Another Side of the Thousandth Year.

A MLP-Based mini-novel

A story created by Broken_Wagonwheel  (I prefer to stay anonymous)

Editing and formatting by: itsmatbeast

A special Thanks To:

redpandapaw

Reginault

DoctorPete

Mrwoo6

Guesty_

DaylightDarkle

Atheno23

And all the great Bronies out there.

Chapter One: Quite the world.

Equestria. Such a beautiful land, filled with magic and friendship under the two princesses Celestia and Luna. These two have always watched over the land, regulating the sun and moon, creating a beautiful world for all ponies to revel in, making sure we are all taken care of. But I can whole-heartedly say, this is not the case. My home, the small town of Evenbrook, has been neglected by the mother of the sun. We have been told time and time again, that Celestia just doesn’t have the power to deliver us the sun we had wanted. I know they are lying. I have been to Canterlot, and the magic that radiates from its walls is simply astounding. She gladly keeps the sunlight from us, just to keep the royalty of Canterlot oh, so comfy. However, Luna, the royal sister of the night had not abandoned us. She shelters our village from the creatures of the night, and has allowed us to grow prosperous under the light of her moon. We have become adapted to the moons glow. Our crops feed off the moon, and our eyes emit light, allowing us to see clearly through the haze of night. Our manes are not colorful like the ponies of Canterlot. We have adapted to the colors of the night. It is these features that have made other ponies so wary of us. We have heard many ponies ask for us to segregate ourselves from the other parts of Equestria. We are monsters to them.  But Princess Luna fought for us. She protects our right to be part of the land of Equestria. As long as I will live, I shall follow the trail of Luna until my hooves keep me from walking. She has always protected us, and we will ALWAYS follow her.

-Midnight Tales.

Chapter Two: Confrontation.

“Midnight, Midnight, come on; are you even paying attention to me?” shouted Eclipse. Midnight rubbed the sand out of his eyes.

“Sorry sister, I’ve just been…a bit scatterbrained recently. So much has been happening.” Midnight explained. “The whole world is changing, practically falling apart, and I want to make sure my people are safe when it does.”

Eclipse gave Midnight a gentle nudge. “Come on, you’re starting to sound like Lunar Ring,” Eclipse said indignantly. “He may be one of Luna’s cousins, but I keep telling you, the darkness that took her over has spre…” Eclipse suddenly paused. “Look, I’m not insulting her, but, the princess has changed.”

Midnight rolled his eyes. “Sister, I know she’s changed, but as long as she cares about us, I will continue to turn her words to law,” explained Midnight. “Let’s talk about something else, I’ll be meeting the princess in a few hours, and everything will be laid out there.”

Eclipse thought for a moment. “Okay, well, what about the Summer Sun Celebration?”  A look of outrage had suddenly covered Midnight’s face.

“I thought I told you, the Princess declared that celebration forbidden! And, besides, what good is that day to us. More sun just means less crop growth.”

Eclipse frowned. “Brother, it is tradition, and as such, we should uphold it. We may be Luna’s children, but we are all also ponies. We must honor the traditions of our Elders!” exclaimed Eclipse.

“Brother, I know you just want what is best for all of us, but the closer you get to Nightmare Moon, the farther she tears you away from us.” Anger beg to flare within the eyes of Midnight Tales.

“Stop calling her that! She is no nightmare, she is our mother, and as all good foals, I do what my mother tells me! Now, if you don’t mind, I have to prepare for Luna’s arrival.” Exclaimed Midnight in the calmest voice he could. Midnight walked out of the room to tidy himself up. “Oh, brother, please don’t let that wicked mare claim your heart.” Eclipse whispered to herself.

An excerpt from the journal of Midnight Tales.

Many of my villagers believe that I hate Princess Celestia. Besides the fact that I was raised to never truly hate someone, that could not be any farther from the truth. It is not hate that fills my voice with satire whenever I refer to her. It is my distrust of her. She always promised us more magic and sunlight, so that Evenbrook would be like the rest of Equestria. But instead of magic, she simply forced her sister to take care of us. And for that, I am truly grateful of her, because I know my people would not have become so hardy if they had not been raised in the darkness of her sister. I would bet my left wing that we would not be so powerful if it wasn’t for the Princess Celestia.

-Midnight Tales.

Chapter Three: Nightmare’s Plan

“How do I look, do you think the princess will like the way I look, Glass-Eye?” asked Midnight, as he groomed himself in front of Glass-eye’s hollow eye.

“Don’t worry Midnight; you’ve been her second-in-command since you became Mayor. She wouldn’t mind if you’d just rolled out of bed and came to the meeting.” Midnight blushed at Glass Eye’s comment.

“Thanks, Glass Eye, you always know just what to say,” said Midnight.

“There,” grunted Glass Eye, “you look perfect, you really should go, the Princess won’t be very happy if you keep her waiting.”

Midnight gave him a nod. “You’re right; Wish me luck, I’ll be sure to brief the town with the Princesses’ news.”

Midnight began his trot to the fountain in the middle of the town to go speak with Nightmare Moon, but as he continued to walk, he noticed a lack of ponies. Usually at this time, most ponies would be out, socializing and playing, but yet the streets were empty.

As Midnight approached the princess, she shouted, “Get over here before I become impatient.”

 “Hail, Princess Luna, lord of the night and protector of the…”

Nightmare Moon cut Midnight off. “Stop with the formalities, we have much more important things to converse about,” yelled Nightmare Moon. “As you may know, three days from now shall be the Summer Sun Celebration. This is our perfect chance to strike!” explained the princess.

“To strike, my princess, what do you mean?” asked Midnight.

“Midnight Tales, listen, and listen well! I have a proposition for you. During the Summer Sun Celebration, the sun will be eclipsed by the moon; this is the point in time when my power is the greatest, while my sister is at her weakest.” Nightmare Moon continued, “I need you to take Princess Celestia’s power and bring it to me. With both the power of night and day, I will make the night last FOREVER!” The princess began to laugh hysterically, not letting Midnight Tales ask her more questions. Eventually she calmed down.

