Rise of Nightmares

by Lunar_Star

Rating: mature
Tags: Adventure, Sex, Tragedy, Discord, Princess Celestia, Dark, Main 6, Princess Luna, Gore, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Queen Chrysalis, Romance
Length: 8851

Darkness grows as peace finally comes to Equestria after a turbulent time in it's history

Eight years have passed since the end of the now known Gryphon War. The land of Equestria has settled back into its routine of relative peace and prosperity but under it all a darkness as old as time itself grows in powers. It has waited patiently, biding it's time to act and that time is now. This will be the greatest foe the beautiful land of Equestria has faced yet, so great in fact that the Elements of Harmony will not be enough to stop it. Not even the newly crowned King and Queen have the strength to stand alone against it.

As the ensuring shadow slowly envelope the land in darkness, old hatreds will be put aside for the greater good of all life. Hated enemies will become loyal allies and a power long thought to be myth will awaken. Can Equestria face this great darkness and come away unscared? Only the fates can tell.

((Sequel to A Hero's Rebirth))

Published 2012-12-02 22:30:01 UTC
Last updated 2012-12-31 01:47:55 UTC

Fleeting Feelings

Song birds sing their happy songs from the branch of a tree. The sun starting its journey into the sky shone it’s light through an open window upon the face of a dark blue stallion. Feeling the warmth the light gave, the stallion looked up and yawned deeply. He wanted to go back to sleep but the light from the morning sun would not allow him to do so. So he rose from his bed and stretched his legs, opening his wings only to fold them against his side once more the stallion used his magic to place a silver choker around his neck. He placed upon his head a silver crown and slipped into horseshoes of the same material. Opening the door he was quickly greeted by a unicorn mare. “Good morning your majesty.”

“Ah good morrow Autumn. I take it my wife is already up and about?” The mare nodded.

“Yes sire. She felt that it would be wrong to wake you since you had just returned late last night from your long trip to Concordia. She felt that you needed your sleep and asked that I wait for you to awaken.”

The stallion yawned once more before speaking. “Pardon me. It seems the flight back took more out of me then I had thought. In any case are Silver and Midnight awake?”

“The young prince and princess are in the dinning hall with Princess Luna. If you like I can summon them for you.” The stallion raised a hoof to stop her.

“That won’t be needed. I will be heading there myself. You may continue your other duties Autumn, if I need anything I will be sure to call on you.” The mare bowed her head and trotted down the hall. The stallion headed in the other direction down the hall and turned right before bumping into a familiar purple unicorn. He head was in a book she had floating in front of her and had forgotten to look where she was going.

“My my Twilight Sparkle if I were a dragon you would be in some big trouble.”

“Oh, I’m so sorry your highness please forgive me I was just so caught up in this book that I wasn’t looking where I was going.”

Using his magic the stallion picked up the book and scanned the cover. “Subtle Inclinations? My dear Twilight just what is it you have in mind? Plan on seducing some lucky stallion?”

Twilight’s cheeks turned a rosy pink before the stallion, using his magic returned the book to her. “It’s not like that really I was just studying on a certain topic and this book was dropped on my desk. I looked through it and it seemed to be an interesting read.”

“Well be that as it may have you seen your teacher anywhere?”

“Last time I saw her was in the throne room. I believe she is holding court right now, wait shouldn’t you be there too?”

The shook his head. “My dearest Celestia thought it prudent I get some sleep since my flight from Concordia turned out to take longer then I had hoped.”

“Oh that’s right, you flew to the Elk Kingdom.”

“Indeed. But I will not bore you with paltry details. You should be getting back to Ponyville soon. I am sure that your friends miss you.”

The young unicorn, now alicorn nodded her head before the two parted ways. The stallion made his way through the castle until coming to a set of large doors. He did not truly like court, hearing all the complaints from ponies but he knew what he was getting himself into when he married Celestia so he took a deep breath and opened the door.

“And that your majesty is how we can increase our output.”

Celestia sat upon her throne while a pony of standing seemed to be discussing matters of state or something, the stallion was not sure. As they heard the door open, Celestia was the first to notice the stallion’s entry. “Oh Lunar, you’re awake. I had not thought you up just yet.”

The stallion smiled to everyone as they all bowed their heads respectfully. He made his way up the small flight of stairs and took his spot beside Celestia. “I would not have had the sun’s rays not woken me and kept me from sleep.” He nibbled upon Celestia’s ear before she flicked it and smiled.

“It is good to see you have returned safely your highness. I was just speaking with the Queen about how we might increase our weather output so that there will not be a drought like last year.”

Celestia nodded her head. “I will see what I can do Chancellor.” The stallion bowed his head before leaving the room. The two regal sat upon their thrones as a unicorn mare approached with a stack of papers for Celestia to sign. “So how were the talks in Concordia?”

“Dull to say the least. Honestly Tia I do not know how you put up with it all those years.” The mare smiled as she finished signing the last paper within the stack.

“Well my dear husband if it were not for the events so long ago you too would have endured it right along with me.” She giggled softly before leaning against his side. The stallion opening his one wing and draping it across her.

