Weaving a New World

How long has it been since I returned to the throne of Equestria alongside my sisters? A full year? Perhaps two? Certainly it has not been three. And yet, it feels as if a brief lifetime has passed by my eyes. Much like a year in the eyes of a child.

Since the day my sisters crowned me, the Princess of the Dawn and the Princess of the Night, I have reigned alongside them with a title of my own. Nightmare Moon, the Princess of Dreams. I bring sweet slumber to all when the moon rises, banishing nightmares from dreaming minds. My sister, dear Luna, and me work in perfect unison like two halves to a whole to bring the night’s truest majesty into full bloom.

The people of Equestria have slowly come to accept me not as a demon or villain, but as what I have always been. A true princess of Equestria. I could not be happier. Or at least, that is how I should be. And yet, I am still left wanting. While the acceptance and adoration of my people has indeed brought me joy, there is one thing I crave more than anything within the entire cosmos. And despite that, I know I will never acquire it.

I did not return to the throne on my own. I was rescued by someone I never once expected to meet. The first person who had ever come forward and praised me for weaving the night. And a human, no less. The first human man I had met in centuries. And on the night he finally secured my return to the throne, I… My heart… It now belongs to him.

There are no words to describe how hotly my love burns for him. Hotter than even my mother’s great sun. I never once even dreamed that I would ever feel this way for any man. I, the mighty Princess of Dreams, now a slave to my heart’s wiles. If I could, I would make him my king. I have known him for quite some time now. And our bond… It goes beyond being merely strong. Much as my sisters are to each other, I have found that…he is my other half. He is the light to my shadow. The sun to my moon. Our chemistry is perfect. There is no reason we should not have each other. And yet…I can never be his.

Even now, in the humble town of Ponyville, he resides with his wife. Fluttershy, the bearer of the Element of Kindness. And they have recently welcomed the birth of their daughter. I do feel happy for them. I truly do. And yet…I have never felt such seething envy. Even the envy I felt towards Celestia centuries ago is dwarfed by this burning anger and sorrow in my heart. But I cannot allow it to show. I cannot bear allowing my feelings to drive us apart. I know he is precious to her and her to him. They mesh well, that much I can see. But that knowledge does nothing to dull the burning pain in my heart.

I constantly wear a mask to hide my agony with every passing day. Although some are not fooled. My sisters are fully aware of the turmoil that rages in my heart. They make certain that such knowledge never leaves their lips, bless their souls. And whenever I meet him, that wonderful man… He is somewhat aware of my feelings as well. But I strongly doubt he can truly fathom how much I crave him. He who is the chain that binds me to the throne and to my people. When we meet, he is always so loving to me. So tender with his touch. Our time together in recent months only served to strengthen our bond. And yet I remain gravely unsatisfied.

Day after day, week after week, I ask myself the same question. We were clearly meant for each other. He would have made a fine king with myself by his side as his queen. And yet, it has not come to be. And I have asked myself many evenings before I sleep. Why.

I fail to understand… Why am I so cursed to never receive what I truly desire? Is this punishment for my misdeeds so long ago, despite having been forgiven and accepted by all I had been reviled by?

No… I will not endure this any longer. It was meant to be. I know it. I can see it in his eyes. He knows it too! But…I cannot bring myself to interfere with his relationship with his wife. Especially now that they have a darling child to raise together. And so…I will settle for the next best prize.

There was a time not so long ago that I made a bold move. I visited my beloved in his dreams. And then, on that night alone, I revealed my heart to him. And it was that night that I discovered just how strongly he truly felt for me. Feelings that he had kept buried until my love brought them to the surface. Feelings I could not allow him to remember upon awakening. That night, he became my king. And I his queen. And the only one who remembers is myself.

But this time, it will not end with just one visit into his dreaming mind. No, I will no longer settle for such a pittance. I am the Princess of Dreams. The world of dreams is mine to weave as I see fit, where I reign supreme! And I will weave the world that should have been. A world where he and I can finally…finally be what we were meant to be.

The moon has risen high into the beautiful night sky. I too have fulfilled my duty for the evening, my spell having been cast. All over the vast land, many are sleeping. Dreaming. And among them, my beloved rests his head as well.

I stand within my chambers, my gaze directed towards the glowing pale crescent in the vast blue canvas above the palace. Many times, such a thought has passed through my mind. Only now I have amassed the courage and daring to finally carry it out. I must be strong… I know what it is I desire. And there is nothing standing between me and finally claiming what it is I crave and deserve.

I prepare myself. My eyes are tired as I remove my royal garments and drape myself in the covers on my bed. My pillow is soft, as it always is. I am eager to drift off into slumber, but not before I prepare my spell. My horn is billowing with my magic aura, the spell set to take effect. My eyes close, and my mind begins to wander. My body relaxes. And soon, I awaken.

I find myself standing within a vast moonlit field. It almost feels familiar. No, I must not allow myself to be distracted by nostalgia. I have a task to carry out. And I must hurry before my courage begins to fade.

I can feel him. His dreaming mind. And so, I begin the first step. I focus, and begin to merge my dreaming consciousness with his own. His dream becomes mine and mine becomes his. We are becoming linked. Not quite the same as merely visiting a dream, I can see vague images and shapes before I wipe them clean. Our dream is now a blank slate. A canvas for me to paint.

This is no mere dream I am about to weave. I am not going to weave a temporary spectacle for us to witness. I shall weave an entire world for us. A world where we can finally belong to each other only when we dream together, our minds as one.

I begin to weave images and landscapes from my memories. Vast fields of green and brown flow over the land. A familiar town begins to rise at the foot of a mountain that towers nearby. A great city juts from the mountainside from where I will reign. And in these two settlements, countless ponies begin to appear from nothingness. Faces I am familiar with. And yet, as I weave this world before me…I feel a powerful fear pulling at my heart. A nagging guilt.

The more colorful this world becomes… The more real it seems, the more I realize just how…sinful this is. My expression of wonder has become one of subtle horror. This… This is so wrong… And yet, I cannot cease my weaving. This is my chance to finally gain what should be rightfully mine. My love for him is true. And despite this, even I can see just how potentially vile this act is.

It is selfish… I know it is selfish, and yet, I cannot stop myself! It is not fair that he is not mine! And I have seen that look in his eyes. He too wonders what could have been. So…why deny us this privilege?

My horror remains with me as I craft one last safeguard. His memories. Those that would conflict with his life in this world must remain locked away until the moment he awakens. And every memory he gains will be sealed away, inaccessible until his dreaming mind merges with mine once more to bring this world back into existence. His time in this dream world must not be allowed to influence his life in the real world. I must not allow that. It must be avoided at all costs.

I am…manipulating him so much… What would he do if he ever learned of this? I love you so much, my darling… And yet I feel so disgusted with myself. I will not manipulate your feelings towards me, my love. That much I will not dare force upon you. Our bond will grow naturally. As we would both want it to.

It is done. This world is now complete. Equestria lies before me; identical to the world my body now slumbers in. Identical in all but a few miniscule details. It is ready…and yet, I feel doubt weighing me down.

This world is as still as stone. A painting before my eyes that will spring to life the instant I give it that tiny spark to set it into motion. And once I do, my influence over it will become all but nonexistent. A world sustained by his and my lives that fades and returns like a mirage whenever we wake and dream together.

My heart is heavy as I bring myself to my chambers within the eerily silent palace within Canterlot. This is quite possibly…the most desperate and wretched thing I will have ever done… But my heart will not allow me to stop. I must do this. And only I will know of it. This world will only be known by me and no one else on the outside. This will be my most precious secret. A second life.

And so… The spark is cast.

https://youtu.be/ejlAopra5I8

The world feels…different now. Alive. Real. Hardly at all like a dream. And yet, I know full well that I am dreaming. Despite this fact, I feel rested. I am lying upon my bed and am fully awake. I hear the faint blowing of wind outside my window. I hear the tweeting of songbirds on my windowsill. I pull myself from my bed. Is this world truly alive?

I find my royal garments resting nearby and place them upon myself. A quick glance in the mirror and I am greeted by a familiar alicorn mare of great beauty. I see myself smile, my flowing wavering mane free of tangles. My sisters are often jealous of how infrequently I awaken with my mane and tail not requiring any attention. And this morning is no exception.

I leave my chambers and step out into the hall. Sunlight is shining in through the windows that line the far wall of the hallway. I see a few guards making their rounds. As they pass me, they give me very brief greetings much like they would if I was walking the halls in the real world. Still, I have to be certain of just how real this new world is. I need to find my sisters.

I proceed down the stairs of the main hall, my hooves echoing throughout the empty room. A pair of guards are stationed near the towering doorway at the far end of the chamber, the doors having been left open due to fair weather. I briefly greet the guards as I pass by, the two of them acknowledging my words. I step out into the palace’s garden, the chirping of songbirds filling the air. My sisters often take a morning stroll through the garden to start their days. I often do as well, though with less frequency.

I feel a gentle breeze through the trees, a few leaves snapping off and being carried by the wind. As I walk, a robin flutters by. It pays me little mind, though I feel compelled to follow. And before long, the tiny bird leads me to who I am searching for. Seated before a small elegant cast iron table is my eldest sister. Celestia, Princess of the Dawn.

She sips from her teacup, several fruit pastries spread out before her on a platter. I hesitate to approach her. She seems so real. So alive, much like how she is in the real world. And soon, she looks my way. She gives me that smile she always does when she sees me in the morning. She beckons me to join her, which I do. In mere seconds, I forget that she is merely an illusion brought to life and accept her as ‘reality’ in this new world.

I join her for breakfast, finding the tea and the pastries to feel and taste quite real. It is all too easy to forget that this world is merely an illusion on the lids of my eyes. For the moment, I observe her. I know she is merely a part of this dream world, a creation of mine. And yet, she soon notices the rather distant gaze I am casting towards her. She lets out an awkward chuckle, asking me why I am giving her such a look. I suppose there is no reason for me to be so distant. Dream or no dream, Celestia is my sister. And even here, she is exactly as she has always been.

I allow myself to relax and indulge in her company. We converse while we dine, discussing simple things such as the weather, any of those so-called ‘friendship reports’ she receives from the bearers of the Elements of Harmony and even my beloved from time to time, and more important subjects such as visits to settlements such as Manehattan and Cloudsdale. For being a dream, it feels so routine… So typical. It…frightens me just how real this world is. Just what have I created?

Finally, I find myself having become settled in this new realm. Now it was time to set in motion my most sacred desires. I stand up from the table and speak of my intention to visit Ponyville for the day. Celestia smiles in understanding and prepares to send for two guards to accompany per protocol, though I am quick to silence her. I explain to her that the reasons behind my visit are highly personal and I wish to do so alone and that I have put much planning into it.

My sister gives me a rather impish smirk as she hears my words. If she knows as much as she does in the real world, then she surely can hazard a guess as to what my intentions are. And without delay, she does. My sister asks if I am visiting Ponyville for the sole purpose of spending time with my dear friend. Of course, that brief delay in her words clearly showed that she was implying something far deeper than mere friendship. Which she is wise to assume.

I have always been able to place my trust in my sisters and I felt that now was no exception. And so, I spoke the truth. How I had been withholding my heart’s desires for far too long. That starting today, I would begin taking the first steps to making my beloved mine. And to making me his.

Celestia barely showed any surprise at all. She has known for quite some time that my feelings for him go far beyond friendship. She evenly jokingly pokes fun at just how long she had been wondering when I was going to make the first move. Of course, she is also quick to draw attention to the obvious complications of such a relationship. I am a true member of the Equestrian royal family, the Princess of Dreams. And he is not only a mere commoner, but not even from this world at all. What would Mother and Father say?

Of course, I give an honest response. I care not for how others would perceive me for the unconditional love I hold for him. To me, there is no one more important in my life. My sister smiles broadly, completely agreeing with my resolve. She is also quick to remind me that at that moment he remains unspoken for, much to my relief. But I must be quick. With how much time has passed since his arrival in Equestria, it is quite possible that even in this world of dreams I have woven myself, it is possible somepony is pining for him. I thank my sister for her encouragement and spread my sable wings. With a few flaps, I take to the air and soar over the palace’s walls. Far below me, my destination is visible. Ponyville.

As I descend on currents of wind, my eyes take in my surroundings. This world… Woven from nothing and given form… It feels so real and familiar, yet vaguely alien to me. What have I created… This world is… I must be careful as I carry my will out. This… I fear this could become addictive to me.

I can see many of my subjects going about their business far below me. Tiny little specks of a rainbow of colors. It amazes me of just how aware they are of themselves and of the world around them. I am beginning to wonder… Are they mere illusions? Or are they living entities? This world draws a fine line between existence and nonexistence. Surely only he and I truly exist here.

Just as I am about to make my final descent to the town below, a thought occurs to me. My beloved in the real world resides in a cottage just beyond the western edge of town. I suppose it would be wise to investigate there first. And so I allow the wind to carry me west and over the town below me. I can already see it. A humble cottage standing at the very edge of the vast Everfree Forest. Gathering around it were numerous tiny creatures ranging from birds to woodland rodents. And at the center of them all was the mare I was hoping to see. The bearer of the Element of Kindness herself. Fluttershy.

I descended towards her while calling out and wishing her a pleasant morning. The timid pegasus was understandably surprised by my approach with many of the tiny animals scattering in fear. I can hardly blame them. Even now, my abnormal form comes off as unnatural and even frightening. However, Fluttershy remained where she stood, showing no fear, as she knows me quite well.

Once I had landed before her, I wasted no time in asking her for the information I sought. I spoke hypothetically, feigning ignorance as I asked her if my beloved James resides within her cottage. She seems rather baffled by my question and retorts, claiming that he resides not with her, but with the bearer of the Element of Generosity and has done so since he arrived here quite some time ago.

