A Knight's Shining Starby MidknightshadowChaptersDid We Die?....Dreams? ...Is.. Is This Real?!New Life? How?Did We Die?....Jack/Midknight Shadow Pov Jack blinked. He felt like he'd been hit by one of those Isekai trucks his sister Lilly loved to watch in anime. Opening his eyes he froze... "what? where? HUH???!!" His shout scared some nearby bird. His eyes focusing on not his sisters hospital room with its beeping and buzzing machines... but a think forest with dark shadows that almost seemed alive. A groan sounds beside him. Beside him was a strange fuzzy something.... The something groaned again in protest to his shouting. "Jack!" the fuzz ball groaned. "Keep it down. Will you? I hurt." She.. For if Jack wasn't mistaken that was his sister Lilly's voice. "Lilly?" Jack asked. Struggling to his feet only to fall over. Looking at himself he screamed again. He...He was covered in FUR! FUR!.. As Jack's mind wandered. At least it was cool fur. a deep royal purple with a midnight black sheen to it. His tail was silver with amber and pale red streaks. And if he had to guess his hair...Mane? was the same. His mind reeling... "I look like Midknight Shadow." He wondered aloud. turning to look at what had to be his butt. or whatever horses called them... 'flank'... Lilly would know he was sure. she loved horses. Anyway, back to his butt. it showed a coat of arms. A shield separated into four parts. The shield itself had a silver boarder, with alternating black and cream squares. On the squares on the top right was a dark blue rook. Top left a pale violet bishop. the bottom right a knight the same color as the bishop, and on the bottom left a pawn the color of the rook. with king and queen crowns atop the shield in alternating deep blue and pale violet. with red jewels on them. And if he remembered right bright amber eyes. No One's Pov The fuzz ball next to him that had to be Lilly. His little sister by three minutes. Stirred, unlike Midknight, Lilly's fur was a pale blue that faded to deep azure. Her mane was silver with bronze molten and golden streaks. On here flank was Evening Star's mark. A bronze star with a target circle over it. Lilly stirred opening her eyes bewildered. Midknight shadow can see her eyes are a bright bronze. She looked like Evening Star, from their games of pretend. When she looked at him she froze and screamed. "Lilly! Lilly! Its ME! Jack!" Midknight shouted trying to calm his panicking sister. Lilly froze, in a tiny voice she asked."*Jack*" Midknight Shadow nodded. "Yep." Smiling gently. Lilly giggled. "You look like Shadow." He nodded, pointing at her with a hoof.... Boy wasn't that a shock. "And you look like Evening Star." Evening Star look down at her coat in wonder. before looking at him. She whimpered. wide eyed. "Jack... I'm scared" Midknight sighed, crawling over he pressed against her for comfort. cursing the accident that stole his sister's happy excitement and courageous heart. "its okay. I'm here. and call me Midknight Shadow. But call me Shadow. I have a feeling we're really far from home." He said, nuzzling her to comfort her. Lilly leaned into his side placing and ear over his heart. Its steady rhythm calming her own. as it always did when a panic attack would set in. Lilly giggled, "Then I'm Evening Star. but call me Star for short." They look at each other and burst out laughing. The tense fear/shock/lost feeling in the air. Was dispelled in an instant. "Shadow, what do we do now?" Star asked. Looking about the clearing they lay in. Beside them were backpacks... well, more like two pouches with a strap connecting them. One was matched Midnight's coat. with his mark on it as a buckle. The other match Star's coat. with her mark on it. "Looks like we have supplies at least." Midknight commented. Crawling to it. Causing Star to giggle. "Shadow," she called teasingly. "use your horn." "My horn?" He looked up, crossing his eyes to see. Causing Star to giggle even harder. Midknight reached up with a hoof. feeling a protrusion, then he remembered when he made the character Midknight Shadow, he thought magic was cool. So Unicorn it was. While Star had always wanted to fly. Son on her back were a pair of wings. With that thought in mind. Midknight tried to activate his magic. He felt something warm flow through him. as his horn sparked with silver colored magic. The silver essence dimmed flaring and he managed to 'grab' his bag. Pulling it to him, panting from effort. Taking a deep breath, he opens it finding dozens of chess pieces. Pulling one out.. The white king. To be precise. Star leans over peering at it. "just like in our game!" She whispered in awe. And she was right, Midknight was created with animation magic as his talent. Leaving him able to animate and control the chess pieces as golem. Each with its own skill. Said golems could also give Midknight bonus abilities as well. "MINE TOO!! MINE TOO!!" Star chirped excitedly. So Midknight obliged, grabbing hers with his magic and placing it in front of her. Star squealed, opening it digging inside. Sticking her head inside. Star's muffled voice could be heard from inside the fabric. "It's so roomy in here!!" Pulling out a star gazing book. a few golden... somethings? A few apples. And a small stick?.. Scaring herself when it suddenly burst open to reveal something akin to a bow. "Wow!" Both twins said in unison. Shadow opens his as well finding it larger on the inside