. I had the power to give you both, and when I showed you I did. you allowed me to remain. you have nopony to blame but yourself." Nightmare said. she was then blasted by Luna making her scream out

"I have heard enough from you. yes, it was my fault for allowing you to remain, and it was my fault for allowing you control over my body to attack Celestia. but that is why I am fixing my mistake now, to ensure you never have the chance to do it again." Luna said, blasting Nightmare again as she erected a barrier to protect herself.

Amber watched from behind the tree as Luna kept her beam going on Nightmare's barrier. she knew she had to stay hidden to ensure that Luna didn't find out who she was, but as she watched Nightmare's barrier she noticed it was starting to crack. After watching Nightmare get blasted by Luna multiple times, Amber refused to see her hurt anymore so she stepped out from behind the tree but stayed in the shadows to hide her identity.

"STOP!" Amber shouted making Luna turn to her

Luna gasped "Are you the filly?" she questioned

Amber trotted a little to Luna but remained in the shadow "Stop hurting Moony!" she said

"Moony"? What are you talking about? this monster is responsible for nearly bringing an end to Celestia and Equestria." Luna said

"I know, but I don't care. she was the first pony to not turn me away, she saved my life, and she, sort of, helped me with the other fillies and colts at school. she's not as bad as you think she is." Amber said

Luna turned to Nightmare "Is this one of your doings? manipulating the dream to make a fake filly to defend you?" Luna questioned

"This isn't Moony's magic! she really did do all those things!" Amber said

Luna shook her head "Impossible. Nightmare moon only cares about herself. she would never go out of her way to help another pony, let alone a filly." she said

"Well, she helped me, and that's the truth." Amber said

Luna looked back at Nightmare moon "Enough of your tricks Nightmare. it's time you disappear for good." she said, charging up her horn again

Amber was quick to intervene "NO!" she shouted making an invisible force push Luna away from Nightmare.

Luna looked surprised and quickly shook her head "Why would you protect a monster like her?" she asked

Amber looked at Nightmare then back at Luna "Because. she's. my. FRIEND! and I won't let you hurt her!" she shouted causing another invisible force to push Luna away and out of the dream.

"I was pushed out? only the owner of the dream can push me out if they so desire, but that can't be right. nopony would ever defend a monster such as her." Luna said. she stood back up and looked back at the dream "Whatever the case, I must get back into the dream."

Amber quickly ran over to Nightmare "Moony! are you okay?" she asked

Nightmare chuckled "Never before would I see another pony defy a Princess. especially to protect me."

"I had to do something. I couldn't just watch you be destroyed." Amber said

"But you were a fool to come out of hiding. what if Luna saw you? then all of my planning would have been for nothing." Nightmare said

Amber shook her head "We'll have to worry about that later. you need to wake me up before Luna comes back!" she said

Nightmare rolled her eyes but nodded, so she stood up and left the dream and began to take over Amber's body. causing the dream to disappear.

Luna had finally re-entered the dream and saw it was disappearing again "No! not again." she said then she quickly ran over to Amber who had already transformed into Nightmare "Little filly, you must listen to me. Nightmare moon can not be trusted. she is just using you to further her own goals. you must be rid of her and soon before she has the chance to harm other ponies."

Amber looked up at Luna "I will never abandon a friend." was all she said before the dream had fully collapsed and disappeared.

Nightmare, once again, woke up in Amber's bed and once she looked outside, she saw that the sun was rising. Before Nightmare did anything else, she gave control back to Amber willingly. transforming her back to her normal form.

"That could've gone better." Amber said

"Indeed. though, I will still count this as a victory." Nightmare said

"How so?"

"We were able to drive off Luna and, hopefully, prevented her from discovering your identity." Nightmare said

"Hm, when you put it like that. I guess we can count this as a victory." Amber said with a giggle, then she sighed and rubbed her head with her hoof "I can't believe I defied a Princess."

"To think you would go so far to defend me that you would outright defy a Princess...and what you said to her as well... Nightmare said

Amber smiled "And I meant every word of it." she said

"...Truly?"

Amber nodded "You're my friend, Moony. and I trust you with my life at this point. if Luna, or anypony else ever hurts you. I'll be there to save you." she said

Nightmare was at a loss for words. she knew Amber trusted her and considered them friends, despite Nightmares' protest, but she didn't think she trusted her this much. she didn't know what to say.

"Moony?"

"T-thank you, Amber night, for such praise." Nightmare said

Amber smiled "You're welcome." she said then she got out of bed

'Perhaps, just maybe. I should give this..."friendship" a serious try. as I said before, if it doesn't work out I can always take her body for my own. but for now, I shall see where this road of friendship takes me with this little filly.' Nightmare thought.

Discovery and Confrontation

Back at canterlot, Princess Celestia had just finished rising the sun and was currently trotting to Luna's room to check on her. Once she entered, she saw Luna on her balcony lost in thought. Luna didn't hear Celestia enter as she stared up at the sky.

Celesta stepped next to Luna "Luna?"

Luna looked at Celestia "Oh, Tia. I didn't hear you come in." she said

"What were you thinking about little sister?" Celestia asked

Luna sighed "I saw and fought Nightmare Moon last night." she said

Celestia gasped "Were you able to defeat her?" she asked

Luna shook her head "No, instead I was expelled from the dream by the owner." she said

"But...wouldn't that mean..."

Luna nodded "Yes, the filly who has been infected is either under a spell from Nightmare moon, or she is defending her of her own will."

"Who would willingly defend somepony like Nightmare Moon?" Celestia questioned

"A filly who doesn't understand the kind of threat Nightmare Moon is to Equestria." Luna said then she sighed "After I was expelled out of the dream. I tried to get back into it as fast as I could, but by the time I did, it was already disappearing. I tried to talk the filly into giving up Nightmare Moon, but she just looked at me and said "I will never abandon a friend"." Luna explained

Celestia thought for a moment "It seems clear that this filly believes Nightmare Moon to be her friend. it doesn't sound like something a pony would say if they were put under some kind of mind control spell." she said

Luna huffed "That filly is being foolish! Nightmare Moon is nopony's friend! she is an evil being that must be destroyed to prevent any future disasters!" she said angrily

Celestia put a hoof on Luna's shoulder "Calm yourself, Luna. we'll find this filly and Nightmare Moon, but we must approach this with a calm head. or, we risk Nightmare Moon escaping and lose the filly as well." she said

Luna took a deep breath and nodded "Yes, you're right. sorry for my outburst."

"It's alright. Oh, I almost forgot." Celestia said then she teleported a piece of paper into the room "Twilight sent me this letter yesterday. I was going to bring it to you as well, but my royal duties got in the way. I was so exhausted that I fell right to sleep after lowering the sun."

Luna took the letter from Celestia "You received a letter from Twilight that could have helped us in our search for Nightmare Moon, and you forgot about it until now?!" she said

Celestia rolled her eyes with a smirk "I forgot. my royal duties took up a lot more time than I thought. can you really blame me?" she asked

"Yes." Luna said as Celestia giggled then she opened the letter and read it over as it explained Twilight's findings of the fight at school and the filly named Amber Night "Amber Night? a filly who entered the Everfree and came out unscathed after three days."

"I believe we have our prime suspect." Celestia said

"Indeed." Luna said then she closed the letter "I will go and meet with this filly, personally."

"Are you sure that's a wise decision?" Celestia asked

Luna nodded "If this filly truly is infected by Nightmare Moon, then I will need to be there to contain her until we are able to remove Nightmare Moon from her mind." she said.

Celestia hugged Luna "Be careful, Lulu. there's no telling what kind of tricks Nightmare Moon will pull."

Luna hugged back "Do not worry, Tia. I will not be beaten by a monster like her." she said then she let Celestia go as she trotted to the doors of her room where two pony's were standing guard "Ready a carriage. we will be leaving for Ponyville soon."

The guards bowed "Yes, your majesty."

Lucy woke up and trotted downstairs to find Amber had already made herself some food "You're up even earlier today. what's with the sudden change to your sleep schedule?" she asked

Amber shrugged "I just want to get to school on time."

Lucy smiled "If you keep this up, then I may not have to get you up at all." she said then she went to make herself some breakfast and sat next to Amber "Amber, how are you feeling today?"

Amber raised an eyebrow "Fine, why do you ask?"

"I just wanted to make sure you're not feeling too tired in the mornings." Lucy said then she began eating

Amber nodded and continued eating her own food. Once she was done she gathered her things and trotted to the door.

"I'm off!" Amber shouted as Lucy waved her off then Amber left the house and began trotting to school.

Amber continued on her to school without going off course, which made Nightmare raise an eyebrow

"Are you not going to get another snack like before?" Nightmare asked

Amber shook her head "I want to get to school on time for once."

"Is it because of your new friends?"

"...Maybe."

Nightmare rolled her eyes "You get a few new friends and all of a sudden, you're a good little filly who gets to school on time." she said

"Hey, it's not all about my friends. I also want to get through my detention as quickly as possible, so I can be done with it." Amber said "And what did I say about my other friends? I may get some other friends, but you'll always be my number one." she said

"I don't care." Nightmare said though she won't admit it. it did make her slightly happy.

After only a few minutes of trotting did Amber finally arrive at school. Amber saw other fillies and colts enter the school as Cheerilee waved at them, and as soon as she saw Amber she was a little surprised.

"Amber? you're on time for once?" Cheerilee said

"You don't have to act so surprised, Ms. Cheerilee." Amber said

Cheerilee cleared her throat "Right, sorry. I shouldn't have acted that way. I'm just shocked you weren't late this time."

"After what happened the other day. I decided to come on time so I can do my detention for the day." Amber said

"Well, that's very nice of you, Amber." Cheerilee said which made Amber smile

"Hey, Amber!" Scootaloo called from behind making Amber turn around and see the Cmc trotting to her

"Hey, Scootaloo, Applebloom, and sweetie belle!" Amber greeted

Sweetie belle ran to Amber "Hey, Amber! we thought of an awesome idea we can do later today."

"Really? what is it?" Amber asked

Before Sweetie could tell, Applebloom covered her mouth "We can talk more about it during recess." she said

Cheerilee stepped forward "I'm sorry girls, but Amber has detention so she won't be able to be at recess." she said

"Aw, well we can always talk after school." Scootaloo said

"Um..actually.." Before Amber could speak, the school bell rang making everypony run inside.

Applebloom put a hoof on her shoulder "We'll talk later. trust me, you're gonna love what we have planned." she said then she ran inside

Amber sighed "I forgot to tell them I'm grounded. I should tell them after school."

"Or perhaps. you don't."

"What do you mean?"

"If you don't say a word then you'll be able to go out and have some fun." Nightmare said

Amber raised a brow "Why do you want me to go out and follow them?"

"Being cramped inside of your home is already annoying enough. I would very much rather be anywhere else than there." Nightmare said

"But I'll be disobeying my parents."

Nightmare scoffed "You will only be gone for a few minutes. I am sure they will be fine with that." she said

"I guess I could go and have fun just for today." Amber said

Cheerilee came back to the door "Amber, come inside. we're about to begin."

"Okay." Amber said trotting inside

Luna had just arrived in Ponyville, and after exiting her carriage she was met with Princess Twilight and her friends.

"Princess Luna? what are you doing here?" Twilight asked

"I have come to meet with the filly known as, Amber Night. I believe she is the one who has been infected." Luna said

Applejack stepped forward "That's nice and all, but Twilight already used her magic on Amber. she said she wasn't able to pick up any traces of Nightmare Moon."

"That is because Nightmare Moon can not be found using simple mind spells. we must use more powerful magic to find her. not to say your magic is not powerful, Twilight." Luna said as Twilight nodded "I will meet this filly myself and find out the truth. please guide me to her home."

"It's right this way." Twilight said, she began trotting to Amber's house along with her friends and Luna. Once they had arrived, they saw Lucy leaving the house but when she turned and saw Twilight and her friends she stopped right where she was.

"Um, hello everypony." Lucy said nervously

Luna stepped past Twilight and her friends "Greetings-."

"Oh, Princess Luna!" Lucy cut Luna off and immediately bowed "I apologize for not recognizing you sooner, your majesty." she said

"It's fine, and you do not have to bow. I simply came to speak with the filly known as, Amber Night." Luna said

Lucy stood back up "Amber? what...do you want with her?" she asked

Before Luna could speak, Twilight spoke first "We just want to speak with her. is she here?" she asked

"No, she's at school right now." Lucy said

Twilight nodded "We should head to the school then." she said and everypony nodded as they turned to leave

"Wait!" Lucy shouted making them turn back "You must tell me, what's wrong with Amber?" she asked

Twilight glanced away and back "When did we say there was something wrong with her?"

"Please, Princess Twilight. I think it's pretty clear that something is wrong with her. both you and Princess Luna are here, and all of the element bearers." Lucy said making Twilight rub the back of her neck

Rarity stepped to Lucy "Sorry darling, but we can't tell you that."

Lucy shook her head "Don't give me that! I'm her mother and I have a right to know what's wrong with my daughter! please tell me. what's wrong with Amber?"

Applejack sighed "Twilight, we have to tell her. it isn't right to lie to her own mother." she said

Rainbow rubbed the back of her head "She's right, Twilight. we have to tell her something."

"I will explain it to her." Luna said trotting forward "The rest of you should go and retrieve Amber."

"I think I'll stay with Luna to help fill in the details. will you girls be alright getting Amber by yourselves?" Twilight asked

Rainbow waved her hoof "It's just one filly. I'm sure we'll be fine." she said

Twilight nodded then trotted with Luna to Lucy "Let's go inside, it's better if others don't hear this." she said and Lucy nodded so they entered her home.

"Come on everypony! let's go and get that filly!" Rainbow said flying off while everypony else followed

After the others had left, Twilight and Luna explained to Lucy why they were investigating her daughter. Lucy was horrified to learn just how much danger Amber was in with Nightmare Moon inside of her.

Lucy looked down and sighed "This explains so much."

"What do you mean?" Luna asked

"I've seen Amber do things that I haven't been able to explain myself. some of the things shouldn't even have been possible." Lucy said

Twilight and Luna looked at each other then back to Lucy "Can you tell us the things Amber has done?" Twilight asked

Lucy nodded "It first happened the same day she came back to ponyville. when I went to get her for dinner I heard her talking to somepony, but when I opened the door there was nopony there so I wrote it off as her talking to the stars or, something. she does that a lot." she explained

Luna nodded "We can probably assume she was talking to Nightmare Moon. were there any other moments?" she asked

"Yes. it happened yesterday. After I had come back from speaking with Cheerilee I called out for Amber, but when she didn't hear me I went up to her room, and when I peeked inside of her room I could hear her talking to somepony again but nopony was there." Lucy said as both of them slowly nodded "But the weirdest part, was that I saw her holding up a book using magic!"

Twilight gasped "That's not possible. a pegasus can't use magic, let alone a pegasus filly."

"It would seem we truly do have the right filly. all the evidence lines up perfectly. Amber Night has been infected by Nightmare Moon." Luna said

"Please, you have to save my daughter. I couldn't bear to see her hurt by Nightmare Moon." Lucy begged

Luna trotted to Lucy and put a hoof on her shoulder "We will do everything in our power to save your daughter and defeat Nightmare Moon. you have my word." she said and Lucy nodded

Twilight stood up "Come on, I'm sure the others have Amber by now." she said and Luna nodded as she followed Twilight and left the house

"I'M BORED!" Amber shouted

"Amber, please. I understand that you're bored, but can you please stop yelling?" Cheerilee said

"But there's nothing to do, and I already completed all the work you gave me. why does detention have to be so boring?" Amber said

Cheerilee shook her head "It could be worse, you know. you could have been suspended like Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon." she said

"Yeah, you're right. I guess I should just power through it." Amber said laying her head on her desk.

"We could always escape using magic while she's not looking." Nightmare said

"No, Moony. it's only fair we take the punishment for our actions like Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon." Amber whispered

Nightmare sighed "Very well."

While Cheerilee was busy grading papers, a knock soon came on the schoolhouse door causing Cheerilee to stand up and trot to the door. once she opened it she saw all five ponies

"Oh, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie. why are you all here?" Cheerilee asked

Amber gasped once she heard all the names "Uh oh. do you think they're here for me?"

"I suggest we don't take that chance. shall I get us out of here now?" Nightmare asked

"Yes please." Amber said so Nightmare used her magic to teleport Amber out of the schoolhouse

"We were wondering if a filly named Amber Night was here?" Applejack asked

"Yes, she's right over her-." Cheerilee cut herself off once she saw that Amber was gone "Wait, where did she go?!"

All of them ran in and looked around "Well, this is quite the conundrum. where on Equestria could she have gone?" Rarity said

Rainbow groaned "Getting a simple Pegasus filly should have been a piece of cake. now we don't even know where she is anymore. she could be anywhere in ponyville." she said

"Or maybe she's just right outside." Pinkie said looking out the window and so did everypony else and they to saw Amber currently running away from the schoolhouse

"Come on, we have to catch her!" Rainbow said flying out the door while the others followed

"Wait, why are you chasing Amber?" Cheerilee asked as she stepped out the door

"We'll explain later!" Applejack said as she ran past

Amber ran as fast as her hooves could "Why didn't you teleport me further away?"

"It's hard to focus when I'm still inside of the mind of my host. just be happy that you didn't end up in the wall." Nightmare said

"Where do we even go? there's no way we can go home, they know where I live." Amber said

"I suggest you run into the everfree. you'll be able to hide there and lose them." Nightmare said

"I'll have to go back there again?!" Amber said

"Do not worry, with my magic charged to acceptable levels. I will be able to protect should we find danger." Nightmare said

"Okay." Amber said so she instead began flying as fast as she could and with the addition of Nightmare's wings, she was able to fly at speeds that equal to an adult pegasus.

Rainbow Dash was quickly gaining on Amber "Stop! we only want to talk!" she said

Amber quickly made a sharp turn which threw Rainbow off for a bit but she quickly recovered and continued her pursuit. Amber pushed her wings to their limits in order to stay away from Rainbow Dash, but she knew that she didn't have much of a chance against the fastest flyer in Equestria. if she could at least reach the everfree then she would have a better chance at escaping.

Amber was closing in on the everfree and Rainbow was closing in on her until she was suddenly lassoed by Applejack and was being pulled to the ground.

