The Newest Lunar Family Member

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The night was nice, crisp, and cool, with a slight breeze bowing through calmly in the streets of Canterlot. At this time, many colts and fillies were being tucked into their beds by their parents, and some of the older ponies were taking night strolls together or having their time at the bars in the city. Of course the guards of the royal castle's night watch were standing their posts as instructed.

Prince Artemis Eclipse, Luna's husband, was taking a midnight walk to think about the next day ahead. He was an alicorn who's sheer size dwarfed Celestia's, even a full grown unicorn, pegasus or earth pony would look like a little filly or colt standing next to him, even Big Macintosh. But he was very gentle when it came to speaking with subjects or his family. He and Luna had brought a cute little filly into the world some years back, and her name was Moonlight. At this time she was asleep in her chambers as was Luna, for Night Court had ended and it had been exhausting for her. She of course never minded her husbands midnight strolls, after what he had been through, she felt it was something he needed.

His past had originated in the Crystal Empire, which had been torn from him many centuries ago, as had his wife. Not only that, he had also been an adopted big brother to Cadence, the Alicorn of Love. Where he originated from himself was still a mystery to many historians since he did not want to talk about it. Through his battle to fight off Sombra, he had been left scared and blinded in his left eye, but no pony ever made snide remarks about his battle wound, and for many they thought it made him look tough in a way.

Now Cadence herself had been taken by the Mane Six to grow up in the time when Twilight and her friends were just themselves foals, and he couldn't help but think how cute Cadence had come to care so much for Twilight. Of course after Twilight took off to live with her friends in Ponyville, Cadence felt a bit sad she couldn't foal sit anymore. That is until Moonlight came about. She always loved spending time with her even after she had married Shining Armor and they had their own foal named Lovestruck not too long after Moonlight's birth.

Their births were around the time after Cadence, Shining and the Mane six along with Spike had defeated King Sombra and Cadence had been given the Crystal Empire to rule over. Artemis was also given the chance to return to the Crystal Empire and call it home, but Luna had won his heart long before the Empire had reappeared.

Now, as he made his way through the calm streets of Canterlot, he heard a small colt's voice say, "I gotta hide, I can't let them catch me. I am never going back."

As he turned the corner, he came upon the sight of a little pegasus colt, who seemed to have a similar coat to that of his wife, his duaghter and himself. The child was very small, and seemed to be undernourished, and what really saddened him was that the child seemed to be having trouble walking on his back legs. He came closer and asked, "Are you alright little one?"

"Wah! Please don't hurt me," the young colt pleaded as he covered his eyes and cowered low to the ground.

Artemis was surprised, this little colt seemed to have it far too rough and more then likely thought everypony was out to get him for something. "Calm down. Calm down little one, I'm not going to hurt you," Artemis said.

The little colt removed his hooves and looked up at Prince Artemis. "Y-your majesty, please forgive me. I didn't know it was you," the little colt said as he bowed his head.

"It's alright little one, nothing to worry about. Now, may I ask what you are doing out so late at night?" Artemis Requested as he laid down to not tower the little pegasus so much.

"I... I was running away sire," the little colt replied.

"Running away? Why are you doing that? Your parents must be worried about you," Artemis stated.

" I... d-don't have any parents your majesty. I've been running away from the orphanage, they..." the little colt was beginning to cry, unable to finish his sentence.

Artemis knew that he must have had some terrible experience and wanted to help the little colt, but he needed to know what they did. "Little one, I'm here to help you however I can. Now what did they do?" Artemis asked as he nuzzled the little colt.

"They," the little colt looked at his legs, "They broke my legs so that I couldn't escape... at least not til now while every pony was asleep, and I don't have enough strength in my wings to fly away," the little pegasus answered.

Artemis was in shock. How could the orphanage do such a thing so traumatizing to a little colt like him? Did these ponies have no heart? How many other little fillies and colts were receiving this kind of treatment?

Many more questions were circling in his head as he thought about this. Artemis soon came to notice the little colt burying his face into his massive chest. He was touched by this moment. Even though he had only met the little colt moments ago, now he didn't want to let the little guy out of his sight. His mind was set. He was going to adopt this little colt and make him a Lunar Prince. His fur was already helping him fit the part and Moonlight had always been talking about wanting a brother or sister to play with. He knew Luna would agree to it and probably would find this colt all too adorable anyhow.

"Well, how about you come with me young one. You look like you could use the rest," Artemis said.

"Wh- you mean go to the castle? But your highness, I'm not royalty," the young colt stated.

Artemis chuckled and levitated the young pegasus onto his back. "You don't always need to be royal to live in the castle," Artemis said.

"Are you sure it's okay your majesty?" the little one asked.

"Of course. Also, might I ask what your name is little one?" Artemis requested.

"I-It's Moon Dust your highness. I think it's because my fur seemed to take after Princess Luna, Princess Moonlight and yourself, your majsety, but the caretakers keep saying it's because I'm... as worthless as moon dust," Moon Dust answered as he hung his head while sitting on Artemis's back.

Artemis now felt a hint of anger. The Canterlot Orphanage caretakers used his wife's beautiful moon as an insult. That was not something his family took lightly. And to insult his soon to be sons name was down right cruel. There would be consequences for all the actions Moon Dust had described. He looked back at Moon Dust and said, "Well I like your name. I think it's cute and suits you very nicely. Also moon dust is not worthless. It's actually very valuable, since some of it is found on the ground of equestira it self. It's very rare."

This lifted Moon Dust's spirits a little. "R-really your highness?" Moon Dust asked with puppy eyes.

Artemis nodded. Just as he was about to take off for the castle, some new voices caught his attention as once female voice said, "How dare that little brat escape from the orphanage."

A male voice added, "Looks like breaking his legs wasn't enough. Seems he needs a tougher lesson."

"Oh no, it's them," Moon Dust said as he hid himself as much he could in Artemis's mane.

"His food rations will be cut in half for week because of this I'll make sure of it," the female said.

"Please don't let them take me sire," Moon Dust pleaded.

"No one will ever harm you again little Moon Dust," Artemis said.

As he finished speaking the two who had been talking rounded the corner to reveal a female unicorn and a male earth pony. "Oh, uh your highness, how lovely to see you tonight," the unicorn said as she and the earth pony bowed.

"The feeling isn't mutual," Artemis said as his horn lit up.

Before the ponies could ponder what he meant, they found themselves in chains bolted into the ground that had appeared around their legs and necks. "Sire, what is going on? We haven't done anything criminal," stated the earth pony.

"Do not think your conversation fell on deaf ears. I heard how you treated little Moon Dust here and there will be consequences for such abuse," Artemis said.

"Your highness. We only punished that little colt for being such a troublemaker. He deserved what he got," the unicorn argued.

"Your lies will not fool me. It seems that our inspectors have been going easy on your orphanage, either by being fooled themselves, or by being bribed into not telling us the truth. I am very sure that if I ask another filly or colt from your orphanage what you do, they be more then willing to tell the truth. You will remain here until I send some guards to escort you to the palace prison," Artemis said.

The Earth Pony tried to break free, but couldn't. "Those chains are enchanted, so not even your magic will help you escape them. Oh, and one more thing," Artemis lit his horn again and then continued, "I have cast a disabling spell to prevent you from getting any bright ideas once the guards have began escorting you."

The two ponies protested but Artemis was not swayed as he had little Moon Dust hang on as he took off. Once they were a cruising speed, Moon Dust finally said, "Your highness, that was amazing. Thank you so much."

"Your welcome, and there's no need to for formalities. Also I'm not about to let them harm another filly or colt again," Artemis said.

"But, there are other's like them still at the orphanage your highness," Moon Dust stated.

"I know. That's another reason I chained them there, so they can't warn the other caretakers that we have guards coming for them as well. I'll also be having some of the Castle Staff escort the little ones to the palace so that they have ponies to watch over them for the night and until we can find subjects trustworthy of treating them with kindness," Artemis said as he landed outside the doors of the palace.

One of the guards, Sargent Oak Leaf greeted them. "Good evening your highness, I trust your tour through the city fared well," he said.

"Indeed, and there is something I need you and some of your fellow Guards to do," Artemis said.

"What is thy biding your majesty," Oak leaf requested.

"There are two Canterlot Orphanage caretakers that need to be escorted to prison on Starswirl Avenue. Here are the keys to release them from those chains once you have a hold of them. I also need another party of the night gaurd to make their way to the orphanage itself along with some of the staff members we have to night to arrest the other caretakers til trial and to bring the children here until further notice," Artemis stated.

"I see. It's a good thing we built that foals section of the palace in for situations such as, well, this," Oak stated.

"Indeed, now I will be off with little Moon Dust here towards the Lunar Chambers. I trust you have everything under control Sargent?" Artemis inquired.

"Of course your majesty, the night is still young and I'll have everypony ready to go in fifteen minutes, or less if I am lucky," Oak Leaf said.

"I leave things in your hooves then," Artemis replied, and soon made his way indoors with little Moon Dust.

As they made their way through, Moon Dust was blown away by what the Palace looked like. "Amazing isn't it?" Artemis asked.

"It's way more cooler then I could have imagined," Moon Dust complimented.

A moment later, a growl came from Moon's stomach and he blushed as Artemis looked back at him and chuckled. "You must be hungry after having travel so far. Let me take you to our dining room. Our night chef will be more then happy to make you something to eat," Artemis said as he made a turn towards the dining hall.

"I really don't wanna be a bother your majesty," Moon Dust replied.

"Oh you wont be. He always likes to make meals for little fillies and colts that get to tour the castle and dine here and is always intrigued to make something genuine to their liking. Your no different," Artemis stated.

Soon they made their way to the dining hall and were greeted by the head night chef, Chef Funnel Cake, a relative of the Cake family in Ponyville. "Ah your majesty, a pleasure to see you tonight, the usual I presume," Funnel Cake asked.

"That would be great, and if you don't mind," Artemis stopped in mid sentence and turn his body to reveal Moon Dust.

"Oh, and who is this striking young lad your highness," Funnel Cake asked.

"This is Moon Dust," this got a hint of surprise from Funnel Cake before Artemis continued, "I'll explain in a moment, but I am sure it isn't too much to ask if you could make him something to eat."

"No problem at all your majesty. And what might you like to have for a meal tonight young Moon Dust," Funnel Cake asked.

"Um, c-could I have a tiger lily sandwich, some honey dew, and if it's not too much to ask, a small caramel roll and a glass of apple juice?" Moon Dust asked.

"I can do that. A caramel roll sounds like a good challenge. I'll be right back with the dishes as soon as possible. Oh, your highness, wonder if I might have a quick word?" Funnel asked.

"Of course," Artemis said.

They soon trotted off and Artemis spoke to the chef about Moon Dust and what he had planned to do. The chef only approved more of the situation then had previously and soon made his way into the kitchen to prepare the meals as Artemis came to sit by Moon, who had been given a booster seat to be able to put his front hooves on the table. Artemis sat down and looked at him with a smile. "So how are you liking it so here far?" Artemis asked.

"It's great your highness. And thank you for letting me and the other fillies and colts stay here in the children's area of the castle," Moon Dust said.

