“We are WAR incarnate! We have come far in our efforts to allude and to avoid contact with any and every race in reality and from the multitudes of universes out there. We must stand tall, stand ready, stand prepared for the coming war that will change the whole world, and ALL the other dimensions!”

*****

I awoke slowly, my body felt heavy for the moment; the morning drowsiness was annoying at times. Still, as my eyes flutter open, my sights once again filled with the horizontal lines of lime green, I expected a ruined castle’s ceiling and rubble from the pillar I was thrown upon on top of me. What I saw was completely different; I was lying on a bed, a few inches smaller than I am, and looking up to a wooden ceiling.

I took glances here and there, seeing books on shelves that were alcoves of the tree, carved inside of such and the lines depicting its age. As my hearing returns to me and my locomotion, I sit up, as I heard cheering and partying outside. It took me a minute of thought as to how I ended up here, or how anypony could drag me still I got to my feet and fixed the bed when I left. I climbed down the stairway, slowly as I still felt a stiff pang of pain on my back.

With one hand, I inspected my back, and felt that my armor was still intact. I gave a sigh as I enter the main section of the tree, the library being the only structure I have known for now as a tree. I look at the carved out shelves to see books in a strange arrangement. “Twilight has not yet sorted these books.” I spoke out for myself to inspect my voice to find glee that I sound back to my normal deep but very caring tone. I have known her long enough to be familiar with her work. But my thoughts were again broken when the sounds of celebration and cheering was evident outside.

Opening the small door, which stood tall enough for me when I crouch down, I saw outside the many ponies celebrating the After Summer Sun Celebration, which isn’t official, yet always occurs whenever the Summer Sun is done. As I got out, I saw the assortment of ponies, and some far off Guard Ponies, partying and celebrating, which I can tell was both for the Summer Sun and some other things I did not heed.

Sure enough, some of the ponies, the locals of Ponyville look at me with shocked looks, surprised stares and even silencing themselves as many of the partygoers stopped. There was a silent hushed, coming from the local ponies but the Guard ponies laugh and approach me without delay. “Hey Daybreak! Good to see you awake!” One of them announced, even with a bit of seriousness in his eyes. “Yeah, many of us thought you were done for.” Another said and sure enough the many ponies were surrounding me and offering me a drink or too.

“Yeah, listen, I really don’t recall what happened but where is Princess Celestia…?” I asked, my voice trailing with worry. The guards were quick to answer, pointing towards a direction which I followed to find Princess Celestia, safe and well. My thoughts quickly sighed in relief as I saw that she was well and beside her was a young looking mare, which had a sweet and kind baby blue coat, her mane soft and straight while her cutie mark was a moon on top of a cascading indigo on her flank. “Thanks…” I thanked the guards as I made my way towards the princess.

When I walked past some of the ponies, who were not aware of me until I did, became silent when they saw me. As I made my way towards the princess, I now notice that she was with Twilgiht, her five pony companions and Spike. Celestia took a glance up at me, surely hearing my unique sound and smiled warmly at me. I can feel reinvigorated as I came closer to them, and the partying slowing down a bit as many of the ponies were unfamiliar to me. “Ah, my knight, have you rested well?” She spoke, calmly and very caring, such as her nature at me. I smiled back at her, though my eyes were the only indication, “I have princess…” I answered back.

When I finally was noticed by the ponies, Twilight and her friends, did they gasp at seeing me. Twilight, had a different way of approach for me, she quickly moved towards me and gave me a hug, by my torso as she lifted herself up. “Oh Daybereak, you’re okay!” She announced, being out of her usual serious self as I could not help but pet her and reassure her, “Yes Twilight, now please… you are embarrassing me.“ I told her so as I glance at her friends giving mixed responses on their faces, Spike smiling still at me, Princess Celestia following as well and the blue pony who looked worried at me.

Once I have gotten her attention off me, did she finally understood and return to her hooves, coughing back to her original demeanor. “Still… You protected me…” She answered more, which made me think about that event. “Yes, I was knocked out after that, care to bring me up to speed?” I asked her as I walked slowly towards Princess Celestia, standing by her side, taking my spot as her guard.

They quickly recollected for me what had occurred. It would seem, me defending Twilight was not a change in their goal. Still, the Elements of Harmony activated and launched their focused magic towards Nightmare Moon, safe to say, defeating her, and knocking themselves out, from the magical discharge. When they awoke, they found the sun rising and from it, in radiance of bright light, Celestia appeared before them, congratulating them on their efforts and for Twilight knowing the true meaning of friendship for her to achieve her destiny, from my opinion since the Elements of Harmony originally came from Celestia.

Still, from the spot of where Nightmare Moon was, Princess Luna, who I now notice as the blue mare beside Celestia, acting confused a bit, was free from the influences and had agreed to rule alongside her sister once more with joy and love a sibling should have for another. Then, they finally recalled me, who was still under such rubble and stone. My armor proved to be impervious still to levitation, thankfully, the guard ponies flew their way over the Everfree forest, as instructed by Celestia and I was hauled here by the carriage the Princesses rode on.

I nod through it all and kept a calm look as the ponies partying was one celebration to another. “National heroes are you now?” I asked slyly at Twilight who just smirks back at me. Still, I cannot help but glance over at her friends. “Twilight, what is that tall thing?” The white mare asks the same fashion expert from before. Quickly as the question arise, did twilight quickly compose herself in introducing me to her friends.

