Chapters The Second Age of Equestria : Whispers in the Night
Chapter 1
A Half Remembered Dream
First Year of the Diarchy of the Second Age of Equestria
Canterlot Royal Throne Room
Luna des Nacht
Midnight Court
Since her return to Equestria, by and far, Midnight Court had been her least favorite discovery. When before she ruled with her sister, they had lesser ponies handle this affair. If they deemed it important, an item would be bumped up a rank. And so on until, if something was urgent enough it would reach one of the Diarch’s. But now, no. She had to sit on an uncomfortable throne for almost all of her waking hours listening to meaningless politics. Much had changed in her absence.
The pony before her, Lord Rust she seemed to recall his name being, was not the bearer of such urgent news and as such her concentration had wondered.
Would not be so bad if we were allotted cushions for this Faust forsaken hunk of metal. And the temperature, is it really so necessary to keep a throne room boiling? Tis a wonder how mine sister could prefer this to are old ways. They will not even let us break our fast before attending! As a matter of fact I am beginning to feel quite nauseous. We wonder would it be unbecoming for us to ask for a cushion and maybe some water? We haven’t felt this uncomfortable since .. No, surely not now. So soon? They have never come so suddenly. But tis the same ...
Luna shifted uneasily on the throne. Waves of nausea were sweeping over her as well as a feeling of great frustration. She attempted to right her posture before anyone noticed, but it was too late.The delegate from Las Pegasus halted his lecture on tax policies and looked at her warily. “Is everything alright your highness? You seem distracted.”
“Tis nothing Lord Rust. A thought crossed our mind at an inopportune time, please continue.”
“If you say so Princess. Now, as I was saying the current rate of fifteen percent on imports is amite high, and has resulted in a few strained relationships between...”
The rest of Lord Rust’s speech began to draw on, but Luna’s focus was elsewhere. Another bout of nausea hit her, as well as another unbefitting emotion. She focused on the feeling, drawing magic to it. Ah ha! Yes! Tis as we suspected! Another breakthrough. We must hold off! This can not be forgotten. We must be focused. But not here. They would suspect. They would alert Tia. She would not understand. She never understands.
She scoffed at the thought out loud. But apparently Lord Rust took it as encouragement for his point and droned on. The last few left almost as soon as they came. We must not allow more of are precious memories to slip through are grasps. To Tartarus with this dratted court! Why must Tia allow these ponies to prattle on about nonsense day in and day out? Do they not understand a God has more important matters to attend to?! Wait, he finally appears to be winding down. We must hurry before this one too passes us by!
“Lord Rust, we have listened to your proposal with an open mind and unbiased ears. But we are afraid we must decline your request. At this point in time such a move would be unwise.” She bit her lip and hopped she had bluffed her way through.
“Yes my princess, thank you for your time.” Rust replied bowing low. And with that he turned and strode out of the room. Luna let out an inaudible sigh of relief. We hope whatever Rust was proposing was of no grave importance. We suppose if it was he shall bring it before us again. But for now we must away, before it fades entirely.
Luna rose from the throne and descended the dais to the floor below. A host of Lords, Ladies, and servants turned to her expectantly. She coughed a little to clear her throat before speaking. “Ahem, at this time we shall break for a time, rest as you see fit but report back to the throne room in three hours. Dismissed.”
The congregation of ponies began to file out in small groups. Idle conversation leading to a few stragglers.Luna waited until none but her remained before departing as well. She waited for her guard to form around her outside of the doors before swiftly making for the royal chambers.
Moonlight drifted almost lazily through tall windows placed along the hall from the throne room. The tapestry of the history of Equestria laid at her feet, their shadows cast from the stained glass. Glancing at them she attempted to discern the stories told there. Some familiar while some completely unbeknown to her. We will have to make proper time to inspect these again, but not now. Must hurry. I will not lose another.
Luna and her entourage rounded a corner into a large group of ponies on there way out of the palace. They quickly pressed themselves to the wall to make room for the hurried lunar princess. A small smile graced Luna’s lips. It warms our heart to see the ponies enjoying my night, not like they use- …
Her thoughts trailed off and she halted mid step. Her mind having reached a block. Not like they used to? But the ponies used to love my nights, they celebrated and fasted, at least before …
Another block, but this time it was accompanied by the nausea and a feeling of pure resentment, but unquestionable longing. Yet another piece of the puzzle it doth appear. What are you not telling me Tia?
Her abrupt halt in the middle of the corridor had startled her escorts. One was about to voice his concern when the alicorn again began her march. The guard quickly began to reform around her when Luna broke into a full out canter. In a panic the guard drew their weapons and attempted to close the distance.
Luna caught the action out of the corner of her eye and immediately regretted her impatience. She craned her neck around, still running, and offered a brief explanation. “Erhm, a private emergency mine guard, no need for that. I am close enough now, thank you for your assistance. We shall rejoin you shortly.”
And with that her horn lit up, flashed, and she was gone.
*
Luna reappeared in her chambers with a small pop. The light on her horn from the brief teleportation faded away leaving her in darkness. She fumbled along the wall looking for the light. Bumping the gem the mage lights around the room flared into life, illuminating the royal chambers. The soft light played across the indigo walls, and casted harsh shadows against the star scape of a ceiling. She began to move across the room to her desk, but never made it from the door. A hammer was being beaten against her skull and fire doused on her magic. No time, it is flaring. Now or never. She dropped to her knees, wincing at the crescendo.
Squeezing her eyes tight the alicorn flared her wings and ignited her horn. The magic immediately took hold. The still unfamiliar sensation of the emergence washed over her. Ants were devouring her flesh. A spear had been driven through her chest and the hammering in her head was now a full on riot. Focusing against the pain, on the point where her sentience met her magic, she increased the flow of energy. At once the pain vanished, and a serenity descended. Unconsciousness swiftly began to take hold. Please, show us what transpired then. What is our sister keeping? Why did she banish me?