"Well, if you want, I can let you sleep in the Lunar Chambers with me and my family," Artemis offered.

Moon Dust looked up at him in surprise. "I-I don't understand your highness? Why let me sleep with the Lunar Family?" Moon Dust asked in curiosity.

"Well, I have been thinking it over and, well, I want to make you my son Moon Dust," Artemis said.

"Wha- your son, but... but I'm not an alicorn your majesty," Moon Dust said.

"You don't have to worry about that or calling me you majesty and such. And don't worry about Luna or Celestia disagreeing. I'll tell them the story about what happened and they'll understand, plus I don't think they'd disagree anyways even if I didn't tell them. And Moonlight is always talking about wanting a brother or sister," Artemis assured him.

Moon Dust was speechless. Here he was being offered a chance to become royalty. He wanted a family so much, he didn't think he could say no. The only thing that was making him think twice is what the other fillies and colts might think of him. Many of them didn't treat him poorly and were very nice, but that all might turn around once they know he's a prince and they aren't. "I know what you're thinking Moon Dust and don't worry, if the other orphans are anything like you, they'll more then likely congratulate you for becoming a prince," Artemis said to comfort him.

Moon Dust wanted to trust Prince Artemis on this but he still had doubts. he thought about it for a while then said, "Yes, I'll become your son."

Moon Dust soon hugged Artemis's muzzle as the prince bent down and Artemis nuzzled him in return. "I'm happy you agree my son," he said.

After they hugged, Funnel Cake burst in and said, "Here we are, some delicious Zap Apple Jam sandwiches, a delectable moon pie, some zesty roasted tiger lilies in some crispy tortilla shells, a fine plate of tiger lily sandwiches, some sweet honeydew, a mouth watering caramel roll, and for the drinks, the fizziest fizzy apple cider for his esteemed Prince Artemis and a delightful glass sweet apple juice for the new little prince, Prince Moon Dust."

Moon Dust was caught off guard for a moment by the last thing the chef said, but had a feeling his new father had told the chef earlier when they spoke privately and knew Moon Dust would say yes. Moon Dust looked at Artemis and his father winked. Moon Dust could only give a small smile and blushed a bit. "Well, dig in Moon Dust," Artemis said.

"Um, shouldn't I eat properly like royals do?" Moon Dust asked.

"Oh Prince Moon Dust your such a tease," Funnel Cake said.

"It's okay son, we only do that when we have to attend banquets and such to impress the other ponies of nobility. You should ask Funnel here how much I made a mess of myself when others weren't in attendance," Artemis stated.

"He was, as some might say, a sloppy eater. He sometimes made more of a mess of himself then Princess Moonlight did as a foal and even now as a filly. I sometimes think your dad likes to be young at heart and I don't mind one bit," Funnel added.

"Like so," Artemis said before he started to gobble down his plates of food like a little foal.

Moon Dust couldn't help but giggle at his new dad's sloppiness. He soon dug in himself and was amazed at how good all the food he requested had tasted. Artemis smiled at how his son made his own mess as did Funnel Cake, who was happy the little prince had approved of the dishes he had prepared.

As Moon Dust finished up, for the first time he could remember he felt stuffed and had a bit of a belly to show for it now. As Artemis finished cleaning him off, Moon Dust began to feel drowsy. Artemis then put the "Little Prince of the Night" on his back and politely thanked the chef for a great meal in a quiet tone. Funnel Cake told him it was pleasure to have served them and soon let the to princes make their way to the Lunar Chambers.

He made his way through the castle quietly as possible to not wake his new son, who had taken the liberty of using his new fathers mane as a cozy blanket. At this time, the guards were now escorting all orphanage the caretakers to prison or helping the castle staff escort the little ones to the guest chambers for children, carrying the foals unable to walk yet. Artemis smiled as he saw them walk in as he walked on the upper floors. Moon Dust merely stirred at the faint noise of the other orphans. Artemis couldn't wait to introduce Moon Dust to Luna. He was happy to have gained a son, and he had another surprise that awaited the young prince as he slept, aside from meeting his new family.

Luna Meets Her Son and The Nightmare

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Artemis soon made it into the Lunar Chambers, where his wife and daughter of the night slept. Now, the family had their of common area where they could watch their own private movies and such, and then there was four more rooms. One was where Artemis's daughter now slept, another was where he and his wife slept, another was their private bathing area, and the fourth was a guest room. Of course that might change once Moon Dust and his new sister got older, but at this time, once settled in, Moon Dust and Moonlight would share a room. Tonight though, Artemis wanted to keep little Prince Moon Dust close by, and was taking him to sleep with himself and Luna.

As he tip-hoofed quietly into the Lunar chambers and into the bedroom, Artemis felt his new son fidget a bit on his back. He reckoned it was from the sudden opening on the bedroom door that made his son stir and remained quiet. Once he reached the bed, he gently levitated and placed Moon Dust near his wife. The next thing that happened was a bit of a surprise but all the more cute. Luna wrapped her hooves around her new son, not even realizing it. He saw it was really late and knew he needed to get his rest for the day ahead as well, so he climbed into the bed with his wife and son. As he laid down, it was enough to slowly awaken his wife, as it sometimes happened. "Good evening honey, how was your walk through the city?" Luna asked.

"Quite eventful babe," Artemis replied.

"Oh?" Luna pondered.

Before she could ask what had happened, she felt a tiny movement close to her chest and looked down. The scene before her caught her by surprise as she saw her legs curled around a little pegasus colt. "Darling, who is this little colt?" Luna asked.

"This is our son Moon Dust sweetheart," Artemis answered.

"O-Our son?" Luna gasped.

She looked down at the little colt as he snuggled into her warm fur. Her heart leaped at one of the cutest sights she had seen since her daughters birth. This colt was a bit smaller then Moonlight, but seemed to be about her age. She then inspected her new son further and what she saw next nearly broke her heart. "Honey, his back legs, they are broken," Luna said with a sad tone in her voice.

"I plan on fixing that tomorrow morning, and give him another gift for being so brave," Artemis said before explaining to her about the orphanage and what he had done for the other fillies and colts.

Luna was in full support of his actions, for how could ponies have had such cold hearts and run that business. Soon Artemis, pulled his wife close and hugged her in the same way she was hugging little Moon Dust. Soon the whole family was asleep, and Luna decided that some certain caretakers needed a visit and had them pay their dues for what they did in her unique way of tapping into their dreams. In any other situation Artemis would have stopped her, but after what he had seen, he did not restrain his wife's wrath upon the ponies. By tomorrow, they be telling the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth for what they had done.

It seemed like the Lunar Chambers was peaceful for the night. Now Moonlight's room had been made soundproof since she had a habit of waking up to even the fainest noise. This proved to be effective for what was about to happen, for all was not peaceful for one of the Lunar members.

As the night went on, Moon Dust began to stir in his sleep and started breathing heavily. His dream had started to become nightmare.

In the dream
Moon Dust was having a fun time playing with some of the fillies and colts he met at the orphanage. They were playing things such as tag and hide and seek. But, just as Moon Dust turn a corner, a dark, and all to familiar figure stood before him. Moon cowered in terror. it was the head mistress of the orphanage. "No, Prince Artemis... my daddy sent you away," Moon Dust said.

"Prince Artemis? Your Dad? Ha, don't bore me with your silly little imagination. Prince Artemis would never want a weak little whelp like you. No pony would ever love someone like you," the head mistress said coldly.

"But he adopted me," Moon Dust said in fear.

"Silence, because you challenged me in such manner, you will be punished," the headmistress said.

"No, please no," Moon Dust said.

"Mares, teach this little whelp a lesson," the headmisstress ordered.

The mares were all too familiar, but this time the bared sharp razor teeth. "No...no," stuttered Moon Dust.

Just as the Mares came towards him with their mouths open...

Moon Dust awoke with a scream, covered in a cold sweat, and panting heavily. This in turn woke up Luna and Artemis. "Moon Dust are you alright?" Artemis asked worried.

"It... it was them again d-daddy," Moon Dust answered, eyes filled with tears.

Luna had gone to get a towel and soon came back to dry her son's fur. He told them everything about his dream through his tears. Luna looked sadly at Artemis. Neither had taken into account their sons fear of the orphanage to the extent he would have nightmares about it. Luna hugged him close. "Shhh, it's okay, it was just a dream. Those ponies can't harm you anymore. We'll never let any pony harm you," Luna said.

"That's right buddy, we are always here to protect you," Artemis said.

Artemis leaned his head down and nuzzled his son. This made Moon Dust feel better. "Now let us get some sleep, it's late and you need your rest for tomorrow baby," Luna said.

Moon Dust blushed at his new mother calling him baby. Soon Moon Dust cuddled up to Luna once more and Artemis cast a spell to protect his son's dreams as much as he could for the night. Once they knew he was asleep, Luna covered his ears with a spell that muffled out any noise he would hear. "Oh Artemis, to have such night terrors like that it's not fair for little Moon Dust. There has to be something we can do," Luna said.

"I know, but the best we can do right now is try and block out the nightmares as much as we can. We'll find some way to stop it, but for now we need to just cope with it best we can," Artemis said.

Luna nodded. She knew that Artemis was right and had to trust him. Aside from that, all she had on her mind is what reward did Artemis have for their son.

Atremis's Gifts and Lunar Siblings Meet

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As Celestia's sun began to rise Artemis was the first to rise. He awoke to see his wife and new son sleeping peacefully. He smiled, for he wondered how destiny had not had the Lunar family cross path's with their newest member sooner. By now he was sure that if Celestia wasn't aware that her little sister had gained a son, she most definitely heard about what had happened at the Canterlot orphanage. And he was more then certain that she would want to deal with this in a brutal, yet... civil manner.

Soon Luna began to stir as did Moon Dust. "Good morning love," Luna said.

"Good morning babe. And how are you feeling this morning Moon Dust?" Artemis asked.

"I'm feeling okay your hi-, I-I mean dad," Moon Dust answered.

"Hmhmhm, it's okay Moon Dust, I know this will take some getting use to. I have a gift for you little Moon, well, actually two gifts," Artemis said.

Moon tilted his head. No one had given him a gift before. And Artemis had only met him yesterday. "Now I need you to hold very still, alright buddy?" Artemis requested.

Moon nodded. He was nervous, but he knew he could trust Artemis after what he had done for him the night before. Artemis soon lowered his head and his horn began to glow. As it neared Moon Dust's forehead, Moon Dust closed his eyes. Luna rubbed his back to give him reassurance and soon Moon Dust felt his new father's horn gently tap his forehead. When he opened his eyes, he watched as a light engulfed him and he began to levitate off the ground. "D-Daddy what's happening?" Moon Dust asked, a little scared.

"Just relax son, it will be okay," Artemis assured him.

"We're right here little one," Luna said.

Soon Moon Dust felt a surge though his body as the light brightened and his parents covered their eyes. Moon Dust felt different. There was now a source of energy he could feel flowing through him that he hadn't felt before. As the light dimmed, Moon Dust felt himself descending gently back onto the bed. Luna and Artemis smiled as they looked down at their son. "D-daddy, w-what happened?" He asked.

"Take a look buddy," Artemis said as he levitate a mirror in front of his son.

