All My Tears

by TrustTheTARDIS

Rating: everyone
Tags: Tragedy, Adventure
Length: 10713

A complicated life, more of a family tradition, passed from mother to daughter.

Untold is the grief of losing someone you love,
The fear of being alone,
The terrifying sensation of finding yourself cold and lost.
It keeps me going
In hope that I'll be running from my tears.
~ Grace Smith (me)

Published 1970-01-01 00:00:00 UTC
Last updated 2013-03-31 19:09:32 UTC

Prologue

Morning dawned on Equestria with a bright cheery glow. It was a morning like any other. The birds were singing, ponies were making breakfast, and everything was all well and good. Everypony was content and happy that summer morning. All except one…

Celestia paced her study for the thousandth time. She had received a letter from Finn Greenbolt, her sister’s husband. Finn was a caring pegasus stallion who loved both his wife and their daughter deeply. He had been a royal guard before Luna married him. Celestia broke from her thoughts as the two ponies she had been waiting for rushed in.

“I’m sorry we were so late Princess Celestia. It’s hard to teleport from one country to another.”

The stallion that spoke was none other than Shining Armor, Captain of the guard and prince. His wife, an alicorn by the name of Cadence, followed quietly behind him.

She hesitated than spoke, “Aunt Celestia, what is this about? It’s seven in the morning!”

Celestia looked down at her hooves and let out a sigh before saying plainly, “Luna i-is …dead.”

She tried to hold back tears as the two others gasped and tried to comfort her.

Shining looked puzzled all the same. “But how?! Isn’t she immortal?”

Celestia took a deep breath before answering. “When she married Finn, she knew she would outlive him by an eternity. She knew I had the power to do her job and that she would be miserable without him. After much argument and contemplation, she decided to give up her immortality. It is ten years to this day that they have been married.” Celestia caught the puzzled look on now both of their faces. “You must remember that Luna and I are millennias old. The time just came crashing down on her.”

The three sat there in silent sorrow for a while longer before there was a knock at the door. Celestia magically opened the door without saying anything. They were surprised to find Finn Greenbolt and his daughter standing there. “I am so sorry to have to spring this upon and at this time. But since I am not in a fit mood to look after her today, could you let Nova stay here in the palace? Again I’m really sorry…”

The little alicorn filly looked downtrodden as well, though she was not crying.

Celestia stared at this beautiful filly. She had a deep, sky blue mane and tail with faint traces of sparkle. It highly resembled Luna’s at that age, but just a tad longer. Her coat was black as the darkest night. Her wings were of a bat-like shape that curved up at the end when folded. Already her snout was starting to shape to the regal form of the alicorns. And her eyes- Celestia stared long at them. A bright green with slits for pupils, much alike to the dragons.

Cadence answered for her, “Of course, Sir Finn. She wouldn’t cause too much damage, would she? Besides, I've taken care of many a foal in my day!”

Finn bowed saying, “I thank you more than you know. If there is any way I can pay you back just let me know.” With one last look at Celestia he hurried away.

                                                                                     *

The day was spent mainly grieving and keeping an eye on Nova. She was a strange child. Always quiet, never bothering anything. She was eight years old. Most fillies of this age would be bouncing off the walls or talking constantly. Here Nova sat reading a book of Equestrian legend. Cadence watched as she levitated the book to the floor got up and stretched her legs.

“Nova, Would you like to visit the bakery? It’s about time for dinner.”

The filly stood silent for a moment before saying, “Dinner would be nice, Princess Cadenza.”

Cadence chuckled to herself and said, “I’m your cousin. You don’t have to address me as ‘princess’.”

Nova looked befuddled. “But Mother and Father told me to respect my elders…”

Cadence shushed her and said, “You may call me Cadenza if you must, but I’ll not tolerate too much formality.”

The two enjoyed a hearty dinner of crescent rolls filled with ham and cheese, a glass of orange juice, and Nova’s favorite; jello. They went to the park where they drew with chalk and swung on the swing-set. After the park they flew back to the palace. As the two landed in the banquet hall, one of Luna’s night guards ran up to them.

He bowed low before saying, “Princess Celestia has requested that you meet her in the throne room. It’s urgent.”

Cadence looked anxiously towards the throne room double-doors. She thanked the guard before he hurried off. “Nova, go to the first door on the left. It’s the guest bedroom. Your father will pick you up later.”

Nova waited until Cadence had left before heading towards the bedroom. She heard the voices of her two cousins and aunt. They were talking loudly about something. She heard her father’s name said again and again, along with her own. Finally, she couldn't stand it any longer. She ran to the door to listen.

Shining Armor’s voice came to her ears. “He just left the little filly here, hopped on a boat, and sunk it! What kind of stallion is he?”

More continued like this before Celestia said sternly, “Hold your tongue! Finn Greenbolt was one of the most valiant ponies I know. Yet grief can drive the strongest pony mad. He is no exception! He left us his daughter and as is duty, I must raise her as if she were my own. Now, if you will be so kind as to leave a troubled mare in peace, it would be greatly appreciated!” She struggled to hold back tears. The couple gave their apologies and with a flash they were gone. Nova’s heart pounded in her throat. She was going to live in the palace for who-knows how long, but most importantly, her mother and father were dead.

Chapter 1

Adjusting to palace life was relatively easy, almost too easy. There was much Nova found she could do. She was allowed the library where she read books upon books. She loved to wander the palace gardens seeing as she had too much time in the day. Nova was now 14. It had been six years since both of her parents death. She missed them with her whole heart and often felt lonely. Celestia had noticed this. She sent for Nova one September morning.

“You called, Aunt Tia?” Nova said trotting into the throne room.

“Yes, Nova- Please close the door, dear.”

Nova did as she was told, but wondered what her aunt had needed her for.

“You’re probably wondering why you’re here,” Celestia chuckled as her niece nodded. “I have decided to take you under my wing and teach you personally how to be a princess.”

Nova looked up at Celestia in shock. She stuttered, “B-but I’m a-a half breed. I can’t…” She saw the look on Celestia’s face. “I would be honored if you would teach me.”

Celestia smiled triumphantly and said, “Good! Well, first lesson is knowing how to walk and speak when in front of our subjects.”

It went on like that for hours. By the end of the day Nova could keep up with Celestia with books on her head, stand with correct posture, and use the traditional thou’s and thy’s.

That night before Nova fell asleep, Celestia came in levitating a book towards her.

“Would you mind if I read you a bedtime story?”

“No, not at all!”

Celestia settled in the bed and started. The story was about a brave stallion who discovered the miasma. He learned of it’s nature and how to fend it off. The white alicorn dove into this heroic tale of how he saved his country from the miasma.

“Aunt Tia, what country was this?”

