Imprisoned Together

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He didn’t know how to explain this so he thought about things from the beginning of what he could remember. There was a war going on and he, a part of it. Though he’s been here too long to remember the name given so he gave himself one, the only thing he could see, Night. However, he remembered the cause he fought for, Unity. That word was the savior, his hope, and goal. He fought for the unity of all pony kind, pegasi, unicorns, and earth pony. Night, a former platoon leader, and his comrades fought so that all could be free of prejudice. Though he doesn’t know if his goal has been accomplished since he sees his homeland from afar. Though afar doesn’t do it justice, he was looking at Equestria from Princess Luna’s moon, as it moves in accordance to her will. He was drifting alone on the moon for Faust knows how long. Alone on the moon, without friends, companions, food. Though the last surprisingly he did not feel a need for, and this bothered him. Though the last thing Night remembered was the end of war, he and his brethren celebrated the last fight. He closed his eyes for a moment and when he opened them he was staring at what was his home.

“I wonder what has become of home?” Night said into the endless expanse of space. Another thing that Night questioned was how he could breathe. Though not being versed in magic and the strangeness of being on the moon he decided to not waste his time thinking about it. Night had walked around the moon to stay in shape countless times, he knew every dip, every ravine, and every cliff. To His surprise there was a pool of water on the rock he inhabited. It was icy cold but it was better to feel cold over the endless stone of the moon. Night looked at his reflection to see staring back at him; his pale pink eyes, a scar on his forehead that disrupted the flow of his forest dew colored fur. Shaking his head, he turned to see the makeshift shelter in the ground next to the water source, though it wasn’t much; it was what he called home. Night spent the better half of his time thinking about why he would be on the moon.

Why was he sent here, was there a purpose? What did he do wrong? These were all of the thoughts he had when he wasn’t angry. Angry that he was ripped from his home, angry that he was alone, and angry that he was missing out on a life. He felt abandoned and cast out from the life he knew. Night didn’t truly feel the passage of time and the only update he got was in the form of watching the sun peak out on the horizon signifying a new day. He counted the days, the years, the decades, what turned into centuries. Night was losing his mind slowly, but surely and started to wonder what the point of continuing on was. That was until his routine was interrupted one day as he sat facing the planet he once called home. A loud thud behind him broke his concentration on his thoughts. This was the first time anything had happened here in YEARS and frankly Night was thankful. Getting up, he turned around and walked towards the sound and stopped when the dust settled around it. A dark coated, Alicorn? This couldn’t be there were only two alicorns that Night could remember but then again. He remembered his time here and a lightbulb went off in his head.

“Are you here to bring me home? After Centuries…Am I redeemed?” Night called out with all the hope he could muster. This prompted a turn of the head towards him, with the icy blue eyes with slits for pupils bore into his very being. It was unsettling but yet, Night felt a familiarity within.

“How dare thee speak to us without kneeling first,” The feminine voice said in a loud voice that was deeply ingrained in Night’s head. The royal Canterlot voice, used to project to the soldiers, and to large crowds.

“Well considering, I have been here for over a Century. Sorry for not kowtowing” Night shot back, much to the alicorn's disdain.

“How dare thee speak that way to a ruler of Equestria, Damn thee, and damn thy sister who banished us!” The alicorn said angrily, still blowing out his eardrums.

Sighing Night relented, “Yea my bad, I’m just…bitter after so long here.” Noticing the mare walking towards him he sat down again. “So are you here to take me back home or?” This made the mare stop, and look away from him.

“We are… banished here.” The mare said sadly, the malice from her voice upon landing fading.

“We battled our sister for control, but lost. Celestia must be rejoicing at her win as we speak.” Night noticed a tear rolling down the mare's jawline. He knew after listening to her speak that he was stuck here, on the moon. Though this time he wouldn’t have to be alone and that made him feel something, he wasn’t sure what but it was better than he felt when he woke up.

“Well, we can talk about the details later if you want to, I’m Night and I have been here since the end of the Unification war.” He said getting back to his hooves and walking over to the mare.

“We are, Nightmare moon, ruler of the night” She said proudly wiping away her tears.

“I thought Princess Luna was the ruler of the night?” Night asked raising an eyebrow

Scowling at him responded, “We are one in the same, thou will know the difference.” Deciding not to press the issue, Night just nodded.

“Alright then Nightmare Moon, I have a small encampment over that way” Night motioned behind him, “It’s not much in the face of royalty, but it’s what I call home here”

“As if we need permission to be anywhere on our moon” Nightmare Moon said bitterly at him. Sighing Night turned to walk back to his ‘home’

“Alright fair point, sorry to bother you,” Night trudged back, Nightmare moon watching him walk away. She was confused as to why a Pegasus would be on the moon. She was sure this was a banishment, a punishment, and worse yet a prison sentence. So why would someone else be here unless they were like her.

“Hmph, We will not be caged, we will make the night last forever, we will have our vengeance and respect we deserve” Nightmare Moon muttered to herself before walking off to the dark side of the moon. She paid him no mind when she saw him walking around the moon, and outright ignored him when he would greet her. Though slowly she began to return his greetings, and eventually it became a habit. This bothered her as why would somepony else be on the moon, she was going to unveil his true intentions, surely he was sent by Celestia to monitor her.

Nightmare moon studied Night, surely if he was here he was somepony of evil intentions for Equestria. Though the more she observed him the more she was curious about him and how he ended up here. She noticed when he woke, he would bathe in the water outside where he stayed, then pray, then stare at Equestria. The longing expression on his face resonated with her, she knew that look all too well. One of wishing for things to be different, and wanting to be accepted. Years went by in the blink of an eye, and his routine didn’t change, he got up to bathe, prayed, and stared and repeated. Finally she had enough of just observing him and decided to speak with him.

“Why doth thou do the same thing every new day?” Nightmare moon said to Night breaking his reverie.

“It keeps me sane” he said dryly chuckling, ‘I have been here for the better of a millennia, I think anyway I feel like a few years passed and I missed them.” Not breaking his eye contact with the planet in front of him.

“Why was thou imprisoned here on the moon? What did thou do?” Nightmare Moon asked, getting to the point of her visit.

“If I knew, I would tell you, I was a platoon leader fighting for unification in Equestria, When the end of the war came, I closed my eyes and breathed deeply happy to be done fighting” Night paused holding back the tears that came with the memories of home.

“Was that really all that has happened to thou?” Nightmare Moon Inquisitively asked. It didn’t make sense to her that a simple platoon leader fighting for the crown would be sent to the moon..

“When my eyes opened, well I ended up here, alone…abandoned and discarded” Night finished hollowly. Nightmare Moon could all but relate to the feeling of being abandoned and alone. She felt that way much of her time when she was ruling Equestria with her sister, as Luna. She hated that most ponies were scared of the night, hated that no one respected her and her work. The final straw was when her own sister would no longer defend her from the accusations that she was not fit to be a ruler.

“I…We can somewhat understand thee, abandonment and loneliness are familiar to us” Nightmare moon said.

“Oh well, maybe I’ll serve my sentence here, after finding out this is a prison and all…” Night’s gaze not once leaving the planet that he longed to go back to.

“If, no When we leave our banishment, if thou dost not leave with or before us,” Nightmare Moon began before she was cut off.

“I appreciate the sentiment, but how?” Night said finally turning to face Nightmare Moon, “Something I have thought about since being here, was that maybe I am suffering for those I had to kill in the name of peace” he said, sighing.

Nightmare moon was puzzled at his attitude, she figured he would be more angry, more spiteful, and unstable. “How hath thee come to that conclusion?” She asked.

“I am not innocent by any means is what I have come to feel, so instead of cursing and spiting whoever put me here, I simply pray for the prosperity of my former comrades, the crown, and all who find themselves astray.” Night said with some hint of emotion.

“We umm, we see” was all Nightmare Moon could manage.

“I used to be angry, but now well,” Night turned back to face Equestria, “Now I simply wish to live a simple life, maybe farm, nothin fancy” he smiled and closed his eyes for a moment.

Nightmare Moon softened hearing this, “Tell me off your past I am curious and maybe I can help” Her slits for pupils slowly returned back to normal, and her fangs retracting. Now Nightmare Moon simply looked like Luna, albeit with a darker coat.

“Alright, I’ll recall what I can, it has been quite a while so bare with me” Night said, patting the ground next to him. Nightmare Moon sat next to him and Night recalled what he could of his past.

Night and Nightmare moon, no she was Luna now. This was a surprise for Night, when he woke up one day to see and hear her tell him to call her Luna now. Over the years that they were on the moon, Luna’s magic slowly came back to her, which allowed her to help Night build a better dwelling for himself and her. One that was above ground, and around the pool of water he was previously next to. Though Night’s routine didn’t really change much, besides the fact that Luna would come and join him each day. She wouldn’t pray with him, but she would join him in the water, and sit in silence and enjoy each other's company. Luna was a little awkward at first, having over the years slowly reverted back to her regular self. She was as Night could remember her before and during his time in the war. He wanted to ask what she was banished for, and why she looked so different but he figured he should wait a little while longer. As time dragged on Night was more distracted with the what ifs and how's of Luna’s change. After who knows how long while the two were sitting looking through the expanse of space Night turned to Luna.

“So if you do not mind me asking, What led to you ending up here?” Night asked gingerly.

