Luna tries to forget her past one night in the library and a surprise encounter with a lavender unicorn changes everything.
Luna, the princess of the night, struggles with loneliness and the weight of her past mistakes. Seeking solace in the stars and the silence of her library, she stumbles upon Twilight Sparkle, a young and curious student of magic and with a passion for astronomy.
This is a what if Nightmare night never happened and Twilight meets Luna in a completely different way.
Written By: Luna Moondance Edited By: BeneathTheShade
The cool, crisp air of the night caresses my coat as I stand alone, gazing up at the vast expanse of my night sky. The stars twinkle like a sea of diamonds, each one a story, a secret, a dream. Despite my efforts to focus on the present, my mind inevitably wanders to memories best left untouched.
A mare shaking in fear, praying I won’t hurt her. I do everything to reassure her, but all it does is make it worse… and she runs away. This scene, repeated time and again, weighs heavily on my heart. Why must they fear me so? I, who guard their dreams, who fend off the night's predators, who craft a sky of wonder and beauty?
I wander through the castle halls, the silence of the night echoing around me. The stone faces of my night guards are stoic, yet I can't help but wonder if their loyalty is born of genuine respect or merely a lack of options. The flicker of fear in their eyes, so carefully hidden, does not escape my notice. It's a lonely existence, being the princess of the night, misunderstood and feared by those I vow to protect.
I seek solace in the library's quiet embrace, I'm surrounded by the comforting presence of books, each one a gateway to another world, another time. The musty scent of old pages fills my nostrils, a familiar and welcome aroma that speaks of knowledge and adventure. The library has always been my sanctuary, a place where loneliness fades into the background, replaced by the companionship of stories and legends. I search for a good book to keep my mind off painful memories.
I look down upon a mare with tears in her eyes, shaking in fear and begging me to let her husband go, her foal behind her, terrified and looking to her mother for protection. Her husband held in the air having the life choked out of him. “You wish to fear me… I’ll give you a reason to fear me!” I smile manically as I hear a pleasing snap.
The memory brought back a horrible sting of regret, my hooves buckle under me, and I collapse on the floor crying. My sister may have erased my crimes from history and replaced it with a bedtime story for fillies and colts, but I still remember, and sometimes I curse my perfect memory. I shake the memory from my mind and wipe the tears from my eyes. I go back to my search concentrating intently on my task, scanning the rows of books and their titles.
As I search for a distraction from the ache of past regrets. I'm drawn to a particular book, its title "Nightshade By: Lavender Night" catching my eye. A smile tugs at my lips as I realize it's a Fillyfooler romance, a genre that was once forbidden. Settling onto a plush couch near a window, I light a candle with a flick of my horn, its warm glow casting a cozy light on the pages.
As I lose myself in the tale of forbidden love and many chapters later, a pang of longing strikes me. Will I ever find someone who sees beyond the princess of the night, who loves me for who I am again? Before my thoughts can lead to something unpleasant, my ears perk up by faint whispers in the distance. My Curiosity piqued, I place a bookmark in my book and rise, following the sound.
As I get closer, I notice a lavender mare staring excitedly into a large telescope, whispering to herself. I watch her as she moves back and forth between the telescope and an academic journal, swiftly jotting notes down.
It was then that I recognized the lavender mare, Twilight Sparkle, my sister’s devoted student, the one that saved me from my living nightmare. I approach, making sure she would hear my hoof steps as I moved closer.
Shocked, she turns to face me, her eyes widening in surprise. "P-princess Luna," she gasps, her voice tinged with awe and a hint of nervousness. "I didn't hear you coming. You… startled me!" she exclaims, placing a hoof over her heart struggling to catch her breath.
"I apologize, Twilight. I did not intend to startle you," I say, my voice softening as I move closer to her. As I look at her, she doesn't shy away. Her hooves weren't shaking, and looking into her eyes I couldn’t see a trace of fear… 'She’s cute,' I thought to myself.
“What are you doing in the library this late?” Twilight asks with a hint of curiosity in her voice.
“I could ask you the same question,” I counter.
She beams me with a smile and answers back with giddy excitement. “Well, I’m catching up on my astronomy research, and I've found some really interesting things. It seems that Nightgazer, the father of modern astronomy, was wrong about some of his theories about the stars and how they work. I plan on releasing my thesis on the subject and proving him wrong on a few things. Like, did you know that the stages of evolution a star goes through are determined by the size of the star?” she finishes while holding her notes up for me to review.
I can't help but smile at her passion. "The night sky holds many wonders, Twilight. If you have any questions, feel free to ask. After all, who better to learn from than the one who created it?"
“OH!! Could you? I have so many questions, and you are the princess of the night, the sole reason astronomy even exists,” she said with pure excitement.
