After Nightmare Night, Luna realizes that there is still ponies who disrespect her and her night. After many consecutive ponies showing Celestia more respect than her will she be tempted to cause Daylight's End? This time once and for all?
I stood upon my balcony. My subjects were already returning to their homes and I had yet to even raise the moon. I sighed and Celestia lowered the sun beside me. I raised the moon and Celestia placed her wing over me. I looked down and Celestia spoke to me.
"Is something troubling you Luna?"
I shook my head. "It feels like nothing has changed."
Celestia tried to reassure me
"Remember Nightmare Night? Things have changed Luna."
I took a deep breath and gave a slight grin at Celestia.
"Thank you Tia, I love you."
"I love you to Lulu."
I smiled when she used my pet name.
"Good Night Tia."
"Good Night Luna"
I started to walk towards Night Court. Not like anypony would be there anyway. Many night guards saluted me as I walked the palace halls. I smiled at them and they continued their duties. When I reached the court room there was many night guards only for nopony to be present. I sighed.
"This will likely be another boring night of court." I thought.
I sat down on a comfortable throne room chair and stayed there unmoving. On a busy night I would likely get four to five ponies that wished for something from the court. A few hours passed but the night was still young when the first petitioner arrived. It was the pony known as "Fleur de Lis"
I stood up straight and asked her, "What is it you wish from the Royal court?"
Fleur licked her lips and opened her mouth to speak.
"I came here since Fancypants could not make it tonight. He wishes for the court to increase interest rate on his bits invested in Canterlot's reconstruction."
I sighed internally, After the changelings attacked many buildings needed to be repaired or rebuilt. However we did not have enough bits to spare an increased interest rate. My response was quickly formed.
"We are sorry Fleur de Lis but we can not spare any more bits for an increase in Fancypant's interest rate. Even thought we are indebted to him for investing in the repairs for Canterlot."
Fleur's face slowly turned into a scowl.
"As you wish.."
On her way out I could hear her mutter.
"Princess Celestia wouldn't have said no."
My eye twitched at this but I let it go. Afterwards I shook my head and took a deep breath. I hated it when ponies respected Celestia so much.
The next up was Hoity Toity. He strode in with his head held high and I asked him the same question I asked Fleur.
"What is it you wish from the Royal court?"
"I wish for import taxes to be reduced on all clothing merchandise that enters Canterlot.
I closed my eyes and groaned internally "What is it with rich ponies who complain about taxes more then the poor citizens of Canterlot?"
"I'm afraid we can't afford to reduce any import taxes incoming to Canterlot due to the Changeling invasion, Bits are needed to make repairs and assist in rebuilding the homes."
Hoity shook his head and scowled "Surely-"
"The answer is no."
Hoity Toity huffed and turned to leave.
"I knew It would be a waste of time to come here."
My eyes flashed white and my muscles tensed. A lot of the guards were giving me a concerned look or glaring at Hoity as he left the court in a stuck up manner.
I took a deep breath "The rich ponies will be the death of me."
I relaxed into my chair and a few hours passed until the next petitioner arrived.
The door swung open and in walked Blueblood with his head held high and servants following in his wake. I bit the top of my lip.
"What is it you-"
"I wish to receive more bits and a larger workforce to repair my estate. The changelings did horrible damage to it."
I raised my hoof to my eyes.
"Blueblood you already have several dozen ponies working on your estate and enough bits to keep a small town afloat. What makes you think you need more?"
He huffed and looked in my eyes. "Because I said so?"
My hoof shot away from my eyes and I glared at the stuck up prince.
"You are not able to demand things from the Royal court Blueblood even if you are Royalty."
Blueblood glared back at me and remained stubborn.
"I am not leaving until I am assigned more workers to repair my estate at the very least."
"ENOUGH! You will leave immediately Blueblood. Thou is dissmissed."
Blueblood laughed, "Celestia is my princess not you! You are just some false pony who pretends to fit in."
My eyes began to burn white and my mane raised into the air. The guards were growling at Blueblood for the disrespect he had shown.
I took a deep breath preparing to blast him out of the court only to collapse and sob. I left the court with tears in my eyes heading off to my bedroom.
Celestia arrived in the throne room to see many furious looking lunar guards surrounding a certain pony.
"What is the meaning of this?! Why did I sense Luna's distress?"
One of the guards approached her.
"This scum insulted Princess Luna, He called her a false pony who just tries to fit in."
Her expression soured in an instant.
"Where did she go."
"She left, Probably to her bedroom Princess"
"Anything else?"
"She.. Was very upset."
Celestia turned to blueblood who seemed to have a frightened look on his face. Celestia gave him a glare that could melt granite.
"I am disappointed in you Blueblood..."
"The last time Luna ran to her bedroom crying..."
There was tears in Celestia's eyes and she turned to blueblood with boiling rage behind them.
"I LOST HER FOR ONE THOUSAND YEARS!"
By now Blueblood was shaking and cowering before Celestia.
"Guards... Get him out of my sight. As of now Blueblood you are disowned from my family and are no longer royalty."
Blueblood looked dumbfounded, He wanted to object but the look he was receiving told him it would only make it worse. Begrudgingly he let the guards take him out of the palace.
Celestia turned towards her bedroom and turned to Luna's bedroom. The door was locked and she cried out.