“Princess, this sounds interesting, but what are my people getting out of it?” asked Midnight.

Nightmare Moon grinned evilly “Well, my adorable little colt, I’m glad you mentioned that, I propose that in the world of Dark Equestria, The town of Evenbrook will become the capital. Canterlot will crumble from the power of my new kingdom. I shall finally be Queen of Equestria, and you, you will be the king of the Kingdom!” Cheered Nightmare Moon. “And as for your followers, they shall be Highborn, living the lives those spoiled ponies have now in the safe walls of Canterlot. So, what do you have to say, my little foal?” She proceeded to kiss Midnight on his forehead.

“I, uh, um, oh my, well... I have to go ask the council what they believe we should do. I will return with our reply, this is a lot to take in.” explained Midnight. “I shall bring you the answer before the break of dawn.”

A note from the diary of Midnight Tales

Today Mama and Papa took me to this big city. And when I say big, I mean really big. Bigger than the trees that surround Papa’s fields. The ponies here are so colorful; they were all shades of pink, green, and every other color of the Rainbow. They weren’t very nice to us; they called us unkempt and unclean. Tomorrow daddy is going to talk to the princesses, and I get to come! I can’t sleep; the bright lights are keeping me awake. The forest is so much darker than this.

Chapter Four: The council

A dim light shined through the main skylight in the courtroom, the room was empty, the candles flickered, and the floor creaked. One by one, seven ponies walked into the room, and took their spots on the round table. Everyone took their seats, and Midnight Tales began the meeting.

“Good evening, Ladies and Gentlecolts. You have all been brought here to make a decision that may very well change Evenbrook, and even all of Equestria. I have talked to the Princess, and she has told me, that she, with our help, will create a nighttime eternal over all of Equestria, and she will turn Evenbrook into the capital of a Dark Equestria. We will be the Highborn among the peasants that have so long oppressed us. We will prosper under her moon. But I need to know, what do you ponies believe?  We will go around the table, each pony states their opinion. Then you will vote yay or nay. Eclipse, you start.” Midnight gestured his right hoof towards Eclipse.

“Thank you, brother,” said Eclipse. “I vote nay, this seems too dangerous. You may very well succeed and have the eternal night you crave, but what if you fail? What would happen to you? To all of us? I will not allow you to risk your life chasing the tail of your princess.” She proceeded to gaze deep into her brother’s eyes.

 “Okay, so that is one vote yes, and one vote no.” stated Midnight. “Next, Mallum, what do you think?”

Mallum’s eyes flash with mischief. Mallum looked around for a moment. “What do I think?” asked Mallum “I think we should ransack Canterlot, capture Princess Celestia, and bring her to Midnight Moon. Then destroy all of those who oppressed us!” He began to violently bang his hooves against the table.

 “Calm down Mallum, life isn’t all about fighting. I’ll take that as a yay,” said Midnight. “Next, Dubitare, what should we do?”

Dubitare pondered for a moment “I believe the best route would be to do nothing. We live a fine enough life now. We don’t need eternal night; we just have to protect our princess. I vote Nay,” Stated Dubitare.  

“Okay, 2 yay 2 nay. Next, Quill Point, as our town’s greatest scholar, what do you think?”

Quill Point thought for a moment. “I shall say nay. You underestimate princess Celestia. You mock her, and her actions, but you forget, she is the most powerful pony in Equestria. How can you beat that with the power of the sun at her hooves?” said Quill Point.

“Thank you, Quill Point. Next, Glass Eye.”

Glass Eye smiled warmly at Midnight. “Yay, I agree with you, Midnight,” said Glass Eye.

“Fair enough,” said Midnight. “Well, it looks like you have the deciding vote, Lunar Ring.”

Lunar Ring coughed, and then began to speak.

 “I vote yay, my dear cousin Luna has never led me wrong before, she is as perfect as a pony gets. When you were elected, Midnight, you promised you would do as she commands. So, Midnight, have you gone back on your promise?” Lunar Ring began to stare deep into the eyes of Midnight tales.

“Then we are agreed, we shall fight for the ever-lasting night. Court adjourned; Luna will brief the town of her plan soon. Thank you all for coming on this wonderful evening.”

And with that, the ponies left, one by one, the court room emptied, and the shadows once again overtook the walls of the court.

A note from the diary of midnight tales.

Today, while daddy was speaking with the White Princess, the other princess, Princess Luna told me stories. Stories about Evenbrook, about my elders, and about when she was still a filly. She was so nice. Her mane sparkled like the stars in the sky, and her sweet voice wrapped around me like a blanket. What I wouldn’t do to talk to her again, but father insists on leaving as soon as night falls. I drew a picture of her, so I could always remember what she looks like.

Chapter Five: Preparation

The sun’s light began to break through the leaves as Midnight Tales approached the fountain in the main plaza. Rays of sunlight flashed into Midnight’s eyes, blinding him for a moment. He always cringed in bright light; Midnight didn’t like to admit it, but sometimes, he wished he could enjoy the sun. While approaching the center plaza, he sees Princess Luna shouting at a group of young ponies.

“How dare you insufferable little whelps calleth me a monster. Have ye no respect for the pony that brings you the night you spoiled foals live in. And you have the tenacity to walk up to the ‘monster’ ye fear so much. Thou shalt be punished!”

She proceeded to swing at the ponies, but Midnight quickly interjected, “Princess, what in the moon’s name are you doing?”

A sudden flash of shame rolled over the princess’s eyes, but she promptly shook it off, and went to talk with Midnight. The ponies ran for their lives. Did I cause that? Midnight thought to himself.

“Princess, we have come to a decision, we will help you defeat your sister. We have agreed that the risks are worth the possibility of a glorious Nighttime eternal. We are at your service. What shall we do for you?”

