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Rising Above All

by Emperial Star

Chapter 7: Darkening Skies

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“How wonderful of you to drop in like this, auntie,” Blueblood drawled, startling Luna. “To what do I owe this visit and at this hour?”

Blueblood's room was an absolute beauty. It was decorated with all sorts of wooden and metal furniture, complete with well-furnished chairs and a delightful looking king-sized bed. To a corner near the door, Blueblood sat silently, adjusting his features in a mirror.

“Nephew.” Luna began cautiously, calming down and slowly turning around to find Blueblood sitting on a golden pillow, staring at his reflection in a large mirror. “We need to talk.”

“Could it not wait until morning?” he asked, still failing to meet her eyes.

“No, it could not.” Luna stated.

Blueblood sighed, rolling his eyes in agitation “Have you and auntie Celestia finally decided to ascend me?”

Luna grit her teeth, trying hard to swallow the burning ball of anger that formed in her body before replying. “You have been told time and time again that it does not work that way. It is the creator alone that can grant such power. My sister and I can only guide the chosen to the ethereal realm.”

“The creator didn't think twice before ascending Cadance though, did she?” he answered coldly, “Am I not royal enough to join your ranks?!”

“Cadance used her talent for a greater good, which prompted this change. I am sure you are aware of the story.” Luna shot back. “You also know very well this has nothing to do with titles.”

“I see.” he replied simply, using his brilliant blue aura to fix his bow tie. “Anyhow, I must take my leave now, I have business to attend to.”

“What businesses do you refer to? And where is your wife?” Luna asked, narrowing her eyes in suspicion.

Blueblood took a minute to chuckle at his aunt’s agitated look through the mirror before replying. “My wife is in Prance with her brother and his wife, whom just gave birth to their foal.”

“The King of Prance finally has an heir.” Luna muttered to herself. “Which means you and your wife are further away from the Prench throne.” She continued, a smile appearing on her face.

“Who needs Prance when I have Maretonia?” he shot back. “My power is there and once I have it, Fleur and I will be even greater.”

“I'm sorry, but that will not come to pass Blueblood.” Luna stated coyly, shaking her head. “You have already sabotaged and exploited the ponies of Canterlot before even trying to obtain Maretonia. Why would my sister and I agree to let you inherit a province?”

BlueBlood spun around as soon as the words left Luna’s mouth, sending her a deadly look. “You wouldn't dare! You have no right!”

“Oh, but I do!” Luna challenged, flaring her wings. “I am your princess, the co-ruler of all of Equestria! I will withhold your inheritance until you change!”

“You can't do this to me! I am the direct descendant of Prince Blueblood the 1st and Platinum Cinch! Maretonia is mine!” BlueBlood shot back. “Surely aunt Celestia will not agree to this!”

“It is done and I am sure my sister will share my decision on this.” Luna replied, a cold glare on her face. “Abacus Cinch fell into darkness and hurt Maretonia years ago and I will not allow you to do the same.” she added, turning to leave. “Change your ways child, or else.”

Blueblood, boiled with anger upon hearing Luna’s remark, pounced the moment she turned her back. He charged his horn, aiming at the night princess. As the sound of sparking magic could be heard, Luna quickly spun around, stepping out of the way of the blast that then collided with the wall. He gulped, realizing what he had just done. “I didn't mean-” he managed before being silenced by Luna, her magic sealing his mouth.

“THOU WOULD DARE ATTACK ME, THY PRINCESS?!” she bellowed in her Canterlot voice, striking the shivering Blueblood across his nuzzle, sending him flying across the floor. “Challenge me again boy, and I will not be so soft. Oh, and from now on, you will be court martialed.” she spat before exiting the room, leaving Blueblood in a pool of blood and tears.

________________________________

Blueblood wept over and over again that night until he finally curled up into a ball, falling asleep. He never would have thought that things would fall so much out of place. Surely, he used his title and privilege to have his way with ponies beneath him, but wasn't that what all royals do? As he laid there in the long night, he drifted into a dreamless sleep, broken and humiliated for his actions.

“Blueblood…..” a raspy voice called from the vast darkness.

“Go away Luna, your message has been received. Now leave me be.” he spat to the voice.

“I am not Luna, nor any pony you've come across.” the voice replied. “But I am something that can help you.”

“Huh? Then who are you?” Blueblood asked curiously, forgetting his troubles.

“That is not of importance right now, the real question is what troubles you this night.” the voice replied cooly.

Blueblood didn't press any further as memories of his run-in with his aunt came soaring back. “I have lost it all.” he replied sadly. “My aunts have taken everything from me. Everything that I deserve to have, they have taken from me.”