*
Luna made her way down the corridors at a leisurely pace. Occasionally stopping to admire the night scape from one of the keeps high windows. The occasional maid or guard would pass her, but none interrupted her musings. All left the alicorn to her thoughts.
Having satisfied the urge to admire her visage however, Luna resumed her trek. Making her way through the still unfamiliar halls. Turning a corner and running into yet another dead end she decided to ask a servant for directions. Spotting a winged mare exiting a hall, she called out “Excuse me, maiden? Might I trouble you to show me the way to the tower?”
The pegasus seemed surprised but quickly bowed low. “Of course majesty, this way please.”
The frightened mare led Luna through a few corridors before emerging into a grand hall at the foot of a sweeping staircase. She turned and bowed again. “Highness.”
Luna returned the bow with a small curtsey. “ Many thanks.”
The servant turned and retreated the way they had come. The princess turned and walked to the end of the hall, where a great set of wooden doors stood open. Resting against the door she again admired the beauty of the night, this time relishing in the warm summer breeze flowing across the courtyard. The courtyard itself was in disarray. Piles of stone and lumber occupied most of the space. Construction equipment and tents vieing for what remained. Turning her eyes away from the courtyard, and through a hole in the still uncompleted wall, she could see the vast expanse of the Everfree extending on. The green boughs swaying in the gentle wind. The leaves shining in the bright light of the moon.
Luna sighed happily. Truly content for the first time in many months. The happy mood quickly vanished however, as her sight panned from the forest to the distant glowing lights of Canterlot.
“Sister.” She almost growled. “All of this because of your indecisiveness and cowardice. Maybe when the loss, your own, you will see the folly of your ways. Until that day though …”
She trailed off into silence. Still glowering at the distant city. Luna shook her head, clearing the distractions. “Not this night, no. Tonight will not be marred by your tragedies.”
The alicorn turned and and began to climb the winding stairs. After a few minutes she finally reached the top of the tower. Of her tower. Her home. Her new home. Which was, still unfinished, she noted. “I thought I gave instructions for this place to be finished first? There isn't even a roof!” She shook her head in annoyance. “I will have to crack down on this. To much these ponies have been influenced by my sister. Lazy. Is what they are. From all of her coddling. They ought to know good things, a functioning society, do not come from happiness, but from hard work! It is a wonder Equestria held on as long as it did with this type of mentality. Much will we have to work to undo my sisters ways.”
Her rant trailed off into the dark as she approached a set of doors near the end of the hall. Pausing to orient herself, she forced all thoughts of her sister from her mind. Succeeding, for the time being, Luna pushed the doors open with her magic and entered as quietly as she could. A smile worked its way across her face, all hints of her previous demeanor vanishing. The alicorn made her way across the dim room to the stallion standing over a small bed. Luna crept up beside him and placed a small kiss on his cheek. The stallion turned and smiled at her. “Luna, I was wondering what was keeping you. Is everything allright?”
“Yes Notte, everything is fine. Just lost in my own thoughts again. How is she?”
“See for yourself.” He said and stepped aside.
Luna stepped up to the bed and smiled down at its occupant. “Hello my darling.” She crooned. “Mommy missed you. Oh come here.”
She reached down and gently scooped up the small bundle from the bed. The little filly wrapped up inside cooed with delight at the attention. Beaming up at both of her parents. Lunas heart melted at the sight. “ She’s so beautiful. She looks so much like you Notte.”
“Pssh. I should hope not. What parent could wish this mug on their child?” The stallion scoffed, the dim light throwing his smirk into contrast. The light briefly illuminating his smoky grey coat and silvery mane.
“Oh stop it, I wouldn’t be standing here if you were that bad on the eyes.” Luna replied.
Notte just grinned again. “I might be offended if you weren’t a terrible liar.” He leaned up planted a kiss on her lips. He turned his attention back to the small filly, who was presently chewing on a lock of Luna’s mane. “So, have you decided on a name yet?”
Luna paused and looked down at the light pink alicorn in her arms. “I was thinking, how about Cadence?”
*
As the vision ended, and consciousness returned. Luna began to cry.
Author's Note
So, voila! Chapter One is here. More to come. I have great things in-store for this fic. Thanks to Doctor Strangelove for editing, I think. If you see anything wrong please point it out. If you do not like it please explain to me why, I love input. Also, if you do read it, please give me something. A thumb either way, a fave, comment, something! Anyway, hope you enjoy whats to come. .
The Second Age of Equestria : Whispers in the Night
Chapter 3
For Equestria!
First Year of the Diarchy of the Second Age of Equestria
Ponyville Express
Twilight Sparkle
En Route to Canterlot
Rainbow Dash was lecturing a random filly in the seat behind her about the Wonderbolts. Pinkie Pie was bouncing up and down the aisle. While an elderly stallion in a uniform standing at the rear of the car clicked his tongue at her. Rarity and Applejack were arguing over fashion, or the lack thereof. Fluttershy was worrying out loud about Angel bunny. Two filly’s in the front of the car were crying. The sun was extremely warm. The train was extremely slow. And all of this was leading to Twilight’s inevitable mental break down.
Mere seconds before she let her magic set her on fire. Again. Somebody poked her in the ribs. “Hey Twilight, are you okay? You look like you are about to freak out. Again.”
Twilight exhaled sharply before turning to the seat beside her. “No Spike. I am definitely NOT okay!”
“Um why? The Princess probably just wants to see us” The little dragonling responded, looking curiously at her.