I was genuinely surprised to hear this. With Rarity? If such was the case, I had to be quick. I am all too aware of the powerful feelings she holds for him in the real world. I know that I went to great lengths to twist and adjust her heart’s desires when I weaved this world, but I cannot be too sure. I had to be quick and reach him before she could take the first step in claiming his heart. I created this world and I will not be denied while I remain in it!

I thanked dear Fluttershy and departed as swiftly as I could, my wings being carried on the wind. Ponyville passed below me as I soared along, reaching my destination in mere moments. I landed before the elegant home of the bearer of the Element of Generosity. The so-called Carousel Boutique. I breathed deeply to calm my nerves. I must not seem desperate or panicked. For all I knew, he could be on the other side of that door.

Very gently, I nudge the door open. I hear a bell ring just above me. And sure enough, there she stood. Rarity. She turned to face me and was in the process of greeting me much like a typical customer before she realized just whom she was addressing. She bowed before me and welcomed me into her home. True to her virtue, she offered her services to me right away.

Of course, I was not there to request from her a new gown or shimmering golden shoes. I asked her casually if indeed James resided within her home. She replied in kind, confirming it as true. However, he was due to appear at the local spa as one of the masseuses in a couple of hours. In fact, she informed me that he had only just awoken not even an hour ago.

Yes… The moment I awoke in this world, he did as well. Rarity then informed me that he was likely upstairs bathing to prepare himself for the day. I asked if I could perhaps meet with him upstairs, to which she agreed.

I trotted up the stairs at the far end of the workroom and found myself in the loft. I could already hear the familiar muffled sound of water raining down onto a stone floor. My heart was in my throat as I drew near the first door I saw in the hall. With a magical grasp, I slowly turned the handle and peeked inside. The room was filled with a thing layer of steam. Just slightly, I nudged the door open and spoke into the room before me. I called out his name, which prompted a reply from a voice I know all too well. He was in this room and there was nothing between us.

Strangely enough, he mistook my voice that of the beautiful unicorn downstairs. Rather odd there, seeing as how our voices are clearly not alike. Still, I felt a chuckle escape my lips before I spoke my name. He clearly sounded flustered and asked what I was doing there at that moment. And I… I wanted to speak the truth. But it was far too soon for that. I must pace myself. If I rush into this, I may frighten him off. Patience, Nightmare Moon. Good fortune comes to those who wait.

I speak false words, telling him that I merely wished to speak to him before he departed to perform his duties. Words that he accepted as truth. He then asked me to remain outside until he had finished bathing and had clothed himself. Despite being rather…intrigued at the thought of seeing him bare, I complied with his request and departed. I did not go far, choosing to remain outside the room. Soon… Soon I will see him. The one being in this entire world aside from myself who is not a mere illusion.

Minutes go by. I hear the sound of falling water cease. Faint shuffling reaches my ears. And then, the door opens. And it is then that my lips fail to speak words when they should. He stands before me. Clad in simple attire, dark brown hair still moist and freshly combed, he casts his gaze towards me. James, the bearer of the Element of Humanity. And the one man in my very long life to have ever claimed my heart.

I want to step forward and embrace him. And yet, my hooves refuse to move from where they stand. But I do not need to. He reaches out and catches me in an embrace of his own. His touch… It is…subtle. Yet, I can feel it. Not the touch of an image projected by my dreaming mind. The touch of a near and dear loved one. This man… This world… Success. He and I are together in this world crafted by my own hooves.

A long sigh escapes my lips. My leg gently wraps around him as well while I fall silent. At long last, it can begin. He and I… We can finally be what we are meant to be.

He greets me with a smile and gently caresses my face and neck with his tender fingers. If only he knew the true feelings that lie dormant within his heart. Feelings that I have witnessed only once and only I remember. He then asks what brings me to Ponyville, especially with the noticeable absence of any guards in my company. As much as I desire to speak my heart, I withhold those sacred words and merely speak of my desire to spend some time with him. As long as he will permit.

He is clearly caught unprepared by my words, although I can tell he is also pleased by them. He would never resist my company. He wholeheartedly agrees to allow me to join him. Due to still having an hour or two before he must report to the spa to fulfill his duties, he invites me to accompany him for a walk through the local park. An invitation I hastily accept.

We proceed down the stairs and are greeted by Rarity once more. Our chat is short-lived as James informs her that he wishes to enjoy some quality time with me. The beautiful seamstress sees us off with a smile and goes back to looking over a sketch on a sheet of parchment, apparently a blueprint for her next masterpiece.

As we begin to venture into Ponyville proper, I remain by his side. He is silent, as he normally is. He is a timid and sensitive man, preferring to let his partner begin the conversation more often than not. Although this time, I cannot. No words come. For the first time since I first met that man deep within the Everfree Forest, his heart does not belong to another. And between he and I, I can feel that most sacred connection. He is to me as the sun is to the moon. And he knows it too. I cannot bring any words forward. I am absolutely content just being by his side. With nopony to come between us. This is just the beginning, my love…

However, it came to an end all too soon. I noticed the world around me fade and flicker ever so slightly. I felt a type of weight apply to my body just before the world faded and I was greeted by the sight of a familiar wall. I had awakened. And the morning sun was shining through my window.

I halfheartedly bring myself to a sitting position. That dream… It was far too brief. Or was it? Just how much time did I waste weaving that world? But still… Even if brief, it was still a success. And now… I have never felt more hopeful.

I stand before the window. It faces west, towards the humble town where my beloved is now awakening. His memories of that identical dream world are now safely locked away; ready to be returned to him the instant his and my dreaming minds merge once more. Of course, it still must be refined. I must make certain that the flow of time in that world is inverted so it lasts longer than the night itself. Any fool can tell you that the night does not last quite as long as the day. I know I can make it happen. The next time he and I meet there, it will be for a full day. And yet…

…Why do I feel a tear trickle down my cheek? That dream… It was brief, yet so beautiful. This is finally the chance I have sought, and yet… I cannot forget that it is still just a dream. He and I are flesh and blood, even within this new world, and yet… In the end…

No… I will not dwell on that. If I can finally taste the true unfettered joy that comes from us being what we are meant to be together, then I will endure whatever agony I must to see it become a reality. Even if only in this false world. The world may be an illusion, but our love… It is as real as we are.

I must prepare for the day. I must keep up appearances. None must know of this new world I have woven. Nopony must ever see it besides him. Although I feel it would be wise to forego visiting that world for another night. To let he and I rest and to dream freely. I must pace myself.

The cogs have begun to turn. If my calculations are correct, finally… Finally, my dream… It will finally be a reality… Even if only as he and I dream together of what could have been. But…even then, dreams are but another reality.

Wait for me, my beloved. Soon, you and I will be together once more. In a world where you and I will reign. I love you, my king. I will see you again soon. Very soon…

The First Steps

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I had been so eager yet so uneasy about returning to the wonderful world I had woven in the depths of the dream realm. A world that exists only between two dreaming minds when they are linked in slumber. At long last, the impossible could be possible between he and I. My beloved was finally within reach. And yet...my timing could not have been worse.

Days... Just mere days after I crafted that beautiful other life for us to begin living, it happened. War. A declaration of war from one we had believed to be banished from the world of Equestria eons ago. Against all odds, he defied even the will of the Elements of Harmony and Humanity to cling desperately to a world he was no longer welcome in. And when word reached my beloved, he was the first to fetch his arms and armor. On wings of enchanted metal, he soared to the east to face the threat. A love for Equestria only one with the heart of a true king could ever hold driving him onward.

I did not allow my beloved to leave on his own. As soon as I leaned of his departure, there was no hesitation. I retrieved my finest armor and a bounty of supplies before rushing off to find him. I was fortunate enough to reach him before even a full day had gone by. And with only each other at our sides, we set off across the long dormant Empty Plains to face the threat.

It was...so tempting to reach out to him when all we had was each other for a time. There was even one moment when we were alone together where...we were on the verge of intimacy. His lips upon mine... His hands masterfully caressing and grasping my haunches... If he had persisted further, I have no doubt that I would have given myself to himself that night. I would have become his mare and queen right there. But we resisted that urge... And...I could have come to regret doing so in the realm of reality. With the threat of war looming over us, I had no choice but to set aside my ambitions for the time being. That world within the realm of dreams forged only for the two of us would have to wait.

And yet...I learned much about my beloved in the coming weeks. So cautious yet so brave, his heart...is like very few who have come before. For his dear wife, the bearer of the Element of Kindness herself, is not the only one his heart pines for. I have learned through careful observation that the bearer of the Element of Generosity herself also has fallen madly in love with him. And he loves her just as dearly. She was the first who became something more. At this moment, she is as much a bride to my beloved as she is a mother to the child that he has sired with his wife. They have become a true family, a term he always insists on using. It is not a product of lust or ego. It is all out of love. And...more have joined that growing family.

My beloved's boundless heart in the coming weeks has welcomed other hearts into his embrace. Beautiful and powerful souls who love him as dearly as he loves them. Even under the veil of war. The majestic yet wild Queen Novo of Capricorn Island. The ancient and serene Rain Shine of the Grove of Silence. Even the fledgling Dragon Lord herself have found such powerful romance with my beloved James. Even...my own sister. Celestia herself desires him.

It still astounds me how my eldest sister fell so madly in love with the man she and Luna brought to this world for such a daring project of reintroducing humanity to the world of Equestria. It was not planned. They were even distant at first. And it was Luna who bonded with the young human early on. But their friendship always remained just that. A friendship. But Celestia... For as much as my beloved adores the night, he has always been my guiding light. The sun to my moon. And like him, Celestia has always been Equestria's guiding light for so very long. They glow radiantly in their own ways. And that radiance...found kinship with each other. The Princess of the Dawn... Such honeyed words she has spoken to my beloved. A desire to crown him as her king if he would have her. Even a desire to mother his child. To bear him an heir if fate would be so kind. Even our Mother and Father defied all expectations by returning from the shadows during this crisis and have become very aware of the love between their firstborn and the bearer of Humanity. Father especially is excited at the prospect of the two of them providing them with grandchildren someday.

And even I... I too had the opportunity to become something more with him. I was reckless... I was determined to win over my fiery mother's adoration. When she appeared before us on the battlefield, I...cowered. I knew she was aware of where I had come from. And in spite of her fiery visage, her words were frigid as the arctic gales. She was correct in stating that I had not been born from her. And while she acknowledged and respected my presence as one of Equestria's true sovereigns, she rejected me as her child. But not Father. He held me and insisted that I give my mother time to contemplate my existence. And yet, I grew impatient. She rejected me again and I took it upon myself to prove to her that I was no demon. That I was as much a mare as Celestia and Luna. I charged into the enemy ranks to lay waste to them. I believed my power alone would be enough to counter their vast numbers.

But I was wrong. There were just too many. My focus was spread thin. Them pounded away at me even as my armor remained intact. I remember the world going dark as I fell with their armored boots stomping away at me. Beaten to within an inch of my life, I came to and beheld a ghastly sight. My beloved held aloft by the throat in the grasp of the one remaining soulless soldier under the control of our enemy. With what little strength I had left, I impaled and dissolved the enemy with a strike from below. When his eyes fell upon me... My beloved was in tears. He was alone with no allies at his side. Distraught with the rest of the enemy army gone... Did he do that all on his own? What did he do when he saw that I had fallen? Gone mad with grief? Laid waste to the enemy in bitter vengeance?

I tried to defy my injuries, but failed. I was on the verge of death, fearful that I may very well die that day. But Mother... She finally relented. She mended whatever wounds she could in my body before leaving the rest to the medics of the militia. And as soon as my condition had stabilized, he came to me. My beloved was the first to visit. And it was then that I had to acknowledge the possibility of death that constantly hung over us all. Even an immortal like me was not immune to murder. And I could not bear the prospect of leaving this world without telling him what was in my heart. So I did. I told my beloved the truth that had become real the night he returned to me and gave e all I could have ever wanted.

And...his response was mutual. He told me that all along, his heart longed for me too. He simply hid it, not certain if it was meant to be. And he was more right than he knew. He offered me a place in his family. A desire to see where things go once the war had come to an end. He was offering himself to me and I could have become his at long last.

But...I did not. I could not. I love him with every fiber of my being. I will always be his, but...I could never see myself being his while he belongs to others as well. I had to accept then...that I am selfish. Too selfish. If I were to accept his offer...I would be living a lie. I would not be happy if I was not the only mare who was his bride.

Perhaps it is just my nature as a nightmare. I was not born. I was spawned through a dark curse with origins that remain unknown to this day. I may be a mare, but I am still a demon. My very being remains permanently stained with shadows. And they are not benevolent shadows. To be selfish... To be aggressive... To be violent in times of crisis... It is who I am. Even if the love in my heart is pure, I am a mare of darkness. And darkness is tied too closely to evil. Perhaps some of that evil still lingers in me to this day. I am the Princess of Dreams. I am Equestria's ruler alongside my sisters. Ad yet...I am still tainted. For I love him. But I cannot give myself to him if he cannot be all mine.

That did not stop us. While we could never be truly together... His love for me and mine for him remained unchanged. And I do believe he has come to terms with this situation. For when we are alone and away from the eyes of the public... The way we hold each other... With every kiss upon our lips... It is always a moment of solace for us. For just a moment, we can cast aside the facade and reveal our hearts to each other.

And now that the war is over... Now that we have all healed and resumed the lives we had to leave behind for a while... I can finally resume making our dream a reality. My dear James can welcome as many wonderful women into his family as his heart will allow. More and more brides can find love with him. They can give him as many children as they desire. They can have each other. But in that world I have woven for us, he will be mine and mine alone.