“A great land not so very far away. It was once called Cavalia. Now we go to it when we are in need of shelter. As it said in the story, Strong Heart saved his country by transporting it to a different realm. All the buildings still stand unscathed. The miasma can’t be destroyed all at once, but it can be weakened over time. It was that same miasma that corrupted your mother turning her into Nightmare Moon.”

“But I thought ‘twas the bitterness and anger in heart that finally broke through.”

Celestia pondered this for a moment before answering. “It is true, but the only way for that to happen is through the miasma. You see, it feeds off of whatever emotion your heart feels strongest. It then amplifies it throughout your body. It’s hard to explain.”

There was silence between the two for a while before Nova noticed a single, sparkling tear run down the older mare’s cheek. She could guess why, and could also share in her sorrow.

                                                           *

The sun rose and the sun set. It rose and set yet again. Days passed by in complete boredom for Nova. She learned the proper ways of princess hood, and was given a platinum circlet for her 15th birthday.  It twisted like vines around her head and encased a moon stone in the center, just below her horn. It glowed when the moon shone upon it. There were the occasional visits from Cadence and Shining Armor, the friendship letters from Twilight Sparkle (a lavender coated mare, who was also Celestia’s student), and the days when she could wander Canterlot with Celestia.

On one such day….

“Get yer peaches! Get yer peaches! Nice sweet peaches!” The street venders shouted so loudly that when Nova got close, she had to keep her ears down to block the noise. She followed close behind her aunt. The crowds swelled before her eyes. It made her dizzy.

“I think I care for the quiet of the palace appose to this!”

Celestia chuckled softly to herself before turning to face Nova.

“I need to take care of something. You may wander, but be back for supper.”

“Thank you, I shall!”

Nova tried to pick her way through the crowds, but with no luck. She hated making a spectacle of herself, but rose into the sky to a cloud overhead. She alighted upon it and looked at this vast city. She saw the gardens in the palace courtyard. She went there often to clear her head. She looked more closely and saw a procession of ponies.

She soared through the sky and landed at the entrance. A magenta coated mare was leading a group of ponies Nova’s age through the statue garden. She followed close behind, staying well hidden. She group stopped at a statue she knew well.

“Now, this statue is very special. It’s name has faded from the plaque and those who can remember what it said, are dead. I wish I knew it’s name ‘cause it’s one of my favorites-”

With a rustle in the bushes, Nova stepped out and walked quietly to the statue.

She said, “Your wish is granted.” She turned to the class and told them the story Celestia had told her once before in bed. It turned out the stallion’s name was Sir Strongheart. After the conclusion, Nova turned to walk away.

A young colt named Pipsqueak stepped forward. “If I might ask, who are you?”

Nova stopped dead in her tracks and turned to face this brave colt. Her black coat gleamed in the sun. She smiled softly.

“I am Nova Sitara, daughter of the late Princess Luna. I am sorry to interrupt your class visit. I just couldn’t help but overhear. I’ve never been to school before.”

Pipsqueak along with the rest of the class bowed. Cheerilee, the teacher, walked over to her.

“If you would like, you could listen in on our little field trip Princess.”

“Please, just call me Nova. And that would be wonderful! Thank you.”

                                                      *

The day passed quickly for Nova, who learned much about the castle and it’s grounds. She was amazed at how much she didn’t know about her own home. It wasn’t quite supper time when the class had to return to Ponyville. Nova was sad to see them go. She had never had any real friends before. All except for one stallion. His name was Abendigo, and he was her mother’s most favorited guards. He would listen to her fantasies patiently, give her comfort when she needed it, and tell her jokes and such. Nova flew to town hall to meet Celestia. She found a group of golden robed ponies waiting for something. She looked at them for a moment. One carried a banner that stated:

End the threat to Celestia's rule!

She couldn’t see what this threat was. Her mother was the only one she could think of, and she was dead. She walked a bit closer to survey some of the other signs. One stallion snuck up behind her and bucked her leg. She let out a scream and turned to face not one, but five full grown stallions snickering at her.

“I think we’ve found a way to end the threat,” One said chuckling.

The others nodded and closed in on her. Nova panicked and rose up into the sky. She was immediately followed by a band of pegasi. She raced through the sky at breathtaking speed. She tried to lose them by zigg-zagging. That didn’t work. She didn’t want to attack her subjects, but was left no choice. She zapped them all out cold. She flapped shakily to the ground. Her legs wobbled like jello. She tried to get to the door, but something grabbed her bruised leg. It was a rope of magic. Pain filled her body as she struggled against it. Celestia came out the door talking to the mayor.

She was only aware of the situation when Nova screamed her name.

She looked at the mess and then at her fainting niece. She knew the spell and performed it with ease. Nova’s vision was blurry, and circles were closing in on her. She muttered “thank you”, then fell into darkness.

Chapter 2

A warm light filled the room where Nova lay in bed. She groaned, not yet conscious. The door creaked open and a tall, old bat-pony stepped in. Abendigo strode through the room and stood by the bed.

“Nova, please wake up.” he mumbled softly.

No response. The door creaked again allowing Princess Celestia and Princess Cadence in. They were talking quietly when they noticed Abendigo’s worried face. Celestia walked over to him and sat.

“She’ll be fine, old friend. The doctor said she just overexerted herself. She’s only used magic like that once when she got her cutie mark. She was defending herself from a manticore. She could only think of one thing. A supernova. Hence the mark on her flank.”

“Not to be rude, Princess, but I understand why she had reason to attack. I just can’t fathom why those ponies would attack a princess.”

He sighed. Celestia stared at him with sympathy. She looked to her niece who was still out cold.

“Some things are hard to explain and even harder to understand. Those ponies were only a fraction of all in their cult. They are spread all throughout Equestria waiting for the opportune moment to strike. The mayor called me about for this very purpose. They want to overthrow Nova so I can be their rightful ruler. They believe-”

She stopped for Nova had just awoken. She stared around the room observing her surroundings.

“Cadenza, Aunt Tia, A-Abendigo, what happened?”

Cadence flapped over to her bedside and said, “You overexerted yourself fighting those wretched cult ponies. You’re alive and safe so that’s all that matters.”

“But she isn’t!”

A guard poked his head through the door and apologized for interrupting.

“Permission to speak freely your highness? Thank you. As I was saying, Nova is in danger. I suggest that you send her to your student, Twilight Sparkle. She and the other elements will protect her if need be.”

Celestia pondered this for a while. She looked at the graying, distraught stallion beside her, then at her two nieces staring at her. She decided to go with the guards idea.

“You’ll need a disguise.” Abendigo told Nova. “Perhaps disguise yourself as one of my people. They are not very common, but more so than alicorns.”

Cadence strode over to the others.