"I got her!" Applejack said

Amber struggled to stay in the air "Moony! I need help!" she yelled

"Who's Moony?" Rainbow said hovering nearby when suddenly Amber teleported out of the rope and continued flying away leaving everypony stunned "How did she do that? pegasi can't use magic!"

"I bet one of my apple ciders that this Moony pony is probably Nightmare Moon." Applejack said tying her rope back up

Rarity gasped "Wouldn't that mean that Amber is the one who has been infected?" she said and Applejack nodded

"Then we need to catch her as soon as possible!" Rainbow said

"But, didn't something seems off to you?" Fluttershy said making everypony turn to her

"What do ya mean sugarcube?" Applejack asked

"Amber didn't seem like she's been hurt by Nightmare Moon. in fact, she seemed more afraid of us." Fluttershy said

"Oh right, When Applejack caught her with her rope she called out to Nightmare Moon for help." Rarity pointed out

"Does that seem like something somepony would say if they were being hurt by Nightmare Moon?" Fluttershy asked everypony.

Rainbow groaned "How about, instead of standing here we go ask her ourselves?" she said

"Right, let's get going." Applejack said so everypony ran after Amber who had finally reached the everfree

Amber was breathing heavily "I can't believe we made it."

"Hurry up and enter the forest before they have a chance to catch up." Nightmare said and Amber did as told and ran into the forest

Once the others had reached the forest Rainbow landed at the entrance "Great, she ran into the forest. how are we gonna find her now?" she said

"We'll just have to go in and keep an eye out." Applejack said

"Go in there again? no, thank you. I will stay out here and keep watch." Fluttershy said

"Please, Fluttershy. there's an innocent filly in there all alone. we have to go in and find her to make sure she doesn't get hurt by any of the dangers within the forest." Rarity said

Fluttershy still looked unsure but nodded "Alright, I'll do it. to save Amber." she said then she entered the forest along with the others

Amber laid against a tree breathing heavily "I'm done. I can't move another inch."

"I'm surprised you were able to last this long avoiding capture. you're more persistent than I thought." Nightmare said

Amber smiled "Do you think they'll find us?" she asked

"Not as long as we stay hidden."

Amber was going to say something else until she heard hoofsteps so she huddled against the tree and made herself as small as possible to keep from being discovered.

"AMBER!" Applejack called out "Please, we just want to talk. honest."

Even though Amber also knew that Applejack was one of the most honest ponies there were, she didn't move from her spot and only attempted to make herself more hidden.

"Ugh, this is gonna take us forever. she could be anywhere in the forest." Rainbow said

"We'll just have to keep looking. she's gotta be in here somewhere." Applejack said

Amber stayed quiet as she heard their hoofsteps pass her by, and when she couldn't hear them anymore she peeked around the tree and sighed

"HI!" A voice yelled from behind causing Amber to yelp as she jumped back and turned around to find Pinkie Pie

"Uh oh!" Amber said taking off and flying through the trees

"Wait!" Pinkie said

Amber flew as fast as she could through the trees until she stopped and looked back "Did we lose her?"

"Hey!" Pinkie said hanging from a branch causing Amber to fly off again

"Wait!" Pinkie said popping up from a bunch of leaves in front of Amber making her turn in another direction

"Hang on!" Pinkie said popping up from a hole in a tree, and Amber was going to fly off again but stopped and sighed

"Wait, I'm trying to escape from Pinkie Pie." Amber said as she floated to the ground and Pinkie joined her "Alright, you caught me. are you gonna take me to Princess Twilight?"

"No, silly. I only wanted to talk." Pinkie said

"Talk? about what?" Amber asked

"About Nightmare Moon. she is in there, isn't she?" Pinke said and Amber nodded slowly "Good. Can you tell me why she's there?"

Amber shrugged "I don't really know."

"Hasn't she given you a reason?" Pinkie asked

Amber rubbed the back of her head "Sort of. she said she didn't have enough power to go to another pony, but that was two days ago so I'm not sure if that's still true." she said surprising Nightmare

"You think Nightmare is staying on purpose?" Pinkie said and Amber nodded "Why would she do that?"

"...Maybe, because she really does see us as friends." Amber said

Pinkie raised a brow "Friends with Nightmare Moon?"

Nightmare scoffed "That is not the reason at all why I'm staying."

"Oh yeah. then why are you staying in my head?" Amber asked

"It's because...” Nightmare trailed off as she tried to think of a reason to convince Amber when suddenly they all heard screaming coming from the forest

Applejack and the others were trotting around the forest when they to heard the screaming "That screaming...it's Applebloom!" Applejack said

"And Sweetie Belle!" Rarity said

"And Scootaloo!" Rainbow said

"What in tarnation are they doing in the forest?!" Applejack questioned

"Who cares? they need help so let's go!" Rainbow said flying off

Rarity turned to Fluttershy "Fluttershy, please go and bring Twilight here. we might need her help." she said and Fluttershy nodded and flew off while everypony else ran after Rainbow

Amber gasped "I recognize those voices. it's Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. what are they doing here?" she said

"Oh no, we need to go help them." Pinkie said

"Wait, Pinkie. you need to go and get the others. I'll go and save them." Amber said

"What?! I can't let you go alone." Pinkie said

"I'm not alone, Moony will help me. trust me." Amber said

Pinkie still looked unsure but by looking into Amber's eye's, she was sure she would be fine so Pinkie nodded "Okay. I'll be right back." she said running off

"I am not sure where the idea I would help you came from." Nightmare said

"Wait, what? you're not gonna help me?" Amber asked

"No."

"But those are my friends over there. I need your power to help them." Amber said

"They do not matter to me."

"Moony, please?" Amber said

"No."

Amber huffed "Fine! I'll go save them myself." she said running in the direction of the screams

"What are you going to do on your own?" Nightmare asked

"Anything I can." Amber said

"Fool. you are just going to get yourself killed." Nightmare said

"That may be true, but I'll never abandon my friends." Amber said

Nightmare sighed "I should've known you would say something like that. very well, I will grant you the full use of my magical power. but this fight is yours not mine.” she said using her magic to make Amber's disguise disappear and when it did Amber looked a little different than before.

Nightmare's usual look was still there like hear wings and slit eyes, but the color of her eyes went from their normal green to an Amber color. while her mane was flowing with a large Amber stripe going straight through it. also Amber was now the size of an adult pony. once Amber had finally arrived at her destination, she saw the three fillies cornered by a group of timberwolves, and just as one of them ran at the fillies. Amber ran and jumped in front of them and bucked the timberwolf in the nose, knocking it back. then she turned and faced them and unintentionally gave them an intimidating look making them back up a bit.

"Woah, who is that?" Scootaloo said

Applebloom took a good look at the pony and gasped "I know that look. it's Nightmare Moon!" she said

"What?! Nightmare Moon?!" Sweetie Belle said

Amber turned back to them "Are you guys alright?" she asked

"Why do you care?!" Scootaloo said

Amber was confused "What are you talking about? I care because you're my friends." she said

"We're not friends with a monster like you!" Applebloom said

"What? a monster?" Amber said then she finally looked at herself and realized what they were talking about "Oh! wait no. guys, it's me, Amber Night." she said

Scootaloo scoffed "You expect us to believe you're Amber?"

"it's really me!" Amber said but it still didn't look like any of them believed her "Moony, can you use your magic? I need to convince them it's really me."

Nightmare sighed "Fine."

Amber was disguised again "Guys, it's really me. truthfully." she said

"I don't know, this feels like a trick." Sweetie said

"Okay, ask me something only Amber would know." Amber said

Applebloom thought for a moment "What were we planning to do with Amber earlier today?" she asked

Amber thought for a moment "You didn't say. you were planning on telling me during recess but I had detention so we were going to go to your clubhouse after school."

All of them were shocked "Amber? what happened to you?" Sweetie asked

"I'll have to explain later, for right now I'll protect you while you escape. Moony?" Amber said turning back into the other form

"Escape where? we have no idea where we are. let alone where the exit is." Scootaloo said

Amber looked around quickly and saw a familiar dirt path past a few trees "Over there, there's a dirt road. follow it until you arrive at some old ruins. wait there until I get there. okay?" she said

Applebloom nodded "Come on you two." she said

"Will you be okay all by yourself, Amber?" Sweetie asked

Scootaloo chuckled "I'm sure she'll be fine. we all saw how she bucked that timberwolf. if any other of them mess with her, she'll take them down no sweat." she said making Sweetie smile

"Just be careful, okay?' Sweetie said

"Don't worry, I got this." Amber sid then the fillies ran off to the dirt path "Hey, Moony? how do I blast magic like you and Princess Luna did?" she asked

"Really? you're asking that now? whatever happened to "I got this"?" Nightmare said

"Moony, please?" Amber said

Nightmare rolled her eyes "Very well, this will have to be a quick lesson. do you remember how it felt when you focused your magic to lift the items back then?" she asked

Amber nodded "Yeah, is blasting magic the same?"

"Almost. you still focus your magic on your horn. except instead of focusing it on a specific item, you just shoot it all out in the direction you're facing." Nightmare explained

"Okay, I got this." Amber said focusing her magic as the timberwolves were approaching slowly now that they were sure she wasn't a threat to them

Amber closed her eyes and focused her magic then she shot it out, but it missed the timberwolf in front of her

"Whoops." Amber said

"Try again."

Amber closed her eyes and focused her magic again then shot it out, missing the Timberwolf again.

"Come on." Amber groaned out

"Once more. focus. pay attention to where the target is and fire." Nightmare said

Amber focused and this time kept her eyes open and on the timberwolf approaching her, and just as the timberwolf jumped at her she shot out her magic hitting the wolf dead center, knocking him into a tree behind the others.

"I got it!" Amber shouted

"Good. now do the same for the others." Nightmare said

Amber focused her magic again and shot the timberwolf to her right away. then the one to her left jumped at her so she quickly shot it with a weaker less focused beam keeping him back. then she focused and shot him again with a stronger beam when suddenly three more timberwolves came out from the trees.

"Looks like I'm gonna be at this for a while." Amber said

Applejack and the others here running through the forest looking for the files when suddenly Pinkie ran into her "What? Pinkie? where did you come from?" Applejack said

"No time. I know where the fillies are. follow me!" Pinkie said running off so the others just followed her

Amber blasted back the last timberwolf but while she was busy with them the others had reformed themselves "This is getting annoying. I need to get rid of all of them at the same time."

"Then simply blast them with as much magic power as you can. that should knock all of them away." Nightmare suggested

"Something like that might take a lot of time and focus to do. I doubt they'll give me that time." Amber said when suddenly a barrier appeared around her "Moony?"

"I will at least help you with this." Nightmare said

Amber smiled "Thanks, Moony."

"Just hurry up! as I said before, it's hard to focus when I don't have full control." Nightmare said as the timberwolves clawed at the barrier

Amber closed her eyes and focused as much magic as she could on her horn and charged her magic making a small black aura appear underneath her and it was slowly growing. the Timberwolves were starting to make scratches on the barrier.

"Are you finished yet?"

"Almost." Amber said as the barrier was starting to crack

"Amber!"

Amber re-opened her eyes "Now, Moony!" she shouted as Nightmare let the barrier down then Amber blasted a huge beam at the timberwolves, knocking all of them, including the parts of the ones she's destroyed, away. what Amber didn't know was that the light from the beam was so bright that it could be seen by every pony in ponyville.

After Amber had fired the beam, she was left breathing heavily as she looked at the few trees she accidentally destroyed "Wow. who knew magic was so powerful?" Amber said

"That will certainly be the last we see of those timberwolves. you did well, Amber. I am impressed." Nightmare said

Amber giggled "Thanks, Moony. now we should go and check on the others." she said spreading her wings and taking off to the castle

Rainbow Dash and the others had finally arrived at the location only to see the destruction Amber left "Woah, it almost looks like Tirek himself came through here." Rainbow said

Applejack looked around "I don't see any of the fillies."

"Then they must be alright. they must have escaped before...whatever happened here happened." Rarity said

"I hope so. I don't know what I'd do if Applebloom got caught up in this." Applejack said

Princess Luna and Twilight had finally arrived at the area "What in equestrian happened here?" Twilight said

Rainbow shrugged "We don't know. all we saw was a bright flash of light, but when we got here it was like this." she said

Luna looked around "This much damage would require a large amount of magic. an amount that almost equals a princess's." she said

"You think this was Nightmare Moon's doing?" Twilight asked

"I am not certain, but there aren't many unicorns who can cause damage like this to the everfree. I suggest we find Nightmare Moon as soon as possible before more damage is done." Luna said

"Before that, I need to find my sister. she's somewhere in the everfree and I refuse to leave her here any longer." Rarity said

"Very well." Luna said then she spotted the dirt path "This dirt path leads to the castle of two sisters. your sister probably ran there for safety." she said

"Then let's get moving." Applejack said running off while the others followed

Amber arrived at the castle and once she opened the doors she found the others hiding behind the statue with plates "It's okay, it's just me, Amber." she said

Scootaloo stepped out but kept her distance "Sorry, it's just that...you look so different in that form." she said

Amber looked at herself "Oh, right. Moony?" she said turning back to normal

Applebloom and Sweetie stepped out "That's much better." Applebloom said

"So, what were you guys doing in the everfree?" Amber asked

"Well, we were playing around at the playground when we saw you run away and our sisters and their friends chasing you. we thought you were in some major trouble so we followed." Sweetie explained

Scootaloo nodded "When we saw you run into the everfree, we snuck by them and went in to find you." she said

"But we ended up getting lost. that's when a group of timberwolves found us making us run away and eventually get cornered." Applebloom said

Sweetie giggled "I guess in the end, you ended up finding and helping us." she said

Scootaloo laughed as well "And man did you show that timberwolf. you jumped in and saved us like a hero from the comic books." she said

Amber rubbed the back of her head "Heh, it was nothing."

"What are you talking about? it was awesome. the way you bucked that timberwolf back. I wish I could do that, then I would like to see anypony or monster mess with me." Scootaloo said bucking the air making everypony laugh

"Applebloom!" Applejack yelled from outside

"That's my sister." Applebloom said running outside followed by Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo "Applejack!" she yelled running into her sisters' hooves

"Oh, thank Celestia you're alright." Applejack said

"Oh, Sweetie Belle. I don't know what I would do if you were hurt." Rarity said hugging Sweetie

"Squirt! you weren't too scared, right?" Rainbow said

"Nope, I wasn't scared at all." Scootaloo said

"That's a lie, you screamed at the same time as us when you saw the timberwolves." Sweetie Belle said

"Shut up!" Scootaloo said making everypony laugh and chuckle

Amber watched from behind the doors of the castle with a smile "I think I should go out to." she said

"You do that then they'll immediately try to capture you." Nightmare said

"No, they said they only wanted to talk. if I can explain to them why you're not bad anymore then maybe we can come to an understanding." Amber said

"You're making a mistake."

"We'll see." Amber said then she stepped out from behind the doors making everypony immediately stop laughing and stare at her "Hello everypony." she said nervously

"Amber Night." Applejack said then she let go of Applebloom and trotted to her and stared at her

"U-um. I-." before Amber could speak she was pulled into a hug by Applejack

"Thank you for saving my sister." Applejack said

"Um, you're welcome." Amber said then she was joined by Rarity while Rainbow simply gave her a pat on the back

"You did good kid." Rainbow said

"Well, I didn't do it alone. Moony also helped me." Amber said

Applejack and Rarity moved back "Nightmare Moon helped you save our sisters?" Applejack asked and Amber nodded

Rarity cleared her throat "Excuse us if we're a little skeptical that Nightmare Moon helped you." she said

"Well, it's true. she helped me defeat the timberwolves and save them." Amber said

Rainbow, Applejack, and Rarity all looked at each other "Sorry, but we just can't believe somepony as evil as Nightmare Moon would help anypony rescue our sister's." Applejack said

"That is because it isn't true." A voice behind them said then Amber was suddenly blasted with magic and put into a bubble as Princess Luna stepped from behind them "Nightmare Moon would never help another pony. especially when helping that pony doesn't benefit her at all." Luna said

"Princess Luna?! what are you doing here?!" Amber said

"I have come to capture Nightmare Moon, and get rid of her once and for all." Luna said

"Wait!" Applebllom yelled running forward only to be stopped by applejack while the same happened to the others "Nightmare Moon isn't bad. she really did help Amber save us." she said

"Yeah, it's because of both of them that we're alright." Sweetie Belle said

"Princess Luna, you're making a mistake." Scootaloo said

Luna scoffed "I am making no mistake. Nightmare Moon is an evil being that almost brought an end to all of Equestria and killed Celestia, no doubt that that's still her goal. which is why she will be transported to Canterlot where she will be removed from Amber and destroyed to prevent any further destruction." she said

"No!" All three of them shouted while trying to get past their sisters

"Stay back you three. this has to happen to protect Equestria." Applejack said

"But it's wrong! Nightmare Moon saved us!" Applebloom said

"I am sure she did." Twilight said trotting from behind "But she must still answer for her crimes against the princess and all of Equestria. I'm sorry, but this must happen." she said as the three of them had tears in their eyes then Twilight looked at her friends "You can go ahead and take them home. Princess Luna and I can take care of Nightmare Moon."

All of them nodded and each took their own sisters, and surrogate sister, home. while everypony else left as well. Amber banged her hooves on the bubble trying to break it while a black mist tried to escape it as well

"Do not bother. this spell was made to contain even powerful beings like yourself. it would take a lot more than that to break it." Luna said

"Princess Luna, please. you're making a mistake." Amber said

"No, I'm not. I am doing Equestria a huge favor by getting rid of Nightmare Moon." Luna said

"but, Nightmare Moon isn't the same as before. she's changed. she's become better. just give her a chance and you'll see the good she's done." Amber said

"Silence! I will not be swayed by Nightmare Moon's empty words! no matter what you say, you are going to be destroyed. once and for all so that nopony may ever suffer like I have when I allowed you to enter my mind." Luna said facing away from Amber then she fired off a spell that glowed brightly in the sky making the carriage she arrived in ponyville on land in front of them. once she opened the door she levitated Amber into the carriage while Twilight and herself sat beside it "Take us back to Canterlot." she told the guards who nodded and begun flying

"Well, it would seem this is the end for me." Nightmare said

"Not yet, we can still convince Princess Celestia." Amber whispered

"Excuse me if I doubt that the very same Princess I tried to destroy will believe either of us." Nightmare said

"I believe we can convince her. we at least have to try, or it really will be the end." Amber whispered but her whispering didn't go unnoticed by Twilight.

