CHAPTER 1: PRISONERS

The world surrounding the two particular individuals was black, just an inconspicuous black void, the darkness going on for miles on end, as if they were just sitting on a blank midnight canvas. There was one source of light however, and they were sitting by it. It was only a tiny circular orb, but the luminescent blue shine it gave off was well worth it, and the two looked down at it solemnly. While one seemed to not have a care in the world, the other seemed irritated, bored, as she rolled her eyes in annoyance. The other looked to her with a soft smile.

It was a baby draconequus, accompanied by a beautiful lunar mare.

The baby draconequus looked to the mare curiously, "Have you gotten bored?..."

The mare, her mane like that of the evening sky, while her coat was a pure black, looked to the draconequus with a twitch in her nose before she just groaned and looked away. "Hah, bored? What do you think you stupid little girl? Everyday I am here, and everyday is the same. Ever since my influence was torn away from Luna, this blasted realm has served as my new home, and I don't nearly have enough visitors as I'd like. Well besides you, and you're not half as entertaining as you used to be."

The baby draconequus looked down absently, poking at the small orb with half closed eyes. "Perhaps you should stop being mean then, maybe good things will come back to you."

The mare snickered, as she'd suddenly looked highly amused. "Hah! You're one to talk, look at you, if I'm not mistaken you'd costed me Twilight Sparkle and her friends, and what did it get you? You are such a stupid stupid little girl, there is no karma here. There is only the moment, and what you do in the moment that matters, everything else is just drawback. Now here you are, stuck with me, doomed to rarely dream peacefully ever again! Lost to my nightmares."

The baby draconequus looked to the mare in thought, before looking back down at the orb with that same expression. "Maybe you're right, but I guess it doesn't matter anymore." She paused, "Nothing matters really."

The mare scoffed, lowering her head before eyeing the draconequus plainly with disinterest. "Hmph, see, this is what I'm talking about. You used to have such emotion, such drive to escape. I must admit, I was surprised you managed to escape in the first place." She glared a bit, "But now look at you, you're nothing more than a walking corpse."

The baby draconequus smiled once more, softly but assuredly, "Because I understand now. I was selfish to think I could change their society. I can't fight it, it was made that way for a reason. I realized that too late." She looked to the mare, chuckling softly, "But are you telling me we're not the same? That we both haven't accepted our own ends?"

The mare's eyes widened, before she'd looked frustrated, turning away "Shut your mouth, our situations are different."

The baby draconequus crossed her small arms before smirking a little. "Not really, we're both trapped, and we know it."

The mare rolled her eyes before groaning again, "If I recall, somepony here is able to wake and trot around the open world."

The baby draconequus giggled with a sneer, before lowering her head and looking solemn once more. "It's not as great as you'd think to be honest. Sometimes I feel happier in here, in the dark." She looked down at her paw, which had returned to being normal in this desolate realm. "I'm a prisoner in my own ways Ms.Moon, just like you." She curled her paw in, "It's funny, everypony was scared of me, they knew how dangerous I can be." She squinted her eyes a little, "So how come I feel so powerless?" Her expression saddened as she buried her head in her knees, "Why couldn't I make a difference?"

The mare, revealed as the infamous mare of the moon, Nightmare Moon, sighed. "Because you care too much." Now just feeling compelled to engage in some form of conversation, she spoke honestly, simply. "You're just a stupid little girl with pony ideals, when you could've been ruthless, powerful, unstoppable. Each and every decision you made was gut wrenching to say the least, such pathetic foolery, such timidness and hesitation, such weakness."

The baby draconequus looked to her plainly, before leaning her head back. "Well I guess that's something I just can't change about myself. Whether it helps me or not."

Nightmare Moon's nose wrinkled a bit in annoyance, "Well you've certainly changed since you first came here."

The baby draconequus replied sharply, in a humored tone, leaning back. "Hehe, so have you."

This caused the mare's cheeks to turn crimson somewhat, "Bah!" She looked away, "Children."

The baby draconequus could only smile at the mare, before rising to her feet and taking notice of a bright yellow light in the black sky, like a makeshift sun. "Ms.Moon, you know I never got to thank you."

Nightmare Moon raised a brow, glancing back, "Thank me for what? And stop calling me that...it's absurd!"

The baby draconequus just continued, ignoring her request completely, "For teaching me more about how to survive. Although your influence was...a little harsh to say the least, it really helped me while I was in Canterlot. That and Princess Celestia's methods, well, I learned more than enough to help me escape at the time." She looked back at the mare with a smirk, "I want to return the favor someday."

Nightmare Moon's eyes widened with curiosity, she now looked amused herself. "And why would you go and do that? You do know who you're talking to don't you?"

The baby draconequus turned to her before nodding simply, now with a serious demeanor. "Because I trust you, you're honest, a little mean, but I think you can change to." She paused, eyeing the ground, "I think you can also understand, just how hard dealing with such loneliness can be." She looked back to the mare with a smile, "And I think you'd be grateful to escape that sort of lifestyle forever."

Nightmare Moon scoffed again, before looking away and closing her eyes, "Hah! You truly are a fool then. How would you manage to accomplish this anyhow? I know the strain you're putting yourself through Eve, and I know just how much you're pushing your limits. Do not overestimate yourself little girl, even you can't create some things, especially me."

Eve tapped the side of her head with her claw humorously before stating, "I study, duuuh, did you forget?" She snickered, "My Mom was a teacher, I know there's knowledge to be found in books. And I know there's plenty of possibilities." She then looked back up towards that makeshift sun with a smile, before her expression worsened as if she'd come to a painful realization. "But you're right, I need to hurry. I have a feeling I won't be here much longer..."

This actually caused Nightmare Moon's expression to worsen a little herself, and she'd felt surprised by her own feelings regarding those words, and the situation. She spoke softly, closing her eyes, "Don't waste your time worrying about others stupid little girl, just worry about yourself. You've already made enough mistakes as is."

Eve shrugged, smiling "I want to cross you off my list though, hmhm."

At that moment, the world around them started to grow brighter, the darkness dissipating around them with each passing second. They'd both reacted as if it were an expected occurrence.

Eve just continued to look up solemnly. "What do you think is waiting for me at the end of this Nightmare?"

