Nightmare Moon’s Return - Arrival
The Ever Changing Moon
-
Chapter 2
Nightmare Moon’s Return
Part 1 - Arrival
Fancy Pants and Moon Shadow stood next to each other, staring at the symbol of banishment that slowly vanished from the moon. Waiting patiently in the ruined castle where their queen faced Celestia before her defeat. Both were wearing capes and scale mail armor with magical runes inscribed on their gear.
This was the night they were preparing for, a night they had awaited for centuries. Tonight the fate of Equestria, or maybe even of the entire world will be decided.
Before their very eyes, a black shape emerged from a purple mist. A tall black alicorn similar to Celestia, yet her wings, eyes and fangs bore similarities to a pureblood.
They bowed, their eyes flashing with power as set of magically enhanced blue armor levitated over, shining in the night under the light of the moon as there was no ceiling in the way. “Greetings, Mistress Nightmare Moon.”
“Oh my, I had not expected such a warm welcome,” Nightmare Moon spoke, gratefully accepting and putting on the gift. “It is a true joy to be greeted in such a manner. How long have I dreamed of being reunited with my subjects while enduring the frozen solitude?”
“It has been far too long, My Queen," Fancy Pants said, maintaining his respectful posture. “It is an honour.”
“Your purebloods are ready to do your will, as are their clans,” Moon Shadow added, not daring to look up.
“Thank you for showing your respect and support, now stand,” Nightmare said in a cold, commanding tone. “What are your names?”
“I am Fancy Pants,” he said, standing up as ordered. “I gathered those who are hoping for peace. Should you wish to unite our kind with the rest of Equestria, we have the resources and means to support it.” His eyes flashed as he summoned a large round table covered by a blue tablecloth inscribed with moons. A variety of food, several candles and elegant plates appeared atop of it.
“My name is Moon Shadow. I was over a century old when I witnessed your banishment. Because of the purge your wretched sister executed, I am currently the eldest.” He stomped in anger. “I have prepared my kin for this night. We are powerful and organized, ready to invade Equestria at your command.”
Casting a spell of his own, he summoned three seats made of the most expensive ebony, equipped with cushions as comfortable as a cloud. Various drinks appeared next on the table, from apple cider to bottles filled with blood.
Nightmare smiled and took a seat, bidding them to do the same. A mere taste of vegetable soup causing stars to appear in her eyes. Her wings spread while smile widened. While she didn’t need to eat or drink as she could live purely on magic, it brought her indescribable joy.
Saliva fell from her mouth as she exposed her fangs, struggling to maintain her manners as she ate dish after dish, drinking three bottles of wine and cider in a row.
“I hope our hospitality is to your liking,” Moon Shadow commented, eating a small steak himself. While his kind could eat sweets, hay and other types of pony food as long as their need for blood was satisfied, meat always tasted like a delicacy.
“It is beyond satisfying. You deserve great praise indeed.” She looked up at the sky as there was no ceiling to block her view. She grit her teeth, taking control over the moon and the sun. “That was quite unexpected.”
“I dare to ask, what was unexpected, Your Majesty?” Fancy Pants asked, releasing fork with salad from his magic.
“I expected my… sister… to put up a fight, yet she released her hold on the sun without resistance.” With little effort, several thousands stars formed on the sky, making it brighter and more spectacular than ever. The sky became her personal tapestry.
“Breath-taking,” Moon Shadow breathed in admiration, looking at the sky.
“May I ask, how long will this night last?” Fancy Pants asked curiously.
“Long enough to weaken Celestia and realize my plan.”
“Plan?”
Nightmare Moon levitated over a napkin, cleaning her mouth. “During my banishment, I had more time to interact with and get to know my other self than I would have wanted. While our goal is similar, the methods of achieving it differ. We made an agreement where I swore to Luna that if we ever returned, I would meet with our subjects and learn if peace is possible.”
Fancy Pants smiled, while Moon Shadow struggled to restrain his anger.
“Your Majesty, the longer you delay, the more time Celestia and Cadence will have to plan your capture. The Crystal Guard is well equipped against our kind. We do not have the luxury of time and action needs to be taken immediately.”
“I understand your concern, Moon Shadow,” Nightmare Moon said calmly, deciding to ignore the sudden interruption. “I wish for nothing more than to help your kind and punish Celestia for her transgressions, but I bear no grudge against the current generations of my subjects. I swore to judge them fairly.”
“For how long?” Moon Shadow asked, his forehoof slamming against the table. He blushed and lowered his head. “My deepest apologies.”
