On a Blood Red Moonby BronyxyChapters1 The Invitation2 Canterlot by Night3 Luna's Tower4 Bonds of Friendship1 The InvitationBooks rested in piles on the wooden table, creating a barricade between anypony who happened to be in the library and the only other occupant of the room, who was currently muttering to herself from behind her defensive array. The room radiated a benign comfort that the occupant found to be conducive to study, although her occasional muted howls of academic frustration bore witness to her rising exasperation, as she tried unsuccessfully to follow individual strands of obscure research from one book to another. Inside the barricade of books, a lilac unicorn was holding aloft three different volumes in her aura, each at specific pages, whilst she cross referenced against two other books open on the table. She would have liked to see more books open, but there was insufficient table space left once the piles of books that hemmed her in were taken into account. “Hey Twi” came the friendly greeting from a baby dragon emerging from stairs that came up from the kitchen, “I’ve done your pancakes. Where shall I put them?” “Oh … er … over there” said the voice dismissively, neither looking up, nor providing any indication as to where ‘over there’ actually was. Spike looked around, turning a full 360 degrees looking for a convenient surface that wasn’t covered in clutter, then upon finding nothing available, repeated the process for another full turn, just a little more slowly this time. “Umm, I really think you should get them while they’re hot” he continued, eyes finally alighting on the stairs. He walked over and put the plates down on one of the exposed steps leading upwards that seemed to be at about the right height, then waddled round to see what his mistress was doing. Twilight was so engrossed, she didn’t see him immediately, her eyes busily darting from one open reference to another, as she jotted down copious notes in an effort to try and link her findings together. She moved a book levitated in her magic to turn the page and suddenly saw a pair of large emerald green eyes looking up at her, their unexpected arrival causing her to gasp in astonishment, which in turn broke the magical link that held the books aloft. With nothing supporting them any longer, they all tumbled onto the table or the floor, whichever was nearer, in an assortment of little thuds and splats, depending on whether they had landed closed or open. She was ready to snap at him for the interruption, but the nervous ‘little boy lost’ expression on the face of her number one assistant stopped her in her tracks; she couldn’t be cross with him, even though the thread of her research had been lost. “Oh, thanks Spike” she said warmly, betraying none of the anger she had felt only a few seconds previously, “I guess I was getting a little carried away.” She levitated each of the fallen volumes in turn, bookmarking as best she could, and brought them all together to start another pile of books on a small island of space that had appeared before her on the overloaded table. She looked around and noticed the two filled plates resting on the stairs and shot Spike a quizzical glance; “Really?” “Uh … There was nowhere else Twilight” the little dragon replied apologetically. “Oh!” she exclaimed, “Right … sorry about that Spike, but thanks for bringing me lunch. I hadn’t realised how long I’d been going.” “Lunch?” Spike deadpanned, “This is dinner. You missed lunch hours ago.” At this, Twilight blushed furiously. Spike had heard all the excuses before, so switched off listening as she garbled out something that just made her blush an even deeper colour of red. Embarrassed, she levitated the piles of assorted books off the table and placed them over to one side, then drew up a small chair next to her own and fetched the filled plates in her magic, setting one in front of each of them. “There we are Spike” she announced happily, “I hope I didn’t keep you waiting?” “Nah – that looks fine” he replied and climbed up onto his seat before tucking in. Just at that instant, his cheeks swelled, his eyes bulged and his mouth was forced open as a gout of green flame drove its way out, and a scroll materialised in front of them. “Ewwww!” exclaimed Twilight, “Gross!” “Yeah” Spike agreed, “It would be kinda nice if I could switch that thing off when I’m eating.” “What’s it say, Spike?” she asked. “Well” he cleared his throat, then unrolled the scroll with due formality, “It’s from Princess Luna …” Twilight gave a look of surprise that stopped the dragon in his stride; she was used to receiving mail from Princess Celestia, but when she tried to think of a time when anypony else had used the service, she drew a blank. Interest piqued, she nodded for Spike to continue. “Our dear Twilight Sparkle” he read aloud, trying unsuccessfully to hide a smirk, “Hey, that sounds kinda funny, doesn’t it? “Cut it out Spike” she chided, “That’s just the way she talks, OK?” “OK, OK” he conceded, clearing his throat again: “Our dear Twilight Sparkle, We request the pleasure of thy company at Canterlot Castle this evening. Should this be convenient, please wouldst thou respond and a Royal chariot shall be provided for thy transportation. Yours sincerely, Luna, Princess of the Night.” “Wow” mused Twilight, “I wonder what she could want with me?” “Um, Twi” Spike recalled, a look of apprehension creeping across his face, “Don’t you remember how you took on Nightmare Moon? Maybe she wants to get even?” “I don’t think so” said Twilight reassuringly, “I’m pretty sure she’s not the type to bear a grudge.” “Uh huh” replied Spike sceptically, “Not like she's the sort who would dwell on being banished for a thousand years and then try and take over Equestria when she returned?” “Spike, that was Nightmare Moon, not Princess Luna. I’ll be fine. Now please would you send a reply saying that I am looking forward to seeing her tonight.” “You sure” cautioned Spike, “I mean, like, really sure?” “Just take care of it while I make a start on tidying up, OK?” Spike shook his head, but did as he had been asked, and as Twilight levitated each of the books strewn across the floor in turn, working out whether to put them back or leave them to one side for later, she heard the roar of dragon fire that signified the message had been sent. At that precise moment she felt a rush of trepidation run through her, knowing it was simultaneously reappearing in front of a midnight blue mare in Canterlot, and only now did she start to feel anxious, wondering what she had let herself in for. 2 Canterlot by NightThe next hour went by in a blur. Twilight knew a chariot with two or maybe even four charioteers was currently on its way from Canterlot, specifically at Princess Luna’s request to escort her, Ponyville’s librarian, to the seat of power in Equestria as her personal guest. She had no reason to worry, did she? It wasn’t like Spike could be right about Luna holding a grudge; could he? Most ponies, especially fillies, would have spent the intervening hour engaged in choosing what to wear, or at the very least refining their personal grooming. Twilight was not most ponies, and