Once Upon A New Home

by APoeticHeart

Rating: everyone
Tags: Fluttershy, Adventure, Twilight Sparkle, Princess Celestia, Slice of Life, Sad, Princess Luna, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Rarity
Length: 9006

Toby faces a new, more powerful enemy, King Sombra

It has been four years since Toby Mason arrived in Equestria & became a member of the Equestrian family of the Royal Sisters, Elements of Harmony, Cutie Mark Crusaders, & the whole land. Living with his adoptive mother Fluttershy & father, Big Mac, Toby has been apart of some great, fun, yet also dangerous adventures. He has faced the enemies of the Elements of Harmony such as Queen Chrysalis, the Diamond Dogs, but through it all, he has survived with courage, but most importantly with his family by his side.

However, a new enemy has awoken to face Toby, an enemy that the Elements of Harmony thought was gone forever, King Sombra. However, he has returned with some help with Lord Tirek, Queen Chrysalis, & the Diamond Dogs. Now, it is time for Toby to once again join his family in battling the forces of evil, but this time for four years, there has been a secret hidden from Toby, hidden by Princess Luna. What is the secret & will Toby & his family overcome this new, powerful threat of King Sombra?

(Artwork done by Shutterguy)

Published 2023-04-27 23:50:03 UTC
Last updated 2023-06-05 23:59:17 UTC

Prologue: A Dark One's Return

Prologue: A Dark One’s Return

Tartarus - Sombra’s Bedchambers

Deep within the cold, damp recesses of Tartarus, King Sombra was sleeping peacefully within his bed chambers. Dreaming peacefully of moments he once was ruler of the Crystal Empire, snoring as loud as a manticore rushing through Everfree Forest, he had a dreamy grin upon his muzzle, drooling. However, from upon a black crystal orb held by a dragon claw stand, a voice radiated throughout the room.

“Sombra….Sombra, wake up…. Sombra….” Yet, the voice didn’t even phase the dark alicorn as he still slept like a newborn foal. The orb started to shake a little as the voice grew louder “SOMBRA! WAKE UP YOU INSOLENT FOOL!”

Suddenly Sombra shot up & fell out of bed onto the floor with a thud “Oof…I’m up…I’m up.” He stood up & shook his head to get rid of the cobwebs. He turned toward the crystal orb “Yes my liege, you summoned me?” He trotted over to the orb as dark magic pulsated from it.

“Yes, my loyal servant, I have. I have heard about your plan about going to Earth to capture the boy’s father, am I correct?” The pulsating magic grew with a slight anger in it’s tone.

Sombra noticed & swallowed nervously “Y-yes Master. I-I thought if I would to bring the boy’s fa..”

“SILENCE!” The dark magic boomed, causing the bed chambers of the alicorn to shake “We had a deal you pathetic excuse for a wielder of dark magic. If I gave you the magic I had left in me to bring you back into existence that you would owe me a favor, am I mistaken?” The magic calmed down a slight bit.

“No Master you aren’t, but..” Sombra felt the walls shake around him again as the orb boomed with anger again.

“BUT NOTHING!” A strong radiating pulse filled the whole room “Listen you miserable, pathetic weakling! I want you to go to Earth, & there is a place called Storybrooke I would like for you to visit.” The magical aura calmed itself.

Sombra quirked an eyebrow “Storybrooke? What is that supposed to be? A city right out of a storybook…Haha..” Suddenly the room shook again with a thunderous roar from the orb.

“Silence! There is a man in Storybrooke who goes by the name of Mr. Gold. He has something of mine that I want back, & that can bring me back to life…Hehehe!” The aura gave an evil, high pitched laugh “Not only do I want you to bring my special relic to me, but bring Mr. Gold & all those he cares about in Storybrooke to this land of enchantment & limitless magic.” The aura calmly stopped.

Sombra bowed his head “Yes my liege.I will get along my way so I can talk with the others.” He turned to trot out of his bedchambers leaving the orb on the center table.

Gold, you will pay for vanquishing me into non-existence. Yet, thanks to my resourceful intellect, I have found a way to return not only to a life of existence, but soon I shall return darker, more powerful, & more sinister than you could have ever imagined….Hehehe.

Tartarus - Meeting Area

“So Somby Ol’ buddy, does this mean while you are away to this Storybrooke, I am in charge.” Tirek threw his arms up in the air “Woohoo! You hear that Prissy Chrissy, you will do what I say for a while.” A sly smirk crept across his muzzle.

“Oh,ack…like I would take orders from such a idiotic, lump-headed fool like you.” Chrysalis turned her head to the side “I’d rather kiss a manticore’s rear end than listen to you.” She rubbed between her eyes with a hoof ‘And the name is Chrysalis, Chrys-A-Lis, not Chrissy you buffoon.”

Tirek flared his nostrils, rose up on his hind legs & stomped the ground causing a small fissure “Those are fighting words Queenie!” He balled up his fists in a fighting stance “And I have been told I am a great kisser too.” He snarled.

“Ha…by who, your mother..Ha!” A grin formed across the changeling queen’s muzzle as she lit her horn “Are you sure you want to do that centaur boy? Try it & I’ll turn you into a roast stallion.” She leaned forward into a fighting stance.

“Enough!” Sombra looked at the two with pure annoyance. “Would you two please stifle your petty arguing & let’s get down to….wait, where is Discord?” He looked around for the Draconequus with a heavy sigh.

“Last time I checked, he was playing fetch with Cerberus.” Tireck chuckled “You know Somby ol’ fella, Discord isn’t one for having meetings.” Tireck held his stomach after laughing some more.

With a heavy sigh, Sombra rubbed at his forehead “Uuh.. I will dear with him another time. For now, I need to update you both on our plan to take over Equestria.” A sly smirk crept across his muzzle.

