Sparkle No More

Chapters

Sparkle No More
Repercussions Part 1
Repercussions Part 2
Reconciliation Part 1
Reconciliation Part 2
Blame
Intervention
Resolution
You Are Mine

Sparkle No More

The sound of voices echoed faintly through the halls as Twilight’s friends made their way to the throne room. They all called out words of assurance and comfort to Twilight, but everyone fell silent the moment they saw her lying on the ground, black smoke rising from her limp form.

Her entire body was tainted black. Her mane, her tail, even her cutie mark all had been altered under Nightmare Moon’s influence. What once was a six point lavender star layered on a grey star was now a single, eight-point star surrounded by smaller, purple stars in each nook. At its center sat a large purple orb.

Rainbow Dash broke the silence. “What did you do to her!?” she screamed as she whirled around and launched herself at Nightmare Moon, only to be stopped by Applejack's quick intervention.

Her voice muffled by Rainbow Dash's tail, Applejack tried to calm her friend, “Consarn it, Rainbow! Are you trying to get yourself hurt!?” Applejack spat the tail out of her mouth. “Now’s not the time to get–”

In an instant, Twilight’s eyes shot open, and everything came to a standstill. She slowly rose to her hooves as the others gaped at Twilight’s eyes. What were once a calming purple, were now a chilling blood red. Even her pupils had changed, from normal black orbs to narrow slits, the same as Nightmare’s.

Twilight glared down at her “friends.”

“You ponies have yet to see true darkness!” Nightmare Moon cackled. “Oh, you think everlasting night is bad!? Oh then you’re in for a real treat!”

A thick, black aura surrounded Twilight’s horn as her magic sparked to life. The others scattered, looking for any chance at escape, but with a flash of her horn, Twilight sealed off the exit. Locking eyes with her panicked friends, she charged up another spell, but before she could launch her attack, Nightmare Moon stopped her.

“Don’t kill them just yet,” she ordered, causing Twilight to look at her curiously. “I want you to teach them how to behave towards their new queen.”

Twilight smirked and faced the five ponies in front of her and quickly acquired her first target. Twilight charged, her body powered by a black glow surrounding her hooves. With a strong kick, she knocked Applejack across the room and into a wall.

Applejack gasped as she struggled to stand, an unfamiliar pain creeping down her side. On her flank was a glowing black hoofprint which ate away at her fur and burned itself into her side. The sound of hooves rapidly approaching forced her to focus her attention on the fight. However, another kick sent her crashing back into the wall, her head connected with a heavy thud, and she fell to the ground, unmoving.

“You’ll pay for that!” Rainbow Dash shouted as she flung herself into the air and charged.

Using her momentum, she drove a hoof deep into Twilight’s side, knocking her back, but not fazing her in the slightest. Rainbow was met with swift counter-kick to the jaw which sent her flying. Twilight's horn lit once more as her magic surrounded a section of broken pillar. She hoisted it above her head and hurled it at Rainbow. Even with her agility, however, she wasn’t fast enough to avoid it. The pillar collided with her stomach and launched her backwards, snapping her wing and nearly crushing her as it slammed her into the ground. She was barely able to muffle her cry of pain as she squirmed underneath the weight of the shattered pillar.

Rarity and Pinkie Pie gasped in disbelief. The two toughest ponies in the group had been taken down. As they gaped, Twilight teleported beside her next victim: Rarity. With a quick push, she shoved her to the ground. Twilight reared up and delivered a stomp to Rarity’s side, making her scream.

The resulting cry resounded within Twilight and her stomach churned as she felt something else stirring within her. She hesitated.

“What are you doing? Attack them!” Nightmare barked.

A second, more familiar voice echoed within her mind: her own. Where am I?

Twilight’s pupils expanded and in an instant her eyes flashed white. As her vision resettled, she found herself floating in a black void dimly illuminated by a spark on the horizon ahead of her. As the light steadily grew, she felt a tug, pulling her forward. Without warning, she was sucked into the light and there was a blinding flash.

Twilight blinked, and as her vision returned she could see the devastation all around her. What’s going on? She looked down at herself. What am I doing? I’m… hurting them? This… this isn’t right. Twilight tried to move her legs, but her body wouldn’t respond. Suddenly, neither would her eyes, and she found herself watching the scene before her, trapped within her own mind.

Twilight had little time to dwell on it. To her horror, her body was acting on its own, and, despite her resistance, she was forced to watch as her magic sparked to life and surrounded Pinkie Pie. Unable to look away, she could only stare in shock as Pinkie was slammed into a wall. Before Twilight could even react, Pinkie was slammed into the wall on the other side of the room. Her body was dragged along the jagged stones to the adjacent wall and then thrown across the room again. She smashed through the final wall and slumped to the ground as the magic released her.

Nightmare Moon strode to the center of the room and admired her minion’s work. “One, two, three, four... wait a second! There were five of you! Where’s that yellow coward!?”

A frightened squeak gave away Fluttershy’s position.

As Twilight’s body began to move towards a fallen pillar, she struggled against the magic controlling her. Yet despite all her efforts, she couldn't stop her body, she couldn't turn her head away, she couldn't even close her eyes. Twilight was forced to watch as her magic formed around the pillar and disintegrated it. On the floor behind the freshly created pile of black ash, Fluttershy stared back at Twilight with fearful, tear-filled eyes that begged her to stop.

Her magic came to life once more as it surrounded Fluttershy, which elicited another whine from the terrified pegasus as she floated helplessly in the air. She began to hyperventilate as Twilight stepped closer. Fluttershy squealed in panic and tears spilled down her cheeks as she tried to break away from the magic binding her, but to no avail. With a whimper she stopped struggling, closed her eyes, and covered them with her hooves.

Twilight fought tooth and nail as she struggled to regain control of her body, and, for a brief moment, it seemed like she succeeded. Her body hesitated momentarily, leaving Fluttershy suspended high in the air. Then it recovered from Twilight’s mental assault, and violently flung Fluttershy to the ground.

Twilight shuddered as the foreign emotions infiltrated her own senses. The joy she experienced sickened her, and the desire to cause more harm was unbearable. I can’t let this go on. I won’t! Twilight resumed her fight against the magic controlling her, desperate to end her friends’ suffering as well as her own.

Her head lowered to Fluttershy’s level with a malicious grin, eliciting another squeal from the pegasus. She then reared back, slowly lifted her front legs, and positioned them directly above Fluttershy’s head, ready to finish the job. Whimpering, Fluttershy covered her eyes with her hooves once more in anticipation of the inevitable strike. “Twilight, please...” she begged.

Trapped inside her own mind, Twilight raged as she frantically fought for control. No! I won’t just sit back and let this happen! I will overcome this! For them. For my mother! My father! My brother! For Princess Celestia! FOR MYSELF!

Without warning, her hooves descended, and as the sheer horror of what was about to happen hit her, time seemed to slow. She cried out in anguish, and with a last, desperate push of willpower, her hooves redirected before they could connect with Fluttershy. Twilight’s eyes turned white and as the darkness controlling her body broke, and the invisible wall the curse had built to imprison her crumbled. She was in control of her body, but blinded by the magic pumping through her body. As her vision resettled, she glanced down to see Fluttershy, scratched up and bruised, but otherwise unharmed. However, the ground next to her was marred by an imprint of Twilight’s forehooves.

Anger surged through her as her mind replayed the fight in her mind. Her eyes shifted to their normal purple hue, and although the rest of her body remained tainted by the curse, Twilight was back in control. She snapped her head towards Nightmare. “You!” Twilight growled. “You will pay for what you made me do.”

Twilight grit her teeth as the pain of her transformation resurfaced. In its efforts to regain control, the curse sapped Twilight’s strength, but with grunt she channeled her magic. Sparks crackled around her horn hesitantly, but after a moment, her magic flared to life. Its colors faded between violet and black before fixing on a sickly indigo aura. Arcs of lightning flashed along the length of her horn in both a brilliant purple and a muted black before launching a beam of energy at Nightmare Moon. It hit her in the side, and unlike Twilight's previous efforts, struck home. Nightmare Moon was flung across the room by the powerful attack where she collapsed, momentarily stunned.

Twilight eyed her friends, who, despite their various injuries, were busy digging Rainbow out from under the crushed pillar. Twilight grimaced. Tears welled in her eyes at the sight of all the pain she'd been forced to cause, but she quickly blinked them away and glared back at Nightmare Moon.

“You forced me to attack them!” She slammed her hoof into the ground as she took a step forward. “You forced my hoof in nearly killing my–” Her eyes widened as a realization sparked to life inside her. “My friends. The Elements of Harmony! The ‘spark’! It all makes sense now!”

“You’re still blabbing about the Elements of Harmony?” Nightmare groaned as she stood up. “Have you already forgotten that I obliterated them?”

“No. I didn’t forget. And you didn’t destroy the Elements of Harmony, either! Because the Spirits of the Elements of Harmony,” Twilight gestured to her friends as she continued, “are right here!”

The shards at Nightmare Moon’s feet twitched and rose into the air as auras of different colors surrounded them. “What!?” she gasped in confusion.

“Applejack, who reassured me when I was in doubt, represents the spirit of Honesty!” The remnants of the Element of Honesty floated over to Applejack and slowly circled her.

“Fluttershy, who tamed the manticore with her compassion, represents the spirit of Kindness.” The shards in the pink glow quickly shot over to the pony who represented them.

Twilight’s theory was proving true! Adrenaline surged through her system, alleviating her pain as she continued, “Pinkie Pie, who banished fear by giggling in the face of danger, represents the spirit of Laughter. Rarity, who calmed a sorrowful serpent with a meaningful gift, represents the spirit of Generosity.” As Twilight named their Element, each of the shards floated to their respective ponies.

“And Rainbow Dash, who could not abandon her friends for her own heart’s desire, represents the spirit of Loyalty.” The rubble burying Rainbow Dash glowed faintly and slowly parted to reveal her crushed form. As the gap widened, the red aura surrounded her and lifted her out of the debris. As she floated above the pile, the shards drifted over to orbit her broken form. She groaned, stirring as her battered body fed off the new energy.

“The spirits of these five ponies got us through every challenge you threw at us!”

“Well, while this is definitely more elaborate than your first attempt at awakening the Elements, you still don’t have the sixth Element! The ‘spark’ didn’t work!” Nightmare Moon retorted.

“But it did! A different kind of ‘spark’. I felt it the very moment I realized how happy they all made me feel. Just before your corruption took hold of me completely, hearing their voices made me realize how much they all truly cared about me. I realized that they are truly... my friends! I will fix this. I will make this right again!”

The corruption fought for control over her body, pecking away at her willpower as she concentrated her magic. She glanced around her as her magic surrounded her friends. “And when their spirits are ignited by the spark that resides in the heart of us all, it creates the sixth Element! The Element of Magic!”

Twilight grinned as the healing spell worked its magic. Her friends’ injuries were disappearing. Her joy was short lived, however, as new pain arose within her, and as she continued her healing spell, the pain became exponentially worse. Her magic was draining faster than she anticipated, and her energy was beginning to falter.

Twilight dropped to one knee, but the aura around her horn brightened. She wasn’t going to let them down. After what she’d done to them, and after how far she’d come, she couldn’t let them down. She poured everything she could into the spell, even as her vision faded.

The Element of Magic appeared above her, glowing brightly. Her eyes widened in joy, but before she could celebrate, the magic in horn guttered. Even with the Element of Magic feeding Twilight new energy, her magic was still fading as she pushed it to its limits.

“This is pathetic! I can already see your magic growing weaker. You have all six Elements, but you don’t have the power to activate them! It’s time to end this pathetic game.” Nightmare’s horn lit up with a black aura.

Twilight gasped and focused her magic one last time. Pushing herself further, she fed the last drops of her power into the spell. Just as the last of Twilight’s strength failed, the Elements came to life, and energy nested within the Elements themselves poured into the six ponies.

In a bright flash, the orbiting shards transformed into beautiful necklaces, each embedded with a unique gemstone that formed the shape of their respective bearers’ cutie marks. Overhead, the Element of Magic transformed into a golden tiara with a gemstone at the top in the shape of Twilight’s original cutie mark which then gently lowered itself onto her head.

As soon as the tiara settled on her head, her eyes flashed white and her magic spiraled out of control. The aura surrounding her horn turned black, and her magic fed itself into the spell against her will, even as her body cried out for her to stop. Loud cracks resounded within her body as she floated up into the air, screaming in agony as the spell ate away at her.

The Elements released a burst of powerful magic, engulfing their bearers and muting Twilight’s screams. The magic from the Elements transformed into a magical rainbow which shot straight into the air before making a beeline towards Nightmare Moon, who howled in defeat as it surrounded her.

A bright, white light which surged through the entire ruin and everything fell silent.

Repercussions Part 1

Twilight groaned, twitching slightly as she awoke. Her entire body ached with stiffness. Pain filled her senses with even the smallest of movements. Even opening her eyes was enough to make her wince. Once she finally managed to open them long enough to see, she was only met with a blurry haze. She lifted her head and tried to stand, but her legs only responded with agony at the attempt. With a grunt, she collapsed back on the floor.

I remember the curse being painful... She shifted her legs slightly and winced as another surge of pain shot through her. But it was nothing like this. Twilight blinked a few times to clear her blurry vision, but to no avail. She exhaled heavily, closed her eyes, and found herself drifting in and out of consciousness until the sound of her friends waking with a collective groan awoke her a final time. She glanced over to them and examined their current state.

They were a little scuffed up from the aftermath of the Elements’ outburst, but were otherwise unharmed. Unable to bear the throbbing in her neck, and satisfied that her friends weren’t injured, Twilight relaxed and laid her head back down.

“Uggh. What the hay happened?” Applejack asked as she rubbed her head.

Rainbow Dash was the first to stand up. She surveyed her body for a moment and stretched out her wings. “They’re... healed.” She took off and hovered a few feet off the ground. “Yes!” she laughed triumphantly, doing a loop in the air. “Wait a sec,” Rainbow paused and studied the others. “Did Twilight... save us?”

Twilight lifted her head at the mention of her name, but immediately relented, groaning as her body pleaded with her to stop moving.

“Twilight?!” Fluttershy screamed as she darted over to the fallen unicorn, the others following closely behind. “Twilight! Please say something! A-anything!”

She looked up as they surrounded her, a worried frown planted on all their faces.

“Twi’! Can ya hear me? Y-you’re gonna be alright, ya hear? J-just stay with us! Somepony go get help!”

“I’m f-fine, Applejack. I just... hurt,” she said with a weak smile.

“Twi’, you’re not fine. Just look at yourself.”

Forcing her vision to focus as much as she could, she glanced over herself. While her mind was free, the vile black matter which had corrupted her still blanketed her body, and its alterations remained unchanged.

However, her body was in worse shape than she had ever seen. Her legs were the most obviously damaged: misshapen and bent unnaturally, merely looking at them was painful. Along the rest of her body, blood seeped from countless wounds and dripped down her coat and into a pool beneath her.

She gasped at the sight. The sharp intake of air caused a burning sensation in her throat. Instinctively she lifted a hoof to cover her mouth, but stopped when she was met with a painful resistance. Her vision blurred as she fell into coughing fit, which ended with a clot of blood splashing onto the ground. “I... Nngh.” Twilight groaned as she rested her head back on the ground.

“Look,” Rainbow Dash said, calling attention to herself. “We need to get help. Twilight. Needs. Help.”

“But who can we get?” Applejack asked. “There’s nopony around, and splittin’ up would be a bad idea. We can’t just leave her.” Applejack glanced quickly around the room, her eyes coming to a halt on a certain white unicorn. “Rarity! You’re a unicorn, can’t ya use some magic to heal her?”

“I’m afraid not. I may be a unicorn, but I never learned any healing spells. That kind of magic is far more advanced than anything I’ve ever learned. Surely the princess can help!” Rarity said. “With Nightmare Moon defeated, she must be somewhere! Right?”

“But where would she be?” Pinkie asked. “Where should we start!? I mean, she could be anywhere!”

“The only other option is to move her, but that could make things worse.” Rainbow grunted in frustration. “What do we do?” She paused. “What can we do?”

Silence filled the air as the ponies turned to each other, each hoping another would have an idea, and each having the same look of doubt on their faces.

A flash of bright light illuminated the room as Princess Celestia gracefully landed inside. The pride which beamed from her face faded as she studied the scene before her. On one side sat Luna, unconscious and lying in the shattered remains of Nightmare Moon’s armor. On the other side, however, was a group of ponies huddled around Twilight’s disfigured form.

“Princess!” the group shouted collectively.

Rainbow Dash darted towards her. “Princess, Twilight needs your help! You have to do something!”

Twilight twitched as she turned her attention to Celestia. In between groans, she managed to mumble, “Prin...cess.”

Celestia’s eyes watered as she surveyed Twilight’s condition. “This... This is–” Her regal guise cracked as her emotions raged, “NO! This wasn’t...”

“Princess?” Rainbow took another step towards her. “You can save her, right?”

“I... I don’t know. This–”

“What do you mean ‘You don’t know?’ Can’t you heal her?”

“It... isn’t that simple.” Celestia took a shaky breath as she continued, “She’s been cursed. Curses are different than ordinary magic, and they are far more complicated to undo. Even worse, this is forbidden black magic. It’s completely beyond even my ability to break. I would need... months... if not years to begin to understand this... evil... this– “Celestia closed her eyes, hanging her head in grief.

