The Midnight’s Shining Star

Chapters

Prologue: Driven to the Dark Side
Prisoners and Bargaining
Remorse
A Former Queen’s Attack and A Princess’s Protection
Check Ups and Secrets
Re-kindling Old Bonds
Realizations
At The Gala, Darkness Is Revealed

Prologue: Driven to the Dark Side

It all happened so fast.

Twilight couldn’t believe it. She had practically been rushed into becoming the ruler of Equestria by Celestia and Luna’s retirement.

All it took was a few days until the two had given their duties to Twilight. She had vented to her friends about her worries but all of them shrugged them off with reminders of how they defeated past villains. She did remember their last goodbyes in the coronation.

”So… I guess I’m princess now huh?” Twilight had asked with a nervous frown as she walked over to Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Starlight’s table.

“Yep. Seems so.” Starlight gave a smile, although it looked nervous.

“Aw cheer up Twilight. We’ll still see each other… just less frequently.” Pinkie Pie smiled bubbly.

“Yeah. Besides, you’re super awesome. You’ll totally do great as Princess.” Rainbow Dash smirked confidently.

“We’ll miss ya sugarcube, but we all know this is for the best.” Applejack put a comforting hoof around Twilight.

“I guess…” Twilight trailed off.

“Don’t worry Twilight. We may be busy now, but we’ll always try to make time for each other.” Rarity smiles reassuringly.

“I’m sure we will.” Twilight smiles a bit before she and five of her best friends all embraced. Though Twilight frowned as they weren’t looking, she noticed Starlight looking and quickly put on a smile.

Once they separated, the Mane 5 walked off while Starlight still stuck around, “Twilight. I know you’re worried about being leader, and I’ll admit, I understand what you’re going through.”

Twilight sighed before smiling at Starlight, “Thanks Starlight. I’m sure I’ll be fine though.” She said to reassure her friend, but of course, she wasn’t being fully truthful. She didn’t know how things would go.

Starlight seemed to pick up on this and reached into her mane and teleported a purple bracelet onto Twilight’s forehoof.

“What’s this?” Twilight asked curiously.

“Your friends may be too busy to talk at times, but as Headmare of the School Of Friendship, I think I’ll be able to make some time for you since I have more time on my hooves since I don’t work multiple jobs like your friends.” Starlight smiled reassuringly, “Just press on the bracelet and when I answer, a hologram of me will appear. You shouldn’t need to be completely alone.”

Now she was in the Canterlot throne room at night, wiping the sweat off her brow, she had to finish answering to requests for the Grand Galloping Gala coming up by the Canterlot Nobles. On top of that, being Princess of Equestria was a hassle. She may have Spike’s help but it was still very taxing.

Twilight looked at her wrist and tapped on the bracelet and soon she was greeted to Starlight’s holographic projection.

“Hey Twilight.” Starlight smiled giddily, “How are things with you?”

“Not the best.” Twilight admitted, “I feel so isolated as the ruler. Besides you and Spike, I hardly get to socialize with any of my friends and those I do talk with are only for business purposes. I just had to finish dealing with requests for the Grand Galloping Gala. Prince Blueblood is especially picky.”

Starlight just gave Twilight a sympathetic glance as she spoke, “Twilight, I’m so sorry you have to deal with that. I know you didn’t want all this.”

“You could say that again. I’m not sure if Celestia and Luna truly prepared me for being ruler, I hardly know how to deal with the general public.” Twilight grunted bitterly, truthfully she was starting to resent the Royal Sisters. She hadn’t asked to be the ruler of Equestria but did they care? No, they didn’t.

“Yeah… it sure sounds like it.” Starlight said thoughtfully, “They are going to be at the Grand Galloping Gala though. Maybe we could talk to them.”

“Pfft. Like they’ll ever change their minds.” Twilight huffed in frustration.

“Twilight? Are you doing okay? You sound more bitter than usual.” Starlight said sadly.

“Don’t worry Starlight. I’ll be fine. I’m just a little tired. Rest assured, your support has certainly helped me.” Twilight smiled softly to her friend.

Starlight seemed to have brightened up at this and smiled, “I’m glad to hear that Twilight. I’m gonna go talk to Sunburst and Trixie about the school curriculum. I’ll still be there for you when I can.”

And with that, Starlight’s projection was gone.

Soon Twilight allowed herself to think to herself again, she wouldn’t dare let Starlight know this but she was starting to resent Celestia and Luna, it felt her happiness in Ponyville no longer meant anything, so long as they had their retirement.

Twilight never asked to become the ruler of all Equestria, she just wanted to be Princess Of Friendship and stick around with Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Starlight.

But no, now she was forced into all this. And now, she had no one but Spike and at times, Starlight.

She also thought to her other friends, they didn’t seem to care she was struggling with the fact she was now into this new position. For Celestia’s sake, they seemed to hardly take her concerns seriously.

The Canterlot Wedding, the Storm King invasion, and now this?!

Oh but no, all Twilight does is panic, doesn’t she? Never mind that it could actually be serious, she’s just overreacting.

Twilight always went out of her way for others, and now because of her selflessness, she was alone, and always having to answer for others.

Twilight’s horn began to crackle a shade of black.

It was always what other creatures want.

Her horn crackled more.

What about me?

Her horn began to glow from magenta to black.

Why am I the one who has to make sacrifices?

No one seemed to notice what she was truly going through. Only Spike and Starlight understood a fraction of it.

Twilight’s eyes began to glow a shade of blue as her horn began to glow, “I won’t be a pushover anymore.”

Twilight began to chuckle sinisterly as she narrowed her eyes, “No more.”

Author's Note

Please note that Twilight’s bitter thinking has nothing to do with my actual views on her friends, she is merely suffering in her now isolated state since she wasn’t given as much time to prepare to be the ultimate ruler like she was in season nine so now, she’s like this.

Prisoners and Bargaining

Starlight slowly began to open her eyes and grunted. Her vision was returning and soon she saw Trixie and Sunburst hovering over her.

“Oh good. She’s coming to.” Sunburst smiled in relief.

“Starlight! Are you okay?!” Trixie asked in panic and concern, “Did Twilight’s blast hurt you too much?!”

“Uh… Luna’s the one that blasted Starlight by accident. Twilight didn’t do it.” Applejack walked over to Trixie and reminded the showmare.

“She may as well have.” Trixie exclaimed bitterly, “It’s her fault that this is even happening!”

“I have to agree with Trixie darling. Twilight’s clearly changed for the worse.” Rarity spoke up, and Starlight soon noticed that Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash were also in the room.

“Wait… so it wasn’t a dream?” Starlight muttered to herself sadly, finally starting to let the words sink in. Twilight truly had grown darker.

“Unfortunately it wasn’t a dream. Twilight truly did turn into this new Midnight character she speaks of. She also has Celestia and Luna imprisoned as we speak.” Sunburst said sympathetically, “I’m so sorry Starlight. This is probably tough for you to hear.”

“Well if we’re being honest. Starlight’s probably the only one who Twilight still cares about.” Fluttershy said sadly before turning to the unicorn herself, “Twilight was able to overpower Luna out of pure anger and rage, and that was because Luna blasted you. She was really mad when she saw you got hurt.”

“She cares about me?” Starlight began asking in shock, “What about the rest of you?”

“She seemed emotionless when it came to us.” Pinkie Pie said with some tears in her eyes, “She spared us due to the fact we were friends for so long but she didn’t really care about any of us. Only you.”

Starlight was shocked by this new information, Twilight only cares about her now? But how, when, and why?

Meanwhile Twilight was roaming the halls of the Canterlot Dungeons and smirked, she was just about to visit the most powerful prisoners she had, the Royal Sisters.

She then spotted their cell, they had anti-magic rings over their horns so that they couldn’t use their magic. Twilight smirked once more and spoke up, “Enjoying your new retirement accommodations. I figured it was a fair trade. You controlled my future, I control where you live. It all works out.” She chuckled.

“Twilight. Why are you doing this?! Things were going so well!” Celestia asked sadly.

“As well as they could.” Twilight narrowed her eyes, “While you and Luna got to go to La La Land and spend your days in eternal peace. I had to take care of all your duties and do it all ALONE! I barely got to see anypony anymore except Spike, Tempest, and Gallus and even then, the latter two were mostly for business. If Starlight hadn’t been so thoughtful with that bracelet she gave me, I probably wouldn’t even be able to see her either.” She ranted venomously.