“I can relate to what you are feeling, child.” the voice said. “My own sister did the very same thing, imprisoning me for thousands of years.”

“That is somewhat harsh.” Blueblood remarked, trying to see whom he was conversing with. “Say, why can I not see you? Where are you?”

“You waste your time, colt.” The voice began. “I am trapped in the Dreamscape. Thus, I am one with the darkness.”

“Bummer.” Blueblood muttered. “Sorry to hear that.”

“You and I both. But enough about me, I am here to help you.”

“How so?” Blueblood asked skeptically. “What do you mean? Didn’t you say you’re trapped?”

“I am trapped in this state with no connection to the outside world. I need a pony or most notably, a stallion to reside in.”

“You mean me, don't you?” Blueblood gasped, instantly realizing the situation.

“You seek a power that your aunts refuse to give, to become an alicorn. Am I wrong?” the voice pressed.

“But they said it cannot be done, only by the creator Goddess herself.” Blueblood replied confused.

“They lied…..” the voice blew in his ears. “They don't want you as their equal.”

“No! You're wrong! I'm a prince!” he shot back. “I'm their equal!”

“Then why would your so called aunt hurt you this way? Humiliating you and leaving you to wallow in your pity?” the voice asked, chuckling.

“I...” Blueblood tried to counter, but failed. Hanging his head low, he sighed. “You're right. I was never their equal. I was always their inferior.”

“Then join me. Let me make you strong, so you can rival the sisters and take what is rightfully yours.” The voice cooed.

“And what's in it for you?” Blueblood asked, suspicious of this easy deal. “It's obvious you're not just doing this for you.”

“So feisty!” the voice chuckled. “My only condition is that you let me guide you to power.”

“Well then, I can work with that.” Blueblood muttered as he remembered he now had nothing to lose.

“Is that a deal?”

“Yes, it is.” Blueblood answered, a devious smile coming into play. “But you still haven't given me your name.”

“Good.” the voice chuckled as his victory over the stallion had been established. “You can call me Blackhole Heart. Now, for starters, do I have your permission to enter your thoughts?”

“Yes. I give permission.”

“Very well.” Valdes said, crossing over into Blueblood’s thoughts. All around the world, the night skies darkened as the dark creature made his way from the dreamlands. “You've failed yet again sister, trapping me in the Dreamscape only enhanced my plans.” He laughed as he went into his target’s thoughts. “Now Blueblood, the first order of business is to leave for Prance and have your brother-in-law onboard with your plans. The sisters will know what has happened so we must move quickly.”

“But how do I get there? I don't have wings and I can't teleport that far.” Blueblood replied as what he considered to be an impossible command.

“You've got magic on your side now, Blueblood. Now awaken, we must leave at once!”

_____________________________________

The Crystal Empire...

“A very long time ago, the world laid in a vast darkness.” Shining Armor explained to her daughter. “But within that inky blackness, there flickered a small and barely noticeable glimmer of light. Edenia. She was a being of immense power, and she used her magic to create our universe we know as Edenia.”

“Wow. That's interesting Dad, but what does that have to do with the lights?” Flurry Heart asked as she pointed to the sky.

Shining Armor chuckled at his daughter’s impatience “Calm down, sweetie. I thought I'd let you know the full story.”

“Oh.” Flurry smiled sheepishly. “In that case, continue.”

“Now, Edenia felt lonely. She had used her magic to create a new galaxy, filled with beautiful stars and planets. That was when she made the ultimate sacrifice.” Shining said, glancing at his smiling wife. “She created Equus.”

Flurry Heart furrowed her eyes in confusion. “What was so hard about creating Equus?”

It was her mother that spoke up next, “She gave birth to life and death before breathing life into Equus.” Cadance said, nuzzling her cheek.

“Life and death?” Flurry muttered to herself, cocking her head. “How can a pony give birth to life and death?”

“Well remember Flurry, Edenia was not a pony, she was just a being that had a longing for life.” Shining Armor answered as he also nuzzled his daughter. “And life and death were just a description of her two children. The children she gave birth to were the very first of the alicorn race, Laufaustia and Valdes Cortes.”

“You mean Laufaustia is real?” Flurry Heart gasped in surprise. “I thought she was a myth, and who is Valdes Cortes?”

“Slow down darling.” Cadance said, shuffling to be more comfortable. “One question at a time. The oldest books in Equestrian lore points to Laufaustia being real. As for Valdes Cortes, he is her opposite…..the God of death and destruction.”

“So that would mean Laufaustia is the Goddess of life? Am I correct?”

“You're correct Flurry.” her father replied with a nod. “Now, Equus as we know it had seas, continents, trees, and all forms of plant life, but there were no inhabitants to partake in all of this.”