Sighing Luna didn’t look at him, “I figured thou would ask eventually,” Shifting uncomfortably she took a moment to respond.

“Take your time, we have plenty of it,” Night said, smiling at her.

Luna simply giggled at his remark, it was the first time Night had heard mare do anything of the sort. It was adorable and he wished to hear more of it, he wanted to hear more of her and yet he felt he didn’t really have the right to.

“We tried to make thy night eternal, so that ponies would no longer cower in fear of the night, we tried to gain respect through means that do not command respect. We have had plenty of time to think of thy folly.” Said Luna dejectedly. Luna didn’t keep track of the days like Night did but she knew they had been there sometime and with said time she had all of it to think about where she went wrong.

“Go on, I'm listening,” Night said, encouraging her to continue. He was curious, he wanted to comfort her. Maybe it was a savior complex, no that wasn’t it. No-one was there for him when he anguished over the centuries alone here, Luna should not have to do the same.

“We became twisted by our own loathing, hatred, and jealousy of thy own sister. The ponies rejoiced in the day and denounced the night and its comfort.” Luna said bitterly. She was holding back tears at this point thinking about the incident.

“We simply wanted to be respected and loved by the ponies we ruled over, like Celestia.” A tear ran down Luna’s cheek as she explained what happened.

All Night could do was listen for now, something he wished someone would have done for him. He offered no solutions to the endless questions Luna posed as to why things ended the way they did. One moment she was bitter and cursing those that did not respect her, the next she was apologetic and remorseful. Night wasn’t sure how long they had been talking but by the end of the conversation Night was holding the Princess of the moon in his arms and wings. She sobbed into his shoulders as he gently stroked her mane. This would carry on until Luna would stop crying. She rested her head on his shoulder and laid in his embrace, enjoying the warmth that radiated off him. It felt calming and soft, yet strong and protective and she liked that. She felt guilty for assuming he was an evil pony who deserved his time on the moon.

“Luna, I know I don’t really have the right to say this,” Night paused for a moment, tightening his hug on Luna, “But every pony deserves basic respect, I may not agree with your actions but you are a good pony. And one that deserves more than any pony to feel accepted.” Night finished. These were words he wished he could have told his comrades, these are words he wished someone could have told him, but those weren’t possible. What was possible was making sure the pony in front of him knew that she could change. Luna said nothing nor did she move, it wasn’t that she couldn’t. It was that in all her time ruling with her sister she hadn’t heard comforting words like these since she was a filly. She felt Night understood her, and she was overcome with emotion once again and began to sob.

Night counted 9 centuries since Luna had come to the moon, and they were closing in on a millennia together on the moon. Night was closing in on 2 but he decided not to count those years of his life. He wasn’t really living when Luna wasn’t with him and it took him a while to realize that. The years they spent not talking to each other and learning about each other and their views was time Night now saw as wasted. Knowing this he chose to not waste anymore time, he knew it was a big risk but he was willing. Around century 2 or 3 he asked Luna to be his friend. She accepted happily.

She laughed when he asked and said, "Thou have been thy friend for quite some time, we would think so anyway"

Then around century 5 or 6 or maybe even before that Night wanted more, he liked the way Luna laughed, the way she talked, and more importantly who she was. She warmed his heart that he had feared been lost to time. He was grateful in so many ways for her, he hated thinking he was happy she was sent here, but in a way he was happy. By century 7 well, he couldn’t bear to think of anypony he’d rather be with, though he doubted himself. He doubted these feelings were real, if all his time alone had done this. He wondered if anyone else showed up would he have felt the same way.

“Gah I can’t do this anymore” Night shouted, surprising Luna who was sitting next to him.

“Hast thou finally lost it?” Luna said to him sarcastically.

“Yes and No, I” Night stopped for a moment and collected himself, “What I can’t do is this” he motioned to himself and to Luna.

Tilting her head confused, “Hast thou grown tired of our presence?” Luna asked, clearly hurt by the notion.

Night quickly corrected her, “No I haven’t that's just it, I… I like you Luna” he said, looking deep into her teal eyes.

“Oh, thou scared us, we like thee too! Most agreeable company” said Luna.

“No I do not think you get what I mean,” Night said, sighing. He had to just go for it, he thought. He leaned over and kissed her on the cheek gently. Luna froze when this happened, processing what just happened.

“Did thou just-”Luna began but was quickly cut off.

“I did, Luna. I like you a lot more than just friends, It’s been centuries since we’ve known each other. We have our disagreements but that only made us closer and I would like more, So I ask you” Night closed his eyes tightly before finishing his sentence, “Please be my mare friend Luna Is what I am asking you.” Luna didn’t say anything, though Night couldn’t see it she was smiling at him. She felt overjoyed, and overwhelmed, and worried all in the same emotion she couldn’t describe.

“What dost thou like about us?” Luna asked after a brief silence.

“Everything, your demeanor, your voice, your laugh, the way you think, and how far you’ve come over the years.” Night said no longer speaking with his head but what was in his heart. The heart he had thought long since stone cold was beating again and frantically so at the very moment.

“And when did thou feel differently about us?” Asked Luna inquisitively.

“I… I am not so sure about that, maybe a few centuries ago, but this time thing is confusing after the first few centuries. I do know that I do like you a lot though, even if you don’t feel the same way I-” Before Night could finish, Luna had kissed him, making him stop talking and open his eyes. His face was rosy red underneath his green coat.

“Thou art adorable when thou are flustered, we accept thy feelings and return them, colt friend” giggling Luna lay her head on his shoulder.

“I uh, um I’ll stop talking now Luna” Night sputtered trying to get his head right. The feelings, doubts, and insecurities he had previously were melting away. He didn’t know if he and Luna would ever get off the moon but he didn’t care. As long as he had her, as long as she was by his side he would stay on the moon a millennia or more if he had to.

It had happened not too long ago, and Night was still reeling from the fact that he was alone again. He was accustomed to being with Luna albeit for such a short time, well if one could call a century a short period of time. The time flew by in the blink of an eye to him though, as they began to talk more and enjoy each others company. Luna had endless stories as she had lived a longer span than he and he was content listening to her talk. She would happily tell him of past battles, history he never knew, encounters with the other species on the planet. He would listen to her endlessly and he never got tired of hearing her voice not once. Now it was gone, and he didn’t know she had to leave him. She didn’t even seem to realize what was going on either. She was dissolving into light slowly from her hooves up, She smiled and assured him she would be back for him. That was another set of years behind him now, he stopped counting. Night just lay on the floor of the place he and Luna once called a home. They had almost spent a millennia together, before she vanished from his life.

“I hope she is doing ok, I miss her,” Night said to himself. He trusted Luna endlessly and yet the twinge of doubt in his head gave way to the thought that he’d been abandoned yet again. Shaking his head he left the dwelling and sat and looked at the place he once called home once more, as he did everyday. He never got tired of it much like how he never got tired of Luna.

“I am never getting home am I?” Night questioned the expanse of space. Yielding no reply he put his head down and let the tears flow from his eyes. Centuries worth of tears came forth, his hope of going home shattered, and the loss of his beloved was the final straw. Yet when he went to get up, a door of light opened and out emerged Luna.

“Did thou think I would leave my beloved alone, come I have much to show you my Night” Luna said lovingly. Without a word Night scrambled up and ran over to her. He followed her through the door to see green grass, and an endless expanse of ocean that he could only see from space. He saw a castle atop a cliff and a city around it, he knew he was finally home. The two that were imprisoned together were no longer alone, and were free to finally live.

Years Spent Looking for You, My Love

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The 100 years spent looking for a way to bring Night back from the moon.

Luna was summoned home in a flash of light and before she knew it she was back from the moon. She was on the outskirts of a Canterlot, she could tell by the large castle in the distance and all of the clear white stone used in a majority of the buildings. It was midday by what she could tell from the position of the sun. Though Luna was happy to feel its warmth on her fur. Although it was nothing like the pale moonlight she was used to. She found the sun bearable to be under, and she felt proud knowing she’d changed.

“Sister is that…You?” A warm voice called. Luna looked around her and saw nothing. Until she was eclipsed by a shadow from above.

“Celestia, it has been too long,” Luna said with a soft smile on her face. Celestia landed directly in front of Luna and looked her over.

“You’re not hurt anywhere are You? I am so sorry I did that to you, It was a mistake…” Celestia cried out as she hugged Luna. Her wings wrapped around the lunar princess as tears fell down her face.

“No sister we art fine, how did thou know where we were?” Luna asked, hesitating to return her sister's hug.

“When we used the magic to… cast you away, I had tracking magic to know when you came back. You came back 100 years early and I'm just glad you're back” Celestia said, releasing her sister and looking her in the eyes.

“Well, Thank you for coming to see us, but…” Luna looked around the hill she was on.

“But what sister? Is something wrong?” Celestia asked, tilting her head.

“Where hath thy beloved gone? Surely he would be with us?” Luna said, now walking around the hill.

“Sister, were you expecting another to come with me to see you? If so I apologi-” Celestia began her apology but was cut off by Luna.

“My Night, my beloved from my time on the moon.” Said Luna anxiously. “He was there before us, and although a Pegasus on the moon is strange, so was he” She giggled before continuing her search.