“JUST WANTS TO SEE US?!” Twilights outburst drew the attention of nearly every on in their car. “SEE US! She sent a royal paige, all the way to Ponyville. And a letter by dragon fire. AND a letter by post. All saying for US to come to Canterlot. WITH the Elements of Harmony. AS SOON AS POSSIBLE! But no, she probably just wants to see us. Or say hi! Or send us on a picnic! Not tell me she’s disappointed in me as student. And that I failed something! And that she is going to take the Elements away and find new bearers because I messed up so badly! Not at all banish me to the moon because I’m such a horrible pony!”
Twilight was standing on the edge of her seat glaring at her assistant panting. Spike for his part, looked like he was about to break out laughing. Which made Twilight even more upset. She was about to explode again when someone else poked her in the ribs.
“Jeez Twi, come down. I’m sure it’s not that bad.” Dash said, not at all concerned with the glare she was receiving.
Before Twilight could respond Pinkie Pie popped up into her face. “Yeah! She probably just wants another batch of my super duper extra special brownies! Or! Or! Most likely some evil villain of some sort has broken free or returned from exile and is threatening Equestria and the very fabric of existence! And the Princess wants us to take the Elements and go up to them be all like voosh vroom wam and send them back to Meanieville!”
The pupils in Twilight’s eyes shrank to pinpoints. Seeing this Applejack nudged Pinkie aside. “Sugarcube, I don’t think y’alls helping are Twi out to much like that.”
Rarity nodded in agreement. “Quite darling. Twilight dear? I’m sure every things is fine. Right girls?”
Everypony nodded their head. Rarity turned back to the panicking librarian. “See? Nothing to worry about. We don’t want to have another incident now do we?”
Twilight cringed and tried to calm herself down a bit. “Girls I appreciate it but this isn’t the same. I’m not imagining the issue this time! Something really is up! Why would she have us ALL come to the palace on short notice with the Elements otherwise?”
They all pondered it for a moment. After a brief silence Rarity spoke up again. “Okay dear, I’ll give you that. But, it can’t be all that bad. She didn’t come herself, and she didn’t send a chariot. And Equestria seems normal. So how bad can it be?”
Twilight shook her head in exasperation. “Very. Very. BAD! What if Celestia knows a threat is coming and wants us here beforehand! Or what if it’s already here but hiding! Like assassins! Or *gulp* what if the unspeakable happened ...”
Twilight started shivering at the mere thought. The rest of the girls looked really confused. It was Fluttershy who spoke first. “The unspeakable? That sounds really bad.”
Twilight shook her head. Fluttershy continued on. “C-can you speak of it? If you don’t mind that is ...”
Twilight looked up fearfully at her friends. Body shaking and lips quivering she tried to explain it to them. “Wh-what i-if ... what if Celestia hasn’t been getting m-my friendship reports?!”
Everypony who had been on edge while she spoke slumped back down in their seats at her revelation. Pinkie Pie fell on the floor and began cackling. Ignoring her Rainbow Dash poked Twilight again, causing her to jump. “Are you kidding me egghead? That’s the unspeakable? Here I thought you were talking about an apocalypse or something.”
Rarity and AJ shook their heads in agreement. Fluttershy was hiding behind her bangs. And Pinkie was still snickering on the floor. The librarian glared at them. “Fine, it might not be the worst possible outcome. Or even probable for that matter. But something is still up. And this train is getting us absolutely nowhere!”
She shot the last remark over her shoulder at the ticket collector who had been staring at her angrily for some time now. As she settled back in her seat the elderly stallion pushed his way through the aisle, over Pinkie, and into the next car.
“Twi, I know y’er a bit anxious and all. But we won’t get there ‘til we get there. So jus’ try and calm down for now. ‘kay?” Applejack soothed, rubbing Twilights shoulder.
Twilight was about to respond when the elderly ticket collector returned with two younger stallions with him. All three of which marched up to her. Slightly startled she spoke to them. “Um hi. Can I help you with something?”
One of the younger ponies. A stallion with a dark green coat and mane, wearing a slightly more decorated uniform replied. “Yes, yes you can. You can start by calming down and not disturbing my passengers. I’ve been told that for past ten minutes you’ve been shouting and moving around quite a bit and it is scaring your fellow travelers. I must ask that you refrain from such activities. Or we will have to remove you. By force if necessary”
Normally Twilight would have apologized and spent the remainder of the trip in quiet so as not to agitate any one. Normally Twilight wasn’t on the verge of a pyromaniac like psychotic break. She jumped off her bench and into the stallions face. “Firstly, I am not quite sure I like your tone. A simple please would have sufficed. Next, threaten me ever again and it will be a decision you will carry to your surely premature grave. And lastly! I wouldn’t be having an issue to begin with if this Celestia damned train would move faster!”
The stallion flinched and backed up a step or two. “Mam, I understand you are impatient but that is no reason for such vi-”
He was cut off as Twilight advanced again. “YES! Yes it is a very good reason. The very fate of pony kind could hang in the balance. The decidable factor being whether or not we make it to Canterlot on time. On the very orders of Celestia herself!”
Again the stallion shrunk back. “Ah-h I s-see. Well I am very s-sorry but the trains steam pipes are old. And starting to leak. At such low pressure this is as fast as we can go.”
Twilight fell back into her seat with a frustrated moan. She was about to give up hope and resign herself to her inevitable banishment when she found a solution. She jumped back up. Causing the still present train employees to jump back. “Girls? Can you look after Spike and the Elements? And meet me at the palace when you get there?”
Rarity looked around to see if anyone else understood more before she replied. “Um, of course Twilight, but where are you go-”
Before she could finish there was a bright violet flash and Twilight disappeared.
After clearing his vision Spike spoke up. “Does anyone else think Twilight doesn’t react well to not knowing things?”
Pinkie giggled and nodded. “Well that’s for sure.”