Nightmare Moon promptly dropped a staff, a map, and 4 golden amulets on the ground. Those amulets seem to be emitting light; they are most likely enchanted. And that staff. Why does it seem so familiar? Where have I seen it before? asked Midnight to himself. A crowd began to gather around the plaza. Ponies from every home had come to listen. The rumor of eternal night had spread through the neighborhood like wildfire. Nightmare Moon cleared her throat, and began to speak.

“Greetings, and good evening My Little Ponies of Darkness. As many of you have heard, we will be creating an eternal night, destroying Canterlot, and creating the capitol of dark Equestria HERE in Evenbrook. But for this mission, I will need four ponies. Three pegasi, and one unicorn.”

Immediately Midnight Tales stepped forward. “I shall.”

In response to this, Eclipse stepped forward “If my brother is going, I too shall.”  

Next, Glass Eye stepped forward. “I will fight to my very last day for Midnight. I am going.”

There is a moment of silence, broken by the question everyone was wondering; which unicorn will be coming along? The crowd talks amongst itself until one pony finally walked forward. Her mane was a wavy dark-brown, with an emerald gaze that could burn a hole through the sun. Her name was Silver Star. She had always been one of the quietest ponies in town. She much more preferred taking care of her botany, than taking part in a conversation.

“I…I want to help. My mother was one of Celestia’s servants. She always told me how much she hated it, how misused she felt. I…I feel it’s time that Celestia receives what is coming to her.”

With this, the crowd dispersed, and the four selected ponies marched to Nightmare Moon. In unison, they asked, “What can we do for you, mother of the night?”

Nightmare Moon grinned. “Well, I’m glad you all asked.” Nightmare Moon handed everypony one of the glowing amulets, then gave Midnight the Staff. “You will enter Canterlot as the four royal guards, there to escort Princess Celestia to the towns scattered through Equestria. I want you to do whatever thou must to get Celestia’s power, or more specifically, her cutie mark.”

Silver Star raised her hoof. “But princess, how would we take her cutie mark?” asked Silver Star.

Nightmare ponderes for a second, and then proceeds to whisper to Silver Star. “You will know when the moment is right. Now go, the Summer Sun Celebration is only two days away.

A note from the journal of Silver Star

Be careful when mixing dragon spine leaves with pulp from an Everdark flower. This will create an extremely potent paralysis potion. Even one drop could leave you immobilized for hours. The worst part: It tastes amazing. I hope I never have to brew the stuff again.

Chapter Six: Journey

Putting one hoof in front of the other, the four denizens of Evenbrook, disguised as royal guards, trekked through the land of Equestria. The journey to Canterlot was long and winding. The ponies would often stop, so Silver Star could collect a sample of herbs, or Midnight could write a note in his journal. From what the ponies knew, their plan was working.

While walking through the town of Detrot, many ponies came to greet and thank the four guards. It seemed that most ponies were falling for it. But would Celestia notice? That could sabotage the mission immediately. As their journey came to an end, the ponies found themselves in front of the pearly gates of Equestria, and just in time. The sun was beginning to set. They were all taken back, amazed by the sheer size of Canterlot. Even Midnight, who had already been to Canterlot, was taken aback. The four guards at the door instantly recognized the amulets, and opened the gate.

“We’re doing well so far; just don’t do anything that may raise suspicion,” whispered Midnight “We need to get to the hotel, fast, or they may notice our glowing eyes.”

 The four ponies hauled flank to The Battered Mule. Midnight sighed in relief; the lobby was very well lit. Almost immediately, a bard who had been strumming on his guitar walked up to the group, and began making small talk.

“You must be new, I’ve never seen you lot before. My name is Arpeggio Strings. You ponies seem very tired; anyone have a request, so I may soothe your weary souls?”

Eclipse’s eyes suddenly light up. “Do you know ‘The Moon Mother’s Lullaby? My mother always sang it to me and my brother when we were still foals.”

Arpeggio Strings cringed. “How long has it been since you have been to Canterlot? Princess Celestia has banned all music that involves her sister. The last thing we want would be an uprising.”

Midnight interjected into the conversation. “One thing’s for sure, we’re extremely tired. We have to haul Celestia’s carriage tomorrow. Trust me; it’s heavier than it looks. Maybe we’ll see you in the morning.” A look of sadness covered Arpeggio Strings face.

“Oh, okay. You know, I was really hoping we could do something together. I’ve been sitting in here for the last three days waiting for someone to show up. My mentor, Clover the Clever has been on leave. It’s been pretty boring recently.”

Silver Star nuzzled him softly. “Maybe tomorrow, you could show me the royal gardens. I’ve always wondered what kind of rare plants are held there.” With that, the four ponies walked up the stairs to their room, where the all collapsed on their beds. Eclipse asked her brother “Do you remember Luna’s lullaby?”

Midnight nodded. “Yes, of course, she sang it to me when I first came to Canterlot.” Eclipse smiled at her brother.

“Could you sing it for me, please?”

Midnight thought for a moment. “Only for you, sister.”

Oh, sleep little foal, on the nights cooling call. Let your head rest, you are safe. The Moon Mother protects this place. You are in her arms. Do not fear the night. Do not get a fright, for you are safe, under the shade. Luna is with you, so sleep, til’ the sun  rises again.

One by one, the ponies fall asleep, wondering what the next day will bring.

A letter from Midnight Tales to Princess Luna

Dear Princess Luna, I am Midnight Tales. Do you remember me? You took care of me when Princess Celestia and my papa, Blood Moon were talking about something. Could you please take a day out of your royal duties to come down to Evenbrook, and celebrate my 12th Birthday? Mama says that you would never come. But I believe in you, Luna. You coming to spend time with me is the only thing I really want for my birthday. Hugs and kisses.

-Midnight Tales

Chapter seven: Flight of a lifetime

A pattering of hooves awakened Midnight Tales.

“That may have been the worst night of sleep I’ve ever had.” He groaned to himself. He looked around the room, Eclipse was still much asleep. Somehow, Glass Eye had managed to fall out of bed and onto the floor. Midnight looked around and noticed that Silver Star was nowhere to be seen. Suddenly Silver Star burst into the room.