“Any reply to the letter I had sent?” Celestia shook her head to which the stallion sighed. “It’s just as well. I figure that they must hate me for what I had done.”

“Lunar it was not your fault. This is whom you are, if they can not accept that then that is their loss not yours. Besides, you have a family here. A loving wife and sister whom care about you deeply. Friends whom would do anything to see you smile and a pair of little ones that are just as much trouble as you were.”

“Ah you mean as WE were. Do not think that you can blame their love for pranks on just me. I was not the one whom turned their sister into a Pinkie Pie look-alike when they were just a filly. All I did was help Luna get revenge on you for it.” Celestia giggled as she nuzzled under her stallion’s chin. Lunar smiled and returns it with one of his own.

“So shall we head to the dinning hall? If I know you, which I do you have yet to eat anything. Always trying to keep that girlish figure.” This got him a quick jab from one of Celestia’s hooves.

“Well I suppose I could eat something. Since court is over I do not see the reason but do me one thing would you?” Lunar looked to her as they both left the throne room and made their way through the castle to the dinning hall.

“What might that be dear?”

“Take a bath, you are starting to leave a smell.”

Lunar blinked and stopped as Celestia continued on. He lifted a wing and took a sniff. “I don’t smell anything.”

It did not take the royal couple long before they entered the dinning hall. There was a table situated within the center of the room. Luna, princess of the night sat on the one side, Silver Snow and Midnight Sun sitting beside her. The three were so into their own conversation that they did not realized Celestia and Lunar had entered.

Celestia took her place at the head of the table. Lunar felt that it was not his place, yes he was King but Celestia and Luna had ruled Equestria long before they married so he felt it was only right. Lunar took his place at her right and sat down. “Good morrow dear sister, honored brother.”

“Morning mommy, daddy.”

“Yeah morning guys.”

Celestia smiled. “Good morning everypony. I hope that we have not interrupted anything?”

The three ponies shook their heads in response. Two maids had walked in and took both Lunar and Celestia’s order before hurrying into the kitchen. “So Silver, your mother has told me that you wish to see the Summer Sun Celebration?”

The little filly nodded. “Yes papa. I even asked my teachers if I could attend. They agreed but said I had to write a report about it when I got back.”

The stallion nodded before looking to his son. “So I hear tell that you would like to join the guard when you turn of age. Follow in your old man’s hoof steps as it were.”

Midnight did not say anything at first while the others looked at him. He then looked to his father and took off running out of the door and down the hall. “Was it something I said?”

It was late that morning as Lunar entered the room of his son Midnight. The large stallion had spoken about it to his wife and she came up with the idea that maybe he should talk to him about it, just to see what might be wrong. Lunar found the young colt sitting on the balcony of his room looking out over the countryside. “Midnight?” The colt said nothing. “Son... if it was something I had said that might have struck a nerve then I...”

“It wasn’t you. I just can’t explain why I did it. I mean the more I thought about it the more I wonder, is it really what I want?” Lunar walked up beside the smaller alicorn colt and sat with him. “I’m not like you father. I can’t do the things you can. I tried training with Captain Shining Armor and...I’m just no good. Whenever I tried to fight back my body locks up and I can’t move. I start shaking and I get so terrified that I can’t even work a simple spell.”

Lunar looked to his son and smiled softly. “Son, there is nothing wrong with being afraid of fighting. Honestly I would be more concerned if you weren’t afraid. Hurting any pony for whatever reason is never a good thing and should only be used as a last resort.”

“But you’re not scared of anything.”

Lunar nuzzled the young colt and sat back up before speaking. “There was a time I was afraid. I feared conflict and the outcome it caused but I knew that if I did nothing when I had the ability to do something even the slightest thing I could do to help, well that would be far worse then being afraid. I will tell you something that my father once told me. You have it in you to be whatever you want, all that you need to do is take that first step and never look back.”

The little colt nodded and leaned against his father to which the stallion covered him with his wing. “I tell you what. The Summer Sun Celebration is being held in Ponyville again this year, why don’t you and I go and make sure things are going smoothly hmm? I’m sure a certain unicorn can’t wait to see you again.” Lunar teased. Midnight gave his father a playful pushed as the stallion chuckled.

“I hope we are not intruding?” Both Lunar and Midnight looked back to see Celestia and Silver standing in the doorway. Lunar shook his head before they entered.

“Our son and I were just having a little chat about earlier that’s all. I suggested that he come with me to Ponyville to see to the preparations as well as see his friend again.”

“You mean Sweetie Belle?” Silver chimed in.

Midnight groans and rolled his eyes. “Dose everypony know that I have a crush on her?”

“No, not everypony. Just your father, your aunt Luna, your sister, me, your cousins Cadence and Blueblood.....”

Midnight covered his ears. “Ok ok I get it.” This elected a laugh from every pony in the room.

“In any event I think it best I wash up before we leave. Your mother pointed out that I am trailing a little bit of a funk.” Lunar nodded to his family before leaving the room and making his way through the castle to Lunar and Celestia’s private bath.

