Within his dream, Starstep found himself standing in a stone room. Royal blue carved rock walls flanked Starstep on either side, the silvery designs bored into them shimmering softly in the lowlight. Only a single flickering torch lit the confined space, resting in a steel ring between two archways. The towering entrance to his right was made of coiled silver vines, thick fog flowing out of the passage that obscured the the interior. Just looking at the clouds of mist made him feel at peace. While the other doorway was constructed of twisted black iron with wicked thorns tipped with rust. Gnarled boards of dark oak were haphazardly fixed across the passage, blocking access to the shadows within. Here, in the depths of his mind and dream-scape, he knew that he would find Nightmare in that blackened area—not that she had ever been very subtle about her presence. However, the boards across the passage gave him pause: Was the alicorn spirit keeping him out, or locking herself in?

With a determined nod the young stallion took the few steps to the dark archway, reached up to grip one of the boards, and tugged. At first nothing happened as he strained, but after a moment he felt it faintly shift in his hooves. The wood screeched in protest as it began to give way, and Star quickly flattened his ears to protect himself from the horrific sound, which was reminiscent of somepony grinding their horseshoes down a chalkboard. He shook off the tingle that ran up his spine as he tossed aside the first plank. Gritting his teeth, he took hold of the next board, pausing to steady his nerves for a second before yanking it free only to meet the same agonizing result. Again and again he endured the skin-crawling torment until at last he'd created a large enough gap that he could slip through. He closed his eyes and took a few deep breaths, willing himself to remain calm as he stepped into the shadowy interior.

The torchlight from the room behind him vanished. He found himself on a floating platform lit only by a soft, grey illumination that seemed to be sourceless. Swirling, whispering shadows encircled the stone-slap as it hung above a gaping void. He swore he could see pony faces within the shadows as they swiftly passed in and out of the faint light. Their expressions ranged from laughter to terror. He wondered if they had been Nightmare's victims or were her memories of ponies long since gone.

Starstep glanced up and almost toppled over from vertigo, the curling currents of shadows playing tricks on his equilibrium as they swirled upwards in a column that never ended. He shook his head and avoided looking directly at the wisps of black and grey, instead letting his eyes drift unfocused on his surroundings.

“Nightmare!” he yelled into the darkness. He cringed at the sudden loudness of his voice. He thought he heard a few of the voices laugh at him, but they were so faint that he couldn’t be sure. The pegasus flicked his ears back and forth, listening intently, but receiving no answer, and so he steeled himself before yelling into the darkness again. “Nightmare, I really need to talk with you. It's important.”

“Did I not order you to stay out?” a cold voice hissed behind him.

Starstep spun to face the tall, black alicorn, just managing not to trip over his own hooves. He stared up at her, swallowing the twinge of fear in his belly as he gazed into her angry teal eyes. “I'm sorry. You've been quiet all day and I didn't know how else to contact you.”

“As I recall, you insisted that I cease talking to you—yet now you complain?” She stalked towards him. “Your hypocrisy aside, you saw fit to tear away the barriers I had constructed and invade my realm once again.” Her lips curled angrily, her sharp fangs showing underneath. “If I did not make myself clear the first time, hear this: you are not welcome here. Begone!”

Shadowy tendrils reached out from the swirling vortex and coiled around Star's hind-legs. He glanced down at the black coils in surprise then looked to Nightmare as they began to drag him away, his horseshoes scraping against the stone. “Wait! Please, wait! I need your help!”

Nightmare's eyes widened ever so slightly and the tentacles halted. “My help? You, who curses my existence and still believes I had a hoof in Luna's banishment?” The coil's grasp loosened and her expression shifted from anger to suspicion. “Oh, do tell.”

Star cleared his throat and shook his legs free of the black tendrils before pulling himself to his hooves. “You know pony's fears and if they're lying. Despite how nasty some of your comments are, you give valuable insight. Look, after I interrogated the hippogryph and griffon today, I realized that your powers would be helpful. Your knowledge of their fears and dreams could give me the leverage I need. A lot of ponies are going to die if we don't get some answers soon.”

Nightmare sneered. “They can suffer for all I care.”

“Luna cares about them—doesn't that count for something?” Star pleaded.

The alicorn towered over him. “My feelings for Luna are the only things preventing me from tormenting you endlessly. Do not press your luck!”

“If you don't help me get something out of one of the prisoners in the next day, Lighthoof is going to tell the Princesses about your sister.”

Nightmare narrowed her eyes as the shadows boiled around her. She hissed at him, “Is that a threat, little foal?”

Starstep could feel the cold rage rolling off her body so he carefully answered. “No. Dawn, your sister, is giving Light visions. He's seen how a lot of ponies are going to die to a griffon attack and the only way we can warn the Princesses without revealing our secret is to get one of the prisoners to speak up.”

The mare tilted her chin up. “Continue.”

“I'm supposed to meet with the Red-Empress through telepathy at dawn and interrogate the griffon prisoner again and I could really use your insight. We could stop this thing and nopony would ever need to know about you or your sister. Lighthoof and I will come up with some way to explain the visions after this, I promise. We just need time.”

She looked into his eyes for a few moments, the cold contempt within wringing a shiver from the young stallion. Eventually, Nightmare pulled back her head and gave him a smirk. “If my sister is discovered I will be discovered, and you know what will happen then.”

“Exactly. And I know you care about your sister. Do you want her caught?”

“Despite what you may believe, little foal, not even my sister is worth reliving my life for. I wasn't the only one tormented. Sometimes I was forced to watch. And sometimes, those were the worst moments of my existence.” The faces of the ponies in the swirling shadows cried out and moaned in anguish.

Star shivered at the pain he heard in Nightmare's voice. “Was it all bad?”

She cocked her head, considering his question for a moment. “No... I suppose it was not. However, three quarters of my life was. Never again do I wish to feel, hear and taste the vile things that were done to me.” She gave a curt laugh. “After so long they are just flickers of images, impressions of hate and disgust, just shadows of the past. Do you think it wise to have me revisit those moments? To bring all of those horrors into focus?”

“No...” Star gently shook his head. He thought about how relatively calm Nightmare had been since freeing her from those ruins. Perhaps the destruction of her body had helped to fade some of her worst memories. Yet, a question arose:

“Why am I even dreaming about your past?”

“A side-effect I had forgotten about. A cost to live through you, for everything in this world has a price. Sometimes your dreaming bleeds over into my memories and I am forced to dream with you. So I sealed off our bond—cut off my link to the waking world.”