“Yes! Finally, down to business!” Tirek clapped his two massive hands together “Time to take over once again!” He chuckled loudly.

“Although I might disapprove of your obnoxious behavior, Lord Tirek, I completely agree. It’s time to put that Miss Goody Two Shoes, Princess Cadence & her loving hubby, Prince Shining Armor through the same torture they have cause my children & me for such a long time. It is time for The Crystal Empire to receive a new queen!”

“SILENCE!” Sombra stomped his hoof “There be nothing done until I come back from where I need to go to on Earth.” He looked at the two with frustration “For now you both will stay here & await my return & then we shall get our plan finally underway!.” He chuckled.

Chrysalis & Tirek looked at each other with a shrug of their shoulders “That is fine with me, gives me time to get my children in fighting mode & ready to suck out all the love that those pesky do gooders have in them” Chrysalis chuckled & vanished in thin air.

“I guess I will go & find something entertaining to do like work on my boulder crushing power so I can deal with any ponies that want to get in my way of taking over half of Equestria.” Tirek turned & trotted off.

As for me I shall go get Master & we shall take our leave to this Storybrooke! Sombra trotted back to his bed chambers to retrieve the dark magic filled orb.

In a flash Discord appeared in the air in the middle of the meeting place So Sombra is taking orders from some higher power, huh? I better keep this information to myself until the time is right. With a flick of his fingers, Discord vanished in thin air again.

Storybrooke - Town Line

“Wow! I love this new body of mine.” Sombra gazed upon himself was he was the form of a human dressed in black slacks, black dress shoes, a black button up shirt with crimson red tie, & a black men’s coat. His eyes were blood red, & hair was slicked jet black. He smirked as he set his gaze around his new surroundings “So this is Storybrooke, huh my Lord?” He reached into his jacket pocket to pull out the orb.

The orb started to pulsate with its dark magic ‘Oh yes my faithful servant. This is the home of that insolent fool, Mr. Gold. Now obey my directions & we shall fi….whoa…some…something’s happening.” The aura started to radiate & pulsate erratically.

“My liege what is happen….OH!” Suddenly the orb exploded into a huge cloud of darkened purple smoke.

After the smoke disappeared a scaly looking man in olden worn attire appeared ‘Whoa…what the hell just happened?!: He looked down at himself to see him full human again “Wait…the only way this could happen is if I was in a land of….magic.” He drifted off as he looked around at his surroundings “This is not only Storybrooke….but..”

“But what master?” Sombra looked at him curiously & concerningly.

“This is my home….the Enchanted Forest as well.” A slow, sly grin crept across the man’s face “How did this happen though….wait! I remember, Mr. Gold took his heart out of his chest, erasing all of that darkness from it & placing it in that pirate’s chest. With doing that, he thought he was finally vanquishing me from all existence, but instead he only sacrificed himself for nothing! HAHAHAHA!”

“Master…are you okay?!” Sombra quirked an eyebrow “Who is this Gold you are speaking of & who is this pirate of a sudden? What is this place & why are we doing he…ACK!” Suddenly Sombra’s grab felt like it had a vice grip around it choking him/

“SILENCE YOU FOOL!” With a twist of the man’s hand, the grip was loosened, & Sombra collapsed to the ground coughing violently “Stop asking such meaningless questions! I will explain soon enough.” He chuckled at the fallen alicorn “Oh before I forget my pet, may I introduce myself.” With a bow as that of a gentleman he smiled mischievously “My name is Rumpelstiltskin, but you can simply call me The Dark One…Hehehehe..” A sinister giggle escaped his lips.

Sombra stood up finally catching his breath “Well, Dark One, first off I am nobody’s pet. Second of all, remember who found you in that useless crystal ball. I could easily just….AAH!” Suddenly he felt Rumpel instantly thrust his hand into his chest & with a squelch, the Dark One pulled out his heart “Hey how dare you… AAH! What the?!” Sombra collapsed to one knee grasping at his chest.

“Now who is in control you pathetic worm…Hehehehe?!” Rumple began slowly squeezing the hear tin his hand “Next time you decide to try & defy my command my pet…Hehehe…well then I will just have to..” He started to squeeze the heart a little bit harder.

“AAH!...AAH!...STOP!...ENOUGH!...I WILL OBEY!” Sombra screamed out in pain as he fell to the ground gasping for breath.

Rumple released his grip on the heart & placed it in a satchel he had around his waist “Good boy! Now since we are back in Storybrooke, also the Enchanted Forest, I wonder if my castle is still standing. There is where we need to go my loyal subject….Hehehe..” With a snap of his fingers, both The Dark One & Sombra vanished in a cloud of purple smoke.

Storybrooke: Mayor Mills House

At the home of the Mayor of Storybrooke, Regina Mills the scent of freshly baked apple pie & pineapple glazed ham radiated throughout the whole household. She was currently cooking her famous apple pie & baked ham for a feast that would be going down at the castle of her Enchanted Forest self, The Good Queen. She had her pie in a covered pie dish & ham in a covered tupperware dish.

There, that should be all of my food I’m going to bring. I hope The Good Queen’s Henry will enjoy it like my Henry does. A smile of pride crept across her face as she looked at the clock which was ten til eight o’ clock Oh gosh I got to get a move on. Making sure that the oven was turned off & all of the lights, Regina exited her mansion with a smile on her face This coronation of Lucy, Alice, & Robin is going to be beautiful! A delighted squeal escaped her lips & she loaded the ham & pie in the backseat of her 1988 Mercedes-Benz. She got into the driver’s seat & headed toward the Enchanted Forest.