as well. Beside the chess pieces, he has a book on the obscure art of animation magic. He to had a few apples, and gold pieces. but not much else. Shaking himself, he focuses on Star. "We need to find someplace less open." Star looked over at him from examining her bow. Thinking it over, she nods. "yea, probably a good idea. but..." she looked down at herself. "How do we walk?" With the twins spend the next hour trying to learn how to walk on four legs. Star had a harder time from months in a hospital bed. but they managed. Walking deeper into the woods. They find a small cave, that Shadow managed to secure with a white rook. that he'd to activate, which left him drained. Snuggling together for warmth the two fell into and exhausted sleep. Author's Note Hi, this is Midnight Star. My brother Midknight Shadow and I are collaborating on this story. So please be nice. Though anything that make the story better is welcome. Thank you! Dreams? ...Is.. Is This Real?!Shadow Pov Shadow panted as he raced down the hospital corridors. Doors passing him in a blur, he had to find Star! He's not sure what happened. If their jaunt in the strange forest was a dream or if his mind is playing tricks on him but right now Star's scared and hurting. And Shadow will be hanged if he lets her stay that way. Shadow speaking "Star! I'm coming! Hold on!" Yelling he calls his sisters name. Not bothering to notice the sparks flaring off his horn. or the glowing white knight in his bag as he gains speed that would put an Olympic runner to shame. A burst of pure kinetic energy smashes through a door as Shadows charges into the room. Silver magic illuminating the dim oppressive hospital room. His eyes scanning the room find Star hiding in the corner wings flared curling around herself as she tried to block out the voices of the shades that surrounded her. "its your fault! Your parents would be ashamed of you! How could you! What would your brother think? After everything he's done to help you!" There voices mixing in a downward spiral for the young pegasus mare. Star whimpers... "It was an accident! I didn't mean too!" Tears falling from her bronze eyes. "Im sorry... I'm so sorry!" she pleaded. Voice dropping to barely a whisper. Shadow seeing the torment HIS little sister in. Lost his cookies. With a feral snarl horn flaring instinctively his magic yanked a black rook from his bag. As he poured magic and intent into the golem it grew in size towering over everything in the room. Activating the Black Rook following its King/Masters intent followed its purpose. With berserker rage it tore into the shades that dared to hurt HIS little sister. With a grim sort of satisfaction Shadow moved over to Star's side. Carefully, gently he held her close. Petting her mane, He knew how much Star blamed herself for the death of their parents. Shadow himself had a perpetual limp from the crash. But he knew Star wasn't to blame. though he had in rare moments felt a bit bitter about how they'd died. It was Star after all that wanted to take a family trip to the ocean. And after a week of being confind to his own hospital bed. It died the instant he learned Lilly now Star would never live without life support again. Seeing her laying there with all those machines. And Star begging for him for their parents. Broke and steeled his heart. As her big brother Shadow would never let anything happen to her again. Be it real or imagined. Star Pov Star blinked her eyes open, and froze. Familiar machines and equipment surrounded her. Star speaking "No not here please, Not here anywhere but here!" She begged. Without realizing she lept off the bed wings flaring as she bolted from the dreaded room that became her life. Only for the door to slam closed. Locking ominously. As shadows with vague shapes their voices spewing the poisonous thought and accusations she had repeated to herself hundreds of times. Despite Shadows assurances, Star couldn't help but feel guilty. If only she hadn't wanted to visit the ocean for their 20 birthday. She had pleaded with Shadow and their parents for weeks until they agreed on the family trip. With the prevision that they stop by the national chess museum. Jack/Shadow being an avid player and master at the game. Having gained his scholarship through his winning the national chess tournament. Star had readily agreed. As she loved to listen to shadow talk about all the famous players. Though she did find it annoying she could never beat him at the game. Preferring astro-photography over chess. Her room covered in night sky pictures. Knowing the stars patterns as well as Shadow did his chess strategies. But then it all went wrong. As Star cowered on the floor trying desperately to block out the shades venomous words. She remembered what happened. They had just left the national chess museum. Jack/Shadow having just received a duel set of special one of a kind antique chess pieces as a birthday present. Lilly/Star picked one up and accidentally dropped it. As she and Jack/Shadow hunted for it. Their parents went to get the car. Only for a drunk driver in a large work truck to slam into their parents car. Lilly/Star seeing what was about to happen shoved her brother back out of the way as the vehicles crash in a fiery explosion. Catching a bit of shrapnel in her spine. crippling her for the rest of her life. Star speaking "It was an accident. I'm sorry... I'm so sorry." Star whimpered. Huddled