“I’m sorry, I should introduce him, his name is Daybreak, he was my Guardian back in Canterlot when I was just newly became Princess Celestia’s student.” She announced proudly to her friends, which made me smile, she found her own friends and that is without me intervening or somepony forcing her. I bowed gently to the five mares, “It is a pleasure to finally meet Twilight’s friends.” I spoke warmly at them.

I was introduced to Twilight’s friends, There was Applejack, the orange Earth pony with blonde mane and tail, as the Element of Honesty, Fluttershy, the shy yellow pegasus mare, who I knew from eavesdropping, as the Element of Kindness, Pinkie Pie, the pink pony, as the Element of Laughter, Rarity, the white unicorn fashion expert, as Element of Generosity and finally Rainbow Dash, the cyan and rainbow mane Pegasus mare, as the Element of Loyalty.

I smile, nod and gesture to them all the same, still giving me confused looks as to what I am, being taller than they were. Each pony showing it differently, Applejack was shaking my hand awkwardly with my grasp at her hoof, Fluttershy was basically hiding in her own long pink mane, but acknowledges me as, Rarity was beaming at me, as if meeting a knight was nearly enough to be called a prince, Pinkie Pie was so excited that she has another reason to throw a party, confirming even that she herself started and organized this After Summer Sun and Saving Equestrian party and finally Rainbow Dash who was looking at me with an eye of impressed, grateful but skeptical as she gave off a proud demeanor at me.

But all in all, they were Twilight’s friends and I cannot judge them too quickly. Still, as the party continues, the six ponies leaving to join in on the festivities, Celestia asked of me to come with her for a moment. “Daybreak, please meet my sister, Princess Luna.” She spoke happily and joyous, not a hint of sadness or a hopeful tone like those 110 years ago. As she moves aside, I now stand in front of the blue alicorn, after noticing her tucked wings, as Princess Luna.

She first looked up and was shy, surprised to see me. I quickly went down to one knee and bowed to her. “Greetings Princess Luna, I am Daybreak, Personal Guard of your sister, Princess Celestia. Though I am hers, I will serve you just as much in respect that you are her sister and princess as well…” I answered with dignity; honor for her and with enough confidence that when I looked up, I saw that she was surprised at me. I stayed silent, unsure if I have frightened her.

“Big sister… who and what is this to you?” She asked worried and was evidently not comfortable with me but when I looked up, I saw the warm smile that always adorns Princess Celestia’s face. “My sister, he has served me this past century without a problem, as for what he is, we cannot say, for even he cannot recall, as he has lost him memory. Though he is like this, he is my personal guard and one of the many ponies that has kept me company through the years, of your absence.“ Celestia responded happily to her sister and at me.

“Rise, Knight Daybreak.” Celestia announced softly as I stood up and with it looking down at Princess Luna. “I see…” Luna calmly said as she looks up at me but her eyes made a very lasting emotional flag at me. She was worried. I caught on that emotion but I did not know why. “Is there a matter Princess Luna?” I asked her calmly, waiting for her to answer me. She gave me the shy looks but her body and eyes replied with worry and regret.

Celestia, being the older sibling, noticed this and smiling, and nodding to her sister when Luna glanced at her. “I am sorry to have harmed you back in the ruins…” She spoke, again, having the innocent but very meaningful young tone. I sigh and smile at her, “I do not blame you, nor am I angry at you. Nightmare Moon may have been you, but I believe, it was only your anger that has made you decided on such a thing.” I spoke sincerely at her and nodded.

She looked up to me, smiling a bit from my response and her whole body shook with joy. “Thank you…” She spoke softly, making her way to me and standing with her hind legs, move to hug me, it was warm, even against my armor. But as quickly as the hug was given, it was done in a flash, she was blushing since she has done so and many of the ponies notice her. Still as that came about, we continued with the festivities, enjoying it till the afternoon.

The princesses decided it was time to go, more like Celestia, as we rode on the chariot, hauled by the four guard ponies, as we took off, waving at the ponies of Ponyville. It was a quaint town but I had my duties and loyalty to Celestia. As we ascend to the sky, and the many more pegasi Guard ponies covering us, making a protective formation around us. I glance back to the town; I have asked Celestia about Twilight before departing it and I could not help but sigh lightly.

The sight of her with her new friends, with her smiling and greatly enjoying her time with them… it was new and very refreshing to see her be joyous, and not about a score or anything. As I glance back, I saw that Celestia has noticed it and I sigh once more. “Worried about Twilight?” She asked me, getting the attention of Princess Luna. “Yes, even though she may have been… determined in her studies, I will miss her… considering you have made a note for Twilight to stay and study in Ponyville…” I answered back but I look down at Luna, smiling a bit, but she only gave me a bashful look and a confused one as well.

“My knight, I know she would succeed, but I wanted to ensure her safety nonetheless. But I have a new task for you.” Celestia started that took all of our attention. “In light that my sister has returned, I need you, Daybreak, to please guard and escort my sister. I’m sure many overzealous ponies would want to meet the princess and take a photograph of her, even if they break in the castle.” She announced calmly, which made Princess Luna look confused.

“I’m sorry to ask sister, but what is a photograph?” Princess Luna asked as we landed gracefully in the courtyard. Before anything, I quickly got off, thanked the pegasi Guard ponies that hauled the chariot and waited on the princesses to disembark on the golden chariot. As they did so did Celestia smile, “It would seem my sister that you must gain common knowledge and the current wisdom to keep you well acquainted to this change.” She spoke with a warm smile at her younger sibling who was shying a bit, but when her gaze fell upon the white castle, she gave such curious stares and even a long ‘Oh’ at the castle.