Nightmare Moon eyes squinted a bit, remaining silent as she'd kept her eyes off the draconequus, refusing to look at her.

Eve smiled, taking notice of her silence before just turning away herself, looking down at her paw. And at that moment the two of them began to disappear, crumbling away like freshly fallen ash. "I guess we should go now, huh?..."

.......And they were gone.

Eve awoke from her passive slumber, just looking up towards her ceiling as she'd been laying in her bed with her bandaged paw over her forehead. She felt recovered, as sleep was supposed to do, and felt maybe she could manage to experiment more with using her powers to accomplish her goals today as well. She leaned up with a sigh, just gazing down at her blankets with a tired look, before turning to glance around her room.

It was quite massive, probably due to the fact they were her chambers, and in the middle of this room there was a large marble statue, a twisted accumulation of all she'd learned. Forever a reminder of the truth about this world, and the mistakes she'd committed, her irredeemable past. Her expression worsened as she'd looked at it, each of it's legs bore a different color, as it had the body of Princess Celestia, the tail of a draconequus, the head of Cheerilee, and the crown of Twilight Sparkle. As creepy as it was, she felt it gave her some sense of motivation to continue on her path to making up for her wasted life, and if she had these powers, using them for others was the least she could do. Her eyes fastened on Cheerilee's stone face for a moment before she put on a smile, muttering, "I miss you."

Eve climbed out of her bed, before making her way over to a desk located in the corner of her room sluggishly. She lowered herself into a small wooden seat before manifesting a piece of parchment and a pen. She looked down at the paper as if pondering what to write, unsure of how to put her thoughts into words, concentrating on the task. She tapped the pen against her lower lip, biting on the tip of her tongue softly before sighing, then just starting to write steadily. She was writing in equestrian, and beside her letter one could see stacked books of equestrian literature and history, which she'd obviously been studying. Taking such interest in your mother who used to teach a school of fillies had its perks, and she had more than enough resources to get a paw on these excellent resources which she'd cherished greatly.

What're you writing? Interrupted a sharp voice in her head.

"A letter," replied Eve curtly.

Well of course I know that, I mean what's it about? Continued the voice.

Eve paused, her pen stopping in its tracks atop the paper as she just remained still for a moment, glaring down at the wet ink. She sighed as she just shook her head and continued writing, refusing to answer through her lips.

As she continued to write, the voice in her head also remained silent for some time before speaking up once more. Ah, now I see. I'm curious, why is it that you acknowledge my faint existence, do tell me, Eve?

Eve replied sharply this time, "Why not?"

One could easily find a hint of sarcasm in Nightmare Moon's voice. Well, let's see, I don't know, if you take away the fact that I'm one of the most infamous, dangerous, legendary equines in the history of Equestria, one might see my point.

"You're not the one who trapped me there," Eve stated as she just continued to write.

Nightmare Moon chuckled as she'd continued. Ah, so even you hold some grudges, that's interesting. Still, I'm responsible for your constant nightmares, that zebra truly didn't think my influence could be done away with so easily now, did she? Once trapped in my realm for such a lengthy amount of time, to permanently recover is, well, I think you get the picture hmhmhm.

Eve tilted her head to the left as she'd continued to writing, before glancing upward. "I don't know if you're real or not, and I don't know if I'm just crazy, but," she looked back down blankly, spinning her pen between her claws, "I don't care." She leaned back in her chair before just smiling, "I like talking to you. You weren't lucky enough to escape Princess Twilight either, for reasons I don't know. But I want to be able to save you from that lonely place you're stuck in, nopony deserves that. But I want to know that you'll act responsibly as well."

In the realm of nightmares, although Eve couldn't see it, Nightmare Moon was a seething red, furious! She gritted her teeth as her brow twitched as she'd just continued to look up. Surrounding her was a full circular view of Eve's perspective, almost as if she were there herself but ultimately weren't, just a faint connection from a unfortunate past experience. She stomped her hoof, "Now, don't you DARE lecture me little girl! You're a child compared to me, nothing more! Don't get too friendly, because I swear to you if I do get out of here, my goals will be my own, I will bathe this world in eternal night, and not you, or anypony shall get in my way a second time."

Eve's expression saddened playfully as she whimpered, "Well, who knows."

Nightmare Moon scoffed as she'd looked to the lower right, "Tch!"

Suddenly the doors to the room burst open as Eve's eyes snapped wide, and she immediately reacted by manifesting a crystal candy cane and pointing it towards the sudden intruder with an intense glare.

But all she found was a familiar humanoid panther adorned in royal clothing, with her sharp claws in the air as she snickered a little with her eyes closed. "It's me my lady, nothing to fear."

Eve's expression sunk as she just sighed, shaking her head and closing her eyes before looking to the panther woman with slight annoyance. "Ms.Prowl! You need to knock first, what would happen if I'd accidentally hurt you!?" She then turned over the letter which she'd been writing.

Ms.Prowl, the humanoid panther who had the ability to walk upright like most of the strange creatures on this island, shook her head before making her way over to the baby draconequus. "I know you'd never do such a thing."

Eve's eyes saddened as her brows furrowed. "You have to be careful, please, just, have a little more caution next time."

Ms.Prowl only continued to smile amusingly as she'd wrapped her arms around Eve from behind, raising a brow, she'd leaned her head down next to her's. "But you're such a sweet little creature, I know you wouldn't hurt me."

Eve's expression sunk as she'd flipped over her letter, hiding it absently as she'd just continued to look down. "I'm thankful for the compliments Ms.Prowl but, you can never let your guard down around me." She sighed, "Bad things tend to happen when one does." She paused before continuing, smiling softly, "So what do you need? I hope you're enjoying the idea of ruling, I want you to be as comfortable as possible, but don't worry, everypony is nice to each other, and everything is fashioned after equestrian society, it's perfect." Eve then flicked her finger as she'd began scrambling through her books, flipping through the pages, getting lost in her own words and fascination. "So where shall we start?"

Ms.Prowl didn't fail to notice this, to notice the baby draconequus's undying obsession with the equestrian way of life, the ponies of Equestria. Her eyes saddened as she'd listened to the excitement in Eve's voice, her love for the subject in general, and the fact that although she was speaking about how she was supposed to rule, that it also sounded as if she were describing her own dreams, and she couldn't take that. So as Eve only continued to talk, she interrupted her abruptly. "I was thinking, my lady, perhaps you could introduce yourself to everyone, I'm sure they'd love you."