Enchanted Forest: Royal Castle

Classical music was being played within the lustrous beautiful castle of The Good Queen, Regina Mills as the inhabitants of The Enchanted Forest were having fun participating in the official coronation of the three new princesses. Everyone from Princess Mary Margaret & Prince James, to Queen Regina’s son, Henry, a loyal knight to the royal family & grandson, the coronation room was filled up with many family & friends. A feeling of joy & pride swept throughout the entire room.

“Hm..hm…excuse me, everyone.” With a pleasant tone in her voice, Queen Regina called for a calm silence “I would like to welcome you all to tonight’s wonderful occasion. Tonight it is my honor as the Good Queen of the Enchanted Forest to welcome three new princesses to our land. You all know who they are, but tonight is their official coronation & they have earned their crowns. So without further ado, let me welcome our three new royals!” She motioned toward the main entrance of the coronation hall.

“First accompanied by her father, Henry Mills, & her mother Ella Mills, here comes the lovely, charismatic, & whimsical Princess Lucy, also my granddaughter!” A loud applause erupted as Lucy, ten years old walked down the aisle with her parents on each side of her. As they arrived at the center, they bowed to Queen Regina & walked to the side.

Good Queen Regina smiled warmly at the three as she looked at the door “If you are continue clapping the next princess I would like to introduce is accompanied by my sister, formerly known as The Wicked Witch, now known as The Good Witch, Zelena Mills, is her brave, tough as nails, & intelligent daughter, Robin!” An older young adult of twenty five years walked down with an older woman who was Zelena, her mother. As they arrived at the center, they bowed to Queen Regina & then to Henry, Lucy, & Ella. They walked to the other side.

Queen Regina clapped at the two before turning to the entrance one last time “Now last but not least, accompanied by her fearless pirate of a dad, Captain Hook, is the magical, quirky, yet loyal friend, Princess Alice.” The final princess walked down the aisle with her father & as they arrived at the center, they bowed to Queen Regina & the other two families before staying in the middle.

After the applause died down, Queen Regina looked at the three princesses “Now if you three would be so kind, please step forward.” The three young princesses nodded & stepped forward “Now if my trusted advisor & knight please bring me the crowns.” Out of the crowd stepped Queen Regina’s son, Henry stepped forward with three crowns. Regina started by grabbing a white gold crown with crystal diamond emblazoned around the edges “Princess Lucy, may you step forward.”

Lucy nodded & stepped forward & bowed her head “Princess Lucy, it is with great honor of mine to crown you Princess of Camelot, for I know you will keep peace & calmness upon the land. I know there can be some rough criminals in Camelot, but I know with your leadership they could come back from their bad deeds & redeem themselves.” Queen Regina carefully place the crown on top of Lucy’s head “Here stands Princess Lucy, Princess of Camelot!” She rang out as the crowd gave a thunderous ovation once again.

“Now Princess Robin, could you please step forward?” Queen Regina smiled warmly as the brunette stepped forward “You know Robin, when I look into your eyes, I see so much of your father in you & I am sure your mother could agree.” She looked over to Zelina who gave a warm nod “And you are one hell of an archer…haha.”

“Thank you Aunt Regina. I know Dad would be proud of me.” Robin gave a smile as she looked up toward Heaven “And I know he is watching over me.” Her eyes became warm & teary eyed.

“For that reason, I have decided to crown you Princess of Nottingham.” She took a took a silver crown encrusted with white diamonds & placed it upon Robin’s head “I, Queen Regina with great honor crown you Robin, Princess of Nottingham. May justice be served to those who try to wrong the citizens of Nottingham.” She smiled warmly as Robin stood up & returned to her spot.

Alice stepped up last “Oh my Queen, I am so excited! I have never thought I could be a princess, but this is a dream come true.” She smiled brightly as she stood excitedly.

Queen Regina chuckled softly “Oh well, your dream is coming true Alice.’ The last crown was a silver crown encrusted with aqua blue diamonds. Alice bowed her head “As for you my friend, I believe you would be a wonderful Princess of the magical land of Wonderland. Since my mother is gone, but in a better place, I believe they were looking for a new Queen of Hearts.” She sighed softly.

“Oh your highness, I…I.. I don’t know if I can become the Queen of Hearts. Most of the inhabitants of Wonderland feared her & I am not that way.” With a small whimper, Alice frowned but soon found a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

“Oh my precious jewel, Alice.” Hook looked at her “I assure you that the people of Wonderland would adore you being their queen.” He raised his hook “Besides, if they don’t…Well, then they will face your father’s wrath.” He chuckled softly.

Alice playfully smacked him away “Oh papa, please.” She chuckled as she felt another hand on her other shoulder which was Regina’s.

“Your father is right Alice, you have shown yourself to be kind, caring, & gentle-hearted, all traits that do make a great queen. So without further ado, Alice Jones, I Queen Regina crown you the official new Queen of Hearts of Wonderland.” She placed the crown upon Alice’s head “And I know it would be ruled with lawfulness but with love.” She smiled as Alice stepped to the side.

“Ladies & gentlemen, please welcome the Enchanted Forests’ new Princesses!” She spread out her arms to present the princesses & the room filled up with a thunderous applause. Queen Regina smiled at the three as she raised her hand up “If you all would proceed to the dining hall there is a feast ready to be served!” She smiled as the door leading to the dining hall was opened.

As everyone was exiting the coronation room Queen Regina placed a shoulder on Henry’s shoulder “Henry dear, how is it going with the Round Table?” She asked her son with a warm smile.

“Oh it is going good Mom. We just finished wrangling some looters in Camelot & got them in the town jail.” He smiled “Is everything going okay here Mom? I know it isn’t the same with us not living together, but I just feel this is the right path for me.”

“Oh sweetheart, don’t worry about me, I am always fine. Besides, being redeemed for all the evil stuff I have done, I feel wonderful.’ She kissed his cheek “Now let’s go get something to eat.” She chuckled as the two walked toward the dining hall.

