The beginning

Dark days - by Dashie4747

“When there is no enemy within, the enemies outside cannot hurt you.”- Anonymous

The wind bellowed and howled violently like packs of wolves wandering through the night. The clouds had swallowed up the rest of the stars still visible and now rain poured down in rivers onto the city of Canterlot. Lightning dominated the sky over the air space of the city and the clouds howled as if they were in pain. Princess Luna Stood staring out at the storm that played out around her. Luna’s hair was almost blending in with the scenery behind her as she looked out into the abyss that was the coming storm. The wind seemed to wrap around her effortlessly with not a single movement by Luna. She stood still almost stone like watching as the rain covered the city below her. All of the inhabitants of the city apart from the city guards and herself where still awake and battling through the violent storm that raged about them. Even her sister, Celestia slept soundly as the storm attempted to coil itself around the city. Although the rest of the city lay calm and still under the protection of their roofs, Luna felt exposed. The cold latched itself on to her warm and soaked body but she didn't care, she had felt colder before.

Luna had tried to forget her past. The inconvenient truth that tormented her and mocked her every day of every night still scolded her even when she experiences happiness and joy. The two emotions she was still coming to terms with. Although her punishment had passed and her older sister had forgiven her for her rebellious ways, she still felt like something was not fair about how things had played out. Almost as if it she still wanted revenge on her sister. She instantly rejected that though. How could she think such a thing about her older sibling, after all she was her sister and Luna was a new pony now? She had given up her old ways for a reason and she wasn't planning on following the wrong path. As well as that she also loved her sister and nothing would ever change that.

Luna finished her night watch early today. She was tired and hadn't been feeling herself recently. She retreated back to her room and fell backwards onto her bed staring into nothingness, a thing she had done day after day. Her horn lit up and the shutters to the balcony closed blocking out the fierce howl of the wind outside. She rolled over on her side trying to make herself comfortable. She might have blocked out the sound of the wind but she didn't block out the memories and hatred that circulated her entire body. For her it seemed the pain would never stop, never go away and always be there to haunt her even when she is oblivious to it. Luna closed her eyes and blocked out the bad thoughts that struck her repeating. Lucky for her she had gotten good at blocking out the pain.

Just as she had begun to semi dream a whisper almost directly next to her ear. This made her wake in a startle wondering what who it was and where it had come from. She got up from out of her bed and looked around. Nothing was moving apart from the curtains that where being blown by the rampaging storm that blew at the window. Finally after a minuet of checking that everything was in place she sat back down on her bed. She hadn't quite heard what the voice had said but she was too tired to want to investigate further. Once again she wrapped the covers around her and closed her eyes once more. The second time the voice echoed in her ears she heard what it said and something about it made her shiver. "Luna" said the voice making Luna once again get to her hooves.

"Who goes there?" she demanded looking around the room defensively, her horn lit up ready to give any intruders a nasty shock when she sees them. Suddenly a cruel laugh echoed around her room and it made Luna's hair stand on end. She spread her wings out and twisting her body trying to find where the voice had come from but with no luck. Luna spoke louder this time trying to sound as intimidating as the intruder that seemed to dance in her fear.

"Show yourself!" she bellowed. Fear seamed to overcome her mind making her feel sick. The voice once again spoke but this time with a more friendly and soothing tone.

"My dearest Luna, Don't you remember me" The voice seemed friendlier this time but there was something allot more sinister behind the masked voice.

"Who are you, how dare you intrude my slumber like this" Shouted Luna aggravated at how the voice had startled her. The voice although seemingly coming from nowhere seemed to wrap itself around her in an almost friendly embrace. Luna was confused and began to step back not knowing if she was imagining the voice or if she should call the guards. The voice once again cackled and seemed to circle Luna. It then spoke but this time something sounded oddly familiar about it.

"Luna my dear, never mind about whom I am, Just listen to what I would like to propose" said the voice now becoming less of a whisper and more of a soothing melody. Luna wasn't sure what to make of what the voice was telling her, eventually she decided to agree to listen to whatever the voice wanted to say not knowing how she would feel afterwards.

"We are mainly the same pony. We both long for what we most desire the most and that is revenge!" she said with an almost evil grin painted in Luna's mind.

"Ever since your sister and her supposed friendship group defeated me, I have been locked away for in this prison of torture for too long, your sister has punished me to eternal pain and suffering beyond belief" said the voice now sounding sad and tortured in nature. Luna looked surprised and replied to the mysterious voices statement.

"Celestia would never do such a thing, she is always forgiving no matter what!" she said on behalf of her sister. The voice just laughed painfully load and resumed to enchant Luna with opinion after opinion.

"You are foolish to believe such lies, after all you are one to have experienced Celestia's punishments haven't you?” Luna's pupils became wider and suddenly the pain and torment she had been holding back finally flooded her. Luna looked down and closed her eyes unable to come to terms with the suffering that had overcome her. The voice laughed wickedly once again and seemed to close in on Luna. At that moment a faint figure approached her from behind. Luna felt it's presence but was too weak to turn to look who it was. Then Luna uttered the words once more.

"Who are you?" She said tired of the mind games she had been struggling to be released from. The voice was now load and clear and the voice that greeted her made her shiver in fear once more.

"My name is Chrysalis, Queen of the changeling's and I believe we've met before."

Lies and defiance

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Chapter 1

The sun beamed down onto the books that littered the floor of Twilight's home. From books on "how to cast a shield" and "all there is to know about friendship". For twilight reading was her life, every word she read added to the knowledge dater base that was her memory. Of course her devotion to reading had caused her to be called names by her friends like "egg head" famously by Rainbow dash but she didn't mind. If reading was what she loved the most then she would stick with it no matter what. She was aware that often she could be a little to devoted to her hobby allot of the time. Some days she would never leave her room for days while reading an interesting story or "how to" book which spike criticized as unhealthy. Today she was reading a book about Loyalty, Although all she needed to do is talk to Rainbow dash about it after all she did symbolizes loyalty. Twilight read a few pages of the book and then dropped it down on the table. Maybe she should go for a walk or see her friends after all it as a nice day today unlike the day before when freak storms where scheduled to last for a few days, but not today! As she left the room and approached the door Spike couldn't resist the temptation of making fun of Twilight after reading for days on end.

"Well if it isn't the book worm coming out to see the sun for the first time" he said laughing mockingly as he ate his breakfast in the living room. Twilight rolled her eyes at his remark and proceeded to the door.
"haha very funny" she said sarcastically as she felt the house before spike could make up another lame joke. Although as annoying as Spikes joke came across, It played out almost to be true as she shielded her eyes form the brightness of the day. As her vision restored the lovely sight of Ponyville came into view, Ponies happily getting on with their daily business. Twilight reached the park and inhaled the fresh air that almost enlightened with relaxation. The birds sang happily and the woodland animals frolicked through the trees freely. All seemed to be going well in Ponyville, Everyone was happy after the Canterlot wedding a few months back. There was however something that was bothering Twilight and that was the fact that Celestia had been sending fewer and fewer letters. It made her wonder if everything was okay over in Canterlot but she tried not to worry herself to much after all, Celestia was the ruler of Equestria and was probably very busy sorting out royal issues. Just as she was about to walk back to her home she noticed a dark figure sore through the sky and over pony Ville. It was very fast and looked to be Luna in some kind of a hurry. This confused Twilight but made her think that something was wrong. She had also noticed that she looked different today, in fact she looked familiar is a different way but she just couldn't tell how. Suddenly fear struck Twilight and her ears flattened. It can't be. She began to gallop home faster than she had ever galloped before. This can't be happening.

It was still knight and the storm still tormented the city of Canterlot below. Queen Chrysalis loomed over Luna who still trembled helplessly on the floor. Fear more than anything had taken over her as well as uncertainty and dismay. Luna was flooded with the pain the she had felt when she was imprisoned for a thousand years. It was haunting and also sickening the amount of pain she was feeling from within. Luna's voice was now almost as quiet as the whisper she had first heard.
"What do you want with me Chrysalis?" she asked helplessly. A large grin formed on Chrysalis face and she continued to circle around Luna.
"All I want from you is my help" she said simply. Luna finally looked up at Chrysalis. Chrysalis stood tall above Luna; her legs containing holes making her almost seem like a ghost, partly because she was also transparent. Her crooked horn also glowed with a green ore surrounding it and her dark hair flowed down in streams of death. The thing that stood out for her the most was was her green shining eyes that seemed to glow brightly. Luna finally replied lowering her head once more.
"Help, with what?" asked Luna still largely confused at the situation.
"You see I am still locked way in prison at this very moment, Only resonantly have I been able to summon to power to project an Image of myself to another place" said Chrysalis and at that she walked through Luna and towards the baloney.
Luna watched in fascination, she had never heard of such a spell before and was amazed at how the Queen used it so effortlessly. Chrysalis continued.
"However I have gradually been sensing Celestia is becoming weaker and that weakness is causing me to grow is strength and power but..." she paused and turned to look at Luna.
"I can only truly be powerful if that power is shared between two ponies alike; I also am trapped and cannot use my power outside of my prison." Luna cut her off before she could finish her sentence.
"and you want me to release you?" she said with a reluctant look on her face. Chrysalis laughed and the laugh echoed of the walls of her room once more"
"You see I knew we think alike, maybe it was meant to be". Luna then shouted towards Chrysalis taking her of guard. "I am not like you!! and I never will be" she said range covering her beautiful face. She had begun to pant past now and she looked away from the Chang ling Queen. Chrysalis just smiled and stood next to Luna who had her head in her hooves.
"We are more similar then you can ever imagine she said calmly. Luna looked up still anger looming inside her. "Why should I help you, You tried to kill my sister and take over Canterlot". This time Chrysalis razed her voice.
"No! She attacked me, don’t you see what your sister is doing! she is taking advantage of you!". Chrysalis voice had become more persuasive by the second.
"How, she was protecting her subjects!" said Luna helplessly.
"No, she was protecting her throne". Luna looked up at the changeling queen with confusion and dismay. "Why would she do that?" said Luna in horror. She had begun to feel less angry and more hurt.
"Because she all she cares about is her rule over Canterlot, Why do you think she banished you to the moon for ten thousand years, because she wanted to control Equestria with no opposition?" Chrysalis was now right besides Luna. Luna herself wanted to believe that it wasn't true but the evidence seemed to come at her one after another, how she had been banished for so long and now has to live with the torment of that thousand year imprisonment. Luna closed her eyes and asked one last question as she based at the Chrysalis who sat beside her. Chrysalis just smiled and finally said "you be the judge of that" and with that the Queen vanished and only her voice remained.

"I am offering you the chance to gain vengeance on the cruelty that your sister has inflicted on you but first you must release me from the prison in which I am held" the voice seemed to echoes not in the room but now is Luna's mind. Thoughts raced through her head and when she finally got up rage glistened in her eyes. Suddenly a dark mist surrounded Luna and she embraced it as it spiralled around her body. Once again she could feel power rush through her and it felt unbelievable. The dark mist around her moulded into the shape of armour and her horn was glowing brightly. It had been a long time but she was once again the darkness of the knight, the pain and sorrow that once plagued her was now her fuel. She stood twice the size she was once and twice the strength. She walked into the view of a mirror and no longer saw the pony once names Luna look back at her now replaced her with nightmare moon in all her glory. Nightmare's eyes sparkled as she felt the magical energy surge through her.
"Live in a shadow do I? Having to apologies after being imprisoned for a thousand years?" said nightmare moon with her wings outstretched and her dark main flowing down to the floor. "Now me!" she screeched and with that she burst through the balcony doors and into the raging storm that surrounded her. She no longer felt like she was in a storm. She felt like she was the storm.