Star thought about it for a moment. If Nightmare had sealed herself away, he wouldn't have to worry about her anymore. Pony kind would be safe and the night-time tormenting would stop. Yet... the refugees were going to be attacked in just a couple days if nothing was done. Wouldn't her insight give them a fighting chance to save hundreds?

“Who said the torment would stop?” she chuckled darkly, apparently hearing his thoughts. “Some nights you will dream of me and I will enjoy those nights.”

Star put a hoof to his forehead. This wasn't going well at all. “Please, Nightmare. What if this was just a temporary thing? Just long enough to get the information?”

“I am not some switch you may flick on and off when you want my power,” she snarled. “I am the Mistress of Dreams—the scourge of the unicorn tribe! I am not some tool to be used for your benefit.”

The colt shrank back. “I'm sorry. I didn't mean it like that. I'm just trying to find some way to protect the herd and your sister and I don't have a lot of options. I just... sort of thought we could help each other. Maybe make a deal or something.”

“Even if I were to agree, you still do not seem to understand what you ask, little foal. My past created the mare you see before you. All the pain and suffering... do you think it fair for me to relive that?”

“You're right, it wouldn't be fair. I can't imagine what it must have been like.” He flattened his ears and bowed his head. “Strange as it sounds, the bits of your life I've learned about have given me perspective on my own. I've made some mistakes and not everything was happy, but it's been a pretty good life. My parents are supportive and my friends are always there for me.” He gave a sad shake of his head before looking up into Nightmare's cold eyes. “I'll be honest: I don't like you... But I'm sorry your life sucked, really, I mean it. Despite the horrible things you've done to who-knows how many ponies, despite the nightmares you caused to me and my friends, no pony deserves to be treated in the way that you and your sister were. For what it's worth, I'm sorry.”

Initially, Nightmare seemed angry at his words, perhaps taking offense at his pity, but after a few moments, her expression softened to one of quiet judgment, one that he'd seen on Luna's face all too often. The whispering shadows around them fell to near-silence. “Is that moment of killing a pony the worst thing that has ever happened to you?”

Starstep raised an eyebrow at her strange question. “Y-yeah. Pretty much. I mean, I was bullied some growing up, but it kinda pales when compared to that incident. Why?”

Nightmare stalked around the pegasus. “Thinking back, Luna also wept for me. For you see, when we were bound we also discovered this little problem. She was living my past and dragged me along for the ride a few times. Now I remember a solution we came up with; we would trade our dream-memories. She would live in mine and I in hers. While she was tormented, I enjoyed relative peace and joy.”

He blinked at her. “So... you want to trade dreams with me?”

She gave a toothy grin. “You claim your past was pleasant. A far cry from my own and even Luna's, for hers was still marred.” The black alicorn took a regal stance. “This is the deal, little foal: My power and insight in the waking world in exchange for your dream-memories and agreement to suffer in my stead.”

Starstep pondered the offer for a moment, considering the implications of living through Nightmare's past. “I... I don't know. What if it becomes too much?” He looked away. “What if I can't handle it and one of the Princesses figures out what's going on? If I wasn't afraid of breaking our agreement and you terrorizing the world again, I wouldn't even consider this.”

She studied him for a moment, her lips curled in disgust. “You are a weak creature.” She let out an exasperated sigh. “Very well, when you can handle it no longer, call the deal off. I will cut our bond and never again will you have access to my knowledge, my power.”

The pegasi's eyes widened slightly in surprise. “You'd call it off, just like that? No strings attached?”

“Just like that.” She continued to grin, fangs oddly bright in the shadowy-grey illumination.

Starstep pondered her deal for a few moments, eyes shifting from side to side as he searched his thoughts for some trap or flaw in the agreement beyond the future chance of living through Nightmare's worst memories. He was pretty sure she hadn’t told him everything, but Luna had said that Nightmare never lies. On the one hoof, her insight could give him a big edge beyond just the interrogations. He might even be able to help Luna with Night-Court duties and act as a better ambassador for her. There was certainly something to gain from having Nightmare in his corner. But to live in her past? To suffer through the things that had been hinted at? Was it worth the price?

He looked up at the alicorn. “I don't need specifics but... what sort of things did you live through? What can I expect?”

Nightmare tilted her head. “I do not remember the details, and I do not wish to remember them. That is the point of the offer.”

Star raised his eyebrows. “So, I don't get any kind of warning of what to expect?”

The black alicorn snorted in disdain. “Did I have any warning? Honestly, I'm quite curious at how long you can withstand it. Perhaps we can make a game of this. If I'm going to bother humoring your foal's request, I want to at least be entertained.”

“A game? Do I win something?”

She chuckled. “Do well and I believe I shall reward you the longer you withstand it.”

Star considered what Nightmare was offering; Power, knowledge, saving ponies and helping Luna. He thought about how Luna had done the same thing, but he couldn't help but wonder if Nightmare's dreams were what turned Luna into Nightmare Moon? Nightmare certainly offered a lot he could use to help his wife, but it wasn't worth the risk if he ended up like she had. To become bitter towards pony-kind, to be so consumed by rage that nothing but vengeance mattered anymore... he knew if he went down that path, Luna would abandon him.

The black alicorn rolled her eyes at his thoughts. “I was not the one who set her on the dark path. I was not the one who turned her bitter and jealous. I simply gave her the power to act on her feelings.”

“You've said that before, but I have a hard time believing it.”

She stomped a hoof and glared at him. “I have nothing to prove to you. You came to me, mewling like a weak kitten because you cannot do it on your own.”

Nightmare watched him coldly for a few moments before growling under her breath. “Enough. You are simply thinking in circles and it is irritating.” Her horn began to glow a deep blue. “If I show you the moment in which Luna began to grow bitter against pony-kind, will you make a decision?”

The young stallion pondered for a moment. “If it proves that you weren't the cause, then yes, I'll agree to the dream-pact.”

“I have one of Luna's memories. It is old and faded, but it should be enough to prove the point.” The glow from her horn intensified, blinding Star for a moment.

When the light faded, he found himself standing in the midst of a battlefield at the edge of a massive crater that could swallow Ponyville whole. The battle appeared to be finished, dead and dying ponies and griffons laying everywhere. He noticed that he was amongst a half circle of armored ponies who ringed a familiar blue alicorn. The ponies at his sides wore ancient armor made of steel and iron, beaten and battered from combat. Their faces seemed distorted. He could tell they were ponies, and he could see eyes and mouths, but the harder he tried to make out specific characteristics, the more blurred they became.

So the colt turned his attention to Princess Luna, who wore an ornate suit of onyx armor, laced with silver and accented with crescent moon emblems. Her body and mane were exactly as he knew her, ageless as she was. The alicorn cradled a limp pegasus in golden armor, armor that he was certain looked a lot like the suit that Lighthoof now wore. A spear lay discarded nearby, its foot-long folded steel blade covered in blood, the symbol of a griffon claw etched repeatedly down its wooden shaft.