“Wake up, everypony. I made you all breakfast.”

Glass Eye slowly turned towards Silver Star. “You seem pretty perky for someone who’s used to sleeping through the day.”

 Silver Star shrugged. “I just remembered, I should brew a potion that may help us stop Celestia, and I felt it would only be kind to make you all something to start your day.”

Midnight looked questioningly at Silver Star. “Just what kind of potion is it?”

Silver Star giggled. “It’s a paralysis potion. Why did you think I picked up those plants on the way here, for my health?”

Glass Eye suddenly asked. “Just how potent is this potion, and how do you expect to get Celestia to drink it?” Silver Star smiled at Glass Eye.

“It’s a very potent potion that I discovered through my research. The funny thing about the potion is that it tastes delicious.”

Eclipse frowned. “That’s not funny, that’s downright horrifying. What kind of demon taught you to make that?”

A look of anger shot over Silver Star’s face. “Demons, really? I created this potion with experimentation. Keep your fairy tale creatures out of my methods.”

Glass Eye chuckled. “Looks like you hit a nerve.”

Midnight Tales drowsily looked towards the wall clock. “Oh, for Luna’s sake, look at the time, Celestia needs to give her speech in fifteen minutes. Everypony get dressed, eat on the way there. She’ll know something’s wrong when her most important guards aren’t there on time.”

The four ponies sped out of the Hotel, nearly trampling down a Unicorn entering the hotel. She began to pursuit the four Ponies.

“Wait, slow down, my legs aren’t as fast as they used to be.”

The four ponies shared a glance with each other, and continued to run towards the Canterlot Castle’s main balcony. With five minutes to spare, they made it to the top of the Speaking Tower. Celestia raised an eyebrow to them.

“It’s about time you showed up. I had to send Clover the Clever to hunt you lot down.” Midnight gave Celestia a confused look. Clover the… Oh, my!”

At that moment Clover the Clever came up the stairs, panting harder than the other ponies.

“I’ll have you know… I’ve been chasing you for the last ten minutes.” Clover’s eyes suddenly locked onto Midnight. “Where have I seen you before?” Beads of sweat began to well up on Midnight Tale’s forehead.

“Of course you’ve seen me before, I’ve been with the royal guards for years. I’m sure we’ve crossed paths before.” Clover looked deeply into Midnight’s eyes.

“No, there’s something special about you.”

Celestia interjected Clover and Midnight’s stare down, “It’s time to speak to the people, how about you four get into position.”

The four ponies encircled Celestia, and walked out into the fray. Sunlight beat down upon the four ponies. Below them, a massive crowd had gathered. The view from the top of the tower was amazing. You could see all across Equestira, and if felt as if Equestria herself could see you. Princess Celestia cleared her throat.

“Good day, citizens of Equestria, I have called you here today to warn you of the coming danger, creeping out from the night. As you may already know, two weeks ago, Luna fled Canterlot, and went into hiding inside the Everfree Forest. Until Nightmare Moon is captured or disposed of, I must increase regulation inside and outside of Canterlot. We now have a mandatory curfew, as soon as the sun has set. All citizens must stay in their homes until the sun rises. Also, we have cut off towns near the border of the Everfree Forest. We fear that Midnight Moon may recruit ponies that may have felt neglected under my rule. As such, we have barricaded the towns of Detrot, Nightsdale, Evenbrook, and Mt. Flame. We realize that these are extreme measures, but, as long as Nightmare Moon threatens my people, I will do all I can to keep the citizens of Canterlot safe!”

An uproar rose through the crowd, shaking the very foundation of the tower. Celestia Walked back into the tower. The four guards prepared their spots on the chariot. Midnight, Glass Eye, and Eclipse strapped themselves into their reigns. Silver Star took her spot in the passenger seat, and began preparing the cushions for Princess Celestia. Celestia promptly took her spot on the chariot.

“I’m ready. Our first location is in Fillydelphia. I’ve got a lot to do today; do you ponies think you have the power to make it across all of Equestria in a day?”

A grin sprouted over Midnight Tale’s face. “Oh, yes Princess, we’ll be sure to make this flight as fast as possible.”

With that, the three ponies took off at top speed, flying towards the bright sun of the morning.

From the Medical Record of Midnight Tales

Age: 27

Gender: Male

Occupation: Mayor of Evenbrook

Conditions: Suffers from PTSD, OCD, and Beserker’s Blood.

(Beserker’s Blood is a trait passed down from Tolofir the Mad. it is a condition triggered by an adrenaline rush, but instead of putting the body in a position of fight or flight, providing more power, while shutting down things, such as digestion, the inflicted goes mad with anger, all non-essential body functions shut down, the inflicted becomes fearless and ruthless. The inflicted will attack any target it can. After this adrenaline rush, the inflicted will often pass out, due to lack of energy and adrenaline.)

Chapter Eight: The Snap

“We’re about halfway to Fillydelphia!” shouted Midnight over the roar of the wind. Inside the chariot, Celestia and Silver Star had been making small talk. Silver Star began to stare at Celestia’s lips.

“Princess, are you dehydrated? You seem parched.”

Celestia smiled at Silver Star. “I’m very thirsty, why?” questioned Celestia.

Silver Star gave a happy smile. “I always pack refreshments with me, I was going to save my favorite juice for later, but I would be honored if you would drink it.”

Silver Star went through her satchel and pulled out a vial filled with a yellow liquid. The smell of lemons and strawberries radiated out from it.

“That smells delicious; I can’t wait to try some.”

Celestia took the vial from Silver Star, and downed all its contents in a matter of seconds. A look of horror spread across the face of Silver Star. One drop of the stuff had put Silver Star into full paralysis for four hours. That was one drop. Celestia had downed the whole bottle. The idea that Celestia may suffer from permanent paralysis may be quite plausible.

