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// Prologue  
// Story: The Stars and the Moon 
// by JadeSpeirs 
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Prologue


Whilst it is common knowledge throughout Equestria the tale of Princess Luna, Nightmare Moon and her banishment to her celestial namesake, few stories abound of her thousand year stay, and those who aided her during this time.  

Princess Celestia feared Nightmare Moon’s influence on her sister for such a time, and so the Sun asked the Stars for their aid.  Four answered her call, and swore an oath to guide the Moon in her banishment, least the Mare in the Moon corrupt her for eternity.  They swore that once her stay was complete, they would aid her in her return so as the Sun could rid her sister of her burden and banish Nightmare Moon forever.

Thuban the Dragon Star offered his wisdom, so as to guide the Moon wherever Doubt clouded her judgment, and to offer counsel where needed.  

Serpens the Serpent Star offered her hope, so that when the time came to return the Moon would be free of despair and the bitterness of exile.

Leo the Lion Star offered her solidarity, to weather the harshest of times, to help maintain the regal manner of her deeds and her rule.

Aiden the Warrior Star offered her compassion, to ensure that no matter the trial she would return a just and fair ruler to Equestria, despite her long and arduous banishment.

These four cared for and guided the Moon for one thousand years during the hours the Moon shone in the sky over Equestria, and stood guard over her when the Mare in the Moon returned during the day and took hold in Luna’s slumber.  In this fashion they were able to all but suppress Nightmare Moon’s influence over the Princess, and when it came time for the four to assist in Luna’s return to her home, they were comfortable in Celestia’s likely success in defeating the darkness within her sister soul.

But the Nightmare had other plans.  She knew what was needed, and how to get it done.  All she needed was time, and opportunity.  She had had a millennia to plan, and the opportunity was just around the corner.