“Why couldn’t we just disguise her as a normal pony?”

Celestia answered this time.

“The disguise spell only works to change how you look. Normal ponies aren’t as tall as Nova and  don’t have the same snout. Female bat ponies are about her size and have the same snout as we do. I know it doesn’t seem like much, but I believe that the cult has deeper purpose than to overthrow Nova.”

*

The Everfree forest was dark and eerie. One lone mare walked through it. She was picking her way through the bramble when she came upon her destination: the ancient castle of the royal pony sisters.  She climbed gingerly up the steep, stone stairs, her horn lighting the way. She reached the middle of the room and sat with her eyes closed.

“I have waited for you. Why are you so late?”

The voice that spoke was not one of a pony but of an ancient spirit. The miasma.

The green coated mare spoke softly.

“It is done. We have warned that little princess of who she’s up against. She’s powerful, though. She knocked us all out with one spell.”

“And what spell might that be?”

“I’m not sure. She said it in her mind, that I could tell. She knocked me unconscious before I could read it.”

“I see. What else have you and your comrades discovered?”

                                                             *

Nova got up from bed the next morning. Her head was spinning. She had to leave her home, her family. She had to go to a place she didn’t know. She folded and unfolded her wings over and over. When she finally went down to breakfast, a guard was waiting there to escort her.

“I think I will be safe walking to the breakfast hall.”

He sighed and looked her straight in the eye.

“Princess Celestia’s orders.”

He pushed the door open and found all from the night before waiting for her. She flew over to her seat and sat.

“I hate all this awkward silence. Please, what is troubling you?”

Cadence rose and strode over to her cousin saying softly,

“The Lunar guards have foreseen that if we do not change you today, grave danger awaits us all.”

“I hope you don’t mind my asking Cadenza, but what ‘grave’ danger is this?”

Abendigo swooped in overhead. He alighted silently on the ground.

“The downfall of the kingdom, death, sacrifice. All of our worst nightmares combined.” He shot a glance at Celestia. “All of us.”

Breakfast continued in quiet. When everyone was finished they went into the throne room. Celestia stood at the base of the stairs. Abendigo to her right, and Cadence to her left. Nova stood in front, completing the diamond. Celestia took a deep breath and started casting the spell. She could feel herself shaking violently. Her knees wobbled. She gently rose off of the floor. Golden light shone around her. It seemed to fill her very being with pure, unbridled magic. Her wings unfolded, she held her head high, her own horn alight with her own cosmic energy. She felt herself change. It was a terrifying sensation. Her wings lost feeling. Her horn seemingly evaporated. Her flowing mane and tail turned form sky blue to a deep black. Her coat turned into a steely gray, simple yet majestic. Lastly, her wings became webbed. They turned purple, just like the guards’. She slowly descended. She stood firm on the ground.

“Nova! Are you hurt?! Are you alright?!”

Abendigo ran instantly over to her. He stopped and stared as she examined herself.

“I feel…different. Even my voice has lost it’s regular tone…”

She walked around and over to Celestia.

“How will I change back? My horn is gone, so how will I change back if I need to?”

“You must recite the Morpheus spell in the third chapter of Star Swirl the Bearded’s spell book.-Wow, that’s a mouthful- Don’t say it unless it’s absolutely necessary. Understood?”

Nova nodded, “Understood.”

Cadence strode over. “Now we must think of a new name- You can’t call yourself Nova anymore. It’s too dangerous. Let me think…… what about Narisa?”

“It suits you perfectly. I shall miss you my dear, Narisa.”

Abendigo struggled to keep himself together.

“Not knowing when one might see your friend again can make one anxious. Can’t it?”

Narisa smiled sadly and wrapped her wing around him.

“I have just one question.”

Celestia raised her head in acknowledgement.

“When do I have to leave?”

Chapter 3

“Mommy, why are you so busy?”

Lilac Sparkle was waiting a bit impatiently for her mother to finish running around. She was a growing filly with a big appetite. Her mother, Twilight Sparkle, had received a letter form her teacher, Princess Celestia, that Nova was to come to live in Ponyville.

“We’re going to have a guest over for dinner, honey. I need to get the house ready, but Lightblossom will be here soon to play with you while I bake dinner.”

Lilac smiled at the though of her foalsitter. Lightblossom was the best and fastest drawer she knew. The mare would draw her all sorts of things, ranging from her favorite desserts to the first mayor of Ponyville. Not long after, the doorbell rang and a mare with a light orange coat stepped in. Her deep blue mane and tail swished as she flew over to Lilac. They talked for a moment before Lightblossom turned to Twilight.

“So who’s coming to dinner?”

“I can’t tell you without their permission. For… security reasons.”

Lightblossom was unbothered by this and said, “Oh, okay. Well, I’m going to take Lilac to the park, but we’ll be back for supper.”

“Thanks Lightblossom! See you then!”

                                                            *

Supper time came and Longshot, Twilight’s husband, came home to a sparkly clean house and his wife baking pasta on the stove.

“Why is everything so clean? I didn’t think you’d clean up this much because Lightblossom’s come for dinner.”

Twilight looked at him suspiciously and said, “I didn’t. You-know-who is coming for dinner, remember?”

A look of recognition and then embarrassment washed over the stallion’s face.

“Oh, yeah right… How will we know if it’s her?”

“Oh I think we’ll know. Now, if you don’t have anything to do right know I could use some help making the salad.”

A few minutes later the door opened. In stepped Lilac and Lightblossom- just in time for a lecture from Twilight about tracking muddy hooves in the house. Longshot came out from the kitchen and Lilac ran to him.

“Papa, look at all the pictures Lightblossom drew for me!”

She levitated a good sized stack of papers towards her father.

He examined them and gave Lightblossom praise for a job well done.

The small party went into the living room while dinner was cooling off a bit, to wait for Narisa (a.k.a Nova). Just as Twilight sat down, the doorbell rang.

“Off I go again!- COMING!”

A minute later she led a tall, teenaged mare into the room. Narisa was accompanied by three guards, one being Abendigo. Longshot stood up and greeted them.

“May I ask your name, miss?” He tried to sound casual in front of the suspecting Lightblossom.

“I’m No-Narisa. Nice to meet you.”

“Likewise, I’m sure. Now let me introduce you to my daughter, Lilac.”

As her name was called the lavender filly jumped off of the couch and ran to her father. Longshot continued and introduced Lightblossom. The group talked while they ate. It was quieting down when Twilight turned to Narisa.

“May I tell Lightblossom about your …true identity?”

Lightblossom looked at her curiously. Narisa answered quietly.

“If she promises to not spread the word just yet, then I suppose you may.”

“Thank You. Lightblossom, I want you to Pinkie- swear that you will not tell anypony until Narisa gives you permission.” Twilight looked straight into the mare’s green eyes.

“Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye. Now will you please tell me what this is all about?”

“Lightblossom, I’d like you to meet Princess Nova Sitara. Daughter of late Luna Sitara and a refugee in my home.”

Lightblossom sat dumbfounded for a moment. Then an excited smile spread across her face. She had Loved Luna since she first returned to the Equestrians in her true state. She wept for weeks at the news of her heroin’s death, but here was a new opportunity.

She bowed low then said, “It’s a great honor to meet you, Princess. I have a question, though.”

“Yes?”

“Why did Twilight call you a refugee? Who are you hiding from?”

“A group of ponies, my aunt discovered to be a cult, wants me dead. They believe Celestia is the rightful ruler of Equestria. One day they attacked me out in the open. I’m afraid to say that they caught me off-guard. My leg was broken, but the medic fixed it. I believe they will do anything to ensure that Celestia sits on the throne, unthreatened.”

Silence spread through the room. Lilac saw tears start to well up in Narisa’s eyes. She ran over to the bat-pony, much taller that herself, and levitated a napkin to her eyes.

“Don’t cry Miss Princess, you’re safe with us.”

Narisa smiled and hugged the little filly.

“Thank you dear one, but please, call me Narisa.”

                                                              *

“WHAT!!!! HOW COULD YOU INSOLATE FOOLS LET HER GET AWAY?! FOR ALL WE KNOW, SHE COULD BE GATHERING FORCES AGAINST US AT THIS VERY MOMENT!”

The miasma’s voice boomed at the group of cult ponies who were quaking with fear. One was pushed forward by another and stood alone to face the wrath of his master.

“I-I’m so s-sorry! We didn’t know how to fight off cosmic energy! Y-You never told us she could harness it!”

“Well I’m sorry! Next time USE YOUR BRAIN!!!!! HER CUTIE MARK IS A SUPERNOVA! TAKE A HINT!!”

                                                              *

That night the wind blew through the trees with a soft melody about them. Narisa sat in the field near Sweet Apple Acres. It was a week since her arrival in Ponyville and she missed her aunt greatly.

“Aunt Tia, if only there was a way to see you again without it risking both of our lives and well-beings. I miss you more than you know. Then again, this wouldn’t happen if it wasn’t meant to be. What ever happens, may it be for our good.”

And she began to sing.

“May it be an evening star

Shines down upon you

May it be when darkness falls

Your heart will be true

You walk a lonely road

Oh! How far you are from home

Mornie utulie

Believe and you will find your way

Mornie alantie

A promise lives within you now

May it be the shadow's call

Will fly away

May it be your journey on

To light the day

When the night is overcome

You may rise to find the sun

Mornie utulie

Believe and you will find your way

Mornie alantie

A promise lives within you now

Mornie utulie Namaarie.”

Chapter 4

“Wakey, wakey, A.B. It’s time to get ready fer school.”

An orange mare shook her younger sister awake. The yellow filly was almost as tall as the former, but not quite full grown. She rubbed the sleep out of her eyes with her hoof.

“Wha’ time is it, sis?”

“Seven in the mornin’! Ya need ta get yerself ready and get yer hindquarters downstairs fer breakfast ASAP!”

The filly jumped at this and climbed out of bed. She walked unsteadily to her dresser, brushed her rose colored mane and tail, and placed a magenta flower just behind her forelock. She scrambled to the bathroom to brush her teeth. The floor of the old cabin creaked noisily as she descended the stairs to the dinning room.

“Mornin’ Big Macintosh. Mornin’ Granny Smith. What’s fer breakfast Apple Jack?”

Apple Jack’s blonde tail swooshed from side-to-side as she prepared the family’s meal.

“You’ll see soon enough. Now, wipe yer hooves and sit down.”

A moment later Apple Jack carried out four plates full of scrambled eggs and apple fritters. They ate their fill. The doorbell rang right as Apple Bloom finished her last bite.

“I’ll get it!”

She ran to the door and was met by her two best friends. There was an orange pegasus named Scootaloo, and an ivory unicorn named Sweetie Belle.

“Hey ya’ll! Come on in.”

They all clamored inside the building and were met by Apple Jack. She smiled at them and then started talking.

“Now, as ya’ll know from yer sisters, the Elements of Harmony have been assigned by Princess Celestia herself to protect her niece, Princess Nova. Nova is staying with the Sparkles fer now. She has disguised herself as a bat pony so’s ta protect herself from those who want ter hurt her. I’d be mighty thankful if ya could try to befriend her. Also, she’s never been to regular school before, so if she needs help, try and help her. Ya got that?”

                                                                        *

“Class, please settle down! Thank you. I am Ms. Rosemont. I know for some this is your last semester of high school so I wish to give you the best. I would like to introduce our newest pupil. She’s visiting from Canterlot and wishes to acquire some education. Oh come, come dear. They won’t bite.”

The class giggled at this. Narisa stepped in front of the desk tentatively. The class stared at her curiously and one smaller mare shrieked. Ms. Rosemont continued.

“Class, this is Narisa. I would like you to try to be friendly to her. Now dear, can you tell us a little about yourself?”

Narisa cleared her throat and began to speak.

“As you know, my name is Narisa. What Ms. Rosemont has told you is true. I live in Canterlot. You might be wondering why I have come to Ponyville. Well, my parent’s died when I was little. Ever since, I’ve been staying at the palace- with the royal guard, of course. I’ve never gone to regular school, but I’ve learned how to read from my friend Abendigo.”

Narisa continued her ‘story’ to the best of her ability. She told the truth about most of it. Abendigo had taught her how to read.

Lunch came all too soon for Narisa. She absorbed Ms. Rosemont’s teaching like a sponge with water. She gathered up her sandwich that Twilight had made for her. She usually ate on a cloud, an odd habit, true. She set her lunch down and flapped her webbed wings effortlessly and grabbed a small cloud. She brought it down close to the ground. Meanwhile, Apple Bloom munched her apple fritter with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo.

“All right! I can’t stand it! I’m going to go ask her over. I mean, look at her. She’s so lonely, and that’s not cool.”

Scootaloo flew over to Narisa and asked her to join. Naturally a bit tentative, Narisa hesitated. Finally, she joined them. They talked about themselves and Narisa started to feel a little more comfortable. Ms. Rosemont was a nice mare and gave them an extra half hour of free time on sunny days. They were in the middle of a game of twenty questions when Diamond Tiara and her ‘friend’, Silver Spoon, walked over. They had grown taller and plumper since elementary school, but were still the same snooty, bullying brats.

“Aah- Silver Spoon- look at the new-girls hair. Black. What an awful color,” she turned to face the other three, “You don’t have to hang around with the new pony. I mean look at her.”