Enchanted Forest - Rumplestiltskin’s Castle

“Aah…it is great to be home!” Rumple & Sombra appeared in the royal den of his castle. The Dark One gazed all around “Well, looks like no one has touched my castle.” A sly smirk crossed his face.

“Oh..man my liege, this place is bad at all.” Sombra smiled at the castle but turned back to Rumple “Um… exactly Master, what are we looking for?” He curled an eyebrow.

“Oh my dear servant, you will see in time. For now though let’s go to my study room.” With a twist of his fingers they vanished in the purple smoke again.

Soon they appeared in what appeared a study room. Rumple looked around took in a deep breath & exhaled “Oh it feels wonderful to be here. This my loyal subject is where I came for deep thought & to be alone. Also..” He drifted off as he walked over to a shelf with an array of different sized vials & glass tubes.

Sombra stood & looked around in wonderment as he looked at all the shelves lined with rows & rows of books ‘Wow! I might reconsider taking up residence here when my takeover is at hand. Haha.” Sombra chuckled as he walked over to Rumple “I see you was a busy body with all these potions.”

Rumple shook his head “Yes my dear pet, but I just need….Ah, there it is!” He reached up to take a vial with two sparkling beans. “These are part one of my plan…Hehehe..”

Sombra looked at him quizzically “Um…my liege, what exactly are you planning to do with two simple beans? I mean they are…AH!” Suddenly Rumple backhand smacked Sombra hard causing him to collapse to a knee.

“God, you fool no! You see Sombra, these beans are going to be a portal to bring the child we have discussed here to my world…Hehehe..” Rumple twirled the vial between his fingers before pouring the beans into his hand “You see my servant, I shall take one & you shall take the other one, put out your hand.”

Sombra got back to his feet rubbing at the side of his face, sticking out his hand “You could have warned me that you were going to hit me.” He looked at the bean “How is a bean supposed to get us on the step of taking over once again?”

Rumple sighed heavily “You truly are an imbecile…Grr..” He shook his head ‘Anyways, you will take your bean to an area of your land with the most magic & I will place my bean in the area with the most magic here. We will both throw them & they will open a portal….Hehe..”

“Oh I see now Master, but I have one question. What does the child have to do with any of this?” He looked at Rumple curiously.

“I am glad you asked my pet….hehehe..’ He walked toward one of the windows of his study to look out “I have read about a prophecy about a Dark One becoming immortal & that is what I want. I want to show everyone that Rumpelstiltskin is the greatest & most powerful sorcerer of all…hehehe..”

“And what did this prophecy say exactly?” Sombra crossed his arms with a quizzical expression.

“It says for a Dark One to gain immortality & all power, one has to have the blood of a soul of innocence & pure love.” He then turned back to look at Sombra “That is where you come in my dear servant. You will bring the child to me & we shall begin our plan of taking over each of our own worlds..Hehehe!” The Dark One clapped mischievously.

“It’s about time you brought me into this whole plan of yours Master. Now if you mind, I shall take my leave & go back to Equestria.” He turned to leave but turned right back around “Um…my liege how would I return back…Oof!” Suddenly he vanished in a cloud of smoke.

Finally, shut him up! I don’t know why I had to find a insolent fool like him, but I guess I will have deal with him until the final part of my plan comes to fruition…Hehehe.. Rumple paced around his study & then walked to a shelf of books & pulled the center of it. Suddenly, it opened to reveal a secret room & he entered.

In the center of the room was a glass case with a wand in it, but strange black aura surrounded it.Rumple placed his hand upon the glass & stroked it Soon my precious wand, you shall return to the once great power you once possessed. Oh, I am glad I found you in the river in the Enchanted Forest, but what I read about you, the one who broke you was indeed a fool. But don’t worry my precious, you will be restored soon. Soon the world will fear & remember the name of Rumpelstiltskin…HEHEHEHE!

Author's Note

Well, it is finally here. Once Upon A New Home, the Prologue. I hope you all enjoy reading & I promise there is more ahead! :raritywink:

Chapter One: An Old Enemy's Warning

Chapter One: An Old Enemy’s Warning

Equestria: Canterlot Castle

As Princess Luna’s moon filled the evening sky of Equestria with a warm, glowing light Luna stood outside on the balcony of the castle, looking over the land. A smile crept across her muzzle Oh what a beautiful & quiet night tonight is. I hope my friends are sleeping peacefully, especially my precious little nephew, Toby. I still can’t believe it has been four years already since he’s been living here. I got to think of some….AH! A sudden, sharp pain shot through the Lunar Princess’ head.

What the? What is tha….AH! Another sudden sharp pain shot through Luna’s head as suddenly her environment turned pitch black. She looked around in all directions, seeing nothing but complete darkness. She furrowed her brows What is this plac….AAH! The sharp pain struck again, but this time her whole environment started to shake around her.

Hahaha…hello old friend! A loud cackling voice surrounded the mare as Luna’s maw trembled Oh are you surprised to hear from me dear? The eyes of Nightmare Moon suddenly appeared in front of Luna.

Nightmare Moon?! How? I thought I got rid of you for good! An angry growl escaped her maw as her horn lit up. She lowered her upper body in a fighting stance Now either begone from my presence forever or we will end you!

Whoa there old friend, don’t fret. For I am here not to fight you, although..haha.. We both know who would come out on top of that confrontation. No, I am here to offer you a warning..or two.

Princess Luna calmed her fighting stance but looked into the giant intimidating eyes of Nightmare Moon “What do you mean by warning?” Her brows furrowed with intrigue yet worry at the same time.