Moon Dust was taken back by what he saw. He still had his wings, that was certain, but he now saw a small horn protruding from his head. He was an alicorn now. He looked up at Luna and she smiled at him bending down to nuzzle him. He nuzzled her back and smiled, then he felt his new mother gently grab his tail hoisting him up onto his legs. He wobbled for a second, but then realized it didn't hurt to stand on his back legs anymore. He looked at his legs and saw that they were no longer broken. He looked back his father Artemis and was feeling very overwhelmed, on the verge of tears. Artemis then held out his forehooves motioning his son to come over to him. Moon Dust was a little nervous. Not having walked like normal for so long, he wobbled a little as he walked towards his dad. It was almost like a baby foal taking their first steps, only thing that was different in this case was that he was not a foal.

He soon made it close enough to his dad, and Artemis picked his son up holding him close before he said, "You're now an Alicorn Prince of the Night my son."

Moon Dust shed a few tears of joy then tried wiping them away as his father held him. "Oh, I can only imagine the look on your cousin Blue Blood's face when he hears about this and sees your cute little face sweetie," Luna said.

Moon blushed and held his hooves over his face to hide it. Luna and Artemis chuckled at this. Then they heard a tiny knock on the door. Artemis gently placed Moon Dust down on the bed and opened the door with his magic. The door opened to reveal Artemis and Luna's daughter, Moonlight, Moon Dust's new sister. "Moonlight, come on in honey. There is somepony we want you to meet," Luna said.

Moon Light trotted over happily and climbed onto the bed with her parents. Moon Dust backed up towards Artemis when she got onto the bed, a little nervous about meeting her. As she caught a glimpse of Moon Dust, she tilted her head. "Mommy, who's he? He look just like us, but littler," Moonlight said innocently.

"Well, Sweety... this is your new little brother, Moon Dust," Luna said.

Moonlight gasped and smiled before she galloped over to her brother, tackling him onto the bed. "I always wanted a brother. I'm Moonlight, but you knew that already. Where did you come from? What's your favorite thing to eat? Have you met Auntie Celestia yet? We're gonna have so much fun and g-" Moonlight was cut short finishing her sentence as Luna closed her mouth with magic while levitating her off her new brother.

"You've got to calm down honey. You're just as enthusiastic as your Aunt Pinkie Pie. Many things have happened for Moon Dust and it's a lot to take in. He's new around here and he's gonna feel a little shy, so don't try and rush him like that okay sweetie?" Luna advised as she let go of her daughters mouth.

Moonlight nodded and said, "Sorry Moon Dust."

"It's okay, no hard feelings big sis," Moon Dust said.

Moonlight giggled at the fact her new brother called her big sis. "Well, let's not stay in the room all day. Who wants some Prench Toast?" Artemis offers.

Everyone rose their hoofs. Soon they all got off the bed and Luna levitated Moon Dust onto her back. She knew he was able to walk, but she wanted to do it anyways. Artemis levitated Moonlight onto his back and they walked out into the family living room. Now most might think they would go to the dining hall for a meal, but the thing was, they had their own kitchen in the Lunar Chambers, and Artemis was a very good cook that even the head chef of the castle had a hard time keeping up to par with, but Artemis still had respect for him, so he still had the chef cook him meals often, rather then make his own.

Today though, he wanted to just let his son relax. He knew word was already getting around the castle to staff who had only just learn of the events that happened last night, and of course Celestia was probably hearing about this, but she wasn't a worry. Celestia knew that Luna was wanting another child and that Moonlight was always going on about having a sibling to play with, and now his family had gotten their wish. For Celestia, it was just another little one for her to spoil, as well as for Cadence. Love Struck would be so happy to hear she has another cousin around her age, and Shining Armor, well, he had his own way of showing the family love to his niece and daughter, and most likely do the same for his new nephew.

The only thing that was bothering him were the politicians of the noble class. The ones that were in the middle class would more likely side with the alicorn family, but he knew that the nobles would be in a serious uproar about this. He wasn't sure where Blueblood stood on this matter, for he never seemed to have a problem with his mortal nephew, even though he had heard of Blueblood's slip ups. Maybe Blueblood had respect for him, or maybe Artemis' size was intimidating enough, or maybe Celestia finally set him straight. It could be anypony's guess, but all the same, he might have the same opinion as the rest of the nobles. Some of them could really grind his gears, for he had a feeling at least two of them would be having their complaints about what happened at the orphanage, either because they invested in that place, or because they had no sympathy for children. As these thoughts loomed in his head and he and his family sat down to have breakfast, there was a knock at the door.

Author's Notes:

End of chapter three. I hope you all enjoyed it. I am trying to slow the pace in this one, so if there are questions looming about Moon Dust's adoption or anything that will probably be answered in future chapters. I know some of you probably think that I was too quick to make Moon Dust an alicorn, but this story will not be focusing on that. Moon Dust will still have his flaws, so he's not going to have all this experience with his new immortality right off the bat. I know Twilight had to go through all these tests, but do remember this is a fanfic, er, fimfic, so anything can happen, and on another note, Artemis' magical capability dwarfs Celestia's and Luna's so giving his son this sort of gift is something that isn't a problem for him, then again, it didn't seem to be a problem for Celestia when she had Twilight transfom. I haven't decided if I will have Blueblood be a total snob in this story or not, so that remains to be seen.

Please leave me some positive comments and constructive criticism. As always, I will update when I can. I look forward to he- *Frozen by an ice spell.*

Celestia: Back to the castle with you nephew, before mommy Luna gets suspicious. And you need to get that next My Little Foals chapter up soon. *levitates my frozen form and flies with me back through the rift.*

Argument of the Nobles and an Unexpected Discovery

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Artemis had answered the door to see his sister-in-law Celestia standing in front of him with two solar guards standing on either side of her. "Celestia, I didn't expect to see you here this morning. We're usually coming to see you," Artemis said.

"Oh Artemis, I am very sure you know why I am here. I heard of what happened last night, and I have one thing to say about that.... Thank you. Had it not been for you, those foals that we are taking care of right now might have never recovered from what had happened. Rest assured the sins of these orphanage caretakers you helped apprehend will be brought to light, and justice will be served. It's, just gonna take a while to put everything in order for their trial, so, in the mean time, they will spend time in the dungeons. Now, the main reason I am here is, I heard that there is a little addition to the Lunar Family. Am I right?" Celestia asked with a smile that said 'let me see him'.

Artemis smiled back and motioned her to come in. She signaled her guards to stand watch next to the Lunar Family's guards that had been assigned this morning. As the family saw Celestia come in, Moon Dust suddenly hid under Luna's wing as they sat on the bench in the dining area of their chambers. "Good morning sister, and good morning Moon Light. How are you this morning?" Celestia asked casually.

"Great, Auntie Tia, how are you?" Moon Light asked.

"Just fine dear. I heard rumor that there's a new Lunar member," Celestia mentioned.

"Indeed sister," Luna removed her wing before she continued, "This is our new son Moon Dust."

Moon Dust huddled close to Luna, a little shy about seeing Celestia. "It was thanks to him that we saved all those sweet little fillies and colts," Artemis said, seeing his new son blush at the statement.

"Is that so? Well, I can certainly say that he definitely earned his new ascension that he was gifted," Tia teased, knowing she would have done the same, had she been in Artemis's situation at the time he found Moon Dust.

"Indeed, I feel that meeting your new nephew is not the only reason you are here though," Luna said.

"I'm afraid not. If I may speak with you and Artemis alone for a moment?" Celestia requested.

"Alright, Moon Light, could you take Moon Dust and show him those video games you like to play?" Luna urged.

"Yes Mama," Moon Light said as she finished her breakfast, and soon led Moon Dust to the living room area, and showed him a list of games she played on the "Playstation Lunar".

When Celestia felt they were out of ears reach, she spoke, "So, it has not only spread through the castle, but also, into Canterlot, and I am sure that other cities and towns will soon hear of this latest development that has occurred. The good news, many have praised this accomplishment. The bad news, the nobles who have received wind of it, some are in an uproar. I know you want to spend time with your children, but this requires our attention," Celestia said.

"I understand Celestia. We'll have to have one of our personal hoof maidens look after the children," Artemis said.

"I already had Misty agree to take care of them. She is waiting outside until we have to take off," Celestia pointed out.

"Very well," Artemis states.

Luna soon told their children she and Artemis had to take care of something and would be back as soon as they could. Moon Dust was a little nervous about not having his new parents close, but he trusted them enough to not try and stop them from leaving. Soon the three alicorns were in the throne room, and many nobles had arrived as well. It hadn't taken long for the castle staff to set up the room for the meeting. Celestia then spoke, "Good morning everypony, I know why you are all here, so I will skip all the useless information that everybody already knows. Artemis will now address his actions that he made last night."

"Thank you Celestia. Now, my actions don't require any defense, in the same situation or a similar situation, I would do it again. It is completely unbecoming of me to look the other direction and act as if nothing is wrong. These caretakers of the Canterlot Orphanage have displayed criminal behavior," Artemis said.

"Disciplining young fillies and colts is not criminal your highness," The Noble name Lord Thunderhoof said.

"I never said it was. But when does child abuse, such as breaking a young one's legs, pass by as discipline?" Artemis fired back.

"What in Equestria? They would never do something like that. You should witness what happens before you make serious accusations of that nature your highness," Thunderhoof debated.

"Oh, I have personally witnessed it. I found a young colt trying to escape their abuse, and his... his back legs had been purposely broken," Artemis said, as he teared up, remembering the scene the night before.

Luna placed a hoof on her husbands shoulder. "If that is not proof enough for all of you, you can ask the guards and castle staff that we sent to the orphanage what they saw last night, and they will tell you the same exact thing," Luna said.

"How do we know you didn't just make this story up, and you just have a personal quarrel with the caretakers?" Thunderhoof implied.

"Lord Thunderhoof. The only grudge that my brother holds is with that dark king that once ruled Princess Cadence's fine empire. He didn't even know about what the orphanage was doing until last night," Celestia said.

"Where is this proof you have that this took place?" Thunderhoof said.

"Lord Thunderhoof, my aunts and uncle are known for many things. But being liars are not one of those things," Blueblood stated.

"I still wish to see this proof, Prince Blueblood," Thunderhoof demanded.

"We have them waiting right outside the door," Celesita defended herself.

The guards soon opened the door, and there standing before them were all the fillies and colts, excluding Moon Dust, that had been saved the night before. "You let these common ruffians walk within the palace? This is absurd your majesty," Thunderhoof snapped.

"They are the proof Thunderhoof. You can see many have bandages and casts for their injuries. They did nothing to deserve these personal scars, and should be treated far better. Another reason we have brought them here is so we can heal their wounds. You can also see they have been undernourished, and the castle is the best place to help them receive the nourishment they need, so before you make claims that my brothers actions were unjust, you should think of what it must have been like for them and if you would have wanted to be treated that way," Celestia said.

Thunderhoof was at a loss for words. Soon Celestia, Artemis and Luna all helped to heal the young ones and sent them with the castle staff to receive a good meal that morning. "Well, I can honestly say that I am impressed your highness. However, there is the matter that was brought to our attention about this colt that Prince Artemis decided personally to take in as a member of the royal family," Duke Silver Mane stated.