Call of darkness

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Chapter 2

Twilight sparkle arrived at her destination many miles from her home. She had been sent by Celestia about an important issue that needed to be resolved. Here friends chatted and laughed jokingly behind her but she didn't share there laughter. Twilight new that something was wrong and whatever it was would require all of her friend’s serious cooperation. Twilight hurried into the castle not stopping to admire the beautiful scenery of Canterlot around her. The guards let them pass and they were greeted by Celestia who stood in front of them. Twilight could tell that her mentor was deeply worried because of Celestia's feeble attempt to keep a calm face. All six bowed before Celestia as she approached them. Twilight was eager to find out what was wrong. "Celestia, what’s wrong?" she asked concerned. Celestia looked at the six ponies that stood before her and then she began to explain the situation. She told them about how Luna had vanished without notes and how there where strange lights coming from her room before. Twilight looked puzzled before looking to her five friends. "So? Maybe she's gone away somewhere and forgot to leave a note" said rainbow dash abruptly out of the simplicity of the situation. Twilight shot a look at her friend but Celestia didn't seem to mind.
"I understand that's a possibility, but it is unlike my sister to go somewhere with such short notes". Now it was pinkie pie's turn to talk.
"Or maybe she was just missed her friends on the moon and wanted to see them again or maybe..." she was cut off by applejack who was now concerned for pinkie pies sanity.
"Pinkie pie that's ridiculous, she was all alone on the moon in the first place so why would she go back?" asked Applejack now looking rather serious.
"Well maybe she just made friends with some aliens!" Pinkie squealed all excited about her theories about Luna's sudden disappearance. At this moment Twilight would have face palmed if she didn't only have hooves.
"okay, okay look we can discuss what we think happened later" Twilight said bossily and all the other ponies gave her looks.

She turned to Celestia who seemed to have drifted off into day dream which wasn't like her, another indicator that something wasn't right.
"So what do you want us to do princess" Twilight asked ready to offer her and her friends assistance. Celestia replied reluctantly.
"I want you all to try to find her whereabouts but to not confront her if my suspicions are correct". Twilight looks confused again. "wait, what do you think has happened princess?" she asked interested at her mentors suspicions.
"I think that although my sister has forgiven me for my punishment in which I gave her, I feel as thought the revenge that once plagued her has returned within her to wreak havoc once more". Celestia suddenly was submerged in a trance once more on what the future events could hold if her suspicions where to be true. All of the main six gasped and begun to wonder if what Celestia was wondering was true.
"So your saying that Luna has turned into nightmare moon once more?" said Rarity looking as though she was about to dramatically pass out. Celestia nodded with as much uncertainty as the rest of them.
"I'm afraid so" said Celestia quietly.

Suddenly as eerie silence flooded the room at the prospect of nightmare moons return. Finally what seemed as days gone by Twilight finally spoke. "Well we will let you know if we find anything on Luna's whereabouts" said Twilight optimistically and they began to leave towards the door. Between them they began to reassure each other that it wasn't true and that Luna had just left on short notice and would be back soon. But deep down them all feared the worst. Celestia heard Twilight mumble the words "I bet she's just gone out somewhere, she'll be back soon". Celestia waited before they had left and whispered the words under her breath. "That my apprentice is what I'm most afraid of".

The guards stood before the doors that contained there silent prisoner. There armour glistened of the few rays of light coming from the outside world. The hallway was quiet and the guards stood motionlessly. Finally one of them turned to the other one unable to cope with the silence and boredom that has previously silenced them. When he finally talked even his whispered echoed through the dark hallway. "Hay, want to hear a joke?" said the first guard. The second guard nodded reluctantly, after all there was nothing else interesting to do so it would at least reduce the chance of him dying of boredom. The second guard smiled and began the joke enthusiastically. "Knock, knock" he had a smirk already printed on his face. "Who’s there?" the second Guard asked still concentrating on his job, “Doctor". "Doctor who?" said the second guard already knowing where this joke was heading. "Doctor hooves actually". The second guard stopped and looked at his fellow workmate who was still grinning hoping to entertain his focused friend, a blank expression covering his face. Suddenly he began to burst out laughing causing the first guard to grin. He had no idea why he was laughing at such a terrible joke but he did so for the fun of it.

Out of nowhere came a bolt of energy that exploded while hitting the first guard who collapsed to the ground in pain. The second guard stopped laughing instantly and went to aid his fallen friend who lied injured on the floor. Electrical energy seemed to glow of his friend's wounds that bled deeply. He then looked up to check if the threat was still present and to his horror it was. Standing in front of him stood nightmare moon, her horn glowing brightly after firing her precision bolt of energy. He stood up and formed a defensive position which made nightmare screech a cruel laugh. She suddenly vaporized into a mist of dark smoke. The guard looking around for the attacker backs away into the door behind him. His friend still lay helplessly on the ground. His injuries bound him to the floor. The second guard suddenly felt a cold wind brush past his face and he backed against the door some more. A sinister but also persuasive voice began to whisper in his ear. Its tone was soothing and calming.

"Noble and great guard of the princesses motives, be as kind as to let me visit my dear friend?" said the voice calmly. The guard laughed mockingly and spoke out to the voice. "You just attacked my friend! Why would I do what you say?". The voice was now darker and more sinister than ever. "I'll persuade you" it said and with that the dark mist once more appeared but this time wrapping itself around the guard. Suddenly the guard yelped in pain as nightmares grasp gripped him and shook him violently. He then falls to the floor screaming for here to stop. Nightmare materialized out of the darkness of the hall way and walks towards the guard. Here horn glowing and here wings outstretched. The guard rushes to the door and opens it allowing Nightmare through. Here magic leaving a trail behind here.

Nightmare walked calmly into the room that imprisoned Chrysalis. She stood motionlessly staring at the walls of her prison. She spoke without turning to see Nightmare who approached her silently. "I knew you could do it my dear" she said in a wicked tone," and don't worry you are soon to get your revenge on your sister and take her place with me as ruler of Equestria!” She turned to Nightmare who stood glistening in the dim light that only just lit the room. "You’ve done well" said chrysalis and suddenly she lowered her horn and began to fire a magic bolt that struck nightmare causing her to cringe. Nightmare began to glow with a new source of power received from the changeling queen.
"Use this power to bring the pony I need most, Twilight sparkle".

Nightmare looked surprised wondering how one pony was so significant and what for. "Why? What for?" asked Nightmare, energy surging through her. "Twilight sparkle is one of the most magic ponies in all of Equestria, If we have her we can force her to bring back my army of changelings to once again try to take over Equestria", Chrysalis said it with passion as though it was the perfect plan. Nightmare smiled an evil grin and then she left the confinements of the prison with her new companion.
As they walked out other guards ran out to stop them but with no effect. The Guards fell one by one to the power of the two all power full beings. Not long after all the guards lay on the floor motionless, electrical and magical energy torturing their bodies. Chrysalis turned to Nightmare just before she takes flight to seek her target.
"Nightmare wait" she said causing Nightmare to pause.
"Make sure you bring Twilight back alive, we need her". Nightmare then drew an evil haunting look on her face. Madness raged through her like a racing car. She smiled at Chrysalis and then took to the skies. A storm had begun to brew in the distance and the future looked dark.

Forgotten nightmares

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Chapter 3

The wind galloped and spiralled around Nightmare moon as she soared through the storm clouds surrounding her. Below was the dimming scenery of Ponyville that contained the next stage of her plan. Lightning seemed to dance with her as the rain once more soaked her body, her energy that Chrysalis had given her still speeding through her body. It was almost time for her to get her revenge on her so called sister who punished her and forced her into her shadow for year upon year. How could she have been so stupid as to not believe Chrysalis the first time after all Celestia not only forced her to the moon for her punishment but also took her job of raising the moon? Anger now raged through her body and the dancing lightning bolts that travelled around her seemed to glisten in her eyes. Her time of vengeance will come and when it does it will be sweet and victorious. The prospect of her revenge only fuelled her insanity even more as she fantasized about how it would play out. She would no longer be the one stuck in the shadow.

As she flew she suddenly remembered what Chrysalis has said when she first came to herself the night before. Chrysalis had said that they had met once before but she couldn't quite remember the event. Suddenly the memory flashed back to her in a sudden flash back in her mind. She remembered back to the Canterlot wedding when she was Luna. She remembered that she had to keep watch over Canterlot while the wedding played out. Another thing she was mad at was the fact that on the wedding her sister seemed to push her aside while the wedding played out. This only built up the raging inferno that was inside of Nightmare. She remembered sitting in the large tower that looked over Canterlot staring into the horizon of Equestria. As Nightmare began to unearthed the memory it seemed to play out like a movie in her mind.

Luna sat alone as the day gradually progressed into the evening. The laughter and cheer that came from below seemed to bellow in her ears making her feel dizzy. The boredom was gradually starting to get to Luna when suddenly someone approached her from behind. She spun around expecting her company to be Celestia or Twilight sparkle. Instead stood princess Cadence who had silently walking up to her. Luna look wasn't expecting company but she certainly wasn't expecting Cadence to come strolling in her chamber silently. Maybe she was just checking for any threats or intruders but there wasn't any that she knew of. There was something strange about Cadence but Luna couldn't tell what. Before Luna could speak Cadence had already began to talk.

"You seem to be doing well if your assignment as lookout, I am there by great full for that" said Cadence with a pleased look on her face. This normally wasn't like Cadence at all ever since she has been acting strangely the previous few weeks. Luna returned the smile followed by a thank you. Something was defiantly not right and Luna was afraid she would find out sooner then she thought.

"You know you could be made of more assistance if you help me with my backup plans " she said with a wicked but persuasive look on her face. Luna looked puzzled.
"What kind of backup plans" she said very curious about the princess's intents. Cadence smiled and walked up to her pressing herself against Luna. Luna was shocked and puzzled by Cadence's quick movements but stayed still anyway. Instead of warmth Cadence's body seemed stone cold. Luna leaned away slightly.
"You know, if the wedding doesn't go to plan is all" she whispered quietly. She then removed her body away from Luna's and towards the balcony that overlooked the great city of Canterlot. Luna stared at her in fascination.
"We are very much alike, much more alike than you ever thought" Cadence now turned to face Luna, “which is why I want to know that if I ever need you for anything we will be on the same side?" Luna was once again puzzled but she nodded her head, after all it was princess Cadence.

"Sure" said Luna "I would be happy to offer my assistance whenever you need it". An almost sinister look seemed to cross Cadence's face but was quickly replaced by reassurance.
"Thank you my dear, but if all goes badly then I think that I will need it". Cadence smiled once more and her eyes glowed green for a split second. With that she materialized away and Luna was once again left alone.
Reality zoomed back to Nightmare in a split second as she reconfigured her targets house below her. The storm around her still bellowed at her almost as if it was encouraging her to do it. The house of Twilight sparkle was now in her range and she was planning on making a big entrance.