This display made the Guard ponies stare at her but for me and Celestia we just smiled at her. “Daybreak, can you please escort my sister around. Also, before you get to her chambers, please find me.” She told me as I nod and smile at her. Sure enough she moved through the courtyard, with grace and regal. My sights were at first busy staring at her. For some unknown reason, I cannot remove my gaze of such a beautiful female…

But I snapped myself back, before I can think of her further with the line of thoughts as I quickly made my way towards Princess Luna. She looked at the place with wonder and with curiosity in her eyes as I stood by her. “As your current guard for the afternoon till evening, I will be your tour guide through the castle of Canterlot.” I spoke out with respect and with attention as she looked at me. She first was confused but quickly became bashful as I was there. Sure enough we enter the castle and with it, the first few questions flew out of her lips.

____

Evening was the time when I finally got her up the specific tower, one where the library was housed, two flights of stairs down, Celestia’s bed chambers and hers. Before we continue on further, we stopped first at Celestia’s room, one with a simple golden and white double door and two guard ponies there. I have answered all of Luna’s questions, queries about the castle inside and out, Canterlot in general and her ever so curious looks through the foods of the kitchen and the throne room, when the sun was about ready to set, Celestia has retreated to her bed chambers when we have asked where she was.

There, I knocked gently on the door, glancing at the two Guard ponies stationed at Celestia’s door that both looked at Princess Luna with a mix of confusion, awe and uncertainty. Once the chamber doors open, Celestia, with a warm and kind smile looked at me and her sister, who, had finally grown less shy to me as I guide her and explained to her the many information in the castle.

“Hello my dear sister, how has the tour with Daybreak been?” She started, making sure to nod to the guards as they stomped in pride and held their positions, this time, their eyes hardened and stoic. Luna responded gently, still looking at things and seeing the differences of the today from the present she used to know. “Daybreak has been very kind. Telling me all there was, what one thing from before is now and Equestria today was from our… incident…” She spoke solemn at the last one, which made her look down in shame. Celestia was quick to nuzzle her, and comfort her.

“It was never your fault my dear sister, it was just you feeling unappreciated at the time.” Celestia spoke, as warmly as she can, with a bit of regret for reminding the past to her younger sister. The fact was true when I looked at Luna, who had a small frown but smiles up to Celestia. “I know about that sister, yet, I know they appreciate it… to a degree.” She spoke expectantly but I quickly input my comment about that.

“I for one enjoy the night Princess Luna.” I spoke kindly to her, which made Luna look at me, her ears straightening upwards in surprise. “How about you two guards, don’t you enjoy the night? I’m sure you have been doing other things once your shifts are over.” I asked the two guards with hints of their usual private activities, of course, I know they have been drinking the night and having a mare in their beds these past nights. Sure enough the two guards flinch in attention as they look at me, then at Princess Luna, who I was behind of as I edge the two by signaling to just say something.

“Well… We have been enjoying how cool it is and how nice it is to do star gazing.“ One of them spoke, which I do not know who, since their armor enchants their coat, mane and tail to the default color. “Yeah, and it’s so peaceful, rest is well worth it to attend to and for us working in the day, we need such rest.” The other added. “And bed some mare…” I joke last, making the guards blush and even Luna from my little, uncalled for, addition for their admiration for the night.

“See my sister, there is nothing to worry about…” Celestia added, but her gaze at me sent chills to my spine. I can hear her gaze; really, it was frightening, ‘Don’t do that AGAIN!!!’ It screamed at me. “Well, to your room then.” Celestia quickly intervened, taking Princess Luna’s attention, as the blue alicorn princess snapped back and looked at her. I let them pass me before I follow, a bit ashamed from my earlier comment but I was trying to be welcoming to Luna, still I did push it a bit…

As we turn to another section of this tower, we stood to a double door, this one very similar to Princess Celestia’s but now adorned in a pleasant dark blue, with a white moon over a black backdrop on either door. “This, my dear sister is your room.” Celestia announced calmly and with a hint of pride as her horn glows and with it the double doors open and inside was a bad chamber that… was similar to Celestia’s yet there was a very distinct difference. But before I can point that out Luna enters and stare at every single thing in there… Luna looked at everything there was to the room, seeing the living room, the bedroom and even the balcony…

All her furniture were shaped and even crafted to look like they were new yet the style was reminiscent of the old, even her four poster bed was old fashion, yet the many plush that are piled and mountain over the bed, from ponies to other mythical creatures, cover it so but the main theme color here was a kind and vibrant blue. Luna gaze on, her mouth agape as she looked at the woodworks, her dresser, her dress closet, filled with deep colored dresses, jewelry box, the makeup drawers with added mirror. She looked at it all, her eyes darting, her eyes looking at the things as if she was remembering so many things in her room, then her eyes started to water as she looked back to Celestia, who all this time kept a warm, sisterly smile, looking down at her own, her eyes slightly watered even.

“Its… it’s my room… but…” Luna tried to start as she continues to cry, he waterworks in full swing now as she quickly rushed towards and hugged her so, her face buried at the front of Celestia’s neck, as she quickly cried in tears. “Yes, my dear sister…” Celestia spoke nearly to tears, nearly streaming down yet the beads of her cried of joy stayed at her eyes. “This is your room, the exact same one… from our old home…” She spoke softly, as one of her hoof move to hug Luna back, which only made the lunar princess cry further.