Luna and Celestia looked at each other with wide eyes, when Twilight put it that way, that did not sound pleasant.

“We understand your ire with us, but what about your friends?” Luna asked curiously.

Twilight scoffed, “Please. Those five hardly take a thing I say seriously anymore. Anything I stress over is basically no big deal at this point and apparently known as ‘Twilighting’. The Canterlot Wedding and the Storm King’s invasion are merely examples of this but I was struggling when I was having doubts about being leader but they just brushed them off! Only Starlight seemed to understand what I was going through.”

Celestia and Luna looked at each other solemnly and Celestia spoke up, “Starlight means a lot to you doesn’t she? Even in this new Midnight form you’re in.”

“Yeah. She really does.” Twilight smiled fondly before catching herself, she couldn’t dare show weakness in front of her prisoners.

“Which is why I eventually plan to get her back onto my side again.” Twilight said with a narrowed gaze.

“You must be mad if you think Starlight will want to take part in this.” Luna scoffed in disgust, “I know Starlight well and I know she won’t want this.”

“Oh Luna, you act as if you know Starlight more than I do.” Twilight smirked mischievously, “When she sees the improvements I’ve made to this world, she’ll be crawling back to me.”

“And how do you know this will be possible?” Celestia asked with a challenging tone to which Twilight just smirked at as she began to leave the room, “Simple. I’m not like Chrysalis, Tirek, or Cozy Glow and I doubt she’d be so willing to toss me aside.”

Celestia and Luna shared a solemn gaze as Twilight or Midnight in this case, left the hallway and soon Spike was seen at the exit of the hall.

“Twilight. We need to talk.” Spike told the now dark alicorn.

“What is it?” Twilight asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Everything. Your new form, your actions, and your hateful attitude. What’s going on Twilight? This isn’t like you.” Spike said sadly.

“Oh Spike.” Twilight smirked as she led Spike away from the prison chambers and to the halls of Canterlot, “You see, my fate was controlled by Celestia and Luna when they decided to make me the ruler of all Equestria. Taking me away from basically everything I care about, and my friends just…” Twilight looked a little hurt before making it with rage, “didn’t care.” She finished bitterly.

“I’m sure they cared Twilight. They just wanted you to pursue your destiny.” Spike said with a reassuring smile.

“My destiny this and that, blah blah blah.” Twilight rolled her eyes, “Destiny is supposed to make you feel happy, not unhappy. And for the record, I am not happy.”

“Okay… I get that, but why turn into this Midnight form? You knew it would scare every creature.” Spike said sadly.

“Because old Twilight always gave into the public’s demands, but now that I’m Midnight, I’ll show that I’m no longer some pushover.” Twilight said angrily.

“But you’re acting like some dictator. You’re basically turning into another Starlight when she was evil.” Spike said with an annoyed look before Twilight began speaking up again, “Not true. I will make sure to listen to other ponies so I’m not a complete dictator but my rule will be much stern than it used to be. I call the shots, not some upper class snobs.”

“You’re scaring me Twilight. This isn’t the you I remember.” Spike spoke with a sad tone.

“If you want to leave, I won’t stop you but either way, I’ll still hold a place in my heart for you.” Twilight told the dragon.

Spike sighed before speaking, “No. I doubt I’ll be leaving. I can’t let you go through this alone, I’ll stick by you, even if I question your methods.”

“If that pleases you.” Twilight said with a small smile before walking off.

Spike just sighed sadly, he was going to miss his best friend.

We then see Tempest and Gallus at their sleeping chambers in the guard bedroom as Tempest began to speak, “Any reason why we could not restrain Twilight or Midnight in this case ourselves back in the Gala?”

“I told you Tempest, she’s too powerful. We can’t defeat her by brute force. We have to make her see the light on her own terms.” Gallus said with a roll of his eyes.

“It would help if she wasn’t so bitter right now.” Tempest sighed solemnly.

“She’ll mellow out eventually. I have faith in her, she was my Headmare at one point.” Gallus smiled reassuringly, “For now, we need to leave her be. If we stepped out of line, she’d probably have put us in the dungeons like she did with the princesses.”

Tempest sighed, Gallus was correct in that sense.

We then see Sunburst was sleeping in his bedroom in the castle that Starlight gave him, suddenly he heard a knock on the door and woke up to see it was Starlight.

“Starlight? Everything okay?” Sunburst asked in worry.

“Actually Sunburst. I’m not sure.” Starlight sighed sadly, “I have no idea how to stop Twilight, she’s basically unstoppable at this point.”

“Well, I could always contact Cadence and Shining Armor. They have the whole Crystal Empire guard on their side so maybe they can…” Sunburst tried to suggest but Starlight interrupted, “What good will that do? Twilight will just get even more angry and probably take over the Crystal Empire too.”

“Wow… it really does seem like we’re in a pickle here.” Sunburst said sadly.

“I did think of a way that we could free the Royal Sisters.” Starlight told her closest friend, “But you won’t like it.”

Sunburst began to grow curious so he spoke up, “What is it?” He asked with a raised eyebrow.

“You did say that Twilight only seemed to care about me right?” Starlight began to answer as she spoke up, “Well my plan was to trade the sisters for… my loyalty.” She gulped.

“What?” Sunburst asked incredulously, “Starlight, you can’t do that. You can’t give yourself up to Twilight in that state. We have no idea what she’ll do.”

“If she still cares about me like you all said, I know she won’t hurt me.” Starlight said confidently.

“And how do you know that?” Sunburst asked as his hooves began to shake.

“Because…” Starlight sighed before speaking, “Midnight or no, the real Twilight is in there. I know she is. My decision to do this will likely be risky but it’s the only way to make sure Equestria doesn’t plunge into a dystopia.”

“Starlight… just wait till the morning to think about this. I’m not sure if you should go through with this.” Sunburst said in a concerned tone.

“Of course.” Starlight replied solemnly before leaving the room.

Sunburst soon went back to his bed and sighed to himself, he really hoped Starlight wasn’t going to do something she’d regret.

As Starlight walked back to her room, she thought about what Sunburst said. The risk was definitely big, but Starlight knew a semblance of Twilight was in there, she just knew she had to help her somehow.

As she entered her room, she saw the mirror in her room that Twilight gave her and looked at her reflection.

”I may not know what comes next for you, but whatever it is, I promise I’ll always be there for you.”

She remembered those words Twilight said to her, and true to her word, she always had been.

It was time Starlight returned the favor.

We then cut to the morning when Sunburst was still yawning as he woke up, he decided to check Starlight’s room to see if she was doing okay, after their last talk, he had to make sure.

“Starlight… are you awake?” Sunburst asked curiously before noticing a note on her bed, but no Starlight.

“Oh no!” Sunburst said in realization before levitating and then reading the note she had written and began pacing around, “Oh no! She actually went through with it!”

We then see Starlight herself was at the castle entrance and soon knocked on the door.

Gallus soon opened the door and was surprised to see Starlight.

“Starlight? What are you doing here?” Gallus asked in shock.

“I need to talk with Twi-“ Starlight began before catching herself, “Midnight. Have you seen her?”

“She’s in her throne room. I’ll lead you to her.” Gallus told the unicorn before letting her in, as Starlight looked around at the castle, she noticed the walls were very dark shade of purple.

“You noticed the new decor I see.” Gallus spoke up, “Twilight wanted to change the decor around this place, so she magically painted the walls.”

“I see.” Starlight said nervously.

We then see Gallus open the doors to the throne room and soon Starlight began to enter.

“Tread lightly around her.” Gallus whispered softly before leaving.

“T-Twilight?” Starlight asked curiously before Twilight herself looked in surprise at this new arrival but then smirked.

“Well well, came to visit I see.” Twilight said with a laidback smirk.

“Yep. I also came to talk with you about the princesses being imprisoned.” Starlight told the alicorn.

“Ugh. This again. I already had to hear Spike complaining about it yesterday.” Twilight groaned.

“Look Twilight. I understand you’re upset with them They did kinda drop you into this position but I feel they don’t deserve this amount of punishment or any really.” Starlight said seriously.

“Of course you’d say that.” Twilight scoffed before flying over to pat Starlight’s head with a smile, “You’ve always been a bit soft since reforming.”