in a corner she'd been backed into, wings curling around her as a shield. Not seeing the the door burst open or the silver magic as Shadow dealt with the shades by using one of his golems. Nor did she notice Shadow coming to lay beside her. Sniffing, as Shadow petted her mane. She barried her face in his chest crying. Luna Pov The Lunar ruler paused as she felt fear/pain/grief. Mixed with anger/protect/not alone. Ripple to her from the dream realm. Each on there own was normal but to have both in one dream gave her pause. Queen Luna Luminous of the Lunar Equestrian Kingdom. Held up a silver gilded hoof. Silencing her once personal student Twilight Sparkle. The purple coated mare watched her queen with mild curiosity. It wasn't often Luna did this, both enjoying the verbal duel. Twilight watched as Luna closed her eyes focusing on the dream realm. Shadow&Star's dream Luna Pov Luna's eyes open and she looks around, taking in here surroundings. It looked like a hospital. Trotting down the long dark corridor. The ruler of the lunar kingdom paused as she came upon the shattered remains of the door. Moving to peer inside she comes snout first into the edge of a halberd. Her magic flaring to form a shield. Looking up she sees the biggest black rook she'd ever seen blocking her path into the room. Knowing what she sought was on the other side of the giant chess piece. Luna lighted her horn, using her power as the ruler of dreams. Luna dissolved the oppressive and ominous hospital. Even the rook which stood guard slowly dissolved as the dream changed into an open field with a gentle stary sky above. What shocked the Lunar Queen was this was in fact two ponies dream not just one. She couldn't help but stare for a moment at the two young ponies. A unicorn and pegasus respectively. The deep royal purple stallion for what else could he be with his deepening voice. If Luna was a betting pony, she'd say they were just entering adulthood. The stallion was trying his best to comfort pegasus her coat a pale blue that faded to a deep azure like a shooting star. Hearing his hushed voice Luna Paused. shadow speaking "It's ok, Star it wasn't your fault." His voice firm but gentle. Star speaking "But Shadow." the newly dubbed Star replied in a trembling voice "If i hadn't..." The stallion, 'Shadow' put a hoof to her muzzle. His voice firm, unyielding. Shadow speaking "No. I don't blame you. And I know.." Luna cleared her throat, keeping a polite distance not to scare them. Shadow POV Shadow stopped speaking. feeling his connection to the black rook vanish. Then the clearing of a throat. Causing Shadow and Star to look up. Startled he saw a large blue horse?.. with wings like Star and a horn like him staring kindly down at them. Shadow wasting no time jumped up shielding Star with his body. Horn flaring with silver essence. "Who ARE you?" He growled. Star Pov Looking up to see the blue... Alicorn? She wasn't sure that was right. Not that it mattered. It was BIG. Star shrank back from it's gaze. Unable to help the relieved sigh that escaped her when Shadow jumped in front of her to shield her from it's gaze. Flinching only slightly at his growling voice. Star knew better then anyone how far Shadow would go to protect her. Not that she didn't feel the same. But with what happened there was never anything Star could do... Being confined to a hospital bed attached to machines to keep her kidneys functioning with monitors on her heart and lungs. The piece of shrapnel that severed her spine had done her insides no favors. "Who ARE you?" Luna speaking "It is alright, my little ponies. I felt your turmoil in the dream realm and came to aid you." Star peeked around her brother. When the other spoke. It was.... strange... Almost like their mom's had been when they were kids and had nightmare. Star blinked in surprise when she saw the intruder in the... dream? It. No, her voice was gentle almost like a soft night breeze. She smiled at Star as she peeked around Shadows flank. Surprising herself and Shadow, Star replied with a quiet. "Hello." New Life? How?No pov The twins woke the next morning, daze from the day before and the strange dream. One glance between them was enough to know they'd had the same dream. Shadow hugging Star tightly to help expel her remaining grief. Taking a few minutes to collect themselves munching on the apples they'd been provided. From their bags, examining their resources and making theories how they got here and what to do know. glancing to the large white rook blocking the cave entrance. "Shadow?" Star questioned. Causing her twin to look at her swallowing a bite of his third apple... man her brother could eat. "yea?" "Do.. Do you think that dream pony was right?" Star shifts uncomfortably. And Shadow sighed. setting aside his apple to hug his worried sister. "I don't know Star." He murmured, thinking back on the dream.... Dream Shadow Pov I froze as Star mumble her quiet greeting. I couldn't help but glance back at her shocked. Star never, and I mean NEVER initiated conversation. Before my focus returned to the large blue pony before us. Her gentle laugh and smile reminding me of a soft summer night. I can't help but relax a bit. Though I remain protectively wary. The much larger pony lays down on her belly giving Star a gentle. "Hello little one." Then glances back at me with a knowing look and respectful nod. That...... Made me pause, no one