Twilight gulped and looked up at her mentor. She wracked her brain, but couldn’t remember a time she had seen nor heard the princess so devoid of hope. With the possibility of death hanging over her, Twilight averted her eyes as memories of her friends and family flashed through her mind. From the thoughts of her mother, father, and brother, to the very events that led up to her current condition, each memory left a sour taste in her mouth as she realized everything that was at stake.

“She saved us!” Rainbow retorted, snapping Twilight back to the conversation. “She broke through the curse!”

Celestia inhaled deeply before responding. “She broke through the part which controlled her mind, but the curse itself is still present. There are two ways to help her, but both have... consequences. One is healing magic, but with it comes great risk.”

She paused once more, trying to keep her composure. “The curse takes any form of magic it encounters and warps it, and its effects vary depending on who’s casting it and the intention of the spell. A healing spell, for instance, becomes extremely unpredictable. At its best it could simply do nothing at all, but at its worse it could cause new injuries, make her current injuries worse, or...” Celestia’s voice caught in her throat, as if she was trying to choke back tears, “it could kill her.”

Twilight’s eyes widened. “So, you mean I–” A surge of pain shot through Twilight’s body as she spoke and silenced her.

“Wait,” Rainbow exclaimed, “Twilight healed us earlier. After the fight, she healed us. Is that why she’s...?” She glanced down with a sigh. As her eyes trailed over Twilight, she winced and quickly turned away. Rainbow stood silently for a moment, visibly trying to calm herself, before looking back to the princess. With a slight nod, Celestia confirmed Rainbow’s suspicions.

“What’s the other option?” Rainbow asked.

“The only other option,” Celestia knelt down next to Twilight, “isn’t much better. While the curse can’t be reversed or destroyed without killing the host, transferring it is a possibility. However, it must be moved to a living creature, else it will either latch on to the nearest being it can find, or return to its previous host.”

Rainbow Dash stared at the ground as she processed Celestia’s words and then looked back at her suspiciously. “...How do you know all this?”

“Because...” Celestia paused and took a deep breath. “Because this isn’t the first time it’s happened.”

*-~-*

Celestia and Nightmare Moon stood in the center of the room, wings flared as each dared the other to make the next move. The air hung heavy with tension as the two alicorns stared at each other in dead silence.

The fighting had certainly taken it’s toll. The Castle of the Royal Pony Sisters was in shambles. Shattered glass dripped from broken windows. Torn tapestries hung loosely from the wall and small fires blazed around the room, consuming what remained of the castle’s furnishings. A single shard of glass dropped from a shattered window and crashed to the ground, yet neither of the two alicorns batted an eye.

“Luna...” Celestia stared at her with pleading eyes. “Let’s end this before anypony gets hurt. Please, Luna? Don’t make me do this.”

“How dare you call me by that name!” she bellowed. “I am Nightmare Moon, and you will address me as such!”

Nightmare Moon fired a burst of energy towards Celestia, but as she jumped to avoid it the beam seemed to slow down as it redirected its course and continued on its path directly towards her. In a desperate attempt to avoid it, she teleported away. However, as soon as she reappeared, the beam changed course once more. With nowhere to run, Celestia shielded her body with her wings. The force of the impact completely disintegrated the feathers on the front half of her wings and sent her tumbling across the floor.

Nightmare sauntered over to Celestia triumphantly. Sporting a malicious grin, Nightmare raised one of her legs a few inches above her sister’s head. With a deceptively light tone she asked, “Are you prepared to die, Celestia?” When she didn’t respond Nightmare moved her hoof over and gently placed it on the base of her horn. “On second thought, I think your horn would look lovely hanging in front of the palace, don’t you?”

Nightmare slowly applied pressure to Celestia’s horn, as if trying to draw out the process as long as possible, and unable to free herself from Nightmare’s grasp, Celestia awaited the inevitable. She could practically hear her horn cracking under the weight of her hoof. It continued to bend further and further, it’s connection to her skull threatening to falter. Just as Celestia thought her horn would snap, the doors to the throne room slammed open, halting Nightmare’s torture.

“Who dares disturb–” she snapped her head around. “Well well well, if it isn’t Star Swirl the Bearded. What impeccable timing you have. You’re just in time to witness the end of an era, and my ascension as Queen of Equestria.”

“I will never bow to the likes of you. I serve her Highnesses Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, not you, foul beast.” Star Swirl’s horn lit up with a silver aura. “I’m here to put an end to your wretched game.”

“You dare to challenge me!?” Nightmare Moon grinned over her shoulder spitefully, her horn lighting up as she readied a spell. “HAH! I will squash you like the insect you are!” She launched her attack, but Star Swirl erected a reflective shield, redirecting the attack back at Nightmare Moon and grazing her cheek.

“You were saying?” Star Swirl quipped, grinning. “Do you honestly think I’ll fall to the likes of you? I’d sooner die than serve underneath your rule.”

“Oh? Is that so? Well, now, I guess we’ll just have to remedy that situation, won’t we? How about we make a bet; I’ll show you a spell that you can’t replicate and you’ll serve underneath my rule, as my personal minion.”

With a groan, Celestia pushed herself to her hooves. “Stand... down, Star Swirl. You don’t know what she’s capable of.”

“Celestia, you’re injured. Please, sit down. I’m more than capable of handling myself.”

Celestia took a step forward, “No, Star Swirl, I–” Before she could finish her sentence she crashed into a barrier which surrounded her, blocking her from interfering. “Star Swirl!” she commanded, “lower this shield immediately!”

He snapped his head towards the princess. “You are hurt, Celestia. Stay out of this,” he barked. Narrowing his eyes, he turned his gaze back to Nightmare Moon. “You have yourself a deal, cretin,” he sneered. “Just say when.”

Nightmare’s horn flashed to life with a black aura. “You’ll be swearing an oath of allegiance to me in no time.”

Star Swirl shifted into a defensive stance, keeping eye contact with his challenger. His eyes widened in horror as the aura shifted from blue to black. “What in the name of–” Star Swirl’s muscles seized completely, the remaining words leaving his mouth as a mere grunt. “Hmpph. Resorting to cheating already, Nightmare? What, decide you couldn’t beat me fairly?”

Nightmare Moon just smirked as she slowly stepped towards him. “Oh, I’m not cheating. You said you could replicate any spell of mine.” She stopped right next to him. “Let’s see you match this.” Nightmare’s horn flashed to life once more as her mutated aura began to cover Star Swirl.

Shortly after, a pitch black ink appeared at his hooves and started slowly climbing up his coat. “What!? What is this!?” he roared.

“What? The spell?” Nightmare Moon chuckled lightly, eyeing Star Swirl mockingly. “Oh, it’s nothing. Just a curse that controls your mind.” She let out a short laugh. “Do you like it? I made it myself.” Nightmare Moon giggled.

“C-curse!? You s-said this would be a magic duel! A magic duel involves spells, not cheap trickery!”

Nightmare laughed mockingly. “Oh, Star Swirl, you forget: a curse is a spell.”

Star Swirl growled in response, clenching his teeth together as he resisted the curse and the pain that came with it “I... will not be defeated by a spell such as this!”

Nightmare Moon took a step back, her mouth hanging open for a moment before twisting into a smirk. “Hmph. Do you honestly think you can fight this spell?”

In between sharp breaths, he grunted through his teeth, “I’ll last... longer than... you will!”

As the black matter continued its ascent, Star Swirl charged up his horn one last time, large lightning bolts swirled around it as he fired a spell at Nightmare Moon. Bands of magic lashed around her and bound her in place, leaving her paralyzed. The shield around Celestia lowered as Star Swirl called out to her, “Celestia!” he shouted, “use the Elements!”

“B-but you’re too close to her! What if–”

“DO IT!”

Nightmare Moon’s eyes widened as she realized what Star Swirl had planned. “What!? No! You wouldn’t!”

Celestia desperately conjured her magic and lifted the Elements from the pedestals. After a brief moment, the magic nested inside them sparked to life and formed a circle around Celestia with the Element of Magic floating above her. She cast a worried glance at Star Swirl as the Elements released their energy. Beams of white light shot from the sides of the orbs, connecting them to each other and forming a pentagon around her. Glowing brightly, each orb released a beam of energy into the Element of Magic.

“No!” Nightmare shielded her eyes from the light emanating from the Elements.

A tear trailed down Celestia’s face as she averted her eyes, not wanting to witness her sister’s defeat. “I’m sorry, Luna.”

A giant ball of light shot from theElement of Magic and encircled Nightmare Moon. As the vortex opened up around her, Nightmare did something none of them expected. What started out as a chuckle escalated into a maniacal cackle. “You will regret this, Celestia! No matter how long it takes, I will have my revenge!” The laugh resonated through the throne room. Even after the light had faded, and Nightmare Moon’s laughter had stopped, the echo remained.

Once Celestia was able see again, she looked to where the Nightmare once stood to find it empty. Nightmare Moon– no, her sister, was gone. Celestia turned her gaze skyward through what remained of the roof, scanning the final night sky her sister had created as she sought some sign, any sign, of Luna. Her eyes came to a halt on the moon as she realized its features had been altered. Plastered on the face of the moon were numerous new craters in the shape of mare’s head.

The tears flowed freely down Celestia’s face as she realized what she had done. Her legs gave way and Celestia fell to her knees, as if her body was unable to support the emotional weight. She had just banished her sister to the moon and had no idea when, or if she would ever see her again. “I’m so sorry.”

A sudden groan brought Celestia out of her shock. “Star Swirl!” Celestia knelt down next to him. “Star Swirl, are you alright?”

In between grunts and groans, he spoke, trying, and failing, to hide the pain in his voice “I... I’m afraid not. The spell Nightmare cast... it’s threatening to take control of me.”

Celestia took a step back. “St-stay still. I’ll remove it.” With a flash of her horn, Celestia sent a small ray of white light into Star Swirl’s horn, but as her magic reached him, the aura turned black, and Star Swirl screamed out to her.

“STOP, NOW!”

Celestia obeyed immediately, confused. “What... what happened?”

“I think I understand. It’s a magic alteration spell. It changes both your magic... and my own. Celestia, listen to me. I have... a warning–a prediction. Take note of this, or the consequences could be grave.

“In a thousand years, on the eve of the Summer Sun Celebration, the stars will align, allowing Nightmare Moon to escape. She will return with her plans to bring everlasting night to Equestria. You must keep the Elements hidden here. Do you understand me? Place a spell on the Element of Magic. Make it appear only if the five others are present, and there is a spark of harmony in the room. They must not fall into the wrong hooves!”

He grimaced as he studied just how fast the curse was progressing. Growling in frustration, he slammed a hoof into the ground, cracking the stone floor. “The curse is advancing more quickly than I thought. Before I go, I–”

“‘Before you go!?’ What!? No. NO! Star Swirl! I can’t lose both my sister and you in the same day! Please!”

“There’s no other way, Celestia! Now listen! I must make one last request.”

Celestia swallowed, trying to restrain her tears from overtaking her. “Anything.”

“I ask... that you don’t mention me in the events that transpired tonight. Ponies will make me out to be a hero who sacrificed himself rather than what I did during my life. I’d rather be remembered for the spells I’ve created.”

“But you saved me! I can’t just–”

“Please,” he replied tonelessly, “I don’t want to argue with you, Celestia.”

Celestia exhaled deeply before nodding hesitantly. “...I will.”

“Now leave.” His horn lit up with arcs of electricity as dark energy coursed along its length. “I have to end this before I lose myself to this curse.”

Celestia hesitantly took a step back. “W-wait! There has to be away around this! Maybe we can–”

“No! There’s no time! I won’t tell you again, Celestia. Step back!”

“B-but–”

“I said step BACK!” A wave of force knocked her away, and a second later a loud crack echoed through the throne room. When Celestia glanced up once more, all that remained of Star Swirl was a pile of ash and black soot.

With a heavy sigh, Celestia pushed herself to her hooves and surveyed the destroyed throne room. “...I promise I won’t let you down.” Celestia turned towards the Mare in the Moon once more. “But... I don’t know if I can last a thousand years without my sister.”

*-~-*

“Princess?” Applejack’s voice snapped Celestia out of her reverie.

“I refuse to let another pony I care about succumb to this horrible spell. All of you, stand back, I’m going to stop this even if I have to transfer the spell onto myself!” Celestia stood and braced herself as she channeled her magic into her horn, but dropped the spell as Twilight’s hoof touched her leg.

“No, Princess,” she interjected, her voice straining. “I can’t... let you do that to yourself.”

“B-but Twilight, I–”

“No.” Twilight interrupted, “I... wouldn’t wish this... on anyone.” Twilight sniffled as tears slipped from her eyes. “You’re all... so special to me. And I won’t... let any of you... get hurt. Not again.” Silence momentarily filled the room as Twilight’s consciousness drifted once more.

“But what about the Elements!?” Rainbow questioned, “Can’t we do anything!?”

“I’m afraid not. The Elements weren’t made to counter something like this. And without Twilight to activate the Element of Magic...” Tears spilled from Celestia’s eyes as she spoke. “The only way the curse is truly removed is if the host... passes.”

Twilight groaned as someone nudged her from her slumber. She glanced up to see Celestia by her side once more. “Princess?”

“Twilight, I’m sorry! I never... I didn’t...” Celestia’s words failed her.

“Princess, I... I want to thank you.”

“Thank me?” Celestia questioned. “Why? Wha–”

Celestia cut herself off as Twilight continued speaking. “Before today, I never had any real friends. But... with this journey, I did make friends. And even though... things happened the way they did, I’m glad I met them. And I wouldn’t have... if it weren’t for you, and I couldn’t be happier. So, thank you.”

I’m leaving everything behind: my new friends, my parents... my brother.

“My family... tell them...” Twilight’s vision blurred as tears started streaming from her eyes. “Tell them... I love them. And my friends. T... take care of them? Please? A-and Spike. He’s... only a baby dragon...” Her voice trailed off at the end as her eyes began to close.

“I will. And Twilight?”

Twilight only murmured softly in response as the last of her strength failed.

“T-Twilight. Stay with me a little longer! I-I really need to say this.” She paused a moment to calm herself and catch a breath. “I want... I need to thank you, Twilight. Not just for saving my sister, or your actions here today, but for everything. The years I’ve spent with you were truly some of the happiest I’ve had since... in a very long time.” Celestia lowered her head and gave Twilight a gentle nuzzle. “I watched you grow from a powerful, young filly into a truly wonderful and remarkable mare. And I couldn’t be any prouder.”

Twilight smiled lightly, closed her eyes, and with a mumbled, “Thank... you...” she exhaled her final breath.

Celestia shuddered with each breath as she stared down at Twilight’s lifeless form. “This... This wasn’t supposed to happen. It wasn’t supposed to...” Celestia’s chest seized and her words refused to form. She trembled as she struggled to maintain her balance, her legs threatening to collapse beneath her. She stumbled a bit, trying to keep herself upright, but quickly gave in to the inevitable and collapsed to her knees, unable to stand any longer. “You were taken away from this world far, far too soon. And though I may not be able to change what has happened, I can at least make sure your final sleep... is a peaceful one.”

With a small glint of her horn, she released her magic. Her aura surrounded Twilight and slowly restored her broken form. The darkness which tainted her coat melted off her and formed a puddle on the ground, revealing Twilight’s pristine lavender sheen, and the stripes in her mane and tail. The bones in her body realigned and the wounds covering her sealed shut. As Celestia cast a final glance at Twilight, she started openly sobbing, unable to contain her emotions any longer.

Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie all gathered around Twilight one final time, each one trying to wrap their minds around the morning’s events. As the sun broke over the horizon, their gaze remained focused on their fallen friend.

A rising sun is usually a sign of peace and prosperity or victory, and although the battle had been won, as far as the remaining Elements of Harmony were concerned, they had still lost. All they could do was weep as a friend lay dead in front of them, and there would be no replacing her.

Celestia glanced over to the remaining Elements. “You five should go back to Ponyville. It’s been a long night and there are some… things I need to take care of here.”

The others looked to Twilight’s corpse then back at Celestia before Applejack nodded and spoke up, “I reckon so.” She motioned to the others and led them out of the ruins.

As the sound of their steps faded, Celestia sighed dejectedly. Everything. She’s taken everything from me... again. The bitter feeling of loneliness struck full force as Celestia began to sob once more. Nightmare Moon’s threat rang in the back of Celestia’s mind. She had threatened revenge for her defeat a thousand years ago, and she had made good on her promise. Celestia’s wings drooped to her side while her mane lay draped along the ground, resting on Twilight’s body.

Anger rose with Celestia’s grief, her body shook with each sob as the threat replayed itself over and over again in her mind. “Star Swirl wasn’t enough for you, Nightmare? You had to take Twilight away from me too!? Curse you, Nightmare Moon. Curse you and that damned spell!” Celestia paused and took a couple deep breaths to calm herself. “I will make sure that your evil never sees the light of day ever again... no matter what I must do.”

She wasn’t sure how much time had passed until she finally looked up again. It could’ve been seconds or minutes, but by this point, time meant nothing to her. She couldn’t bear thinking of how she was going to tell Shining Armor, let alone Sparkle family, that Twilight had been killed.

Glancing over, she saw the spot once occupied by Luna’s sleeping form was vacant. “Oh, Luna...”