“Look Twilight, I came to request for their release. I doubt you’ll do it by your own volition given your current state so I came to make a deal.” Starlight told the alicorn sternly.

“Hmm,” Twilight said thoughtfully before smirking, “You know what, I might as well hear you out. I trust you enough not to swindle me.” She gave Starlight a raised eyebrow with her grin.

“I decided that in exchange for the release of Celestia and Luna, you’ll…” Starlight hesitated a bit before gulping, “You’ll get me in their place.”

“Sorry Starlight, but I actually like you.” Twilight rolled her eyes, “I don’t want you as my prisoner.”

“No. I basically mean… I’ll be by your side. You seem to want me around more than the others if your actions in the Gala were any consolation.” Starlight clarified, getting Twilight’s attention.

“I’m listening.” Twilight smirked, clearly liking this deal so far.

“I’ll stay with you and be loyal as possible. I’ll help you rule in a way, you didn’t want to be alone so… now is your chance.” Starlight closed her eyes and frowned, accepting this potential fate.

Twilight just gave a giddy grin, she was already going to try and sway Starlight into her corner, if she was to take this deal, it would be much easier to do so.

“Okay Starlight, I will give some ground rules for you and me though. I can’t force you to do anything that makes you too uncomfortable and you can’t leave this castle unless you have me or any other guard supervising you.” Twilight explained with a soft smile.

“And seeing my friends…” Starlight looked away nervously.

“It depends on how trustworthy they prove to be. At this time, you won’t be allowed to see them but that can always change.” Twilight patted her friend on the back with a reassuring smirk.

“Okay… I guess we have a deal then.” Starlight frowned solemnly, she didn’t really like this deal but it was for the best.

“STARLIGHT!” Trixie’s voice was heard as Starlight and Twilight turned to see Trixie, Sunburst, and the rest of the Mane 5 running into the throne room much to Twilight’s anger.

“What do you all think you’re doing here?!” Twilight asked furiously.

“We came to stop Starlight from making this deal!” Applejack said sternly.

“We can’t trust she’ll be safe with the way you’re acting.” Trixie said with a glare towards Twilight.

“Why didn’t you stop them?” Twilight asked Gallus angrily as he also entered, a bit disheveled.

“I’m sorry Princess, but they overpowered me.” Gallus said remoresefully, truthfully he actually let them pass, they at least deserved a chance to say goodbye to Starlight. He had overheard the deal from out in the hallway.

“Ugh fine.” Twilight grunted angrily, “I guess I’ll have to get you out of here myself.” Her horn began to glow before Starlight stood in front of her, “Wait! Let me say goodbye to them first. I’m not sure if I’ll see them again for a long time, just let me speak with them.”

Twilight groaned but she somewhat understood Starlight’s point of view.

“Fine. Make it quick.” Twilight said simply as she stopped flaring her horn.

Starlight turned to all her friends standing in front of her, when Pinkie Pie ran up and grabbed her front hooves, “Starlight! Why are you doing this?!”

“Because it’s the right thing to do. It’s the only way to protect Celestia and Luna.” Starlight sighed sadly before turning to the rest of the group, “Listen. All seven of you have been big parts of my life for a good while now and thanks to you I’ve become a much better pony than I used to.”

Twilight scoffed at that claim, she found it absolutely ludicrous, in her eyes, she was the one who taught Starlight friendship, not them.

“Either way, it’s my turn to repay the favor. I’ll miss you all, but I know this is for the greater good.” Starlight sighed as tears began to form.

Trixie couldn’t handle the sappiness anymore and immediately embraced Starlight which encouraged the rest of her friends to do the same, Starlight cherished that hug, she wasn’t sure how long it would be before she ever saw them again.

Once they parted ways, Twilight had decided to speak up, “Alright then. Now that you’ve said your goodbyes. Let’s seal the deal.”

Twilight soon puts a metal ring around Starlight’s horn which Starlight was confused by.

“It’s a ring that limits your magic. You can still use magic but you won’t be at full power like you used to.” Twilight explained.

“Okay then.” Starlight looked to the ground sadly.

Soon Twilight lit up her horn and suddenly Celestia and Luna were in the throne room next to Starlight’s friends.

“Twilight… what’s going on?” Celestia was the first to recover from the shock of being teleported.

“Starlight made the deal to let you go in exchange for her undying loyalty.” Twilight said with a stern frown before it grew into a smirk, “I told you she’d be by my side once again.”

Starlight teared up a bit hearing this, she felt like some prize hearing Twilight say that about her. Like a toy.

“You’ll still have your magic limited but at least now you’ll be able to use it.” Twilight explained to the Royal Sisters who were shocked by what Starlight had just done for them.

“I bid you both goodbye, as to all of you. My new companion and I need to adjust to this arrangement.” Twilight smirked before using her horn to envelope everyone except her, Starlight, and Gallus and teleported them away.

“Where’d you take them?” Starlight sniffed.

“Relax. They’re in Ponyville.” Twilight rubbed her hoof on Starlight’s mane reassuringly but it felt so weird to the unicorn, she was unsure how to feel, “But either way, I’m glad you’re here Starlight. I needed somepony I could count on.” She smiled as she embraced Starlight though in all honesty, Starlight didn’t really feel comforted by this hug as she usually would. She did feel some sort of comfort seeing Gallus give her a sympathetic look, at least she wouldn’t be completely alone.

We then see the Mane 5, the Royal Sisters, Trixie, and Sunburst teleport back at Twilight’s castle.

“Starlight!” Trixie cried out in horror as she began to try running out the door, but Fluttershy tackled her before she could get far.

“Let me go! I have to save my best friend!” Trixie shook furiously as Fluttershy struggled to maintain her grip.

“Trixie, we can’t go back there. We have no way of defeating Twilight.” Applejack said sternly.

“We can try!” Trixie glared at the farmer.

“And fail. If we anger Twilight anymore, she’ll probably kick our flanks and who knows what’ll happen after that.” Applejack added, “We gotta think rationally here. We need to find a way to get Twilight back to normal and subsequently get Starlight back.”

Celestia and Luna shared a knowing look at each other, having seen how much Starlight means to Twilight.

“Perhaps Starlight may be the key to doing just that.” Luna told the group, much to their confusion.

“Twilight has made it perfectly clear that she cares a lot about Starlight. She will perhaps help Twilight recover from her fall from grace.” Celestia clarified.

“Are you sure that’s possible?” Rarity asked curiously.

“I say the chances are pretty likely.” Sunburst admitted with a fond smile, he knew Starlight pretty well, if anypony could get through to Twilight in this state, Starlight could definitely be able to.

Author's Note

Don’t worry, Starlight’s not going to be completely alone in this ordeal she’s in. Spike, Gallus, and Tempest are around to provide a decent experience for Starlight during Twilight’s worst stage. She will inevitably improve herself but we all know Starlight can’t be in a completely tragic situation.

Remorse

Twilight had currently called down Spike, Tempest, and Gallus to a meeting. Other than Starlight, she trusted these three the most in her life.

“Allies, I require assistance about the Starlight issue.” Twilight said sternly.

“What issue? Starlight’s done nothing wrong.” Gallus asked with a weirded out look.

“Oh trust me. I know that.” Twilight rolled her eyes but still looked annoyed, “I’m talking about her emotionless attitude. She’s doing just fine with everything but she’s so bland and dried up when it comes to getting a reaction out of her.”

“To be fair Twilight. You just took her away from pretty much almost every friend she’s ever made and you practically made her your prisoner.” Spike said with a nervous frown.

Twilight scoffed at the accusation, “She is not my ‘prisoner’ Spike. If she was, she’d be in the dungeons of Canterlot.”

“Well, I don’t know what you’d call this arrangement you have with Starlight but I must agree, you did just take her away from the friends she made over the years.” Tempest admitted stoically.

Twilight rolled her eyes, “She’ll get over them eventually. It’s not like she was ever that close with my old friends.”

Spike and Gallus just shared a look of shock at Twilight’s words, how could she say that?

“Even if you believe that. You should probably ease her into this whole thing.” Tempest told the dark alicorn, “You still want Starlight to like you correct?”

“More than anything.” Twilight admitted, showing a bit more emotion than usual as she sheepishly frowns.

“Then talk with her, my only advice is that you must control your temper.” Tempest told Twilight sternly.