Nightmare Moon frowned in disappointment, her voice now filled with a cold edge. “It can take one day, or a few weeks. I shall not judge an entire nation without taking a measure of its people. Celestia will not escape her punishment, but should cold or lack of sunlight cause my subjects too much harm, I will raise the sun.”
She stood up from her seat and spread her wings. “I am grateful for your hospitality. You have earned my respect.” She half-bowed, the purebloods quickly returned the gesture. “Yet, I cannot waste more time in these ruins.”
“We understand,” Fancy Pants said, not daring to look at his rival’s angered face. “There is a small town nearby called Ponyville, a charming little community. May I suggest to visit it first?” Maps levitated from his saddlebag, a gift for his queen he thought would be most practical.
“Thank you, Lord Fancy Pants. I believe that your gifts will be most useful in our quest.” She opened a pocket dimension with her magic, glancing at the maps before storing them there. She closed her wings and prepared another spell, one that would let her travel undetected.
“Farewell, Mighty Lords. We shall meet again,” she said before turning into into a starry, blue mist, now heading towards Ponyville.
***
The silence lasted for a minute as Moon Shadow gathered his thoughts.
“If the two-faced princess refuses to lead us as our Queen, we should duel each other for leadership. Our kind needs one leader, not two.”
Fancy Pants stood from his seat and smashed the table. “That’s treason! You want to betray what we have been working for for so long? The very pony we have waited centuries for?”
Moon Shadow wiped a fragment of food from his chest and pointed at his rival. “You betrayed her first. Do you think I do not know about the anonymous letters you have been sending to Celestia all this time? The warning about our upcoming invasion?”
Fancy Pants looked to the side in silence, his eyes closed, yet face refusing to display any emotions.
“As long as Nightmare Moon keeps the sun restrained, Celestia is vulnerable,” Moon Shadow said, pointing up at the sky. “But it can change! We cannot wait even a week. If Nightmare Moon is defeated, our preparations will be for naught.” His eyes flashed as black mist surrounded them.
Fancy Pants waited for the mist to disperse, now seeing a large platform with six arms, each holding an orb that was once a powerful artifact. Five of six Elements were present.
“I can sense it. The power of the Elements is growing, waiting to be unleashed. Destroying their physical form will not neutralize their power,” Moon Shadow said angrily.
Fancy Pants sighed. He knew that he wouldn’t change the mind of his rival with words. Each passing day would be an opportunity for the princesses, armies, or a group of self-proclaimed heroes to defeat their queen. “I say, as much as I disagree with your decision, I know I won’t change your mind.” He sighed. “Still, I am starting to wonder. Do you really have the best interests of Nightmare Moon or our kind in mind? Or maybe it is vengeance that dictates your actions?”
Moon Shadow frowned and looked to the side in silence.
“I see…” Fancy Pants said. “If you are really going to walk such a path, a fight it shall be.” He spread his wings and flew up, giving his rival one last glance. “To ensure that both sides are equal in terms of skills and power, my wife will assist me against you and a pureblood of your choosing.”
“I agree to your terms. My brother and I will await your arrival at Ghastly Gorge. Farewell.”
Moon Shadow waited for his rival to leave before turning to the orbs, gritting his teeth. “Anypony stupid enough to touch the Elements will meet with their doom.” His eyes flashed red in the darkness as a wave of dark magic filled the room with various runes and traps.
Hiding the Elements would only delay their use, as they call upon their bearers in a mysterious way. Yet, no unicorn, pegasus or earth pony will survive what I have prepared for them. A grin of satisfaction formed on his face.
Bypassing tree after tree, Nightmare Moon was rapidly drawing closer to the little town. Each monster she passed made her wonder how could anypony settle so close to this forest. A forest that grew on ruins of the old capital as only the main castle survived the passage of time. What were once pristine marble floors were now overrun with cracks and plant growth.
She flew upward, returning to her physical form as she observed the town from the air. The simple, yet colorful decorations were clearly visible to her despite the darkness. She smiled. Such a simple and yet unique town, much more decorative than the towns of old. Her attention focused on a large home that seemed to be made of candy. Truly imaginative. Hopefully this new generation will appreciate the meaning of art.
How canst thou be so selfish at such a time?! Seeking acceptance for thestrals and ensuring equality between all races is more important than our own desire to express ourselves! We hath already spoken of this, Nightmare! 'scolded a voice from the back of her mind.