And as Eve continued to talk, the moment Ms.Prowl had said those words, she'd immediately stopped. She just looked down at the opened books as her smile slowly faded away, her features soon distorting into a pained scowl, as she'd looked depressed at the same time. She slammed the book shut, as the color from her eyes dimmed slightly. "Ms.Prowl, we've already talked about this, you know that's not possible."

Ms.Prowl took a few steps back before she crossed her arms and she looked down at the baby draconequus in annoyance. "No, no, to be honest my lady, I don't!" She stomped, swiping her arm angrily, "I don't see why you can't just go out there, and take credit for everything you've created! Just what're you hiding yourself from? Do you not trust us to protect you? Do you question our abilities, is that it!? I'm not the one who should be out there receiving all the love and praise from everyone that lives here, that should be you! Talon, Sham, Komo, Tusk, Me...we're not the ones to be thanking here, you are!"

Ms.Prowl gritted her teeth angrily as her ears lowered, and her expression saddened. "My lady, I've seen you. Even when I first met you, even during that shameful first encounter, I saw it." Ms.Prowl drifted into her own past memories, recalling the time when she'd first encountered the draconequus, and failed miserably in her assassination, and although she'd failed at her shot in taking her life, Eve had barely reacted, almost as if she wasn't offended at all by the attempt.

The two figures stood together in a dark room at sunset, the pale orange light shining through a dust covered window, it looked almost as if they were in an attic or basement of some sort.

The baby draconequus just took a step forward towards the panther woman.

In which she'd reacted hastily, but due to her own paranoia, slipped and fell to her rear. Then scurrying back and pressing back against a wall. She unsheathed a small tribal dagger, her paw trembling as she'd looked up at the twisted child she'd been sent to kill. As her heart raced, beating rapidly beneath her chest, she clenched her zebra pendant with a free paw, gulping a bit as prepared to defend herself from whatever was to come.

The baby draconequus just looked down at her with an almost hurt expression as she shook her head. "I'm sorry Ms, I can't allow myself to die yet, I still have things I have to make up for." She cocked her head to the left playfully, followed by a giggle. "You don't have to tell me, but may I know who sent you?"

The panther woman, thrown off by the child's politeness, found herself speechless as she'd just looked up at her with a raised brow, before lowering her own dagger, feeling the fear drift from her body. She didn't hesitate in giving up the information of who'd sent her, not out of fear, but almost out of simple trust, there was something about this girl. "An official in the land of zebra's, he was eager to pay me a decent some of gems for the head of the famed creature who'd actually attempted to attack equestrian royalty. It seems he wasn't wrong about this being my toughest job." The panther woman just closed her eyes, lowering her head preparing herself for the end. "Please, be quick about it, that's all I know."

The baby draconequus blinked, looking down towards her before smiling, almost in amusement. "It's alright, you can go."

The panther woman's eyes snapped wide as she just looked up towards her in disbelief. "What?...."

The baby draconequus didn't say anything, she simply turned towards the dusty staircase, leading back up towards the upper level of wherever they were. She walked sluggishly, coughing into her paw some before grabbing a hold of the railing, as if tired, before recovering and looking back towards the assassin. "I'm not mad at you, I was just wondering if any of the equestrian ponies sent you. Thank you for cooperating though." She shrugged a little, before giving her a slight wave, "Well, see ya I guess...." She then began making her way up the steps.

Something struck from within the panther at that moment, her heart ached for the mysterious creature. Why was it that she'd been sent to kill this creature? Her whole life, every job seemed to add up, every story seemed to make sense. Either it was some scumbag, or some manipulative jerk, one way or another, she could find some sense of understanding in why she'd been sent, and how it'd come down to that fatal point in her target's life, but not with this one. And most importantly, before this, she'd never failed before. All she saw was a little girl, one who'd treated an attempt on her life like it was just another average day, one who looked sick, uncaring for her own life, and with a hint of sadness in her departure, and a deep sense of depression in her crimson eyes. Who was she, and why did she even feel compelled to know? "W-Wait!"

The baby draconequus stopped dead in her tracks as she'd already made it near the top of the staircase, reaching the door that lead out of this place. "Hm?" She looked wide eyed, curiously, down at the panther woman.

The panther woman stood to her feet before asking almost pleadingly, "W-What's your name little girl?"

The baby draconequus raised a brow at her before snickering a little, smiling with her eyes closed. "It's Eve, your's?"

The panther woman gulped a little, before nodding. "I-It's Prowl, Panthera Prowl...b-but most call me Prowl."

Eve nodded back to her, "It's nice to meet you Ms.Prowl....can't really say that I hope to see you around, but please try to get a new job. Hurting others for a living is not only dangerous, but too tragic as well, there are no happy endings in such a job." She chuckled before snapping her claws and revealing a stack of documents with the zebra emblem stamped into the corner. "Well, if you don't mind, I really gotta go now, just had to grab these. You know, I've been reading and there's actually potions that allows one to have temporary recovery from dementia, amazing isn't it? Zebras are so smart hmhm! Momma would've loved this." She then placed a claw on her lower lip glancing up, "Wait, Momma probably already knows this, she is a teacher, eh." She shrugged before waving at Ms.Prowl and making her way through the doors. "Bye again Ms.Prowl! Hope you find something new to do with your time!"

And Ms.Prowl found herself just looked up towards that open doorway for some time in silence. "Something new huh?...."

As Ms.Prowl drifted back to the present, she still stood in anger, looking down towards the baby draconequus, unable to hold herself back. "I noticed it even back then, that although you wore such a kind mask, possessed such a sweet heart, you were still in pain, still feeling that you owe somebody something, even going so far as to risk your own life doing whatever it is that you're STILL doing. What is it you're preparing for!? Why can't you just go out there and-"

Eve snapped, "I CAN'T MS.PROWL!!! I won't lose anypony else, I just can't. Okay?"

Ms.Prowl's eyes saddened as she leaned forward a little, "Anypony else?"