had ever acknowledged my protectiveness positively before. Unnoticed to either Star or myself i relaxed settling protectively next to Star as she watch the new pony with an intensity I'd only seen her have when taking pictures of the night sky. Then she spoke. "To answer your question." I blink at the calmness of it. It had a melody that was almost like wind chimes. I focus as she continues. "I am Queen Luna Luminous of the Lunar Equestrian Kingdom. I felt turmoil in the dream realm and came to aid you in your time of need." Back in the cave Shadow Pov I shake my head. While i felt drawn to trust this alicorn Queen Luminous called herself, Though she preferred simply Luna when not on royal business. I had Star to think about. I smile a little it was a new experience for Star to be so bold. Luna had explained many things. How the kingdom was divided into three parts. The Lunar Equestrian Kingdom, which she ruled over. A mix of many species, apparently griffins, dragons, something called a changeling and many others lived in this world. Luna welcomed all, as long as they didn't cause harm they were free to live as they pleased. The Solar Equestrian Kingdom, ruled by her estranged sister Celestia. I scowl at the remembered name. It seemed she was not as welcoming as her younger sister. Her part of the country was solely managed by ponies. And was stuck in a.... Well, Shadow didn't have a word for it. But she sounded to much like politician for his liking. Manipulative just like their relatives. I shiver, nodding to myself. yep! not going there! Then there was the third... I still didn't understand how the concept of chaos could have a physical form but apparently it did and his name was Discord. He reigned of the middle of the continent, splitting the sisters separate nations. And though he held the title as a king he sounded like a laid by kind of guy. I personally would like to meet him. Though Luna was on civil terms with the chaos machine. Her sister wasn't finding his chaotic nature a hindrance to Harmony..... Whatever that meant. With another shake of my head. I get up seeing Star calmer, ushering her out of the cave after dismissing my white rook golem. I beam magic was just too cool! Star pov I sigh as Shadow ushers me out of the cave. I think back on how different things are here. Marveling over the feeling of being able to walk again. I look around the forest outside the cave we sent the night in. It seemed alive almost.... I snicker to myself. Causing Shadow to glance at me as he too exists our temporary shelter. With that we begin to scout around having taken stock of our supplies before leaving the shelter of the cave. "I wonder what she ment...." I murmur to myself. Thinking back on the dream and Queen Luna. As Shadow explores around the cave my mind wanders. dream Star pov I relax as Shadow settles down next to me. I listen as the two talk. Though I started it I was glad Shadow took over. Alot of what was said seemed unreal. After Shadow and... Luna as she liked to be called. Luna told us of her Kingdom and while I was wary of her claims. I just knew somehow she was telling the truth. I could see the pain in her eyes at the mention of her sister. And her mild annoyance at this Discord person. But her next words caught me flat footed. "I would like to invite the two of you to stay with me in my palace. I feel you will need time to adjust." My mind stalled as I processed those words. Just for Luna to look at me and add. "I feel you both need time to recover." And I knew she knew more then I wanted her too. But to my relief Shadow said we'd think about and Luna thankfully didn't press. In front of the cave, Star point of view. I pause hearing something. As my eyes strain to see it. Amazingly, all of a sudden I could see better then ever before. As I focus my vision seems to zoom in. And I spot an odd.... something I get Shadows attention. Which causes him to quickly summon one of the black knight golems. Sending it to capture the something. As we wait I explain to Shadow what I'm seeing and how I can follow the golem seeing where it is and everything. Impressed Shadow replies. "That must be you type of magic. Like my golems." His tone thoughtful I blink. "Magic?" Only to remember what Luna had said the night before. dream Star pov "WAIT!" Shadow exclaimed, jumping to his feet. "MAGIC IS REAL!?!" Luna put a silver gilded hoof over her mouth to cover her smile and quiet laugh at my twins over the top reaction and nodded. "Yes, young Midknight Shadow. Magic is real. And as an unicorn you can access it." Then she looks at me. "You as well, Evening Star, pegisi as yourself have their own way to grasp it." I share a glance with Shadow. "I can?" Luna nods, "indeed, appart from your special talent all pegisi can fly and use magic through their wings. Just as unicorns to their horns." With that she nodded to Shadow. "Oh...." I look down in though, before asking timidly. "What's a special talent?" outside the cave. Star pov Man, did that incur a long explanation. I shake my head to focus as the knight golem had caught it's target and was bringing the struggling.... pony? Back, "oh..." Midknight looked at me tilting his head. Shadow Pov Finding out Star had some type of heightened sight was awsome. The fact that she had found something or someone spying on us was even better. Star's startled "Oh." Caught my attention. Looking at where my black knight golem was coming from I saw.... Was that a PONY?!?!