"I can personally say that what my husband decided was purely out of selflessness. It was this colt that was able to bring to our attention the orphanage's mistreatment. After he seemed to trust Artemis so much, my husband felt it would be unfair to abandon the colt to somepony elses care, and make the colt think he was no better then the orphanage, thus in turn, giving him a bad impression of the royal family and nobles alike. Even right now, he is nervous to not be in our presence, but our daughter is helping to keep him calm," Luna said.

"What is the colt's name if I might ask your majesty?" Silver Mane asked.

"His name is Moon Dust, er, Prince Moon Dust now. That was the name he gave me when I found him," Artemis corrected.

"I see, how old is he?" Silver Mane asked.

"He's our daughter's age, but he's somewhat smaller then she is in size," Luna said.

"Why are you asking these questions Silver Mane?" Celesita inquired.

"Well, I had this crazy thought, but all evidence just proves that it's no more then my head toying with me," Silver Mane stated.

Artemis wasn't so sure he was certain that Silver was certain that his theory was out of the question, and would pull him aside later about it. "Well, after having heard his story, and seeing his condition, I was extremely moved, and I decided then and there to make him a prince. I also have given him the gift of becoming an Alicorn. I know that it is only presented in special cases, such as Twilight recent ascension, and in this particular case, it was necessary. For starters, he was hesitant about the offer. He was thinking about the fillies and colts that had been at the orphanage with him, and how he felt it might be unfair for him to be a prince and them not. To think about others before one's self is a fine quality for any Prince or Princess. For another, had it not been for his bravery to speak up, we may never have known of the treachery of the Canterlot Orphanage. While it will require time and care for him to feel comfortable around many ponies, I am sure he will grow up to be a fine, brave Prince of Equestria. Thirdly, in his present condition, I was not entirely certain how strong his mortal form was. He could barely keep himself up when I found him. I was afraid that his body may have become to frail and felt that I had to take action. After giving him his immortal alicorn appearance, I soon came to find that it had been the right choice. My son, right now, can barely walk, and for being severely undernourished, I can understand why that would be so. Had I left him in his mortal form, he may have never recovered, and he may have died before he had a chance to start his life. I'm sure that you all have your opinions in this matter, but Moon Dust is our son, and I will not leave him to fend for himself out there," Artemis said.

"One does not just simply take a foal off the streets and make him a Prince of Equestria. You expect us to bow down to a common orphan," Thunder Hoof scolded.

"No, I expect you to bow down to your newest Prince of Equestria. His origins may be unknown, and may have started out as the common folk. But one pony can adopt another pony no matter what their position in society, and should that give the adopted pony in question a higher position, well then so be it. Position in society should not dictate who a pony is. It defines what they are, but not who they are. My son has as much right as any other pony that is adopted into royalty, should we decide it," Artemis debated.

"He, and every other orphan do not have a right to become royalty!" Thunderhoof spat.

"And where did I ever sign, in the thousands of years that I have been ruling, that the royal family is unable to make such an act. I would have remembered such a bill being signed into law. Don't think that I don't read every parchment sent in by the politicians, including yourself. Artemis and Luna have every right to adopt him, and to clear things up, I have the documents right here, that I had sent in from Ponyville Orphanage via Spike's magical flame, and they are fully signed by both my sister and brother, making Moon Dust an official Prince of the Night," Celestia boasted in Thunder Hoof's face as she held the documents in her magic.

"You.... he.... they.... I...." Thunderhoof was stuttered as he was speechless and had everypony in the room starting at him.

He had lost his argument's strong point as the documents were rubbed in his face, and now it was official he would have to show the proper respect to his new prince. Artemis and Luna felt satisfied, and had a feeling that Lord Thunderhoof had an investment in the Orphanage and not lost all his profit because of the actions Artemis had taken. If that was the case, he would be having a share in the blame of what happened to the those fillies and colts and their son... especially their son. They would find out for sure later, but soon had their thoughts interrupted as Blueblood cleared his throat from a gigglefest and said, "Well, I suppose we can conclude that Moon Dust shall now officially be known as Prince Moon Dust and that he now has a share in the wealth of the Alicorns and their relatives. I would say he has earned it after what he has been through. Don't you agree Aunt Celestia?"

"Indeed, I shall also have my investigators of the EBI question the mare and stallion caretakers of the Canterlot Orphanage for their outlandish acts of cruelty and also send investigators located near the other orphanages of the other cities and towns to inspect those orphanages undercover as employees. Are there any further questions?" Celestia asked.

All waited patiently, and after no one brought up any arguments, Celestia stated, "Then we are adjourned from this meeting. I shall meet with you in one week to speak about the matter of the disappearance of Derpy Hooves. Some may know her as Ditzy Do or Bright Eyes, if you know her in any matter."

As everypony left, Artemis and Luna hurried back to the Lunar chambers. It was just as the meeting had finished, Luna and Artemis could feel a surge of energy, telling them their son was in distress. As they came into the chambers, what they saw startled them. Moon Dust had his eyes shut tight and he was grabbing his head. "Mom! Dad! Help!" Moon Light urged, worried about her brother.

"I have tired everything I can to help him, but he keeps saying he's seeing all these images. I don't know what they are, but it seems to be giving him a headache," Misty said.

"I'll see if I can help him," Luna said.

She started to used her magic to link her mind with her son's. When she tried though, she was met with a blockade. "Ah! I... I can't get into his mind. He's blocking his thoughts from me to be able to enter. Artemis, you're the only one who can help me get in there. Please?!" Luna pleaded with worry in her eyes.

Artemis nodded and soon linked himself and his wife's thoughts and they soon press into their son's mind. When they were there, they could see every single memory that was within his mind, from his earliest days to just recently all flash by so fast. Luna soon made her way to her son's subconscious self. "Moon Dust, we are here. Calm yourself son," Luna urges Moon Dust.

"Mommy, there's so many images. I... I want it to stop. Help me," Moon Dust said.

Luna was surprised he had not called her Luna, but she went with it. She and Artemis nuzzled him and this began to slow the flashing images to his present memories of becoming part of the family. Soon they left his subconscious and saw that their son was breathing easy, or at least catching his breath. "Are you okay Moon Dust?" Moon Light asked.

"Uh huh? Thanks Mommy," Moon Dust said.

Luna smiled and walked over and nuzzled her son. When she saw his eyes, she was a bit shocked, but kept calm. "Well, how about we have lunch and then let you have a nap. I think you could use it sweetie," Luna said.

"But I'm not ti..." He collapsed onto the living room mattress he had been sitting on before he finished his sentence.

"Or, maybe the nap is in order first," Luna giggle and laid down beside her son covering him gently with her wing.

Artemis picked up Moon Light and said, "How about you play the rest of your game while Mama and I talk honey?"

"Okay Daddy," Moon Light said.

Artemis set the volume low as she played. "Artemis, his eyes. When I saw them they were..." She was cut off as Artemis covered her mouth.

"I know, they reminded you of her Luna. I can not say why exactly, or if their permanent, but it didn't seem to change how he sees us. He sees us as his parents," Artemis stated.

"It's not just that. I'm not sure if you saw it, but when we dove into his memory. I saw something. Something that he couldn't have possibly had in his memories... unless..." Luna trailed off.

"Unless what sweetie?" Artemis asked.

"Honey, do you remember what happened before I became her?.... Nightmare Moon?" Luna asked.

"I do remember that were having a good time before that event occurred the night of your transformation and that event had been the last straw for you," Artemis said.

"Do you remember anything else? Dig deeper into your memory honey," Luna pleaded.

Artemis thought long and hard. Then it hit him. "Oh my goodness. I remember. But it can't be... can it?" Artemis pondered.

"He's... he's our son from 1000 years ago," Luna said.

"But, our child wasn't even born yet at the time. You were still pregnant when you transformed," Artemis argued.

"The elements must have had a hoof in his birth. I just thought I had miscarried upon return. Turns out I was wrong," Luna said.

"That actually would explain a few things. Like why there were two pony images in the moon. And how there still seemed to be one after you were released. That also explains why, a few years back, I saw the stars acting strange and heading towards the moon and the next night the image was gone," Artemis explained.

"I thought was because I had eaten or drank the wrong thing," Luna joked.

"Well, we can't change the past, but we can prepare for the future, like telling him once he wakes up. If we keep this from him, he might not forgive us for withholding it," Artemis said.

"I agree, but do know what else this means. Part of Nightmare Moon's gifts reside within him, and they are powerful. If he is guided the wrong way it could become dangerous. And with the way he was treated, I am surprised he's kept those powers suppressed to this point. How he had become mortal might have been due to the stars bringing him back to Equestria. But now that we have awakened his immortal side, we need to find a way to extract the power of Nightmare Moon from him. Her power on top of his own could cause trouble for us all," Luna said.

"I agree, but it won't be easy Luna," Artemis said.

"I know," Luna nuzzled her son, before she continued, "I know."

Author's Notes:

End of Chapter four. Wow that was longer then I had expected I would go for, but now it is finished. I wanted to get this chapter out before I had to take off again, which will be soon. I am not back entirely yet, so my stories will remain on hiatus. When I do return for good, I will be sure to try and update as much as possible on my stories and... *Nightmare Moon snatches me.* Nightmare Moon: Gotcha. You can't escape that easy.

Night Mist: Hey, puts me down. *I flail around in panic.*

Nightmare Moon: Not a chance. *Speeds off cloaking herself and me from Mama Luna's detection.*

Luna: I swear Nightmare Moon! When I find you, you will feel my wrath!

Nightmare Moon: Oh, I'm so scared.

Luna: Please comment on my son's story my little ponies while I go and look for him. *flies off to find me.*

Sleep Crawling and the Lunar Parents Decision

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Please note that events for this story are going to be playing out of order, so this whole thing is taking place after the Crystal Empire was brought back Twilight was transformed into an alicorn, but this has all happened before Discord was released. Thank you and enjoy the chapter.

It had been a week since the meeting with the nobles. The caretakers had received severe punishment. The orphans, most had found new homes, some were even adopted by castle staff. In that time, Moonlight had introduced her brother to her friends, which consisted of the CMC, who were still searching for their cutie marks. Pipsqueak from Trottingham, and a little filly named Comet Shine. She made him blush when they first met, and Moonlight teased him a bit about it in a sisterly manner. It was nightfall, and the whole family was fast asleep. But one was a bit restless. Luna had woken up to a soft nudge on her rear hoof, when she awoke to find out what it was, she saw that it was her son. She could see was still asleep... and was crawling. He was using his forelegs to move, but his back legs were being dragged. As she saw this, she could only think of one thing. The dreams of the orphanage were still haunting him. She did her best to block them out, but sometimes they were too strong, and tonight was one of those nights.

She shed a tear, as heard her little son groan as he crawled around. He must be dreaming of the caretakers breaking his legs, and he was trying to crawl away. Luna, had she not been a level headed reasonable mare, unlike her dark self, would have given those caretakers such horrific nightmares, they would have to be put in the psych ward. She lifted her head and nudged her son awake as he came closer to her chest. "Huh?" Moon Dust said in surprise, waking up from the bad dream.

