Three Hours Later

Sundance stood and stretched before turning to her husband. “I’m going to check on Rainbow Dash.”

Midnight Armor stood and stretched as well before nodding to his wife. “Good idea. I’ll come with you.”

Sundance raised an eyebrow. “Why?”

“I may need to remind her that she needs to rest today.” Midnight Armor answered

“Good point.” Sundance responded

The two of them walked into the hall and closed the door behind them before looking around for a moment.

“I believe the sleepover room is that way.” Sundance commented

Midnight Armor followed his wife down the hall.

They stopped in front of a closed door a couple of minutes later.

Rainbow looked up when she heard a soft knock. She glanced at the filly curled up against her right side. I don’t know who that is, but I can’t let them wake Scootaloo. Maybe they’ll go away if I don’t say anything.

I highly doubt it. Loyalty responded Sundance and Midnight want to check on you before they head to Sugarcube Corner for breakfast. Don’t worry, I’ll tell Midnight that they need to be quiet.

Thanks. Rainbow replied

Rainbow is awake, but Scootaloo is still asleep. Loyalty commented

“Thank you for warning me.” Midnight Armor quietly opened the door and walked into the room.

Sundance silently followed him. She smiled when she took a closer look at Scootaloo. Shaking her head, she cast a magic scan on Rainbow. She sighed in relief when she got the results. “You should be back to full strength by tomorrow morning.” She said softly “However, you rest today.”

I was afraid she was going to say that. Sighing, Rainbow nodded

“We will bring both of you something to eat in a little while.” Sundance quietly continued

“Thanks.” Rainbow lay her head on the pillow and closed her eyes.

Sundance and Midnight Armor walked into the hall and closed the door behind them. They looked up when they saw a flash of gold magic in front of the door to Twilight and Artemis’ room.

Celestia and Spike turned when they heard hoofsteps. Both of them smiled when they saw Sundance and Midnight Armor walking towards them.

“How is Rainbow Dash doing?” Celestia asked

“She will be fine as long as she is able to rest today.” Sundance answered

Midnight Armor nodded “We will need to bring breakfast for her and Scootaloo when we leave the bakery.”

“I’ll take care of that.” Spike replied

Artemis and Twilight looked up when they heard a knock on the door. Twilight levitated the book that they were reading to the nightstand while Artemis used his magic to open the door. As they expected, they saw Sundance, Midnight Armor, Celestia and Spike standing in the hall.

Twilight climbed out of bed and stretched her wings before turning to the rest of her family. “Are you ready to go?” She waited for them to nod before teleporting everyone outside.

Celestia laughed “Hungry, Twilight?”

Blushing, Twilight nodded

Everyone else laughed as well.

They walked into Sugarcube Corner a few minutes later.

Pinkie poked her head out of the kitchen. “There is a big pile of waffles on the table for all of you to share.”

Twilight stared at her friend. “Um, Pinkie? You have some flour on your nose.”

“And in your mane.” Celestia added

“And on the tip of your left ear.” Artemis remarked

Sundance raised an eyebrow. Flour? Is that what the white stuff is called? “Is everything alright?”

“Yep!” Pinkie replied “I was baking with Pound and Pumpkin this morning. They were a little messier than usual.”

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Twilight, Spike, Celestia and Artemis laughed as they sat at the table and pulled a couple of waffles towards them. Breakfast was eaten quietly because all of them were focused on filling their stomachs.

When they finished eating, Midnight Armor, Celestia, Artemis, Sundance and Spike stood before walking outside. Twilight stood as well before walking around the counter and into the kitchen. She looked around for a moment before noticing that Pinkie was standing near a table in the back of the room.

You might want to act fast. Laughter commented Twilight is walking this way.

Pinkie immediately dropped the pencil that was in her mouth and turned around. “You can’t come in here!”

Surprised, Twilight stopped in her tracks. “But I just-”

Pinkie suddenly popped up next to Twilight. “Out!” She gently pushed her friend into the dining room.