Once the water was the right temperature, the stallion removed his crown and choker. He then slipped out of his shoes and slowly slipped into the heated water. He lay back in the hot water and let out a sigh of relief. The heat slowly relaxing his muscles to the point of pleasure. He lay against the side of the large tub and closed his eyes. Little did he know that somepony else had come into the bath. The steam shrouding them from view.

The only way that Lunar knew he was not alone was when the water around him rippled. He quickly opened his eyes and was about to jump out when he was met with a familiar face. “And here I thought you didn’t want to be near me because I smelled so bad.”

“Oh please as if I have not smelled the same myself after a long trip.” Celestia giggled.

“Well that’s hard to believe coming from a prim and proper pony.” The white mare splashed her husband playfully.

“Besides, I figured you would need help washing your back. I am not sure how humans did it but here it’s a bit harder.” Lunar smiled before turning around. Celestia took the sponge with her magic as lathered it up before running it up and down the stallion’s backside, going between his wings and making sure to hit any area that he could not get to.

“These past eight years have been the best in my entire existence. I only wished that things had happened differently.”

“How do you mean dear?” the mare asked as she continued to scrub the stallion down.

Lunar sighed. “Well the whole thing with Greaves. I mean why would he be so different from those before him?”

“I do not know my stallion. Greaves I fear was consumed by greed. He wanted to expand the gryphon’s hold on the land and he didn’t care who got in his way. But that is the past Lunar, The ring of Neria has been destroyed and the mine where the stone was found has been sealed off. No more shall we have to worry about it. Things do not happen for no reason. Like mother and father said, were you not here the tides of that conflict might have been very different.” Upon finishing her washing of his back, the queen of Equestria laid against her king.

“I just get the feeling that something else is lurking out there beyond our sight."

A black Alicorn sat upon an obsidian throne. Flames burn all around the mare’s throne room, giving it an otherworldly glow. She had been watching the royal couple for sometime now and cackled softly to herself. “You have no idea just how right you are my dear sweet Lunar.”

Time Among Friends

Time Among Friends

The wind softly blew through the stallion’s silvery mane as he and his son sat upon a golden chariot bound for Ponyville. “You know dad, we don’t have to do this. I mean I could just wait at the castle with mom and Silver.” The stallion looked down to his son and smiled.

“Why Midnight if I didn’t know any better I would say that you were scared.”

“I’m not scared! I just... I’m nervous ok?”

Lunar pulled the little colt closer to him with his wing. “Listen Midnight. Being nervous around somepony else like Sweetie Belle is understandable. Just be yourself alright and you will see that everything will be fine.”

“We are within sight of Ponyville your majesty.”

“Ah good. Dose Rainbow Dash know of our arrival?”

Haze nodded his head. He along with Sky High had requested to go along with their king should he need any help. It did not take the chariot long before touching down within the square. Many of the ponies around bowed their head respectfully all but one. “Hey big guy, was wondering when you would be coming.”

Many ponies gasped at the pegasus attitude towards their king. Lunar just smiled “Forgive me for keeping you waiting Rainbow. My son needed a little coaxing in order for him to accompany me. So how have things been coming along? Last years celebration in Manehatten did not really go as planed. I hope that this year will be different.”

“Well as ordered I made sure things were ship shape before you got here. Even Twilight helped out. Once Rarity’s sister heard you were coming she freaked out and started running around and tearing through loads of songs she wrote. I don’t think she knows Midnight came but it will be a good surprise.”

Lunar nodded and stepped from the chariot, Midnight following suit. “Haze, Sky. Head for Twilight’s and place the chariot there. Rainbow, Midnight and I will be checking on the preparations taking place. You may do as you wish in the mean time but be back before dusk.” The two pegasi nod their heads before taking to the air, the chariot behind them.

“So Rainbow, shall we?” The cyan pegasus landed and trotted before them. Lunar and Midnight following close behind. Lunar scans Rainbow’s form as they walk and frowns seeing the scar upon her side. “I see that your wound has not completely healed corporal.”

Rainbow lifts her wing and looked upon her scar as she trotted along. She returned facing forward as she walked towards Rarity’s. “No sir. But I barely notice it much anymore.” The trio stop in front of Carousel Boutique to which Rainbow quickly knocked on the door.

“Just a moment.” A soft voice came from inside before the door opened. Out stepped a young unicorn. Her coat was a snowy white, her mane being a shade of purple and pink hung down around her head and hid just one of her eyes. Her tail coloration matched that of her tail. The unicorn gasped and her eyes grew wide. She quickly rushed passed Rainbow and threw her arms around the large stallion. “Mister Lunar. I’m so happy to see you. I didn’t properly thank you for getting me in to music school.”

Midnight stood a little away from his father as the young mare hugged him. Lunar smiled and patted the mare’s head. “T’is alright young Sweetie Belle. T’was the least I could do. Your voice is like that of a siren.” He then leaned in close and whispered. “Don’t tell my wife I said that.” This made her giggle.

Midnight tried to speak but it was as if his voice had left him. “Hmm? Oh hey there Midnight, it’s been a while. How have you been.”

“Um... good and you?”

“Well with magic and music school it’s been pretty busy but since you are here I am sure Scoots and AppleBloom will want to see you again.” Midnight looked up to his father to which the stallion nodded.

