CHAPTER 6: FRIENDSHIP IS EVERLASTING - Part 3

The raucous laughter and lively chatter from the party beyond her bedroom door filled the air. A stark contrast to her usual serene environment. Twilight could barely make out the sounds of ponies cheering and dancing in her small library, a place she believed should be reserved for books and quiet reflection. The thought of a welcome party irritated her; she found it unnecessary to celebrate the arrival of new neighbors, especially at such a late hour. The night had settled in, yet the festivities continued unabated, much to her dismay.

Her annoyance amplified in her mind as each burst of laughter seemed to echo in her hollow skull. She longed for the peace of her books, the gentle rustle of pages turning instead of the cacophony of celebration. Twilight contemplated whether she should join the revelry or retreat further into her sanctuary, torn between her desire for solitude and the social expectations of her potential pony friends. The clock ticked on, and with each passing moment, her irritation grew, fueling her resolve to find a way to restore the tranquility she cherished.

But she can’t focus on that right now.

Twilight's eyes lingered on Marcus, the Prestige Knight, who occupied her bed with an air of authority. His imposing stature was hard to ignore; broad shoulders and a height that towered over her, making her feel diminutive by comparison. The few inches that separated them felt like a chasm, accentuated by his muscular build that exuded strength and confidence. There was a rugged charm to him, a blend of power and allure that both intrigued and intimidated her. His presence filled the room, making it hard for her to focus on anything else.

“I’m sorry about the noise, Marcus. I wish we would’ve done this in quieter circumstances,” Twilight said, glancing at him again with an apologetic look.

Marcus shrugged. “You need not to apologize, Twilight. Every—er, every-pony is just having fun down there so I don’t mind at all. Besides, I think Spike is having the most fun, heheheh.”

“Yeah, I noticed.” Twilight shook her head lightly.

“But with that out of the fray, let’s get down to business. You said back downstairs that you wish to discuss something with me, so,” Marcus raised his eyebrow with a smirk under his helmet. “Shoot away.”

Twilight smiled a little. “Alright… have you ever heard of the tale called, Mare in the Moon?”

“Hmm, no,” Marcus replied. “Is it some Fairy Tale I should be aware of?”

“Well, not many ponies read about it,” Twilight said, her magic wrapping around the book, lifting it off the floor towards her waiting hands. “I first learned of the tale from this very book, and it contains the contents of all of Equestria’s ancient histories.”

Twilight turns the page once before glancing up at Marcus. Marcus stared back before nodding his head once, giving her his full attention. Twilight clears her throat.

“Once upon a time, in the magical land of Equestria,” Twilight began, her eyes slowly scanning the book’s context. “There were two regal sisters who ruled together and created harmony for all the land. To do this, the eldest used her unicorn powers to raise the sun at dawn; the younger brought out the moon to begin the night. Thus, the two sisters maintained balance for their kingdom and their subjects, all the different types of ponies. But as time went on, the younger sister became resentful.”

“The ponies relished and played in the day her elder sister brought forth, but shunned and slept through her beautiful night. One fateful day, the younger unicorn refused to lower the moon to make way for the dawn. The elder sister tried to reason with her, but the bitterness in the young one's heart had transformed her into a wicked mare of darkness:

Nightmare Moon.”

“She vowed that she would shroud the land in eternal night. Reluctantly, the elder sister harnessed the most powerful magic known to ponydom: the Elements of Harmony. Using the magic of the Elements of Harmony, she defeated her younger sister, and banished her permanently in the moon. The elder sister took on responsibility for both sun and moon and harmony has been maintained in Equestria ever since.”

Twilight folds up the book and sets it aside on her bed, leaning forward in anticipation of the response she was sure Marcus’s reaction would bring. Marcus cupped the chin of his helmet and closed his eyes in thought, pondering over the tale. He brought his arms back in a cross.

