The Meaning of Loyalty

**Chapter 1

The Forgotten name**

How long has it been?

How many hundreds of years have I dwindled alone in the shadows?

Names… I can remember names…

Glory…

BloodIvy...

There are others…

But I cannot recall them…

I have seen faces… living and breathing creatures of mine kin walking about…

At least… they are of my race… of that I hold assurance…

Their banners… I remember them…

But they are not mine…at least, not the ones I served…

Why do I reside amongst the void? The things that bear no life of their own, but mask that of another who’s time is past…

Why do I linger still, when my time has long since passed?

Do I hold a purpose still in this world? Did I not fulfill a lifetime of commitment to those whom I swore allegiance? Then why now, do I linger still as if something is unresolved?

I remember now… I am not here on my own accord… I am cursed…

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

The sun began to rise slowly in east sky, no doubt raised by the goddess who commanded its power. I knew her name… Celestia.

Amongst this graveyard of faces, resided many names. Glorious captains, valorous soldiers, wise scholars, brave leaders. But none of them were kin to me. Yet my statue had been placed amongst theirs, my image residing amongst them, a stone out of place, and a digit out of code. Yet though they were not my brothers, I knew their names.

I remember now…

The bloodshed…

That final battle…

We were to win; our numbers far outweighed that of our enemies…

And yet… it was not to be a just victory…

But why am I still here? I am cursed, but for what means?

Did I not fulfill my duties? Did not my every breath come forth to serve my princess? Then why now, am I cursed to remain?

Regardless of why, I cannot linger amongst this image of myself any longer. If I am to be free, I must take a physical form, one of flesh and blood. I hope my magic has not faded entirely, I require it now more than ever before if I am to escape this prison of stone.

Drawing forth the vast reserves of my power long dormant, I began drawing from around me living things which could serve my needs. I aimed for non sentient creatures, such as grass and worms, avoiding at every chance I could to steal the life of a more deserving life form. I am not, after all, a senseless murderer. The grass will hardly miss itself, but a rabbit or a bird might be more sorely missed by its kind.

Presently, the grass and dirt began moving about, a strange blue aura dragging it to a place before one statue in particular. This statue, unlike all the others whom bore the faces of shining warriors of the sunlight, brave captains of solar brilliance, and scholar who bore the morning dew upon their manes. This statue held a darker hue, the stone it was wrought from a bluer and blacker shade of stone, unlike the bright white of all the others. It resided right beside the figure of Princess Luna, gracious and clam in her image, this statue standing in solemn silence behind her. Yet even the most naive of foals to tread these gardens could see the bond between the two, how this strange protector, or perhaps more so adviser, stood ever at her beck and call. And how the Princess, or how her image suggested, was ever glancing behind herself, seeking his council.

Any scholar, any learned unicorn or studied Pegasus; would with a glance, seeking ancient history of a time long ago, recognize the figure behind the princess as the most trusted member of her council...

Blacklist...

His name would be held then in awe, its usage bearing a power that could shake a conversation with an instance of its utterance. Few names bore such power and even fewer were looked upon with such admiration, considering its origin.

For this pony, or unicorn as many would guess by his ever bejeweled horn, was of the Lunar Kingdom. Such knowledge was removed from the textbooks of school fillies, deemed unorthodox to speak of in public, and anyone who knew too much about it was held with suspicion.

The Lunar Kingdom was the only kingdom besides the ever growing Changeling Empire, to challenge Princess Celestia for right to rule Equestria; Its leader, none other than the fabled Nightmare Moon. Most would dismiss this talk as fantasy, a story that it told to naughty foals who would not seek rest at the proper time.

But I can tell you right now, this in itself is untrue. For indeed Nightmare Moon did exist, and she did rule a Kingdom for over a hundred years, bathing the land in eternal night for as long as she bore her queen-ship.

A hundred years… until at last, Celestia cast her down and banished her to the moon for ten times her reign. Amongst her court, none were spared the traitors sentence. And all know that penalty… death by arcane execution.

But I know the truth… barely a fraction of those tried in those accursed courts were of true guilt.

But the eyes of fear are blind to reason or justice in its true light.

The pile of earth and shrubbery had grown large now, piling up to at least three feet in height, and somewhere around half that in diameter. The blue aura paused, letting the pile settle upon the stone path. And now, arise silent earth, and shape to my command, for I must arise if my curse it to be lifted. Arise…

Nearby, a guard was making rounds amongst the gardens, whispering his silent words to the many different statues as if they would respond. “You should have seen the argument Captain Armor and Cadence held not three hours ago. I daresay Princess Luna; I question the validity of their bond many a time. But then… I am just a royal guard; it is not my place to question the squabbling of the royal household. And after all, they make amends just as quickly as they break them, so I fear not for their love. If only I could acquire such a bond…

the Guard sighed, "but nay, no mare would find it in her heart to love an old guard like myself. I am advanced in years, far beyond that of fathering children. Nay… I have lived a long and fruitful life, serving my Princess to the end. And now, soon I hope, I too shall retire and spend the last of my days in peace. Like so many of the great names here, perhaps my name shall be remembered… but then, I am just a guard, my name is not important.”

As the dirt and dust before me formed, I observed this guard, his strange hobby intriguing me. I myself walked amongst the statues of fallen warriors before me, but this guard spoke as if he expected a reply, some words of wisdom to come from these lifeless statues.

Lifeless… except mine.

Finally, when I wished to wait no longer, I issued forth the blue aura once more, this time forcing the earth before me to alter. But I didn’t just alter its shape, crafting an image similar to mine alone. No… the spells I cast went deeper than that. The dirt began changing color, substance, and consistency as I altered it in ways no normal mage could do. Vast years of experience and study along with immense arcane power flowed from my horn as I continued to force the fibers of the earth before me to change its very essence, crafting a physical body of which I was satisfied with. It resembled me, or at least what I recalled myself to look like, back when I held a physical form. Although any skilled wizard would be able to tell the origins of its materials, anyone else could not mistake it for anything short of a unicorn of immense power.

The tattoos that covered its body were of the blowing wind, which glowed with a bio luminescent blue, its coat a dark grey, almost black if not for the tattoos which made it look brighter. The eyes were a piercing dark blue, but with them came calmness, sort of the daunting eyes a wise scholar would use to gaze upon a group of students, powerful, but contained.