As night falls over the land and my spell is in place, I suddenly recall one last detail that has come to pass during the war. Something that could potentially derail everything I have set in place. For some time, my sisters and I have partaken in an intriguing training regime with our dear James in the depths of his dreams. Every once in a while, a fictional being of great power and danger would be summoned from his deepest memories. And these mighty foes have always provided an ample challenge for the four of us. A machine warrior wielding a sword of purple light. A demonic knight in azure armor wielding a massive blade of flesh and steel. A dark devil wyrm combating us in a sky of crimson clouds. And yet... With that last one... We were joined by an ally.

Our main opponent that night was not the first we had to face. He unleashed a devoted pawn onto us first. A dragoness held captive by a dark curse that I sensed within her almost immediately. And so we set out not to slay her, but to free her. I tore that curse from her body while my companions annihilated it once it was removed from her very being. The poor little thing... Freed from the curse, she regressed to a much smaller and fragile form. That little wyrm... I saw so much of myself in her that night. A pawn shackled by the shadowy chains of another for so long against her will...

While we did succeed in slaying her vile master that night, he still had the last laugh. The sky temple we had dueled him upon in the end plummeted to the planet below. And I witnessed the end of a world. Wracked by volcanic cataclysms, the world none of us knew exploded in our very faces. The only way to survive was for Luna and myself to wipe the slate clean. Reduce my beloved's dreaming mind to a blank canvas. And yet, that little wyrm remained.

We did what we could to soothe her. Luna and I wove a beautiful enchanted vale for us to rest in after such a harrowing ordeal. And he remained by her side. My beloved was most kind to her in her time of need. He barely even knew anything about her, yet did what he could to ease her fractured soul. As did we. The poor child had no world to return to. No one to be by her side. But we all told her kind words. Did whatever we could to ease any lingering guilt in her heart. And I do believe we succeeded. For she then went for a stroll to clear her head. But not to be alone. She beckoned my beloved to follow her. So he did while we remained behind to merely speak amongst ourselves. Wherever it is they went, we did not see them again before the dream ended.

That would have been the end of that story. Or so I believed. And yet, not that much later, I joined my beloved in his dreaming mind once again to provide him with solace during a night of calm in the war. But...I sensed a presence. An actual presence at the edge of his dreaming mind. And it was longing for him.

I signaled the presence to approach us. And it did. And it was her. The little wyrm, with no world to return to, had become a vagabond adrift in the mind of her dreamer. Barely aware of anything until called to his side. They were...nearly overjoyed to be together again. And his heart was in a fragile state. So I entrusted him to the little wyrm to watch over him that night. A role she eagerly accepted.

I left them to their own devices that night, but I did keep watch from a great distance. And I could see why she longed for him so dearly. They adored each other. Just so happy to be together. And at the very end... She took hold of him. The poor creature knows nothing of her existence as a mere product of her dreamer's mind, yet...she desired. She sought to follow him wherever he may go. This dream wyrm...was becoming alive.

I could not watch idly. The instant the dream ended, I took hold of her and retreated to the nexus between all dreams within the dream realm. With her dreamer's awakening, she had begun to slumber again. And I felt such a profound sense of solidarity with the poor soul. So different...yet so similar. I could see and sense it within her. She wanted to be with him. To be his. Yet it could never be.

I awoke from that realm and found my beloved crestfallen over awakening without his dear companion by his side. I spoke kindly to him to try and lift his spirits. And the discussion turned to a very bold topic. The concept of dream entities being drawn out of the dream realm and into the realm of reality.

It is a concept Luna and I have been researching heavily in recent weeks. And while the means to achieve it is currently out of reach, we believe it is possible. And I wish to see it happen. I feel a connection with that little dream wyrm. I see so much of myself in her. And I see how fate has conspired against her to deny her what she rightfully deserves. If I have found a means to defy fate to attain my heart's desires, then I wish to see hers become reality too.

And yet...not long after the war ended, complications arose. That little wyrm had returned to his side once again without my knowledge beforehand. And one night, I sensed that my beloved's dreaming mind was in turmoil. A most wretched nightmare was plaguing him. Luna and I swiftly came to his aid to rescue him from the shadows. But the source of his pain...was the little wyrm.

She knew. She had learned of how his heart functions and the many lovers that have become part of his family. But instead of inquiring further or allowing him to reveal to her the beauty of such a bold relationship, she assumed the worst. Worse than any had ever done before. And through that bitter sense of false betrayal, she corrupted herself. As large as when we first found her and shrouded by a shadowy aura, she had already maimed my beloved by the time Luna and I arrived. Even when I explained my own heart to her, she refused to even entertain the notion of such love being possible. With the sudden arrival of our father, we successfully subdued her. And only then did she allow herself to listen. She dearly wanted to be proven wrong.

What followed was a genuinely lovely time atop a sea of clouds beneath the night sky. My beloved requested the arrival of his wife as well as Novo and the Dragon Lord herself. They each explained in great detail how they had found love with my dear James. Such beautiful tales... And she was moved. She understood then and there. And...she understood the folly of her actions and beliefs.

I learned later that the little wyrm was not under the influence of a lingering curse like her form had led me to suspect. Her actions that night, the lies she told herself that were easier to believe than the beautiful truth, were entirely hers and hers alone. The sins carried out that night and the resulting remorse belonged only to her. My beloved could no longer trust after her attempt on his life. At least for now. I am convinced that she will eventually return to his side when the time is right. For I know...that she longs for him. She desires him in a manner not dissimilar to how I desire my beloved.

She remains in hiding at this moment. But not exactly adrift like before. The little wyrm... The dream dragoness is not simply existing in accordance to the whims of her dreamer's mind. She is alive. She survived the destruction of her world and has now lingered long enough to develop her own will. At this moment, I do believe it is only a matter of time before Luna and I cross the threshold and find a means to drag her out of the dream realm and into the realm of reality.

But until then...she remains tethered to the dream realm. She can come and go from my beloved's dreams as she sees fit. Which means that when my dreaming mind links with his to restore the world I wove for us, she could invade at any time. And if that little wyrm resembles me as much as I suspect she does... I do believe that she would be fiercely protective of him if she believed he has been wronged.

I know that what I am doing is selfish. And many would condemn this ambition of mine. I fear that should she discover the world that exists only between his dreaming mind and mine, it would only be a matter of time before...

It is not only for our sake. It is also for hers. She must not know the true nature of her nonexistence as a dream entity. Not until it is time for her to enter the realm of reality. The consequences of her learning such a bitter truth, especially upon learning of this other world he and I reside in during our shared dream... They would be most dire. For her sake and for ours, I must take steps to lock her out of our world when he and I dream together. And I must redouble my efforts to find that breakthrough in bringing her into the real world. For once that little wyrm is out of the dream realm, she no longer be able to interfere with us.

I have mused over this enough. I must sleep and return to my beloved. And so I rest. My magic is ready. Once my mind begins to dream, I find myself within the nexus of my domain. I know where I must be. His mind is so easy to locate. It resonates a unique presence. The only dreaming mind at the time that belongs to a human. But rather than enter, I bring his dream to my own. And they merge once again. And I can see it... The other Equestria that is not Equestria.

It has been too long since I was last here... I forgot how...uncanny this world feels. Alive and real, yet not quite. I nearly falter as I stand in my chambers. Nearly no different to how it looks in the waking world. This world nearly feels indistinguishable from reality. But...I must persevere. I know he needs me. I know he wants me. And there is no other way to make it happen.

The night is young. I did not spend goodness knows how long weaving this world tonight. I should have ample time to spend with my dear. Now that this world has come out of stasis for the first time in weeks, I must wonder what has occurred... Has time flowed here despite my absence and the lack of my beloved's awareness?

I avoid the guards within the palace where I can. And I must evade the attention of my sisters. Even if they are not quite the sisters I am most familiar with. After so long away, there is only one place I wish to be. The sky is clear and the sun shines bright in the late morning. I spread my wings and take to the air. Ponyville lies below.

I recall... My beloved James does not reside in Fluttershy's cottage in this world. He resides with the bearer of the Element of Generosity. Was that how it went for him shortly after his arrival in Equestria? I could certainly see why. Out of the six Elements of Harmony, James has always resonated with Generosity the most. He always has had a mutual bond with the bearer of Generosity. Not simply a man of boundless love, he is also privy to the arts like she is. Oh dear... What if something has changed between them during my absence from our world? Has his dreaming mind found love with her? I certainly hope not...

The town square spreads out below me as I descend. And I see my destination. The local spa. He has always been good with using his hands and the locals of Ponyville do appreciate how his fingers and palms can soothe their bodies. Some of the locals see my arrival and bow to me. Even here, I am still the Princess of Dreams and these are my people. But enough delays. I am certain he waits within the spa.

Even in this other Equestria, there is still a society at work. A society that runs on its own economy. I cannot simply barge in. I must have a reason for being here. With a quick weaving of my magic, I produce a cluster of bits and provide them to the mare at the front desk with a request for their massage services. They wish me well and send me in and...

There he is. Like any other day in Ponyville, he stands by the massage tables and notices me immediately. And he is quite surprised, as am I. It has been much too long since I last visited the spa for their services. But I must remain professional for now. Patience, Nightmare Moon. Even I cannot force this man to love me. Nor would I want to. Such trust must be built gradually brick by brick.

Nothing but small talk at first. Act like nothing is amiss. This is a world where we shall live another life all to ourselves. But I did pay for his services, so now his must oblige. I rest upon the massage table and he starts with my wings... Oh yes, I did not realize how much they needed this. Many do not realize how strained the wings can become with extensive use.

Bit by bit, he tends to my body. I inquire about how life in Ponyville has been to him and he replies happily. Nothing but good friends around him. And it sounds as if none of those friends are advancing beyond the veil of platonic desires. He is still mine for the taking.

His hands masterfully knead the muscles in my neck and face. Pressing into my shoulders... Oof, I forgot he had learned how to do that. He has learned to utilize his elbows where the muscle on my body is thicker. Splendid results!

Now he is atop me. Some areas are best dealt with from above. I do believe all that remains are my flanks. His fingers press firmly into my powerful haunches. And he carefully dances around my cutie mark. But the results are not the same while avoiding so much. My cutie mark has always covered a sizeable portion of my flank despite how sensitive it can be. The way he skirts about the edges... He wants to give me the full treatment, yet does not wish to be indecent about it.

There is no need to hold back, my love. In this world, my body is yours. I give him permission to do what he must to satisfy me. And so he does. His fingers... Mmph, such a fine touch. Every contour of my flanks kneaded by the fingers of an artist. My nerves alight with every prod. Compose yourself, Nightmare Moon. There are other customers about. Do not draw attention... Ah!

That was... His touch for just a moment was...too firm. Pressed too deeply into my... There! Again! James, what are you doing? You know those are sensitive... Again! No, he is not making mistakes with how much pressure he is applying... This is deliberate. He is...pleasuring me.

James, it is not like you to do this. I know you would not take advantage of your customers like this... Oh heavens, his caress... He knows exactly what he is doing... And I welcome it. Why give me such pleasure, my love? What has changed since I last saw you in our world? Does your love for me...permeate into your dreaming mind even now?

Now...he is not relenting... Massaging me so deeply... Deeper than necessary... All for the sake of giving me pleasure. He does not speak... And I must not squeal. I must contain myself... James, please! No more! I do not wish to expose you here! I...can't...stay quiet...

Too close... He finally relented. By the stars, I hope my scent has not spread too far through the air. And now he dismounts me. And...my goodness, such a timid look on his face. He knows what he did. Gently now... I did not reach climax. That would have been most unbecoming of me to let that happen in a public space.

My body desires more... Not here. Not yet. Oh dear, that face. He knows what he did. Perhaps I should jest with him for a moment. Yes, why apply so much pressure to my royal cutie marks for so long? You cheeky yet wonderful man.

So demure and timid when backed into a corner. Beckon me closer for a whisper? Very well then... Ah... Simply desiring to make me feel...happy? My love, I know you would not do that for just any mare. Such a deliberate caress would only be reserved for the mares who have become your brides... Our experiences on the battlefield... Do they still blanket your heart even now? Such a tender touch... Is the love we found even then seeping into your dreaming mind? Are you desiring me as I desire you?

Compose yourself, Nightmare Moon. Not too fast. And I must say that his services truly did wonders. I can feel every little kink loosened up as I flex and stretch my body. Mm, yes! No wonder his 'magic fingers' are so sought after. Although...I see his eyes watching me. Observing me. Admiring the results of his craft? Or...something more?

Perhaps an opportunity has revealed itself. Perhaps...he desires an evening with me? Once his shift ends? Is that what your gaze is telling me? Perhaps we could...spend an evening at the café together tonight? Would he...want that?

He does... Be still, my heart. He wishes to join me this evening... The pieces are falling into place. But I should not linger here for too long. Even after working to insure that this dream does not end too soon, I must spend my time wisely. But still... Candlelight dinner? The two of us? We have not engaged in such cozy intimacy since before the militia reached us on the Empty Plains. And even then, I had to hide my heart from him until the proper time. But for now, I must depart.

Drat, my body... So flustered from his caresses... He knew what he was doing, that clever man. Trying to bring me pleasure of the finest ecstasy. But...I cannot ignore it... Where do I go? I stand out too much in Ponyville. Celestia and Luna will surely give me a scolding if I return to Canterlot to retreat into my chambers...

Wait just a moment... Perhaps... Where it all began. Yes... Far from prying eyes. And so I take to the sky. But instead of flying east towards Canterlot, I soar west. Out and over the vast green canopy of the Everfree Forest. I know it is out there... I never looked back once after leaving that ancient obelisk behind. It is so quiet out here... The perfect place to be alone with my thoughts. And my needs...

Did I fail to recreate it when I wove this world? Does it simply not exist in this world? No, I distinctly recall the very night I came to exist. It was deep within the forest... There! It still stands! Or rather whatever is left of it.

The first castle Celestia and I reigned from while Luna and I were still one. So little remains, but that clearing is impossible to miss. As I circle it... By the stars, even the scars remain. The gaping hole at the back of the hall I blew my beloved through with sheer force... Nothing has changed since that day.