This caught Celestia off guard when she heard her sister say her ‘Beloved’. Luna had been missing from Equestria for almost a millennia. Unless her tracking magic was wrong and she was late to see her sister. No that wasn’t it Celestia thought, she said her beloved was from the moon.

“Sister surely you jest, I don’t believe I sent anyone else to the moon” Celestia said concerned. Luna hadn’t stopped looking around and was actively using her magic to scan the area for Night.

“Well at least that answers a few of my questions, but I will need you to help me get him here please, if you would” Luna said, now turning to face Celestia at the top of the hill.

“Lu-Lu please at least rest first before-” Celestia was cut off by Luna walking up to her.

“Sister we beg thee, we will rest much easier knowing our Night is safe, he hath suffered enough alone.” said Luna pleading. Luna didn’t want to leave him alone, not again. Not after everything he had told her about his time on the moon before her.

“Ok, I’ll try, but if-”Celestia was cut off again as Luna lunged to hug her sister.

“Huzzah, praise thee sister, we thank you so very much!” Luna exclaimed. Celestia was skeptical of her sister's demeanor towards this ‘Night’. She wanted to chalk this up to her sister coping with the loneliness. However Luna’s tone gave way to a glow Celestia couldn’t have imagined on her sister's face.

“Alright here I go” Celestia said, igniting her horn. As Celestia cast her magic, a loud ricocheting sound could be heard. The magic that was heading skyward towards the moon was now heading back towards the hill. Celestia quickly canceled her spell and looked at Luna bewildered at what she just saw.

“Uh sister, what art thou doing?” Asked Luna.

“Uh, I don't think the moon is accepting or responding to my magic anymore.” Celestia said, turning to Luna. Was it her or did Luna suddenly look a little taller?

“Hmm, perhaps we shall have to see what the castle archives hold. Let us go sister. I wish not to spend too much time away from him” Luna said, flapping her wings and taking off towards the castle. Celestia hesitated before following suit behind her sister. She would need to have her sister's head checked just in case.

“There's no way somepony else is up there, my poor Lu-Lu must have hit her head” Muttered Celestia. She had prepared for this moment for centuries. Celestia was ready to reinstate her sister, and give her the respect she deserved. She would not hurt her again, and no pony would take her sister from her.

Upon arriving at the castle there were many confused looks towards Luna. Most over the centuries had forgotten about the Lunar Princess. Others believed her to be a myth used to make Celestia seem less all powerful. Yet here a night sky blue alicorn walked through the castle.

“Sister, I had somepony prepare your room next to mine. Also I will meet with our advisors so that we can get you reinstated.” Said Celestia. She was going through all of the things that she wanted to happen so her Sister could once again rule at her side. Though if Celestia knew any better Luna seemed to not care much.

“Sister we shall be in the Library, please let us know when we need to resume our duties. We thank thee greatly” Luna said bowing. She then walked off to find the royal archives. If anywhere had a spell to help her bring Night home, it was there.

“Oh, Umm Yes. I will do that and welcome back sister.” Celestia said, sighing. She figured their relationship would take work but she did not expect Luna to be so aloof. Yes, she may have banished her 1 and only family member left to the moon. But it was so she didn’t have to kill her, if she could have done so in the first place. She would have Luna’s head checked first and foremost. If this Night character was real he would need to be investigated.

“Alright I’ll go see the doctor, then the advisors, then I’ll invite my Lu-Lu for dinner” Celestia mumbled to herself. She was going to mend her relationship with her sister no matter what. She was also going to make sure she got whatever she needed. If that included helping Luna find her imaginary friend on the moon, then so be it.

With Luna reinstated as the Princess of the Moon, she was back to where she was 900 years ago. Former power included but this time she did not seek to pony please those around her. Before her banishment all of the fuss surrounding her would have irritated her to no end. Though after her time on the moon she wasn’t really bothered by it. She didn’t have time to be bothered by it really. She had a promise to keep to her one and only and she was going to keep it. Over the past 50 years or so Luna had been in and out of every library in Canterlot.

Luna would perform her duties at night. During the day Luna would cut back on her sleep to read what she had on banishment magic. This worried Celestia as her sister's obsession with going back to the moon almost scared her. Celestia had just gotten her sister back and she was already planning to go back to the moon. The doctors that checked on Luna, well the ones Luna didn’t fling out of her room. Would say that she was perfectly healthy, and showed no signs of head trauma. Though when they heard her story of the Pegasus on the moon, they reconsidered.

“Luna, it is almost time for your shift~” Celestia said, yawning. She was standing outside Luna’s room trying to get her sister's attention. When no reply came Celestia knocked again and waited. At the 5 minute mark Celestia ignited her horn and slowly opened her sister's door.

“Luna are you o-” Celestia paused. She saw Luna’s room and it looked like a tornado came through it. There were books, loose pages, and inkwells all over the room. At the edge of it was Luna seated at her desk fixated on a piece of paper. Celestia didn’t bother her sister immediately, and opted to see what her sister was doing in this mess.

Reading some of the covers of the books Celestia saw; Magic: Banishment and its rules, Teleportation Magic: Long Distances, and The Mare in the Moon, A book for fillies and colts. Celestia understood the first 2 but, why the third one? Celestia had become increasingly worried as she had not found anything on this Night, Pegasus. She was worried her sister was losing her mind slowly over a pony that didn't exist.

Luna, hearing the shuffling in her room, finally looked up from her writing. “Oh, Hello Sister, is it time we trade shifts?” Luna asked, rubbing her eyes.

“Yes it is, I am sorry for the intrusion. You were not responding so I was worried.” Celestia said, placing one of the books on Luna’s desk.

“We forgive thee sister, we apologize for worrying you. We feel we are close to a magic to bring our beloved home” Said Luna stretching her wings.

Celestia winced hearing Luna say ‘her Beloved’. She was hoping her sister would grow out of her fantasy of her imaginary friend on the moon. Yet this delusion stood the test of time so far. Celestia however was anything if not patient and could wait until Luna gave up on this ‘Beloved’ of hers.

“That is good to hear sister. Now I am turning in for the evening. I love you” Celestia said. She gently hugged Luna and left her room.

“We love you too sister. We shall raise the moon in a moment” Luna said. Using her magic she tidied up the mess of loose papers. She was happy to have finally made a breakthrough. She found the spell her sister used to banish her, and began to analyze it so that it was no longer a conditional spell. Luna found out from her sister that one could only return from banishment if the conditions for return were met. However, what if there were no conditions for return and one was left stranded? A question Luna had been working on for years to little results.

“We shall get thee home, no matter what” Luna mumbled. Walking out to her balcony, Luna raised the moon. She stared at it longingly wishing her mate, her Night was beside her.

Tonight was the night, it was the day that after a century Luna had been looking forward to. She had finally found a way to get herself to the moon and back and bring along her mate. Luna was ecstatic to see Night again. She promised she would be back for him and tonight was the night she made good on that.

“Sister, is everything ok in there? You haven’t been out much here recently and I am growing worried” Celestia called from outside Luna’s room.

“Yes sister, we are fine, just a little tired. We thank you for worrying.” said Luna. Luna was preparing for when her sister went to sleep. Luna was tired of having to see doctors who thought she was imagining Night. They all said the same thing,

“He doesn’t exist. You made him up to cope with the loneliness.” Those words made her sick and they made her angry. No-pony believed her and she was ok with that. She was used to it and knew the feeling all too well. Luna didn’t care though, she knew Night would understand her even when no-pony else would.

“Ok well, I am done for today. Tell me if you need anything, "said Celestia.

“Goodnight sister, may thou dreams be blessed” Luna called out as her preparations were finished. She waited for her sister to walk away before she walked out onto the balcony of her room. Luna raised the moon and watched as the sun fell below the horizon in response. It was time for Luna to get going. Luna had completed all of her duties for the evening so that she could be free and unbothered.

“My Love, I am coming for you,” Luna said proudly. She ignited her horn and cast her magic to lift up everything she was going to need. Luna then flew off of her balcony and back to the hill she returned on. She landed on the hill, and gently set down the materials for the spell. She arranged the items as necessary; a ruby to her left, sunstone on her right, and a phoenix feather. Luna was grateful for Celestia’s pet and friend, Philomena who understood her need for a feather.

“Finally, it is time,” Said Luna, looking at the moon. Luna ignited her horn levitating what she had with her. She spoke the spell she made, and was blinded by a white light. As she emerged from the white light she saw the familiar grey rocky landscape. Within the landscape she saw the forest dew colored Pegasus. Luna saw her one and only, the only pony who really saw her, the one who listened to her. She saw the tears on his face and her heart sank to her stomach. Yet she smiled when she noticed he was looking at her.

“Did thou think I would leave my beloved alone, come I have much to show you my Night'' Luna said beckoning him to her. They entered the door of light wings wrapped around each other, ready to head back home.

The Lunar Princess and the dew colored Pegasus emerged from the door of light early in the morning. Luna had gotten back early enough to lower the moon so that Celestia’s Sun could be risen fully. The two shared their first sunrise together as a couple. Night felt another tear fall down his cheek as he looked upon the sun in the sky. How long had it been since he had seen a sunrise?

Wiping away his tears, Luna kissed Night’s cheek, “Shall we go to the city now my Love?” Luna asked gingerly. Without a word he nodded and the two took flight towards the city gates.

The Moons (K)Night returns

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“My love you have to try this, mhmph” Luna said before biting into a vegetable kabob.