“Just be back before dark.”

Midnight nodded to his father and trotted after Sweetie Belle. He continued to watch him as the two talked as they go. “He’s a good kid.” Lunar nodded.

“That he is. Anyway, shall we see what Rarity is up to?” Rainbow nodded as the two entered the shop of the unicorn. “Primed and pressed, yard by yard never stressed.”

“Dose she always do that?” Rainbow nodded.

“Yeah she tends to do that a lot when she get in the ‘zone’ as she calls it. Rarity you have a guest” The unicorn stopped her singing and walked in from another room, the moment she saw Lunar her jaw nearly dropped.

“Your majesty it’s an honor.” Lunar rose a hoof to stop her before she dropped her head.

“Please dear Rarity I am simply here to check on how things are going for this years celebration. I was told you were put in charge of the decoration.”

Rarity nodded. “Why yes. Princess Celestia was pleased with my arrangement several years back and ask that I do so this year as well.”

Lunar walked around the inside of the unicorn’s shop, looking over the many gowns and outfits that she has made. “Well I can see that everything is situated nicely, I shall leave you to your work Rarity. Take care.” With that he walked out.

A strange feeling was washing over the Alicorn once he stepped outside, something otherworldly. Rainbow soon joined him and could see upon the stallion’s face that something troubled him. “Lunar? What’s up?”

“I don’t know Rainbow. Something is nagging at the back of my mind. Something that I can’t quiet put my hoof on.” The two took their time walking through the streets of town, stopping at shops here and there. Soon enough it was lunch time and both Lunar and Rainbow Dash had stopped by the local restaurant to grab a bite to eat.

“I know that you always wanted to join the Wonderbolts Rainbow but at least this way you can still be around your friends.”

“Yeah I know. I never really saw myself as the military type. Don’t get me wrong I enjoy the pay increase but meh I don’t think I would have made the cut anyway and like you said, I would be away from my friends a lot what with training and shows and all.”

The waiter comes back, carrying their orders and places them before the two friends. “So how has Twilight been? From what Celestia has told me she had found a filly living in Whitetail Woods.”

Rainbow had taken her sandwich into her hooves and took a bite out of it, chewing it before she spoke. “Nyx, yeah she started raising her as her own. Honestly I don’t know why she did it. Said something about she had to or what not, not sure. Other then that she’s been good, always the egghead she always was.”

“I see, well I suppose I should have to meet this filly for myself. In any event she was appointed the organizer for this occasion but after we eat first. There are still things I would like to talk to you about.”

It was sometime later that the two parted ways and Lunar went off on his own to the town library. He had remembered his stay there and missed Twilight’s company. She was a good conversational partner. The large stallion knocked on the door and from within he heard the voice of a filly. “I’ll get it.”

The door slowly opened to reveal a small black 'unicorn’ filly. She wore a light blue headband and a pair of round glasses. A purple vest was wrapped around her body. Her mane and tail were a shade of deep purple and her eyes were teal and cat-like. She had to be Midnight’s age from the looks of it. Upon seeing the large stallion the small filly shyed away before running upstairs. Lunar slowly walked in and closed the door behind him. Twilight was just coming down when the filly ran into her. “Oh your highness I didn’t know you were coming.”

“Twilight, who is that?” Twilight looked to the young filly and smiled.

“That is King Lunar, Nyx. I told you about him remember? I found him in the forest over nine years ago.”

“So this is the filly.” Lunar slowly appraoched, doing his best to not try and startle poor Nyx.

Twilight had come down the steps with the filly closely behind her. “I will take that to mean Celestia told you about her?”

Lunar nodded. “Indeed she did though I wished to see her with my own eyes.”

Twilight smiled and lifts her tail. “It’s alright Nyx, he won’t hurt you.”

“Are your sure?” Twilight nodded. Lunar dropped down and laid where he stood. The young filly, keeping herself low to the ground, very slowly made her way over to the stallion. Lunar for the most part kept still, he watched as she inched forward and with a tentative hoof, reached out and lightly touched him. She then quickly ran back behind Twilight as Lunar smiled.

“Forgive me little one if I frighten you. I do not mean to be so intimidating.” Lunar then rose back to his hooves. “I wonder if it is not too much trouble if I could speak to your mother alone little Nyx.”

The filly looked up to her surrogate mother, to which Twilight nodded. She walked back upstairs to Twilight’s bedroom. He watched as she walked up the stairs, once she disappeared he looked back to Twilight. “How have you been Twilight?”

“Hmm? What do you mean? I have been good.”

“Do not lie to me Twilight, it is not one of your strong suits. I know of the nightmares you have been having. There is nothing that Celestia and I do not share.”

Twilight sighed deeply. “They have been coming more frequently lately. I don’t know what to make of them. Everything is black and all I can see are these glowing red eyes watching me. Then... Then I’m...”

Lunar could see the young unicorn begin to shake as she tried to continue talking. Slowly he approached the unicorn mare and dipped his head down over her back and rubbed himself along her neck to comfort her. “I’m being raped. I can’t see who’s doing it, all I see are those red eyes. It’s like they peer into my very soul and I can’t escape.”