I departed this hall through that gaping opening and now I return through it. Everything has come full circle. This great hall... The remnants of our throne room served as my prison for some time after that fateful night. The Elements of Harmony should have erased me. And yet, they showed mercy. Reduced to a shadow, I was separated from my former self. And with every passing night, I regained a glimmer of my strength. To think that this room... This empty chamber is where I became whole and my own mare. And...where he first came to me.

He spoke kindly to me that night. A lost soul seeking shelter from the wild denizens of the Everfree Forest. I knew nothing of how a human could even be in Equestria after they went extinct so long ago, but I did not question it. There was no wariness in those eyes and voice even as he showed that he knew of my legacy. The first human in eons and he showed me kindness. It was...the first time I ad ever received words of appreciation for my beautiful night. As myself or Luna. And...I wanted to protect that precious man. Even with what little strength I had at the time, I wanted to keep that kind soul safe. And when I finally regained enough strength to become more than a shadow... To become a mare of flesh and blood... I summoned him back to me by gifting him a night that never ends. And he came.

What a mess of a night that was... He opened my eyes to the dark truths of what a world without the sun would experience. And in spite of his kind words and adoration of me, the Elements of Harmony still arrived. What followed was...

I just wish to put that day behind me. We all do. But I still so dearly wanted him by my side. I was falling so dearly in love with that wonderful man. I wanted him. And...I still want him... I need him...

My body craves him... He knew what he was doing when he pressed his hands so firmly into my flanks. Such pleasure... Just like the one and only time we became something more. A beautiful shared dream that I made certain he could not remember. It was a moment of selfish weakness, but a night without consequence. Only now... Now, it can truly be in this other world. An Equestria all to ourselves where what could not have been shall be. He will be mine and I will be his and...

Drat, I cannot ignore this need... No one around to see or hear... I need release. I...must...

Oh yes... Let my thoughts wander... Let me mind think of only you, my love. Your kind words and touch. Your patient heart. Even when things between us were much more platonic, you always adored being by my side. And now... Under the veil of war, that friendship...blossomed into love. I know you want me, even if I cannot have you. Not in the realm of reality. But in our own reality...

I can...already feel him inside me... Yes, my darling James... My future king... Mm, yes... I will be your mare at last. I will be your queen of the night. No matter what happens in the waking world, we will always have each other here. Eyes only for each other. I can feel his caress... I can still remember his hands upon my royal haunches...

He was...so good to me the one time it happened in a dream he will never remember. It was the one time he showed what was truly in his heart. He could have broken me right then, but he held me. And he...made such sweet love to me. I can still feel that pleasure even now... Thrusting deep within... Filling me with his blessing... Oh, if only I was deep in my heat at the time...

My heat... When I am... Oh, my love... If only... Will we be so blessed in this world that we can go even further? Will you sire me an heir? I cannot be a proper queen unless you bless me with children...

I want it... How I have longed for that beautiful fantasy to become reality... I would gladly bear him sons and daughters...

So...wonderful... This pleasure... James, my love... Yes, please... Be my king... Sire my heirs! I will gladly bear your legacy! Let me mother your child... A darling colt, a precious filly, it matters not which! Fill me, my love! Breed your queen! Make me yours! Fill me with our beautiful heirs!

So...intense... Collapsed to the floor, I can barely move... Oh, I will give that man such beautiful foals... He will be overjoyed when we are finally blessed with children... Beautiful royal children... I know he desires to be a father... To have a family... And I...will give him that royal family in due time... My love. My king. My husband... Just need to be patient...

Look at me... How scandalous. The mighty Princess of Dreams lusting so hard after my beloved on the first day back into this world I wove for the two of us... I wonder... Does he lust for me all the same? I would gladly open my loins to him if he wished it... And yet...I was not the first of the Equestrian royal family that he claimed in the bedroom...

Celestia. Such sweet honeyed words you have spoken to that man. And the love between you is true. Your love has been blessed by Mother and Father. You seek to crown him as your king should the opportunity arise. And even more than that... You seek to bear his foal. To bear him an heir and make him the father of the next generation of the royal family.

No... No, sister. Not this time. You will not take this from me. This will be the one time you will not precede me. You will not be blessed with the honor of being the first to bear his royal children. That honor will be mine and mine alone. No matter what happens in the waking world, I swear that I will be the first to conceive an heir with him. The firstborn of the next generation of the royal family will be mine, not yours.

Patience, Nightmare Moon. Patience. With how much power I possess in this realm, it is so tempting to just rush ahead. But I cannot control him. He is the one thing I hold no sway over in this world. Like with every beloved he holds in the waking world, each different love required ample time to build and in the correct circumstances. I must be patient and let things come naturally. I will have what is rightfully owed to me. But as they say, the journey is the destination. And I will be journeying with him by my side.

So then... What now? My beloved's shift has not ended at the spa. I should not return just yet. I shall arrive at closing time. Perhaps walk him home as the sunset begins. But until then... I shall return to Canterlot to pass the time. Tend to my duties there to keep my two false sisters from suspecting anything is amiss. I wish to avoid forcing any direct control onto anything or anyone here. This is meant to be a world for us to live the life we both desire. Not a toy for me to get what I want on every whim.

I soar to the east with that mountain on the distant horizon. And upon arriving, I am beset by the Celestia who reigns over this world. She is annoyed yet cracks a quip here and there, more than likely too aware of exactly who I ran off to see. I must keep up appearances for the moment.

Not that I ever had much love for the legislative side of leadership to begin with, but these meetings are so much more dreadful than they ever were in the waking world. I simply cannot focus. My mind is elsewhere. I cannot stop thinking about him now that there is so little to interfere between us... Just a little longer...

My false sisters are a little too aware of how distracted I am. And they allow me to take my leave earlier than usual. So kind of them. Even here, they are still the Celestia and Luna I know. And they let me depart at a good time. The sun is setting. He will be heading off for home soon. And so I descend upon Ponyville again.

The spa does not seem vacant... Although I am certain they are no longer accepting customers at this time. Should I enter? No, not the door opens. And there he is. I made it just in time.

Hello there, my friend. Or so I say. I know we have been much more than friends for some time now. And we will be even more than in due time. But for now, just along. Baby steps, as they say. He is certainly surprised to see me again on the same day, but does not reject me. Such a look of joy. And he swiftly steps forward to put his arms around me. You have always adored me, my love... And it shines through even now.

I fear it may not be much longer before the dream ends. I still have not perfected the correct flow of time here. Night has not fallen yet and the sun could be rising upon my sleeping body even now. Luna handles the movements of the moon, not me. We likely do not even have time for an evening meal together like we had planned. With so little time left, I offer what little I can. I insist I escort him home. And he accepts.

The streets of Ponyville are quiet at this hour. Not as many are about as before. And those who are seem to be giving us a wide berth. Perhaps they can see that the two of us are here for each other and not them. He is staying close to me, but has little to say. Is he troubled? At a loss for words? You always did listen more than you speak, my love.

Ah, I see now. He keeps fidgeting with his hand that is nearest to me. He wishes to hold me. His body betrays what is truly in his heart. Then hold me, my love. Hold me as I hold you. His arm drapes across my shoulders while I wrap him in my sable wing. The air is a bit cool right now... I appreciate the warmth of his embrace.

It is most quiet near Carousel Boutique. The southeastern edge of town is one of the least populated corners of Ponyville. Peace and quiet for an artist such as Rarity. With the sun so low on the western horizon now, we turn to face each other in farewell. And yet...I can see the hesitation in his eyes. He does not wish to let go.

I do not wish to depart. But our dreaming minds will not remain asleep for much longer. I can already feel the ripples of awakening quivering through the air. So I promise him... Vow to see him again very soon. And we rest our brows against each other. Eyes closed... Quiet breaths... Savoring a moment longer together.

It is best that you leave me be now, my love. Before the veil lifts. He enters Carousel Boutique and looks back at me one last time. And not too soon. I can see the horizon fading into a white void.

I now awaken in my bed. And with such a sense of relief over me. It was the first full day in our own little world after having weaved it for us. And...it went well. Very well. The only question now is...when should we meet again?

I must pace myself with this. Perhaps...in a week? Same time next week? It would be wise to keep our visits to that world infrequent. Heaven forbid Luna or Father enters it while it is manifested. And that little wyrm... She must be kept out as well.

It is another new day in this corner of Equestria. And I feel...confident in this endeavor. But the guilt is still there. I have created not simply a dream for us. That world...felt too real. I had forgotten how lucid it feels just being there. Even more so than the usual lucidity of a shared dream. This is a selfish deed I am doing...but it harms no one. His memories of each visit remain safely locked away upon awakening. Our experiences there will not impact his daily life if he cannot recall the other life he is living once in a while.

Perhaps this guilt will fade in due time. I am still uneasy, but perhaps the repetition and settling into that second life will soothe my heart. I know we will be happy together. He is not being harmed by this, nor is anyone else. But what to do next time? Perhaps...candlelight dinner? Yes, I really must see to it that the flow of time is adjusted to allow that next time. I was so looking forward to sharing a bottle of wine with him...

With that world buried for now, I must return to my duties. And I feel...so fulfilled knowing that I am on the right track with this. It has begun. I shall return to you soon, my love. We will belong to each other someday. I swear it.

Sonata by Moonlight

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Seven days. I have been dearly anticipating the next time I would be entering the world I have woven for my beloved and I. And during that wait, I have been honing my skills in the dream realm. Tugging on the threads hold each dream together, seeing what makes each world tick. How to slow and speed up the passage of time. The average dreamer only sleeps for a total of eight hours. Sometimes even less. But there are much more than eight hours in a full day.

I have only seen my beloved twice in the depths of that beautiful paradise. Only twice, yet every visit felt much too brief. He would not remember such a phenomenon. Each visit would plant new memories of the time spent apart. Memories of him living a life that happens even when he is not aware of it. But the memories that would matter most would be those we create together.

Such anxiousness with every passing day. I was able to keep up appearances in the first few days. Telling lies became easier with each conversation. My sisters and parents suspect nothing. And I have carried on with my duties and with my research. Still nothing concrete yet on how to bridge the realms of dream and reality for someone other than myself. But I know it is possible. Or it should be possible in theory.

But tonight... This would be the night where he and I would reunite in a world meant just for the two of us. And I am so anxious that I fear I may not even be able to sleep. But I must. Warm soothing tea. And a rainstorm is falling over Canterlot. That gentle pattering of rain upon the roof and the windows is just the soothing serenade I need. And tonight... I pray that I have learned of how exactly to have the flow of time be sufficient for a full day in the realm of dreams.

My spell is in place and I begin to slumber. The dream nexus spreads out before me like countless times before. A sea of fog beneath an ocean of stars. And there is only one dream I wish to visit. One of my own and his. And with the summoning of a rift in space, I enter.

It still strikes me as ironic as I begin this dream within my own chambers. It was as if I sleep through the night in its entirety and morning has already come. No pattering of rain or the occasional rumble of thunder. As with every day in the realm of reality, my day in this alternate reality begins in my bedchambers. And hopefully this woudl be the day where a full day would be ours to experience together. They say the third time is the charm.

I must play along for the first hour or so. Greeting my false sisters, joining them for our morning meal. It still astounds me just how...real this world feels. There have been times where I momentarily forget that the world I am in is not in the realm of reality and believed that I was merely living my day to day life. What a paradox, dreaming only to feel like one is not dreaming to begin with! Were I to completely fall for the illusion, would I awaken exhausted as if I had never rested to begin with?

I can only wonder what happens in this world when I am not consciously present to witness it. Celestia and Luna... They teasingly whisper to me on occasion. Asking about my 'charming knight' in Ponyville. Do they know? What has happened in this world while I am away? Something must have happened. Or perhaps they can truly see just how madly in love I am with my future king.

I play along with the illusion. They feel too real and sincere to just be mere mirages. This world is alive as are those who reside in it. I do tell them how my heart pines for the fledgling knight who rescued me from myself that fateful night. And...they approve. Wholeheartedly! I feel simply giddy with mirth! Celestia, you may be set to be his queen in the waking world. But her, she seems to harbor no such feelings of romance and desire towards him. If anything, she seems excited at the thought of that wonderful man joining the royal family as my king. My sisters were always kind and accommodating to him even before my sister of the dawn found love with him.

What is with that knowing smirk each of them share? Not simply teasing me... Goodness, my face is flushed. My sisters know all too well how much I desire that man. And...a knock at the great door to the throne room? Ah, I see glances you two are giving me! Neither of you can keep a straight face! What do you two know?

One of the guards enter. A visitor requesting an audience...with me? I shall see to this myself. The way my sisters giggle amongst themselves... Did they arrange for this? Did they send for someone?

I trot down the halls towards the main entrance hall with the guard as my escort. This apprehension in my heart... I feel like I know exactly who has arrived at our castle gates. And once I arrive at the top of that grand staircase... There he stands. Two guards carrying spears at his side... Whatever are you two doing?! Leave his side! You dare suspect foul play from a hero?!

I must remind myself that I wove this world well before certain changes happened. This wonderful world crafted in one night only for war to follow mere days later. My beloved does not carry the honor of knighthood in this world. Mother and Father do not exist alongside my sisters. And there will be no risk of war. And now... Only he stands before me.

What brings you here today, my love? It is a long ride up the mountain from Ponyville. Of course, my sisters did provide you with a lifetime pass for that train line. And they requested you visit today? For...me? Ohohoho, Celestia and Luna. Playing Eros today, are we? Truly, be they dream or reality, they have always been fine sisters to me.

But...what now? Have they arranged for me to take leave of my duties for the day? I am the one who must entertain our guest. But...but... Ack, why must my heart and nerves be at odds with each other now?! This is not like how things are between us in the waking world! We have had time to grow together...yet not be able to truly be together. But now... What do I do?! Everything has returned to being barely more than a blank slate! For all we have been through, I am so inexperienced in the art of courtship at the earliest levels...

