Eternal flame of Daybreaker

From the Luna's Perspective

***

After that day, I started visiting my Nighty... I mean, Daybie more often. However, I would be a terrible mother if I didn’t address the most important issue. I needed to create a comfortable environment for Daybie to recover, and for that, I had to talk to my sister. I learned about Tia’s schedule from her personal assistant, Raven Inkwell. She’s an exceptionally capable earth pony, with white fur and a chestnut mane. She’s strained her eyesight due to all the paperwork and now wears glasses. I’ve asked her why she works so hard, even at the cost of her health. She always replies that being Celestia’s right hoof in the royal palace is her calling and her duty to Equestria. I don't know how Tia would manage without ponies like Raven. Without her assistants, Celestia would have lost her mind long ago. Thanks to them, she even has free time for walks with me.

I found out Tia's tasks for the day and identified a free window in her schedule. By noon, I headed to Celestia’s office with the clear intention of addressing this issue. Daybreaker might be a sensitive subject for Tia, but this matter couldn’t wait. I knocked on the door quite firmly. What followed was her characteristic "C-come in!" I entered quickly and closed the door behind me, signaling that the conversation to follow was just between the two of us.

SOUND OF DOOR CLOSING

I glanced around the office. The furniture was made from the finest materials, the room was well-lit, and there was access to a spacious balcony. The smell of parchment, ink, and… sweets lingered in the air. Directly opposite the entrance was a large white desk with golden legs. On it lay several stacks of papers, along with quills and ink.

"My sister sure loves luxury," I thought, surprised at yet another of Tia’s traits.

Celestia was reclining in her grand chair, happily devouring cake with tea that had just been brought to her.

“Oh, L-Luna, c-come in!” Tia invited me with her mouth full. “They just brought me a new cake,” she said, chewing the sweetness carefully.

Celestia used her magic to pull a chair up next to her, inviting me to sit with her.

“So, my poor Daybie is suffering and crying in a dusty, stifling tower while Celestia is sitting here enjoying cake?” I fumed, connecting the dots.

My wings involuntarily spread, and I scowled at my sister.

"Princess Celestia, would you be so kind as to stop gorging on your dessert and address a very important matter?" I called out to her, nearly yelling.

I was so furious, my eye began twitching. Celestia, startled, instinctively swallowed her piece of cake in fear. Realizing the gravity of the situation, she shakily set aside her dessert and tea.

“W-what’s the m-matter?” Tia stammered.

I took a deep breath and calmed myself. Folding my wings, I slowly approached her desk.

"Why are you treating our Daybie like this?" I asked, staring not at my sister but through her. “What did she do to deserve such treatment?”

For a moment, Celestia said nothing, as if struck silent. I looked into her eyes. They were wide with shock, as if she feared what I might say next.

“Luna, what are you even talking about?” my sister managed to say, finally overcoming her fear.

“Is she really pretending she doesn’t know?” my rage flared again. I was certain Celestia was behind this! Or was she? Well, no turning back now!

“HOW COULD YOU DO THIS TO HER?!” I shouted, stomping my hoof so hard the sound surely echoed beyond the door.

“H-h-how did I—” Celestia stuttered.

She shrank into her chair as though a monster stood before her. She looked as if cold sweat might break out any moment. Or perhaps she thought I had learned some terrible secret known only to Daybie and herself. Could I be right?

“I’m asking: why did you imprison Daybreaker in the furthest, oldest tower?” I decided to lay everything out.

Celestia sighed slightly and moved closer to me, placing her hooves together in an apologetic gesture.

“Luna, listen. I know how this looks from your perspective, but I assure you, it’s all a big misunderstanding,” Tia said, waving her hooves as if to deny everything.

“What was that?” I thought for a moment.

Had I stumbled upon something important? Tia, are you hiding something? What aren’t you telling me, Celestia…

“Luna?” Tia’s sudden address pulled me out of my thoughts. All this time, I had been staring at her with an inquisitive gaze.