Princess Luna nuzzled at the limp form, silent tears on her cheeks. As Starstep watched her mourn, the distorted sound of wings caught his attention. Princess Celestia landed in the circle, clad in her own white battle armor, laced in gold with brilliant sun crests on each plate’s surface. She looked to the crater first, sadness and horror clear on her face. Then she crossed the space to her sister and lay beside her, draping a wing across Luna's shoulders. There was muffled talking between them, too faded for Star to make out. He could see Luna growing angry, her eyes flashing with rage—she pointed a shaking hoof across the crater and Star followed her gesture to see the retreating forms of griffons, perhaps two hundred or more. Luna put a hoof to Celestia's shoulder, speaking soft words, pleading eyes begging for help.

Celestia in turn seemed horrified and recoiled a little. She looked to the crater, then glanced around at the soldiers surrounding them. While they still appeared to have muted faces, Star could make out their expressions and it was clear that when they looked upon Luna, there was a mixture of awe, fear and reverence. A pit formed in Stars stomach as he realized that they didn't see a loving Princess anymore, but a Goddess.

Celestia stood and began to speak, drawing the attention of the gathered troops. In contrast to how they looked upon her sister, the soldier’s expressions shifted to hope and adoration while listening to her, a few nodding in agreement.

Then the white alicorn looked down at her sister sadly, speaking in a tone that suggested an apology. She turned to leave, hesitating when Luna reached out a hoof to plead again, tears rolling down her cheeks as her other fore-leg cradled the dead pegasus to her chest armor. Celestia's ears wilted and a terrible sadness filled her eyes, but the older sister walked away, most of the troops following her lead.

The scene suddenly froze and Starstep realized that Nightmare was standing next to him, giving the pegasus a bit of a fright.

Nightmare smirked. “And so, the first seeds of Luna's jealousy were planted. I was not even present—how could I have had a hoof in it?”

Starstep frowned. “I... I don't understand exactly what happened but... I wonder what Luna was asking her to do? Why would Celestia refuse?”

“Hah, I would not recommend asking her. Even after over a thousand years, it's bound to be a sore subject.” She circled around the pegasus. “You claim you love Luna, yet you know so very little about her. She's as much a monster as I am. And so I ask you again, little love-struck foal. Can you love a monster?”

Star snarled. “She's not a monster.”

“So you say... but I have shown you the truth, as I said I would.” She held out her right fore-hoof. “Do we have a deal? Your dreams for my skills?”

Starstep stared at the offered black hoof, trying to avoid looking into her cruel teal eyes. To him, the foreleg was only a means to an end. Was it not the Royal-Guard creed to sacrifice for the greater-good? To do what was necessary to make the Princesses happy? He was Luna's husband now, with even more responsibilities beginning to pile upon his small shoulders. All this just because he wanted her to have joy in her life.

He reached out and shook hooves with Nightmare. “For Luna's happiness, we have a deal.”

The last thing he remembered was Nightmare pulling him close, nose to nose, her cold breath washing across his muzzle. She grinned at him. “I look forward to our game.”

Dawn of the second day. 48 hours remain.

Starstep awoke with a start, Nightmare's last words drifting through his head as he glanced around the strange dark clearing. In the east, the sun was just beginning to peak over the distant hills, gentle orange light filtering through the scattered clouds, illuminating the tops of boulders and scraggly trees. He noticed that Luna was already gone and a slightly shriveled pear sat at his side. He gently touched the feather at his chest, seeking strength for the day to come.

Star picked up the pear and nibbled at the fruit, not out of hunger, as his dealing with Nightmare had killed his appetite, but rather because of Luna's advice about his duty as a leader.

He wondered what exactly Nightmare had shown him. It was clearly the day Goldwing the Champion had died, but what had Luna asked for that her sister would not grant? As much as he wanted answers, he knew it would be foalish to ask Luna directly. There was no telling how either of them would react to the question.

As he tossed away the pear-core, he perked his ears to the sound of hoof-falls on the dirt and scruffy grass. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed Lighthoof and Dazzle approaching. Light was in his Knight armor, sword strapped to his belt and looking ready for combat. Dazzle appeared a little tired, her pale blue mane ruffled and unkempt, shoulders slightly slumped, but when she caught Star's eye, she managed a warm smile.

“Mornin', dude. Get through the night alright?” Lighthoof gave him a knowing look.

“I managed.” Star hopped up and shook his coat free of the dirt before giving Dazzle a smile. “Morning, Dazz. Sleep well?”

“A good morning to you as well. I slept well enough, I even had the benefit of a bed-time story.” She smirked slightly as she glanced in Light's direction.

“Ah, Sunny got her story, huh? What was it this time?” Star joined the other ponies and together they began making their way towards the command tent at the center of the sleepy herd.

“Mary Cloppins.” Light made a confused face as he shook his head. “Strangest book I've ever read. An earth-pony pulling off unicorn magic tricks. Seriously, dude, that stuff was bizarre.”

Dazzle laughed softly. “Honestly, Light. That book was rather tame compared to some of the other foal's stories from Trottingham.” She tilted her head, her smile spreading to a teasing grin. “And to be fair, you did make a rather convincing mare as you read her lines.”

Starstep chuckled and couldn't help but grin at the unicorn's playful jab. “Seems Sunny is bringing out Light's feminine side.”

The unicorn nodded in agreement. “You are quite right, Star. Why, with some glass slippers and a white-frilled saddle and he will be the talk of the ball.” Her joke even had Light chuckling.

After a few more minutes of soft banter, the trio arrived at the covered wagon holding the hippogryph. To their surprise, Princess Celestia stood next to the entrance, quietly chatting with one of the two guards. Her eyes flicked up at their approach and she gave them a welcoming smile. Starstep took a moment to reflect how regally beautiful the alicorn was despite the long, dusty, muddy road they had traveled. Sure, some of her coat was sticking up in spots from lack of a good brushing and there was a slight darkness under her eyes, but the way she held herself stirred a feeling of hope and confidence. Of course, he could tell that Nightmare wasn't having any of it.

“Good morning my little ponies. Ready for your meeting?”

Morning, my little servants.” Nightmare spitefully mimicked Celestia. “Luna once called her Princess Killjoy. They didn't speak to each other for a week.”

Star gave her a nervous grin, doing his best to ignore the voice in his head. “Yeah, I'm sorry if we're overstepping our bounds, Princess. We just wanted to be useful and didn't expect to end up with an appointment with the Empress.”