Eve looked shocked, as her eyes were wide as she'd realized she actually spoke out, revealing the feelings she'd managed to keep sheltered for so long. She quickly recovered however, her trembling dying down as she just exhaled before speaking in a calm tone once again. "I'm already taking too much of a risk just by being here Ms.Prowl, going out there would only put all of you in danger, so please, trust that I know what I'm doing."

Ms.Prowl looked at Eve, speechless herself for a moment before looking angry once more and shaking her head. "No, I can't trust you Eve!" She disregarded her title purposely, as if making a statement. "You think you can carry all these burdens, that you can just hide them away and continue doing whatever it is that you're so dedicated to! But the fact of the matter is, you're still just a little girl!" Her expression worsened tremendously, "Have you ever had a birthday? Have you ever had a slumber party with friends? Have you ever went on a field trip with classmates!? I've seen many things, but I've never seen a kid who feels the need to punish herself with obviously overwhelming responsibilities! You're tired, trying to use all these amazing powers of your's to create all this, and I just don't get it!" She paused before snapping back, "And it breaks my heart! Why do you feel the need to do all these things!? Who is it that's making you feel that it's your....your duty to go about living your life this way, just tell me where they are and I'll-"

Eve's voice shook, as she spoke hesitantly. "Nopony is making me do anything Ms.Prowl!....I'm...I'm doing it myself alright. I've done really dumb things. I had a chance to live normally and I threw it away! Now all that I have left is this, all that there's left to do is this." She glared down at her flipped letter. "There is nothing else, not anymore, that's just the way it is." She scooted back from her seat before turning towards the window, and flapping her wings, trembling. "I'm, I'm going to go out now, so please, just remember the stuff I told you about r-ruling and everything..." And with a mighty push, she flapped towards that window and phased through it, escaping the castle.

Ms.Prowl called out to her in a desperation, "E-Eve wait!.....Ugh! Can't she just listen to an adult for once in her life!? Why's she so stubborn!?...." She then sighed heavily before turning back towards the door, and making her way out Eve's private chambers, slamming the door shut behind her as she did so.

Eve had only continued to fly, feeling ashamed she was just ignoring this argument as best she could. She zipped through the clouds, over the vast landscape of the island, making her way further and further from the kingdom she now possessed. She wiped her tears away, as she came to a large open green pasture, an area of privacy she'd often escaped to in times she wanted to be alone. While flying she could see the many races that now trekked across her crafted lands, settlements they'd created, openly without worries, and it brought a smile to her face. As much as she wanted to take responsibility and watch over them, to let them know she'd do whatever she could to help protect them and ensure nopony had to go through the limitations she had to back on Equestria.

But she knew she couldn't.

She wouldn't risk it, badluck followed her and she had to stay dedicated to the idea of why she'd created this island in the first place. Not so she could rule and be a wannabe princess, so she could manage to create a home for creatures such as herself, a place where all sorts of creatures could gather and feel satisfied. But she also forgot, none of them were draconequus either. Was her dream an impossible one? For draconequus were feared everywhere not for their hideous looks, but their powers in general. Would any society allow such creatures to walk amongst them openly?

Would any parents allow their children play around with a full grown dragon? Eve just didn't know anymore, and felt herself losing her drive and conviction, and she'd rather leave before she let any of that happen. It was nearing the time for her to go either way, she couldn't allow herself to be convinced all of this was for nothing, she'd done her best, and she wouldn't risk it for her own selfish desires. Draconequus were different, she was a different breed of monster. She'd grown to accept that by this point in her life, she did her best.

Stop running. Nightmare Moon stated.

And almost immediately Eve responded by stopping, she was breathing heavily, her paw and claw clenched tightly as she'd gritted her teeth in frustration. She didn't know what to say, how to feel, as she flapped her wings and lowered herself onto the open green fields, she stomped one of her feet, stating back, "I'm trying my best okay!"

Nightmare Moon from within her realm remained silent as she kept her head lowered, she was looking up towards the view of Eve's world with a bored look as she just laid on the black floor with one hoof crossed over the other.

Eve continued, "I'm doing my best to protect everypony! I'm doing all that I can to pay for what I've done, isn't that enough!? Doesn't she understand that this is the way it has to be!? Doesn't she understand that by doing those things, that I'd be putting their lives in danger, everypony who now lives here in danger!? I wish things were different but they just can't be, I can't let go of what I did...I just can't." She lowered her head, whimpering, "Why does it all have to be so hard.."

Nightmare Moon replied curtly, closing her eyes, "You can't expect to go around showing kindness to others, and then expect them to just sit back and watch you torture yourself, stupid little girl."

Eve snapped at the mare, "I never asked them to grow attached to me!"

Her eyes widened as she'd looked ashamed by her own words.

How could she say such a thing? She wasn't ungrateful for their presence here, she loved each and every one of them, they gave her acceptance and kindness, and she could only wish she'd found them sooner before everything had gotten so bad, but now it was too late, everything was too late. "I just, wish they,...I don't know...I just don't know what to do anymore, I don't know what I'd do if anything happened." She teared up slightly, looking up towards the stars, praying for a shooting star like the night she'd spent with Cheerilee, even now, she still resorted to wishful thinking. "I make too many wishes. You're right, I'm just a stupid little girl, with stupid dreams."

Nightmare Moon sighed before shaking her head, "You weren't built for this type of lifestyle." And for once, she actually found herself speaking with a hint of sincerity in her voice, pity, and she was disgusted by it, but being forced to live through this little creature's world, was all that she knew for now. "You need to listen to what I tell you and stop being an absolute moron, forget about all this stupidity involving whatever convictions you feel you have. Children listen to their elders for a reason, and believe me when I tell you, you are no leader. You were never meant to bare such responsibilities, and to be honest, watching you try is getting quite irritating to say the least."

The baby draconequus shook her head, "You and I both know, the ponies will never forgive me for what I did..."

Nightmare Moon scoffed, "Hah, after what you did? They don't have to forgive you, but I doubt they'd humiliate themselves a second time. They have no choice but to forget!"

Eve replied curtly, "Twilight Sparkle would never forget."

Nightmare Moon fell silent for the moment, looking a little annoyed by those words, and especially that name.

Eve sat, looking off towards the distant sunset, wrapping her arms around her knees. "What makes a monster, Ms.Moon"

Nightmare Moon replied swiftly, almost as if she knew her answer was definite. "Certainly not you."