I haven’t forgotten our agreement, Luna Nightmare Moon thought as she examined her surroundings, now searching for local citizens. It doesn’t mean we can’t take a moment to admire the view.
After several minutes of searching for ponies in the oddly quiet town, she spotted a large gathering in front of a tall building. Ponies were slowly entering inside. Time to make my grand entrance. Her enthusiasm was slowly overcome by worry. It was one thing to be greeted by purebloods, her loyal allies she had led in the past, ponies that viewed her as a leader or even a goddess. Other races, however, saw her as an enemy, a traitor, corrupted and monstrous.
The ponies she was going to meet were her sister’s subjects, after all. No matter what, I must restrain my anger. I cannot allow them to provoke me.
Turning into a mist, she snuck into the building, reforming her body behind a shut curtain.
I need to show the grace and authority of a strong monarch. Display my power to gain their respect. Make them fear me so they will not fight back.
She rubbed her chin. Spreading fear was a good way to force the enemy to surrender and force them to listen, but was it a proper tool to gain their trust?
Maybe just a few bolts of lightning will do…
With her plan forming in her mind, she decided to think over the issue. I gave Luna my word and I’m going to keep it. If they attack, I shall retreat. I will conquer them only as last resort.
After taking a deep breath, she lit her horn, summoning a swirling vortex of thunderclouds as lightnings flashed in the room, causing a few yelps.
Turning into mist, she reformed on the balcony, towering over hundreds of ponies. Her leathery wings spread, head raised proudly while her armor shone from flashes of lightnings. She was about to introduce herself, but something distracted her from giving a speech.
Are those… banners with the symbol of the moon? She looked around, examining her surroundings. The walls were painted in blue and covered in star constellations, one reminding her of Ursa Major while another of Scorpius. Violet ribbons were sparkling in the cool night breeze, the hall lit by numerous sconces hung with exquisite blue-violet silk. Yet, the most unexpected decoration was a large banner titled as, ‘Welcome Back, Nightmare Moon.’
She blinked, blinded for a moment by three spotlights directed at her. Classical music filled the room as her attention focused on an earth pony playing a cello.
“Here she is, everypony. The Mare from the Moon and sister of our beloved and wise ruler,” Mayor Mare spoke, receiving a few shakes of heads and ‘you messed up’ glares from the crowd. Mayor Mare gulped and continued, “W-we a-are here to welcome her Highness Nightmare Moon back to Equestria and celebrate her glorious return.”
The tall alicorn raised her foreleg uncertainly, caught off guard by the clopping hooves and cheering crowd.
“Will you honor us with a speech, Your Highness?”
Speech?
We had a speech prepared in advance, Luna commented from the depths of her mind. Remember the time we spent practicing speeches in front of those moonstone statuettes? It made a good distraction from the monotony.
That’s true, we prepared a few should we return to Equestria, Nightmare Moon responded. Though none of them accounted for future generations remembering our existence, much less welcoming us so openly.
Then thou should improvise.
Nightmare Moon closed her wings and chuckled. “My, my, this night has not ceased to surprise me. I must commend you for your warm welcome. It makes me proud to accept you as my subjects once more.”
The crowd cheered.
Impressive start. Maybe mention how we expected hostility, or that we were forgotten, Luna advised.
She lowered her foreleg and continued with a regal tone, ”When I came here to announce my return, I had expected confusion and hostility. I expected no pony would remember my existence, yet here I am proven wrong.”
She spread her wings and descended from the balcony, landing on the platform next to Mayor Mare, who stepped to the side. The moment her armored hooves touched the floor, a large amount of confetti exploded in her face.
She brushed her face clean and grimaced, while Luna burst into laughter deep inside their mind.
I find nothing amusing in this unexpected distraction, Nightmare thought.
Luna continued between snorts and giggles, We think... the exact opposite.
I prefer to be shown respect rather than be treated as a filly, Nightmare snapped.
Thou art too serious for our own good. We once bore the Element of Laughter. Thou would do well to laugh along with our subjects.
We have no time for that. We should focus on our goal foremost. She looked over the crowd curiously.
“To whom do I owe this pleasant welcome? Who spread the news of my return?”
“I did, Princess! Umm, well, I spread the news of your return.”
The crowd split to reveal a lavender unicorn.
“I would like to thank you for your efforts, but I cannot do so properly without knowing your name.”
“My name is Twilight Sparkle,” she responded before bowing, the rest of the ponies following suit. “I am here to inform you that Ponyville and all of its citizens surrender to your mercy.”
