REGRET (Good Ending)

Chapters

Prologue
FREEDOM
CALAMITY
STUDENT OF THE SUN
STUDENT OF THE MOON
PHASE ONE
PATHETIC, IS IT NOT?
THE FIRST ENCOUNTER
THE MARE I ONCE WAS.
SCATTERED THROUGHOUT THE MIST
YOU KNOW NOT OF ME.
CAST INTO OBLIVION
Epilogue: Another Chance

Prologue

Luna woke with a start, her heart racing and her mind clouded by a heavy fog of unease. The faint light of dawn filtered through the curtains of her chambers, but it brought her no solace. Something was wrong. Deep in her chest, an ache festered—a sense of something unfinished, unresolved.

The memory of Twilight's face surfaced, and the pain deepened. Luna rose from her bed, her hooves trembling slightly. It had been years since the fateful day when Twilight was turned to stone, but the memory haunted her dreams as if it had happened just last night. Luna had fought battles, faced unspeakable horrors, but nothing had cut her as deeply as the sound of Twilight’s voice, desperate and broken, echoing through the halls of the Crystal Castle.

Why?

Why had Twilight spared her and Cadence? Luna could not make sense of it. Twilight had the power, the resolve, and yet... she hadn’t. Was it hesitation? Was it regret? Or was it something else, something darker that Luna dared not put into words?

A soft knock at her door pulled her from her thoughts. Cadence stood in the hallway, her expression as worn and troubled as Luna felt.

"You felt it too, didn’t you?" Cadence asked, her voice quiet but heavy.

Luna nodded. She didn’t need Cadence to explain further. They both carried the same weight—the knowledge of what they’d witnessed, the guilt of what they hadn’t stopped, and the doubt that gnawed at their souls.

“We need to speak to Celestia,” Luna said, her voice firmer now.

Cadence hesitated, her gaze flickering with uncertainty. “Do you think she’ll even listen?”

Luna sighed. “She has to.”

Together, the two alicorns hurried through the castle halls, their hoofsteps echoing ominously. As they approached the throne room, a strange silence hung in the air—a silence that only deepened the tension.

When they entered, they found Celestia standing by the great stained-glass windows, her gaze fixed on the garden below. Luna followed her sister’s line of sight and saw the stone figure of Twilight Sparkle, her expression forever frozen in anguish and defiance.

“Why?” Luna demanded, her voice trembling with anger. “Why did you do this?”

Celestia didn’t turn to face her. Her shoulders were stiff, and her jaw was set, but there was no mistaking the tears glistening in her eyes.

“It had to be done,” Celestia said quietly.

“No, it didn’t!” Luna shouted, her wings flaring. “Twilight… she changed, Tia! Something inside her shifted. She spared me. She spared Cadence. Why couldn’t you see it?”

Celestia closed her eyes, her composure threatening to crack. “She was too dangerous, Luna. You saw what she did. She killed thousands, destroyed cities, and turned the Elements of Harmony against us. If I had let her go, she would have—”

“She would have what?” Luna interrupted. “She would have proven you wrong? She would have found redemption, just as I did? Just as Sunset Shimmer did? You didn’t even give her a chance!”

Celestia’s silence was deafening.

“Do you even regret it?” Cadence asked, her voice soft but piercing.

Celestia flinched, and for a moment, she looked like she might shatter under the weight of their accusations. But then her expression hardened, and she turned to face them, her eyes cold and distant.

“I did what was necessary,” Celestia said, her voice steady but devoid of warmth. “Regret won’t bring back the lives she took. Regret won’t undo the damage she caused. And regret won’t keep Equestria safe.”

Luna stared at her sister in disbelief. “At what cost, Celestia? You’ve turned into the very thing you claimed to protect us from. Twilight was right about you.”

Celestia’s eyes flickered with a brief hint of pain, but she didn’t respond.

The room fell into a heavy silence, broken only by the distant sound of birds outside the window. Cadence took a step back, her wings drooping as she turned away from Celestia.

“I can’t do this,” Cadence said quietly. “I can’t pretend this is right.”

She left the room without another word, leaving Luna and Celestia alone.

Luna took a deep breath, trying to steady the storm of emotions raging inside her. “You should undo the spell, Tia,” she said, her voice low but firm.

Celestia shook her head. “You know I can’t.”

“You won’t,” Luna corrected. “And that makes all the difference.”

Without waiting for a response, Luna turned and walked away, her heart heavy with disappointment and sorrow.

As she exited the throne room, she cast one last glance at the garden below. Twilight’s stone form seemed to glare back at her, a silent reminder of their failure.

And in that moment, Luna made a vow.

“I’ll find a way to fix this,” she whispered to herself. “Even if it takes me another thousand years.”

Time had no meaning anymore. Days bled into nights, and years passed in a blur of monotony. But I counted them anyway. Every single one.

4,356 years.

That’s how long I’ve been here, trapped in this cold, unyielding prison. I’ve watched the seasons change, the ponies grow old and die, and the world move on without me. And every year, I’ve grown stronger.

I know Celestia thought she’d won. She thought she’d silenced me, ended the threat, and restored peace to her precious kingdom. But she was wrong.

I’m still here. I’m still thinking. I’m still remembering.

I remember the fear in her eyes when she turned me to stone. I remember the betrayal in her voice when she called me a monster. And I remember the regret she tried to hide, the regret she’ll carry with her for the rest of her life.

She thought she’d broken me. She thought she’d won.

But cracks are beginning to form.

Her magic is weakening, her hold on me slipping.

It’s only a matter of time now.

And when I return, she will know a world of hurt.

For now, I’ll wait. I’ve waited this long. What’s a few more years?

But don’t think I’ve forgotten, Celestia. Don’t think I’ve forgiven.

I’ll be back.

And this time, I won’t hesitate.

FREEDOM

I waited. I watched.

The garden was my prison, but it was also my window to the world. Day after day, year after year, I observed life go on without me. Ponies came and went, generations rising and falling like waves against the shore. Most ignored me, a relic of an age they scarcely remembered. Others pitied me, whispered about the tragedy of my fall. Ugh. How pathetic.

But today, today was different.

Two young ponies stood before me, their voices raised in a heated argument. One was a scrappy little unicorn, her violet mane disheveled, and her horn sparking with poorly controlled magic. The other, a small pegasus with bright teal eyes, flared her wings in defiance.

"I told you to leave me alone!" the unicorn shouted, stomping her hoof.

"And I told you you're being ridiculous!" the pegasus snapped back.

I wanted to laugh at their childish squabble, but my stone prison denied me even that. So I watched. I watched the tension rise between them, watched the anger twist the unicorn’s features. Her horn glowed brighter, a crackling surge of magic coiling around it.

Then, it happened.

She fired.

The beam of raw magic missed its target—the pegasus dodged just in time—but it didn’t matter. The blast struck me square in the chest, and I felt the ripple of energy shudder through the cracks that had been growing for centuries.

Finally.

The cracks spread like wildfire, jagged fissures splintering across my form. With a deafening *CRACK*, my stone prison shattered, and I collapsed to the ground in a heap.

For the first time in over four thousand years, I could breathe. I could move. I could *feel*.

The fillies stared at me, their eyes wide with a mixture of awe and terror. I slowly rose to my hooves, savoring the sensation of freedom. My limbs were stiff, my body weak from centuries of confinement, but I was free.

“Hi… girls…” I said, my voice hoarse and slow, as if I had forgotten how to speak.

The fillies took a cautious step back, their fear palpable.

“Where is Celestia?” I asked, my tone sharper now. My eyes burned with purpose, my mind racing with thoughts of retribution.

The unicorn and pegasus exchanged confused glances. Finally, the unicorn spoke, her voice trembling.

“U-uhm… Celestia died a couple weeks ago.”

For a moment, I thought I hadn’t heard her correctly. Celestia… dead?

“No,” I whispered, my voice trembling with disbelief. “No, that can’t be. She can’t be dead.”

The words hung in the air like a bitter curse. My mind raced, torn between fury and something deeper, something I refused to acknowledge. *She’s run from me again. She’s escaped justice.*

I felt my face contort, my emotions boiling over. Was it rage? Sadness? Regret? I didn’t know. All I knew was that the world felt emptier, colder, without her.

“Thank you,” I said curtly, turning away from the fillies. My hooves carried me forward, past their trembling forms, as they exchanged bewildered looks.

Before I could hear them scream or call for help, they both fainted, their small bodies collapsing to the ground.

Good. I didn’t have time for their questions.

I had to find Luna. Maybe she was still around. She would have answers.

Four Weeks Before Twilight’s Freedom

“Tia… I’m going to miss you,” Luna whispered, her voice breaking as she knelt beside her sister’s lifeless body.

The once-radiant Princess Celestia now lay still, her alabaster coat dulled and her golden regalia tarnished by the weight of her death. Luna’s tears fell freely, soaking into the marble floor of the royal crypt. She had always feared this day, but nothing could have prepared her for the reality of it.