What is this? He...appears to be equally unsure of himself. Standoffish and...shy. Much shyer than he usually tends to be. The guards have all departed. We stand alone in this vast empty hall. And...he apologizes? For getting too bold with that massage session a week ago?

My love... I know exactly what you were conveying with that masterful touch. But I cannot tell him that. Not yet. I know he longs for me as I long for him. The buds have formed. But we must nourish their roots to give them time to blossom. I bring my horn to his scalp and gaze into those lovely eyes of earthen brown. Do not be ashamed, my dear. You would not do that for just any mare. But what now? You are here for me, yes? We have the entire day to ourselves.

Yes... An embrace. A means to soothe our nerves. Hold me for a moment as I hold you. I pray that I have truly found the means to have an entire day's worth of hours pass before we can awaken back to the realm of reality. Now then, my dear... How about we vacate the premises and have a day out on the town? You seldom even visit Canterlot to begin with. Plenty still to discover.

My heart refuses to be still... Our courtship has properly begun as we depart the castle. What is that term? A...date? The Princess of Dreams...on her first date. Ugh, I feel old. I am truly ageless, yet I suddenly feel like an old crone. When I imagine a date, I see fillies and colts who are not quite mares and stallions gallivanting about town with their own budding inexperienced relationships. Sharing a milkshake at the café, visiting the local cinema, watching the sun setting over the horizon... And yet I only now am on my very first date. A late bloomer, one might say...

Hm? Oh my, even he appears to find some awkwardness in the situation. The poor dear is only in his mid 20s, yet even he is inexperienced in such affairs. I know his story. He knew love once. With a young human woman of his world. But it was a love conveyed through text and sound and never through touch. And when the time finally come for them to hold each other, the facade came crashing down. A deranged and deceptive wench hailing from a clan of vice and lunacy. They all deceived him. And she hurt him. Robbed him. And sent him home with three years of devotion built upon a world of lies being all for naught. The one time he flew close enough to the moon to hold it, he discovered too late that the glow of the moon was the scorching blaze of the sun.

But not me. I will never scorch my beloved. For I am the gentle glow of the moon he so dearly cherishes. I will be his moon and he will be my sun. I shall soothe him in the night while his gentle blaze will always serve as my guiding light. James, my love. Even if you do not know it yet, you will always be safe under my wings.

He remains close to me. Almost as if not comfortable or feeling out of place amongst the great pale and golden spires of Canterlot. I can see that he hails from humbler roots. The concept of possessing such riches that Canterlot has developed a reputation for providing is almost alien to him. I can see that he could never imagine himself being among the elite. Never one to regularly don a tuxedo. Or to spend hundreds of bits on a single bottle of the finest wine. He is a much more frugal man than that. And I adore him for that. Royalty I may be, yet I love how this wonderful man understands what truly matters in life. Knowing this... A love blooming between princess and commoner? Intriguing. I would even say inspiring. If only I did not have to keep quiet about this affair, I am certain someone would be very eager to write a novel about such a daring romance.

And yet... Hmph, how odd. I only just now see that he is not the only one who is out of place in the city of Canterlot. Where Celestia has always blended in quite well with her pale form and regalia of shimmering gold and Luna's cooler colors compliment the pale purples that spot the architecture, I...do not blend in so well. My sable form makes me stand out like a splash of ink. At one time, the sight of me strolling down the streets would have invoked terror among the populace. But now, even in this world of illusion given life, they instead hearken me with smiles and adoration. I belong...yet do not fit in. And in that regard, he and I are the same.

Enough aimless wandering. I hunger in this world of dreams. But where to dine for our midday meal? That aroma on the breeze... Pizza. An unmistakable aroma of baking dough and savory spices. Simple and popular among the commoners, yet famous for its versatility. And that pizzeria... I do believe James and my sister took the time to dine there together so shortly after Discord's demise.

Bah, enough of these royal protocols. I see him eyeing that location hungrily. Come, my dear. Let us sate our appetites with cuisine that all can enjoy. Oh, do not be so coy. A princess can enjoy common fare as well as the common folk. Please, my dear James. I insist we dine here.

Ah, the aroma is thick in this place. It is whetting my appetite. And the customers, there being many in the middle of the day, all cast their eyes upon me and so little upon my beloved. If only this were the realm of reality, they would surely be casting him some greetings as well. He may have been knighted there, but not here. But perhaps that is for the best. One would expect a princess to woo a decorated knight, but never a commoner known to few.

I like the look of these salads on the menu. And these choices... Mushrooms of many types on an olive oil sauce? The classic and juicy margherita? Mm, why do we not partake in this cuisine more often? Although it would be quite a sight to see a stack of pizzas delivered to the castle. The guards already routinely have stacks of donuts delivered there to begin with.

The margherita it is. What now then as we wait? The atmosphere is lively and the interior design festive. And that music being played over the clamor... Delightfully rustic. Ah, I see that gaze in his eyes. We do not get to see each other alone like this often, do we? Even before the war.

Please, my dear... Hold my hoof? None shall notice with the table cloth draped between us and them. Ah, my metal shoe is not the most comfortable thing to hold. Yes, set it aside for now. There... Always a tender touch. Never a warrior. Always the poet. I know it has likely been said many times, but this man has always had the hands of an artist. Hands meant to nurture and create and never destroy.

Artist... Ah, that has given me an epiphany. Canterlot is famous for its appreciation of the arts. And it has been quite some time since we last visited one of the museums together. Perhaps they could be our next destination. Do you agree, my dear?

It is settled. The nearest art gallery shall be next. But until then... Please continue to hold my hoof, my dear James. I know I lack the fingers needed to mirror your grasp. I cannot hold your hand like the Dragon Lord can. But your touch is comforting all the same. I vow to hold you in my wings as soon as I can away from prying eyes.

His grasp only loosens once our meal arrives. Crisp assorted lettuce sprinkled with cheeses and slices of juicy tomatoes spread across a pizza with thick patches of white spotting that zesty sauce. Dream or no dream, I am famished! Let us feast!

Utterly delightful. Pizza has such an undeserved reputation as a simple or silly food. There is an art to this type of food. No wonder it is so popular with the common folk. He and I do not speak as much as we dine, but the shared joy of a good meal is palpable. And we depart with full hearts and equally full stomachs. But the day is still young. Onward to the gallery.

It is unfortunate that I had to include an undesirable demographic when I wove this world. Canterlot would not be Canterlot without the elite. There are few saints among them. Some are still altruistic enough in spite of their arrogance. And too many are simply detestable. The closer we draw towards the finer establishments of Canterlot, the more numerous they become. And now I can feel their gazes providing us with the kind of attention that I so dearly did not desire.

I know what they are thinking. Whatever is this commoner doing in the company of one of Equestria's true sovereigns? And it is most unfortunate that at least a few of them have become enemies of my beloved. The gall of those two, nearly assaulting him with a bread knife right in front of my sisters and I. The audacity of the Canterlot elite knows no bounds. And their egos know no restraint. I can only imagine what unpleasantness Celestia was subjected to when the two of them were out and about with each other.

I am nearly surprised that none approach or even dare speak up against the two of us. They even seem to be giving us a wide berth. Perhaps my reputation precedes me. Being the black sheep of the royal family does carry some perks, I suppose. Yes, mind your distances. You would be wise to not accost my future king, you pretentious fops. What is that, my dear? You are surprised by their lack of input? Ah, you smirk as I do. You know exactly why.

The first art gallery on our list. I can only wonder if anything in here even exists in the realm of reality. And yet my beloved is very taken with all on display. Canvases and sculptures being observed and appraised by commoner and elite alike. More prying eyes... Perhaps our people believe I am giving this man a guided tour out of some form of obligation. But my dear James does not appear to notice. He is more taken with being in his element.

The more abstract paintings and creations do not seem to interest him as much. He barely observes for more than a moment before moving on to the next. He is a man who prefers clarity over conjecture. A man who seeks the truth instead of endless pondering and debating the what ifs and maybes. A clear vision with proper definition. I dare not inquire as to why, but it is an admirable perspective. Why waste time and effort confusing each other over hypotheses when one could establish what is real and what is not?

James is much more taken with the impressionist caste of paintings. He is especially impressed with those where the artist applied excessive amounts of paint in a manner where certain sections of the image literally reach out. Almost as if one could reach in and touch what the artist was seeing. He is so very tempted to caress the painting, yet resists the urge. His gentle hands would cause no harm to the artifact, although I doubt the museum curators would agree.

I myself appreciate even the more abstract items on display. Perhaps it is in my nature as the Princess of Dreams. The nature of the dream realm is inherently abstract. Veils that twist and bend, defying reality to display even the impossible upon the lids of a dreamer's eyes. Always shifting and changing, no two dreams being alike. And when not lucid, it is always a challenge just to recall clearly what one saw before awakening just for the memories to become nearly impossible to recall. As if the experience was seen through a lens of impressionism before suddenly shifting to a lens set to a cubism setting.

He and I have become so taken by all that is on display that I failed to realize we have become separated. No need to panic. He will not depart without me and the walls of this world remain stable. It is much to soon for him to wake up. Although by now... Yes, I believe I have had my fill. How long have we been wandering the exhibits? Let me see if I can find him near the entrance.

There he is. A fine time together, yes? We could visit the other galleries and museums, but I fear that would be too excessive. I do not wish to bore my beloved. Perhaps...something a bit more invigorating to excite the senses instead of soothing them? Let us return to the castle. I know just the thing to add some variety to our time together.

I guide my dear James back into the vast halls of the my home and out to the courtyard. Wait here for me while I fetch us some...toys to play with. Toys that he is very adept with. Instead of a visit to my chambers, I pay a visit to the armory. There is one art form my beloved is most appreciative of and...oh... Oh dear.

After having to redesign our armor and rescale our weapons during the War of Preservation, I had forgotten how...undersized the weapons of the royal guard is compared to those wielded by creatures of greater stature. While ideal for ponies, these swords are simply too small for a towering human warrior. What to do...

No one is...watching, yes? I must keep up the illusion around him, but perhaps here... Yes, this will do nicely. The dream realm is mine to weave as I see fit. A little stretch here and...there. Perfectly scaled for human use. A fine saber for him. But...I do believe I would prefer a rapier. These diminutive blades are too small even for me. I wonder if a little dueling experience will stick with James even with his memories of tonight being left buried until our next venture? Even if his mind fails to recall the experience, perhaps his body will remember when needed.

I had best not keep him waiting. The guards I pass do not seem to find anything amiss about me carrying a saber and rapier at my side. And there he is...what is this? It would seem he has amassed a few feathered friends while resting in the courtyard. I suppose the few visits he has made among the royal garden has endeared him to the local avian residents. He always did have an affinity towards birds.

It would be rude to interrupt. Those little finches are so dearly enjoying the sliding caresses of his fingers. Bowing their heads to invite him to preen them. Ah, now he notices me. And he appears hardly surprised by what I have brought with me. He reaches for the saber as our guests scatter to the underbrush nearby. I took the precaution to dull the blades before leaving the armory. Even in the real of dreams, I do not wish to see my beloved harmed.

He has assumed a proper stance for wielding a saber. Opposite hand curled into a fist and kept against his lower back. Although he appears unsure of how to deal with a sword that is simply floating before him without a hand to hold it. No matter. I shall take it slow and impart onto him the knowledge of how to counter a rapier with the saber.

My beloved waves his saber about, but not in proper swings. I am aware that saber duels primarily focus on swing the saber in one of six directions, bit only against another saber. Such theatrics would just leave one wide open against the narrow thrusting blade of a rapier. One must be patient and cautious against a rapier with its quick stabs and great reach. He staying on the defensive, waiting to gauge my abilities.

I make a gentle thrust as he waves his blade constantly as if inviting me to a dance. He lifts his blade to try and parry, but I pull back and thrust again. Yes, he retreats with a step. Again and again we repeat. Stab, parry, disengage, then stab again. Ah, excellent! Parry my thrust before twirling the blade into my own to smack it away! He is growing more confident.

The clash and clang of steel blades fills the air. Gentle strikes without malice. My beloved is still rather skittish, staying on the defensive as he lures me around in a circle with backward steps more often than not. But...there! Parry my thrust while stepping forward and moving past my blade! I cannot retreat in time. Oof, I felt that. A light tap against my neck. He is the first to land a blow. And he apologizes profusely while reaching for my wound. Except there is none. All I can do is laugh.

Over and over we dance and clash. The metallic hiss of blades sliding against each other. And we match each other blow for blow. I deliver a gentle poke to his torso while he follows with another defiant weave around my blade to smack me upon my neck. Although I admit I am now growing rather sore in a few spots. Perhaps that will do for today.

What an invigorating performance. Perhaps the rigors of the battlefield remain etched into his nerves even now. May his experiences never fail him. I shall return these blades to the armory. Oh, you wish to follow? By all means, please do.

What a paradox, being a man who desires nothing but a peaceful life while possessing such a fascination with the art of swordplay. As soon as we arrive, he is already browsing the wooden racks within the armory. And is perplexed by how much too small each weapon is for him to use. What's that, my dear? You ended up in a duel with that insufferable Blueblood at your first Grand Galloping Gala and had to use the largest sword available just to wield something that would be practical for a man of your height? Ha, if I could have witnessed it!

He is examining every type of weapon one by one. Taking each in hand and finding them to be entirely unfitting for human use. Too large to be used like daggers, yet just too small for human techniques. Even the spears are too short for use in both hands. Although...he is holding it in a reverse grip now? Ah, I see. While too short for melee combat, they would still excel as a javelin.

I am tempted to interrupt, but he is still examining the armory with great interest. Patience, Nightmare Moon. He is your beloved, but he is also your guest. Perhaps I should... Hm?