“Surrender?” Nightmare Moon repeated. “I have not come here to conquer.”
“You haven’t?” Twilight asked in confusion as she raised her head.
“I came to announce my return, give a speech and judge if the future generations are wiser than those before them.” Nightmare Moon grinned, exposing her fangs, her voice now cold. ”Yet, I wouldn’t dare to refuse such a generous offer.” She gestured over the room. “Stand, my loyal subjects! If you’re so willing, I will gladly become your queen.”
Twilight sat as her eye twitched. She had just surrendered an entire town to a villain who wasn’t even interested in it.
Unnoticed by Nightmare Moon, a white unicorn with purple glasses was sitting with crossed forelegs, supported against a wall. She was giving her musician friend an annoyed glare, as it wasn’t her music that would welcome Nightmare Moon. Upon hearing the discussion between Twilight and the alicorn, she frowned and approached. “What about us?” She grabbed Pinkie Pie and Rarity by their shoulders. “We organized this awesome night-party. We’re like… the backbone of this skeleton, the pillar of this castle, the candles on the birthday cake.” With all eyes on them, Vinyl pointed at Twilight and continued, “This mare here’s just the student of some princess who informed us of your return." Twilight smiled awkwardly, taking a step back. “She doesn’t deserve all the credit.”
“So you're my sister's student. Interesting,” Nightmare Moon said, smiling menacingly.
Twilight wiped sweat from her forehead, chuckling nervously. For every step the alicorn took forward, she took two steps backward.
Nightmare Moon lit her horn, grabbing Twilight by her neck with her levitation. Upon hearing cries of panic coming from the crowd, she spread her aura to envelop the entire unicorn instead. “Was this celebration planned by my traitorous sister? Did she send you to welcome me and surrender this town?” she asked with venom in her voice, her glare like of a hungry predator ready to devour her prey.
“Y-yes…” Twilight said while flailing her limbs weakly, fighting back seeming to be a poor option at the moment.
Nightmare Moon sighed. “And for a moment I thought…” She released her and frowned. “If she wishes to make amends for her past transgressions, I cannot forgive her. I find it disappointing that this welcome was forced by her orders.”
Upon noticing the mare trembling in her shadow, she lowered her head and spoke, “I apologize for my violent behaviour. I shouldn’t unleash my hate for Celestia on you just because you are her student, especially after you surrendered to my leadership. Will you accept my apologies?” she asked, her voice firm but calm.
Twilight massaged her neck and looked into her predatory eyes. “If you’ll try to be less intimidating and restrain your anger.”
“Agreed.” Nightmare Moon raised her head and foreleg as she faced her subject regally. “Did everypony here pledge fealty to me willingly, or because it was an order?”
Murmurs erupted throughout the room, lasting for minutes as Nightmare Moon kept her judging stare.
Slowly, silence overtook Town Hall as a few ponies stepped forward. Applejack spoke first, “Most o’ these folks were just followin’ the wishes o’ the princess. And ya’re kinda scary.”
Rarity interjected, “However, you are also a princess. You once ruled alongside your sister and certainly deserve to sit on a throne again.” She pointed at Applejack. “And while I agree that you are a bit frightening, we hope that underneath your fearsome appearance is a kind ruler.” She lit her horn and levitated over a blue-silver dress with stars decorating it. A silver crescent moon symbol adorned the chest.
“My name is Rarity and I am the best fashionista in Ponyville. I made you a gift that will help you display your true beauty. Much more princess-like than your armor.”
Rainbow Dash said firmly, “Ordered or not, we accepted your leadership. We’re your team now. As long as you’re a good leader and care for us, we’ll follow you.” She rubbed back of her neck nervously, her tone suddenly lacking in confidence. “Just… don’t make us do mean stuff. That wouldn’t be cool at all.”
Nightmare Moon smiled, turning into mist before reappearing in the new dress while placing armor on the floor. “Thank you for your gift, Lady Rarity. Would you step forward?”
“Of course, Princess.” The fashionista half-bowed and stepped onto the platform, sitting next to Twilight.
“Have any of you heard of a race called ‘thestrals’?”
Murmurs of confusion filled the room as everypony shook their heads. Rarity bit her lip, her ears drooped and sweat covered her head. She glanced at her friends who shrugged in response.
“I have,” Twilight answered. “Why do you ask?”
Nightmare Moon narrowed her eyes as the unicorn wilted slightly under the glare. “Surely your mentor taught you some manners?”