instead, her imagination rose to the occasion, giving her plenty of increasingly unrealistic kidnap and revenge scenarios to consider, until she was almost sick with worry. She started to pace in a clockwise direction around the table in the centre of the room, and the more she fretted, the more she felt the need to keep focused on following the same circular path, fully aware that time was running away, which only served to increase her apprehension. “Oh Spike, what am I going to do?” she repeated for the umpteenth time. Instead of giving his mistress platitudes as he had done every time before, this time he glanced out of the window at something that had caught his eye. “Too late to worry now Twi, they’re here” he called out, “Wow – and wait ‘til you see the chariot!” Twilight broke away from the circular path that threatened to wear a groove in the floor, and went over to join Spike at the window. Immediately outside the Golden Oak library stood Princess Luna’s personal chariot, with two fearsome looking ponies shackled to the front. Twilight’s heart skipped a beat at their frightening appearance. Along with everypony present at the recent Nightmare Night, she had seen a pair of these bat ponies pulling this same chariot when Princess Luna had arrived, but she had never actually met one, or even seen one close up. What struck her most was not their colour, nor the strange bat like shape and texture of their wings, but the yellow eyes that seemed almost to glow. Suddenly, the one nearest the library turned his eye, the vertically slit iris stopping when it pointed directly at her, freezing her blood on the spot. “Hey, I think he’s seen you, Twi” said Spike cheerfully, giving the bat pony a friendly wave. “No kidding” replied Twilight, wishing that her dragon had not been quite so eager to attract attention. “I think they’re waiting for you” Spike continued giving his commentary. “But I’m not ready yet …” she protested, “What should I wear …?” “Uuh, Twi” said Spike, “It’s a bit late for that now. Go as you are – you look fine.” “Fine … ! Fine …!” Twilight flustered, “I’m meeting royalty; fine isn’t nearly good enough!” Spike opened the front door and waved at the bat ponies. “She’s on her way” he announced. The nearest bat pony nodded his head in acknowledgement. “What did you go and say that for, Spike?” demanded Twilight, ripping what few clothes she had from her closet for closer inspection before throwing them unhappily onto the floor, the inspiration she craved completely eluding her. “I think Princess Luna just wants to see you” Spike reassured, “I’d get going if I were you.” Twilight wanted to have a meltdown; she felt she owed it to herself right about now, but she was intimidated by the thought of the two scary looking bat ponies outside the front door waiting for her. Defeated, she hung her head, stepped reluctantly over the scattered piles of clothes, and headed for the door. “Have a nice time, Twi!” the baby dragon called out after her, “Don’t worry; I’ve got everything covered here.” Twilight muttered something most unladylike under her breath; Spike’s cheerfulness was really starting to get under her skin this evening. She also knew that his idea of having 'everything covered' meant comic books and ice cream, making her heart sink. She tried to focus on the strangely gothic appearance of the chariot, but it was the two ponies tasked with pulling it that kept drawing her attention, especially the way their yellow eyes seemed to glow in the dying light of dusk. Keeping a careful distance, she greeted the two charioteers and then climbed up into the seat, before letting them know she was ready to proceed. The chariot lifted off effortlessly into the picturesque dusk sky, and Twilight watched as the scenery below took on altogether a different tone and texture from what she had seen on those rare occasions when she had flown before, always in daylight. Windows in houses shone with lights on inside as their occupants went about their business, completely oblivious to the bat ponies drawing Princess Luna’s royal chariot in the darkening skies above them. She scanned over the sides of the chariot and saw small concentrations of lights all nestled together in groups, reflecting the houses of close knit rural communities, and wondered how bright a city like Canterlot must look from the air. Twilight took stock of her situation; she still didn’t know what Luna wanted of her, but she felt both unprepared and apprehensive. Her insecurities festered in her every thought; on the one hoof she wanted the journey to be over so her worries would stop plaguing her, but on the other, she didn’t want it to end so she wouldn’t have to face whatever waited for her. This dichotomy itself just caused her further angst, and soon she was no longer able to make out the scenery below as darkness claimed the sky and the last vestiges of light faded away. She marvelled at how the charioteers seemed so completely at home in the darkness, and considered that they owed much to the unique vision gifted them by those scary yellow eyes with reptilian irises. Soon the moon rose in all its glory, bathing the landscape in its silvery beauty and restoring her sense of self-reference. It was as if the moon had deigned to join the night sky, like a true monarch accompanied by her ladies-in-waiting and the other members of her Court, represented by the stars, all fussing around and attending to her every need. Twilight watched, mesmerised, as the different constellations emerged, each in their turn, to give character to every single corner of the night sky, and suddenly felt a change as her senses told her they were descending. A quick look forward showed her that they were over Canterlot and she flinched at the garish brightness from such a concentration of lights; streetlights, shops, houses and of course, in the distance, Canterlot Castle. The castle appeared to have been lit to emphasise its fantastical architectural features, making it look even more breathtaking by night than it did by day. Twilight was now so overwhelmed by what she could seem that all her nerves about the evening evaporated, replaced by wonder and awe. The chariot turned gently and aligned itself for where the charioteers knew their Princess would be waiting, making such minor changes to their yaw and glideslope as their passenger would never notice. They approached over the city, Twilight’s eyes growing bigger as the castle assumed its true size, and they made their final descent over the castle walls into the courtyard beyond. They touched down with ne’ery a bump, and once having slowed to a safe speed for ground manoeuvring, turned to pull up alongside a private reception area where a midnight blue pony awaited them. Once they had stopped, Twilight dismounted to meet her hostess, her fears suddenly all coming back and trying to force their way back into her head at once. 3 Luna's TowerLuna approached her guest with stiff formality, adding to the trepidation that was already gnawing a hole in Twilight’s stomach. “Twilight Sparkle” the Princess greeted, “We … er … I am pleased you have chosen to come to meet with me tonight.” “Thanks for