Twilight sparkle lay with her face buried in the pile of books that sat open in front of her. It would take more than just coffee to revive her from her seemingly un-dead state. Since her visit to Canterlot to talk to the princess she had done nothing but research and research and she had begun to feel the effect of working too hard. Her head could no longer comprehend the tired state that she was in. She had not slept in three days and she had begun to hallucinate. Spike shook Twilight in an attempt to revive his exhausted friend.

"Twilight you've been researching for three days straight! Give it a rest already" said Spike trying to pull Twilight of her chair and into her bed. Twilight just mumbled gibberish not caring what she said. Her brain was beyond fried. Spike had begun to get frustrated when there was a knock at the door. Spike let go of Twilight who flopped to the floor like a sack of flour. Spike opened the door only to be greeted by Rainbow dash that stood soaking wet on their porch. She was shivering as lightning danced around in the dark scenery behind her. Spike allowed her to come in and provided she dried of first.

"Thanks Spike, what happened to Twilight?" asked Rainbow dash concerned about her friend who was slumped against a chair sleeping soundly. Spike gave her the kind of look saying "don't ask" and they both proceeded to assist there sleeping friend. The rain had now begun to rattle the windows as it heavily poured down on the house seeking an entrance in which to enter. With both Spike's and Rainbow dash's assistance Twilight was lifted to her bed without disturbing her from her slumber. It didn't look like Twilight would be up for another few days before she could fully recover. "Sleep well Twi" said Rainbow before leaving Twilight bedroom.
"Doesn't she look cute when she sleeps?" said Rainbow dash cooing over her peacefully slumbering friend. Spike didn't join her.

"Not really" said Spike glancing at Rainbow dash, “besides, she worked herself way too hard over a stupid issue, Luna's probably gone somewhere or is finding her way in the storm somewhere" Spike was cut off by a tremendous explosion that shot debris in multiple directions. Wind and rain flowed into the living room of Twilight Sparkles home. Wood fired in all directions including towards the completely taken off guard Rainbow dash and Spike who had taken cover underneath a table. Bits of sawdust filled the room causing a haze of smoke that engulfed the entire living room. Dashie and Spike had begun to cough at the sawdust that cut at their lungs. Spike turned to see if Twilight was okay and to his surprise she was still sleeping as soundly as she had been before. Silence filled the house apart from the wind howling through the gaping hole in Twilight's ceiling.

Spike and Dashie got up only to witness a figure emerge from the sawdust, her hair flowing in front of her coat of armour that glistened dimly in the dark room. Rainbow dash and Spike gasped in horror as Nightmare moon emerged from the surrounding mist of debris. Nightmare's eyes scanned the room searching for her target as if she was a hunter spying her prey. She glanced coldly at Dashie and Spike and then behind them where Twilight lay. Spike watched in awe as Nightmare moon approached them. "It can't be" he whispered silently to himself. Nightmare began to approach Twilight when Rainbow dash jumped in front of her fearlessly. Dashie was ready to defend her friend no matter what but fear still plagued her judgment as she began to regret the decision to literally cross paths with Nightmare.

Nightmare continued to walk forward and with a single sweep of Nightmares wing Rainbow dash came crashing to the floor. Dashie got up feeling disorientated from her fall but she was not going to give up without a fight. Dashie then charged bravely at Nightmare who didn't seem to notices her approach. Spike spotted Rainbow dashes brave move but cried out to her before she was seriously injured. "No wait!!!!" yelled Spike at the top of his voice but it was too late. Nightmare turned her head to face Rainbow dash, her eyes where glowing white with energy and anger. As soon as the bolt of energy hit Rainbow dash she was smashed onto the floor motionless. Spike ran to her assistance, his expression was nothing but pure horror. Nightmare reached the side of Twilight bed. A sense of accomplishment flooded through her. She was not going to spend any more time messing around. An invisible bubble wrapped itself around the sleeping Twilight who was completely oblivious of the events going on around her. Then as if Nightmare moon had never been present, she vanished along with Twilight leaving Spike looming over Rainbow who laid half-conscious on the floor. Spike urged Rainbow dash to stay awake and that he was going to get help. Dashie nodded reluctantly and then rested her head against the cold hard floor on Twilight's room. Whatever had happened Rainbow dash didn't know but she was sure about one thing. The storm has arrived.

Deadly deeds

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Chapter 4

As soon as Twilight woke the intensity of the migraine that seemed to hover over her head had begun to make her feel sick. She opened her eyes and to be greeted by the sight of dim light passing through the entry through the ceiling. The sound of water dripping had begun to irritate her ears as the intense silence that covered the room seemed to close in on her. Twilight rubbed her eyes with her hooves and set aside the covers. She was still in her bed but her room and house no longer surrounding her. Twilight glanced around puzzled at the unfamiliar scenery around her and the dim light that pained her eyes even more. Even though the darkness was seemed to be the only presence, she felt a strange feeling of something more powerful. She knew what it was after reading about it multiple times in her library but she couldn't quite make out what.

Suddenly a figure emerged silently from the darkness. Twilight's jaw dropped in fear and in astonishment. Nightmare moon walked calmly towards her. She had a fixed expressionless look on her face and walked with long strides. Twilight was lost for words and was in disbelief. "Why?" uttered Twilight in utter astonishment. "What has happened to you Luna?” Nightmare shot an angry look at Twilight. Her lips almost snarled like a tiger. "I am not Luna" she hissed threateningly as she slowly approached Twilight who shuffled back on her bed. "She is gone! And nobody can change that". She turned away suddenly looking into the darkness that she had emerged from. Twilight stared at her in disbelief. "Look at you, you are not like this anymore!" said Twilight helplessly, Sadness had begun to clog her through as she gazed at the new Luna in-front of her. The person she once went to for advice was now the pure signature of evil and epitome. For Twilight it was as if she had lost a dear friend.

Nightmare spun around once more. "I was made to be like this!" she yelled in anger," Your mentor and my so called sister punished me for a thousand years and then expected me to live in her shadow". The rage was now almost fully visible on her face. Twilight didn't flinch this time, Instead she stared at Nightmare as if she was just a ghost. "Please Luna you have to listen to me you need to snap out of it , your stronger then this!!" Twilight yelped in desperation. Nightmare's anger seemed on the verge of blowing like a volcano. Just as Nightmare was about to vaporize the distraught Twilight, Chrysalis now emerged from the darkness behind.

"Save your anger my dear, we need her" said Chrysalis as she approached the side of the bed where Twilight sat. Twilight gasped in horror for the second time and pressed herself against the end of her bed. Chrysalis smiled at the fear that glowed in Twilight's eyes. "ow no" whispered Twilight not taking her eyes of chrysalis, "this isn't happening". The few rays of light seemed to sprint around the room. Nightmare moon managed to retain her anger for now but the anger still seemed to spawn inside of her.

"My dearest Twilight, It hasn't been long since we met" said Chrysalis circling Twilight as if she was a mouse stuck in a trap. Fear over took Twilight's body.
"What do you want from me?" she asked scanning the room for a place to quick escape. She knew that if she did run then Nightmare would probably chase her down or do some kind of horrible spell to her. She didn't want to take the risk. Chrysalis now approached Twilight and sat next to her on the bed. As soon as Twilight looked at Chrysalis she made eye contact instantly. It was as if her eyes seemed to burn holes in her brain. Twilight looked away quickly. Chrysalis proceeded to answer her question.

"Twilight sparkle, your magic capabilities seem limitless" said Chrysalis with a now friendly look on her face, “you have studied under the princess’s teachings for years now and only you apart from Celestia have the power complete the deed I need doing". Twilight stared at the Chrysalis and then at the floor. Chrysalis continued to explain her plan Twilight who sat motionless in the unfamiliar bed she had slept it.
“I need you Twilight Sparkle to firstly bring back my army of changelings and then an old friend of mine". Twilight looked up in disbelief.

"No, No I can't do that" said Twilight who then sunk into the bed when Chrysalis smile turned into an unwelcoming glare.
"Why not?" said Chrysalis angrily. She could see that Twilight was becoming intimidated by her display of anger.
"Because I do not have the magic power on my own to raze them, and I refuse to help your schemes" Said Twilight bravely. Even though she was scared she was going to stand up for her friends and her princess no matter what. Twilight didn't expect the event that happened next. Chrysalis stood up and nodded to Nightmare who instantly turned to face the darkness. The sound of her friends came bellowing from the darkness that blocked Twilight's vision to see if they were there. Twilight gasped in horror once more. Sorrow struck her as she heard the torture in her friend’s voices calling for help. Twilight yelled out to them but they didn't seem to hear her.

Twilight got up and was about to walk towards them when Chrysalis stood in front of her. "All you need to do is do as I say, and then they will be freed". Twilight had begun to run out of options. She couldn't do anything to save her friends and if she didn't do as she said then she didn't even want to think of the consequences she would face. Twilight stood up defeated, the emotion of dread now drove her body onward. She was led by Chrysalis and Nightmare towards the outside of the complex they were in. Nightmare shot a look at Chrysalis to say "I can't believe the spell worked". Chrysalis smiled back at her when Twilight wasn't looking. Their plan was on the way to finally being completed and it was almost time to release chaos over the town of Ponyville. Just as they walked and finally reached the end of the building Twilight turned her head to look at Nightmare who seemed to ignore her gaze. Twilight then spoke the words that stuck in Nightmares mind. "What have you become"?

Rainbow dash signed in re-leaf as her friends pored suddenly into the room. As she expected Pinkie pie was the first to come racing into the room. It was clearly visible that she had been crying and didn't show any effort to hide it. Pinkie pie was followed by Apple jack, Rarity and Flutter shy who also seemed to be upset. Spike quickly ran in with Princess Celestia following behind. Pinkie pie burst into joy as she saw Rainbow dash was still okay but didn't run up to hug her because of obvious reasons. Apple jack walked up to Dashie inspecting her wounds. Rainbow dash made an attempt to get up but was immediately stopped by an excruciating pain in her right wing. Dashie let out a cry of pain and she once again collapsed to the floor. "Dashie are you alright?" they all asked concerned for their friend’s safety. Rainbow dash nodded this time not trying to get up again.
"we were so worried about you! we thought you could be dying or worse!" said Pinkie pie almost in tears once more. Rainbow dash shot her a serious look to say "I'm fine" but Pinkie continued to speculate in her head. Fluttershy looked around curiously.

Where is Twilight?" asked Fluttershy as she scanned the debris and rubble that littered Twilight's home. Dashie looked up at Fluttershy and then closed her eyes. The horror of that night once again came back to haunt her.
"Twilight" she muttered under her breath, “Twilight! She's been taken by Nightmare moon!" exclaimed Rainbow dash trying to explain all the events that happened at once. Celestia walked over to dash in shock.

"Did Nightmare do this to you?" She asked curiously summing up the situation in her head. Two nurses rushed past Celestia and the other's and straight to Rainbow dashes aid. Rainbow dash nodded, the same expression of fear she had on her face was still painted to her face. She quickly shook of the look trying to get rid of any sign that she might have been scared that night. The two nurses lifted her onto a stretcher and carried her out to an ambulance cart. The others followed Rainbow dash as she got loaded into the ambulance cart. Before the cart began to move pinkie pie and the others also leaped in with her apart from Celestia who stood staring at the gaping hole through Twilight's ceiling. Spike walked back into the house to see what was holding back Celestia.