I could not help but just stand there, letting the sisters have their moment. I took the liberty to move out to their balcony to wait for them to finish, the waterworks from the younger clearly, it was a very emotional moment as one sister, who was forced to banish her younger, and the younger, who had lost a millennia of her life… I gaze outside the balcony, a telescope perched on it. As I look out, I see Canterlot, in its evening visage and more surprising, the setting sun is facing here, maybe a ploy of floor planning where this would wake the night princess to awake for raising the moon once the sun has set.

I notice that this view was angled in such a way that it mirrored what Celestia can see in her balcony. For the long time, I have been in Celestia’s room, I knew her balcony can see from the east, to the south, Where the Ponyville reside and further from there would be the Everfree forest. For Luna, her balcony vision would be from south to west, ensuring that she sees the setting sun. I smile some at the ingenious architect who had thought hard for this but something told me, it was Celestia who had plan for this.

“The sun is about to set…” I spoke out, not really caring if anypony would have heard me. I was enjoying the sight that was until the princesses decided to move to the balcony as well. “It’s just like my room… and you have kept it looking the same…” Luna spoke while her tone still had a bit of her episode of crying joy. “And I have kept everything you own in pristine condition, not a dust, spider web, cob web or any such thing on them when…” She stopped there, hoping an implication was less impacting than saying it so.

There was an awkward pause but Luna was quick to respond. “Yes... do not blame you my sister… I was just-” “-Envious at the time?” Celestia interrupted and finished for her which Luna quickly nods to. AS I stood aside, for the pony sisters to be at the balcony without intrusion, me to be exact, I observed the two. “Now, Luna, can I ask you to raise the moon?” Celestia asked kindly, which made the younger and smaller of the two to flinch in surprise. “Are you sure, big sister?” She asked.

With a kind nod from Celestia, Her horn glows a brilliant golden and the sun sets smoothly, slowly, but smoothly down the horizon, to enshroud the whole of Equestria in a calm violet that was nearly cascading against the vibrant orange of the evening. Then, from another horizon, one from a distance, away from the setting sun, the moon, ever so slowly, moves out of the horizon as Luna’s kind but gentle indigo and blue magical glow from her horn. I observe, seeing the moon, this time, without the daunting gaze of the shadow that was once Nightmare Moon, to be a sight to behold.

But before I can admire the moon, Luna was grunting a bit so, straining a bit. Celestia was quick to assists and supported her, in raising the moon. As it rose, so did the night turn a dark shade of the night. Faintly, as if the lights were brightening up, starts started to flicker up the night sky, and slowly, and surely, it was now twinkling with the moon. But I move quickly beside the sisters, “Does Princess Luna need aid?” I asked quickly, seeing that both sisters were no longer casting her magic, the younger of them was sweating a bit.

“No Daybreak, she will be fine.” Celestia answered as she helped Luna up to her hooves, she was still breathing fast, trying to relax and enough air into her system. “I’m sorry sister I may have fallen from practice with the moon for so long…” She spoke clearly this time, as she got her breath back, looking up to Celestia. “I am sure you will return that connection with it…” Celestia answered kindly as I return to standing up, the moon now prominent and very dignified in the night sky, the little stars start to flicker and twinkle.

“Will the princesses stay up for tonight?” I asked them both, seeing Princess Luna fatigued and tired, as if the moon was a weight she had recently just got off her back. “I need to reconnect with the moon my dear sister…” She said softly, as if embarrassed and ashamed of her inability to do her duty those many years ago. “You may rest now big sister…” She said with a slight smile looking up at Celestia. At first, the white alicorn was debating to her and I was expecting her to say no, which I quickly added my own input to let her rest without worry and such.

“Do not worry Princess Celestia, I am sure to keep a close eye on your sister.” I assured even when I now stood still, looking straight at the monarch with determination on my glowing yellow eyes. She looks at me with her eyes intent on scanning me so, but she smiles warmly at me and down at Luna. “Then, I shall take my leave then.” She said as she nuzzles her sister, the two quickly in their sisterly moment as I stood there waiting on them. When they finish, “Daybreak, please keep her company, I will be sure to move the moon when I wake up tomorrow.” Celestia spoke as I escort her to the door.

“I shall Celestia, you know I will…” I told her with all my confidence, even when I made my informal response, though she smiles at me. “Thank you…” She replied as I close the door behind her, slowly, not making a sound as I close the door. I quickly made my way to Princess Luna, who still stood in the balcony, gazing at the clear white moon. As I stood beside her, I recalled my uncalled for and improper complement about her night. “I am sorry about what I said earlier with the guards. I was trying to be kind and very thankful to your night.” I said with my tone as apologetic as I can.

Luna looked at me, when I glanced down as she smiles back at me, though less shy than she was. “It is okay, Knight Daybreak, I know you were trying to cheer me up…” She said, her young and innocent tone entice a sigh out of me. “Thank you…” I replied softly bowing my head some. As we continue to gaze up at the moon, the night was slowly ticking away until I started to ask her a question, “How will you restore your strength and connection with the moon?” I asked with a bit of concern but the sight before me was, shocking at the least.