Did We Die?....Jack/Midknight Shadow Pov Jack blinked. He felt like he'd been hit by one of those Isekai trucks his sister Lilly loved to watch in anime. Opening his eyes he froze... "what? where? HUH???!!" His shout scared some nearby bird. His eyes focusing on not his sisters hospital room with its beeping and buzzing machines... but a think forest with dark shadows that almost seemed alive. A groan sounds beside him. Beside him was a strange fuzzy something.... The something groaned again in protest to his shouting. "Jack!" the fuzz ball groaned. "Keep it down. Will you? I hurt." She.. For if Jack wasn't mistaken that was his sister Lilly's voice. "Lilly?" Jack asked. Struggling to his feet only to fall over. Looking at himself he screamed again. He...He was covered in FUR! FUR!.. As Jack's mind wandered. At least it was cool fur. a deep royal purple with a midnight black sheen to it. His tail was silver with amber and pale red streaks. And if he had to guess his hair...Mane? was the same. His mind reeling... "I look like Midknight Shadow." He wondered aloud. turning to look at what had to be his butt. or whatever horses called them... 'flank'... Lilly would know he was sure. she loved horses. Anyway, back to his butt. it showed a coat of arms. A shield separated into four parts. The shield itself had a silver boarder, with alternating black and cream squares. On the squares on the top right was a dark blue rook. Top left a pale violet bishop. the bottom right a knight the same color as the bishop, and on the bottom left a pawn the color of the rook. with king and queen crowns atop the shield in alternating deep blue and pale violet. with red jewels on them. And if he remembered right bright amber eyes. No One's Pov The fuzz ball next to him that had to be Lilly. His little sister by three minutes. Stirred, unlike Midknight, Lilly's fur was a pale blue that faded to deep azure. Her mane was silver with bronze molten and golden streaks. On here flank was Evening Star's mark. A bronze star with a target circle over it. Lilly stirred opening her eyes bewildered. Midknight shadow can see her eyes are a bright bronze. She looked like Evening Star, from their games of pretend. When she looked at him she froze and screamed. "Lilly! Lilly! Its ME! Jack!" Midknight shouted trying to calm his panicking sister. Lilly froze, in a tiny voice she asked."*Jack*" Midknight Shadow nodded. "Yep." Smiling gently. Lilly giggled. "You look like Shadow." He nodded, pointing at her with a hoof.... Boy wasn't that a shock. "And you look like Evening Star." Evening Star look down at her coat in wonder. before looking at him. She whimpered. wide eyed. "Jack... I'm scared" Midknight sighed, crawling over he pressed against her for comfort. cursing the accident that stole his sister's happy excitement and courageous heart. "its okay. I'm here. and call me Midknight Shadow. But call me Shadow. I have a feeling we're really far from home." He said, nuzzling her to comfort her. Lilly leaned into his side placing and ear over his heart. Its steady rhythm calming her own. as it always did when a panic attack would set in. Lilly giggled, "Then I'm Evening Star. but call me Star for short." They look at each other and burst out laughing. The tense fear/shock/lost feeling in the air. Was dispelled in an instant. "Shadow, what do we do now?" Star asked. Looking about the clearing they lay in. Beside them were backpacks... well, more like two pouches with a strap connecting them. One was matched Midnight's coat. with his mark on it as a buckle. The other match Star's coat. with her mark on it. "Looks like we have supplies at least." Midknight commented. Crawling to it. Causing Star to giggle. "Shadow," she called teasingly. "use your horn." "My horn?" He looked up, crossing his eyes to see. Causing Star to giggle even harder. Midknight reached up with a hoof. feeling a protrusion, then he remembered when he made the character Midknight Shadow, he thought magic was cool. So Unicorn it was. While Star had always wanted to fly. Son on her back were a pair of wings. With that thought in mind. Midknight tried to activate his magic. He felt something warm flow through him. as his horn sparked with silver colored magic. The silver essence dimmed flaring and he managed to 'grab' his bag. Pulling it to him, panting from effort. Taking a deep breath, he opens it finding dozens of chess pieces. Pulling one out.. The white king. To be precise. Star leans over peering at it. "just like in our game!" She whispered in awe. And she was right, Midknight was created with animation magic as his talent. Leaving him able to animate and control the chess pieces as golem. Each with its own skill. Said golems could also give Midknight bonus abilities as well. "MINE TOO!! MINE TOO!!" Star chirped excitedly. So Midknight obliged, grabbing hers with his magic and placing it in front of her. Star squealed, opening it digging inside. Sticking her head inside. Star's muffled voice could be heard from inside the fabric. "It's so roomy in here!!" Pulling out a star gazing book. a few golden... somethings? A few apples. And a small stick?.. Scaring herself when it suddenly burst open to reveal something akin to a bow. "Wow!" Both twins said in unison. Shadow opens his as well finding it larger on the inside as well. Beside the chess pieces, he has a book on the