inviting me” replied Twilight, adding with a nervous giggle, “Your invite kinda made it hard to say no …” “In what way, pray?” asked Luna, sounding a little defensive. “Well, it sounded like you used to before you started to speak like the rest of us do” she proposed tactfully. “But one still has to write with due formality in such things, does one not?” “Er … not really, Princess” said Twilight, “We’re a lot more laid back these days than it seems you all were back then.” “Oh” said the Princess, taken aback, “In that case, I apologise for implying an urgency which was not intended.” “Don’t worry about it Princess, I’m here now anyway” Twilight smiled reassuringly, feeling a lot more relieved herself, “What is it you wanted me for?” “I should like to share with you some of the mysteries of the night sky from my observatory. It is atop the highest tower, so we could either ascend the stairs or I could fly you, should you prefer.” Twilight gulped; flying was the most practical option, but it would entail climbing up onto the back of royalty, and although she would have done so in an instant if Celestia had asked, she wasn’t sure she was ready for that kind of intimacy with Luna. On the other hoof, there were a lot of steps, and the Princess would be sure to feel affronted by rejection … “OK, Princess” she resolved, “Flying sounds a great idea, if that’s alright with you?” “But of course” Luna confirmed, lowering onto her haunches for her guest to climb on. Twilight swallowed her trepidation and gingerly climbed up despite the wobbly feeling in her legs, coming to rest in a comfortable position near to Luna’s centre of mass. “Hold on tight” commanded the Princess, and once she felt her passenger take a firm hold round her neck, she pounced into the air and beat her large wings, transitioning effortlessly into flight. As they pulled away from the ground, Twilight felt Luna’s powerful flight muscles ripple underneath her, and sensed a corresponding ripple of anticipation shudder through her own body. So soon after having arrived, she was already completely at the mercy of the Princess of the Night, and it scared her just how easily she had allowed it to happen. Luna was as good as her word, and alighted on the precipitously overhanging balcony of the tall white painted tower, squatting on her haunches once more to let her passenger clamber down. Twilight was now arguably less apprehensive of how she felt about being with the Princess, and more acutely concerned about the architectural forces that kept this unfeasibly large balcony in place without collapse. Twilight climbed down and gasped in wide-eyed wonderment as she took in the stunning night time vista that brought everything so close, it may her feel as if she could simply reach out and touch the individual stars. Luna noticed the filly’s breathless excitement and smiled inwardly, closing to stand just near enough beside her so as not to invade her personal space. “It … it’s amazing!” Twilight gasped, turning her head slowly to scan the expanse of bejewelled tapestry that stretched out before her, as if she was stood at the absolute focus of the entire night sky. “One of my better ones, I think” Luna concurred softly. Twilight’s head continued its slow arc around, and before she knew it, ended up staring directly into the soft teal eyes of the one mare responsible for the fabulous display. “You do all this by yourself?” Twilight marvelled. “Yes” Luna replied modestly, “Once upon a time I thought that nopony saw the beauty I wove across the heavens …” “I remember …” stumbled Twilight awkwardly, recalling the whole Nightmare Moon story. “But I was wrong” Luna interrupted, “You see, my Sister and I had been brought up in the Royal Court, and we knew little of what lay beyond. At that time, the three tribes had developed their first bonds of friendship, and care had to be taken to ensure that petty rivalries were not allowed to fester as the Equestria we know today was forged. I admit that jealousy did get the better of me, but it was only upon my return that I learned I was not correct in my assumption, for I had been unaware of the populations of bat ponies and thestrals who dwell in the night, and who shied away from the fledgling Royal Court.” “Were those bat ponies who pulled your chariot?” Twilight enquired. “Precisely” Luna confirmed, “There are large settlements over in Hollow Shades and across the Badlands, whose interests I have been championing with my Sister in the hopes of integrating them into Equestrian society.” “I had no idea …” Twilight began. “Nor should you” Luna explained, “Other than for a brief appearance at Nightmare Night, nopony is really aware of their existence. They are, however, just like other ponies, except they come out at night and sleep during the day.” “Just like other ponies?” asked Twilight, “I’ve read stories about fearsome nocturnal vamponies that eat meat and drink blood …” “Vamponies are fictional creatures” said Luna with a dismissive shake of her head, “But, based on such stories, you can imagine the reaction of ponies if we were to rush attempts to integrate the two societies.” Twilight suddenly realised she had been staring into Luna’s eyes, and felt a rush of blood to her cheeks, turning her head quickly away to focus her attention back to the night sky again. She coughed discretely to clear something in her throat that she hadn’t realised until that moment was caught in it. The Princess picked up on her embarrassment and found the naïve display rather disarming, but pretended to ignore it and instead changed the subject. “You are familiar with the night sky already, I believe?” she enquired. “Yes, I’ve got a telescope on my balcony” the student replied proudly. “Have you ever heard of the moon changing colour?” “Well, there’s a blue moon, but it doesn’t mean that the moon actually changes colour” Twilight added with a giggle and an adorable little snort. “Have you ever heard of a blood red moon?” “Er ... no, actually. Did I miss something?” “It is a very rare phenomenon and it is scheduled for tonight” Luna explained earnestly, “If you are ready, then please pay attention to the colour of the moon.” Twilight speechlessly nodded her ascent, and watched as a stream of light blue energy emanated from Luna’s horn, reaching out far into the distance. Turning her attention back to the moon, she stared incredulous as it began to lose its bright silvery sheen and develop a slightly darker hue, gradually turning to red. “What … what’s going on? Is it going to stay like this?” asked the student, feeling apprehension rising in her chest and asking quietly, “Is night time going to last forever?” “Nothing so dramatic, Twilight Sparkle” Luna reassured, not allowing her aura to drift from the moon for an instant, “It will only last a few minutes, then I shall return it to normal once more.” At this, Twilight untensed just enough for the inquisitive scientist side of her personality to take over, and she began to make mental notes about the spectacular display she was seeing. 