Strange... What was that? Was that a ripple on this world veil? No, it is much too soon. And yet...there it is again. Something...on the outside. No... Someone. Alive...yet neither awake nor dreaming...

I... I must excuse myself. Pardon me for now, my love. I hope you can entertain yourself for a while longer. He does not appear to suspect anything is amiss. And it is for the best he does not. For I know the one who is knocking at our doors is not one he wishes to see. Not yet.

I stand secluded out in the courtyard amongst the bushes and trees. And as I feel for a disturbance... Sensing what I can beyond the veil of our shared dream... Something is trying to enter this world. A presence only vaguely aware of itself. It is gravitating towards something here... Or rather someone. I know this presence. The little wyrm... She is longing for him.

My beloved spoke bitterly when we last discussed her. She requested he not seek her out while she contemplated her sins against him. But now...she draws near. If she is seeking him now, has she found the answers she sought?

Her heart is heavy. There is...a certain desperation within. Even is not entirely aware, she would have found him by now had that veil not be put in place. She is seeking him, yet... No.

Forgive me, little wyrm. Not tonight. You cannot see him while we slumber together in this world. Not like this. You will find the opportunity to see him and do what must be done, but for now... Please, let me be selfish just this once. I know you long for him. But tonight, he is mine and mine alone.

With a slight flex of my magical might, I turn her away. I can feel her presence aimlessly drifting off towards the edges of his dreaming mind. As if she was convinced he was not ahead on the path she was following. She will continue to wander for a time longer before her heart guides her back to him. Be patient, little wyrm. The time will come when you can see him alone once more. I only pray I will not have to intervene next time.

With that crisis averted, I return to the armory. And yet...he is gone? Everything was put back in a neat and orderly fashion, but there is no sign of him. But he cannot hide from me. I can sense a presence not like the rest in this world. Ah, I see. Dream this world may be, but his body still feels as if it is very real. And a living physical body has needs.

I make my way down the halls and find him emerging from one of the lavatories. Shaking his hands free of moisture after having just washed them. No need to apologize for wandering off, my dear. But what now?

Hmm... You are a man who favors the arts, yes? Have you partaken in witnessing an opera performance? I can assure you that Celestia would never invite you along for one. She finds the experience dreadful. But you are willing to try it? Then let us be off. Luna and I have developed a fondness for it and have acquainted ourselves with the schedules. We should be just in time if we depart now.

Goodness, I am simply giddy as we stroll through the town. Now this is much more like what one would expect from a date. He seems invigorated too. A man with such a penchant for flowery prose surely must also be partial to the most elegant of melodies. Just a shame that opera is often sung with lyrics that are not decipherable to most. But I suppose that only adds to the mesmerizing effect upon one's ears. Like a choir of angels calling from beyond the mortal coil.

How vast the opera house always seems when I take a seat at our usual booth. Oh dear, I can see Celestia and Luna far on the other side as the elite and common folk alike crowd into the rows of seats below. They are much too distant, but I must wonder what Luna did to convince Celestia to accompany her this time. For as beautiful as operatic melodies are, I suppose not everyone has the patience for it. Although my beloved has always been a patient man. And he appears intrigued as if this is his first time experiencing the wonders of opera.

The curtains rise. And the star of the show begins her sonata. The gentle call of the violins and the rings of piano keys echo through the hall as they serenade that captivating voice. I could listen to such a performance for hours. Just a shame the periodic round of applause always awakens me from my trance. Ha! Even my beloved appears to not appreciate the roar of applauding hooves when the song ends. But this is just the beginning.

The call of the starlet, the performance of rows of ballet dancers, the hymn of the finest strings and humming of keys... Such divine melodies are not appreciated by many. But they are appreciated by me. And my dear James... He is very taken with the experience. Time's flow means little. And when the curtain finally falls and they all take a bow... How many hours went by? My beloved and I are in an embrace with his arm around me and my wing around him. Entranced, yet not asleep. But not Celestia. I can see my sister slumped against the wall in slumber while Luna applauds all the same.

Did you enjoy yourself, my love? Wonderful time, yes? Opera has always been the queen of symphonies. I am so elated that it resonates with you as much as it does with me. Perhaps this experience will inspire your future writings, yes? Perhaps I could gift you with an album of some of their finest work...

The sun is setting as we exit the theater. Celestia and Luna have not neglected their duties even in this world. I almost assumed that something was amiss, but then I recall that autumn is upon us. The days get shorter as the nights grow longer. Which is just perfect for my love and I. You always adored the night, yes? Now you will be getting so much more of it before long. But now... How about we head on back? Oh, no no no, please. Do stay the night. Stay by my side, my love. I shall have Celestia send word to Twilight that Rarity is to be informed that you will not be returning until morning. Please, I insist. We would be honored to have you over for the night.

The poor dear. Always a humble man. So flattered by the invitation, yet still feeling so out of place. I hope you do not lose that quality when you are finally crowned as my king, dear James. But for now, let us be off. The night is cool, but the winds thankfully barely qualify as a zephyr. I know exactly how to go about this.

Upon returning to the castle, I cunningly request that Estoc entertain our guest with a little sparring session with rapiers in hand. Or at least in our guest's hand. That should work up an appetite. I call upon the chefs to provide an exquisite feast for our guest. And I set about with the guards to arrange a table on one of our more spacious balconies. Even better with it facing west and away from the city. A perfect view of that vast horizon.

I can hear them approaching. Estoc sounds like he enjoyed his little session with his onetime pupil. My beloved steps out onto the balcony. And what a sight it is. Even with the sun having sank over the horizon, its glow still illuminates the skyline with beautiful hues of pink and orange. Candles cast a modest glow from the center of the table with the wind too weak to disturb them. Please, my love. Be seated. Dinner should be arriving shortly.

The poor dear looks famished. And the chefs do not keep us waiting much longer. Such an array of colors they set upon the table for us. So many aromas. Dream or no dream, my appetite calls.

I almost feared my beloved would be disappointed by an exclusively vegetarian variety. But that is not the case. From the soup to the salads to the entrees, he is delighted by what he is tasting. Only to be finished off by the occasional sip of sparkling cider. It has been a good day. And an evening of good conversation.

It is faint, but I can feel it. The faintest rippling of a dreaming mind starting to stir. But we still have some time together. I believe I have made significant progress in working out the kinks when it comes to the laws of relativity in this world when it comes to the flow of time. But for now, with our time growing short... I would rather spend my time with no one but you, my love.

How was your day, my dear? Surely your hands appreciated the respite from massaging the powerful muscle of us ponies. You do not say? Even now, you earth pony clients are quite the challenge to satisfy? I hope you have been supplementing your delicate fingers with those sturdy elbows. Although you need not keep your fingers off me.

Did I really just say that? Forgive me, my dear. I meant nothing by that. Except I did. If only I could tell him. How I have lusted for that wonderful man. The beautiful dreams I have occasionally witnessed... How I wish that could be me in his arms, our bodies locked together in a pleasuring dance of love...

Patience, Nightmare Moon. You know he wants you as well. But do not throw yourself at him like some harlot. It is still too soon. In time we... Oh, thank you, my dear. You always were appreciative of my beautiful night. It is why I arranged for us to dine out here tonight. Oh? I am glowing in the moonlight? My dear, are you trying to woo me?

I can see it in his eyes. And he is so timid with his gaze. He does not want me to catch him staring for too long. He longs for me. James, my love... Gaze upon my beauty all you want. For this mare will be your queen one day. And my beauty will be yours as your wonderful heart will be mine.

James. Please, no more. Do not look away. Admire my beauty all you wish. It is because of you that the beauty of Nightmare Moon even exists today. You gave me...everything I have. By giving me the chance to...live. To be more than a demon of legend. When the entire world sought to erase me, you refused. I owe you my life. I owe you my heart. I owe you...everything. And I will be your everything in due time if you would have me.

He rises from his seat? That accursed rippling through the world again... He does not seem to notice it, but I do. We do not have much time left. There is purpose in those eyes... I rise from my seat and meet him as we step around the table and closer to the edge of the balcony. And...he holds me. And I hold him in my wings. His words are few, but...

My love. Please, grant me a selfish request. Kiss me. Not as a friend. But as a mare. Let me feel the touch of a man's lips upon my own. A man who will forever hold my heart.

And he...obliges. Our eyes close. And I feel a touch I have only felt so few times before. A kiss upon my lips... His fingers dragging through my billowing mane of midnight. A masterful touch of a man well versed in the art of love.

I love you. I love you with every fiber of my being, James. I only wish it was not too soon to tell you. Our time is short... Please, hold me. Do not release me. Let me leave this wonderful world while still in your arms.

The black void under the lids of my eyes has become much brighter even as I still feel his lips upon mine. And...the walls of my chambers standing before me. I feel so...empty to awaken without the touch of his lips upon mine. If only I could have awoken with him in my embrace...instead of having to leave it all behind. Little wyrm, I now know your pain...

For just one night, I tasted paradise. That was a day well spent. I visited the fountain of the heart's desires and caught a single drop of its blessings upon my tongue. It was the sweetest nectar, but that was the only taste I could partake in. And someday... Now that more and more pieces of the puzzle are falling in place, it will only be a matter of time before he and I are able to drink freely from the fountain.

Another night together with my beloved resulting in what felt like genuine progress. I should not wallow in disappointment. Canterlot was not built in a day. Smile, Nightmare Moon. You have set in motion your grand design. He was...happy. He...wanted me. I could feel it in his touch. I could see it in his eyes. My dear James desires me as I desire him. But I must be patient. Even Novo had difficulty convincing him to see past the veil separating royalty from the common folk on a fundamental level.

It would seem that he and I are forbidden fruit to each other in different ways. But all he has to do is reach out and pluck me from the branches of the royal tree atop Canterlot. He just does not have the courage yet. But I will win him over. It is only a matter of time.

I feel...at ease now. The third time truly is the charm. This feels...more right now than at the start. His memories of that night are locked away until we both enter that world again. They will not interfere with his life in the waking world. I must take comfort in this. It was a daring and selfish endeavor I set out to perform, but now it does not feel quite as risky.

A new routine is being set. One that is a detriment to none. But for now, the morning calls. And I shall face this day with renewed resolve.

Seven days. I shall see you again then, my love.

The First Cracks Form

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Another Sunday night descends upon the land. Seven days since the last. The very day after Nightmare Night. I was present in Ponyville last year to grace the home of my beloved for my first experience with the holiday born from my legacy. A very dark legacy, but now one that is used as an excuse for festivities and fun instead of cowering in fear over a proverbial boogeyman. But I did not attend last night. I instead graced the spires of Canterlot with my presence last night along with Luna. And in our stead, Mother and Father descended upon Ponyville. To think that Father insisted on forging himself silver armor to mimic my own from those times...

The state the two of them were in when they returned home... Splattered with the finely mulched entrails of a pumpkin. I suppose I should be happy that they so thoroughly enjoyed themselves, and yet... How unbecoming! What sort of antics did Father provoke Mother into partaking with him?! Such a loveable clown, my father has always been. Mother was not even humiliated to return home in such a messy state. It feels like ages since I last saw her in such high spirits.

But now... The very next night. How I have anticipated this moment. I am eager to return to my beloved's side in the world I have woven for just the two of us. A Sunday night... Perfect time to truly unwind and be with my future king. I have taken all precautions. Warm tea to soothe my nerves. The sky is clear with no rain. I have also enjoyed a glass of red wine as I watched the sky from my chambers. I can feel my body aching for sleep. All I must do now is prepare my spell. Close my eyes... I will see you soon, my love.

Mind is heavy and drifting...and now I awaken. And yet... Not awake at all. I recognize this atmosphere. To the unfamiliar, it would be indistinguishable from reality. But I can sense it if I listen closely. This is my world... Our world. Our own paradise. But I must be patient. Canterlot was not built in a day.

I felt so fatigued when I set my head down on my pillow. Now I feel rested and wide awake. Ready to face the day with my beloved at my side. I do believe I am getting closer to working out the flow of time in this world. If only we could truly spend as many hours here as we do in the waking world. In due time. The journey is the destination for us, my dear. Every step of the way will be a miracle in its own right.

I join my sisters for breakfast, my tongue unable to distinguish these morsels from the finest dishes in the realm of reality. My sisters are false, yet they feel familiar and alive. Similar, yet different. I almost expect Mother and Father to join us at the table before I recall that they had not yet entered my life when I wove this world for my beloved and I. And that is fine. There is no need to replicate everything that has come into my life since. Especially Mother... Even if she was a mere product in this world, she would be the one I fear the most when it comes to the risks of interfering with my pursuit of what I rightfully deserve.

Heavens, my sisters are a little too aware of what my heart is pining for. They playfully jeer and prod at me over my secret suitor. And I feel so...proud. They know and have only smiles to show for it. They know he is mine. The man who will be crowned as my king one day. My heart knows what it needs and that he needs me. Laugh all you want, my sisters. For I am bursting with joy as well.

Breakfast was a pleasure, but I ate lightly this time. I dread the risk of making myself too heavy and lethargic during my one time of the week with my beloved. My sisters even offer to cover for my duties today. I wonder... Are they so alive as to notice the passage of time when I am absent? This world does feel far more alive than it should be...

Regardless, I agree. Sundays are ideal for relaxation. And they know where I wish to be. I am coming for you, my love. I only hope the inhabitants of Ponyville do not flinch at the Princess of Dreams becoming a weekly visitor. But they will know in time. Especially when their newest permanent resident wears a crown.

It is always such a thrill to cast myself from the balcony of my chambers as a means to glide down upon the valley far below. I stand upon the balcony and savor that cool autumn breeze so high up atop the mountain. Winter will be coming before much longer. I know how much my beloved loathes the onset of autumn. I do believe the phenomenon is known as seasonal depression. Celestia, how do you not experience the same? If autumn is your favorite season, then... Ah, you clown! It is because the sun sets sooner, is it not?! You can start to retire early when the days become shorter! Ha, I wonder if the tabloids have ruminated on this theory...