Twilight cleared her throat before composing herself. “Why do you wish to know, Your Highness?”
“Much better.” Nightmare Moon glanced between the unicorn and confused crowd. “It appears that my allies went into hiding. Now I understand.” She raised an eyebrow and asked, “Has your mentor hidden the thestrals’ existence?”
“That’s the most likely scenario,” Twilight commented. “I read every history book I could find in Canterlot and none mentioned thestrals. Princess Celestia is very secretive, especially when it comes to the past.”
“I see,” Nightmare Moon said as her horn lit. Without any warning, she cast a spell upon Rarity.
***
“W-what happened?” the fashionista asked as she lowered her raised foreleg. Upon noticing everypony staring in her direction, some pointing at her and whispering to each other, she asked, “Do I have something on my face?”
“Rarity, your ears and teeth!” Dash shouted.
She poked her fangs as her eyes widened, her disguise was gone.
“As everypony can see, thestrals are living among you in disguise,” Nightmare Moon spoke firmly. “Their magic, strength and health is enhanced. While they are weakened by sunlight and white magic, they can see in the darkness and command dark arts.”
“T-to be f-fair,” Rarity spoke in panic, “I never learned any dark arts.”
“They also drink blood as it is the most important part of their diet,” Twilight added. “According to my research, they also eat meat, though they can do well without it.”
Rarity blushed. “I never ate even the smallest slice of meat.” She stomped. “Furthermore, I swear on my good name as Ponyville’s best fashionista, I never drank blood without permission.”
Twilight commented, “I got the impression you were the only fashionista in Ponyville.”
“Not helping,” Rarity responded, shooting Twilight an angered glare. “You can forget about the wonderful dress and saddle I planned to make for you as a gift.”
“S-sorry…”
***
Nightmare Moon chuckled before continuing her lecture, explaining difference between thestrals and the purebloods. Upon finishing, she called all thestrals to step onto the stage and revealed their secret.
She carefully observed everypony, studying their expressions while reading their emotions. A quick glance at the stage filled her with guilt. Ruining the reputation of a pony who had gifted her with an elegant dress was indeed unfair and somewhat cruel. I will make it up to you, Lady Rarity, even if I will need to force my subjects to accept you for who you really are.
Rarity’s head was lowered as she couldn’t look her family in the eyes. Twilight surprisingly tried to cheer her up, though it was a fruitless endeavour. Vinyl was relaxed and lay on the stage, leaning back against the wall. Ditzy was in the embrace of her mother who patted her gently. The other three thestrals sat between Rarity and Nightmare Moon, their heads raised proudly.
Pinkie Pie, who this whole time was sitting next to Rainbow Dash while struggling to contain her energy, was trembling as if in need to use filly’s room. “Can’t take this… anymore…”
“Pinkie?” Dash asked, poking her friend's shoulder. “What’s wrong? Well, besides the obvious.”
The party mare jumped onto the stage and stood on her rear hooves while placing forelegs on her sides. “What’s with all those frowny faces? So a pony or two drinks blood, big deal. It hurts just a tiny little bit.”
Dash facehooved while Miss Cheerilee asked, “You knew?”
“Of course I did. I freaked when I found out, but it didn’t get in the way of friendship.”
“Ah was angry,” Applejack said, stepping onto the stage, “but Ah was wron’. A good pony is a good pony, no matter what species.” She stood in front of Rarity, now facing everypony.
Cheerilee asked, “According to Princess Nightmare Moon, thestrals are ponies turned by purebloods. Who turned Miss Rarity and the others?”
Applejack and Rarity looked away, their mouths shut.
“Isn’t that obvious?” Pinkie asked, ignoring gestures to keep silent made by Rainbow Dash. “Rarity was turned by…” No noise escaped Pinkie’s mouth despite the fact she was speaking without a break.
Dash smiled and shouted, “Good job, Vinyl, that was a close call!”
The musician smiled proudly and fixed her glasses, the black-green aura around her horn visible as she manipulated soundwaves around Pinkie Pie. The color of her magic was no longer disguised under an illusion. “No biggie.”
Pinkie Pie placed her forehooves on her mouth. Not only had she almost revealed her friend’s biggest secret, she nearly broke a Pinkie Promise. She gave Vinyl an apologetic look, who nodded and removed her spell.
Dash flew onto the stage, landing with a loud thump. “Does it matter who turned them? They are still ponies. We should stick together.”