4 Bonds of FriendshipOnce the stream of light blue magic had ended and the moon returned to its proper appearance, Twilight turned to the Princess, a look of awe written clearly across her face. “Wow!” she said, all other words failing her. “I am sorry I was unable to answer all of your questions during my spellcasting” said Luna, “But it does demand a certain amount of concentration. Now I should like to take a seat for a short time whilst I recuperate. Would you care to join me?” Luna turned and walked the few steps to the glass balcony doors, opening them in her magic to reveal a darkened study within. She led the way, a few sparks emanating from her horn finding their way to candles that eagerly sputtered to life to please her. A small table with two chairs awaited them, making it clear that she had been expecting company. Another thoughtful touch was the presence of a rather delicious looking cake, flanked by two plates and a pair of silver goblets. “Please, take a seat” Luna offered, gesturing to one of the wooden chairs, ornately carved with mythical creatures. Twilight did as she was bidden, taking in the interesting curios on display along with the shelves of ancient looking books and manuscripts. She knew the Princess was one of the two most powerful alicorns in all of Equestria, and realised very quickly that everything in this room was the exclusive preserve of the highest level magic. She was in the same instant both immediately curious to learn from this unique collection, yet at the same time slightly scared about the sheer power of the spells at hoof. “It is unusual to have a cake sent up to me, as the Royal pâtissier is generally employed full time satisfying the needs of my Sister” said Luna, shooting her guest a mischievous smile, “Please allow me to cut you a slice.” Twilight was so taken aback that Princess Luna had demonstrated she had a sense of humour, that she snapped her attention away from making a mental inventory of the contents of this mysterious room, and looked into the face of her hostess. The midnight blue muzzle was decorated with a smile, a beautiful smile that really suited her; so did the sparkle in her striking teal eyes. This was not the aloof and humourless Princess Luna that so many ponies judged her to be, but a kind and beautiful pony reaching out to a friend. Twilight could not help but smile in return; a warm and genuine smile. “Thank you” she said, “You were so kind to invite me to see all of … this.” “Thank you, Twilight Sparkle; were it not for you, I should still be trapped inside the shell of Nightmare Moon, and Equestria would most likely be under the suffocating umbrella of eternal darkness. Not only that, but you were my only friend at Nightmare Night.” said the Princess, “No, I had a debt to repay.” “It was wonderful” bubbled Twilight enthusiastically, “Can you explain how you did it? Working at such distance must require enormous amounts of power and concentration.” “It does take some effort” Luna acknowledged, understating the issue magnificently, “But, I believe you have a penchant for magic; my Sister speaks fondly of your progress.” “I do enjoy a challenge” Twilight shot back. “I considered as much” said Luna thoughtfully, weighing up how much to say next, then continued, “I am the guardian of the dark realm, so in addition to preparing the night sky, I have a duty to protect Equestria during the hours of darkness. This is a role that requires a good working knowledge of high level magic, especially dark magic. Unfortunately, I am the only one who can perform these duties currently, which means if anything happens to me, Equestria would be vulnerable. As you have demonstrated a talent for magic way beyond your years, I would be prepared to train you for this role if you wish to become my apprentice. Would you be interested?” Twilight was speechless. “I … I would have to think about it” she struggled, “For a start, I don’t know what Princess Celestia would say; there’s her lessons to consider and I don’t know what plans she has for me …” “I understand. Please take your time; I would want you to be happy in your choice.” Luna levitated a flagon and poured two draughts into the empty goblets on the table. “Elderflower” she said, advancing one towards her guest. Twilight suddenly recognised that her mouth was dry, reached out for the silver goblet and tried a sip. “Wow! This is beautiful” she complimented. “It is of my own creation” said Luna, placing the other goblet to her lips and taking a sip herself. Twilight continued with hers, appreciatively savouring each drop. “I’m sure my friend Pinkie Pie would love to know how to make this” she quipped. “I could teach you that too” smiled Luna, “All mysteries here and on other planes of existence to which I have access would be opened up to you.” Twilight tipped the goblet back at such an angle that Luna could tell it was empty, and had the flagon ready for when she placed it back on the table. The Princess raised an eyebrow, in silent invitation and Twilight nodded her thanks as her goblet was refilled. She stared at it, looking at the way its curvature seemed to attract reflections from all of the candles in the room, each shining like little stars in a microcosm of the night sky. She felt her mouth open as her chest drew downwards involuntarily, and she quickly raised a forehoof to cover the yawn she was unable to stop. Embarrassed at how unappreciative this made her seem, she felt a rush of blood to her face and shot a look at Luna to see if she had noticed. The midnight blue face opposite her just smiled benignly. “It has been a busy evening” the Princess observed, “The chariot stands ready to return you to Ponyville, should you wish, but a room has also been prepared for you within the castle, should you wish to stay tonight.” Twilight thought about Spike and how he would worry if she did not return, but realised he was probably sound asleep by now. “It would be great to stay over if that’s OK with you” she decided, “But would you please send Spike a message first thing in the morning so he doesn’t worry?” “Of course” smiled the Princess warmly, “Now would you like me to fly you down to the castle? The long spiral stairs can be quite treacherous, especially if one is tired.” They both rose and walked out onto the balcony. Twilight noticed the air had become much crisper since they had last stood outside, and gave a little shudder as the cold hit her lungs. She took in one last view of the panorama unfolded before her, before turning to look at her Princess, who squatted down once more onto her haunches inviting her to climb up. Twilight skimmed through the night sky on Luna’s back, the chill in the air now no match for the warmth that grew between them, as she no longer held on just for safety, but now used the opportunity to give a heartfelt hug of thanks for sharing so much with her tonight. Whatever course she decided for her future, Twilight knew that the two of them had now forged a strong personal bond of friendship that would last a lifetime. With a contented smile spreading over her face, she leaned forward so she could embrace more of her new friend’s neck and gave another warm squeeze. Luna pretended not to notice, lest it break the moment, but couldn’t help a broad smile breaking out on her face and a few tears of happiness welling up in her eyes.