“Be at peace Twilight Sparkle. As you are Celestia’s prized student and my close friend I swore to protect you and the rest of the Elements. I wish I could protect you from your dreams but unfortunately that is Luna’s territory not mine.”

The little unicorn mare leaned herself against the stallion’s strong chest and wiped away the few tears that had started their journey down her face with her hoof. “I did not mean to make you feel bad Twilight. I was just curious about what it was that had you so terrified.”

“No that’s ok I had to get it off my chest. I just wished that they would stop.”

“Well, to change the subject, would you and Nyx care to accompany me. I am heading over to Sweet Apple Acres to check on the food selection and then to Sugarcube Corner to speak with the party planner.” Twilight nodded. Spike was out on errands so she made sure to leave him a note should he come back and they were gone. She then called to Nyx and the three of them left the library, walking through the small town.

“Well howdy there Twilight. Howdy Nyx.”

“Hey Applejack, is Applebloom around?” The black filly looked about the immediate area after asking.

“Well shoot if’n she were anywhere I would say she was at the clubhouse.”

“Thanks.” Nyx then raced off into the farm and disappeared between the trees. Both Applejack and Twilight giggled at the filly’s gusto.

“So what brings ya round here Twilight?”

“Well since I was appointed the organizer of this year’s Summer Sun Celebration I have come by to see how things were going but I have also brought somepony else with me.”

Lunar made his approach up the dirt path to the farm. He was stopped by ponies whom wished to voice certain concerns about things like permits and zoning laws. Lunar told them all that he knew and that if they had any further questions to speak with the mayor.

“Your majesty.” Applejack quickly dropped before him. Lunar smiled warmly.

“Please Applejack, you need not be so formal around me, we are friends after all. I am simply here to check up on things that’s all.”

“I should a figured either you or the Queen were here seeing as Midnight came by with Sweetie Belle earlier. But don’t you worry none, we got everything covered fer tomorrow.”

Lunar nodded. “I have no doubt that it will be quite the feast dear Applejack and I do hope that Midnight is not getting into too much trouble. I remember when his sister joined your sister and her friends club.”

“Midnight? Nah as matter uh fact he was just helping Big Mac not too long ago.”

Lunar nodded. “Well I do hope he remains so. I know Tia will just love your food AppleJack. But I am afraid there is more for me to oversee so I shall be back later for Midnight.”

The orange earth pony smiled. “Well I’ll be sure to keep an eye on him for ya.”

Lunar dipped his head slightly, an old custom of respect. He then turned and started down the path back to town. Twilight spoke for a few moments with the earth pony before galloping to catch up to the dark blue stallion.

The two friends walked back through town conversing before they came across a familiar pink mare. “Oh my gosh. I heard from Rainbow Dash that you were here and might come looking for me. But I found you first. This is so super duper sweet.” She said as she bounced around the two of them. Lunar smiled softly.

“Yes, Celestia is busy in Canterlot so I figured I would come and see how things were going. I will take it that you have taken care of the celebration set up?”

The pink pony stopped in front of them and smiled. “I sure did. I wouldn’t be Pinkie Pie if I didn’t. Honestly I don’t know who I would be if I wasn’t. I mean I couldn’t be Twilight, I don’t have a horn and I couldn’t be a pegasus cause I don’t have wings. I could probably be AppleJack but then who would AppleJack be?”

Lunar chuckled and shook his head, Twilight just rolled her eyes. “Pinkie Pie please, calm thyself. I am simply here to make sure things are on course. Though with Twilight in charge I am not sure of the reason to do so.” This makes the lavender unicorn blush. “So I had also planed a day of it and visit those close to me.”

“Aww that’s so sweet. So who haven’t you seen yet?”

“Well, I was planning on seeing a particular earth pony. I promised that I would visit should I be in the area.” Pinkie Pie thought for a moment before a thought popped in his head.

“Oh oh you mean Starlight. I think I remember seeing her somewhere around here.” Lunar thought about it and smiled softly.

“Twilight you go on ahead. I believe I know where to find her.” The unicorn looked up to the stallion.

“Are you sure?” Lunar nodded. “Well alright, I’ll see you in a bit then.”

Lunar turned and walked in a different direction from the others. He made his way swiftly through town before coming to a large gate. Beyond it were rows and rows of headstones. Lunar looked up and upon the gate read Ponyville Cemetery. The dark blue stallion walked inside and looked about as he made his way past grave after grave. It did not take him long before he saw three ponies sitting before one headstone.

Slowly he made his way over to them before being spotted by a young pegasus. Her eyes went wide at the sight of him and she nudged the earth pony mare beside her. Upon looking up and seeing whom it was, she looked back to the headstone. “Hello Lunar.”

“I thought I might find you here.” He smiled and walked over before sitting behind the earth pony and slowly draping her within his wings. The pegasus and young earth pony looked to their mother as she just sat there in a sea of dark blue feathers. “Thunder Clap would be very proud of you Starlight, you know that.”

The mare nodded. “I know. He was a great stallion and loyal husband.”

“Um, uncle Lunar?”

“Hmm? What is it Serenity?” Lunar looked to the pegasus.