Celestia gently nodded. “I understand your desire to do something-- anything to help the other ponies. Your efforts are appreciated.”

“Thank you, Princess.” He dipped his head respectfully.

“Just remember to be careful not to take on too much all at once. Even Luna and I have our limits.” Her eyes slid over Dazzle and onto the other pegasus. “The same goes for you, Lighthoof. Don't be afraid to ask for help.”

Light nodded, “Yes, Princess.”

“Now, before you go in, there are a few things I need to tell you. First of all, I can confirm that Kreesha does possess telepathy. It will require trust on your part, but she has sworn an oath not to harm any of you.”

Celestia continued. “Second, keep your questions for the Empress simple and direct. Do not accuse her of anything, nor should you demand anything. Until we understand her motivations, consider her a foreign ruler and act accordingly.” Her firm eyes moved from Light to Star. “Do you understand?”

“Yes, Princess,” The colts replied.

“One final note; if you feel threatened, you may leave at any time. All you have to do is focus on something you love and think of returning to it.”

Star dipped his head, “Thank you, Princess. We'll remember.”

The alicorn leaned her head down to give Lighthoof a gentle nuzzle before turning her attention to the mare of the group. “Dazzle, please look out for these two.” She smiled slyly. “They have a habit of diving into the deep-end.”

The colts managed to look sheepish as the unicorn agreed. As Celestia began to walk away, she hesitated as she came abreast of Lighthoof. “Light, dear, I get the feeling you're hiding something in regards to this meeting. Is there something you're not telling me?”

Starstep did his best to keep a neutral expression, Nightmare hissing in fear in the back of his mind. His friend smiled back at Celestia nervously. “W-what makes you say that, Princess?”

The alicorn gave a soft laugh, reaching out to put her golden slippered hoof against his shoulder-plate. “Call it a mare's intuition.”

Lighthoof did his best to keep up a smile, though Star could tell it was beginning to wane as he stood there, hoping the alicorn would just drop the subject. After a couple of awkward moments, he cleared his throat. “Ah... hah-ha... yeah... about that.”

The Princess took her hoof away and tilted her head, ears perked and a knowing, playful smile on her lips. “Go on.”

Starstep could feel his heart began to race and a cold chill run down his spine. They were screwed. There was no way Light would lie to her. Dawn would be exposed and all tartarus would break loose.

“Don't you dare you little wretch,” Nightmare warned.

The tan pegasus threw up a hoof and sighed. “Okay, fine, you win, you win.” He lowered his voice so only the four of them could hear. “The truth is, I think Kreesha is kinda awesome and kinda cute.”

To her credit, Celestia's expression didn't change while Dazzle cleared her throat and looked away. Star realized his mouth was opened and closed it hurriedly.

Celestia laughed, “Well, it is good that you're honest.”

“So... you don't mind?”

“Not at all. As long as your interest in her doesn't interfere with your duties, it's perfectly alright.” She leaned in close. “I will advise that you keep this to yourself. The other ponies may not approve of it, seeing as the hippogryphs were partially to blame for evicting them from their homes.”

Lighthoof nodded hurriedly.

“With that, my little ponies, I wish you success and look forward to hearing all about your meeting.” She wandered away with her usual regal grace as the three ponies dipped their heads respectfully.

After she had left the colts shared a quick look of relief.

“Well...” Starstep said quietly, fearful his voice would carry to the wagon. “That was... something. So uh, what's this about the hippogryph?”

His brother smiled sheepishly. “After chatting with the Princess about that squire nonsense and reading a story for Sunny, I snuck off to see Kreesha again. I dunno, I thought if I talked with her some more, maybe I'd learn something useful. After a few hours she finally stopped with the 'all hail the Empress' stuff and told me her past. She's actually pretty cool. And well, tartarus dude, cute is cute.”

“Have you lost your mind?” Dazzle stomped up and looked him right in the eyes. “Attracted to the enemy? There are so many things wrong with that I-I do not know where to begin.”

Light held up a hoof. “Hey now, I'm honest, not blind. Just because I think she's cute and cool doesn't mean I trust her.”

The unicorn cocked her head, pondering his answer for a moment. “Well... I-I suppose you have the right of it then. Still...”

Starstep chuckled. “He does have a point. She is kinda cute in an exotic sort of way.”

The other pegasus nodded. “Hey, what can I say, those little hippogryph ears with the sleek beak, very hot, dude.”

“Yeah, I can see it... though her pony-half seemed too athletic for your normal tastes.”

Dazzle rolled her eyes at the colts. “If you two males are quite finished with admiring the physical traits of our enemy, perhaps we can get on with this? I do not imagine keeping the Empress waiting will leave a good impression.”

Lighthoof gave a chuckle. “Yes, mom.”

Starstep smirked. “She's right, Light. We should talk about how cute the Empress is instead.”

“Oh! You thought so too? Dude, she's like forbidden fruit. One sweet bite and you're done for.”

At this point, Dazzle put a hoof to her fore-head, “Gentlecolts, I understand this is your way of coping with stress, but now is hardly the time.”

Lighthoof grinned as he looked over at Star. “Huh, looks like somepony is jealous.”

“I think you're right. Maybe Dazz would prefer us talking about how cute her mane-style is?”

“Or her beautiful smile?”

“Her daddy issues?” Nightmare whispered in Star's head.

At the flattery the unicorn's cheeks reddened ever so slightly, but otherwise she maintained a professional expression. “Well, a mare does like to be appreciated from time to time, but as I stated, we have an appointment to keep.”

Star looked to the closed flap of the wagon and sighed. “Yeah, I guess I'm just a little nervous.”

Dazzle patted his shoulder. “I am certain you two will be fine.”

Star raised his eyebrows in surprise. “You're not joining us?”

She shook her head. “Neigh. Somepony needs to keep an eye on Kreesha. She is the host mind for this meeting.”

When Star looked to Light, the other colt simply shrugged. “Don't look at me dude. I don't know anything about this Tele-whats-it magic.”

Starstep took a deep breath to calm himself, glanced back at the other ponies and led the way up the stairs and through the flaps.

It took a few moments for Star's eyes to adjust to the darkened interior, the dawn sun just beginning to filter through the canvas roof. He could hear the wagon axle squeak at the additional weight of three ponies climbing in and shuffling about to circle hippogryph.

Kreesha was wearing a welcoming smile, her feathers preened and pony-half brushed, looking as though she was a noble guest and not the prisoner the metal-mittens and chain marked her as. She dipped her head respectfully. “Lighthoof, Starstep, and Dazzle, it is good to see you again. My Empress awaits and is eager to speak with you.”