It was then I took the book I was reading out from under my wing and laid it down on a nearby table. I watched as she eyed the book, interested in what I was reading, and froze up when she saw the title. I mentally facehoof as I realize that the book, I was reading is a fillyfooler romance, and she might not feel comfortable talking to an old fillyfooler like me, but then I realized something. How would she know that without reading the book?
“Have you read this book?” I ask with an awkward smile.
“You could say that,” she said, rubbing the back of her head as her cheeks lit up.
I wanted to inquire further, but I thought I should just let it go for now and continue where we left off. I loved hearing her talk about my night sky, such enthusiasm!
"Twilight, have you ever heard the legend of the constellation Orionis?" I ask, pointing to a group of stars that form a distinctive pattern in the sky.
Twilight's eyes follow my hoof, and she nods. "Yes, but I've only read the basic version. I bet there's more to the story when it comes from you."
I chuckle, pleased by her interest. "Indeed, there is. Orionis was said to be a great hunter, fearless, and unmatched in his skill. But it was his humility and respect for all creatures that earned him a place among the stars."
Twilight listens intently, her eyes sparkling with fascination. "That's beautiful. It's like the stars themselves are telling stories."
"Exactly," I agree, a connection forming between us. "Each constellation has its own tale, a piece of history written in the night sky. And what about you, Twilight? Do you have a favorite constellation?"
She hesitates for a moment, then points to a small cluster of stars. "I've always been fond of Lyra. It's not the most prominent, but there's something about its simplicity and the stories it holds that captivate me."
I smile, impressed by her choice. "Lyra is a symbol of harmony and balance. It's a fitting choice for someone like you, who seeks to understand the world and bring people together."
Our gazes meet, and for a moment, there's a spark, a connection that goes beyond mere academic interest. Twilight quickly looks away, a hint of a blush on her cheeks.
"I, um, I also find the stories behind the constellations fascinating," she stammers, trying to regain her composure. "It's like the night sky is a book, waiting to be read."
I nod, feeling a warmth in my heart. "And together, we can uncover its secrets. The night is full of wonders, Twilight, and I'm glad to have someone who appreciates its beauty by my side."
Twilight smiles, and there's a softness in her eyes that wasn't there before. "Thank you, Princess Luna. I feel the same way. The night is truly magical, especially when shared with someone who understands its charm."
As we continue our discussion, the conversation between us grows, a gentle bond forming under the watchful gaze of the stars. It's a connection born of shared interests and a mutual appreciation for the mysteries of the night.
As the night deepens, a chill settles in the air, prompting me to conjure a warm blanket with a flick of my horn. I drape it gently over Twilight's shoulders, and she looks up at me, her eyes shining with gratitude.
"Thank you, Princess Luna," she says softly, pulling the blanket tighter around herself. "I hadn't noticed the cold, I was lost in the stars."
I smile, pleased by her appreciation of the night's beauty. "The stars do have a way of making us forget the world around us," I agree. "But even the most dedicated astronomer needs rest."
Twilight nods, a hint of reluctance in her movements as she begins to gather her notes. "You're right, of course. I just wish the night could last forever."
Her words resonate with me, echoing a sentiment I've held for centuries. "The night may end, but its wonders are eternal," I assure her. "There will always be more to discover, more to share."
She looks up at me, a smile playing on her lips. "I look forward to our next night of exploration, Princess Luna. Your guidance has been invaluable."
The sincerity in her voice warms my heart, and I find myself looking forward to our future meetings. "As do I, Twilight. Your curiosity and passion for learning are a rare gift."
We walk together toward the library entrance, the first light of dawn beginning to creep across the horizon. The night is ending, but the bond we've formed under the stars feels like the beginning of something new, something beautiful.
"Goodnight, Princess Luna," Twilight says as she reaches the door, a hint of anticipation in her voice.
"Goodnight, Twilight Sparkle," I reply, watching her disappear into the castle. "May your dreams be filled with starlight."
As I turn back to the night sky, a sense of peace settles over me. For so long, I've been the guardian of the night, watching over a world that sleeps, unaware of the beauty above them. But tonight, I shared that beauty with someone who understands, who appreciates the magic of the stars same as, her...
I extinguish the remaining candles, letting the moonlight guide me back to my quarters. As I lie down, the memories of the evening's conversation linger in my mind, bringing a smile to my lips. For the first time in a long while, I feel a connection, a sense of belonging.
The night may be my domain, but it no longer feels like a solitary kingdom. In Twilight Sparkle, I've found a friend, a fellow seeker of the stars. And as I drift off to sleep, I realize that the night holds more than just wonders…
Written By: Luna Moondance Edited By: BeneathTheShade
I quickly finish my duties for the evening, my heart thumping at the prospect of a conversation with my new friend. 'Could she truly wish to spend another night talking? The solitude of my nightly vigil grows tiresome.'