Repercussions Part 2

Luna stirred lightly while her senses returned to her. As she groggily opened her eyes, they were met with the unforgiving brightness of the sun which ignited a throbbing migraine. While her vision readjusted to the light, she spotted the smoking shards of blue armor. Memories of Nightmare Moon’s terror flooded her mind, but were soon quelled as the sound of sniffling grabbed her attention. On the far side of the room, she spotted her sister and five others huddled around the body of a purple unicorn.

The mere sight made her bite her lip and lower her head in shame. Tears threatened to spill from her eyes as Celestia’ knelt beside the unicorn, her own tears staining the ground beneath her. Her wings hung limply at her sides and her mane, which normally flowed majestically behind her, lay motionless on the ground. If that wasn't bad enough, Celestia's emotions were etched clearly on her face; she was heartbroken and sick with grief.

The only other time Luna could remember seeing her sister in such anguish was the night Celestia had been forced to banish Nightmare Moon, and Luna along with her. Celestia had been on the verge of breakdown that night. This time, however, the breakdown was in full swing.

“Star Swirl wasn’t enough for you, Nightmare?” Luna flinched as the anger in Celestia’s words cut deep. “You had to take Twilight away from me too!? Curse you, Nightmare Moon! Curse you and that damned spell!” Celestia paused for a brief moment. “I will make sure that your evil never sees the light of day ever again... no matter what I must do.”

Luna’s heart sank. Forgiveness was out of the question. Only one thing was clear in her mind: she needed to leave. With the little magic she could muster, Luna cast a silencing spell on herself to deaden the sound of her movement. She silently rose to her hooves and retreated to the shadows of the ruins,- then made her way out of the castle. As she reached the exit, she glanced back over her shoulder and mumbled, “I’m sorry,” before running off into the forest.

Blinded by tears, and not caring where she was going, she ran, and let her hooves take her wherever they wanted to go. The morning’s events haunted her as she ran. They played out mercilessly in her mind, as if she were reliving them. She could see the tears and pain in Twilight’s eyes as the corruption spell took hold.

Even though they weren’t her own, the emotions she’d experienced were sickening. The sadistic pleasure Nightmare Moon had taken in torturing not only Twilight, but her friends as well, lingered in Luna’s mind. Her stomach churned wildly, as if her body was trying to physically purge the surviving negative emotions

She shook away the tears that trailed down her cheeks, only to have them replaced with fresh ones. She quickened her speed as she tore through the forest, as if trying to outrun the guilt she felt, but with no matter how fast she ran, her tears caught up with her.

The last time, Nightmare Moon’s treachery had forced Celestia to banish her. There was no doubt that that the punishment this time would be far more severe. Luna’s mind swam with the various scenarios, too numerous to list. She felt her gorge rise, and her pace slowed as she hyperventilated, until eventually she stopped, heaving for breath in the middle of the Everfree forest.

Another word entered her mind as she rested, one that chilled every pint of blood in her body: death. They would call for her death. If not the citizens of Equestria, then Twilight's friends and family certainly would.

A droplet of water landed on her head, snapping her from her thoughts. She glanced upwards just in time for another drop of rain to land in her eye. She winced and rubbed it gently to ease the pain. “Great,” she muttered. “Rain. Just... perfect.”

Luna sighed heavily and wiped the tears from her eyes. She scanned her surroundings and gasped as she recognized them, even after all these years. This is where I always went... when I needed to be alone. That night that I... I– The world around her spun, and she struggled to maintain her balance. Her vision blurred rapidly and faded away as her head collided with the ground.

*-~-*

The aura around Luna’s horn faded as she released the moon. It would travel it’s course from the east until it was time to set. Satisfied, she smiled to herself as she surveyed her work. Even if no one else appreciated her night, she could at least find peace as she basked in the sights and sounds of her night.

Sadly, her peace was broken by a pair of guards as they walked beneath her balcony.

“It sure was a beautiful day,” one of them said.

“Hah. You can say that again. We sure are lucky to have Princess Celestia bringing us the sun every day.”

“I know what you mean. Though I can’t help but feel sorry for the guards on night duty. Can you imagine being forced to work during the night like that?”

“You can say that again. I can’t imagine having to stay up all night. All that gloom and darkness? Hah! No thanks!”

“You got that right. I’ll see you in the morning.”

The guards went their separate ways, and Luna was once more left in silence. She stared at the ground, tears welling in her eyes as she reflected on what she could possibly be doing wrong. “Is one compliment too much to ask? Is my night so unremarkable? Have I not made it beautiful enough? Am... am I just not good enough? Am I not worthy of being worshipped like ‘Tia is?”

“Of course you are, Luna.”

Luna jumped as her sister spoke from behind her.

“Then, why?” she demanded. “Why don’t they appreciate me like they do you? I deserve respect, too.” Luna turned around, facing her sister directly. “Is my night not worth worshipping?”

“They do respect you Luna, and they do appreciate you. Your night–”

“–lets them sleep and rejuvenate their tired bodies. I know, I know.” Luna sighed and returned her gaze to the sky. “I just don’t understand why those guards would associate gloom with my creations. I created every single star in the night sky– every single constellation is my own work. Is it not beautiful?”

Celestia gently pulled Luna into a hug. “It’s very beautiful, Luna.”

Luna stepped away from her sister’s embrace. “Just once, I wish I could hear that from a pony other than you.” Luna took huffed and flared her wings. “I’m going to go out for a bit, ‘Tia. You know where to find me.”

“Luna?”

Luna paused and turned her head around to face her sister. “Yes?”

After a few seconds of silence, Celestia said, almost pleadingly, “Be careful. Okay?”

Luna turned around and eyed her sister curiously. “Careful? What do you mean?”

“I... I’m not sure. Just... please be safe.”

“I will, sister.”

Without another word, Luna took to the skies. The anger inside her was simmering, and slowly rising. There was always one place Luna could turn to whenever she needed to clear her mind. One where she could see her night in its true light: a meadow by the river in the Everfree Forest. With the moon lighting the forest around her joined by the cool night air, the atmosphere was perfect for stargazing. “Sometimes, I feel like I’m going to drive myself insane.”

Luna descended from the sky with an irritated sigh. “Great,” she groaned, “another headache...” Lying down on the bank of the river, she casually dipped one of her hooves in the water, stringing it along the surface as she stared up at the sky. This place is always so beautiful at night. The shadows take on a new life in starlight. Luna sighed heavily as she swirled her hoof in a circle, causing the moonlight to ripple along the surface.

“This is when the world is at its most beautiful! Why doesn’t anypony see that?” She splashed the water with a grunt and pushed herself up.

“They shun my artwork while lying in wait for sister’s perfect day! She manipulates one star, while I conjure hundreds of thousands every single night, yet she gets all the praise!” Luna scoffed, beginning to pace back and forth. “I mean, am I so wrong to wish that they would see things like I do?” Her voice softened. “...That they might love me, too?”

Her breathing quickened as something snapped in her mind, and her sadness shifted to jealous hatred. The shadows of the forest around her rippled.. “And why shouldn’t they? I’m tired of being overshadowed by my sister! The day is not greater than the night!”

Luna brought a hoof her forehead, rubbing it lightly as the headache evolved into a migraine. The shadows became warped, and slowly bent towards her. She stomped a hoof in the ground, leaving an imprint in the grass. “I’ve waited long enough for them to come around. I don’t care what Celestia says! No longer will they sleep in peace and shun the night as if it doesn’t exist.”

In that instant, Luna’s envy and anger sparked a rage within her. The shadows converged and swarmed over her. The pain in her head shot through her entire body and she fell to the ground, unable to move.

A voice she did not recognize escaped her mouth. “Well well well, little Luna. Finally snapped, I see.”

Luna tried to speak, but no words came out. What’s going on? Who are you?

The voice chuckled. “Don’t you worry. I’ll help you get us both what we desire. You can have your endless night, while I will have the throne.” Luna’s body stood of its own accord, and flared her wings. With a mighty heave, she catapulted into the air, heading back towards Canterlot. “And if those foals choose to fear the night they know nothing about, they will learn what it means to fear true darkness.” Wicked laughter echoed in Luna’s ears as her entire world went black.

*-~-*

A loud crash of thunder snapped Luna awake. The small drizzle she had fainted during had escalated into a full scale storm. Rain pounded away at the forest around her, and the wind lashed at the trees so fiercely, it threatened to uproot them. The storm raging around her was miniscule compared to the whirlwind of emotions blaring through her body.

Even with Luna’s emotions running wild within her, her thoughts came to rest on one pony: her sister. More than anything else, she wanted to be reunited with her beloved sister, but her fears and doubts constantly turned her away. Celestia could never forgive her for what she had done. How could she? They could never be happily reunited, even if Luna’s actions weren’t her own.

The memories of her transformation lingered as she rose from the muddy ground and walked over to the pond and glanced down at her reflection.

“You killed her,” her reflection said.

“I... I didn’t want to. I tried to stop, but–”

“But?” it interjected. “But what? You weren’t strong enough? Take a look at that purple unicorn. She was under a corrupted curse and she managed to fight it enough to save those she cared about. You’re an Alicorn and you couldn’t break free from your own hatred and jealousy.”

Lumps rose in Luna’s throat, each one harder to swallow than the last. “But I... I...”

“Face it. This is the punishment you deserve for alienating your sister all those years ago whenever she tried to help. It’s what you deserve for allowing yourself to be enslaved by Nightmare Moon. And it’s what you deserve for being a murderer.”

Luna averted her eyes as tears flowed freely down her cheeks. “No,” she whispered, “I’m not... a murderer. I’m not a murderer! It was–” She returned her eyes to the water and saw NIghtmare Moon staring back at her. “It was you! It’s always been you. You did these horrible things!”

She threw back her head and let loose a bloodcurdling scream. “No more! You’ve controlled me for a thousand years, but no longer! I’m free from your wretc–”

Luna's stomach gave only one gurgle of warning before erupting. She barely had time to hunch over and brace herself before she vomited a black, tar-like substance into the lake, dispelling the illusion and silencing Nightmare Moon.

As she tried to recover, another voice came from behind her, one that chilled her more than the rain or wind ever could.

“Luna?”

Reconciliation Part 1

“Why isn’t Captain Sterling here yet?” Princess Celestia asked aloud as she paced around the entrance to the ruins. It had been three hours since Twilight’s death and news of Nightmare Moon’s rise and subsequent defeat had traveled quickly. However, Celestia had requested that anything related to Princess Luna, Twilight, or the Elements of Harmony be kept secret.

Celestia sighed in relief as she heard hooves approaching from behind her. “Captain Sterling, you’re here!” She turned around and faced the guard. “We need to– Shining Armor!?” Celestia’s jaw hung on its hinges as she stared at the guard in front of her. “Lieutenant... what are you doing here? Where is Captain Sterling?”

Shining bowed respectfully. “Forgive me, Your Highness, but Captain Sterling was injured during the initial return of Nightmare Moon. I was ordered to take his place since he had yet to be released from the hospital, as well as the other two guards on duty.”

Celestia turned away from Shining Armor. “Oh, Shining. There’s no easy way to say this...”

“Your Highness?” Shining questioned. “Is everything alright?”

“No, Shining.” Celestia inhaled deeply as she looked up at him. “There’s...” she exhaled. “There’s something I need to tell you.”

“Princess? What’s going on?”

“You were going to find out sooner or later... I just hoped I would have more time.”

“Time for what?”

“...Everything.” Celestia sighed once more as she faced the ground. She wasn’t prepared to even begin to explain to him that his sister was gone, much less prepared for whatever reaction he would have. All she knew was that he deserved to hear the truth. “Shining... you remember how I sent Twilight away to study friendship in Ponyville, right?”

“Yes, I do. She sure didn’t seem too happy about it, though. She kept talking about how Nightmare Moon was going to return. Turns out she was right about–”

“I know. I’ve known from the beginning Nightmare Moon was going to return, and to be honest, I’ve been waiting for it for a long time.”

“Waiting for it? Why would you wait for it? Couldn’t you have done something to make sure Nightmare Moon didn’t return?”

“You see, I didn’t want to prevent it from happening.”

Shining cocked his head to the side. “What? Why not?”

“If you recall the stories about Nightmare Moon, she was once Princess Luna, ruler of the stars and moon, and my little sister. However, Nightmare Moon took control of Luna in order to take control of Equestria. In the end, I had no choice but to banish her. Once I learned of the prophecy of Nightmare Moon’s return, I knew it would be my only chance at saving my sister.” Celestia lowered her head. “This only makes what I’m about to say so much harder.”

Celestia paused to allow Shining a chance to respond, but when he didn’t, she continued.

“Twilight was the physical embodiment of one of the Elements of Harmony, and I had arranged for her to meet with five other ponies, who also embodied the remaining Elements of Harmony, in order for them to defeat Nightmare Moon. They did so successfully, but Twilight…” Celestia paused as she felt her composure slipping away from her. She glanced at Shining Armor and cringed as the color drained from his face.

“What about Twilight? Don’t tell me she’s...”

Celestia nodded grimly. “She’s gone, Shining. I… I tried to save her, but her injuries were far too severe. I attempted to transfer them to myself, but she stopped me. I’m not even sure I would’ve survived the transfer process if I had continued.”

Shining turned his head and faced the entrance of the old castle. “Is it alright... if I see her? I...” he hesitated, “I need to see her.”

Celestia nodded slowly. “If you wish to see her, you may. I was able to fix what Nightmare’s curse did to her. I just wish I could’ve...” Celestia stopped herself and shook her head. “Follow me.” As she led him through the ruins, neither of them said of them said a word.

As the room came into view, and Shining saw Twilight lying on the floor, he pushed past Celestia in a gallop towards her. “Twily...” Shining knelt the floor before collapsing onto his stomach next to her. “You... you can’t be–”

“This is all my fault, Shining. I’m so sorry. I shouldn’t have assumed everything would work out! I didn’t think...”

Shining took a couple of deep breaths. “I... I probably should blame you for this.” Shining stood up as he turned and faced Celestia. “I should hate and despise you.”

Celestia backpedaled as as Shining walked towards her. His horn began to glow faintly..

“She’s dead because you sent her here! She’s dead!” Slowly, Shining’s horn began to glow brighter, eliciting a gasp from Celestia. “If you hadn’t... if she hadn’t come, she’d be...” Shining’s horn crackled with the fire burning in his eyes. “But no! She’s...” He took one last step towards her before his body sagged, and the magic in his horn faded. “...dead.”

Celestia gulped and slowly reached over and placed a hoof on Shining Armor’s shoulder.

“Shining... I... I never meant for any of this happen...”

“I know, Princess.” Shining paused, then glanced up at her, a small river of tears trickling down his muzzle. “How... How did she...” he choked up, unable to ask the question.

Celestia sat down next to him and gently draped a wing over him. “Are... are you sure you want to know?”

Shining paused and sighed. “I... I guess not.” He backed away and snapped to attention, donning the stoic facade the Royal Guard was famous for. “Please forgive me, Your Highness. My emotions got away from me and the last thing I want is to harm you. Is there anything else you need from me?”

Celestia shook her head. “No. I can handle it from here, Shining Armor. You are dismissed. I still have... something I must do, so I will be unavailable a few hours. In the meantime, I’ve already arranged for a carrier service to pick her up. I’ll arrange the Royal Messenger to tell your family and–”

“That won’t be necessary, Princess,” Shining Armor cut her off, the chill in his tone making her shiver. “I'll tell my parents myself.” Without another word, Shining turned and left.

Celestia stared after him, wanting to comfort him, but her words failed her and before she could say anything more, he was gone.

Turning her gaze towards the ground, she quietly mumbled, “I’m sorry... for everything.” Celestia glanced out the windows and stared into the depths of the forest. With nothing left for her in the castle, she took to the skies with one goal in mind: to find her sister. However, she quickly realized that she wouldn’t be alone. Dark grey clouds and harsh winds had decided to join her search for Luna.

Despite the strain of flying in such weather, and against the small voice of reason screaming for her to turn back, Celestia pressed on through the growing storm. Luna would be weakened by the ordeal of having Nightmare Moon stripped from her by the Elements and Celestia had to find her. As she searched the Everfree from the air, she would occasionally land in order to search through the denser parts of the forest. Yet, every time, she would emerge empty-hooved and increasingly desperate.

As noon arrived, the storm hit its peak. Vicious crosswinds and howling rain lashed at her constantly while flying debris threatened to swat her out of the sky. As the long hours passed, Celestia found herself landing more and more often, not to search for Luna, but to rest. Taking shelter under a canopy, Celestia called out for Luna one last time, only to receive a crack of thunder for a response.

Celestia sighed in defeat.

With a flap of her wings, she lifted off and set course for Canterlot. As she left the borders of Everfree, she cast a final glance towards that forsaken forest, and sent one last prayer for Luna’s safety.

*-~-*

As Celestia entered the castle and the afternoon sun hung in the sky, sending streams of light through the windows, her mood only darkened as she trudged slowly through the palace. She passed by her servants without a glance and ignored their greetings. In her wake, she left a string of confused and concerned ponies, though none dared approach her.

However, as she entered her room, she found someone standing by the railing that overlooked the gardens below. The figure was blanketed in bandages from his head to his wings, which were bound to his sides. Even without his golden helmet and armor, and covered in bandages as he was, Celestia still knew this pony well.

"Captain Sterling," she greeted, "What are you doing here?" After a pause to look over the bandages she frowned and asked, "And what happened to you? Shining Armor told me you were injured, but..."