"Oh Luna..."
I sat on in complete darkness on my black bed crying. One thousand years trapped on the moon and I was still not accepted. I was shivering with anger and sadness. I felt a horrible temptation in the back of my mind. A horrible temptation...
Celestia was in a panic She searched all over for Luna. She alerted the guards that they should stay on high alert when Celestia decided to check the palace in the Everfree.
"Please Luna..."
She approached it in a matter of minutes and quickly checked on the throne room where Nightmare moon was fought. Celestia could hear singing as she rushed to Luna.
She had reached the palace door but before she opened it she knew she was to late.
"Luna..."
"Cruel moon bring the end.... The dawn will never rise again..."
Celestia backed away from the door with tears in her eyes.
"I'm not going to lose you again sister.."
Celestia teleported back to Canterlot and in an instant shot a giant gold beam into the sky. A bright flash followed by a sonic boom echoed in the sky. The Royal insignia was displayed above Canterlot for all to see.
A state of emergency was declared in Equestria.
**************
Twilight was in a state of panic, She had received a letter from Celestia with dire news. It was rushed and very informal.
Twilight, I need you to gather the Elements of harmony immediately. I regret to inform you that... Nightmare Moon has returned. I'm afraid that the Elements won't be enough to stop her a third time. I'll need all of your help to bring Luna to her senses again.
Rationally the first thing Twilight did was teleport every single one of her friends into the library, Rainbow Dash was asleep while the rest of her friends had very puzzled expressions.
Before any one of them could respond to their surroundings Twilight dumped the whole situation on them.
Applejack cocked her head, "Slow down Twi, Explain that to us again please."
Pinkie had understood every word and gasped. "Nightmare moon returned?!?"
They all gasped, While Rainbow Dash was only half conscious. Twilight shook her awake and quickly stated.
"We need to gather the Elements!"
Twilights eyes glowed white and she teleported them all the way to Canterlot.
They appeared in the throne room and saw Celestia already unlocking the vault. She turned to the six ponies and sighed in relief.
"Thank goodness your here, The Elements are ready for you."
Twilight nodded and levitated each of the elements to their respective owners. Once they were donned they galloped outside and gazed into the night sky. Twilight looked at Celestia and asked her.
"Where is Nightmare moon?" -------------------------------------------
I took a deep breath in my new form, This time I was in control of myself while Nightmare moon was just a subconscious within my mind. The positions had been reversed and I am going to take full advantage of it.
I slowly stepped off of the pedestal. I looked out the shattered window and the moon took up most of the night sky. I ripped the iron cables from the window and took off towards Canterlot. I flew leisurely enjoying the view of my eternal night. I took my time getting there.
I wouldn't fly in recklessly like I did the first time. I was not going to fail this time. I flew for several minutes until I reached the Castle. I spotted Celestia and the mane six staring into my sky. I decided it was time to make my presence known and I swooped down and landed with a slight thud.
I looked into the eyes of seven angry mares and grinned.
"Hello Celestia, Enjoying the night sky?"
"I'm not playing games with you this time Nightmare moon, Release my sister or I will make you Want to be banished."
The grin on my face vanished. It was replaced by an expression of seriousness and immense hate.
"Oh Celestia. Nightmare Moon isn't in control... I am."
Celestia's expression turned to confusion and then shock.
"Luna? Is that you?!?"
"Oh yes, I am in full control of my actions."
I charged my horn and blasted Celestia through the palace doors. I turned to the mane six and Twilight was shocked. Her expression turned to one of determination and she began to charge the Elements of Harmony.
I closed my eyes and pure determination filled my thoughts.
"The moon will rise....
A white beam shot from the moon and illuminated my surroundings.
"The night will last forever..."
I opened my eyes and a large rainbow torrent shot into the air and down upon me. I clenched all the muscles in my body and formed a shield that fit tight around my body. I stood up and pointed my horn towards the beam. It collided with my body and a bone rattling impact shook my body. The power of the Elements was overwhelming. I was beginning to lose the fight with the most powerful magic in Equestria.
I clenched my eyes shut and tried to grasp the moon. In a bold move I pulled the moon closer to Equis and the Moon nearly blotted out all of the night sky. I felt ultimate power course through my veins and I grinned.
"Vivas Noctus."
A black beam started combating the rainbow beam and quickly began to overpower the Elements. The black beam sparkled with stars and it looked like the night sky itself.
The beam beat back the Elements and the unsuspecting mares were oblivious to their defeat.
I saw Celestia with a hoof over her muzzle and I grinned maniacally. The beam reached the six and their grins disappeared once they were shocked by the pure force of the night sky itself.
The elements stopped glowing and they fell to the ground. They cracked and shattered into millions of black pieces.
I stood there for several moments and started laughing maniacally. "I did it! AHAHAHAHAAA, THE NIGHT WILL TRULY LAST FOREVER!!!!" I roared in the Canterlot voice.
I turned to Celestia who had tears running down her face.
"I'm so sorry Luna...I'm so sorry for letting this happen to you."
I grinned, My victory was already complete. I sat in front of Celestia and took a deep breath.
"I know."
Celestia looked into my eyes
"And I'm sorry to."
I charged my horn and Celestia turned pure black, She started fading until she was completely gone.