As I traverse the castle's long hallways toward the library, the familiar click of my hooves on marble echoes through the silent, shadowed corridors. The peaceful emptiness of the castle, bathed in the cool hues of my night, soothes my restless heart. I find myself drawn to a window, lifting my nose to welcome the cool breeze. It carries the scent of the gardens below, a fragrance that stirs memories both sweet and sorrowful.
"I miss you, Wildflower," I whisper into the night, the memory of her bluish-green eyes reflecting my moon, her light blue mane billowing in the wind, as vivid as if she stands beside me now. The memory's sweetness quickly sours, reminding me of her fear, her misunderstanding. 'Why does the past cling so tightly?'
"Thinking of her again, dear sister?" Celestia's voice, unexpected and gentle, pulls me from my reverie. I hadn't noticed her approach. How strange...
"Yes, sister, I was..." I trail off, the memory of Wildflower's warmth fading into the cold reality of the present.
"It seemed like a good memory."
Our conversation meandered, touching upon memories, the passage of time, and the changes that had occurred. Celestia's demeanor had softened considerably since my return, a stark contrast to the distant figure she once was. Yet, beneath her calm exterior, I sensed a well of emotions, a turbulence that she kept carefully hidden.
"What is it you need?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Nothing Lulu, just caught you zoning out again, but with a smile instead of the usual sad frown on your face. Lulu, it's not good to live in the past, especially for us immortals."
I scoff, laughing bitterly. "Yes, well, easier said than done, when all I have left are memories to keep me company."
I watch as my sister recoils from me as if being struck.
"Tia, are you okay?"
"You know, mortals seem to think the hardest part of being immortal is letting go of the ones we love, but it's the regret and mistakes that haunt us…” Celestia shakes her head and wipes the moisture from her eyes. "Sorry Lulu, I should be getting to bed, it's been a long day."
Concerned, I stare at my sister. "Tia, are you feeling okay?"
"I'll live, Lulu." She counters, climbing her way up the spiral staircase to her bed chambers.
My sister has been acting strange lately, or maybe I'm just starting to notice it. Besides, what does she know of regret anyway? She doesn't have the blood of ponies on her hooves or the memory of the one she loved staring at her in terror. I fight the memory back and take a deep breath, trying to concentrate on more positive thoughts. 'Like the unicorn waiting for me in the library.'
As I make my way to the library, thoughts of Twilight Sparkle begin to push aside the ghosts of the past. Her curiosity, her warmth, it's a calm to my wounded heart. Yet, even as I approach our meeting place, doubt gnaws at me. 'Can I truly let Wildflower go? Would moving forward betray her memory?'
The library greets me with the familiar scent of aged parchment, a comfort that momentarily eases my turmoil. Yet, the peace is fleeting. Memories of Wildflower, of our moments together in spaces just like this, haunt me.
Should we really be doing this here Luna?" Wildflower whispered "What if somepony sees us?" she asked, frantically looking around the library worried. I put my hoof up to her lips. "Shhh, my love. No one will see us, besides, ponies aren't in the library at this hour anyway." I reassured her, feeling her relax under me. "Now where were we?" I asked with a smirk. I feel her giggle under me. "If I recall correctly, you were kissing me.
Each step feels like a betrayal, a step further away from her and toward... what?
Hope?
Or merely a new form of solitude?
But then, I see her, Twilight, lost in slumber amid the tomes of knowledge she so adores. The sight draws a chuckle from me, a sound of genuine amusement that feels foreign after so long. I nudge her awake, her confusion and sudden awareness a mirror to my own internal awakening. "Twilight, did you forget you invited me to chat this evening?"
She cracks an eye open, mumbling incoherently. "Wha..." she starts, smacking her lips together and yawning.
Stepping over to one of the chairs next to me, I sit down, smiling playfully at her. “Twilight, did you forget that you invited me to chat this evening?” I repeat.
“I tried to wait for you, I really did but I couldn't keep my eyes open. Princess Celestia has been keeping me busy with all this research on political mechanics,” she sighs loudly “It’s been cutting in on my own research!” She finishes, slamming her head in her book, pouting.
‘By the heavens she’s adorable!’
“Well, why don’t you take a small break? I have some things I wish to discuss with you.”
I see her face light up and then pout again. “It isn’t more research, is it? I don’t think I can handle any more at the moment.”
“No... it’s about the book from last night, you asked for me to give my thoughts on it.”
Her head rises from the book she is currently lying in, her eyes focused on me. I have her full attention. “W-what did you think?”
‘She wrote the book, I knew it.’ I thought, pleased by her reaction.
I crack a smile. “I thought it was pretty good if a bit unrealistic at times.”
“How was it unrealistic?” She asked, frowning slightly.
“It’s okay Twilight I didn't hate the story, I just thought the romance was a bit unrealistic. Especially the part where the two lovers confess their undying love for each other the day they meet!” I facehoof, sighing and shaking my head, then continuing. “But the adventure side of things was written very well, I especially liked the part where Nightshade saves Starlight from the lair of the Dragon King; that was very exciting.”