The grey coated pony turned and bowed once, curtly, before replying, "Good afternoon, Your Highness. I was waiting for you. As for my condition, I was injured shortly after Nightmare Moon appeared in Ponyville during the Summer Sun Celebration. We were ordered to seize her by the Mayor, but my compatriots and I were struck down by lightning. My wings were sprained when I crashed and my burns are superficial, but the other two guards are still in the injury ward."

Celestia walked up next to the guard to gaze out over the gardens with him. "I hope you and the others recover soon. You were still in the injury ward when I requested to see you?"

The captain nodded once. "Correct. They hadn't released me yet.” He gave her a weak smile and shook his head. “Those doctors are always too stubborn and nitpick after every little thing.” he huffed, and began to mimic them, “'Keep it dry', 'change the bandages daily', 'use this salve', 'hey, don't pick at that!'"

Celestia smirked before she could help herself. After all these years, regardless of her mood, he could always find a way to lift her spirits. Still, she had an important subject to broach and couldn't let herself be distracted.

“I see,” she sighed. “I just wish you had sent someone other than Shining Armor to debrief me.”

Captain Sterling cocked his head and looked up at her out of the corner of his eye. “Someone else?” he asked, the confusion clear in his tone. “Lieutenant Shining Armor is second in command. It seemed like he would be the next best choice.”

Celestia’s horn lit up and she brought over a pillow to sit on, getting herself comfortable for what seemed to be a long conversation. Sterling, however, opted to stand.

“You made the right choice, according to procedure,” she began, “but... Nightmare Moon...” Celestia sighed and sagged a little into the pillow. “Do you remember the story I once told you about Starswirl the Bearded? The night he saved me... that I banished Nightmare Moon?”

He nodded once, and shuddered. “I don’t think I’ll ever forget. That spell you described was–”

“Used on Twilight Sparkle earlier today,” Celestia broke in, cutting him off.

“Your student?”

Celestia nodded grimly. “And Shining Armor’s beloved little sister.”

Captain Sterling's face paled considerably as he glanced towards the ground. “I...” he began, “I had no–”

Celestia raised her hoof, gesturing for him to be quiet. “I know you didn't know, Sterling. It's not your fault. I just...” Celestia trailed off into a sigh. “I would like to be left alone for now.”

Rather than excusing himself and leaving, Captain Sterling sat down and stared into her eyes. “You might be able to fool yourself, Celestia,” he began, “but you can’t fool me. I’ve known you too long. The last thing you need is to be alone.”

“Sterling, please. I–"

Sterling continued, heedless of Celestia’s plea.

“Let me ask you this, Celestia. If you recall yesterday, you warned me of Nightmare Moon’s return, yet told me to keep it quiet. But you also told me that you would be returning with your sister, Princess Luna. You had me work with the captain of the Lunar Guard, which was formed only last year, in preparing a room for Luna to sleep in. And to top it off, you ordered me, and I quote, ‘no matter what happens in the morning’ to have the cooks prepare a dinner for two. And after all that fuss, you return alone,” he paused and looked her over, “drenched, and covered in mud after what I assume was a desperate search for your sister.”

He stood at attention. “You would send a captain of your guard away,” but before he continued, he relaxed his body and waited for her to look up at him, “but as your friend, I beg you: talk to me. Please?”

Celestia stared at him in silence. Every word he had said was true, and she knew it. With a slow nod of her head, she told him everything.

“None of this was supposed to happen. All I wanted was for my sister to be free from Nightmare Moon’s control. Twilight and her friends would be heroes and stand tall as the great bearers of the Elements of Harmony, but Twilight had the potential for so much more than just that. I wanted her to not just expand her studies, but open her heart to the friendship she’d been denying herself for so long.

She was destined for so much more... but none of that matters. Nothing I had planned for her matters anymore. I had no idea what was happening while I was trapped, but once I was freed from Nightmare’s imprisonment, I went to the ruins. I meant to explain everything to Twilight and the others. When I arrived, I found Luna unconscious on the floor, but the others were huddled around Twilight, and obviously distraught. After everything she went through, her body... broken, battered, and misshapen...” Celestia shuddered. “As soon as I saw her, I knew exactly what had transpired.”

“And there was nothing you could do.” Sterling didn’t phrase it as a question.

Celestia shook her head. “The only way I could save her would be to either transfer the curse or Twilight’s injuries to myself. I didn’t want to risk becoming like Nightmare Moon, so I intended to do the latter, but Twilight... she stopped me!” Celestia paused and took a few deep breaths before continuing. “I wasn’t even sure if I would survive the transfer process, and something tells me that Twilight came to the same conclusion. Even though everything happened the way they did, Twilight still thanked me. Just before she died, she said ‘thank you.’” Celestia exhaled noisily, as if unsure whether to laugh or cry out.

“After I... composed myself, I went to check on Luna, and she had disappeared. I remember saying I’ll make sure Nightmare’s magic never sees the light of day again, and I can only assume Luna heard me and ran out before I noticed. She probably thinks I hate her.

“Then I called for you, and Shining Armor showed up instead, and after explaining what happened I thought for sure he was about to attack me. Instead, he apologized for raising his voice at me and left with Twilight. I tried to find Luna but failed... and now I’m here, telling everything to you.”

Celestia swallowed the lumps forming in her throat as a few tears slipped from her eyes. “I just don’t know what to do, Sterling. If I lose Luna again, I don’t think I could live with myself. I couldn’t do anything for Twilight, but there’s a chance I can do something for Luna! If I could just find her! Please, Sterling... help me,” she begged as she gazed up at him. “Can’t we organize a search party?”

Sterling remained quiet for a while, obviously chewing over the other available options, but Celestia knew his answer already. “I’m sorry, Your Highness, but the conditions over Everfree are too unstable. Pegasi can’t control the weather there, and flying in that storm would be suicidal. Unicorns wouldn’t have to worry about the crosswinds, but their concern lies with being ambushed by the many inhabitants of that forest. I can’t, in good faith, send any of my men out there, even for your sister.”

Celestia sagged as the last of her hopes faded.

“But,” Sterling continued, “I seem to recall you telling me of somewhere Luna would go when she needed to be alone. You might try looking at–”

“The river! Just on the other side of the ruins!” Celestia leapt up from the bed. “Of course! That was her favorite place in the whole forest! How did I not think of this?! Oh, thank you, Sterling, thank you! This is just what I needed.” Celestia wrapped him in a soft hug. “You’ve been a great comfort to me throughout the years, and I’m thankful to not only have as you Captain of my guard, but as a friend.”

“Anything for you, Your Highness.”

Celestia pulled away, spread her wings, and took off into the sky, soaring over Canterlot, then Ponyville, until she finally reached the Everfree Forest. She knew she would have to fight the storm raging overhead, but nothing was more important than finding her sister. I’m coming, Luna.

She braced herself and charged headfirst into the storm, scanning the ground for any familiar surroundings as she tried to recall the exact location of her sister’s sanctuary. “Luna!” she called out, “Luna, can you hear me!?” After no response, Celestia growled in frustration. “I can’t even hear my own thoughts over this storm! There’s no way she can hear me.”

Celestia bit her lip as she hovered above the trees, scanning the floor beneath her. There were so few landmarks, almost nothing was recognizable. Hundreds of years of neglect and decay at the hands of unfettered nature had changed so much. She took a deep breath, and closed her eyes, pushing out the distractions around her. The chaos around her slowly faded, and when she opened her eyes her view of the forest was unobstructed. Below her, fanning out as far as the eye could see, was how the forest used to look. Long, obvious paths stretched along the forest floor, and far ahead stood the castle. Along its south edge flowed a long, calm river. She smiled to herself and–

A scream echoed through the forest, shattering the world around her. “Luna!” Fearing the worst, Celestia shot through the sky towards the direction of the scream. As she entered the clearing, she spotted Luna standing by the water’s edge and screeched to a halt. Almost immediately after, Luna doubled over and retched into the lake.

“Luna?” Celestia called out.

Luna’s body tensed as she turned around to face Celestia. Realizing her sister was on edge, Celestia kept her distance. “Please, Luna, don’t be afraid. I’m not here to hurt you. I just want to talk.”

“Talk?” Luna sighed dejectedly and averted her eyes. “What’s there to talk about? After what you said in the ruins–”

Celestia blanched. “That… that wasn’t about you. I was referring to Nightmare Moon! It’s all because of her that… this happened.”

“And it was because of my own weakness that Nightmare was able to claim that young pony’s life! There’s no denying that!”

“If you’re to blame for not being able to stop it, then what about me? I’m the one who sent her there knowing full well Nightmare Moon was returning. Thanks to my meddling she went to Ponyville, she met up with the ponies who embodied the Elements of Harmony, and she fought with Nightmare Moon. If it weren’t for me, she’d still be alive! But what other choice did I have?” Celestia choked back a sob. “I didn’t have another choice. I lost control of the Elements the night I lost you!”

Celestia choked again, but this time couldn’t stop it. “I can’t... I can’t lose you, too. Not again, never again.”

“But how can you forgive me? After... everything Nightmare made me do, how could you possibly...” Luna trailed off and lowered her head.

“Nightmare Moon was the one responsible for everything that happened. Her, and her alone. You should never have paid for her actions. You are not Nightmare Moon and you never will be. You will always be my little sister.” Celestia paused and lifted her sister’s head once more. “I love you, Luna, and nothing will ever change that.”

Luna closed her eyes tightly as she turned away from Celestia for a brief moment, then leapt forward and pulled her into a tight hug. “I love you, too, ‘Tia. I’ve missed you so much.”

“I’ve missed you, too.”

Time lost all relevance as the two sisters remained locked in their embrace, neither one wanting to end it. As much as Celestia didn’t want the hug to end, she knew that they needed to get out of the storm. “Come on, Luna.” Celestia said as she pulled away. “It’s dark enough in this place without the storm, and I don’t want to be here come nightfall. Are you able to fly?”

Luna turned towards one wing and then the other before flapping her wings and struggling to even lift herself from the ground. After multiple failures, she groaned in defeat and shook her head.

“Here,” Celestia lowered her body to Luna’s level. “I’ll carry you. The wind seems to have died down, but I doubt it will be calm for long. If we leave now we should be fine.”

Luna smiled softly as she climbed on Celestia’s back.

Celestia carefully flared her wings and smiled back. “Let’s go home.”

Reconciliation Part 2

As the two princesses entered the castle Luna could feel curious stares of her sister’s servants and several guardsponies.

Most of the guards were in their armor which caused them all to look similar. There was one guard who caught her eye though. His armor was different. It was a mixture of different blues, and had a blue gem in the center. He had a light grey coat and his hair was also a darker blue than the other guards. As soon as he made eye contact with her, Luna gasped and quickly turned away. She didn’t want to draw any attention to herself. They turned a corner and headed towards a large double door engraved with a sun resembling her sisters cutie mark.

The door lit up with Celestia’s magic as she opened it and the two walked in.

“Okay,” Celestia said as she closed the door to her private suite, “What’s bothering you?”

Luna looked up at her then glanced away quickly. “Nothing.”

“It’s obviously not ‘nothing.’ You’ve been pulling away and shrinking back from everypony we encountered.” Celestia’s voice softened. “Did the Nightmare wound you so much, or was I more self-absorbed than I thought a thousand years ago?”

“I...” Luna faltered.

“Luna... talk to me, please?”

“It’s just all too much. I... They... The things I’ve... There’s no way they’ll accept me. So much has changed,” Luna paused and then added softly, “and yet too much remains the same. I never wanted any of this to happen. I just wanted to be appreciated the same way you were. I just wanted one pony to tell me how beautiful my sky was. I wanted to receive the same praise you do... but instead I was shunned. I never received an ounce of appreciating from anypony! I doubt anypony even missed me!”

“That... couldn’t be farther from the truth! The night I announced to Equestria what happened... that you were... gone... ponies mourned you. I mourned you. Many things have changed over the years, and ponies with them! Yes, ponies used to hide away during the night, but now there are ponies who spend most of their lives in the night. They work night shifts at jobs, and sleep during the days. Canterlot, Manehatten, and many others cities have a ‘night life’ all their own. There are even ponies who spend their entire lives studying the night sky!”

“... I know what you’re trying to do... but that just means they’ve been worshipping your night. It has nothing to do with me.”

Celestia placed a hoof on Luna’s cheek and smiled softly. “Come now, Luna. I know for certain ponies will love the night sky that you craft.”

“How do you know that? What makes you so sure? They’ve loved the night sky that you crafted for so many years. What makes you think they’ll like mine any better?”

“Because I never changed it! The night sky I raised every night… was the last one you created.”

Luna’s eyes widened momentarily as her sister’s words rung in the room. “You didn’t…?”

Celestia shook her head. “Not one star.”

Luna sighed. “But what if... what if when I do it, they just don’t care any more?”

Celestia stared at her sister a moment, as if she couldn’t believe Luna was serious and then rolled her eyes. “That won’t happen. Besides, these ponies have been studying my poor copy all these years, but your masterpiece would send them into a frenzy. We’d need to double your guard.”

“I... I don’t... Double my w--”

A knock at the interrupted her. “Ah, perfect timing as usual.” Celestia chuckled to herself. “Come in, Captain Sterling!”

The door opened and a stallion walked in wearing the armor of Celestia’s Guard. He was a silver-grey pegasus, but the bandages covering him hid most of his coat. He bowed respectfully. “Your Highness.” He then cracked a smile and assumed a more relaxed posture, apparently not noticing Luna. “Glad to see you made it back safe, Princess. How was the storm?”

Luna looked him over, noticing the bandages beneath his armor. It was an easy guess where his injuries came from.

“Dreadful.” She chuckled wryly. “I was tempted, more than once, to simply uproot every trees in that miserable forest just so their branches would stop hitting me.” She motioned to Sterling’s left. “However, my search was successful. She was hidden beneath a tree, in that old spot by the Everfree river, just as you’d mentioned.”

Sterling grimaced slightly before schooling his expression and resuming a more formal posture as Luna stepped forward. “He mentioned that spot? But…”

Celestia smiled, beaming toward both her sister and Sterling. “Yes. Believe me when I say, sometimes the best person to confide in is the captain of your guard. He knows… quite a bit about me, actually. Enough for some pretty impressive blackmail, at least.”

Sterling remained stone-faced during this and only then turned to face Luna. “Princess Luna. It’s good to see you returned.”

“I’m happy… to be back,” Luna muttered.

Celestia chuckled and gave Sterling a nudge. “You can relax, Sterling. She is my sister and there’s no need to hide our familiarity here.”

Sterling opened up at this and gave Luna a relaxed bow. “In that case, welcome home, Princess Luna. I really am glad to see you back.” She gave him a confused frown and he coughed once after a moment of it. “Anyway, I think I’ll head to the kitchens and see what the wait staff have prepared.” He eyed the two of them, noting the various twigs and leaves tangled in their coats manes. “And maybe find you two a few nice combs,” he added with a chuckle.

Celestia chuckled. “Yes. We are a little worse for wear, aren’t we?”

“Indeed.” Sterling paused. “Now, I’m sure you two have much to discuss, so I will take my leave. Good night, Your Highnesses.”

Luna watched Sterling go in silence. “He was one of the guards that I attacked, isn’t he?”

Celestia grimaced. “He was at Ponyville when Nightmare Moon attacked, yes,” she said carefully. “But I didn’t hear any ill will towards you. I’ve found that the captain of the Royal Guard is often one of the best ponies to confide in, and the captain of your guard is no different.”

“You mean your guard, ‘Tia.”

“No,” Celestia said, smiling impishly at her sister, “I mean your guard, Lulu. Shortly before your return, I organized a second branch of the Royal Guard. Much like my own guards, they are trained not only to watch over the city, but to protect you, as well. I tried to fill it with ponies who not only live and work during the night, of which there are many these days, but ones that revel in it. There are many such ponies in the Lunar Guard, and its Captain, Valiant Night, is the perf-”

“Wait!” Luna pinned her ears back and sat down, hard. “I-I… Oh Stars.”

Frowning, Celestia sat down next to her sister. “It is all a bit overwhelming, isn’t it?”

Luna nodded.

“Why don’t we try something more familiar then.” Celestia gave Luna an encouraging smile. “Why don’t you raise the moon and stars tonight?”

Silenced reigned for a few moments as she considered that. It had been a long time, and she did so love it. Could she really…? Luna nodded, making up her mind. It had been too long. “I would love nothing more.”

As the final traces of Celestia's sun left the sky, Luna set down her cup, closed her eyes. She inhaled deeply, taking time to calm herself, before focusing her magic. Tonight wasn't about trying to impress the ponies of Equestria, but doing what she loved. She smiled as she organized her stars into their constellations.

When she opened her eyes, she found herself standing alone in the Astral Plane, and sighed in content. “A thousand years since I've been here, and yet it still feels right.” As Luna continued to organize her stars, her eyes fell on a faded, purple figure which slowly solidified before her. “What... who are–” Luna gasped as the figure fell into focus. “Y-you! You’re... you’re the unicorn that–”

“Yes.” Twilight nodded. “Yes I am. But you,” Twilight paused, “you can see me?”

Luna nodded slowly.

“What is this place?”

“It’s... it’s the Astral Plane. It’s the gateway between the realm of the living and the...”

“Dead,” Twilight finished. “Yeah... I kinda figured I was somewhere like that. Though, if I may ask, what are you doing here?”