From where she stood, there was a flow of magic, moving slowly from nowhere, as if it was gathered and as I looked closely, the color resembled the magical color of Nightmare Moon, yet still have a kind blue as the inner color of it all, as opposed to the near evil indigo her former self had. Still, as quickly as I saw, it had ended, the magic no longer seeping from around us to be fed to the alicorn princess of the night.

With a sigh from the princess, as if she has drink water, she looks towards me with a questioning smile. “I intend to return my power and the moon with the night, I’m sure to return my power once I have enough times to be connected with my night once more.” She spoke, her tone matured, just slightly, as evident to her magical rejuvenation that happened just a moment ago. “I see… an interesting sight nonetheless.” I comment towards her as she smiled at me. We soon retreated to her bed chambers, closing the balcony doors, not closing the blinds to allow the moonlight spill inside the dark chambers.

Looking back, I saw her sit nicely on the sofa, trying to relax some, smiling intently at me. “I need to learn what I have lost since my banishment.” She started with not a tone of regret, pain or suffering about her banishment but with calm. “Yes Princess, I’m sure you can read everything in the library…” I started, but I took a glance at a nearby bookshelf. “Unless, you want to read your own books first before taking the library’s own collection?” I suggested which Luna took notice but she quickly sighs still.

“I shall do so tomorrow, I feel that I need to take a pause and rest.” She said back but her eyes kept gazing at me. “But tell me… about yourself Daybreak? I am curious to know my sister’s knight.” She started as her voice said how interested she was with me and curiosity was something common to see in a pony at times in a non-violent thing or species. I sigh, being reminded about the many researchers, scholars and even the unicorns that were interested to inspect, dissect and detect my own pony… Yeah, I have learned to use their dialect some.

“What you want to know from me Princess I can answer them to the best of my abilities, and with no worry of tire.” I answered her and with it, she smiles at me, again but with glee. “Then tell me, what does my sister fear most?” She asked with a trail of mischief. Oh great, she still has a younger sister speaking to her… “Well, she is most afraid of…”

_____

The next day was not that eventful, Luna, had slumbered calmly through the night, even with her many questions, about me, Equestria in general, again, and anything about her sister and me, I was back into the throne room, which now still stood the same, yet there was a set of darker shades ser in the side and new tapestries, many of which had moon and star designs.

“How was she? I am sure she was curious about you and the world from your perspective.” Celestia asked of me, as I stood at the side, again, my spot on duty. “She was fun to talk to and was a very curious pony. I can’t really blame her for such a thing since she has missed a thousand years of her time.” I answered her with as much truth as I can and not a flinch from me. ‘Don’t worry Daybreak, she can’t read your mind if you do things as normal as you can…’ I thought to myself as Celestia kept her warm smile and her regal stance.

“Has she asked anything about me?” She asked with her kind tone, but with an after tone of, ‘Tell me or else.’ I instinctively gulped, ‘She knew!!!’ I panicked internally, yet I cannot deny her, I am too grateful for her and even if it means having me flung out the window, though making me smile about the freefall, I told her the truth. “You did not say anything to deny her of what she asked, so I answered her questions as best as I can.” I told her truthfully. At first she was looking at me, my gaze straight and stoic, not looking at her mind you, just perpendicular to where the throne faced.

Still, I can feel the very spiteful gaze that was poking at my sides, threatening to really throw me out the window. I gulped inside myself as I stood still, hoping that I won’t be flung out if I just took all her hate towards me with dignity. My body was shivering inside, not making a sound, but I was surely having the chills, my skin crawling under this armor. Thankfully, the long lasting gaze of spite quickly disappeared as a noise started to arise from outside the castle. It was loud enough to pierce through the tranquility of the throne room, as the double doors open, and a group of ponies, one prominent white stallion, who wore a different set of armor, quickly enter through.

“Princess Celestia, a group of ponies, from the press, demands an audience with you. Unfortunately, their numbers are making a mob as they demand to know, who is the pony with you evening yesterday.” This white stallion quickly spoke, ready to act if he was ordered, very by the book if I must say, yet, I too was by the book, that which always changes as Celestia decided so on my line of work. A small gasp and sigh escapes the alicorn monarch’s lips, though inaudible, yet her lips betrayed her slight frustration about this matter. They have seen Princess Luna, though unsure about her identity still, it does pose as a problem when the press continues to search for her.

“I want all of your guards, Sergeant Shining, to allow them entry and escort them to my throne room. I do not want any of them to explore the castle as I’m sure they will try. All of are to be on your best my ponies, the press is sure to swarm on me and escape when they see a chance. “ Princess Celestia sighs still as she quickly composes herself to be prepared for the many of the ponies who will be, overzealous of the upcoming interview. All the guards bow to the princess and quickly move to ensure the order was followed.

My gaze followed where they went but I was snapped back to attention by Celesia. “Daybreak, please ensure Princess Luna’s safety, I’m sure they will try to sneak in the castle, regardless of the guards. I am also confident my sister is in the library as we speak, please go to her immediately.” She commanded of me. I bow to her and made a brisk walk through the castle, of course, the small uproar of the press just outside was soon loud and nearing, sure enough, they were to have an audience with Celestia and to interview her about the blue pony with us up the balcony that evening.

_____

Once in the library, greeting Note Worthy, I sat down at a seat in the royal library, minding my own business, though thinking of my task still, taking the most secluded table there was in the Royal Library. It has been a very eventful night; Princess Luna back to her old... well REAL self and the press was just behind her in asking such a thing. Thankfully, I didn't need to bother with them as I read on. I was reading a new book entitled 'Moon Gazing'. The story is about somepony who dreamed to have fallen in love with Nightmare Moon on Nightmare Night, another holiday I frequent while in my duty.