Twilight nodded at that, she knew that Starlight would be afraid of her if she showed too much anger, she knew that had to be kept to a minimum.

“Alright then.” Twilight sighed calmly before speaking in a stern voice but less so than usual, “I assume Starlight’s in her room.”

“Yes your highness. She’s in there as we speak.” Tempest nodded firmly.

“Excellent.” Twilight said before walking off without a word said before Discord walked in with a bored frown and in a maid’s outfit.

“Is she finally gone?” Discord asked boredly.

“Discord? What are you doing here?!” Gallus said in shock.

“He’s working here so Twilight is less likely to go after Fluttershy in Ponyville.” Spike explained to the two guards.

“Wait, if you’re here, can’t you just use your magic and end this madness?” Gallus asked curiously.

“Can’t.” Discord said simply before tapping on the collar he had on his neck, “Twilight had me restrained before the Gala even began. My magic’s totally limited.”

“Well there goes that idea.” Tempest sighed sadly.

“Anyway, I’m getting so annoyed with Twilight.” Discord began ranting, “She’s so demanding lately and more snappish than she used to be. At least when she was still herself she could enjoy herself.”

“Oh please. I doubt any of us are happy with what’s happening to Twilight.” Gallus scoffed before frowning sadly, “I honestly can’t be too mad though. Celestia technically did cause this.”

“Can we stop playing the blame game? Regardless, we all need to pitch in and make sure both Twilight and Starlight don’t fall to their own pits of despair.” Spike said sternly to which Tempest smirked at, “That is something we can all agree on.”

We then see Starlight silently weeping on her bed, even though there were some great accommodations, she still felt like a prisoner.

She wasn’t sure if she’d ever see Trixie, Sunburst, Maud, or anypony she cared for again. She felt like she was just a prize for Twilight to win and that made her feel so weak.

The only good thing about this is that Spike and Gallus were around.

Soon the door opened and Starlight was surprised to see Twilight.

“Oh. Hey Twilight.” Starlight said as she wiped her tears quickly.

“Starlight? Were you crying?” Twilight asked, showing concern, an emotion that Starlight did not expect to see.

“I’ll admit, I sort of was.” Starlight found herself admitting much to Twilight’s shock.

“Do you want to talk about it?” Twilight asked comfortingly.

Starlight sighed sadly before beginning to vent, “I just feel it all happened so fast. Your turn to the darkness, the deal we made. It’s just been an emotional whiplash.”

Twilight gave Starlight a sympathetic glance before sighing, “Look. I’ll admit that this likely hasn’t been easy for you but I swear, I still really care about you and… I hate to see you suffer. If you want to back out of this deal, I won’t capture the princesses’ again, but I’ll disable their magic, that way they stay free and I get my justice.”

Starlight began to think about it, while it would be a golden opportunity to see her friends again, it would be at the cost of the princesses’ magic, and besides, if she helped Twilight rule, maybe it could lead to Twilight finding herself again.

Perhaps this wouldn’t be so bad, especially since Twilight seemed to be showing her good side more and more.

“No. We made a deal, and I won’t go back on it and… maybe this will help Equestria.” Starlight said firmly.

Twilight smiled a bit, she was glad to still have Starlight in her corner.

“Good. Glad we see things the same way.” Twilight said smugly before walking off before Starlight decided to ask something, “Twilight? When you were talking to Celestia and Luna, you mentioned that you knew I’d come back to your corner. Do you just see me as some prize or something?”

Twilight looked at Starlight with a reassuring smile, “Trust me Starlight, you’re not some prize to me. You just… mean a lot to me is all.” She admitted sheepishly before walking off.

Starlight smiled at this information, even though Twilight was now in a darker state, she had faith that Twilight was telling the truth.

A Former Queen’s Attack and A Princess’s Protection

Starlight figured she needed to clear her head from all the madness that happened, so she ended up deciding to take a walk in the Canterlot Gardens, it was far enough to where Twilight wouldn’t need to supervise her but Discord was at least nearby. Starlight figured it was fair enough, the deal was still fresh after all.

She thought about her friends back in Ponyville. She really hoped they were all okay without her. Trixie especially, she was always the most emotional out of them all.

She thought about Celestia and Luna, Starlight knew that they were technically the reason this was even happening but she wasn’t mad at them. They had no way of knowing Twilight would turn like this.

And finally she thought about Twilight herself. She had always been fond of Twilight, ever since she took her in she always enjoyed Twilight’s company. Sometimes she did grow nervous around Twilight at first but after she graduated, Starlight was able to see Twilight has her friend more often than a princess. Starlight probably sounded a bit insulting when she said Twilight wasn’t a princess-princess but she didn’t mean it in a bad way. Starlight did not feel the need to act perfect in front of Twilight, she just genuinely found her a good friend.

However Starlight did not approve of Twilight’s new change to being Midnight, Starlight knew that the real Twilight was still in there, and she hoped that she could bring that Twilight back. Starlight became friends with Twilight, not Midnight.

Suddenly Starlight felt a pair of hooves pounce onto her and soon she was tackled to the ground.

“Didn’t expect to see me again. Did you Starlight Glimmer?” A venomous voice was heard, the unicorn looked up to see the maniacal grin of Chrysalis.

“Chrysalis?!” Starlight gasped in fear before blasting the unreformed changeling’s face with what little magic she still had causing her to grunt and let Starlight go, who immediately began running off but soon Chrysalis recovered and began flying after her and soon tackled her again.

“I am so going to revel in this.” Chrysalis smirked as she held Starlight down.

“What are you going to do to me?” Starlight gulped.

“I did consider using my magic to eliminate you entirely but I figured it’d be better to make this even more painful!” Chrysalis began as she rose her hoof.

Meanwhile Discord gasped as he stood near the entrance, just now seeing what was happening. He knew that he wouldn’t be much of a match for Chrysalis alone with what remained of his magic, but he knew somepony who would. He immediately snapped his fingers and with a flash, he was gone.

Chrysalis had just finished pounding her hooves onto Starlight’s body, there were bruises on her face and in her midsection, heck she even had a swollen eye.

Starlight groaned feebly, she was clearly weakened from the onslaught of attacks.

“Had enough yet?” Chrysalis smirked mischievously to which Starlight just groaned, “What do you plan to gain from this?”

“Honestly, I’m not even sure I’ll be able to rule Equestria at this point.” Chrysalis admits with a laugh, “But your suffering will make a swell consolation prize. Now hold still.” She began lighting up her horn to which Starlight braced for impact but soon she felt nothing and heard Chrysalis scream before noticing Twilight standing over her protectively while shooting Chrysalis the most hateful glare Starlight had ever seen from the alicorn.

“Ah. Twilight Sparkle.” Chrysalis said as she recovered from the blast, “It is a pleasure to see you again. I must give congrats for your successful attempt at overthrowing the princesses in your own special way.”

“You have some nerve Chrysalis.” Twilight growled furiously, “I already held a grudge for your actions towards Shining Armor and Cadence but now…”

“You just crossed the line.” Twilight growled lowly.

Soon Twilight and Chrysalis immediately got into a laser battle, both were persistent but it was clear Twilight was winning this fight, and soon they were locked in a beam struggle, Chrysalis tried desperately to hold her beam against Twilight but soon Twilight overpowered her and sent Chrysalis to the ground, the changeling was now struck down.

“No one hurts Starlight the way you did and gets away with it on my watch.” Twilight said angrily to Chrysalis who was now weakened from the attack much to Starlight’s shock.

Twilight soon placed a metal ring over Chrysalis’ horn and spoke up, “You’ll be lucky if you even get a sliver of magic back after what you just pulled.”

Soon Discord flew over and Twilight immediately turned to him, “Take her to Tartarus, and make sure she is kept far away from Tirek and Cozy Glow. I don’t want any escape plans happening on my watch.”

Discord nodded and snapped his fingers, and with that, he and Chrysalis were gone.

Twilight immediately turned to Starlight, full of concern.

“Are you okay Starlight?” Twilight asked fearfully.

“I feel like crap.” Starlight grunted weakly, “How did you find me?”

“Well Discord was able to alert me that you were in danger.” Twilight explained as she picked up the unicorn softly and began flying back to the castle, “I knew I had to take care of Chrysalis immediately so I rushed in. I’m sorry if I scared you but I had no choice.”