*
The familiar feel of the void between realities pressed in on Twilight; nearly suffocating her. She was accustomed to the feeling, but not for such a long period of time as this lengthy of a journey. Right when she thought she couldn’t handle anymore the feeling faded and she reappeared in the appropriate dimension with a small satisfactory pop.
She opened her eyes to see where exactly she was. A long and wide corridor made of rough cut stone dotted with statue filled alcoves stretched out before her. Warm sunlight streamed in through a giant arched glass ceiling giving a very alluring shade to the deep red of a carpet spanning the space. Turning around she the behind her the hall ended at a small wooden door.
Wracking her brain for memories of the castle produced no results for the hall, though she assumed it was the Hall of History that led to the archives. But it didn’t matter. She was close enough now that she could teleport the exact location. The lavender energy coalesced and she disappeared into the void again. This time appearing in a more familiar part of the castle.
The attendants service hall for the Throne Room. It’s about three in the afternoon, so Celestia should still be holding court. If court is still a thing in a potentially dystopian world. So, right through that door there to Celestia. Who might banish me. So, through the door. Now. Go. Door. Open. Enter.
Despite her attempts she was either unable or unwilling to go through the door that could lead to her doom. Keeping her rooted to the spot. Luckily the door opened a tan earth pony mare with red hair a flower cutie mark came through the door. Oh praise the sun. I think that’s Miss Flowers. Wow she looks old. And surprised. And angry. Uh oh.
“Lady Sparkle! What in Equestria are you doing here? Where did you come from? Don’t you know not to wonder around the castle? I would've thought you learned your lesson after the last time.” Flowers rambled on after closing the door behind her.
“Um hi Miss Flowers it’s uh- nice to see you again?” She said in a hardly convincing tone. Miss Flowers and Twilight had not had the best relationship while Twilight was still living in the castle. And she was pretty sure the last time they had seen each other Twilight accidently turned her mane into grass while practicing a herbology spell.
Apparently Miss Flowers remembered as well. “Likewise Lady Sparkle. Her highness is expecting you in a few hours. I am going to revoke my previous questions in regards to why you are so early, as I do not want to know. Shall I inform the Princess you are here?”
Twilight nodded and before she could respond the maid had turned and re-entered the throne room. When the sound of the door closing faded and silence resumed panic began to set in again. Twilight tried to find something to distract herself with, but servant’s corridors were devoid of such things as a rule. Even in the flames of the torches seemed less merry then they ought. But luckily before she could be stuck with her own musings for too long the door opened again.
“Her highness welcomes you back to Canterlot and bids you patience. She is currently wrapping up Noon Court but will be done shortly. She also asks that you wait in her study where she will join you shortly. And I ask that you do remain there. And do not try any new spells while on premise.” The last part was accompanied by a look of loathing from Miss Flowers.
Twilight grinned sheepishly before coughing into her hoof and teleporting away.
The void welcomed her back for a second before approaching her destination. It then turned aggressive and booted her back. Popping her back into reality in the hall outside of Celestia's chambers. What in Tartarus was that? I thought I was strong enough to teleport in the castle now? She reached out with her magic and immediately recoiled at the amount of wards around the rooms. Those are new. I wonder who put those up? Tabling the issue for the time being Twilight entered the royal chambers of her mentor. Fond memories drifting back to her as retraced the route to her teachers study. The nostalgia temporarily banishing her fears.
As she entered the study she noticed several things that quickly ruined this state of tranquility. First was that it was a disaster. Secondly many of Celestia’s desks and shelves had been torn to pieces. Thirdly what looked like the previous occupants of said furnishings were all on a table in front of the lounge. And lastly, she was not alone.
A multihued presence of light was hovering beside the lounge. Seemingly regarding the papers and books arranged there. However, when it appeared to notice Twilight, it let out a mischievous laugh and disappeared. All of these startled her so much she froze on the spot.
Several minutes, or hours, passed before something finally brought her out of her daze.
“I said no spells!”
Twilight turned to find Miss Flowers standing in the door with a tray of tea balanced on her back and a horrified expression upon her face.
“Bu-bu- I did- it-” The purple unicorn tried to splutter to her defense, but to no avail. The maid set her tray down and turned from the room. Several more minutes passed with Twilight standing and spluttering before Celestia herself entered the room.
“Princess!” Twilight almost shrieked as she dropped into a bow.
Celestia cast a glance at her before turning her gaze to the room. “Rise my little pony. Tell me, what has happened here.”
Twilight jumped up and launched into a frantic monologue. “Princess! Please don’t banish me! Or throw me in a dungeon! Or banish me then throw me in a dungeon in the place you banished me! Or throw me in a dungeon then banish me then throw the place you BANISHED me into a dungeon! Please please please please please please-”
“Twilight Sparkle!” Celestia commanded.
“I’m sorry!” She squeaked.
“Twilight. What, happened?” Celestia asked in her calmest tone.
“I-I’m not sure! I came into the study and everything was a mess. And then there was this mass of light by the table-” Celestia interrupted before she could go any farther.
“Mass of light you say? Where in particular was it Twilight?”
“Um, by the lounge your highness. It looked like it was reading your papers there.” Twilight replied very confused now.
Celestia swept across the room to the table in question and studied the items laid out upon it. Her eyes darted back and forth as she mumbled out non sequiturs Twilight could barely hear. “... Documentation of Tax Rush Family Farms year FA 2323... History of the Everfree by Starsw-... Lemon Cake recipe? Journal of FA 2450 Northern Expedition... What is the meaning of all this nonsense? What are you up to?”
Twilight tried to follow her teachers train of thought but was unable. Gulping nervously she spoke up. “Princess?”