Regret and Truth

After a long ride, they arrived at canterlot and landed in front of the castle where many guards stood by as Luna and Twilight left the carriage with Amber in a magic bubble. Luna then had a few guards follow them as they took Amber into the castle

"Princess Luna, please. listen to me and Moony, you need to understand." Amber pleaded

"Do not make me repeat myself. I will not be swayed by Nightmare Moon's words. you are simply wasting your breath." Luna said as she levitated her through the halls of the canterlot palace

Twilight had been looking nervous for quite some time but went unnoticed by Luna until she finally spoke up "Princess Luna, I believe we should at least hear them out to get the full story." she said

Luna stopped completely making everypony else stop as well "Twilight, you must understand that I respect you as an equal, but this matter is beyond your comprehension. Nightmare moon is not a being that can be bargained with, nor redeemed. she is nothing like discord, nor your own pupil Starlight. she is pure evil incarnate and will be destroyed for the betterment of Equestria. do not let her words tempt you, Twilight. she is merely using the filly as a front to fake her own innocence, but I can see clearly through the facade. no matter what she says, she will be destroyed and you must not let her words get to you again, understood?" she said and Twilight nodded slowly

"Good, now let us continue."

Amber turned to Twilight "Thanks for trying, Twilight." she said though Twilight didn't respond

"Amber..."

"Don't worry, Moony. I'll get us out of this and prove to them that you're not bad anymore." Amber said

Nightmare sighed "No, Amber." she said then she took control of Amber's body

"Luna!" Nightmare shouted making Luna look back at her

"what is it now?" Luna asked

"I surrender. I'll release the filly from my hold as well." Nightmare said

"This had better not be one of your lies," Luna said

"It isn't," Nightmare said then a cloud of mist left Amber's head

"Hm, interesting." Luna said then she manipulated the bubble to allow Amber to leave but Nightmare to remain inside "Do not think this will allow you to escape your punishment. telling one truth does not excuse all the lies."

Amber looked around then up at Nightmare "Moony? what are you doing?" she asked

"I am accepting what happens to me."

"You're giving up? you can't give up. we can still convince them you're not bad." Amber said

"No. there is nothing more we can do. my fate has been decided." Nightmare said

"Not yet. I made a vow on our friendship tha-."

"We're not friends!" Nightmare shouted cutting Amber off

"M-Moony? what are you talking about?" Amber asked

"You heard me! I have explained this plenty of times. you were a means to an end, that was it. we were never friends. I merely used you to further my own goals. you were nothing more than an object I used to just throw away in the end, you stupid filly." Nightmare said

"Y-you don't mean that!" Amber shouted

"I do, now leave my sight. you and your friendship disgust me." Nightmare said turning away from her and what she said left such an impact that Amber began crying

Luna moved Nightmare away from Amber as she trotted over to her and put a hoof on her shoulder "Now you see Nightmre's true face. she doesn't do friendship, and only uses others for her own gain. she truly is an evil being." she said as Amber sat there and cried

Luna turned to the guards "Escort Amber back to ponyville." she said then she turned and continued trotting to the throne room

Amber turned and followed the guards as they escorted her back the way they came. she kept her eyes to the ground the entire time as she thought back to her time with Nightmare moon. she thought back to when they first met, and how scared of her she was at first but later came to have an understanding of her. she remembered how Nightmare helped get rid of her nightmares, and the copy of the night sky they enjoyed together. she remembered how Nightmare helped, in a way, convince some fillies that what rumors were false. she remembered all the things Nightmare taught her about when she wanted to learn magic. she remembered the vow she made to Nightmare that night and the talk they had before she saved her from Luna.

Amber stopped in her tracks 'Wait a minute.' she thought as she thought back to all the things Nightmare has said to her

"I merely used you to further my own goals."

"We're not friends!"

"you were nothing more than an object I used to just throw away in the end."

"you and your friendship disgust me."

"if I am to leave this world for good, then I would leave without a single regret left on my mind."

Amber's eyes went wide as she turned around "No! Moony!" she yelled as she opened her wings and flew towards the throne room

"Hey wait!" The guard shouted as they chased after her.

Luna had reached the throne room and brought Nightmare with her as Celestia trotted to both of them "Nightmare moon. I had hoped to never see you again." Celestia said

"I can say the same for you, Celestia. and yet, here we are." Nightmare said

Twilight trotted to Celestia "Princess Celestia, now that we have Nightmare Moon. how will we destroy her without the elements?" she asked

"I am sure my and Celestia's power will be enough to destroy, Nightmare Moon. we won't need the elements this time." Luna said as she trotted to the middle of the throne room and set Nightmare between Celestia and herself.

Celestia and Luna charged their horns "Before you are gone, Nightmare Moon. do you have any last words?" Celestia asked

"I have many things to say to you, Celestia. but I will take my death in silence." Nightmare said

"Very well."

Celestia and Luna continued charging their horns while Twilight stayed off to the side and watched, and as they charged their horns Nightmare only had one thought left in her mind.

'Forgive me, Amber.'

Luna let down the bubble that was holding Nightmare, but just as they shot their magic, Amber burst through the doors and flew right to Nightmare's floating mist surprising every pony in the room. When Amber grabbed Nightmare, Twilight quickly put a shield around them to protect them from Celestia's and Luna's magic as they crashed into the floor away from them. then the guards started running in and surrounded Amber and Nightmare as they pointed their swords at them.

"That was too close. how did that filly get back here?" Celestia said

"that doesn't matter. what does is getting Nightmare back to destroy her." Luna said trotting to Amber and Nightmare Mon who were still inside of Twilight's shield "Twilight, lower the shield."

Twilight hesitated but shook her head "No, not yet."

"What? what do you mean not yet? we must destroy Nightmare before it is too late." Luna said

"Princess Luna, please just wait a moment. that filly just willingly risked her own life to protect Nightmare Moon. I think we should see what happens." Twilight said

Before Luna could argue Celestia trotted over "Luna, I think we should listen to, Twilight. she hasn't been wrong about these things yet." she said

Luna looked at Celestia then to Twilight "Fine, but if it looks like something will go wrong, I will not hesitate." she said

Nightmare opened her eyes and looked at Amber "Amber! Are you crazy?! you could have been hurt!" she said

"I don't care, just as long as I made it in time to stop you," Amber said

"Why would you want to stop me? I have already said you were nothing more than a means to an end. you were a tool, Amber. what don't you understand about that?" Nightmare said

"I know you don't mean any of that!" Amber said

"But I d-."

"STOP LYING!" Amber shouted cutting her off "I didn't realize it until now, but I know why you're saying all of that. it's because you don't want to leave regretting our friendship. well, I'm not gonna let you leave thinking our friendship was a mistake. our friendship was the greatest thing that has ever happened to me. you helped me so much these past few days."

Nightmare turned away "Hmph, now I know you're the one lying. nopony would ever willingly be friends with me, let alone want me around." she said

"It's the truth! you know that! after everything we've been through, can you really say I'm lying?" Amber asked but Nightmare remained silent "Moony, look into my eyes and tell me I'm lying."

Nightmare looked back at Amber and tried to say it, but the more she looked in her eyes, the more she realized just how much Amber believed her own words.

"Why? why do you want to be my friend so much?" Nightmare asked

"It's as I said before. you were the first pony to not turn me away and leave me alone. even when your power was charged enough for you to leave, you stayed with me and helped me. you may not want to admit it, but I can tell you want to be friends with me to." Amber said

"I..."

"Moony, what's stopping you?" Amber asked

"I...I'm not sure. I've never had another pony want to be friends with me, nor risk their own lives to protect me. I don't know how to react, nor what to say." Nightmare said

Amber smiled and hugged Nightmare close "Just follow your heart, Moony."

Nightmare stayed completely still then a small smile crossed her lips "Amber Night, will you become my friend?"

Amber giggled "we were already friends, Moony." she said then Nightmare began entering her mind and as she did Amber began transforming as a black ball swirled around her

Luna gasped "Stop her!" she shouted as she charged her horn

"Princess Luna, wait!" Twilight said but was too late to stop her as Luna shot the shield with her magic causing it to break and releasing Amber and Nightmare Moon

The guards and the Princess both backed away as the swirling ball grew bigger. as the ball grew bigger they heard maniacal laughter and big black wings extended from the ball. when the ball had disappeared, Amber had become completely different. Amber was now the size of Princess Luna, her wings were just as long as well. she had sharp fangs and her eyes were slit and the same color as when she last transformed. Amber's mane was also flowing and had multiple Amber stripes going through it and her tail.

Twilight hesitantly took a step forward "Amber? is that you?" she asked

she opened her eyes "Amber is no longer here. now, I am Nightmare Amber!" Nightmare said as she laughed loudly

Luna ran in front of Twilight "You fiend! praying on a filly's weakness just to take over her body! I knew you could not be trusted!" she said

Celestia also stepped forward "Nightmare Moon, I will only give you this one chance. release the filly." she said

"Alright, Moony. you had your fun. it's best not to let them think you actually took over." Amber said

Nightmare smirked "Very well."

Nightmare released control and allowed Amber back her body while using her magic to make Amber appear her normal self. this also surprised every pony in the room since they did not expect Nightmare to simply follow their order.

Twilight took a step forward again "Amber? is it really you this time?" she asked

Amber nodded "Yeah, it's me this time." she said

"And, where is Nightmare Moon?" Celestia asked

Amber put a hoof to her chest "She's still here. she finally accepted my friendship to." she said

"Impossible. Nightmare Moon would never-."

"She did!" Amber shouted cutting off Luna "I tried to explain this to you so many times. Moony isn't the same being as she was before! she's changed!" she said

Before Luna could argue again Twilight totted next to Amber "I think we should believe, Amber." she said

"Why is that, Twilight?" Celestia asked

"Amber had been working so hard to keep us from discovering Nightmare Moon. she stopped Luna from finding out about her when Luna first found her dream, she even hid her away from me. not only that, but she just risked her own life to protect her, and she did all of those things of her own free will. if Amber is willing to go to such lengths to protect Nightmare, then she must truly see her as a friend." Twilight explained

Twilight then turned to Amber "And seeing how Nightmare had willingly given Amber her mind and body back. I believe Nightmare sees Amber as a friend as well."

Celestia nodded then turned to Amber "Little filly. would you allow us to speak to, Nightmare Moon?" she asked

"Okay. Moony?" Amber said then a black ball swirled around and transformed her back

"Nightmare Moon. do you truly consider yourself a friend to, Amber?" Celestia said

"I do. I trust Amber." Nightmare said

Celestia nodded then looked at Twilight "Twilight. I believe you should be the one to decide as the Princess of friendship." she said

"Oh, okay." Twilight said then she cleared her throat "Nightmare Moon, as the Princess of friendship. I, Twilight Sparkle, will allow you and Amber Night to continue your friendship, but you will have to attend friendship meetings with me every week to discuss how your friendship has progressed. understood?"

Nightmare groaned "Must I?" she asked and Twilight nodded so she sighed "Very well."

Twilight nearly jumped for joy "Oh, I can't wait to see how your friendship progresses. reforming Discord is one thing, but Nightmare Moon is something else entirely." she said to nopony particular

"I don't trust this." Luna said making everypony turn to her "Nightmare Moon is, and always will be, a dangerous being. I will never trust, nor forgive her." she said then she left the throne room slamming the doors behind her

Celestia shook her head "I will talk to her later. I'll try to convince her that what's happening is a great opportunity to learn how friendships can extend beyond just normal ponies. for now, I believe both of you should return to ponyville, and I recommend keeping this a secret. the less who know about Nightmare the better." she said and Nightmare nodded as she transformed back to Amber

Amber and Twilight returned to ponyville via the carriage they arrived in. once they were back, Amber was escorted back home by Twilight, and once there they saw the Cmc standing in front of her door. once the CMC saw her they ran straight towards Amber.

"Amber!" all of them shouted as they ran towards her

"Hey, guys!" Amber said

"Are you okay?" Sweetie asked

"I'm fine," Amber said

"And what about, Nightmare Moon? is she gone?" Applebloom asked

Amber shook her head "Nope, she's still here. we were able to convince Princess Celestia." she said

"And she let you keep her?" Scootaloo said and Amber nodded

"Why am I being spoken of like I'm a pet?"

Amber giggled "Sorry, Moony." she said

The CMC looked confused until they put it together "Oh, you're talking to, Nightmare Moon." Applebloom said

Amber nodded "You can just call her Moony. Nightmare Moon is a mouthful." she said

"Okay, sure," Sweetie said

"Amber, I allow you to call me Moony because of what we have. but please don't tell others to call me that as well, it's embarrassing." Nightmare said

Amber rubbed the back of her head "Sorry, but it's fine if it's just them, right?"

Nightmare sighed "Very well. if it's just these three then I can live with it."

Scootaloo gasped "Oh yeah, you still have to come to the treehouse for what we have planned." she said

"Yeah, now that everything is fine. this is a perfect time." Sweetie said

Before Amber could speak up, Twilight stepped forward "Sorry, girls. but Amber and I need to explain the situation to her parents. you'll have to hold off on that plan until tomorrow." she said

"Aw." all of them said

"Don't worry. I'll make sure to come to the treehouse first thing in the morning. if my parent will let me." Amber said

"Alright, we'll be waiting then. come on girls, we got crusading to do." Applebloom said then they ran off while Amber and Twilight went into her home.

As soon as they entered Amber's home, Lucy and Onyx came from down from upstairs and ran to hug Amber.

"Oh, Amber. I am so glad you're alright!" Lucy said as she tightly hugged Amber

"When your mother told me everything that happened. I thought we were gonna lose you to that monster." Onyx said

Lucy looked behind Amber and saw Twilight "Oh, Twilight. I didn't notice you were here." she said then she trotted to her and took her hoof in her own "Thank you for saving our daughter. we are very grateful."

"Um, actually. we didn't exactly save your daughter. you see, Amber wasn't in any real danger to begin with." Twilight said

Onyx let go of Amber "What do you mean?" he asked

Twilight cleared her throat "You see after we took a second to listen to Amber and Nightmare Moon. I have determined that Nightmare Moon can be redeemed if Amber keeps pointing her in the right direction." she said

Lucy and Onyx remained silent for a few minutes "Wait, are you telling me that Nightmare Moon is still inside of our daughter?!" Lucy asked and Twilight nervously nodded

"And you think our daughter can redeem her?" Onyx asked and Twilight nodded again

Lucy shook her head "Forgive me, princess. but are you crazy?!" she shouted

"I understand why you're upset, but Amber has proven to both princess Celestia and me that Nightmare Moon has changed. I believe if Amber can continue to point Nightmare in the right direction then she'll be able to do some good for Equestria." Twilight said

"No, I can't believe that. how do you know that Nightmare won't just take Amber away from us?" Lucy said

"I...don't."

"I'm sorry, but we can't just take your word for this, Twilight. we need to be sure Amber is safe with Nightmare Moon." Onyx said

"Amber, allow me to speak to them." Nightmare said

Amber nodded then stepped forward "Mom, dad if you can't take Twilight's word. then maybe you can take Nightmare's." she said

"Amber, what-." Lucy wasn't able to finish her sentence as Amber transformed into Nightmare and Lucy almost fainted from the shock

"Greetings, Amber's parents. I am sure I don't need an introduction." Nightmare said

"W-what have you done to Amber?!" Lucy asked

"There is no need to worry. Amber allowed me control so that I can speak with you." Nightmare said

"How are we supposed to believe you?" Onyx asked

"When I am done speaking, I will allow Amber control again. Twilight will ensure I do." Nightmare said

Lucy looked at Twilight and saw her nod so she sighed "Okay, I'll listen to you." she said

"Thank you...I'm afraid I never got either of your names." Nightmare said

"My name is Lucy Light, and that's Onyx." Lucy said

Nightmare nodded then sat down where she was "Your daughter, Amber, is a special filly. she knew who I was and what I had done, but despite all of that she chose to want to become friends with me even though I have tried to push her away. I had never met a filly quite as determined as her. she would even risk her own life just to save mine. and for that, I must say that I would gladly do the same."

"...Are you saying that you would do anything to protect Amber? do you really mean that?" Lucy asked

Nightmare nodded "I do. you do not need to worry about me harming Amber. for I would never do such a thing, you have my word." she said

Lucy and Onyx looked at each other then Lucy looked back at Nightmare "Can you let us speak to Amber?" she asked

Nightmare nodded then transformed back to Amber "Mom? Dad?"

Onyx took a deep breath "Amber, let me just say that this is the craziest thing to ever happen to any of us. never in my life would I expect you to become friends with Nightmare Moon. I mean, it's just insane." he said

Lucy loudly cleared her throat making Onyx nod as he stepped back "That being said. I'm still not sure about Nightmare Moon being inside of your mind." she said and Amber nervously looked down "Though if she has given us her word that she won't harm you then that's probably the best we'll get."

"Wait, does this mean...?" Amber said as she looked between them

"Nightmare Moon can stay as long as Twilight keeps her in check, just in case." Onyx said

Amber jumped for joy "Yes! thank you! thank you! thank you! Moony and I will have so many cool adventures together! and I'm sure that given enough time, you'll come to trust her to." she said

"Alright, settle down. I'm sure you and "Moony" will have a lot of cool adventures. but I'm sure you're both exhausted from such an eventful day. why don't you wash up and I'll get dinner started?" Lucy said

"Okay!" Amber said then she flew upstairs

Lucy and Onyx turned back to Twilight "Twilight, please make sure Amber stays safe." Lucy said

Twilight nodded "I give you my word that I'll keep Amber safe should anything happen." she said

"Thank you. now, I'm sure you'll be heading home as well?" Lucy said and Twilight nodded

Onyx shook Twilight's hoof "Feel free to visit anytime. our door is always open to you." he said

"Um, alright." Twilight said then she left their home

Onyx turned back to Lucy "Are you sure we're making the right call?" he asked

"We'll just have to wait and see...but something tells me that we won't have to worry about Nightmare Moon harming Amber." Lucy said

"Oh? is this that motherly instinct kicking in?" Onyx asked

Lucy shrugged "Maybe." she said then she headed to the kitchen

Back at canterlot, Celestia had finished her royal duties and was currently trotting to Luna's room. once she arrived she was about to knock on the door until she saw one of her royal guards pass the corner and had her way and as soon as he saw her he seemed to stiffen up for a second.