“That was why the two, Laufaustia and Valdes, existed. They would take on the mantel as creator and taker.” Cadance added. “The pair would control the universe as it's Gods.”

“I never knew this.” Flurry Heart replied, her mouth slightly agape.

“Trust me, there is more.” Shining answered. “Laufaustia created all creatures, from ponies to ants. Ponies however, were created in their images and would rule over the lands. Valdes on the other hoof was the God of death, thus it was his duty to call home all creatures at the end of their lives.”

“No wonder ponies are the dominant species.” Flurry replied at the newfound knowledge.

“Yes.” Cadance began. “Laufaustia created a home in the heavens, while her brother created Tartarus. The heavens, known as the ethereal realms, were created for creatures that lived a peaceful life while Tartarus was a place created to torment evil creatures.”

“The world as we know it was slowly coming together and soon after this, Laufaustia left Equus, permanently residing in the heavens while her brother did the same in Tartarus.” Cadance chimed in. “They worked in perfect sync, but there was something missing.”

“What was that?” Flurry asked excitedly, longing for more knowledge. “What happens next?”

“Leadership.” Shining Armor stated simply. “Equus lacked proper leadership, thus Laufaustia came up with an idea after years of watching from afar.”

“What did she do?” Flurry Heart quired.

“She went behind her brother's back and created six alicorns. They would come to be known as the regal six.” Cadance replied. “The regal six were powerful in their own rights and they were blessed with special talents too.”

“What kind of talents?” Flurry asked, cocking her head.

“Special talents like we now possess, and they were the first to bear cutie marks. If I remember clearly, their names were Aurora, Cosmos, Natura, Crystaal, Protéger and Sagesse. Aurora was the alicorn of magic. Cosmos was the alicorn of the sun, moon and stars. Natura was the alicorn of nature. Crystaal was the alicorn of emotions. Protéger was the alicorn of protection and Sagesse, the alicorn of wisdom.” Shining Armor finished.

“Although they were created equally, Aurora was their leader and soon Equus entered a golden age of development. Less and less creatures died of plagues and creatures became more knowledgeable.” Cadance said, pausing to glance at her daughter who laid quietly at her side, drinking up their every word. “Before long, Valdes Cortes caught wind of what Laufaustia had done. Angered, he took to the heavens to lash out at his sister for what she had done. Laufaustia however, ignored his pleas so she could warn the regal six.”

“What happened to Valdes?” Flurry asked. “And what reason did Laufaustia give for siding with her creations?”

“She told him that it was time for a change.” Shining Armor began. “This of course, caused Valdes to become very angry. He left, vowing to have his revenge.” Shining answered.

“I'm confused.” Flurry stated. “Why is Valdes so against the creatures being revolutionised?”

Cadance let out a small sigh before continuing. “Valdes gains power from the souls he reaps. If the creatures of the world don't die, he'll just become weaker and weaker until he becomes a mortal pony.”

“Yes, it's true.” Shining added, nodding his head in agreement. “The years went on and all life seemed to continue as before. Aurora had become queen with her fellow alicorns as her high lords of the land. She established peace, love and unity over all her domain. Loved by all the mortal ponies, she reigned for hundreds of years. That is, until she met a unicorn colt named Gallant Glory.”

“What happened then?” Flurry Heart asked, suspicious of where this was going.

“They fell in love.” Cadance answered smiling. “They even married each other. But everypony knows what happens when a mortal marries an immortal.” Cadance finished, hanging her head.

“Did Gallant Glory die?” Flurry asked, becoming saddened herself. “Is this what will happen to dad?”

Shining Armor nuzzled his filly, resulting in her being stuck in the middle of her parents. “It will never come to pass, Flurry Heart.” Shining Armor replied. “Your mother and I are immortalized by our love.”

“Gross.” Flurry Heart muttered, cringing at her parents affection. “What happened to Gallant Glory then?”

Cadance continued the story after chuckling at the look on her daughter's face. “Gallant Glory was aging quite fast and Aurora was preparing for the worst. That is, until she and her fellow alicorns devised a plan to grant immortality.”

“The plan worked after months of preparing a specific spell.” Shining added. “But then Aurora had another idea. A plan to immortalize Equus itself. Of course, Valdes Cortes wouldn't stand for this and he once again took to the heavens to warn his sister about the events transpiring on Equus.”

“But of course, Laufaustia turned a blind eye again.” Cadance said. “Valdes lost it this time, and attacked Equus, aiming to destroy everything.”

“Why did she not listen to him though? Did she not know that he'd lose his immortality if she gave Aurora permission to do that?” the young alicorn pressed, confused.