“A misunderstanding, you say… I demand an explanation!” I declared loudly.

“As you recall, when I returned to Canterlot with Daybreaker, I left her here for treatment,” Celestia began, gesturing actively.

“And then?” I asked, raising an eyebrow skeptically.

“As soon as I arrived, I instructed my assistants to tend to her wounds. I also requested that she be placed away from prying eyes,” Tia continued, standing up from her chair. “That’s why she was placed in that tower. I suppose it’s my fault for not overseeing everything. For that, I apologize.”

“Suppose?” I thought, surprised by my sister’s choice of words.

Celestia stopped and looked at me with eyes that seemed to say I was the one in the wrong, as if I shouldn’t have gone there in the first place.

“However, Luna, I told you to stay away from that monster,” she spat the last word, making my eye twitch again. “Why did you go to her?” Celestia asked gloomily.

“What do you mean, 'why'?” I retorted quickly. “I had to visit her!” I proudly lifted my head, jabbing a hoof at my sister’s chest. Tia shrank back slightly.

I will not back down as I once did! I will fight for my daughter, even if it means going up against my dear sister. Mothers can be terrifying when it comes to their children, and I am no exception!

“Nevertheless, Celestia, if you ever call Daybie a monster, or any other ugly name again, we will have a very big problem!” I declared loudly, turning and swiping Celestia with my tail as I left her in stunned silence.

I proudly raised my head, spread my wings, and walked out without looking back at her expression. Never before had I been so harsh with my dear sister. But the way she speaks of my precious daughter, the way she treats her… It turns me inside out! Perhaps I should apologize for my behavior, but I am too hurt by Celestia, so it’s best to hold off on apologies for now. Otherwise, she won't learn a thing. Tia thinks I’m still that fragile, clueless sister I once was, but recent events have hardened me! Naity’s act of sacrifice changed everything. It changed me, above all. Her sacrifice made me stronger. Oh, how angry I am with my sister…

***

I headed to the royal library. There was another matter I needed to investigate thoroughly.

“What happened to my loyal bat ponies?” I wondered after my conversation with Tia.

As soon as I entered, I was astonished! The library was a massive two-story space. Four large doors opened pathways into the world of Equestrian knowledge. Books of all kinds were collected here: from basic magic studies to complex dinner recipes. In the center of the library lay a purple carpet, with a small monolithic table on it, which also served as a bench. Classic desks and chairs surrounded the carpet. Truly a gem, not only of Canterlot Castle but of its library as well. Staring at its beauty, I finally realized which books I needed to find.

“Excuse me, Y-your Highness, may I help you with something?” the head librarian nervously addressed me.

“Show me the books on Equestrian history, please,” I politely responded.

“O-of course! Right this way,” she motioned towards a shelf of books.

***

And so here I am, sitting at a cozy table, reading through history books. It brings back memories of the childhood I spent with my nose in books and studies, much like Tia. Back then, we had so many responsibilities. But as I read these books, I can’t help but feel something is missing. The texts seem to gloss over what happened after Nightmare Moon’s rebellion. They state the uprising was quelled, and a peaceful agreement was reached with the bat ponies. But at what cost? Who led the negotiations? The books don’t say. According to them, the bat ponies were granted their own land under their control, where they now live. This land is also an enclave of Equestria, governed by its own laws and rules. The royal court does not control this territory, but if the crown calls for their help in times of need, they must respond. That’s what the books say.