obscure art of animation magic. He to had a few apples, and gold pieces. but not much else. Shaking himself, he focuses on Star. "We need to find someplace less open." Star looked over at him from examining her bow. Thinking it over, she nods. "yea, probably a good idea. but..." she looked down at herself. "How do we walk?" With the twins spend the next hour trying to learn how to walk on four legs. Star had a harder time from months in a hospital bed. but they managed. Walking deeper into the woods. They find a small cave, that Shadow managed to secure with a white rook. that he'd to activate, which left him drained. Snuggling together for warmth the two fell into and exhausted sleep. Author's Note Hi, this is Midnight Star. My brother Midknight Shadow and I are collaborating on this story. So please be nice. Though anything that make the story better is welcome. Thank you!
Dreams? ...Is.. Is This Real?!Shadow Pov Shadow panted as he raced down the hospital corridors. Doors passing him in a blur, he had to find Star! He's not sure what happened. If their jaunt in the strange forest was a dream or if his mind is playing tricks on him but right now Star's scared and hurting. And Shadow will be hanged if he lets her stay that way. Shadow speaking "Star! I'm coming! Hold on!" Yelling he calls his sisters name. Not bothering to notice the sparks flaring off his horn. or the glowing white knight in his bag as he gains speed that would put an Olympic runner to shame. A burst of pure kinetic energy smashes through a door as Shadows charges into the room. Silver magic illuminating the dim oppressive hospital room. His eyes scanning the room find Star hiding in the corner wings flared curling around herself as she tried to block out the voices of the shades that surrounded her. "its your fault! Your parents would be ashamed of you! How could you! What would your brother think? After everything he's done to help you!" There voices mixing in a downward spiral for the young pegasus mare. Star whimpers... "It was an accident! I didn't mean too!" Tears falling from her bronze eyes. "Im sorry... I'm so sorry!" she pleaded. Voice dropping to barely a whisper. Shadow seeing the torment HIS little sister in. Lost his cookies. With a feral snarl horn flaring instinctively his magic yanked a black rook from his bag. As he poured magic and intent into the golem it grew in size towering over everything in the room. Activating the Black Rook following its King/Masters intent followed its purpose. With berserker rage it tore into the shades that dared to hurt HIS little sister. With a grim sort of satisfaction Shadow moved over to Star's side. Carefully, gently he held her close. Petting her mane, He knew how much Star blamed herself for the death of their parents. Shadow himself had a perpetual limp from the crash. But he knew Star wasn't to blame. though he had in rare moments felt a bit bitter about how they'd died. It was Star after all that wanted to take a family trip to the ocean. And after a week of being confind to his own hospital bed. It died the instant he learned Lilly now Star would never live without life support again. Seeing her laying there with all those machines. And Star begging for him for their parents. Broke and steeled his heart. As her big brother Shadow would never let anything happen to her again. Be it real or imagined. Star Pov Star blinked her eyes open, and froze. Familiar machines and equipment surrounded her. Star speaking "No not here please, Not here anywhere but here!" She begged. Without realizing she lept off the bed wings flaring as she bolted from the dreaded room that became her life. Only for the door to slam closed. Locking ominously. As shadows with vague shapes their voices spewing the poisonous thought and accusations she had repeated to herself hundreds of times. Despite Shadows assurances, Star couldn't help but feel guilty. If only she hadn't wanted to visit the ocean for their 20 birthday. She had pleaded with Shadow and their parents for weeks until they agreed on the family trip. With the prevision that they stop by the national chess museum. Jack/Shadow being an avid player and master at the game. Having gained his scholarship through his winning the national chess tournament. Star had readily agreed. As she loved to listen to shadow talk about all the famous players. Though she did find it annoying she could never beat him at the game. Preferring astro-photography over chess. Her room covered in night sky pictures. Knowing the stars patterns as well as Shadow did his chess strategies. But then it all went wrong. As Star cowered on the floor trying desperately to block out the shades venomous words. She remembered what happened. They had just left the national chess museum. Jack/Shadow having just received a duel set of special one of a kind antique chess pieces as a birthday present. Lilly/Star picked one up and accidentally dropped it. As she and Jack/Shadow hunted for it. Their parents went to get the car. Only for a drunk driver in a large work truck to slam into their parents car. Lilly/Star seeing what was about to happen shoved her brother back out of the way as the vehicles crash in a fiery explosion. Catching a bit of shrapnel in her spine. crippling her for the rest of her life. Star speaking "It was an accident. I'm sorry... I'm so sorry." Star whimpered. Huddled in a corner she'd been backed into, wings