Starlight just eased into Twilight’s touch and softly spoke, “I… actually was flattered in a way. I feel a bit bad for Chrysalis but she was attacking me so I can’t really feel much sympathy but it was nice seeing you try to protect me.”

Twilight leaned her face on Starlight’s and softly smiled, “Hey, for you, I’d do almost anything.”

Soon they reached the castle and Gallus looked wide eyed in shock at Starlight’s bruised body as they entered the hallway, “What the heck happened?!”

“Chrysalis attacked her.” Twilight said simply, “She’s being sent to Tartarus as we speak. Take Starlight to the medical room now.” She commanded in a stern yet concerned tone.

“Right away.” Gallus said as he took the unicorn from Twilight’s hooves and soon he flew off with Starlight.

Twilight’s eyes looked at Starlight full of concern, she knew Starlight would survive but after that attack tonight she felt a ping of worry. She just hoped Starlight would be okay.

Author's Note

I apologize if Chrysalis’ return seems out of nowhere but I figured she’d probably want to take advantage of this new development.

Check Ups and Secrets

Starlight groaned as she woke up, her head felt like it was hit by a ton of bricks. Probably understandable given how badly Chrysalis attacked her.

Soon she looked around the room she was in and realized she was in the medical room and on one of the beds, she noticed there was no one else in the room though and soon saw Discord lounging on a chair nearby.

“Oh good. You’re awake.” Discord smiled in relief, “Twilight told me to alert her when you awake, she sent me since I’m the only one who doesn’t really need sleep as much as you ponies.”

“Oh… are you gonna alert her now?” Starlight asked curiously.

“Well, I am alerting somepony over here but it isn’t Twilight.” Discord told the unicorn before he snapped his fingers and soon Spike was inside with a quill and scroll.

“Starlight! I’m so glad you’re okay.” Spike smiled brightly before dropping the writing tools in his hands to lightly embrace the mare.

“I’m glad to see you too Spike, but what’s going on?” Starlight asked curiously to both reptile type creatures, well part reptile in Discord’s case.

“Well, me and Spike came up with an ingenious plan for you to not feel so imprisoned and allow you to contact our friends back in Ponyville.” Discord smirked nonchalantly, “And it doesn’t involve breaking Twilight’s rules.”

“I’m listening.” Starlight raised an eyebrow.

“We figured we should let you write letters to Sunburst, Trixie, and the others but we can’t tell Twilight. I know it doesn’t really break the rules she gave you, but we can’t take any chances.” Spike explained to the unicorn.

“Are you sure about this guys? I’m probably gonna see the others again eventually, plus I don’t want to go against the deal I made with Twilight.” Starlight told the two creatures.

“Actually, you made that deal with Midnight, she’s not the true Twilight.” Discord smirked confidently which made Starlight put a hoof to her chin, “Besides, it’s just one harmless letter, Twilight will never have to know what you did.”

Starlight began to think it over more, it was just one letter, and besides, it wasn’t completely out of line for her to go against Twilight given how she’s been acting as Midnight.

“Fine, but just this letter for now.” Starlight said confidently, “Here’s what I want you to write.”

We then see Sunburst, Trixie, and the Mane 5 all gathered at the map table. The five Elements Of Harmony were staying at the castle since they felt it would be wise to stay together at this tough time.

“How do you all think Starlight and Spike are doing back with Twilight?” Fluttershy asked curiously.

“Spike visited me a few days ago so I feel it’s safe to assume he’s not in the same situation Starlight’s in.” Rarity told the pegasus.

“So Twilight’s just clingy. Good to know.” Trixie narrowed her eyes.

Suddenly a letter formed out of smoke and a letter appeared in front of Sunburst’s face, much to his shock and soon he smiled when he found who it was from.

“Girls! Starlight sent a letter!” Sunburst smiled enthusiastically, causing Trixie to immediately push him aside, “Let me see. Let me see.”

The other ponies had also crowded around the area Sunburst was sitting in as everyone began reading the letter.

Dear Friends

Spike and Discord both gave me the opportunity to write to you, so I decided to take it.

Anyway, Twilight hasn’t really been all that bad towards me. In fact she actually really likes having me around.

Helping her rule the kingdom isn’t that bad, I just have to make sure that she doesn’t do anything drastic which isn’t that much.

It was a bit hard getting used to the deal we made but Twilight weirdly was able to reassure me she cared enough about me, heck, she even offered to set me free, albeit it would be at the cost of the princesses’ magic but it’s nice to know she cares enough to want me happy.

I didn’t take the offer as I figured that making this deal work would be worth it eventually.

I will admit though, it wasn’t all that nice. Chrysalis just recently attacked me for her revenge. I’m just glad Twilight interfered before things could get worse.

I’ll probably need to recover a bit from that but Chrysalis is in Tartarus now so she shouldn’t be much of a problem.

Overall, I’ll be fine guys. Other than Chrysalis’ attack, nothing bad has happened with me and Twilight, and hey, I still have Spike; Discord, Gallus, and Tempest to keep me company, and Twilight did mention I could see you again, once she feels she can trust you.

Hope to see you soon, Starlight Glimmer

“What?! Chrysalis came back?!” Sunburst asked in shock.

“I did not see that coming.” Pinkie Pie admitted.

“Oh no no no no no.” Trixie shook her head furiously, “Starlight just tells us that she was attacked by Chrysalis and under Twilight or Midnight’s watch and we’re supposed to just accept that?! No way! We have to get Starlight back!”

“Trixie, I know it’s tough to hear this new information, but other than what Chrysalis did, Starlight seems to be safe.” Applejack said reassuringly.

“Yeah, but for how long?!” Rainbow Dash asked incredulously, “If anything, she’s clearly not safe, even with Twilight’s protection, she almost died!”

“I have to agree darlings, plus there are Diamond Dogs who could kidnap her, and potential Storm King followers escaping from prison to eliminate her to get to Twilight. Plus we have no idea if Twilight will actually be a safe presence for Starlight.” Rarity argued, although she was much more civil than Trixie and Rainbow Dash.

“We have to end Twilight’s tyranny and we have to do it now.” Trixie said with narrowed eyes.

“But what about turning Twilight back to normal?” Fluttershy asked nervously.

“Once Starlight is safe again, we can worry about that later.” Trixie said sternly.

“Okay, even if we were to try this plan, just how would we do it? We’re no match for Twilight alone.” Sunburst pointed out.

“I mean, it’s not like we can get Shining Armor and Cadence’s help or anything.” Pinkie Pie added.

“Yeah…” Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes before smiling brightly, “No wait, that’s exactly what we should do. Shining Armor and Cadence haven’t lost their magic like Celestia, Luna, Starlight, or Discord yet. We can use that to our advantage and get them on our side.”

“That could actually work.” Trixie said enthusiastically.

“Girls! Let’s think about this for a moment. Starlight did say we’d see her again eventually, at that point we can ease Twilight back into trusting us. If we go through with this, we could be causing a disaster.” Sunburst said in a panicked tone.

“Sorry Sunburst but the Great and Protective Trixie cannot risk another close call, I am not letting Starlight get hurt again. It’s either now or never!” Trixie said furiously.

Re-kindling Old Bonds

Ever since Starlight had been healed from her attack by Chrysalis, she’s noticed Twilight acting strange recently.

Not in a bad way but in a way that made Starlight a bit weirded out.

Twilight had been much more observant and checking on her more often. Not to the point where it was creepy per se, but in a way that was healthy enough.

Oddly enough, Starlight was flattered Twilight cared enough to make sure she was doing okay.

As she sat in her room, the door began to open and Twilight awkwardly walked in, “Uh… hi. So I just wanted to see how you’re injuries aren’t holding up. I know you’re mostly healed but…”

“Twilight. I’m fine. I’d let you know if I wasn’t.” Starlight told her reassuringly before Twilight sighed, “Right. Of course. I’m sorry.”

Starlight was surprised to hear that come from Twilight in this state, given she was now colder than usual.

“Twilight. Is something bothering you?” Starlight asked curiously.

Twilight sighed before speaking, “You always were good at seeing through me Starlight. Yes, I am upset.”

“But why?” Starlight asked.

“You see, you mean a lot to me.” Twilight explained seriously, “Seeing Chrysalis attack you scared me. I was that close to losing you.”

Starlight just looked in shock at what Twilight was saying.