“Well, we aren't clear as to why she did.” Shining replied, furrowing his brows. “All we know is that Tartarus broke loose on Equus. Tartarus was filled with souls that bent to Valdes’ every wish, but Equus had a legion of alicorns to defend it.”

“Alicorns? I thought you said there were only six alicorns.”

“Well, there were only six at first.” Cadance began casually. “But over the years, they bred with the mortals, resulting in several offspring.”

Flurry Heart blushed at the thought of Gods breeding with mortals before an idea struck her. “You mean like you and Dad?”

“Yes.” Shining Armor answered, chuckling at Flurry’s expression. “But remember, your mother ascended into alicornhood. Not every offspring was an alicorn, there were some very powerful unicorns and pegasi born of this union as well. Take the emotion alicorn Crystaal for example, Empress Amore who once ruled this empire is a great granddaughter of her and Amore was a unicorn.”

“Yes, your father is correct.” Cadance added, looking down at her daughter. “Even your father and aunt are descendants of alicorns.” Cadance continued, but cringed when she realized what she had just said. She decided to press on despite Flurry’s questioning gaze, and continued her explanation. “Though some ponies are descendants of alicorns, only a few will unlock their true potential and ascend. These with exceptional raw magic are known as flares.”

“So you were a pegasus flare….” Flurry muttered, narrowing her eyes. “I hate to bring this up, but you've mentioned my aunt again. What gives?”

Shining Armor cast a pained expression at his wife who only replied with one of her own. “Your aunt, Twilight Sparkle, was a very powerful unicorn flare. That may be because we’re the descendants of Queen Aurora, the alicorn of magic.” Shining finished, earning a tender nuzzle from his wife.

“What happened to her?” Flurry pressed on.

“She left Equestria to learn more about magic.” Cadance lied. “But that's enough about her, let's get back to the story.”

“Fine.” Flurry Heart sighed. “Continue…”

“For a thousand days and nights, the earth shook with terror.” Shining picked up. “Valdes unleashed wave after wave of demons from the heart of Tartarus to destroy the alicorns, but that wasn't enough. The alicorns were winning the war, but Valdes was the father of black magic and God of destruction. He would not be silenced.”

“Why didn't Laufaustia intervene at this time?” Flurry interrupted.

“She didn't because her brother wasn't truly involved.” Cadance yawned. “He may have started the war, but he had others fight the war for him. It wasn't until Valdes created a black hole to destroy the galaxy that Laufaustia tried to intervene.”

“Valdes banished Laufaustia to the realm of sleep before she could help Equus.” Shining said, looking up to the stars. “Without her to keep tabs on his magic, he ran rampant. He created a black hole within the heart of our galaxy, one that began sucking up and destroying everything. It was left to the regal six to stop him, but he was above them in every form possible.”

“What did they do?” Flurry asked with widened eyes.

“The regal six devised a plan like no other, one that would change the shape of Equestria forever. Aurora and the others bade farewell to their loved ones, after which, they made the ultimate sacrifice.” Cadance answered, herself gazing up into the stars as well. “Five of the regal six used their life force to transform themselves into balls of energy, energy that Aurora would use to stop Valdes. Aurora used the combined magic to free Laufaustia from the dream realm before using her life force to shield Equus. That is why we have the northern and southern lights.”

“What happened after that and what became of Valdes?”

“Laufaustia honored the regal six by transforming the remnants of their energy into six seeds, seeds she planted in large cavern deep within Equestria.” Shining replied.

“Do you mean what I think you do?”

“Yes, they became the Tree of Harmony.” Cadance smiled, “their energies were used in the form of seals to imprison him far away. Legend has it that as long as harmony resides within Equestria, then the seals will hold him. If not, then he'll escape.”

“Do you guys think he'll come back?” Flurry asked, slightly shakened by the story now.

“I don't think he will and even if he did, he would stand no chance against us.” Shining grinned, embracing his daughter. “I won't let anything happen to any of you.” He cooed, pulling Cadance in the embrace.

“Thanks.” Flurry muttered in the embrace. “I love you-wait, what happened to the stars?!” Flurry exclaimed, pointing to the blackening sky. The sky was as black as coal, not a single glimmer of star. The only light came from the fading moon.

“Oh no….” Cadance gasped, looking to the heavens before turning to her husband. “What does this mean?”

“I don't know, but it doesn't look good. I sense trouble in Canterlot.” Shining growled.

“Then we have to investigate at once.” Flurry replied, rising to her hooves. “There could be some villain on the loose again.”

“Indeed, you might be right sweetie.” Cadance voiced, rising to her hooves as well. “I'm sorry but we need to go to Canterlot and see what’s wrong.”