My thoughts were broken when I heard hooves, more than just one pony, move into the library and peer inside. Of course they saw me; I can tell they were the press, what with the hats and the camera carrier. "If you are looking for who I think you are looking, you'd best check up a tower, not the library." I answered them quickly, which they heeded. Once they were gone, I return to reading my story in the peace of the library. Unfortunately, I knew where their target was.

"You can stay as long as you want Princess Luna..." I spoke blankly and I was only awarded with an 'eep' of fright from the nearby wall. From the far side, the most corner of the spot was Luna, who had her own books with her, stacked so as to make a wall. When she notices me, she quickly moves her books, making the illusion that I was to and done reading with them, given the perspective of any onlookers. “Knight Daybreak, it is nice to see you guarding me… But who were those ponies?” She asked, through the book wall. I did not take a glance, as I try to ensure the illusion, “Those ponies are the news ponies, the ones who send the news through the whole of Canterlot, and even beyond. If it was compared to your own time, I’d say they are the messengers that shout the news, from Canterlot to the frontier settlements.” I quickly answered, book still in front of me. Princess Luna was silent for a second, taking in what I said.

“So if the messengers are so many, how come parchments, or at least the… ‘newspaper’ is needed? Are they not enough to send the message?” She asked me, as she was mixing the concept. “No, princess, the messenger is not needed thanks to the newspaper for the content they carry is the importance of it all. With the newspaper, the content printed at the specially made parchment, is the importance of it, yet, you must realize, it can be biased at times.” I elaborated further for her, but I her pauses of thinking, even through her book wall, tells me, the modern concepts were escaping her.

“What is biased, sir Daybreak? Is it an expression of slander?” She started off which only made my brow rise. “Princess, you know slander is basically, telling a lie, I’m surprise you know that, yet, biased means that the group of ponies or the owners of a certain newspaper, has a loyalty, or a positive output concerning a political, business, or otherwise dispute to one side or pony.” I explained further, but from this answer many more questions come up and such, I sigh, Luna has a lot to learn, a millennia of absence and this happens…

Still, as the day ticks by, so did the crowd of press ponies who have been in the interview and some who went through a castle hunting for the princess. Thankfully, I was old news to them, and was only asked a few questions when they persist, all the while, Princess Luna safely behind the stack of books. Still, I could not help but just glare at them, really, they a nerve to bust through the castle for their prize of seeing, taking a photo and interviewing Luna.

But as if went and gone, and day slowly going, the sun starting to set, did the both of us leave the library, me lifting her books. She thanked me for doing so and I smiled still, but she stared at me, unsure on how to take my reaction. “I’m sure you will need all your magic again for moving the moon, but I’m sure Celestia is doing it if you cannot.” I spoke to her, my tone neutral in her ears. “Yes… I’m not sure about you sir Daybreak, you don’t show emotion... at all.” She started, which was in fact her own observation, thus I cannot accuse her of being dense or insensitive.

“It’s the design of the armor, I’m not really sure but it seems to demand a deception of sorts.” I spoke, this time, adding a few sways and weaves of tone, that way Luna can understand that I have emotions too, odd as it seems, when I do not know what I am. She was at first looking at me, very weird for a young mare like her but then our first meeting was… my neutral setting, so to speak.

Returning to her room, the books I had, looking old yet new, in hardbound covers, I returned to the bookshelf in her room. The night Princess relaxes down on her bed, trying to sigh and ease herself. I was sure she was reading all the things she needed to read, from her books first I suppose. I took a look at one title, ‘The Canterlot Voice’. This piqued my interest but I quickly dismiss this as her collection and interest. As I glance back to her, standing tall near her door, doing my duty, I noted once more, her every daydreamed eyes, staring outside through the balcony doors.

‘She has been banished for a thousand years up in the moon, and in a different persona all throughout. She is lost or unfamiliar with this world.’ I thought to myself as I look at her so. The orange of the sky dwindling as the yellows of the world was invading it so. Slowly but surely, she rose to her hooves, ready to try once more. I quickly made my way to the balcony doors, opening them so. “Princess…” I greeted her some, she acknowledges me, nodding to me thanks. As she moves slowly out, I catch her worried. I wanted to comfort her but I stood still, my duty first before my personal actions later. I watch her as she tries to raise the moon from the horizon. Slowly but surely the moon rise up, but it was straining her to do so.

I quickly move to her side, supporting the mare as she was sweaty, her face scrounge in pain, in effort and strain. I held her side to let her know I am there, as I allow her to continue, again, her body flinches and shook as if she was pushing so hard. The magical blue blow from her horn wavering from the weight she was carrying. And when the moon rise, did she finally sigh, out of breath and out for a sign that she finished.

She collapses, me catching her so, she was out of breath and sweating slowly. I carry her to her room, and move her to bed. “Have I done what I should be doing?” She asked me as she glances up the sky through the open balcony. “Yes Princess, you have, but you must rest, you must rest for now.” I told her, slowly as I can with care and with worry as I rest her head on her pillow, her blanket over her form as I comfort her so. She soon slept, tired from her ordeal as I glance back up into the night, seeing the moon and the stars adorned in the night sky.