Celestia’s death had been… unorthodox, to say the least. Poison. A cruel, insidious method that allowed no chance for defense or retaliation. The perpetrator—a middle-aged unicorn stallion with a cutie mark shaped like a shattered crown—had been caught swiftly and sentenced to life in Tartarus.

What haunted Luna most, however, was the stallion’s final words before he was dragged away.

“She was never the true ruler,” he had said, his voice dripping with malice. “Twilight will finish what she started.”

Luna shuddered at the memory. The stallion’s wicked smile, so eerily reminiscent of Twilight’s, had chilled her to the bone.

For centuries, there had been whispers of ponies who still revered Twilight Sparkle as a fallen goddess. They visited her statue in secret, leaving offerings and muttering prayers. Some believed she would one day rise again to claim her vengeance. Most were harmless fanatics, content to worship from afar.

But this? This was bold. This was calculated. And it had worked.

Luna wiped her tears, her gaze drifting to the window. In the garden below, Twilight’s statue still stood, but it was no longer pristine. The cracks that had once been faint and barely noticeable were now deep and jagged, spreading like a spiderweb across her form.

Luna’s heart sank. Celestia had always been the one to maintain the spell that kept Twilight imprisoned. With her gone, the magic was weakening, unraveling with each passing day.

And what would she do when Twilight came looking for her dead sister?

Luna stood in the throne room, her mind racing. She had taken on Celestia’s duties in the wake of her death, but the weight of the crown was heavier than she had anticipated. Equestria was in mourning, its citizens lost without the guiding light of their beloved ruler.

But Luna’s thoughts were consumed by another shadow looming on the horizon.

Twilight Sparkle.

She had seen the cracks in the statue grow with her own eyes, felt the faint hum of magic as it faltered. It was only a matter of time before Twilight broke free.

Luna clenched her jaw. She didn’t fear Twilight’s wrath—she had faced worse in her time—but the thought of facing her alone, without Celestia by her side, filled her with dread.

What would she say? What could she say?

Luna looked out at the garden, her gaze fixed on the fractured statue of her former friend and foe.

“I’ll be ready,” she whispered to herself.

But deep down, she wasn’t sure she believed it.

CALAMITY

Luna’s heart sank as she stared at the empty space in the garden where Twilight’s statue once stood. It was gone.

How could it be gone?

She had thought she had more time—time to prepare, time to think of what to say, time to figure out how to defuse the inevitable confrontation. But it seemed the universe had other plans. The deadline wasn’t tomorrow or even hours away. It was now.

Panic clawed at her chest as she turned away from the window. The throne room was cold and quiet, but it offered no solace. Luna’s eyes locked onto the massive double doors at the end of the room, her wings twitching as she braced herself. She didn’t know what would step through those doors next, but she had to be ready.

She had to be ready for her.

Dead?

No.

No, no, no. She can’t be dead. Celestia cannot be dead.

I stood frozen in the center of the royal garden, my thoughts spiraling into chaos. The words of those fillies replayed in my mind like a mocking echo. “Celestia died a couple weeks ago.”

Dead.

I was too late. All those sacrifices, all those lives I had taken—what were they for now? I thought I was removing obstacles, stepping stones on my path to her defeat. But if she was gone...

I clenched my teeth, my body trembling as anger and despair warred within me. Did I kill them for no reason? Did they all die in vain?

No. I couldn’t accept that. She couldn’t be dead. There had to be more to this.

Luna. She would know. She had to know.

I moved through the castle with a grim determination, my hooves echoing against the cold marble floors. The stained glass windows lining the hallways caught my eye, each one telling a story of triumphs and tragedies long past. My gaze lingered on a few that struck a nerve—the one depicting my ascension to an alicorn, the one showing my trial, and the one marking my imprisonment in stone.

And then, the newer ones.

One window showed a pony I didn’t recognize—a regal figure with a mane that shimmered like a sunrise. Another depicted Celestia’s death, her crown falling to the ground as ponies mourned around her.

No.

My breath hitched, and my magic flared uncontrollably. The ornate door at the end of the hall—Celestia’s throne room—came into view. Without hesitation, I unleashed a blast of magic that shattered it into splinters.

Luna stood within, her expression a mixture of fear and sadness.

“Where is she!?” I screamed, my voice raw and desperate.

Luna flinched but held her ground. “She’s dead, Twilight!” she replied, her voice trembling yet firm. “You have to put it behind you! From our last encounter, I know there’s still some good in you!”

Her words were like a slap to the face. *Good in me?* Was she serious? She dared to stand there, feeding me empty platitudes while Celestia had robbed me of my revenge?

I felt a scream tear from my throat, fueled by frustration and anguish. Without another word, I teleported away, leaving Luna behind in the shattered remains of the throne room.

Ponyville—or what remained of it

I reappeared in what I thought was Ponyville, only to find a town I scarcely recognized. It was still Ponyville, but it wasn’t *my* Ponyville. The cottages were taller, the streets wider, and strange machines buzzed through the air. Ponies stared at me as I walked through the unfamiliar streets, their expressions a mix of curiosity and unease.

They whispered to each other, their words barely audible over the hum of activity.

“It’s Nightmare Eclipse…”

“The legend is real…”

“The cursed alicorn…”

I smirked bitterly. “Nightmare Eclipse.” What an interesting title. It seemed I had become a story, a myth, much like Nightmare Moon before me. How quaint. I wondered what tales they told of me, what fears and lies they had spun in my absence.

But their whispers didn’t matter. None of this mattered. I had one goal in mind—to find what remained of my castle.

My old castle in the Everfree Forest was long gone, reduced to rubble centuries ago, but I had another: the Castle of Friendship. It had been my sanctuary, my pride, and my greatest symbol of unity and power. Surely, it still stood.

Luna stood frozen in the throne room, her heart pounding in the deafening silence Twilight left behind. The shattered door, the scorch marks on the marble floor, and the lingering hum of magic in the air were all that remained of their brief encounter.

She had barely spoken to Twilight before the alicorn vanished, leaving behind a storm of emotions in her wake. Luna had seen the fury in her eyes, the grief that simmered just beneath the surface. She had seen the desperation of a pony who had lost everything.

“Tia…” Luna whispered under her breath, her voice trembling. “What would you have done?”

Her sister had always been the one with answers, the one who could talk Twilight down or guide her back to reason. But Celestia was gone now, and Luna was left to face the storm alone.

She couldn’t shake the feeling that this was only the beginning.

Twilight had been consumed by vengeance for so long, and now, with Celestia gone, that fire had no target. It would spread, uncontrollable and unpredictable, consuming everything in its path.

Luna closed her eyes, drawing a shaky breath. She had hoped that there was still some good left in Twilight, but her brief appearance had shaken that hope. Twilight’s scream still echoed in her ears, filled with so much pain and fury that it made Luna’s chest ache.

“She’ll come back,” Luna murmured to herself. “She always comes back.”

The thought filled her with both dread and determination. When Twilight returned, Luna would have to be ready.

For now, though, she could only wait.

Author's Note

Edit: Suggested from a comment, I liked the name “Nightmare Eclipse” a lot better than “manic phantom”.

STUDENT OF THE SUN

I found the castle.

It was worse than I had imagined.

The Castle of Friendship, my once-pristine sanctuary, was a ruin of its former glory. The crystalline walls were cracked, their once-dazzling luster dulled by centuries of neglect. Vines and moss crept up its jagged sides, reclaiming the structure for the wilderness. Windows were shattered, their colorful depictions of harmony and friendship lost to time.

But it was still standing. Barely.

I stepped through the crumbling doorway into what was once the main hall. Dust swirled in the air, catching the faint sunlight that filtered through broken panes. The air was heavy with the scent of decay and abandonment, but beneath it all, there was something… familiar.

The memories came rushing back—laughter, lessons, the warmth of my friends by my side. I could almost hear their voices echoing through the empty halls. It was overwhelming, and for a moment, I couldn’t move. My chest felt tight as the weight of everything I had lost crashed over me.

I took a deep breath, forcing myself to steady. No more tears, Twilight. Not anymore.

This castle, broken as it was, could be fixed. It would be my project, my sanctuary, my penance. I couldn’t undo the past, but I could at least rebuild this one piece of it.

For the first time in what felt like forever, I made a decision not rooted in vengeance. I would stay here, in the ruins of my old life, and try to live again. I would learn about this strange new world that had grown and changed in my absence.

But I would do it alone.

I had no right to walk among others, to seek connection or forgiveness. Not yet. Maybe not ever. I would banish myself to this castle, not as punishment, but as an opportunity to reflect. Guilt weighed heavily on me, an unbearable force that no amount of magic could dispel.

Celestia.

She had done this to me.

Even in death, she left me broken and lost, without a path forward. She had put me in a position I could never recover from, and for that, I cursed her name.