Celestia looked up and into her students eyes for the first time. She smiled and spoke. “Do not worry my faithful student. Despite Miss Flowers best attempt to convince me otherwise, I know this was not you. I know quite well who it was though.”
“And who would that be princess?” Twilight asked nervously.
The regal monarch turned and looked out the window, which overlooked the gardens. “Discord.”
*
Several unicorns and earth ponies were moving about the study cleaning up debris and putting books back on their shelves. Miss Flowers stood at the center of activity barking orders to the workers about where things were to go. And occasionally shooting dirty looks at Twilight.
For her part the purple librarian was standing against the wall next to her teacher, trying to stay out of the way. They were both drinking the reheated tea set out for them earlier. While Twilight watched the activity in the study Celestia regarded the distant horizon out of the large picture window. The unicorn swilled the dregs of her tea around for a few moments working up courage, before finally asking the question burning in her mind. “Princess, when you said Discord did this...”
Celestia turned to her student and regarded her with intelligent eyes. “I quite meant it Twilight. Discord did indeed do this.”
She continued to watch her, almost mapping her response. “But isn’t he sealed in stone?”
The alicorn smiled and nodded. “He is indeed. But he IS a God of Chaos. I’m not sure many rules of reality apply to him. So I am actually more surprised that he mostly sealed in stone, and less that he wasn’t entirely.”
Twilight mulled over this information for a moment, then panic set in. “But doesn’t that mean he can bring about chaos?! Get free?! Ruin Equestria?!”
Celestia chuckled. “Calm down my student. He has been this way since the Element sealed him. And yes, he causes as much trouble as he can.” She gestured to the room behind them. “And yes he can escape, as he has several times. But he is easy enough to keep track off, and easy enough to predict is chaos. It is when he starts thinking rationally and doing sensible things, that is the time to worry.”
Twilight nodded and turned back to the workers. But Celestia spoke again and she turned back. “Now that this matter is settled. We can move onto the real reason I called you here.”
Twilight hung her head and expected the worst. But the princess laughed again. “Relax Twilight, it is nothing serious and you are not in any kind of trouble. But time is of the essence and I do require the help of the elements.”
The purple unicorn let out a breath she had not realised she had been holding. “Okay Princess, what do you need me to do.”
Celestia smiled at her but shook her head. “Not here Twilight, this requires a bit more... privacy. We shall adjourn to my chambers.”
With that she turned and crossed the room. Twilight swiftly followed after her. They exited the study and crossed the hall, then began climbing a small spiral staircase. The stairs let off at the very top of the tower, in a large round room surrounded by glass. A thick white rug stretched from wall to wall. Teak furniture dotted the space, with a large bed dominating the center of the room. The rays of the setting sun shone brightly through the windows casting deep shadow and harsh light on the floor.
Twilight let out a small gasp as she admired the room, and the impressive view the windows offered. “Princess... I’ve never been to your bedroom before... this is beautiful!”
Celestia smiled at her before gesturing for her to follow. She crossed the room and circled around the bed to a small table with several cushions set around it. The alicorn sank gracefully into one, and indicated Twilight do also. Once they were properly settled in Celestia spoke.
“Now Twilight, what we are about to discuss is very sensitive in nature. And I must ask that you speak to nobody about it. Do you understand?”
Twilight was about to ask a question but she was cut off. “Even, to the other Elements. They will perform their task in this but they are better off not knowing. You however, as Magic must know what you are doing to perform it right. Do you understand?”
She nodded and Celestia resumed. “Now, when Luna underwent her transformation into Nightmare Moon, it is my belief that she lost all sense of self and perception. Meaning she has no memory of the incident. She rebelled against me and out of jealousy, refused to lower the moon. I was forced to use the Elements and banish her to the moon for one thousand years. Upon her return, and subsequent cleansing all appeared fine. But I began to notice off behavior. Incidents. Questions she would ask. It appears that whatever wall had gone up between her and the Nightmare, separating their minds and memories, was coming down. She began to remember bits and pieces of what had transpired. I also believe that should this continue, she will remember everything... and once again turn into the Nightmare.”
Silence followed her speech while Twilight tried to process the information and Celestia started down at her hooves. Finally Twilight looked up. “Okay Princess, I think I understand. What do you need me to do?”
A grin broke across the alicorns face. “Oh Twilight that is wonderful, thank you so very much.”
Twilight smiled sheepishly back “Of course Princess. Anything to help you and Luna.”
Celestia nodded in agreement. “Right. But what I need from you is the control of the Elements. The Elements are meant to be wielded by mortals but not used upon them. So while they work on an alicorn, an alicorn can not use them. I need you and the Elements to delve into Luna’s mind and reinforce the barrier between her and the Nightmare. Succeed where I failed.”
“But Princess, why can’t my friends know? They would understand completely! They would help!”
A grim look crossed Celestia’s face. “I do not doubt there convictions Twilight. But their integrity. I know they would help. But I cannot trust any but you to keep it a secret.”
“Why must it remain a secret?”
Celestia sighed. “Because I have seen Luna go through too much. I could not bear to see how ponies would treat her if they knew she still carried the Nightmare. It must stay between us.”
Twilight nodded. “I understand. I will still help. But won’t Luna know what we are doing? Won’t she be suspicious?”
The alicorn nodded again. “Yes and no. I have explained to her you are coming with the Elements to help rejuvenate her, and restore her to her full power.”
“I see. When will we be starting?”
“Immediately. The sooner the better. Please go and fetch Luna. I think she would like to see a friendly face. I will summon the Elements. Uh, incidentally. Where are your friends?”
Twilight planted her hoof on her forehead, “I’m guessing still stuck on the blasted train at the bottom of the mountain.”
“Ah yes, I do recall seeing that the Ponyville Express was in need of repairs. I will need to get on that. In the meantime I will send a chariot to recover them.”