“She’s a freak of nature!”

Silver Spoon finished and they both snickered.

After they grew tired of “standing in the sun and letting their coats absorb it’s rays”, they walked back into the schoolhouse. Narisa let out a sigh. Sweetie Belle patted her back and said,

“Don’t bother with them. Their just stuck up and rude. You’re not a freak of nature. Personally, I love the color of your hair it’s really pretty.”

Scootaloo joined in.

“Yeah! And your wings are awesome! Rainbow Dash would even be jealous.”

Narisa chuckled. When the bell rang all four mares hurried inside to complete the school day.

Chapter 5

“Ooh, I’m so excited! It’s not every day you get to see your sister’s high school musical!”

Rarity giggled as she looked through the play program. Twilight was sitting with Lilac, Spike, and Longshot a few seats away. The school was putting on a play that night and most of the class had brought family and friends to watch. Lilac jumped up and down in her seat excitedly. She wasn’t quite old enough to go to school yet.

She levitated the program with her tiny horn and read through the casting:

               The Phantom of the Opera

Written and Composed by: Andrew Lloyd Webber

Directed by: Ms. Cheerilee of Ponyville Elementary School

                     Main Cast

Phantom - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Featherweight

Christine - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Narisa

Raoul - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Pipsqueak

Carlotta - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Sweetie Belle

Piangi - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Tornado Flash

Madame Giry - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Diamond Tiara

Meg  - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Dinky Doo

Firmin - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Snips

Andre - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Snails

                 Ensemble/Extras

Scootaloo                            Raindrop

Lightblossom                         Thunder Heart

Silver Spoon                        Lumos Maximus

Twist                               Rider

Cinnamon Swirl                      Carlisle

“Daddy, why is did they put Christine? Narisa’s name isn’t Christine.”

Longshot smiled at his daughter and explained.

“That’s her name in the musical. She’s a character like all the other ponies.”

“I wish she wasn’t.”

“Why is that?”

“’Cause now she can’t watch with Lightblossom and I!”

“Honey, Lightblossom’s in the play, too. Your mother and I will watch with you though.”

“Horse-feathers!”

Over the three months that Narisa had lived with the Sparkle family Lilac had started treating her as a sister. It was annoying at times but also very sweet.

The chit chat died down as the lights dimmed. Every head turned towards the stage where a mare with a milky white coat, coffee colored hair, and red spectacles stepped out.

“Good evening everypony. I am Ms. Rosemont, teacher of Ponyville High School. I’d like to welcome you to out production of The Phantom of the Opera! As a reminder, please, no photography. We have hired professional photographers and pictures will be sent to all the parents. Now, without further a due, The Phantom of the Opera!”

The room lights turned off and the stage lights switched on. The play had begun.

                                                             *

The crowd cheered with deafening whistles and shouts. The curtains closed to let the performers change out of their costumes. Narisa threaded her way over to Sweetie Belle. Narisa’s coat and wings had been painted white and a rose had been also painted on her flank. Twilight had turned her hair brown for the night. The spell was starting to wear off as her mane and tail gradually darkened.

Sweetie Belle had mascara, eye shadow, and red mane dye. Other than that, she had been perfect for her role as the leading soprano, Carlotta. They hugged each other and started to talk of the performance.

“Sweetie Belle, I never knew you could sing like that. It was beautiful!”

“Well, I got my cutie mark for singing so I guess it can’t be too shabby. You also did amazing! Too bad Apple Bloom is sick with chicken pox.” She brought her voice down to a whisper, “My princess, you have a gift. Your voice is your natural voice, not generated by the spell.”

They continued talking until the crowd of actors and actresses thinned out a little. After they had washed themselves clean of paint, dye, and make up, they walked out. Rarity and the Sparkles were waiting for them along with Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash. They exchanged greetings and praises.

“Well, the night’s not getting any younger. Scoots and I need to get home. See you tomorrow!”

The two pegasi departed with smiles.

“I think I have too agree with them. It was lovely seeing you all act up there, Sweetie Belle. I already hear yawns.”

She looked at Lilac and Narisa who were indeed yawning. They walked out of the theatre and into the starlit lane.

“Twilight, can I fly Lilac home? She looks too tired to walk all the way.”

“Sure. Go ahead, just be careful!”

“Thanks! Ok, Lilac get on up here.”

Lilac clamored aboard her “sister” and held on for dear life. Narisa lifted off the ground and with one wing beat she was off.

                                                             *

“I have a job for you, Nightingale.”

“Yes? Whatever you want, I’ll strive to achieve.”

“Perfect… I need you to bring me a royal guard. Preferably that old Abendilow or whatever his name is. Do you think you can rack up enough of those idiotic stallions to do the job?”

“Yes, I believe with some persuading we shall accomplish your will. If I might be so bold as to ask, what do you need the old guard for?”

“I shall tell you this: He is the key to Celestia’s… undoing.”

                                                             *

Abendigo walked through the castle grounds. He was most at home in the fresh night air. Bending down to smell and Ice Lily, he caught the scent of something else.

“Who’s there?!”

He felt a sharp pain in the back of his head. Then… nothing  but blissful blackness.

Chapter 6

“Your Greatness, we have brought him.”

The mare speaking was Nightingale. Her dark blue coat glistened in the little sunlight that reached through the forest canopy. A group of stallions all wearing golden robes brought Abendigo forward. They let him go, but instantly one of the unicorns created a rope that tied him to a tree like a leash.

The miasma floated forward. It’s chuckles turned quickly to maniacal laughter. The others, not wanting to be punished, started to laugh also.

“Quiet!”

Silence reigned instantaneously.

“Now, Abendigo, I believe you are wondering why I have brought you here. Don’t scowl at me. I could have chosen another, but I believe you are worthy of my gift.”

“What gift?!”

“Ah, he’s a feisty one. Now, I will give you two options. One: Stay here and I will bestow upon you my gift. Two: Try to escape and be killed immediately.”

“I am old. What life is left for me here?”

“Wise choice. Now brace yourself, this will sting.”

There was a flash of blue light as the miasma dived towards Abendigo. A second later…

“Untie me you fools! I will not have this body marred while I am inside it.”

Nightingale bowed before her master.

“This old stallion’s body suites you well, my master.”

The miasma smiled and walked over to it’s most faithful follower.

Nightingale bowed even lower then rose.

“If I might be so bold as to inquire, meaning no disrespect-”

“Spit it out, girl!”

“How is this a gift to Abendigo?”

“A very good question. I have given him the courtesy of possessing him completely. It is painful to not take over the whole body. Thus I have given him the blessing of oblivion to my presence.” It saw the confused look on her face, “His mind is dormant for the time being.”