“When I originally ran this place. I was basically isolated from everypony I cared about, you were the one constant in my life that I could count on though. You’ve always understood me in a way nopony could ever dream of and were able to help me out of a jam when I needed it.” Twilight explained with a fond smile, “That’s why I was so quick to take your deal to take you in the princesses’ place. I’d get to have you back in my life again.”

“I see…” Starlight trailed off sadly, “Do you… ever miss the others?”

Twilight winced at the question, she may have tried to hide it but deep down, there was still a fondness she held for her friends.

“I-I sometimes miss them but… they don’t take me seriously Starlight.” Twilight sighed bitterly, “My freak outs were always seen as no big deal and my worries were seen as less than nothing. The only way I’m ever going to get anywhere in this world is if I take control.”

Starlight’s eyes widened at those words, especially at the last sentence.

Control

That word gave Starlight a sense of familiarity, especially involving her past. Starlight knew firsthand how Twilight felt.

“I… understand why you feel that way.” Starlight admits as she took Twilight’s chin and soon their eyes met, “I always thought that I needed to control everything in my life so that I could be happy, so that I wouldn’t be hurt but you and your friends have showed me I don’t need to control everything to be happy. Sometimes things aren’t going to be in my control but that doesn’t always mean anything bad. The best thing to do in an uncontrolled situation is to overcome it.” She smiled warmly at the alicorn.

Twilight began to smile back at Starlight, could she be right? Could she really get her happiness back if she just gave up and let things go back to normal.

Twilight then thought about the implications of things going back to normal, would she still be an isolated ruler? Would she even get to live her life after this? She did kidnap Celestia and Luna after all and she sincerely doubted the public would really trust her if she just let things go back to the way they used to be.

“I’m sorry Starlight, I can’t risk it.” Twilight sighed before turning to walk out of the room.

“But Twilight-“ Starlight began to call out before Twilight turned harshly towards the unicorn, “I’ve already gone too deep, and things are better this way. This conversation is over.”

She soon left the room while Starlight sighed sadly, “Oh Twilight. All I can do is try.”

We then see Shining Armor and Princess Cadence at the throne room of the Crystal Empire’s castle with Trixie and Sunburst standing in front of them when Shining Armor spoke sternly, “I’m already on edge due to the fact my sister ended up snapping under the pressure. So you better make this worth our while.”

Cadence gave her husband a disapproving glare while Sunburst looked away awkwardly. Trixie however, did not look fazed and narrowed her gaze.

“It’s about Starlight. Twilight has her under her hoof in exchange for Celestia and Luna’s release. Starlight wrote a letter to us about how Chrysalis had attacked her under Twilight’s watch.”

“I trust Twilight won’t harm Starlight.” Cadence said reassuringly, “From what I’m hearing this wasn’t even Twilight’s fault.”

“Ugh. Don’t you get it?” Trixie said angrily, “The longer Twilight has her nasty hooves around Starlight, the more danger they are both in. With Twilight’s hostile takeover, any creature could easily target Starlight to get to Twilight and with things the way they are. Equestria’s on the verge of collapse.”

“She’s got a point there Cadence.” Shining Armor said reluctantly.

“The point is, we need your help to restrain Twilight and get Starlight back.” Sunburst explained softly, “You won’t even have to hurt Twilight badly, it’s doubtful she’ll be as merciless as Tirek or Chrysalis but we need to stop her somehow.”

Shining Armor and Cadence gave each other an awkward look but they soon came to a silent agreement.

“We’re up to the task if it means helping Twilight.” Cadence confirmed.

“Yes!” Trixie shouts excitedly.

“So what are we going to do?” Shining Armor asked curiously.

“Well, we obviously have to get Starlight out of there and after that, destroy the magical lock on her horn so she can use her magic.” Trixie rolled her eyes as if it were obvious.

“And how are we going to do that?” Sunburst asked incredulously, “Twilight won’t let Starlight out of her sight.”

“We’ll think of something.” Trixie smirked deviously.

Realizations

As Tempest walked the halls, she had to admit, she couldn’t really put her hoof on Starlight.

She has met the mare a few times and despite a few quirks, she was definitely a nice pony but even though she’s nice, Starlight seems to be full of surprises.

No regular pony would just give up their entire lives and freedom just for the sake of potentially saving their friends. If you told Tempest that she would end up meeting the most selfless and daring unicorn in Equestria. She would have laughed in your face but now… she didn’t know what to think, and it perplexed her.

She then spotted Gallus walking by and decided to call out, “Gallus. I want to know something?”

“Sure thing.” Gallus shrugged.

“Can you tell me what you know about Starlight Glimmer? It’s just that… this mare confuses me. She literally risked everything in her life for the mere chance she could save Twilight.” Tempest explained.

“I don’t recall much about her as she was mostly just my guidance counselor at first but I do know this. She’s almost extremely selfless and really cares about her friends if what she did was anything to go by. Twilight certainly has some odd fascination to her.” Gallus spoke up.

Slowly gears began to turn in Tempest’s head, she then asked, “What kind of fascination?”

“I don’t know, it’s just whenever she talks about Starlight, her eyes light up and she softens up whenever Starlight so much as speaks to her.” Gallus rolled his eyes before realizing what Tempest was implying.

“You don’t think…” Gallus spoke with wide eyes.

“That Twilight has a crush on Starlight. Yes, I believe she does.” Tempest scoffed.

“Whoa… this is just mind blowing.” Gallus said agape.

“We should definitely let Spike and Discord know about this, but meanwhile, I have to speak with Starlight.” Tempest told the griffon.

“You’re not gonna tell her this are you?” Gallus asked with a raised eyebrow, even if Twilight wasn’t exactly sane right now, she had a right to have her crush be kept secret.

“Of course not.” Tempest rolled her eyes, “But I do have a feeling to as why she was so ready to give up everything.”

Starlight by now, has recovered from Chrysalis’ attack and was now pacing in her room, wondering what she can do to save Twilight.

In all honesty, Starlight didn’t know why, but the thought of Twilight succumbing to darkness hurt her more than anything in Equestria. She remembered the good times with Twilight they had and for some reason, a warm feeling in her chest rose.

She then heard a knock at the door and raised an eyebrow but went to open the door to see Tempest.

“Tempest?” Starlight asked curiously.

“Starlight.” Tempest spoke politely, “I just came to check to see how you were doing.”

“Well… besides the fact that I’m desperately trying to save Twilight from becoming somepony she isn’t, I’m doing fine.” Starlight chuckled nervously.

“Hmm, that does seem to be a dilemma.” Tempest admits before speaking more, “Though I must say, you’re doing a lot just to save somepony you only consider a friend.”

“Well… I just really value my friendship with Twilight is all.” Starlight raises an eyebrow in confusion.

“If I can be fair Starlight. I would do a lot for my friends but I wouldn’t let myself be imprisoned for a mere chance to save them.” Tempest points out.

“Well that’s where you and I are different Tempest. You keep yourself guarded which I do respect to a degree, but I tend to try and break down my walls so I can let others in.” Starlight said sternly.

“I’m just saying, it would take a fair amount more than a simple friendship for me to do what you’re doing.” Tempest explained before walking off, leaving Starlight alone with her thoughts.

Starlight didn’t know what to think of that, it would take more than a simple friendship?

“What does that mean?” Starlight asked herself in confusion, “What did she mean by more than a simple friendship? Best friends? Wouldn’t that mean the same thing? I don’t know how that even-“

Starlight’s eyes widened, she then thought of another possibility?

“Love?” Starlight whispered meekly to herself, “Is she implying that I love Twilight?”

Starlight began laughing sheepishly and began speaking, “No! That can’t be the case! I’m not in LOVE with Twilight?! She’s just a friend! A really great friend! A really passionate, talented, and caring…” she began trailing off, slipping into a misty look and soft smile. Her memories slipped back to her memories with Twilight: to Starlight’s reformation, to Starlight’s graduation, to Twilight’s elation when Starlight decided to stay, to pretty much every single quiet moment they shared.

She even remembered that one night where Twilight told her: ”Being a princess is hard, but with friends like you, I can always push past it.”

Starlight shook herself out of her euphoria and teared up, for as great as those moments together they shared. Those were with Twilight, the mare who kept her here was Midnight.