Pinkie nodded. “Exactly!” She pointed at random ponies and asked, “If a pureblood turned one of you, hopefully without any brainwashing, memory erasing, or mind controlling, would you like it if your friends turned on you? If your neighbours looked at you in fear?”
A tall pegasus flew onto the stage and placed his wing on Ditzy while nuzzling his thestral wife, who in return placed her bat-like wing on his back. “There’s nothing to fear. As a proud father and husband, I can tell you that much.”
Nightmare Moon observed the spectacle without interfering, ready to protect the thestrals in case of hostility. Much to her relief, she couldn’t find any hints of anger. What she saw was confusion, curiosity, some even showing fear, but no hate.
“Excuse me, Princess.”
She glanced down to her right. “What is it, Miss…?”
“Twilight Sparkle,” the unicorn reminded. “I would like to ask about your motives. If your goal isn’t the conquest of Equestria, what is?” She took a quick breath and pointed at the thestrals present on the stage. “Why did you reveal their secrets? Are you really going to bring forth an Eternal Night?”
The alicorn laughed and rubbed Twilight’s head, who frowned in response. “Curious, aren’t we? No wonder you are her student.” She withdrew her foreleg before raising her head arrogantly. “Luna worked hard to maintain peace, but fear and distrust led Equestria to a civil war. I am just trying to find out if our subjects have become more open-minded.” She added in cold sinister tone, “Otherwise, history will repeat itself and I will once again have to pick a side.”
“P-pick a side… I see,” Twilight spoke nervously. “Still, the prophecy states that you’ll bring about Eternal Night. If you don’t wish to hurt anypony, why would you do something that would destroy crops and freeze… this is not a laughing matter!”
“I disagree,” the alicorn responded, giggling behind her raised foreleg. After a moment, her laughter died off and she explained, “The phrase ‘Eternal Night’ should not be taken literally.”
“What do you mean, Princess?”
“Eternal Night means a world ruled by the creatures of the night, though I assume the prophecy was referring just to Equestria and the Crystal Empire.”
Twilight gulped, now realizing the meaning of the legend. Nightmare Moon wouldn’t keep the sun lowered to destroy the world. She would keep it restrained long enough for purebloods to defeat Celestia and the royal guard.
Their discussion was interrupted by the approach of Mayor Mare, who bowed in front of the alicorn. “As Mayor of Ponyville and its representative, I would like to inform you of our decision.”
Nightmare Moon spread her wings and spoke firmly, “Speak!”
“We wish to accept thestrals and learn more about them.” She stood up, noticing a warm smile, or at least warmer than Nightmare’s usual cold glare. “While most of us are confused, we have agreed to give them a chance. It is not the strangest occurrence that has happened tonight, after all.”
Nightmare Moon smiled broadly as she grabbed Twilight and Mayor Mare with her wings, causing them to yelp in surprise. “How long Luna and I have waited to hear those words! Let’s celebrate this most glorious of nights!”
Pinkie didn’t need to be asked twice as she bounced around the entire room, spreading confetti, balloons and throwing sweets in the air.
“Luna? What happened to her? Does she hear us?” Twilight asked.
“She does indeed, she’s…”
Twilight bit her lip when a slice of pie splattered against Nightmare’s face, interrupting her answer.
The alicorn wiped the syrup from her face before stealing a taste from her hoof, her glare cold enough to freeze the blood in Twilight’s veins.
Mmm… tasty. Was that blackberry? Would thou allow her to hit us with another slice?
Nightmare Moon frowned. How about… no!
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...This isn't going where I thought it would but its really interesting....hmm...I can't wait for Fluttershy to pop into this situation. Can't wait for more!
Oh gosh, poor Twilight
Also that reveal was quick 
I kind of like Twilight's reaction to Rarity being a thestral: Oh! Nightmare Moon is giving a lesson on thestrals? Lets help by pointing out facts!
To be fair, it shouldn't be that much of a surprise since she tried to talk to Celestia's two thestral guards.
So, a story I could potentially be included in at a later point. I mean, my OC's mom was a pegasus and his dad was a thestral. So it would make sense for Stardust Comet (the pony in my avatar image on this site) to be part of the story. I just hope the author doesn't make Stardust look too insignificant, he's the bearer of one of the eight Elements of Creation in the story I'm currently working on.
And meanwhile Fluttershy
FINALLY!!! This was good, it was unexpected by in the good way
7207247
Out of curiosity. What did you expect would happen in this chapter?