“Yes!” Flurry exclaimed. “I'll teleport home and pack now.”

“We're sorry sweetie.” Shining interrupted. “We can't let you accompany us. Hopefully, we won't be gone for too long. You'll be left in the care of Chancellor Sunburst.”

“What?! But I want to go with you!” Flurry exclaimed, stomping her hooves.

“No dear, you can’t come with us. Besides, you have a ball to attend, remember?” Cadance embraced her in hopes of cheering her up.

“Ok.” Flurry replied as she looked down at the ground, already pouting.

“Good, now let's go back to the palace. We have much to discuss before leaving.” Shining announced before teleporting the trio home.

___________________________________

Canterlot….

“I simply cannot believe he would overstep his bounds in such a way.” Luna growled angrily, slowly walking down the castle passage way. “I told my sister years ago that he should've been placed on a short leash, and now look at what he tried to do! Its ridiculous!”

“I can't believe this either Princess.” Raven Mist replied, trotting alongside her mistress. “I wonder what came over him?”

“His ego has always been his greatest downfall.” Luna sighed. “He has become too spoiled and self absorbed, especially within the last twenty years. He must be held accountable for his actions.”

“I agree princess. How do you plan on punishing him?” Raven Mist asked casually, staring out at the night sky.

“He will be court martialed for attacking me, that much I can guarantee. But the rest will have to be decided alongside my sister in the morning.” Luna assured.

“Well that's more like it, he'll get what he deserves.” The bat pony added, smiling before stopping in her tracks upon looking outside, gasping. “Look princess! The night sky has lost it’s stars!” she exclaimed, but whirled around to find Luna on her hunches breathing heavily.

“Awaken my sister now Raven Mist! Something is wrong with the Celestial bodies!” Luna barked through laboured breaths.

“But what about you?” Raven countered, attempting to raise her from the ground.

“I'll be fine Raven, get help now!” she whimpered before slipping into unconsciousness.

“But-”

“NOW!”

“Understood. I won't let you down mistress.” She cried, darting off.
___________________________________

Luna drifted into a dreamless sleep, surrounded only by inky black walls. As the princess and protectress of the night, Luna had always been able to craft the dreams of those around her as well as her own. The Dreamscape was her’s to manipulate at will. Yet on this night, she felt nothing but exposure and fear as she consciously floated around the abyss. Perhaps it was because she was pulled here without her consent, whatever it was that she felt was not a feeling experienced before.

“Luna…..” Came a soft wailing female voice from the darkness.

“Who goes there?! Who dares to trespass within my dreams?!” Luna bellowed, her eyes snapping open and narrowing in agitation.

“Be calm night princess, I am not a foe but an ally.” The voice whispered, in a sad tone.

‘Who are you then? Show yourself!” Luna challenged again, charging her horn. “No ordinary creature can infiltrate my dream, so speak now!”

“That will do you no good child.” The voice stated. “Calm down, magic will not aid you here.”

“If this is you playing one of your dumb tricks Tia, then so help me-”

“I am not Celestia, Luna. Celestia is awaiting your wake. Besides, I am pretty sure your sister has other things to do.” The voice scowled harshly, interrupting Luna.

“Then tell me who you are.” Luna sighed, reverting from her defensive stance. “Something tells me you aren't an ordinary being.”

“Indeed.” The voice began. “ I am Laufaustia, Goddess of Creation. My brother has escaped his imprisonment and has tricked your nephew into granting him entry into his mind.”

Luna's mouth fell agape in utter shock. “How is that possible? The elements were supposed to hold him forever!”

“He was freed twenty years ago. That was when harmony was shattered in Equestria, permanently.” Laufaustia replied in somber tone.

“But the elements-.”

“Their connections to his prison was severed when Twilight Sparkle broke from harmony.” Laufaustia answered.

“But how? Twilight is a mere mortal, how could she create such a grave problem?!” Luna exclaimed.

“The elements were once connected to you and your sister when you both assumed the mantles as princesses of Equestria.” She paused, allowing Luna to agree before continuing. “The night my brother tempted you with power, the very night you broke from harmony challenging your sister, the elements were fractured.”

“Oh.” Luna muttered, confused at the statement.

“It was on that night long ago when Twilight Sparkle and her friends took on Nightmare Moon, that the elements were healed and awakened once more.” Laufaustia continued sadly. “The elements, the essence of my children, fused with those six ponies. But alas, my brother was successful in sowing his evil again.”

Luna gasped as realization wracked her being. “That means it destroyed the elements when their bearers left them. But only Twilight, Rarity and Fluttershy left their elements, so how why didn't the others keep him imprisoned?”