“My appetite eludes me right now, perhaps another time dear. Please don't try to talk with your mouth full” Night replied. He chuckled as Luna scarfed down the kabob of grilled tomatoes, bell peppers, potatoes, and shallots.

The two of them were walking through the city of Canterlot together. Night was amazed at everything that was going on around him, and how vastly different everything was. From the neatly cobbled streets to the change in architecture, Night was enraptured. The kabob did smell delicious to him but he could wait to eat. Luna was giving him a tour of the city and he wanted to miss nothing.

“This way!” Luna happily said, walking in front of him. “We shall show every pony the last century was not wasted!”

“Lu-Lu?” Night said freezing in place. “Did you say a century?”

Luna stopped walking and turned around, “It did, and not a day went by that I was not looking for a way to bring you home to me” She stated proudly. Night’s heart skipped a beat as he looked into Luna’s teal eyes. He could feel the weight behind her words, and it meant everything to him.

“Well, no complaints from me, I am right behind you. Or rather beside you” said Night, walking to be beside Luna. This made Luna smile as she bumped him, causing both parties to giggle.

“We should hope not, thou haven’t even seen the castle” Luna said happily. The two of them happily walked through the streets of Canterlot. The on looking citizens of the city were confused as to who the Pegasus was. Especially since said Pegasus was casually chatting with the rarely seen Princess of the Night.

“Lu, where are we going by the way?” Night asked.

Luna only smiled before replying, “To the castle, you are to meet our sister.” Happily humming the two of them continued on their way. Night was a little nervous, meeting his mare friend's sister was nice. However when said sister is one of the most powerful beings on the planet, Night felt he was normal for worrying.

“We are most excited to have you two meet!” Luna said. As the pair made it to the castle the gates opened. Guards saluted and maids bowed. It was quite the sight for Night, more because he hadn’t seen anypony other than Luna in almost 2 centuries. Entering the castle neither Night or Luna said anything as they walked to the throne room door. As they approached, Night stopped at the door.

“Luna, I am a little ner-” Night began to say. Luna moved to kiss him briefly, stopping him from speaking further.

Releasing the kiss Luna said,“ Worry not my love, you are with me. Dost thou trust us ?” Night was flustered for a moment and turned a rosy red. He opened and closed his mouth a few times but couldn’t find words. Ultimately Night settled on nodding in agreement to Luna’s question. Taking this as a satisfactory answer Luna smirked at him and opened the chamber door with her magic.

“After you then,” Luna said, motioning him forward. Not one to disagree with her he walked through the door. Luna followed behind Night. Together they walked up the maroon carpet towards Celestia.

Night and Luna approached the throne as Celestia just finished dealing with a pair of unicorns. Luna stepped in front of Night and cleared her throat, catching Celestia's attention.

“Ah! Sister, have you come to join me for day court finally!?” Celestia asked. Excitement filled her voice at the prospect of her sister joining her for court. She had been waiting a century for her sister to finally give up on going back to the moon.

“Not quite sister, we have a guest to introduce you too” Luna said. If Luna could have smiled any wider she would have needed magic to fix her face.

“Oh, and who would have my sister smiling like a school filly?” Celestia quipped. Celestia found it odd that Luna was up so early in the morning. Celestia leaned on the throne to see behind Luna only for her eyes to widen.

“My dearest sister, meet thy Beloved Night. We hath brought him home finally.” Luna proudly stated. She moved out of the way so that Celestia could see him better. Night shifted uncomfortably under Celestia’s gaze.

“Your Majesty, I-It is an honor. Plat-.” Night stopped himself. A headache akin to an icepick in the arctic hit him. He recalled his platoon number, and a shadowed face. Wincing, Night tried his introduction again.

“Former Platoon commander of the 73rd your highness. I am honored and proud to see unification is no longer a goal. But a reality.” Night said bowing. His headache subsiding slightly. Celestia’s bewildered gaze left Night, and shifted to Luna. Luna, seeing her sister looking at her puffed out her chest and smiled.

“Ah, yes welcome back, Night was it? Luna has said so much about you.” Celestia said. She was skeptical of this, Pegasus in front of her. He was an ordinary, dew colored stallion incapable of casting magic. So how had he have managed to convince Luna he was the stallion from the moon? Surely this is one of Luna’s famous pranks she was playing on her or she was being lied too.

“We hath brought our beloved to see you. We hope thou can get along with our mate?” Said Luna. She was standing next to Night, who was still kneeling on the floor in front of Celestia.

“Right…Anyway Luna” Celestia began ignoring the stallion. “Where were you this morning? I came to bring you breakfast but you were gone.” Celestia asked curiously.

“We told you Tia! We were on the moon bringing our dearest home. Doth thou not believe me?” Luna said. She worked so hard to bring Night home, to have her sister meet him. Luna was ready to have a family with her sister a part of it. Yet, why did Luna feel her sister did not believe her again?

“Luna, this has gone far enough don’t you think?" Celestia said with a sigh.

“Your majesty, If I may be so bold. I-” Night was cut off by Celestia.

“No you may not be 'bold'. I do not know what tricks you are playing with my sister. But you would do well to cease them now!” Celestia said firmly. Her once aloof gaze, now stone cold staring down at Night.

“Sister, how dare thou speak to him that way. Hath thou not listened to us? Understood he hath been through enough!” Luna shouted. She was hurt, no more than that. Luna felt gutted, her own sister could not acknowledge the work she had done to bring Night home.

“Luna, I don't know why or what this stallion has done to convince you. Night doesn’t exist, and he is taking advantage of you can’t you see that? He is preying on your kindness, come to your senses sister you are smarter than this” Celestia pleaded. This did nothing to quell the anger growing in Luna. If not for Night standing up and placing a wing on Luna she would have erupted.

“Your right Night isn’t real” he said looking at the Princess of the Sun.

“See, I told you Luna, No-” It was Celestia’s turn to be cut off by Night.

“I don’t have a name, I was sent to the moon 2 Millennia ago after the final battle. The one just outside the previous castle, this one was not around in my time. We sang the children of the Sun's anthem as we marched home. But I never saw home, and with time I have forgotten my true name. Even my cutie mark was lost to time. So forgive me if I assume the name Night.” he said. Night hadn’t broken Celestia’s gaze, save for blinking.

“My love you don’t have to say more” Luna said. Looking at Night with tears in the corners of her eyes.

“But I am as real as my love for MY LUNA” Night said firmly. This declaration shocked Celestia and made her tilt her head.

Celestia scoffed at Night and asked,“Your Luna?”

Nodding and wiping the tears from Luna’s eyes with his wings. “Your majesty, I do not stutter, my training officer forbade that” Night said flatly.

“My Love, let us leave for now. My sister no longer seems to be in a welcoming mood” Luna said coldly. Celestia did not give in and simply watched as the two of them walked out of the throne room. Once the door was slammed shut, Celestia slumped in the throne and heaved a sigh.

“Guards!” Celestia called. The clanking of armor quickly followed. “Cancel the rest of day court and schedule them for tomorrow. I wish to be alone” As she said this Celestia was met with salutes. The guards quickly vacated the throne room and soon all that was left in the room was Celestia.

“There is no way my sister is being tricked. I will get to the bottom of this even if she is upset with me.” Celestia mumbled. She got up from the throne and walked to exit before something caught her eye. There was a dusty spot on the carpet that hadn’t been there before. Celestia ignited her horn and went to inspect the spot.

“Oh no.” She said, bringing it closer to her nose and sniffing. “I’ve done it again,” Celestia winced, recalling her harsh words. She realized the dust had the same smell as Luna when she returned from the moon. Night was real, he was as real as she was. Yet she told him quite literally to his face, that he didn’t even exist. Celestia felt awful at the display she had just put on for somepony her sister held in such high regard. Worse, somepony her sister has given her heart to. Celestia thought back 10 minutes to their conversation.

The words 73rd platoon had rung in her head. If Celestia remembered correctly that was the unit at the front of every single fight. When Celestia remembered every fight, the 73rd was also either next or in front of her. If he was a part of that group of stallions then Celestia should have been more respectful, and appreciative of him. She would have to find a way to apologize sincerely to him, no… to both of them.

As Luna and Night walked through the halls together, Luna thought about her conversation with her sister. She felt as though nothing had changed, and Celestia didn’t believe her. Luna felt like Celestia still didn’t see her as an equal.

“I know that look my love, please do not worry too much.” Night said to her. Night could read his lover like a book after all of the time they spent together. He could see their previous interaction with Celestia was bothering her.

“We know, we should not worry much. It is just very frustrating and-” Luna yawned. She was tired but she could not sleep yet she still had one more thing left to do.

“Lu, if you are tired should you turn in for the…day?” Asked Night.

Luna giggled as they walked to her room, “Hmm not quite yet” She opened her door and then quickly shut it.

“Wrong room? I would not expect you to get mixed up in your own home?” Said Night cheekily.

“Uh give us a moment!” Luna slipped into her room. It was still an absolute mess from all the research she was doing. She ignited her horn, and scrambled to tidy up all of the paper, books, and quills littering the room. Night heard bumping and the slamming of drawers which made him chuckle lightly .Before Luna opened the door she lit the cherry scented candles on her desk.

Moving to lay on the bed she opened the door for Night, “Ok now thou may come in” She called to him.