Those words actually brought a slight smile to the baby draconequus's face, as she remained silent for a moment before just burying her head in her knees. "Thanks..."

And Nightmare Moon found herself smirking, before rolling her eyes. "Hah, as if I need thanks for pointing out the obvious, don't insult me little girl." Then closing them, unable to erase that smile from her face.

She felt surprised, she didn't want to either.

Meanwhile in Canterlot, the five prestigous figures were gathered around a large banquet table in a private room. There was a looming silence between them as they'd all just sat there, staring at one another. Princess Celestia however wore a smile as she just continued to look towards Havoc, finally deciding to break the silence herself. "So, shall we cease the quiet game and finally discuss the matter at hoof everypony?"

Havoc with his arms cross gave a simple nod, before shrugging. "Well, for starters Celestia, my partner and I are having a bit of trouble piecing this all together." He raised a brow, "The issue is that we've heard there's been a child who not only managed to infiltrate your kingdom, but defeat all of you single-handedly and escape. And as you can imagine, we're finding that a little hard to believe, so care to explain a little about that."

Princess Celestia's expression sunk as she levitated a steaming cup of coffee, sipping from it. Probably due to the fact she wasn't used to staying up this late at night, but before they all retreated to their quarters, this was certainly an issue they needed to discuss with one another, at least a little before tomorrow.

Princess Luna nudged her sister worriedly, "Dearest sister, please, go rest. I can cover for you here."

Princess Celestia shook her head. "Absolutely not Luna, as you know..." Her brows furrowed "There are some details of the occurrence that only I can describe." She looked back to Havoc and Rift who sat at opposite sides of the table. "May I ask you, what is it that the draconequus council plans to have done with the child?"

This caused Rift to glare momentarily at the alicorn Princess.

Havoc raised a gauntlet before Rift, then looking to Princess Celestia and Luna. "We've been tasked with just assisting you in her apprehension, her punishment is left entirely up to you."

Princess Celestia spoke questionably, "I..I see. Well then, let's go onto the matter of what we're dealing with here then, so you two have some idea." Princess Celestia flicked her hoof, as suddenly appearing over her would be what appeared to be a faint shimmering magical index, which when opened, showed pages of equestrian criminals. The index appeared before her as well as if it were a book, and she just flipped through the pages using her telekinesis, as all eyes were fastened on the one overhead. They all didn't fail to notice some familiar faces, such as Chrysalis and Sombra, Sombra whose portrait had been crossed out with a thick red X. They'd obviously been redirected to the banishment section of the log. And to one's dismay, there'd even been unfamiliar faces in this log, but those faces weren't important at the moment, for she'd finally reached the one everypony was waiting for. She stopped on a perfect image of the baby draconequus. "Eve..."

This caused both Havoc and Rift's eyes to widen at the sight of it, she was just a child!?

Rift scowled at the picture, her pride feeling utterly crushed by the fact a mere child had earned such an infamous yet prestigious reputation, was she really that dangerous to have deserved such a spot in the criminal index. Could this baby, this supposed trash, really accomplish the impossible?

Havoc could only stare in disbelief for some time as he'd looked to Discord. "D-Discord! You can't be serious, this child before us was the one who'd bested you?" He stood to his feet, "I refuse to accept it!"

Discord cackled a bit, leaning back in his chair before snapping his claw, "Sit down you whiner! The discussion isn't over yet is it? Yea yea yea, gotta give the kid some credit, she was smarter than we thought! But there's more to this one than meets the eye, and as we all know, nopony's invincible. We just ran into some complications during her, development."

Rift's eyes now widened as she burst to her feet, raising her voice for the first time since she'd arrived. "Development!?"

Princess Celestia's brow furrowed as she'd interrupted. "Yes, you see, what this girl has become, the blame cannot be solely placed on her, I had my role to play in it as well." She looked back to Havoc before lowering her head with a saddened expression, "As you may recall Havoc, we've learned by now many draconequus children require to be molded, guided, in order to prevent their emotions from rampantly spiraling out of control. They are bombs waiting to set off. This task usually should not be so difficult for one with my experience, for the most part, most draconequus youth do not possess the mindset to be able to guide themselves. I'm not sure how you manage to deal with them over in your nation, but over here, as you can imagine, I have taken precautions to educate my subjects in the matter of how dangerous they can be. When I'd heard that a draconequus child managed to find herself drifting through my lands, I trusted my student in dealing with the situation, which yielded unexpected results to say the least. Afterwords I became personally involved in the matter myself, where to my surprise I found that I wasn't dealing with a simple draconequus. Her sense of morale was strong, and she was quite talented for one her age, even going so far as to reject open acceptance to stay true to her beliefs." Princess Celestia paused, followed by a sigh, "Either way, due to the circumstances of her situation and out of her own sheer desperation, she managed to discover her aspect."

Rift snarled, "What!?"

Havoc raised his gauntlet again before shaking his head, "Impossible, hahaha." He looked back up towards the portrait of Eve from the log book, but squinting a little. "So you're saying that whatever her representation is, it was effective enough to defeat all of you? The draconequus council couldn't even accomplish such a thing most likely. So what're you suggesting?"

Discord then cut in, his tone now serious as he seemed contemplative. "That whatever it is we're dealing with her ladies and gents, is something which has obviously never been seen before."

Havoc went into an immediate outburst, as he stood, slamming a clenched fist on the table. "I'm tired of your nonsense Discord! You and I both know that the imagination is a double edged sword! There's always a flaw in every form of magic, especially in chaos, I don't care what you say about this girl, the way you all are talking about her suggests otherwise!"

Discord replied in a humored tone, "It's been months since we've seen the condition she's in, calm down. Jeez, all you uptight individuals in here is really ruining the mood!"

Rift, still obviously upset based on her demeanor crossed her arms. "What's her style?"

Discord snickered as he cocked his head, and scratched his cheek a little. "Not sure if you wanna know."

Rift's nose wrinkled in annoyance, not amused. "What's, her, style?"

Discord shrugged, closing his eyes. "Well, if you really wanna know..." He snapped his claws, manifesting a piece of chocolate before smirking, "It's candy."

Rift now slammed her paw and claw on the table angrily much like Havoc, "DO YOU TAKE US FOR FOOLS!?"