curling around her as a shield. Not seeing the the door burst open or the silver magic as Shadow dealt with the shades by using one of his golems. Nor did she notice Shadow coming to lay beside her. Sniffing, as Shadow petted her mane. She barried her face in his chest crying. Luna Pov The Lunar ruler paused as she felt fear/pain/grief. Mixed with anger/protect/not alone. Ripple to her from the dream realm. Each on there own was normal but to have both in one dream gave her pause. Queen Luna Luminous of the Lunar Equestrian Kingdom. Held up a silver gilded hoof. Silencing her once personal student Twilight Sparkle. The purple coated mare watched her queen with mild curiosity. It wasn't often Luna did this, both enjoying the verbal duel. Twilight watched as Luna closed her eyes focusing on the dream realm. Shadow&Star's dream Luna Pov Luna's eyes open and she looks around, taking in here surroundings. It looked like a hospital. Trotting down the long dark corridor. The ruler of the lunar kingdom paused as she came upon the shattered remains of the door. Moving to peer inside she comes snout first into the edge of a halberd. Her magic flaring to form a shield. Looking up she sees the biggest black rook she'd ever seen blocking her path into the room. Knowing what she sought was on the other side of the giant chess piece. Luna lighted her horn, using her power as the ruler of dreams. Luna dissolved the oppressive and ominous hospital. Even the rook which stood guard slowly dissolved as the dream changed into an open field with a gentle stary sky above. What shocked the Lunar Queen was this was in fact two ponies dream not just one. She couldn't help but stare for a moment at the two young ponies. A unicorn and pegasus respectively. The deep royal purple stallion for what else could he be with his deepening voice. If Luna was a betting pony, she'd say they were just entering adulthood. The stallion was trying his best to comfort pegasus her coat a pale blue that faded to a deep azure like a shooting star. Hearing his hushed voice Luna Paused. shadow speaking "It's ok, Star it wasn't your fault." His voice firm but gentle. Star speaking "But Shadow." the newly dubbed Star replied in a trembling voice "If i hadn't..." The stallion, 'Shadow' put a hoof to her muzzle. His voice firm, unyielding. Shadow speaking "No. I don't blame you. And I know.." Luna cleared her throat, keeping a polite distance not to scare them. Shadow POV Shadow stopped speaking. feeling his connection to the black rook vanish. Then the clearing of a throat. Causing Shadow and Star to look up. Startled he saw a large blue horse?.. with wings like Star and a horn like him staring kindly down at them. Shadow wasting no time jumped up shielding Star with his body. Horn flaring with silver essence. "Who ARE you?" He growled. Star Pov Looking up to see the blue... Alicorn? She wasn't sure that was right. Not that it mattered. It was BIG. Star shrank back from it's gaze. Unable to help the relieved sigh that escaped her when Shadow jumped in front of her to shield her from it's gaze. Flinching only slightly at his growling voice. Star knew better then anyone how far Shadow would go to protect her. Not that she didn't feel the same. But with what happened there was never anything Star could do... Being confined to a hospital bed attached to machines to keep her kidneys functioning with monitors on her heart and lungs. The piece of shrapnel that severed her spine had done her insides no favors. "Who ARE you?" Luna speaking "It is alright, my little ponies. I felt your turmoil in the dream realm and came to aid you." Star peeked around her brother. When the other spoke. It was.... strange... Almost like their mom's had been when they were kids and had nightmare. Star blinked in surprise when she saw the intruder in the... dream? It. No, her voice was gentle almost like a soft night breeze. She smiled at Star as she peeked around Shadows flank. Surprising herself and Shadow, Star replied with a quiet. "Hello."
New Life? How?No pov The twins woke the next morning, daze from the day before and the strange dream. One glance between them was enough to know they'd had the same dream. Shadow hugging Star tightly to help expel her remaining grief. Taking a few minutes to collect themselves munching on the apples they'd been provided. From their bags, examining their resources and making theories how they got here and what to do know. glancing to the large white rook blocking the cave entrance. "Shadow?" Star questioned. Causing her twin to look at her swallowing a bite of his third apple... man her brother could eat. "yea?" "Do.. Do you think that dream pony was right?" Star shifts uncomfortably. And Shadow sighed. setting aside his apple to hug his worried sister. "I don't know Star." He murmured, thinking back on the dream.... Dream Shadow Pov I froze as Star mumble her quiet greeting. I couldn't help but glance back at her shocked. Star never, and I mean NEVER initiated conversation. Before my focus returned to the large blue pony before us. Her gentle laugh and smile reminding me of a soft summer night. I can't help but relax a bit. Though I remain protectively wary. The much larger pony lays down on her belly giving Star a gentle. "Hello little one." Then glances back at me with a knowing look and respectful nod. That...... Made me pause, no one had ever acknowledged my protectiveness positively