                                                             *

“Hold still, dear! I can’t possibly measure you if keep squirming!”

“Sorry Rarity, I’m just SO excited for the gala tomorrow night!”

“I understand completely, but you MUST be still. Now, I have decided to use a fabric that has the colors of the morning sunrise. You can keep it as long as you like because it will go with your natural colors and those you have now.”

Rarity stopped her work for a moment and looked into Narisa’s eyes.

“Be careful at the gala. I know the princess and the elements will be there with you but I have a funny feeling about this particular one. I don’t mean to make you nervous but it’s just one of those unicorn things.”

“I know what you mean. Just because my horn and magic is not visible, it doesn’t mean that I still can’t feel magic and energy running through me. I just hope Abendigo will stay safe. He’s not the most, how should I put it, careful pony you’d meet.”

Rarity giggled softly and continued her work. Her blue magical aura lifted fabric and measuring tools into the air.

                                                             *

“Thanks for doing my hair Twilight.”

“No problem, Narisa. So, do you believe what Rarity said?”

“I think so. I’m glad you all are coming, too. I don’t think I have enough bravery for everypony.”

“I don’t think even Princess Celestia has enough for that.—I think I hear the doorbell. That must be the girls. Wait here.”

Narisa did as Twilight asked and waited in the living room. Soon all six elements of harmony stepped into the room. They exchanged greetings and then stood there talking quietly.

“Well, are we going or not? Just because I can fly fast on my own doesn’t mean I have to wait ‘till the last minute to do it.”

“Rainbow’s right. ‘Tain’t good ta be standin’ around on a beautiful night like this’n. Let’s go.”

This gala started out better than the few previous ones. Partly because they knew better, and partly because they were protecting royalty. They walked into the great hall to meet Princess Celestia. Twilight stayed with Narisa and the princess while the others went off to do what they wished.

“Aun-Princess Celestia!”

“Narisa! Goodness, I know we haven’t seen each other in a while, but try not to bowl me over.”

“Sorry, I forgot my manners. Ponyville can wear off on you.”

“Hey!”

“Sorry, Twilight. I didn’t mean it that way! I-”

“It’s alright girls. It was an accident. Now, I believe I see Abendigo. Why don’t you go say hello, Narisa?”

Narisa’s face brightened immediately. She went over to greet her old friend. As she walked closer, she noticed that his face was oddly pale. He legs trembled as he walked, like a foal just learning to get around.

“A-Abendigo? What’s wrong?”

“Who are you?”

“It’s me, Narisa,” she lowered her voice, “Nova?”

An evil smile spread across his face. Narisa backed up against a pole.

“Now, it’s my turn. Who are YOU?”

Everypony turned their heads and the Elements ran from the rooms they were in to see what the fuss was. Pseudo-Abendigo looked around angrily. Then he spotted Celestia coming toward them. He smiled.

“If you will not answer this mare, then answer me. What business brings you here tonight? You are not Abendigo or any of this palace’s staff.”

“My business, Celestia? MY BUSINESS IS YOUR DOWNFALL!”

The miasma shot out of Abendigo straight towards Celestia.

                                            CRACK!

“Princess Celestia!”

Twilight yelled her mentor’s name in all the confusion.

Everypony was screaming and running out of the palace. Narisa looked frantically at all the chaos. It was like Discord had turned to flesh again. She ran over to her aunt who lay on the floor.

“Helia gratos! Me nacre li? Suilila iatem!”

She spoke in the ancient tongue of the alicorns in hopes that her aunt would muster some sort strength to speak.

Chaos rose.

Guards rushed in.

Screaming.

Yelling.

Clip Clop of hooves on the cold, stone floor.

“One soul spit in two, make it one anew. Shape this being to her form. The form that once was true.”

It was and odd spell, but it worked. Instantly she felt the same sensation as when she was turned into a bat pony. A bright flash of magic and then she stood before all the world to see: the princess reborn.

Chapter 7

Nova looked over to see Celestia rise into the air. Magic filled every breath she took. Everypony seemed to stop, frozen. Celestia rose higher still.

“Something’s not right here.”

Pinkie Pie’s speculations were correct. Something wasn’t right. Something was very VERY wrong. Celestia’s soft colored mane brightened until it burst into flame. It stayed aflame longer than it would take to burn up. Her eyes opened and they were blood red. Even her size had changed. For an adult alicorn, she wasn’t all that tall. She seemed to have grown a few inches. Her magic was gold instead of a light yellow.

Nova stared in horror. She had heard many stories from her mother of how she had turned into Nightmare Moon. This looked all too similar.

“Princess Nova! What’s happening?!”

Only two words could she utter to Twilight.

“Solar Flare.”

The chaos had died down almost without her noticing. She looked round and no one but the Elements of Harmony, Abendigo, Solar Flare, and herself were in the room.

She heard evil laughter and… crackling. She whipped around to face an incoming spell. It hit her in the chest and blew her across the room.

“Ah, a little rusty, are we?”

Nova stood up and prepared her own spell.

“You don’t have to do this. This isn’t who you are! Aunt Celestia-”

“DON’T SAY MY NAME!!! For thousands of years I’ve ruled Equestria and what thanks do I receive? NOTHING!! I’ve dealt with wars, struggle, and nopony even bothers to tell me thank you! I have made sacrifices and sacrifices for causes that seem pointless. IT WAS ALL FOR NOTHING!!! I LOST MY SISTER BECAUSE OF THAT HAREBRAINED STALLION WHO MARRIED HER!! NO MORE!”

Nova didn’t know what to think. Her mother told her that she tried to express her feelings in words also, but when that failed, she resorted to violence and trying to bring eternal night. Nova had almost put her guard down when Solar Flare looked her straight in the eye.

“You are right to cower, Princess.”

Two words.

“Now die!”

Both horns lit up. Solar Flare started to fly up in the air but Nova was too quick for her. The spark in her own horn grew until it exploded into a supernova. It spread throughout the room, knocked Solar Flare out of the air and into the throne.

The Elements placed their necklaces on. Nova advanced while she still had the advantage. She had inherited a fierce nature from her mother. She spread her wings and placed her hoof on Solar Flare’s side.

“I never wanted to do this. Either surrender now or be exiled.”

“Foolish child!!”

As soon as she spoke the elements used their power. One after the other shot towards Solar Flare engulfing her in a rainbow of magic.

Power rose.

Tension boosted.

Solar Flare’s eyes took one last glance at Equestria before…

                                            BOOM!!

She was gone.

“P-Princess Nova? How l-long will s-she stay in th-the sun?”

“Not for long, Fluttershy. There is an eclipse coming and I am positive she will use it to escape.”

“Pardon em fer askin’, but when is this here eclipse actually comin’?”