“So, this Nightmare Moon used to be a good Pony and a pure princess,” Marcus started with a nod. “Then she became jealous of her elder sister, refused to lower the moon, and became the wicked mare she is today. However, one thing still puzzles me: what does that have to do with me?”

Twilight blinked. “Oh? Well, as you know, everypony thought all of the Prestige Knights were extinct; that is until we met you today. Back in the old age of Equestrian history when a new threat arises from the shadows, it is a Prestige Knight’s duty to wipe out said threat before it may bring harm to all ponies. So when I saw you today I was filled with a sense of hope. I thought maybe…”

“That I would be the one to take Nightmare Moon down.” Marcus finished for her as his brows pulled together. “No wonder you want my help. I’m no ordinary warrior, after all.”

Twilight nodded, a hint of excitement in her voice. “Exactly! Me and the girls saw how you fought off those creatures, so I—”

“Hold on now, Twilight.” Marcus raised his hand, silencing Twilight’s rambling. “Truth told: I am strong. However, there’s something that I don’t think you consider when it comes to a warrior's strength.”

Twilight tilted her head to the side. “And what’s that?”

Marcus’s shoulders fell as he sighed softly.

“How strong is Nightmare Moon?” Marcus asked. “How much power does she wield?”

Twilight folded her arms and tilted her head.

“Well, from what Princess Celestia has told me… Nightmare Moon is powerful beyond words. She even told me that she had to use all of her magic to not only defeat her but seal her in the moon,” Twilight answered, glancing at the floor with worry in her countenance. “If she were to return, Princess Celestia could defeat her again if she wished, but if it was any-pony else—or you for that matter—I don’t know.”

Marcus nodded slowly while completing his mental calculations. In his mind’s eye, he had faced many strong bosses throughout his time playing soul-like games. Said bosses were incredibly tough opponents, and usually had extremely high HP or low defense. But despite the challenging difficulty, he prevailed and won victoriously. But that was all in a video game.

Marcus was no longer in his other world anymore. He was now in a new world that was similar to the realm he’s familiar with from the game but turned into reality. Without a doubt he is the strongest, evident by his high level. But who’s to say this Nightmare Moon is stronger than him?

Marcus gazed at Twilight. If this Nightmare Moon is dangerous as Twilight described, perhaps he couldn’t afford to underestimate her. Nor can he abandon her or every-pony that lives in Ponyville at a time of need. Twilight did request him for his aid in hopefully defeating Nightmare Moon after all; he can’t turn his back on people—or rather, ponies who need him.

“Alright Twilight, I shall lend you my aid. We will wait for this Nightmare Moon to arrive. And when she does arrive, I will do my utmost best to take her down.” Marcus declared with determination.

Twilight smiled brightly at his answer. She then got up from the bed and walked towards Marcus.

“Thank you, Marcus.” Twilight extended her hand for Marcus to take. “Let’s do our best to save every-pony.”

Marcus chuckled and grabbed Twilight’s hand. “Likewise”

“If she is as powerful as Twilight says, then you must be ready.”

Edwen suddenly materializes into existence beside Marcus. Twilight gasped whilst retreating backwards, placing her hand over her heart. Her eyes darted between Marcus and the latter who gracefully hovered by his side. Edwen giggled upon seeing Twilight’s startled reaction.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you,” Edwen apologized, smiling warmly. “Allow me to introduce myself: I am Edwen, the sentient intelligence assigned to guide your new guardian of the realm wherever his journey may lead.”

Twilight shifted her gaze towards Marcus. The armored latter jerked his head towards his fairy-like companion.

“What she said,” Marcus said.

Twilight looked at Edwen with curiosity and parted her lips to ask. Only for Edwen to raise her small hand, halting the mare.

“I understand that after meeting a being like myself that you have questions; your curiosity is noted,” Edwen remarked, dropping her hand back to her side. “However, I believe we have more important matters that the three of us must attend to, correct?”

Twilight blinked rapidly before nodding her head.

“Right,” Twilight replied.

Marcus stood up and gazed down at the pair.

“Then let’s not keep them waiting.”