“That was absolutely delicious, what’s it called?”

Silver Star began to stumble on her words. “It…It’s called…Dragon…”

Midnight realized the plan was about to be compromised. He gave the group a signal, and the three pegasi took the cart into a tailspin headed straight for the ground. Silver Star bailed from the Carriage before impact, but Celestia wasn’t so fortunate. The beautiful carriage hit the ground, and smashed into pieces. Celestia hit the ground hard, a horrible thud resounded as she hit the dirt. Barley a second had passed and Midnight had already prepared the staff. He charged at Celestia with all his fury. Celestia hit Midnight in the face with her gilded hoof.  The hit had been meant to knock him back, but the sharp edge of Celestia’s shoe made horribly clean cut straight through the right eye of Midnight. Blood flew everywhere. Midnight was suddenly stung with pain. He felt his eye, and rage filled his veins.

“You rotten filthy whorse, I’ll slit your throat!” Midnight pulled a dagger out of his armor and charged towards Celestia. The paralysis potion, having finally taken affect, prevented Celestia from fighting back. Midnight sunk his dagger deep into the flank of Princess Celestia. He would have killed her, but Eclipse and Glass Eye retained him.

“Brother, you know if we kill her, our mission will be a failure. We’re doing this for your own good.”

Midnight began to cuss out every profanity he knew. Silver Star approached Celestia with the staff.

“I’m sorry,” She whispered.

The staff began to flicker, and with a bright burst, the cutie mark that had sat on Celestia’s flank for oh so long faded. Her flowing rainbow hair turned into a horrible pink mess. Blood seeped from the dagger wound. Celestia was still fully conscious, but the potion kept her from moving. After a while, Midnight had calmed down.

“How’s my eye, Silver Star?” He opened his eye, to display to Silver Star the shreds of eye that were left. Silver Star shrieked in horror.

“I’m sorry, Midnight, but you’ll never see out of it again. Nothing short of the magic of Starswirl the Bearded could fix that.” Silver Star began to bandage the eye. When she was complete the ponies began their trek back to Evenbrook, leaving Celestia’s body quivering in the sodden earth.

Chapter Nine: Sicarius

Water dripped through the cracks in the path of Canterlot, on to the head of Sicarius. He hated the sewers, hated every part of it. But one of his accomplices told him to meet him in the sewer. Something about a high-priority target. Sicarius was hoping it was high priority, because the water had begun to make his cloak soggy.

“Thieves are meant to hit and run, not sneak around some filthy sewer.”

Sicarius approached a diamond shaped slab of stone in the middle of the tunnel. Suddenly another pony began to move out of the shadows.

“It’s about time you showed up. Sicarius, I’ve been waiting so long for you to finally show up.”

Sicarius smirked. “So, Russ Tik, what’s this high priority target you kept going on about? Just how much should I expect from it?”

Absolute joy shot over Russ Tik’s Face. “How about anything Nightmare Moon or the Canterlot government has?”

Sicarius gave Russ Tik a confused look. “Are you being serious? C’mon, spill the beans, if this could be the last mission I go on, well there would be nothing wrong with that. I’m getting too old for this.”

Russ Tik cleared his throat. “Well, word from Evenbrook has spread like wildfire. Apparently a group of ponies are planning to take down Celestia and take her power, with a staff, to be specific.”

Sicarius turned his head at Russ Tik. “And, so where does this lead to profit?”

Russ Tik trembled with excitement. “If the staff has the power of Celestia contained within it, either side will pay top dollar for it. You’re wasting time, go, go and get the staff.

Sicarius nodded, he spread out his wings and burst out of the manhole above. Wings spread from tip to tip; Sicarius flew through the air at top speed, watching the sky and the ground for any sign of Celestia’s carriage. In the flash of an eye, Sicarius caught sight of the Chariot, smashed into the ground. Sicarius began to circle the site as he considered the situation.

“Four ponies, one has the staff, the other two are lying on the ground, trying to subdue the fourth one.”

Sicarius took his chance, and dived, full speed, directly for Silver Star.  

From the journal of Midnight Tales

Father had me enrolled into the College of Royal Guards. It’s a school where they teach you how to fight, and how to protect your loved ones. Things are very boring here in Canterlot, and Luna is always so busy. I bet my sister is frolicking in the darkness of the woods right now. I’ve been busy modifying my armor recently, I know I’m not supposed to, but I feel a hidden dagger could be very useful in a combat situation. Speaking of daggers, the top student will receive one of two daggers. The Dagger of Burning Light and the Dagger of Chilling Darkness. I don’t have much to do here in Canterlot, so I may as well walk out with one of those daggers. Maybe I can get some bits for one of them.

-Midnight Tales

Chapter Ten: Connection

Out of the corner of her eye, Silver Star swore she had seen a hawk circling. The others shook it off as nothing. Suddenly, from out of the blue, Sicarius lunged out of the air and pulled the staff straight out of Silver Star’s hoof. Sicarius attempted to speed away, but Midnight, still on an adrenaline high, managed to catch up to Sicarius in seconds. However, with all the exertion on his body, and the lack of blood inside him, he collapsed mid-flight. Out like a candle in the breeze. Midnight ungracefully hit the ground and rolled, and Sicarius sped away. The other three approached Midnight’s crash spot. “What are we supposed to do?” questioned Glass Eye, “That rat stole our staff!” A look of horror spread over Eclipse’s face. “Nightmare Moon would be furious if we came back empty handed. We need to bring Celestia to Evenbrook.” The group assembled, putting Midnight’s unconscious body over Glass Eye’s back. Silver Star mounted Eclipse, and dragged Celestia’s still very conscious body using magic. The lot traveled as fast as they could to get back to Evenbrook.

Midnight Tales’ Section 8 Discharge.

Infantry member no. 1246 (Midnight Tales) has been discharged from the royal guard as of January 17th.