Twilight perks up a bit at my last statement. “What about the part where she fights the Lord of the Vamponies?!”
“Oh yes, that was one of my favorites, I liked how she defeated his vampony minions by poisoning The Fountain of Blood with garlic; very ingenious,” I said, giggling into my hoof.
She laughed with me, smiling widely. “I’m glad you liked it…” Her smile faded into a frown. “No one else did though; except for Spike and that’s only because he liked the Dragon King part.”
“Twilight, I’ve been meaning to ask you a question all night but did Lavender Night write any more books?”
“No she didn't… nothing published anyway.”
“Twilight, are you Lavender Night?”
“What?!” she shouts, getting up rapidly and sending the chair she was sitting in flying backward. She looks behind her noticing the extreme reaction she had and starts to chuckle sheepishly. “Sorry,” she said grabbing the chair with her magic and putting it back. “H-how did you find out?” She asks nervously.
“Twilight, your pseudonym, Lavender Night was practically a dead giveaway, and you were acting very strange last night when we talked about it.”
She grunts loudly, “I’m so stupid!” She exclaimed throwing her hooves in the air.
“Calm down Twilight, you’re not stupid,” I said trying desperately not to laugh at her antics. “You know I’m getting a little hungry, how about you?” I asked, getting up from my seat.
She answers with her stomach grumbling loudly, chuckling. “Yes, but isn’t the kitchen staff all asleep?”
“Twilight, I’m not an invalid. I can make my own sandwich and I would love to talk more about your unpublished work.”
“Okay, Princess, if you say so," Twilight replies with a hesitant smile, her eyes alight with a spark of mischief. "But just so you know, most of my unpublished work involves Nightshade and Daring Do teaming up to stop The Curse of the Mummy King.”
As we navigate the dimly lit corridors toward the kitchen, our conversation ebbs and flows, weaving through the realms of fanfiction and venturing into the more personal terrains of our lives.
“So, Luna,” Twilight ventures, her tone tinged with curiosity, “have you ever been in love before?”
The question catches me off guard, and I falter slightly in my steps. “Why do you ask, Twilight?”
There's a pause, and then, almost hesitantly, I offer a fragment of my past. "I once shared nights like this with someone very dear to me," the words tumble out, heavy with the ghosts of memories.
Her interest piqued, Twilight presses gently, “Who were they? What were they like?”
I stop, the weight of her inquiry anchoring me to the spot. My heart clenches at the thought of Wildflower, and I'm torn between the need to share and the fear of unveiling too much. “I would rather not delve into this conversation right now, Twilight…” My voice is a soft echo of pain, veiled in the shadows of the hallway.
“Oh..,” Twilight's voice trails off, and she halts, her expression mirroring the regret in her words. “I’m sorry, Luna. I didn’t mean to upset you.”
Regaining my composure with forced lightness, I wave a hoof dismissively. “It’s nothing, Twilight. Let’s just focus on something else, shall we?”
We resume our walk, the silence between us filled with unspoken thoughts. The topic shifts, meandering through the tales of the night sky and the lore within books, a safe harbor from the stormy seas of our conversation. Twilight's laughter, genuine and infectious, momentarily dispels the shadows in my mind.
Yet, amidst the levity, a memory of Wildflower intrudes, unbidden. Her laughter, once a melody in the symphony of my nights, now a haunting refrain.
“I’ve missed you, Wildflower.” I blurt out.
“What?” Twilight's question, sharp with confusion, slices through my reverie.
Luna, who’s Wildflower?” she probes, her eyebrow arching in a mix of curiosity and concern.
I shake my head, dispelling the haunting image, and meet Twilight's gaze. Her eyes, pools of empathy and concern, seek mine. “I’m sorry,” I begin, the weight of centuries threading through my words. “Someone very dear to me haunts me, Twilight. The night is full of stories,” I confess, my voice a whisper, like a breeze rustling through the leaves of time, “but not all tales end with the dawn. Some linger, casting long shadows that obscure the path forward.”
Twilight walks beside me, her presence a comforting warmth. “You are very different from Celestia,” she observes thoughtfully as we approach the kitchen, her voice a gentle nudge in the quiet between us.
A chuckle escapes me, soft and tinged with a myriad of unspoken thoughts. “You have no idea,” I reply with a half-grin, a glimmer of mischief dancing in my eyes.
Her laughter joins mine, a melody that eases the weight of my shadows, if only for a moment. It's a sound that, despite everything, ignites a flicker of hope in the darkness of my heart, suggesting that perhaps, just maybe, the night can hold new stories yet to unfold.
Written By: Blazing Dragon Edited By: BeneathTheShade
Is it friend, or is it foe?
There are things you should not know.
***
I listen to my new friend explain to me exactly what this fan fiction is and to my surprise, it sounds very interesting. “How do you share your work with others?” I ask, putting the daisy sandwich she had asked for on the table, along with my own.