Marcus found himself surrounded by a vibrant sea of anthro ponies, each one buzzing with excitement and energy. As he scanned the crowd, he noticed a few pairs of eyes lingering on him, their expressions a mix of curiosity and confusion, likely from those who had missed the festivities at Pinkie Pie's party. Yet the crowd continued to revel in their own joy for the most part, allowing him a moment of peace. Beside him stood Twilight, her eyes serious and focused, a calm presence amidst the chaos.

Spike was animatedly chatting with Applebloom nearby, their laughter ringing out as they shared stories and experiences. Marcus felt a swell of happiness at the sight; Spike was finally finding his place among friends, a stark contrast to the loneliness he had often felt back in Canterlot. The atmosphere was electric, filled with the promise of new memories and connections, and Marcus couldn’t help but feel a sense of belonging. But said belonging was overshadowed by another feeling that caused his stomach to flip. One that had been with him since he and Twilight had arrived at the Summer Sun Festival:

Fear.

Marcus lowered his gaze to the floor. He wouldn’t voice his worries, but he couldn't shake the uneasy dread that loomed over him, like a storm cloud waiting to unleash its fury. He knew better than the next player to never underestimate an opponent’s strength and cunning. The fear gnawed at him, whispering of hidden dangers and unseen forces at work. The question of whether he’s strong enough to defeat this threat haunted his thoughts, filling him with doubt. Despite the lively festival unfolding around him, Marcus couldn’t ignore the tension tightening in his chest.

But it’s too late to turn back now. He had already decided to see this through to the end. There was too much at stake to let fear paralyze him, and so he steeled his resolve. He can only hope to God that he was prepared for whatever might come.

Marcus collected himself by taking a deep breath. His resolve hardened, squaring his shoulders, and his eyes scanning the cheerful crowd. His gaze landed on a familiar yellow pegasus staring at him from afar among the crowd. She blinked and silently gasped, her cheeks flushing pink as she broke eye contact. Marcus arched an eyebrow, curious about her reaction.

“It seems you have an admirer,” Edwen said, materializing out of existence. Marcus briefly shifted his gaze toward his companion then back at the far away shy pony.

“You think so?” Marcus asked.

Edwen grinned at the armored knight.

“Well, how else would you explain why she’s so bashful towards you, hmm?” Edwen replied cheekily, eyes twinkling with mischief. Marcus chuckled, shaking his head slightly, though a part of him appreciated the humor.

The tranquil atmosphere was broken by birds singing their harmonies songs. The crowd of pony’s chattering descended to silence as they all looked up at the second floor of the town hall where Rarity stood by a curtained off area, ready to pull the cord to reveal the Princess. Fluttershy smiled as she guided her birds to sing, announcing the reveal. A spot light shines down to just under the curtained off balcony area where Mayor Mare stood ready for a speech.

“Fillies and gentlecolts, as Mayor of Ponyville, it is my pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration.” She called out her voice carrying over the crowd, only to be drowned out by the thunder of stomping hooves and cheering.

After waiting for the cheering to die down the Mayor spoke again.

“In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sunrise and celebrate this, the longest day of the year,” Mayor continued. “And now it is my great honor to introduce you to the ruler of our land.”

Marcus noticed Twilight glanced to the sky with worry plastering her countenance. He followed her direction and saw the moon through the great glass windows at the top of the town hall. His brow rose in bewilderment when he realized the stars were gone and the image of the mare on the moon seemed to vanish.

“The very pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, the bringer of harmony to all of Equestria....”

Marcus redirected his gaze back at the Mayor. He watched Fluttershy gesturing for her birds to ready the fanfare, Pinkie Pie (for some reason) vibrating in place, Rarity readying herself to pull the cord, and Applejack offering a slice of cake to a pony. Spike and Applebloom looked up at the upper balcony with excitement. Rainbow Dash devoured said cake slice.

“PRINCESS CELESTIA!”