“Like I was ever in love with Twilight.” Starlight said sadly, “And even if I was, she’s pretty much gone.”

Tears began to trickle down her cheeks, “My Twilight is gone!”

Starlight doesn’t want to believe it, but deep within, she knows it’s true. No matter how much she doesn’t want to believe it, Twilight’s heart has gone cold, she’s pretty much kept her as prisoner here and keeping herself distant.

Starlight then realized something… her Twilight?

Why did she say that? Why would she say that? Twilight wasn’t exactly some object, unless she meant…

No, she was merely just emotional.

“Maybe I should just take her offer and leave. She may care for me now, but eventually, she’ll probably just see me as a pawn.” Starlight sighed but then remembered something.

The reason Twilight even made the offer to let Starlight go was because of how much she hated to see Starlight suffer, plus if she truly didn’t care about her, she wouldn’t have shown Starlight her vulnerability. She trusted Starlight with that.

Even after all this time, Twilight still cares about her and was willing to stick by her.

Starlight teared up once again, but this time, she smiled.

“There’s still hope.” Starlight said with a shaky breath.

”I may not know what comes next for you, but whatever it is, I promise I'll always be there for you.”

“I know you have Twilight.” Starlight sniffed, “You’ve always been there for me to pick me up when I fell from grace, and now it’s time I do the same.”

Starlight felt her chest warm up and as she thought more about her feelings involving Twilight, she felt a happiness she could not explain.

“Maybe Tempest was right. Twilight’s way more than just a friend to me.” Starlight said.

At The Gala, Darkness Is Revealed

Starlight wasn’t exactly having a tough time running the School Of Friendship as much as Twilight was with ruling Equestria. Starlight figured that taking care of a school really was different from ruling a country.

She felt utmost sympathy for Twilight, she couldn’t imagine being ripped away from her friends like Twilight sort of was and being forced into a role she wasn’t really sure she could handle.

Starlight tried to tell Twilight’s friends about how Twilight was feeling but they were too busy with their own jobs and partially the school to fully listen. They did send their condolences but Starlight could tell it wasn’t fully helping.

Starlight knew she had to talk to Celestia and Luna when they made their appearance at the Gala, Starlight could not let this continue. Twilight didn’t think they’d change their minds but Starlight figured if they knew how much she was suffering, they’d interfere.

Currently she was getting her cyan gown ready for the Grand Galloping Gala in her room in the castle, it was a formal event after all and she needed to be at her best. Which is also why she curled her mane a bit more to make it look proper.

She then saw Trixie enter, wearing a sparkly red dress and asking, “Starlight. I have to ask, does this dress make me look noticeable, at least to the extent of being noticed enough to not overshadow Twilight? Though I wouldn’t be opposed to it either.” She rolled her eyes with a smirk.

Starlight rolled her eyes with a smirk, classic Trixie.

“It looks fine Trix.” Starlight said with a playful smirk before sighing with a smile, “It’ll be nice to see Twilight and the others again. Twilight’s had it rough lately.”

“Yes. She’s on the top of Equestria and now at the level of Celestia. How awful.” Trixie said with a sarcastic grin.

“Not funny Trixie, she’s felt really isolated since ruling Equestria. She hardly sees anypony except Spike and me when I can contact her.” Starlight glared at her friend, not fiercely but stern enough to make a point.

“Okay.” Trixie sighed, “I’ll lay off. That does sound upsetting.”

“Exactly. So I’m going to talk to Celestia and Luna about Twilight taking their place. Hopefully they’ll listen when they realize how rough Twilight has it. I know they will, I’ve met them. They are very understanding.” Starlight told her best friend.

“Well considering we’re still roaming free along with Discord, I can see that.” Trixie shrugged with a smile.

“Yeah…” Starlight trailed off, “But Twilight doesn’t seem to think that. It may just be me, but she sounds like she’s starting to resent them.”

“Hmmm, that doesn’t sound very Twilight.” Trixie hummed in thought.

Starlight did have to admit, that did sound pretty silly. Twilight resenting the princesses? It doesn’t sound like her.

“You’re probably right.” Starlight admitted sheepishly, “Maybe I’m just being silly. She’s probably just frustrated.”

“See. That sounds more plausible.” Trixie nodded with a smile, “Come on, Sunburst can’t wait forever.”

Starlight looks down at the cyan gown she’s wearing and smiles, “Yeah. It is time to go anyway.”

We then see that Starlight, Trixie, and Sunburst, who was in a black tux heading towards the train station in Ponyville where Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Rarity were waiting.

“Phew. You’re still here. Glad we didn’t miss the train.” Starlight smiled in relief.

“Yeah. Sunburst was going to panic if we missed it.” Trixie smirked condescendingly at her co-worker.

“I was not going to panic!” Sunburst gasped indignantly.

“You were breathing through your nostrils heavily and sweating bullets.” Trixie rolled her eyes making Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie giggle.

“Ugh. So I was a little stressed.” Sunburst rolled his eyes, “It’s not the end of the world.”

“You know Starlight could easily teleport you all to the train on her own right?” Applejack said jokingly.

“That’s what I said but Sunburst thought it was impolite at this time.” Starlight said with a teasing smirk sent the stallion’s way.

“Yeah… that’s probably for the best.” Rarity admits sheepishly.

“Ooh. This is gonna be so much fun!” Pinkie Pie began hopping excitedly, “I’m so excited to see Twilight again! It’s been quite a while since we last saw her!”

“Indeed. It will definitely be quite pleasant to talk with her again.” Rarity smiles, gleeful about seeing her as well.

“I feel it’s great that this is happening. It’ll show Twilight that she still has us.” Fluttershy smiles softly.

Starlight smiled at this interaction, she was glad they were so excited to see Twilight. Maybe with their presence, Twilight would at last, start to feel better.

Meanwhile Twilight had been snickering to herself as she began to head for the Gala hall, she was extra giddy to be doing this Grand Galloping Gala, for she would soon show how she would no longer be pushed around. Celestia and Luna being there would be the cherry on top.

Twilight soon kept on a confident smile and made it to the hall where her top two guards Gallus and Tempest, and her Royal Advisor Spike were waiting. Tempest and Gallus needed jobs for their own purposes so she gave them the positions. They were qualified after all.

“Alright guys. Here’s how this is going to go. Tempest will greet the guests from the entrance, and Spike will formally greet the guests himself. Gallus, you just take care of things from in here.” Twilight instructed the three.

“Sounds straightforward to me.” Tempest said neutrally.

“I’m cool with it.” Gallus smiled dismissively.

“Uh… are we sure about this?” Spike asked curiously and cautiously, “I’m pretty sure the guests want to be greeted by the princess herself. It’s how Celestia does it.”

“Yeah well I’m the leader of Equestria now.” Twilight said bitterly, “And this is how things work now.”

One look at Spike, Tempest, and Gallus’ shocked looks made Twilight realize she needed to change tactics, “Sorry. Just didn’t like being compared to Celestia.” She smiled nervously, “Look, I have an announcement to make at the Gala tonight. It’ll be important so I want to prepare for it.”

“I guess that makes sense.” Spike rubbed the back of his head with a raised eyebrow.

“Good. Glad we agree.” Twilight smiled brightly, “Now if you’ll excuse me. I have to prepare for the big night.”

“You guys get the feeling Twilight’s been acting weird lately?” Gallus asked with a questioning look.

“Oh good. I’m not the only one who noticed.” Spike smiled sheepishly.

“It’s probably pre-Gala jitters. She already seems to have it rough with being the new ruler and all.” Tempest suggests to her associates.

“Yeah. She has had it rough since she took over for Celestia.” Spike admitted sadly.

“From what Headmare Starlight said, she doesn’t really get to see her friends anymore.” Gallus said sympathetically, “That has to be rough.”

“We’ll discuss the matter further after the Gala, but for now we should prepare.” Tempest told the two males who nodded in agreement, they couldn’t argue with that logic.

We then see Starlight enter the Gala with the rest of the group, she couldn’t wait to see where Twilight was. It’d be nice to see her and reunite given how life gets in the way.

Meanwhile, Twilight herself was on top of the half circle chandeliers, spying on the guests in the room, especially her friends. She made sure that no one could see her with a cloaking spell of course.

“Look at them. They’re all so happy. After everything that I did for this Gala.” Twilight exclaimed angrily before taking a deep breath, “Patience Twilight. Your justice will come soon.”