“So this is how you would have decorated on the moon” Night chuckled. He recalled Luna fussing over her section of their moonrock ‘house’ and how she couldn’t decorate well enough or read anything new.

“Yes it is, now come join us. We are under the impression thou have not slept in a bed for quite some time” Said Luna. She seemed to have shaken off the previous encounter with Celestia. This made Night feel better knowing she was calming down.

“Well that is one way to put it but, could I maybe shower first? we just returned from the moon at dawn” Night said. Luna ignited her horn again and opened the bathroom door.

“The hot water on the right, cold on the left” Luna called to Night as he went to wash up. After about 3 minutes Night emerged from the bathroom. He smelled of Luna’s coconut body soap and she loved it. Not that she minded the moon smell, but this was much better.

“Ahh Hot water after millennia. I could almost die happy” Night mused.

“Well, you still have one more thing left to do my Love” Luna purred at him.

Cocking an eyebrow, Night looked at Luna, “And that is?” He asked. Luna giggled and used her magic to levitate him onto the bed next to her.

Smirking at him, she leaned into his ear, “M-E,” She whispered in his ear. That was all Night needed to hear.

Celestia had gone to Luna's room to begin her apology to her and Night. She hadn’t figured it out completely yet but she knew it was better to start sooner than later.

“Luna I am sorry could we tal-” Celestia began to say but stopped. She put her ear to the door and blushed. She could maybe come back later, now was definitely NOT the time for an apology.

Apologies, questions, and soundproofing. Oh my!

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As the sun began to set, Luna sat up in her bed. Her wings flared out and she yawned and stretched. Feeling rustling next to her, she opened her eyes and looked down. To her left was her beloved Night, sleeping like a baby. She smiled recalling the afternoons activities when they returned to her chambers. She was beyond happy, and glad she listened to him when he asked to wait until they both got back to Equestria.

“My one and only, you must be so tired” Luna mused happily. She stroked his mane eliciting a grunt of approval from Night. He nuzzled into Luna making her heart skip, and eyes soften. Luna no longer wanted to go and do her nightly duties. Alas she was the Princess of the Night and what not. Well she was sure she was the Princess of Night.

“Mhm babe, just…” Night stretched his wings. Then he folded them again before scooching as close as he could to Luna. “5 more minutes” he finished saying.

“My Love, you will stay here and rest. I have my duties to attend to and I will return.” Luna said. She used her magic to levitate a pillow in between her and Night. Night wrapped his wings around the pillow and nuzzled in. Luna sighed and went to the bathroom. She took a quick shower, and freshened up before heading out. She took one last peak at Night curled up in her bed and made her way down the hallway.

As Luna made her way into the hallway she noticed a couple things. One, was her sister's door was coated in magic. So were the staircase entrances and windows .The second was that the staff moving around the castle were avoiding eye contact with her. Luna found the first odd but the second even more so. She felt she was kind enough for them to not shy away from her. Luna saw her sister approaching her door and walked up to her.

“Excuse us, why is every pony avoiding us this evening?” Luna asked. Celestia winced and looked at her sister's bedroom door.

“Um Luna you did not… how do I say this?,” Celestia trailed off looking away from Luna.

“We did not, what sister? Forgive me if I am a little short with you” Luna snapped. Celestia sighing at this, looked her sister in the eyes.

“We heard your rather… Vigorous activities. I put up spells in the hallway but, many heard already.” Celestia finished looking back at Luna.

“Ah, we see. ” Luna said. She would have to thank her sister later but that would come after she saw reason. When her Night got a sincere apology she would thank Celestia properly. Luna strolled off into the castle relieving Celestia of her shift. Luna ignited her horn and raised the moon as she walked and did her nightly rounds.

Night felt around the bed for his lover. When he felt nothing but pillows and blankets he slowly propped himself up. Rubbing his eyes he slowly scanned the room. There was no trace of Luna save for her scent on the pillows. Sighing Night got up and walked over to the balcony.

“Never thought I would get a reverse view,” Night mused to himself. For 2 millennia Night was looking down at the planet and not it was the inverse. He found the whole situation as amusing as it was confusing. Getting enough of the view, Night went to the bathroom and took a shower. Cleaning his mane, tail, and behind his ears. Enjoying the hot water flowing over his head.

After drying himself off he went to replace the sheets on the bed. Pulling them off the bed, Night looked around the room and saw no source of extra sheets. Face hoofing he remembered he was in a castle, with maids and butlers who do this for them.

Opening the door, Night flagged down a maid. “Um Hi, Where would I go about finding new sheets for Lu-. Princess Luna?” Night asked.

“Ah I’ll bring some right away!” She exclaimed. Before the maid could scurry off, Night stopped her.

“I will do it, I will make sure it is known I am doing this of my own accord” Night smiled. His voice was low and husky yet soft making the maid relax a bit. Grabbing the old sheets from behind the door, Night flung the dirty sheets across his back. The Pegasus maid bowed and motioned him to follow.

“As you wish Sir Night” The maid said turning.

“Also what would be your name?” Asked Night. He would have taken a guess at this had it not been for the maid outfit.

“Aqua is my name, Sir” She said, taking a left down the hallway. Night followed the beige Pegasus down the hallway and into the laundry room. Night saw the dirty pile and slid the sheets off his back and stood by the door. Aqua flew over to the section where the dark sheets were being held. She pulled out the same navy, grey, and black sheets Night saw on Luna’s bed. Flying back down, Aqua put the sheets into a small saddle bag.

“Here you are Sir, and um… Thank you for helping us.” Aqua said bowing to him.

“Ah you are most certainly welcome. Thank you for the bag Ms. Aqua, I will return it” Night said. Securing the bag on his back, he made his way to the door. He walked into the hallway and back towards his lover's chambers. Slipping inside he began to fix the bed, humming a tune he heard Luna humming earlier.

Luna made her way back to her chamber smiling brightly. Despite being as tired as she was, knowing her beloved was with her made her work easier. Knowing he was home made her feel her work was worthwhile now. Opening the door Luna was met with an interesting sight. Night was sitting on her balcony reading as the sun came up. Luna silently trotted up behind him to see what he was reading. She recognized the creased page, Night was reading Post Unification: A Historical Retelling.

“Wow I missed a lot, Summer Sun celebration, Nightmare night, Hearts and hooves day?” Night said to himself. As he flipped through the pages he didn’t even notice Luna approaching him

Luna gently blew into his ear, “My Love I have returned” She said. This caused Night to jump and gasp. Luna giggled at his reaction as it went from frightened to amused.

“This won’t be a recurring thing will it? You have always been light on your hooves. Even by moon standards” Night said sarcastically.

“Hmm for a former soldier, you seem out of practice” Luna shot back. The two of them laughed and Luna nuzzled into his neck. She took a seat next to him and relaxed into him.

“Well who would feel threatened when you are this cute?” Said Night resting his head atop Luna’s. Night closed the book and enjoyed his lover's company. Just like on the moon, they sat and enjoyed the dawning of a new day. Unlike previous times, this one was from home.

“My love I am-” Luna yawned loudly. She was exhausted because there was more work than she initially thought she had to.

“It's quite alright, I am not tired yet. I plan to roam for a while today before I retire.” Night said. He and Luna got up and he walked her to the bed.

“Hmm, are you sure about that my love?” Luna said. She was batting her eyelashes which made Night laugh.

“Yes, I plan to go and get some of the kabobs you had the other day. Want a few?” Night asked. Luna thought for a moment while getting into her bed..

“I’ll take a few yes. Here take this” Luna levitated a bag of bits over to Night. “I cannot have my love going out with no money” She quipped.

“You are too kind to me, pinch me I must be dreaming” Night said sarcastically.

“Even if you were to be dreaming I, The dream walker, would still find you” Luna winked.

“Ok Miss dream walker, I’m off.” Night said. He kissed Luna and grabbed the bits from the desk. He gave Luna one last wave and set off down the hallway to the staircase.

Night walked down the spiral staircase and into the foyer of the Castle. As he walked he heard somepony clear their throat next to him. It was Celestia walking adjacent to him. Before she could say anything, Night spoke.

“Your majesty, beautiful sunrise this morning. Luna and I enjoyed it, "said Night. He harbored no ill will towards Celestia. Yes, he was a little hurt that the one he fought and served under told him he did not exist. However he could feel that she cared deeply for Luna and simply wanted to protect her.

“Ah yes, Thank you Night” Celestia said. She was embarrassed and for the first time in millennia she was speechless. Night had every reason to verbally assault her, for everything she said. Not just to him, but to Luna as well. Yet he did not, and in place of spite he complimented the sunrise; Her sunrise.

“You are most welcome, Now if that is all I-” Celestia cut Night off.

“I wish to apologize to you Night. I acted callously and spitefully and that was wrong of me. I hope you can forgive me” Celestia said, bowing to Night.

“I accept.” Said Night smiling. He hadn’t intended to hold a grudge against Celestia anyway. Regardless of how much she could have disliked him. It would do no good to his relationship with Luna.

“Can I ask for some of your time as well? I know it is presumptuous of me, but I ask all the same” Celestia asked.
“You may lead the way, your Majesty,” Night said. Celestia felt at ease now knowing that she got her apology out. Now she wanted to ask him some questions about himself. She was curious and maybe, just maybe she could find out why he was sent to the moon.