1 The InvitationBooks rested in piles on the wooden table, creating a barricade between anypony who happened to be in the library and the only other occupant of the room, who was currently muttering to herself from behind her defensive array. The room radiated a benign comfort that the occupant found to be conducive to study, although her occasional muted howls of academic frustration bore witness to her rising exasperation, as she tried unsuccessfully to follow individual strands of obscure research from one book to another. Inside the barricade of books, a lilac unicorn was holding aloft three different volumes in her aura, each at specific pages, whilst she cross referenced against two other books open on the table. She would have liked to see more books open, but there was insufficient table space left once the piles of books that hemmed her in were taken into account. “Hey Twi” came the friendly greeting from a baby dragon emerging from stairs that came up from the kitchen, “I’ve done your pancakes. Where shall I put them?” “Oh … er … over there” said the voice dismissively, neither looking up, nor providing any indication as to where ‘over there’ actually was. Spike looked around, turning a full 360 degrees looking for a convenient surface that wasn’t covered in clutter, then upon finding nothing available, repeated the process for another full turn, just a little more slowly this time. “Umm, I really think you should get them while they’re hot” he continued, eyes finally alighting on the stairs. He walked over and put the plates down on one of the exposed steps leading upwards that seemed to be at about the right height, then waddled round to see what his mistress was doing. Twilight was so engrossed, she didn’t see him immediately, her eyes busily darting from one open reference to another, as she jotted down copious notes in an effort to try and link her findings together. She moved a book levitated in her magic to turn the page and suddenly saw a pair of large emerald green eyes looking up at her, their unexpected arrival causing her to gasp in astonishment, which in turn broke the magical link that held the books aloft. With nothing supporting them any longer, they all tumbled onto the table or the floor, whichever was nearer, in an assortment of little thuds and splats, depending on whether they had landed closed or open. She was ready to snap at him for the interruption, but the nervous ‘little boy lost’ expression on the face of her number one assistant stopped her in her tracks; she couldn’t be cross with him, even though the thread of her research had been lost. “Oh, thanks Spike” she said warmly, betraying none of the anger she had felt only a few seconds previously, “I guess I was getting a little carried away.” She levitated each of the fallen volumes in turn, bookmarking as best she could, and brought them all together to start another pile of books on a small island of space that had appeared before her on the overloaded table. She looked around and noticed the two filled plates resting on the stairs and shot Spike a quizzical glance; “Really?” “Uh … There was nowhere else Twilight” the little dragon replied apologetically. “Oh!” she exclaimed, “Right … sorry about that Spike, but thanks for bringing me lunch. I hadn’t realised how long I’d been going.” “Lunch?” Spike deadpanned, “This is dinner. You missed lunch hours ago.” At this, Twilight blushed furiously. Spike had heard all the excuses before, so switched off listening as she garbled out something that just made her blush an even deeper colour of red. Embarrassed, she levitated the piles of assorted books off the table and placed them over to one side, then drew up a small chair next to her own and fetched the filled plates in her magic, setting one in front of each of them. “There we are Spike” she announced happily, “I hope I didn’t keep you waiting?” “Nah – that looks fine” he replied and climbed up onto his seat before tucking in. Just at that instant, his cheeks swelled, his eyes bulged and his mouth was forced open as a gout of green flame drove its way out, and a scroll materialised in front of them. “Ewwww!” exclaimed Twilight, “Gross!” “Yeah” Spike agreed, “It would be kinda nice if I could switch that thing off when I’m eating.” “What’s it say, Spike?” she asked. “Well” he cleared his throat, then unrolled the scroll with due formality, “It’s from Princess Luna …” Twilight gave a look of surprise that stopped the dragon in his stride; she was used to receiving mail from Princess Celestia, but when she tried to think of a time when anypony else had used the service, she drew a blank. Interest piqued, she nodded for Spike to continue. “Our dear Twilight Sparkle” he read aloud, trying unsuccessfully to hide a smirk, “Hey, that sounds kinda funny, doesn’t it? “Cut it out Spike” she chided, “That’s just the way she talks, OK?” “OK, OK” he conceded, clearing his throat again: “Our dear Twilight Sparkle, We request the pleasure of thy company at Canterlot Castle this evening. Should this be convenient, please wouldst thou respond and a Royal chariot shall be provided for thy transportation. Yours sincerely, Luna, Princess of the Night.” “Wow” mused Twilight, “I wonder what she could want with me?” “Um, Twi” Spike recalled, a look of apprehension creeping across his face, “Don’t you remember how you took on Nightmare Moon? Maybe she wants to get even?” “I don’t think so” said Twilight reassuringly, “I’m pretty sure she’s not the type to bear a grudge.” “Uh huh” replied Spike sceptically, “Not like she's the sort who would dwell on being banished for a thousand years and then try and take over Equestria when she returned?” “Spike, that was Nightmare Moon, not Princess Luna. I’ll be fine. Now please would you send a reply saying that I am looking forward to seeing her tonight.” “You sure” cautioned Spike, “I mean, like, really sure?” “Just take care of it while I make a start on tidying up, OK?” Spike shook his head, but did as he had been asked, and as Twilight levitated each of the books strewn across the floor in turn, working out whether to put them back or leave them to one side for later, she heard the roar of dragon fire that signified the message had been sent. At that precise moment she felt a rush of trepidation run through her, knowing it was simultaneously reappearing in front of a midnight blue mare in Canterlot, and only now did she start to feel anxious, wondering what she had let herself in for.