“Are you and mom really related? If so wouldn’t that make her royalty too?” Lunar and Starlight looked to each other before looking to her daughter only to chuckle and giggle softly. Lunar shook his head.

The stallion still remembers the day their mother introduced him as their “uncle”. Lunar didn’t mind it in the least, in fact he had insisted that they call him as such.

“No little Serenity, your mother and I are not related by blood. Though she is the closest thing I have to a sister here.” The earth pony leaned gently against Lunar’s chest and sighed.

“I am sorry I did not join your guard like I should have.” Lunar shook his head.

“Starlight you have nothing to be sorry for. I know your reason. Were anything to happen to you, there would be no pony to take care of Serenity and Long Shot. Well no, let me rephrase that. I would take care of them but it would not be the same as if you were there.”

The four of them sat there for a time before rising to their hooves. “Well the three of us should be heading home. Will you be at the Summer Sun Celebration?”

“Of course I will. It is after all Celestia’s big day.”

The earth pony mare then reached up and kissed the stallion on the cheek. “Then we shall see you there.” The three of them walk off before Lunar opens his wings and takes to the sky. He made his way over the roof tops back to Ponyville Library. Once he had arrived he was greeted by Twilight whom was just about to leave.

“Oh hello you majesty, I take it you were able to find the pony your were looking for?”

“Indeed I had and she was right where I thought she would be.”

“Well Midnight should be coming back anytime now. Are Haze and Sky High back?” The lavender unicorn nodded her head.

“They arrived before you did.”

Lunar looked about before feeling Midnight’s magic behind him. When he turned he could see both he and Sweetie Belle walking up the street. “I had a nice time Midnight thanks. So I guess you’ll be coming back tomorrow?”

“Of course. Mom and Dad wouldn’t want me to miss it. Silver will be coming too.”

“Oh cool I was hoping she would show up. So till tomorrow then.” Lunar watched and the unicorn mare placed a kiss upon Midnight’s cheek and then trotted off.

“So I take it you made your move eh?” Midnight nodded. “Just like your old man. Anyway we should be getting back, again thank you Twilight for taking care of things for me and... if ever you need anyone to talk to you know how to reach me.”

Twilight nodded before the two pegasi trotted up and both Lunar and Midnight climbed into the chariot. Both waved to Twilight before the chariot took to the air.

Time For Family

It took the chariot only a short time before touching down with the castle gardens. Once Lunar and Midnight had disembarked, the two pegasi took the silvery chariot back to where it was kept. Both Lunar and Midnight were soon greeted with the smiling face of Celestia.

“So I take it everything went well?”

Midnight said nothing, just walked past his mother. Celestia watched as he continued into the castle as Lunar walked up beside her. “Is there something wrong?”

Lunar shook his head. “No. He is just not willing to talk about things at this time. Suffice it to say that everything is going well. Preparations are set for tomorrow and everything is as it should be.”

Celestia looked back in the direction of where her son went. “How was she?”

“Hmm?”

“Starlight. How was she?”

Lunar let out a sigh. “She was just where I figured she would be. Ten years, since Thunder Clap was taken from her. I can’t say I know how she feels but I am fully aware that you do. I comfort her when she needs it and am always there for her, she knows this.”

Celestia smiled and leaned against her husband. “You are good to her Lunar. I am sure she knows this.”

Lunar nodded and walked alongside his Queen. The two walked through the halls of Canterlot Castle. “Many things will happen tomorrow. But at least it will not be as tramatic as eight years ago.”

“How can I forget? Still it was a good choice to institute Hilda as their new matriarch. She was kind to me even at my most vulnerable. I was however surprised that it was my own father that brought you back to us.”

“Do you regret his choice in doing so?” Celestia, leaning against the stallion pushed him, making him unbalanced and stumble a bit. She would then just giggle at him.

“Of course I don’t. Do you honestly think I would regret my father bringing back the one stallion that held my heart in his wings?”

Lunar chuckled. “I guess not. Still I did wish to speak with them more then what we had or at least have them visit and see their grand foals.”

“Mother and Father have a duty to take care of. They molded Luna and I to take their place here so that they could focus their full attention elsewhere. Just as you were molded to take you place before us and then... beside me.”

Lunar nodded. “I suppose you are right. Still I had not seen them since their departure that night and just wanted it to be the way it used to be.”

Celestia smiled before she nibbled his ear. “Things are forever moving forward Lunar. The past is simply that, past. We can not bring it back but it can be remembered.”

Lunar nodded as the royal couple walked through the hall of Canterlot Castle. “Good evening your majesties. I was just about to head home but thought I might check to see if you might need anything before then.”

Lunar looked to Celestia and she to him. Silent thoughts passed between them before they looked upon the face of Autumn Breeze. “No that is quite alright Autumn Breeze. You return to you home and get much needed rest. You will need it come tomorrow.” The unicorn mare nodded and trotted off.

The two continued to make their way through the corridors of the castle as Luna’s moon slowly began to peek over the horizon. “So how was Silver while we were gone?”

“Same as always though I do believe Luna is having somewhat of an influence on her.”

Lunar peaked a brow. “Oh really, in what way?”