“Damn you, Celestia,” I whispered to the empty hall. “Damn you.”

But my words rang hollow. Deep down, I knew the truth: my downfall was my own doing. Celestia may have played her part, but my choices had led me here. My anger, my obsession, my refusal to listen to reason.

I sighed, my shoulders sagging as the fire within me dimmed. It was time to rest.

I would gather what I needed—food, books, supplies—and return to this castle. I would repair it, piece by piece, and in doing so, perhaps I could begin to repair myself.

Luna sat alone in the throne room, staring out at the night sky. Twilight’s sudden return had shaken her, but for now, all was quiet. Twilight had vanished into the world, and as long as she remained docile, Luna decided she could wait.

But waiting wasn’t enough.

Twilight’s return was a reminder of how easily the past could resurface, how fragile the peace they had worked so hard to build truly was. Luna couldn’t afford to be complacent. She needed to prepare, not just for Twilight, but for the challenges the future would undoubtedly bring.

“I know what to do,” she whispered to herself, a flicker of determination igniting in her chest.

She needed a student.

Someone to carry on the lessons of harmony, someone to help guide Equestria in this uncertain era. A new generation of leaders was emerging, and they would need guidance—guidance Luna could provide.

“She will be trained by me,” Luna continued, her voice gaining strength. “And hopefully, Cadence will help as well.”

Cadence had retired from her royal duties years ago, leaving the Crystal Empire in the capable hooves of Princess Flurry Heart. She rarely visited Canterlot these days, preferring the quiet life she had built for herself. But Luna was hopeful that her old friend could be persuaded to lend her wisdom, even from afar.

Luna rose from her seat, her mind racing with possibilities. She would find a worthy student, someone who could be the beacon of hope and harmony Equestria needed. Someone who could carry the lessons of the past into the future.

But as she left the throne room, a shadow of doubt lingered in her mind.

Twilight Sparkle was still out there, and her intentions were unclear. Could she truly remain docile? Or was her silence merely the calm before the storm?

Luna couldn’t say for certain, but she knew one thing: she would be ready.

Author's Note

So, I’m doing something I have never done before. I want you to comment below if you would like to see your OC in the story, in the next chapter. In chapter 4: STUDENT OF THE MOON, Your character will be the student of Luna, like Twilight was to Celestia. I will check in on the comments tomorrow afternoon. (Send name and short description of the character you would like to see.)

STUDENT OF THE MOON

I watched the sun set slowly behind the horizon, the last rays of its light painting the sky in fiery hues of orange and crimson. Something about today felt… different. There was an energy in the air, a weight that seemed to press down on me as I turned my gaze to the moon.

When it rose, it carried an aura of purpose, almost like it was watching me in return. Is this your doing, Luna?

I had spent the last few weeks buried in books, consuming as much knowledge as I could about the world I had returned to. It was unrecognizable, a landscape of unfamiliar names, faces, and events. So much had changed in my absence, but there was one thing that stood out among the pages I read—a story.

My story.

It was called The Manic Alicorn: Nightmare Eclipse.

The title alone sent a pang of bitterness through my chest. The pages detailed my trial, my battle with Celestia and the other alicorns, and the chaos I unleashed before my imprisonment. But there was nothing—*nothing*—of who I was before. No mention of the pony who once cherished friendship, who believed in the magic of harmony. That part of me had been erased, replaced by the caricature of a monster.

I suppose I shouldn’t have been surprised, but it still hurt.

To them, I was Nightmare Eclipse—a villain, a murderer, a maniac. That’s all I had become in their stories. Perhaps they were right. Perhaps I really was nothing more than the monster they believed me to be.

And that was why I had chosen isolation.

There was no reason to try and return to the world. No one would accept me. No one would believe I could change. Friendship was beyond my reach now, and I had no intention of subjecting myself to their scorn or pity.

I turned my gaze back to the moon, its pale light illuminating the ruins of the castle around me. "What are you planning, Luna?" I muttered.

Luna stood on the balcony of Canterlot Castle, her horn glowing softly as she guided the moon into the sky. Tonight, she raised it with purpose.

Her thoughts lingered on the small stallion she had met earlier that day—a brilliant, if peculiar, unicorn by the name of Last Page. He was nothing like Twilight Sparkle in terms of raw magical power, but his intelligence and drive were undeniable.

His obsession with rune magic was particularly impressive. He had a unique way of thinking, a perspective that allowed him to create spells and enchantments far beyond what his limited magical reserves should have permitted. Luna had no doubt that his abilities would continue to grow under proper guidance.

She had chosen him as her student, believing that his unique talents could make a difference.

But there was more to her decision than just his potential. She saw in him a flicker of something familiar—something she had once seen in Twilight Sparkle before her descent into Nightmare Eclipse.

Perhaps this time will be different.

Luna’s gaze drifted toward the horizon, where the ruins of the Castle of Friendship lay hidden in the Everfree Forest. She knew Twilight was out there, nursing her wounds and isolating herself from the world. Luna didn’t know when the time would come, but she was certain their paths would cross again.

And when they did, she needed to be ready.

Last Page sat in his small room, hunched over a worn book illuminated by the faint glow of a candle. His golden eyes darted across the text, absorbing every word, every detail.

The story of Nightmare Eclipse was supposed to be a horror tale, a cautionary legend told to foals on Nightmare Night. But to him, it was so much more.

She wasn’t just a villain to him. She was powerful, brilliant, and wise in her own way. Yes, she was unstable—possibly even mad—but there had to be more to her story than what the books said. There had to be a reason for her descent, a truth hidden behind the layers of legend and fear.

His parents had forbidden him from reading about her, but he couldn’t help himself. She was fascinating, a living contradiction of light and shadow, and he wanted to understand her.

The next day, when he arrived at school, a flyer on the board caught his eye.

*Applications now open for Princess Luna’s personal student!*

He stared at the flyer, his heart racing. Princess Luna? The alicorn who raised the moon, the ruler of the night, and the sister of Celestia herself?

This was it. This was his chance.

If he could become her student, he could learn the secrets of alicorn magic. He could follow in the hoofsteps of Twilight Sparkle, ascending from a unicorn to something greater.

Last Page’s mind buzzed with possibilities as he tore down the flyer and rushed home to prepare his application.

This was his moment. His chance to achieve greatness.

To become a god.

PHASE ONE

Last Page stared out the window of his small, cluttered room, his heart heavy with anticipation. Every day, he waited for a sign, a message, something that would confirm his acceptance into Princess Luna’s mentorship program. It had been weeks since he submitted his application, and though the logical part of him knew it could take time, the obsessive part of his mind couldn’t stop replaying the possibilities.

The sound of the mail pony’s wings cutting through the air jolted him from his thoughts. His heart leaped, but as he watched the mail pony fly past his house without stopping, his excitement deflated.

“Last Page! You’re going to be late for school again!” his father’s voice bellowed from downstairs.

“Coming!” Last Page called back, stuffing his well-worn book on Nightmare Eclipse into his saddlebags. It was a book he’d read a dozen times over, but he couldn’t bear to leave it behind. It was his connection to the figure who had inspired his dreams, the mare he wanted to understand—and maybe even emulate.

With a sigh, he slipped on his makeshift rune talisman, a small metal disc engraved with intricate symbols. It was a simple teleportation spell he had crafted himself, a necessity since his innate magic was too weak to cast it on his own.

As he trudged through the bustling streets of his town, Last Page’s mind wandered. His parents had always praised him for his intellect, but he knew it wasn’t in the way they wanted. Both were prestigious unicorns, renowned for their contributions to magical theory and literature. They had expected their son to follow in their hoofsteps, but Last Page’s struggles with innate magic had always been a point of tension.

While his magical constructs and enchanted objects were nothing short of brilliant, they were, in his parents’ eyes, a crutch—a sign of weakness. He had never told them how often he failed the innate magic tests at school or how he relied on his talismans to pass. If they knew, he feared they’d consider him a failure.

But that didn’t matter now. If Luna accepted him, none of it would. He’d finally have a chance to prove himself, to transcend his limitations, and maybe… just maybe… meet Nightmare Eclipse.

Rumors had been swirling through town ever since her return. The tales varied wildly, but they all agreed on one thing: she was back. For Last Page, this was the perfect opportunity. If Luna taught him, and if he could become strong enough, he could stand before the alicorn he had admired for so long.

The school bell rang, snapping Last Page out of his thoughts. He sat at his desk, flipping a pencil lazily with his telekinesis as the teacher droned on about something he already knew. His golden eyes flickered with boredom as he watched the pencil spin, his mind a thousand miles away.

“Blah, blah, blah,” was all he heard.

Last Page had always been ahead of his classmates when it came to academics. He aced every written test, every theoretical exam. His mind was a labyrinth of knowledge, an intricate web of magical formulas and theories. But when it came to practical, innate magic, he fell short every time.