Well dear friend, I have been floating around transparently & silently throughout this wretched land of Equestria & I have discovered something intriguing being orchestrated by one of your & your sister’s most feared enemies. However, I am saddened to say that it isn’t me.

Who are you talking about then? We have defeated Queen Chrysalis, Lord Tirek, &....No! It can’t be…not… King Sombra?!

Haha…how wise you indeed are, dear friend. Yes it is King Sombra, but he isn’t alone, he has Queen Chrysalis & Lord Tirek working with him. However, they are pale in comparison to the true Maestro of this whole hostile takeover…hahaha..

Cut it out with the games, what are you getting on about? I thought we finished of King Sombra for good as well. Also, how do you know all this stuff when you have be banished from my mind forever! Luna’s brow furrowed with frustration.

Oh poor, pitiful Luna, now you know you can never get rid of me. We are apart of each other, & as long as you live, so shall I…Hahaha! Anyways, while you have been living peacefully in this so-called wonderful life, I have been spiritually surveying the land that I once attempted to rule. During this time I have come across the rebirth of King Sombra you could say.

But how? I thought…. Luna’s brow furrowed with confusion & concern & looked at the eyes of Nightmare Moon What else do you know?

Well, like a fly on the wall I have decided to infiltrate where King Sombra was in Tartarus. When I would spy on the old, ashy former king, I would notice him in conversation with a crystal orb. I thought he was being crazy, until I heard a voice come from the orb.

Spit it out already you critton, who did the voice belong to & what is this all about?! It is very odd that you come to us to warn us about something terrible coming. Why would you want to help us?

Trust me, my dear friend, this is the farthest thing I would ever dream of doing is helping you & your pesky friends. However, I just thought I would warn you, because despite my hatred for you, Equestria is still my home as well.

Whatever, continue with what you were saying.

Well, anyways while Sombra was talking to this orb, it was the power of the voice that brought Sombra back to the land of the living. It was then that the voice told Sombra if he wanted to rule Equestria, he would have to help him, but of course we know Sombra can’t do anything on his own so he enlisted the help of Lord Tirek & Queen Chrysalis.

Oh no, this is not good. I will have to warn my sister & the others. It seems like Sombra & those other two are planning a war. Luna furrowed her brow with deep thought.

Oh, one more thing my dear one, before I take my leave from your mind, I do have one question. Are you ever going to tell your precious little nephew the truth?[/i]

What do you mean? What truth?

Oh such a naive mare you have become Luna. Don’t you remember the vision that you showed that precious little nephew of yours of his father running his mother off the side of the road, killing her? We both know that the whole vision was just an illusion to hide what really happened.

I…I…I couldn’t reveal the truth to Toby. If he found out what really happened with his mother, his little heart would be completely shattered & there is no telling how he would have reacted physically. Luna lowered her head feeling tears in her eyes.

Tsk..tsk..tsk… oh poor Luna, my old friend. That is the other warning I came to tell you about, because what King Sombra has planned with this new, powerful being involves that precious little one you call your nephew.

Luna gasped in shock Why would Toby be involved with anything that Sombra has planned? He has nothing to do with the banishment of Sombra, Lord Tirek, or Queen Chrysalis! Luna let out a low growl.

Oh Luna, I know he doesn’t, but he has something very valuable that is supposed to make Sombra's plan come to fruition. As I listened to Sombra’s conversations with this mystical voice, I understood to bring him back to life, he needs the blood of a soul pure & innocent, & that very blood belongs to your nephew.

No! I won’t let that happen to Toby! I will tell my sister, & everyone about this horrid plan & we will put a stop to it, trust me! Luna stomped her hoof.

Well, my old friend, we shall see about that…Hahaha..! For now, I’ll leave you to your thoughts. Oh one more thing dear Luna, if I may be honest, I believe this whole hostile takeover is a creation of the mind of someone much, much worse than any of us, even Sombra can fathom. Well…Tata.. For now!” Within a flash Luna ended back with the land of Equestria & the castle surrounding her.

She stepped to the balcony’s rail to look out at the land with tears flowing from her eyes. She looked up at her beautiful, warm, glowing moon Oh my precious little nephew, please forgive me for keeping this deep, dark secret from you. I wanted to just protect you from the terrifying truth, but I will explain it to you, my sister, & all of your family when I ask for you all to come to the castle. Luna let out a sniffle as she turned to trot back into her bedchambers & trotted over to her bed. She climbed onto her bed & laid her head upon her pillow.

Toby, please forgive me. She softly cried herself to sleep.

Author's Note

:pinkiegasp: What could be the dark secret that Luna is keeping from Toby?:raritystarry:

Chapter Two: A New Arrival

Equestria - Canterlot Hospital

Celestia’s sun rose with a bright, warm light that casted calmness over the land of Equestria. At the Canterlot Hospital, there was a hint of excitement going around in the air. Inside the waiting room of the labor & delivery floor, Twilight Sparkle, her friends, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, were all sleeping peacefully in lounge chairs.

They were awaiting the arrival of the new addition to the family of Fluttershy, Big Mac, & Toby. However, the only one who wasn’t present in the waiting room was Toby. The young human was currently in the hospital’s cafeteria sitting alone at a table eating some oatmeal. As he ate, a sigh escaped his lips as some thoughts ran through his head.

Oh gosh, Momma & Papa Big Mac is going to have a baby, & I am going to have a little sister or brother. I hope I will be a good big brother to her or him, because I never had a little brother sister. Also, he or she will be a pony, & I am a human. Another sigh escaped his lips as he ate his oatmeal.

“Good morning Toby dear, is everything okay?” A voice interrupted the child’s thoughts as he ate his breakfast.

He turned to see Princess Twilight Sparkle “Oh, good morning Aunt Twilight.” He gave a little smile toward the princess “I’m okay, just eating some oatmeal.” He took another bite as he saw his adoptive aunt approach him.