“I post it in a magazine or hand them out at conventions, and I get feedback from fans that way.” She says, accepting the sandwich hungrily while taking a bite.
Setting into the chair next to her I ask, “Do you ever intend to write another book involving Nightshade and Starlight, or are you just going to write this... fan-fiction?”
“Yes, I have been working on the sequel, but I haven’t done anything with it in almost two years.” She finishes with a half smile. She perks up a little and asks, “Why, do you want to read it?”
“Yes I would Twilight, I’m very interested to see what happens next… and maybe give you some insight on how to write a better romance.”
She sheepishly smiles. “Well, I don’t have too much experience with romance. I never could find the time.”
“What? A pretty mare like you?” I ask, playfully.
Her cheeks light up and she turns to stare down at her food, trying to avoid eye contact with me. “It’s not finished… I may just stop writing it and start over.”
“Maybe I can help you with that? I’m pretty knowledgeable about good fiction.”
Still looking down at her sandwich, the edges of her mouth gently curl into a very cute smile as she looks up and says, “I would really like that. Um, I have some notes I need to write, do you mind if I finish up my assignment? It shouldn't take long.”
“Not at all, I can wait.”
A large clock on the wall next to me ticks loudly while I eat my sandwich. Its rhythmic sound cuts through the silence of the dining hall like a blade. Frowning I look up at the clock in irritation, ‘I hate clocks, such an annoying contraption.’ Tuning my gaze away from the clock, my sight sets on a vase at the center of the table, a flower I haven't seen in a long time sits within… it’s still as beautiful as the night I first saw its illuminated petals...
My hooves press on the cool damp grass as I take my nightly stroll through the gardens, watching the luminescent butterflies land upon the flowers to collect the nectar inside. One of the insects gently lands on my muzzle, working its wings up and down. I smile, scrunching up my muzzle as it tickles the tip of my snout.
After a while the butterfly flutters away leaving an itch on the tip of my snout. Chuckling to myself I scratch the irritating itch and continue my stroll through the gardens. Breathing in the cool night air around me, the bio-luminescent flowers and fireflies bring light where there should only be shadow on this starry night. The whole garden was alive with splendid colors and sound.
‘Beautiful.’
A mare in the distance digging in the dirt, planting some kind of flower I haven't seen before. Her hooves are covered in dirt, which struck me as odd. She handles the earth around her like an earth pony, but... she’s a unicorn.’Why doesn't she use her magic?’ I wondered cocking my head to the side while raising an eyebrow. I start to move closer to get a better look at the odd, but pretty mare in front of me. She pulls a pouch out of her saddlebag and begins dumping its contents on the ground.
‘She must be the gardener, the one that's responsible for all this beautiful flora.’ I approached her cautiously, hoping not to scare her. My mouth opens to try and speak, but no words come out.‘Who am I kidding, of course, I’m going to scare her...’ I thought lowering my head. I turn around to leave, but my hooves step on a twig laying on the ground, snapping it in two.
“Hello!?” The mare shouts, “who’s there!?”
She turns to look in my direction, squinting her eyes to adjust to the darkness. I stopped, my hooves shaking and frozen in place, waiting for the inevitable awkward stammers and the frightened expression on her face. She looks in my direction, but still can’t make me out. Pulling a bottle out of her saddlebag, she drinks the liquid substance. Her eyes glow bright emerald green for a brief second and return to normal. Looking back in my direction a smile forms on her face as she gets a better look at me.
“Oh, Princess Luna, how are you this evening?” She moves toward me, extending her hoof out. “My name is Wildflower...”
“Twilight, have you ever considered making Nightshade an alchemist?” I ask, still staring at the vase on the table. Looking briefly away I notice Twilight, busy taking notes on her assignment from my sister. She looks up, tapping her chin with her quill in thought. “No, can’t say that I have, but... that’s a very good idea.” She says while giving me that cute smile again.
Returning her smile I turn my gaze back to the flower and take it out of the vase. Smelling it gingerly as I twirl it around in my magic. The clock behind me still ticking it’s annoying march forward...
I smile wide, happy for once somepony didn’t run away. I look down at her hoof wondering why she’s extended it.
“It’s a Zebra custom, you’re supposed to bump it.” She says looking at me with a happy smile.
“Oh! Sorry I didn’t mean to offend.” I bump hooves with her and ask “What are you doing out here so late?”
“It’s ok, I wasn't offended, and I was just planting some of these flowers I got from Zebreka. Do you realize how hard it is to ship these to Equestria?” She said pointing at the luminescent flower on the ground. “Not easy, I can assure you.” I watch her plant a seed in the dirt, covering it with a hoof instead of her magic.
‘Why does she continue to use her hooves? Not that there's anything wrong with that, it's just, odd.’ She looks at me seeing the confusion plainly on my face, and smiles as if shes seen it before. “I bet you're wondering why I don’t use magic?...”