"Princess are you coming with us?" asked spike but got no answer in rely. Instead Celestia turned to face Spike. Worry seemed to cloud her facial expression as she gazed at the baby dragon.
"Yes" she said simply "Yes I'll be right there, go on without me I'll catch up". And with that Spike disappeared back outside and to the ambulance cart. Celestia continued to gaze at the hole in the ceiling and then to Twilight's empty bed. Finally she turns and heads after the other ponies. Celestia new she was getting weaker and she dreaded the worst. Just as she was about to leave she thought she saw a pony in the corner of her eye. The shape was too large to be any ordinary pony. She turned to see who was there but she was alone in the quiet of the house. After standing quietly for scanning her surroundings for about a minute, Celestia finally left the room. All she could think about was the safety of Equestria and ponyville. Both of which seemed to cast in a dark shadow that was descending over the land. Then her thoughts went to Twilight who she presumed was in Nightmare moons possession. She knew that Twilight was a strong mare and could only hope she was okay. The storm had passed but now a new force seemed to be approaching. Whatever was happening, things where only going to get much, much worse.

Calling out

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Chapter 5

Twilight sat at her makeshift desk in the prison that once held chrysalis. She had only just come to terms with being captured by Nightmare moon and Chrysalis but now she had to betray Celestia and raise and army of changelings. Toughs and decisions seemed to collide in her mind making her feel tired once more. She had an Idea of just what Nightmare and Chrysalis where planning and she didn't want to be a part of it, In fact all she wanted to do was get back to studying and be with her friends. The thought of what Nightmare might do to them made her cringe and just be absorbed into the darkness that surrounded her. She thought about her friends and all the wonderful times together. Suddenly determination swept through her. Twilight new that although Equestria will be at risk if she does what Nightmare says ,she knew that the combined elements of harmony should be able to bring down both Nightmare and Chrysalis once again.

Her thoughts went to Luna who was now the all-powerful Nightmare moon once more. She knew that Luna at the time was still suffering from the pain when she was imprisoned on the moon. But what confused her was why Luna suddenly changed her mind about her sister and decided to take sides with Chrysalis.

After a while Twilight had stopped asking herself questions. She was tired and wanted to get out of the prison she was confined in to do the work of the devil. It turned out that the prison she was in now was once Chrysalis prison not long ago, and now she was the prisoner. Like a trapped mouse unable to escape without going straight into the pit of mouse traps which surrounded her. As Twilight scanned the mountain of books that seemed to tower over her she had gradually become oblivious to the outside world around her. Hours seemed to last years and days seemed to last for centuries. Twilight wasn't 100% sure how the spell was going to work or what book it was but she knew that if she didn't get it done then she didn't even want to think about the outcome. Twilight could sense the presence of someone watching her which she presumed was Nightmare. How desperately she wanted to ask her why she did it.

As she worked it was almost as if she could feel her peering over her shoulder but whenever she looked back she was only greeted by the darkness that inhabited her cell. She stared at the darkness for a while before getting back to the books spread open across her desk. Normally she loved reading but not this time, not while being forced to read. As she read she continued to think about how and why Luna would have such a change of heart so fast. All she knew for curtain was that although she is Nightmare moon, Luna is still there and that gave her confidence. Confidence that Luna can change from the evil, cruel nightmare back to the caring person she once was. Suddenly thoughts began to stream rapidly through her head and the reason for Luna becoming Nightmare moon had seemed to become apparent.

If Luna had been visited by Chrysalis then she might have been able to turn Luna against Celestia again using the punishments Celestia gave to her thousands of years ago. Chrysalis was Inside Luna's mind which is why she is still resentful towards Celestia! Twilight's ideas seemed to scream at her as if to say "Why didn't you think of this before!?” While she thought a plan slowly began to develop him her mind as she attempted to stop herself speaking it out loud for Nightmare to hear. Twilight was no longer reading the book in front of her but had drifted off into a plan that could release her from this prison and ultimately save Equestria. Then she thought about how Chrysalis could have contacted Luna from a prison cell on the other side of Equestria. She stopped to think and then the solution exploded in her mind. She had used a message spell in order to convince Luna which meant that she could also do the same but to Celestia. For the first time in what seemed centuries, Twilight grinned as she thought of the prospect of escape. But she knew she had to do the spell carefully or Nightmare would surly intervene.

Twilight still had her books open pretending to read closed her eyes and though of the message spell. She had never used it before but now was a good time. She wished she could simply magic herself out of her prison but noticed the prison was covered in an anti-teleportation spell, making this her only hope of escape. Twilight closed her eyes and muttered the words of the spell quietly to herself, her horn lit up brightly. It surprisingly didn't take long before she felt herself tap in to Celestia who was in the middle of reading twilight's old letters. Twilight now had her chance and she was going to take it.

Princess Celestia sat quietly reading though the pile of letters which her student Twilight Sparkle had sent her. She had been holding back tears but eventually it became almost impossible, the memories of her faithful student still streaming through her head. Celestia could only guess what Nightmare would do to her. Her student’s magic was incredibly powerful and Luna knew this making her all the more deadly. Celestia knew that she was gradually getting weaker and it was only a matter of time before she was completely drained of her powers. She didn't want to think of how Nightmare would rule Equestria but she knew that Nightmare was coming for her with a thirst for vengeance. There was however one thing Celestia wasn't sure about and that was if Nightmare wanted to take over Equestria, how will she without an army? Maybe she is working with or for someone? Celestia stared blankly at the letters now with speculations dancing around her mind. All the thoughts that went through Celesta’s head were all thoughts she didn't want to think about but had to for the safety of Equestria and her students.

Suddenly out of now where came a voice that filled her heart with joy. Celestia spun round expecting to see Twilight Sparkle standing behind her. Her hopes where lost when she finds herself still alone in the room. Celestia looked around the room puzzled. Eventually she dismisses the voice as a figment of her imagination and continued to read through Twilight's letters when this time she hears Twilight's voice again but much loader. The voice spoke clearly next to her ear making her ears prick up like a cats to find the direction of the voice. This couldn't be her mind playing tricks on her. "Princess" said a distressed and fearful Twilight.

Celesta’s head darted around the room making sure Twilight wasn't standing somewhere else. Celestia stood up and scanned her bedroom yelling out to the voice.
"Twilight my student, Where are you?" asked Celestia eager to see how her apprentice was but could hear distress in Twilight's voice. At that moment a faint figure of Twilight appeared in front of Celestia. Celestia knew immediately before jumping to her apprentice's aid that it was a holographic message being sent from where ever Twilight was.
"Princess, It's so good to see you again, listen I have not got much time" said Twilight eagerly trying to give Celestia all she knew all at once. Celestia nodded allowing Twilight to explain all she knew and where she was. Celestia was shocked but not surprised to hear that Chrysalis was involved.

"So you see princess, I am being forced to rise Chrysalis's changeling army once more but I need to escape in order to prevent that from happening" Said Twilight Quickly, she knew she was running out of time and she needed to tell the Princess everything. Celestia nodded in agreement trying to calm Twilight with her soothing voice, but even that was difficult due to her being equally stressed.
“I understand Twilight; I will send your friends on a mission to save you from Nightmare and Chrysalis promptly, in the meantime stay safe my young apprentice".
Twilight's expression suddenly changed to confusion.
"Wait, are my friends okay, are they still in Ponyville?" Twilight asked hoping dearly for the answer to be yes. Now the princess looked confused.
"Of course, Rainbow dash is injured but they are all ...." Celestia was cut of by Twilight suddenly vanishing and she was once again plunged into silence. She knew now where Twilight was and was going to save her no matter what the cost.

Twilight woke suddenly from her spell to see nightmare moon looming over her. Her glare was piercings and there seemed to be a fire in her eyes that burned like an inferno. Twilight gulped as she dreaded the punishments Nightmare Might have in stall.

Piecing back together

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Chapter 6

Celestia feared the worst for her apprentice. Although having absolute faith in her and knowing that she will be strong she feared deeply that if Twilight couldn't be saved then the fate of Equestria could hang in the balance. Although she knew that Twilight's five friends also had the capabilities of saving her but also knew that there were only five of them and one of them was injured. Celestia wished she could go with them but knew that Nightmare moon was already stronger than her. Celestia gazed at the desk in-front of her uncertain what to do about the problems that taunted her. Dilemma and uncertainty seemed to spiral round her like a pair of vultures.

Celestia had thought of almost everything she could do but nothing seemed good enough to help get back Twilight. It wouldn't be easy but all the remaining five needed was someone to help them, someone she could trust to get the job done and quickly. It suddenly dawned on her that there was one pony that could defiantly help the main five, but Celestia knew getting him to do it would be costly. After thinking through what seemed like a thousand times she finally made her mind up and got up from the confinements of her work desk. Celestia considered ordering the guards to go and find him put she decided to do it herself, after all she knew where he would be.

Using her magic she burst the door open and launched herself into the open air wings spreading gracefully as she took the skies above Canterlot. Celestia swooped around the tower that once was Luna's room. Luna. The thought of her sister made her close her eyes tightly as she played back the memories of herself and her sister before the events that took place more than a day ago. Sadness swooped over Celestia as she glided through the air. Celestia wasn't angry at her sister; instead she was angry at herself. Angry about how she dealt with Luna's punishment for rebelling. Ever since she sent her sister to the moon she had regretted that day so much. Although it had occurred more than a millennium ago Celestia still felt like it was only yesterday that she had done it. But she couldn't change things round now. She could only correct what had already been done.

Celestia stared down at what had begun to look like a wasteland. She knew she was on the far corners of Canterlot where small clusters of settlements where scattered around the great city. It had been dubbed the shadow region because the great mountain that cast a shadow over the small towns and villages. Celestia knew where she now having visited the region on numerous occasions. Celestia scanned the region with her eagle like vision until spotting the stallion she was looking for. She swooped down quietly as she landed with almost no sound. The mare was lying with the back of his head leaning against the wall. He had a hat over his face and seemed to sleep soundly in what looked like a terribly uncomfortable position. Celestia approached him quietly and when he spoke she jumped at the sudden outburst of words from the dozed stallion.

"It's been a while" he said still with the hat covering his head, his horn making a dent in the top of the hat. Celestia stared at him for a while then spoke quietly. "It has" she said as she finally stood completely over the pony slumped against the ally wall. "What do you need this time Tia?" said the stallion still covering his face with his hat. He wore a leather coat and was dark grey in colour. His blood red main zigzagged down like a lightning bolt formation and his cutie mark resembled a light blue lightning bolt with a similar one inside of that of the colour red. Celestia looked down at him only to still see his hat instead of face.
"I need your help Shadow Night". Shadow Night finally looked up to be greeted by Celestia standing almost motionless and confident in-front of him. He gripped his hat with his hoof and placed it on the floor next to him.

"Well isn’t that a surprise" he said getting up from next to the bunch of garbage cans that where next to him. Shadow Night's expression held nothing but pure confidence and charisma. His zigzag flopped down across his face and his eyes glistened in what sparse bit of light was present where he stood. Although past his charm self-confidence he looked like he hadn't shaved in months. The ally way smell almost burnt Celestia's nose as she cringed at the stench of her surroundings.