Princess Celestia arose as she raised a hoof, "Please please, calm down everypony, we're all a little taken back by this entire situation." She sighed, "Alright, it's obviously quite late as is, let is return to our quarters for now, we'll continue further discussion on this matter tomorrow when we're all a bit more rest-"

"Excuse me, Princess Luna." A deep male voice cut in by the entrance of the banquet room.

Princess Luna turned at this moment to catch sight of a violet guard decked in gorgeous plate armor. "Captain Noteworthy? I thought I told you that this was a private mee-"

The Captain revealed as one known commonly as Noteworthy, bowed his head in an apologetic fashion. "Forgive me, but I couldn't deny Princess Twilight entry into these quarters, you yourselves stated she had just as much authority as you."

Princess Celestia's eyes widened, "Twilight?"

"PRINCESS CELESTIA!" And not a moment after, Twilight Sparkle made her way into the banquet room. Although she was alone, and Rainbow was nowhere to be seen, not that any of them knew she'd been with her anyway. Twilight just made her way further into the room, not failing to notice Discord, as well as Princess Luna. She took a moment to take everything in, as she just glanced around the room, her pupil's dilating in horror and realization over the topic that was obviously being discussed. Over Princess Celestia was what appeared to be a magical hologram or flickering image of the draconequus criminal, and the fact her face wasn't covered with the thick red X which marked Sombra's portrait only angered her more. So she was right in coming here, seeing that they were still discussing the situation.

Princess Celestia backed away from the table before attempting to hurry over to Twilight. "T-Twilight, I thought I told you that you needed to stay home and recover, what're you doing here?"

Twilight shook her head as she just continued further into the room. "Princess Celestia, I feel I have just as much responsibility to help deal with this situation if not more, you all don't need to treat me like such a-" Twilight's brows raised as she'd caught sight of the two draconequus sitting at the table as well, as they'd only eyed her back curiously.

Havoc raised a brow at the violet alicorn, "So this is Princess Twilight eh? What happened to your face?"

Twilight snarled, as she'd glared at Princess Celestia, "P-Princess Celestia! Who're these draconequus!?" As her confusion only continued to rise, the last thing she needed right now was new draconequus faces to add more to her stress. But she also attempted to keep an open mind, if Princess Celestia had them here, it must've meant something. Plus, they weren't Eve, Eve was the one she wanted, not these two noponies.

Princess Celestia was a little caught off by Havoc's words, just staring at Twilight's face which'd been bruised and bloody in some areas, she shook her head as she knew for Twilight in particular, this would've looked quite bad. "Twilight, please, calm down, these two are friends. They are representatives of the draconequus nation who've come to provide aid in dealing with the Eve situation, hopefully without anymore violence. And what did happen to your face?"

Twilight's nose wrinkled as she looked to the two representatives suspiciously, "Mind telling us what a draconequus like Eve was doing in Equestria anyway!? How did she manage to even get here, obviously it wasn't Discord, so what're you two, her real parents or something? As Princess I demand an explanation, and to know your involvement in this-"

Princess Celestia aghast, stomped a hoof in protest. "Twilight! That's enough!" Her eyes saddened as she'd looked the mare up and down. "You're obviously not feeling well, please, you've been far too obsessive with this entire situation, and you need to rest, and time to recover. I worry about you my student, you may be a Princess but you've still got a lot to learn when it comes to being a ruler, I know you care for your subjects and worry for their safety, but you need to consider what's best for yourself as well." She paused, hesitantly speaking, "There is also quite a bit you don't know about the situation Twilight, please, your place isn't here, it's with your friends. Just look at you, what's happened these last few hours?"

Twilight looked back to the Princess shocked, as she shook her head while having it lowered it. "B-But Princess Celestia, all I want to do is help! Why should I have to stay in Ponyville and live a carefree life while you and Princess Luna are stuck dealing with,....with all of this!? I won't just leave this all to you, you said that we'd learn from one another didn't you? Then stay true to your word and allow me to help you capture that murdering-"

Princess Celestia cut her off again, "Twilight." She nudged her head towards a door to the left, "I want you to go get some rest, we'll talk about this later, this meeting is about to end anyhow. Obviously you are fairly passionate about this, and I can't expect you to listen to me it seems. If you truly want to play a part in this matter then you leave me little choice, I only hope you're prepared to see the world in a different light my student." Her eyes saddened as she'd sighed, not wanting to deal with the eager alicorn at this time, "Now go, please, just do this one thing for the moment and go clean yourself up, now's not the time to be having this discussion."

Twilight looked speechless, before angrily turning and stomping away, going through the door, slamming it shut behind her.

Princess Celestia just closed her eyes, shaking her head and placing a hoof over her face. "Oh Twilight.." This whole mess with Eve and the attack on Canterlot had obviously been getting to her more than she expected. Princess Celestia had never seen her student act in such a manner, and hopefully, this whole mess wasn't risking her connection to the elements. Twilight wasn't the one to hold such a personal vendetta, but this whole situation had already rapidly spiraled out of control, and the drawback was much greater than any of them ever expected.

Thankfully Twilight shouldn't have been as affected however, although she'd seen those horrible things, she hadn't seen everything. But still, did Princess Celestia have a right to keep Twilight out of this entire matter, Twilight did have a right as a Princess, especially being born in Canterlot, to be equally involved in such political matters. Well this was almost far too much to take in for Princess Celestia as well, she just huffed before looking back to the others, "You must forgive me you all, we'll need to put this off for now, as you can imagine, a lot of us are still a little on edge about the whole situation."

Rift didn't complain, she actually looked as if she'd wanted to leave as she just stood from her chair, making way for the same door as Twilight Sparkle.

Princess Luna raised a hoof, "Two of my guards will escort you to your quarters my lady."

Rift nodded to Princess Luna plainly, "Thank you." And with that, she left the meeting room, saying nothing more.

Havoc sighed, while sluggishly raising himself from his seat as well. "Alright, even though we just got here, I admit we came at an unexpected time. Guess we'll continue this later then."

Princess Celestia nodded, "Thank you Havoc, we're sorry for the inconvenience, but, we'll have more to discuss at a later time. For now, rest would do us all good, and I must have a word with that student of mine."