“Be wary of this one. She would do anything her Mistress commanded... anything.” Nightmare chuckled darkly and a flash of a sexual image darted through Star's head.

He sat back on the hard wooden floor as he returned her smile, ignoring Nightmare's comment. “Good morning, Kreesha. I guess we'd better not keep her waiting. Light and I are ready to begin whenever you are.”

The hippogryph nodded and twisted her wrists. The metal-mittens popped off in a loud clatter of hollow metal and chain, causing the colts to recoil and Dazzle's to flare her horn in yellow magic. “Oh, I'm sorry, it was not my intention to startle you.”

Dazzle lifted an eyebrow. “How...?”

“I only kept them on to allow the other ponies to feel more secure. The Princesses knew—I had expected them to inform you as well.”

The trio of ponies exchanged concerned glances.

“If it helps to alleviate your fears, my Empress finds these two colts interesting and has forbid harming them in any way.”

The unicorn tilted her head. “And me?”

“There was no direct order, but you are their friend and apparently in confidence with the Moon Aspect. Therefore, you are safe as well.”

Dazzle gave a soft snort. “To be honest, I am just here to ensure you do not harm these two.”

The hippogryph gave a respectful nod.

“So...” Star began. “How are we supposed to do this anyway?”

Kreesha held up her clawed hands, palms towards the colts. “Place your foreheads against my palms, and we shall begin. I will perform most of the work involved.”

Star and Light shared a look of uncertainty then gazed back at the sharp claws on the ends of her digits. Star faintly imagined them digging into his eyes and suddenly this seemed like a really bad idea to him.

“Coward.”

Starstep bit back a retort and instead gave a sigh. “Alright.” He settled back on his haunches in front of the hippogryph within reach of her right claw, Lighthoof following his lead with the other side. They glanced over at each other before leaning forward to hesitantly rest their foreheads against the palms. The hippogryph gently curled her clawed hands around their skulls, the pricks of the sharp talons scratching at their skin. Starstep fought back a sudden jolt of panic and tried his best to ignore Nightmare's amused laughter.

“Now, please close your eyes and clear your minds,” Kreesha softly directed as she closed her own eyes and tilted back her head.

The colts followed her direction and sat very still, doing their best to keep their thoughts quiet. Long minutes passed and just when Star was about to call it off, he felt something tugging at him, though not physically. It was a strange sensation, as if a ghostly hand reached into his mind, grabbed onto a thread of thought and pulled it away and down the outstretched arm of the hippogryph.

Starstep's first instinct was to resist, to fight back, but the mental grip was gently persistent, eventually coaxing him to relent to its pull.

Then there was a flash from behind Star's eyes and a moment later he found himself standing in a circle of pillar-like boulders, fifteen hooves tall, with old runes chiseled into the stone. At the center was a stone slab resting at hip height, large enough for a pony to lay out on. Above them the sky was cloudy grey, as though threatening to rain, but he could not feel any humidity or wind that foretold a coming shower.

He turned his head about, noting that the standing stone circle was surrounded by thick, dark forests without a path to be seen, though the trees had a strange dream-like quality to them, where he could tell they were trees but when he tried to focus on one, it would blur and shift. Allowing only an impression of individual trees.

Still alone in this odd landscape, he reached up to touch the stone-slab and blinked at his leg. He could faintly see through the limb and looked himself over, noting a few oddities. For one, his legs seemed extra lanky and overly long, his wings were black, twisted, mutilated things and a mock-image of Luna's cutie-mark was overlaying his own.

“You okay, Star?” Lighthoof's voice came from nearby.

Starstep whipped his head around and gasped at Light's appearance. He too was semi-transparent but his coat was disheveled and filthy, reminding Star of the first day he'd met him at Guard-training. He had a nasty X of a scar over his heart, his chin seemed slightly elongated and rugged and his hooves were almost comically large for his body size. When he noticed that Light's armor was missing, he touched his own chest to find Luna's feather and the chain were also gone.

“I could ask you the same thing. Why do we look so... freaky?”

The cool voice of the Empress answered them. “It is how you see yourself. A projection.” She stepped out of nothing, her body shifting from a ghost-like quality to fully solid in only seconds. She seemed taller, more regal, with an exotic beauty about her. She wore a form-fitting red silk dress, embroidered with golden talons, the train of which flowed out behind her like a sea of blood. Her crimson feathers seemed to glow and spark as though embers rested under them, little flickers of light occasionally falling away to the stone before vanishing. A soft white aura flowed down her spine, reminding Star of Luna's and Celestia's manes.

The hippogryph studied them each in turn, her judging yellow eyes boring into their own, and Star couldn’t help but to shiver slightly from the intensity. He had a sudden impression of just how ancient she truly was, making Nightmare seem like a filly in comparison.

The pegasi bowed their heads respectfully and Star spoke. “Good morning, Red Empress. Thank you for meeting with us.”

“Greetings to you, Starstep and Lighthoof, consorts to pony immortals.” She gave a faint dip of her head. “Please, use my true name here. We are private.”

Light blinked. “Private? But I thought we're inside Kreesha's head?”

“Yes, we are. Yet locked away in a corner. She is... host? Not witness.” The elegant hippogryph slid up on the stone-slab and reclined out to look at the two colts. “I am in surprise that you still carry shades. Did your Princesses not wish to... cleanse you?” She lifted a tufted eyebrow.

Star wasn't sure how to answer and looked to Light, who also seemed conflicted.

The hippogryph held up a claw. “No, do not answer. It is your affair to manage—you are not my subjects. I shall be content they are removed from my home.” She gave a fleeting smile. “My child Kreesha spoke to me and said consorts had questions? I have agreed in hopes of building trust between us. Perhaps you may be the voices that will talk your lovers into joining me?”

Light gave a sheepish grin. “I, uh, no disrespect, Emp- er, Fala, but I don't think they're interested right now.”

Star elbowed Lighthoof. “We're not at liberty to speak for our Princesses. Sorry.”

Fala smiled and nodded. “I understand. Because of shades, our time is fleeting. I know what it is you ask, so I will answer now.”

Star farrowed his brow. “But we haven't asked anything.”

“Kreesha has explained. No, I did not send griffons to attack. No, I do not know if more attacks planned. I assume it is outcasts who hate all non-griffons. Those who refuse to join Empire and obey rules of unity were thrown from city.”

“Which included us.” Lighthoof added.

“Understand. My home. My Empire. Is difficult enough to rebuild and unify without rival leaders and their subjects here.”

Lighthoof frowned. “Could have asked, instead of just rounding everypony up and booting us out.”