"Shh, it's okay sweetie, I'm here," Luna said as she nuzzled him.

"Mommy, I was back... at the orphanage, and... and they were hurting me," Moon Dust said, tearing up.

"Shh, they can't hurt you anymore. You were just having a bad dream. But I am right here. Just like your dad and sister," Luna said motherly.

"I'm sorry I woke you Mommy," Moon Dust said.

"It's okay. It's my job to keep you safe honey, and I would never give up that job," Luna assured him.

"Thank you Mommy," Moon Dust replied.

"You're welcome. Now try to get some sleep sweetie," Luna said.

Moon Dust yawned, "Okay."

He cuddled up close to her and was soon out like a light. Luna smiled and soon felt the large muzzle of her husband nuzzle her neck. "How much did you hear honey?" Luna asked.

"All of it. I think that the dreams are starting to get stronger. I think the Nightmare Moon's magic is effecting his dreams," Artemis said.

"I feel the same way. But what are we gonna do? I've looked through so many books already and even tried a few spells I thought would help, but every single one, gave me no result," Luna said.

"I know, I am looking and trying too. If we have to, we may have to call upon the Twilight and her friends to help, but only as a last resort," Artemis said.

"Alright... well, we best get some sleep ourselves. I know Moonlight will be all up and jumpy tomorrow, and we need the energy to keep up with her," Luna replied.

Artemis nodded, and cast another spell over their son to help stop the dreams. Morning was met with the same routine. Moonlight would come in all bouncy and cheerful. Moon Dust would try his best to stay asleep until either Moonlight or Luna gave him tickle torture. They would have breakfast in the family kitchen, and then Moonlight would try and think of fun things to do, but being aware of her brother's condition.

Soon the family met with Celestia and the Crystal family. Lovestruck finally got to meet her new cousin, and Cadence couldn't help but daw at how cute he was. Had you seen her a week ago though, she was in full on rage. All of this towards the caretakers. Had she been present for the trial of the caretakers and the "noble" involved, it would have ended in the accused being able to eat nothing but Granny Smith's apple sauce. But today, her head was on straight, and she was happy to see her nephew was walking, even if it was a bit of an effort. As the little ones attention was focused on a game, Celestia soon said, "I hear that Moon Dust is doing better. Any flight yet?"

"Not yet, but we know he'll get there. But recently, something has happened at night," Artemis said.

"Oh?" Celestia pondered.

"He's been crawling in his sleep, not using his back legs at all. We know it's because he has dreams about the orphanage and the caretakers doing what they did. It pains me to watch when it happens," Luna.

"I know that it must be hard. Have you done anything to counter it," Cadence said.

"Well, my dream protection spells do little to avert them away. And there's something else we discovered," Luna said.

"And what's that sister?" Celestia asked.

"You remember what happened 1000 years ago, but do you remember the state I was in before it happened?" Luna asked.

"You were near full on rage," Celestia said.

"I mean physically," Luna corrected her.

Celestia thought long and hard, then, it her like the Canterlot Express. "You're saying that," Celestia stopped as Luna nodded.

"Moon Dust is technically Moon Light's older brother, but he was locked in the moon with me. He wasn't released until a few years ago, around the time Moonlight came into our lives," Artemis said.

"I thought there was something familiar about him, but I hadn't thought about your pregnancy 1000 years ago," Celestia said.

"I hadn't either, until I saw something that shocked me. His eyes, now they've been going on and off lately, but, his eyes were turned to a similarity of "her" eyes," Luna said.

Everypony knew what she meant by "her", and were a little shocked. "So Nightmare Moon isn't completely gone," Cadence asked.

"No, she still clings to my son, and I feel that is why his nightmares sometimes out do our dream protection spells. I've tried everything I know and scoped through all the books I could get my hooves on to find something, but nothing that seems helpful worked. I'm scared that something might cause Nightmare Moon to take control of him, and that it will bring harm to him and others. With all that he's been through, I am surprised at how strong his own will power is to hold it back. But I can't count on that to hold out much longer, now that we unlocked his immortal alicorn form from his mortal pegasus form," Luna said.

"You haven't looked through all of them sister. Now, I do have a group of books that I have kept hidden. These have spells, that, put in the wrong hooves, would cause chaos, and may help release "You-Know-Who", but they do have something that may be one, if not the only thing that can help Moon Dust. Although, there are some, should I say, catches to this spell," Celestia said.

"What is it sister?" Luna asked.

"Well, it requires somepony around the same as your son, with maybe a year of age between them at most, in order for it to work properly. Now I know he was conceived over 1000 years ago, but it would appear that around the time your daughter was born Moon Dust was released in a mortal form, since the stars could only do so much for his situation at the time, so, physically, he's around your daughters age..... maybe around a year younger. But beside the point, their age group would be perfect for the situation. Another complication, is that only 'one' of the parents of the pony in question can perform the spell. I would be unable to help in that regard, since I am not his mother," Celestia said.

"Okay, well, me, or Artemis could perform this spell you speak of," Luna pointed out.

"Yes, that is true. But I have never read of this spell ever being used on a child before. Most who had performed this spell in the past, and the ones who the spell was cast upon have nearly failed in the past, almost causing themself and the one they cast the spell on to loose their sanity. This spell was created to try and purify ponies, purging them of any darkness in their hearts. This is why it was a spell kept in the most restricted space of our library. Me, and only a few others I know we can trust were allowed access to that area. Not even Prince Blueblood could lay his hoof on them," Celestia stated.

"Can you bring us the instructions so we can read over them?" Artemis inquired.

"I had a feeling you'd ask," Celestia said.

She soon used a spell to reveal the spell book she had been talking about. As Luna read over it, she saw something her sister had over looked. "Ah, I see why some ponies nearly lost their sanity with this spell. It states here that this spell is meant for siblings, not two ponies of different families. I suppose it's an easy part of the spell to miss, but as you said, it's quite complicated, and requires a lot of focus. But this is the best chance of releasing Nightmare Moon's hold she has on my son. If we don't purge him now while he's young, the older he gets, the more risk we have of her turning him, and causing him to become a threat, to his own family. I can't bare to watch that happen. Not with how much he's been through already. He has suffered enough," Luna said as tears began to roll down her cheeks.

Artemis placed a hoof on his wife's shoulder to help calm her. "Whichever of us cast's the spell, I know we will succeed. Moon Dust deserves to have a better life. Not one of fear, or pain. It will take a while to purge him of his nightmares, but with Nightmare Moon out of the picture, I know that it will become a lot easier for both us, and him. Once they have finished their game we will let them know, and we'll explain it to them in a way that is best for them to understand, but I know they will have faith in what we will do. But I do say we breath caution and ask that Nurse Gentle Heart be on stand by for the procedure as well, just to check them over, after we cast the spell. I have a feeling this will take a lot of energy, not only out of one of us, but out of Moon Dust the most, since he's to be purged of Nightmare Moon's hold," Artemis stated.

"That's a good idea brother. I'll have one of the guards fetch her now while the little ones play their game," Cadence said.

After send the guard to fetch Gentle Heart, the parents and Tia sat down as they watched the little ones play Kingdom Hearts: Equestrian Adventures, a game Princess Celestia and Princess Luna personally gave the stamp of approval for, for being, well, historically accurate. They were now waiting on seeing what the sequel had in store.

A Journey of Purification Can Be Exhausting

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After a couple hours of playing video games, Moon Dust and Moon Light came to see their parents and relatives. Luna soon levitated them next to her on the Living Room Bed they had. "Moon Dust, Moon Light. Now I need you to listen for a moment. Daddy and I have been talking with your aunts and uncle about something, and we want to make sure you know what's going to happen. See, we are going to go on a little adventure," Luna stated.

"Where are we going Mommy?" Moon Light asked.

"Well, this made sound a little strange to you, but we're gonna have you go into Moon Dust Mind," Artemis said.

"Wow, cool. But, how does it work Daddy?" Moon Dust asked, not sure how he could explore his own mind.

"Well, I am going to cast a spell, and your subconscious selves and mine are gonna be in Moon Dust's mind," Luna said.

"Ooooh, okay," Moon Light responded.

"But understand, you may see some scary things in there. I don't want you to try and fight them. There's reasons I can't explain, so you have to trust me okay?" Luna informed them.

"Okay," the Lunar Siblings replied.

"Alright, now I just need you to stay still, and close your eyes, and soon the adventure will begin," Luna said.

The two nodded, and waited for Luna to do what she needed. While she was starting up the spell, Artemis asked, "Are you certain this will work Tia?"

"Yes, if I know my sister, and I do, she will know how to handle Moon Dust's troubled mind, and will be able to locate Nightmare Moon within his psyche. I'm just not sure how long this spell will take to help clear Moon Dust of Nightmare Moon's hold, so, we can only trust in the three to find their way, however long it takes them," Celestia said.

Soon, Luna, Moonlight, and Moon Dust's minds were linked by the spell, and they entered Moon Dust's mind. When they found themselve's in his subconscious, Luna was both amazed and a little terrified at what she saw. Where they were right now, seemed to be the part of Moon Dust's psyche, where it was full of joy and laughter. But she could see not too far off in the distance, that there was a lot of darkness and fear that seemed to loom, and she knew, in the heart of that area, lurked her darker self that still clung to Moon Dust. She knew if anything, Nightmare Moon, was trying to keep Moon Dust's joy and laughter from spreading in his psyche, so she could feed off his fear and torment, and eventually take control. "Mommy, where are we?" She heard Moon Dust call to her.

She looked down and saw her son looking at her with a look of confusion. She smiled and said, "This is your mind dear, we're seeing a world fashioned by both your imagination, and your experiences you have had. This is where our adventure begins."

"Wow, this place we're at right now is cool Moon Dust, but um..... what's that place over there?" Moonlight pointed towards the darker area of this world in Moon Dust's mind.

"That's where we have to go. We have to find someone over there and, well, we gotta make them leave," Luna said.

"Who Mommy?" Moon Dust asked.

"Her name is Nightmare Moon," Luna said.

The siblings gasped and hid behind Luna's hooves. "B-but, she gobbles up little ponies like us Mommy," Moonlight said.

"Not here she can't, and don't worry, I will protect both of you," Luna said as she nuzzled them.

With their mother's words of comfort they started to trot with her towards their destination. At first, it didn't feel to hard, but once they entered the darker part of Moon Dust's mind, Moon Dust and Moonlight's confidence started to dwindle a bit. They soon came upon a scene that was all too familar to Moon Dust. The world had turned into the orphanage he was once at, and what Luna saw, she was heart broken. There were the caretakers, mistreating the little ones. Then they came towards her. "Ah, Princess Luna, so nice to see you, I see that you have returned our littlest troublemaker," one of them said.

"Back off. Moon Dust is no longer part of your orphanage, he is my son," Luna said.

"Oh, the little one believes he can have the Princess play a joke on us. Well, looks like we need to punish him some more," another caretaker said.

"No, No. Don't please," Moon Dust hid in Luna's mane.

"Begging will get you nowhere," the largest caretaker said.