"CELESTIA!" Twilight called out.
"What did you to do her!?!" She grabbed my leg with tears in her eyes.
I pushed her away from me and merely stated.
"I banished her to the sun."
Twilight sobbed and broke down right in front of me. I noticed the five other mares were all similarly fighting tears.
"You're free to leave Canterlot and start new lives under my rule. And if you'll excuse me, I now have a kingdom to run."
I laughed one last time and teleported in a black flash.
I stood upon the top of Canterlot castle and grinned. I knew of the obvious problems with eternal night such as below zero temperature's and starvation. I may be a tyrant but I'm not stupid enough to let my new kingdom fall all around me.
I enchanted the moon to reflect not just the suns light but everything the sun provides. Heat, and enough light to keep all the plants in Equis Alive.
I sighed with content, I was now the ruler of my own nation and the ponies were going to respect my moon, and die under it. I looked down upon Canterlot again.
*Warning, Massive amounts of gore in this chapter in the form of torture, I will leave you guessing who.*
I entered the world of dreams and used it as a broadcast system. I informed everypony under my rule that Celestia was no more. They awoke together many confused and scared. There was ponies in the streets of Canterlot wandering around trying to figure out what was really going on.
Before I solidified my rule over Canterlot and Equestria I had one thing to take care of first. I took off in a dive and a small boom echoed throughout the sky. I briefly scanned the city in search of a certain ponies consciousness. Once I found him I giggled and dove through a building's roof.
I landed heavily upon a certain unicorn stallion with blue eyes and a blonde mane. I grinned menacingly showing off the fangs that had grown in my mouth. Blueblood screamed and started begging for his pathetic life.
"Please! I'm sorry about everything I said to you! I promise I won't do it again! I know you are our queen! Just don't kill me PLEASE!"
Blueblood cowered before me. Several dozen ponies were watching the spectacle in horror. I smiled,
"Things are going to change around here my little ponies, Your easy and carefree lives have just ended. Let this insignificant worm be an example of any who try to stand in my way."
I stepped on blueblood's muzzle and whispered to him
"I am going to kill you. slowly,painfully. And there is nothing you can do to stop me.
Blueblood was downright terrified by this point. I raised a hoof into the air and a black aura surrounded it. I prepared to bring it down on his face when he tried to beg me again.
"NO WAIT PLE-"
I cut him off when my hoof connected to his face. I raised it again and brought it back down on his face over and over again. When his face was purple and bloodied I raised both of my hooves and brought them down upon his ribcage. Several sickening cracks could be heard and the gasps all around me were muffled by bluebloods agonized scream.
Blueblood could only breath in quick short pants. I was not done yet. I formed a tiny black orb and shoved it down his throat. A faint sizzling could be heard as it passed down his throat and melted his insides with agonizing slowness. Blueblood could not cry out in pain but his face was scrunched in a look of terrible pain.
I giggled in a small fit of hysteria and proceeded to rip out one of the ribs covering his heart. Blood smeared over my face and it pooled all around me.
I could hear ponies gagging and trying to leave unable to watch the terrible display any longer. I forced them to stay locking all the entrances with magic. I ripped the burning orb through the hole in his chest and spat it towards one of the onlookers.
Blueblood was losing consciousness. Oh I cant have that, I sealed the hole in his chest stemming the flow of blood only to stab my horn through his chest and into his heart. I shocked him with magic and he was twitching due to the shock of magic running deep through him.
I lifted up his writhing body into the air by my horn for all to see. I kept him there for several minutes. Once his heart started to fail I threw him down and looked at his broken form. He was leaving very soon. I raised my hooves again and stomped on his chest, I beat the life out of him as he left this world.
Just as he was about to close his eyes I raised both my hooves and stomped on his chest with all my might. For lack of a better term his chest exploded in a mass of blood and guts. I looked at my hooves and giggled at the scene. Half of the ponies present had either fainted or were to shocked to move.
I could feel Bluebloods essence leaving him. As one last act of cruelty I whirled my magic around his body and a small white smoke entered my horn and stayed trapped there. Blueblood would know agony and darkness so long as I lived. And I planned on living forever.
I turned to the ponies present and made sure all understood the message.
"Spread the word about what happened here, All who resist me will face a similar fate. I unlocked the doors and Ponies burst out of the building. I trotted outside only to find many of Celestia's royal guard waiting for me.
"Oh good, My first converts."
They tried to charge me but I tossed their attacks aside easily. I slammed them all into the dirt and dark magic flowed from my horn into the bodies of the royal guard. They all convulsed in pain as their coats grew darker, their armor tinted dark blue and bat like wings grew or transformed their old wings.
Their first mission was to capture the rest of the royal guards and convert them to my cause. And after that beat the politicians and former royalty into submission.
However things were never that simple.
A pure white stallion with a blue mane tackled me into the ground. I wrestled him off of me with my superior strength and punched him with my hoof. He blasted me off of him with his magic and I landed softly on the ground several hooves away. I blasted him with my own magic, He shielded himself and deflected my attack.
I grinned and charged my horn even more and blasted a hole through his shield sending him flying. I gave him no respite and leaped towards his fallen body. He prepared to resist but I was blocked in mid air by a teal shield one made by the one and only Princess Cadence.
I growled and shook my head.
"Enough games."