Celestia led night to her office on the first floor. She took a seat behind her desk and Night across from her. The two sat in an awkward silence for a few minutes before Celestia spoke up.

“So could I ask, do you remember what your cutie mark was?” She asked.

“No, I do not your majesty. Nor my name, or how I got to the moon. I closed my eyes for a moment. Next I was well on the moon.” Night admitted.

“Please Celestia is fine.” Celestia said before continuing. “You haven’t aged since that day either? That is peculiar in itself… Was there anything else off about being on the moon?” she asked.

“After a few days I found I no longer felt hunger nor thirst really. There was a pool on the moon though. It was about 4 feet deep and rigidly cold.” Night continued to describe how he spent his time on the moon to Celestia. How he got a piece of his memories back in the audience hall. He recalled everything he could until he met Luna.

“So you were on the moon before I banished Nightmare Moon?!” Celestia exclaimed.

“Yes, if that is what happened. I would say based on when I went missing, until now it would be around 2 millennia. Not sure how but I also stopped aging on the moon.” Night said looking out the window.

“Interesting, Did seeing the Nightmare Moon put you off or scare you?” Celestia inquired

“Hmm,” Night thought for a minute. “Scared … yes slightly but I did not feel malice towards me. I felt compelled to listen to her. And frankly I was in no position to judge or question anything.. I myself am a soldier, who is anything but innocent. Lives on my hooves in the name of peace, so I thought at the very least I would not judge her.”

Celestia nodded at his logic and used her magic to write down everything she thought was important. She then closed her notebook and put down her quill. Sighing she closed her eyes for a moment. Then opening them after a few seconds she looked back at Night.

“Ok that's enough of that, I have a couple other questions for you. Thank you again for coming with me” Celestia said. She smiled at him and thankfully he returned her smile.

“Of course your-” Night paused. “Celestia, if there is anything else you want to ask please do” he said.

Celestia shifted in her chair, “What is it about Luna that you like so much?” She asked.

“Well everything, but if I had to be specific…” Night said. Taking a moment to collect his thoughts. He wanted to say what he liked no, loved about Luna as best he could.

“Take your time.” Celestia said giggling. Night took a minute or so to get his mind right before answering Celestia.

“I love her caring personality, her desire to learn, and her persistence. Her laugh lit up the darkest of corners on the moon.” Night said. Celestia nodded in agreement at this.

“I do agree, Lu-Lu has such a lovely personality doesn't she?” Celestia mused.

Night continued, “Then there’s; her eyes, her hips, her lips. They are so precious and I will guard them like treasures” he said, smiling to himself. He blushed when he processed what he said. Making Celestia laugh at him, and after a little while he joined her as laughter filled her office.

“I see, I feel more at ease knowing how absolutely smitten you are. It’s turned a soldier into a poet” Celestia said, sighing happily.

“Smitten would not do it justice Celestia, I do not know what I would be without her. If I would be here without her. I owe her my everything and If she would have it, I will give” Night said proudly. This made Celestia blush, hearing such a declaration was something even the most hopeless of romantics longed to hear.

“Well I can say I am truly jealous of my sister. Thank you for entertaining my questions. And please if you need anything do not hesitate to find me” Celestia said. Night nodding got up from his seat.

“You think too highly of me Celestia. Now I must be on my way. I am quite famished.” Night said. He disappeared behind the door and made his way into the streets of Canterlot.

Celestia sat in silence for a moment before looking at her notebook. What he said did not make much sense. His memories gone, cutie mark disappeared, and over 2 millennia old without aging physically. He wasn’t an Alicorn or anything similar to that and yet here he was. Putting the notebook down she relaxed into her chair. Whatever it was, he cared for Luna and loved her.

“He is everything she needs, I am happy yet peeved he is getting all of her attention” Celestia said to herself. Using her magic she pulled out a letter, and began to write,

Dear faithful student,
I have something I need you to look into for me…

What a birthday gift indeed

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Night had been growing accustomed to being back home in Equestria after so long. With being home for almost a year now. Night had developed quite the odd sleep schedule. Some nights he would stay up with Luna and stroll around when they had time. Others he would go out during the day or talk with Celestia. They had grown closer since their initial encounter. He even started calling Celestia, Tia. She would get mad and say only Luna could call her that. Yet the petty in Night’s soul would not stop.

Night appreciated Celestia though, she was kind to him. Well as kind as she can be when he wasn’t taking Luna’s attention. Celestia would schedule lunches without him during times he and Luna would meet. He didn’t mind too much though, because she seemed to come to terms with him being around… sort of. Between the lie detector spells, and physician visits, Night was glad they could be civil. Not like Night was going to tell Luna about all of Celestia’s antics though. Last thing he wanted was for her to worry or be mad at her sister.

Night walked the castle halls seeing familiar faces and smiling. “Aqua, Silver Plater. Good morning.” Night said. He met Aqua some time back and Silver Plater was Celestia’s personal butler. Night ran into Silver Plater while he was running day errands for Luna so she could rest.

“Hello Night!” Aqua said. She waved excitedly at him while Silver Plater bowed.

“Always a Pleasure Night” Silver Plater said.

“I am glad to see you two doing well.” Night said.

“Night I hate to send you away so soon, But Princess Celestia is looking for you,” Silver Plater said.

“Ah thanks, I’d hate to keep Tia waiting.” Night said sarcastically. Causing both ponies to laugh a little. They stopped as soon as they started and resumed their professional attitudes.

“I'm sure her Highness would dislike that as well. Be safe Sir. Night” Silver Plater said bowing. Night walked down the hallway towards Celestia’s office. A place he was becoming uncomfortably familiar with. Knocking on the door he waited for a response.

“Tia I have arrived. Was there something you ne-” Night was cut off. He was teleported into the office. Night had fallen face first onto the floor from a 3 foot drop. A wave of nausea from the sudden transportation hit him like a carriage.

“Shhh, I do not want Luna to know.” Celestia said whispering.

“What? Why?” Night asked. Celestia was acting weird, or rather weirder than usual.

“Luna’s birthday is coming up and I want to surprise her with a gift. What should I get her?” Celestia asked. Night groaned as he sat up fighting down the pancakes he had for breakfast.

“Let me brainstorm some ideas, and I will get back to you.” Night said, rubbing his head. He couldn’t for the life of him get used to magic transport. It made him feel sick and he never understood how Luna did it. Explanations always ended up in diagrams and graphs that hurt his brain.

“Hmm I was hoping to shop while she was asleep but I suppose I can wait.” Celestia said. Smiling at Night as he tried his best to calm his stomach down.

“Oh your Highness you are too kind to a lowly soldier such as I” Said Night sarcastically.

“I suppose I am, Princess Luna spoils you rotten. I have to keep you grounded” Celestia shot back. The two of them laughed and Night got up to leave.

“I’ll see ya tomorrow then or I will just send you a note. I do not want to be teleported again” Night said. Celestia smirked at him and ignited her horn.

“Well, sorry for this then. I t is all love though I assure you” Celestia said. Before Night could protest, or fly out of a window. Celestia teleported him into the garden of the castle. This time being too much for Night, his breakfast came up in a flower pot. He groaned and mentally apologized to the gardener for ruining the daisies.

As Night shook off the nausea from the forced teleportation. He sees a family in the garden outside the gates. Night silently observes them, the 2 foals running around the hedge maze. The parents, a Unicorn and an Earth pony, looked on with smiles on their faces. Night smiled at the scene in front of him. He had known diversity and bloodshed most of his life so seeing this was nice. It did however remind him that he was 2 millennia old, with no recollection of his family. Sighing to himself he noticed one of the fillies in the garden was looking at him. She waved him over and Night walked around the gate.

“Mr. Are you ok? You look sad…”The red filly said to him. Looking up at him with wide brown eyes.

“Little miss, I am alright thank you” Night said. He smiled and gently patted her on the head with his wing.

“Do you wanna play with us? You’ll feel better, I promise!” She insisted.

“I think you should ask your parents first. I am a stranger to you” Said Night. No sooner had he told the filly to ask her parents did she disappear. Night had to admit she was quick for an Unicorn. Hearing hoof steps, Night looked to his left and saw the entire family.

“This is him Papa! Princess Luna’s Colt friend. He said to ask you if we could play!” The filly said. Night didn’t realize she knew who he was. Then again it would be strange if most didn’t know who he was at this point.

“Lilah, please he is probably very busy” The stallion said, then turning to Night. “We are so sorry for bothering you. Lilah here gets very exci-” Night cut the father off.

“It’s no trouble at all really. You have such a lovely family. What are your names?” Night said. This caught the family off guard for a moment. The father then looked at his wife who just nodded at him smiling.

“I’m Rainer Seeker, this is my wife Ophelia Seeker.” The blue stallion said as he motioned to his wife.

“Hello Sir, um what do we call you” Ophelia asked, shifting her wings.

“Night is just fine, and who are you? I have met Lilah already” he said. Looking at the pale orange other Unicorn.

“Ummm, I’m Atlas…” The colt said. He was cowering behind Ophelia and compared to her green coat Atlas was pretty easy to see. This made Night laugh softly as he saw the family standing together. If he was one of those photographers Luna took him to see, this would have been a great portrait.

“Well it is nice to meet you all, Sorry for bothering you” Night apologized.