“Luna, are you feeling ok?” I snap out of my very vivid memory and drop the flower I was holding onto the table. Twilight staring at me worried. “You looked like you were somewhere else.”
“Sorry, I don’t know what that was.”
‘How did I get so tired?’ I thought, rubbing my eyes. “Twilight, I would like to continue where we left off tomorrow night, if that’s ok? I have several ideas on how to improve your story, but I feel strangely tired…” I get up from my seat while pushing the chair under the table.
“You’re tired, before me?” She asks in a curious tone. “Is there something wrong?”
“No, nothing’s wrong, I’m just tired.” I said, making my way out of the dining room.
‘No, nothing's wrong just a ghost that refuses to leave me alone.’ I thought sarcastically to myself.
“Ok Luna, I’ll get my draft from Spike, and we’ll go over it tomorrow ok? Oh! And good night.”
Nodding over my shoulder I smile, “Thank you Twilight, and good night to you as well.” I said, as I continue heading out of the dining room. Once in the hall I close my eyes, and take a deep breath then focus on my destination. I hear two of my guards whispering to each other, their voices echo through the hall as I make my way back to my room. ‘My sanctuary.’
The door emblazoned with my cutie mark glows as I draw near. A security measure just in case anyone wants to steal anything of mine, or harm me in any way. ‘As if they could.’ I set in front of the door waiting patiently as it speaks the first part of the pass phrase, “Is it friend, or is it foe?”
“There are things you should not know.” I answer, and the door cracks open in response. passing through the door I hear it lock behind me automatically. Quickly I go to my bed and fall into it, the sheets cold to the touch as I pull the covers over me. Grabbing one of the pillows above me I snuggle close wrapping my hooves around it, I try to fall asleep and forget about her. ‘But do I really want to?’
Feeling her warm body laying next to me as she breaths serenely. I wrap my hooves around her and snuggle close, the scent of earth and the sweet smell of flowers fills my nostrils. I sigh contentedly, listening to the rhythmic sound of her heartbeat as I drift off to sleep…
My ear twitches with every tick of the clock, it’s rhythmic sound stabbing me in the heart as the seconds march forward.
Written By: Blazing Dragon Edited By: BeneathTheShade
The gardens looked different from the time she cared for them, but there was something that never changed: the flowers that bloomed at night. Chuckling to myself, I twirl one in my magic, admiring it’s exotic beauty, and smell it’s sweet fragrance. 'I don’t know what they are called… she never told me.' Laying under the sapling we planted so long ago, I drop the flower onto the wet grass below me and turn to stare up at the moon. A drop of moisture falls from the leaves above and lands upon my snout. ‘I wish there was more to do besides lay here and mope all night.’
Laying my head in the grass I curl my hooves close to my chest and shut my eyes. I’ve been so drowsy lately, but from what, I do not know. There is rustling in the leaves above me as rain starts to pour down from the clouds above. Each individual drop cold as ice as it hits my coat. ‘I love the rain.’ I thought, just laying there motionless listening to the sound of the rain coming down.
Next was the wind violently rushing through the leaves. ‘Storm’s coming.’ I thought, as I hear thunder, high above the clouds. Looking up, I watch lightning streak across the sky, lighting the dark clouds in the distance. I always thought thunderstorms looked better at night.
My ears perk up as I hear movement behind me. A yellowish shield surrounds the area around me and disappears, the rain hitting it the only visible clue it was still there. “Tia, we would like to be left alone.” I said with irritation clearly evident in my voice.
“Has anypony ever told you that it’s not smart to lay under a tree during a thunderstorm?” Tia says with a smile, laying down next to me in the grass.
“We do not care Tia. Our life feels so empty ever since our return. We would rather leave, not much is keeping us here.”
“Where would you go?” Tia asks, looking downcast, “Because I would be very sad to see you gone.”
“We don’t know... We have thought about visiting the human world, or the world of the fairies. That would be nice. Someplace where we would be loved rather than feared.”
“Luna, do you still think that I am only loved by my little ponies? Some love me yes, but most envy me and pretend to love me. I feel sometimes as alone as you... in a sea of faces. None ever interested in getting to know me, only caring for what I can give them, or take away from them.” Tia spits out the last part with venom.
This is the first time I have ever heard my sister speak like that about her subjects, and it worries me. This is so unlike the Tia I knew so long ago. ‘What has changed you Tia?’
“There are times I hate them.” She says under her breath looking at me with a coldness I’ve never seen in my sisters eye’s before. “But there is one that loves me, and loves me for who I am, and that is you dear sister. I don’t want to lose you...again.” She finishes, pulling me in close for a hug.
I didn’t know what to say... So, I just remain silent, and keep listening.
She buries her face in my neck, and I can hear her fighting back tears. “I love you, Luna. You’re the only real friend I have.”