2 Canterlot by NightThe next hour went by in a blur. Twilight knew a chariot with two or maybe even four charioteers was currently on its way from Canterlot, specifically at Princess Luna’s request to escort her, Ponyville’s librarian, to the seat of power in Equestria as her personal guest. She had no reason to worry, did she? It wasn’t like Spike could be right about Luna holding a grudge; could he? Most ponies, especially fillies, would have spent the intervening hour engaged in choosing what to wear, or at the very least refining their personal grooming. Twilight was not most ponies, and instead, her imagination rose to the occasion, giving her plenty of increasingly unrealistic kidnap and revenge scenarios to consider, until she was almost sick with worry. She started to pace in a clockwise direction around the table in the centre of the room, and the more she fretted, the more she felt the need to keep focused on following the same circular path, fully aware that time was running away, which only served to increase her apprehension. “Oh Spike, what am I going to do?” she repeated for the umpteenth time. Instead of giving his mistress platitudes as he had done every time before, this time he glanced out of the window at something that had caught his eye. “Too late to worry now Twi, they’re here” he called out, “Wow – and wait ‘til you see the chariot!” Twilight broke away from the circular path that threatened to wear a groove in the floor, and went over to join Spike at the window. Immediately outside the Golden Oak library stood Princess Luna’s personal chariot, with two fearsome looking ponies shackled to the front. Twilight’s heart skipped a beat at their frightening appearance. Along with everypony present at the recent Nightmare Night, she had seen a pair of these bat ponies pulling this same chariot when Princess Luna had arrived, but she had never actually met one, or even seen one close up. What struck her most was not their colour, nor the strange bat like shape and texture of their wings, but the yellow eyes that seemed almost to glow. Suddenly, the one nearest the library turned his eye, the vertically slit iris stopping when it pointed directly at her, freezing her blood on the spot. “Hey, I think he’s seen you, Twi” said Spike cheerfully, giving the bat pony a friendly wave. “No kidding” replied Twilight, wishing that her dragon had not been quite so eager to attract attention. “I think they’re waiting for you” Spike continued giving his commentary. “But I’m not ready yet …” she protested, “What should I wear …?” “Uuh, Twi” said Spike, “It’s a bit late for that now. Go as you are – you look fine.” “Fine … ! Fine …!” Twilight flustered, “I’m meeting royalty; fine isn’t nearly good enough!” Spike opened the front door and waved at the bat ponies. “She’s on her way” he announced. The nearest bat pony nodded his head in acknowledgement. “What did you go and say that for, Spike?” demanded Twilight, ripping what few clothes she had from her closet for closer inspection before throwing them unhappily onto the floor, the inspiration she craved completely eluding her. “I think Princess Luna just wants to see you” Spike reassured, “I’d get going if I were you.” Twilight wanted to have a meltdown; she felt she owed it to herself right about now, but she was intimidated by the thought of the two scary looking bat ponies outside the front door waiting for her. Defeated, she hung her head, stepped reluctantly over the scattered piles of clothes, and headed for the door. “Have a nice time, Twi!” the baby dragon called out after her, “Don’t worry; I’ve got everything covered here.” Twilight muttered something most unladylike under her breath; Spike’s cheerfulness was really starting to get under her skin this evening. She also knew that his idea of having 'everything covered' meant comic books and ice cream, making her heart sink. She tried to focus on the strangely gothic appearance of the chariot, but it was the two ponies tasked with pulling it that kept drawing her attention, especially the way their yellow eyes seemed to glow in the dying light of dusk. Keeping a careful distance, she greeted the two charioteers and then climbed up into the seat, before letting them know she was ready to proceed. The chariot lifted off effortlessly into the picturesque dusk sky, and Twilight watched as the scenery below took on altogether a different tone and texture from what she had seen on those rare occasions when she had flown before, always in daylight. Windows in houses shone with lights on inside as their occupants went about their business, completely oblivious to the bat ponies drawing Princess Luna’s royal chariot in the darkening skies above them. She scanned over the sides of the chariot and saw small concentrations of lights all nestled together in groups, reflecting the houses of close knit rural communities, and wondered how bright a city like Canterlot must look from the air. Twilight took stock of her situation; she still didn’t know what Luna wanted of her, but she felt both unprepared and apprehensive. Her insecurities festered in her every thought; on the one hoof she wanted the journey to be over so her worries would stop plaguing her, but on the other, she didn’t want it to end so she wouldn’t have to face whatever waited for her. This dichotomy itself just caused her further angst, and soon she was no longer able to make out the scenery below as darkness claimed the sky and the last vestiges of light faded away. She marvelled at how the charioteers seemed so completely at home in the darkness, and considered that they owed much to the unique vision gifted them by those scary yellow eyes with reptilian irises. Soon the moon rose in all its glory, bathing the landscape in its silvery beauty and restoring her sense of self-reference. It was as if the moon had deigned to join the night sky, like a true monarch accompanied by her ladies-in-waiting and the other members of her Court, represented by the stars, all fussing around and attending to her every need. Twilight watched, mesmerised, as the different constellations emerged, each in their turn, to give character to every single corner of the night sky, and suddenly felt a change as her senses told her they were descending. A quick look forward showed her that they were over Canterlot and she flinched at the garish brightness from such a concentration of lights; streetlights, shops, houses and of course, in the distance, Canterlot Castle. The castle appeared to have been lit to emphasise its fantastical architectural features, making it look even more breathtaking by night than it did by day. Twilight was now so overwhelmed by what she could seem that all her nerves about the evening evaporated, replaced by wonder and awe. The chariot turned gently and aligned itself for where the charioteers knew their Princess would be waiting, making such minor changes to their yaw and glideslope as their passenger would never notice. They approached over the city, Twilight’s eyes growing bigger as the castle assumed its true size, and they made their final descent over the castle walls into the courtyard beyond. They touched down with ne’ery a bump, and once having slowed to a safe speed for ground manoeuvring, turned to pull up alongside a private reception area where a midnight blue pony awaited them. Once they had stopped, Twilight dismounted to meet her hostess, her fears suddenly all coming back and trying to force their way back into her head at once.