I unleashed the power of the moon and smashed both of their shields like the shell of an egg. Several of my guards detained them and dragged them off to the dungeons in the palace. I heard Shining armor pleas only to drown them out.
"Luna! Stop this isn't you!"
I turned to them, I couldn't let that comment pass.
"Oh I assure you I'm Luna."
I charged my horn and shocked him with dark magic. He spasmed in pain and Cadence cried out.
"Shining Armor! No!"
I grinned and left to let my guards handle them now. There was chaos in the streets of Canterlot.
"One should only expect and uprising." I giggled.
"Their is a change in government after all."
I charged my horn and shocked all the ponies in the streets of Canterlot.
"Return to your homes or face severe consequences."
A few of them tried to stay but after they saw so many of their friends abandon the rebellion they left the streets as well. I flew into the air and sighed in contentment. Canterlot had been subdued, Everywhere I looked I saw my lunar guards either tearing down old banners or replacing the old ones with a banner of a full moon.
I left them to finish the job and started flying towards Ponyville. I could feel the cold night air as I flew through the night sky. After several minutes of flying I reached the small town and glided down to the towns library.
I landed with a small thud outside the door and I could hear many frantic voices inside the tree. I grinned and brought my hoof up to the door and knocked on it several times. I could hear hoofsteps coming towards the door and Twilight opened it only to slam it in my face. I heard her scream inside the library.
"Its Nightmare Moon!!"
I giggled and smashed the door out of my way. Before any of the mane six could fight or run away I levitated them in an unbreakable aura of magic. I saw them struggling futilely against the dark magic. I levitated Twilight close to me and stared deep into her eyes. She had a look of fear in them, I charged my horn and began sucking the life out of the purple unicorn.
Her friends saw this and struggled against the magic even harder. A purple essence was entering my horn and after a few moments a large purple stream flowed out of her horn and into mine. I dropped Twilight and she stood up looked at me for a few seconds with her teal eyes and draconic iris's and bowed to me.
Her friends gasped and I let them go. Rainbow Dash was the first to act.
"What did you do to Twilight you monster!"
"Oh nothing, Just the same thing Twilight is going to do to you all."
Twilight looked up with an evil grin and levitated the five other mares like I had. I laughed at their horrified expressions when they saw Twilights eyes. She cast the same spell I had on her, I redirected the energy to flow into my horn instead of hers. Twilight did nothing to resist and continued the spell.
The five mares were slowly losing the color in their eyes only when their essences left them completely did their eyes change into mine. I took a deep breath as their souls entered my horn and I grinned at the six mares bowing before me.
"Your first mission is to convert this pathetic town."
I laughed triumphantly as they all scrambled outside of the library. I left and jumped into the air, I flew around Ponyville dodging and weaving through the clouds. I flew up and dived through the fog in the Everfree forest. I was in a state of pure bliss.
Windows were being broken, Ponies scrambled in the streets unable to trust there neighbors for fear of being converted. The Mane six were catching anypony they saw. I watched as Applejack wrestled with her brother, I listened closely.
"What tha heck is wrong with ya Applejack?!" Big mac shouted. Applejack ignored him and tried to regain control over her brother.
Big Mac was too strong for her, I pointed my horn at the group and bolstered Applejacks strength. Applejack rolled over onto Big Mac and shoved a glowing black hoof into his face. Big Mac resisted for a few moments but felt the energy quickly drain out of him.
For every pony that was converted I grew stronger. I could feel Big Macs consciousness once he was converted and I gave him his first order.
"Join the fight for control over Ponyville Immediately."
They both rushed to obey my commands. It was going to take longer then I thought to convert the populace of Equestria. I might not even be able to hold my ground! I was going to have to amplify the conversion affect somehow..
I could just imagine thousands of angry ponies marching to reclaim the throne of Canterlot. Even I could not stop that many determined ponies. I located Twilight and she was standing over Mayor mare with her eyes glowing. I watched as the mayor of Ponyville was converted to my cause.
I had bigger problems to contend with at the present moment however.
"Twilight come with me"
Twilight looked up and bowed to me, "Yes my Queen"
As the remaining citizens of Ponyville were converted I left the mayor in charge and called a chariot to take Twilight to Canterlot.
I joined her while two Lunar guard took us to Canterlot. I started brainstorming for a solution to my problem. Twilight was quite the scholar, Perhaps she could come up with a solution.
"Twilight."
She gave me her full attention.
"At this rate I will be defeated by the thousands of ponies loyal to Celestia. There has to be a way to convert the population faster. I need your help to come up with a solution."
Twilight nodded and we flew in silence towards Canterlot. I could not think of any ways to stop the armies bound to come. By the time we reached Canterlot I was grinding my teeth in frustration Twilight had been silent the entire time. I turned to her quickly.
"Tell me you thought of something."
"I think I may have something, My Queen."
"Hold that thought."
We trotted towards the palace many of the already converted ponies bowed to me as I passed. We stepped though the Palace doors and I closed them. I turned around quickly.
"Tell me Everything."
Twilight cleared her throat and quickly stated. "The Moon"
I turned my head. "What about it?"
"Use the moon to project your spell across all of Equestria."
It was by far the best idea, But it sounded complex, even for me."
"That will require a large amount of strength and magic..."