As they neared Luna remember, this wasn't real, this was Moon Dust's psyche. "Moon Dust, remember, they're not real, they're just figments of your memory. You can control them," Luna assured him.

"R-really?" Moon Dust asked.

Moonlight had joined Moon Dust on Luna's back, for even she was getting scared, as Luna replied, "Yes, tell them and watch what happens. But remember, you have to tell yourself they are not real."

Moon Dust nodded, "Okay I'll try," he climbed to the top of Luna's head, and as he looked at the caretakers, who were about to try and jump for him, he had a boost of confidence and said, "You are not real. You are bad ponies who can't hurt me anymore."

Just as the ponies were about to jump, their forms started to become misshapen and started to disappear. Soon, there was nothing left, and the Orphanage started to take on a look that was of the castle, and just like when they entered this mind world, it was filled with joy and laughter in the setting. "Good work Moon Dust, you did it," Luna said.

Moon Dust dropped onto Luna's muzzle and nuzzled her face. "We still have to keep going. I have a feeling we may be getting close," Luna said.

"But, wh-what if Nightmare Moon does try to gobble us?" Moon Dust asked.

"Oh don't worry, we'll deal with her," Luna assured him.

While they continued, Luna thought to herself about what they had seen. If this was how bad the caretakers treated all of the children at the Orphanage, she felt punishment was not given it's due yet. She had something special in mind planned for the caretakers. But that would wait. They soon entered an even more terrifying area of Moon Dust's psyche. Just as Luna thought of where they were, she heard a familiar voice, "Ah, Luna. So nice to see you again, I have to admit, even though Moon Dust has kept me company in this realm, I've grown rater bored with this place. Come to rekindle our connection?"

Luna took a protective stance. "You dare to invade my son's mind?" Luna stated as she saw Nightmare Moon land in front of them in a scene that was just like the castle she and Celestia used to reside in.

"Oh, Luna, you speak of it as if it's a bad thing. Without me, this tiny little colt would have no backbone, even to speak. I kept him sane," Nightmare Moon said.

"No, all you have done was cause him torment. He's suffered too long," Luna defended Moon Dust as she then magically covered the ears of her little ones not knowing it wouldn't work on here.

"I wasn't the one who abandoned him did I? You left him, you never even took care of him properly," Nightmare Moon said.

"Wha- that's not true. My mommy loves me. She brought me back to the castle after daddy found me," Moon Dust Stepped in.

Luna was shocked her son heard what Nightmare Moon said. "Oh please, she let you suffer. I was the one that kept you going," Nightmare Moon said.

Luna saw that Nightmare Moon's expression seemed to change from a confident mare, to a concerned mare. She knew Moon Dust was getting to her. Had she known about this spell sooner, she definitely would have used it. Moonlight flew down next to her brother and said, "No, Mommy told us both what happened. We know the truth. You've just been mean, giving my little brother bad dreams."

Nightmare Moon all of the sudden dropped a bit breathing heavily. She wasn't sure what was going on. Moon Dust then snapped, "All you did was make me scared and sad. Mommy's been a great mommy to me, and she will never leave me."

Luna wasn't sure where all this confidence from her children was coming from, but it was definitely having an effect from Nightmare Moon. Maybe the spell had something to do with it, combining their confidence as one. She also noticed everything around the area was starting to change like before, becoming joyful and full of laughter. "Nightmare Moon, for the crimes of invading my mind, and the mind of my son. I hearby banish you from this mind realm. You will no longer have control, and will never come close to my son, ever again," Luna stated.

As she said this, Nightmare Moon cried in defeat, "Nooooo!"

Soon the three of them saw her mist form be launched towards a light in the sky of Moon Dust's psyche, and Luna smiled, "Little ones, we did it, we can go back and Nightmare Moon won't haunt you anymore Moon Dust," Luna said.

The Lunar siblings cheered and had a group hug with their mother, she soon cast a spell from her subconscious self, ending the mind link spell.

As the three came to, Luna breathed a little heavily, as did her children. Luna then asked, "Is she?"

Artemis hugged her and said, "Just like we planned, the moment we saw Nightmare Moon's being erupt, we caught it in a magical chest that had the rest of her in it. She's where she belongs, and Cadence has already taken it to the secret chamber. She won't torment Little Moon Dust anymore."

Luna sighed with relief then Looked at Moon Dust. "M-Mommy, is she gone?" Moon Dust asked rubbing his eyes.

"She is sweetie, she can't give you bad dreams anymore," Luna nuzzled him.

"So will I have good dreams when I sleep?" Moon Dust asked drowsy.

Luna, a little exhausted herself, laid her head down and said, "Yes honey you will."

Moon Dust climbed tiredly onto her muzzle and said, "That's good cause I want good dr-."

His sentence was cut short as he fell asleep curled up on his mother's muzzle. She smiled motherly, "Sweet Dreams my Tiny Prince."

Her eyes soon shut too, and the whole family dawwed at the cute scene. "I think we should make our way to the dining hall, and prepare something for them. Moonlight you wanna come, or do you wanna stay with them?" Artemis asked in a quiet voice to not wake the sleeping Lunar family members.

"I'm gonna go with you Daddy. I'm not tired," Moonlight said.

Artemis had figured as much. He knew Luna was tired, having performed the spell herself, and Moon Dust was tired because, one, it was his psyche she had to look for Nightmare Moon in, and two, with how fragile Moon Dust body was at this point, it would be exhausting for him because of many other things. He soon levitated Moonlight onto the top of his head where she leaned on his crown to get a great view of the trek to the kitchen. She had so many food ideas she wanted to give Moon Dust once he woke up. As they joined the rest of the Royal Family, Lovestruck joined Moonlight on top of her uncle's head, which he didn't mind one bit.

Artemis smiled. Things could only get better for Moon Dust from here. Sure the dreams of his Orphanage days would still be around, but now they could be managed with Nightmare Moon no longer linked to his son. That was something he was thankful for.

Moon Dust's Welcome Back To The Royal Family Party

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It had been a couple of weeks since the battle with Nightmare Moon in Moon Dust's psyche. He had been getting way better. Nightmares were very few, and not very strong. He was walking a lot more, with a few stumbles and trips here and there, but Artemis always assured him he would get the hang of it. Lord Thunderhoof was found guilty of bribing Orphanage inspectors to pass the Orphanage's inspection without actually taking a look inside, and was also charged for association in child abuse. New Caretakers were selected after undergoing thorough back round checks and tests that were monitored by Princess Celestia herself, and she also enforced some of her castle staff to ensure the new caretakers stayed in line while caring for the little ones. Some of the orphans were even adopted by castle staff members and their families. Also seeing the state the orphanage was in, Celestia, Luna and Cadence, all made generous donations to see it brought to the standards of nearly being a castle itself. The fillies and colts were greatful, and hoped the princesses would come and see them from time to time.

Today, was a special day though. Pinkie Pie had insisted on a party for little Moon Dust. Even though it wasn't his birthday, she wanted to make him feel more welcome. Even though they knew Moon Dust was shy, they agreed, reminding Pinkie Pie not to make things too exciting for their son. She agreed, for this was more to let Moon Dust get introduced to some new ponies his and Moonlight's age.

Moonlight of course, since the battle with Nightmare Moon, always kept an eye on her brother, making sure no pony would treat him unkindly. Some older ponies tried to pick on him, but when she appeared, they didn't advance farther, though, they didn't back off either....... not until Daddy Artemis arrived on the scene. Then they cowered back, and apologized, not showing any more teasing to Moon Dust afterwards.

Today, she was helping Moon Dust get ready for the party..... or at least, helping him have fun while Luna and Artemis tried to get them both ready, as they were currently getting a bath right now in the family tub, both Moon Dust and Moon Light in the shallow end. After getting some Shampoo in their manes, Luna took a small pail of the warm water and using her magic aura, poured it gently over their heads. "Brbrbrbrbrbrbr," Moon Dust blurted, shaking off the excess water in his mane.

Luna giggled at his cuteness as now his mane was all over the place, some of it covering his eyes. "You little goof," Luna chuckled as she straightened out his mane.

"Hehehe. Sorry Mama," Moon Dust apologized.

"Nothing to apologize for sweetie. You're just having fun. But we do need to get ready for the party," Luna stated.

After a little more soap to the fur, and a couple more rinses, Luna and Artemis pulled their little angels out of the tub, and dried them off with towels. Their puffed out, and they giggled at each other. "Now we're all fluffy," Moonlight said.

"Now, let's get it all nice and smooth," Artemis said as he pulled out a brush.

"NEVER!!!" Moon Dust exclaimed as he made a gallop out of the bathroom door.

"Hey! Get back here you little Rascal!" Luna said as she giggled and chased after him, holding a brush as well in her aura.

Moonlight giggled at her little brother's mischievousness has Artemis began straightening out her fur and mane. They then walked out and found Moon Dust giggling as Luna was finishing up brushing his mane. "Hehe, I tripped again, and Mama caught me," Moon Dust exclaimed.

Moonlight giggled at her brother's adorableness. Soon, both siblings had their manes and fur nice and neat, and as Artemis and Luna finished their own fur and manes, they placed their regalia on themselves, than on Moonlight. Moon Dust understood that even though he was part of the family, due to his situation of coming back into the fold, he had no regalia yet.

But it mattered little to him, he was just happy to be part of the Lunar Family. Soon, every pony was ready to go, and Artemis let the entire family settle on his back. Moonlight flew up, and Luna merely had to climb on, after grabbing her little boy by the neck and placing him between her hooves once she was on. Artemis smiled, and soon, trotted out of the Lunar chambers, getting the regular announcement of the Lunar Family was on the move. Artemis's mammoth size and powerful build made him look indestructible. The guards would be lying if they didn't say that they didn't feel intimidated by him. But any pony could tell Artemis had a very soft loving heart, with how his family relaxed on his back, and he showed no annoyance when Moonlight would get a little playful while riding as a passenger on his back. He always had a cheerful smile.

As the Lunar Family neared the ballroom, that sat next to the Lunar Gardens, two guards banged their spears on the ground in unison to announce the family's arrival. Just as they entered, "SURPRISE!!!"

The Lunar Family was caught off guard, the sudden springing out of nowhere act fightened tiny Moon Dust, he hid in his father's mane. Rainbow Dash chuckled and asked, "What do you think, pretty cool right your hignesses?"

"We think you overworked it," Artemis joked.

"Just a bit," Luna chimed in.

"Oh, what?!..... Over worked it?" Rainbow groaned as they trotted forward.

"Weehee!!" Screamed Pinkie Pie as she charged towards Moon Dust.

Artemis grabbed her by the neck in the nick of time, and threw her over to the swimming pool that was set up. "Weeee!!! " Pinkie screamed in joy.

"Oh, and I was overworking it your highness?" Rainbow Dash shot a joke back.

They all chuckled, and trotted more forward, as Luna calmed her sons nerves. "I suggest a might of a lighter surprise in the future. You have to remember, Moon Dust's nerves get shaken easy, after all he's been through," Luna suggested.

"Right, I'll remember next time your majesty," Rainbow Dash promised.

"Now, what should we do first for Moon Dust? Food and Cake? Presents? Games? Luna, dear sister, what do you say?" Celestia asked as she trotted up to them.