I smile some as I retreat back to my position, opting to look after her, as I have done for Celestia all those years ago. I plan to be the best that I can, watching over her. As I stood, the event from last night happened once more. A magical aura, dark and blue, with a twinkle of sparkle and shine, the starts seep inside the room and start to enter the alicorn mare. I stood there, unsure of what is happening, magic was never my strength yet there was no malice, hate or anger in the magic. It was a soothing feeling I was getting seeing the mare before me rest, even with the magic around her, absorbed into her.

But one fact stayed after this event, her coat became darker, a tad bit, nearly unnoticed but I knew something was happening to her but I did not intervene from this show of magical power, I had a feeling she was going to be alright, regardless of the dark magical glow. I stood there, watching her so, making sure nothing else, bad or worse, to occur to her form.

______

A week of nights have past, and surely, Luna, the Princess of the moon have slowly and surely been doing her best to move the moon. I was thrilled to see her, not straining with the act of her duty as I watch her so, but the surprising of it all was the change that quickly followed the princess. She grew, within the few weeks, it was… surreal that she had matured at a quick pace. At first I was tall, her form just as tall as the rest of the ponies but now… She was onto my eye level, as such her own sister was a bit taller than I yet this was now something else.

“WE are the night, the night all thou know of thee!!!” Luna has announced at her… public introduction with the Canterlot voice, one that is appropriate with the gathered ponies out there, but still, I had to cover my ears for her volume. “Did you two REALLY need to use such a voice?” I asked to Celestia at the back who kept smiling still. “We did, but after 50 years of me banishing my sister, I have stopped using it, finding myself unable to speak with such volume when I was still sobbing for my sister.” She added, as we look on, the princess of the night bellowing with such volume.

Luna has changed very well, she had a darker coat, though blue was still her favored color, her eyes stayed the same, but the lashes that she had had only increased her beauty, her mane and tail has changed to a flowing mane, one that rivals even Celestia’s yet it was similar to Nightmare Moon, hers were a gentle and starry night calm. Her form was matured so, very similar to Celestia’s own and her own adornments, her slippers, a necklace that had her cutie mark, still looking the same from what I can see, yet she lacks… a tiara, for now at the least.

But that was not the only news that has happened on Princess Luna’s introduction. The next day, just shy of the evening, there came a massive dark mass, one that even threatened to cover the sun for Canterlot as they flap their wings, strong and very leathery to the ears. As quickly as they have made their presence known did the Royal Guards been called to prepare for this group, but none was ready to understand what they saw.

I was outside, both princesses on either side of me as I look up to find the mass to be a group of ponies, yet they all had darker coats and the prominent feature they had, that allowed them to flap their wings with such strength was that they had bat wings. “I see they have quickly returned…” Celestia spoke softly as Luna looks on. “Yes, Thy allies return to thee.” Luna spoke, again, still having the volume as the Canterlot voice. “Sister, that is only for our subjects, not for when we speak to one another.” Celestia spoke, with a smirk to the side at how very reliant the moon pony was with such a voice.

Though it was that, Celestia has ordered the guards to escort the large group of ponies into the castle, the courtyard being the best spot to gather the battalion sized group. The princesses move to the courtyard in greeting the ponies as I follow behind them. When their presence was known, all the new and the Guards bowed to the princesses, yet only the Guard ponies have returned from the bow.

“And what may I do for you ponies, ponies of such numbers, darken coats of the night and wings that prey in the night?” Celestia asked the new ponies as they still bowed, in front of both princesses. The head of their group spoke, one with a hint of gruff and battle, “We have come here to serve once more the princess of the night, as we have promised so long ago.” He spoke straightforwardly and without a pause or crack of worry, they were confident and relaxed.

The princesses looked at one another but Luna herself started to speak, this time, her Canterlot voice was in use without a problem, though Celestia has comment to me about finding a way for her to stop doing so with the times being different. “OUR Loyal subjects, WE are joyous to take thy plea to be guards of OUR castle. Yet we must demand all to train to offer US safety of thy loyalties.” Luna spoke, many of the ponies shook but held on to their positions as Luna finishes, keeping her head held high as Celestia took the stage, so to speak. “We will accept your offer and as my sister has spoken, you must all train under our guard for you all to know how we work when in Canterlot, but I am sure my sister will be happy to have guards for her Night court.” She spoke softly, some of the bat ponies sighing as they were happy to find Celestia accepting.

The many of the new ponies kept bowing while the front of their group spoke gratitude and thanks to the princesses. Very accepting of Princess Celestia, but I was sure it had to be her joy that she was with her sister. Before leaving the bat ponies, Celestia has instructed many of the higher ranked Guard ponies to start training these bat ponies and to ensure that the old armors for their stature to be returned in stock. And as quickly at that, Canterlot Castle was once again bustling with activity. I walked behind both princesses, making sure to keep close as they discuss the matters about these species of ponies.

“It is interesting to see such a pony type…” Luna spoke up, which surprised both me and Celestia about her curiosity of the new ponies. “Uh, Luna? You just said they were our allies, why is it you sound like you’ve met them now?” Celesia spoke, her eyes wide with the confusion as did I, and I was just behind them anyway. “Yes, well, when we have become of Nightmare Moon those millennia ago, we remember seeing the fright of many of the ponies and they were among them. Before we can finally, my anger took over us and all we can do was watch as thy other self did as we would have done in thy jealousy.” Luna spoke, this time saddened and using her inside castle voice.