Reason for discharge: Attempted Murder. (On January 16th, Corporal Midnight Tales attempted to slit the throat of his sparring partner Left Hook. This sparring match led to Left Hook drawing blood with a very bad punch. Midnight Tales proceeded to rip a dagger out from his training uniform, and attacked Left Hook. Midnight was apprehended and captured by four guards. Princess Celestia has deemed Midnight Tales unfit for combat, and has banned his residence in Canterlot.

Chapter Eleven: Heed

A relentless mist surrounded Midnight, the haze of the earth felt much like the haze of his mind. With a furious beating of wings, Midnight cleared the fog that had been surrounding him. He was standing in front of the reflecting pool.

The reflecting pool? Where am I? I thought I was just in Canterlot.

Midnight peered into the water to see his own reflection. Moonlight radiated from the water. The sight of him was quite a shock. His eye was very much destroyed, and a brooding scar laid across his face.

Oh, now I remember. That stupid mare slashed my eye open. And…and then there was something else. An eagle or something.

Midnight noticed that a pony was walking towards him. It was Luna, but not as Midnight had ever seen. She was much smaller, much younger. She walked towards the pool of water, completely oblivious to Midnight. She began to stare at her own reflection. A single tear rolled down her cheek.

“Run, they said, run to safety. Sister, did you run too?”

Her question was answered by the quietness surrounding the forest. Suddenly, a young Celestia walked out of the brush. She looked towards Luna, and began to tear up.

“She didn’t make it, sister.” A horrible shriek exploded out of Luna.  During a moment of silence, Luna suddenly made eye contact with Midnight. “Run. Run. Run,” she began to skip like a record player, “Run. Run. Run.”

Suddenly, a crack began to form in the lake.

A crack? In the water? 

The crack began to grow, spreading out from the lake onto the shore. All around him, the world began to shatter and break apart. Suddenly, a creature with horrible green skin, a tethered fedora and one glowing eye appeared from the center of the crack. He stared into Midnight’s good eye for a good three seconds, and then shrieked, “RUN!” Everything shattered, and fell into a deep dark abyss. Then Midnight tales regained consciousness.

A note from the journal of Midnight Tales

Mother and Father have been missing for three days now. Today, Glass Eye found the shredded remains of my mother’s necklace lying in a pool of blood. He said it was timber wolves that got them. I can’t believe that for a moment. This was Celestia’s doing. She murdered my parents. A vendetta for what I did at the royal palace. I realize cursing out the Princess of the Sun and spitting on her damn polished mane was an irrational and impulsive action. She’ll come for my sister next. Eclipse says I’ve become paranoid. I say she’s not paranoid enough. I am not a leader, but Celestia has forced me to take the reins of Evenbrook. I hope that damn sun burns out. If I could have only one wish, it would be her head on a pike. That Whorse has put me through a living Hell, and I can’t wait to repay the favor to her.

Chapter twelve: The Crack.

Midnight began to rise out of the dirt. Everything hurt. There were scratches all over his mane. One of his wings was broken. Blood dripped from his bad eye. His spine felt shattered. When Midnight first attempted to stand up, pain shot through his legs, and brought him back down. Midnight had only felt this horrible once before. Then again, what’s worse than seeing the shreds of the two people who raised you? Midnight attempted to stand up again. This time, he slowly got back up onto his hooves. With a determined spirit, Midnight attempted to walk, but as soon as his hoof touched the ground, a jolt of pain shot up his spine.

“What’s happening…to me?” cried Midnight. Suddenly, his head began to pound, a feeling of his mind tearing open spread. Quietly, a voice whispered to him, Turn around. Rather than turning, the injured Midnight Stallion flopped around and hit the ground. As his head once again hit the soot, he found himself staring directly at Princess Celestia. He would not have recognized her; she was a worse mess than he was. But Midnight could never forget those eyes. A gleeful smile sprouted over Midnight’s face.

“Well, looks like we’re both over our heads here.” Once again, Midnight’s head began to pound, and the voice spoke again.

“Midnight Tales, listen and listen well. If you don’t get me the antidote, and help me stop my sister, I will see to it that your town and your people will suffer for eternity.” Celestia closed her eyes.

Midnight was in shock and outrage over this new development. The spark inside him lit once again. “How dare you command me to do your filthy bidding, and threating my people? I was right all along. You’ve always been manipulative, cruel, and apparently underestimating.”

Midnight reached for his dagger, and began to approach Celestia. However, his insanity suddenly flared up, and he dropped the dagger. Midnight began to laugh hysterically.

“I don’t have to kill you. It would be much more fun to see Luna do that. Oh, the land will feed on your blood for years. Ehehe. Oh, my, I should be getting to the town square. You know what’s REALLY funny? Our town square is round! Such a contradiction! Just like YOU!”

Midnight began to walk away, but something pulled on his tail. He looked down to see that it was Celestia who had tugged on his tail. She said nothing, but her eyes spoke a thousand words. Tears suddenly began to roll down Midnight’s eyes. He couldn’t take it. He ran, a tuft of his tail getting ripped off in Celestia’s mouth. He was going to go to finish the job.

“Luna would never lead me wrong, would she?”

A decree from Mayor Midnight Tales

I, Midnight Tales, decree that all worship of the Princess named Celestia be banned inside the walls of Evenbrook. We shall be removing all literature related to Celestia, as well as her shrine. They will be transferred to Fillydelphia, and reset. Any ponies may leave with this caravan, should they decide to worship Celestia over Luna. You will be fairly paid from your home. Any pony that is caught of treason past this date will be exiled from Evenbrook, without compensation. Thank you, and praise the moon mother!

Chapter Thirteen: the Stone Pony.

The sun was beginning to set; the shadows of the trees were bent into horrific shapes. The horizon radiated with a burning orange sunset. Midnight had been limping to the town square for about five minutes, when two ponies saw him. They rushed to Midnight’s sides, and began to hold him up.

“Midnight Tales! Is that you? You look like you were chewed up by a dragon.”

Midnight laughed weakly. “Well, I could never abandon my people.”