7207268
Nightmare Moon isn't one to waste time. She waited on the moon long enough. And yes, Twilight sure had some poor luck in this chapter, not to mention finding out that she surrendered entire town to a villain who didn't want to conquer it in the first place.
7207446
Pretty much. Rarity wasn't the first thestral she'd meet, so it wasn't a surprice to her, and when Rarity started to tell everyone what thestrals are, it pretty much activated her lecturing mode.
Glad you liked the way I wrote it. Still, it's sad that only 1100 readers had enough patience to reach this sequel. Pre-quels had way bigger audience. Oh well.
7207480
I don't want to sounds rude, but I already have a big cast as it is. I can't affort to add your OC into it. Sorry.
7207536
Well, she deserve a solid rest after all she had to deal with in previous two stories. Also, I plan on showing what she dream about in chapter 3, and I'm sure you'll be surpriced by what she dreams about.
7207587
And what plesantly surpriced you the most if I may ask?
7207660 Well...I thought Nightmare Moon would be a bit more...I don't know, monstrous maybe? I was thinking she would come into the story and immediately make a huge mess. This approach is more interesting though.
Well , would you look at this , Nightmare Moon is actually a reasonable and somewhat kind pony.
Frightening and sinister yes , but mostly kind and fair underneath.
She might even actually be a good ruler.... if she can keep her cool.
Oh , and I love how nonplussed Twilight was during all this. Thestral and banished ruler returning ?
Meh , I don't care I got to learn things.
It's interesting really (since I just remembered what else you , the author, wrote) that Nightmare Moon tend to always be a fairly likeable character in your stories (to the point that for me , it's one of your best characters ... I really love how you write her generally speaking). Let's just hope for an happier ending for her this time around
7207660 Mostly NNM's agreement with Luna; it makes sense, but I wasn't expecting it, and the way NNM revealed the threstals to ponyville
Wow
7207660 It's okay. If you want to, you could have an already existing character make a reference to him or at least the eight Elements of Creation though.
I don't like Moon Shadow.
This was unexpected! To think Nightmare Moon would be on the 'good side' of things.
7208059 Tell me someone who does.
7207670
Oh, so you did read NIghtmare Moon's Tiny Adversary as well. Thanks.
Personaly, I think that the show didn't give NIghtmare Moon enough character in the episodes ( and I dislike how the comic potrayed her ), so I try to show my own interpretation of her. Giving her better motivation and so on. I am happy that I succeded twice.
7208255
She's actually a bit on the edge between good and bad side as she is now judging ponies before deciding what kind of action she should take. However, since Ponyville had surrendered to her, she'll be more willing to consider a peaceful solution.
7207660 War, Destruction... A wasteland as she laugh making ponies slaves?
I don't think i'll be dropping this. but it did hit a very big pet peeve of mine. I absolutely loath nightmare-is-a-seperate-entity from luna.
we know thats not the case and making it so devalues what little character development she has.
this also directly contradicts luna. we know from nightmare night that fun and games are not her forte at all.
And we know from celestia that she's the prankster, not luna. this is swiftly becoming a let down chapter. but i've born with worse choices before I suppose. I can't say this one will receive a thumbs up from me anymore. Luna is a major source of the story here and her characterization being off likely wont stop here after all. this is a choice that will affect the rest of the entire story so there's basically no recovery.
7209104
I disagree.
In the show it was never stated if Nightmare Moon was corruption, possesion, Luna's other personality or a creation of her own just like what she created (not sure how to spell its name) to punish herself with nightmares. All we know is that she was jelous and took drastic actions against Celestia, yet her goals and motivations weren't exacly stated outside of desire to create an Ethernal Night. So forgive me, but form my point of view, it is open for interpretation.
Futhermore, considering that Luna as Nightmare Moon in the show was very hostile, but when Elements struck her, she was crying and sad, it suggests that she was possesed or corrupted (if Luna was Nightmare Moon on her own free will, she wouldn't be so sorry after being defeated, but rather angry at Celestia was her past mistakes, or angry at the bearers for getting in the way of her revenge).
Why do you think that? I get it that you don't like the general idea, but doesn't it blind you a bit in terms of character development?
In the past, Luna tried her best to maintain peace between all races, but distrust was too much for her to handle. Nightmare Moon was born from stress and desperation. Luna didn't want to fight her own subjects, more or less her sister, but she also didn't want to let thestrals and purebloods to be killed or banished.