I glanced upon the new from I had created, and grinned, my power has not failed me, and even now I still feel it flow through me. And now, with this new form, I shall finally fulfill my duties, and end this curse placed upon me. Then, perhaps, I shall find rest.

At the same moment when I took control of my physical form, the guard happened to glance upon the likeness of my statue, noticing the newly created pony, which bore a shocking resemblance to it; a VERY big resemblance.

Unsure as how to act, he acted as any guard would most likely act when uncertain. “Halt! Don’t make any sudden movement’s trespasser!”

I rose from the ground, turning slowly to face him with my blazing blue eyes and glowing tattoos, three stone rings rested atop my horn which bore runes of varying shapes, also glowing with a similar shade of blue.

Not much to my surprise, the guard dropped his spear, unable to find the will to grasp it any longer, slowly backing up towards the double doors at the far end of the gardens which no doubt led into the palace. “S-s-s-stay back demon, help, someone help me!”

I made no move to harm him, but instead strode past him towards the doors myself, intent on seeing the owner of them. They were guarded by countless spells, but with a glance I found them swinging open at my command, the wards shattered like fragile glass. If things have not completely changed, my Princess resides within these halls, and her older sister. If I am to be free of my curse, I must first find the one who placed it upon me.

Without another look behind me, I stepped inside, leaving behind me a thoroughly haunted guard, and a pile of earth lying before a statue, now lying silent once more…

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

“And that, my dear Nephew, is why we cannot simply teach every pony about table manners. I’m sure you understand my reasoning?”

Prince Blueblood sighed, clearly not agreeing with his aunt’s point of view. But being the Princess of Canterlot, and one of the most powerful beings on Equestria, he had little choice in the matter. So reluctantly, he nodded, “as you see fit Princess, I shall abstain.”

Celestia knew that Blueblood didn’t agree with her at all. But she was content with his ability to know when to quit and give up, even when it was obvious he didn’t agree with whoever it was he was consenting to.

It will have to suffice; I have more important things to think on rather than my nephew’s obsession with table manners. The Summer Sun Festival is near, and there are still many things that need to be done.

Celestia rose from her seat, parading slowly down the steps of her throne as Blueblood stepped aside to let her progress. The four royal guards straightened up, saluting their deity as she passed them by. At the door, two guards from the other side quickly opened them, revealing the long lightened hallways of the palace, adorned with endless suits of armor and tapestries as far as the eye could see. Presently, she caught sight of her sister returning from somewhere unknown, alighting upon the far west tower and vanishing within its uppermost chambers. I wonder what errands my sibling has plotted as of recently. I raised the sun not three hours ago. Strange that she would be out in daylight like this, unusual to say the least.

Spreading forth her wings, the goddess rose in the sky until she met the height of the west tower, landing silently upon it as she folded her wings once more beside her.

“Lu Lu? What are you still doing awake at such late hours? The sun has been aloft for three hours already. Shouldn’t you be asleep?”

Celestia received no answer, but instead an eerie dark room lightened only by the sunlight from the window she now stood within. No item was out of place, no signs of inhabitance or alteration which would suggest residence; nothing… except a dim blue light from a closed door at the far end, the chambers of Princess Luna as of currently. It was not uncommon to see faint lights from that room, as Luna was constantly reading and studying anything on recent history that she could so as to catch up with events that she had been unaccounted for. And indeed there were many of them, for a thousand years is a long period of time no matter who you are, or how long your life is.

“Tia, come in, I was just… cleaning up.”

Slowly, Celestia opened the door, revealing a very messy chamber, scrolls littering the floors and almost every piece of furniture in sight besides the bed. My word! If I had known the condition of her chambers I would had summoned a maid or two to clean up first. “Lu lu, this place is a mess! Why in Equestria do you let it get this messy in the first place?”

Luna gave her older sister a frown, moving scrolls about in a frantic attempt to make the bedroom look cleaner. “I don’t LET it get this way Tia, with the other things I attend to it sort of happens. I’m sure you have had your chambers get messy on occasion.”

Though she thought about it hard, Celestia couldn’t recall the last time she had seen here chambers this messy. I have maids keep it tidy on a daily basis, I don’t have to worry about this sort of thing happening, not that I would have the time to clean it anyways. “Well, if you had the royal maids come up here at least once in every Summer Sun Celebration, I’m sure they could keep it cleaner than this.”

Celestia was rewarded with another frown, this time a bit more annoyed. “If you’re just going to stand there and criticize my living space, perhaps you could help me clean it up; unless you have very important things to do, like doing nothing.”

Celestia flinched at the sharpness of her retort. Sure Luna could be snappy at times, but that was a bit harsh. Something is on her mind, it explains her careless comments. But what has her in such a fit? “Lu lu… what’s wrong?”

Luna paused, letting a loud but defeating sigh before returning to her sorting. “Nothing, I’m just… tired. That’s all.”

Celestia didn’t buy it. “Now we both can tell when the other sister is lying Luna. If you don’t want to tell me that is fine, but don’t tell me nothing’s wrong when something clearly is.”

Luna continued sorting, acting as if she hadn’t heard her sister. But the anger in her tone hadn’t faded one bit, “You wouldn’t understand Tia. No one would. So don’t go asking where it doesn’t concern you!”

This by far, surprised Celestia. The Nerve! What in Equestria and beyond would she be dealing with that I wouldn’t… oh, that. “Lu lu… I’m sorry, I’ll leave you alone.”

Luna stood silently as Celestia turned to leave. But before she could depart, Luna slammed the door shut sharply, embracing with her very startled sister. “No, Please don’t Leave! I didn’t mean it like that. Maybe you can understand, maybe not. But I don’t care, just don’t leave me alone. Don’t leave me again!”

For a few moments, neither sister spoke, Celestia holding her sister closely as she sobbed uncontrollably. Celestia had seen her sister quietly cry alone some nights when no one was around. She had figured out why fairly early, but had decided that such a matter was better left alone, least past wounds be reopened. But never in her memory had her Sister leapt into her hooves and sob so uncontrollably. She recalled one time when she had embraced her younger sister closely, not long after Luna had been freed from Nightmare Moons influence. But even then, she had not broken down as thoroughly as she did now.