“So can we play Hide and seek now? Please dad he’s a good Pony” Lilah pleaded. Rainer and Ophelia laughed and nodded. Then they looked at Night who shrugged at them.

“I do not mind, but just a few games ok?” Night said.

Lilah and Atlas looked at each other and smiled. “You count first! We’ll hide!” Lilah said. Night nodded at them and they took off. Night counted and began to play with the foals for a couple hours. He felt a joy in his chest, and a hole all in the same and he couldn’t understand why.

Night had an idea of something Luna might like from her sister. Luna loved weapons, of any kind really. For decoration or for use, and Night figured Celestia could give her something with her Cutie mark on it. He had taken a detour after playing in the garden. He wrote up the weapons idea along with a few others. Walking to Celestia’s office he gingerly slid the note under the door.

“There ya go Tia, enjoy!” Night said. He trotted away from the door as he heard the tearing of paper. Smiling, he walked back to his lover's room. Opening the door Luna turned from her balcony and ran over to him. As Night Closed the door Luna embraced him.

“My beloved you have returned!” Luna said. She kissed him on the cheek and Night let out a sigh and hugged her back.

“I have returned my Love, how are you?” Night asked. Luna released the hug and took a step back.

“We are well!” Luna said. She looked away towards the balcony, and then back to Night.

“Are you sure everything is well?” Night asked. Luna’s tone was happy but the look on her face said otherwise. Like she was conflicted.

“Yes, well. We have a question for you” Luna said. Motioning Night to come to the balcony with her. He obliged happily and together they went and sat together. The two sat in silence as the sun began to set. Without a word, Luna began to raise the moon. Despite being stranded on the moon, he never got tired of seeing his love raise it. It was her gift to the world, and knowing that the moon was a part of her. He relinquished his animosity towards it; how could he want to hold onto it?

“Whenever you are ready, love, I am listening,” Night said. He nuzzled her neck and hummed. Luna rested her head on his and closed her eyes.

“I saw you playing in the garden with the foals,” Luna began. “How do you feel about them?” She asked. Night thought about this for a moment. Did Luna mean what he thought of those specific foals, or just the idea in general?
“Those 2 in particular were interesting. Honestly I wouldn’t mind foals like them. Inquisitive, outgoing, playful, and honest.” Night said. Luna relaxed into him more after hearing those words. She smiled to herself and wrapped a wing around Night.

“Thank you, my love,” Luna said. Night was confused, what was she thanking him for? Before he could open his mouth Luna got up and walked to the bathroom door.

“Lu-Lu is everythin-” Night began. He was being levitated to the bathroom behind his lover.

“You smell my love, come let us wash up. Now that the moon is up, I have the whole night off~” Luna sang. Night gulped and realized he was in for an eventful night.

A week went by and Luna’s birthday was upon the city of Canterlot. Luna wasn’t much for being up during the day but she made an exception for those that came to the castle to support her. She hadn’t felt like she was much of a true co-ruler for the past century. However the citizens of Equestria seemed to not think the way she did. She was going to give a speech for them later on. She had a doctor's appointment before all of this though. Luna had been feeling sick recently and she didn’t know what to do. Night had convinced her to stop working so hard and rest when he found out.

“Go on and rest, I’ll oversee your duties for this week. I have been with you long enough to know how to do this.” Night said. Luna recalled him saying this and smiled to herself. She considered herself very lucky to have him in her life. She heard a knock on her door and used her magic to unlock it.

“Do come in, it is unlocked,” Luna said. A short tan Unicorn mare walked into Luna’s room with a bag.

“Good morning your majesty” The doctor said.

“Hello Dr. Ilium, I trust you are well?” Luna said. The doctor approached her and set her bag down.

“I am thank you, but let’s see what is wrong with you?” Dr. Ilium said. She cast a spell, and got her stethoscope. She checked Luna’s vitals, and after about 5 minutes looked at her.

“Your Highness, might I ask, have you had any cravings for sour food recently?” Dr. Ilium asked.

“Hmmm,” Luna thought for a moment. “Now that you mention it, yes I have, why? Is it a new disease?” Luna asked panicked.

Dr. Ilium sighed and put her equipment away. “I guess congratulations are in order,” She said.

“Congratulations for what doctor? I hardly doubt contracting a new sickness is congratulatory.” Luna said, irritated at her physician.

Giggling Dr. Ilium grabbed her bag in her magic, “Not that silly, congrats on the foal. Come see me regularly for checkups.” She finished, leaving Luna mouth agape in her bed. She was pregnant? Would Night be happy? How would she deal with this? She knew he didn’t mind foals but did he want them with her? Figuring she wouldn’t get answers in bed she went to go find Night.

Luna left her room, she spent about an hour or so looking for Night. She looked everywhere he frequented. Realizing he probably went out to get her food of some kind. She ran towards the garden as fast as she could. Maids, and soldiers merely looked on as the ruler of the Night frantically looked around. She was about the give up until she spotted him, walking through the entry forum. She flew over to him and dropped right in front of him.

“My love, shouldn’t you be resting? You were-” Night began. He was cut off with a bear hug from Luna.

“I-I need to t-tell you something love” Luna stammered. She was shaking out of fear he would run away from her. She feared he wouldn’t want to be with her now that she was pregnant.

“I am all ears my love. What is it?” Night asked. He returned her hug and stroked her mane slowly.

“Please do not get mad at me…'' said Luna.

“I promise I will not my love” Night said smiling.

“I- ...um” Luna paused for a moment. “I am pregnant, my love” Luna said. Night held her tighter and his voice dropped.

“A-are you sure?” asked Night.

Luna nodded slowly, “I saw Dr. Ilium an hour ago, so yes… please don’t be-” Luna stopped. She felt tears on her back. Night was crying, and she was worried he was upset with her. That was until he spoke after a few seconds.

“I…I-I am going to be a father! For real?” Night said. Luna heard his tone and was surprised. He sounded relieved, and happy?

“Y-you are not upset?” Luna asked. She thought it would be too soon for them. Since Night had only been back for about a year, she was worried.

“How could I be upset, I am home with my one and only. Now I am going to have a f-family. After 2 millennia I feel so happy” Night said. He couldn’t stop the tears from rolling down his face. He was so happy he couldn’t even express himself any other way. Luna found herself with tears in her eyes as well. She was so relieved that he was ok with her being the mother to his foal or foals. Their moment was interrupted however by Celestia who saw them and flew next to them.

“So what are you two love birds crying about in the entryway? Surely Night hasn’t messed up on your birthday sister?” Celestia asked. Her sarcasm wasn’t lost on Night as he looked up at her.

“Is now really the time for this Tia?” Night asked. Celestia cocked her head to the side.

“What do you mean? What's going on? Why are you both crying?” Celestia asked. This made Night and Luna laugh as they let go of each other.

"Do you not know Tia?" Night said smugly. Celestia shook her head confused on what was going on.

Luna faced her sister and wiped her tears, “I am with child sister. You will be a true aunt,” Luna said smiling. Celestia’s ears perked up hearing Luna say this.

“My b-bay sister is P-Pregnant?!”Celestia shouted. Guards, maids and visitors all stopped too look at the trio in the center of the hallway. Luna just nodded, smiling at Celestia. No pony said a word as everyone looked. Then cheers erupted and a round of applause was given. Until Celestia fainted and the cheers turned to gasps.

A Family Together

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News of The Princess of the Night’s pregnancy spread through the Equestria like wildfire. Some came from overseas, some from the far south, or north. Many came to pay their respects to the one who set and rose the moon. More ponies came than she had ever thought would want to see her. As for Night, he had a completely different set of problems to deal with.

“Lu-Lu, I will be ok. Get some rest and I will be back.” Night said. Luna huffed and looked away from him. She was sitting in the castle gardens having a picnic with Night. One thing her pregnancy had done was mess up her sleep schedule. Now Luna was up more during the day than at night.

“We are perfectly healthy to go about our duties.” Luna protested. She wasn’t too fond of leaving her lover to deal with her royal duties.

“You may be healthy, but I wish it to stay that way. You could go with less stress.” Night said. Luna opened her mouth to respond, and then closed it. Night was right, she was rather stressed with her hormones going crazy. Along with dealing with those irritating counselors, she couldn’t argue with him.

“You make a fair point my love. But do be careful please.” Said Luna sincerely.

“You know I always am. Now let's eat up. I had the cooks make you those little sandwiches you like” Night said. Luna’s eyes lit up as he said this and she dug into the basket.

“Thou should have led with that!” exclaimed Luna. Night laughed as he watched his lover devour mini sandwich after sandwich. It was anything but becoming of a Princess the way she ate them. Night could have cared less about that though and he grabbed his own sandwich and dug in. The two enjoy each other's company in the afternoon sun.

The following months went by relatively smoothly. With Celestia helping Night, Luna got to relax as the foal grew. The duo were anxious about what the name should be. Celestia suggested we name her after their predecessor. Platinum was a good name for a filly, but what if the foal was a colt? Night and Luna sat in their room on the balcony thinking of names together.

“My love what about Silver Shine, oh!, or Dusk Comet! ”Luna said. She was enthusiastic about picking names. Night looked at his lover and took in her appearance, smiling at her. Her baby bump was apparent, her cheeks were fuller. Along with her now very shapely rump, Night was as Celestia said months ago, smitten. He didn’t care how Luna looked, the way her personality came through was breathtaking.