Nightmare Moon was born as Luna's other personality, which was ready to fight for what she believed, even if going against those she cared about. Thousand years on the moon was more than enough for Nightmare Moon to develop separated personality as they both had too much time to think/talk everything over (maybe she even got so lonely that she put efforts into making Nightmare Moon her own entity so she could have a company, or maybe Nightmare Moon is creation of her imagination born from isolation).
Since Luna's grief, loneliness and anger got the best of her, she ended up giving control to Nightmare Moon, yet she also managed to make an agreement with her to judge future generation before taking actions, hoping for the violence to not repeat itself.
In my personal opinion, it gives her some character development, and definitively is better than Luna letting her jelousity and anger to make her try to doom the world, only to feel sorry and redeemed after being struck by the Elements.
She was hesistant at first as her social skills were lacking after her long absence, but she got into it rather quickly.
This doesn't automaticly make her an Element of Laughter. If you compare color of gems that both princesses used in season 4 flashback (Luna had 3 and Celestia had 3) with color of the Elements main 6 used against Nightmare Moon in season 1, you will see that
Celestia was bearer of the Element of: Magic, Generosity and Kindness,
While Luna was: Laughter, Honesty and Loyalty.
I think that two of reasons why the Elements banished Nightmare Moon instead of healing her, and why they turned into stone, separating themselves from both royal sisters are:
1) Both Royal sisters betrayed their Elements to some degree.
2) They turned on each other, while the Elements require unity to work.
Most readers seems pleased with Nightmare Moon's character, so maybe it's not as bad as you think. Also, sorry for my rather long response, but I found your opinion to be very harsh and felt the need to defend the way I portrayed Nightmare Moon. Regardless, you may change your mind if you'll keep reading, who knows.
Clever way of reinterpreting Nightmare's mission statement without actually altering any lines. Kind of interested if she has any ground rules for purebloods to follow to avoid them abusing their power and authority. Their abilities could easily cause legal mayhem if allowed free reign.
7209211
>>I disagree.
>>In the show it was never stated if Nightmare Moon was corruption, possesion, Luna's other personality or a creation of her own just like what she created (not sure how to spell its name) to punish herself with nightmares.
you are wrong. period,Nightmare moon does not behave expecially different from luna, in the nightmares nightmare moon is luna.
Deflecting legitimate criticism is the practiced cherished habit of humanity. you don't need to explain it to me, but you are wrong, and no, I wont change my mind just because you are giving excuses.
7209723
She's not turning into Nightmare Moon, but only attain her shape. She's in the land of dreams and her creation's purpouse was to turn it into Nightmare. It makes sense that in Luna's nightmare, she is roleplaying as Nightmare Moon. After all, in land of dream, Big Mac turned himself into an alicorn, Derpy was a giant and so on. Luna taking form of Nightmare Moon just to be defeated is just result of her nightmare.
And honestly, I see a large diference between the way Luna behaves and Nightmare Moon. For once, Nightmare Moon was speaking normaly, while Luna used old Equestiran and the Royal Canterlot Voice. And even if Luna was acting a bit cold in season 2 episode, it was result of her lacking social skills.
Okay, now you're being a bit agreesive, stating that YOU are in the right and I AM in the wrong. You have your opinion and point of view, I have mine since Luna/Nightmare Moon is open for interpretation as we lack any significant insight on Nightmare Moon's creation. Saying that your headcanon is right and mine is wrong seems wrong to me.
Now, I understand that you really dislike the idea in stories where Nighmtaer Moon and Luna have separated personalities, and it urge you to debate/dislike story because of that. I have something similar whenever I see Celestia/Luna being useless, defeated to show how powerful villain is, being incompetent for the sake of the plot, or simply stand and watch while main 6 strugle to save Equestria. Royal sisters doing more harm than good often caused me to start many harsh arguments where, let's say, I acted like a fool or spoiled child. This is caused by the fact that while I and many fans would like to see royal sisters do something in the show, all comic artists and story writters repeat show's formula in making them useless. Often it is excused as (if they assist or will be competent, it will eliminate the conflict) and I dislike this excuse because I can easy come up with alternative ways/ideas how to keep the conflict going without turning royal sisters into punching bags.
Because of that many stories, some even good ones, starts to annoy me, and now I see that you're having a similar issue. Whenever I rant about royal sisters being useless in a story, I sometimes end up unfair or even wrong, so I would like to suggest you to chill out about Luna not being Nightmare Moon in my story, because you're repeating mistake I did.
keep the sun lowered
I feel bad for Rarity, she was completely exposed in front of everyone and even her own family.
Wait was that Vinyl, or was it accidently Pinky