"Hmmm..... I say food and cake first. That way, he'll have the energy to open presents and play games with every pony later on. And remember Tia, Moon Dust gets the first slice. I don't want a repeat of what happened at the Harvest Moon Ball?" Luna warned.

"Lulu, that was ages ago. I can control myself. And of course I'll let Moon Dust have the first slice. He is the guest of honor after all?" Celestia kept her head high to show she was being truthful.

Luna chuckled and soon set Moon Dust in a booster seat next to her and Artemis did the same for Moon Light. "Um, Mommy, what kind of cake is it," Moon Dust asked as he saw the chefs of the castle rolled out a huge cake along with other delicacies.

"Well, they're a family favorite. We call it Lunar Surprise, reason it's so big..... well, your dad has quite the appetite..... and so does Auntie Celestia," Luna teased.

'Hey!" Celestia snapped, before chuckling herself.

As the meal was finished, presents soon came after. There an assortment of gifts. Some cute attire for Moon Dust to try out, most, if not all, were special requests made to Rarity to make, and she had some her own young colt line for the little prince to try out. And than there was toys most boys his age were playing with. Just as Moon Dust thought everypony was done giving him presents, Luna said, "Wait we have one more dear."

She then levitated it in front oh him. It wasn't huge like many of his presents had been, but something about it looked special. Moon Dust looked up at Luna and Artemis and Artemis stated, "This is from all the royal family. Me, your mother, Moon Light, Celestia, Cadence, Shining Armor, Lovestruck, even your cousin, Blueblood, pitched in, as well as Twilight Sparkle."

"Go on and open it sweetie," Luna urged her son on.

Moon Dust unwrapped it, and saw what appeared to be a box you find most jewelry in. He than opened it up and saw something he never expected. There, sitting in front of him, was a crown, as black as the night sky, and crescent moon shaped gem, that glowed hue of sky blue. And on either side of it, lay silver shoes he had seen his family wear when they had to attend important events. And below the crown was necklace that showed the symbols of all the grown ups of the royal family. Celestia's sun, Luna's Moon, Twilight's star, Cadence's heart, and Shining Armor's shield, even Blueblood's cutie mark made it upon there. "Now this regalia isn't normal like most others out there. While you grow, the attire changes size to fit you perfectly. And in time, the symbols of your own cutie mark will also appear, as well as your sister's and Lovestruk's cutie marks. We figured to make your crown's gem glow blue since your sister's glows pink, so you know who's crown is who's," Luna stated.

Moon Dust was at a loss for words. He had started off with so little, and now, he was receiving so much. He couldn't hold back his tears of joy any longer, and hugged Luna, burying his face in her chest fur. Luna was a little surprised at her son's reaction, but than she wrapped her foreleg around him, and held him close. Artemis smiled, and just as Rainbow as about to interrupt, Celestia shushed her, and stated, "Let Moon Dust have a moment. This is all happening really fast for him, and it's a might overwhelming. Let him settle his mind on his own."

Everyone nodded in understanding, some dawwing at how Moon Dust was reacting. After a bit, Moon Dust whipped away his tears, and Luna asked, "Do you think you wanna go and play with the other fillies and colts dear? We can put on your regalia later."

Moon Dust nodded, and soon Moon Light removed her own regalia, and led Moon Dust to their friends, along with other new children. The CMC were coming up with all kinds of ways to help Moon Dust and Moon Light get their cutie marks in the future.

As Luna watched, she sighed motherly. "I know that look. You are happy our son is finally free of Nightmare Moon's control, and that he's getting a little more social," Artemis pondered a guess.

"Yes. But I still worry about him honey. Even though he's gotten stronger since he first came to us, he still has trouble on his hooves, even when walking. I fear This may persist. And his memories of the Orphanage. Those aren't memories so easily repressed. They'll still haunt his dreams, even if we can dissipate most of the fright," Luna admitted.

"That's not all though, is it?" Artemis pried.

".... No. Because circumstances, that I blame no pony but myself for, robbed me of him. I never got to hold him in my arms when he was just a tiny little foal, like I did his sister. I never got to give him a mother's loving cuddle as a baby. Never got to hear him say his first word, or take his first actual step. Never got to see his first magic burst like we did Moon Light. So many things I never got to do with him. How do I get past that? That guilt?" Luna stuttered as her lip began to quiver.

Artemis pulled her in close. "I understand honey, there are many things I wish we could have done too. But we can't change the past. It could upset the balance of things at present. But, maybe....." Artemis stopped mid-sentence.

"Maybe... what?" Luna inquired.

"We'll talk about it more with the rest of the Royal Family, well, the grown ups at least," Artemis gestured over to the direction of Moon Dust's location.

Luna saw that Moon Dust was starting to look drowsy and out of energy. She flew over and caught Moon Dust as he collapsed onto her foreleg, and then looked up at her sleepily. "It looks like a little Prince of the Night could use a nap," Luna teased her son.

"But I'm not ti-" Moon Dust couldn't even finish as he passed out in his mother's hug she had started to give him.

She then set him on her back, and folded her wings to make it so her son wouldn't roll off her as he slept. Artemis trotted by, and nuzzled Moon Dust as he slumbered. "Peacful dreams my son," He said, before trotting the other direction to let Moon Light and the others know that Moon Dust was tuckered out.

When Luna made it to the Lunar chambers, she set Moon Dust on the den bed and tucked him in, before kissing him. "Such a tiny thing you are," she smiled, before grabbing a clover cola from the fridge and laying there with him so he wouldn't panic when he woke up.

Back to the Beginning.

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It had been some hours since the party had started and Moon Dust had fallen asleep, and it was wrapping up. Many of the nobles in attendance had expressed their deepest sympathies for little Moon Dust and commented on how well he was recovering. Artemis thanked them gratefully. Course a few tried to sway Artemis into trying to get some laws passed that would favor their own gains, but Artemis was no rookie, and knew they thought they could get to him so he could coerce Luna into agreeing to it, knowing that Luna herself was a tough shell to crack bringing their "ideas" to her straight forward. Just like her sister, and her husband.

Moon Light had a great time with her friends who all said that Moon Dust was fun to hang out with just like her, and they all felt sad that her brother had to go through all the torment he had been through. Some of the orphans that knew Moon Dust had been at the party as well, all know part of loving families, and back to full health themselves, and they even told a few stories of Moon Dust's tenacity when he was at the orphanage, and on more then one occasion, taken the blame for something the caretakers had deemed as misbehavior, even if normal families would see it as kids being kids, and how they were amazed at how far he had gotten from the orphanage. Even one said, that Moon Dust promised that as soon as he had found somepony that he knew he could trust, he would make sure they knew of what the orphanage had done to all of the children. He'd save them. And he did. They just never expected the Family of the Night would be their salvation, but also stated that Moon Dust more then deserved his place in the royal family for all he had done for the rest of the orphans, all the more proving he was meant to be an alicorn, even if they weren't aware of his true lineage. Moon Light was proud to call Moon Dust her brother.

But back at present, Artemis had come in to see Luna wrapping her body in a circle around their tiny son, who was sound asleep on the den bed, not tossing or turning for any bad dreams. He looked so peaceful. But Artemis wasn't the only one entering the room. Moon Light was of course sleeping on his back as well, catching a little nap herself. Following in behind was Celestia, Cadence, and Shining Armor, with little Love struck prancing next to her mother, and of course Twilight Sparkle, their most recent princess. Luna knew this was to be a discussion for all of them to speak their view points on whatever Artemis had to say, so to let her son and daughter keep sleeping, she cast a spell to keep any noise from waking her children, Artemis had Love Struck follow her into Moon Light's and Moon Dust's bedroom, where he set his daughter down on her bed, and Love Struck bounded up onto it. He turned on the Playstation Lunar in the room, and allowed her to start playing, and stated he would come in later after the family was done with their discussion.

Then he closed the door and set a sound barrier over it, so Love Struck wouldn't hear what the family was saying, but they could hear her in case she called for them. "So, I understand you wanted to talk to us all about Moon Dust. Is something wrong? Have the doctors stated something bad about his condition?" Celestia inquired.

"No, it's not that at all. Moon Dust's recovery is making great progress. In the few weeks since we got him back in our lives, he's improving very well, and we couldn't be happier about that," Artemis stated.

"Oh dear. There's gonna be a however. Father always told us that the best way to know somber news is coming, is getting the best news to start the conversation," Cadence stated.

Artemis chuckled, "You know me too well little sister. Yes, we are happy with the recovery of our little Moon Dust here. However....... we feel somewhat, well, robbed."

"Robbed how, if you don't mind me asking?" Celestia asked.

Luna sighed, "While we are happy for how events turned out in recent weeks, we feel a hole in our hearts for the time we haven't been able to spend with Moon Dust."

"But he still so very young like Moon Light. You still have so much of his childhood to spend with him," Twilight pointed out.

Luna shed a tear before Cadence interjected, "It is true Twilight, but I think I know what is going on here. Being a mother myself, I know full well why they feel robbed. Moon Dust is their biological son, and technically Moon Light's older brother. But the way he came into the Lunar Family, while what happened was for the better of others, unlike Moon Light, they never got to have the moment of seeing Moon Dust open his eyes for the first time, never got to craddle him. Never got to witness his first magical burst, many things parents should have been able to do for their child."

"Yes, we were robbed of memories we would have wanted to share with him further on in his life," Luna stuttered through her tears.

Artemis placed a hoof on his wife as she bent down to gently nuzzle her exhausted son. "We know we can not turn back time to reverse things and cause things to play out differently. We know that disrupting the flow of time, even the slightest change of events, could send things cascading down a path that could be disastrous. However, I do know of another suggestion. One I think would actually be helpful in this situation," Artemis stated.

"Oh, what might this alternative solution be, brother," Shining Armor pondered.

"It's an old spell I have knowledge of, and have even used a few times. For good reasons, and perhaps for a good prank on others once in a while. It's an age spell. I had placed it in the restricted section of the castle's library, for I had not wanted others to be using this for malicious reasons," Artemis answered.

"A wise decision. And I believe I have read that spell once, though it's been a while........ are you saying you wish to turn Moon Dust into a baby?" Celestia inquired.

"Well, not just Moon Dust. Moon Light and her group of friends as well, which includes the CMC. I know they all became very fast and close friends of Moon Dust as well, and it would feel wrong to have such an age gap between Moon Dust and his sister. While many were busy with the party, I had talked to Applejack, Rarity and Rainbow Dash, and they are approving the go ahead, as long as they are able to keep their own memories in tact. I agreed with that. Which is why I was bringing this to your attention, before I even actually performed what I had planned," Artemis stated.

"I see. You plan to also induce a memory manipulation of sorts don't you?" Cadence suspected.

"Indeed I do, but I won't be manipulating anypony's memory to demonize anyone who hasn't done so themselves or anything like that. And I won't make everypony completely forget what happened at the Orphanage, or who was our tiny little hero to bring what happened to light. All that will be made for every pony to believe, is that after the party, while Moon Dust's and Moon Light's friends were playing, Moon Dust felt a little under the weather, and when he sneezed he let off a magical burst that accidentally reversed the age of his sister, and their friends," Artemis explained.