Havoc just nodded as he made way for the door, but was suddenly blocked as Discord reappeared in front of him.

Havoc raised a brow, looking fairly annoyed, "What do you want Discord?"

Discord snickered as he wrapped his arm around the fellow draconequus, whispering in his ear. "Aw come on now, don't be like that Havoc! You and I, we've got a lot of catchin up to do! Heh, come on, let ol'Discord get an ear in on the whole draconequus council's business, I'll tell you all about Eris!"

Havoc's eyes widened as he turned light red for a moment, gritting his teeth. "Shut it..." And Havoc, doing the best he could to just ignore the fellow draconequus's presence, made his way outside the room as Discord only continued to pester and follow him.

Discord glanced back at Princess Celestia and Luna for a moment before sneering and winking.

Princess Celestia flashed him a nod, as the two left the room.

Princess Luna sighed heavily as she shook her head. "It seems we'll have a lot to contend with in future days sister, I thought you wanted to leave this Eve alone, she certainly seems like she's far more trouble than she's worth."

Princess Celestia replied in suit, "I wish we could simply let this all slip away dear sister, the last thing I wanted was to involve the draconequus nation themselves. But things like this aren't easily forgotten, and word spreads fast apparently, our subjects are worried, ponies are questioning our ability to keep them safe, one way or another they require closure from all of this, and we must provide it." She glanced to the lower right, "And I can't deny, I wouldn't mind another chance to speak with that little draconequus in the future. Everything with due time it seems." She fell silent for a moment, before looking back to Luna. "Also sister, if I may, what of Herald's progress?"

Princess Luna's eyes widened before she recovered and nodded to her sister, now dwelling on the answer to her question. "Ah yes, I believe they had news of a possible location sister, an island located far off the coast of Horseshoe Bay, although I have yet to question them why they believe this information to be reliable, and what land they speak of."

Princess Celestia peered down at her sister curiously before they both made their way for the door as well. "An island hm? I have heard rumors of a strange new land in recent times, have you been able to locate her through her dreams sister?"

Princess Luna shook her head as she'd made her way through the door. "Sadly not, it's almost as if she no longer dreams, as if something or somepony is blocking me out."

Princess Celestia raised a brow, "Blocking you out?"

Princess Luna nodded in disappointment, "Yes...."

Princess Celestia's expression sunk as she sighed heavily, "Things only continue to become more complicated, but everything shall fall into place with progress sister, we just must be patient, we can make this work, together."

Meanwhile in another part of the castle, a high ranking official of the Lunar Guard, as well as a disguised bat pony, or more specifically, a changeling known only as Silver Shade, had her own insidious business to attend to. Her quarters were locked, as she stood towards the back of the room, looking only into a tall standing mirror. She wore a serious expression as if preparing to keep her baring for another high ranking official she knew. She took in a deep breath, before tapping the mirror's glass with a raised hoof, and soon her reflection began to shimmer and distort into something else entirely.

Appearing within the mirror would be none other than the queen of changelings, Queen Chrysalis.

The Queen sneered at her loyal subject, before getting straight to the point of this discussion. "Silver Shade, a pleasure to see you're still active, Luna really is quite careless to overlook you so easily."

Silver Shade smirked, "Dedication and rank-building has its perks my Queen, your praise pleases me."

Queen Chrysalis snickered as she began trotting back and forth in her own quarters, back at the grand hive where all the changelings resided. "As it should my loyal subject, now tell me, what of the child? Have you gotten word on her location yet? My patience wears thin, and I have no doubt those meddlesome ponies won't cease in their own pursuit."

Silver Shade nodded contently, "Of course my Queen, although Twilight Sparkle has been put on a leash by Princess Celestia as of now, her sole priority is to recover rather than focus on apprehending the draconequus child. The situation as it is now, leaves the kingdom, and Equestria as a whole, quite vulnerable to attack. Mainly due to the fact that their greatest weapons are now wrapped in bandages. Two of the six elements are worse for wear, and new faces are appearing left and right in Equestria, the ponies live in fear of another attack, and the Princesses are doing all that they can to keep the peace, and the level of panic to a minimum."

Queen Chrysalis smiled, "I see, then everything is heading in a fairly positive direction." She snickered looking up towards the ceiling of her quarters, licking her lips. "How does it feel Celestia, to be backed into a corner as all the pressure weighs you down? How does it feel to struggle for the care of your subjects? You've sat on your comfy throne for far too long, it's time you learned what it's like outside the comfort of your or certainty. Can't say I won't enjoy this." She smirked.

Silver Shade, pleased to see her Queens satisfaction, only continued. "And regarding the creature's location my Queen, Herald has been assigned along with support from Magistrum to search far and wide for any hints to the whereabouts of the mysterious child, rumor has it she has taken shelter in a new kingdom further southwest from the shores of Equestria. But they are only rumors, for the ruling body there is a Panthera Queen, although sightings of her have been reported, by ponies no less, if we're to start somewhere, there would be our best bet."

Queen Chrysalis paced back and forth, "Excellent, what better than to have the infamous monster of Equestria on our side as we take over, I have many ways of convincing her to join our cause, all we must do is find her, and you are doing an excellent job at that. This is something I may have to become intimately involved in soon as well."

Silver Shade's expression sunk worriedly, "If I may my Queen, are you still certain that this plan of your's will still work, I worry for you. This creature, by your recollection of the situation, was quite powerful, please be careful."

Queen Chrysalis smirked, "Have faith Silver Shade, all forms of magic have a weakness, and children are what they are, children. She's already trapped, we've just got to make her fully aware of how trapped she is." She cackled wildly, eagerly and trembling in her own anxiousness. "So many things to do, so little time, best to get this out of the way however." She turned, glancing back towards a levitating black tome over a stone pillar. "And plenty of new faces, to join us along the way indeed." And from the tome, tired red eyes stared right back at her.

It was the dead of night in Candyland, and as Eve walked along a beaten dirt path, straight out of the Candy Cane forests, she looked towards the high stone walls of her fortified island. She had her hood raised of course, it'd become habit, and although it was her island she couldn't walk openly amongst her own any longer, whether it was out of her own fear or paranoia she wasn't certain, but she was always cautious, and she always felt somepony may be watching. She couldn't risk their safety, everything was perfect here, her time creating such a place was coming to an end, but, there were things she had to check up on first. She looked up, eyeing two arguing figures in particular.