The alicorn stood from the cushion, followed by the unicorn, and made for the stairs. However Celestia halted suddenly, nearly sending Twilight into her flanks. The princess turned to face the librarian with a quizzical expression.
“If the train is not here my student, how are you?”
“Oh, well.” Twilight said slightly embarrassed. “I was getting very impatient so I teleported to Canterlot.”
Celestia’s eyebrows shot up. “That far? It is several miles from the tracks at the bottom of the mountain to the palace gates. Your powers are getting that strong?”
Twilight crossed her hooves. “Actually Princess, I teleported directly into castle.”
If the Princess looked surprised before it was nothing compared to now. “But there are wards preventing such things? Even I was never able to do so while still keeping the sun in motion. As a matter of fact the only ponies I have known able to do that are Starswirl the Bearded and my sister. Even they could only go short distances inside the castle. I am very impressed my student, you have become incredibly powerful.”
Twilight bowed to her teacher. “I owe it all to you Princess. Thank you.”
Celestia smiled and returned the bow. “It was my pleasure Twilight. But now, we have matters to attend to. I will see to a chariot for your friends, please go collect my sister and inform her of the plan.”
Twilight nodded before lighting her horn. The last thing she saw before teleporting away was the look of pride upon her mentors face.
*
Stepping from the void and out in front of Luna’s chambers Twilight paused to collect her thoughts. Have to make sure my story is straight. Have to be convincing. For her own sake.
Taking a deep breath Twilight knocked on the doors. After waiting several moments with no response she knocked again. With still no response Twilight called out. “Princess Luna? It’s Twilight Sparkle? Are you here?”
She knocked again before trying the knob. To her surprise the door swung open. She called out again as she stepped into the room. But there was still no answer. She lit her horn to illuminate the dark interior and locate the Princess.
Right off the bat she saw the difference between the two sisters. Whereas Celestia had an entire tower for her chambers, Luna had only two rooms. A large bedroom/study. And what she assumed was a bath. All of the upholstery and fabric in the room was in deep black or blue. Bookshelves lined all of the walls with several desks set between them.
Twilight entered deeper into the room looking for the Princess. Not in the bed. Not at the desks. Not on the balcony. She must not be here. She turned to leave the room. I wonder where she is. She should be sleeping at this time of day. Maybe she is- Wait, what is that.
Twilight crossed the room to one of the larger desks. The large drawer was nearly ripped out of the desk. Items from the top were scattered across the floor. But what caught her eye was the compartments lone occupant. A small black clad book. With “journal” stitched in gold across the front.
The Second Age of Equestria : Whispers in the Night
Confrontation and Revelation
Confrontation and Revelation
Chapter 2
Confrontation and Revelation
First Year of the Diarchy of the Second Age of Equestria
Canterlot Royal Solar Chamber
Celestia de les Jour
Celestia reclined regally on the lounge in her study. A book in her hooves and a steaming cup of tea in her magic. The light from the fireplace threw flickering shadows across the red leather padded walls, and soft cherry wood furniture. A large grandfather clock in a corner chimed softly. Twelve long deep bongs. The noise bringing Celestia from her near meditative state.
She sighed softly, marking her page in the book before setting it down. Rolling her neck to work out a crick, the solar alicorn made her way to the balcony. Sipping at the last dregs of her tea, she admired her sisters handiwork this night. Beautiful, as always Lulu. I could never quite get it right. The moon was never as bright for me, and the stars were always uncooperative. Just one of many reasons I missed you so much.
She sighed again as the last of the tea was downed. Celestia briefly considered asking Luna to join her tonight that they might bond a little, but she banished the idea. Luna was still reclusive, still … awkward around everypony. An unintended effect of the Elements. They were not supposed to block that much.
Deciding she would like another cup of tea, Celestia left her room and headed for the kitchens. Miss Flowers will unlikely be happy. But that poor mare works too hard. I can get my own cup of tea every now and then. Maybe I can even swing by Court and see how Luna is faring.
As she turned the corner, lost in her own thoughts, she missed the guard rushing up to her door.
*
Captain Silent Watcher was worried, very worried. He had been assigned to protect Luna since her return. But more importantly he had been taken aside by Celestia herself, and instructed (under what he assumed was pain of death given the severity) that he was to inform her of anything unusual happening to Luna. In particular, she mentioned strange magic.
And tonight, both had happened. The Lunar Princess had seemed distracted and pained all through court, which she then ended and fled to her chambers, from which now he could observe strange light flaring form under the door. Not to mention the very strange magic he could detect pouring from a source directly in the room’s center. All of which was very bad, and very unusual considering the room had hundreds of wards to prevent, light, sound, and magic from entering or exiting.
He and the remaining guards were clustered around the doors, a runner having been sent to find Celestia, with worried looks. The two other unicorns present had looks of wonder on their face, no doubt from the magic lashing out at their senses. He himself was having a hard time concentrating on anything thing else. He was a fairly strong and very competent spell caster. He had even been present years ago on one of the rare occasions Celestia had tried to alter the stars. But in all of his life he had never felt magic as strange, nor as powerful as what was hitting him. All he could think of to describe the magic’s feel, was that it was harmonious.
He was roused from his thoughts as the runner returned, minus an alicorn.
“Private! Where is Celestia? This is urgent!” He barked.
The runner stopped and dropped to his knees wheezing slightly. “I couldn’t *wheeze* find her captain, she wasn’t in her chambers or in the throne room. Her head maid Flowers hasn’t seen her in a few hours either.”
Watcher frowned, this was not good. This was exactly what Celestia had warned him about, and now she was nowhere to be found. He snorted in frustration before turning to the rest of the squad. “All of you! GO! Now. Find Celestia, tell her the topic we discussed is happening NOW.”