The trio of ponies had finally made it to the center of the square.

Nightmare Moon beckoned for him. “Get thine ragged mane over here!” Midnight continued to the center, where he saw the princess sitting next to a white Pegasus, clinging to his staff.

“Princess, this is the thief; he attacked us, and took the staff.”

Nightmare Moon smiled. “Yes he is, and he brought me the staff. You should learn to hold your tongue, Midnight. You shouldn’t be so rude to your king.”

Sicarius giggled. “Yes, peasant, how does it feel? Your kingdom taken from under your feet.”

Nightmare Moon looked somewhat playfully at Midnight. “Don’t you worry, I’ve saved a very special spot for you, Midnight.” She began to giggle. “You will get the honor of being my personal servant. Doesn’t that sound just lovely? You get the honor of taking care of your princess, keeping her pampered.”

 Midnight did the best he could to hide his disappointment. “Yes princess, that sounds…wonderful.”

 At this point in time, the eclipse began. The moon raised itself in front of the moon. Nightmare Moon’s armor began to twinkle with raw power. Suddenly, six spheres began to swirl around the sun, creating a rainbow veil. A few seconds passed, and the spheres subsided. Luna turned towards Sicarius.

“Give me your hoof, so I may dub thee the King of Dark Equestria!”

Sicarius complied, and stretched his hoof out. Nightmare Moon wrapped her arm around his. Suddenly, a gray shade began to rise up Sicarius’ arm. It began to spread, incasing him in stone. Nightmare Moon was sealing him into a statue. Sicarius began to scream and squirm as his body solidified. One last horrible shriek escaped out of his mouth before it sealed shut.

“I’ve always hated you filthy thieves.” Nightmare moon brought her hooves down onto the statue, smashing it into a thousand pieces. Nightmare Moon turned her head to face Midnight Moon. “Do you really think that I would let him be my king?” She picked the staff up out of the rubble. “Come on, Midnight Tales, we must begin the ritual.”

Suddenly, the sun began to twinkle. A beam of light shot down from the sun, destroying the town fountain. The burst sent Nightmare Moon reeling backwards. Midnight could smell burning wood behind him. He turned to see what the cause was.

Celestia was walking towards him. She was covered in a glistening golden armor, and her hooves burned with fire. Her elegant flowing mane had turned into a raging inferno. The crowd began to scatter and hide. Nightmare Moon walked up to Celestia.

“Looks like we can finish this, once and for all.” With that, the two mares charged at each other.

Chapter fourteen: Night and Day

The first impact was devastating. Rubble flew everywhere, ponies were scattered and thrown like branches. The sheer force of the collision managed to topple the trees and homes surrounding the town square. The two princesses rose into the sky, creating a horrible distortion of night and day. The sky filled with turmoil as lightning shot from cloud to cloud, and rays of intense sunlight fell to earth, setting more woodland into inferno.

At first, it seemed as if Nightmare moon was winning, knocking Celestia to the ground multiple times. After getting hit very hard, Celestia seemed to fade from reality. For a second, Midnight Tales thought that Nightmare Moon had won. Suddenly, Celestia came out of nowhere, and set Nightmare Moon ablaze. The princess looked different. Her armor had become more jagged. One detail on Celestia made Midnight’s heart drop.

“Her cutie mark! She got it back?”

It turned out that Celestia had paused time for long enough to get her staff back. Celestia crashed into Nightmare Moon which created a horrible wave of fire that spread over all over Equestia. The burst had set Midnight’s hat on fire. He attempted to put it out, but the fire had spread to fast. It was lost to him.

Back in the sky, the battle still raged, but the sides had seemed to be shifted. Celestia was landing hit after hit on Nightmare Moon. Nightmare Moon screamed to the people below.

“Give me your power, I cannot stop her on my own!”

Every pony in town complied. A dark mist arose from every pony, feeding Nightmare Moon’s power. Midnight Began to feel weak and lightheaded. Commonplace for a power transfer spell. Soon, though, his muscles began to ache, his body began to pound, and all around him, a screaming of ponies rose from the earth.

“She’s not borrowing our power, She’s draining it!”

The pain had become so intense that Midnight doubled over. Midnight tried to scream, but all that came out was a horrible gurgling. His very conciseness was beginning to slip away. Midnight uttered one final word.

“Why?”

Chapter fifteen: Veil of Death

Midnight opened his eyes. He was surrounded by darkness. Literal blackness was the only thing he could see. The depth of the place seemed to stretch to infinity.

“Depth? I thought I lost my depth perception when I lost my eye.”

Horror filled Midnight Tales. His eye was back. Did that mean what he thought it meant? Was he dead? Footsteps echoed behind him. He turned, expecting to meet Death face-to-face, but instead, it was Luna staring at him. For the first time in such a long time, Midnight gave an honest smile. Then realization struck him again.

“Princess, are we dead? Did we lose the battle?”

Luna frowned at Midnight. “No, we are not dead. We now stand in the threshold, the place between life and death.”

Midnight began to ponder. “I know why I’m here, but why are you?”

A shock of realization spread over Luna. “You mean you didn’t know that Nightmare Moon and I are separate entities? She is a parasite that took over my body. She forced me here.”

Midnight began to pace back and forth. “So, dearest princess…”

Luna put her hoof over his mouth. A tear began to roll down her eye. “Just call me Luna. Here we are equals.”

Midnight nodded. “Luna, how do I get back to the realm of the living, and, more importantly, how can I get you back to reality?”

Tears began to fall from Luna’s eyes. She tried to calm herself, and then began to talk. “That…that is why I have come to see you. You have two choices. You can venture to the realm of the dead, or you may return to reality. I must warn you though, what you will face in Evenbrook will be more horrible than your mind can comprehend. Things will never be the same.”

Midnight began to ponder over his options.  Certainty began to fill him. “I will return to the realm of the living, if you promise me one thing.”