The cold part of me wants to leave her wallowing in her tears, and her misery. ‘She deserves it!’ My heart though, is telling me to try and comfort her, to tell her it’s okay and that I forgive her. I feel conflicted. I still love her, but she hurt me badly, and I can’t let that go so easily. “I love you too Tia... But, it will be awhile before I can forgive you.”
Breaking down and crying into my shoulder, I hear the roar of thunder, and see lightning race across the sky again as the rain continues to pound the shield in front of me. I lay there and let my sister cry on my shoulder for awhile ‘Why? I do not know, maybe I’m too soft.’
I eventually grow tired of hearing my sister cry, and I start to get up. Pulling from her embrace I look at her. “Be thankful you can still receive forgiveness Tia, some of us don’t get such a luxury.” I tell her, perhaps harshly, turning around and walking out of the shield. As I get further away I hear the shield she erected collapse as another bolt of lightning flashes through the sky, followed by a loud bang. Finding shelter from the rain under the entrance to the postern door to the castle I look back and see my sister still lying on the damp grass, unmoving in the rain. ‘I love the rain...’
Laying in the wet grass, her body on top of mine, and the rain pouring down on us both, soaking into our coats. Our lips caress each other in a slow kiss, her hooves running through my mane slowly. Pulling from the kiss she lightly bites the bottom of my lip, pulling back in a sensual fashion. I look into her eyes, giggling happily, with her following suit. ‘How strange, our laughter looks like crying with no song. The raindrops running down my face taste like tears...but without the pain.’
“I love you Luna,” she declares, nuzzling her head under my chin. “You make me feel so special…”
Heading into my private bathroom I grab a towel off one of the silver racks that line the walls and dry myself off. I don’t want to visit Twilight looking like a wet dog… I really should take a shower, but I think I’ve gotten wet enough for one night.
After drying myself off I head down the hall towards the library, passing my night guard from last night, and like before, I hear them whispering to each other. Curious as to what they were saying to each other, I hide myself behind the corner of the hall, and lift my ear up to eavesdrop on them.
“I always get so freaked out when she walks by, like I’m going to faint or something.” He says in a hushed whisper.
“Yeah, I know, she kinda has that effect on me too. What would it be like if one of the princess asked you out?”
“If something like that were to ever happen? I think I would die if Luna ever asked me out, she’s so sexy I think it kills ponies… Never mind her seductively mysterious nature. Gives me the bucking shivers.”
My eyes go wide with shock. “My seductively mysterious nature?” I ask, under my breath, raising an eyebrow. ‘All this time I thought they feared me for the things I did in the past, but they were only intimidated by beauty.’ I facehoof, while dragging my hoof down my muzzle. ‘Of course! How could I have been so blind. They were always like that, even a thousand years ago.’ With a gleeful smile on my face I continue to listen to my guards whisper back and forth amongst themselves. ‘I have to say they are acting more like school fillies talking about colts than grown stallions.’
“What about Cadence or Celestia. What if they asked you out?”
“Cadance I would turn down, not because I think she’s ugly, but she’s dating the captain, and I would rather not get on his bad side. Celestia though doesn't really do anything for me. I see her more as a mother figure.”
“Not me! I would probably pass out if Celestia so much as winked at me.”
“If that’s the case, why’d you join the night shift?”
“The day guard’s way too strict for me, you can’t talk, and you just stand there for hours looking like a statue. I… I couldn't take it.”
“No wonder, you never shut up.”
“Hey! I don’t hear you ever complain.”
Smirking, I stop listening and move back in the sight of my guards, revealing myself to both of them. They both immediately compose themselves as I stare at them. I see that glint of fear from before in the one on the left’s eyes. Turning towards him I bring my muzzle close and kiss him on the forehead.
With wide eyed shock I see him blush as bright as my sisters sun, then faint onto the floor.
I turn to his friend. He looked almost as shocked as his unconscious companion, though he was composing himself a little better. “Princess I think you killed him!” He yells loudly, kneeling down to check on his buddy.
“He is fine, he only fainted. When he gets up, tell him I said ‘thank you’.”
Getting back up and saluting, “Ye-yes ma’am!”
“Have a good night private, we are off to the library.”
Written By: Blazing Dragon Edited By:BeneathTheShade
I stared up, annoyed, into the night sky, the storm getting in the way of my research on the evolutions of a star. ‘Just my luck! Whenever I find time to do some of my own research, a storm comes.’ I sighed heavily, falling into the nice soft couch next to the telescope. My hoof dangling over the side as I close my eyes. ‘Why does the weather have to be so stupid right now? Couldn't the pegasi have picked a different night to have a storm,’ I thought grumpily, ‘Well, I could always write my book? Luna seems to really like reading it.’ Grabbing the book off the desk next to my notes I start writing some of my ideas down for the next chapter. The rain from outside coming down hard against the glass window next to me.