“Well when she had gotten done with her classes she though it funny to give me a can of popping snakes.” Lunar did his best to stifle a snicker but the white mare caught him from the corner of her eye and quickly jabbed him with her hoof.

“We were much worse in our youth Tia. You know this as much as I do.”

“Yes but we never pulled such pranks on my parents.” Finally they arrived at their destination. Lunar opening the door for his wife and walked inside behind her, promptly closing the door behind himself.

“Are you intending to send another letter?” Lunar nodded.

“It has been a full two weeks since the last one.” He raised a hoof to stop Celestia from speaking. “Look I understand you think that I should not but... they are my family too in a way.”

“I was going to say no such thing dear. I could never deny you the ability to talk to those that raised you during your rebirth. But might I make a suggestion?” Lunar nodded. “Instead of sending it to address everyone, just send one to the one closest to you.”

The stallion sighed. “I was never close to any of them, not even the one whom gave birth to me. Though I suppose my sister might be the closest one out of all of them, if by a small margin.”

Dabbing the quill with his magic into an inkwell a few times he began to write upon a scroll that was rolled out upon a pedestal.

To my young sister

Hey there little sis it’s Tom, look I am sending you a letter because I do not know just what your mother and father are doing with them after receiving them. I have not gotten a reply back in the months that I have been sending them. I am sorry I had not sent any before then. I had told you what happened here and what with all the rebuilding we had to do I was exhausted every night. But anyway, our summer festival is coming up tomorrow and Celestia have been going about our duties and getting ready for it. It will be better then last years I hope. Your niece and nephew have been asking me about you. I have inclosed a picture of them taken during Hearths Warming eve, Christmas eve on earth.

How is grandfather doing? Good I hope. I would greatly appreciate it if you could enclose some kind of response to this. It will not vanish till you do so so you have no rush but I would hope that you do reply promptly at least this way I will know that no one has truly forgotten me. Look I know it may not mean much to everyone but I do truly miss you all. I wish I was able to bring you all here, just to show you this place but I am bound by an oath not to. These letters are all that I can do for now. Least till such time as we can bring you here to visit. Anyway it is getting late here and tomorrow we will be running around like crazy so I hope you have a good night and... send our folks my love.

Your brother

Tom

Lunar rolled up the scroll and took a stick of wax. He held it over a candle before pressing it to the rolled up parchment. He then took a stamp and pressed it into the wax, leaving an indentation of a horseshoe, The Royal Canterlot symbol. He then took the scroll with his magic and closing his eyes and flash of light later, the scroll was gone.

The stallion turned and seen his wife laying upon their bed, reading one of the many books that collected upon their shelves. He smiled softly and walked over to her before standing there and leaned his head down to nuzzle her cheek. Celestia looked up to her husband and returned his smile with one of her own.

“You sent the letter I take it?” Lunar nodded. “I do hope that you get the reply you have wanted.”

“As do I. So just what are you reading?”

“Eldest.”

Lunar blinked a moment and regained his thoughts. “Oh the Inheritance series. Yes I managed to make copies for Twilight and Rainbow Dash after they both read the first. One of the few books that I could not put down.”

“Just don’t spoil it for me.”

Lunar chuckled and whispered into her ear. Celestia’s eyes grew wide from what he told her and before she could jab him with her hoof, he jumped away. “LUNAR! I said don’t spoil it for me!”

“What? You won’t find out till later in the series anyway.” He smirked and soon took his place upon the bed beside her.

The door to their room soon opened and Luna stuck her head in. “Sister we heard thy shout. Is everything alright?”

“No Luna, Lunar decided he was going to spoil the series of books I had been reading that he brought back from Earth.”

“Oh the Inheritance series? Yes we found the books to be quite enjoyable especially when we found out that Brom is Eragon’s father.”

Celestia faced-hoof before slowly putting a book marker on the page she had started reading then closed the book. Lunar was trying his best not to burst out laughing, letting lose a snicker here and there. “Oh we are sorry, did thou not get that far?”

“No Luna I did not.”

“Then we are truly sorry. We shan’t talk anymore about it. Please have a good night.” With that she promptly shut the door. Celestia used her magic to place the book she was reading upon the shelf with the others within Lunar’s collection. It was small, mostly the books that he had brought over from Earth when they had gone to see his human family.

Lunar nuzzled his wife softly. “Celestia peace. Those books are not going anywhere anytime soon. Besides, it is only a bit of fun nothing more.”

The white mare sighed softly and looked into the fire that burned within the hearth,bathing the room in a warming glow. She soon laid her head upon the pillow as her stallion did the same beside her. She smiled softly and nuzzled into his neck. “You can be such a pain in the flank you know that.”

“Why dearest when have you known me to be anything different?”

“Disgusting. Such compassion and sentiment. The over world is absolutely revolting. Well not to worry, once my seals are broken, that will all change. I’ll make sure that the world will know my name once more.”

The black coated mare walked off from the dais that she sat upon. Two demonic looking ponies stood on either side of her throne but soon followed behind her as she made her way from her throne room and into the corridor. “Blast those Alicorn for sealing me here. They will pay for this just like Azure Sky.”