The ponies scattered, some taking wing, others running, one hobbling and wheezing, all vacating the hall. Once the final pony rounded the corner Watcher turned toward the source of the disturbance. He could no longer see any light, and the magic was slowly fading. But he still felt the tremendous fear of the unknown as he approached the door. What magic could possibly affect an alicorn? Cause this much concern to Celestia? Break through THAT many wards?
He wasn’t sure. But he knew it was unlikely something he should be messing with. Something he should wait for Celestia to deal with. Something that he was TOLD by Celestia not to meddle with. That being said he was already half way through the door.
The room was pitch black. Not an iota of illumination seeping in through the open windows and door. Watcher took a tentative step into the room, his eyes opened to their fullest extent trying to locate the cause of the disturbance. The magic of which he could feel ebbing to a stop.
Still unable to peer through the shadow, the captain lit up his horn. A decision he immediately regretted as his magic touched the residual flow, igniting it. Reacting to his desire for light the powerful magic lit up the entire room in a bright flash spanning the spectrum. The afterburn of which left him blinded.
His senses returned from the overload one by one. First his mana, allowing him to “see” that the unknown magic was all but gone. Second his sight, which despite the dim light, allowed him to see the princess curled up on the rug in a ball. And lastly came his hearing, to the heart wrenching sound of weeping. Painful, mournful, weeping.
*
Celestia's trip to the kitchens had proven fruitful. As she had been able to grab her tea, and a slice of cake. Something her servants would not have allowed on her diet. But she was a princess, she could have a sweet after sundown if she wanted to. Despite this logic, she decided it was in her best interest to eat it now, and reduce the risk of being caught.
Stuffing the entire delicate pink pastry into her mouth proved to be near disastrous as a sudden shout nearly caused her to choke on the gargantuan bite.
“Princess! Princess Celestia!” The pony shouted charging down the corridor.
“I- *cough* *hack*- am not eating cake!” She spluttered around the remains of the cake.
The guard pony came to a stop in front of her, wearing a quizzical expression. “Um, what about cake now?”
“Nothing” She replied entirely non convincingly, grinding the remains of the slice into crumbs on the carpet with her hoof.
The pegasus shifted in his armor, before shaking his head and speaking again in haste. “Princess, I’ve just come from your sisters chambers, something very strange is going on. Captain Watcher sent me to find you, to tell you that the topic you discussed with him is happening.”
Celestia's blood ran cold. She knew it had been a long shot that the spell would break, and had only informed Watcher because she knew he would only react as so in the real scenario. But if he was sending for her, then there was no doubt.
“You said my sister’s chambers, yes?”
The pony nodded
“Please stand aside then.”
The pegasus pressed up against the wall, and in an instant Celestia’s wings were spread wide, and she was rocketing off down the hall.
*
Watcher cautiously approached the huddled mass of the lunar princess. Not entirely sure how to proceed. He ran a critical eye over her, and noted with a sigh of relief, that there was no sign of physical damage. Igniting his horn and sending a pulse in her direction, he also noted that her magical aura appeared unmolested. This of course was a problem because now he had no idea why she was crying.
Arriving at her side, he carefully placed a hoof on her shoulder before speaking. “Princess? Luna? Are you alright?”
Not exactly the most eloquent thing he’d ever said to a weeping mare, but he was a guard not a therapist.
He thought that perhaps she had not heard him, and was about to speak again when she placed her hoof over his. “Y-yes. No-o … we art not sure … Why? Why would Tia withhold this? My child. My poor sweet baby.”
The sobbing resumed. It was heart wrenching. He didn’t know what she was on about, but he had to help her. “Luna? What child? What are you talking about? Are you okay? Can I do anything for you?”
Luna was about to respond when a cry shook the room. She dropped her head to the floor, clutching at her horn in agony.
“Princess! Are you okay?! Please, talk to me! What can I do?” Watcher was beside himself with worry. Thugs, assassins, drunkards. Those he could deal with. But to stand by his lieges side while she was in such agony, and be unable to help. Wash crushing on the most primal level.
Luna cringed again in pain before cracking an eye at him. “The-erhm journal. On m-ahh-my desk. Bring it. Quickly.”
The unicorn jumped up at her command and rushed to the desk. He searched across its surface, looking under pages and books but he could find no journal. He turned back to her. “Princess, I do not see a journal here, are you sure this is where you had it?”
She tried to speak but she closed her mouth again almost as soon as she opened it, convulsing in pain. The alicorn mastered herself long enough to raise a hoof and point at the drawer in the desk before the pain sent her back down.
Watcher followed the direction of her hoof to the bottommost drawer. He grabbed the ring with his magic and attempted to open it but it wouldn’t budge. Looking closer he saw the small lock built in. Resuming the search of the desktop resulted in no key. Pressed for time, and cringing in time with every moan from the princess he ripped the drawer clean out of the desk, breaking the lock in the process. Laying snugly in it however, was a small black leather bound journal.
Watcher lifted the book out and rushed it to the princess.
*
Luna was in more pain than she could have imagined possible. Her skin was being burnt and ripped from her body simultaneously. Her bones were shattering and boiling to liquid. And her horn was being driven through her skull. But she focused through the pain. On the vision she had just witnessed even as it attempted to flee.
She focused on the feeling of peace she had roaming those familiar halls. The undeniable attraction to the unknown grey pony. To the overwhelming pride and love looking at the face of Ca-
Her thought was interrupted and nearly lost as a hoof was placed on her shoulder. While the pain seemed to lessen at the contact, so did the clarity of the memory. She was dimly aware of the pony beside her talking, and of her own rambling response, but all of her concentration was on the fleeting images.