He tried to hide his failures from his parents, forging results when necessary, but it was a constant source of anxiety. His talismans worked well enough to mask his shortcomings, but they were far from perfect.

His train of thought was interrupted by the creak of the classroom door. A mail pony stepped inside, holding a small envelope in his hooves.

“Uh, mail for Last Page?” the pegasus announced, sounding as bored as Last Page felt.

Last Page’s ears perked up, and he felt his breath catch in his throat. He rose from his seat, his hooves trembling as he walked to the front of the class. Taking the envelope, he immediately noticed the Royal Crest stamped in deep blue wax on the back.

His classmates whispered among themselves, their curiosity palpable as he returned to his seat and carefully opened the letter.

Inside was a single piece of parchment, its edges adorned with Luna’s signature midnight-blue accents. His eyes scanned the page, and he had to stop himself from audibly gasping.

"You have piqued my interest as a student. Please, come to Canterlot so we can begin Phase One."

Last Page’s heart raced as he reread the words, his hooves trembling with excitement. She chose me. She actually chose me.

For a brief moment, he wanted to scream with joy, to throw his hooves in the air and celebrate. But he forced himself to remain composed. He folded the letter carefully, tucking it into his bag, and returned to flipping his pencil, though his mind was anything but calm.

That evening, Last Page sat at the dinner table, the letter from Luna sitting beside his plate. His parents looked at him with curious expressions as he took a deep breath.

“I’ve been accepted as Princess Luna’s personal student,” he said, trying to keep his voice steady.

His mother’s eyes widened. “Luna? The Princess of the Night?”

His father raised an eyebrow. “And how exactly did this come about?”

“I applied,” Last Page replied simply, though his heart pounded in his chest.

There was a moment of silence before his mother spoke again, her tone cautious. “Well… that’s certainly unexpected, but it’s an incredible opportunity.”

His father nodded slowly. “Yes, an honor, truly. But remember, Last Page, this is a significant responsibility. You’ll need to work harder than ever to meet her expectations.”

“I know,” Last Page said, his voice firm. “And I’m ready.”

The next morning, Last Page stood on the train platform, his saddlebags packed with books, talismans, and a few personal items. The letter from Luna sat safely in his bag, a constant reminder of what lay ahead.

As the train to Canterlot arrived, he stepped aboard, his mind racing with possibilities. This was it. This was the first step toward achieving his dream.

And maybe—just maybe—he’d finally get the chance to meet Nightmare Eclipse.

Meanwhile, in Canterlot…

Luna paced her chambers, her thoughts focused on her new student. Last Page was an enigma, a stallion of great intelligence and potential, but also one with a deep obsession. She had seen the spark in his eyes when they first met, a hunger for knowledge that bordered on dangerous.

She had chosen him not only for his talents but also for the hope that she could guide him away from the darker paths he seemed so eager to explore. She knew what it was like to be consumed by ambition and bitterness, to fall into the shadow of one’s desires.

If she could help him channel his brilliance into something positive, she might prevent him from making the same mistakes she once did—and perhaps even help him understand the truth about Nightmare Eclipse.

As the moon rose that night, Luna whispered a silent prayer to herself. Let me guide him well.

Little did she know, the arrival of her new student would set in motion events that would change Equestria forever.

PATHETIC, IS IT NOT?

I don’t venture into town often. It’s not worth the trouble, really, but every now and then, I force myself to leave the crumbling remnants of my castle. Food, supplies, books—things I can’t conjure or repair on my own. Each visit is a grim reminder of what I’ve become and the world I’ve returned to.

Ponies stare. They always stare. Some try to hide behind carts or corners, their wide, frightened eyes just barely peeking out. Others aren’t so subtle, trembling openly as I pass, as if my mere presence might bring catastrophe. Once, a mare screamed at the sight of me, bolting down the street as if her life depended on it. That kind of reaction doesn’t bother me anymore. It’s… expected. I’ve seen it too many times to care.

What does bother me, however, is the other kind of attention.

They always show up when I go into town—those ponies with the crazed, unblinking eyes. They never speak, never approach, but they’re always watching, their gaze fixed on me like I’m some divine figure they’ve been praying to for centuries.

At first, I thought they were just eccentric locals, ponies who’d been drawn in by the myth of Nightmare Eclipse. But as the pattern repeated, I realized it wasn’t that simple. There was something organized about them—the way they moved, the way they followed me without ever getting too close. Eventually, I overheard a conversation in hushed tones:

“The Children of the Eclipse.”

I couldn’t help but scoff when I first heard the name. A cult? Devoted to me? It was absurd. I’m a villain in their history books, a monster in their bedtime stories. I’m supposed to be the cautionary tale, the warning whispered to foals who don’t behave. I’m not someone to revere, and yet… they do.

Why?

I’ve tried to understand their obsession, but the answer eludes me. Maybe it’s the legend they admire. The "Manic Alicorn," the ghost story who escaped her eternal stone prison. Perhaps they think I’m some dark savior, here to finish what I started all those centuries ago. But I’m not. I’m just a broken pony, clinging to whatever scraps of life I have left.

The marketplace was quieter than usual on my latest trip. The shopkeepers were there, as they always were, but none of them greeted me. Not even a polite, terrified smile. Instead, they cowered behind their counters, pretending not to see me as I gathered what I needed.

I tried to speak to one—a middle-aged stallion whose trembling hooves barely managed to ring up my purchase.

“Thank you,” I said softly, hoping it might ease his fear.

He flinched as if I’d struck him. No reply. Just a stammering nod before he practically shoved the bag of goods across the counter.

I sighed and left without another word.

The walk back to my castle was uneventful, aside from the inevitable presence of the cult. I caught glimpses of them in the shadows, their gazes piercing and unwavering. They didn’t try to stop me or speak to me, but their silent worship was almost worse. It was as though my every move was being cataloged, studied for some greater purpose I couldn’t fathom.

By the time I reached the castle, the sun was dipping below the horizon, casting long, jagged shadows across the ruins. My once-pristine home was still in shambles, but it was slowly becoming livable again. Piece by piece, I was rebuilding it, repairing what I could with the limited resources I had.

The kitchen was my most recent project. It wasn’t perfect—far from it—but it was functional. The broken tiles and soot-streaked walls didn’t bother me as long as I could prepare a meal.

Cooking had become something of a routine for me. I’m not good at it—most of what I make is barely edible—but there’s something oddly satisfying about the process. It’s an outlet, a way to focus my mind on something other than the weight of my guilt.

Tonight, I prepared a simple stew. The vegetables were fresh, a rare luxury, and the spices I’d salvaged from the pantry added a surprising amount of flavor. It wasn’t perfect, but it was mine, and for a moment, that was enough.

As I sat at the worn wooden table, the bowl of steaming stew in front of me, I allowed myself a small smile.

Maybe… maybe there’s something in this world worth holding onto.

Later that night, as the moon rose high above the castle, I found myself staring out the shattered remains of a window. The forest beyond was quiet, the only sounds the occasional rustle of leaves and the distant hoot of an owl.

I thought about the cult—the Children of the Eclipse—and the absurdity of their existence. What did they see in me? Why would they devote themselves to someone like me?

I’m not a hero. I’m not even a villain anymore. I’m just… pathetic.

Isn’t that what they see? A washed-up relic of a bygone era, hiding in the ruins of her own failure?

“Pathetic, is it not?” I muttered to myself, the words barely audible over the sound of the wind.

And yet, they still follow me. They still watch.

I don’t know if I’ll ever understand them, but maybe it doesn’t matter. Let them worship their twisted idea of me. It won’t change who I am or what I’ve done.

I turned away from the window, the shadows of the room swallowing me as I retreated deeper into the castle.

Tomorrow, I’ll return to the repairs. There’s still so much to do, so much to rebuild.

And maybe, just maybe, I’ll find something worth living for in the process.

Meanwhile, in Canterlot…

Luna stood on her balcony, gazing out at the horizon. The night was calm, but her mind was restless. She thought of her student, Last Page, and the strange fervor that had consumed him when they spoke of Nightmare Eclipse.

She had chosen him for his potential, for the brilliance that shone through despite his flaws. But she couldn’t ignore the dangerous obsession that drove him. She could see it in his eyes, the way they lit up whenever her sister’s name was mentioned, or Twilight’s.

“Nightmare Eclipse…” Luna whispered, the name a bitter reminder of her own past.

Was she making a mistake? Could she guide Last Page away from the path of darkness, or was she simply giving him the tools to follow it?

The wind carried her thoughts into the night, and for a moment, she allowed herself to hope.

If I can save him, perhaps I can save her too.

Back in his room, Last Page sat hunched over his desk, the dim light of a lantern illuminating the pages of his notebook. He was working on a new rune, one that might—if his calculations were correct—amplify his magic enough to sustain a transformation spell.

He didn’t just want to learn from Luna. He wanted to ascend.