Twilight soon looked over to see Starlight in her eyesight, and smiled fondly, she always did look adorable at times, but it was also nice to see her in that dress. It looked even more cute.

Twilight soon shook those thoughts out, what was going on? She only saw Starlight as a friend. Why was she thinking this?

However Twilight did continue to give Starlight a smile, whatever happened next, she knew she couldn’t let anything bad happen to Starlight.

Twilight soon teleported away from the chandelier and back to the party in her turquoise dress, away from enough ponies to make sure the teleportation wasn’t noticed.

She then walked over to where Starlight, Trixie, Sunburst, and the Mane 5 were.

“Twilight!” Pinkie Pie embraced the purple alicorn in a hug, which Twilight struggled to breath from due to her tight grip.

“Pinkie… can’t breathe…” Twilight wheezed which Pinkie’s eyes widened at as she sheepishly let Twilight go.

“Thank you.” Twilight rubs the back of her neck as she sighs with a smile.

“It’s really nice to see you all again.” Twilight smiled a bit fondly, for all their negative qualities, maybe seeing her friends again would be worth it.

“Are you kidding? We’d never miss the chance to see you Twilight.” Rainbow Dash smirked with her forearms crossed.

“Indeed. When we heard the Gala was happening, we certainly had to show up.” Rarity smiled.

Twilight rolled her eyes a bit, but kept her smile. Secretly she wasn’t sure if Rainbow Dash or Rarity were telling the truth. They never seemed to visit her anymore, only Starlight did at rare times she could but otherwise, she got squat from her friends other than a few letters.

She sighed though, it was nice to see her friends again. Maybe she was overreacting and maybe she should call off her plan.

Soon Celestia and Luna walked over to Twilight and her eye twitched a bit, they were the reason she was in this position. They were the reason she couldn’t live her own life anymore.

It was all their fault.

“Twilight. It is certainly a pleasure to see you again.” Luna smiled fondly at the new ruler.

“Indeed. I am very proud to see that Equestria is still safe in your hooves.” Celestia nodded at Luna’s statement.

Twilight had to admit, she was certainly glad to hear that from the princesses, maybe this wasn’t so bad after all. Maybe…

No, she still wasn’t sure yet.

“So… how’s retirement going?” Twilight asked curiously.

“Oh. It’s been simply wonderful.” Luna smiled, “It’s so good to be able to live carefree.”

Celestia nodded at Luna’s words, “Indeed. I most certainly enjoy it as well.”

Twilight’s eye twitched as she forced a smile at the princesses, “I see. That’s… nice.” She forced out politely.

Oh sure, they get to relax for the rest of their lives despite not being nearly too old to be retired, while she has to take charge of an entire country alone. Even when being Princess Of Friendship, she was at least able to share some responsibilities with the princesses but now she has ALL the responsibility.

How nice indeed, Twilight thought bitterly.

“Twilight. Is something wrong?” Celestia asked curiously.

“Nope.” Twilight quickly smiled, “Just remembering I have to make an announcement soon. I’ll see you all in a minute.”

She then teleported away before anybody could say anything. Starlight looked on in sympathy, it was clear Twilight was phoning in that statement.

She knew she needed to talk with the sisters and her friends now.

“Celestia, Luna, I think we should talk. This actually concerns all of you. You see, Twilight’s not fully happy with being the leader of Equestria.” Starlight began speaking.

“What do you mean Starlight Glimmer?” Luna asked curiously.

“Well…” Starlight began to speak before a microphone went off and Twilight was seen standing on the podium, “Can I have everypony’s attention please?”

Starlight and everyone else turned to Twilight, what was going on?

“Is everyone enjoying the Gala?” Twilight asked with a smile, which confused Starlight but everyone else in the Gala seemed to be cheering.

“Oh good.” Twilight’s smile grew more into a smirk and her eyes narrowed a bit, “Because it will serve as a reminder that the reign of Celestia and Luna is over.”

“Well that is an odd way of putting it but yeah.” Pinkie Pie shrugged with a smile as everyone just looked confused, including Starlight.

“Oh. I must have been unclear. The way Celestia and Luna used to rule Equestria is now ancient history. Things are going to change around Equestria.” Twilight smirked a bit more maliciously and soon a cage dropped on top of Celestia, trapping her but it missed Luna as she dodged the cage in time.

“Twilight Sparkle! What is the meaning of this?!” Luna asks in complete shock.

“Oh. I’m not Twilight anymore.” Twilight smirked sinisterly before her coat began to grow a darker purple, her wings began to turn black, and soon her eyes turned blue and purple mist came out of the corners.

“I am now Midnight Sparkle!” Twilight laughed evilly as she then aimed a blast at Luna who did not expect this, so she ended up being zapped and fell back a little, but soon she got up and began to blast Twilight. She didn’t want to but she had to stop her for the sake of getting through to her in a calmer state.

Applejack and Rainbow Dash were currently trying to free Celestia from her cage as Twilight and Luna kept trying to blast each other. The other ponies had been running away from the madness with Gallus leading them out as we speak.

“Can’t you use magic to escape?” Fluttershy asked fearfully.

“I can’t.” Celestia tried using her horn, only to fail, “Twilight must have used pieces of Chrysalis’ throne.”

Starlight tried using her magic on the bars but it had no effect.

“I have to stop her.” Starlight said hastily before using her magic to levitate to the beam war which Twilight and Luna were having.

“Twilight!” Starlight cried out as she levitated towards her friend.

“Starlight! I’m in the middle of my revenge!” Twilight said angrily as she kept aiming her blasts at Luna who still dodged.

“But Twilight, why are you doing this?! I understand your upset but you can’t do this! Don’t be like how I was!” Starlight begged to her closest friend, however Twilight didn’t budge.

“My destiny was controlled for too long! It’s payback time!” Twilight narrowed her eyes.

“What are you talking ab-“ Starlight began before a blast was heard, Twilight got out of the way in time but the laser ended up hitting Starlight’s chest and she ended up falling to the floor of the castle.

“Starlight!” Luna and Twilight cried out in horror.

Twilight soon turned to Luna with narrowed eyes, she had just hurt the only pony who had stayed near her in her time of need and now she was hurt because of her.

“You will pay for that!” Twilight said, full of rage before blasting Luna, who was too shocked and full of guilt to react and soon she fell to the floor, and was unconscious.

“Luna!” Celestia said in horror before Twilight rolled her eyes, “Relax. Despite this new me, I’m not a killer. Your sister will live.”

“So when it’s Starlight, it’s injustice but when it’s Luna, you don’t care?” Rarity asked curiously.

“I had to restrain Luna for the next part of my change to Equestria.” Twilight said coldly, “Going by force was the only way to do it. Plus after controlling my future, I figured I should get some sort of revenge. Starlight did nothing wrong in this so there’s that.”

“Look Twilight. I don’t know what’s gotten into you but we are not leaving without a fight.” Rainbow Dash said sternly.

“Do you really think you can defeat me?” Twilight asked with a smirk, “I just took down an alicorn but hey, since we’ve been friends for so long, I’ll be lenient. You can either leave now or suffer the consequences.”

The five friends looked at each other with uncertainty, they didn’t know what to do but as far as they were concerned. Twilight had them in a rut.

“I think we should go.” Sunburst advised the others, “We’re clearly no match for her.”

“Besides, somepony needs to take care of Starlight and I don’t trust Midnight or whatever her new name is.” Trixie said angrily as she glared at Twilight who glared back, how dare that showboat think she’d hurt Starlight.

“Alright then Twi. We surrender.” Applejack said sadly.

“Good.” Twilight smirked, “Now get out. Celestia and Luna are stuck here but you all can go.”

The Mane 5, Trixie, and Sunburst soon left the castle, Rainbow Dash carrying Starlight as they did so. Twilight snuck a concerned glance the unicorn’s way, she hoped Starlight was okay. After all, it was kind of her fault for not getting Starlight away from the danger in time.

Regardless, Twilight had all she needed, both the Royal Sisters were vulnerable and she had now successfully taken over Equestria on her own terms.

She knew she would have to get Starlight back into her hooves somehow, she was the only pony she wanted near her at this point but she knew it had to be willingly.

Twilight was a patient mare though, she’d wait for the time when Starlight would come back to her.

Either way, tonight was a good night.