Celestia thought about asking her what was wrong; asking her what could possibly be enough to break her this badly. But somehow… she knew. “Lu lu… tell me what’s wrong. No judging, no accusations, just sister to sister, right now, no one else.”

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

Celestia stood beside her golden throne, another sitting currently upon it as they awaited the summoned host. She had promised her sister that for this time, regardless of what she might object to. That whatever she had to say, and to whom she chose to say it too, would not go interrupted, period. I agree of course, but I fear what Luna might say, she’s clearly in a state of emotional distress. My word is absolute… but I fear I might have given it too hastily. I am thankful that she only chose to tell the bearers of harmony, for it apparently involves them.

“Highness, the requested guests you summoned have arrived.” Luna nodded her thoughts clearly in another place.  Not wanting to prolong the silence any longer, Celestia gave the guard a quick nod, “Send them in at once.”

The Guard bowed, and then nodded to the guards standing by the doorway, the large double doors opening slowly to reveal the ponies standing behind it. Six ponies, two of them unicorns, two earth ponies, and two of them pegasi, cantered into the throne room and stood close to each other, talking amongst themselves quietly, but loud enough to hear.

One Orange Earth Pony with a wide brim hat spoke first, “what ya all think it the meaning of us being called her on such short notice? I hope it’s nothing serious, the last thing Ponyvile needs is another fiasco like Discord.”

“Knowing why this group in particular is called here usually, we can’t really consider any other reasonably reason for this sudden summons dears, unless the Princess enjoys calling us all together for tea on the drop of a hat, Applejack.” The white unicorn huffed, wrapping the pink feather boa around her neck a bit closer as if she was fending off a draft and the paper thin feathers would provide warmth.

“or, maybe she called us all here for a surprise party! I mean, why not? The Princess has to party every now and again also. Oh! That remind me, last week, I was talking with Cranky, and he was mentioning the idea of a-“ it was clear this pink earth pony (with obscure fluffy hair that smelt faintly of sugared candy), was prepared to take the conversation as far from the situation as she could, whatever reasons as to why were a mystery.

“Pinkie Pie, I don’t know how in Equestria you could tie a conversation from last week to us being summoned her on such short notice. I’m sure Celestia has a viable and feasible reason why we’ve been summoned here. Al we have to do is answer it and be patient.” The Purple Unicorn leaned over and began scanning the contents of the satchel she was carrying, counting and naming its contents by heart to herself.  Come on Twilight, let’s see here. Books, paper, quill, ink…

The last two, a petite yellow Pegasus with pinkish hair, and a blue and rainbow maned Pegasus, said nothing, neither glancing nor speaking to anyone else. Finally, the yellow Pegasus spoke up, “um… Rainbow Dash? Why are we all here? Not be interrupt or anything like that, I was just wondering if we were-“

“No Fluttershy, I can’t tell you anything. I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again, SO STOP ASKING ME!”  The Blue Pegasus was clearly agitated about something, because the moment the Yellow Pegasus started speaking, she turned sharply to face her, her expression tired, agitated, and wrought with long thought.

The Yellow Pegasus, named Fluttershy, sharply retreated, cowering and making every effort to look unimposing. “Oh my… I’m so sorry Rainbow Dash, I didn’t mean to be rude, I won’t ask again.”

Unfortunately, Fluttershy’s apology only continued to make Rainbow Dash angry. She retaliated once again sharply, “FLUTTERSHY, SHUT UP ALREADY. IF YOU WANT TO APPOLOGIZE, THEN DON’T SAY ANYTHING!”

The Rest of the group hushed sharply at the sudden raise in volume from Rainbow Dash, the two seated at the end of the room turned sharply to where the sound had come.

Twilight gawked, as did most of the other gathered five nearby her, starring at her with concerned glances. But It Was Twilight who spoke up first, stepping in front of Fluttershy and meeting Rainbow Dash’s glare with one of her own.  “Rainbow Dash! Knock it off, I don’t know what’s got you so worked up latterly, but whatever it is, you can’t blame Fluttershy about it.”

Rainbow Dash opened her mouth to retort, but never got the chance. “Rainbow Dash, enough, thrashing out at anyone near enough won’t solve your frustration.”

At the sound Princess Celestia’s voice, Rainbow Dash sighed heavily, landing upon the ground and glancing away silently. Twilight and the rest of the six rushed to the bottom of the throne, “Princess Celestia, we came as soon as we received your summons.”

The Applejack piped in, “yeah Princess, why we all gathered here, has Discord gone back to his old tricks?”

The white Unicorn, Known as Rarity to any who knew her, nodded vigorously, “yes indeed Princess, and why is Rainbow Dash so worked up? She’s been like this all week ever since you called her to the Castle for that secret meeting.”

Celestia glanced amongst the gathered six, and sighed, “My dear and loyal subjects, I am all glad that you came so quickly, for there are indeed many important things to be said. But I did not summon you. It was, in fact-“

“Me.”

The six turned to the new Alicorn, who presently stepped forward, and sat upon the throne, two of her night guards taking positions at both her sides. The only one, who wasn’t surprised to see her, was Princess Celestia… and vaguely Rainbow Dash.

Twilight opened her mouth to speak, but held it there for a moment before speaking, as if she was unsure as how to preceded. “Princess Luna… but its daytime, don’t you usually take this time to rest while Princess Celestia rules?”

Luna nodded once slowly, “very true Twilight Sparkle, but today, there are things which must be said. Things-“ She paused, glancing at Rainbow Dash before nodding, “Which have been put off for long enough, some longer than others.”

The group stood silent, not sure what to say or how they could pursue their questions in a safe manner. “Um Princess, don’t mean to be rude with my blunt asking of this and all, but… what things? I thought you did most of your leading things at night.”

Luna didn’t seem to take offense at this, “a fair question, and one that demands an answer. Rainbow Dash, come hither and sit by my side, for this involves you very closely.”

Clearly surprised, but not hesitant, Rainbow Dash flew up to a comfortable spot beside Luna, and stood quietly, the two guards gripping their weapons slightly harder.

Luna starred forward, her gaze fixed upon the huge doors as if she was looking for something far away. When she did speak, her voice was deep, not with the booming harshness of the Canterlot voice, but deeper and more ambient than what she normally spoke with.