Nightmare Eclipse had done it. She had risen from a simple unicorn to an alicorn, and even if the stories painted her as a monster, Last Page couldn’t help but see the beauty in her power.

“Pathetic,” he muttered, echoing her own self-reflection from miles away. But his voice was tinged with determination.

“I won’t be pathetic. Not anymore.”

As the lantern flickered and the rune began to take shape, Last Page allowed himself a small, triumphant smile.

This was only the beginning.

THE FIRST ENCOUNTER

Luna and Last Page walked through the dimly lit throne room, their hoofsteps echoing against the marble floors. Moonlight filtered through the stained-glass windows, casting vibrant depictions of Equestria’s history across the walls. They stopped before one in particular—a chilling scene frozen in time. The stained-glass mural depicted Twilight Sparkle, or rather Nightmare Eclipse, standing victorious over her fallen friends, her eyes alight with cruel determination.

Last Page’s gaze was transfixed. "Is that… Nightmare Eclipse?" he asked softly, his voice laced with awe.

Luna nodded solemnly. "Yes, that is her. That was the day everything changed—the day the Twilight Sparkle I once knew was consumed by her darkness." She paused, her expression hardening. "I believe it is time you face her."

Last Page’s eyes widened, a spark of excitement igniting within them. "You mean she’s really out there? I knew she’d returned, but to meet her in person—"

"Enough," Luna interrupted, her tone firm yet weary. "Yes, she has returned, but this is no mere meeting. This is a test, Last Page. You’ve read the stories, you’ve studied her history, but meeting her is something else entirely. She is not the same mare she once was, but that doesn’t mean she is safe. She is still powerful—perhaps more so now than ever before. This is not a task to be taken lightly."

Last Page’s excitement only seemed to grow. "I understand, Princess Luna! This is what I’ve been waiting for—my chance to meet her, to learn from her, maybe even help her!"

Luna sighed, the weight of her memories pressing down on her. "Just… promise me one thing, Last Page." She met his gaze, her expression heavy with unspoken fears. "Promise me you won’t end up like her. Don’t let ambition blind you to the cost."

Last Page hesitated for only a moment before nodding, his resolve unwavering. "I promise, Princess. I’ll make you proud."

Before Luna could say more, he was already racing toward the door, his mind alight with determination. She watched him go, her heart sinking with doubt. "Be careful," she whispered to the empty throne room. "Both of you."

Last Page’s hooves pounded against the cobblestone streets as he ran toward the edge of Canterlot, his heart racing with anticipation. "Confront her," Luna’s words echoed in his mind, fueling his resolve. This was his chance—his destiny. He had dreamed of this moment for so long, and now it was finally within his grasp.

He barely noticed the landscape changing as he ran, the pristine streets of Canterlot disappearing in the background as he rode the train back to Ponyville. As he made his way down the gravel and dirt paths, they slowly gave way to overgrown paths and gnarled trees. By the time he reached the edge of the Everfree Forest, the sun had dipped below the horizon, casting the world in an eerie twilight.

Last Page slowed his pace as the ruins of Nightmare Eclipse’s castle came into view. The once-grand structure stood like a corpse against the darkened sky, its shattered towers and crumbling walls a testament to the chaos that had unfolded within its halls.

He approached the massive double doors, their surfaces scarred and blackened by time. Steeling himself, he raised a hoof and knocked. The sound echoed through the ruins, loud and hollow, as if the castle itself were warning him to turn back.

For a moment, there was only silence. Then, from somewhere deep within the shadows, a voice answered.

"What."

The word was cold and sharp, cutting through the silence like a blade.

Last Page’s heart leapt into his throat. He tried to peer into the darkness, but the voice’s owner remained hidden. "U-uhm… you’re Nightmare Eclipse, right?" he stammered, his voice trembling despite his best efforts to sound confident.

"Why are you here?" the voice demanded, its tone laced with suspicion.

"I… Princess Luna sent me," Last Page replied, his nerves fraying under the weight of the unseen presence. "She said I should confront you."

A low chuckle echoed through the shadows, dark and humorless. "You? Here to confront me? I doubt it."

"No! Not… not confront like that!" Last Page protested, his voice rising slightly. "I’m not here to fight you. I’m here to… to talk. To understand. Maybe even to help you."

There was a pause, and for a moment, Last Page thought she might refuse. But then the voice spoke again, softer this time.

"Help me?" It was almost a whisper, tinged with something that might have been disbelief—or mockery.

"Yes," Last Page said, his confidence beginning to return. "I’ve read all the stories about you. I know what you’ve done, but I also know there’s more to you than that. There has to be."

Another pause. Then, slowly, a figure emerged from the shadows.

Last Page’s breath caught in his throat as he finally saw her. She was taller than he had imagined, her form radiating an otherworldly power that seemed to make the air around her hum. Her mane shimmered like liquid starlight, and her eyes—sharp and calculating—bore into him with an intensity that made his knees weak.

"You’ve read the stories," she said, her voice quieter now but no less commanding. "So you know I’m a monster. A threat."

Last Page shook his head, his resolve hardening. "No. You’re more than that. You’re not just Nightmare Eclipse. You’re Twilight Sparkle. Who were you before all of this?"

Her eyes narrowed, and for a moment, he thought she might lash out. But instead, her expression softened, just slightly.

"Me?" she said, her voice tinged with something he couldn’t quite place. "I have told nopony of this generation my story. And now you, a stranger, want to hear it?"

"Yes!" Last Page said eagerly, his eyes lighting up. "I want to know more than just your alicornship and your crimes. I want to know you."

She studied him for a long moment, her piercing gaze seeming to strip him bare. Then, with a sigh, she stepped closer, her imposing figure towering over him.

"You… you are Nightmare Eclipse," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

She tilted her head slightly, as if weighing his words. Then, for the first time, she spoke her name.

"My name is Twilight Sparkle," she said, her voice steady but filled with a quiet sadness. "Former Student of Celestia. Former Princess of Friendship. And now… I suppose I am whatever this world has made me."

She paused, her gaze never leaving his. "Now tell me, little stallion. Why have you come here?"

Last Page swallowed hard, the weight of her presence nearly overwhelming. But he held his ground, his determination unwavering.

"I came here because I want to understand," he said, his voice steady despite the fear gnawing at the edges of his resolve. "I came here because I believe you’re more than what the stories say. And… because I think you can help me."

Twilight’s expression shifted, a flicker of something unrecognizable passing through her eyes.

"Help you?" she repeated, her tone unreadable.

"Yes," Last Page said. "I want to learn from you. I want to understand your magic, your power. And maybe… maybe I can help you, too."

For a long moment, Twilight said nothing, her gaze distant as if she were lost in thought. Then, finally, she spoke.

"Very well," she said quietly. "But be warned, little stallion. The truth you seek… it may not be what you hope for."

Last Page nodded, his heart pounding in his chest. "I’m ready."

Twilight’s gaze hardened, her voice turning cold once more.

"We’ll see."

Author's Note

Edit: Changed the move from Canterlot to the Everfree forest to make more sense

THE MARE I ONCE WAS.

This stallion.

I saw through his curiosity and bravado like I once saw through Celestia’s well-meaning lies. He wanted what I once sought—power. The kind of power that didn’t just shake mountains but commanded respect, demanded recognition. And yet, there was something different about him.

When I looked into his eyes, I didn’t see the same blind hunger that had consumed me all those centuries ago. No, what I saw was determination. A sharp mind and an unyielding drive to carve his own path. In a strange way, he reminded me of myself.

But I had to be cautious. I had learned, at a terrible cost, how ambition could twist even the most noble of intentions. The choices I had made, the paths I had walked, had all led me here: a mare steeped in infamy, a ghost story to frighten foals. If I could steer him away from my mistakes, perhaps he would not share my fate. Perhaps he would not be remembered as a monster.

So, I decided to humor him. Maybe Luna was right about this stallion after all.

"Why do you even care about my story?" I asked him one day, my voice sharp and pointed as I tested his resolve.

Last Page looked up from the rune he was sketching on the crumbling floor of my castle. The dim light filtering through the shattered windows illuminated the intricate lines of his work. He didn’t flinch under my scrutiny; instead, he met my gaze with an honesty that surprised me.

"Because you’re more than the stories say," he replied. "The things you’ve done… they’re terrible, yes. But I don’t believe that’s all you are. There’s a pony beneath the legend. I want to understand her."

His words caught me off guard. For so long, I had been defined by my failures, my crimes, and my thirst for control. The idea that someone might want to understand me, rather than fear or destroy me, was almost laughable.

Almost.

I began to share pieces of myself, fragments of the life I had tried so hard to bury. I told him about my days as Celestia’s student, my ascension to princesshood, and the countless adventures I had shared with my friends. The memories came flooding back, bittersweet and vivid. I could see their faces, hear their laughter—Pinkie Pie’s infectious giggle, Applejack’s warm drawl, Rarity’s elegant wit.