The curtain was yanked back and the spotlight moved to the upper balcony. However, the center on said balcony revealed nothing. Much to everypony and the armored knight’s puzzlement. Ponies around him started yammering in shock as Rarity poked her head behind the curtain looking for the Princess.

“This can't be good.” Twilight muttered, drawing Marcus and Pinkie Pie's attention.

“Indeed,” Marcus agreed.

“Be calm everypony there must be a reasonable explanation.” Mayor Mare placated.

“Ooh, Ohh, I love guessing games.” Pinkie Pie chimed up as she looked around. “Is she hiding?”

“She's gone.” Rarity called down as all the others gasped in shock.

“Ooh she's good.” Pinkie Pie admitted looking up at the balcony.

Marcus and Twilight became alert when they heard Pinkie scream. Her cry was followed by several other screams and shrieks from the crowd of ponies as a dark purplish mist began to form, billowing over the balcony. The mist took the form of a towering black anthro alicorn donning metallic blue armor. Her mane and tail swirled around her like an unbound miasma of partially stars and mostly void. Her teal eyes were slitted akin to a cats, staring down at the gathered ponies, most of them too much in shock at the appearance of the dark mare to even move.

Marcus glanced up at the armored mare. He had mixed emotions regarding her appearance. On one hand he was quite intimidated by the mare’s aura, one so powerful that the tension in the room nearly tripled with each heartbeat that passed. On the other hand he could not deny how beautiful she truly was, especially the way her mane flowed like a calm ripple of a water’s surface.

“Oh my beloved subjects. It's been so long since I've seen your precious little sun loving faces,” The mare sneered glaring down at them all.

“WHAT DID YOU DO WITH OUR PRINCESS!” Rainbow Dash shouted, launching into the air only for Applejack to grab her by the waist.

Marcus glanced around the room. He saw Twilight narrowing her eyes up at the dark armored mare. Spike stood in front of a number of foals who had huddled under the table, anger written over his features as he glared up at the dark alicorn with his dagger in hand.

“Why? Am I not royal enough for you?” The mare chuckled, however her laughter cut off for a moment and narrowed her eyes dangerously. “Don't you know who I am?”

“Ooh, more guessing games. Hmmm, Hokey Smokes? No, Queen Meanie! Oh, Oh, Oh, I got it, Black snooty, that's it's Black Snooty.” Pinkie Pie guessed, smiling enthusiastically.

Before she could utter any further guesses, Applejack shoved a large cupcake in the jabbering mare’s mouth to silence her.

“Does my crown no longer count now that I've been imprisoned for a thousand years!?” The mare snarled.

The dark alicorn mare glared at Fluttershy. She flinched and whimpered, flying away with her terrified birds trailing after their caretaker.

“Did you not recall the legends, did you not see the signs?” She growled, shifting her glare at the Rarity who glared back at her.

“I did.” Twilight called out. “And I know who you are. You're the mare in the moon.”

The dark alicorn revealed some rather impressively sharp teeth when she grinned. She turned to look down at Twilight. Marcus looked between the lavender unicorn and the latter with worry under his helmet.

“Nightmare Moon.” Twilight declared with a growl.

“Well, well, well. Some pony who remembers me.” Nightmare Moon smiled.” Then you also know why I'm here.”

“You're here to.... to...” Twilight flinched, noting everyone else staring at her.

“Remember this day my little ponies, for it was your last!” Nightmare Moon cackled. “From this moment forth. The Night. Will last. FOREVER!”

Thunder boomed when the dark alicorn shouted her last sentence. Lightning flashed across the top of the room, sending a number of pegasi who had been in the air diving for cover. Her mane started to move, forming a swirling vortex of dark void above her, filling the top of the town hall with darkness as her laughter echoed through the building.

Marcus glanced at Twilight. Fear filled her eyes, as well as everyone else’s in the room. He looked back at the laughing dark alicorn mare and took a deep breath to calm himself.

Here we go, Marcus thought.