‘Mmm, what could the next book be about I wonder?’ Taping the quill in my magic against my chin. ‘Has Luna figured out I based Starlight off of her yet? Also, does she know I have a… No, no she doesn't. I mean how could she?’ I thought, chuckling sheepishly to myself.
‘Unless she’s seen my dreams... Can she do that!?’ I thought, my eyes shooting open.
Just then I hear the clicking of hooves on the marble floor of the library getting closer.“Hello Twilight.” Luna says, moving towards me, and sitting on her haunches in front of the window.
The abruptness almost causes me to jump out of my skin as Luna just appears in front of me out of nowhere. “Luna... you have an incredible talent for sneaking up on ponies!” I said, holding a hoof to my chest.
“We are sorry Twilight, we did not mean to frighten you,” Luna says, looking rather down for some reason.
“Is everything ok?” I asked curiously, setting my book on the table next to me, “you look… upset.” I finish staring into her eyes. Scrunching up my eyebrows I notice once again she doesn't hear me. She looks like she’s lost in her thoughts again, just blankly staring at the raging storm outside.
‘I wonder, what’s behind those eyes of hers… I could only guess.’
Getting off the chair and onto my hooves, I lightly poke her in the side to get her attention. “Luna, what is the matter?” I asked sitting down next to her.
“Twilight have you ever heard the old saying, ponies never change?” Luna asks, staring out the window distantly. The rain continuing to pound the glass as a flash of light brightens up the night sky, making it seem like day for just a split second.
“Yes, I’ve heard it before. Why do you ask?”
“Don’t ever believe it, Twilight.” She says looking into my eyes very seriously. “Ponies always change. It’s just that they don’t always change for the best. Most of the time they steadily get worse. But then, there are those rare occasions they change for the better.”
“What, um... brought this up?” I ask quizzically.
“Nothing.” She says softly, “just, the musings of an immortal.” Luna then moves over towards the table I set my book on. She looks at me while pointing at the book with her hoof. “Is this the book we talked about last night?”
Moving towards her I grab the book off the table. “Yes, it is. I’ve been trying to finish it, but whenever I get to the romance, my mind just goes blank. I sometimes wonder why I even started writing a romance in the first place... I know nothing about it.” I said, holding the book close to my chest.
“We find it surprising to hear that. You’re my sister’s pupil, a colt should have made a pass at you by now.” Luna says with a smile.
‘Ok, how do I say this without embarrassing myself?’ Then I mentally facehoof ‘I don't think there is any way for me to say this without embarrassing myself!’ I thought, laying back down on the couch from earlier.
“I have been asked many times, but none of them interested me. I have found a few slightly attractive, but never enough to go any further.” I feel my cheeks heat up after saying that. ‘Oh great! Now she’s definitely going to know somethings up.’
“We know of what you speak. When we were young Tia kept pushing us to find somepony, but when we finally did, she didn’t approve of our choice.” She says, looking sad and distant again.
“Why didn't she approve of your choice?” I asked a little hesitantly, not wanting to push too much. But... my curiosity got the better of me.
‘I wonder what sort of pony Luna could have been with to cause Celestia not to approve.’
“Well… it’s a bit of a long story but if you are willing to listen we would be willing to tell it.”
“I don’t have anything else to do. The storm’s kind of in the way of my research right now. ” I said, looking over at the window half smiling.
“Ok then,” Luna says laying down on the floor next to the chair. “Where do I begin..?”
“At the beginning,” I said with a smile, laying the book in my lap, eagerly awaiting her to start her story.
‘I have always wondered about her past...’
“It all started in the early years of our empire when we were still trying desperately to hold things together. In those days, you see, “racism” was a very big problem. The nobles would feud over the most trivial of things. Unicorns, Pegasi, and Earth ponies were not as unified as this era seems to believe. But my sister accomplished over time what I wanted to solve immediately. I never understood her unlimited patience for intolerance and bigotry.”
“What about the Hearth's Warming and the windigos that forced the tribes to work together?”
“Oh, that… we believe our sister calls that one a noble lie. A lie designed to hold ponies together and to keep them unified. Nothing more. It’s a sweet story, but a story nonetheless. The truth though is a bit darker than that.”
“What was it actually like!?” I ask, curiously.
“You really don’t want to know Twilight, and I don’t feel like sharing. It was awful, and we do not wish to relive those early days. We tell you these things to prepare you for what you will hear next…
“I already have a hard time believing Celestia would lie to me like that,” I replied, disbelievingly.
“You do not know my sister like you think you do. She isn’t an awful pony, but she will use deception to get ponies to do the right thing. We are sometimes surprised by how successful she is, this place is nothing like it once was.”
And there she goes again, that blank stare as if a memory is forcing its way inside her mind. “Could you please tell me about it? At least some of it, I’m very interested.”
“We do not know if our sister would like you to hear such things, but as long as you keep it between us, We will share some of it, yes.”
I set my book down next to me on the couch and get comfortable. ‘I’ve always loved history lessons...’