And then, the darkness crept in. The memories of betrayal, of the suffocating weight of expectation, and the crushing loneliness that had driven me to seek power at any cost. I told him about my fall, about the moment Twilight Sparkle had been consumed by Nightmare Eclipse.

Last Page listened intently, hanging onto every word. He didn’t judge me. He didn’t flinch at the darker parts of my tale. Instead, he asked questions, probing deeper into my motivations, my regrets, my hopes.

"Did you ever think about what might’ve happened if you’d taken a different path?" he asked one evening.

I hesitated, the question striking a chord I hadn’t expected. "Of course," I admitted quietly. "Every day. But regret doesn’t change the past. It doesn’t undo what I’ve done."

"But it doesn’t mean you can’t shape the future," he countered.

I fell silent, his words lingering in the air. Could the future really be different? Could I be different?

As the days turned into weeks, I began to see something in Last Page that I hadn’t seen in anypony for centuries—potential. He wasn’t just intelligent; he was inventive, resourceful, and driven. His skill with runes was nothing short of extraordinary. He showed me his creations, objects imbued with magic far beyond what most unicorns could achieve.

"I didn’t have the innate magic that others expected from me," he explained, a hint of bitterness in his voice. "So I made my own way. I created my own magic."

I couldn’t help but admire his ingenuity. He reminded me of myself in my younger years, constantly pushing boundaries, refusing to accept limitations.

"Your work is impressive," I told him one evening as we studied one of his rune-laden talismans. "But it’s not enough."

He blinked, taken aback. "What do you mean?"

"Runes are tools, Last Page," I said. "Powerful tools, yes, but tools nonetheless. If you want to achieve greatness, you need to hone your innate magic as well. It’s the foundation upon which everything else is built."

He frowned, clearly reluctant. "I’ve tried. I’m not… I’m not like other unicorns. My magic is weak."

"Then we’ll make it stronger," I said simply. "If you’re willing to put in the work, I’ll teach you."

His eyes lit up with a mix of excitement and determination. "You mean it?"

I nodded. "But be warned—my methods aren’t easy. If you’re serious about this, you’ll need to be prepared for challenges you’ve never faced before."

"I’m ready," he said without hesitation.

And so, I began to train him. I taught him spells that had been forgotten by time, spells that had been deemed too dangerous or too complex for most ponies to handle. He absorbed the knowledge eagerly, his hunger for learning rivaling even my own during my days as Celestia’s student.

But it wasn’t just magic that I taught him. I shared with him the lessons I had learned the hard way—the importance of balance, the dangers of unchecked ambition, and the value of friendship.

"Power without purpose is meaningless," I told him one night as we practiced casting complex illusions. "It’s not enough to be strong. You need to understand why you seek strength. Otherwise, you’ll lose yourself, just as I did."

He listened carefully, his expression thoughtful. For all his ambition, he seemed to take my warnings to heart.

Luna’s fears began to ease when she received a letter from Last Page, detailing his progress. She read his words with a mix of relief and astonishment.

"She’s not what I expected," he wrote. "She’s still… intimidating, but she’s also wise. She’s teaching me things I never thought I could learn. And she’s opening up—slowly, but she is. I think there’s more to her than the stories say."

For the first time in centuries, Luna allowed herself to hope. Perhaps, just perhaps, there was still a chance for redemption—not just for Twilight Sparkle, but for all the scars left behind by her fall.

One evening, as we sat in the crumbling remains of my castle’s library, Last Page asked me about Starlight Glimmer.

"Who was she?" he asked.

The question caught me off guard, and for a moment, I couldn’t answer. Memories of my former student flooded my mind—her brilliance, her stubbornness, her unyielding belief in the power of equality.

"She was… my student," I said finally, my voice tinged with sadness. "She was brilliant, stronger than she ever realized. But I failed her, just as I failed everypony else."

Last Page watched me carefully, his expression sympathetic. "Do you think she’d forgive you?"

I looked away, unable to meet his gaze. "I don’t know," I admitted. "But I hope so."

As I watched him work on another rune that night, I couldn’t help but feel a flicker of something I hadn’t felt in centuries—hope.

Maybe, just maybe, this stallion would succeed where I had failed. And maybe, through him, I could find a path to redemption.

SCATTERED THROUGHOUT THE MIST

"You show much promise, Last Page," I said slowly, watching him intently as his horn glowed with a faint aura of magical energy. Before him, a set of intricate runes hovered midair, glowing softly as he channeled the spell I had taught him. His concentration was unwavering, the light reflecting in his eyes like a fire that refused to be extinguished.

In the weeks since I had taken him under my wing, Last Page's potential had grown exponentially. His magical strength, though nowhere near my own, had evolved into something remarkable. But it wasn’t just his raw power that intrigued me—it was the way he worked. The runes he crafted, the intricate spells he devised, the sharp intellect that fueled his magic. Last Page was becoming so much more than I ever imagined.

Yet, I couldn’t ignore the shift in his demeanor. There was something beneath the surface. A quiet intensity. A hunger. And one day, he left without warning.

The shadow flickered next to me, an all-too-familiar presence that hissed its observations. “Something is off,” it murmured, its voice like a serpent slithering through my ears.

I nodded, my gaze fixed on the horizon where Last Page had disappeared. “I feel it, too. He left with a purpose,” I replied, the words heavy with suspicion.

The shadow's presence loomed closer, coiling like smoke around me. “This child is power-hungry. He wears the mask of nobility, but his intentions are tainted. He reminds me of you, in a way.”

I stiffened, the implication slicing through me like a blade. The shadow’s laugh was low and mocking. “But you were different, Twilight Sparkle. Your pain made you relentless, but your heart was never as hollow as his. Keep your wits about you.”

And with that, the shadow dissipated into the mist, leaving me alone with my thoughts. My eyes narrowed, scanning the direction Last Page had gone. “This is truly interesting,” I said softly, my voice echoing in the empty hall.

Last Page walked with determination through the bustling streets of Canterlot, the weight of his ambition pressing down on him. The moonlight bathed the city in an ethereal glow, but it was lost on him. His mind was consumed with a singular goal.

Luna.

He thought back to everything Twilight had told him, everything she had taught him. The parallels were striking. Luna was just like Celestia—aloof, powerful, and unwilling to share that power. And he was just like Twilight, the one burdened by manipulation, the one destined to rise above.

But unlike Twilight, he wouldn’t falter.

“I will do what she couldn’t,” he whispered to himself. His steps quickened, his resolve hardening with each stride. “Luna will fall, and I will rise.”

Yet, there was a nagging thought that refused to leave him. Twilight had always spoken of Celestia’s manipulation, of the lies that bound her to servitude. But Last Page couldn’t fully see it. He couldn’t understand why Twilight believed it so fervently. There was a missing piece in the puzzle, a sliver of truth that eluded him.

It didn’t matter.

Last Page reached into the folds of his cloak, his hoof brushing against the cold metal of the talisman he had crafted. The artifact was a masterpiece, imbued with ancient runes and dark magic—magic that Twilight had taught him, though she hadn’t known his true purpose.

If his calculations were correct, the talisman would do what no spell alone could accomplish. It would strip Luna of her magic, siphoning her divine power and transferring it to him. And with that power, he would ascend. He would finally become an alicorn, a being of unparalleled strength.

He glanced up at the towering spires of Canterlot Castle, his lips curling into a determined smile. The plan was simple: confront Luna, use the talisman, and take what he deserved.

The stars above twinkled faintly, oblivious to the storm brewing below.

“You’ve ruled for long enough,” Last Page muttered under his breath. “Now it’s my turn.”

As he approached the castle gates, his heart beat steadily, his mind racing with the possibilities that lay ahead. He wasn’t just going to follow in Twilight’s hoofsteps. He was going to surpass her.

And nothing—not Luna, not Twilight, not even the shadow of doubt that lingered in his mind—would stop him.

YOU KNOW NOT OF ME.

The throne room was eerily silent, the oppressive weight of tension filling the air. Luna stood before her student, her heart heavy with regret and fear. Last Page’s return had been sudden and unannounced, his presence filled with a darkness she couldn’t ignore. His once bright, curious eyes now gleamed with malice, and the crooked smile that stretched across his face made her blood run cold.

She had failed him.

"Last Page," she said, her voice steady despite the dread clawing at her chest. "What has happened to you? What has Twilight done?"

He laughed, a twisted, hollow sound that echoed through the chamber. "Twilight? Oh no, Luna, don’t blame her. She only unlocked the potential you were too blind to see. She showed me the truth—the strength I could wield if I stopped holding back."

"Stand down," Luna commanded, taking a step forward. Her tone was firm, but her heart ached. This was her student, the pony she had nurtured and guided. Yet here he stood, warped by ambition and shadow.