“Please hold your questions for after I‘m done talking, for this story must go uninterrupted… our story begins many thousands of years ago, when things were much different than they are now, yet many things stayed the same.”

As she began to speak, the Celestia's guards began rolling down the long tapestries that hung over the windows, blotting out the sunlight of the early morning and plunging the throne room into a thick darkness, the two large throne room doors closing shut silently. Now, in utter blackness, only the voice of Luna, and the faint ethereal energies which she even now sent outward, could be seen or heard.

Rainbow Dash made no movements, unsure as to what was exactly conspiring, but unsure as to what the Princess wanted her to do. Better to stand here and watch.

Slowly but clearly, the darkness began to change, the small throne room fading away into a long and wide expanse of thick grassy fields which went off in all directions, save the mountain range northward of them. The six bearers of Harmony found themselves standing alone, the two princesses and the guards nowhere in sight.

Twilight was the first to speak up, “Where has the throne room gone for starters? And where are we? Where have the Princesses gone? And why are we on a-“

“Twilight, calm down already, I’m sure that whatever reason Princess Luna has for bringing us here is a good one. Wait a second and let’s see what happens.”

Twilight said nothing, completely agape at what she had heard Rainbow Dash say. Rainbow Dash said wait a second! What is going on around here?

Suddenly, Princess Luna’s form appeared, along with Celestia. “Fear not, for nothing you see is real anymore. I have conjured a deep memory spell of many thousands of years ago, before any real civilization has been created upon Equestria. I am going to start this story, at the very beginning, or as far back as I have witnessed.”

She paused, the area around them taking in even more details and shapes until finally, everything was right. But When Princess Luna talked next, she spoke not with her voice, but telepathically, he mouth unmoving as she began.

“Long ago, when the nations of Pony kind were just beginning to be built, our kind sought out leaders of immense might and wisdom, leaders like ourselves, but better. We searched high and lo, but could find no one worthy of the position.  Though much Pony kind tried to lead, they perished with time or danger, as the many things of Equestria blotted them out, and threatened to extinguish our mighty race. From our many quarreling brothers of the sky, sisters of magic, and siblings of the earth, a group was forged. This group was deemed, the Order of Night and day. This gathering sought out from every corner of Equestria worthy leadership, wherever it could be found. It was not until they came upon the Desolation, the last place they bewared to tread."

Presently, a small group of ponies of varying sort progressed by, the intent of seeking something evident. At first, Twilight gasped, for it seemed as if they would walk right into them. But as they came and went, they passed them by, fading through them as if the six didn’t exist. They bore with them a strange symbol, a sword with a pair of wings aimed upward, and two unicorn horns criss-crossed in an “X” pattern.

“You do not exist in physical form to the thing seen, for they are of the mind alone.

As I was saying: none from amongst this group dared to enter the desolation, for none who entered ever returned. But there was one amongst them, a young Unicorn named Morning Glory, who volunteered to journey into the Desolation in search for a leader. The elders of the order denied this as madness, but Morning Glory would not be denied, and ventured in alone. She was never heard from again.”

As the group paused, the landscape before them northward shifted, all life dying and shriveling into black and twisted forms of previously beautiful forests and mountains. The group moved no farther, but from amongst the group, a young Filly unicorn by the looks of it, snuck off from the rest, vanishing into the blackness. Rainbow Dash caught sight of her right before she vanished. She was dark brown with a charcoal black mane and tail, her eyes a bright emerald green. For a cutie mark, she held no symbol that Rainbow Dash could identify. Blank flank, she thought.

“The order waited for her return hopefully. But no sign of her was ever found. Yet before they departed the Desolation forever, someone did come out. My Mother and Father, Alicorn’s both, issued forth from the Desolation, and spoke about great things to come, carrying with them a single Unicorn child. From Whence the Filly came, they would not say, and none wished to push the subject. They were everything the Order had hoped for, and Equestria thrived, and grew, the Pony Race quickly growing and dominating the lands under their new and ageless leaders.”

The landscape about them dramatically shifted, forests shrunk as buildings replaced them, and mountainsides grew ancient as time moved along. The group of ponies faded, along with the images of the two Alicorn’s. Yet Rainbow Dash could not help but see the image of that Young Filly, no older than Scootaloo by the looks of it, vanish into the never ending darkness. She gave up everything about herself so that her kind could find the leadership it needed to thrive. She sacrificed herself for the better of Pony kind. What guts, I don’t think I could do the same thing if someone asked me to, let alone on my own initiative.

“but alas, even these ageless leaders were as it seems, not invulnerable to the elements, and in sealing away the dark power known as Discord, they vanished… never to be seen again. The land continued onward in peace as their children, Celestia and myself, ruled in their absence. But even this was not to last…”

Right before their eyes, the lush forests, along with the many ponies cheerily dancing and working away in the sun, faded away, replaced by a dark, foreboding forest, the light refusing to shine within its borders. The moon shone above, giving off a dim light only bright enough to make out the basic shapes. But what Rainbow Dash, and she was sure the rest of the six could see just by their horrified reactions, was the blood. It stained the field they stood upon like paint poorly smeared upon a wall, thicker in some places than others but very evident. And as they feared, with the lager concentrations, corpses of fallen ponies lay littered all about, bearing devices of many different banners, some they knew, others, they wish they didn’t. But if anything could be said in complete assurance, the battle had beheld too many creatures to count.

“For one day, a dark power overtook the one called Princess Luna, and fueled by jealously and pride, she became the dreaded Nightmare Moon. Many ponies and other creatures alike flocked to her banner, ending the many thousands of years of peace in a hundred year bloody civil war.”

It was evident that the bearers did not take the sight calmly, and though she would loved to have said she could take it with ease, Rainbow Dash knew she would be lying. Fluttershy looked nearly ready to faint with dread; Rarity kept mumbling to herself that none of it was real, desperately trying not to make visual contact with anything. Applejack and Pinkie Pie conversed quietly, giving no one else visual contact or daring to move. Twilight Sparkle just… starred forward, looking far to their left where the darkened forest hung thickly. She looked to Rainbow dash like someone trying to find something, but couldn’t see it.