“Twilight once controlled the element of magic, it was her and her alone who could awaken the others with her magic. Fluttershy represents Natura and Rarity represents Crystaal.” Laufaustia replied. “Three of the most important elements fell, so the connection couldn't remain.”

“I cannot believe this is happening.” Luna ventured through a worried expression. “How did it take him so long to return if he escaped so long ago?”

“I couldn't stop him upon his escape, so I trapped us both within the Dreamscape. But apparently he has escaped with the help of your nephew.” The being answered.

“Blueblood, you fool!” Luna growled. “How can we stop him? And what is he really after?”

“The only way to stop him is to use the elements against him. This means you have to find Twilight Sparkle and Fluttershy and seek their aid.” Laufaustia whispered. “But beware, he will try to destroy everything in his path to get revenge. That is all I can offer now Luna, You must awaken and tell your sister of this affair. And remember, find Twilight Sparkle…..time is of the essence!”

“What are you talking-Twilight Sparkle is dead! She’s been dead for fifteen years now!” Luna countered quickly, her voice rising at hearing this proposal. She then hung her head as she said her next words. “She died because of...because of me and my sister’s foolishness.”

Laufaustia chuckled at Luna’s now saddened expression. “The combination of magic that you and Celestia used was only absorbed by Twilight. It did cause an explosion to be sure, one that would have easily killed any other unicorn, but not her. No, she instead escaped and fled to the south. She's not dead.”

Again Luna was shaken by the information. “That’s...that’s not possible. I've tried to enter her dreams, just to see if my hopes were true, but I never found her. It's like she doesn't exist.” Luna pressed, remembering the events of that day……

Fifteen years ago

The dust settled in the Crystal Empire as the citizens were once again freed from Sombra’s tyranny. It was all thanks to the unicorn turned alicorn, Twilight Sparkle. She was just in time to prevent Sombra from killing Cadance and thus, within the enhanced magical shield she conjured, they created a plan. Though Twilight had the power of an alicorn, she couldn't stop Sombra by herself. There was only one thing that could beat him…..the Crystal Heart. Twilight used her new dark arts to rival Sombra’s own power, distracting him long enough for Cadance to find the powerful relic and use it against him. In the end, the kingdom was saved thanks to Twilight and Cadance’s efforts. The royal sisters were not so pleased however, Celestia in particular. Celestia feared Twilight’s new abilities, especially her mastery over the dark arts. Luna begged her sister to avoid Twilight as they'd done enough to her already, but Celestia ignored her pleas.

“That branch of magic is forbidden sister, and you of all ponies know it!” Celestia shot hotly. “Look at the way she challenged Sombra! WE, the incarnation of the sun and moon couldn't stave him off, but she could! Do you understand what the means?!”

“Do not dare to try anything stupid sister.” Luna shot back, blocking her path. “Twilight embodies magic, it is within her nature to wield whichever magic she chooses!”

“Remove yourself from my path at once Luna! You are blinded by your guilt so much that you do not realize that she threads the same path you once fell into!” Celestia countered angrily, attempting to pass.

“I will not move, stand down sister!” Luna growled, narrowing her eyes. “Nightmare Moon was destined to happen sister. Twilight is not like that, do not scare her off again!”

“I am sorry Luna, but too many ponies have fallen from grace while I stood idly by. Twilight must know the error of her ways.”

“Twilight isn't in Equestria!” Luna exclaimed, throwing her hooves in the air. “This is the Crystal Empire-” Luna was cut off as Celestia teleported her away.

“You'll thank me later.” Celestia muttered as she disappeared.

“Celestia!”

She ignored her sister’s calls of warning, focusing her magic to locate Twilight. She soon found her with Cadance and Shining Armor in a large courtyard, having a conversation. “TWILIGHT SPARKLE!” Celestia bellowed, materialising from thin air. “I NEED TO SPEAK WITH YOU THIS INSTANCE!”

Cadance gasped, spinning around upon hearing the Royal Canterlot voice. “Aunt Celestia, what is the meaning of this? Why are you yelling?”

“Twilight Sparkle is using magic that is forbidden within Equestria and I need to speak with her alone.” Celestia answered, gliding to the ground. The couple could quickly tell that she meant trouble as a scowl shined on Celestia’s face. Twilight on the other hoof, just cocked an eyebrow at Celestia’s glare. “Remove yourselves at once so that may I speak with her.”

“What would you have her do princess? Sombra was winning! She saved us all.” Shining Armor countered quickly, stepping in front of his sister. “I just rekindled my relationship with her, I can't have you mess that up.”