Luna swallowed nervously. “W-well, I... I transport my spirit to the Astral Plane to truly connect with the stars. From here, I can see and feel every single star I’ve created and control them.”

Twilight smiled. “I’ve read so much about you and your night, but there’s not a single diagram or painting I’ve seen that even comes close to representing the real thing. Watching you create the night from scratch like this... it’s astonishing. Especially from this angle.”

Luna paused and shifted uncomfortably. “Thank you... Twilight Sparkle? That was... is your name, correct? Why... why are you still here? Have you been here since I... since Nightmare Moon...”

Twilight frowned and nodded as she dropped her gaze to the world beneath her. “I can’t shake the feeling that... I’ll be needed. Which leads me to my next question: can other ponies see me?”

Luna shook her head. “Well, not here anyway. But if a spirit has the drive, they can will themselves visible, and sometimes even manifest themselves physically. Why do you ask?”

“Like I said, I just feel like I’ll be needed. Is there a time limit to how long I can roam the world before I am forced to leave?”

“No. A spirit crosses when he or she feels it necessary.”

Twilight nodded distractedly as she eyed the ground below once more. "While you're here, there's actually something I've been wanting to to say to you."

Luna cringed, her thoughts going back to the wrongs of this morning. "O-oh?"

“When Nightmare’s spell began to take control of me, I could see into her mind. I could hear, not just her thoughts, but yours as well. I heard you screaming and shouting and crying out for her to stop. And just earlier, I overheard your conversation with Princess Celestia, and I honestly don’t blame either of you.”

Luna shook her head slowly. “How can you say that? After all I’ve done... after what I’ve allowed to happen... most would deem me unfit to rule. Few, if any, would so openly forgive me.”

Twilight gently placed a hoof on Luna’s chin and turned her head until they were staring eye to eye. “Tell me, who are we?”

“I’m... afraid I don’t follow.”

“Who are we?” Twilight repeated. “First and foremost, what are we?”

Luna stared at Twilight curiously as she pondered her answer. “Um... ponies?”

“Exactly. We are ponies. We all have weaknesses, but we also have strengths. And if there’s anything I learned from my experience, it’s that everypony needs friends, and everyone deserves a second chance.”

“You... honestly believe anypony would do that for me? After they find out what I’ve done?”

“Yes I do.”

Luna started. “Why? How? Who in their right mind could forgive me?”

Twilight gave her a flat stare. “Me, obviously, and your sister, Celestia, as well.”

“I um...” Luna blushed and fell silent.

“If we, those closest to what happened, can forgive you, then others can as well.”

“But where do I start?” Luna sighed. “How do I start?”

Twilight turned away to watch the world below, she smirked at something below and glanced back over her shoulder. “You should start by asking for it, and then work to earn it.”

It was such a simple concept, and yet, it might work. Luna found herself nodding absently as she thought it over, until a sound caught her attention. It was the faint, but unmistakable sound of someone crying. It grew in volume and clarity, and when she looked to Twilight to see if she heard it too, Luna saw Twilight slowly drifting away, seemingly without moving. The clearer the crying became, the faster everything faded away until Luna’s eyes snapped open and she found herself sitting in the bedroom next to her sister, who was sobbing openly.

“‘Tia!” Luna jumped up and placed a hoof on her sister’s side. “‘Tia, what’s wrong? Why are you crying?”

Celestia didn’t respond, her eyes locked on the sky. Following her gaze, Luna looked up and choked back a scream as she spotted a brand new constellation in the sky, aligned in the shape of a very familiar unicorn. The body, the face... it was unmistakable.

“Oh no! ‘Tia! I didn’t even realize what I was doing! I got distracted a-a-and–”

“She loved to read under the stars. Almost every night she would grab some book, or her telescope, and camp out in the gardens until she fell asleep.”

Luna sat dumbstruck until Celestia pulled her into another hug. “Don’t worry, Luna. I’m not upset. I just... Twilight meant a lot to me.” Celestia looked back up to the sky. “It’s amazing, Lulu. I’m sure she would’ve loved it. ”

“She did seem to like it up there.” Luna muttered absentmindedly.

Celestia’s started. “What?”

Luna froze, realizing what she had said. “Um... while I was up there, I...” Luna inhaled deeply. “She’s up there, Celestia. I spoke with her. She says... she says she’s not mad at you–at either of us.”

Celestia’s response took a bit, but then she smiled and snuggled Luna closer. “I... I didn’t realize how much I needed to hear that. Thank you, Luna.”

Luna smiled as she snuggled into Celestia. It had been a long time since she had spent time with anyone, and spending it with her sister was enough to ease her worries, at least for now. There was one thing left to say, and now was the perfect time. “I love you, ‘Tia.”

“I love you too, Lulu. Always.”

A knock from the door broke through the silence once more. “Yes?” Celestia called out.

“Captain Valiant Night, Your Highness. I’ve come bearing two daffodil sandwiches, and... ugh, a side order of two combs, per the request of Captain Sterling.” A groan was barely discernable through the door, followed by a quiet mutter, “I can’t believe he made me say that.”

Celestia and Luna stared at each other blankly for a moment, before they both giggled a moment. As Celestia opened the door and Luna saw the pony standing behind it, she gasped lightly. It was the guard with the blue armor.

“Hello, Captain Valiant. It’s nice to see you,” Celestia said with a smile. “Please, come in.”

“Your Highnesses,” Valiant said with a bow as he entered. “I apologize for that. Captain Sterling was very clear when he said I needed to say that.”

“It’s quite alright, Captain Valiant. I’m glad you’re here. I’d like you to meet Princess Luna.”

Valiant bowed again. “It’s an honor to serve you, Your Highness. Is there anything I can do for you while I’m here?”

Luna stared at the pony bowing before her in silence, unsure of how to react. Part of her cringed every time he called her “Your Highness”, but isn’t that what she had wanted? “Uh... n... no, I’m–”

“Actually, Captain,” Celestia interrupted. “I’ll be turning in for the night fairly soon. If you wouldn’t mind showing Luna to her quarters, I’d be very grateful. You can leave my dinner where it is.

Luna jumped up quickly, prepared to object, but before she could utter a word, Valiant had already agreed to it.

“As you wish. Would you two like another moment alone?”

Luna nodded quickly. “Y-Yes. J-just give us a moment.”

Valiant nodded and bowed before exiting the room.

“T-Tia! Why would you–?”

“Remember what I said, Luna. Sometimes the best pony to confide in is the captain of your guard. There’s a reason I chose him to be yours. I know he’s someone you can trust.”

Luna exhaled deeply and gave a brief nod. “O...Okay. I’ll try... Good night, ‘Tia.”

“Good night, Luna.”

Luna leaned in and gave her sister another hug before leaving the room.

Valiant smiled briefly at her. “Are you ready to see your room, Your Highness?”

Luna winced. “Please don’t call me that.”

Valiant cocked his head, confused. “Call you what, Your Highness?”

“That. I just– could... could you just call me Luna, I... I think I’d prefer that.”

“Of course, Your H- I... I mean, Luna.” He motioned down the hall. “If you’ll follow me, I’ll show you to your room.”

Luna nodded sullenly as she followed Valiant through the halls until they slowed to a halt in front of a large door, painted with a full moon in the center of the door, and the different phases of the moon printed on the side of the door. “Here we are: your room.” Valiant opened the door.

Luna stared at the room in shock, admiring the beauty of its furnishings. Blues and purples of all shades and hues decorated the walls and curtains along the windows. The floor, made of pure marble, stretched seamlessly from one end of the room to the other, decorated by blue carpets sporting the image of her cutie mark.

Across the room, sitting between a pair of stained glass windows, was a blue canopy style bed large enough to fit half a dozen ponies. Adjacent to the bed sat a desk made of solid oak, complete with a pair of chairs and draped with a light blue cloth. On the other side of the bed was a tall glass door with a silver frame, leading to a balcony overlooking the gardens below.

When Luna looked up, she started. The roof above her was a painted glory of the night sky, her night sky. As she stared, it seemed to shift and move, tracking the sky outside, and the stars would twinkle right along with it. She lost herself watching it, and would have spent the rest of the night staring at it had a small cough not caught her attention.

“Is everything alright, Luna? I-if you don’t like it I can–”

Luna cut Valiant off with a shake of her head. “No, it’s... perfect.”

“I’m glad you like it, Luna. Is there anything else you need from me?”

Luna stopped for a moment as she remembered Celestia’s words. Very few ponies knew what happened in the ruins of the Everfree Forest that day, and she needed to know if there was any truth to her sister’s, and Twilight’s, words. “Actually, Valiant... can I confide in you? I would like your advice on... an issue.”

“Of course you can. That’s what I’m here for.” Valiant smiled. “What’s troubling you, Luna?”

Luna walked over to her bed and levitated a chair over next to it. “Please. Sit.”

Valiant walked over and sat down on the chair as Luna sat on the edge of her bed. She remained silent as she pondered how to open the subject. “How much do you know about what happened today?”

“All I know is Nightmare Moon made her return in Ponyville and tried to plunge Equestria into eternal night. I also know that she was defeated, thus freeing you from her control. However, I don’t know how it all happened.”

Luna’s ears flattened as she turned away. “So you know I was Nightmare Moon, then.”

He nodded.

Luna inhaled deeply as she tried to calm herself. “Nightmare Moon used me to achieve her own goals. She knew I was vulnerable, and the night when I felt like I’d had enough, she ambushed me and took control of my body. She didn’t hesitate to use this power and kill anyone who stood in her way.”

“Kill?” Valiant’s eyes widened.

Luna nodded grimly. “A thousand years ago, Nightmare Moon placed a spell and a curse on one of the greatest unicorns of his time, Starswirl the Bearded. He was one of my sister’s pupils, and Nightmare Moon used my body to kill him.

“Earlier today, she did the same thing to a young mare from Ponyville. In the end, she broke through the part that controlled her and was able to use the Elements of Harmony to save me... but the curse that I placed on her... ended her life. A young mare is dead, stolen from her friends and family. It was my weakness that allowed this to happen, and it’s my fault she’s dead. I’m a murderer, and here I am wondering if it’s right to seek forgiveness.” Luna deflated a little, and gave him a sorrowful glance. “Would you be able to forgive something like that?”

Valiant remained quiet for a few moments. “I am confused,” he finally answered. “Was it Nightmare Moon that did these horrible things, or was it you? I ask because, if I may be so presumptuous, you sound confused as well. Sometimes it’s ‘I,’ other times it’s ‘Nightmare Moon,’ - which is it?”

Luna stared at him, dumbfounded, for a moment. “But… I was Nightmare Moon.”

“Didn’t you just tell me Nightmare Moon took control of your body?”

“Y-Yes, but-”

“So who cast the spells? You, or Nightmare Moon?”

Luna didn’t respond.

Valiant took a step forward. “Luna, you’ve said that your weakness allowed her to take control, but it was Nightmare Moon that chose to kill. I wouldn’t presume to tell you what to do, but at some point, you’re going to have to forgive yourself, or at the very least move on and make up for whatever lapse you feel you’ve had. As far as I can see, you are no murderer.

“I can’t guarantee others will see this the way I do, but everypony is capable of forgiveness. Whether or not they do so depends on them, but before it can ever be given, it must be asked for.”

Valiant sat back, apparently waiting for Luna’s reply. She let out a melancholy sigh. “Can it really be that simple? ‘Ask, and be forgiven?’ If they aren’t able to forgive me, then what?” She stood up and walked onto the adjoining balcony, with Valiant following a few steps behind. “All I’d ever wanted before was some recognition, something that put me as more than ‘Celestia’s little sister,’ but to instead be hated? Reviled? I’m not sure I could stand that. If jealousy and loneliness brought about Nightmare Moon, what would happen should I break under that?”

“That won’t happen. There may indeed be some ponies that can’t forgive you, or that even vilify you, but this time around, there’s one thing that will be different: you won’t ever feel lonely again.” He took a deep breath and let it out, then added softly, “I won’t allow it.”

Luna slowly turned to look at him, unsure if she heard correctly. “Valiant…?”

“I won’t allow it,” he repeated. “Nopony should be left alone as you were, especially not one who can create such a beautiful sky. Tonight, for the first time in my life I’ve seen not just the moon rise, but the night sky come to life. Princess Celestia was never able to do that.”

They both sat stock still in the silence that followed and she stared at him, waiting as his blush creeping along his face. Then she caught his eye and gave him a small smile. “Thank you, Valiant. You don’t know how much it means to hear somepony say that.”

“You’re welcome, Luna,” Valiant said. “I’m glad I was able to be of help to you this evening.”

Luna nodded. “I’m glad I asked you. I’m not sure my sanity would’ve lasted had I not been able to get this off my chest. I’m... honored to have you as Captain of my guard... and... as a friend.”

Valiant froze momentarily, looking surprised. After a moment of stumbling over his words, he took a deep breath and smiled at her. “The honor is mine, Luna.” He stepped back to give her some space and then bowed. “Will there be anything else?”

Luna smiled and shook her head before turning back to her bed and climbing in. She yawned and bobbed her head once at him. “Good night, Captain.”

He quietly moved the chair back where it belonged and crept his way to the door. He paused before closing it, and whispered back into the room, “Sweet dreams, Luna.”

Blame

Shining Armor plodded slowly down the path to Ponyville. There was a lot on his mind. He had just lost his sister, he practically attacked his princess, and he still had the break the news to his family. Before that though, there was someone in Ponyville that he had to tell first.

He sat outside the door for a very long time, and by the time he finally worked up the courage to knock, it was already well into the afternoon. He had received many odd glances, and multiple ponies had asked if the princess was in town. There were even some of the ever present pranksters that would try to get the guards to react anytime they were on duty in public, but through it all he sat there, staring blankly at the far door. Rather than a sense of duty, he sat there out of a sense of fear.

Inside that library was what could arguably be the fiercest creature within several miles, at least he would be when he was older. Right now, he was small, purple, and really not much of a threat, but how do you tell a child he lost his mother? Was “mother” even the right word? Were they that close? Perhaps “caretaker,” then?

Shining shook his head. It didn’t matter, to console a child of any loss is difficult, especially large, irreplaceable ones. This would not be easy.

He finally worked up the courage, stepped across the street and knocked. There was a muffled “Coming!” from inside, and moments later the door opened to reveal Spike, staring up at him and obviously confused. “Shining Armor? What are you doing here? And why are you in your armor? You look like you’ve seen a ghost!”

Shining stared down at the baby dragon before him, his heart wrenched with guilt as he prepared himself for the storm to come. “Can we go inside, Spike? I need to talk to you about something.”

“Uh, okay. Sure.” Spike stepped to the side and let Shining pass, then closed the door. Shining lead him further into the library until he reached the common area table, sat down and set his helmet on the table. Spike followed, looking perplexed the whole while, and slowly slid into the seat next to Shining.

After a few moments of silence, Shining finally spoke, albeit haltingly, “Spike... I ha–” Shining shook his head. “What do you know about last night?”

Spike frowned as his confusion grew. “Well, I know Twilight and the others went out to find something called the Elements of Harmony and they were going to stop Nightmare Moon. That was some time ago though, and I fell asleep before the sun came back. It’s up now though, so they obviously succeeded. I must say, it’s hard to believe the legends were true, huh?” Spike paused. “Why do you ask?”

Shining Armor’s face blanked for a moment as he remembered Twilight lying on the floor of that cursed ruin. “Yeah. Yeah, they... succeeded,” Shining said, trailing off at the end. Success. Hah, some ‘success.’ “However...”

“‘However’ what? What’s wrong Shining?”

“Twilight, she– Nightmare Moon was much worse than any of the old tales give her credit for. She cast a spell on Twilight, a curse, one that Twilight couldn’t stop.”

“A curse? W...what do you mean? Where is she!? Is she okay?”

Shining winced as he tried to formulate the words in his head. “... No, Spike. She’s not.”

“Well, we have to help her! I’ll let Princess Celestia know, and–”

“S-Spike, you don’t understand. Twily... Twilight’s not coming back.”

“Not... coming back?” Spike’s spines drooped to the side and his entire body sagged as tears welled in his eyes.

Shining Armor took a deep breath and averted his eyes. “She’s gone, Spike. She’s... dead.”

Spike sat there, stone still, as if in mimic of Shining from earlier. Shining Armor was at a loss. He had expected, well, something, not this non-reaction. After some time, the dragon finally blinked and his eyes hardened. “That isn’t very funny, Shining.”

“What?” Shining blanched and looked back at the little dragon who now stood, seething and glaring at him from the far side of the table. “I’m not joking, Spike!”

“You’re terrible, you know that!?”

“I-I... I’m not joking, Spike.” Shining’s voice cracked.

“Stop! Just stop lying! Take it back!” Spike launched himself at Shining, but he held the baby dragon off with a hoof.

“Spike! I’m really not lying...” Shining sighed once more. “She’s gone, Spike...”

“No! Take it... take it ba... take...” Spike’s struggles slowed, then stopped, and Shining stopped pushing him away. Spike wobbled for a moment and then sank to his knees. “It can’t be true...”

“Oh, Spike...” Shining embraced him for a moment, trying to comfort him. After a time, Shining looked down, confused. There was no crying, there was no trembling. Spike was catatonic from shock, and he barely even blinked. He was still breathing, but he didn’t react.

“Spike? Spike! Hey, come on little guy, answer me... do something, at least.” Shining’s concern grew as Spike remained unresponsive, but he kept talking, hoping to get a response. “I’m going to take you back to our parents’, to Canterlot...” Shining took a step back and shook Spike slightly. “Spike?”