"Do you think you could include Love Struck in that spell brother?" Cadence requested.

"Why sister?" Artemis asked.

"Well, one, I would love to see my little Love Struck toddling around again. Two, I feel her age shouldn't gap her younger cousins by a huge margin. Three, I know that you considered it before hoof, but felt it should be left up to me to decide if she should be included," Cadence teased.

"Am I really that predictable?" Artemis joked.

"Yes," Luna, Celestia and Cadence all said in unison.

Twilight laughed, "Well, I know I am not directly related to Moon Light and Moon Dust, but I see no reason I would disagree with this course of action. I just wonder how much it will effect Moon Dust to start at the stage of a baby."

"Well....... I have actually considered to take it a step further with Moon Dust," Luna chimed in.

"A step...... further sister?" Celestia wondered.

"What I mean is, because he is my biological son, I may take his age reversal to where I was still expecting him. I'd be pregnant with Moon Dust," Luna explained.

"And Moon Light?" Cadence wondered.

"She would be a little over a year old by the time Moon Dust would be due to be born. Unless you want to keep the two of them twins dear," Luna turned to Artemis.

"Well, that would have to take a little more thought dear. I understand where you are coming from honey, but are you sure you want to go through pregnancy again at this point, after all that has happened in recent days?" Artemis inquired.

"I'm willing to do so for Moon Dust's sake, and to be able to get back time we were robbed of," Luna stated.

"Well, knowing that the memory manipulation spell won't be used on us and a few others, and that it won't be used for a malicious purpose. I think everyone is for the age reversal of Moon Light, Moon Dust, Love Struck, and their friends. But the question remains of how far back to we want to reverse the age of Moon Dust. We all need to be aware of many factors to consider in this case, before we just blindly vote one way or the other. So I say that we all put it to a vote," Twilight suggested.

"Seconded," Celestia agreed.

"Alright, well, lets put together our pros and cons before we make our final decision," Shining Armor stated.

Soon they were putting together a list of reason why they should do one or the other for Moon Dust's age reversal. After considering everything that was put out, they agreed that they would reverse the age of Moon Light and Moon Dust to newborns, The CMC and some of the children of the night's other friends, would be about a year old, and Love Struck would be a toddling 2 year old, plus two other unexpected outcomes that would be revealed later. After Luna cast a sleeping spell to cause Love Struck to fall asleep, Artemis got to work. Soon, lights glowed in the Lunar Chambers and a couple of Hotel Rooms in Canterlot, and then another spell was cast to cause everyone to thing the age reversal they were going to see was by an accident of Celestia coming down with a cold with a random magic burst, changing the blame to herself, not wanting her nephew to take the blame for it. Afterwards, an even tinier little colt lay next to Luna, sucking on his little hoof, making all the ponies hearts melt. Cadence popped into Moon Light and Moon Dust's bedroom, and saw that Moon Light and Love Stuck were no sleeping in a crib, with pacifiers in their mouths and hugging each other cutely in their sleep. Had she been a lesser mare, she would have fainted from a cuteness attack.

"They'll be in for quite an adorable surprise when they all wake up," Cadence pointed out.

"Indeed they will," Luna agreed, as she gently nuzzled her tiny little charge as he slept on.

Author's Notes:

End of new chapter. Wow, I really need to get back into the swing. It's been so long since any activity, and I had been debating where to take this story for a bit, but finally made my choice. I tried to make this scene seem as innocent as possible, cause in the past, whenever I include mind manipulation, I get attacked with comments like "Oh my gosh, they're manipulating other ponies minds?! That's Scary!"

Okay, well, I'm not trying to make them become sinister evil rulers, if that is what you were even trying to imply. I won't say who you all are, but you know who you are. I really can't innocent it up any further then I have tried to already. I don't plan to have the rulers use that mind manipulation knowledge for evil purposes, or political. I just don't have other alternatives that I can see working for these scenarios.

So please refrain from giving me comments that tell me mind manipulation is a scary thing for the story, and please don't give me a long, drawn out explanation of why you bring up the reason you think it's scary. I have lost track of how many times people try to justify their case about the subject. I'M NOT GOING INTO "THAT" "DARK" "TERRITORY" WITH THIS STORY!!!!

Now that I have that off my chest. I hope you all enjoyed the chapter, and I hope to post a new chapter soon for this story. Constructive criticism is welcome.

Back To the Beginning (Alternate Outcome)

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Please note that most of this chapter will have the same text as the previous, but the end will have a different outcome and some change in text, so, please, don't freak out and say I double posted the same thing.

Moon Light had a great time with her friends who all said that Moon Dust was fun to hang out with just like her, and they all felt sad that her brother had to go through all the torment he had been through. Some of the orphans that knew Moon Dust had been at the party as well, all now part of loving families, and back to full health themselves, and they even told a few stories of Moon Dust's tenacity when he was at the orphanage, and on more then one occasion, had taken the blame for something the caretakers had deemed as misbehavior, even if normal families would see it as kids being kids, and how they were amazed at how far he had gotten from the orphanage. Even one said that Moon Dust promised that as soon as he had found somepony that he knew he could trust, he would make sure they knew of what the orphanage had done to all of the children. He'd save them. And he did. They just never expected the Family of the Night would be their salvation, but also stated that Moon Dust more then deserved his place in the royal family for all he had done for the rest of the orphans, all the more proving he was meant to be an alicorn, even if they weren't aware of his true lineage. Moon Light was proud to call Moon Dust her brother.

"Oh dear. There's gonna be a "however". Father always told us that the best way to know somber news is coming, is getting the best news to start the conversation," Cadence stated.

Artemis chuckled, "You know me too well little sister. Yes, we are happy with the recovery of our little Moon Dust here. However....... we feel somewhat, well, robbed."

"Robbed how, if you don't mind me asking?" Celestia asked.

Luna sighed, "While we are happy for how events turned out in recent weeks, we feel a hole in our hearts for the time we haven't been able to spend with Moon Dust."

"But he still so very young like Moon Light. You still have so much of his childhood to spend with him," Twilight pointed out.

Luna shed a tear before Cadence interjected, "It is true Twilight, but I think I know what is going on here. Being a mother myself, I know full well why they feel robbed. Moon Dust is their biological son, and technically Moon Light's older brother. But the way he came into the Lunar Family, while what happened was for the better of others, unlike Moon Light, they never got to have the moment of seeing Moon Dust open his eyes for the first time, never got to cradle him. Never got to witness his first magical burst, many things parents should have been able to do for their child."

"Yes, we were robbed of memories we would have wanted to share with him further on in his life," Luna stuttered through her tears.

"Oh, what might this alternative solution be, brother," Shining Armor pondered.

"A wise decision. And I believe I have read that spell once, though it's been a while........ are you saying you wish to turn Moon Dust into a baby?" Celestia inquired.

"Well, not just Moon Dust. Moon Light and her group of friends as well, which includes the CMC. I know they all became very fast and close friends of Moon Dust as well, and it would feel wrong to have such an age gap between Moon Dust and his sister. While many were busy with the party, I had talked to Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, about this, and they are approving the go ahead, as long as they are able to keep their own memories in tact. I agreed with that. Which is why I was bringing this to your attention, before I even actually performed what I had planned," Artemis stated.

"I see. You plan to also induce a memory manipulation of sorts don't you?" Cadence suspected.

"Do you think you could include Love Struck in that spell brother?" Cadence requested.

"Why sister?" Artemis asked.

"Well, one, I would love to see my little Love Struck toddling around again. Two, I feel her age shouldn't gap her younger cousins by a huge margin. And three, I know that you considered it before hoof, but felt it should be left up to me to decide if she should be included," Cadence teased.

"Am I really that predictable?" Artemis joked.

"Yes," Luna, Celestia and Cadence all said in unison.

"Well....... I have actually considered to take it a step further with Moon Dust," Luna chimed in.

"A step...... further sister?" Celestia wondered.

"What I mean is, because he is my biological son, I may take his age reversal to where I was still expecting him. I'd be pregnant with Moon Dust," Luna explained.

"And Moon Light?" Cadence wondered.

"She would be a little over a year old by the time Moon Dust would be due to be born. Unless you want to keep the two of them twins dear," Luna turned to Artemis.

"I'm willing to do so for Moon Dust's sake, and to be able to get back time we were robbed of," Luna stated.

"Seconded," Celestia agreed.

"Alright, well, lets put together our pros and cons before we make our final decision," Shining Armor stated.

Soon they were putting together a list of reason why they should do one or the other for Moon Dust's age reversal. After considering everything that was put out, they agreed that they would reverse the age of Moon Light to a filly that was a few months short of a year old and Luna would be pregnant with Moon Dust, The CMC and some of the children of the night's other friends, would be about a year old, and Love Struck would be a toddling 2 year old, Plus two other unexpected outcomes that would be revealed later. After Luna cast a sleeping spell to cause Love Struck to fall asleep, Artemis got to work. Soon, lights glowed in the Lunar Chambers and a couple of Hotel Rooms in Canterlot, and then another spell was cast to cause everyone to thing the age reversal they were going to see was by an accident of Celestia coming down with a cold with a random magic burst, changing the blame to herself, not wanting her nephew to take the blame for it. Afterward the light dissipated, Luna was seen on the Lunar bed with a big round belly. Far larger that what would have been Moon Dust himself filling it as a baby foal, but most likely to give him the extra protection from outside forces. The glow Luna gave off with her pregnant form showed why many called her the "Mother of the Night". Cadence popped into Moon Light and Moon Dust's bedroom, and saw that Moon Light and Love Stuck were now sleeping in a crib, with pacifiers in their mouths and hugging each other cutely in their sleep. Had she been a lesser mare, she would have fainted from a cuteness attack.

"The grils will be in for quite an adorable surprise when they all wake up," Cadence pointed out.

"Indeed they will," Luna agreed, as she gently nuzzled her tummy and felt her son kick in his dream state.

Author's Notes:

I spoke about making an alternate chapter to the last one for a while, and some of you may have noticed I made a couple changes to both chapters, cause, I realized I had pulled the story away from the basis of the RP I had with NightmareEclipse on DA. I had to get some of those roots back so I changed a few bits of texts in the chapters, and it will be revealed in a future chapter as to why that is.

Anyways, I need it to be put to vote, do you want the next chapter to follow up based off this chapter, or do you want it to follow up based on the previous chapter? Where Moon Dust is just a newborn, or where Luna is pregnant with Moon Dust and Moon Light gets to be the big sister to him?

Let me know in the comments, and whichever gets the most votes by the end of this week, That will be the one I choose. If no one votes or if the votes tie, I will flip a coin for the tie breaker.

So, onto the voting everyone.

The Family of The Night

by Night--Mist

The Newest Lunar Family Member

Luna Meets Her Son and The Nightmare

Atremis's Gifts and Lunar Siblings Meet

Argument of the Nobles and an Unexpected Discovery

Sleep Crawling and the Lunar Parents Decision

A Journey of Purification Can Be Exhausting

Moon Dust's Welcome Back To The Royal Family Party

Back to the Beginning.

Back To the Beginning (Alternate Outcome)