“Shining Armor is right, Aunt Celestia. Twilight came to my aid and used whatever means necessary to stop a mighty foe. She’s a war heroine!” Cadance exclaimed, also shielding Twilight from Celestia.

“This isn't up for discussion, Twilight knows her errors.” Celestia stated smoothly, her horn shining with magic. “I must speak with her alone at once and I will use force if necessary.”

“As the rulers of this empire, it is our duties to protect our subjects. This means everything within our land, including my sister-in-law.” Cadance replied angrily, holding her head high. “I need you to calm down auntie, you’re obviously irritated and I don’t want to fight you.”

“How about we let Twilight Sparkle decide?” Celestia shot back.

“How about I just leave?” Twilight answered, glaring at Celestia. “I don't know what went into your head to think I'd speak to you after what you've done, but I'm not really staying to find out.” Twilight stated coldly, spreading her wings in preparation for flight. “Bye you guys, see you in your dreams.” Twilight smiled to her brother and sister-in-law, ignoring Celestia.

“I'm not done with you yet young mare!” Celestia shouted angrily.

“I am.” Twilight answered, taking to the air. “Later Celestia, go find somepony else to manipulate while you’re at it. I’m no longer available.”

This agitated Celestia even further, causing her to use another method to stop her. “This is for your own good.” Celestia muttered to herself, using a spell shaped like a giant orb to encase Twilight.

“Seriously?” Twilight chuckled as she sat down in the spell that Celestia had created. “This is all you got?”

“What are you doing sister?!” Luna commanded, gliding to the ground. “Have you lost your mind?!”

“Aunt Luna has a point, Aunt Celestia. Let her go.” Cadance warned, her eyes widened in surprise.

“Release her at once or you'll force my hoof!” Shining challenged, his horn lit with magic. “She's done nothing wrong.”

“Listen to him Aunt Celestia, before this becomes nastier. I will not hold back on siding with my sister if you provoke her any further!” Cadance shouted.

“How about this instead? I'm going to give you three minutes to release me from your aura.” Twilight said in a soft voice as her horn began to shine. “After that, I will not be held accountable for my actions.”

“I will not.” Celestia scolded, still levitating Twilight in the air. “Black magic is forbidden Twilight! The path it will put you on will lead to nothing but destruction and misery!”

“Fine.” Twilight replied with a shrug. “Have it your way.” Celestia’s aura that held Twilight immediately disappeared, leaving her shocked. But it didn't stop there, Twilight’s mane and tail started burning into a blue ethereal fire while her coat became pure white. “You wanted me princess?! Here I am, take me!”

Celestia stood her ground, flaring her wings and glaring at the transformed mare. “It doesn't have to be like this. You need to stop!”

“You are the one who provoked my wrath Celestia. Now, feel it.” Twilight stated in a voice not her own.Twilight then conjured hundreds of meteor with a wave of her horn, sending them down upon Celestia who quickly put up a shield to repel them. “Stop! I will not fight you!” Celestia shouted, grunting as the meteor collided with her shield. “I just want to talk!”

“No. I won’t stop.” Twilight grinned sinisterly. “You asked for it.”

“Then you've left me no choice.” Celestia replied, a tear escaping her eyes. “I love you my dearest Twilight Sparkle, but I must purge the darkness from your heart at all costs.” Celestia then shoved her sun shield at Twilight Sparkle, forcing her meteor spell to be cancelled before taking to the air after her. “EVACUATE THE CITY, NOW!” Celestia ordered, sending everypony in the empire into a panicked frenzy.

“What are you going to do?” Shining Armor shouted, galloping after Celestia as he used his magic to levitate himself.

“I’m going to bring an end to this sad story.” Celestia replied, turning towards Twilight with a cold stare. “This is it. Give up this instant Twilight Sparkle, before the darkness takes a true hold on you.”

“If you harm a single lock of her mane on her head, I will not forgive you auntie!” Cadance warned, flying up to Celestia in the air. “Her blood will be on your hooves!”

“As are many others.” She muttered, using her magic to teleport Cadance and Shining Armor out of the city.

“Why are you doing this? All I wanted to do was come here and save my brother and sister-in-law from Sombra and now you’re acting out some hissy fit because I saved you too?” Twilight asked, fluttering a few feet away from her. “Just let me go and leave me be. Its that simple.”

“I cannot allow you to leave like this. There is a darkness brewing inside your heart, one that I've experienced one too many times but ignored till it whisked away ponies that I care for.” Celestia explained, cautiously eyeing Twilight's expression. “That dark magic you are practicing will destroy you Twilight. You must stop using it. Now.”