Star elbowed his brother in the side. “What my friend is trying to say is… why didn't you work something out with the Princesses? We have an alliance with the griffons, why not you?”

“Time works against me. I have been gone long time. Is it not enough I prevent the false Empress from slaughtering? To command my children to save and protect as many as possible? I am returned after very long time. Pony-kind were but servants when I last ruled. Much changed, but I will bring order and unity to all.”

“You talk about uniting. Can't we just find a way to be allies instead of trying to force us into the Empire?” Star asked.

Fala shook her head, red embers flicking out of her plumage. “Allies do not always work towards same goal. Under one banner, we stand strong.” She punctuated at the end by making a fist.

Star frowned slightly. “I don't know, Fala. Like you said, you've been gone a long time. We've had years of peace and good relations with the griffon kingdoms and the dragons.”

“It is not against them that I unite. One day, perhaps not in your life, great terrors will arise. I have seen them.” Her eyes took on a fevered light. “We must be one or we will be destroyed.”

Star and Light shared a questioning look.

Fala slid from the stone slab and walked up to the pegasi with a grace that would make a cat envious. Star involuntarily shivered at the power she radiated. Even Nightmare seemed to retreat further into the back of his mind. “There are things far older than I. Things that sleep between stars. Things that sleep in depths. I will paint fields red to unite against them. Together, we survive. Apart, we are consumed. Tell your Princesses what I do. They may come peacefully to rule with me, or I will force them once I am finished unifying griffons.”

The Empress gently caressed Star's cheek with her claws. “Do not think me ruthless. I do this out of love, compassion. I prefer no blood-shed.”

Starstep cleared his throat nervously. “I, uh. We'll let the Princesses know.”

“You two, so young for things you have seen. Things you have done. It speaks of your... idium, your soul, character. Is there nothing I can offer to have you help my Empire?”

“No, Fala. I'm sorry.” Starstep stood up straight and professional. “I go where Princess Luna goes. If one day she decides to join you, I'll be at her side. I am a simple pony.”

The Empress smiled as her eyes half-lidded. “Simple? Of that I am not sure.” She looked to the other pegasus. “And you, Lighthoof? Is there nothing you desire?”

The young stallion shrugged. “Sorry, Fala. I couldn't turn my back on everypony.”

“Yet there are ponies who have joined my Empire. They need leaders such as you.”

“Equestria needs me.” Light stated firmly.

Fala chuckled softly. “Similar words were spoken to me once. In time, he served me, loved me.”

The world around them shivered and for a moment, Star felt dazed and confused. One quick glance at Light showed the other pegasus similarly disoriented.

The Empress leaned up and placed a clawed hand on each of their shoulders. “Kreesha's life is fading, and so time grows short.”

Light narrowed his eyes suspiciously. “What do you mean? What's happening to her?”

“The shades you bring, they are Aspects. Weak as they are, still too much strain for my child's mind.”

“What?! You knew this would happen?” The tan pegasus growled.

“I did not know you still had shades.” As Light opened his mouth she tightened her claw on his shoulder. “Let me speak.”

When the pony shut his muzzle she continued. “Kreesha will be my Ambassador. No more prisoner. She will speak for me. In return, tell your Princesses I will accept Ambassador from Equestria.”

The colts exchanged glances before Star nodded. “Of course. We'll pass along the request.”

Another wave of sickness washed over them and the standing stones disappeared into mist.

“A final note, consorts. When Kreesha recovers, I should like to speak to you both again. However, alone. One shade she may handle.” She leaned forward to give what Star figured was the beaked equivalent of a kiss to each of their cheeks. “Kreesha and I will not speak of what happens in our meetings. Your secrets are ours. Go in peace.”

Just like that, the Empress simply faded away, leaving the ponies in an area that was gradually turning to grey mist.

“This can't be good.” Light looked around.

“Just do what the Princess said. Think about something you want to go home to.”

Lighthoof squeezed his eyes shut and began to mumble to himself. Seconds ticked by, the only a few meters of solid ground remained around the stone-slab. Then Light just winked out of existence. Starstep gave a sigh of relief and closed his eyes, thinking of the one thing he wanted to return home to; Luna.

He opened his eyes to find himself being jostled about in the wagon bed. The stead bumps and creeks of the wheels informed him that they were on the move. As his eyes adjusted in the dim morning light, he found Lighthoof and Dazzle attempting to shift the hippogryph onto her side. Kreesha was shaking violent, eyes rolled back in her head and gasping for air. Starstep took a couple of wobbly steps forward.

“What can I do to help?”

Dazzle looked up at him, calm and serious. “You two colts stay with her. I need to fetch a pony who knows mind-magic.” Without waiting for a reply, she pushed past him and out the back of the rumbling wagon.

Star and Light looked across the hippogryph at each other, using their hooves to keep Kreesha from smacking her jerking limbs into the wooden walls.

Light frowned. “This is our fault.”

“I'm not so sure. We don't know jack about telepathy and it's not like we could have asked anypony beforehoof.” He glanced down at the injured hippogryph. Something about the whole situation rubbed him the wrong way, but he wasn't sure why.

“Some lies are told with truths,” Nightmare whispered.

Star lowered his voice. “I wondered where you went.” At Light's questioning look he sighed. “You-know-who is speaking. Give me a sec.”

“Uh... alright. Dude, I'm so glad Dawn doesn't talk in my head.”

“I thought you were going to help?” He asked the voice.

“Little foal, inside another's head, they would hear me. Do you think it wise to tip your hand to that creature? She thinks I am just a shadow that clings to you.”

“Valid points. So, is there anything you can tell me?” He noticed Light giving him concerned glance while the pegasus gently stroked Kreesha's feathers in a vain attempt to calm her seizures.

“Fala is very dangerous, but then, so is Luna. How much is truth? How much is false? I cannot tell you, because she believes every word she speaks.” Nightmare chuckled softly. “She could force you to join her, and in time you would think it was what you wanted all along.”

“What else?”

“That is all I have to offer. Be thankful.”

Starstep frowned. “Alright. Thank you for the insight.” He could sense that Nightmare was pleased by his response and decided not to push the matter further. He sighed and looked to his friend. “As far as she can tell, the Empress was telling the truth, but warns that she has a way of manipulating words.”

Lighthoof shook his head softly. “What did you do to get you-know-who to cooperate?”

“Long story short, I get history lessons every night.” At that, the pair heard the rapid clatter of hooves galloping up to the back of the wagon. Dazzle and a light-purple colored unicorn mare pushed through the flap and without introductions, the unicorns went to work healing the hippogryph's damaged mind as the colts kept her held down.