“How about….”Night said thinking for a moment. He thought back to a fond memory of them on the moon. Embracing one another as Luna comes to bring him home to Equestria.

“Moon Dancer, I like that one,” Night said. Luna turned to look at him with eyebrows raised.

“Pray tell why?” Luna asked. Night closed his eyes and sat back in his chair. He gathered his thoughts before turning his head back to face Luna.

“Because… It was one of my favorite past times with you. The slow dances in the morning, followed by listening to you talk” Night reminisced. Luna blushed and smiled at Night before placing a hoof on her stomach.

“Thou know we cannot dance well,” Luna said shyly. Night didn’t say anything and laughed, making Luna pout.

“You may not, my Love but that did not stop me did it?” Said Night. He truly meant what he said about dancing with Luna. She may have been clumsy but she tried and he loved every second he got with her. Luna flinched and lifted her hoof from her stomach.

“Oh my, Our little one might be a better dancer than I the way they kick” Luna said. Night and Luna made eye contact and laughed. They loved the way life was going for them so far, and they couldn’t wait to greet their little one.

“Lu-Lu just breathe love,” Night said. He was trying to suppress his own worry for his lover. It was a week past their initial due date for their foal and they were worried. Though the worry shifted today from where are they to,

“WE KNOW TO BREATHE, YOU BUC-”Luna screamed. Only to be stopped by her contractions . Quickly running to the door, Night opened the door and found a maid.

“Excuse me, could you go and get Dr. Ilium. Luna’s water has broken.” Night spat out. The maid’s eyes grew wide and she nodded. Bolting off, the maid went towards the medical wing of the castle. Night shut the door, as Luna screamed in pain. He turned to her and jogged back over to her. He grabbed a hoof with his wing and held it firmly. This made Luna relax a little bit as she acknowledged his presence.

“Night, You know you are my love. Correct?” Luna asked him. Night was confused where this was going. He figured this was just reassurance and was happy to oblige.

“Yes Luna, As you are mine” Night said happily. Without skipping a beat Luna turned to him, her face a mix of rage, and pain.

“When this is…Ugh, Over. We ARE GOING TO KILL YOU.” Luna said through gritted teeth. This made Night gulp, and before he could respond the door opened. In came Celestia, Dr. Ilium, and a few maids. As soon as they came into the room, Night was enveloped in magic and lifted out to the door.

“Night, my dear. We are going to handle this. You go do…something.” Celestia cooed. Rolling his eyes, Night struggled against her magic to no avail.

“Let, oof…Let me help!” He commanded. This made Celestia giggle at his persistence.

“We have enough “help” to go around right now. You are better off out of the room anyway because-”Celestia said, pausing. Luna’s loud royal Canterlot voice boomed out of the room making every pony flinch.

“HE DID THIS TO ME, WHERE IS HE? HE'S DEAD!” Luna howled. Night winced and ceased his struggles to go and help his lover.

“Because of that. I would hate for you to not meet your foal due to an untimely departure,” Celestia said sarcastically.

Night just nodded and wandered down the hallway to Luna’s office. He took a seat behind the desk and decided to do some of the night's work early. He worked until he started to lose consciousness, his worry and the emotions of the evening finally catching up with him. He nodded off until his head rested upon the desk and he drifted off to sleep.

Night was woken up when he felt himself being shaken in his seat. Yawning and sitting up, he rubbed his eyes to see who was bothering him. Through unfocused eyes he made out the faint shape, and color of who it was. Alabaster, tall, wings, and it was Celestia.

“Should I just let you sleep, or do you want to see your little foal?” Celestia asked sarcastically. Night groggily looked at her then shot up out of his seat. His senses jogged by that sentence he ran out of the office he was in. Down the hallway back to the bedroom where his lover and foal were. Opening the door slowly he saw Dr. Ilium sitting next to Luna and a number of maids cleaning up.

“Ah I see Princess Celestia has found you.” Dr. Ilium said to Night. He nodded and looked at Luna. She was practically beaming at the foal she held all wrapped in blankets. Night slowly made his way over to Luna in bed.

“My love is everything alright?” Night asked softly. Luna looked up at him and nodded, tears in the corner of her eyes.

“I am yes, but this little one. None of the names we thought of do her justice my Love.” Luna said. Night watching as Luna moved the blanket the foal was wrapped in down for him to see her. Night was in awe at the beautiful and adorable foal Luna held.

“She’s …wow… you are right.” Night said, looking down at her. The foal had the colors of the night sky. The small alicorn had a Cerulean coat, with flecks of green on the tips of her wings. Her mane a deep indigo much like Luna’s; but it was the eyes that made Night beam at their foal. The brilliant pink eyes that Night and his foal shared made him extremely overjoyed.

“Anything comes to mind for our little one. She cannot be nameless forever you know.” Luna said. Her sarcasm shook Night from his thoughts as he continued to stare intently at the sleeping foal. He didn’t know where it came from but the only name Night could think of was,

“Artemis… Artemis Shine.” Night said. Luna smiled and closed her eyes for a moment. Opening them she nodded in agreement and hummed.

“Our little Artemis Shine. We love it” Luna said. She used a wing to motion him over next to her. Dr. Ilium got up and let Night sit next to Luna.

“Yes my- oh” Night stammered. Luna was using her magic to lift Artemis over to him. He held out his arms. Gently placing the foal in his arms Luna smiled at the scene she saw. Night was using his wings as extra support to hold the foal.

“I-I’m a dad,” Night said softly. Tears in his eyes slowly streaming down his cheeks. The foal woke up and saw Night which surprised him. Before he could move or notify Luna, Artemis smiled at him. Night couldn’t believe it, he couldn’t even find his voice to say anything. He simply smiled back, savoring the moment.

“Enjoying yourself I see,” Celestia said. She had pulled up a chair and sat next to him. He was impressed he didn’t even hear her. Then again it wasn’t like he was paying attention to anypony else at the moment.

“Yes. I most definitely am. Tia, could you do me a small favor?” Night asked. Celestia raised an eyebrow at him.

“Oh? And what would be so important to have me run an errand?” Celestia sarcastically said. Rolling his eyes he leaned over and whispered to her what he needed. She froze and looked at him. She looked like she was about to faint again but she nodded and left the room.

“Where is our sister going? She was so ready to hold Artemis” Luna asked. Night looked at Luna and smiled.

“She will be back in a moment. I forgot something and she was kind enough to go grab it” Night responded. After about 15 minutes Celestia came back into the room and practically skipped over to Night.

“I have returned Br-” Celestia caught herself. “Night here is your requested Item.” She finished handing him the package.

“Thank you, here is Artemis. Be car-”Night stopped as Celestia slowly levitated the foal out of Nights arms. She then levitated the package over to him and winked.

“Yes I know, now go ahead” Celestia said. She looked at the foal and contained her squeal of excitement. She couldn’t wait to spoil her niece rotten. Night looked over at Luna and cleared his throat. She looked from the maid she was conversing with and faced him.

“Yes my love is something wrong?” She asked. Night thought for a moment and smirked at her.

“Yes there is something wrong Luna,” Night said. Mustering all of the seriousness he could; which wasn’t much. It was enough to convince Luna of a problem though.

“And what would that be? Is there an intruder? Is Artemis ok?!” Luna said. Night waved a hoof at her as she looked around the room for the foal.

“Nothing like that, no,” Night said, suppressing a chuckle.

“Then what is the problem my lov-” Luna stopped. Night was on the floor and held out a ring with his wing.

“We did things a little out of order, my love. But I want to no longer be just your lover nor you just mine. So I ask you… Will you marry me Luna, Princess of the Night?” Night asked. Luna couldn’t contain herself as she flung her arms around his neck and cried. She nodded in agreement as she did so.

A muffled, “Yes, Yes I will” was all that could be heard from Luna. They stayed in their embrace until it was interrupted by Celestia.

“I do hate to be the bearer of bad news, but your foal needs a change. I will not take that first time experience away from you” Celestia said. Night and Luna pulled out of their hug and looked at each other. They laughed and Night wiped away Luna’s tears.

“Let me put this on you and I’ll do it” Night said. Luna bowed her head and Night carefully placed the ring onto her horn. After doing so Celestia left the foal in Night’s care. After cleaning and grabbing a new diaper, Night had to call a maid over. He had never actually figured out how to tie them. This made every mare in the room giggle at him as he struggled. Red in the face Night accepted his defeat and left it to the maid.

“You tried your best,” Celestia said through her giggles. Night rolled his eyes and looked at the maid finishing up. Artemis Shine was given back to her mother and the two settled into bed once again. Luna yawned and so did the foal, which made Night laugh.

“She needs to rest now, that's enough excitement for now. I’ll get you 2 late” Dr. Ilium said. She shooed Celestia and Night out of the room and closed the door behind them.

“Sooo, Celebration Cake?” Night said, looking at Celestia. She looked back at him in her composed Princess demeanor.

“My, It is only 2 in the morning. Of course I want a Celebration Cake” Celestia said, breaking character. The two set off for the kitchen humming the sun's victory anthem as they did.

Night and the Moon

by Sailor Aether

Imprisoned Together

Years Spent Looking for You, My Love

The Moons (K)Night returns

Apologies, questions, and soundproofing. Oh my!

What a birthday gift indeed

A Family Together