Twilight trotted up beside him & placed a wing over his shoulders “Are you sure you are doing okay sweetheart? You know if something is bothering you, you can talk to me or any of us, right?” She gave him a warm, reassuring smile.

He took in a deep breath & exhaled before turning to look at Twilight “Aunt Twilight, do you think I will be a good big brother to my new little brother or sister? I never had a brother or sister, & I’m a human. Momma’s & Papa Big Mac’s baby is going to be a pony.” A frown formed across his face “What if my little brother or sister is scared of me because I’m not a pony?”

Twilight pulled him closer to her with her wing “Shh…it’s okay sweetheart, don’t talk like that now.” She leaned her head closer to him & nuzzled his cheek ‘Toby, do you remember what I told you during our very first sleepover at Canterlot Castle?” She stroked his small back with her wing.

He turned his head to look into her eyes “Yes I do Aunt Twilight. You told me that you, Momma, & my whole family loves Uncle Spike, even though he is a dragon.” He gave a little smile.

“That is right dear, but what else did I tell you?” She gave a very light chuckle & nuzzled his cheek again.

He gave a little smile again “You also told me that although I’m a human that you, Momma, & my whole family loves me as you all love Spike, although he is a dragon.” He looked softly into her eyes.

“That’s right my dear nephew.” Twilight gave a warm smile & nuzzled his cheek “Now, I don’t want you to think that your new sibling won’t love you because you are a human or think that you won’t be a good big brother, understand sweetheart?” She gave him a gentle smile.

He nodded “Yes Aunt Twilight, thank you.” He turned in his chair & hugged her neck.

She returned the hug & stroked along his back with a foreleg “You are welcome Toby.” She patted his back & gave him room to get off his chair. “Now how about we go see your new baby brother or sister, shall we?” Both of them exited the cafeteria to go back to the labor & delivery waiting room.

Tartarus - Meeting Area

“So, the precious shy pony is having a foal of her own, isn’t she?” Sombra waved a hoof over a magical mirror provided by Discord “This could work to our advantage.” A low chuckle escaped his lips as he rubbed at his chin.

“Exactly boss, how is a foal supposed to help us take over Equestria?” Lord Tirek scratched his head as he looked at Sombra “I mean what is a foal going to…ACK!” He felt a vice grip around his neck.

“Silence you fool!” Sombra furrowed his brows in anger “Once the foal is born, that little brat could become jealous of the attention it receives from his family & it would cause him to run away. Then, when that happens I can capture him.” He smirked evilly as he let go of his hold on Tirek “Do you understand?”

“Auh…cough…cough….yes Boss, I understand.” Tirek coughed terribly as he grabbed at his neck.

“Enough Sombra!” Chrysalis walked into the meeting area slamming a hoof “Enough with your games, what exactly are we doing here if this whole ‘Take Over Equestria” plan only involves what you get & not us!” Chrysalis sneered with anger at the Dark King.

“Chrissy has a point Boss. I mean You brought us two together to help you with your plan, but then you go behind our backs to silently speak with an imaginary voice about a totally new & different plan.” Tirek regained his faculties & kicked at the ground “Now if you aren’t going to unite with us to take over Equestria, then Chrissy & I will do it ourselves!”

“What have I told you about calling me Chrissy you big buffoon!” Chrysalis turned & struck Tirek hard in the face with a hoof “Call me that one more time & I swear I will roast you!” She stomped her hoof & aimed her horn at Tirek.

“Whoa there girlie. I didn’t mean no harm by it…Haha!” Tirek simply chuckled & shrugged off Chrysalis' threat.

“Enough you two imbeciles!” Sombra lit up his horn & shook the entire sanctum of Tartarus “Just stop bickering & listen!” He stomped his hoof & as some of the rubble from within fell down.

Tirek & Chrysalis instantly stopped “Alright!” The two spoke in unison & turned their attention to Sombra.

“Now, I promised you both that you two will rule Equestria once again alongside me, & I intend to keep that promise. However, the one who created this plan needs that human child to forego with his plan.” Sombra sighed & turned around.

“And what does the child have that is so special in this mystery brewer’s plan?” Chrysalis raised an eyebrow.

Sombra smirked & turned around to glare at Chrysalis “Oh my dear Chrysalis, I believe you know the answer to that question already.” He trotted up to her a bit & his smirk grew “You got to remember what you felt when you surrounded him in that enclosure of magic of yours & drained him of his love.” He chuckled.

Chrysalis furrowed her brows & closed her eyes in deep thought. Suddenly her eyes shot open “No!... I felt his pure love just seeping through my pores, but….I also felt…” She then glared at Sombra “Magic!”

Sombra nodded with a huge smirk “Yes! Before I left, Rumplestiltskin told me that the child possesses a type of magic that can make others immortal.” He chuckled lowly

“Well, I am completely lost now, but hey…Haha…if there is a way for me to become immortal, then Somby Ol’ Buddy.” Tirek trotted over to Sombra & patted at his shoulder “I’m in.”

Sombra shrugged the massive hand off “Don’t touch me again.” He sneered “DISCORD!” He yelled for the Draconequus.

Suddenly, Discord appeared in a poof of smoke laying on a floating hammock & drinking a glass of chocolate milk “You rang my captain, or captain.” He winked at Sombra as he poofed his hammock away & floated down to the ground.

“Yes, I have a special task for you. I need you to go to Canterlot Hospital & have a word with that child. I need you to get the thought of his family loving that foal more than him into his head. If we can separate him from the others, it will be easy for us to take him.” Sombra chuckled lowly with a sinister smile.