"Princess Celestia. I was not expecting to see you over here." The guard said

"I had come to speak to my sister. is there something wrong?" Celestia asked

"No, nothing at all. you just surprised me is all. I will continue my patrol if you don't mind, princess." The guard said as he trots away

Celestia watched him as he passed the corner and disappeared then she knocked on Luna's door and entered after only a few minutes.

"Lulu, are you alright?" Celestia asked

Luna was standing on her balcony gazing up at the night sky as she rose the moon "Celestia." she simply said

"Luna. is everything alright?" Celestia asked again

Luna took a deep breath "Why did you allow Nightmare Moon to leave with that filly?" she asked

"You and I both saw how Amber risked her life to save Nightmare, and we heard their conversation. after seeing and hearing all of that, do you truly believe that she isn't capable of change?" Celestia asked

"I am unsure. we saw and heard a lot of things, but after being stuck with that monster for so long. I am not sure if I can see her capable of change." Luna said

"We knew Discord for a long time, but he was able to change. we heard all about what Starlight Glimmer had done, and she had changed as well. how is Nightmare Moon any different?" Celestia asked

"You weren't with her on the moon for those thousands of years. for all of that time, she kept berating me with reasons to hate you, why I should hate you, and what we should do to you when we returned. it was driving me insane to the point that I nearly let myself go for good just to bring harm to you." Luna said

Celestia hugged Luna "But you didn't."

"Yes. I was able to just barely hang on, just long enough for the elements to purify me. so you see why I can't see Nightmare changing. she is the one who changes others, she never changes herself." Luna said

"I believe this is a perfect chance to see how the magic of friendship can extend beyond ponies. Amber and Nightmare will show everypony that any creature can become friends if they just try, and I believe you can become friends with her as well. once you see that Nightmare has indeed changed then maybe you and her can make amends, and you will forgive her." Celestia said

Luna sighed "Tia, I want you to understand that I will always trust your judgment. but I will never trust Nightmare Moon again." she said

"Maybe you will, maybe you won't. we will just have to wait and see." Celestia said as she released Luna then left the room

unbeknownst to Celestia, two guards were watching and listening from around the corner "It would seem that what the others have said is true. Nightmare Moon has returned." the first guard said

"This is something we cannot allow. a monster like her roaming around freely in ponyville. this must be stopped." The second guard said

"And we shall be the ones to stop it, for the good of ponykind and Equestria." The first guard said then they left the corner.

Fixing mistakes

Later that day, it was another uneventful dinner besides Amber's parents asking Nightmare Moon non-stop questions about herself. After dinner, Amber went straight to bed after such an eventful day. once she drifted off to sleep she dreamt of the meadow that Nightmare had created again, and while she stared up at the night sky Nightmare entered the dream.

Amber looked at Nightmare "Moony? what are you doing here?" she asked

Nightmare smirked "Am I not allowed to visit your dreams anymore?" she said

"T-that's not what I meant-."

"I jest, Amber. I came to speak to a certain princess." Nightmare said as she looked off into the woods. Amber looked in the same direction as Princess Luna stepped out of the shadow.

"Princess Luna?! what is going on here? why are you here to?" Amber said

Nightmare stepped in front of Amber "It seems Luna still doesn't trust me and planned to spy on your dream." she said

"What?" Amber said then she looked back at Luna "Princess Luna, I already explained why Moony isn't evil anymore so you don't have to spy on my dreams. I'm perfectly safe with her."

"I did not come here to simply spy, Amber. I also came to talk to...her." Luna said pointing at Nightmare

Nightmare raised a brow "Me? you actually want to talk to me? are we sure you're not the one who's possessed?" she said while Luna glared at her so she sighed and turned to Amber "Amber, I'll be right back."

Amber looked at Luna then at Nightmare "Are you sure?"

"Don't worry, I'll be fine. you just enjoy the night." Nightmare said then she began to walk to Luna

Once Nightmare reached her, Luna's horn began glowing as she cast a spell and put themselves inside of a dome.

"I do not want Amber to hear our conversation. and you will not tell her of what we have spoken of." Luna said

"Very well, I'll keep it a secret. now, what is it you want to talk about?" Nightmare asked

"...Do you truly trust Amber as much as you say?" Luna asked

Nightmare was confused "You brought me here to ask that?"

"Answer the question."

"...I do. I trust Amber with every fiber of my body." Nightmare said

"Does that mean you would do anything to protect her?" Luna asked

"Where is this going?"

"I just need to confirm something." Luna said

"Confirm what?" Nightmare asked

"Answer the question and we shall see." Luna said

Nightmare stared at her for a moment "I would. just as she risked her own life, I to would risk my own." she said

Luna took a quick glance at Amber then looked back at Nightmare "Tell me, what would you do if Amber was ever hurt?" she asked

"That will never happen." Nightmare said sternly

"This is nothing but a 'what if' situation. you do not need to take it seriously, but you do need to answer the question with the truth." Luna said but Nightmare remained silent "I see, even you do not know."

"Why does that sound like you don't know either?" Nightmare asked but it was Luna's turn to remain silent "Luna? what aren't you telling me?"

"...As everypony knows magic, if left unchecked, is very dangerous. all unicorns must be aware of how dangerous magic truly is so as to not lose control and harm somepony or creature. but dark magic is even more dangerous. if dark magic was left unchecked, it could bring about an end to Equestria. it has the power to corrupt and completely change the pony or creature who uses it. Sombra is an example of dark magic corrupting and changing you for the worse." Luna explained

"Luna?"

"Nightmare Moon, you are not simply a being corrupted by dark magic, you are dark magic. if you were to ever lose control of the magic within you then no pony would know what kind of damage you would cause, or who you would hurt." Luna said

"I will never lose control of my magic." Nightmare said

"You don't know that!" Luna shouted but quickly calmed herself by taking deep breaths "You are too confident in your own abilities sometimes, but I will give you this. if you truly value what you have with Amber then I suggest you always keep your magic in check, before you do something you'll forever regret."

Nightmare looked back at Amber then at Luna "Very well, I will ensure my magic is always kept in check so Amber, and other ponies, will not be harmed. you have my word." she said

"Let us hope you keep to that word." Luna said then she stepped through an invisible portal and left the dream dropping the dome as well

Nightmare returned to Amber's side while Amber looked up at her "What did you and princess Luna talk about?" Amber asked

"Nothing you should concern yourself with. how have you been enjoying the night?" Nightmare asked

"It's as awesome as always. but I wonder, can you change the color of the stars to?" Amber asked

"I can. what color would you like?" Nightmare said as her horn glowed

"I don't know. there's so many to choose from." Amber said as she continued to think when she suddenly gasped "I know! how about a rainbow of colors all across the sky?!" she said

"Very well." Nightmare said then she blasted a beam to the sky changing the color of each and every star to its own color of the rainbow and even a few mixed colors

Amber looked up at the sky in astonishment "Wow, I never thought I would see such a beautiful night sky in my life."

"Hm, how about we make it even more special." Nightmare said lighting up her horn and blasting the sky again. when the beam disappeared all of the stars kept changing color at a slow pace

"It's...it's...I have no words." Amber said

Nightmare laid down beside Amber and dropped her wing over her "No words needed. your eyes are speaking for you." she said

Amber got comfortable under Nightmare's wing "hey, Moony?"

"Hm?"

"If the night always looked like this, then I wouldn't mind if it lasted forever." Amber said

"Amber!"

Amber giggled "I'm joking. of course the day should also come just as night does." she said

Nightmare shook her head "You shouldn't joke like that. I'm not looking to give up what we have now today, or ever." she said

"I know."

Nightmare and Amber both looked up at the night sky and enjoyed it in silence, but Nightmare couldn't help but think back to what Luna said about dark magic corrupting beings.

Nightmare looked at Amber "Amber?"

"Yes, Moony?"

Nightmare nuzzled Amber's head "Know that I will never hurt you, and will always protect you."

Amber looked at Nightmare confused "Where did that come from?" she asked

Nightmare pulled back "I simply wanted to let you know."

"Okay...?" Amber said then she looked back up a the sky

Amber and Nghtmae enjoyed the night in silence for the rest of the night. what felt like only a few minutes was actually hours as the sun on the outside was rising over the horizon. Amber's mom, Lucy, walked into Amber's room and began shaking her

"Amber! it's time to wake up!" Lucy said

Back in the dream world, the dream was beginning to collapse.

"Oh, looks like the sun is up." Amber said

"Time to get the day started." Nightmare said then she stood up and left the dream

Amber slowly opened her eyes then she sat up while rubbing her eye "What a dream." she said

"What was that, Amber?" Lucy asked

"It was nothing. is breakfast ready?" Amber asked getting out of her bed

"I was just about to finish it until I noticed a certain filly had yet to wake up." Lucy said

"Oh. oops." Amber said

"It's alright. just come on down when you're ready." Lucy said as she left the room

After Amber made sure her mane was presentable she headed downstairs where she saw a plate of food for her on the table, but her dad wasn't.

Amber sat down at the table "Hey, mom? where did dad go?" she asked

"He went to work a little earlier than usual. they told him they needed him and others to get there early to get the storm clouds ready for rainy days." Lucy said from the kitchen

"Oh." Amber said then she began eating

"Your father truly is a hard worker." Nightmare said

"Yeah, he's probably the hardest working pony to exist." Amber said

"Did you say something, Amber?" Lucy asked

"Sorry, I was just talking to Moony." Amber said so Lucy just nodded and went back to cooking

"Tell me, did you used to feel lonely when your father wasn't home?" Nightmare asked

"...Sometimes, but that was a long time ago. now I don't feel as lonely since I have you." Amber said

"Hm, you always have a way with words."

"Thanks." Amber said then she continued eating until her mom came out of the kitchen with her own plate and sat at the table.

Amber looked up at Lucy "Hey, mom?"

"Yes?"

"Yesterday, my friends wanted me to join them on a special adventure they had planned, and I was wondering if I could go." Amber said leaving Lucy to think for a moment "I promise we'll be careful, and we won't go anywhere near the everfree. please?"

Lucy looked at Amber's pleading eyes and sighed "Fine, I guess after you've been through we can lift your grounding. you're allowed to go and have fun with your friends, but you are to come straight home when it's time. understood?" she said

"Okay, thanks mom!" Amber said jumping out of her seat and running straight for the door but was stopped by Lucy

"Ahem! aren't you forgetting something, Amber?" Lucy said causing Amber to look back and see her pointing at her plate

"Oh, right." Amber said trotting over and putting her plate in the sink then she ran straight for the door and left her home.

Amber ran through ponyville avoiding ponies and carts until she reached sweet apple acres where she saw Applejack and Big Mac carting some apples.

"Hey, Applejack!" Amber shouted

Applejack turned to her "Howdy, Amber. how're you doing?" she asked

"Just fine." Amber responded

"And, Nightmare Moon?"

"She's still here. princess Celestia let her stay with me." Amber said

"Is that so? and yer sure she's a changed mare like you said before?" Applejack asked

"Yeah! I'm telling you, you can trust her." Amber said

Applejack still looked unsure but nodded nonetheless "Alright, I'll take yer word for it. so, what brings ya to sweet apple acres?" she asked

"I was wondering if Applebloom was here. she said she and her friends had something planned for me." Amber said

"Oh, you just missed her. she ran off fussin' about getting somethin' ready with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. you might find them at their clubhouse." Applejack said

"Thanks, Applejack!" Amber said as she ran off

Amber ran into the small forest until she came upon the clubhouse. she climbed the stairs and reached the door, but before she knocked she heard movement and whispering so she put her ear to the door to try to figure out what was happening.

"Are you sure it was her?" Scootaloo whispered

"Of course it was her. I saw her clear as day." Sweetie whispered

"Who are you talking about?" Another voice said though Amber didn't recognize it

"Shh! keep yer voice down. just wait there and keep yer blindfold on." Applebloom whispered

"It sounds like quite the party in there." Nightmare said

"Hush, Moony. I'm trying to listen." Amber said when suddenly the door was opened and she was pulled through but before anything else happened, she had a blindfold placed over her eyes "Hey! what are you guys doing?!"

"Amber!"

Amber began to feel her body change then the Cmc began shouting

"Wait, Nightmare Moon! it's not what you think!" Sweetie shouted

"Just calm down! Amber is perfectly fine!" Scootaloo said

"Nightmare Moon? what ith going on?" The other pony said

Amber felt her body change again then she looked left and right but it didn't do any good since she still had a blindfold on

"Okay, guys. what are you doing?" Amber asked

"...Amber? ith that you?" The other pony said

"Do...I know you? your voice does sound familiar." Amber said

"Amber, it'th me. P-Mm." Before she could say her name she was abruptly cut off

"Sorry, but we want it to be a surprise. though, I guess the surprise will mostly be for Amber now." Sweetie said

"I still have no idea what's happening." Amber said

"Okay, when ah count to three ya'll take the blindfold off at the same time." Applebloom said "One, two, three!"

Amber removed her blindfold and when she looked ahead, she gasped. Amber was looking directly at her old friend, Peppermint Twist who couldn't look at Amber and looked at the floor.

"T-Twist?!" Amber shouted

"Hey, Amber." Twist said still not looking at her

Amber looked at the Cmc "What is going on?!" she asked

"We decided to help you with your other friend. every pony at school knows how good friends you are with Twist, and after Diamond Tiara's little rumor we noticed that you stopped hanging out with her, so we thought we give you two a little help." Scootaloo explained

"Is this what you had planned for yesterday?" Amber asked

"Yep." Sweetie said

Amber shook her head then turned back to the door "I'm out of here."

Applebloom quickly moved and stop Amber "Wait! I thought ya wanted to make-up with her."

"No, I didn't." Amber said as she stepped past and opened the door

"Amber, wait! pleath, juth hear me out." Twist pleaded

"Why should I?! you made it clear you didn't want to be my friend anymore that day." Amber said

"Amber..."

Applebloom again stopped Amber from leaving "Wait. you can at least hear her out. we brought her here so ya'll can work out yer friendship." she said

"There's no friendship to work out, Applebloom! we're not friends!" Amber nearly shouted at Applebloom

"Amber, just calm down and listen-."

"No! I'm out of here!" Amber said but before she left Nightmare spoke up

"Amber."

"What?!"

"I believe you should hear her out as well." Nightmare said

"Not you to. since when have you cared about my friendship with other ponies?!" Amber said

"Just now! when you started acting like me!" Nightmare shouted at her making Amber gasp "You are pushing everypony away all because of what happened in the past. if you keep this up then all you'll do is say something you'll regret, don't let your hate consume you, Amber."

Amber took a deep breath then she turned around and trotted back in front of Twist where she sat down

"Okay, I'll hear you out." Amber said

"Thank you." Twist said "I know you're thill angry with what I thaid that day, and I'm tho thorry."

"...It's hard to forgive you, after everything you said." Amber said

-Seven days ago-

Amber had just woken up for the day. she ran downstairs to eat breakfast and afterward left for school. before she arrived she went over to her friend, Twist, house so they could walk together to school as they usually did, but when she asked her parents for Twist they said she had already left for school. Amber just shrugged it off at the time and headed for school. Once she had gotten close to school, in the distance she could see Twist so she ran forward to her but after taking a better look she also saw Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon and a few other colts and fillies.

"Twist? what are you doing with them?" Amber asked

Diamond scoffed "Don't act like you don't know, Amber. we both know what you were going to do to poor Twist." she said

"What are you talking about?" Amber said

"taking advantage of her friendship just to steal some of her delicious sweets. as usual, you can' be trusted." Silver said

Amber shook her head "You can't be serious. there's no way I would ever do that." she said

"Oh, really?" Diamond said then she called over two colts, snips, and snails "These two saw you at Twist's home sneaking out with some of her treats. tell her."

Snails and snails were about to talk but got confused "About what again?" Snails asked

Diamond face-hoofed "About what you saw her doing." she said

"Oh, yeah!" Snips said "We saw Amber run-up to us to talk." he said

"Not what she just did. what she was doing at Twist's house." Diamond said but they were still confused so dIamond sighed "With the snacks."

"Oh, now I remember." Snails said "Yeah, we saw Amber sneaking out of Twist's home with a boatload of snacks." he said making every colt and filly gasp

"What?! that's not true. I would never steal from my friend." Amber said

"Don't try to deny it, cause we have proof." Silver said then she reached into her bag and brought out a box of multi-colored candy cane's "Snips and Snails picked this up when you dropped it trying to flee the scene."

Twist picked up the box and looked it over "Wait a minute, theth are the candy cane'th I wath going to share with you today. I wath even keeping it a thecret to thurprithe you. Amber, how could you?" she said as all of the colts and fillies began murmuring

"W-wait. Twist, you have to believe me. I didn't do that. I would never steal from you." Amber pleaded

"And now you're trying to lie when the evidence is right here?" Silver said then she shook as she turned to the colts and fillies "Well, everypony. it seems to me the rumors were all true. Amber Night is nothing but a lier who'll take advantage of your friendship. she can't be trusted." she said making everypony give Amber a hateful glare

"Wait. it's a lie. I didn't do this. Diamond Tiara is lying!" Amber said though no pony even looked at her as they turned away so Amber turned to Twist "Twist, you have to believe me. I'm your friend, until the end. right?"

Twist kept her head down "You were the one thaying how much you were happy to be my friend. wath ith all a lie, Amber?"

Before Amber could speak up, Diamond cut her off "Of course it was, Twist. This is just how Amber works. she never cared about you nor your friendship, all she cared about was how many sweets she could steal from you." she said

"Twi-."

"Amber, go away." Twist said

"Twist, please-."