Finally, Rarity broke the Silence with a scream, “Enough! Enough I say take me back I don’t want to see any more of this! I can’t stand it anymore, I can’t stand it. AAAAAAAAA!” It took the combined efforts of Applejack and Pinkie Pie to finally quiet her screams, all falling silent once more. “Princess!” Applejack shouted, “Get on with it, unless you want Rarity to lose her marbles!”

Luna Continued, “The losses were grave, the lives paid in uncountable sums. But with every territory won Nightmare Moon’s lust for power grew, even those amongst her highest council, her crowning General Crescent Glory.”

To the bearers left, an image of Nightmare moon appeared, clad in her dark armor black and the night sky yet glowing with an aura like the moon. To her right, a Pegasus Stallion appeared, clad in armor wrought of some black steel that shone in the moonlight, adorned with countless jewels, and the symbol of a Crescent moon clearly crafted into the chestpeice. As well he bore a long black flowing cape designed with glowing blue flowing tendril designs, the Crescent symbol once more clearly seen. In his right hand he bore a long spear, easily one and a half times his height, which upon itself was daunting, and in his left, a tower shield with the Crescent moon upon it. He bore a stern gaze, the kind of look that could melt a weaker pony to its knees begging for mercy, and send chills down the spines of great warriors. And as he rose, the lifeless bodies around them bearing the Crescent moon also rose up, losing any signs of battle, they took upon themselves the devices of combat, and formed up behind him in long lines, their numbers too many to count.

“Fathomless was his skill in combat, and peerless was his knowledge of battle; he led charge after charge in cunning might and ferocity. His might was only matched by his undying loyalty to his Queen and to the success of his kingdoms conquest. It was said that, in the darkest time of battle, he could rally his soldiers to battle, even from the brink of death.”

The tall General raised his spear, and shouted “Glory for the Lunar Kingdom, and Honor to its Queen, our Queen Nightmare Moon! Onward!”

Rainbow Dash Shuddered, something about that guy just gives me the creeps. I mean, OK he’s a long dead general of an evil empire with brains to boot, but somehow I think I’ve seen him before. But that’s impossible; he’s been dead for over a thousand years. your seeing things Rainbow Dash, calm down.

“Yet not alone did General Glory stand in the Queens Council. The Queen held near to her a powerful Magical cult, led by the Fair, and Vain, BloodIvy.”

To the Left of Nightmare Moon there appeared a Unicorn Mare with eyes as red as the blood staining the ground about them. Her coat was as emerald Green, the hue one would see upon the leaves of a sickly tree as its color fades. She bore a mane like shimmering grey with highlights of red not unlike the color of her eyes, thin vines acting like braids holding her long flowing hair together in coils. In one hand she held a long black oaken staff, a huge Blood sapphire crested atop its highest most point, and in the other, a black book with the Crescent moon symbol adorned upon it. She simply raised her staff, and struck the ground once… twice… three times, chanting, “We live to serve the Almighty Nightmare Moon, let all who oppose her rule Suffer!”

Now it was obvious to Rainbow Dash that she had never seen this evil enchantress, but even then, looking at her made her wings cramp and her body shiver with dread. But she need not say anything, for Rarity beat her to it. “UGH! What most disgusting attire! I’ve never seen such foul choices; it sickens me to no end. No more I beg you no more! This is by far the WORST POSSIBLE THING EVER!”

Unlike before, when Applejack had told the Princess to get to the point, now everyone just rolled their eyes at Rarity’s comment.

“with General Glory and Enchantress BloodIvy by her side, Nightmare Moon let Equestria into the longest recorded civil war ever recorded, or yet to be. She made alliances with almost every imaginable spawn, the changelings by far the largest ally. And no doubt Chrysalis profited from this pact, for her enemies could not hope to halt the hordes numbers, as many as the blades of grass. But... There were those who opposed her rule, who wished nothing less than to remove her and bring about the peace that existed before. The chief of these was Princess Celestia and any who had escaped Nightmare moon’s wrath. Although far fewer in size, this gathering was not just of the Ponies still fighting to keep Equestria free, but of many other sentient creatures who found Nightmare Moons rule a trouble to no end.  Gryphons, Phoenix’s, and many others; The Race of Dragons stayed out of this conflict mostly, and it is well that they did, for with their might, Equestria would not have survived the brutality that would follow.”

presently, a host of ponies appeared to their opposing side, bearing a banner that the bearers of harmony knew all too well, the blazing sun. But they were not the only ones present. Also to be seen were countless Gryphons, wearing armor of their own make and brandishing claws of forged irons and steels. Yet though there were few to be seen, Phoenix could be spotted amongst their ranks as well, bearing no weapons or armor as they needed none.

It was clear to all of them know, they were standing in the direct center of what would undoubtedly be the biggest battle they had ever witnessed. And real or not, none of them wanted to be standing amidst it. “This way, to that hill over yonder, we can get out of the way and still see what’s going on.” Applejack needn’t have said anything; the other five had already seen it and were making all haste towards it. Once they were upon it, they all looked back. The battle had yet to begin, but already signs of uneasiness could be seen on both sides.

“For a hundred years both sides brutally brawled across Equestria, both sides losing ground and winning it. But in the end, Nightmare Moon held too much power, and the Armies challenging her were shrinking in might.

Yet this is not the end of the story… Tia, since I was not present, you recall the battle, and I shall add details that are unknown to you from lore i have learned.”

“…Very well sister, I had wished I would never again speak of that day, when more lives were cast into oblivion than any other I have seen. But as we have agreed, these things must be said…

It was like a thunderous storm when both armies struck, steel striking flesh, bones breaking, the crying out as one warrior after another crumbled in defeat.

I was there… I saw it. I saw her…”

As the battle raged on before them, the focus of the memories clearly aimed towards one place. Deep within the conflict, the dark queen could be seen smiting anyone foolish enough to stand in her way as she made her way towards Celestia, clad in armor and fighting her own battles with Royal Guards all about. By her side stood one figure, not counting the eight royal guards clearing the path forwards. Other figures could be seen amongst the clashing of battle. General Glory and his own Guards fought on all sides as his voice boomed commands to his legions, his spear striking in and out like a viper as a path was painted red in his wake. Not far from him, another familiar image, the likeness of a vain enchantress, three wizards beside her casting spells and chanting battle hymns of dark intent. And not far from her, surrounded by her own kind which no doubt were spread across the battle, they beheld Queen Chrysalis in all her dark beauty, no armor or weapons did she possess, and the bearers of Harmony didn’t suspect she needed them either. They had seen her power firsthand not long ago, and no weapons besides her horn had she needed to defeat Celestia and take control of Canterlot. it didn’t take a master strategist to know that Celestia’s armies were gravely outnumbered. Even with the aid of other creatures, their defeat was in sight. The vast number of nocturnal and otherwise ponies, as well as countless changelings, gave Nightmare Moon the upper hand.