No matter. There is somewhere I am needed. Someone who surely pines for me. I spread my wings and... What is this presence...? Something...at the edge of this world. Drifting near the veil separating this world from the nexus. It can only be...that little wyrm?

I turned her away last time. It was my time to spend and I wished to spend it with only him. It was selfish of me, but I did what I had to do. But this time... There is a kindly desire amongst her. Such a forlorn and somber need to see him filled her when I last detected her trying to encroach upon our world. And then she found him. Had the situation truly improved between them?

That must have been the case. I sense in this presence...a gentle happiness. She knows he is near and is gravitating towards him. My love, what transpired between the two of you since I last saw you? I did not observe every dreaming moment between the two of you. Did that little wyrm find her way back into your heart? Did the two of you genuinely reconcile? You must have. She desires you so dearly now. And so surely too. Not awake, yet just aware enough to know you are near.

Forgive me, little wyrm. This is my time to spend with him, not yours. I know how you long for him. How you...love him. You and I are far too similar for me to be able to not read you so clearly. And I shall persevere in my efforts to bridge the gap between dreams and reality for you. Luna and I have not found a means yet, but it will happen. I swear it. Drift away, little wyrm. A time will come when you will be able to shield him under your wings forevermore.

Once again, I send her away. I can sense the dream wyrm's presence becoming more distant. To think that such a struggle that night would give birth to a dream with its own thoughts and soul. My love... For what little you knew of her, your memories created such a wonderful new friend for you and us. She will be most welcome in Equestria when the day arrives. And I will see to it that it shall happen.

But not tonight. It is our time. And our time together is finite in this world. I must not delay. It is difficult to say whether or not if I have perfected the flow of time in this world. I must take flight and... Hm? She is back again?

That presence beyond the veil of this world... It is most certainly the little wyrm again. I beg of you, child. Be patient Not tonight. You will have you opportunity to return to his side, but he is mine for now. Please, be on your way. I swear that you...

She...ignored my influence? She is not awake at this time. Merely wandering in a type of dream stasis. Why do you not heed me, child? Turn away. Go, drift through the haze of his minds. You will have your turn again soon. Go... Now! Why do you insist?!

She... She is here. The wyrm has breached the veil of this world! How?! Little wyrm, how were you able to resist my decree? I am the Princess of Dreams! If I must, I can directly control you while you slumber. You should not be here! Unless...it is not her?

No matter. If it is indeed her, then she is seeking him out. That little wyrm will descend upon Ponyville before long. And I must intercept her first before either of us find him. I take flight and soar down towards the valley. But what should I say should I find her? She must not know the true nature of this world. If she were to discover the nature of her existence... Or rather the lack of... It would devastate her. For a dream to know that they are nothing more than a dream...

Strange... I cannot pinpoint her location. I sensed the veil of this world being breached, but... Was it her? I am not so certain now. If it was not the dream wyrm seeking out her dreamer, then what else could it be? That blue machine hero instead? He did survive his clash with his dreamer much the same way she did...

Ponyville is still itself now that I have arrived. Alive, yet still a product of our dreaming minds. The locals still marvel at my presence all the same. Perhaps they will cease gawking so much once my arrivals become more routine. But where is he? The spa again?

The town square is an easy location to notice someone. And its open spaces does draw attention. If she is here, she will most likely be drawn to this location. Especially with his locations being so close. He is near, I am sure. Within the spa putting his delicate fingers to good use. Where are you, little wyrm? If I can explain the situation to her and convince her of what to believe, perhaps she too can enjoy a massage at his hands.

I have been circling the town hall for a few laps now. Still no sign of her... Wait... Hm. Luna? Why did she depart from Canterlot to be here? I suppose when the denizens of this world have their own agency, even I cannot predict what they might do next. I certainly did not expect them to start prodding me about my attraction towards a certain commoner in Ponyville this morning.

Hail, sister! What brings you to Ponyville? Are you seeking the services of the world's only human masseuse? Wait...

The way she gazes about at her surroundings... She has been to this town before, and yet it is as if there is something profoundly different about it to her eyes. That look of growing shock in her eyes... And now they gaze upon me.

"What have you done?"

No... This... This is not the Luna I spoke to at the breakfast table this morning. Now that I am near her and feeling closely... No. This is not a product of my dreaming mind. This mare before me... She is not awake. She is a dreamer herself. A dreamer from beyond this world's veil who has invaded. Luna... I should have known it would be inevitable for you to choose just the wrong time to check on our friend while he slumbered. I tried to be discreet, but...I suppose it was only a matter of time.

"Tell me, sister. What is this world? It is not like those of any other I have seen. This world feels...too alive. And it is not just being sustained by one. Two dreaming minds have connected. They are both sustaining this world. Tell me. What is this world? What have you done?" My sister demands again. She is unnerved, yet stern. I can see that in her.

It cannot be helped. I only pray she will listen to reason. The people around us have become oblivious to our presence. No doubt Luna's work in keeping any from knowing. And yet... I cannot face her directly. "It is simply my means of finally being able to have what I rightfully deserve. If I cannot have him in the waking world, then I will have him here. Nothing to get in the way. No compromises. No consequences. Together, we can finally be happy together."

"I fear there is more to this than you say... But this is not the place for it. Sister, come with me at once. We need to talk. Now." My sister will not be dissuaded. I am so near my beloved. He is just over there, and yet... They cannot wait. Now that someone knows, I must diffuse the situation. Luna has taken to the air and I follow. But not back towards Canterlot. She is leading me...west? Ah, I see now. She and I were one at first. It would seem we still think alike in some ways.

The vast canopy of the Everfree Forest stretches out before us. Soaring high and without a word. All I can do is follow my other half. She leads us far ahead to the west. Towards a clearing situated beyond a ravine. A location that we both hold bitter memories for. Where it all began for me.

What little remains of our first castle is exactly as I remember it. So little remains. It is not the first time that I have descended upon this place in the world I have woven. Luna is descending towards the entrance to the only intact structure, but I know of a swifter alternative. "Luna, this way! We need not take the stairs!"

My sister allows me to leave. And I guide her to the gaping hole in the wall left behind by the final struggle to ever grace those halls. We land inside the barren remains of the throne room. And my sister... She stands transfixed. Is this the first time she has ever seen this chamber since we ceased being one? Her breath is heavy as she speaks to me. "I never thought I would ever return to this place... Dream or otherwise."

"Everything is as it was when I breathed life into this world. This includes where you and I spent our final moments as one." I explain softly, hoping to not rouse her ire now that we are alone. Luna has turned to face that gaping hole in the far wall we have entered through. I know she has questions. That orifice was not there before. "I did that... Forced him through the wall when he tried to flee."

"Yes, I know... Your encounter with our friend was...harrowing, last I heard." Luna speaks with a sigh. She sounds...uncertain of what to think or say. And now she turns to me, but not with accusations or scorn. "I must confess... Your attention to detail astounds me, sister. As much as this world vexes me, I must applaud this feat in weaving the dream realm to suit your vision. I suspect your mastery over the currents of the dream realm has even surpassed my own."

I feel more than just a tad smug at the moment. I suppose I can add a touch of levity to the moment. A touch of wit. "I suppose my title of Princess of Dreams is not without merit."

"Ha! Perhaps so!" My sister is smiling. Perhaps this encounter will end well after all. She glances about at the vast hall. A place that once served as our sanctuary for a very brief time. Her eyes narrow, but not in disgust. "Well, if we are to have a conversation here... Let me make a few additions."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=718UdiQh0CQ

With the will of my sister's dream magic, she conjured up a delightful sight. A table near the throne holding fresh tea and scones. As if these ruins are now serving as our private penthouse. Ah, that aroma on the breeze... Mint, is it? I can certainly spare some time away from my beloved here. Luna and I have taken our seats as she pours us tea. "Now then... Some explanations are in order. What is this world, Nightmare Moon? I have never seen one sustained through two dreaming minds. Nor one where the world within feels so...alive."

"It is as I said, sister. I have simply set into motion the opportunity to finally have my beloved to myself. A place where we can finally belong to each other without compromise." Anxiety returns to me. I stir my tea, but do not drink. My nerves will not allow it.

Luna's eyes are filled with nothing less than concern. She knows me well. Probably better than most. "Sister... I know how you long for him. Since the very beginning, I have seen it. But now... Now that his heart has opened to so many... And will continue to welcome those into his embrace... Why do you not approach him? I know he loves you. You...do know that, yes?"

"Yes... He knows. I told him. And he accepted. He would gladly welcome me into his family the same he has done for Celestia. And yet, I..." I can barely even meet her gaze. That day... When I came so close to death... It was when I could hide it no longer. And...I could not accept his offer. "I cannot, Luna. Perhaps I am selfish. Perhaps my heart is still tainted by the shadows that caused me to exist within you in the first place. I love him. And he loves me. And yet...I cannot be his. If I were to accept and be his like Celestia has... It would be a lie. I would never be happy. I simply...cannot do that. And so I wove this world for us. Where we can be together. Just the two of us."

She hesitates, her cup lowering to the iron table before us. "I see... But...are you certain this is wise? You're not putting our friend at risk through this, are you?"

A commendable concern, to be sure. But I must see to it that she knows I am not so desperate as to use force. Or to disregard those he loves beyond just me. "Of course not. When he enters this world in slumber, his memories of the waking world are separated from him. And when he awakens, his memories of this life... His memories of our time here together are locked away until the next time. I may be selfish, but I am not so selfish as to inconvenience his life in the realm of reality."

Luna appears to be satisfied with my words. At least to some extent. "Hm. Most wise of you, sister. Then...this other world? This other life the two of you live here? It has no impact upon the life he lives in reality?"

"I assure you that everything that happens here will have no influence upon his life in the waking world. I swear it. He may love and live with as many as his heart will allow, but he will only have me here. And only here." Please believe me, sister. I may be deeply envious of the mares and more who have become his beloveds, but I would never put their love for each other at risk. Not when I can safely have a life with him here and so far away from everything else.

She sighs with her head bowed. Why so somber, sister? "It truly is a shame that you cannot find the will to let yourself be with him as they have... I have seen the joy Celestia has shown when in his presence. The...things she has said about him whenever she has had a little too much drink. It was a love that none of us ever expected. Ad yet...they are just so...good for each other. And yet, you cannot allow yourself to be the same as her?"

I cannot help but scoff at such a notion. Did she even listen to herself when she said that? "Asking the moon to be just like the sun? A bizarre sentiment to hear from you, Luna. You do know that such relationship dynamics fell out of favor for a reason. Few truly have the means to sustain it without it becoming a extension of their ego. My beloved is an exception to the norm. And every mare... Every hen, every dragoness, and everything in-between who become something more to him... They are truly brave souls. And I applaud their courage to put so much faith in the man. The foundation for such a relationship is as delicate as it is enduring. And I pray the foundation for their love never collapses."

What a profound sigh from her... "I suppose I should not make assumptions. I have never known the love you feel for him. My dear James is merely the finest friend I have ever know, but nothing more than that. I have seen much in the way of love. The dreams of countless have allowed me to bear witness to some truly beautiful inner thoughts. And yet... It is something I have no experience with and I doubt I ever will. I am quite happy with being my own mare at this time. And I am content with...cheering for my sisters in their romantic pursuits. Especially when the recipient of their affection is a dear friend of mine."

"Then you can rest easy in knowing your friend will be in good hooves with me, Luna. I swear I wish for nothing more than for he and I to be happy together. You know he wants it as well." I do believe the worst is over now. Luna does not appear upset. And she knows the workings of the dream realm as well as I do. It is so easy for us to manipulate how much dreams may influence their dreamers. So lucid that they remember it as clearly as being awake, or so vague that they fail to remember it upon waking.

We pause in our conversation for just a moment. To savor our tea and sample these scones. Delightful. It is always a gamble when one conjures up food and drink through just the ability to weave the world around us. Hm? What was that, sister? "Nightmare Moon. I know that you and James have...always been dear to each other. Ever since the start. When he departed that night in armor, we did not know. He kept from us how much he wanted to save you. We never could have dreamed he would return with you alive. And not even as an enemy. If you do not mind me inquiring... What exactly is he to you?"

Hmph, this invitation. I cannot help raising an eyebrow at these words. "Sister, are you requesting that I go on a tangent about my beloved?"

Oh goodness, that smirk. Do not act like I cannot see you roll your eyes from here, sister. I have seen those romance novels in your chambers! And there are some exceptionally lewd material amongst them! For one who has no ambition in seeking out a stallion for her own heart, she certainly enjoys witnessing it. She finally answers with a snort. "Well, if you would be so kind as to give me the full story... I do so take satisfaction in seeing Celestia indulging with her beloved. Would you enlighten me to your love as well?"

"Very well then, I shall!" Oh, the opportunity to lay my heart bare to another... Luna, I trust you will keep this between just the two of us. "He... He has always been my world. Even after my return to the throne... Even after finally receiving the adoration from the people that I desired for so long... It all felt trivial by then. Because I found something so...so much more precious. A man who saw past my shadowy visage. The first to see me not as a demon, but as a mare. I do value my people and the world I now reign over, but... Nothing... Nothing will ever usurp my future king from his place in my heart. Especially now that I know his heart aches for me as much as mine pines for him."

My sister gazes at me with wide eyes. I am well aware that she knows. But she surely never knew so much until now. "Heavy words, sister. I always suspected as much, but to hear this from your very lips... Inspiring. Simply inspiring. A tale worthy of its own documentation. Is he truly so vital to you, sister?"

She dare question my words after that? Perhaps this will truly make her understand. "Luna. I would gladly let my body serve as the vessel for his legacy! Mark my words, he and I will give you a nephew in due time!"