3 Luna's TowerLuna approached her guest with stiff formality, adding to the trepidation that was already gnawing a hole in Twilight’s stomach. “Twilight Sparkle” the Princess greeted, “We … er … I am pleased you have chosen to come to meet with me tonight.” “Thanks for inviting me” replied Twilight, adding with a nervous giggle, “Your invite kinda made it hard to say no …” “In what way, pray?” asked Luna, sounding a little defensive. “Well, it sounded like you used to before you started to speak like the rest of us do” she proposed tactfully. “But one still has to write with due formality in such things, does one not?” “Er … not really, Princess” said Twilight, “We’re a lot more laid back these days than it seems you all were back then.” “Oh” said the Princess, taken aback, “In that case, I apologise for implying an urgency which was not intended.” “Don’t worry about it Princess, I’m here now anyway” Twilight smiled reassuringly, feeling a lot more relieved herself, “What is it you wanted me for?” “I should like to share with you some of the mysteries of the night sky from my observatory. It is atop the highest tower, so we could either ascend the stairs or I could fly you, should you prefer.” Twilight gulped; flying was the most practical option, but it would entail climbing up onto the back of royalty, and although she would have done so in an instant if Celestia had asked, she wasn’t sure she was ready for that kind of intimacy with Luna. On the other hoof, there were a lot of steps, and the Princess would be sure to feel affronted by rejection … “OK, Princess” she resolved, “Flying sounds a great idea, if that’s alright with you?” “But of course” Luna confirmed, lowering onto her haunches for her guest to climb on. Twilight swallowed her trepidation and gingerly climbed up despite the wobbly feeling in her legs, coming to rest in a comfortable position near to Luna’s centre of mass. “Hold on tight” commanded the Princess, and once she felt her passenger take a firm hold round her neck, she pounced into the air and beat her large wings, transitioning effortlessly into flight. As they pulled away from the ground, Twilight felt Luna’s powerful flight muscles ripple underneath her, and sensed a corresponding ripple of anticipation shudder through her own body. So soon after having arrived, she was already completely at the mercy of the Princess of the Night, and it scared her just how easily she had allowed it to happen. Luna was as good as her word, and alighted on the precipitously overhanging balcony of the tall white painted tower, squatting on her haunches once more to let her passenger clamber down. Twilight was now arguably less apprehensive of how she felt about being with the Princess, and more acutely concerned about the architectural forces that kept this unfeasibly large balcony in place without collapse. Twilight climbed down and gasped in wide-eyed wonderment as she took in the stunning night time vista that brought everything so close, it may her feel as if she could simply reach out and touch the individual stars. Luna noticed the filly’s breathless excitement and smiled inwardly, closing to stand just near enough beside her so as not to invade her personal space. “It … it’s amazing!” Twilight gasped, turning her head slowly to scan the expanse of bejewelled tapestry that stretched out before her, as if she was stood at the absolute focus of the entire night sky. “One of my better ones, I think” Luna concurred softly. Twilight’s head continued its slow arc around, and before she knew it, ended up staring directly into the soft teal eyes of the one mare responsible for the fabulous display. “You do all this by yourself?” Twilight marvelled. “Yes” Luna replied modestly, “Once upon a time I thought that nopony saw the beauty I wove across the heavens …” “I remember …” stumbled Twilight awkwardly, recalling the whole Nightmare Moon story. “But I was wrong” Luna interrupted, “You see, my Sister and I had been brought up in the Royal Court, and we knew little of what lay beyond. At that time, the three tribes had developed their first bonds of friendship, and care had to be taken to ensure that petty rivalries were not allowed to fester as the Equestria we know today was forged. I admit that jealousy did get the better of me, but it was only upon my return that I learned I was not correct in my assumption, for I had been unaware of the populations of bat ponies and thestrals who dwell in the night, and who shied away from the fledgling Royal Court.” “Were those bat ponies who pulled your chariot?” Twilight enquired. “Precisely” Luna confirmed, “There are large settlements over in Hollow Shades and across the Badlands, whose interests I have been championing with my Sister in the hopes of integrating them into Equestrian society.” “I had no idea …” Twilight began. “Nor should you” Luna explained, “Other than for a brief appearance at Nightmare Night, nopony is really aware of their existence. They are, however, just like other ponies, except they come out at night and sleep during the day.” “Just like other ponies?” asked Twilight, “I’ve read stories about fearsome nocturnal vamponies that eat meat and drink blood …” “Vamponies are fictional creatures” said Luna with a dismissive shake of her head, “But, based on such stories, you can imagine the reaction of ponies if we were to rush attempts to integrate the two societies.” Twilight suddenly realised she had been staring into Luna’s eyes, and felt a rush of blood to her cheeks, turning her head quickly away to focus her attention back to the night sky again. She coughed discretely to clear something in her throat that she hadn’t realised until that moment was caught in it. The Princess picked up on her embarrassment and found the naïve display rather disarming, but pretended to ignore it and instead changed the subject. “You are familiar with the night sky already, I believe?” she enquired. “Yes, I’ve got a telescope on my balcony” the student replied proudly. “Have you ever heard of the moon changing colour?” “Well, there’s a blue moon, but it doesn’t mean that the moon actually changes colour” Twilight added with a giggle and an adorable little snort. “Have you ever heard of a blood red moon?” “Er ... no, actually. Did I miss something?” “It is a very rare phenomenon and it is scheduled for tonight” Luna explained earnestly, “If you are ready, then please pay attention to the colour of the moon.” Twilight speechlessly nodded her ascent, and watched as a stream of light blue energy emanated from Luna’s horn, reaching out far into the distance. Turning her attention back to the moon, she stared incredulous as it began to lose its bright silvery sheen and develop a slightly darker hue, gradually turning to red. “What … what’s going on? Is it going to stay like this?” asked the student, feeling apprehension rising in her chest and asking quietly, “Is night time going to last forever?” “Nothing so dramatic, Twilight Sparkle” Luna reassured, not allowing her aura to drift from the moon for an instant, “It will only last a few minutes, then I shall return it to normal once more.” At this, Twilight untensed just enough for the inquisitive scientist side of her personality to take over, and she began to make mental notes about the spectacular display she was seeing.