As far as I know, letters have already been sent to their lands with news of my return and an invitation to serve me. It's only a matter of time before they arrive here. Does that mean everything is resolved? Definitely! But why did Tia mention that Daybie killed my loyal subjects? Would she lie to her sister, the one she waited a thousand years for? I don’t think so. She was clearly sincere about it. But this information definitely needs to be checked. I need to see the full picture. That’s why I came here with these questions. Based on the information I’ve received, I dare to assume that peace with the Thestrals was reached on quite generous terms for them. Does that mean the outcome is entirely thanks to Daybie? I think so. But she killed the Thestrals…

I believe that, weighing all the pros and cons, it’s clear that bloodshed was simply unavoidable. It pains me that my subjects suffered then. However, I cannot blame Daybie for this. She tried to settle the conflict. If anyone is to blame, it’s Tia and me. For letting the situation reach that point. I am unforgivable…

***

After a long and fruitful conversation with myself, I wandered back to Daybi’s quarters. Upon entering, I noticed significant changes. The room was finally cleaned, and better furniture had been arranged. It seems Tia realized her fault. That’s a relief; it’s not just me who has changed—she has too. But now I was slightly worried about my rash outburst… I had said everything to her in the heat of the moment—I could’ve been gentler, of course.

“I must apologize!” I concluded.

But that will come later. For now, I just want to enjoy Daybi’s company. I noticed something important: whenever I approach her and stroke her head, she begins to make the sweetest little noises, just like a foal! I never knew my Daybie loved affection so much—how cute!

“Could my presence really mean that much to her?” I wondered.

It seems all this pony needs is love and care from those close to her. Could Celestia have loved her so little if she never considered her a daughter? Poor Daybie…

A curious question crossed my mind as I gazed at my poor daughter. “How did this even happen?”

No, I had come to terms with Nightmare Moon’s rebellion, but how did Daybi’s soul end up in my subconscious? Obviously, I knew the answer—I just needed to dig deep into my memories. When our exile ended, Nightmare returned to Equestria, supposedly to bring about eternal night.

“But why?” I asked myself.

She knew perfectly well that six ponies, the bearers of the Elements of Harmony, would stop her. So how did she hope to achieve her villainous plan?

“Unless… it was all just an act?” I had a thought.

My Nightmare would never harm all of Equestria. Let alone bring about eternal night. We both know that’s simply impossible. Keeping the night sky forever requires immense power and focus. That couldn’t have been her true goal. Did she want to be defeated by the Elements? But why… No, that can’t be it!

“She wanted to die!” a logical conclusion struck me.

Realizing that brought tears to my eyes. The only thing that can break or crush an alicorn’s spirit is loneliness. Suffocating, disgusting, all-encompassing loneliness. “Why did Nightmare have to endure such trials? IT’S NOT FAIR!” I cursed everything I could think of. I held Daybie tighter, causing her little face to scrunch up. I quickly eased my grip, realizing I was hurting her.

After calming down a bit, I continued my heart-wrenching thoughts.

I can clearly see how Daybie reacts and feel the same soul that Nightmare had. So, this pony is undoubtedly my Nightmare. But I also sense Daybreaker’s soul—they seem to complement each other. As if…

“As if they’ve merged into one!” the realization hit me.

Did Daybie absorb Nightmare, or was it the other way around? It doesn’t matter! I will love her just the same, with all my heart. I know for sure she is my daughter.

But how did Daybie end up in my subconscious? Could something have happened to her? She could’ve only come to me in one way. The old spell of Star Swirl using the Elements of Harmony. But who could have figured out how to use them like that? Could it really be…

KNOCK KNOCK

Suddenly, I was pulled from my thoughts by a knock on the door. I felt a bit nervous about who it could be. Only Tia’s aides and Tia herself knew about this place. Could it be someone coming to clean?

“Luna, it’s me,” I heard a voice I immediately recognized. It was Tia. What does she want here?

“I came to apologize for my behavior,” she responded as if reading my mind.

“C-come in,” I allowed her in, a little nervous about how she would act around Daybie.

She entered and slowly approached me, keeping her head down. I held Daybi’s hoof tightly for comfort as I sat beside her.

“Luna, please forgive me… I didn’t oversee Daybreaker’s treatment properly and let the situation get out of control…” Tia began apologizing, shifting awkwardly from hoof to hoof.

“And?” I responded sternly, expecting her to apologize for something else. Something very important!

…

Celestia thought for a moment and seemed to understand what I meant.

“And forgive me for calling her Daybreaker…” Her final apology didn’t sound very sincere. Well, whatever—I’m not without blame either.