Discord twiddled his paw digits “Oh, so you are telling to make the little tyke envious of his new little sibling?” A devious smirk crept across his muzzle “Sounds like the Master of Chaos is slowly inching his way back into power..Haha..” He then bowed his head to Sombra “It would be my pleasure my liege.” Without a snap of his talons, he vanished in a cloud of smoke.

Sombra turned to Chrysalis & Tirek “Now you two, let’s get started on our part of the plan.” He trotted up to Chrysalis “Queen Chrysalis, I believe it’s time for you & your children to get some needed revenge on Princess Cadence & Prince Shining Armor in the Crystal Empire. I will leave you to do that.”

“Yes! Finally, that miss goody two hooves is going to pay for all the pain that her & her precious hubby done to my children & I! I shall bring terror among the Crystal Empire & make it mine!...Hahaha!” Chrysalis vanished next into a cloud of black smoke.

Sombra then turned to Tirek “Now then my big tauren friend, how would you feel about wreaking havoc in Ponyville?” He smirked at the centaur.

“Oh yeah baby! Time for Lord Tirek to get control back of the reins & show those puny ponies what real power is all about!” Tirek chuckled & vanished in a red cloud of smoke.

Sombra’s smirk grew as he thought to himself While they are off doing their mischief I will be devising the capture of that little brat.His eyes glowed a crimson red as he trotted toward his bedchambers.

Canterlot Hospital

“Oh Big Mac, she is absolutely precious!” Fluttershy was cradling her newborn foal who had a light pink coat with wings, & an orange mane & tail. She kissed her forehead “Our own precious little one Big Mac!” She beamed as she looked up at her mate’s eyes.

Big Mac’s eyes filled with tears as he simply said ‘Yup” As he leaned his head down to nuzzle at her forehead. He moved his head over to give Fluttershy a kiss on the lips “She has her mother’s eyes.” He gave a soft chuckle.

A knock was heard at the door & Nurse Redhart opened the door “Excuse me, Miss Fluttershy, Mr. Big Mac, you two have some visitors here to see you both & the baby. Would it be okay if I let them in?”

“Um.. of course Nurse Redheart, let our friends in.” Fluttershy giggled softly as she looked down lovingly at her newborn foal “My precious little one, welcome to your new home of Equestria.” She leaned her head down to nuzzle at her little cheek.

“Gah! Oh darling, she is absolutely adorable! “Rarity gasped with a beaming, wide smile across her muzzle as she trotted in, leading the rest of the group in. She looked at the three, beaming at the sight of the foal “Oh my gosh! She is beautiful Fluttershy & Big Mac!” She trotted over to them “Congratulations you two!” She gave each of them a gentle hug & then kissed the foal’s forehead.

“Um..hehe.. Thank you Rarity.” Fluttershy smiled up warmly at her & thought of something “Um… do you think you could make us some baby clothes for her, since I don’t have any?”

“Oh darling, I thought you would never ask.” Rarity beamed & clapped her hooves together ‘It is going to be such a pleasure to make clothes for the little doll, but also create a new line of foal clothes.” She smiled as the others came in.

“Now easy there Rares, ya got to let us take a look at the little rascal.” Applejack chuckled as she trotted up to her brother & patted him on the shoulder “Way to go brother! It looks like we have another Apple to join the family!” She chuckled.

Big Mac smiled proudly “Yup!”

“And ya girl, Ah am so proud of ya & more prouder to call ya sister-in-law!” She wrapped a foreleg around Fluttershy’s neck, making sure it was gentle so as not to hurt her & startle the foal. She looked down at her “She sure is a darn pretty lil’ dear. Ah’m sure Applebloom would be delighted to have a niece, as well will I.” She chuckled as she nuzzled the foal on her forehead.

“Ah yes! It looks like she is going to be a great pegasus soon enough, under the tutelage of her Aunt Rainbow of course!’ Rainbow Dash was next as she hovered in the air & did a flip in midair “Oh I am so happy for you two, congratulations!” She hovered to the ground & gave both a big hug around the neck. She looked down at the foal & very carefully stroked the top of her head “Say hello to your Auntie Rainbow, the fastest, coolest flier of all Equestria!” She smirked proudly as she stepped back.

“Um..thanks Rainbow, but um.. I think I would be giving our new filly flying lessons. Um.. nothing against you Rainbow, but..umm…your methods are kind of…um…how can I say…risky?” She gave a shy swallow hoping not to make Rainbow mad.

Big Mac nodded in agreement ‘Yup”

Rainbow ears fell a little, but she shook her head ‘It’s okay Flutters, I understand. Maybe when she gets older, I could teach her a trick or two. Maybe my famous Rainboom!’ She smirked & chuckled.

Suddenly Pinkie Pie hopped up close to the three ‘Hello you little, whittle, cutie wutie, I’m your Auntie Pinkie Pie!” She beamed at the baby filly “I throw the best parties in all of Ponyville, & I will throw you the biggest, bestest, most funnest party for you when you get ready to come home!” She then gave Fluttershy & Big Mac great big hugs “Congrats you both!” She gave them each a big smooch on their cheeks before bouncing over to the others.

“Um…thank you Pinkie.” Fluttershy giggled as she leaned her head down to whisper to her foal “Your Auntie Pinkie Pie can..um…let’s say get carried away at times.” She kissed her cheek.

“Hello Fluttershy & Big Mac.” Twilight was the last one to trot in along with Toby following behind her. Twilight trotted up to the two & smiled warmly “Congratulations to both of you on having such a beautiful little one.” She turned to the foal “And welcome little one to Equestria, I am your Auntie Twilight Sparkle. I am the Princess of Ponyville & I will be happy to show you some magic when you get to leave.” She kissed her forehead & then turned to Toby “Come here dear nephew & meet your new sister.” She smiled warmly at the human child.