It took a few hours for the unicorns to put Kreesha into a calm sleep. As the herd stopped for lunch, a light drizzle started from the overcast skies. Star asked one of the guards to watch over the hippogryph then the four ponies took shelter under a rocky-overhang to rest.

A griffon, wearing the white and blue patterned robe that some of the herd had started to wear, approached them with a jug of cool water and bread. After being thanked for the refreshments, the robed griffon wandered off into the light rain, leaving them in private. Star turned to the unknown unicorn that had helped the hippogryph.

“I don't think we've met. I'm Starstep.” He held out a hoof, which the mare gently shook.

“Honored to meet you, Prince. I'm Amethyst. I'm one of Princess Celestia's Sun-Guard lieutenants.” She gestured to Lighthoof. “He and I have already met at the command briefings.”

Star nibbled on some bread and waited his turn for the water as Dazzle was quenching her thirst. “Nice to meet you. Thanks for helping the hippogryph.”

“Of course. I suppose hosting three minds was just too much for her. Telepathy is a rare gift, and very dangerous. Thankfully for her, I've studied the mind since I was a filly.”

Light passed the jug from Dazzle to Starstep. “Thanks, Amy. She didn't deserve to go out like that.” Amethyst gave a humble nod in reply.

“This one is deathly afraid of bees. In her eyes, ever stinging.”

Star sighed loudly, only to realize a moment later that the other three ponies were staring at him. “Oh, sorry. I uh, just remembered something the Princess needed me to do.” He took a swig from the jug and gave a polite dip of his head. “Amethyst, it was nice to meet you. Dazz, I hope to see you later. Light, walk with me a sec?”

Light nodded as he hopped off the rocky ground, his armor straps creaking in protest. “Sure, dude.”

The two mares waved at them as the pegasi walked away through the herd. Star mostly ignored the greetings, occasionally giving nods and friendly smiles as he thought about the morning's events. Lighthoof remained quiet, as their manes became damp and water began to drip from their chins. At last Star found a hollow in the rocks surrounding them, far away from eavesdroppers.

“Alright, dude. What's up?” Light asked when his friend turned to face him.

“Are you really going to tell the Princesses about Dawn and her sister tomorrow?”

“If we don't get something out of the griffon, yeah.”

Star started to pace a little. “You know what will happen, we've been over this.”

“No, dude. I know what will happen if we don't warn everypony about the attack. I've seen it, Star. It's not pretty. As for Nightmare, how do we know she's telling you the whole truth? I've been thinking about it for a while now. If she's really that dangerous to Equestria, why isn't she doing more than messing with you? Why did Fala dismiss her as just a shadow? I'm starting to think that when we freed her and buried those bodies, she lost a lot of her power.”

Star could feel Nightmare bristle in his head. Was his friend right?

“I still have the power to make many suffer. Would you like to see?”

“To be honest, Star. If it wasn't for Dawn, I'd have told the Princesses about the psycho in your head days ago.”

“Ignore this foal. If all he wishes are answers, take me to this griffon. I will show I am still powerful. I will force the griffon to speak.”

The blue-grey pegasus put a hoof to his forehead and sighed. “Nightmare says she can make the griffon talk.”

Light frowned. “I get the feeling she won’t be asking nicely.”

“I'm pretty sure you're right.”

“Well, dude, then we need to come up with a plan. Because if you mosey up to that feathered-jerk and he starts wailing in horror, the griffons are gonna know something's up and you can bet the Princesses are gonna to hear about it.”

Star blinked. “I... hadn't thought about that. Have any ideas?”

“Actually... yeah. I just might.”

In the next couple of frantic hours, the pair worked on Light's plan. Star managed to convince Alexander to load the prisoner into one of the remaining covered wagons for interrogation as they traveled. Thankfully, the old griffon didn't ask any questions, though he did seem curious at Star's insistence that he question the prisoner now. Lighthoof procured a marble that he then asked a random unicorn to place a glow enchantment on. Once they were ready, they met up at the wagon as it rumbled along at the tail of the herd and climbed in out of the light rain, only to discover they weren't alone.

Antonio sat on one side of the prisoner, scratching his grey feathers idly as his eyes turned to the ponies. “Ah, Elder said you'd be along shortly.” The Steelwing leader stretched out like a cat before giving his full attention to the pair. Star remembered him as being the griffon married to a pony and the main reason for the prisoner's injuries.

Star dipped his head respectfully. “Yellow-feather, Antonio. I didn't know you were joining us.”

“Call it curiosity. You already tried asking nicely, what will you ponies do now to make this scum loosen his tongue?” He slapped the prisoner on the back of the head, ignoring the muffled grunt from the gagged griffon.

The prisoner was still as battered and ragged as Star remembered. His one unswollen eye glared at the clan-head before looking at the ponies. He began to chuckle around his cloth-gag.

“See? You amuse him.”

Light pulled the marble from a pouch on his belt and hoofed it to Star. Then he quietly stepped to the as his friend walked forward, only a couple of hooves from the prisoner.

“While we were in Spurlin, we found a few interesting things in the castle.” He held up the faintly glowing marble so that the prisoner could look at it and into Star's eyes. “Let's just say, not all of them are very nice.”

Antonio gave a short laugh and rolled his eyes. “A glowing rock? That's going to make this wretch talk? Do you know what kinds of things we've done to him without getting so much as a useful word in reply?”

“It doesn't hurt to try, right?”

The clan-head sighed and reached out to rip the gag from the prisoner's beak. “I suppose not. But I'll be honest, most of you ponies just don't have the stomach for this type of work. My wife is one of the few who does.”

The prisoner worked his jaw around a few times before grinning at Starstep and the glowing marble. “Oh, look. The cock-toy is back with a present. Are you attempting to bribe me now? I think this is racism. Despite what you may have heard, griffons are not enthralled by pretty trinkets like common birds.”

“No. It will show you your dreams.” Star's answer was met with a snort of laughter. “If you think I'm kidding, look at the marble--really look at it.”

At first, the griffon smirked and ignored him, but the longer Star held it up, the more curious the griffon seemed to become. Eventually, he did look at the little glass orb and indirectly into Star's eyes. It was then that Star could feel Nightmare reaching out through his eyes and into the griffons. There was nothing visible, just something he could feel. A tendril of bitterness and loathing that stretched out from his mind into the griffon's.

The prisoner went rigid, catching Antonio's attention. The clan-head watched with renewed interest as the battered griffon began breathing quickly and a slight shiver ran down his limbs.

Moments ticked by and Star remained steadfast on staring into those cold, hate-filled eyes. He couldn't see what Nightmare was showing him, and for that, he was thankful. The prisoner jerked against his chains and wailed before beginning to squirm around in his bindings, nearly hyperventilating as he seemed to be attempting to escape from something.