“We have about a year. Mean time, I would like each of you to help spread the word that Celestia has fallen.”

                                                             *

“What happened to our Princess?”

The crowd in front of Canterlot Town Hall yelled questions at Twilight and Apple Jack.

“FOR THE LAST TIME: THE PRINCESS HAS FALLEN INTO THE WILL OF THE MIASMA. THE SAME MIASMA THAT TURNED PRINCESS LUNA INTO NIGHTMARE MOON.”

The conversation wore on like that for a while.

Suddenly, some mare in the crowd screamed.

“AAHH!!!! It’s Nightmare Moon!”

At this outrageous statement all eyes turned to see Nova walking out of the building. She did indeed look fairly like Nightmare Moon. Her coat was it’s natural pitch black but her mane had changed. It seemed to be a mix of her mother’s normal style and the smoke-like style of Nightmare Moon.

She looked out into the crowd sternly and at once the screaming stopped. Everypony was so silent, you could hear a pin drop.

“I’m sorry for all this confusion. I don’t understand all of it either. But this is what I believe happened.”

She started to tell them what she had witnessed and what her mother had told her. The citizens finally seemed satisfied after she had finished.

They filtered out slowly talking quietly as they went. Nova turned to go finish researching the eclipses. Apple Jack and Twilight followed her.

“Princess, aren’t ya worried abou’ them thinkin’ yer Nightmare Moon?”

“If my kingdom chooses to see me as my mother’s mistakes, then let them do so. I am not their supreme ruler. I am not their conscience nor their own will. They shall see me as they please.”

“Nova, this all happened so fast and you’ve explained it so many times but I still don’t understand. Why?”

“Because greed inhabits us all, Twilight. We all want something. Some want it enough that they will do anything to have it. The miasma used to be the soul of the king of a great land. When that land was destroyed, it was left to wander through space. It found Equestria and saw how happy the country was. It wanted to have happiness also and believed it could attain that by conquering. The miasma has been the enemy of many alicorns and great leaders of Equestria. As my aunt has told me, it has been weakened over so much time that it knows it will die.”

“Bu’ why Celestia?”

“Why not? Think about it. She’s the most powerful alicorn in Equestria. What better way to conquer a land than by corrupting it’s leader?”

“I see. Good afternoon, Nova.”

“Good afternoon, Apple Jack.”

Chapter 9

Nova woke up early that morning to find the elements out in the palace hall ready to leave. She yawned and went out to meet them.

“Good morning. Did everypony sleep well?”

They all nodded. They didn’t do anything after that, just stood there. After a moment, Rarity pushed Apple Jack forward.

“What is it?”

“Well, yer highness, Rarity wanted us to help you get ready fer our trip.”

Smiling warmly Nova said, “That would be much appreciated, Rarity. Thank you.”

They all bowed and followed her into the spare nobles bedroom. As soon as the door was closed, Pinkie Pie wrapped her hooves around Nova’s eyes.

“No peeks.”

Nova did not resist and sat in front of the mirror patiently. Twilight pulled something blue out of the closet and set it upon the dresser top.

“You can open, now,” she said.

As soon as Pinkie released her, Nova opened her eyes. On the dresser was a helmet and shoes, much alike to her mother’s. They were carved from a light blue crystal, but looked as if made with metal. The helmet fit her perfectly and she brushed her forelock into her flowing mane. The shoes fit as well and she slipped them on with ease.

“I-I don’t know what to say except thank you.”

“No problem! Now none of those buffoons of Solar Flare’s can hurt your head.”

Rainbow said as if to an invisible cult member.

The mares left shortly after breakfast and headed over the border.

“No offense, Princess, but it’ll take us all day to get to Ponyville.”

“Rainbow, I thought you listened to the meeting last night.”

“I sorta, maybe fell asleep.”

“Ugh… The plan was that I was going to create a portal. It’s like teleportation, but more than one individual can go through it.”

As she said, Nova created a portal and Ponyville was just visible through it. She waited until they had all walked in and then did so herself as the portal closed behind her. They found themselves a moment later in an alley next to town hall. The city wasn’t as busy as it had been two years before, but there were more ponies out and about than say Trottingham and Fillydelphia.

They followed Nova through the backstreets to places marked on Fluttershy’s map. Houses with a red X indicated that the family was on their side. If it had a black N, then the opposite was true. In a little over and hour, they had gathered almost seventy ponies, plus Spike the dragon. The Elements embraced their family and close friends. After a few minutes of catching up on events in this small town Nova stomped her hoof for quiet.

All looked up at her. Some eyes held fear, others joy or hope. She explained her plan to them all.

“I have the location of an ancient country called Cavalia. Some of you have heard of it, other have not. I can make a portal to it, but you must all be brave. As you may well have noticed, these are troubled times. I believe each and every one of will live to see Solar Flare brought to justice, but that can only happen if you follow me,”

She created the portal and then spoke again, “You will be safe. The choice remains before you. Stay or go?”

They were hesitant at first, but eventually they all funneled through to this strange, new country. Nova followed and then spent a while assigning them to houses. Each family was to have a house, since over a thousand filled the city. When that was done, she left Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Rarity behind to help the ponies settle in.

She took the remaining three Elements, and together they went to gather others in Cloudsdale, Manehattan, and Appleloosa. The other cities were too close to Canterlot to be trusted.

Upon her final return, she provided food for the city and uncovered a room in the palace full of sleeping mats. Some stallions spread these throughout the city, and as darkness fell, all were at peace.

                                                             *

“Momma?”

“Yes Lilac?”

“Where’s Lightblossom?”

“She’s with Brightwaters. She can’t stay with us just yet. In a few days, maybe you can go visit her with your father. Although, knowing her, I believe she loves you too much to stay away for long.”

Longshot smiled as he poked the fire. Though the city was protected by the many spells Nova had put up, it still received the cold, mountain air.

Twilight had been right of course, the next day Lightblossom showed up at their doorstep.

“Hi Mr. Sparkle. Is Lilac here?”

Chuckling, Longshot said, “You can just call me Longshot. And yes, Lilac is here. Come on in.”

Lightblossom thanked him and went inside where she was instantly pummeled by Lilac.

“Whoa! Calm down! What gives?”

“I missed you sssoooo much!”

“I missed you, too. Now why don’t we go into the living room and I can give you the picture I drew.”

“For me? Thank you! Thank you!”

Twilight walked in from the kitchen.

“Looks like somepony missed their foal-sitter.”

“You think?”

                                   DING DONG

The doorbell rang and Lilac immediately ran to the door. She opened the door to find Nova standing there. Her horn almost hit the top of the doorframe. Because of this, Lilac ran under Longshot’s legs as her father, mother, and foal-sitter walked in.