"Go away, Amber!" Twist shouted

"But, Twist. we're supposed to be friends until the end." Amber said with tears welling up

"Thith ith the end of our friendship. and to prove it." Twist took her box of candy cane's and smashed it on the ground making Amber gasp "You betrayed me tho you don't deserve my treats anymore. you...you lier!" she shouted

Amber recoiled from the shout "F-fine, if that's how it's gonna be. then, I hope I never see you again!" Amber shouted back

"Good! if I thaw you again, it would be too thoon, lier!" Twist shouted

Amber opened her wings and flew off and away from the school not caring what direction she went in, just as long as she was alone.

-Present day-

Amber looked away "So...why are you apologizing now?" she asked

"I heard the truth from Diamond Tiara and Thilver Thoon." Twist said

Amber looked back "When?"

"It wath shortly after you flew off."

-Seven days ago-

Twist watched as Amber flew off then she huffed as she turned away and continued trotting to school. the school day went by as usual, but during school, Twist couldn't help but keep looking at Amber's empty seat and feel that something just wasn't right. after school, Twist saw Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon sneak off with Snips and Snails so she secretly followed until she saw them behind some bushes.

"Okay, we did as you asked. can we have some of those snacks now?" Snips asked

"Yeah, sure. whatever." Diamond Tiara said reaching into another bush and taking out a box of snacks then she gave them to Snips and Snails

"Awesome. this is gonna be so good." Snails said as he took the box and when he opened it he took out a multi-colored candy cane "Twist always makes the best sweets." he said making Twist gasp but she quickly covered her mouth

Silver turned around "Did you hear that?"

"Nope." Snips said eating another candy cane

"Do you remember the rest of the deal?" Diamond said

"Keep our mouths shut and get more treats!" Snail said

"At least you're able to remember that." Diamond said with an eye-roll then she trotted away while Snips and Snails continued eating the cane's

Twist left the bush as quietly as she could and ran to Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon "LIER!" she shouted

Diamond and silver turned around "Hey, Twist. you seem upset." Diamond said

"You lied!" Twist shouted

"What are you talking about? we didn't do anything wrong." Silver said

"You Lied to me about Amber thealing my thuff! you made it up! you made me push Amber away" Twist said

Diamond laughed "Well, it's your fault for believing us." she said

Twist growled "I'll tell everypony you made it up!" she said

"Please, who'll believe you. everypony here at school already believes that Amber is nothing but a scheming filly. I doubt there's anypony left that'll believe anything else, especially after that show you and Amber put on in front of everypony." Diamond said

Twist's eyes shot wide "It wath all part of your plan. you wanted everypony to thee."

"Hm, and you still fell for it. now your friendship with that blank flank is all over and you only have yourself to blame. such a shame, for you." Diamond said then she and Silver Spoon trotted away while laughing leaving Twist sitting alone crying

"Amber, I'm tho thorry." Twsit said

-Present day-

"I should have known not to trutht Diamond Tiara and Thilver Thoon. they uthed me juth to hurt you, I'm tho thorry, Amber." Twist said with tears running down her face

Amber moved to Twist and gave her a hug "It's okay, Twist. I forgive you. this is nopony's but Diamond and Silver's fault."

"But, I thaid tho many mean thing'th to you." Twist said

"I said some mean things to, Twist. and I'm sorry for that. let's just agree to never let something like this get in the way of our friendship again, okay?" Amber said

"Okay."

Amber released Twist and wiped away her tears "By the way, I hope you have more of those candy cane's. I would be lying if I said they didn't look delicious at the time." she said

Twist giggled "No, but we can make them together." she said

"Hey! don't leave us out of that. we want some to." Scootaloo said

"Scootaloo, they were having a moment!" Sweetie said

"But I want some candy." Scootaloo said

Twist giggled "It'th okay, Thweetie. we can all go make thweeth together!" she said

"Yay!" The Cmc cheered as Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo ran out of the clubhouse with Twist

Amber stayed behind with Applebloom "Hey, Applebloom. thanks for talking me into staying."

"Yer very welcome, Amber." Applebllom said then she left the clubhouse to

"Where is my thanks?"

"Oh right. thanks, Moony." Amber said

Hm. are you going to tell that filly about me?" Nightmare asked

Amber thought for a moment then shook her head "No, as princess Celestia said, the less who know about you the better. and I don't think I should go around telling all of my friends about you." she said

"Very well. I suggest you start running now, your friends are leaving you in the dust." Nightmare said

"Oh right! hey guys, wait for me!" Amber shouted then she began running.

After they had arrived at Twist's house, the Cmc tried helping to make sweets but that only ended in disaster with a huge mess in her kitchen which they had to spend most of the day cleaning. after the mess had been settled Twist finished making the cane's which everypony enjoyed. once they were done eating, everypony went home. Amber hugged Twist one last time then set off for her own home. once home, Amber had a normal dinner where she told her parents everything that had happened at Twist's house and deliberately left out what had happened at the clubhouse. after dinner Amber went to her room and jumped on her bed.

"I can't believe I got Twist back. this is the best day of my life!" Amber said

"Hm, you are certainly more cheery than ever before. that is clear." Nightmare said

"I'm just so happy. before today, I thought I would never even see my friend again. I'm so glad I was wrong." Amber said

Nightmare smirked "Well, since you have your old friend back I guess it's time for your new friend to leave." she said

"Wait, what? no, don't go!" Amber said as she sat up then she heard Nightmare laughing "You were just messing with me, weren't you?"

"I apologize, Amber. you are just too easy to fool. Nightmare said

"Well, you really scared me. I thought you were really gonna leave." Amber said

"Of course not. I made a vow and I'm going to stick to it." Nightmare said

Amber smiled "Thnaks, Moony. now, let's go to sleep." she said

"Are we not going to star-gaze tonight?" Nightmare asked

"The real night sky is beautiful, but I want to see the one you made again. we can go star-gazing tomorrow." Amber said

"Very well."

"See you in my dreams, Moony." Amber said as she laid down and closed her eyes

-The next day-

Amber's dream had been peaceful as she watched Nightmare Moon's colorful night sky, and this time Luna didn't visit so it was just a quiet and uneventful night. the next day, Amber had woken up earlier than yesterday so she headed down to eat breakfast which was still being made by Lucy.

"Good morning, mom." Amber said

"Morning, Amber. don't worry, breakfast will be ready soon. after that, you'll be on your way to princess Twilight's castle, right?" Lucy said

"Oh, is today Sunday already?" Amber asked

"Yes, it is." Lucy said as she handed Amber her plate "I suggest you eat quickly so you can get there early." she said

"Okay." Amber said then she began eating as fast as she could. After eating, she put her plate in the sink and left her house to head the Twilight's castle. once she had arrived at the door she knocked on it and it was answered by Starlight

"Oh, hello. I don't think we've met, my name is Starlight Glimmer." Starlight said

"Hi, my name is Amber Night." Amber said

"I know, Twilight told me all about you and..." Starlight looked around making sure no pony was listening "Nightmare Moon."

"Twilight was talking about me?!" Amber said

"Yeah, she just couldn't stop talking about what you did back in canterlot. how you risked your own life to save Nightmare Moon, how you two fused and became Nightmare Amber. I have to admit, it sounded outrageous how a filly would save Nightmare Moon but after hearing how Twilight described your friendship. it doesn't sound so bad anymore." Starlight said

"Hehe, thanks. by the way, is Twilight here?" Amber asked

"Oh, right. you're here for her friendship meeting. she's in the library, it's better if you follow me. it's easy to get lost in here." Starlight said

Amber followed Starlight through the castle and from the many doors and long hallways, she saw how it was easy to get lost in the castle. they eventually arrived at the library where they saw Twilight reading a book as she usually does.

"Twilight, you have a visitor." Starlight said

Twilight looked over and saw Amber "Oh, Amber. you're earlier than I expected." she said

"My mom wanted me to come early so here I am." Amber said

"What a mom. I guess we should get started then." Twilight said putting her book away "Just have a seat and we'll get started." she said so Amber trotted to the nearest chair and sat down

"I'll leave you to it then." Starlight said as she left the room

Twilight levitated a notepad and pencil toward her "Alright, first things first. Nightmare Moon, can you leave Amber's body?" she asked making Amber look at her weird "Don't worry, it's only so you won't have to switch back and fort between each other."

"Oh, okay. hey, Moony? you can leave for a few seconds right?" Amber asked

To be exact, I can survive for a long time without being attached to you. so yes." Nightmare said then she began leaving Amber's mind as a blue mist "Greetings, Twilight Sparkle."

"Hello, Nightmare Moon. I'm surprised you chose to trust me so easily." Twilight said

"Oh, believe me. I don't. I just know that if you try anything, Amber will immediately stop you. I still loathe you and your friends." Nightmare said

"Moony!" Amber said making Nightmare turn to her "Please, Twilight hasn't done anything to disrespect you. you can at least be nice back."

Nightmare rolled her eyes "Fine, I will try to be as respectful as possible." she said

"Right, let's start." Twilight said as she opened her notebook "So, Amber, how has Nightmare been so far?" she asked

"About the same, she's changed in many ways but she's still the same Moony." Amber said

"Okay." Twilight said as she wrote it down then she turned to Nightmare "Nightmare Moon, how has your full-on friendship with Amber been going so far?"

"It has been going swell. I have no discomfort with it so far." Nightmare said

"I see." Twilight said writing it down "Tell me, Amber. do you have any complaints about Nightmare? anything that you're not happy with?" she asked

"No, not really. though I do wish she stopped teasing me with her jokes." Amber said

"As I said before, Amber. you are simply too easy to not tease." Nightmare said with a smirk

"Hmph."

"I see." Twilight said adding that to her notebook "Well, Nightmare. do you have any complaints about Amber?" she asked

"None at all. I am fine being with Amber." Nightmare said

"Alright." Twilight said adding more to the notebook "From the way you answered my questions, I say your friendship is going perfectly. no complaints from either said to." she said

"Wait, that's it. I was expecting it to go on for longer." Amber said

"Well, if either of you had any complaints about one another, then it probably would've gone on for hours." Twilight said "But, both of you have shown that your friendship is going perfectly. keep this up and we won't have to do these meetings anymore."

"Does that mean I can go home early?" Amber asked

"If you want to." Twilight said levitating the book she was reading back in front of her

"Alright, come on, Moony." Amber said so Nightmare re-entered Amber's mind and AMber got up and left the room "Now if I remember correctly, the exit should be this way." she said trotting right

"Actually, the exit is the other way." A voice behind her said

Amber turned around to see Twilights assistant, Spike "Oh, thanks." she said trotting past him and to the exit

"No problem." Spike said then he entered the library.

Amber left the castle and looked around "What do we do now?" she said

"Well, we do have the whole day to whatever, but it is your choice." Nightmare said

"Okay, let's go to sugarcube corner. I could go for some ice cream." Amber said as she began trotting until she was abruptly stopped by a strong-looking stallion who had an orange coat with a red mane and tail with blue streaks going through it

"Excuse me, is your name, Amber Night?" The stallion asked

"Sorry, I'm not supposed to talk to strangers." Amber said

"Oh, well if you could. can you point me in the direction where I may find Amber Night?" The stallion said

"Why do you want to find her?" Amber asked

"It's very urgent. you see, her friend, Peppermint Twist, must have gotten lost in the everfree. her parents asked me to find Amber Night so they can ask her if she knew where she went since she's good friends with her." The stallion said

"What?!" Amber shouted

"What's up with you?" The stallion asked

"Twist is my friend. and you're telling me she's lost in the everfree?!" Amber said

"Uh, yes." The stallion said

"I have to go save her." Amber said spreading her wings ad taking off toward the everfree

"Wait, Amber. something doesn't feel right." Nightmare said

"We don't have time to wait! Twist could be in the everfree hurt or lost right now!" Amber said flying as fast as she could

"That's the thing. why would Twist willingly enter the everfree? I am certain the everypony is aware of the dangers the lurk within." Nightmare said

"Maybe she lost something and went in to go get it? I don't know. that doesn't matter now, what matters is I make sure she's safe." Amber said flying right over the Everfree forest and searched the ground below for any sign of Twist

"Help me!" A filly said

"I heard something. where did it come from?" Amber said looking around

"Over here!" The filly shouted again

"That way." Amber said as she flew down to the ground and looked around "Twist? is that you? where are you?" Amber called out when suddenly ropes were thrown around her neck by two stallions hiding in the shadows

"Hey! what are you doing?! let go!" Amber shouted trying to get the ropes off by pushing them off until another couple of ropes wrapped around her forelegs and kept her from freeing herself

"Amber!" Nightmare shouted then she began taking control transforming Amber into Nightmare Amber then she began using her magic to blast the rope and free herself. then she focused her attention on the stallions who all ran away

"So, this is the famous power of Nightmare Moon." A voice behind Nightmare said so she turned and saw a unicorn mare who had a completely black coat with a yellow mane and tail, she also had a large scar over her right eye where an eye patch was. her cutie mark was of a pony standing on top of a random monster.

"Who dares try to hurt, Amber?! speak! while I allow it." Nightmare said

The mare chuckled "My name is Ebony Aura. and I'm the leader of Equestria's very own monster hunters." she said

"Monster hunters? do you hunt them for mere sport. I'll warn you, I am no simple monster than can be taken down by your means." Nightmare said

"No, we don't hunt monsters for sport. we hunt monsters to protect ponykind from them and any creature who wishes to bring it harm. you, Nightmare Moon, are one of the worst monsters to exist. taking possession of our princess, trying to kill princess Celestia and block out the sun with your moon for all eternity. you would have brought n end to Equestria had you not been stopped by the elements of harmony." Ebony said

"Hmph, I am no longer the same being as before. I have no more desire to bring the eternal night." Nightmare said

"Yes, we heard all about your "reformation" from our spies in canterlot. though, if you think we'll believe that for a second, you're sorely mistaken. whether you changed or not though doesn't matter to me. you're still a monster and a threat to Equestria. which means you must be elimintated" Ebony said

Nightmare chuckled "You are a foal. I was once able to go toe-to-toe with Princess Celestia. what hope do you have of defeating me?"

"This is true. if we were to have an all-out magic brawl, then I would clearly lose. though this is the point where the smartest pony wins rather than the strongest." Ebony said charging her horn

"I will make you regret ever thinking of harming me, or Amber." Nightmare said then she charged her horn and shot a beam at Ebony who quickly dodged to the side and shot a beam at Nightmare but when Nightmare created a barrier to protect her from the beam it passed right through it and it Nightmare, knocking her out of Amber who fell to the ground.

"W-what?! how did you do that?!" Nightmare said

"It's a special little spell that was developed by my ancestors. it was made just in case another situation where a princess becomes possessed and turns evil were to ever happen again. it's a spell that will strike the being that has possessed the pony but leave the pony unscathed." Ebony said as she trotted forward

Amber tried standing up but found she didn't have any strength in her body "I...can barely stand." she said

"That may be the result of forcing Nightmare Moon out of your body. think of it as somepony suddenly removing all of your stamina out of nowhere. sorry, but you'll have to sit right there while I take care of this monster." Ebony said as she trotted forward and started charging her horn again while Nightmare just floated there in the sky "Not gonna run? bad move." she said as she shot a beam but Nightmare was able to avoid it

"I refuse to leave Amber here. give her back!" Nightmare said

"No. I won't give you the chance to recover your host." Ebony said as she shot another beam which came closer than the other one

"Give Amber back, or shall truly suffer my wrath!" Nightmare said

"I'm not afraid of you." Ebony said as she shot yet another beam which actually grazed Nightmare making her wince

Amber was watching the whole thing and forced herself up. once she stood up n her wobbly legs she used all of her strength to push Ebony and make her miss her next shot "M-Moony!" Amber shouted

"Do not worry, Amber. I'm coming." Nightmare said

"No, Moony! you have to run!" Amber said

"I am not leaving you!" Nightmare said

Amber noticed Ebony getting up and charging her horn "Moony, it's not me they want, it's you. they want to kill you. you have to get out of here!" she said

"But, Amber..."

"Trust me, Moony. I'll be fine. just go!" Amber said

Nightmare reluctantly turned around and began flying off "I will rescue you amber. I swear it." she said as she flew off

Ebony was going to shoot at Nightmare but she was already too far away "Damn it! we were so close to finally getting rid of that monster, and it's all your fault!" she said as she turned to Amber "Why would you want to protect that monster?! you're a pony!"

"Because...she's my....friend." Amber said she then fell unconscious

The orange stallion from before walked in from behind a tree "looks like this missions a failure." he said

"Not quite. I did notice something about Nightmare that we can definitely use to our advantage." Ebony said

"What is that?"

"She seems to care deeply for this filly, even though she was nothing more than a host body for her. something tells me if we take this filly with us, we'll be able to use her as bait and finally kill Nightmare Moon." Ebony said levitating Amber onto her back

"And what if she doesn't come for this filly?"

"Oh, she will. she definitely will." Ebony said then she began trotting deeper into the everfree forest with the orange stallion following her

Author's Note

Happy fourth of July my fellow bronies and pegasisters.

Her beautiful night sky

Nightmare Moon flew back to ponyvile but remained in the sky so she wouldn't be spotted by others. once she was there she stopped and looked back

"I need to rescue Amber, but in this form I'm useless. I need help." Nightmare said then she looked at canterlot "I need Luna." she said then she began flying to canterlot

Once Nightmare had reached canterlot she slowly floated through the halls to avoid any guards roaming the halls. while at Luna's door, two guards, one a pegasus, the other a unicorn, had just passed by it and turned a corner.

"Are we sure that monster will appear here?" The pegasus asked

"That's what Ebony said in her note. we'll just have to keep our eyes out for her." The unicorn said

Nightmare had just passed a corner and ran into the two guards "Uh oh."

The pegasus gasped "It's Nightmare Moon!" he said

"Listen, I mean you no harm. I simply wish to know where Luna-Gah!" Nightmare was cut off when he unicorn shot her with magic

"Ebony was right, you did come here to get to princess Luna. well, we won't allow you to possess the princess again." The Unicorn said

Nightmare glared at them "You! you two are more of her monster hunters!" she said while they just smirked 'Damn. this is the worst thing to happen. I'm practically useless in this form, I can't cast any magic to protect myself. I could forcefully possess one of them, but no doubt that would look bad to anypony who passes by and I would instantly be labeled a villain again, then I would never get the chance to rescue Amber. I have to get to Luna, quickly.' she thought

The unicorn shot another beam at Nightmare who quickly flew out of the way to dodge it. then she saw the pegasus grab his spear and flew at Nightmare so she had to fly in the opposite direction of Luna's room to avoid getting hit. while the unicorn continued to shoot

'This is part of their plan, it's so obvious. they're forcing me to move away from Luna. I'll never rescue Amber as long as they are standing in my way.' Nightmare thought as she flew away

Just as Nightmare arrived at a two-way hallway, she was going to fly left, but the unicorn fired a beam, forcing her to dodge right.