“Unlike the others, I’m able to control my power.” Twilight gave a slight shrug while she rolled her eyes. “I've been studying ever since I've left Equestria and I’ve learned quite a lot since then. Magic is a part of me and that means dark magic as well Celestia.” Twilight countered, her voice rising several octaves. “And I will not let you take that away from me!”

“All I ask is that you come back to Canterlot with us and let us examine you, I promise we'll let you go afterwards.” Celestia assured. “I love you and always will Twilight, I merely want what's best for you. You must stop using the darkness.”

“NEVER!” Twilight bellowed, her temper rising. “I am the embodiment of magic and I will not be contained! If you won't let me leave freely, then I'll leave forcefully.” She challenged, sending beams of magic at Celestia, forcing her to evade the shots.

“I will not fight you my dearest Twilight. This display of anger only shows how corrupt you've become.” Celestia said, gliding away from harm’s way. “You must fight the darkness.”

“The only darkness I'll be fighting is you!” Twilight boomed, sending tendrils of dark magic from the ground at Celestia, knocking her to the earth below. “You think you can just tell me to surrender to you?! You think you can just tell me that I have to return to Canterlot after you betrayed me and my friends?! Are you serious?!”

“Twilight wait, it doesn't have to be like this.” She pleaded, trying to rise to her battered hooves.

“You challenge me, then beg for me to wait?” Twilight mocked in scorn, abandoning the sky for the ground. “Rise and fight like a true leader, Celestia!” The lavender alicorn commanded, shooting her with another beam of magic, sending her a few feet away.

“I w-wont, I only want to help you.” She stuttered trying to rise, ignoring the pain wracking her body. “Please Twilight...I only want to help you before you lose your wonderful heart.”

“Then die like the coward you are.” Twilight stated coldly, summoning a dark spell from her horn and sending it at the beaten alicorn. This shot was however delayed by Luna’s intervention.

“THAT'S ENOUGH!” Luna boomed in her Canterlotion dialect, shielding Celestia’s broken form with a shield of her own. “My sister was a fool to provoke your wrath Twilight, but you are taking this too far.”

“Don't interfere Luna, this fight doesn’t concern you.” Twilight glared angrily. “Step away.”

“Have you lost your wits?” Luna exclaimed. “She's my sister and you’re my friend, how could I not stop this monstrosity?”

“I don't care. I'm giving you three seconds to move.”

“I will not.” Luna steeled her gaze in preparation for the attack. “I know you are no killer Twilight. Don’t do this.”

“Well then.” Twilight smiled, flapping her wings and rising to the air with her horn glowing a golden and blue light. “Lets see how you withstand this blast.” The sky began darkening as both sun and moon made contact in the heavens above. The lavender alicorn smiled as her body was enveloped in the golden and blue light.

“Impossible.” Luna muttered as her mouth fell agape in horror. “How can you harness the solar powers?”

“Simple.” Twilight devilishly grinned. “I embody magic. It is my right to sovereign over all forms of magic. Even if it means your magic.”

“No way, tha-that’s impossible.”

“It’s possible, now remove yourself from my path.”

“No!” Luna bellowed.

“Then die with the very pony who suppressed you.” Twilight cackled, releasing the ball of energy.

Luna quickly harnessed her own lunar powers, meeting the blast and redirecting it at Twilight. The resulting clash shook the ground with a force like no other. As the magical forces subsided from the mighty explosion that followed, all that was left was a crater that destroyed half of the empire. Smoke filled the air as debris fell to the ground, turning into nothing but ash as it covered the earth around the sisters. But as the smoke cleared, Luna gasped as she could no longer see her once friend. Where she once stood was nothing but a pile of ash and dust.Tears rolled down her cheeks as continued to stare at that spot. But all Luna could see in that spot was what she remembered every day since then. All she could remember was the look on Twilight's face, the look of pure anger and hatred.

End of Flashback


“Twilight Sparkle is powerful enough to stop your advances Luna, she's not the little filly she once was.” Laufaustia said, pulling Luna from her memory.

“All these years I've chastised myself over something that never was….” Luna gasped, trying to breath. “My...my friend is alive.”

“Yes she is, but trek carefully. Twilight is The Empress of the South now, and her subjects are fiercely loyal to her.” Laufaustia warned.

“Empress?! How did that happen?!” Luna exclaimed, surprised that her old friend is now a ruler of a kingdom.

“She overthrew Windera, the evil Windigo queen that once ruled over the south, imprisoning her within the Heart of Tartarus.” Laufaustia explained. “But that's a story for another time. Awaken now Luna, your niece and nephew-in-law are already here. Go now and bear this news.”

Next Chapter: Alliances Estimated time remaining: 5 Hours, 49 Minutes
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Rising Above All

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