And now she laughs?! Holding a hoof to her lips...before applauding? "Gracious, such passion! I do believe there may be some competition between you and Celestia!"

"Our sister may have preceded me at every turn, but not this time. I know Mother and Father desire grandchildren. And I swear he and I will be the first to grant their wish. Mark my words, Luna. Celestia will not be the first to bear him an heir." My heart burns as I speak. Oh, if only I could return to Ponyville and claim my beloved there at once. But it is much too soon. Patience, Nightmare Moon...

Strange... Now Luna appears not so certain over my words. What does she wish to know now? "You truly mean that... You wish to...bear him an heir?"

I must speak carefully. To speak with my heart and my mind. "I do. I will be his queen in due time. And a queen must bear her king an heir. At least...that is what history would expect. No, I have no intention of being so...cold. I have seen my beloved hold his firstborn. He now knows the joy of having children. Of having a family. And I know he desires more. For all I know, every woman who becomes something more to him will bless him with children. And I...will do the same. I wish to see he and I have a foal in our lives someday. A foal to love, born of a love worth admiring. This is not a decision to make lightly, but...yes, Luna. I wish to see the day when we...have a prince of princess to raise."

My sister is quick to nod. "And I wish you the best on that path, sister. And yet... Here? In this world? What would even happen? Is it even possible... A child? Born here in this realm? Is it possible?"

I... My sister brings up a good point. I never once considered if such a miracle is even possible in the realm of dreams. Even in a world I have woven to be as alive as possible. I take a moment to contemplate this concept. And take note of every minute feeling in my body. "I...certainly hope so. The winds of this world whisper differently from other dreams. I feel like my body carries more weight than elsewhere. I even...feel the burn of my estrus deep within me. I know not what may transpire should we try, but...I do hope so. If possible, I wish to see the day where my beloved...will finally hold our heir in his arms."

"I see... I suppose we can only wait and see, yes?" Luna appears...so very sympathetic with her gaze. She sips the last of her tea before speaking again. "Sister... I will keep this from Mother and Father. No telling what they may do if they learn of this. But now that I know of this... I will continue to visit every once in a while. Just to observe and supervise, if you may. You are reckless in this endeavor, and yet so very careful. Take great care going forward, sister. I fear it would be far too easy for this project of yours to go sour."

She is wise to doubt me. I have doubted myself at times. "You have my thanks, Luna. I know I am selfish... But I will not let my selfishness become a poison to his love and life in the waking world."

"You may be a nightmare, but you are still the Princess of Dreams. You know the weight of responsibility well. I doubt my faith in you will be misplaced." Luna speaks with a smile. A very somber smile. She knows me. She and I were one at one time. She knows how my heart suffers for that man. And yet... What is this? "But before it can slip my mind... Did Father try to enter tonight? I noticed a presence veering away from the edges of this world before I could breach the veil."

It is of no surprise to me that she noticed that presence. A wandering will following its own desires. "Yes, that... It was not the first time it has tried to intrude. That little wyrm... She was seeking her dreamer out, but I turned her away. She will have another opportunity to spend an evening with him."

Luna knows of her all too well. Possibly moreso than I. "Ah, her... Little Cynder. They parted ways after such a harrowing impasse last time... But if she was seeking him out this time... Do you suppose they have reconciled?"

My beloved could not have known, but I was watching that night. I saw them reunite. I sensed a presence in his dreaming mind that night which was not his own and feared the worst. I had to observe in case that little wyrm returned to him with ill will once again. "I...do suppose so. After I turned her away the previous time, I watched night after night for the moment she would return to his side. And she did. I kept a great distance. And for just an instant, it appeared that...they would part ways and never see each other again. I could sense a...weakening of a connection between them. The dreamer...letting go of the dream."

That gaze of shock in her eyes... Luna knows all too well the workings of life within the dream realm. How dreams live and die with their dreamer. Or when the dreamer...gives up on a dream. "That... That would have been no different from death. Surely, he did not..."

"I thought so as well. She turned away in tears. But..." I could remember that moment. He was so cold to her. Never looking directly at her once. The wounds she inflicted on his heart had yet to fully heal. And yet... "He took hold of her. And he did not let go. I know not what was said between them, yet... They remained together. And for the remainder of their time together, I shadowed them. There were times where he was cold to her, and yet there were times where they seemed to laugh with each other. And most interestingly... Their lives were endangered at least once. And each time, one came to the aid of the other. I doubt that they have fully reconciled. Not after a single day together. But what I did see... It was a sight to behold."

Such a sigh of relief from my sister. Luna may not emphasize with that little wyrm as much as I do, but she knows the value of a dream that refuses to die. "That is...a relief. They have always been dear to each other. Such a shame she jumped to just the wrong conclusion that night."

"She is a troubled soul. No home to return to... I suspect even if she were as she was from whatever fictional realm his memories plucked her from, she would still be burdened by dark times. And yet... She seems to be at her happiest when with him." I must ponder what such a world she came from. Shackled by a dark lord... What sort of future would she ever have had? Did we do her a favor by failing in saving her world?

"In other words... She is just like you, sister." Those words catch my ear. A knowing smile is upon my sister's lips. "You were the first to detect something was amiss in her when she first stood before us. Had you not, we would have ended up slaying the poor creature."

There was truth in her words. I noticed it about that wyrm almost immediately. Not one presence, but two. The outer shell and a slumbering soul held prisoner in her own body. Not at all unlike how when Luna and I were still one. I could not deny that little wyrm the liberty my sister and I were granted. It was a struggle, but she was purged. And what a wonderful ally she has become to my beloved. One that refuses to let herself fade to his memory. Even now, she still clings to him. Desiring to be with him despite not knowing of her true nature. It...makes my heart weep. I see too much of myself in that child. "The poor thing deserved a chance to be happy. And so I granted her that opportunity."

"She has been very happy with him, has she not?" Luna snacks on a scone as she speaks to me. Mind the crumbs, sister. "And he has been happy with her as well, yes?"

I have seen much of those two being together. Even if the number of times they have seen each other could be counted on one human hand at this moment. "Very. I recall when they reunited for the very first time. During the war when he sought respite as he dreamed. I sensed a presence not far from us. And...it longed for him. Imagine my surprise when I called it over only to see that the it was the same little wyrm as before. They embraced. They held each other. There was a connection I could not deny."

Luna has brought her hooves together with her jaw resting atop them. She reminds me of a giddy gossiper eager for the latest scoop. "Would you say that connection remains even now? After...that night?"

I can only say what I saw most recently. "He did wear an icy facade, but I do believe it was out of caution instead of animosity. He would never have reacted to an attempt on little Cynder's life with such panic and desperation if he did not value her. As for her... There is nothing to question. I saw him appear to develop symptoms of an illness during his time in that world. She defended him from a highwayman when he was in no condition to defend himself. And then she waited on him hand and paw once they found shelter. Yes... Yes, I do believe that connection between them is as strong as ever."

"That strong, you say? Because I do believe there is more than friendship between those two, sister." What is with that inflection in her voice? Luna, what are you saying to me? Tell me. "I have seen the parallels between you and our little Cynder. The resemblances are uncanny at times. And if you two are truly that similar... Then no. No, that is not a mere friendship we have been witnessing. I am convinced it is the beginning of something more. Something...wonderful."

I am without words. Luna... She is right. James... He is much too dear to her. Especially when she tended to him while ill in bed. She did not have to do that. Yet she did it anyway. All that effort and time to transport a bowl of nourishing hearty soup when her body was not designed to carry such a thing while walking... That was nothing short of an act of love. "I do believe you are right, sister. Their time together has always been brief. And days if not weeks apart. But when they are together... It is magical. Something...beautiful. Something that should be permitted to exist in the realm of reality. I cannot let that little wyrm be denied what I have been for so long. I have a means to attain my heart's desires. But not her. She remains trapped, even if she is unaware of it. Separated by a veil that she can never hope to cross on her own. It's not fair... It is why I could not allow her to see him in this world. This world came to be before he met her. In this world, she is a stranger to him. He will not remember her. And...that carries risk. I cannot allow her to start questioning the truth between the two of them. How she would react upon learning that she...does not exist..."

A tapping on the table... Luna? Yes, you have my attention now. "Patience, sister. It will come. I am still researching our options. Plucking at the threads of the veil that separates dreams from reality. There has to be a way... We just need to find it."

Patience... I have been very patient in the pursuit of my desires. But it feels like we are running out of time when it comes to that little dream wyrm. She does not know. She cannot be allowed to know. Not yet. Should she learn the truth of her nonexistence as a dream... I dread to imagine how such knowledge would shatter her reality. She deserves to be happy. And not to be broken. "Yes... In due time. There is an escape for her. We simply have yet to find the key."

"Perhaps we should start small. Rather than try to drag her out of the dream realm, do you suppose it would be wiser to start with smaller and less complicated objects?" That is certainly food for thought. One must learn to stand before they can run. Trying to bridge that gap for a dragon makes it sound like we skipping several steps. I nod in agreement. A wise suggestion. "Next time I delve into this project, I will see if I can bring a pebble through the veil. It does not get much simpler than that."

It would seem the teapot has run dry. And I feel we are still not done. I will it to be full again and restore the warmth of these freshly baked scones. Hm? What was with that sudden flinch in Luna? "Wait... What was that you said about James being...a stranger to Cynder in this world? He does remember her, yes?"

"Not here, he doesn't. My timing for weaving this world together could not have been worse." And so I am reminded by the sheer unfortunate happenstance that followed after I saw this world come to life for the first time. But truly, how could I have known? "This world came to life mere days before we received word of the emperor's return. And with everything happening following that moment... This world was left alone. I had to direct my attention to more pressing matters."

Now it appears to be dawning on her. I can almost hear the cogs turning in Luna's head. "Just before the War of Preservation began? Does that mean... Everything that happened afterwards?"

All I can do is nod. It was such an unfortunate oversight I could not have predicted. "Indeed. In this world, the War of Preservation never happened. My beloved never once ventured west. He never found the Grove of Silence. He never once met the Dragon Lord. He never once set foot on a battlefield. Nor did he ever meet a single soul out on the Empty Plains. There are so many he knows in the realm of reality who do not exist here. It cannot be helped... Just a wrench that fate threw into the works."

"Most intriguing... Truly, this is another life he is living here. Another reality if life took him down a different path." Luna appears to be more curious than troubled. And now she brings up a most pressing concern. "I don't suppose you will fill in the gaps between his memories of the real world and what has not happened here?"

My response is immediate and definitive. "No, I will not. I have set this world in motion and I will not manipulate this world around us anymore than I have just to bring it to life. I am adamant in my decision to let my beloved's life occur naturally here. I will not force anything upon him. I love him too much for that."

"A wise answer. I hope he will be as happy here as he is amongst us back home. It's an intriguing mystery over where life will take him in this world." A very good point, sister. What does lie in wait for my beloved and I in this world?

We... Drat, we got too lost in conversation, we monarchs of the dream realm. How long have we been chatting? I just felt it. The world quivers around us. And...I did not spend a single minute in his presence! "Wait... Is it time already?! I did not even get to say hello to him!"

"Whatever do you... Wait, there it is. The rippling through the world... It has not been that long already, has it? It seem the flow of time is...fickle in this world." Luna was just as oblivious to time's flow as well, was she not?

"I suppose I still have some kinks to work out... Managing the flow of time here to mirror that of a full day while we slumber... A tricky challenge, to be sure." And I was so certain that I had worked that out. Truly, this world has mysteries even I have yet to unravel.

I cannot be upset with my sister over intruding tonight. She had the right to know and I needed to set her fears to rest. Although she is certainly wearing such an apologetic smile. "I truly must apologize. I did not intend to keep you from your night of respite, especially now that I understand the situation."

Quite. She truly did take this entire evening from me. And I know just the compensation. "You are forgiven, Luna. Under one condition. A bottle of my favorite merlot. You know what brand I fancy."

What a laugh from her. Cannot be too stern in these times. "I suppose I do owe you that much. But truly, thank you for taking the time to explain the situation to me. I feared the worst, but now those fears are no more. And I will keep my visits infrequent I do not wish to interfere too much with your time with him."

Before we can awaken... This chamber we are in. So far from civilization that we can both reach with ease. It was a comfortable time, even in these ruins in the middle of the Everfree Forest. "Luna, if I may? Perhaps we could have this place serve as the destination for any future rendezvous. Seems like an ideal place to speak in private, yes?"

"I concur, sister. Perhaps we can even...tidy up a bit. Our own private penthouse? The possibilities are endless!" Oh, Luna. I was thinking the same thing!

"Agreed! I think I can spare a one more day away from my beloved to fix this place up a bit and..." And...there it goes. Awakening came early to me this time. And as I sit up in my bed, I now understand why. I woke up too early today. It is barely dawn. Celestia is bringing the sun over the eastern horizon at this very instant. The setting of the moon will likely be delayed now that Luna is likely in a rush to tend to her morning duties.

What a shame... I was so eager to spend a lovely day with my dear James, only for Luna to steal that away from us. I hope he was not expecting me today. I would dread to disappoint him.

Even so... I suppose it was only a matter of time for my fellow sister of the night to discover this ambition of mine. To expect her to never once stumble upon it while he and I dreamed together is a foolhardy notion. But she did listen. For an anxious as I was when I discovered her there amongst us, I feel so much more at ease now. Luna... I hope to not disappoint your faith in me.

I will most likely require a midday nap after awakening this early. And Luna and I must not speak to each other of this in the waking world. This secret must remain between us. But for now... A spot of wine to start my day and to drown this profound disappointment in my heart. I will return to you before long, my love. And next time, there will be no interruptions.

Dreams of the Heart

by Humanity

Weaving a New World

The First Steps

Sonata by Moonlight

The First Cracks Form