'They're also keeping me from Celestia's throne room. these monster hunters certainly do know how to plan ahead. I can't get to Luna nor Celestia. I need to get their attention or else I'm gonna look like the villain to other guards.' Nightmare frantically thought then she got an idea so she slowed herself down, allowing the pegasus a chance to attack with his spear. once he tried he hit Nightmare she sped up and just barely dodged his spear causing him to hit the wall

Nightmare moved to the other wall and slowed down making the pegasus ready his spear again, and just like last time she sped up at the last second and barely dodged the spear causing him to hit the wall again. she kept up this strategy for as long as she could but was tiring herself out and on a few of them ended up being grazed by the spear.

Luna was reading a book within her room when she heard multiple banging noises from outside "What is that infernal racket? do ponies not know I am trying to read?" she said so she put her book down and left her room

Nightmare had tried to dodge the last hit but was too late and was hit by the pegasus and crashed into the wall. then the unicorn and pegasus surrounded her.

"This is it. we'll kill this monster and protect ponykind." The pegasus said

"Say your prayers, Nightmare Moon." The unicorn said as he charged his horn while Nightmare glared at them

"What do you two think you are doing?!" A voice behind them said and when they turned they saw princess Luna

"P-Princess Luna?!" The Pegasus said

"Why are you two assaulting, Nightmare Moon? explain yourselves!" Luna said

the unicorn smirked "My princess. we were patrolling the halls when this being trotted up to us in another pony's body and tried taking possession of my friend's body. we thought she was going to try to hurt you so we quickly took action and I knocked her out of him. we were about to finish her off before you appeared. give the order and we shall lock her away." he said

Luna narrowed her eyes "Is this true, Nightmare Moon?" she asked

Nightmare chuckled "Do you remember that 'what if' situation we talked about? well, it nearly came true." she said

Luna nodded then she stomped her hoof "Guards!" she called out making multiple guards appear at her side "Arrest these two ponies, immediately!"

"What?!" The unicorn said as he was detained by the guards as was the pegasus

"You have assaulted an innocent being and will be detained until further notice." Luna said so the two guards were taken away then she trotted to Nightmare "Are you alright?"

Nightmare floated back up "I was putting a lot of faith in the hope that you would believe me. I am glad I was right." she said

"I nearly didn't. it is because you chose the right words that I did. now, tell me, what happened to Amber?" Luna asked

"It isn't safe to talk here. their ponies might be everywhere. let's go back to your room." Nightmare said and Luna nodded so both of them went to Luna's room where she cast a silencing spell so no one could hear them from the outside.

"There. now, what happened, Nightmare?" Luna asked

"Amber and I were ambushed by multiple ponies in the everfree forest. they called themselves monster hunters and say they kill monsters to protect ponykind. apparently, I am one of their targets. one of them used a spell that knocked me out of Amber's body. I tried to get back to her but Amber told me to run away, so I did." Nightmare explained

"Did these "monster hunters" harm Amber?" Luna said

"As far as I know, no, not yet. but, I don't want to risk anything, not with Amber's life on the line. so I beg of you, allow me to possess your body so that I may rescue her." Nightmare said

"Why me? surely somepony else would do, like Twilight or Celestia." Luna said

"Simply because you and I have already been fully bonded to each other before. you and I have the perfect connection that took days for me to build up with Amber. if I choose Twilight or Celestia, it will take too long for me to become bonded with them. time is something Amber doesn't have. that is why I've come to you." Nightmare said

"...You want me to give you full possession of my body again? willingly this time?" Luna asked and Nightmare nodded "And how do I know you won't try to kill Celestia again?"

"You have my word that I won't lay a hoof on Celestia. all I want is Amber to be safe and sound again." Nightmare said

Luna stared at Nightmare for a few seconds until she sighed "Very well. I will trust you."

"Thank you, Luna." Nightmare said then she began to enter Luna's mind.

Once Nightmare had fully entered Luna's mind, she began transforming back to the form before and once again became Nightmare Moon.

Nightmare stretched her wings "It has been quite some time since we were last together, Luna. truthfully, I have missed this." she said

"I didn't. now, enough talk, we must go and rescue Amber quickly." Luna said

"Right." Nightmare said then she left through the balcony and flew off to the everfree forest.

Amber had finally woken up and when she looked around, she found herself in an empty square room where her body was chained to a wall restricting her wings as well.

The only door was opened and in stepped the same unicorn stallion from before "Oh, you're awake."

Amber pointed at him "You! you're the same stallion from before. what are you doing here?"

"My name is Mystic Mist. and I work for these guys to." Mystic said

"Wait, if you work for them. does that mean you planned to hurt Moony from the beginning?" Amber asked

"Yes, yes we did."

"But, why? Moony isn't-."

"Evil anymore. yeah, yeah, we've heard it all before." Ebony said as she to entered the room "But it doesn't matter to us whether or not a monster is evil. we hunt monsters to keep ponykind safe, regardless of whether the monster is dangerous or not. and Nightmare Moon is the worst monster there is so, as per our job, we shall hunt her down and destroy her."

"There's no way princess Celestia would allow this. you're hurting innocent monsters." Amber said

"Princess Celestia doesn't need to know. besides, I'm sure she would gladly thank us for keeping ponykind safe while the element holders protect everywhere else." Ebony said

"But it's still wrong to hurt the innocent monster. especially Moony, who redeemed herself." Amber said

Ebony shook her head "We'll just have to agree to disagree. come, Mystic. we have to get everything ready." she said as she and Mystic left the room

"I'm curious, Ebony. what kind of plan do you have in mind for Nightmare?" Mystic asked

"Sadly, Nightmare isn't like the other monsters we've faced. if she were to come here then even I doubt we'll be able to beat her head-on. which is why we'll have a follow-up plan instead. we'll lure Nightmare in, then when everything is ready that's when we hit her. she won't even know it hit her until it's too late." Ebony said

"What will we hit her with anyway?" Mystic asked

"Our zebra friend can fill you in. go and find Zahra." Ebony said so Mystic nodded and trotted through another hole in their cave base.

Mystic came upon Zahra who wore a dress that fully covered her body. she also wore a veil over her face in a way that only showed her eyes. Zahra was busy stirring a large pot when Mystic entered the room.

"Hello, Zahra." Mystic said while Zahra simply looked at him and slowly nodded "Still quiet as always I see. Ebony said you were preparing our follow-up plan."

Zahra took a piece of paper and handed it to Mystic who read it over and nodded

"Okay. looks like a simple potion. I'll help you get these ingredients to it. I'll be right back." Mystic said then he trotted through a hole in the back and left the room.

Nightmare had finally reached the same spot where she and Amber were ambushed by the hunters.

"This is the place. this is where those hunters took Amber." Nightmare said

"Perfectly hidden away by the trees where even a pegasus would have difficulty seeing what goes on. a good distance away from ponyville as well. these ponies certainly did know what they were doing. hard to believe these ponies were operating in the shadows the whole time without Celestia or my knowledge." Luna said

"Enough praising the hunters, please. we must find a way to track them." Nightmare said

"Perhaps those hoof tracks will do."

Nightmare looked down and saw fresh hoofprints leading further into the everfree "This seemed too easy." she said

"Agreed. these hoof tracks are too fresh. it looks to me that they want you to find their base." Luna said

"They are either very confident in their abilities or, too cocky to see their own mistake. nonetheless, I will indulge them for now. and when I've reached my target they will face my wrath and see their own mistake." Nightmare said as she began following the hoofprints

While following the hoofprints, Nightmare and Luna kept their eyes and ears open to anyone who may try to ambush them, but as she kept trotting along she hadn't even heard a peep. not a single pony had even tried to surprise attack her yet and this didn't go unnoticed.

"This confirms it. they are all gathered at their base preparing to fight me." Nightmare said

"If they are all there, then I believe we should bring back-up to help deal with them. preferably some guard ponies." Luna said

"No. if they are all there then I'll be able to deal with all of them in one swift strike, rescuing Amber in the process. I may not get another chance like this. we shall keep moving." Nightmare said

"That is unwise, Nightmare. having more ponies watching your back will certainly increase your chance of rescuing Amber safely." Luna said

"I WILL rescue Amber safely, myself. I will NOT risk her being harmed in the middle of a skirmish between their hunters and your ponies." Nightmare said

But-."

"This is non-negotiable, Luna. I will see Amber safe and sound back to ponyville, myself. you can do what you wish AFTER I have ensured Amber's safety. understood?" Nightmare said

"Very well."

Nightmare continued to follow the tracks through the everfree until she had finally come upon a door that was poorly hidden by leaves and had no guards around it.

"That must be it. that is where they are keeping Amber." Nightmare said

"Good, we found their base. now, I implore you, let us retrieve some help before rushing in like a foal." Luna begged

"As I have said before, I will not risk Amber being hurt in the middle of a skirmish. I will rescue her myself." Nightmare said as she stood up and trotted to the door then she used her magic to tear it off its hinges and throw it into the forest. then she entered the base and came across a group of ponies who all turned to her "Where is Amber? if you give her to me, I will spare your lives."

"It's, Nightmare Moon! go and tell Ebony, we'll hold her off." An earth stallion said while a pegasus mare nodded then flew off. the stallion, along with other ponies who weren't unicorns, grabbed a sword or a spear and ran at Nightmare.

Nightmare easily cast a barrier to protect herself from any weapon or magical attack since none of them were strong enough to break through it. from inside the barrier, Nightmare blasted everyone and hurt them enough to knock them out, but not kill them. after everyone in the area was down she began to move on to the next room where she did the same to them

The pegasus had reached Ebony "Ebony! Nightmare Moon is here!" she said

Ebony clicked her tongue "It's too soon. keep her busy, I have to check on Mystic and Zahra." she said as she walked through another hole while the pegasus flew back to the others

Ebony made it to the room where Zahra and Mystic were still preparing the potion "Is it ready yet?" she asked

"I don't think so since she's still preparing it." Mystic said

"Damn, we need it ready soon, very soon." Ebony said

Nightmare had just finished knocking out the last pony in the next room and moved on "Where could Amber be? I need to find her as fast as possible."

"Perhaps you should ask the hunters." Luna said

"I doubt they would tell me. they would much rather harm me than answer my question." Nightmare said as she moved onto the next room and found more hunters "I suppose I will have to find her myself. after I deal with them." she said then began fighting them

Ebony was watching the door "How much longer with that potion?" she asked

Zahra brought both of her hooves close together then she went back to stirring the pot

"She says it's close, but I doubt it'll be ready in time before Nightmare Moon gets here." Mystic said

Ebony groaned "I'll keep her busy for as long as I can. you two just focus on the potion." she said then she left the room

Nightmare knocked out the last pony "This is getting on my nerves. they just don't know when to stop, do they?"

"They are very persistent, I will grant them that. now, shall we continue?" Luna said

Nightmare!" Ebony shouted from behind her causing her to turn around

"You! I was hoping to see you again!" Nightmare said

"So, you've possessed our princess again. I should've known you would go back to your original host once you've lost your other one, and now you're back for revenge. such is the way of a monster." Ebony said

"Luna allowed me to possess her so that I may rescue Amber. now, hand her over!" Nightmare said

"Why do you care so much about this single filly? I'm sure there are a million others just like her." Ebony said

"No there isn't. Amber is one of a kind. there is no other pony like her." Nightmare said

"Do you mean that in terms of a host body, or personality? it's hard to tell with a monster like you." Ebony said

Nightmare scoffed "If this is your attempt to anger me, it isn't working."

"Alright, what if I said we hurt Amber? what would you do?" Ebony said

"I wouldn't believe you. as you said, you are monster hunters. you would never harm another pony." Nightmare said

"Hm, you truly are more clever than other monsters we've fought." Ebony said

"Enough of this pointless chatter. will you give me Amber, or not?" Nightmare said

"Let me think...no!" Ebony said as she shot a beam of magic at Nightmare who turned into smoke and dodged it then she reappeared behind Ebony

"If you think I'll let myself be hit with that spell again, then you are a bigger foal than I thought." Nightmare said then she blasted magic at Ebony who quickly jumped out of the way "Ugh, I don't have time for this. I must find Amber." she said so she blasted the ceiling making it cave in and block Ebony while Nightmare moved on.

Mystick felt a heavy rumble for a moment before it went away "I'm guessing that Ebony lost. we really need that potion, and fast." he said, and just then Zahra had finished string the pot and stepped back

"Is it ready?" Mystic asked and Zahra nodded "Alright, we don't have time to put this in a bottle so we'll have to improvise." he said then he pushed the pot over spilling out the potion onto the floor while also making the gasses from the potion speared all through the caves "That should do it. now, for the next part of the plan." he said running out of the room

Nightmare continued through the caves until she noticed the gas spreading through the cave "What on equestria is this? some sort of smoke?"

"Whatever it is, I believe we should remain cautious. we do not know what it can do." Luna said

"I'm sure it is nothing to be concerned about. I do not feel any different from it so it must be their way to try to hideaway. it will fail." Nightmare said as she trotted along then she saw someone deep inside of the smoke "Who goes there?!" she said

Mystic stepped closer then Nightmare gasped for who was in his hooves was Amber who was struggling to get free.

"Let. her. go. now!" Nightmare demanded

"I don't think so. you care an awful lot for this little filly so having her here would ensure I trot away home free. all you have to do is let me." Mystic said

Nightmare glared at Mystic as she had her flowing mane slither its way behind Mystic "And if I don't let you go?" she asked

"Oh, you will. because I believe not even you will risk her life." Mystic said

"And how do I know you will release her once you are gone?" Nightmare asked as her flowing mane had finally reached behind him

"You don't."

"Hm, then I will release her myself!" Nightmare said as her mane wrapped around his hooves then it pulled them apart releasing Amber then she had thrown him back "You were a foal trying to threaten me with Ambers life."

Amber ran toward Nightmare "Moony!"

Nightmare opened her hooves "Amber!" she said, but just then a magic beam came out of nowhere and hit Amber in the back turning her into dust right in front of Nightmare's eyes

Mystic laughed "You were a foal for believing it would be that easy." he said but Nightmare wasn't listening as she stared down at the pile of dust

Nightmare put a hoof on the dust pile "No, Amber...Amber...AMBER!" she shouted and she continued to scream as her eyes turned into a pure black color while tears streamed down them

“Nightmare! calm down! listen to me. you must calm down. Nightmare!Nightmare!" Luna's voice was slowly drowned out as a black aura surrounded Nightmare then she looked at Mystic

Mystic took a step back "T-this is your fault. she's gone because of you. y-you have nopony else to blame but yourself, Nightmare Moon." he said

Nightmare only glared as she charged her magic, making her horn glow so bright it could rival the sun itself. then she blasted Mystic with its full fury leaving nothing left, including the cave walls behind him. after, she only stared at the pile of dust as tears continued to stream down her face.

'I'm such an idiot! why didn't I listen to Luna?! why didn't I just get help?! why didn't I just wait?! why?! why?! WHY?! why am I such an idiot?!' Nightmare angrily thought as the black aura grew stronger 'And now...because of me, she's gone. she's gone because I wanted to be an idiot!...what do I do now?'

'Her wish...' Another voice said which sounded exactly like Nightmare's

"What?"

'Her wish come true...' The voice said

"Whose wish?" Nightmare asked

'Amber's wish. make it come true.' The voice said

"Amber's wish?...what was her wish? tell me! what do I make come true?!" Nightmare shouted

'For an everlasting. beautiful. night. sky.' The voice said

Nightmare gasped "Yes. Amber's wish. all she wanted was a beautiful night sky. that was her wish. I must make it come true. I must." Nightmare said so she quickly flew out of the base and to the sky "Amber. this is for you." she said then she used her magic to make the moon eclipse the sun

The moon slowly eclipsed the sun, plunging Equestria into total darkness. ponies from all over Equestria looked at the sky with shock and fear as their sun disappeared behind the moon. while others looked up with worry mixed with fear and confusion.

"Sister. what are you doing?" Celestia said as she watched the sky from the window

The mane six all gathered in the middle of ponyville as they watched the sky as well.

"Twilight, what's going on?" Applejack asked

"Yeah. why is the moon in front of the sun?" Rainbow said

"I don't know. this shouldn't even be happening. Luna would never move the moon to eclipse the sun again." Twilight said

"But, Nightmare Moon would." Rarity said

"But, that's impossible. Nightmare shouldn't be evil anymore. I saw them this morning and nothing seemed wrong then." Twilight said as she thought a bit more "What in Celestia's name could have happened?"

Miles away from ponyville, a mare traveling across a dirt road looked up to the sky and chuckled to herself

"Well, well, well, she's still alive. now that's unexpected." she said

Nightmare Moon finished moving the moon "There, now Amber will finally have her beautiful night, forever."

'Sabatoge...others...' The voice said

"What do you mean?" Nightmare asked

'Others may try to destroy it. sabotage it. get rid of it.' The voice said

"Who?! who will try to get rid of Amber's beautiful sky?!" Nightmare shouted

'The elements. Celestia. ponies.' The voice said

"Then I will destroy them! I won't let anypony try to destroy Amber's beautiful night sky. none shall touch it!" Nightmare said as she flew to ponyville.

The end?

Celestia immediately left her quarters and to the guards "Gather up some guards and bring them to ponyville immediately. quickly!" she said so the guards saluted and left while Celestia herself left the palace and flew straight to ponyville

Twilight and her friends were currently trying to figure out a way to find Nightmare to discover what had happened. while they were talking amongst themselves, Nightmare had just landed right in front of them in the middle of ponyville. Everyone immediately turned to her. While Twilight and her friends cautiously approached her, everyone else stayed as far away as possible, and some even hid away.

Twilight took another step forward "Nightmare? what is going on? why have you eclipsed the sun?" she asked but Nightmare remained silent "Amber? are you in there? please, say something."