“I also need to apologize for my rude behavior,” I stood up and asked my sister for forgiveness.

It’s best to meet her halfway and ask directly. Tia seemed too afraid of what might come next.

“Sister, will you forgive me?” I came closer and stared into her eyes. She looked like she was about to burst into tears.

“L-Luna…” Tia’s voice trembled, her eyes glistening. “O-of course I forgive you… Come here,” she gently hugged me.

“Luna, I promised myself I wouldn’t argue with you anymore, but now…” Celestia spoke through tears.

“It’s alright… Everything’s fine, you forgave me, and I forgave you,” I stroked her head gently.

I had to comfort her; otherwise, I’d start crying with her. Oh, I remember! There was a new dessert made… Ah, yes!

“You mentioned a new cake… Is that offer still on the table?” I asked, trying to console her.

Celestia smiled sweetly and buried her face in my mane. Then, she pulled away a little and looked at me with loving, kind eyes.

“Of course, it’s still on! Let’s go, we can invite Cadence too,” Tia said, tugging me along, and I casually followed her.

“Tia, sometimes you’re just like a little foal!” I thought with a smile as I trailed behind my sister. But why didn’t she even acknowledge our Daybie? It’s as if she wasn’t there at all. Maybe I should stop overthinking and just enjoy the evening with my sister. After all, she did apologize for her behavior…

***

Today is going to be a wonderful day! I can feel it in my gut. Yesterday, we had such a lovely time with tea and sweets, and later, Tia took me to a truly fantastic place. It was the Canterlot Spa. Oh, Luna, it was magnificent! From the large pool to the little sauna—it was divine. After a cold shower, it felt amazing to warm up in the sauna for a bit! So many different combinations of oils and shampoos have appeared lately, and I had no idea. Later, Tia even invited professional masseuses, and they gave me a thorough massage. Oh, and the way they massaged my wings… Just thinking about it makes me feel so relaxed… I hadn’t had a massage in so long, I forgot how nice it was. Wait, where was I?

“It’s time to check on my dear Daybie!” With that thought, I stood up and headed for the distant tower where my daughter was resting.

…

I climbed the spiral staircase of the tower at a leisurely pace. Suddenly, a maid nearly bumped into me, carrying an empty pitcher. I dodged just in time and continued. Normally, I would have demanded an explanation from the maid, but right now, only one thing mattered. I started running and rushed to the top.

“Could it be?!” My thoughts sparked.

“My little Daybie is awake!” The thought made me want to sing and dance.

“I knew today would be a good day!” I smiled and dashed to meet my fate.

…

Finally reaching the top, I heard… singing? A very pleasant, familiar voice was softly singing from the room where Daybie lay. Let me get a bit closer… I want to hear what she’s singing…

“My little Daybie is singing!” I couldn’t be happier.

I clearly heard a verse of the song. It was about having a day off, sung in a very amusing way. I giggled at how Daybi sang. I had no idea she could sing such funny songs! I’ll have to tell Tia! I’m so curious to learn new things about my daughter.

“Daybie sings so beautifully!” Even though her songs are playful, her voice is so beautiful and deep, I can’t get enough of it.

I really don’t want to interrupt her, but at the same time, I can’t wait to hug her. It feels like an eternity has passed since we last met. Oh, Daybie, I missed you so much!

Suddenly, Daybie stopped singing. Alright, pull yourself together, Luna! Time to finally meet my beloved daughter after all these years. Oh, how nervous I am! What if Daybie doesn't remember me? No, that can’t be! I'm just overthinking… Time to open the door!

SOUND OF A DOOR OPENING

***

“DAYBIE, WHAT HAPPENED?!” I screamed in panic, jumping around the fallen pony.

She suddenly became very ill, collapsing unconscious. How could this happen? I didn’t say anything upsetting to her…

“Why did Daybie fall so ill?” the question spun in my head, with no answer in sight.

“Now is not the time for panic!” I snapped myself back to focus.