Shining waited, giving Spike time to process what had happened, but after half an hour of no change and no response he had to let Spike go and make preparations for their trip. Shining packed some, along with most of Spike’s things and then scooped the little dragon onto his back and left for the train station.

Spike remained quiet the whole way to and through the train station. It wasn’t until halfway through the train trip that Shining heard a quiet sob. It was as if a dam had broken, and Spike began crying in earnest. Shining was quick to pull him into a comforting hug, quietly offering words of reassurance. Spike grabbed one of Shining’s legs, and for the rest of the train ride cried into it. Shining was left to wonder, just how would his parents take the news?

After gathering the luggage and depositing a sleeping Spike on his back, Shining left the Canterlot train station. With the time they arrived, combined with the walk from the station, it was well into the evening when Shining finally reached his parents’ house.

He knocked once and waited as an eye blocked the peep hole and he could hear someone hurrying to unlock and open the door. His mother, Twilight Velvet, opened it and greeted him with a beaming smile before she registered the look on Shining’s face. “Shining, honey, w– Shining!? What’s wrong?”

Shining Armor was a mess and he knew it, especially dressed in only his barding and he nervously shifted his weight back and forth a bit. “We should really talk about it inside, Mom.” Twilight Velvet’s look of concern was obvious, but she opened the door and moved aside for Shining to step through.

He moved into the living room, set the luggage down and rummaged around until he found a few blankets. With the use of his magic, he flattened out one of the pillows and placed it on the floor next to the fireplace and wrapped Spike in one of the blankets before placing him on the pillow. Shining couldn’t help but feel sorry for him as he watched Spike toss and turn on the pillow, still mumbling words of disbelief and heartache.

Shining turned around to see his dad, Nightlight, standing together with his mom. He sighed once, and then after a few aborted attempts to start finally said, “We should settle in, I have some bad news.”

Twilight Velvet nodded. “I’ll make some tea. Dear? Why don’t you come help?” she said with a tug on her husband’s tail. He went willingly enough and soon they were both sequestered in the kitchen. Shining couldn’t help but smile a little. It was an old tactic his parent’s used anytime they didn’t want him, or his sister, to hear them. Whether it was an argument or talks about Hearth’s Warming gifts, it was actually really effective at stopping their eavesdropping, especially with the soundproofing spell they used on the room.

Shining left them to it, and went about removing the armor he couldn’t store in the luggage. He stretched and worked out the kinks that had built up since had put it on earlier that... how long had it been? Shining frowned and quirked his head in thought. There was the Summer Sun Celebration preparations, the patrols and short parties held by the guards during the morning, and then there was... Ponyville, and all that happened there.

When the sun failed to come up on time there had been panic, and he had spent a better part of the “morning” making sure the panicking ponies didn’t trample someone. He received the call to report to Ponyville only a few hours into it, and while things had calmed down there really wasn’t much time to sleep. Even on the ride to Ponyville he hadn’t been able to catch more than a catnap due to the rumbling of the train and his armor chaffing as he tried to sleep in it.

All told, he had been awake at least a day and a half now. It was then, as he was staring dreamily at their couch, that his parents returned with the tea. “Shining?”

“Hm? Oh! Sorry, Mom.” Shining’s horn lit up and his magic covered his face for a moment before disappearing with a fizzle. After that, he perked up considerably. Courtley’s Caffeinated Cantrip, it was a spell Twily had taught him, and it had been useful on many long nights of guard duty. He motioned to the table with a jerk of his head. “We should sit down.”

Nightlight cleared his throat and interrupted, “Actually, Shining, maybe we should just hear what you have to say.”

Shining nodded limply. Hopefully his parents would take it better than Spike did. “I-it’s... about Twilight, she– Twilight was–”

Twilight Velvet exchanged a glance with her husband and put the tray down on the end table next to them. “Twilight was, what? What’s going on Shining?”

Shining remained quiet as his heart pounded in his chest and his head throbbed in equal measure. The words were on the tip of his tongue, but his composure cracked as his mother demanded to know what he was going to say.

“Shining, you’re scaring me! Tell me what’s going on!”

“Twilight’s dead,” he blurted, and instantly regretted it. He didn’t scream it, but from her reaction, he might as well have.

His mother blanched, and took a few steps back while shaking her head, but the truth couldn’t be denied. Spike sleeping fitfully by the fire, and the fact he was there at all, was evidence enough.

“H... how...?”

“She... she wanted to stop Nightmare Moon. She did stop Nightmare Moon, but...”

Before Shining could continue, Twilight Velvet broke down, and within seconds was sobbing on the floor in front of him. Nightlight rushed to her side, supporting and comforting her as he helped her back to her feet and over to the couch. It was obvious he was trying to be strong for her, but once Twilight Velvet was settled he soon joined her on the couch.

Shining wasn’t really sure what to do. What can you really say to a parent who has lost a child, much less your own mother and father? He stayed close, comforting them as best he could. Once they were able, he helped them to their room and as they passed the fireplace a small part of his mind boggled over how Spike had been able to sleep through the whole ordeal.

As he turned to leave his parents’ room, there was a soft popping noise and suddenly all his fatigue caught up with him. He took one more step before stumbling to his knees, utterly drained both physically and mentally. He summoned one last bit of willpower and erected a shield to silence himself before his dam finally broke.

Lying there, Shining did two things he hadn’t done in a very long time. He slept in the same room as his parents, and he cried himself to sleep. That night, his dreams were filled with many images of his sister. They started out as the fond memories of their shared childhood, but gradually turned darker and darker. With his subconscious running wild, they ranged from merely finding Twilight in the ruins, to wandering the castle, listening to her disembodied screams of pain, and became worse from there.

In one particularly dark nightmare, he found Twilight, battered and broken beyond recognition, but still mobile. Gaping wounds covered every inch of her body as pieces of skin and flesh dragged behind her. With every step, Twilight screamed out, but still she shambled after him, alternating between begging him to help her, and railing against him for not protecting her as she drew ever closer. As Twilight reached out and grabbed him, he snapped awake, drenched in sweat. He frantically scanned the room until he realized he was home. After waking up for what seemed like the millionth time, he sighed in defeat and gave up on sleeping. As quietly as he could manage, he slipped out of the room and headed downstairs. The smell of fresh pancakes, however, was enough to make Shining realize how little he had eaten the previous night. He trotted down to the kitchen to find Spike standing atop a chair at the stove.

“Spike?” Shining called, startling the dragon in the process.

“Oh... hey, Shining. I, uh, thought you guys would like some breakfast before today’s meeting. So I figured I’d make you something!”

“Uh, th....thanks, but, are you sure you’re–”

“Don’t worry about me. I always did a lot of cooking... before. I-if anything it helps me... feel better, in a way.”

Shining watched as the dragon slumped forward and sighed. He couldn’t help but feel bad for him. Acting on instinct, he walked forward and gently hugged him. “Spike, if you ever need anything, we’re all here for you, and for each other. We’re in this together, alright?”

Spike smiled as he hugged him back. “Yeah. Thanks, Shining. Anyway, being that you’re the first one up, I guess you get first claim of the pancakes. Go on and sit down. I’ll bring ‘em over.”

Shining spent the following morning with his family making funeral preparations and occasionally comforting his mother. As morning slipped into afternoon, they all decided to take a break for lunch. Spike had saved some of the food he prepared earlier that morning for just such an occasion.

Before Shining could grab his parents for lunch, he heard a knock at the door. He went to answer it, but his parents had beaten him to it. Standing opposite them was Princess Celestia, her face somber and void of regality, much as it had back in the ruins.

As Spike poked his head around the corner, her face paled, as if she just remembered that he, too, would be affected by Twilight’s death.

“I’m... deeply sorry to disturb you all right now. I... imagine you must be... busy, but I was hoping you all wouldn’t mind coming to the castle tomorrow. There are some important matters that need to be discussed regarding yesterday’s... events... and it’s best if you’re all there.”

Shining turned to his parents, silently asking for their answer. After a brief pause, Twilight Velvet nodded. “O-of course. We’ll be there, Your Majesty. What time would you like us there?”

“Six o’clock. Dinner will be served as well, if you would like to stay and eat afterward. I could even offer you all guest rooms at the castle should you wish to spend the night.”

“Thank you, Your Highness.” Shining bowed respectfully. “We will be there, tomorrow.”

“We were just about to sit down for lunch, if you’d like to join us,” Nightlight offered.

“No, thank you. I actually have a few more stops and have to be on my way. I’ll see you all tomorrow.” With a farewell, Princess Celestia took took to the skies, leaving the rest of the group to wonder what tomorrow’s meeting would entail.

*-~-*

Shining awoke the day of the meeting. Despite being relatively nightmare free, his sleep had been as fitful as it had the previous night. However, his thoughts were consumed by why Princess Celestia would call a meeting concerning Twilight’s death so soon. He couldn’t shake the feeling in the pit of his stomach that he wasn’t going to like it.

Morning faded quickly, and the afternoon sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows across the landscape of Canterlot. Shining, accompanied by his family and Spike, walked towards the palace.

As they approached the entrance, Shining couldn't help but stare at the double doors ahead of them. Even as numerous ponies saluted him or called out a greeting, he ignored them, instead focusing on the doors that now towered over him. The more he stared, and the closer they came, the more threatening those doors appeared, and the less he desired to open them. He hesitated when he reached them, even with his family waiting behind him. I can't help but feel this meeting is something I'm not prepared for. It just feels too soon to be talking about what happened.

Just as Shining was about to open the doors, they were opened from the other side. “Ahh. Good evening, Lieutenant Shining Armor.” Captain Sterling greeted. “Here for the meeting I presume?”

“Hey.” Shining half-heartedly saluted the captain, who returned it shortly after. “Yeah. We’re here for the meeting.”

“‘Hey?’ Shining, I don’t think I’ve ever heard you respond so casually before.”

Shining Armor's eyes widened momentarily, but before he could snap to attention and salute properly, Sterling chuckled lightly and interrupted him. “At ease, soldier. I wasn’t reprimanding you. I... heard about what happened.”

Shining sagged slightly and sighed heavily. “I’m just not... myself lately. I mean, you know how I couldn’t shut up about my reasons for joining the guard back when I was still a recruit. This... isn’t easy for me.”

“I understand, Shining. If you need some time away, take as long as you need.”

“Thank you, Captain. I assume the princess is here?"

“Yes, she and–” Sterling stopped, as if catching himself. “You can find her in the dining room, down the main hall there on the left.” Sterling stepped aside to let the group through, but as they passed he took a breath. “Shining, I...” He sighed. “Don’t do anything rash.”

Shining stopped and narrowed his eyes as he looked to Sterling skeptically. “Captain?” Unfortunately, he had resumed his post, standing at attention with his eyes fixed forward, which only made Shining want to press him further, but he knew it was useless. With a last sidelong glance at Sterling, he turned and hurried into a canter to catch back up with the others.

It was when they turned the corner that they encountered something unexpected: another group of ponies were waiting outside the dining room door, talking amongst themselves.

Shining sighed as everyone began to introduce themselves to him and his family. They all offered their condolences and soon engaged in conversation with Shining’s parents.. So... these girls were with Twilight in the ruins? Celestia didn’t mention anything about anyone else being there. Shining was snapped from his thoughts as the dining room door opened and Princess Celestia stepped into the hallway.

“Good evening, Your Highness.” Shining stood and bowed respectfully.

“Thank you, Shining. A good evening to you, too.” Celestia opened the doors with her magic and let everyone into the dining room. “Everyone, please take your seats.”

As everyone entered the room, Celestia closed the door and followed suit. She made her way to the head of the table and sat down. “First off, you’re probably all wondering why I called you here on such short notice. Before I get into that, let me just say that I know this may be hard for some of you to hear, but I ask you please listen, as it needs to be said.”

Celestia cleared her throat, and took a deep breath as she straightened her posture . “I’d like to say... I’m sorry. None of this would have happened if it hadn’t been for my meddling.”

Shining’s ears flattened as his heart sank to his stomach. While the others spouted inquiries, either to Celestia or each other, Shining found he could barely keep himself from hiding under the table. He wasn’t sure why, but he was terrified of what would come next.

Celestia raised a hoof for silence and waited for them all to calm down. “You all recall the tale about Nightmare Moon, correct? The younger of two sisters who refused to lower the moon, and the elder who was forced to banish her in the moon? As you know, I am the elder sister from that tale. My hope... was when I used the Elements against her, that my sister would be returned to me, but instead, she vanished into thin air. I thought I had lost my sister forever, but then I learned of the prophecy of her return, it was a day I would look forward to for a very long time. I prayed it would be the day I would have my little sister back. But a thousand years is a long time, and I couldn’t wait that long.

“So for countless years, I tried many things to free my sister from her banishment. I sought all forms of magic, both old and new, and tried everything I could think of. I even experimented with the Elements of Harmony, working tirelessly to understand and then undo what they had done. That is until, one night, the Elements stopped reacting to my magic. I had lost my connection to them, and I... didn't take it well.” Celestia shook her head. “Perhaps that story is best left for another time.

“Nonetheless, I was bereft. For centuries more I searched, albeit more passively, to no avail.” Celestia paused, and her gaze wandered over the assembled Bearers for a moment. “It wasn't until just under a couple decades ago that I received my first real breakthrough.

“As some of you may know,” Celestia said, indicating Shining's parents, “there are times that unicorn magic acts on its own, and it's always for a reason. One day, my own magic activated, flooding the filled audience hall with light, much to the chagrin of the noble speaking at the time.”

Celestia allowed a small smile as a short laugh was shared by the group. “As the noble sputtered in indignation and protocol, a strange scroll appeared before me. It was coded, and I couldn't read it, so I closed the court for the day and for some time afterward. I spent months deciphering it, leaving the country at the mercy of the nobles, until I cracked it.

“What it had to tell me both elated and worried me. The Elements of Harmony had been reborn, into ponies who truly represented them. For good or ill, I would never again wield them, and when my sister returned, I would not be the one to free nor condemn her.”

Celestia paused as refreshments were brought in, and waited patiently until all were ready for her to continue. She turned her gaze the Element Bearers and began anew. “Hence, why I gathered you five for the Summer Sun Celebration, and why I sent Twilight to Ponyville.”

Shining gulped as Celestia hung her head in shame. He knew she wouldn’t be telling this story without reason, but at the mention of Twilight, the gears in Shining’s head turned rapidly as he began to piece together the rest of Celestia’s story before she finished. He now understood why Captain Sterling had warned him to keep calm. Despite Shining’s increasing anger, he kept quiet as Celestia continued her story.

“What pains me the most to say, is that I can’t say I had no idea what Nightmare Moon was capable of doing, because she used what I assume to be the same spell on another pony a thousand years ago. I just... I didn’t think it would happen again.” Celestia’s voice cracked, and the entire room stared up at her. Celestia’s head hung low to the ground. “I... I’m sorry. This was my fault. I... was going to ask if any of you could forgive me, but I’d honestly be surprised if any of you did.”

Seeing her sag was one thing, but as Shining watched his princess and ruler blubber out an apology and crying openly before them, his anger dwindled.

Everyone remained quiet for a long while as Celestia regained what composure she had. It was Applejack who broke the silence. “Princess, as far as I can tell, you didn’t send Twilight on this journey knowing the end result, and it wasn’t you who placed that crazy spell on her. I ain’t sayin’ you didn’t play a part in what happened, but it sure ain’t your fault.”

“I agree.” Rarity chimed in. “Nightmare Moon was, in every sense of the word, a monster and she got what she deserved. In no way are you responsible for what she did.”

Celestia flattened her ears and winced and turned her head towards a corner of the room. “That... comment... actually leads me to what I wanted to talk about next. As you already know, the Elements of Harmony activated for you six because you are the bearers. They turned on Nightmare Moon, and, from what I can tell, tore her to shreds. What you may have missed, however, was my sister. Princess Luna was freed from Nightmare Moon’s control, and during the confusion of last night’s events, she slipped away and disappeared. I could go into why she did, but I think it’s better she do it herself.” Celestia gestured a hoof towards the shadows and Luna took a hesitant step forward.

“Her!?” Shining shouted and slammed his hoof into the table as his previously diminished anger exploded. Everyone jumped at the sudden crash and Luna froze in her place. Shining’s nostrils flared as he glared at the pony responsible for Twilight’s death. “After all she’s done!? Are you out of your mind, Celestia!? How could you bring her here!?”

“Shining Armor, I know–”

“No, you don’t know. My mom and dad lost their daughter, yet all you’ve talked about is you and your sister! It’s all about how you have your sister back, but I lost mine. Are we supposed to pretend like everything’s fine because you have your sister back!?”

“Shining Armor, if you would just–”

"No!" Shining armor launched himself over the table at Luna. "At the very least she should be standing trial for what she did! But if you won't do anything about her, then I will!" Shining’s horn flared to life, but before he could take a step further Celestia jumped in front of Luna and flared her wings to block his path, acting as a protective shield.

Shining stopped short and skidded to a stop just before bowling into Celestia. He steadied himself and leveled a hoof, pointing behind her at Luna. "Did Twilight mean so little to you that you'd choose that abomination ov–"

Celestia’s eyes flashed pure white, her mane flaring to life in an outburst of solar energy. “Shining Armor! Shut your mouth before I shut it for you!”