Twilight asked, “What brings you here, Nova?”

“The other Elements requested your presence. We are deciding on what to do when we…”

She saw Lightblossom. Lightblossom bowed and asked, “Is something wrong, Princess?”

“You knew my mother, did you not?”

“I did. Why does it matter?”

“I have a question I’ve been wanting to ask. If you will, please join us tonight.”

“Of course! I’ve always wanted to see the palace. I hope I can answer your question.”

That night, the Elements, Lightblossom, and Nova met to discuss their plans.

Fluttershy drew out her map again and all gathered around it. They decided the best way was to portal into the caves that led into the basement of the castle. They couldn’t just portal into the great hall, for Nova was sure Solar Flare had procured protective spells all around it and most of the castle.

“We have our plan ta get into the castle, bu’ wha’ are we gonna do when we face Solar Flare? We can use the Elements, but the miasma would know better.”

“AJ’s right,” Rainbow said, “We can use the Elements as a distraction, but Nova will have to make the final blow—Uh, Nova? You okay?”

“What? Oh, yes. Sorry…I was just thinking. Twilight, you have studied magical history further than I could. Is it possible to destroy Solar Flare and bring Celestia back?”

Twilight pondered this for a moment before she said, “I’m not sure, Nova. It’s possible, but not likely.”

Nova sighed. “I feared as much. I suppose the throne will fall to me if we succeed in destroying Solar Flare.”

They talked for a while before Lightblossom muscled up enough courage to ask, “What was the question you wanted to ask me?”

“Oh, yes!” Nova remembered immediately, “I was wondering if my mother ever talked to you about battle. I remember she’d tell me glorious tales of her encounters with foes. I have a few spells that I use for defense. I’d like to honor her memory and use the proper spells.”

Lightblossom thought for a moment and remembered a few things Luna had told her. She discussed with Nova what she had heard. The meeting lasted longer than she expected, so when Nova laid her head on her pillow, she fell asleep immediately.

Chapter 8

The year had come to an end. Nova was too anxious to sit still. She paced around her mother’s grave until the grass was almost gone. Finally she sat down. She was seventeen now.

“Mom, it feels wrong to be saying this, but… I’m glad you’re not here…to see what’s happened to Equestria. It’s horrible-It’s horrible living in uncertainty, wondering when doomsday will come, what she’ll do… I miss you, everypony does.”

She sighed.

“Ponies, they think of me as Nightmare Moon. I guess it’s true. I remind them of what happened, what always happens. Nopony’s sympathetic anymore. I know how and why…just not why me. I don’t think they hate me. I don’t want them too. I know this sounds foalish. I’m sorry.”

There was a slight puff of wind that brushed past her. Next minute, Abendigo stood with his wing around her.

“Your mother would be proud to see how far you’ve come.”

“I don’t think that there’s much to be proud of. Look at how much panic this has caused Equestria. If only I had been born like my father, a pegasus, none of this would’ve happened.”

“You can’t be sure of that.”

“Of course I can! If I was a pegasus, Celestia wouldn’t have taken me under her wing and made me a princess. If I wasn’t a princess, then I wouldn’t be considered a threat. I might be a freak, but it wouldn’t be as bad as this.”

Abendigo was struck dumb.

“Well, I’ll give you this: You can state your point very well.”

Nova chuckled quietly.

They stood and watched the sunset together. Only, it wasn’t the sunset. The sun was slowly being blocked by a shadow. The moon.

There was a bright flash, then…nothing seemed to happen.

“Hm hm hm, what a touching moment.”

Nova and Abendigo turned around in one movement.

“Solar Flare!”

“Quite right. Now, Abendigo, you’ve caused me much trouble. Say bye-bye to your friend here. It’s the last thing you’ll ever see.”

“NO!!”

Nova’s screams were followed by a flying spell. She closed her eyes as she heard the dull thud of a body hitting the ground.

“YOU MONSTER!!! CELESTIA NEVER WOULD HAVE DONE THAT! HOW COULD YOU?!”

“Don’t say that name! Be quiet dear, I’m tired of your crying.”

Nova opened her great, black wings and lit her horn.

“And to think I ever loved you…”

Solar Flare felt something twinge in her chest. It brought a lump to her throat, but she fought it back down.

“You were always a v-very bad girl. Now, be gone!”

All she saw next was a flash of golden light.

                                                             *

Cadence paced nervously at the door. Her hoofsteps echoed through the hall in the Crystal Palace.  The elements are on their way. It won’t be too long now, she thought. Sure enough, she heard the clopping of hooves coming her way.

She looked at them and smiled thankfully.

“I’m glad you were able to come. I thinks she’s starting to wake up.”

Twilight bore a look of relief on her face. They all stepped into the room quietly. Twilight walked over to were a great beam of magic was holding an alicorn suspended in midair.

“She’s so tall! I knew Celestia told me about alicorn growth spurts but… this.”

Rarity joined Twilight.

“I know what you mean, darling. She seems at least ten inches taller. Her wings and horn have grown, too.”

“Yes. It helps that she is surrounded by magic, but that was necessary to heal her.”

The voices eventually made their way to Nova ears. She slowly opened her eyes. Her vision was fuzzy for a moment, but then she saw them all smiling at her. Cadence performed a spell that made all the magic surrounding her cease to be. She landed gently on the floor.

“Where am I?”

“Yer in the Crystal Palace. Do ya feel alrigh’, sugarcube?”

“I guess so,” Suddenly she remembered, “Where’s Abendigo?!”

“H-He’s…dead. I’m so sorry.”

Rainbow Dash struggled to get the word out of her mouth. She had not known Abendigo, but knew that Nova loved him like a father.

Nova sunk to the ground. Tears started to leak from her closed eyes.

“Solar Flare has control of Equestria. We tried to stop her, but she and her followers outnumbered and beat us. The Elements are hidden safely away, but it’s close to impossible to strike.

“How l-long have I been unconscious?”

Nova dreaded the answer to her question.

Fluttershy cleared her throat and said softly, “A year.”

She stood up. She found that she towered over the Elements and slightly over even Cadence. She walked to the window and stared out at all the crystal ponies going about their business, apparently oblivious to what was happened in their sister country.

“How many still will follow you?”

“I don’t know, most of Ponyville, Appleloosa, any place that doesn’t have the Helios Corps occupying it. Why do you ask?”

“Well Twilight, if we can gather as many ponies as possible, then we could escape to Cavalia. I remember my mother showing me it’s location on a map when I was a child. Solar Flare knows it exists, but doesn’t know the spell to find it. I do.”

With a plan in their minds, all eight mares talked over how to best smuggle the civilians over the border and how to get supplies.

As soon as morning came, the Elements and Princess Nova set about the business of freeing Equestria.