> Dark Side of the Moon
>  by jessietiptoes
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter One
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"Luna?" Celestia's voice sounded from outside Luna's chamber. The princess of the night forced herself not to groan at the sound. 
"Yes, my sister?" Luna answered, using her magic to open the door. 
"I've barely seen your face since Twilight's coronation," Celestia said, gazing at her sister with a motherly look of worry.
"And thou hast barely left Twilight's side," Luna said, bitterness creeping into her voice. Celestia was taken aback. 
"She is a brand new princess," Celestia said softly, willing her sister to understand. "She needs guidance."
"I was banished to the moon for one thousand years. I was not given this 'guidance' when I returned," Luna snapped.
"Sister, what has gotten into you?" An astonished Celestia asked. 
"Art thou not ashamed of what thou hast put me through?" Luna growled, straightening to her full height. Though Celestia was much taller, she shrunk back.
"Uhm... Luna, Celestia?" Another, softer voice called. The two older princess' eyes snapped towards the new voice. Princess Cadence appeared, looking nervous. "Is everything okay?"
"Yes," Luna said tightly. "Everything is fine."
"Luna-," Celestia began.
"Everything is fine," Luna repeated forcefully. Celestia lowered her gaze.
"Did you need something, Cadence?" Celestia asked.
"Oh! No, I was just coming to tell you that Shining Armor and I are leaving tomorrow morning," Cadence said quickly.
"Back to the Crystal Empire, I assume?" Celestia questioned, earning a nod from Cadence. Luna turned away from them and walked out to her balcony that overlooked Canterlot. She gazed at the sky, an array of oranges and reds, purples and blues. The sun was setting. Within the hour, Luna would raise the moon in all of its glory. Even after a thousand years, ponykind had not changed. They still reveled in the light of the sun, but slept under the glow of the moon. Their dreams were still just as trivial and shallow as they once were. Ponies dreaming of wealth, fame, or fortune. Never once thinking of others. 
Luna, however, had seen ponies risk everything just to help a friend. Twilight Sparkle and her friends were prime examples of this. Love and friendship did still exist, but it was fading. Equestria, begun on the foundations of compassion and selflessness, had become a corrupt country of material wishes and power-hungry nobles.
"Luna, the sun has set," Celestia said from across the room. Luna rolled her eyes when she realized her elder sister was still there.
"Yes, Celestia, I've noticed," Luna said through gritted teeth. Unfurling her midnight-blue wings, she launched herself into the sky. She sighed to herself and landed on a cloud not far above the castle. Closing her eyes, she let her magic course from her mind, through her horn, and out into the night. An opaque blue glow enveloped her horn as her spell set the moon into motion.
Normally, as soon as she was through with her spell, Luna would return to the castle and attend meetings with her sister, or relax in her bedchamber. Tonight, she needed to think. She folded her hooves beneath her, and let her small cloud drift wherever the light breeze took it. Luna's mane waved around her, as it always did. 
Even after the coronation of Twilight Sparkle, and everything the young mare had done to put their fear to rest, Luna's subjects still cowered under her gaze. They still closed their shutters and locked their doors on Nightmare Night, and they still believed she was Nightmare Moon. Luna's head drooped as these thoughts plagued her mind. When would her kingdom learn to overlook her past?
Jovial laughter interrupted Luna's calm thought process. Peering over the edge of her cloud, Luna looked down into the courtyard far below her. Celestia and Twilight Sparkle were walking slowly through the willow grove, talking and laughing over something Luna had not heard. The blood running in Luna's veins boiled. She had not been invited to this impromptu tour of the castle grounds. It seemed as though she was never included anymore. Canterlot -and all of Equestria for that matter- was smitten with Princess Twilight Sparkle. Luna had not received a welcome so glorifying as Twilight's. 
It hit Luna with the force of a thousand spells. She was being replaced. She was no longer needed. Equestria had only ever needed two princesses. When Cadence came to power, she was sent with her husband to the Crystal Empire to rule in place of King Sombre. Where would they send Luna? A pony could not rule over zebras or gryffins, so surely Celestia would not send her to those empires. 
By now, Twilight Sparkle's name left a bitter taste on Luna's tongue. Angrily, Luna pushed herself into the air and violently kicked at the cloud. The cloud dissapated, leaving Luna feeling bitter and lonely. Glancing up at her beautiful moon one last time, Luna began her short journey back to the castle, and the comfort of her bedchamber.
As of late, Luna had been thinking of adopting a personal student, as Celestia had done with Twilight Sparkle. Bright young Unicorns were not hard to come by, but the filly or colt that Luna took in would have to be a very special young pony. Luna now wanted nothing better than to make her older sister look bad. Perhaps Luna could take in an orphan, invite them to live at the castle. Yes, she would do just that. Luna would no longer be seen as the weak, introverted younger sister of the great Princess Celestia. She would make a new name for herself that neither Celestia nor Twilight Sparkle could ever hope to match.
"Heart Song!" Luna called out to her Lady in Waiting. 
"Yes, Your Higness?" The light blue Pegasus answered, bowing deeply.
"Contact the Canterlot Orphanage. I request an audience with the pony in charge as soon as possible," Luna said firmly. 
Heart Song looked puzzled, but replied anyway. "Of course, M'lady." The Pegasus' red and black mane blew behind her as she fluttered out of the room. Smiling to herself, Luna looked down at her sister in the willow grove. She would not let the corrupt hoof of Celestia rule over Canterlot any longer. The Solar Empire would fall, and the New Lunar Republic would rise from the ashes, the Phoenix of Equestria.
> Chapter Two
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Luna stepped gracefully from her carriage. Her guards bowed to her, then went back to standing at attention. Luna turned her eyes on the dull red-bricked building looming in front of her. A weathered gray sign read "Canterlot Orphanage" in block lettering.
A small yellow Earth pony waited respectfully by the door, bowing as Luna made her way inside. The environment changed drastically. The walls of the lobby were brightly colored, and decorated with flowers, butterflies, and little toy trains. 
"Your Highness," the yellow mare said, stepping up beside the majestic Alicorn, " I am Dandelion Jewel, the owner of Canterlot Orphanage. You wished to speak with me?"
"Yes, I did," Luna said, smiling slightly. She took a deep breath, remembering to use more modern vocabulary. "I have decided to take in a student, as my sister has."
"Am I correct in assuming you wish to adopt one of our orphans?" Dandelion Jewel asked, her eyes sparkling.
"Indeed you are," Luna replied, feeling proud of herself.
"Why, that's simply wonderful!" Dandelion beamed. "Would you like a tour?"
"Yes, I would, thank you," Luna said, following Dandelion down a long corridor. 
"What age are you thinking of adopting, Your Magesty?" Dandelion questioned. 
"Just old enough to start school," Luna answered. 
"Filly or colt?" 
"Filly." Dandelion nodded, and veered to the right. The decor of this corridor was not as foalish, it had turned to more mature colors and designs. Deep purples and pinks, hearts and peace signs.
Dandelion pushed open a door, revealing a row of beds on each side of a narrow room. Young foals of all sizes and colors were sitting in front of the beds, fidgeting with excitement.
"This is our filly ward," Dandelion explained. Luna smiled warmly at the fillies, walking slowly down the aisle between them. The youngsters bowed their heads to their princess. 
"These fillies have been raised well, Miss Jewel," Luna announced, turning back to the mare. "Might I ask for a room to give these foals a test?"
"Of course, ma'am," Dandelion said quickly. "You will taking Unicorns only, correct?" Luna nodded in response. Dandelion called for the Unicorn fillies, and Luna, to follow her. Luna trailed in the back, watching each filly. Several looked sickly and weak, while most seemed healthy and strong. Luna was looking for a strong-willed Unicorn, one who wouldn't give up in the face of failure. She also needed a filly with a strong magic aura. Quickly, Luna cast a magic detection spell over the crowd of fillies. It would help Luna tell how strong their magic was without making them test themselves in front of their peers. 
Not many experienced Unicorns could detect a spell such as that. A tall filly, however, perked her ears up and turned her head towards Luna, locking eyes with the Princess. The filly was a deep purple, with a rose colored mane and tail. Her mane was pulled into a high, sophisticated ponytail. Her magical aura was strong, as well. 
"Miss Jewel?" Luna called. The blue maned mare turned to her Princess, puzzled. "I've made my decision."
"Already, Your Highness?" Dandelion asked, baffled. Luna nodded. 
"You there," Luna said, pointing her hoof at the purple filly. "What's your name?" The filly cast a haughty look at her peers before answering, "Midnight Rose, Your Highness."
"Miss Rose, you will be accompanying me back to the palace. I suggest you pack your belongings," Luna said. Then to Dandelion, "I assume I have some paperwork to sign?"

*******************************

"You will get used to castle life," Luna assured Midnight Rose. 
"I hope so, Your Majesty," The Unicorn replied, gazing out the carriage window. "Does this make me a princess?"
Luna chuckled, amused. "Not quite, little one. However, you will, of course, be treated as one."
"Awesome," Midnight Rose grinned. 
"What would you prefer to be called?" Luna asked. Midnight Rose was a mouthful.
"Midnight," She answered. "Do I still have to call you 'Your Highness' all the time?"
"Goodness, no. In private company, you may call me Luna. In public, I must ask that you call me 'Princess'," Luna answered.
"Yes, ma'am," Midnight responded, her grin stretching from ear to ear.
"I am impressed with how respectful you are," Luna complimented. If at all possible, Midnight's smile grew wider. 
"May I ask why you chose to adopt me?" Midnight asked.
"A number of reasons," Luna replied. "You aura is strong, and your confidence in yourself is high." Midnight nodded and continued to stare out the window. "Did you have friends at the orphanage?"
"One. A Pegasus colt, Slate. He and I were pretty close," Midnight said, her smile fading.
"Were pretty close?" Luna pushed.
"We got into a pretty big fight," Midnight said vaguely.
"I see," Luna said letting it drop. The carriage jolted to a halt, and the door opened. Canterlot castle rose magestically before them, as Luna stepped out. Midnight hopped down behind her, looking up in awe. 
Standing by the doors was Celestia, who did not look at all pleased. Twilight Sparkle, of course, flanked her.
"Luna, what in Equestria-," Celestia began. 
"See, Tia? Anything you can do, I can do better," Luna smiled sarcastically. Both Celestia and Twilight looked shocked. "Come along, Midnight. I'll show you to your room. Guards, bring her bags."
All the way through the castle, Luna was distracted. Estatic that her sister was confused, but distracted because she was completely unsure of how to raise a filly. 
"Is everything okay, Luna?" Midnight asked, breaking Luna from her trance.
"Yes, Midnight. I'm alright," The Princess answered, magically opening Midnight's door. 
"It's beautiful!" Midnight exclaimed, galloping to the center of the circular room. The walls were a plain white, and everything was trimmed in gold. The bedsheets were made from the finest silk, and the curtains of the finest velvet.
"Welcome home, Midnight Rose."
> Chapter Three
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Midnight Rose gazed out the window of her tower room. With the panorama of Canterlot laid out before her, she wondered how she'd gotten so lucky as to have been hand-chosen by Princess Luna to be her personal student. With a bit of luck and a lot of hard work, maybe she could even become a princess some day, just like Twilight Sparkle had done.
While Luna was Midnight's idol, Twilight Sparkle was her hero. She had a perfect life. Parents, a brother, five close friends, a dragon for a personal assistant...And now she was a princess. What more could a pony ask for?
Though in some aspects, Midnight's life was perfect, too. She now had the chance to become just like Twilight Sparkle. She didn't have a family, but Midnight hoped that Luna would be able to take on a bit of a motherly role, as Celestia had done for Twilight.
Midnight turned and looked around her room. Everything was beautiful, perfect. The bed was a generous king size, she had a walk-in closet full of fancy dresses, a personal servant, and full access to the entire castle! That is, if she didn't get lost while she was exploring. The castle was massive, and had so many long corridors, Midnight had lost track of which way she'd come.
This was Midnight's third day living at the castle. The only thing she missed from the orphanage was Slate. She'd hoped that they would make up before she left for the palace, but he'd been studiously avoiding her. Irregardless, she was certain to make newer, better friends here at the castle. Sure, she and Slate had been close. They'd shared their hopes and dreams with each other. Their fears, hobbies, loves, hates... They were best friends. 
A single tear traced a wet path down Midnight's cheek as she used her magic to reach for a piece of parchment and a quill.

	Dear Slate,
I know you and I haven't been on the best of terms recently, but you didn't allow me the chance to reconcile our friendship. I'd like to put what happened in the past. We had a friendship that I'm not willing to simply throw away. In hopes that you accept my apology, I suppose I'll tell you a bit about the palace. It's beautiful, Slate. I wish I could share this gift with you. Everything is trimmed in gold or silver, or made from silk or satin or velvet. This is nothing like our dull life at the orphanage. Here, there's always something exciting going on. Just yesterday I saw a flock of griffins flying in from their empire. The maid Luna and I share, Heart Song, tells me that Equestria's peace contract with the Griffin Empire is on the brink of expiring.  
But enough about me. How is life back home? How are your flying lessons going? Do you know if you're going to Flight Camp yet? Let me know! 
I have to go now, my lessons are about to start. I miss you, Slate. Give Miss Dandelion my regards. I hope to hear from you soon. 
Love always, Midnight Rose

"Midnight?" A voice said from the door. The purple filly looked up to see Luna standing over her, looking concerned. "Is everything alright?"
"Yes, ma'am, I was just writing to Slate," Midnight said, quickly wiping her eyes. 
"You two were very close, I can see," Luna said, kneeling next to Midnight. Midnight said nothing, only nodded. Her words, usually her best asset, were failing her. And then suddenly, everything began spilling out.
"Slate found out he had an uncle that could have taken him in, but refused to. Slate was really upset and when I told him he was better off at the orphanage anyway, he started yelling at me that it was his one connection to his parents. They died in a house fire when he was little. He told me I didn't have to deal with that grief and I said I'd never even met my parents; they gave me up at birth. After that, we both said some pretty mean things, and we haven't spoken since."
Luna rubbed Midnight's back with a comforting hoof, letting the filly cry into her shoulder. The princess levitated the letter to Heart Song, who was floating in the doorway.
"I want this letter delivered to the orphanage immediately. I want it to be personally handed to the Pegasus colt by  the name of Slate," Luna said sternly. Heart Song nodded and zipped down the stairs.
"Thank you, Princess," Midnight murmured, sitting up and rubbing her eyes.
"Art thou ready to begin thy lessons?" Luna asked, slipping back into her age-old speech.
"Yes, ma'am," Midnight said, smiling wearily. 
"Very well. Hold on to my leg," Luna said, standing up and firing up her magic. Midnight did as she was told, clutching Luna's leg tightly. Luna squinted her eyes shut and let her magic flow around them. Then, after the sensation of being compressed and pulled and compressed again, Luna opened her eyes.
The willow grove stretched out before them, the various ponds reflecting the midday sun. Luna realized Midnight was still holding tight to her leg, her eyes clamped shut.
"You can open your eyes now, Midnight," Luna chuckled. Midnight flushed and sprang backwards. The filly brushed stray pieces of her mane out of her face.
"When do I learn to do that? To teleport?" Midnight asked.
"All in good time, Midnight, all in good time," Luna said vaguely. "How are your levitation skills?" 
To demonstrate, Midnight set her magic on a pond, and lifted a pulsating sphere of water. While levitating it, she looked to Luna to see how she had done. 
The princess of the night was impressed. Not many fillies of her age were able to lift a non-solid object, and hold it in the air for a prolonged amount of time, while at the same time projecting their attention elsewhere. Wishing to test the filly further, Luna said, "Split the sphere into two spheres." Midnight did exactly that. Soon, she was lifting four spheres with ease. 
"You may let them go now," Luna said. The spheres dropped back to the pond with a splash. Midnight shook herself, proud of how she had so obviously impressed the princess. 
"Now what?" Midnight asked excitedly. Feeling her stomach growl in response, Luna glanced at the sun. It appeared to be about noon. 
"Lunch," Luna answered.
> Chapter Four
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Two weeks had passed since Midnight Rose came to live in Canterlot Palace. Luna was training her well, and already the young filly had surpassed what Twilight Sparkle had known at that age. 
Luna had a theory. Twilight gained her magical abilities through years of pain-staking studying. Midnight's abilities came naturally, and improved quickly. This provided an advantage over Celestia and Twilight, as long as Midnight also possessed the same intelligence and book smarts as Twilight Sparkle. This, Luna thought, would make Midnight the perfect partner with whom to eliminate Celestia's corrupt rule of Equestria.
The problem lay therein. It had taken Twlight Sparkle years to gain the knowledge she had to this day. Luna did not necessarily that kind of time. Each day, Celestia grew softer and softer, bowing under the will of her insolent subjects. Luna loved her subject, of course, but Celestia had to learn to hold her ground. That being said, Celestia could not seem to do so, therefore, it was time for Luna to step in. 
"Luna?"
"Speak of the devil," Luna muttered to herself. "Yes, Tia?" 
"You've been shut in your chambers for a very long time... Is everything alright?" Celestia asked, the all too irritating motherly tone making itself known in her voice.
"Yes, Celestia, everything is fine," Luna said through gritted teeth.
"It certainly doesn't sound like it..." Celestia mumbled, her voice muffled through Luna's chamber door. With an effort, Luna held her temper in check. More and more, simply Celestia's voice grated on the blue Alicorn. As the sound of Celestia's hoofsteps vanished from the corridor, Luna decided to test Midnight Rose's newfound ability to mind-speak. 
Midnight? She paused. Canst thou- ahem, Can you hear me? Luna corrected her thousand year old grammar.
Princess Luna? The filly's voice responded.
Yes. Come to my chambers. I wish to speak with you.
Yes, ma'am.
Luna had made a decision. She would not force Midnight to be her right-hand mare. She would give Midnight a choice. If she so chose, she could continue her studies under Princess Celestia, and Luna would find a new foal who was willing to help the cause.
A gentle rapping came to Luna's door. Using her magic, Luna opened it, inviting the young filly in. 
"Midnight, thank you for coming. I hope I didn't interrupt your studying?" Luna said graciously.
"No, ma'am, I was just thinking about Slate," Midnight said, lowering her eyes to her hooves.
"You care for him a great deal," Luna said softly. It was not a question, but a statement.
"Yeah, I do," Midnight murmured sadly.
"I'm afraid this conversation will have to wait for another time, dear Midnight," Luna said, dragging Midnight's attention back to her. "I have something to admit to you, and I must ask you to not become angry with me."
"I... Yes, of course, Princess," Midnight said, puzzled.
As Luna explained her plan to Midnight, the filly's expression grew more and more smug, and a wide smirk stretched across her face.
"So you've been planning a coup, have you, Princess?" Midnight said, still grinning.
"In a word, yes," Luna said, surpised at Midnight's reaction. 
"I've always thought Celestia was a bit soft," Midnight said, her thoughts wandering. "And that she favored Twlight over you. Slate and I noticed a long time ago."
"Slate's mindset is that of yours?" Luna asked, her mood climbing.
Midnight nodded. "In the entire orphanage, he was the only pony who understood my thinking. Maybe that's why we became so close."
Another idea began forming in the forefront of Luna's mind. "Tell me, Midnight. Would you like Slate to come live in Canterlot Palace with you?"
Midnight's eyes lit up, fueled by the thought of revolution.


**********


"Princess Luna!" Dandelion Jewel exclaimed. "How wonderful it is to see you again so soon!" Luna and Midnight were standing on the stone steps outside of the Canterlot Orphanage, Luna's deep blue carriage behind her, flanked by the Lunar Guard.
"Yes, Miss Jewel, I'd like to meet with a specific young colt today," Luna said thoughtfully.
"And what colt would this be?" Dandelion asked. "Oh, hello Midnight Rose," She said, just noticing the filly's presence.	Midnight nodded in response.
"A pegasus colt by the name of Slate," Luna said, looking down her nose at the smaller Earth Pony. Dandelion nodded, and motioned for Luna and Midnight to follow her. Instead of leading them to the colts' dormatory, Dandelion took them into an office and instricted them to sit down. 
"Please send Slate down to my office," Dandelion spoke into an intercom. The room was quiet for several minutes. Then, the quick rhythm of small hooves became noticable in the hall outside. 
"Miss Dandelion? You called?" Slate asked, coming through the doorway. Luna was impressed with his size. He was taller than Midnight, and stonger physically. Luna could feel it. 
Noticing the princess, Slate quickly bowed. Upon standing, he noticed Midnight, and his jaw fell open.
"Midnight!" He shrieked, running to her.
"Slate!" Midnight yelled in response, meeting him halfway. Luna smiled as she watched them. 
"I'm so sorry I haven't responded to your letter! Flight school is toughening up, we'll be taking our Flight License test next week!" Slate said quickly, hugging his friend.
"Already?" Midnight gasped.
"Have some faith in me, Rosie! I'm in the advanced class, don't forget," Slate said proudly. 
"So you aren't mad at me anymore?" Midnight asked, ducking her head.
"No way!" Slate shouted. His attention shifted to Luna. "Sorry, Your Highness."
"Think nothing of it, Slate. Now, I have a question for you," Luna told Slate, watching him carefully. He cocked his head sideways, listening intently. "Would you be interested in joining myself and Midnight at Canterlot Palace for the remainder of your studies?"
"Yes, of course!" Slate said excitedly. Dandelion looked shocked, but Luna paid no attention to her expression, she only requested the paperwork she needed in order to legally take Slate under her wing, so to speak. Midnight looked happier than Luna had ever seen her, and if Midnight was so sure of Slate's allegiance, it wouldn't be long before Luna's plan was underway.
On the ride back to the palace, Luna and Midnight explained their plan to Slate. "So Celestia will be second to you, instead of you being second to her?" Slate said, pondering this.
Luna chuckled. "No, Slate. Celestia will be one of my subjects."
"But she's an Alicorn," Midnight pointed out. 
"She will be shamed, as overthrown queens were in ancient times," Luna explained.
"How so?" Slate questioned.
"We will cut off her horn," Luna said grimly. Midnight gasped.
"Princess, that form of punishment hasn't been utilized for... Millenia!" Midnight exclaimed, horrified.
"It hasn't been used since-," Slate started.
"Since before I was banished. Yes, I know," Luna said calmly. "As I stated earlier, Celestia has gone soft."
Midnight and Slate agreed with her there. "Luna... If Celestia can no longer raise the sun, who will?" Slate asked.
"Either I will take on the task of raising the sun as well as the moon, or I shall find someone who is capable of doing so," Luna told them.
"And what about Princess Twilight?" Midnight asked. "What are you going to do with her?"
"I will not punish her the way I will Celestia, as she has done nothing wrong," Luna said thoughtfully. "But she is as corrupt as my sister. Perhaps we can train her to be more fierce, or if not, we can banish her to another land."
"Now that she is an Alicorn, she can't live among normal ponies. They'll worship her as a goddess, Celestia as well, even without her horn," Slate said, fluttering his wings. "Not to mention she's a lot taller and more regal than us."
"You make a valid point, Slate," Luna praised him. "We can always keep Celestia in the dungeon, or the caves beneath Canterlot. Actually, we could keep Twilight there, as well."
"We're not going to be treating them cruelly, are we?" Midnight asked softly.
"They will have food, water, and shelter, but they will not treated as kindly as they would in Ponyville," Luna said, her voice revealing no compassion. 
Letting her mind wander, Luna envisioned it. Luna greeting guests at the Grand Galloping Gala. Instead of the Summer Sun Festival, it would be the Winter Moon Festival. Her subjects would bow to her everywhere she went, and the New Lunar Repulic would thrive.
Luna ached to see it happen. And soon...with the help of Slate and Midnight Rose...it would become more than Luna's dream.
> Chapter Five
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"Slate, I'm sending you to my highest ranking Pegasus guard," Luna said as she strode through the castle's apple orchard. Shadows seemed to move on the own accord as the moon cast an eerie light on the castle grounds.
"Why?" Slate asked, following close behind the princess, Midnight Rose at his side. 
"I want you to be a scout. My eyes in the sky," Luna answered. "And I want General Stonehoof to train you as one of the Lunar Guard." Slate grew excited, his thoughts wandering. Though he may be handpicked by the Princess of the Night to be her personal scout, he was still just a colt at heart.
"General Stonehoof?" asked the ever-curious Midnight. Luna nodded distractedly. "I've never heard of him. I've heard of General MacTrotter, though."
"MacTrotter is the leader of the Solar Guard," Luna said bitterly. "Stonehoof prefers to stay out of the trivial disputes between Celestia and the Griffon Empire."
"Well, MacTrotter certainly won't be ordering me around," Slate scoffed, smirking. Luna wheeled around, dropping her head in order to look both foals straight in the eyes.
"I want you two to listen carefully," Luna murmured forcefully. "Celestia must not receive warning of our uprising. If MacTrotter, or one of the Solar Guard, or even Celestia herself gives you an order, accept the order and come straight to me. I will see that whatever task you are assigned is carried out. Am I understood?"
Midnight and Slate nodded vigorously. 
"Good. Now. Midnight, you are to wait here. I will take Slate to the Lunar training facilities," The princess said, lifting her head. Midnight nodded, making herself comfortable underneath a particularly large apple tree. Luna unfurled her wings, motioning to Slate to do the same. Alicorn and Pegasus launched themselves into the air, Luna in the lead. 
"Where exactly are these facilities, Princess?" Slate shouted over the rushing wind. 
"Very near the northern edge of our border with the Griffon Empire," Luna answered. The orchards beneath them slowly morphed into treacherous cliffs and outcroppings of rock, before leveling into a flat clearing of stone. Directly in the center of this clearing was a tower, where a dark blue Pegasus pony stood guard. 
The armor he wore was much like that of the Solar guards Slate often saw in Canterlot. The main differences, he noticed, were the dark purple hue of the metal, and the pony's wings. Instead of the soft feathers Slate was used to, this pony's wings were leathery and bat-like. 
Luna noticed Slate's confusion. "The wings are not a permanent mutation. There is a charm on the back plate of the armor, transforming the wings into a more manageable form. Once the armor is removed, your wings will be back to normal," she explained.
"I get a suit of armor?" Slate asked excitedly. 
Luna chuckled. "You will receive the armor, and a training suit. General Stonehoof will inform of when you are to wear each one."
Gradually, Luna began to descend to the stony ground below. Knowing his royal etiquette, Slate let the princess touch down first before landing gently beside her. From the shadows stepped a tall, rugged looking stallion. His charcoal coat was not brushed. His black mane was swept to one side, and a lighter gray scar sliced across his muzzle. Like the guardpony in the tower, this heavyset stallion had those bat-like wings. 
"Your Highness," The stallion said, his voice harsh and gravelly. He had a heavy Trottish accent.
"General Stonehoof," Luna said. "This is your apprentice, Slate.
"Hope ye don't expect easy work, lad. Ye ain't slackin' off out 'ere," Stonehoof growled.
Despite the uneasy feeling in his gut, Slate stood tall and said, "No, Sir!" Stonehoof appraised Slate quickly, then gave an approving nod to Luna.
"'E'll do well, I think," Stonehoof said. "Strong wings, strong back, regards authority with respect. Lad'll be just fine."
"This is where I leave you, Slate," Luna said. "Make your way back to the palace at dawn."
"Yes, Ma'am," Slate said, bowing respectfully. Luna took to the skies, angling herself towards the palace. 
"Well then, Slate," Stonehoof said, giving the colt a once-over. "Are ye ready to begin yer trainin'?"
"Yes, Sir!" Slate said, saluting quickly. Stonehoof chuckled.
"No need ta be so formal, laddie. I don't bite," The General told him, winking good-naturedly. Slate relaxed, taking a liking to Stonehoof's attitude. 
"Sir, what exactly am I here to learn? The princess didn't tell me much," Slate explained.
"The majority of your trainin' will be in air combat," Stonehoof began. "Since ye'll be a scout, we'll also be workin' on sharpenin' yer eyesight."
Slate nodded, his mind absorbing this. He would be an important asset to Luna's army, this he knew. And maybe someday, he could be a great warpony like Stonehoof.


********************************


"Midnight, I believe your magic is strong enough now to move away from defensive spells, and towards offensive spells," Luna told her young prodigy as she returned to the apple orchard.
"Really?" Midnight's eyes grew wide at the thought of advancing in her studies. Luna chuckled to herself. Midnight Rose was so much like Twilight Sparkle. The only difference was, Midnight was far more advanced for her age than Twilight ever had been.
"Before we begin, I want to take you somewhere," Luna said, making Midnight's ears droop just the tiniest bit. "I am going to put a disguise over myself, so that I will not be seen for who I am."
Midnight was confused, but knew better than to ask too many questions. Luna's horn glow a deep blue, and a shimmering aura fell over the princess. When the curtain of magic lifted, a smaller pony stood where Luna had been. This pony had the same color scheme as the princess, but her mane did not glisten and undulate on it own, and her wings had disappeared. This was the figure of a common-pony with a simple three star cutie mark, not that of a regal Alicorn who literally held the night at the tip of her horn.
"Follow me," said the disguised Luna. Midnight did as she was told. Quickly, the two exited the palace grounds. Instead of heading towards downtown Canterlot as they normally would, Luna directed them to the West End of Canterlot. Midnight's confusion heightened. The West End was the poor side of Canterlot. The ponies there were sometimes known to be dangerous, but much of the time they hid in alleys and kept to themselves, hungry and scared.
The streets darkened considerably, seeing as the street lamps here were very poorly maintained, and many were completely burnt out, or at the very least flickering. Midnight's eyes darted about in an attempt to stay aware of her surroundings. Luna walked with her head down and her eyes directly ahead. 
The princess turned down a pitch-black alley between a small bakery and a rather large library.
"Midnight, light your horn," Luna commanded. Quickly, Midnight allowed magic to flow from her horn in the form of light. The young pupil was momentarily blinded. 
When Midnight opened her eyes, she gasped in horror. She was not prepared for the suffering she saw before her. Ponies of every race lay throughout the alley, barely eight feet wide. Foals shivered in groups in the corners. An emaciated Pegasus mare lay on her side in a pool of her own vomit, her sides barely lifting with breath. A Unicorn stallion stood not far from the mare, his eyelids twitching erratically. Every pony in the alley was sick or starving, injured or dying. Their coats were patchy, their manes unkempt.
Tears sprung to Midnight's eyes as she turned to her princess-in-disguise. 
"Tis heart-breaking, is it not?" Luna said sadly, slipping back into her old language. "These ponies need the help of their princesses more than anything, and yet, Celestia does nothing. She is deaf to the cries of the sick and the hungry. Twilight Sparkle is too brain-washed to go against her beloved mentor. She too will pay no mind to the suffering that lies beneath her hooves."
Midnight's jaw went slack as anger boiled through her veins. "You mean... Celestia knows about this?!"
Luna nodded gravely as she watched her subjects cower at the sight of a healthy pony.
Midnight's decision had been made. She would stand by Luna. For as long as these ponies lived under these conditions, the Equestrian rule was corrupt, and only Luna could save it.
> Chapter Six
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"Princess Luna and I cannot express how pleased we are to see so many bright young minds gathered for another year of studies," Celestia said proudly, speaking for Luna as usual. The midnight blue Alicorn struggled to maintain the false smile she plastered on her face as she stood in front of the students at Celestia's Academy for Gifted Unicorns. Celestia stood front and center, Luna on her left, and Twilight Sparkle on her right. The lilac colored Alicorn stepped forward, switching places with Celestia. 
"As a graduate of the academy myself, I can assure you that your time here will pay off earlier than you expect," Twilight said, smiling warmly at the eager faces of two hundred fillies and colts.
It took every ounce of Luna's willpower not to gape. She had never been permitted to speak at the start-of-year Academy feast! Why was Twilight? Cold fury pulsed through Luna's veins as Twilight spoke for a good twenty minutes. 	Finally, Twilight closed her speech, and Celestia bid the Academy farewell. The white Alicorn teleported away, then Twilight, then Luna. Instead of teleporting to the throne room as the princesses would normally do, Luna went straight to her chambers. 
"How dare she! She had been a 'princess'," Luna spat the word with disdain, "For no more than a week!"
"Luna, Luna, Luna..." A silky voice spoke from the shadows. Luna's attention snapped to the darkest corner of her room.
"Who's there? Show yourself!" Luna whispered murderously.
"Oops! Right, of course," The voice chuckled. A familiar draconequus slithered into view.
"Discord," Luna said, narrowing her eyes in suspicion. "What are you doing here?"
"It seems you are playing the role of a... damsel in distress, one might say," Discord said, flashing a sickening smile. "Twilight Sparkle has officially overshadowed the great princess of the night!"
"I should banish you straight to Tartarus," Luna snarled. "Give me one good reason I should not."
"Why, you haven't even given me a chance!" Discord said, placing a claw on his chest in mock-heartache. Luna lit her horn. "Alright, alright! Goodness, you Alicorns are no fun," Discord pouted.
"I'll ask once more. What are you doing here?" 
"I'll be brief,  then," the god of chaos said. "You need my help."
"No. Absolutely not," Luna said immediately.
"Hear me out, Princess," Discord said, holding up his paw. "I have a spell that can turn Celestia into a mere mortal. A commoner."
"You- What?" Luna stammered, her magic deactivating. 
"I," Discord said slowly, pointing to himself, "can give you," He pointed to Luna, "A spell that will remove Celestia's wings, and make her mortal."
Luna stared at the dragon-pony-whatever-else-he-was hybrid. Then her guard was up again. "And just what interest have you in helping myself and my cause?" 
Discord chuckled. "I am the embodiment of chaos," He said proudly. "It's my job."
"Before I accept your offer- And I am not saying I will- I want a full explanation of this spell. How does it work?" Luna pried. 
"It's rather simple. All you need is proof that Celestia has no business being immortal. And your horn, of course, but that's assumed," Discord drawled. 
"Such evidence can be produced easily. What sort shall I procure?" Luna asked, slipping into her extended vocabulary as she thought.
"Any wrongdoings that have gone unnoticed or undisciplined," Discord answered, fixing Luna with an innocent stare. Thoughts of the ponies in the allies of Canterlot fueled a burning hatred in Luna's chest.
"Alright. I accept your offer," Luna said. "What is the spell?"
"Hold your Pegasi, Lulu," The draconequus said. Luna growled at the nickname. "I want something in return."
Luna's eyes narrowed. "Such as?" 
"You plan on putting Celestia under a sort of... house arrest, am I right?" Discord asked. Luna nodded warily. "I want to be her guard."
"Why?" Luna asked, taken aback by the simplicity of the request.
"Let's just say, I have minor bone to pick with her," Discord responded vaguely. Luna stared at him. She knew that back in the day, Luna had only had a minor part in imprisoning Discord. Celestia, of course, had taken the reins and done most of the work herself. 
Taking a deep breath, Luna complied. "Alright. Deal," She said, extending her hoof to meet Discord's paw. Discord smiled greedily, and touching Luna's nose with a claw. Instantly, a wave of heat shot through Luna's body, concentrating in her horn. She jerked away from Discord, shaking her head violently. 
"What was that?!" She shouted. 
"That was the spell. Cast it quickly now," Discord urged.
Though she was still a bit disoriented, Luna directed the energy out of her horn. When the aura around her horn faded, there were no visible effects, and Luna was rather disappointed. 
Discord, however, seemed unfazed. "Three, two, -"
An ear-piercing scream echoed through the corridors of the castle. 
"Huh. It seems I was a bit late," Discord muttered. "Ta ta, now!" He disappeared. Luna rolled her eyes, then turned her attention to the frantic hoofsteps moving rapidly towards her chambers.
"Luna! What is going on?!" Celestia shrieked as she burst into the room. It was a sight Luna hadn't beheld in thousands of years. The white pony before her had a simple pink mane that lay frizzy against her ears. She was slightly smaller than Luna, and had only a horn. The only thing that made Luna absolutely sure that this was her sister, was the cutie mark of a sun. It was almost laughable. 
Twilight was hot on Celestia's heels, looking down on her mentor in fear and confusion. Luna suddenly realized a slight flaw in her plan. Twilight had to be done away with. This was a mare so powerful that she defeated Nightmare Moon, Queen Chrysalis, Discord, and countless other foes. If Twilight caught a whiff of Luna's plan, all would be lost.
"Lulu, help me," Celestia whimpered pitifully. Maintaining her composure, Luna did her best to look horrified. 
"Tia, what hast happened to thee?" She simpered.
"I don't know! I didn't feel anything expect my wings shrinking into my back! I haven't the slightest idea what happened!" Celestia shrieked.
"Shh, we'll figure it out," Luna purred. She looked to Twilight. "Fetch a physician. And then my two students, Midnight Rose and Slate. I may require their assistance with my research. I ask that you stay by Celestia's side while we try to figure this out. She needs the comfort."
Twilight nodded, her face ashen. Luna turned and left the room, finally allowing a pleased smirk to cross her features. It fell quickly, however. 
She needed to find Discord. Twilight Sparkle must meet her end, once and for all. 
> Chapter Seven
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"How in Equestria do we get rid of Twilight?" Midnight Rose asked, pacing the length of her chambers. 
"I haven't the slightest," Luna responded gravely. "My efforts to contact Discord once again have been useless."
"Of course they were, Princess," Slate replied. "He is Chaos itself. Why should he bow to our will?" Luna turned a narrowed eye on Slate.
"Are you chastising me for accepting his assistance?" She asked slowly.
"No, Princess, I'm not," Slate said. "I'm saying that it's stupid to think he'd give even more help if there wasn't anything in it for him. Fluttershy and her friends supposedly reformed him. He may not want to tangle with them again, and Twilight is one of them." 
Luna straightened. "You make a truthful statement, Slate. I apologize for doubting you." Slate dipped his head in an informal bow. "The conflict still remains. Twilight Sparkle -as well as Cadence- are bound to interfere. Twilight is one of Equestria's most intelligent ponies. She is wise enough to read between the lines," Luna said, talking more to herself than to Slate or Midnight Rose.
"Princess, you performed the spell that turned Celestia mortal, correct?" Midnight asked. Luna nodded. "Is there a way to perhaps pull that spell from your memory and perform it again?"
"That is very possible, Midnight, yes..." Luna responded thoughtfully. "Though, Twilight was not born an Alicorn, as Celestia and I were. She became an Alicorn through years of study and selflessness. And I do not recall Princess Cadence's coronation, as I was still in exile at the time she was born."
"So you think the spell you used on Celestia may not work on Twilight since they became princesses in different ways?" Slate asked.
"That's exactly what I think," Luna mused. Another new revelation dawned on the princess. If Twilight were attacked, Shining Armor and Cadence would almost certainly respond. Luna would have no choice but to remove all ponies that held an inkling of power. Her largest threat was neutralized. Twilight, Cadence, and Shining Armor were equally dangerous. 
"My pupils," Luna said. "I believe it is time to stage a revolution."


**********************************


"I have left doubt in the Griffin Empire," Luna said proudly. "They now believe Equestria plans to overtake their lands."
"They will almost certainly respond with force!" Midnight Rose said doubtfully. 
"That is exactly my plan, little one," Luna announced. "They will lead an attack on Canterlot at the end of this week. We must be sure to schedule an.. Appointment for this date."
"Princess," Slate spoke up. "How does this help us, exactly?"
"I have led them to believe that Twilight Sparkle convinced Celestia to let our peace contract with the griffins expire for this sole purpose," Luna explained.
"So they'll go straight for Twilight and Celestia," Slate said, piecing it together.
"But what about Cadence and Shining Armor?" Midnight asked. 
"I have confidence that the griffins will not appreciate other ponies siding with the two who are supposed to be taking their land," Luna answered. "Now, I believe there are celebrations to be had."
"What do you mean, Princess?" Midnight said.
"Slate, is it true that last night, you got your cutie mark?" Luna asked, smiling down at the Pegasus.
Beaming, Slate unzipped the back of his training suit, revealed his brand new cutie mark: a shield with two swords crossing in front of it.
Midnight squeaked and hugged her friend. She had gotten her cutie mark two weeks before, a white rose enveloped in a gleaming pink aura of magic. 
"I believe the two of you have earned a night on the town," Luna said. "All I ask is that you be careful and don't stay out past curfew."
"Thank you, Princess!" the two foals exclaimed. The Alicorn watched as her pupils scampered out of sight, discussing where to go and what to do. 
"Well, aren't they just little bundles of fun," said an amused voice.
"So you decide to show up after I have already resorted to force," Luna scoffed, turning around.
Discord raised a claw. "Wait for it... Wait for it."
There was a sudden racket in the hall outside Luna's chambers. Casting a suspicious glance at Discord, she peered into the hallway. Several guard ponies raced down the corridor, the artificial lighting glinting off their coats.
"Guards of the Crystal Empire?" Luna muttered to herself. She looked back into her chambers. Discord was gone. With a sigh, she galloped after the guards, who were of course going straight to Celestia.
"Your majesty," One of the guards, a unicorn stallion with a sparkling blue mane said.
"Oh my gosh! What happened to you, Princess?" The first guard's less tactful companion exclaimed.
"That it a matter for later discussion," Celestia said regally. Luna smirked inwardly at the sight of her tear-stained cheeks. "What news from the Crystal Empire?"
"Princess Cadence is missing," The stallion said breathlessly. "Shining Armor believes the griffons are to blame."
Luna's ears perked up. "The griffons?" 
Both guards nodded. "Shining Armor said there have been multiple sightings of griffon flight teams as of late. They all appear to be training for war."	
"That's impossible!" Celestia yelped. "We have a peace treaty with them!"
"A peace treaty that is about to expire," Luna pointed out. Celestia's brow creased with confusion and worry. 
"They've been waiting for the treaty to expire just so they could attack?" Celestia said.
"It appears that way, Your Highness," The guard confirmed.
With a sigh, Celestia drew herself up to her full height- which wasn't very tall. "Ready the Solar Guard. I want them in the Crystal Empire by dawn. It will be up to Shining Armor to station them as he wishes."
With a nod and a bow, the two guards teleported away. Celestia looked up at her sister with tears in her eyes. 
"What is happening in my beautiful Equestria?" Celestia whispered.
Luna used every ounce of her willpower in not losing her cool. This was not just Celestia's country. It was Luna's as well. 
"Shall I prepare my Lunar Guard?" Luna asked, forcing all emotion from her voice. 
"No, Lulu," Celestia murmured. "My own guards can handle it." With a curt nod, Luna turned her back on her sister and left the room. 
"In the morning," Luna muttered to herself, "I shall send General Stonehoof and his best stallions to the Crystal Empire. Celestia will know my power."