"Please Shadow this is important, the fate of Equestria hangs in the balance". Shadow chuckled mockingly at her seriousness and stared at her with his big grin. "You know it's not the first time you told me this" he said as if the whole situation was some kind of game. "You know you really need to be more careful while being rule of Equestria". Celestia sighed in frustration. His annoying remarks where only agitating her more as she desperately wanted to brief Twilight's friends on their rescue mission.
"Look, I can pay you one thousand bits if you do it" Celestia said hopefully. She was trying not to act annoyed by his mind games which if she did would only fuel his sarcasm over the serious situation. Shadow Night's expression changed suddenly as money was now in evolved. His grin had become even wider.
"Ten thousand" he said amphibiously. Celestia looked at Shadow, her expression dropping into anger more and more by the second.

"I've known you all these years, I helped drop your charges for the stupid mistakes that you've made in the past and this is how you repay me?" Celestia said containing most of her anger knowing if she did he might not do what she wanted. Shadow laughed yet again for the second time that day. "And yet you forget how many times I've helped you, look I need the bits okay, look at me! I'm bankrupt"! Celestia looked at him for a moment and then her eyes were drawn to the vodka bottles on the floor where his hat was. "Yeah I wonder how that happened..." Celestia mumbled under her breath just load enough for Shadow to hear her.
Shadow Night stared at her blankly for the first time in a while and finally gave in. "look okay I will do it as long as I get to go back to Canterlot" said Shadow, all confidence replaced by hopefulness. Celestia gave shadow a look that said "are you kidding me?”
"You know I can't do that" said Celestia flashing back to the memories of her and Shadow Night.

Shadow Night had once been a very loyal general in the Equestria army. He was very close with Celestia because Shadow was so trustworthy he was also very powerful with magic however his behaviour was somewhat unpredictable. There was once an incident where Shadow was convinced that a neighbouring kingdom was going to attack Equestria but had no proof to back up his theories. Celestia dismissed the claims and Shadow became outraged. He had begun using his magic to wreak havoc on Canterlot but was stopped by Luna and Celestia. Shadow Night was originally charged and sentenced to banishment from Equestria but was later reduced to banishment of only Canterlot itself under order of Celestia who still had great trust in the stallion. Since then Shadow has wondered the streets of the shadowed region Equestria wondering and drinking.

Shadow looked at Celestia disappointing but with the smile gradually reappearing. "Well, if my assistance is that important then I guess you don't need my assistance after all". Now Celestia’s look dropped, as much as she though Shadow was irritating she still needed his help like never before. Celestia looked at the ground and then back at Shadow. Her expression was one of defeat and desperation.
"Please" begged the great and powerful princess," anything you want and I will grant it just do as I ask and you will get you wish. Shadow looked straight at Celestia. A séance of victory but serious crossed his face.
"What do you need me for princess?"

"I'm fine" Yelped Rainbow dash as she was being attended by the nurse. Her wings where heavily bandaged up but so that they could hardly move. "Dashie stay still or you might hurt yourself!" said a concerned Pinkie pie looking over her injured friend in the hospital bed along with her other friends. Dashie had been lying in the bed for well over 3 hours and wanted desperately to get up and stretch her wings. Although not being able to get out of the hospital bed Dash was still happy with the company she had after all it felt good to spend some time with all her friends in on room. She listened while they told stories about their previous adventures and about ones yet to come.

It comforted Rainbow dash to a degree however Dash was worried about Twilight. She hadn't told her friends about exactly what happened that night only telling them that Nightmare moon had taken her, the name struck fear into her heart within a split second. None of the other ponies had witnessed the anger of Nightmare moon and now that Dashie had she sincerely wish she hadn't. She could only guess what might happen to Twilight and hope she stays strong; she knows she will stay strong.

"We need to get out of her and find Twilight" said Rainbow dash urgently. She was already struggling to get up without feeling the sharp pain in her wing. Applejack grabbed her gently by the shoulder and stopped her in her tracks. "Wow now sugar cube easy there, I wanna go out there and save Twilight as much as you do but you’re in now condition to be going anywhere" she pointed to Rainbows injured wing as if she didn't already know it was injured. Rainbow dash rolled her eyes and slumped back into her bed helplessly. "She's right Dashie, as much as I want to save Twilight we don't know where she is" Rarity was cut off by the voice of princess Celestia coming from the door. They all bowed apart from Rainbow dash that lay back on her bed staring out of the window.

"I know where Twilight is, and I need all of your help in doing so" Celestia said her voice steady but firm. All of the ponies in the room turned to look at Celestia.
"Where is she?" said Flutter shy quietly. That question was also repeated by numerous others in the room. Celestia raised her head and cleared her throat ready to speak.
"Not long ago when I was looking through some old letters of Twilight's did I receive a message spell from wherever Twilight is being held. She told me she was at the old prison which holds Chrysalis captive, not long after that did I received the news that my advisers told me that the prison has been overrun by Nightmare and Chrysalis. I told my guards it was too costly to send the Equestrian forces forces in so instead I would like to offer you the mission of rescuing Twilight Sparkle from the clutches of Nightmare moon and the changeling queen.

Uncertainty swept like a wave across the ponies faces in the room but that was quickly replaced by determination. They all exchanged the glance which was also shared by Rainbow dash that wasn't going to let an injury stop her from saving her best friend. Then finally Applejack spoke first. "I'll do it" she said confidently as she smiled at the princess. She was then followed by Rarity who was then followed by Flutter shy, Pinkie pie and finally Rainbow dash.

Applejack looked down at her wounded friend. Like a soldier not ready to give up Rainbow dash stared into Applejack's eyes and spoke the words without even saying them. "I can do this". With that Rainbow dash got up carefully as she was helped up by Applejack who held out her hoof to her friend. "Need a hoof?" she asked still smiling at her friend’s bravery. Celestia glanced around the room happily knowing that determination was hopefully going to drive them through to victory. "Okay so I presume you're all in then?" said Celestia with a wide grin. The five ponies nodded when finally flutter shy spoke up to the princess.
"But just the five of us can't match the power of both Chrysalis and Nightmare, We need a plan, we can't just make an entrance..." She was cut off by an unfamiliar voice she hadn't heard before. All the heads in the room turned to the new figure standing in the doorway. His confidence seemed to radiate of him and amplified with his voice. "You’ll have me", said Shadow Night, "And trust me... We’ll make an entrance".

Uprising of evil

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Chapter 7

Twilight walked sluggishly onwards to where the changeling queen sat. Twilight didn't make any effort to pull her way out of the chains that bound her. Instead she stared motionlessly looking into nothingness. Secretly waiting and hoping that the princess and her friends would be able to save her before she was forced to raise the army of changelings like Chrysalis intended. Twilight was aware that the voices of her friends she had previously heard was some kind of spell in order to trick her meaning she didn't have to perform the spell but was too afraid of Nightmare moon, the one who was now taking her to what seemed like Equestrias demise.

Nightmare finally brought her through a large arch way where Chrysalis sat. The look on her face was not anger or hate but instead calm and soothing. Almost as if she didn't mind that Celestia had sent her friends to save her. Nightmare stopped in-front of the changeling queen before dropping Twilight harshly to the ground. Twilight groaned slightly but didn't show any pain or anger. She wasn't going to give them the satisfaction. Nightmare retreated back to the arch way where she turned and looked at the changeling queen. Twilight looked up at Chrysalis before steadily getting to her hooves. Chrysalis seemed to observe every movement she made before finally speaking. Her tone was gentle and smoothing.

"I see you have been at work but against my will am I right?” Twilight remained silent but continued to stair and Chrysalises hypnotic eyes. Chrysalis also stared back but continued to speak, her voice not faltering or showing remnants of being agitated by the slightest. "Your lack of cooperation will not release you from these chains young mare" continued Chrysalis leaning back against her makeshift thrown she sat on. Twilight stood motionlessly still not showing any signs of communicating with the alicorn queen in front of her.

Chrysalis looked at the motionless Twilight. She couldn't contain her frustration for much longer and it had begun to show in her expression. Suddenly Nightmare spoke up grabbing Chrysalises attention.
"We are running out of time, we need to raise your army before sun rise" said Nightmare moon concerned that anymore waiting for Twilight to cooperate could cost them their plan entirely. Chrysalis acknowledged her concerns and looked to Twilight who still stood motionless. Without a moment to spear Chrysalis decided her next move.
"Grab her and bring her outside, the time is right" ordered Chrysalis as she herself began to walk towards the exit of the building. A wave of nervousness passed over Twilight as the reality of what she had to do dawn on her once again.

The Night was quiet as the gentle breeze blew softly against the surrounding highlands. The moon shone brightly causing a pale white glow of light that shimmered across surrounding scenery, the hills where quiet and only the faint chirping of crickets could be heard among the trees. Shadow Night lay flat out in a bush with a pair of binoculars. His vision scanned the surrounding dip in mountains and finally caught sight of a road leading to a hidden away building which consisted of a steel entrance. The only windows where bared and the bricks blended in with the night. Five more figure appeared shortly behind Shadow Streak one by one.

"So how are we going to get in" Said Pinkie pie suddenly causing shadow so yell in surprise. Pinkies beaming face was met by Shadows slightly agitated face. "Well maybe next time you could give me more warming before you burst out of nowhere, and we're going to have to split up. Hopefully I'll be able to find my way into the complex but I'll need you five to wait out here while I retrieve Twilight".
"Oki doki loki" said Pinkie pie never faltering to be happy in even the most difficult situations. Apple Jack heard Shadows plan and looked disappointed.
"Hold on a sec how come only you get to go in and save Twilight?" said an annoyed Applejack. She was backed up back Rainbow dash.
"Yea, what do we do?"
Shadow streak didn't turn to look at the disappointed ponies but continued to look out over the eerie scenery that was the prison bellow.

"You can make sure that nothing happens outside while I save her" said Shadow not really paying attention to their question. The other ponies exchanged glances between them and then back to pondering stallion.
"you've got to be out of your mind, no way are we going to just sit here while you do all the...". Rarity was once again cut off by Shadow whose voice sounded louder than usual.
"Wait a minute change of plan" he said suddenly. The five ponies looked at each other once again and then back to the pony with the binoculars. Flutter shy’s ears pricked up at the sound of muffled talking in the distance.
"Someone's down there" she said anxiously. Her voice quivering as she hid behind her long pink hair.
"It's Nightmare and Chrysalis, and they have Twilight" said Shadow streak frantically trying to think of his next move. A wave of excitement and shock crossed the ponies’ faces.

"Boy when I get my hooves on Chrysalis..." said Rainbow dash pushing past the other ponies and attempt to run to Twilight's aid but was stopped by Applejack biting hold of her tail.
"Slow down there kiddo, you don't wanna be running out in-front of them two, remember what happened yesterday?" asked Apple Jack only concerned that if Nightmare did hurt her it would be much worse. The other ponies now turned to Shadow Night for instructions. Shadow stared blankly into mid-air until finally drawing together a plan of action.
"Okay, I know what to do but you all need to do exactly what I say so listen carefully". All six ponies huddled into a small circle as their own secretive plan was drawn together.
"Apple Jack, on my mark I want you to jump out and try to disorientate Chrysalis or Nightmare. You then get the hell out of there. Flutter shy since you're the only pony who can fly I need you grab Twilight while Pinkie pie detracts them. Rarity, use you’re magic to make sure flutter shy can retrieve Twilight safely. I will attempt to fight of them both serving as detraction". He finally turned to rainbow dash who seemed disappointed once more to be left out.
"Rainbow dash, kick some flank". And with that she gave her a salute.
"Now" said Shadow streak prepared for action," Let’s get of this hill and save your friend".