Twilight grinned at me, "What have you got to lose?"
I nodded and realized it was either this or defeat by superior numbers. I trotted towards my personal chambers and when I reached it I continued to the balcony with Twilight by my side.
I looked up to my beautiful moon and sighed. I had to channel a spell with enough power to spread across all of Equestria.
I concentrated on my conversion spell and charged my horn, The moon began to glow brightly until it lit up the land with its brightness. The lunar light spread across Equestria and all who were bathed in it or looked into the bright orb in the sky would know peace.
They would know my rule.
The spell began to grow taxing and I struggled to remain standing. As the spell wore on I sat down with weariness. A few moments longer and I ended the spell. The glow died down and I slowly looked into the sky,
"Did it work?" Twilight asked.
"I'm not sure"
My horn started tingling and the feeling grew into a burning sensation. I could feel the souls of nearly every living pony in Equestria being sucked into my horn. The feeling quickly became overwhelming and I cried out in pain.
"Nightmare!"
Twilight was at my collapsed side trying to figure out what was wrong or alleviate some of the pain. Blue and white streams were swirling around my horn entering it at random. My horn felt like it was going to crack and explode from all the energy inside of it. I grew fearful of the possiblity and a splitting headache racked my body.
I beginning to lose consciousness when I faintly noticed several guards standing around me. I hadn't heard them come in. I felt my consciousness being tugged away from my body. I couldn't resist and all went black.
I was surrounded by it, blackness was all around me but I could see thousands of tiny blue and white glowing dots. Each and every one of the dots materialized into a pony and they bowed to me. One of them spoke to me,
"We are your subjects my Queen."
I grinned but before I could respond he cut me off.
"Now, Wake up and lead us to glory."
I opened my eyes and looked around quickly. Twilight and several Lunar guards were standing around me. My horn seemed to be glowing permanently. I was surprised when Twilight hugged me, She quickly leaned back and looked down. I stared at her curiously.
"Forgive me My Queen, That was not my place."
"Think nothing of it. You are the one that came up with this great solution."
Twilight blushed and the guards gave nods of approval to her.
"Leave us."
The guards quickly left the room and closed the large doors.
"Loyalty shown to me will not go unrewarded."
I placed my horn on Twilight forehead and she froze, eyes open wide. She convulsed when a small shock left my horn and entered her body. Her coat grew a shade darker and her horn grew about half an inch. She was panting when it was over but she looked up and smiled.
"Thank you my Queen."
"Keep showing your loyalty and I will reward you further.
"I will m-"
"Nightmare will do"
"Yes... Nightmare Moon"
I grinned at her and trotted away with Twilight at my side.
I relaxed on my throne. I had crushed the rebellion before it even started with my conversion spell. Twilight sat next to me content at my side. The kingdom was thriving under my rule, There was no prejudice, There was no petty rivalries between nobles or royalty.
I thought for a moment and I had an idea that will truly test Twilight loyalty to me.
"Twilight come with me."
I trotted off of the throne and into the Palace's main chambers. I took several twists and turns until we reached the Canterlot dungeons. Which were just being put to use since they were built. Most of the cells were empty Until we reached a cell that held the one only Shining Armor.
I told Twilight to wait out of sight and she listened.
"Wake up Shining Armor."
He stood up and gave me a menacing look.
"What do you want Luna"
"I am not here for you."
I motioned for Twilight to step into sight and Shining Armor gasped when he saw Twilight.
"What did you to do her!?!" he shouted. I ignored him and grinned menacingly.
"Twilight, You know what to do."
Twilight looked up to me and bit her lip but nodded.
"Yes My Queen."
Shining Armor froze at the words that Twilight had uttered.
"Twilight?"
Shining Armor looked at her uncertainly when she opened the cell she thrust him into the wall, not being overly rough.
"This is for the best Shining Armor." Twilight said.
"No! What are you doing?! What did she do to you!"
Shining armor struggled against her magic but he was unable to resist Twilight power. When Twilight connected her horn with her brothers he froze and his pupils dilated. His eyes turned a teal to match Twilights and mine.
He fell unconscious and Twilight was panting from the effort. I trotted to her side and wrapped my wing around her. She looked up at me proud to have served her queen.
"There is one more pony we must deal with."
I trotted out of the cell to an adjacent cell, This one was more protected and under much more security. Cadence was locked in the cell a dampening ring around her horn and her wings were tied. She also had one hoof chained to her bed.
We could see into the cell but she couldn't see out of it.
"I'll handle this one Twilight." She nodded.
I opened the cell and Cadence jumped in surprise.
"What do you want? Where is Shining Armor."
"He is fine, as for you, You're time has come.
"No!"
Cadence charged her horn, The dampening seal glowed and shattered. The chain quickly disintegrated after words I leaned back charging my horn ready to defend myself, However Cadance ran to Twilight and tried the same thing she did to Shining Armor during the wedding. She hesitated when she saw Twilight but continued on.
Her horn glowed and a red heart landed on Twilight face. I took a deep breath and watched Twilight. She looked at Cadence and to my fear her eyes returned to their former color.
"No!"
Twilight gave one look at me and then another look at Cadence.
"Sorry..."
She levitated Cadence and thrust her back into the cell. I incapacitated the pink alicorn and checked Twilight for a moment.
"Twilight?"
She took a deep breath and her eyes slowly returned to their teal color. I sighed in relief.
"I liked this color better anyway."
I grinned at that.
"I am proud of you Twilight."
I turned around furious at Cadence for trying to steal Twilight away from me. I shook my head when I entered the cell.
"I know just what to do with you now, Perhaps you will be of some use after all."
I concentrated on a stronger conversion spell and It engulfed Cadence in a black aura. The spell continued by itself and I didn't bother to close the cell when I trotted out.
"Come with me"
Twilight trotted with me back to the Palace main chambers. Deciding we weren't moving fast enough I teleported Twilight and I to my balcony.
"Congratulations Twilight."
Twilights breathing picked up and she closed her eyes anticipating the coming magic. I grinned and lowered my horn and touched hers with it. She gasped and moaned. The magic engulfed her entire form and her horn grew several inches along with her coat getting several shades darker.
Along with this she began to grow herself. I was still much taller then her afterwards but her horn was now just a bit shorter then Shining Armors and a bit lighter then my own coat. She looked at her hooves and grinned.
Her gaze met my eyes and she bit her lip. I could see a longing look in her eyes.
"Twi-"
She rushed into a hug and to say I was surprised would be an understatement. I leaned back but I slowly wrapped my hooves around her and hugged her.
"Thank you, Nightmare."
I looked at her confused, I never imagined another pony would ever show me this kindness after I started ruling them.
Twilight smiled and hugged me tighter I could feel something for the unicorn but I couldn't quite tell what it was yet. We embraced each other for a few more moments until there was an intrusion. A lunar guard quickly tried to speak but when he saw Twilight and I embraced as we were I could feel him panic and he bit his lip.
I turned to him and gave him an annoyed look
"Yes? What is it."
"My Queen, there are ambassadors from the Gryphon Kingdom and the Zebrican Tribes waiting for an audience with you."
I trotted to the throne room and There was two heavily guarded Ambassadors armed to the teeth with guards and weapons.
"State your business"
The Gryphon started shouting Immediately.
"The Gryphon Kingdom demands you raise the sun!"
I shook my head and laughed
"Or what?"
"We will have no choice but to declare war on Equestria."
"As will we." The zebra stated.
"Then you're wasting your time here. I will never raise the sun and thats final!"
The zebra simply turned and left while the gryphon was furious
"You'll regret this!, Equestria will be defeated by the might of us both."
"I assure you that you will be the ones who regretted crossing me and my plans."
"Plans?!?"
"Oh just the domination of all Equis."
"Your mad!"
"Am I?"
"Go back to your king before I decide to send you back."
"You'll pay for this."
The gryphons turned and left the throne room. I closed my eyes and reached across all of Equestria and spoke into the minds of the citizens.
"Prepare for war, The Gryphons and The Zebrican tribes are going to war with us."
I cut the link and I could feel them carrying out my orders.
The largest cities in Equestria were booming, Their once nonexistent military output had exploded. There was not a single pony that wasn't helping prepare for war. Regardless of the increase in output, The warlike Gryphon's were in the lead of the arms race. The zebras would naturally would be less of a threat than the Gryphon kingdom.
I still had no words for the bond between Twilight and I, for I was still unsure of it myself. We sat on my balcony watching ponies scramble between the buildings along with hammers clanging against metal that could be heard where we sat.
I could not be in two places at once. I sat contemplating my chain of command. I would lead an army against the gryphon's homeland. I would also have capable generals guarding the bordering cities of Equestria. However I needed an exceptional pony to lead the invasion against the zebras. Perhaps...
"Twilight?"
"Yes?"
"I wish for you to lead an army against the zebras. I have faith in you for this task."
Twilights eyes were wide, "W-what!?"
Twilight continued. "What if I fail? I don't think I could handle that kind of responsibility..."
I nuzzled her, "Do not worry Twilight. I will give you my most devoted ponies for the invasion, They would protect you with their lives, With them you cannot fail.
Twilight seemed to calm down a bit. "Are you sure?"
"I am Twilight, But I wish to give you a parting gift first."
Twilight gave me a curious glance.
"Come here, My most loyal subject."
Twilight faced me and lowered her head.
"I have total faith in you Twilight."
I lowered my horn and touched her on both sides of her horn. I channeled magic out of my horn and it started swirling around Twilight.
"Now rise, and be the mare you were meant to be."
Twilight groaned, her horn grew longer still, her coat grew to be the blackest of shades, But the biggest change of all was the quickly growing appendages at her sides. Twilights wings grew to the size of regular pegasi wings and they fully extended once they finished growing.
Once Twilight regained her senses she saw her wings and gasped.
"Am I an Alicorn?"
"No, But welcome Twilight, Now you are truly one with the night."
Twilight bit her lip and rushed into an embrace with me, I returned it without hesitation.
"Thank you Luna.. I'm so proud to be part of your night."
I grinned, "Its nothing Twilight, however there is one more thing I wish for you to receive."
I formed an elegant full body armor suit that would fit Twilight perfectly. It was a shade of blue that complimented her new coat color. Twilight smiled and thanked me again.
"Anypony in Equestria will now obey you without hesitation."
Twilight grinned and nodded, I deemed it time to stop waiting.
"Best not to wait for the enemy, for they are no doubt preparing for us."
Thousands of ponies were already headed to the front lines armed with spears, swords, shields and other various weapons and armor. Pegasi, Unicorns and Earth ponies alike. The largest war Equestria has ever seen was imminent.
"We will be nations apart when this war starts Twilight."
Twilight frowned and nodded. "I know,"
"There will be an army waiting for you in Detrot, Go north from there and invade the Zebrican Tribes. I must go north immediately to meet with the army already headed to Gryphus," (The Gryphon capital)
"I will, Thank you for everything.. Luna."
Before I could respond Twilight kissed my cheek and teleported out of sight.
I sat in shock for several moments and brought my hoof to my cheek. "Twilight."
I took off invigorated eager to end the war so I could be reunited with Twilight as soon as possible. As I flew north blacksmiths were handing out weapons faster then they could make them. There was battalions of ponies marching north along with pegasi formations flying north as well.
Just as I was about to leave city limits I boomed in the royal Canterlot voice
"Move Out!"
Several more groups of ponies started to head out of Canterlot and to the northern front. I flew for miles watching several groups of my army heading north. When I reached the border between Equestria and The Gryphon kingdoms I saw a large camp with several thousand armed ponies.
I touched down and several of my personal lunar guard bowed to me and began catering to my every whim, As much as I wished I could press the attack, I could not defeat the gryphons until reinforcements arrived. I sat and began contemplating once again.
*Twilights PoV*
"I can't believe I just kissed Luna!"
I had been so embarrassed that I teleported all the way out of the city. I wished I hadn't left without saying goodbye. But now Luna was probably already on her way to the Gryphon kingdom. I sighed and tested my new wings by giving them a few flaps. I tried hovering and found it quite difficult.
I landed with a thud and looked around. There was lunar guard ponies heading my way.
"Your Majesty, If there is anything you need while traveling to Detrot just let us know and we will provide to the best of our capabilities."
I gave him a confused look. "Your majesty?"
"I'm fine for now thank you."
The guards nodded and rejoined the group heading to Detrot. I took a deep breath.
"The sooner this is over with, The sooner I can reunite with Luna."
I started trotting with my army and awaited my future command.
Due to extreme mobilization our army- My army reached the border of the Zebrican Tribes within the week. When I reached the base of operations there was thousands of ponies in a very large camp. When my escort arrived they bowed to me as if I was Nightmare Moon. I trotted to the command HQ noticing several Lunar soldiers doing one thing or another.The stallion in charge looked well decorated and I approached him. The stallion noticed me and quickly kneeled as did other ponies that saw him make the gesture.
"Twilight Sparkle?"
I nodded, "What is your name general."
"Silent Shadows, Your majesty"
"Give me a status report on the camp and any information you have on our enemy, The rest of you leave immediately"
The ponies in the room left in a hurry and Silent Shadows pulled out several documents and magicked them to me. The camp was in fine condition, we had ample resources from the majority of Equestria. There was a few minor problems not worth my notice as well.
"Silent Shadows," the stallion gave me his undivided attention.
"I want the finest blacksmiths to forge me a new set of lunar armor and a double edged halberd made of steel. Am I clear?"
"Yes your majesty."
"Be quick about it."
I turned and left the tent, my personal guards followed at my sides. It would take us several long weeks to reach the center of zebra civilization.
*The Next Day*
Our army continued to march north. It grew colder as we passed the mountains near Hoofswell. I lived in the best tent in the entire camp at the moment when a lunar guardspony made a delivery to me.
"Your Majesty? The weapon you requested has been forged."
I smiled at this bit of information. "Good, I want it brought to me."
Two other guards trotted to me holding my new double edged steel halberd with their magic. The metal was colored as dark blue with touches of silver along the frame. The entire thing was made of steel.
"Yes this is perfect,"
I levitated it for a closer look. I twirled it and it cut through the air making a terrifying noise should you be on the other end of the weapon.
"I couldn't have asked for something better, tell the smith who forged this that he has pleased me with his work and pay him in full."
The lunar guards nodded and carried out my orders.
"Wont be long now until we cross the border."
*1 week later*
Supplies are low... they have been raiding our caravans for days now despite the increase in guards. There is hardly enough food to go around for everypony. Its their damned element of surprise, They can move through their own lands like ghosts. We have yet to engage the zebras in any major conflicts, They are trying to starve my army before launching a counterattack
"I wont have it."
I reported to Silent Shadows,
"General, Hold down the fort while I deal with our supply problems."
"Yes your majesty, Good luck"
I magicked my halberd and teleported several miles down the south road. I took a deep breath and took into the air. Several minutes of flying later I located a caravan. I landed to see several surprised lunar guards.
"Your majesty!" They bowed.
"I'm sure your aware of the raids on the caravans, Our supplies are running dangerously low and we need some immediately, Guards get into the wagons to make the caravan look lightly defended. We will counter their ambush."
The Lunar stallions and mares climbed into the wagons as did I. An hour passed without incident, until one of the guards shouted.
"AMBUSH, TO ARMS!"
The soldiers roared and charged out of the wagons, I waited for a moment to assess the numbers of the zebras, Sounds of battle were all around me along with screams of the dieing. Without further hesitation I smashed threw the roof of the wagon and yelled.
"You zebras have worn my patience thin with these feeble attempts to slow down our invasion force, You will never achieve victory over the might Lunar Empire!"
The zebras looked afraid of me, some of them turned to run as I unleashed a bladestorm upon their ranks with my halberd. Any defenses they had were obliterated by the power of my magic and the strength of my weapon. Before I knew what I realized what I was doing more then three quarters of them lay dead or dieing.
"What?..why?"
I failed to remain in the air and crashed hard onto the ground. The rest of the guards were chasing after the zebras. Two guards remained at my side looking over me with concerned expressions.
"Your majesty?! are you alright?"
"I'm Fine!" I growled.
I turned away from them and wiped the tears from my eyes.
"War is a terrible reality." I thought.
"Come on.. Lets get to camp."
The convoy provided us with much needed food and provisions. The new tactic was used to protect the convoys and the raids failed. One step closer to Zevera.
"One step closer to Luna and an end to this madness."
*1 more week*
To my regret I did eventually become desensitized to the violence. The closer we got to Zevera the more bodies we left behind, Pony and Zebra. The zebrican tribes armies mass outside of their capital city, Once we take the river there will be nothing between us and their own capital. The zebras last stand is approaching.
"Your majesty?"
"Yes?"
"Your armor is completed."
It was the most elegant armor I had ever seen, Perhaps even more then Luna's armor. It had a pure silver color to it with elegant designs etched into it. It glowed in the moonlight making its presence known to all. I donned the armor and It melded with my coat.
"Our time is upon us"
I marched out of the camp with my army, The zebras will fight to protect their homes and their very way of life, This will not be an easy battle. When we crossed the river the zebra army was in sight along with their well defended capital.
"Lunar Soldiers! Battle formations!"
I marched ahead of my army glowing like a beacon,
"Here I am, Come get me."
I twirled my halberd over my head with magic and continued marching for several minutes until we reached a certain distance. I held up my hoof for my army to stop marching and I shouted a warning to the army massed before us.
"Surrender now and most of you will be spared, This is your first and final warning. Lay down your weapons or face the might of the Lunar Empire!"
The army of zebras roared in response and hundreds of zebras appeared from the tall grass around us. They began to charge and I filled with dread when I saw that our escape route had been cut off by another division of zebras blocking the river.
"Were surrounded!" I heard a soldier shout.
"Orders your majesty?!" Silent Shadows yelled over the roaring of the zebras.
I started galloping at the front of my army and I noticed a large male Zebra wearing elegant armor surrounded by several guards. As I drew closer I sliced through many charging zebras, His guards noticed me and surged forth to try and stop me. I leaped over them, charged my horn and brought down my halberd on the zebras leader.
I was surprised when he managed to block the attack with his own weapon. Then my army collided with the army of zebras with a deafening noise. Hundreds of screams and clashes of weapons could be heard all at once. I couldn't help but think however.
"My weapon should have obliterated his own..."
"Well well well." I said grinding my weapon against his own, He was grunting with effort of holding off my magic.
I disengaged and sliced the throat of a zebra that was going to strike me from behind. Several zebras converged around me and I began dodging and weaving while unleashing a bladestorm with my halberd. I began to get overwhelmed with the number of zebras. Blows began to get through my defenses and bounce off my armor. A spear sliced through a gap in my armor protecting my hooves and I ground my teeth in pain.
I lost mobility due to the injury and due to this I quickly acquired more. I was out of breath when a blow sent me to the ground. The leader of the zebras had struck me down.
"Not so strong now are you? Twilight Sparkle, How could you betray your own mentor!"
He brought his staff down on my head and I screamed in pain. I heard a roar from my army and I saw them fighting desperately to reach me through the mass of zebras. The zebra brought down his staff on me again but I stopped it with magic.
I got to my hooves and shoved him back with a burst of magic. I levitated my halberd and fought desperately to defeat him. He fought just as hard and he struck my weapon in an overhoof strike and it shattered into hundreds of pieces. An explosion of magic radiated from the shattered weapon and dazed me. Before I could stop him he threw me to the ground and began crushing my neck with his hooves.
I tried to focus on my magic but I couldn't call upon it with his crushing weight upon me. I began losing consciousness when my horn lit up with a dark purple and green aura. A blade attached to my hoof and I stabbed the zebra through his neck. His grip vanished and he quickly brought his own hooves to his neck in shock. He collapsed and laid motionless.
I coughed violently and noticed several Lunar soldiers gathered around me with protective stances. I heard one of them shout something incomprehensible over the sound of battle.
"There falling back! Press the attack!" Silent Shadows bellowed.
I was in no condition to fight any longer, I inspected myself now that the haze of battle had lifted from me. I was bleeding in several spots were I had been wounded. As I saw my hooves covered with blood and my body covered in my own I grew dizzy and passed out from shock and blood loss.
*The Day After*
I awoke with bandages covering more then half of my body, I had a fierce headache and I brought a hoof to my horn. I flinched when I touched it and felt a crack where the zebra had struck me. Silent Shadows was there when I awoke.
"We won the battle your majesty, The zebras routed at the sight of their fallen leader. Thanks to you, were all still alive."
I couldn't form a coherent response. Instead I rested my head and sighed with relief. I couldn't stay awake any longer and drifted into the dreamscape.