Toby walked up to his adoptive mother & father giving Big Mac a hug first with his arms up against the barrel of his chest “Congratulations Papa Big Mac!” He smiled up at the big, red stallion.

“Thank ya little buddy.” Big Mac returned the hug & ruffled his hair.

‘Um..here Toby, sit right here near me.” Fluttershy scooted a little bit to leave a space for Toby to climb up onto the bed with her & the foal.

Toby carefully climbed up & smiled “Congratulations Momma!” He leaned down to hug her tummy so not to hurt the foal if he would have hugged her neck.

Fluttershy gently stroked from the top of his head down his back, returning the hug ‘Thank you sweetheart.” She then looked at the foal “Little one, I would like for you to meet your big brother, Toby. Toby dear, this is your new sister, Shy ButterBright.”

Toby carefully sat back up & scooted closer to his new baby sister. He felt tears in his eyes “Hello little sister, my name is Toby. I am your big brother.” He gently leaned his head closer to Shy & gave her a kiss on the forehead “I promise to be a good big brother to you & love you with all my heart.” He sniffled as he was proud to be a big sibling.

Fluttershy looked at Big Mac with a tearful smile & then back at Toby “Um…Toby sweetheart, would you like to maybe hold your little sister?” She smiled at him motherly.

Toby looked a little shocked at the question, but nodded “Yes Momma, I would like that.” He opened his arms up for Fluttershy to hand her to him. Fluttershy carefully handed Shy over to him & he carefully cradled her in his arms & brought her close to his chest. He started to gently rock her back & forth “You are a beautiful little sister.” He spoke softly as he calmed his tears.

Um…I am so happy! I have a wonderful mate, amazing friends, a precious little son, & now a precious little daughter. Um…I am the luckiest pegasus in all of Equestria! Fluttershy smiled to herself as she looked all around at the hospital room at her Equestrian family.

Canterlot Castle - Balcony

Princess Luna was watching over the land with a deeply saddened expression on her face. A heavy sigh escaped her lips. This is terrible! If Toby finds out the truth that I have kept hidden from him for so long, there is no telling how he will react or what he will do. She closed her eyes to try to prevent herself from shedding a tear.

“Sis, is everything okay?” Luna’s thoughts were stopped as Princess Celestia trotted onto the balcony & stood by her sister “I could see you standing out her alone from my bedchambers.” She placed a wing on her sister’s back.

Luna took in a deep breath & exhaled “Sister Tia, no, nothing certainly isn’t okay.” She sighed heavily & turned away “I have something to tell you sister, but it is something truly terrible.” She lowered her head in shame.

A look of concern etched across Celestia’s face “Luna dear sister, you’re worrying me. What is it that you have to tell me?” She trotted closer to Luna & laid a wing over her back.

“Sister Tia, do you remember that vision I shared with our dear, young nephew Toby & the others several years ago?” A frown etched on her muzzle.

Celestia nodded “Yes I do sister. It was the vision of Toby’s despicable father killing his beloved mother.” A scowl of anger etched on her face.

“Well dear sister, one tragic thing I would like to tell you is that vision, it was…..fake!” She turned her head away from her sister & felt a tear roll down her cheek.

“WHAT?!” Celestia gasped & drew her wing away from Luna “Lulu, what do you mean that vision was a fake? I was there, along with everypony else, that vision was pretty real dear sister.” She looked at Luna with her brows furrowed.

Luna trotted to the edge of the balcony to look out over the land “No Tia, it was not. The vision that I created for Toby to see was an illusion. It was not Toby’s father who killed his mother.” Her lips began to quiver as she started to speak more “T-the vision was just an illusion, because I didn’t want Toby to discover the truth.” A swallow shakily traveled down her throat.

Celestia trotted a little closer to Luna with a look of confusion etched all over her face “Lulu, what do you mean the truth? What is going on?” She looked at her sister with deep concern.

Luna sighed heavily as she looked to her sister “The night I found Toby sleeping alone in that cave & I heard him wish to have a better home than the one he was in at the moment, I felt something ... .something unnerving.” She closed her eyes again & took in a deep breath, exhaling shakily “I felt a strong presence of magic.”

“M-Magic?!” Celesta looked at her shockingly “B-but how Lulu? Toby is just an ordinary human child. Also, why are you telling me all this? This is all sounding kind of eerie.”

Luna nodded “Yes Tia, it is eerie, but it is a dangerous omen. Last night, I had a visit from my inner demon, Nightmare Moon, & she had a fatal warning for me. She told me that King Sombra has returned & he is gathering forces together to attack Equestria & to take over.” She looked into Celestia’s eyes with a serious expression.

“King Sombra?! I thought we banished him to Tartarus for good.” Celestia closed her eyes & turned away with a scowl of frustration “What kind of forces is he coming up with to invade Equestria?”

“Dear sister, he is planning to take over Equestria with Queen Chrysalis & Lord Tirek. However, there is a much darker, terrifying force that is behind their plan to take over.” She sighed heavily as she looked at Celestia.

A more, deeper concerned look etched on Celestia’s face “A much darker, terrifying force? Who or what are you talking about Lulu? Who could be worse than King Sombra, Tirek, & Chrysalis all put together?”

Luna looked at Celestia sighing heavily “He is the true mastermind behind the plan of taking over Equestria, but the most haunting truth is he is the one who is truly responsible for the death of Toby’s mother.”

“WHAT?! Who is Lulu? Please sister, you got to tell me so we can warn Princess Twilight Sparkle & the others.”

A nervous swallow traveled down Luna’s throat “His name is…. Rumplestiltskin.”

Author's Note

I would like to apologize for taking a long time in posting this next chapter. However, I hope you all enjoy & what does Rumpelstiltskin have to do with all this? :raritystarry: