For almost a thousand years, the immortal Nightmare Moon has reigned over Equestria as Empress. To the average pony, Nightmare Moon is an overarching enigma whose rule is absolute and whose wrath is terrible. But to Twilight Sparkle, who as an orphan has never known her parents, the Empress is something else entirely. When the young unicorn is brought under the royal wing as an apprentice, she learns a great deal more about the supposed tyrant than she ever knew. But as Twilight is introduced to life with her new mentor, she is thrust into a world of political intrigue, conspiracies and secrets. Secrets that were never meant to be revealed. As allies and enemies plot against the very peace of the nation, will Twilight fall prey to the perils of her new position? Or will she prosper and find in Nightmare Moon the mother she never had?

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My eternal gratitude to my editor, LordOfTheWrongs, without whom Night's Favoured Child would not be the story it is today.

Now with added TVtropes!

Mort, also known as the Pale Pony (of Death), has been tasked to take time off from his rigorous duties of reaping souls. Seeking guidance, he is directed towards the town of Ponyville, to learn about the magic of friendship from Twilight Sparkle and her friends. All he needs to do is keep his true nature a secret. That shouldn't be too difficult...right?

Special thanks to Specter-Von-Baren and Pyrite Foolsgold for their help in proofreading and editing this story, as I really needed it. Additional thanks to Pilate, Chuckle5, Unimpressive Vagaries and Admiral Biscuit as well! Couldn't have done it without all their help!

Credit for the title card goes to Siansaar, AKA Carnifex.

For another excellent take on Mort, check out Sip's version!

"Humans.... Quite possibly the most infuriating mythical creatures in existence. If you ever have the 'luck' to meet a Human in your travels across Equestria, then you must be careful. Humans are extremely powerful creatures, some would say more so than Celestia or Luna, they are also more unpredictable than Discord. They can help you in a tight spot if you're lucky, or play nasty tricks on you if you don't hold the Human's favor. In my time I've seen a Human give a filly pounds upon pounds of gold, and the same one turn greedy ponies into gold. The only one I ever have seen 'face-to-face' was in my earlier years, he helped me repair my wagon when it broke down in Everfree Forest, by fix I mean a whole new one appeared not ten feet away, and the only thing the Human asked for in return was a spindle.... But be warned, never anger a Human, a trick or two in fair game is fine, but if you ever manage to truly anger a Human...... you'll be part of the small number ever to meet non-existence." - Star-Swirl the Bearded.

A silly nonsensical story, not to be taken seriously. Some chapters are not connected to others.

Free at last, Nightmare Moon just got back from her thousand years banishment on the Moon.

She barely has time to cast a few spells and terrorize the local village and kidnap the Solar Princess that a group of mares burst into the ancient throne room.

As they manage to reactivate and wield the Elements of Harmony, Nightmare Moon tries to summon the foulest beast she can think of to protect her.

It doesn't go well.

Anypony would have laughed if you'd told them that Discord was flirting with Twilight Sparkle a few weeks ago. She'd never give him a chance, right?
Well, once his spectacularly obvious advances on her commence, Equestria is shocked; she isn't out right rejecting him. In fact, she may even be interested.
The HORROR!

WARNING: The dark tag is for a reason. Ye be warned.
[Other] tag is to accommodate additional characters.

EDIT: Featured 10/22/14! Thank you so much! I didn't expect this to happen at all.

The wonderful people who edit and proofread my story ^^

What exactly was Luna up to during her time in exile? Adventure, that's what! From battling stardrakes, space-pirates, and her own shattered psyche, the banished Princess must strive to endure upon the rocky, bleached surface of the moon...and beyond. Lucky for her the moon isn't as lifeless as some might think.

I would know. I live there!

You are Anonymous, you are fit, you are the only human in Equestria, and Rainbow is your best friend and workout buddy. For one reason or another, mares find you desirable, unnervingly so. For the longest time, your best bro, Rainbow Dash, has protected you from their advances. One day however, things you have been noticing for a while begin to start piling up; her blushing, the way her wings tend to stiffen around you...it couldn't be, could it?

Follow Jason as he attempts to cope with his immortality, not to mention waking up in a world run by ponies!

(needs cover image)

You, a brony, are sent to Equestria. The problem is, you're now a mute so...good luck!

Yeah, let's hope you don't do anything too bad considering the whole mute thing

The decent comment driven story writing guy (me) is back! Let's all have a blast and have lots of laughs along the way of this new adventure! Try not to die though, cause people die when they are killed.

There is a secret being kept from Equestria. Not a single soul is aware of it. There was gossip, yes. Those ponies had been deemed mad. But those who accused the gossipers as such didn't notice the extra weight that was carried by the air. They failed to notice the subtle shifts in the breeze, or the slight change of coloration to their surroundings. Not a single soul saw it coming.

Well... there was one.

And if she divulges the information accordingly, she might be able to save them. Hell, if she only said the word, everypony could be saved.

That is... all but one

cover image is entitled Thoughts by PrincessSaros