“But my queen Azure Sky is the reason you are here in the first place.” Without so much as a word the larger black mare gave a swift kick with her hind leg to her guard’s face, sending him reeling.

“Don’t you think I know that already? Azure Sky gave his life to seal me here. Now his son walks the world above again. I thought I was finally rid of him when he was killed by that spear but no, Evening Star had to bring him back. No matter, the seals holding me here are fading in power. It will only be a matter of time before I will emerge and burn everything to the ground. Blood will fall like the rain.”

“May I remind you your highness that he will do everything in his power to stop you like his father did, they all will.” The mare grit her teeth as she thought about it. She wanted to crush all those who wronged her and make every pony suffer as she did. But she was stopped and sealed within the dark reassesses by four close friends. She looked down to the ground and kicked four rocks, saying the names of those responsible for her exile.

“Solaris, Evening Star, Gaia and Azure Sky. I will have my revenge, this I can promise.” The black mare stood looking out of one of her many windows to the burning landscape that was her domain. Fires burned, lakes and rivers of magma flowed throughout the valley below. Volcanos erupt without pause in the distance. It was a hellish place, one only reserved for those who were truly vile.

Lunar was woken as Celestia shifted a bit. The moon softly shining her light through the window, covering everything she saw in a pale glow. Slowly so is not to wake his sleeping wife, Lunar rose to his hooves and quietly walked out of the room into the hall, closing the door behind him. He was soon greeted by patrolling night guards. “It is a surprise to see you up and about at this time your highness.”

“Yes that is true, but Diana seemed to want to wake me. Is Luna still at court?”

The stallion nodded his head. “She may be concluding things soon. If you wish to catch her you had best go now.” Lunar smiled and nodded to the soldier before making his way through the darkend corridors of Canterlot Castle. The Night Court was sometimes refered to as the Dream Court because it was at this time that Luna would wonder within the realm of dreams to help those whom were having nightmares.

The large dark blue stallion swiftly and softly made his way through the halls till at last he came upon the doors leading into the throne room. Pushing the doors open with his hoof he looked inside and there upon the dais sat his little sister. She had her eyes closed and if one did not know any better they would think she was asleep but in reality she was doing her duty to assure that their subjects gained a restful sleep.

He approached her with caution so was not to disturb her and sat at the base of the small incline that lead to the throne. There he waited till at last she opened her eyes and beheld her smiling brother. “Lunar? Why are thou awake? Surely you will need thy sleep for tomorrow.”

“Your moon and Celestia saw to it to wake me.”

“Well we are greatful that thou could join us. We were just closing court for the remainder of the night. Would thou care to join us for jasmine and lavender tea?”

Lunar nodded his head. “I would like that very much little sister.”

The younger alicorn guided her brother from the throne room and through the grand halls of the castle till they reached Luna’s den. Spread about the room were fluffy pillows and a large couch that sat by the fireplace. One of her hoof maidens was waiting inside to tend to her mistress’s needs. “Ah Sweet Heart. Do be so kind and to fetch us some jasmine and lavender tea would you?”

“Right away your highness.” The cream colored mare dipped her head and walked from the room. Lunar walked over and sat before the fire. He opened his wings to allow the heat from the flames to warm the cooled muscle underneath. Luna shortly joined him by his side and smiled to her brother before he draped a wing around her. To any pony who did not know they truly did look like brother and sister, more so then Luna did with Celestia.

“Sister has told us that thou still writes to thy family.” Lunar nodded.

“But why dearest brother? Surely if they cared for you they would have responded by now? What possible reason could there be to deny their own child?”

Lunar looked to the younger alicorn and smiled. “Humans are a fickle species Luna. It is only human nature to fear what they do not know. True as you say that they have yet to reply to a single one of my letters but let it not be said that I did not try. Regardless of whether they hate me or have forgotten that I am their son, they are still my family just as you and Celestia are.”

“We still do not understand but we shall press no more upon the matter. We only wish for thy happiness dearest brother.”

Lunar nuzzled Luna’s cheek, making the dark mare to blush softly. “I am happy Luna, happier then I have ever been. I have everything I have ever wanted. I have a beautiful wife, two loving children, an adorable younger sister and a slew of friends. To say I am not happy would be a lie.”

Luna then leaned against her brother as the door to her room opened. “Oh I am sorry your majesties. If I am interrupting anything I can come back some other time.”

“No no. Please do come in. Did you get the tea I requested?”

“Yes princess.” The unicorn mare walked into the room, two cups and a tea pot floating behind her. She placed both cups upon the table beside Luna, there she proceeded to pour tea into both cups before setting the tea pot down upon the table and passed a cup to both alicorns using her magic. Luna and Lunar took their cups respectfully as Luna dismissed her maid.

The two regal ponies sat in the light of the fire, just enjoying the company of each other as well as their combined warmth. Their tea cups empty and the remaining tea in the pot growing cold. “Lunar, we must confess. These eight years have been the happiest for us as well. In those lo years when you were gone we like Tia thought of ways to try and bring you back but none presented itself.”

“It matters little now dose it not? I am here and that is all that counts.”