The harder she concentrated however the more pain she experienced. But it was worth it. She had to remember, had to know. Something like this could not be forgotten, had to be remembered … The journal, we must add it to the journal.
“The-erhm journal. On m-ahh-my desk. Bring it. Quickly.”
More pain. So much pain. She was losing consciousness. And then everything would be for not. Have to hold on. Will. Not. Forget. This.
She was again shaken from her reprieve by the light blue unicorn, this time however, he was waving her journal in front of her face. She attempted to grab it with magic, but the pain persuaded her to use her hooves. Taking a pen form the binding, she turned to an empty page. The alicorn quickly scribbled down every scrap of information from the vision she could remember just as a bout of nausea forced her eyes close and her head down.
She grit her teeth and hissed out another command for her helper. “Eessh-quickly. Put it back. Put it back and come help me.”
Cracking an eye she could see the unicorn pushing the drawer haphazardly back into the desk. Light flared in her mind causing the princess eyes closed again. But sensing his presence again at her side she issued her final command. “Ca-cannot hold on much longer. Please, take me to the infirmary. Please...”
Blackness took her and blissful relief descended.
*
Celestia had always been one for modesty. Never the pony to show off, or even push herself to her fullest extent. All of this was the farthest from her mind as she tore through the halls of Canterlot castle, breaking at least one sound barrier. And startling quite a few ponies on her path to the royal chambers.
I must get her back under control. If she has broken through enough for notice by other ponies then she is nearly free entirely. I will have to use the elements again. Must get Twilight and her friends here as soon as possible.
All of this was going through her mind as she reached the final corridor at nearly twice the speed of sound. Flaring her wings in front of her sisters door, and breaking every window in a two thousand foot radius in the process, she dropped to the ground.
Celestia rushed into Luna’s chambers to find them empty. Well, not entirely. She could feel the lingering effects of the magic of Harmony. But no alicorn. But definitely something. Not quite as noticeable, but still distinguishable. Traces of magic from another unicorn. Captain Watcher. She frowned at the discovery. You were under strict orders not to interfere if it came to this. It seems your chivalry has outweighed your duty. I hope for your sake you are ignorant of what has truly come to pass this night.
She turned and strode from the room. Just as two pegasus came winging around the corner to meet her.
“Princess Celestia, we are to inform you that Luna has been taken to the infirmary. Do-”
The mare was cut off as once again Celestia took wing.
*
Captain Watcher was extremely confused. First the cryptic instructions and warning from Celestia. Then Luna’s fit. And now she was mumbling about fillies and betrayal as the doctors examined her. Then there was the troubling matter of what he’d seen her writing in her journal.
It would appear Luna is under the impression that Cadence is her daughter. Which is impossible. Right? Luna was banished a thousand years ago. And Cadence is what... nine hundred and so? Oh. Oh no. This cannot be good.
There was a brief sound like a hurricane outside the door, which quickly swung wide to admit the Solar Alicorn. She stopped in the threshold and gazed around the room. “All of you, out. Now. Captain Watcher, the door if you would.”
The doctors and nurses all looked skeptical, one even looked like he was about to argue the point. But a quick glance at the look on Celestia's face bid them all farewell.
As the last pony left the room, Watcher closed the door. He turned back to the room to see Celestia standing over Luna’s unconscious form with her horn glowing. The unicorn cleared his throat politely before speaking. “Princess? Will she be okay?”
Celestia finished her spell on Luna, before turning and observing him. “Did my sister say anything to you? Did you see anything?”
Watcher shifted a little uneasily under her penetrating gaze. “Uhm, yes my princess. She did, and I did.”
A small frown worked its way onto her otherwise blank face. “What, exactly, did you see and hear?”
“Uh, well. First there was that really strange magic emanating from the princess. It was like nothing I had ever felt before. It was like a tangible sense of tranquility. An-and then it just kind of, shut off. And then Luna was there, and she was crying. So I tried to comfort her. To find out what had happened. But she was going on about something about betrayal. And a filly. She kept saying she had lost her filly. And she was in so much pain so I brought her here. Princess, is what she said true? Did Luna have a child?”
Celestia’s frown slowly disappeared. But the look of complete distaste that replaced it, sent shivers down his spine. There was a stir of motion from the bed as Luna tried to rise. But a quick spell from Celestia sent her back down. And Watcher could only look on in horror as the princess of the day turned her horn on him.
“Captain Silent Watcher, you were given explicit orders on how to perform your duties. You were told, that under no circumstances were you to interact with Luna should this incident occur. You have failed at your word, and your Princess. And as such you shall be relieved of duty.”
The unicorn backed into the wall as Celestia continued to advance. He tried to sputter to his defense. “B-but I couldn’t leave her there! She ne-”
“SILENCE.” The royal Canterlot Voice bombarded his ear drums. “You were told not to intervene. You would have been better off not knowing. But as the Elements of Harmony do not work on a mortal being. There is only one way to insure this slight, this knowledge. Does not go awry. Captain Silent Watcher, as Princess of Equestria, and lord of the sun, I hereby condemn you to stone, for eternity.”
*
There was a brilliant flash and a scream was cut short. The Royal Gardens had gained a new occupant. A new occupant, that while sealed, was not entirely incapacitated. A factor of which a certain draconequus, would no doubt be exploiting.
Author's Note
So, hey guys. Sorry about the delay. Been hit by a lot of blizzards. Lot of damage to my car and my road. So not to much free time for writing. But here, have a chapter. Hope you enjoy. If you spot any grammatical errors, or just something you find wrong, please point it out. If you liked please thumb and fave. Special thanks to Paradox949 for editing, though he is most likely pretty lonely doing it on his own. So if you are interested in editing or prereading, PM me. Lastly no promises about next upload but know that it will be out as soon as I am capable.