Nightmare charged her horn as a black aura gathered up around her, then she let it out as a beam straight at Twilight and her friends. Before the beam struck, Celestia landed right in front of them and put up a barrier to block the beam which surprised everyone around.

"Princess Celestia?!" Everyone said

Celestia lowered her barrier "Nightmare! release my sister, or I will be forced to destroy you!" she said but Nightmare remained silent

"Princess Celestia, do you know what's happening?" Twilight asked

"I do not, but I do know this. That is not Amber. Nightmare has taken possession of Luna." Celestia said making everyone gasp

Applejack stepped forward "you're tellin' me that Nightmare took possession of Luna again and is bringin' her eternal night?"

"It would appear so." Rarity said

Rainbow flew forward "I knew she couldn't be trusted. once a villain, always a villain." she said

"But, it doesn't make any sense. I saw Amber and Nightmare earlier today, and Nightmare didn't seem like she was planning to do any of this. from what I could tell, Amber and Nightmare were getting along fine. what could have happened?" Twilight said then she turned to Celestia "Princess, let me talk to her. I'm sure I can get through to her."

"I am not sure if that is the wisest decision."

"Please, let me try."

Celestia glanced between Nightmare and Twilight then she nodded "if you believe you can get through to her. then you may try."

Twilight nodded then trotted slowly to Nightmare "Nightmare. if you can tell me. what happened to Amber? where is she?"

Nightmare stood silent for a few minutes then a few tears began streaming down her face, confusing everyone.

"She's gone." Nightmare whispered which was barely audible so Twilight moved a little closer "She's gone...and it's my fault."

"She's gone? what do you mean?" Twilight asked but instead of answering, Nightmare charged her horn and fired another beam at Twilight who quickly summoned a barrier to protect herself but was pushed back due to the force of the beam.

Fluttershy flew over "Are you alright, Twilight?"

"I'm fine. but, I think something is wrong with Nightmare. she kept saying "she's gone" and that it was her fault." Twilight said

Celestia trotted to Nightmare "Nightmare, you must get ahold of yourself and release Luna. before I am forced to destroy you."

"Princess Celestia, wait. I may have another solution." Twilight said so, Celestia looked over at her "I had learned a new spell which may help us." she said

"Are you sure it will work?"

"I haven't had the chance to perfect it yet. but, I'm sure I have enough knowledge of it to work." Twilight said as her horn glowed

"I will assist, Twilight." Celestia said as her horn glowed as well

Nightmare saw their horns glow and erected a barrier to protect herself. then Celestia fired a beam which struck the barrier, but Celestia's goal was not to destroy the barrier. instead, she focused and made a small part of the barrier in front of Nightmare disappear, creating a small hole.

"Now, Twilight." Celestia said so Twilight fired her own spell which hit Nightmare in the head causing a majority of it to disappear and reveal Luna underneath

"Celestia!" Luna yelled

"Luna! do not worry, we'll rescue you from Nightmare jus-."

"No, Celestia! you must understand. this is not Nightmare's fault. something has happened to her. I do not know what, but you must travel to the everfree. there is a secret base there. find the base and find out what has happened! you must hurry!" Luna shouted before she was overtaken by Nightmare again

"Luna no!" Celestia said then she erected a barrier to protect herself from another beam from Nightmare then she turned to Twilight "Twilight! you and your friends travel to the everfree and do just as Luna said."

"What about you?" Twilight asked

"I will hold Nightmare Moon."

"By yourself?!" Rainbow said

"I may be the only one who can. I will ensure the others stay safe while you and your friends look for this base." Celestia said

"But-."

"Twilight!" a voice called from behind, when they turned they saw Starlight, Trixie, and Spike.

"Starlight? Trixie? what are you doing here?" Twilight asked

"If you must know, Twilight. the great and powerful Trixie, has come to offer her assistance." Trixie said

Starlight rolled her eyes "You don't have to worry about everypony else. Trixie and I will protect them. you guys just head to the everfree. the faster you find out what happened, the faster we can stop Nightmare." she said

Spike stepped up "I'm going to."

Twilight nodded "Okay, we'll be back as soon as we can. come on girls." she said as she levitated Spike onto her back and began flying while the others followed

Just as Twilight and her friends left, a group of guards had finally arrived at ponyville and had taken up a position next to Celestia.

"Princess Celestia, what would you like us to do?" One guard asked

"Protect the citizens of ponyville. make sure none of them are harmed." Celestia said so the guards nodded and all split up around ponyville along with Starlight and Trixie. once they were gone Celestia let her barrier down "I apologize in advance, Nightmare. but I can not allow you to harm these ponies."

Nightmare charged her horn then she created an orb around her as she charged Celestia so she too created an orb to protect herself as they clashed.

"Yes. get rid of her. protect her wish. do it for her." The voice said as Nightmare and Celestia flew into the air and began their battle

Twilight and her friends had arrived in the everfree

"So, any of y'all know how to find some secret base in the middle of the everfree forest?" Applejack said

"We'll just have to look around. keep your eyes peeled for anything that might look like some secret-."

"Ooh, look at how big this cave is. it's massive!" Pinkie said as she stood in front of a cave entrance.

"A cave?" Twilight said as she trotted next to Pinke as did everyone else "I don't seeing a cave here before. though the everfree is still pretty unexplored so this cave could be pretty old."

"What are we waiting for? let's go inside and look around." Rainbow said but before she could fly in, Applejack grabbed her tail with her tail

"Wait a minute, Rainbow!" Applejack said pulling her back "We ain't got a clue of what is inside of there. for all we know, there could be nothin' but timberwolves hidin' in there."

"Or, this could be their secret base. if it is, then we need to get in there!" Rainbow said

"Why don't we just head in and see?" Pinkie said as she jumped past them

"Wait, Pinkie!" Spike said

"There she goes. guess we might as well follow her." Rarity said so everyone sighed and followed after Pinkie.

Once inside, and after a bit of trotting, they saw multiple unconscious ponies lying around everywhere. they were unconscious but not dead. As they passed by ponies, Fluttershy checked on each of them to make sure they were okay. they kept trotting until they came upon a collapsed part of the cave, so Twilight used her magic to move the rocks out of the way only to see a deep tunnel heading straight through the cave.

"What do you think happened here?" Rainbow said

Spike looked around "It's almost like a monster came through here and none of these ponies were a match for it." he said

"I bet that "monster" was Nightmare Moon. but, why would she do this?" Applejack said

"We may find the answers deeper within the cave." Rarity said

Everyone continued moving through the cave until they had come across another cave hole leading to a room with a large pot in the middle, but there wasn't anyone else.

"Hey, doesn't this look like a room Zecora makes potions in?" Fluttershy said

"Now that you mention it. it does look rather similar. does that mean somepony was making potions here?" Rarity said

Applejack looked around "I wonder what for."

"For, Nightmare Moon. of course." Said a voice from the cave entrance. when everyone turned they saw a mare standing there

"Who're you?!" Rainbow asked

"My name is Ebony Aura. it's nice to meet the element bearers." Ebony said

Twilight stepped forward "Hello, Ebony. When we were talking about potions. you said for Nightmare Moon. what did you mean by that?" she asked

"We made a potion to deal with, Nightmare Moon." Ebony said

"What was the potion made to do?" Twilight asked

"It's a little complicated. instead, I'll give you this." Ebony used her magic to levitate over a piece of paper which Twilight took and read over while her friends also looked at the paper.

Rainbow rubbed the back of her head "I can't make heads or tails of this."

"They're ingredients for a potion." Twilight said

"Do you understand it, Twi?" Applejack asked

"Partly. I had been studying potions but I'm no expert yet. from the looks of it, I think it's a potion for...hallucinations, and it increases their magical power." twilight looked back at Ebony "But, why did you give this potion to Nightmare?"

"We needed a backup plan just in case we couldn't take her down ourselves." Ebony said

"But, why would you need to take her down?" Spike asked

"Because she's an evil monster who tried to kill Celestia. as monster hunters, it is our job to make sure she pays for this crime." Ebony said

"Monster hunters? y'all hunt monsters?" Applejack asked

"That's so cool!" Rainbow said

"But, why would you want to hurt Nightmare? she was redeemed." Twilight said

"That doesn't matter to us. a monster is a monster. and all monsters should stay away from pony's." Ebony said

"B-But, not all monsters are bad." Fluttershy whispered from the back but was just loud enough to be heard

"What?"

"S-Some monsters are j-just doing what t-they can to survive. s-sometimes they n-never mean to h-hurt others." Fluttershy said

"You're a foal. but, I should expect that kind of thinking from the element of kindness. know this, there's no such thing as a "good" monster. they are just that, monsters." Ebony said

"You're wrong!" Fluttershy shouted surprising everyone "There are plenty of good monsters in Equestria. like the manticore, I helped here in the everfree. Spike is a good monster to, he would never harm another pony! so you see, there are plenty of good monsters. you just have to get to know them to see."

Ebony simply stared at Fluttershy for a few minutes "We'll just have to agree to disagree."

"Thanks for the compliment, Fluttershy." Spike said and Fluttershy hid behind her mane but still nodded

"Ebony, If you made a potion for Nightmare Moon. does that mean a filly named Amber was here to?" Twilight asked

"Yes. Amber is here." Ebony said

"Really? where?"

"She's deeper in the cave. locked in a room."

Twilight immediately left the room and headed deeper within the cave while Spkie followed her and everyone else remained in the room with Ebony.

"Amber! Amber! are you down here?" Twilight called out

Amber was taking a nap when she heard her name being called so she sat up and rubbed her eyes.

'Moony?' Amber thought as she trotted as close as she could to the door "Moony! is that you?!" Amber shouted to the door

"Twilight. I heard something this way." Spike said running in another direction with Twilight following behind. they ran until they came upon a metal door.

"Amber? are you in there?" Twilight said as she opened the door

"Princess Twilight? what are you doing here?" Amber asked

"It's a long story. first, let's get you free." Twilight said trotting over and releasing Amber from her chains

Amber stretched her wings "That feels so much better. where's Moony? she's here to, right?" she said

"No, she isn't."

"What? why isn't Moony here? did something happen to her? was she caught by the hunters? please, Twilight. you have to tell me." Amber said panicky

"It's complicated. first, why don't you tell me what happened before you were caught?" Twilight said

"Well, after Moony and I left your castle, we were approached by a stallion named Mystic Mist. he told me that my friend, Peppermint Twist, was lost in the everfree so Moony and I went to go save her. when we arrived, it turned out to be a trap, and another pony, Ebony Aura, knocked Moony out of me. I was able to keep her down log enough for Moony to escape. but after that, I must have fainted." Amber explained

Twilight nodded "So, what happened after you woke up?"

"When I woke up, I found myself here and I was chained to the wall. after a few minutes, I heard some shouting come from outside, then I heard noises like magic being fired from a horn. I didn't know what was going on. then, I heard somepony just yell but I couldn't make out what they were yelling. then the cave started rumbling for a bit and that was the end. it was all quiet until you came." Amber explained

Twilight nodded "Okay. follow me, I'll take you to the others." she said as all of them left the room and trotted back to the room the others were in.

After everyone expressed their relief to see Amber alright, she took the time to explain to everyone what had happened up to this point. after she took a look at Ebony and noticed someone else trot into the room

"It's you!" Amber said pointing at the stallion

"Hello to you to, Amber." Mystic said

I'm gonna guess, you're Mystic Mist." Rainbow said

"You'd be right."

"Where's Moony?" Amber said trotting up to them "I was hoping she would be here to rescue me, but she isn't. so, where is Moony?"

"Why don't you ask the element bearers?" Mystic said

Amber turned to Twilight and her friends "Princess Twilight?" but Twilight and her finds remained silent and looked very nervous "Will somepony tell me what happened to Moony?! why isn't she here now?!" she shouted

Applejack stepped forward "Sugarcube, Ah think it's best you see for yerself." she said so she guided Amber back to the cave entrance while everyone else followed

Amber looked at the sky "Is it night already? how long had I been in there?" she said

"Amber, sweetie, it's only four 'o clock in the afternoon." Rarity said

Amber looked at her surprised "Really? then, why is it still dark?" she said

Rainbow pointed at the sky "Look up there."

Amber looked to where Rainbow was pointing and saw that the moon was eclipsing the sun.

"W-What? this can't be right. why is the moon in front of the sun? Luna wouldn't try to bring eternal night again." Amber said

"But, Nightmare Moon would." Rarity said

Amber turned to them "No. no, this has to be a mistake. Moony wouldn't try this again. she wouldn't give up everything we worked for just to try this again. this has to be a mistake."

"Amber." Twilight said softly "We saw Nightmare ourselves when she came to ponyville. when I asked her what she was doing, she just attacked me." Twilight said

"No...this doesn't make sense. Moony was happy. she was happy with me. she would never try this again. something must have happened to her." Amber said

Applejack looked at Ebony and Mystic "I figure it has somethin' to do with that potion y'all mentioned."

"It may." Mystic said

Rainbow got in their face "Spill it, or else I'll clobber you both."

Ebony raised her hoofs "Alright, no need for that. when Nightmare Moon invaded our base, we had a special potion made as a plan B. as you know, the potion was a hallucinogenic strengthening potion. it was made to make whoever inhaled it see things that aren't really there."

"And the magic boost?" Twilight asked

"Nightmare Moon is made out of dark magic. she has it running through her entire body. so, what happens when that dark magic starts spiraling out of control to the point where she will no longer be able to control it?" Ebony said

"She goes berserk."

"Bingo."

"But, what did Moony see?" Amber asked

Mystic shrugged "Who knows. it could've been anything."

"I think I know." Twilight said making everyone turn to her "Earlier when Nightmare came to ponyville. I had tried to talk to her. I asked her what had happened to Amber. but, the only words she said were "She's gone, and it's all my fault"." Twilight looked at Amber "Amber, I think she saw something happen to you and that set her off."

"What could've happened to me to make something like this happen?" Amber said gesturing to the sky

"Isn't it obvious?" Mystic said as everyone looked at him "There's only one reason why Nightmare would use the words "she's gone". that means she saw Amber die. by what, we have no idea."

"Moony saw me die? Why would she see that? shouldn't she have known I was fine and that she would rescue me?" Amber said

Ebony shrugged "Maybe she did. maybe, for some reason, she truly did believe she would save you. but deep down, she probably had a fear that she would be too late, or she would fail, and that potion took advantage of that. it showed her what she feared most, even if it was well hidden." she said

"So now Nightmare Moon is gonna bring back her eternal night?" Spike said

"Not unless Celestia can stop her." Ebony said

"What do you mean?" Rarity asked

"As long as Celestia can stop her. then we won't have to worry about her eternal night. right?" Ebony said

"That is true. but, would Celestia really be willing to destroy Nightmare?" Rarity said

"We hope so." Mystic said

Twilight raised a brow "You hope so?... I get it. this was all a part of your plan, wasn't it?"

"What makes you say that?" Mystic asked

"You planned on Nightmare going berserk so princess Celestia can destroy her. this was all planned so somepony else destroyed Nightmare and you still win." Twilight said

"You got it right. of course we're no match for Nightmare Moon when she has her full power. so, all we needed to do was get somepony else to do the work for us. somepony who is equal to Nightmare's power herself." Ebony explained

Twilight quickly turned back to the others "We need to stop Celestia and Nightmare from fighting as soon as possible." she said

"How are we going to do that? Nightmare won't listen to a word we say." Rainbow said

"I could try tying her up and holdin' her down." Applejack said

"I think you're gonna need more rope, AJ. since Nightmare is way stronger than you." Pinkie said

"Why don't we just knock some sense into her?" Rainbow asked

"I fear that would only anger her further darling." Rarity said

While everyone continued thinking of ways to stop Nightmare, Amber saw a flash of light in the distance. she flew into the air and saw Nightmare and Celestia fighting. she also saw most of ponyville destroyed due to the fighting. Amber knew that if someone didn't do something soon, then ponies were gonna get hurt. Amber looked back down at then others then back to ponyville and nodded as she began flying in that direction.

"Okay, I think I have a plan. Amber if you can-." Twilight cut herself off as she noticed Amber was gone "Amber?"

"Are you looking for the filly? she flew off some time ago, heading straight for ponyville." Ebony said

"What?!" Everyone yelled as they turned and began making their way to ponyville. but before she left, Twilight looked back at Ebony and Mystic

"You'll both have to answer for your crimes. for now, stay here and don't go anywhere." Twilight said then she quickly put spike on her back and took to the air, following her friends.

"So...what now?" Mystic asked

"Isn't it obvious? we follow the plan. come on." Ebony said as she and Mystic began trotting to ponyville

Back at ponyville, Celestia and Nightmare were blasting constant magic beams at each other, but some of them missed and ended up hitting parts of ponyville. thankfully, Starlight and Trixie, along with the solar guards, were keeping the citizens safe and away from danger.

"Use your full power. destroy her." The voice said so Nightmare blasted Celestia with a much stronger beam, but Celestia was still able to deflect it using her shield but it ended up flying off straight at another pony on the ground

"Look out!" Starlight shouted as she jumped in front of them and used her own shield to protect them then she turned to the pony "You need to get out of here. the guards have put up a safe place for the others on the east side of town. go!" she said so the pony nodded and ran off

Trixie ran over "Starlight! are you okay?"

"I'm fine."

Trixie looked around "They sure are causing a lot of damage. Trixie isn't sure how much longer she can keep this up...not that she's getting tired or anything. the great and powerful Trixie can do anything for as long as she wants." she said praising herself again

"I'm sure it won't be much longer. Twilight and the others should be back any moment now with a way to stop Nightmare. for now, let's just keep everypony else safe." Starlight said so Trixie nodded and began running to another part of the town while Starlight looked up at Celestia and Nightmare 'Twilight. where are you? we really need you now more than ever.'

Just as Nightmare fired another beam, Celestia flew high into the air so the beam wouldn't hit anything down below. Once Celestia was high enough, she flew straight down to Nightmare while avoiding her beams. once she had gotten close enough she fired a beam right at Nightmare who quickly created a shield to protect herself as she crashed into the ground below from the force. But Nightmare wasn't done and used her magic to create a sword of darkness. Nightmare flew up and swiped her sword at Celestia who quickly made her own sword of light to block it. Both of them swiped their swords at each other while Nightmare put more force into it with each strike. Nightmare took a big swipe and knocked Celestia's sword away then she blasted Celestia with magic and knocked her away into one of the buildings. Celestia was quick to recover and quickly flew back at Nightmare.