Twilight walked into the surrounding darkness that seemed to engulf her as she entered the outside world. The atmosphere outside was cool but the breeze was cold. It was as if she had dived into a sea of darkness unsure of when she would see the light of day. They walked silently through the calm night as the breeze brushed against the surrounding tree. Twilight's eyes scanned between the hedges and vegetation seeing if she could spot any glimmer of being saved by her friends. Questions began to form in her head one by one.

What if they don't make it?

What will I do then?

Where will I go?

"Maybe I could make a run for its" she thought to herself trying to calculate the possibility of her escape if she did make a run for freedom. Instead she continued to walk onward while her captors drove her forward. Eventually they reached a clearing in the trees where they stopped. Nightmare looked at Chrysalis who exchanged the glance.
"It's time, unicorn" said Chrysalis as she beamed a sinister glare at Twilight. With that Nightmare nudged her forward with her horn leaving Twilight standing in the centre of the opening.
"You know the spell my child, perform the spell and I will cross your magic with mine". Twilight remained silent for a long moment. Not wanting to perform the spell yet not wanting to face the punishment which will greet her if she doesn't perform it.

Twilight stood quietly and closed her eyes. A part of her was urging her to do the spell for her own safety but another telling her not to for the sake of Equestria. She didn't know whether Celestia had managed to send her friends in time. Only time would tell. Minuets passed like hours as Twilight tried to take as long as she could to prepare the spell. She could feel Chrysalis and Nightmare where beginning to become inpatient by the minuet but she needed to buy herself as much time as possible.

It was only until Chrysalis rose her voice was when she knew she was out of time. Twilight's horn began to shine as she began to utter the words. The words she dreaded to speak out for some time now. Suddenly an ore of light began to form around Twilight as she continued to speak of the words of the spell. She could feel the energy surging through her like a raging inferno of power. Chrysalis watched beamed with delight as the spell began to unreel from Twilight's mouth. The once quiet night was now lit up with the roar of energy surging through Twilight. As the orb on Twilight's horn began to increase in size so did the brightness.

Twilight's head was pounding from the intensity of the magic being emitted from her horn. Chrysalis lowered her horn and now her magic began to glow with fury. Before long Chrysalis's magic had joined with Twilight's to make a pale green orb of light. Suddenly there was a flash and it was as though it had become day for short moment. The orb of energy crashed to the ground causing flames of green lights to dance around the night sky. The sound of the energy hitting the floor was a high pitched static noise that ground Twilight's eardrums. Before long the jumbled mass of light had begun to form into a circular formation on the floor.

It was time. Apple Jack burst out of the nearby shrubs and tackled the changeling queen causing her ray of energy to miss fire and the beam of energy to go astray. The instant loss of Chrysalis's magic caused Twilight to stop suddenly before looking around. She was light headed after performing such a powerful spell but she could still see the events playing out around her. Chrysalis let out a scream of terror as she was taken by surprise by the strong earth pony. Apple Jack turned her body around and kicked Chrysalis in the jaw in an attempt to disorientate her. .Nightmare stood in shock at the events playing around her. It had all happened too quickly. Then it was Rainbow dashes turn, she to smash her hoof against Nightmare moon’s side causing her to loose balance. “That’s for damaging my wing" Rainbow dash cried in triumph

By this point Chrysalis had regained awareness of what was happening. Pure fury burned in her eyes as she let out a roar of rage. "You fool", chrysalis bellowed "you will all pay for your foolish actions". The same green magic that had been used to complete the spell was now being used in pure rage. The magic shot like a laser beam at the intruding ponies. Apple Jack and Rainbow dash saw the beams of death coming leaped back into the brush before being consumed by Chrysalis's rage. Suddenly Pinkie pie leaped out from behind a nearby tree shortly followed by Rarity. They both began to yell at the top of their lungs in order to get the two alicorn attention. Nightmare recovered from her blow quickly. Her thrust for revenge was indescribable.

Suddenly Nightmare began to gallop towards Pinkie and Rarity using her wings to accelerate speed. Pinkie pie and Rarity exchanged a worried glance that said "this wasn't part of the plan". Before they knew it they were running, running faster than they can ever remember running. It wasn't long before Nightmare was almost on their tail. Suddenly a tall red colour stallion with frizzy hair stood between the fleeing mares and the outraged alicorn. His expression showed no fear in the face of danger.

Shadow Night lowered his horn and within seconds a bolt of lightning had danced straight through the surrounding trees and into aggravated Nightmare moon. Nightmare hallowed in pain while collapsing to the floor, a cheer of success coming from the triumphant ponies.

Twilight Sparkle stood motionlessly among the chaos that surrounded her. It was all a blur of colour to her as she stared out into her own world. A silent ringing pierced her ears making her head hurt the quick blurs of colour made her feel dizzy. The eerie sound of her friends calling her name had begun to become apparent. Suddenly before she knew it she had begun to move on her own. She felt the grip of another pony trying desperately to drag her away from the mayhem. Her vision gradually reduced into a blur as the sounds of chaos outside began to quieten. All séance of the reality of the moment had cleared from her mind and she felt relaxed.

She had reached the eye of the storm.

The approaching army

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Chapter 8

Much like she had felt before, Twilight woke with a sudden pain in her head and slightly disorientated. Although she was no longer tired after forced to perform a spell she felt drained of energy. She looked around the room slowly to see it was her room. Twilight sighed in relief about the thought of being away from her prison. Her room was clean with her furniture all in place. The sound of birds chirping happily outside of her window comforted her a great deal making her Re-resting her head on the pillow .She closed her eyes again for a little while before getting up. All the pain and stress that she had felt from the prison had gone but the eerie silence that accompanied it still lingered in the air around her.

Before long Twilight had given up trying to back to sleep and was up looking for her friends. She walked out of her room when suddenly being greeted by a giant patch in her ceiling. It had already been patched up by wooden planks that crisscrossed across the once gaping hole in her ceiling. Twilight stared at it for a moment before looking round the room for Spike. She found him curled of around a bunch of nails and planks sleeping soundly. Twilight looked at her slumbering friend, she had never been so happy to be home in her life. She gently picked him up and brought him to his bed besides hers.

"Feel better?" said a voice from behind her. Twilight turned to see it was Celestia. There was a huge smile across her face and she seemed relieved to see her however something was different about her. Her hair no longer swayed majestically as it once did and her smile seemed weak almost as if she didn't have the energy to stand. Twilight gazed back before running over to hug her mentor. Tears of joy began to form i her eyes.
"I though...I would never...be able to see you again" she exclaimed still sobbing between speech. Celestia hugged back soothing her "it's going to be okay" and "we're home now". There hug lasted for over a minute before they both retracted there embrace, a smile still printed on their mouths.
"Thanks for saving my friends princess, if it wasn't for you I would still be in that awe-full place" said Twilight with great gratitude.

"My dear apprentice, you know I would risk everything to save my subjects as well as Equestria itself" Celestia said, her voice showing subtle hints of tainting.
"What are you going to do about Nightmare moon?" asked Twilight still worried that the enraged alicorn where still out there planning and scheming.
"I'm not sure Twilight, the most I can do is try to prevent them from taking control of our major cities" Celestia said, a hint of worry in her voice.
"She's still in there you know, you know how much Luna loves you. I think somewhere deep down inside her she still does and always will".
Celestia looked away from Twilight's gaze and into the distance. Twilight could feel her sorrow deepen by the second within her and it made Twilight feel sorrow as well. Twilight watched as she saw a tear run down Celestia's cheek for the first time. She only felt that there was one thing to do. Twilight once again embraced with Celestia hugging her tight. Celestia did nothing but rest her chin against Twilight's shoulders. Although towering over Twilight she still managed to embrace with the unicorn. For the next few moments silence filled the room as they shared there tears of sadness and for a long while it was as if everything was okay again.

Suddenly twilight's door flung open and two royal guards followed by a high ranking army general of the Equestrian army. Twilight and Celestia wiped there tears away as they prepared for whatever news was brought. The general didn't hesitate to break into the news.
"Princess, we have received news of a huge uprising coming from the North West Mountains west of the city of Canterlot"
"Chrysalis and Nightmare" Celestia asked rhetorically. He knew what the answer was really but wanted to be sure.
"I'm afraid so mam" said the general. He had a cutie mark in the form of a shield and was light grey in colour.
Celestia began to walk towards the door and nodded her head to Twilight to signal her to follow. The royal guards, Celestia and Twilight all exited her house. A séance of duty seemed to linger around them. Because it Equestria was under attack they were ready to defend it no matter what.

Fools they were to think they could stop me from rising once more. Foolish they were for think that they could spoil my plan. At this very moment I feel my strength gathering. The might of the army behind me is too large to be defeated once more. There is no love to stop me this time. With my combined power with yours we can crush the elements of harmony. Once my army swoop down and take over this land me and you will be the ones who take our prize, our rightful place as rulers of this land. Revenge my child will be sweet and glorious. The rift is almost emptied itself of changelings and soon we will be ready to advance; First Canterlot, then PonyVille and finally Cloudsdale. All will become vessels of my future empire. Our previous attempts might have failed once but not this time. The odds are in our favour

Chrysalis stood on a large mountain range giving the perfect view of Canterlot in the distance. Her wings outstretched as she slowly prepared to take flight. Standing behind her was Nightmare, the same evil glare that Chrysalis shared. Nightmare listened intently as Chrysalis walked about how her invasion was going to work this time. In all honestly Nightmare didn't care. Her thrust for vengeance was like a ranging bomb fire waiting for the fuss to be lit.

Although Chrysalis's intents where to seize the city of Canterlot with her army, the enormous army that hovered patiently for orders. Nightmare couldn't count the number of changelings that came out of the rift after the spell but she could guess that was more than a few million. The floating army flew busily in a giant ball collecting in the rich air they had not breathed in Months.

All Nightmares life when she was known as Luna she felt like she had been stuck in Celestia's shadow. To her it wasn't fair. Today will be the day that she will have her reckoning her vengeance against her sister. Nightmare knew that she had completely different motives then Chrysalis. Chrysalis as for power but Nightmare was for revenge. She couldn't wait for the moment to arrive.

The sky seemed perfect for the clash that was soon to come. Nightmare looked out at the sky and then to the horizon where the sun was gradually rising. It will soon be Nightmare who also raises the sun soon.

There was one thing holding Nightmare back that she didn't really expect. Something she couldn't repel because it was always there. That thing she had always felt but been too afraid to show it to the world and to Celestia. It was forgiveness. Nightmare quickly shook of that feeling. She couldn't just forget about what Celestia had done. She was going to continue with her plan with Chrysalis and her mighty army. As Nightmare gazed out at the surrounding future war zone she couldn't help feeling the same feeling of forgiveness crossing her body liking it was bursting to come out. It was like another part of her was trying to break free from her powerful grasp but couldn't because of Nightmares current power levels. Whenever she looked out and remember the memories she had with her sister she felt it again. Yet some part of her welcomed the new force. It was like a curse that was also a blessing. Nightmare continued to try to block out the feeling. "Not this time" she though.