“Get them off, GET THEM OFF!” He suddenly screamed, twisting this way and that, falling to the wooden floor with a heavy thud and continuing to struggle against his chains, his screams becoming more frantic. “Oh, Matron, they're in my nose! Get them out! Get them out!”

Star sat back on his haunches and put his other fore-hoof over the marble, a signal he'd agreed to with Nightmare before-hoof. She pulled back from the prisoner's mind, giggling in sadistic delight. Star felt a surge of revulsion that she was enjoying this so much.

“He's afraid of spiders. So horribly afraid of them. All over they crawl, into every orifice they can find. Much more and he'll wet himself in fear.”

After a couple of minutes, the prisoner stopped shaking enough to stare up at Starstep, shock and a touch of confusion on his battered face. “What did you do to me? WHAT DID YOU DO?”

Off the side, Antonio was silent, eyebrows raised in surprise but he made no move to interfere. Lighthoof stuck his head out the flaps of the wagon, apparently waving off guards who had come to investigate the sudden screaming.

“I ask the questions.” Star stated coldly. He imaged Luna at her most regal and did his best to project that cool, stoic personality. “What is your name?”

“What did you-” His question was cut off as Star lifted his hoof, signaling Nightmare to continue showing the prisoner his worst fear. After a couple moments more of the griffon's stomach turning screams of terror, Star hid the marble again.

“I asked, what is your name?”

The captive panted on the ground, trembling for a bit before looking up at the pony. “Petar. I'm called Petar.”

“They can be taught.” Nightmare chuckled to herself. “I'll bet you can teach him to sit up and beg. Shall we try? I'm certain he'll make a fine Royal Pet.”

“Alright, Petar. Are the outcasts planning to attack us on the road to Trottingham? If so, when?”

The griffon narrowed his eyes before looking away defiantly.

“I asked, are the other outcasts planning to attack us? If so, when?” Petar ignored him, refusing to look at him. “It doesn't matter if you're staring at the stone now. You've already seen it. All I have to do is lift my hoof and all those terrible things you're seeing will come back.”

When the griffon didn't answer, Star shook his head sadly before lifting his hoof. The prisoner rolled about, screaming as his worst Nightmare became reality inside his head. Star remembered what the Goddess of Dreams had done to him, and while he didn't wish such things on anypony, this disgusting creature had murdered, maimed and tormented who knows how many ponies and griffons. And this griffon's allies planned on doing more of the same in just over twenty-four hours. He wouldn't let Luna cry over the deaths of more, even if he had to do something a little dark. For the Greater-good, he told himself. For Luna.

True to Nightmare's word, the griffon did wet himself, rolling about in a pool of shame as Star covered the glowing marble again. He could feel his stomach churn but he grit his teeth and tried to ignore the look of surprise from Antonio.

“Answer the questions, or the spiders come back.”

“NO, NO, oh Matron, no. No more. I'll talk” Petar began to sob, his limbs shaking so much that the chains rattled continuously.

Starstep felt a twinge of guilt. That is, until Nightmare flashed an image of Petar commanding his troops to slaughter a village of farmers along the borders. Griffons and ponies were cut down and tortured. Thankfully, Star only saw brief glimpses of what had happened. Not enough to burn into his memory, but enough that he wanted to retch.

“Do not pity this creature. What I showed you was only a fraction of the horrors he has brought to others in his life. He is just like those that tormented me. You must show them what fear is.”

A gentle hoof on his shoulder brought him back to his senses. Light was looking at him in concern. “You okay, dude? Should we stop?”

“I-I'll be fine, Light. Let's just get this over with.” He cleared throat and turned back to the weeping prisoner. “Are the outcasts planning an attack and if so, when?”

“W-when you reach Howling Pass.”

“How many outcasts?”

“A-all of them... all of them” Petar tried to curl up on himself, shivering in shame and fear.

“How many is all?”

“Two thousand... maybe more...”

Star heard Light curse behind him. “Did the Empress send you?”

“N-no. The real Empress is an abomination, a freak. She w-wanted us to join her but w-we'd have to swear off hunting ponies. So w-we left and planned to finish you o-off in the pass.”

Star turned to Light. “Let me guess, at our current speed, we'll hit the pass tomorrow night or the next morning?”

Lighthoof nodded. “Yeah.”

Starstep gently handed the marble back to his friend who tucked it into one of the pouches on his belt and turned to Antonio. “Sorry about the mess... and the screams.”

“Not at all.” The griffon regarded the pony with a bit of respect and slight awe. “I suppose being the consort to the Moon Goddess does require a certain breed of pony.” He glanced down at the crying prisoner then back up at the pegasi. “I also assume that your method is something you'd like to keep under wraps? I know if I had a trump card like that, I'd keep it hush-hush.”

“If you wouldn't mind. It's, uh, only for very special cases.”

“Of course, Prince Starstep.” He smiled. “I'm sorry I ever doubted you had the guts to do what needed to be done.”

“This one has a dark streak. I'd love to work with him again.” Star could feel Nightmare's grin.

“It's okay, Yellow-feather Antonio. It's not something most ponies can do. Please let the other clan-heads know what's coming. We'll let the Princesses know.” When the griffon nodded in agreement, Star climbed out the back of the wagon and carefully down as it rumbled along the rocky ground. Lighthoof a few hoof-steps afterwards.

As they turned to march back up the line of ponies, Luna appeared from the other side of the prisoner's wagon. As she regally trotted over to the pair, Star could feel his blood go cold and his breath quicken. Had she heard the screams? Had she been listening in? Could she feel Nightmare's magic?

“Oh, this should be good.”

Luna smiled at them as she matched their pace. “Good afternoon, Lighthoof. Dost thou mind if I speak with mine husband?”

Light shook his head quickly. “Uh, not at all, Princess. I need to alert Princess Celestia and the Command staff what we found out. Later, Star.” He bowed his head respectfully before galloping off, his golden armor clanking softly, leaving the husband and wife alone.

Luna smiled at the blue-grey pegasus. “Star, my love. We need to speak.”

Author's Notes:

Chapter edited by Idylia /) Brohoof
Alas, I would have had this published sooner but my editor had finals to deal with.
A couple of notes:
When reading Fala, imagine someone whose native language is Russian but can speak decent English. There are missed words in her dialogue, but this is simply how she talks.
And second, yes I know the Exodus arc is a little dark. If it's not your thing, don't lose hope, it has a purpose and in time we'll be back to more romance and comedy. I like balance. It reminds me of day and night and how we could not survive without one.