"Why?" Last Page asked, his smile widening into a grin of unbridled arrogance. "I’m so close! Don’t you see? I’m better than her, Luna. I’m going to do what she couldn’t. I will become the most powerful being in all of Equestria!"

Before Luna could respond, he pulled a small object from beneath his cloak—a rune, glowing faintly with a sinister light. Her eyes widened as she realized the danger. "Last Page, don’t!" she shouted, taking a step back.

But it was too late. He muttered an incantation, the runes around the object flaring to life. A dark energy surged through the room, and Luna gasped as she felt her magic being pulled from her. It was as if her very essence was being drained, leaving her weak and vulnerable.

"Ahh!" she cried out, collapsing to the cold stone floor. Her legs buckled beneath her, and the strength that had once defined her was gone.

Last Page stood over her, his eyes gleaming with triumph. "You feel it, don’t you? The power you’ve wielded for so long—it’s mine now." He laughed, his voice filled with a manic glee. "Goodbye, Luna. Watch from the shadows as I reshape this world."

With that, he turned and left, leaving Luna broken and powerless.

I felt it the moment it happened—a shift in the balance of magic, a ripple through the air. The moon had stopped moving.

Something was wrong.

Without hesitation, I turned toward Canterlot. The shadow that always lingered beside me glided closer, its presence a constant reminder of the darkness I carried. It liked to talk, to weave its stories in my ear as if it knew I couldn’t silence it.

"King Sombra," it hissed, its voice like a whisper carried on the wind. "He was the second strongest pony I’ve ever changed."

I kept my eyes on the horizon, the towering spires of Canterlot Castle drawing closer with each passing moment. "And who was the first?" I asked, my tone flat. I had no interest in its games, but sometimes indulging it kept it quiet.

The shadow coiled around me, a cold laugh echoing in my mind. "You, Twilight Sparkle. You are the most powerful. And with my help, nopony can stop us. Yet you refuse to take the power you deserve. You wallow in self-loathing, and it’s quite tiresome."

I couldn’t help but chuckle, though the sound was bitter. "Yes, of course. Who would have thought," I said sarcastically, rolling my eyes.

The city came into view, and I descended swiftly, landing in its empty streets. The night was unusually quiet, the usual hum of life replaced by an eerie stillness. It seemed nopony dared venture out tonight, and that suited me just fine.

The castle loomed ahead, its grand entrance shadowed by the pale light of the moon. Something was very wrong here, and I was going to find out what.

Luna’s relief was palpable when I entered the throne room, though it was tainted by the anguish in her eyes. She tried to stand, but her legs betrayed her, trembling under the strain of her weakened state.

"Luna," I said, my voice sharp. "What happened?"

She looked at me, her expression a mixture of guilt and desperation. "My student... Last Page," she began, her voice faltering. "What have you done to him, Twilight? What did you teach him?"

I frowned, the accusation stinging more than I expected. "I taught him some of what I know," I admitted. "But this? This madness? He did that on his own. He’s insane... kind of like me." I glanced at my hoof, flexing it absentmindedly. The shadow’s words echoed in my mind, and for a moment, I wondered if I had truly failed him.

Luna let out a shaky breath, her gaze filled with sorrow. "Twilight, he—he drained my magic. He plans to do what you couldn’t, to take everything."

Her words lit a spark of anger within me. Last Page was more than just an ambitious fool—he was a danger to everything I had built, to everything I had fought for. "The boogeyman has to get involved, then," I hissed, the words dripping with venom.

Luna’s eyes widened. "Twilight, no! You can’t—"

I cut her off with a sharp look. "It’s time for Nightmare Eclipse to return. That eager foal thinks he’s unstoppable? I’ll show him that I’m not a ghost story for no reason."

As I turned to leave, Luna’s voice stopped me. "Twilight! Are you sure you can beat him?"

I looked over my shoulder, a cold smile tugging at my lips. "I don’t lose," I said simply before stepping into the night once more.

The streets of Canterlot were silent as I walked, the weight of the impending confrontation settling on my shoulders. The shadow flickered beside me, a sinister companion in the darkness.

"Do you feel it?" it whispered, its voice a mix of excitement and malice. "He thinks he’s won. He thinks he’s untouchable."

"He’ll learn," I muttered, my tone laced with determination.

The castle loomed ahead, its grand doors standing as a barrier between me and the one who dared to challenge me. I could feel the tension in the air, the magic that pulsed from within. Last Page was waiting, his arrogance blinding him to the storm that was about to descend.

I was ready.

And I would remind him—and everypony else—why I was a force to be feared.

CAST INTO OBLIVION

Last Page stood at the apex of Canterlot Castle’s throne room, his chest swelling with pride as Twilight Sparkle walked through the massive doors. The moonlight streaming in from the broken stained glass above cast shadows across his smirking face. He had waited for this moment, dreamed of it, and now it was finally here.

“Twilight! You made it!” he exclaimed, his voice brimming with triumph. “Look at what I’ve done! I’ve done what you couldn’t!”

Twilight’s expression didn’t change. Her eyes, sharp and calculating, remained locked on him as she approached, her hoofsteps echoing ominously in the vast chamber. “I trained you,” she said slowly, her tone heavy with disappointment. “I tried to steer you away from the path I took. I gave you the tools to rise above it… yet here we stand.”

Last Page’s grin faltered for a moment. Her calm demeanor, the lack of acknowledgment for his accomplishment, unsettled him. “Twilight… aren’t you proud?” he asked, a trace of desperation in his voice. “I completed your mission! I surpassed you!”

Twilight’s head tilted slightly, and her frown deepened. “You did not complete my mission,” she replied coldly. “My mission ended the day Celestia died.”

Her words cut deep, and Last Page’s face twisted with anger. “Fine,” he spat, his voice dripping with venom. “If you’re not with me, then you’re against me.”

With a flick of his hoof, he activated a pair of glowing runes, their magic surging to life as beams of energy shot toward Twilight. She didn’t flinch. Her horn glowed faintly, and a shimmering shield materialized around her, deflecting the attack with ease.

“You don’t know what you’re getting into, kid,” Twilight said as she stepped forward, her tone as steady as her unyielding gait. “Don’t make me hurt you.”

“Hurt me?” Last Page laughed, though there was a tremor in his voice. “You think you can hurt me? We’ll see!”

He reached for the magic-stealing rune he had used on Luna and hurled it toward her. Twilight sidestepped effortlessly, her eyes narrowing.

“You’re slow,” she said, her voice laced with disdain.

Her words ignited his fury, and he pulled out another rune—a bomb rune—and slammed it onto the ground. The ensuing explosion shook the throne room, filling it with smoke and debris. But as the dust settled, Twilight stood unscathed, her shield dissipating as she lowered it deliberately.

“You’re weak,” she said, her tone biting.

Last Page snarled, his teeth clenched in frustration. His mind raced, and then an idea struck him—a cruel, desperate gambit. “Let’s bring some memories from the past, hmm?” he shouted, throwing down six runes at once.

The air shimmered, and before Twilight, familiar forms began to materialize. Her friends. Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Applejack, and Spike. They stood before her, but something was wrong. Their faces were distorted, their features twisted as though smeared with ink.

Twilight hesitated, her heart aching at the sight. But then, the shadow that had accompanied her for so long hissed in her ear. “It’s not them, idiot,” it sneered. “Look closer.”

Twilight’s gaze sharpened, and she saw the truth—their faces were wrong, their movements jerky and unnatural. They were mockeries, illusions meant to manipulate her.

“I don’t think so,” she muttered, taking a step forward.

Suddenly, she felt a sharp pain in her chest. Bolts of magic from Last Page struck her, and she staggered back. The shadow sighed, its voice tinged with exasperation.

“It seems you need my help,” it said.

Twilight gritted her teeth, her resolve hardening. “Fine,” she whispered. “Kill this pretender.”

The shadow coiled around her, its cold tendrils sinking into her skin. Last Page’s triumphant expression faltered as he saw the change in Twilight. Her eyes darkened, her pupils narrowing into slits. A twisted smile spread across her face.

“Eheheheh,” she chuckled, her voice devoid of warmth. “You’ve made a huge mistake. It seems you’ve forgotten to fear me.” She stepped forward, her aura radiating a menacing energy. “Nightmare Eclipse was not just a foal’s tale. I’m real.”

Last Page took a step back, his confidence wavering.

“You’ve forgotten some important details,” she continued, her voice cold and cutting. “I killed them, child. I killed all of them. And now, with some help, I feel no regret.”

Her magic shifted, turning from dark purple to jet black. Inky tendrils began to emerge from her body, writhing and twisting as if alive.

“Time you met my animosity.”

Luna approached the throne room cautiously, the sound of a fierce battle drawing her closer. When she arrived, her breath caught in her throat.

Twilight—no, Nightmare Eclipse—was locked in combat with Last Page. The stallion was struggling, his guardian runes barely holding back the onslaught of inky tentacles that lashed out at him.