The Fight for Freedom

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Chapter 9

The train journey to Canterlot was shorter than expected after the urgent news that a changeling uprising is on its way to Canterlot. Twilight stared out of the window leaning her head against the cold glass. The passing by trees came and went as if they never existed. She was sat with Celestia who also remained quiet for the majority of the journey but they did talk every now and then. The train stopped for the guards at the Canterlot gate to allow them to pass though the invisible force field that protected the preparing city. Twilight was informed that her friends will be present in Canterlot which took her mind of the threat of the Changeling invasion.

The train finally made it to the station where Celestia and Twilight exited. Celestia looked at Twilight proudly before telling her she needed to find something in her room. Twilight nodded before trotting towards an open area containing hundreds of busy royal guard ponies. Suddenly Twilight was immediately surrounded by a dozen embraces all at once as her friends seemed to pounce on her with their joy to see her. Twilight was curies about how they had pulled it off her rescue but had no time because the guards that were escorting them seemed to be in a rush. As they walked through the streets of Canterlot soldiers and guards rushed around to their places. The events to come didn't seem welcoming. Pinkie pie gazed up at the gathering clouds above her. The storm clouds seemed to snarl like dogs as they gradually came together in a mass of grey. It was as if the thunder storm was directed only on Canterlot itself.

They finally met a stone outpost lined with soldiers. Standing with them was Shadow Night. He seemed more stressed out then usual after he was appointed by Celestia to arrange some of the army defending Canterlot. As the hurrying ponies seemed to scramble around to their position the wind seemed to want to prevent them from doing so. Like the wind itself was an invisible barrier. Twilight and her friends with the general walked up to Shadow Night who seemed busy ordering the soldiers to where they should position themselves for the incoming attack. The sound of then approaching floating army could be heard from miles away as it gradually approached into range.

"Shadow, I need status on our soldiers in place. Are we braced for the attack yet?" asked the general eager for the answer. Shadow hadn't seemed to be paying attention while his glace went to the distant cloud of changelings to the patiently waiting soldiers awaiting orders
"Urm, it’s slow progress but we should be prepared" said Shadow simply. He seemed busy enough as it was making sure who was where.
"Hi, I'm Twilight Sparkle and these are my friends" said Twilight hoping Shadow had noticed her.
"Yes I've met your friends, nice to meet you misses Sparkle but I'm a bite busy at the moment" said Shadow still frantically looking around the area to see if things where in place.
"We'd like to help, we just need to know what to do!" said Twilight.

"Well you can stay out of my... wait, I need you three", pointing at Rainbow dash, Applejack and Rarity, “to fend off any changelings when they arrive" said Shadow finding them something to do. Suddenly an idea crossed Applejack and she darted of out of the area and into a nearby building.
"Pinkie pie and Flutter shy I need you two to make sure the changelings don't try to out manoeuvre around our defensive points. Is that understood?"
Pinkie and Flutter shy nodded before Flutter shy walked up to Shadow.

"Urm... excuse me sir, but do we have to fight the Changelings?" Flutter shy asked quietly. Shadow stared at her for a moment before finally succumbing to her adorableness.
"Well unless a peace can be negotiate, I'm afraid not"
Flutter shy nodded but before she left she stopped.
"Just so you know, I am a good fighter so encase you need me...I'm here" she quickly trotted on to a nearby lookout post then reappeared again suddenly
.
"You know, encase you want me to..." With that Flutter shy darted of once more.
.Shadow Night watched her go with a puzzled look in his face.
"Flutter shy fighting? I'd like to see that" he said to himself before seeing of the other main six apart from one. Twilight was left watching her friends run off and still awaiting orders.
"What can I do?" she asked hopefully. Shadow night looked at her if she had just arrived.
"Oh Twilight, I don't have any more jobs which you can do at the moment".
Twilight looked around confused. "So what do I do?" she asked slightly agitated at the fact all her friends had something to do and she didn't.

"I don't know maybe you could..." Shadow was cut off by a voice shouting the words that every pony dreaded.
"In coming!" yelled a guards pony as suddenly a shadow was cast over busy ponies that looked up in terror at the tremendous wave of enemies. The changelings moved in unison until they reached the protective bubble that surrounded the trembling city. Suddenly two beams of magic came from a nearby hill striking the bubble that surrounded the city. Twilight and her friends watched in fear as the bubble vibrated violently. It sent of a shock wave that travelled across the entire bubble like it was a ripple in a pool.

Suddenly Applejack reappeared from the building she had vanished into just moments ago calling to twilight while she held something shiny. Twilight approached her and found out it was the elements of harmony.
"Good thinking AJ!" yelled Twilight in re-leaf. She then rushed to the others who were bracing themselves for the cloud of enemies looming over them. There was a tremendous crash and suddenly the bubble surrounding Canterlot came crashing down on itself. All the ponies bellow prepared them for what was next. The flying army descended onto the defending ponies faster than they interpreted.

"BRACE YOURSELVES!" yelled a guards pony and then a flash of darkness. Before they knew it they were thrust into combat with the snarling changelings who came from every angle. The noise of clashing hooves and the hum of wings was all that was heard as each pony fought with all there might. Twilight's head darted from side to side as wave after wave of changelings came running towards her. Each time she would fall back before firing a beam of magic at each of them sending them collapsing to the ground. Applejack and Rainbow dash lashed out with all there might at the intruding invaders. Pinkie pie leapt out a group of unsuspecting changelings taking them by surprise. Before long them to where collapsing to the floor in defeat. Flutter shy sank back into a corner watching as changeling after changeling zoomed past her. She had been hiding behind her hear before she heard Rarity scream as one of the changelings had hold of her hair.
"Get of me you filthy beasts" yelled Rarity in disgust before being piled on by even more changelings. Suddenly Flutter shy got to her feet as she saw her friend being attacked by the rampaging flying monsters. A loom of rage printed to her face as a new ego took over her.

"NO PONY HURTS MY FRIENDS!" She yelled in anger before leaping out into the raging battlefield. Before long changelings where had begun to be knocked out of the sky one by one as she lashed out with all four of her limbs. Strike after strike she hit them all on the back of the head knocking them cold to the floor. Before long Rarity was clear of changelings and wondering what had just happened. Shadow Night had been watching in amazement as the usually quiet pony struck each of the changelings to the ground without a sweat.
"Come on girls, we've defeated them one we can do it again" yelled Applejack in triumph as she attempted to copy Flutter shy’s precise moves.

Twilight smiled as her friends technique had begun to fight of the attackers. Suddenly a large shadow passed over her head. She looked up to see Nightmare moon sour through the thunder clouds and into the tower of Celestia's bedroom. Twilight gasped in horror as she looked up at the tower. "This can't be good" she though as she looked around planning her next decision.

Twilight stopped looking around the chaos that played out around her and knew what she needed to do next. She began to Gallup towards Celestia’s chamber. Before long she had a chain of Changelings following her as she galloped as fast as she could towards the tower entrance. She could hear the voice of a pony calling her from behind her.
"Twilight where are you going!?" yelled Shadow Streak as he blasted another Changeling out of the sky. Twilight continued to gallop but yelled the answer as she went.
"I think the princess is in trouble, I need to see if she's okay. Tell the others if they ask!" she instructed as she navigated around battling royal guards and remorseless changelings. Shadow Night watched her go before yelling the words.
"Stay safe Twilight Sparkle".

Twilight made it to the entrance to the castle only to find a new obstetrical in her way which turned out to be a flight of stairs that seemed to go up for hundreds of steps. Twilight stared up at the tremendous number of steps she needed to climb before reaching Celestia. She knew that whatever Nightmare was planning it couldn't be good, closing the door behind her with a loud slam that echoed up the spiral stare case she begun to climb.

Final judgement

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Chapter 10: Final

The wind howled and bellowed like it was in pane. The rain seemed to dance around the Celestia’s balcony. Standing on it was a dark alicorn peering in at the sun princess. The lightning flashed brightly as it darted around the cold surroundings. Celestia’s balcony door swayed open and shut without disturbing the princess inside.

Celestia sat at her desk in her room as the chaos of the changeling attack played out below her. She stared down a picture which she held between her hooves, the silent member of clashing armour coming from bellow the castle. Celestia seemed completely oblivious to the struggle happening outside her tower. She looked at the picture for a few long moments before speaking to what appeared to be nobody.

“You always where good at sneaking up on me” Celestia said as her head finally turned behind her. At that very moment it seemed Nightmare had emerged from the balcony, her dark main trailing behind her with grace and power. A serious yet menacing smile was stretched across her face like she was ready to take the moment. Celestia didn’t bother to make a run for the door. Instead she looked at Nightmare with a warm smile as if to welcome her uncertain demise.

“So long have I waited for this moment” Nightmare spoke as she approached Celestia slowly. “So long have a longed to see this happen and now”, she paused before standing almost above Celestia,” I will finally have vengeance”. Nightmare spoke in a cold tone as if she was part of the storm outside yet princess Celestia didn’t flinch or move from where she was. Instead she continued to stare at Nightmare like she was still Luna.

“I don’t care what occurs today sister .All I can say is that I still love you”. Suddenly anger took over Nightmare as a burning sensation struck deep within her. Fury seemed to radiate of Nightmare as she looked away from Celestia.
“Get up!” Nightmare ordered and Celestia did just that. The two stood in the ore of the storm that took place outside.

“Now fight me!” Nightmare bellowed lowering her horn and readying for combat. Magic already sparking of her horn as the look of rage fuelled her power. Celestia did not move nor did she lower her horn. Instead she attempted to look into Nightmare’s eyes with the same warm smile she had when Nightmare had arrived. Nightmare didn’t allow full eye contact to occur as she knew what Celestia was doing.

“FIGHT ME!” she bellowed in rage as she held back the beam of magic until Celestia was ready but Celestia didn’t move. Celestia began to walk calmly towards her sister before stopping just in front of her. She spoke quietly but loud enough for Nightmare to hear her. “I will not fight you sister” said Celestia. Nightmare could no longer take it anymore. She unleashed her anger as she fired the beam of magic towards her sister. There was a loud flash as Celestia was catapulted to the other end of the room landing hard on the floor. There was a loud crash as the floor tiles crunched under Celestia’s impact.

Nightmare beamed a menacing yet remorseless smile. She approached her sister who still lay on the floor conscious but unwilling to get up. “Get up and fight me!” Nightmare bellowed in anger once more at her fallen sister. Celestia didn’t move but instead turned her head to face Nightmare. Her expression didn’t describe hate or pain but love for her. Nightmare only became more enraged by this dragging Celestia to her feet with her magic. Celestia didn’t once try to resist but allowed Nightmare to throw her like a doll. A beam of magic struck Celestia once more as she fell to the floor in pain. The storm clouds outside howled as if they were cheering her on.

“All my life” Nightmare begun as she threw Celestia across the floor once more with her powerful magic, “all my life I have lived in the shadow of you. Even since we were young I always ended up feeling like second best. All this time I’ve had to bow down to you even when I thought I was in the right. Even now I bet you feel like you are better than me, don’t you sister?” Nightmare said in an angry voice. Although this time when Nightmare spoke it wasn’t only anger that spoke it was pain as well, the purest form of sadness. Celestia looked up at her angry sibling standing over her with vengeance in her sister’s stride. All the time Celestia kept the look of forgiveness on her face. “I never meant you to feel this way sister, I am so sorry for that” exclaimed Celestia with a glint in her eye that said that she would always forgive her sister.