They both wore similar uniforms, wearing what appeared to be kimonos. One of them was a tusked fox-like creature, her fur white like snow and orange like that of the sunset skies. She had a large curved sword attached to her backside as she was pointing a sharp finger at the second individual.

He bore the appearance of a humanoid komodo dragon, standing upright much like Ms.Prowl and Mr.Talon, he had the face of the fierce lizard, as well as the slithery tongue. But he bore a large, thick, scaly physique, as well as the large meaty tail which slithered from side to side, thumping every and then absently. Whatever they were arguing about must've been quite important, for them not to take notice of their own duties, for Eve could've been anypony, even one who meant to do them harm.

Eve only smiled however, "Mr.Komo, Ms.Tusk...."

They seem to be in high spirits, strange creatures those two. Although everything you adopt is quite strange. Added in Nightmare Moon in a bored manner.

The komodo dragon creature, Mr.Komo, hissed as he pointed his claw at the tusked fox. "No! I take the Night Shift alone! I'm tired of you trying to take all the glory from me, night is what I'm most adapted to anyway, you'd just get in my way! Go back to the castle this instant Tusk, I have no time for your games!"

Ms.Tusk snarled, placing her curled paws on her hips. "Why you selfish slimy goon! I'm going to stand here all night and there's nothing you can do to stop me! My people are indebted to the lady, and we will show her just how grateful we are for taking us in, and there's nothing you can say or do to change that! You wanna be a greedy little lizard? That's your problem! But don't think your selfish thinking is going to get in the way of my duty! We may serve under the banners of Prowl, but never forget, our loyalties always lie with our promise to the lady, we will protect this home she's created."

Mr.Komo shook his head as he hissed once again, "Tch! Fine! Do what you will, blasted fox. The lady should've just left you in the desert where the griffons could pick you off."

Ms.Tusk gasped as she'd raised a paw, slapping the komodo dragon across the face. "You scum komo! Now that's too far, say something like that again and I'll take that sickening tongue of yours as a trophy!"

Suddenly landing between them would be a small cowled figure.

The two of them gasped in unison with instant recognition, "M-My lady!"

Eve took a look around, as the guards were all stationed quite far apart, it was good Komo and Tusk often chose to argue in private about these matters, and it was quite humorous to Eve how they always liked to argue in the same place during the night shift. She preferred if they didn't stay out here almost 24/7, but, she had little control over their own convictions, like they over her's. She glanced up at them with a soft smile, "Why must you two always fight?"

Ms.Tusk bowed almost immediately, "Forgive us my lady! W-We were foolish."

Eve's eyes saddened as she shook her head, "Please don't talk to me like that Ms.Tusk, or you Mr.Komo, neither of you owe me anything. I'm just happy this place was able to be of use to you. Hopefully it stays this way."

Mr.Komo smiled as he nodded to her, "Of course my lady, you showed us this beautiful land, and we will do all that we can to protect it. You don't have to worry about anything we've got guards setup on almost every corner of the island, we're establishing identification and security measures, and with Mr.Talon and Ms.Prowl constantly on the job, Candyland may become an official spot on the world atlas someday."

Ms.Tusk raised herself before nodding to Mr.Komo, the two of them actually agreeing upon something. "Hah, that wouldn't be a surprise, most definitely." She looked down to the baby draconequus with a smirk, "With everything we've accomplished here my lady, this land will be put to good use, and we'll ensure that everyone is welcome, as long as were certain they plan to do no harm to the inhabitants of the island. The midland scouts are also doing fairly well of keeping the wildlife at bay, and even instilling in them the habit of staying clear of the civilized areas. My race is accustomed to such things, we'll have that mastered in no time."

Eve could only chuckle with a smile, closing her eyes. "That's so great to hear. I'm eager for the future." She looked off the wall, towards the distant, black, neverending tides of the inifinite sea. "It's quiet tonight, isn't it?"

Be careful not to let your guard down, as you said, they never forget hm?

Eve smiled, nodding to herself. I know, there is such thing as too much of heaven. It's...too bad.

Back in Canterlot, Havoc and Discord sat in seperate thrones in quite a roomy, and spacy, chamber. They both had their arms crossed as Havoc stared Discord down with a look of annoyance, while Discord only continued to smirk at him.

Havoc's features twisted into a scowl, "Now, what do you know about Eris that I already don't Discord?"

Discord manifested a table for them with two cups of tea, before levitating his own over to him. "Now now, there's no rush Havoc, let's take some time to catch up! You still haven't answered all my questions either. Trust me, I'd rather be playing games with Night Owl rather than partying with you, you're just too uptight with me!"

Havoc scowled before looking away for a moment, then glaring back at the draconequus. "Tch! Fine, what is it you want to know Discord? But make it quick, not like anything I tell you will make any difference. Not much has changed since our retreat, we've just setup shop in a place far away from all these troublesome races. You certainly haven't changed, even after being defeated and imprisoned in stone for centuries, you're still just as annoying. Manage to make a friend yet?"

Discord smirked, sipping on his cup before sneering with interest. "Let's start with your friend. She's a new face, meaning she's fairly young to be on the council." He now looked quite serious, as he spoke in a cold tone. "Who is she, and what is her representation?....."

This question actually brought a smile to Havoc's face as he snickered a bit, looking highly amused, before cocking his head to the left. "Rift was a genius from birth, her talents exceeded that of most draconequus, it was no trouble for her to rise to earn her place amongst the council. If you recall, Rave's baby sister, she was no more than an infant at the time."

Discord's eyes widened as he raised a brow. "That little squirt?..."

Havoc grinned, "And as for her representation."

Rift was standing with her arms spread out in her chamber as she'd looked highly concentrated with her eyes closed. Surrounding the female draconequus was a multitude of tiny black portals, small representations of the infinite void which she'd manipulated at her will, the darkness that was her home. Her chamber room was black, and as she willed it with a slight twitch of her claw, within each portal, appeared an ominous purple eye, as her own eyes snapped wide.

It's fear.

"Where are you hiding,.....little genius?" Next Chapter: Chapter 2: Perceptions Estimated time remaining: 5 Hours, 52 Minutes