before. Unnoticed to either Star or myself i relaxed settling protectively next to Star as she watch the new pony with an intensity I'd only seen her have when taking pictures of the night sky. Then she spoke. "To answer your question." I blink at the calmness of it. It had a melody that was almost like wind chimes. I focus as she continues. "I am Queen Luna Luminous of the Lunar Equestrian Kingdom. I felt turmoil in the dream realm and came to aid you in your time of need." Back in the cave Shadow Pov I shake my head. While i felt drawn to trust this alicorn Queen Luminous called herself, Though she preferred simply Luna when not on royal business. I had Star to think about. I smile a little it was a new experience for Star to be so bold. Luna had explained many things. How the kingdom was divided into three parts. The Lunar Equestrian Kingdom, which she ruled over. A mix of many species, apparently griffins, dragons, something called a changeling and many others lived in this world. Luna welcomed all, as long as they didn't cause harm they were free to live as they pleased. The Solar Equestrian Kingdom, ruled by her estranged sister Celestia. I scowl at the remembered name. It seemed she was not as welcoming as her younger sister. Her part of the country was solely managed by ponies. And was stuck in a.... Well, Shadow didn't have a word for it. But she sounded to much like politician for his liking. Manipulative just like their relatives. I shiver, nodding to myself. yep! not going there! Then there was the third... I still didn't understand how the concept of chaos could have a physical form but apparently it did and his name was Discord. He reigned of the middle of the continent, splitting the sisters separate nations. And though he held the title as a king he sounded like a laid by kind of guy. I personally would like to meet him. Though Luna was on civil terms with the chaos machine. Her sister wasn't finding his chaotic nature a hindrance to Harmony..... Whatever that meant. With another shake of my head. I get up seeing Star calmer, ushering her out of the cave after dismissing my white rook golem. I beam magic was just too cool! Star pov I sigh as Shadow ushers me out of the cave. I think back on how different things are here. Marveling over the feeling of being able to walk again. I look around the forest outside the cave we sent the night in. It seemed alive almost.... I snicker to myself. Causing Shadow to glance at me as he too exists our temporary shelter. With that we begin to scout around having taken stock of our supplies before leaving the shelter of the cave. "I wonder what she ment...." I murmur to myself. Thinking back on the dream and Queen Luna. As Shadow explores around the cave my mind wanders. dream Star pov I relax as Shadow settles down next to me. I listen as the two talk. Though I started it I was glad Shadow took over. Alot of what was said seemed unreal. After Shadow and... Luna as she liked to be called. Luna told us of her Kingdom and while I was wary of her claims. I just knew somehow she was telling the truth. I could see the pain in her eyes at the mention of her sister. And her mild annoyance at this Discord person. But her next words caught me flat footed. "I would like to invite the two of you to stay with me in my palace. I feel you will need time to adjust." My mind stalled as I processed those words. Just for Luna to look at me and add. "I feel you both need time to recover." And I knew she knew more then I wanted her too. But to my relief Shadow said we'd think about and Luna thankfully didn't press. In front of the cave, Star point of view. I pause hearing something. As my eyes strain to see it. Amazingly, all of a sudden I could see better then ever before. As I focus my vision seems to zoom in. And I spot an odd.... something I get Shadows attention. Which causes him to quickly summon one of the black knight golems. Sending it to capture the something. As we wait I explain to Shadow what I'm seeing and how I can follow the golem seeing where it is and everything. Impressed Shadow replies. "That must be you type of magic. Like my golems." His tone thoughtful I blink. "Magic?" Only to remember what Luna had said the night before. dream Star pov "WAIT!" Shadow exclaimed, jumping to his feet. "MAGIC IS REAL!?!" Luna put a silver gilded hoof over her mouth to cover her smile and quiet laugh at my twins over the top reaction and nodded. "Yes, young Midknight Shadow. Magic is real. And as an unicorn you can access it." Then she looks at me. "You as well, Evening Star, pegisi as yourself have their own way to grasp it." I share a glance with Shadow. "I can?" Luna nods, "indeed, appart from your special talent all pegisi can fly and use magic through their wings. Just as unicorns to their horns." With that she nodded to Shadow. "Oh...." I look down in though, before asking timidly. "What's a special talent?" outside the cave. Star pov Man, did that incur a long explanation. I shake my head to focus as the knight golem had caught it's target and was bringing the struggling.... pony? Back, "oh..." Midknight looked at me tilting his head. Shadow Pov Finding out Star had some type of heightened sight was awsome. The fact that she had found something or someone spying on us was even better. Star's startled "Oh." Caught my attention. Looking at where my black knight golem was coming from I saw.... Was that a PONY?!?!