When Luna spoke next, her tone noticeably changed, “however, before Nightmare Moon could make the final strike, and end the hundred years of war with endless night, another variable entered the equation. A variable… neither side expected to see, entered the equation.”

Presently, the group noticed a small number of ponies moving through the forest, leaping from tree to tree with flawless accuracy. They all wore clothing that shrouded them in with the scenery, making them nearly invisible had they not seen them at the right moment. There were six in all, one of them clearly leading the others in a direction strait for Celestia, and the advancing Nightmare Moon.

Rainbow dash looked on with intensive curiosity, who are they? And how are they so agile? I’ve never seen any pony fly through trees like that, let alone earth ponies.

Nightmare moon drew nearer and nearer, Now within clear vision of Celestia amidst the ruckus of combat. Celestia as well turned to face her, horn crackling with energy as another group of changelings succumbed to her might. Although Celestia’s aura gave off an energy which would blind most, it was clear that Nightmare moon was in a better condition, the sweat of battle barely having fazed her, and Celestia already thoroughly battle worn. With one look at each, it didn’t take a doctor to know who was better off, and who was more likely to win the encounter, and it was clear both knew it. Yet even as Nightmare Moon advanced, making the first strike with her horn, neither the battle weary Celestia, nor the royal guards surrounding her with equal weariness, were willing to retreat.

“It was do or die, there was nowhere to retreat, and in that battle, I fought as such. If there was to be a time when all would be decided, it was then and there.”

The battle was short and ugly, although Celestia was skilled, Nightmare Moon kept the battle short by throwing every ounce of her power into her attacks, giving Celestia little room to maneuver. Her guards fell one by one, taking hits that would have ended their princess, but instead silenced them and completed their duties. But alas, their deaths only seemed to prolong the inevitable, as Celestia at last collapsed from a full on blast from Nightmare Moons magic, wounded beyond what any other pony would be able to withstand.

Unable to rise, she was unable to block Nightmare moon when she lowered her horn, a dark and evil grin scrolled across her lips. “Luna, I know you can hear me, don’t do this! This won’t solve anything, and all you will end up with is more grief than you can imagine!”

Nightmare Moon seemed to pause, a grin forming on the edges of her lips, “oh no, poor Celestia, crying out for help to her poor sister. Luna cannot hear you; I am in control, and as of now, in charge! The reign of the sun is over, and the night shall last forever, AH HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!”

Celestia could only lye there and watch in horror as Nightmare Moon charged her horn, surging enough energy into it to crush a mountain. “Farewell Sister, ROT FOR ETERNITY!”

The group gasped as Nightmare Moon unleashed the energy built up within her horn, a resounding boom echoed throughout the battlefield as all eyes turned to see. When the thick dust cleared, six ponies surrounded Celestia, bright auras encircling them as a different colored star shone above each pony. They were unicorns, but it was clear that blocking the blast had taken its toll, as five of the six were nearly unconscious, the sixth one panting heavily.

It was to no small surprise of either side that the six ponies now stood there, as well as their ability to block the attack like they did, and survive.

Rainbow Dash was speechless, not unlike the other five accompanying him. They blocked that! How is that even possible? That was an all out blast from Nightmare Moon! Celestia couldn’t in her current state take that, and they did! Who are they!

For a moment no one moved, waiting to see who would make the first move. Celestia lay still, eyeing the stallion in front of her with wide eyed wonder.

Luna spoke next, her voice still holding that edge of awe, “no one was expecting to see those ponies at that moment, or should I say, that “pony”, for it was one pony as six. A very powerful unicorn now stood before us, bearing a power that none though him capable of wielding. Yet maybe he didn’t wield it, more so it wielded him, as it soon would wield another.”

The Unicorn fell to one knee, five of the six vanishing in a puff of smoke revealing the true pony. He wore a cloak, or had until it was completely disintegrated by the blast. Now, his features were fully revealed, and it didn’t take a genius for Rainbow Dash to know who it was. Black List! But didn’t Luna say he was Nightmare Moons personal adviser? So why did he block her attack? And what power is he wielding?

“Luna, who is that, I’m sorry to interrupt, but I have to know, WHO IS THAT?” Luna paused, a sigh clearly heard form a place unknown, "a moment Twilight, and your question shall be answered. Listen and learn."

Nightmare Moon glared at Blacklist, her surprise and confusion fading away, replaced by a seething anger and new found hatred at the unicorn before her. “I warned you about returning from your Exile. You know well the Promise i made should you ever return, Death!"

Blacklist didn’t budge, rising to both hooves; he outstretched his left hoof, energy beginning to form around his horn. “Yes, and you also remember the promise I made when you banished me Nightmare Moon: I will return, and when I do, you and your cruel tyranny will end once and for all!”

Nightmare Moon smirked, “you? End me? Ha! You can barely block one of my attacks, and you expect me to fear you? You overstretch your bounds scribe, and its time someone reminded you of your place. And who better to do it than your own queen, the one you betrayed!”

Black List sneered, the energy fading, “You’re not the Princess I swore allegiance to Demon! I swore my fealty to Princess Luna, and Luna alone! You are no Queen of the night, more so a devil of the darkness.  And-”

Blacklist glanced behind him, nodding once at Celestia before returning his gaze to Nightmare moon.

Rainbow Dash squinted, what is he doing? He’s fishing something out of his satchel, or more so, removing it?

“You see Nightmare Moon, “impostor” to the Throne. You are right to not fear me, for I am but a humble adviser to the Princess.”

Then, flashing the contents of his satchel so Celestia could see, he let his magical energy surge sharply, “but It is not i who will take you down!”