The entire room fell silent as Celestia stared down Shining Armor. “I forgave you for snapping at me back at the ruins because you were able to get a hold of yourself, but now you have crossed the line. I can take your outlandish insults, but insulting my sister is not the right response to your emotions.” Celestia took a step towards Shining, lowering her head to match his level. “I could even overlook that, seeing as I was able to stop you before you did anything you’d regret.”

As Celestia took another step closer, Shining could feel pure heat radiating from her. The closer she got, the hotter the air around him became. “But how dare you suggest Twilight meant nothing to me!? How dare you insinuate I didn’t care about her! I... I loved that filly like a daughter!” Celestia’s eyes returned to their normal purple hue, her voice lowering in volume as she slowly calmed down. “I was prepared to take all of Twilight injuries and the curse upon myself, but she wouldn't let me. She didn't want anypony else to go through what she was feeling. I lost a piece of my soul when Twilight died, and if my sister was still a threat, I would not have called this meeting! While your anger is justified, your words were not!”

Celestia backed away from Shining and headed towards her chair. “I know what Nightmare Moon did was inexcusable and unforgivable. I know you, and your family, lost someone important to you, as did I, and these past few days have been torturous for us all, my sister included. If you wish to condemn her before hearing what she has to say, then I’d politely ask you to leave this castle.”

Shining snorted as his glare passed from Celestia back over to Luna. “If you all want to make peace with a murderer, then fine. But, I will have no part of this.”

Shining then turned and shouldered his way through the door, slamming it open and galloped down the hallways to the exit. He was through the gate and past Sterling before it could really register. As he galloped away from the castle grounds, everypony left in the room could only stare at the open door in shock.

Intervention

A stunned silence had fallen on the meeting room. After Shining’s outburst no one had the nerve to say anything. Princess Celestia was shamefully staring at the ground, while Princess Luna remained frozen in her place. Twilight Velvet and Nightlight were too embarrassed to lift their gaze from the ground while the remaining Elements of Harmony exchanged shared expressions of shock.

After what seemed like an eternity, Celestia broke the silence with a dejected sigh. “I was afraid this would happen.” Celestia said. “I’m sorry you all had to see me like that. I let my emotions get the better of me as well. I think it’s best if we reschedule this meeting for a later date, and–”

“Wait, Princess.” Twilight Velvet called as Celestia stood up. “I... I’d like to continue with the meeting. I want to hear everything that’s happened. Although Shining did make some valid points, I want to hear what your sister has to say before making any conclusions. It seems Shining has already made his, but we didn’t come all the way here to be sent back home.”

Celestia glanced at Twilight Velvet and remained silent for a few moments, but before she could speak, Luna stepped forward. “I think I should take over from here, Celestia,” Everyone focused their attention on Luna as she made her way towards the table and stood next to Celestia.

“Luna, I–”

“Please, Celestia. You’re placing a lot of the blame on yourself and are trying to exclude my own. They need to hear it, and they need to hear it from me.”

Celestia glanced at her sister before nodding and stepping aside.

Luna turned her gaze towards the group surrounding the table took a couple deep breaths before addressing them. “As you all know, I... was Nightmare Moon. Or rather, a creature known as The Nightmare was inhabiting my body. It took control of me one night when my emotions were boiling over. I was jealous of the praise my sister received and angry that I didn’t receive the same. That’s when it attacked. It seized my body... my power, my name… It desired nothing but power, no matter the cost, and did terrible things using me as a vessel. I no longer had control over myself.

“Now, I am not saying I hold no responsibility for what happened during while The Nightmare had my body in her possession. It was my jealousy and greed that allowed it to take over. Everlasting night was a ploy to make me the evil villain, as if I was determined to achieve worship through any means necessary. Thankfully, that plan failed, and we were imprisoned in the moon for a thousand years. However, it quickly discovered it could still torment me, and for centuries The Nightmare described in... vivid detail... how it would enact revenge on my sister by torturing anyone she cared about.”

Luna faced everyone in the room and looked each one of them in the eyes. “It was my own weakness alone that allowed this to happen, that much is undeniable. However, Nightmare Moon is not who I am. What she did... and what I had wanted are not the same. I know it’s asking a lot, but is there any way you can forgive me?”

After several long moments of exchanged glances,abject silence, and contemplation, Luna hung her head. “I see. I-I’m sorry. I need to go.” Just as Luna reached the doors, a voice called out to her from behind.

“Wait!”

Luna turned around to see Twilight Velvet standing at the table. “Your Highness, please don’t take our silence as a denial of forgiveness. I just... it’s a lot to process all at once. We, or at least I, need some time before I can give you an answer. If you wouldn’t mind, I’d like to talk things over with everypony before making a final decision.”

Celestia nodded. “That would be wise. It would give us time to perform our royal duties as well. Luna, let’s leave them to their discussion.”

As Celestia left the room, Luna followed sullenly behind her.

*-~-*

“This is absolutely insane.” Shining Armor grumbled as he plowed through the city. “Nightmare Moon killed Twilight, and Celestia expects me to just forgive her?” Shining snorted in annoyance as his speed increased. “And Celestia practically sent Twilight to her death with her meddling! She’s just as responsible as her sister!”

He charged down the streets of Canterlot in a rage-induced stampede. Even as his legs started to scream for mercy, he pushed forward, slowly blowing off steam. As his rage subsided, so did his speed. “She doesn’t know– she could never know what this is like.”

What makes you so sure?

Shining’s jumped and scanned his surroundings. “What?” He shook his head and sighed, turning his gaze to the ground. “It’s not fair. It’s just not fair! Twilight didn’t deserve this.”

And Luna did?

Shining looked around again, groaning in annoyance. “I must be losing my mind.” Spotting a bench out of the corner of his eye, he begrudgingly pushed himself up and walked over to it and laid down, watching as the sun fell below the horizon.

A few seconds of silence passed until an unmistakable voice demanded his attention. “You may be my BBBFF, but right now, I can’t even begin to explain how disappointed I am in you!”

Shining jumped, looked to his left and nearly screamed when he saw Twilight standing next to him. “Tw-Twily? You’re... alive!?” He scrambled to sit up on the bench.

“No, not exactly... but I’m here for now, Shining.” Twilight shook her head. “I still can’t believe you would just storm out o–”

A light chuckle interrupted her. “So that’s it then,” Shining said between laughs, “I have lost my mind. That definitely explains a few things… lately, anyway.”

Twilight groaned and quickly grabbed Shining’s muzzle. She pulled it down into a face to face. “No, Shining, you’re not crazy.”

“Of course I am!” Shining yelled and wrenched himself from her grasp. “I’m a full grown stallion, lying on a bench in the park talking to my dead little sister! That doesn’t sound like a madpony at all!”

“Don’t snap at me! I'm trying to help you here!”

“Help me? How?” he growled, his earlier irritation returning as his thoughts drifted back to the ruins. “You’re dead, Twilight!” Shining averted his eyes and whispered, “You’re dead.” He collapsed onto the bench with a grunt and placed his head between his forelegs. “I saw it myself.”

Twilight’s ears flattened against the back of her head as she took a step forward. “You... you saw me?”

Shining nodded slowly. “Yeah...”

“I... I’m sorry you had to see that. With the condition I was in–”

Shining shook his head. “All I saw was you lying there. Princess Celestia healed–” he stopped. Healed was not the right word. “She fixed the damage Nightmare’s spell caused.”

Twilight sat down next to Shining and nuzzled him gently. “Shhh,” she cooed, “it’s okay, just talk with me a bit. How are Mom and Dad handling everything?”

He took a couple deep breaths before answering, “They’re distraught, and they miss you, but,” his voice quieted, “they’re certainly holding up a lot better than I am.” Shining turned his head away to hide his shame.

“I’m a royal guard, yet after hearing what Celestia did I nearly attacked her! I was so furious I– Did you know she–”

“Had planned for me to confront Nightmare Moon.” Twilight nodded. “I know.”

Shining blinked. “Not just that! You... died. You died because she wanted her sister back! Aren’t you mad? O-o-or upset!?”

Twilight sighed heavily. “Well, I wish I was still alive, but how could I be mad at her? I didn’t decide to stop Nightmare Moon knowing I’d die, nopony did. At first I decided to fight Nightmare because I felt like I needed to. But then I was placed under a spell that forced me to attack the others who were with me. I hurt them...” Twilight turned toward the ground. “... badly. I wanted to. But that wasn’t me. I was watching from within my own body. I fought back when I realized what I was doing, and in the end, I broke free. Not to defeat Nightmare Moon, but because I realized how important those five were and how much I wanted to protect them. That’s why I did what I did.

“Because of that, I was able to return Princess Celestia’s little sister back to her. A pony who had no control over what a monster was doing in her name. And what do you do? You wouldn’t even stick around and listen to what really happened. You just called her a murderer and stormed out, throwing a tantrum like-like some foal!”

“Well, you don’t need to be so blunt about it,” Shining sulked.

“Sorry Shining, but you of all ponies should know better than to be so irrational. Look where you are in life. You’re a Lieutenant of the Royal Guard, yet abandoned the ponies you vowed to protect in a fit of rage, with someone who you called a murderer. Look at me, and tell me you honestly believe that she was a murderer.

Shining opened his mouth, but the words refused to come out. He tried once more to restate his opinion, but failed again. With a defeated sigh, he hung his head.

“If you had honestly believed that, would you have left Mom and Dad in the room with her? Would have left Celestia in there with her? My friends?”

“I know, and I–”

“And one more thing!” Twilight interjected. “You said earlier that Celestia could never know what you’re going through, but you and I both know that’s not true. She lost her sister for a thousand years! She had to suffer with the knowledge that she had been forced to banish her for someone else’s crimes. If anyone can understand what it’s like to lose a sister, it’s her.”

Shining sniffled as Twilight’s words hit hard. Tears trickled down his cheeks as he averted his eyes. The sun fell behind the horizon and the moon slowly rose above them. The stars took their shape in the night sky, dimly illuminating the empty park.

“It’s just... Twily, I miss you so much. I can’t accept the fact you’re gone. And how can I? Whenever I came home it was your smiling face I looked forward to. Mom and Dad mean the world to me, too, but,” he paused, “you were my little sis. I joined the guard so I could protect you, but I couldn’t even do that. What kind of Royal Guardspony can’t even protect his own family?” Shining looked back towards Twilight. “And you know what the worst part is? There’s not a single thing I could’ve done differently. That’s what tears me apart.” Shining choked back a sob. “I don’t want to say goodbye, Twily. I just want you back.”

Twilight pulled him into another hug as Shining cried softly. She sat there and held him until his crying came to an end. “Shining, you’re my big brother, best friend forever and I love you. Nothing will change that, but what’s done is done. I can’t stay for much longer, but we both know that it’s time you make things right with the princesses. And if you don’t, so help me, I will haunt you in your sleep.”

They both giggled as they broke off the hug. “Now go.”

“But... are you sure they’ll even forgive me?”

“I ca–”

“After what I did today, I’ll be lucky if I’m not run out of the guard!”

“Well that–”

“I may even get kicked out! I may–”

“Shining, listen to me!”

Twilight grabbed Shining’s muzzle with both her hooves and held it shut until he fell silent. “Look. I can’t say for certain what will happen, but you still have to try to make things right. Besides, take a look at the sky, and tell me what you see.” Twilight waved a hoof upward and his gaze followed it.

It took a moment, but his eyes eventually came to rest on a new, vivid constellation and his mouth dropped. “She... made a constellation of you?” The longer he stared, the more details he could make out. Twilight's eyes, her cutie mark, he could even make out her bangs. “It's beautiful, Twilight, but I don't... Twilight?”

Shining turned around but all he found was an empty park bench. He let out a ragged sigh in resignation and as he turned back to the constellation, a shooting star grabbed his attention. He followed it as it streaked through the constellation until it vanished behind Canterlot Castle.

“Okay, okay. I get it.” Shining smirked as he stood up and began the long trek back to the castle, but paused and looked up at the constellation one last time.

“Goodbye, Twilight... and thank you.”

Resolution

Shining Armor’s mind raced as he bolted through Canterlot. The lights within the city had all but gone out, leaving only the lamp posts to light the path to the castle. He slowed as he reached the courtyard, and cautiously made his way through the gate. Much to his shock, none of the guards made a move to stop him from entering, not even Captain Sterling. He shot Shining a frown, but continued on his patrol. The staff did seem a little confused when they looked at him though. Could it be Celestia never told them why he stormed out?

He put that aside as he approached the dining room he left earlier that evening, but hesitated at the door. He had to apologize, he knew that, but seeing Celestia so angry... she scared him. With a snort, he drew himself up and knocked. Whatever came of it, he would apologize.

The door opened a moment later to reveal Nightlight, Shining’s father, who smiled and stepped out of the way. Shining glanced around, looking for the Princesses, but did not see them.

“The Princesses stepped out quite some time ago,” Nightlight said, as if reading Shining’s mind. “They cited needing to raise the moon and the stars, but they haven’t been back yet. They sent dinner shortly after they left, and we were just finishing up, but there’s some left if you’re hungry.” He waved a hoof to the table where a large covered platter sat in the middle.

“It’s been fairly quiet so far, not much real discussion,” Nightlight trailed off, glancing somewhat nervously at the group out the side of his eye, “but watch out for the pink one.”

Shining raised an eyebrow, but Nightlight didn’t say anything more before walking back to the table, and taking a seat between Twilight Velvet and Spike. Shining walked over to his seat from earlier, righted the chair he, to his chagrin, must have knocked over during his earlier outburst, and sat down. He wasn’t particularly hungry, but he opened the platter and took a few pieces of fruit to nibble on.

“Hi there!” a perky voice said to his right.

Shining started, but quickly recovered. A pink earth pony mare stood to his right, bouncing ever so slightly.

“I’m Pinkie Pie!” she said. “These are my friends, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Applejack and Fluttershy!” she said, pointing them out in a row along his right.

Shining stared blankly before clearing his throat. “Hello, everyone. I’m sure my name came up after my outburst,” he said as he looked away briefly, trying to hide his blush, “but I’m Shining Armor.” Pinkie blinked, but otherwise didn’t move. She seemed to be waiting for something. “Nice to meet you?” Shining guessed.

“This is going to be great!” Pinkie Pie cheered, and Shining nearly fell off his chair. She wandered off rambling to herself about supplies she would need.

Shining glanced to the pony on his right, Rarity, a white mare with long purple hair. “Is she always that... excitable?”

“Hm?” Rarity said, glancing over as if she hadn’t noticed. “Ah, yes. You’ll get used to her. She’s Ponyville’s premier party pony, and she seems set on throwing one for you and your parents.” She paused long enough to tilt an ear and listen to Pinkie’s monologue. “It would seem you’re the guests of honor.”

“A party,” he deadpanned.

“Oh yes, Darling. Cake, punch, decorations; I’m sure you’ve been to at least one before.”

“Yeah!” Rainbow Dash called excitedly, doing a quick loop over her chair as she took to the air. “It looks like it’s going to be a big one, too! Kind of like she threw when Twilight-” Rainbow Dash sank down to her seat, a sheepish expression on her face. “Sorry.”

Shining shook his head. “Don’t worry about it. I’m surprised to hear she went to a party. Twilight wasn’t much of a socialite before.”

Spike chuckled softly. “If you call locking herself in her room, trying to sleep while everypony else was having fun, then sure, she went to a party.”

“Hey!” Pinkie exclaimed, popping up between the two of them. “She did, too, attend the party! Remember how she tried my signature cupcakes topped with hot sauce?”

Shining gagged softly before turning Rarity. “I don’t think I could ever get used to that pony,” Shining said. He caught something out of the corner of his eye, a strange twitch from Pinkie pie. He glanced back at her. She seemed... sad. It definitely wasn’t the same jubilant smile she had when she introduced herself.

“No one ever is, Darling.” Rarity said with a smile as she took a small bite of a dessert and then used her telekinesis to dab her lips politely.

A soft rumble came from Shining’s left as Nightlight cleared his throat. “Since we’re just about done eating, and everyone is finally here,” he said, glancing at Shining, “perhaps we should get down to the reason we’re here?”

A thoughtful silence greeted him as the others all turned their attention inward.

“I think we should forgive her,” a soft voice finally said. Fluttershy, the yellow pegasus in the middle, shrank into her chair as all eyes turned towards her.

“Just like that?” Spike asked. He stood up on his chair, gouging the table as he clenched it in his claws. “She killed Twilight. That’s not something you can just forgive so easily.” He sat down and crossed his arms, glancing away from the table.

“I reckon not,” Applejack said, “But you heard it yourself. Princess Luna and Nightmare Moon aren’t the same pony.” She paused and scratched the back of her head, momentarily upsetting her hat. “Although, I don’t rightly know what Nightmare Moon was.”

“A monster,” Pinkie Pie said, uncharacteristically solemn. “Just thinking about what Luna went through... She was an artist, an alicorn, a Princess. And for all her efforts she was ignored.” Pinkie Pie hung her head and shook it slowly. “Then she was taken over and banished to the moon for a millennium; tortured and left, alone, with that... that... thing!” She looked up into the startled silence, as if just noticing the others were there. “She didn’t deserve that,” she said softly, turning in her seat to face away from the group. “Nopony deserves that.”

Fluttershy placed a comforting hoof on Pinkie’s shoulder, earning a brief smile in return.