Amber continued to fly to ponyville as fast as she could while watching the battle go down 'Moony...this isn't you. you have to stop. you're gonna hurt them.'

"Amber!" Twilight shouted from behind as she, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash flew in front of her to stop her

"Twilight, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash. what are you doing?"

"We were gonna ask you the same thing. why are you flying straight to ponyville?" Rainbow said

"I have to stop Moony. she's gonna get somepony hurt." Amber said

"Are you crazy?! Ponyvile is a war zone right now. you can't go over there now." Spike said

"But I have to."

Fluttershy flew over and put a hoof on her shoulder "We understand that Nightmare is your friend. but, please understand, if you go over there then you may be hurt in the crossfire." she said

"I don't care!" Amber loudly said making Fluttershy jump back a little "Oh, sorry. but I have to stop Moony. I know she'll listen to me."

"Yeah? but, what if she just decides to blast you to?" Rainbow asked

"She won't. Nightmare swore she would never hurt me. and I know she will stick to that vow. no matter what." Amber said

Twilight looked at Amber for a few minutes then she looked to her friends "I think we should let her go." she said

Rainbow turned to her "Are you crazy to?!"

"Listen, I believe that if anypony can get through to Nightmare, it's Amber." Twilight said

"Well, what if she can't?"

"We'll just have to believe that their friendship is strong enough." Twilight said then she turned to Amber "If Nightmare does try to hurt you, then we'll protect you. okay?"

Amber nodded "Thank you, Twilight." she said then she flew past them and continued on her way to ponyville.

"Spike, can you explain everything to the others?" Twiight asked

"Sure, Twilight. you just go with them." Spike said as Twilight landed and allowed Spike to get off then she flew off to follow Amber with Rainbow and Fluttershy.

Celestia was beginning to tire out with injuries all over her body. while Nightmare just ignored her injuries despite how bad they were. Nightmare then created another aura barrier around her and rushed at Celestia who tried to create her own barrier, but it was destroyed just as Nightmare rammed into her and slammed her to the ground. Nightmare then flew above Celestia and fired another magic beam straight down at Celestia. Celestia used every last bit of her magic to create a barrier to protect herself from the magic, but Nightmare refused to let up. Celestia's barrier began to crack from the magic and just as it shattered, Nightmare stopped and simply landed in the spot away from Celestia. leaving Celestia breathing heavily from exerting so much power when she was already tired.

"She is weak. you can finish her. do it. kill her. protect her wish." The voice said so Nightmare's horn began glowing

Amber was getting close to Nightmare and saw Celestia on the ground and also Nightmare's horn glowing while it was pointed right at Celestia.

"Moony! no!" Amber said as she pushed her wings to their limits

"Amber, wait!" Fluttershy said flying after her along with Rainbow

"Do it! do it for her!" The voice said

Nightmare pointed her horn right at Celestia as a black aura surrounded her and her eyes started spewing purple mist. Amber flew as fast as possible straight down to Nightmare while Twilight, Rainbow, and Fluttershy followed closely behind.

"This...is for Amber." Nightmare whispered but right before she blasted her magic she heard someone yell

"Moony!" Amber shouted as loudly as she could

Nightmare stopped charging her horn as she looked to her right "...Amber?"

Amber landed softly "...Moony." she said, and they remained silent while looking at each other for a few minutes until Amber took a cautious step forward "Moo-."

"No! no, no, no!" Nightmare shouted, though her voice no longer sounded like her normal voice and sounded very distorted "This can't be possible. this is a trick. it has to be."

"Moony, this isn't a trick. I'm actually here." Amber said as she took another step

"No. th-this is some kind of trick. who is it?! who is doing this?!" Nightmare shouted as she looked around her

Amber took another step "Moony, it's really me. it's Am-."

"Amber is gone! I saw her die before my eyes! you're not Amber!" Nightmare shouted

Amber stared at Nightmare "...Moony. you know I would never lie to you. I am the real Amber." she took another step closer

Nightmare charged her horn "Stay. back."

Rainbow was about to run forward but was stopped by Twilight.

Amber didn't stop and took another step "You don't scare me, Moony. I know you won't hurt me."

"How do you know? you're not her." Nightmare said

"Because of what you told me, back in my dream. you said you will never hurt and will always protect me. and, whether you said that or not, I KNOW you'll never hurt me." Amber said

The purple mist coming out of Nightmare's eyes seemed to disappear as they went wide "H-How? only Amber and I would know of the conversation."

Amber stepped closer and was very close to Nightmare "That's not all. before that, you made the dream sky have a rainbow of colors. it was so beautiful that it left me speechless." she said with a smile

Nightmare remained silent as her black aura slowly disappeared and tears started streaming down her face. Nightmare then turned her head away

Amber took one last step and was now sitting right in front of Nightmare "Moony, you have to know now. it really is me."

"But...I saw-."

"Moony, look at me." Amber said so Nightmare looked back at Amber who then held out her hoof "Please, give me your hoof."

Nightmare stared at Amber's hoof then she slowly put her hoof in her's, then Amber moved Nightmare's hoof to her chest and let her feel her beating heart.

"Tell me, Moony. would a dead or fake pony have a perfectly beating heart?"

Nightmare stared at where her hoof was then at Amber, and the longer she felt Amber's heart the more she came to the realization. Amber was alive. she was standing right in front of her, alive. The darkness from Nightmare's eyes disappeared as she leaned down and hugged Amber tightly while loudly crying and Amber hugged back while assuring her it was okay and tearing up herself. While they were hugging, Applejack and the others had finally arrived to witness the scene.

"I'm guessin' everythin' went alright." Applejack said

"Oh, thank heavens. that's a relief." Rarity said

"Whew. I sure am glad that's over." Pinkie said

Amber rubbed Nightmare's mane "Moony, you have to fix the sky now and release Luna."

"L-Let me hug you, J-Just a little longer." Nightmare said

"Moony, please."

"Very well." Nightmare said so she released Amber and used her magic to move the moon, bringing daylight back to Equestria "Now, I will release Luna." she said. Nightmare began leaving Luna's body and once she was completely gone, Luna fainted.

"Luna!" Celestia said as she stood back up and trotted over to Luna

Twilight came over as well "Is she okay?" she asked

"She's still alive, so she may just be exhausted from the dark magic draining her. we should get her back to canterlot as soon as possible." Celestia said checking over Luna

"Celestia." Celestia looked up at Nightmare who bowed her head "I am truly sorry for what I have done. it was never my intention to harm you nor Luna. I hope you can forgive me."

"I...am not sure if I can even believe you." Celestia said

"But it wasn't her fault, it was the monster hunters." Amber said

"Monster hunters?"

"I'll explain later." Twilight said so Celestia simply nodded

Eventually, the ponies and guards had returned where Celestia and Luna were. once Lucy and Onyx saw Amber they immediately ran to her to embrace her in a hug.

"Amber, you're alright!" Onyx said

"When Nightmare came to ponyville and began fighting the princess. I thought she had done something to you. I thought we would never see you again. goddess, am I glad that you're alright." Lucy said

"I'm sorry for worrying you. again. but, everything should be fine now. Moony is back to normal." Amber said as all of them let go and looked at Nightmare

"I am also sorry for worrying you. but, you should know that Amber was never harmed by me." Nightmare said

"That's good. but, we would like to know what really happened." Onyx said

"I will try my best to explain." Nightmare said

"Thank you, Nightmare." Lucy said

"Wait, I kinda want an explanation to. what in tartarus happened?" A mare from the crowd said

"Yeah. why has Nightmare Moon returned?" A stallion said

The crowds were then filled with question after question from different ponies.

"My little pony's, please calm yourselves. everything will be explained soon." Celestia said

"She's right. don't worry, I'll do the explaining!" A voice shouted from behind the crowd and once everyone turned they saw Mystic and Ebony.

"Excuse me, who are you?" Celestia asked

"They are-."

"It doesn't matter." Ebony was quick to cut off Twilight "What does matter is that fact that you are willingly allowing Nightmare Moon to remain alive." she said as she pointed at Celestia making everyone gasp

"Is this true, Princess Celestia?" A mare asked

"I..."

"That's not all." Mystic said getting their attention "Princess Celestia knew Nightmare was alive for a long time as well. yet she did nothing. now, because of her folly, Nightmare Moon took control of Princess Luna and tried to kill her. and yet, she still does nothing."

Ebony stepped forward "Nightmare Moon clearly showed her true intentions to control Luna again to rule Equestria to all of us. if Princess Celestia will not act to deal with a clear threat to Equestria. then, as the ponies, should we not deal with this threat ourselves? for the good of all equestrians?!" she shouted to the crowd. she succeeded in getting them riled up to the point where they began shouting as they trotted to Nightmare Moon.

Twilight used her magic to create a barrier around them to protect Nightmare and everyone else. While Celestia turned to the guards who were also inside the barrier

"Retrieve a carriage. the closest carriage you can find. have Amber, Nightmare, and the element bearers board the carriage and escort them to canterlot as quickly as possible." Celestia said so the guards saluted and left the barrier through a hole Twilight created but quickly closed up to keep the pegasi from getting in.

"Moony, get inside." Amber said so Nightmare nodded and entered Amber's body

"Everypony calm down. let us explain!" Applejack said but nobody was listening.

"They won't listen. we need to get out of here!" Rainbow said

Ebony and Mystic slipped out of the crowd 'All according to plan.' she thought

The guards returned with a carriage and stopped right next to the barrier, so Twilight manipulated the barrier so that it covered the carriage. Celestia opened the carriage and put Luna inside as Amber and the mane six who couldn't fly entered as well. once everyone was aboard, Twilight let down the barrier and allowed the pegasus guards to fly it to canterlot while the other guards protected it from the other pegasi. Celestia and the rest of the mane six also followed the carriage until they had finally arrived at canterlot palace. Celestia had the guards carry Luna to her room while she followed and the others went to the throne room.

"What are we gonna do?" Fluttershy said

"All of ponyville has gone CRAZY!" Pinkie said

"We have to get through to em'. that darn monster hunter ruined everythin'." Applejack said

"I say we head back down there and find that pony. if we can get her to tell the truth, then everypony in ponyville will see that everything wasn't Nightmare's fault." Rainbow said

"It won't work." Twilight said lowering her head

"What do you mean, Twilight?" Rarity asked

"What Ebony said wasn't a complete lie. Celestia did leave Nightmare alive and knew she was alive for a while. true, she didn't know where she was at the time but I doubt that would matter to them. and, I'm sure everypony would still believe it was Celestia's fault for Nightmare's possession of Luna and her attempt to bring eternal night." Twilight explained

"Then, what do we do?!" Rainbow said

"This is all my fault. had I not been so careless when rescuing you, this would've never happened." Nightmare said

"No, Moony. don't say that. this is all those monster hunter's fault. not yours" Amber said but Nightmare remained silent

Once Celestia had returned to the throne room, Twilight ran up to her.

"Princess Celestia, how is Luna?" Twilight asked

"She is resting. it may be a while before she awakens." Celestia said then she trotted to the others

Twilight nodded "Do you plan to talk to the ponies?" she asked

"I do. though, I doubt even I can have them listen to reason. for now, we will have Amber and Nightmare remain here in the palace for their protection." Celestia said

"Wait. I get to live in the palace?!" Amber asked

"It is only temporary. until we can fix this problem, it is better you stay somewhere safe." Celestia said

"Ooh, I get to live in the palace! this is gonna be so much fun!" Amber shouted ignoring Celestia who only chuckled

Celestia turned to the guards "Please prepare a room for Amber, and assign a couple of guards to protect her." she said so the guards saluted and left

"I'm gonna live in a palace! Twist and the others are gonna flip when they hear this!" Amber said

"Living in a palace isn't all that. it does get boring after a while." Nightmare said

"That's what you think, Moony. but I'm sure I'll never get bored of living here." Amber said

Once the guards had returned Celestia tried to get Amber's attention "Amber, please follow the guards. they'll take you to your new room."

Amber nodded and quickly ran up to the guards, then all of them left to take Amber to her room.

"Now, let us discuss what to do about this problem." Celestia said trotting to her throne

Amber had entered her room which was very simple besides the fact that it now had a balcony. it still had a simple bed with a dresser and a mirror on top.

Amber jumped on the bed "Oh wow. this bed is so comfy. I have never felt a bed this soft. I feel like I could go to sleep right now." she said

"Hm."

"Is something wrong, Moony? you haven't exactly been yourself since...you know." Amber said

"...Everything is fine Amber. perhaps we should go to sleep after the eventful day we had. I believe we both may need it." Nightmare said

Amber yawned "Wow, I didn't notice how sleepy I was until now. yeah, maybe we should go to sleep." she said as she got under the covers "See you in my dreams, Moony."

"...See you later, Amber."

Once Amber had closed her eyes, she immediately fell asleep. once she was fully asleep, Nightmare left her body and looked down sadly at her

"I am sorry, Amber. but if I didn't use that seep spell, I doubt you would ever fall asleep." Nightmare said then she floated over to the dresser and found a piece of paper ad a pencil which she put on the dresser using her mouth, she picked up the pencil and began writing a note

Dear, Amber.

I am sorry. I truly did love the time we spent together and what we had, but I fear that if I did not leave, I would only bring more trouble for you and your family, along with Celestia and the element bearers. it is my fault that all of this has happened. and because of that, you may be harmed. I can not have that happen, so to protect you I will leave. please, don't come find me, for I will be someplace where not even Celestia's power will reach. just remember, I will always be your friend, and I will miss you.

Sincerely, Moony.

Nightmare set the pencil down and kept back the tears as she floated to the balcony and forced open the doors. Nightmare took one look back at Amber then she flew away.

An hour later, Amber shivered a bit from the cool winds so she opened her eyes and noticed the balcony doors open.

'Weird, that wasn't open when I came into the room.' Amber thought so she got off the bed and closed the doors.

"Hey, Moony. I had a weird dream. well, to be specific, I didn't have a dream. it was just empty. do you know what happened?" Amber asked but she got no answer "Moony? are you there?" she asked but it was still silence.

Amber then noticed that her body felt different. she no longer felt stronger than before, nor did she feel any of her magic. Amber decided to look in the mirror, though when she went to the dresser she noticed the piece of paper. when she picked it up and read it over. she gasped

"...Moony, no." Amber said softly then she ran to the balcony and looked everywhere for Nightmare with tears streaming down her face "MOONY!" she shouted

Amber left the balcony and her room and quickly made her way to Celestia's throne room before any of the guards could stop her. she burst through the doors holding the letter

"Princess Celestia!" she shouted though she already had her attention. Amber then showed the letter to Celestia who levitated it over to herself.

Celestia gasped and turned to the guards "Call for Twilight and her friends, immediately." she ordered and the guards immediately left.

it didn't take long for Twilight and her friends to gather in the throne room.

"Princess Celestia, what's the matter?" Twilight asked

"This." Celestia floated over the letter to Twilight and her friends who read it themselves

"Nightmare's gone?!" all of them shouted

"Yes, she seems to have left quite a while ago to. since this letter was not found until now." Celestia said

"We have to go and find her!" Amber said though Twilight and the others looked nervous for some reason "What?"

"Well, you see, Amber. I...think it's better Nightmare stays away." Twilight said

"What?!"

"Wait a minute, kid. let us explain. you saw how angry the ponies are right now. if Nightmare stayed, then somepony was gonna get hurt while they tried to get to her." Rainbow said

Applejack nodded "So, we all came to the agreement that Nightmare should be somewhere else for a while till things calm down."

Amber looked at all of them confounded "You were gonna send Moony away?" she asked

"Only for a little bit. it's just...things are a bit tense right now in ponyville." Rarity said

"What if Moony got hurt while she was sent away? what if one of the monster hunters caught her again? how would we save her if she was super far away? would all of you just leave her to die?!" Amber asked

"O-Of course not. we just thought she would be safer away from ponyville." Fluttershy said

"She was safer here, with me. now, she may be hurt and we won't even know it. we have to go and find her." Amber said

"How? she could be anywhere in Equestria right now." Pinkie said

"I don't know, but we have to look." Amber said

"I'm afraid that will be more difficult than you think, Amber." Celestia said making Amber turn to her "Not only do we not know where Nightmare went, but we also do not have the resources nor pony power to go on a widespread search. Because of our fight in ponyville, I have had to send guards there to assist in the rebuilding. that will take time to finish and I need every available guard on it as soon as possible so the ponies there will be able to go back home. I am sorry, but we don't have any to spare on searching for Nightmare." She explained

Amber thought for a moment "Then I'll go look for her."

"You can't." Twilight said

"Yes I can. I'll go looking for Moony myself." Amber said

"No way. it's way too dangerous for you to go alone. and we can't go with you because we have to help with repairs." Rainbow said

"But I-."

"Amber." Celestia said as she trotted to her "I understand how you feel. I know how much you want to go looking for Nightmare. but, you are too young and inexperienced. you will only get yourself hurt if you embark on this journey. for now, return to your room. when we have finished repairing ponyville, I will send a squad of soldiers to look for Nightmare and will inform you as soon as I do. you have my word." she said

Amber looked down but nodded and returned to her room where she laid in her bed and cried for the rest of the day.

Amber looked out the balcony window '...Moony.'

(Two days later)

A hooded mare trotted up to the castle of two sisters, and once she had arrived she entered and looked around. after a few minutes, she left and pulled out a map

"Well, it doesn't seem like she's there anymore. looks like she finally decided to move. that idiot. let's see, the only closest town is...ponyville?" The mare said as she closed the map and turned toward ponyville "Looks like we'll soon be reunited again, Moony." she then set's off again toward ponyville.

Author's Note

I hope you all have enjoyed the story, and as you probably guessed it's not over yet as a few questions remain
"Who is this mysterious mare?"
"Where has Nightmare gone?"
and "When will the next book come out?"
well, to tell you the truth, I have no idea when the next book will come out. but, you can probably expect it soon. no promises though. be sure to keep checking back for it though. I swear, you're not gonna want to miss it. anyway, I've taken enough of your time and will let you go read some others stories. happy trails