Faster than Rainbow Dash or anyone else in the group could catch, Blacklist flashed his horn brightly, blinding everyone watching on. Moments later when it subsided, Blacklist was two paces to the right, revealing a now standing Celestia, with six VERY powerful elements.

The look on Nightmare moons face, as well as her army, Celestia’s army, Blacklist, Rainbow Dash, and her friends could only be described as utter surprise. Except for Blacklist, his was more a big grin of satisfaction at what he knew would come next.

And to add to the moment, Celestia used her Royal Canterlot voice, booming outward and causing all in front to waver with fear, “NIGHTMARE MOON, YOU ARE HEREBY BANISHED FROM EQUESTRIA FOR ALL TIME. BEGONE, TO THE MOON FOR ALL ETERNITY!”

The First Shot Paralyzed Nightmare Moon, her shocked appearance only made the victory sweeter. The second, Banished her in a blast of light.

But before the second shot could be fired, she lowered her horn, and shouted, “Be Accursed Black List, you and all you love! never shall you find Rest, Never find Peace, and never find purpose, Share in my Eternal Pain!”

The surge that issued forth could only be described as horrible. It left its origin before Celestia fired, striking its thoroughly weakened target with full force and beginning its horrible effects immediately. With one last defeated howl, Nightmare Moon vanished, leaving no trace of her existence except a black scorch mark, and a thoroughly frightened army.

At first, the lunar soldiers dropped their weapons and surrendered, chrysalis and her changelings screeching in defeat and vanishing back into dark places unknown, vowing their revenge. But the victory was short lived as all recalled the last victim…

Celestia sharply turned back to where Black List had been standing, but there was no trace of him, or his satchel which had held the six elements. Only burnt grass and the six elements which she now bore gave testimony to his previous attendance, and Nightmare Moons dark curse.

“Be Accursed Black List, you and all you love! You shall never find Rest, Never find Peace, and never find purpose, may you rot for eternity!”

When the Two deities spoke next, Luna spoke first, her voice laced with sadness, “Blacklist… perished that day, and no sign of him was ever found after. The dark kingdom that Nightmare moon set up quickly fell. With the absence of its leadership, it quickly fell into submission. at last, we could pick up the pieces of our broken world.”

Luna spoke no more, her voice fading with a quivering sorrow, Celestia’s older voice continuing the story, “after that battle, we extracted correct justice upon the remaining leaders of the Lunar Kingdom. General Glory and BloodIvy, to name a few, were executed for treason. BloodIvy cursed my name to her very last breath, but Glory simply stood silent, unwilling to speak a word to anyone at any point in his imprisonment. He died without a word, without a sound. Yet neither BloodIvy’s curses, nor Glory’s silence impacted the free ponies like Black Lists Sacrifice. He bore a family as the records of Nightmare Moon say, yet their whereabouts where never discovered. It is only by the books and tombs of the Library in Luna’s old Castle did we learn anything about him.”

“And that, ponies, is the end of our tale.”

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

The landscape around them faded away, the dark blackness slowly residing as familiar shapes and pillars of the throne room came back into sight. For a moment, none of the six said a word. No one was quite sure how to respond to what they had just experienced; the shock of the battle, the gore, and the sudden cruel death of many different ponies was impacting. Some took it harder than other… a lot harder.

Fluttershy, for instance, said nothing as she starred wide eyed at the ground, no pony quite sure weather talking to her or leaving her be was a better plan of action. Applejack said nothing either, her mouth slack jawed as she coped with what she had witnessed. Rarity began sobbing almost immediately, and Pinkie Pie trying to cheer her up with words of encouragement, even though it was clear she too was harshly impacted by what she had seen.

And Rainbow Dash simply starred at Luna, both of them matching gazes and holding them tightly as if they were searching the other for something.

Finally, Twilight broke the silence, “um… Princess Celestia... i don't understand. what does this all have to do with us?”

Celestia smiled weakly, the remembrance of past events clearly taking a tole on her as well, yet not as harsh. “That, my dear student, is still a mystery to all gathered… all accept one I think.”

All eyes turned to the figure sitting silently on the throne, continuing her stare down with Rainbow Dash ignoring everyone else as if they didn’t exist.

“Luna!” Luna shook her head as if she was coming out of a trance, sighing heavily. “Yes… I have summoned you all here today to whiteness these memories, and their meaning which I shall interpret presently. But before I do, Rainbow Dash, it is time. Tell them about what has conspired for Loyalty and its bearer.”

All eyes fell upon the rainbow Maned Pegasus, who nervously nodded, “yeah, it’s about time I got it off my chest.” The other six, excluding Luna, stood silently, waiting for her to continue. With a shallow cough of hesitancy, she did, “well, when Luna summoned me suddenly to the castle, I’m sure you can all imagine my confusion: The Princess summoning me, and not Celestia either, but Luna. With that in mind, I made all speed, which is saying something considering who were talking about here, to the castle. What followed…? I’m still not exactly sure what happened, but there was a passage under Canterlot which led to the old ruined fortress within the Ever-free Forest, and-“

“Did you say secret passage under Canterlot?” Rainbow Dash nodded at Celestia‘s question, “uh yeah, that’s right, a passage under Canterlot.”

Celestia gave Luna a serious glance before inclining her long white neck, “go on.” Rainbow Dash gave Luna a nervous glance, and then cleared her throat. “Well, after we reached the ruined fortress, the same one where the six of us had just recently defeated Nightmare Moon… we encountered something or, someone. I’m still not exactly sure which. But whatever it was, we kicked its butt, Luna and I.”

Celestia glanced once again at Luna, who had gritted her teeth slightly at the anticipated scolding that would undoubtedly come from her sister, memory serving.

And it wasn’t wrong yet, “and tells me, Rainbow Dash. How exactly did you kill these… creatures?” the edge in her tone was clear as day, yet veiled with suspicion, creating a sort of sharp inquisitive toned voice which made Rainbow Dash shudder. Celestia doesn’t sound pleased.

Rainbow Dash gave Luna a worried look before answering, “Well, Luna went all out power wise I would say, and I… well…”

“Yes?” it was clear that there would be no dodging Celestia.

“I used the Element of Loyalty.”

For a few moments no one said anything. Rainbow Dash could see the sharp wrinkle forming on Celestia’s brow. But instead of cowering like Rainbow Dash had expected to see from anyone in Celestia burning gaze, Luna met her gaze with one of her own, a dark and angry stare down taking place right within that very throne room.