Marcus turned and walked past Twilight. Twilight’s head followed him, confusion evident as he headed towards Applejack and Pinkie Pie.

“Marcus..?” Twilight called out softly.
Marcus ignored her until he reached the two friends.

“Lady Pinkie Pie,” Marcus called out, catching the pink mare’s attention. “Hand me that piece of cake.”

Pinkie and Applejack exchanged confused glances before the latter obliged to what Marcus asked. Marcus grabbed the small cake and firmly grasped it.

“Uh, partner, what are y’all ‘doin?” Applejack asked, looking at him with a raised brow. Marcus looked back at her with a smirk under his helmet.

“You’ll see,” Marcus replied.

Marcus turned away from the pair and glanced back up. He stared at the hovering Nightmare Moon, who was still laughing loudly. Before anyone could ask of his intentions, Marcus threw the piece of cake towards the cackling dark mare. Everypony in the room watched in horror as the frosting landed on the dark alicorn’s face with a wet smack, silencing her laughing instantly. A loud gasp came from all around when her laughter halted abruptly. She blinked multiple times as if trying to regain her sense to comprehend what happened.

Silence descended in the room.

Then the air was broken by laughter once more. But it wasn’t coming from Nightmare Moon this time. Everyone and the latter slowly turned their gaze to see Marcus standing with folded arms, a hearty laugh escaping his throat which echoed throughout the room. He ceased his laughter when he gazed up at Nightmare Moon, watching her using her magic to wipe the cake’s frosting off of her face. Then her cold, cat-like eyes slowly stared down at him with sheer contempt.

“Oh, was that your face? Ooou, that was your face, hahaha,” Marcus mocked her, grinning ear to ear. “But jokes aside, I’m glad I have your attention now, Nightmare Moon.”

Nightmare Moon’s glare deepened.

“Who are you..?” Nightmare Moon demanded, her tone laced with venom.

Marcus stepped forward with a confident stride.

“I am Marcus: a traveling mercenary in search of an opponent worthy of a challenge.” Marcus introduced himself, his cape fluttering behind him through the wind, and the side of his helmet glinting in the moonlight.

Marcus stopped in his tracks as he kept his gaze at the dark alicorn. Everyone, including Twilight, watched in both shock and awe at the armored knight’s bravery.

“And I believe you fit the description perfectly.”

Author's Note

Author Shimmer: Hope you enjoyed the rewritten chapter my shimmerings. I wanted to rewrite chapter 6 solely because after looking at it a while back, I was disappointed at how it turned out, and the end of it confused me. So I decided that before I even got started writing the final part of this arc, I wanted to rewrite this in a better way where I can look at and be satisfied. And satisfied, I am. But I wouldn’t have gotten it done if not for my collaborator, so half of this credit goes to him. Thank you, Triple.

Triple Studios: You're very welcome. But now that we have said chapter out of the fray, I can say with confidence that we are finally reaching the end of this arc. One where young readers will get to witness an upcoming battle between Marcus and Nightmare Moon/Luna, correct?

Author Shimmer: Yes, which will be worked on real soon. I also wanted to apologize to you all for waiting so long for this story to be updated with more chapters, only to be presented with the same chapter but rewritten.

Triple Studios: We’re doing our best to get these chapters out as soon as possible. But authors like us have lives outside of writing, so life be keeping us busy lol. We also wanted to make absolutely sure that the quality in each of these chapters stayed as they were when we published five of them.

Author Shimmer: We appreciate that despite this story being on hiatus at the time, it still received a lot of love and support from the audience. I can’t thank you guys enough.

Triple Studios: Next chapter will feature Marcus traveling with Twilight and the others into the Everfree Forest, marching towards the two sister’s tower, and the great battle between two strong opponents. We hope to see you guys there when said chapter is published.

Author Shimmer: Once again, we thank you all for the love and support.

Triple Studios: Yup, and as always - we will see you young readers, in the next chapter.

Author Shimmer: Have a good day/night my little shimmerings!