Luna was now bawling, tears falling as a torrent into the abyss below them. “Anything…”

Midnight had now started to cry as well. “If you ever come back…to the realm of the living…I want you to find me…and accept me…no matter what happens.”

Luna smiled, and nodded. Luna touched her horn to midnight’s forehead. A white light began to wash over his eyes…the soothing warmth of the void faded, and pain once again wracked over Midnight.

He was home.

Chapter Sixteen: Judgement

The battle was over. Nightmare’s crippled body lay at the feet of Celestia. Nightmare Moon was begging Celestia for forgiveness. He could see flames burning in the eyes of Princess Celestia. Midnight knew this may be his only chance to get a few brownie points from Celestia.

“Waste her, Celestia, she is a monster, and must be stopped.”

Celestia turned towards Midnight, unmistakable surprise was the only facial expression that she gave. She turned back to Nightmare Moon. With an amazing glittering, the very stars fell from the heavens, and incased Nightmare Moon. The stars went back to the moon, and created the impression of Nightmare Moon into its surface.

Midnight would have loved to get up, but he was trapped under a piece of rubble. Celestia dragged him out, and dropped Midnight roughly on the ground. The look she gave him was unmistakable. Complete anger.

“Look what you’ve done, you filthy, little worm! I warned you, I gave you a chance, but you followed my sister instead. Now what do you have? Nightmare Moon killed everyone in the town for their power. Everyone except you. Apparently even parasites can fall in love.”

This was news to Midnight. He began having a panic attack. “No…No.No.NO! Why! Luna, why! This isn’t happening. This is just a dream!”

Celestia slapped Midnight across the face, sending blood and teeth flying in all directions.

“I’ve had enough of you! I could just kill you now, but that would be the easy way out. No, I have something very special for you.”

Energy began to build up on Celesita’s horn. Midnight did not brace himself for the impact. He understood.

“I…I’m sorry. Do with me what you will. I have nothing left to lose. I have no fear.”

The light from Celestia burst over Midnight. He began to change. His natural white skin turned into a horrible green, hairless mess. His flowing black mane turned into a mess of grayed tufts of fur. His teeth rotted from his mouth. His hooves began to form cracks, and his good eye turned into a horrible yellow sphere. Celestia grabbed him by the neck, and threw him into the forest. Midnight attempted to follow her, but when his skin touched the sunlight, he began to burn.

“Get away from me, you rotten colt.”

Celestia flew away, leaving Midnight in the woods. Midnight noticed his fedora was still lying on the ground where he had dropped it. It was burned, but, at least he could still wear it. Tears began to roll down his face, as he walked.

“At least I still have you.”

Midnight walked to the reflecting pool, when a shock of realization filled him. Looking back at him was the same creature that had come to him in his dream. Midnight could only say one thing.

“Run.”

Epilogue: The Promise

For a thousand years Midnight Tales lived in the forest of Everfree. Waiting for the day Luna would come back to him. Every night he would sing her lullaby. Every night he would look into the reflecting pool, hoping to see his Princess. He never forgot what happened. He created a grave, and buried every pony he ever held dear to him. Some days he wished that he would have died that fateful day, so he may be free of his burden. But Luna kept him waiting. To see her face again would make all of his suffering disappear. But as time went on, he began to devolve. He forgot how to write, how to speak, he forgot his name, his people, and the sun. The only thing he remembered was to stare into the reflecting pool.

One thousand years later, Luna came back, to fulfill her promise. She and two other ponies, Celestia, and the master herbalist Ms. Pots walked through the forest, hunting for Midnight Tales. The four traveled in silence, until Celestia finally spoke the question on everybody’s mind.

“Where could he be?” Luna looked onto the horizon, looking for an answer. Suddenly, it struck her. “The Reflecting Pool. Every night he would stare into it. That is where we’ll find him.”

Ms. Pots was becoming more curious. “So, why did you two want me to bring the Firesap potion and just who is this Midnight Tales?”

Luna smiled warmly. “He’s…an old friend, and he needs our help.”

The three ponies stopped. They were here. But where was Midnight? Luna began to yell his name, but there was no response. Luna walked to the reflecting pool, and began to look deep into its depths.

Suddenly, a horrible figure reflected off the other side of the pool. It was Midnight Tales. Luna cheered and began to walk towards him. But instead of embracing her, Midnight Tales let out a horrible hiss and began to back away. Luna frowned at him.

“Do you not remember me, friend?”

Midnight looked at her, and then back at the reflecting pool. He began to cringe, attempting to remember something. After a good few minutes of thinking, Midnight began to approach Luna. For the first time in a thousand year, he spoke again.

“L-Luna?”

Luna grabbed his tattered body, and began to hug it.

“Oh, yes Midnight, you do remember me.”

Her warm embrace was so inviting that it caused Midnight to fall asleep in her arms. Her warm body gave him the heat he for so long had not had.

“Ms. Pots, could I please have the potion?”

Ms. Pots handed Luna the potion. Luna opened Midnight’s withered mouth, and she poured the potion down his throat. He began to change. His skin turned back into its beautiful white form. His mane regrew, the grey faded, and it was replaced with a black darker than the midnight sky. His eyes healed, the scar disappeared. The potion was reversing time for Midnight. He had gotten what he always wanted: a second chance. Luna tucked the now foal version of Midnight under her wings.

Celestia frowned at Luna. “He’s going to figure out what happed. You can’t hide the past from him.”

Luna nodded. “I know, but sister, you must remember that it was not hate that drove him. It was love. He is no monster. He is my child, and as all good mothers, I will take care of him, and make sure that he is raised properly.”

 A letter From Princess Celestia to Twilight Sparkle

I am very sad to hear about spike, but it’s just something all dragons have to go through. He can’t stay a baby forever. But you and Rarity gave him the best childhood a dragon could ask for. As for a new assistant, Luna’s son, Midnight Tales is reaching the age where he could be an apprentice. He loves to read and write. I feel like he would be the perfect new assistant.

-Your faithful mentor: Princess Celestia.