Rainbow Dash wasn’t sure if it was just her, but by the sweat dripping off the other ponies faces in the room, she realized it wasn’t. The heat had begun to rise a good many degrees before lowering again, then repeating.

Finally, Celestia spoke, “Why in Equestria Luna would you risk the safety of the Elements for an errand like this! Supposing Rainbow Dash was hurt? Or even worse the Element of Loyalty lost? Who was this enemy you so bluntly charged at? I have wondered often since that day what could have made such a light, now I know!”

Luna gritted her teeth, the edges of her eyes beginning to glow, “the business of the Princess Luna is not one that requires explaining to each and every person who inquires for it! The enemy I faced was a shadow of Nightmare Moon. Long now has it been on my mind that when Nightmare Moon was defeated and banished, her spirit was removed from my body, yet we both were sent to the moon! However, she escaped, and until this point haunted my every waking and sleeping moment. I could barer it no longer! You were away on business, and so I took into my aid the next closest mare that had a power fitting for the job! If you so wish to question Rainbow Dash’s capability, there she is, go right ahead! But I will not sit here silently any longer and let you scold and question Rainbow Dash when it was my decision that lead us there, and brought us back safely. Rainbow Dash held herself masterfully, better than you can imagine! So if there be any more doubt in your mind if I am a capable princess , or if I in fact care about the subjects of Ponyvile, or the safety of the Elements of Harmony. Then YES, it is ever on my mind, and not once did I plan this Endeavor and not consider the danger it posed!”

Celestia Fumed, Rainbow Dash quickly making space between herself and the two sisters duking it out on the throne “Perhaps you did, but regardless, the life of the Bearers cannot be bluntly wielded like a toy! Before anyone goes off recklessly facing dark powers of that caliber, think! Things like that have to be discussed-“

“Discussed? You mean dissuaded, you mean unconvinced so I won’t do it. You mean controlled so ill fall in line like a good little sister and behave. Well I’m sick of it! were equals Tia, which means I have just as much power as you do when it comes to making decisions. I am more than capable of making decisions and weighting the consequences without you babying me!”

Celestia paused, her rage set and ready to retaliate at her command, but she didn’t. Luna was right, even though she hated to say it, and hated it even more to admit it, she still did treat Luna with less power than she was rightfully entitled to.

Maybe it was a fear of something she might become, many things had been held from her concerning Luna's past, things which now had been revealed in part, making the argument all the more against her. Maybe it was doubt, the same doubt that caused their separation in the first place, a thousand years ago. Perhaps it was that dark chill Celestia got every time she remembered Nightmare Moon, and how she had come closer than anything else to certain death. And If not for the few deeds of deceased hero’s, she might have the same dark guise she could still see faintly in Luna.  I don’t trust her… she has been gone for so long, things don’t work the same way they did a thousand years ago. I can see it whenever she commands some pony; she still holds the air of a long ago past. I don’t judge her experience; she’s seen enough to have a lot of it. But she’s not fully acquainted with modern rules and laws, laws even a Princess must follow. There were no laws when we both ruled a thousand years ago, no laws we had to follow at least. But how does one tell a vastly powerful ruler these simple truths, and not question their position? If only I knew the answer.

Finally, Celestia lowered her gaze, “continue with your Tale Rainbow Dash.”

Her surrendering reaction surprised many in the room, no one quite sure how to proceed, until finally, Rainbow Dash cleared her throat. “Well, after we defeated the dark creatures, one of them said something to Luna; it still gives me the chills thinking about it.”

Celestia glanced at Luna, who was suddenly shaking lightly where she sat. It wasn’t violent or blatantly noticeable, but being that close, Celestia could notice her slight trembling, as if she was chilled from some draft. Her face also had taken the guise of thorough unrest, the same look that someone who was always looking over their shoulder would give, as if something was watching them.

This concerned Celestia greatly, for rare was it when Princess Luna showed such sings of fear. She showed a tendency for shyness as of lately, which Celestia assumed was just her defending herself from things unknown. But this was not shyness; it was much more evident than that. “Luna, what’s wrong?”

Luna shook herself as if awakening from a dream, and breathed out. “Hmm, Oh… I was just thinking about that thing the creature had said…” her last words were lost in her mumbling. Celestia turned back to Rainbow Dash, hoping that she would be able to give the answer to this strange behavior. “Well, what did the creature say Rainbow Dash?”

Pausing to seek Luna’s approval, Rainbow Dash gave the Princess of the night a searching glance. Reluctantly, she nodded.

“It said… we shall return, and when we do, we shall fulfill our duties, just as you cursed us to do a thousand years ago!”

Luna flinched when Rainbow Dash recanted the dark creature’s words, her pupils widening to sizes far greater than the normal, her irises shrinking to sizes nearly unnoticeable. Celestia also noticed her breathing, which had changed from uneasy shallow breaths, to very fast and very labored, though not so loud as to draw attention. Celestia opened her mouth to speak, but before she could, a royal guard burst into the throne room, the sweat of battle already clear upon his brow. “Princess Celestia, Were being assailed!”

Celestia leapt from her place beside Luna, quickly passing the four guards who had taken positions beside her, and vanished down the hallway, barking orders loud enough for all of them to hear. “Intruders, how did they reach the castle without us knowing it? What about Ponyvile and its inhabitants, shouldn’t they have been hit first.”

“I would think so, but no one heard anything coming until they had already breached the outer city of Canterlot, even now they strike hard upon the barrier Shining armor has placed.”

“Indeed, but my question remains unanswered. Who is attacking us? They would have to be both silent and of a great number to accomplish what you suggest.”

The guard nodded vigorously, barely managing to keep pace with his Princess. “Yes your majesty, they most certainly are quiet, and very numerous. But-“

“But what, who is it Soldier, that assails us this very moment.”

“Your majesty, I-“

“WHO IS IT?!?!” Celestia half shouted in the Guards face, now thoroughly annoyed by his lack of speed in answering her questions.

Presently, they reached the balcony overlooking the front of the palace, and also one of the best sights of the town bellow. And what they saw, none but the guard was expecting.

“It’s the Changelings, your Majesty.”