“I need to get a doctor!” I darted down the spiral staircase like a bullet, desperate for help.

***

“Doctor, is she really alright?” I continued questioning him.

“Yes, Your Highness, I examined her thoroughly, and I can assure you her life is not in danger,” the doctor reassured me.

“Then why did she faint?” I finally blurted out.

“Likely from accumulated stress and painful memories. Her fragile body couldn’t handle it and went into a protective state, plunging her into sleep,” the doctor concluded.

I gasped at his words. I felt like crying right then and there. Could Daybie’s memories really hurt her this much?

“Thank you, doctor,” I said, my eyes wet with tears, dismissing him. I needed to be alone with my daughter.

“Always happy to help, Your Highness,” the doctor responded. With a respectful bow, he left Daybie’s room.

I sank to my knees by Daybie’s bed, covering my eyes with my hooves, quietly crying on the cold floor.

…

Sniffling softly, I felt feathers brush against my back. I flinched at the unexpected touch and saw her. The one who had called my Daybie a monster. The one who abandoned her daughter. I wanted to scream at her in anger, but instead, I focused on her expression. Her brow furrowed, her eyes wet, and her mouth slightly open. She wanted to say something but was afraid of how I would react. Celestia looked at Daybreaker, her face full of confusion and perhaps a bit of pity. She had come to support me. I must have been sitting by Daybie for hours, waiting for my little one to wake up. I needed to ask Celestia about what Daybie said!

“Tia, do you know…” I began cautiously. “She said we abandoned her back then, leaving her to deal with all the problems we caused…” I managed to say, peering into her eyes.

Celestia’s eyes widened, showing genuine, unfeigned surprise.

“You didn’t know?” I asked, my voice trembling.

“I-I didn’t know,” Celestia answered honestly, lowering her head. “Luna, back then, I was so shocked after using the Elements of Harmony on you that I think I just shut down…” Tia explained, telling me everything as it was.

Something inside me cracked, the sound like a balloon bursting.

“So instead of dealing with the situation, you left everything for Daybie to handle and ran away from the mess you made?” I asked bitterly.

…

Tia stayed silent. She had nothing to say, and I already knew everything. Realizing this, I understood there was no point in sitting here trying to get anything more out of my sister. I had brought this situation to this breaking point myself. I had to find the answers on my own. And there was only one place for that. I got up and headed for the exit of the tower.

“Luna, where are you going?” Tia stopped me, reaching out her hoof.

I didn’t even look at her as I walked away, throwing only one thing over my shoulder.

“To the library, to find answers,” I said coldly, opening the door.

***

I returned to the library, torn between hurt and despair. I felt an overwhelming sadness. We had made such a mess, Tia and I… I needed to channel this energy into something useful! Namely, finding answers. Desperately, I scanned the shelves, searching for the right books. I had already read through all the histories of ancient Equestria, but I needed to check everything.

“What’s this?” I paused, my gaze landing on a peculiar book.

It was titled “The Story of an Empress,” bound in a red cover. I tried pulling it with my magic, but it wouldn’t budge. I applied a bit more force…

CLICK

Suddenly, there was a mechanical click behind the bookshelf. I instinctively stepped back and watched in awe. With a dull sound, a passageway to a hidden room opened, pulling aside the old cobwebs, which quickly tore. Without hesitation, I stepped into the old chamber.

“Cough… cough,” I began choking on the ancient dust.

Everything screamed secrecy. Thick layers of dust, webs stretched across corners, and the aged furniture. A magical lamp burned on the wall, oddly still lit—probably charged with an enormous amount of mana. In the center of the room stood an old table with a chair. I approached the table and saw it. A worn book titled “Daybie’s Diary.” I swallowed hard, unsure if it was in anticipation or fear, and carefully opened the cover. Surprisingly, the pages were well-preserved, the letters easy to read, and the handwriting beautiful. However, the title of the first page sent chills through me.

It read: “The Siege of the Castle of the Two Sisters.”