Nightmare looked down at her damaged sister. For a moment it was as if she was reluctant to want to fight her sister anymore that revenge wasn’t the option after all. There was something within her telling her to forgive Celestia yet a more powerful side telling her to take her opportunity when she has the chance. Nightmare glanced down at Celestia before levitating her once more.

“Sorry doesn’t cut it” she said with her anger returning to make up lost time. Nightmare then flew Celestia crashing against a wall sending cloud of dust to engulf her room. Cracks outstretched across the entire wall as Celestia closed her eyes and rested her head against the wall. Tiredness and sadness had taken her over more than the pain that engulfed her body. Suddenly there was a clatter of metal against the tile flooring. Nightmare’s glance fixed on Celestia’s crown that had fallen off after Celestia had passed out. She gazed at it for a moment and then at her sleeping sister. There came a loud cackle of laughter as Nightmare turned her head behind her to the balcony doorway.

Chrysalis stood with a menacing yet proud look on her face. She stepped out of the darkness of the door way and towards Nightmare who stood before her.
“You’ve done well my dear, how vengeance tastes?” asked Chrysalis. “Sweet” said Nightmare sharing her menacing grin. They both walked out onto the balcony and looked at the city bellow them. From above the chaos looked worse than it had done from bird’s eye view. The low hum of changeling wings shimmered across the surroundings as more and more Changelings zoomed in on the city.

“Look at this; I would never have been ever to do this without your help. I am truly thankful” said Chrysalis and with that she bowed her head to Nightmare while adding, “The future princess of Equestria”. Nightmare smiled as she embraced the chaos that occurred bellow her like it was a living thing. She closed her eyes before looking down at the struggling ponies bellow.

Rainbow dash and Applejack though of the changelings back to back as they lashed out furiously at the attackers but even there efforts seemed in vane as gradually the changelings overpowered them knocking them both to the ground. Rarity backed off as more and more changelings cornered her in. Pinkie pie tired her party cannon at the invaders disorientating them for a short while but even for her the dense amount of the invaders had worn her out as well. Flutter shy began to slow down with the rate of her strikes to the enemies as even her had begun to get warn out. Shadow Night watched as the royal guards as one by one they fell as well. “Come on! We can hold them of! Just stay together!” yelled shadow in desperation. The swarm had seemed to consume the resisting army in a cloud of darkness.

Nightmare looked out over the succeeding army. “It was only a few days ago in which you freed me from my imprisonment and now we come to the final stages” Chrysalis said while turning away from the stormy clouds that covered the sky above. Chrysalis walked forwards and picked up Celestia’s crown placing it on her head once again. She closed her eyes and grinned menacingly. She spun around quickly to face Nightmare who had been looking at her sister who leant against the wall.

“Now, finish her off” said Chrysalis with an evil smile. The wind seemed to howl even loader now as the shutters of the balcony rattled violently. Nightmare looked down at her sister who lay soundly against the wall. Her vengeance still longed for her to finish of her vengeance with a grad finale. All the times Nightmare had felt shadowed out by her older sister now came to this moment. There felt an overwhelming urge to do it but deep down she was unsure whether she should. Nightmare lowered her horn as the finally burst of magic built up. Just before Nightmare was ready to fire Celestia opened her eyes to face Nightmare. Her eyes showed nothing but sure forgiveness and a look to say, “I’m sorry sister”.

“Do it!” yelled Chrysalis in joy to see her most dangerous enemy fall to the hooves of her sister. Nightmare continued to look at Celestia who stared her directly in the eyes. For a long while there gazes where locked. Suddenly Nightmare was thrust into multiple flashbacks that flashed before her in a flood of memory. At first the flashing images was nothing but a blur but gradually they began to show events along Luna’s life. At first it was Luna and Celestia when they were young fillies playing harmlessly in the shadow of Canterlot. It was almost like present Nightmare could feel the actual memory. She felt herself reach out as she realised her longing to once again share the happiness she once had. As fast as it had appeared the memory move on to Luna turning into Nightmare moon for the first time and being banished to the moon. Nightmare cringed again at the sadness of being locked away in her far away prison, a blur of the distant memory past and a memory of Luna with Twilight Sparkle as they talked and laughed to each other in joy. Nightmare smiled at the happy memory she had shared only to be reminded of how she treated Twilight when she was imprisoned. Nightmare struggled to pull herself out of the fixated trance she was forced as her anger and vengeance gradually transformed into sorrow and guilt.

Nightmare quickly snapped back into reality as still had her horn ready to fire at her fallen sister. Celestia’s power seemed almost fully drained as she barely managed to lift her head. Chrysalis had begun to become inpatient as Nightmare continued to look at her helpless sister. “What are you waiting for? Finish her now!” yelled Chrysalis in the anger of the moment. Nightmare turned and faced her companion replying with a simple word, “no”.
Chrysalis looked at nightmare in confusion, anger now beginning to form within her expression.
“What? Remember the plan my dear we must complete every part of it!” she said in frustration by Nightmare ignored her. Instead she looked longingly at Celestia who intern looked back.
“No, I was wrong to listen to you. All this time I did what you said just so I could get revenge, but revenge isn’t the answer!” Nightmare said now turning to face the infuriated Chrysalis. She continued while gradually approaching Chrysalis.
“I was too focused on revenge to see that it was my sister who had forgiven me and protected me all this time not only that she is sorry for what she did” Nightmare continued as her anger now focused on Chrysalis.

Chrysalis’s rage had now reached breaking point. The usually calm and precise alicorn queen was now an enraging inferno of anger.
“If you’re not going to kill Celestia, then I will”! With a quick movement of her head chrysalis aimed her horn towards Celestia who still lay on the floor semi-conscious. The changeling queen’s horn glowed with magic as it bubbled up into a high concentration of energy and magic. Just as Chrysalis fired her magic at Celestia, Nightmare thrust herself between the ray of magic and her sister. At the same time Nightmare beamed her own ray of magic which quickly intercepted chrysalis’s magic. There was a loud crash as both rays of magic clashed together forming an artificial mini light storm in the middle of Celestia’s room. The two rays struggled to retain control and they both beamed as much magic as she could against one another. The intensity of the magic caused an array of light that lit up the room in a bright lightshow of sparks and electricity.

Nightmare channelled all her magic through her horn and against Chrysalis’s causing Chrysalis to fight back even more. The beams of magic stayed central as both Nightmare and Chrysalis used all their power against one another’s force. The sound of the battling beams of energy was a loud cracking sound that echoed across the entire tower. Nightmare closed her eyes in a hope she could channel even more energy to push back chrysalis but with little luck. Suddenly chrysalis’s beam of energy began to gradually push back Nightmares ray of magic causing her to scowl as the pain of the magic being drained from her had begun to take effect. Chrysalis gradually pushed the central collision of magic closer to Nightmare as she fought on to protect her sister. Nightmare’s glace shot to Celestia who had attempted to get to her hooves. She returned Nightmare’s glance with a feeble smile which said “I’m proud of you”. Then Celestia closed her eyes and rested her head against the cold wall.

Nightmares eyes widened as her sister gradually closed her eyes. “No!” she kept thinking as she tried to concentrate on her magic but the side of Celestia had caused her to lose focus. Chrysalis’s ray of light was almost touching nightmare which made Chrysalis grin as victory was almost in her grasp. Nightmare closed her eyes in a last attempt to throw back chrysalis’s magic and save her sister. Suddenly all her memories came back to her once again accept this time they were mainly of Luna. They all flashed by all at once but the main memory that lasted in her head was when Celestia had forgiven her after being defeated by the main six. That same memory lingered in her head as she remembered the exact feeling she had felt that day, “forgiveness”.

Suddenly there was an undiscovered urge to fight within her as a new source of energy took over Nightmare. Nightmare’s expression fixed on determination as she focused on defeating Chrysalis. A new stronger source of magic and energy had now begun to be channelled through her horn. Chrysalis stared in horror as her magic had been over powered by a sudden burst of magic. Chrysalis screamed in terror as the central beam of magic struck her with force she never though existed. With a sudden explosion Chrysalis was thrown from the tower and plunging to the battlefield beneath. Just before she struck the ground she vaporised into a cloud of green magic that seemed to seep away into the ground.

Celestia’s crown lay on the bedroom floor just where chrysalis had once stood. For the first time in what seemed like weeks there was silence. Celestia woke up suddenly gasping for breath as she stood up and stretched her wings out. She felt all her magic had been returned and could only remember the faint memories of what had just happened moments ago. Her gaze scanned the room and then fixed on Nightmare who lay motionless on the floor.
“Oh no” muttered Celestia as she ran to Nightmares side. The room looked was almost completely wrecked with shards of stone and tile covering the floor.

“Sister wake up” Celestia said as she shock Nightmare frantically. Although it was Nightmare who had turned against Chrysalis, Celestia knew deep down that is was Luna who had provided the energy to stop her. Celestia lowered her horn and touched in gently against Nightmares forehead. A bright light shimmered at the end of her horn and causing the magic to seep into Nightmare. Slowly but surely Nightmare opened her eyes and faced Celestia.

“We did it sister, we stopped Chrysalis” said Nightmare with a feeble smile across her face. Celestia grinned down at nightmare. Although once they had been enemies now it was as if they had always been friends. Suddenly an ore of magic began to from around Nightmare as she gradually began to form back into what was once Luna.
Luna lay in the hooves of Celestia who looked at her proudly. Not a single trace of anger was shown in her expression.
“Celestia, I’m so sorry I…” Luna was interrupted by Celestia who stopped her before she could finish.
“No sister, I’m sorry. If I hadn’t punished you so harshly maybe this might not have happened. For that I am deeply sorry”
Luna stared up at her sister barely being able to withhold her tears. An overwhelming sense of relief filled both of them as the reality finally struck. The storm was finally over. The two siblings embraced as the raging storm outside had begun to recede. The clouds gradually began to clear and the heavy rain also reduced into a light shower. As Celestia and Luna retained there embrace, Twilight finally pushed open the door and landed flat on the floor panting.
“Wow that’s a lot of steps” she murmured to herself still trying to catch her breath. She looked up to see Celestia and Luna sitting within the broken room in a tight embrace. Twilight smiled as overwhelming joy overcame her.

Bellow the battlefield fell silent as the once millions of attaching changelings had vaporized into dust. The royal guards started around in confusion as all at once the changelings vanished into nothing. Suddenly Applejack burst into joy screaming out the words,” We did it!” There was a roar of cheers as the once fallen royal guards now got to their hooves in triumph.

Celestia, Luna and Twilight walked out onto Celestia’s balcony as they looked out at the cheering freedom fighters. They stared out as the sun hid behind the mountains and the few clouds that where left. Luna turned to Celestia who continued to stare out at the crowd of ponies cheering.
“Never again” Luna said as her gaze also trailed out to the mountains bellow.
“Never again” repeated Celestia and she smiled warmly at the two closest ponies in the whole world to her. Chrysalis's spell which had been cast on Celestia was finally broken and Chrysalis was also defeated. As they looked out a bunch of fireworks where lit and the brightly coloured explosions lit up the city in an array of colour. The weather was calm and the storm had passed, what was once an uncertain future was now a hopeful path to a new beginning. The future now looked bright.

The end

Dark days: by Dashie4ever
Thank you for reading this far. Apologies for the wait and thanks again for reading :).