4 Bonds of FriendshipOnce the stream of light blue magic had ended and the moon returned to its proper appearance, Twilight turned to the Princess, a look of awe written clearly across her face. “Wow!” she said, all other words failing her. “I am sorry I was unable to answer all of your questions during my spellcasting” said Luna, “But it does demand a certain amount of concentration. Now I should like to take a seat for a short time whilst I recuperate. Would you care to join me?” Luna turned and walked the few steps to the glass balcony doors, opening them in her magic to reveal a darkened study within. She led the way, a few sparks emanating from her horn finding their way to candles that eagerly sputtered to life to please her. A small table with two chairs awaited them, making it clear that she had been expecting company. Another thoughtful touch was the presence of a rather delicious looking cake, flanked by two plates and a pair of silver goblets. “Please, take a seat” Luna offered, gesturing to one of the wooden chairs, ornately carved with mythical creatures. Twilight did as she was bidden, taking in the interesting curios on display along with the shelves of ancient looking books and manuscripts. She knew the Princess was one of the two most powerful alicorns in all of Equestria, and realised very quickly that everything in this room was the exclusive preserve of the highest level magic. She was in the same instant both immediately curious to learn from this unique collection, yet at the same time slightly scared about the sheer power of the spells at hoof. “It is unusual to have a cake sent up to me, as the Royal pâtissier is generally employed full time satisfying the needs of my Sister” said Luna, shooting her guest a mischievous smile, “Please allow me to cut you a slice.” Twilight was so taken aback that Princess Luna had demonstrated she had a sense of humour, that she snapped her attention away from making a mental inventory of the contents of this mysterious room, and looked into the face of her hostess. The midnight blue muzzle was decorated with a smile, a beautiful smile that really suited her; so did the sparkle in her striking teal eyes. This was not the aloof and humourless Princess Luna that so many ponies judged her to be, but a kind and beautiful pony reaching out to a friend. Twilight could not help but smile in return; a warm and genuine smile. “Thank you” she said, “You were so kind to invite me to see all of … this.” “Thank you, Twilight Sparkle; were it not for you, I should still be trapped inside the shell of Nightmare Moon, and Equestria would most likely be under the suffocating umbrella of eternal darkness. Not only that, but you were my only friend at Nightmare Night.” said the Princess, “No, I had a debt to repay.” “It was wonderful” bubbled Twilight enthusiastically, “Can you explain how you did it? Working at such distance must require enormous amounts of power and concentration.” “It does take some effort” Luna acknowledged, understating the issue magnificently, “But, I believe you have a penchant for magic; my Sister speaks fondly of your progress.” “I do enjoy a challenge” Twilight shot back. “I considered as much” said Luna thoughtfully, weighing up how much to say next, then continued, “I am the guardian of the dark realm, so in addition to preparing the night sky, I have a duty to protect Equestria during the hours of darkness. This is a role that requires a good working knowledge of high level magic, especially dark magic. Unfortunately, I am the only one who can perform these duties currently, which means if anything happens to me, Equestria would be vulnerable. As you have demonstrated a talent for magic way beyond your years, I would be prepared to train you for this role if you wish to become my apprentice. Would you be interested?” Twilight was speechless. “I … I would have to think about it” she struggled, “For a start, I don’t know what Princess Celestia would say; there’s her lessons to consider and I don’t know what plans she has for me …” “I understand. Please take your time; I would want you to be happy in your choice.” Luna levitated a flagon and poured two draughts into the empty goblets on the table. “Elderflower” she said, advancing one towards her guest. Twilight suddenly recognised that her mouth was dry, reached out for the silver goblet and tried a sip. “Wow! This is beautiful” she complimented. “It is of my own creation” said Luna, placing the other goblet to her lips and taking a sip herself. Twilight continued with hers, appreciatively savouring each drop. “I’m sure my friend Pinkie Pie would love to know how to make this” she quipped. “I could teach you that too” smiled Luna, “All mysteries here and on other planes of existence to which I have access would be opened up to you.” Twilight tipped the goblet back at such an angle that Luna could tell it was empty, and had the flagon ready for when she placed it back on the table. The Princess raised an eyebrow, in silent invitation and Twilight nodded her thanks as her goblet was refilled. She stared at it, looking at the way its curvature seemed to attract reflections from all of the candles in the room, each shining like little stars in a microcosm of the night sky. She felt her mouth open as her chest drew downwards involuntarily, and she quickly raised a forehoof to cover the yawn she was unable to stop. Embarrassed at how unappreciative this made her seem, she felt a rush of blood to her face and shot a look at Luna to see if she had noticed. The midnight blue face opposite her just smiled benignly. “It has been a busy evening” the Princess observed, “The chariot stands ready to return you to Ponyville, should you wish, but a room has also been prepared for you within the castle, should you wish to stay tonight.” Twilight thought about Spike and how he would worry if she did not return, but realised he was probably sound asleep by now. “It would be great to stay over if that’s OK with you” she decided, “But would you please send Spike a message first thing in the morning so he doesn’t worry?” “Of course” smiled the Princess warmly, “Now would you like me to fly you down to the castle? The long spiral stairs can be quite treacherous, especially if one is tired.” They both rose and walked out onto the balcony. Twilight noticed the air had become much crisper since they had last stood outside, and gave a little shudder as the cold hit her lungs. She took in one last view of the panorama unfolded before her, before turning to look at her Princess, who squatted down once more onto her haunches inviting her to climb up. Twilight skimmed through the night sky on Luna’s back, the chill in the air now no match for the warmth that grew between them, as she no longer held on just for safety, but now used the opportunity to give a heartfelt hug of thanks for sharing so much with her tonight. Whatever course she decided for her future, Twilight knew that the two of them had now forged a strong personal bond of friendship that would last a lifetime. With a contented smile spreading over her face, she leaned forward so she could embrace more of her new friend’s neck and gave another warm squeeze. Luna pretended not to notice, lest it break the moment, but couldn’t help a broad smile breaking out on her face and a few tears of happiness welling up in her eyes.