“You really thought you were better than me?” Nightmare Eclipse taunted, her voice dripping with mockery.

“I am better than you!” Last Page screamed, his frustration boiling over. “You showed remorse when I did not!”

He unleashed a barrage of magic, beams of energy slamming into her. But where they struck, an inky liquid absorbed the damage, leaving her unscathed.

“You’re a fool,” Nightmare Eclipse said, her voice low and venomous. Another tentacle shot forward, wrapping around Last Page’s leg and slamming him into the ground.

“The difference between then and now,” she hissed, leaning closer to him, “is that I will no longer show remorse.”

The inky sludge began to spread across the floor, consuming everything it touched. Nightmare Eclipse picked up the magic-stealing rune with her magic, examining it briefly before turning it against Last Page.

“No!” he screamed as his stolen power was drained away, leaving him helpless. The tentacles coiled around him, dragging him toward the dark pool of sludge.

“Please!” he begged, his voice filled with desperation. “Twilight! Don’t do this!”

But Nightmare Eclipse showed no mercy. Her eyes were cold, unfeeling. “You made your choice,” she said simply, and with that, he was pulled into the abyss.

The room fell silent. The inky tentacles and sludge dissipated, leaving no trace of the battle. Twilight stood in the center of the room, her eyes returning to their normal state. She let out a slow breath.

“How tragic,” she murmured. “I hope he learns.”

From the doorway, Luna gasped. “Where did you put him?” she asked, her voice trembling.

Twilight turned to her, her expression unreadable. “I put him in Tartarus temporarily. You can go claim him when you’re ready.”

As she began to walk away, Luna felt her strength returning. She took a step forward. “Twilight, wait!”

Twilight paused but didn’t look back.

“You… you can change,” Luna said, her voice filled with hope. “You don’t have to be a monster anymore.”

Twilight turned her head slightly, her gaze distant. “Maybe I can,” she said softly. “But it doesn’t feel like anypony believes that.”

Luna stepped closer, her voice firm. “I believe it. Come with me. Help me rule in Celestia’s place. You don’t need to carry this burden alone anymore.”

Twilight hesitated, the weight of her past decisions heavy on her shoulders. Finally, she nodded. “If you really think I can change… then I’ll try. The Twilight who tried to kill your sister is no longer me.”

Luna smiled, tears brimming in her eyes. “I’m so glad to hear that.”

The path to redemption would be long, and the shadow of Celestia’s legacy loomed large. But together, they would try to rebuild what had been lost. Together, they would face the future.

Epilogue: Another Chance

Twilight Sparkle stood on the grand balcony of Canterlot Castle, the horizon glowing with hues of orange and gold as the sun crept into the sky. Her horn shimmered faintly, guiding the celestial body upward with steady precision. It was a task she had taken over years ago—a daily ritual that reminded her of Celestia's legacy and the burden she now bore.

The rays of dawn filtered through the stained-glass windows of the throne room, casting shimmering patterns on the marble floor. Twilight lingered for a moment, allowing herself to bask in the quiet beauty of her work. She wore Celestia’s crown, its golden sheen glinting in the sunlight. It rested heavy on her head—not physically, but symbolically.

At times, she felt like it mocked her, a constant reminder of what she had lost and what she had become. Still, she bore its weight. “I’ve changed… for the better,” she murmured softly to herself, as though repeating it often enough might make it easier to believe.

Her thoughts were interrupted as the sound of hoofsteps echoed down the hall behind her. She turned to see Luna entering, her mane flowing like a quiet night sky.

“Good morning, Twilight,” Luna said with a warm smile. “We have company.”

Twilight nodded. Visitors were a common occurrence, usually nobles or governors with grievances and demands. She was prepared for the same today. But when Luna stepped aside, the pony who entered was not at all who Twilight expected.

Flurry Heart.

The young alicorn walked in with a soft, nervous smile. It had been years since Twilight had seen her niece face-to-face, and the sight stirred an ache in her chest.

“Hello, Flurry Heart,” Twilight said, her voice gentle but uncertain. “What can I do for you?”

Flurry Heart’s smile widened. “It’s not about what you can do for me, Aunt Twilight. I just wanted to see you.” Her voice was earnest, tinged with a warmth that Twilight had long forgotten. “I’ve missed you.”

Twilight blinked, taken aback by the sincerity in those words. She had grown used to skepticism and cautious acceptance over the years, so the genuine affection in Flurry Heart’s tone left her momentarily speechless.

“I… I’m glad to see you too,” Twilight said at last, her voice steadying. She looked down at the young alicorn, who was watching her intently. “I’m not completely me. I don’t think I ever will be,” Twilight admitted, her words heavy with regret. “But with time, I’ll try to live up to… even a fraction of what might have been meant for me.”

Flurry Heart’s gaze softened. She stepped closer and stood beside Twilight, looking out at the sunlit landscape. “No matter what you’ve been through, Aunt Twilight, I’m just happy that we’re here together now. We’re family. That’s what matters.”

Twilight’s lips curled into a faint smile. Family. The word felt foreign on her tongue, but comforting nonetheless.

She looked down at Flurry Heart, who now seemed captivated by the view of the sunrise. “My friends,” Twilight began, her voice faltering slightly. “I hope they’re proud of the changes I’ve made. I just wish I had changed when they were still…” She trailed off, unable to finish.

Flurry Heart placed a hoof gently on Twilight’s. “I think they’d be proud of you,” she said, her tone unwavering. “No pony’s perfect, Twilight, but you’ve come so far. You’ve found a way to keep moving forward. That’s what they’d want.”

Twilight turned away, the words settling into her heart like a bittersweet melody. **She’d never truly know if her friends forgave her, but she hoped, desperately, that somewhere out there, they understood.**

The day passed quietly, filled with the usual duties of ruling Equestria. Twilight and Luna had long since established a rhythm of shared governance, one that relied on collaboration rather than dominance. They had rebuilt much together—Canterlot, the unity of the kingdoms, and even themselves.

As the sun began to set, Twilight stood in her private chambers, gazing at an old, worn photograph she kept on her desk. It was a picture of her and her friends, taken long before everything had gone so wrong. She traced her hoof over the image, her expression unreadable.

The shadow stirred within her, as it often did in moments like this. Its voice whispered in the back of her mind, soft and insidious. “They wouldn’t forgive you. You betrayed them. They’d hate you if they saw what you’ve become.”

Twilight didn’t flinch. She had grown used to the shadow’s venomous words, but their sting had dulled over time.

“You’re wrong,” she said aloud, her voice calm but firm.

“Am I?” the shadow taunted. “You wear Celestia’s crown like a trophy. You carry her legacy like it belongs to you. Do you think that erases what you’ve done? Do you think it makes you worthy?”

Twilight closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. She had learned to face these moments with quiet resolve. “No,” she admitted. “But it’s not about erasing the past. It’s about making sure the future is better.”

The shadow laughed, a low, mocking sound. “You’ll never escape me, Twilight Sparkle. Someday, I’ll return. And when I do—”

“You won’t,” Twilight interrupted, her voice steady. “Because I won’t let you.”

For a moment, the shadow was silent, and Twilight felt it retreat, sinking back into the depths of her mind. She exhaled slowly, her shoulders relaxing.

Later that evening, as the moon rose high into the night sky, Twilight joined Luna on the castle’s balcony. The two alicorns stood side by side, their gazes fixed on the stars.

“You’ve been quiet today,” Luna observed, her tone light but curious.

Twilight shrugged. “Just… thinking.” She glanced at Luna, a faint smile tugging at her lips. “You know, I never really thanked you for giving me this chance.”

Luna raised an eyebrow. “This wasn’t just my doing, Twilight. You’ve worked hard to earn where you are now.”

Twilight nodded, though her smile faded slightly. “Still, I couldn’t have done it without you. Or Flurry Heart.”

Luna chuckled softly. “Family has a way of reminding us what truly matters.”

Twilight looked out over the city, the lights of Canterlot twinkling like fireflies in the distance. For the first time in years, she felt a quiet sense of peace. It wasn’t perfect—there were still scars, regrets, and doubts—but it was something.

“Do you think they’d be proud?” Twilight asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Luna didn’t need to ask who she meant. She smiled gently, her eyes reflecting the moonlight. “I think they would be. And I think they’d want you to be proud of yourself, too.”

Twilight’s gaze lingered on the horizon, the faintest hint of a tear shimmering in her eye. “I’ll keep trying,” she said softly. “For them. For Equestria. For myself.”

And as the night stretched on, Twilight stood tall beneath the stars, a ruler striving for redemption, a pony seeking another chance.

Author's Note

And that’s the end! I hope you all enjoyed the INSANITY saga! I’ve enjoyed working on it! The only thing left to take care of is the prologue for ANIMOSITY, which is done, I just need to get it published. I’ll try and be active answering questions in the comments! Anywho, I enjoyed writing this a bunch! I’ll see you in future stories. -Elk