Knowing Celestia, she had some memories stirring back into her mind as she sighs. “Yes sister, I seem to recall those certain ponies and how they have served you though late still at making you realize your night is the best part of any pony’s day, the day of rest or to some parties and any couples.” Celesia made with a giggle as Luna smiles with her. The Princesses were headed to the throne room, though the night was slipping by now as Celestia gave a soft but gentle yawn. “Excuse me sister, I shall take my rest, for it is your domain that fills the sky.” She spoke softly as Luna gave a nod to her sister, bowing a bit. “Of course thy sister, it shall be our court now and thy Guards to change.” She answered as I accompany Luna to the throne room while Celestia retreats to her bed chambers.

As Luna sits down on the throne, I quickly move to the side as the pegasi guards quickly swap the tapestries, some of the golden yellow turn over to the blue starry décor and the throne quickly changed into a soft indigo, the waterfall calmed down, appearing calm and serene. As Luna sat, she looks at the guards, switching with the new guards, who all still looked the same due to their armors enchanting their coats and all. As I took my spot, one very prominent spot as many of the guards recognize, the room fell silent for a moment, the night court being the less noisy between this and her sister’s, but it was quickly broken as the worried ponies from earlier this evening came with concerns and worry, the many who saw the cloud of bat wings as they called.

Luna answered, not in her Canterlot voice, thankfully, “We have heard your pleas and have done so with swift action. Return to your homes, as we are here now.” She spoke and as she did so, so did the many ponies concerned about the event. Of course, Luna was happy to see some of the citizens talk to her in her night court, those few who work within the night about some concern of safety and such and with as much regal as her sister, she has done so with each response and with each gesture and order to the note taker who stood as near, but farther than I, to the throne.

It was basically an uneventful night, really, fewer ponies were active in the day, yet Luna smiled at how the ponies from the day, chose to work in the night made her feel. “It is good to know some of these ponies have favor with us.” Luna spoke as she looked at my way with no new pony came with concern or a plea. As she looked at me, I looked back at her, her eyes looking worried some to me triggering me ask, “What is it, m’lady?” I asked her with a suave and honorable tongue as she kept her slight frown and worry.

“Why do ye not rest Knight Daybreak?” She started, staring at me with concern as the note taker look up at us. “Princess, I do not mean to disrespect, but I do not need rest… as far as I can recall. Though I can sleep, I chose not to.” I answered with all I can muster, as I felt her gaze etching away at me, as if she had a nagging feeling I was lying yet I knew I was not, for all I know that is. “We shall understand that for now…” She spoke solemnly, worried still for me, but I sigh as the answers that even her sisters have asked of me those years ago still haunt me. I stood still, ready for anything and being the knight of both the princess of the sun and moon, yet I cannot just ignore the questions for long, a century is very long…

If I do not need rest, stay alive even when I was pierced through the neck, my body felt alive, flesh and bone yet to them, I am nothing more than a walking armor, what am I exactly? I sigh to myself, the questions I have are too long and each one demanded that I remember yet, my body and my heart cringes with worry, as if… I would regret ever remembering who I am and what I am supposed to be…

Preview:
Chapter 3: Falling Weather

Being in this event was giving me odd feelings. I ran as fast as my legs can take me. With each step against the ground, the whirl of my legs making a shockwave of sound as I took each step as I zoom past the autumn trees, those who's branches were early bare, their greens were now red, yellow and orange. I quickly made my way through with the ponies, their steps doubled for them as I only had two. With each step I made loud clangs and my body extended to shift my weight. I made sure to keep going, my body in overdrive as it were. I paced myself, step-by-step, as I look around to the ponies around me.

They were all enjoying their time, some were with pained expressions, those that were trying, some were smiling to one another, enjoying their moment and many of them just smile warmly at the competition as if it was never one. As we ran, or gallop for them, past the trees many of the leaves were raining down on us and I continue to pace with the herd. It was something, to be part of the event, seeing the happy faces of the ponies and all I can do was smile inside my armor and look like I was competing. As I admired this feeling, this new found love for the ponies, even when I have lived within Canterlot for so long, I cannot help but respect them, and of course Celestia herself, who I cannot keep forgetting...

But as I continue to run, the world seem to slow down, very quickly, the colors fading to gray as a booming sound came about behind me. my body shook and my form shivered, a chilling yet familiar feeling washed over me as I stopped in my run, as my mind screamed to defend myself. My heart was racing, this time not at the race but at the events that is happening around me. My surroundings became grey, all the ponies still, mid-air, frozen and all that can move, was I...

For the first time, even when I stood guard over Princess Celestia and now Luna, for as long as I can, I now stood alone, very alone as the world around me has stopped and fear started to crawl into my very being. The surroundings, though stopped felt as if I belonged here, here in a place no one can see, yet I wanted it to stop, I wanted to live with these ponies and I was not happy with it.

Then came a sound, one that sounded like a whisp of air, sounding like whispers threatening me. My body was in full alert, my mind raging on to defend myself, but my heart was in pain and the emotions surround me, stopping me from following my mind and body. I was bolted to the spot, and I wanted to cry, them, as if there was something behind me, I fell the chills, the familiar but faint chills that started to engulf me... But I did not care, I did not act, as the despair was now the only thing left for me to think... the darkness was inviting... emptiness was the feeling... and soon, I felt like I belonged here more...

...

...

"BROTHER!!!"

Author's Note

And the next chapter will have his 'Brother' appear and with it, the surprise coming closer and ever so...

Still, I'm not sure any user is reading, I'll just have to think of another story or something...