Rainbow Dash nodded once, as if confirming something to herself. “She’s right,” Rainbow said softly, but grew in passion as she continued. “She’s right! Princess Luna has gone through so much, we can’t turn our backs on her for what that monster did!”

Fluttershy nodded. “The poor dear... She is as much a victim here as Twilight was.”

The rest of the Bearers nodded, as did Shining’s parents. Spike didn’t, but he also seemed more relaxed, looking glum rather than defiant. Shining found he couldn’t really blame Princess Luna either. It’s not like she had control over it. Besides, Twilight had forgiven her, and so could he.

“What about Celestia?” he said, surprising himself along with the others, and drawing their attention.

“I beg your pardon?” Rarity asked.

Shining paused as he gathered his thoughts. “She’s the one who sent Twilight, sent all of you, against Nightmare Moon. She manipulated the situation, Twilight... everyone into this confrontation. Doesn’t that make her to blame for it?”

“Who else could she send?” Rainbow Dash asked. “It’s not like there were a lot of options here,” she said, glancing at Shining.

“So, you’re saying she just sent Twilight off and hoped for the best?”

Rainbow Dash shook her head. “Princess Celestia had no other choice. Remember the scroll? She said she couldn’t control the Elements of Harmony anymore.”

Applejack nodded. “She searched for centuries tryin’ to find a way to use them to bring her sister back.”

Shining nodded reluctantly. More than anyone, he could definitely understand that. What would he do if there was a way to bring Twilight back? What wouldn’t he do?

“Why didn’t she find another way to stop her, then?” Twilight Velvet spoke up. “She’s an alicorn. Why couldn’t she fight Nightmare Moon?”

“Because Nightmare Moon had the one thing stopping Celestia from even trying,” Shining said, and let out a long sigh. “As long as Nightmare Moon possessed Luna, Celestia was powerless.”

Nightlight nodded to himself.. “Looking at it from that perspective...” he trailed off, turning to face his wife, “it would be like asking Shining to fight Twilight.”

“Yeah,” Spike said with a nod, “all she could do is make sure everyone was in the right place at the right time, but she couldn’t have known what would happen. There’s no way she’d hurt Twilight on purpose.”

Twilight Velvet started weeping, and Nightlight held her closely, but they both nodded, acknowledging the truth. The princesses weren’t to blame.

“So it’s agreed then?” Shining spoke up. He looked around the room, waiting through the lengthy silence for any sign of disagreement. “Very well, should I have Captain Sterling ask the princesses to return?”

After a nod from the group, Shining walked over the door where Captain Sterling was standing and asked him to tell the Princesses that a decision had been reached. It didn’t take long for them to arrive, but Luna hesitated in the doorway as she saw Shining Armor. He cringed a bit, but gave Princess Luna a bow, welcoming her to the room. She took her seat next to Celestia nervously, glancing between Shining and the door, repeatedly, as he took a step forward to address them.

“Your Highnesses, I would first like to apologize,” he said. “Princess Luna, my actions were entirely uncalled for this evening. I didn’t mean what I said. Deep down I knew you weren’t a murderer, and I most certainly shouldn’t have attacked you. For that, and so much more, I am sorry.”

He paused briefly as he looked to Celestia. “I know how much Twilight meant to you, Princess Celestia, and I’m deeply sorry for my words.” He bowed his head and sank to his knees before them. “I hope you both can accept my apology.”

Celestia and Luna both nodded. With a sigh of relief, Shining bowed once more. “Thank you.”

“Captain Sterling tells me that you’ve all made a decision?” Celestia inquired, looking to the rest of the group.

The group nodded as one, and turned their gaze, one by one, to Shining. He groaned internally. I should have expected that, I guess. He cleared his throat, and turned to the Princesses. “It seems I’ll be speaking for us on that.”

Shining glanced at the group once more, seeking confirmation. A few of the ponies nodded back at him, but no one spoke. Shining took a breath and turned back to Princess Luna.

“We forgive you, Your Highness.”

“You... do?” Luna asked hesitantly.

Shining nodded. “Yes. We all agreed that you weren’t Nightmare Moon. I realized that myself earlier tonight when I was out, but bottom line is I didn’t know if I could forgive you, and no one here really did until we started discussing it. The Nightmare took advantage of you, manipulated you, and ultimately took over your body. Despite your emotions, that was not your fault, and neither is anything done while it was in control.”

Luna nodded once, but kept her head lowered. “Thank you... thank you so much!”

Shining smiled and nodded back, then turned. “Princess Celestia,” he said, “you also believed you shared some blame for what happened the other night. However, we disagree.

“You knew,” he paused and cleared his throat. “You knew what Nightmare Moon was capable of, but you didn’t send Twilight there on a whim, or due to carelessness. You sent the only ones who could defeat her.

“Whether or not you could’ve defeated her yourself doesn’t matter. Even if you succeeded, you would have lost your sister permanently.” Shining cringed as those words left his mouth, his head momentarily lowered as he thought of Twilight.

“Twilight was one of the Elements of Harmony, and only she and the others could possibly return your sister to you.” Shining’s voice cracked at the end, but he refused to look away. “You didn’t gamble with Twilight’s life, and you certainly didn’t send her there to die. The only gambles were whether or not they’d be successful and if Princess Luna would survive.” Shining swallowed the lump in his throat.

“This isn’t easy for me,” he continued, “and part of me is still upset, but I know the blame doesn’t lie on you two. Every way I look at it, Nightmare Moon was the only one who had any control over what happened.”

“I-” Celestia said, then hesitated. ”I honestly don’t know what else to say, other than thank you. And while we’re on the topic of apologies, I’d like to offer my own to you for how I reacted earlier today.”

Shining sighed and started to nod, but stopped himself and shook his head instead. “You don’t have to apologize for that, Your Highness. I was way out of line.” A silence hung between them for a few moments until finally he glanced at her out of the corner of his eye, eyeing her warily. “I just hope I never have to see you that angry again,” he said with a sly smile.

Princess Celestia blushed lightly and nodded, then cleared her throat and looked over the group. “You all have been rather quiet. Do any of you have anything you wish to add?”

The group exchanged glances amongst themselves.

“Seems not,” Applejack said. “We all agreed on what Shining Armor over there said. Nothin’ more to it.”

Celestia smiled and nodded once more. “Now, I’m sure you five have had a long journey from Ponyville, and I’ve taken the liberty of having the guest rooms prepared for you, assuming you wish to stay.” Celestia stopped and looked at the time. “Actually, I don’t even know if the trains run this time of night.”

“Now that ya mention it, it is rather late,” Applejack said with a yawn. “That’s mighty kind of ya, Princess.”

“I’ll have Captain Sterling show you to your rooms, then.”

Sterling nodded and gave Celestia a quick bow before turning to the group. “If you’ll follow me, please?”

As everyone left the room, Celestia turned back to Shining and his family. “I know I said it earlier, but thank you, again. I doubt it means much, all things considered, but knowing that you all were able to forgive us...”

Twilight Velvet shook her head sadly. “It’s okay, Your Highness. If anything, it does help a bit with closure.”

Shining nodded. “I... really am going to miss her, though. She always had the biggest grin on her face whenever she learned a new spell.” He chuckled.

Nightlight grinned. “Even as she got older, she still jumped around like a filly when she got excited. Always screaming ‘yes’ over and over again.”

“Remember how hard she worked at her magic when she was young?” Twilight Velvet smiled fondly. “She’d spend hours staying awake long into the night reading. I can’t tell you how many times we found her asleep and drooling into her latest book.”

A soft chuckle came from the other end of the table where Celestia stood next to Luna. “After she came to the academy I found her much the same way many times. Though in most cases, when she woke, she’d be horrified by the damage she’d done to the book.”

“Yeah,” Nightlight said with a smile, “that does sound like Twilight. Speaking of the academy, remember her entrance exam?”

“How could I forget?” Celestia laughed. “It’s not every day a simple hatching spell escalates into causing a full grown dragon to tear through the roof.

“I can’t help but remember just what it felt like to turn into a cactus. I’d never been so thirsty in all my life!”

“There was this one time I’ll never forget,” Shining said. “It was back when Twilight was still a filly, and I had just eaten the last cookie out of the jar. She was so upset she spent the next three hours researching manifestation spells. I assume she wanted to refill the cookie jar herself. Much to her dismay, she never found a way, but watching her repeated attempts is one of the funniest things I’ve ever seen.”

Shining laughed along with them for a time, but then slowly withdrew to the window while the rest of the group shared their memories of Twilight.

He glanced out, stargazing as he searched for the constellation of his sister. As soon as he found it, he spotted another shooting star that streaked across the sky above them, and gave it a lopsided smile. With a glance back at the room, he noted the others had moved to sit around the table, still reminiscing, and he rejoined them.

Although he knew no one at this table was completely okay with what happened, he knew that, in the end, things would be okay. They could never return to how they were, but, eventually, it would be okay.

Author's Note

Here it is. The ending for Sparkle No More.

It's been 4 years since I first published this story, and 2 years since the last new chapter. To anyone who reads this, thank you for sticking with me through the end. It hasn't been easy for me, but it's officially done now.

I want to give a huge thank you to my editor/prereader Bairne, and the EQD pre-reader, seattle lite who told me how bad the first draft of this story was and what could be done to it. Without them, this story wouldn't be what it is today.

You Are Mine

In the Ancient Ruins of the Royal Pony Sisters, Nightmare Moon stood in the center of a dais with the Elements of Harmony circling her, locked within the magic of her mane. “You’re a persistent little pest, aren’t you, Twilight Sparkle?” she scoffed. “Don’t you know when to give up? Or are you just eager to be the first pony crushed under my rule?”

The pitch black sheen of Nightmare’s coat seemed to combine with the darkness of the night, creating a single entity. If not for the glow of Nightmare Moon’s mane, Twilight would have had trouble seeing her opponent. She stood and stared into Nightmare Moon’s eyes. “I’m not afraid of you, Nightmare Moon. I will defeat you.” Twilight scuffed a hoof against the ground, lit her horn and lowered her head as she prepared to charge.

Nightmare Moon scoffed, rolling her eyes at Twilight. “You’re kidding,” she deadpanned. “You’re kidding, right? I have the Elements. Your princess has been dealt with. What can you possibly do to me? And how do you possibly expect to defeat what you can’t even see?”

Twilight ignored her boast and galloped as fast as her legs could take her, keeping her horn alight with magic. As Nightmare Moon counter-charged, the distance closed dramatically, and just as they were about to collide, Twilight vanished and teleported to the platform where the Elements of Harmony lay in a circle.

She rubbed at the pounding in her head, but quickly shook off the feedback from her teleportation. She prepared her spell and cast it on the Elements. The reaction sent her flying across the room until she skidded to a stop.

Looking across the room, she saw Nightmare Moon standing in the middle of the Elements as a spark jumped between them, crackling and buzzing with each arc that it made.

“That’s the best you could come up with?” Nightmare laughed skeptically. “You had a better chance of creating a time spell with that little magic trick. I have to say though, the outcome was certainly amusing.”

Twilight smirked as she waited for the sixth Element to appear, but to her horror, the spark fizzled out after a mere couple of seconds. Her jaw dropped as she gaped at the lifeless orbs in front of her. “But... where’s the sixth Element!?”

Nightmare Moon's laugh began as a light chuckle, but quickly morphed into a triumphant cackle as she reared back. Its crescendo continued as she slammed her hooves into the floor, cracking it with the force of the impact, and completely shattering the Elements of Harmony.

Twilight’s gaze followed the stone shards as they clattered to the ground in front of her. As the last fragment hit the ground, her body slumped forward, one thought filling her mind. “I... failed.” That one word rang throughout her mind. “...But the prophecy said... a spark would cause the sixth Element to appear! I thought–”

Nightmare Moon scoffed, “You honestly thought that a tiny spark would somehow force the sixth element to appear? If you actually believe such nonsensical prophecies, you really are a foal!”

“But I thought... no, I know the prophecy is true! The stars aligned and you returned as predicted, the rest has to be true!” Twilight replied, staring at the shards at Nightmare’s hooves. Her mind churned as she muttered to herself, “What other kind of spark could they mean?”

“Come now my dear,” Nightmare cooed as she strode toward the unicorn, coming to a halt in front of her. “If it was that simple,” Nightmare’s horn flashed to life as she lifted Twilight’s head with her magic and continued, “I would have destroyed you long before now.” She chuckled and released Twilight from her magic. “Why are you still fighting? Your precious Elements are destroyed, your princess is gone, and the sun has been extinguished. While your spirit is admirable, let’s face it: you failed.”

Twilight sat up and pushed herself off the ground. With a defiant snort, she snapped her neck up and stared back at her opponent. “I told you, Nightmare. You don’t frighten me. I will defeat you... even if it’s the last thing I ever do!” Twilight called upon her magic and fired a burst of energy from her horn, only to have it whiz right past Nightmare’s head and into a wall turning the the area of impact into rubble.

Nightmare glared down at the unicorn, momentarily stunned. “You... you just tried to...” she trailed off into a growl. “You miserable little whelp!” she shrieked. “You dare attack your new queen!? While I enjoyed toying with you and your little friends, it’s time to end this pathetic charade.”

With a simple headbutt, Nightmare Moon knocked Twilight off her hooves and sent her crashing into an adjacent wall, where she slumped to the ground with a groan.

Twilight winced and rubbed her head as she stood up, desperately trying to shut out the pain. Hearing the distinct sound of magic being prepared, her eyes snapped open to see Nightmare Moon attacking once more.

Twilight jumped out of the way, barely dodging the bolt of magic as it collided with the wall. Stone shrapnel exploded in all directions from the impact and nicked Twilight’s coat as they shot past her.

Acting on instinct, Twilight returned fire with her own magic, firing multiple short beams at her target. Nightmare nimbly dodged the attacks, leaped into the air, and launched herself at Twilight.

Seeing her opening Twilight fired one last quick spell, this time connecting with Nightmare and striking her in the chest. However, she was unharmed and unfazed by the bolt. As Nightmare countered with a headbut Twilight cast a shield around her, but it only succeeded in softening the attack.

Twilight tumbled in front of a large broken window and came to rest on top of shards of glass beneath it. She groaned in pain as she regained her senses. Twilight struggled to stand as Nightmare Moon strode over to her, but found her legs unwilling to support her weight.

“Out of energy already? I was kind of hoping you’d last longer. It would make what I’m about to do a lot more enjoyable. Twilight Sparkle, I’m afraid you lost. And let’s face it, you never stood a chance in the first place.”

Nightmare smirked and looked up. “Do you know where you are? This is the room where everything happened. The last argument I had with my... sister. I had nearly destroyed her,” Nightmare Moon said smugly, but then her smile warped into a snarl, “but then that old fool, Star Swirl, showed up. He thought he could stop me; I beat him fairly easily too.”

Nightmare snapped her head back to Twilight. “Then Celestia came in with the Elements, and all was lost. I'm sure you know what it feels like to be so close to victory, only to have it snatched away from you unexpectedly.” Nightmare Moon favored Twilight with a sardonic grin, then shook her head and chuckled.

“And while you have angered me with your foolishness much like Star Swirl did, I’ve decided that you can be of some use to me. Join me, Twilight Sparkle.” Nightmare Moon lowered her head to Twilight's level. “Join me, and I'll spare your life.”

Twilight growled, “I’d rather die.”

“So be it.” Nightmare cast her telekinetic grasp on Twilight, only to have it dissipate shortly after. Nightmare simply smirked as she began speaking once more. “Ahhh. Now I see why you put up such a fight before. You must be one my sister’s faithful students, right? She must’ve started placing protective spells on her students ever since the last one. But something I realized before I killed Star Swirl...” Nightmare Moon levitated Twilight, and moved in to circle her. “Even the most complicated spells have their faults. There are ways to maneuver around them,” she paused and fired a black beam at Twilight’s horn, “and ways to disable them.”

Twilight’s eyes widened as she was forced to stare into Nightmare Moon’s eyes. “Guess what, Twilight Sparkle. I’ve decided I’m not going to kill you. Instead, we will rule together. Me, as Queen of Equestria, and you, as my loyal servant and minion. Equestria may be ours, but you...”

Nightmare Moon smirked as she lowered her face closer to Twilight’s. The alicorn conjured one final spell to her horn, and released it onto her victim. Twilight’s eyes turned pure white as the pitch black aura surrounded her horn and gradually formed around Twilight. Nightmare flashed a toothy grin as she gloated, “You are mine.”

A sharp pain formed at the base of her hooves, and slowly climbed upwards. Terrified, Twilight glanced down to see her body being transformed by a black substance, wisps of dark gray smoke rising as it progressed.

But what concerned Twilight more was the sensation that followed. What started out as an annoying prickling sensation, as if someone was poking her hooves with a sharp stick, quickly escalated. Soon it felt like she was being slid into a coat of barbs that dragged itself along her skin. Slowly it climbed higher, up her legs and around her stomach. As it reached her neck she felt as if she were burning alive. Twilight opened her mouth to scream, but all that came out was a choked gurgle.

As the black matter settled around her horn, the world around her began to fade. Nightmare Moon’s wicked smile filled what remained of Twilight’s vision, and her last thoughts were of her failure. She had failed to stop Nightmare Moon, and because of it everyone she loved would suffer. The princess, her family, her friends... All of Equestria would be shrouded in eternal darkness, and she had allowed it to happen. One last, regretful tear fell from her eye and trailed down her cheek as she succumbed to the darkness.

I’m sorry...