Why did she react like that? Twilight asked

Who knows? Magic replied We ARE talking about Pinkie.

Good point. Twilight summoned a bag of bits and set it on Pinkie’s back. “I just wanted to pay for breakfast.” I was also going to ask her if she wanted to spend the morning with us, but it’s obvious that the answer to that question is “No”. Her ears drooped as she turned towards the door. “I guess I’ll see you later.”

Laughter watched Twilight walk outside and close the door. You shouldn’t have done that.

“I know.” Pinkie said sadly “It’s just that I didn’t want her see what I’m making.” She sighed “I’ll talk to her when she comes in for lunch.”

Don’t forget to apologize. Laughter responded

“I won’t.” Pinkie walked back into the kitchen and set the bag of bits on the table. “I’ll give this to Mrs. Cake when she gets home.” Then she picked up the pencil with her mouth and turned back to the drawing that she was working on for Twilight’s birthday cake.

Artemis raised an eyebrow when his wife walked out of the bakery. “What’s wrong?”

Twilight told everyone what had happened in the bakery.

Spike glanced at the bakery’s front door. “That’s weird . . . even for Pinkie.”

Celestia nuzzled her sister. “We’ll ask Pinkie Pie to explain herself when we see her this afternoon.”

Artemis nodded “Good idea.”

Twilight nodded to both of them before turning to Spike. “Didn’t you say that you have something planned today?”

Spike nodded “Rarity asked me to help her today. I’ll go there after I bring Rainbow and Scootaloo their breakfast.”

Of course she did. Twilight laughed softly “I guess this means that I’ll see you later.”

Spike jumped onto her back and gave her a hug before jumping off again and heading towards the castle.

“I know that you will be going grocery shopping this afternoon, Twilight.” Sundance waited for Twilight to nod before continuing. “I am also aware of the fact that we will be flying back to Canterlot this evening.”

Celestia, Artemis and Twilight nodded.

“Do any of you have anything planned for this morning?” Midnight Armor asked

Celestia, Artemis and Twilight shook their heads.

“In that case,” Sundance replied “there is something that your father and I would like to do.”

“What is it?” Celestia asked

“We would like to visit our old castle.” Midnight Armor answered

I knew they were going to want to do that soon. “Very well.” Celestia replied “We will see both of you when you get back.”

“We were hoping that the three of you would come with us.” Midnight Armor replied

Celestia was the only one who saw Artemis’ eyes widen slightly. She turned back to their parents. “I don’t think that is a good idea.”

Sundance raised an eyebrow. “Why not?”

“Artemis and I rarely go there.” Celestia replied “In fact, neither of us have been there since Artemis returned.” She sighed “It brings back bad memories for both of us.”

Artemis nodded

“It seems that we were right.” Sundance whispered to her husband.

Midnight Armor nodded to his wife before turning back to their children. “Your mother and I would like the three of you need to come with us.”

Why do you say that? Kindness asked

Midnight Armor was about to respond, but paused when Celestia unknowingly asked Kindness’ question aloud.

“Why do you say that?”

“Both of you need to deal with this before you will be able to move on.” Midnight Armor answered

Artemis opened his mouth, but paused when his mother shook her head.

“Don’t worry.” Sundance said softly “You won’t be doing it alone. Your father and I will be there to help you.” I’m sure that Twilight will be able to help Artemis as well.

Harmony suppressed a sigh when she took a closer look at Celestia and Artemis. I hope I’m wrong, but something tells me that this is a bad idea.

Sundance looked at both of her older children for a moment. “Let’s go.”

Sighing, Celestia and Artemis spread their wings. Midnight Armor, Sundance and Twilight spread theirs as well. The five of them lifted into the air. Sundance and Midnight Armor looked around for a moment before leading the way to their old castle. Celestia, Artemis and Twilight reluctantly followed.

They landed in what used to be the front garden roughly five minutes later.

Sundance’s ears drooped. This used to be my favorite place to relax. She looked around. There is very little to suggest that this used to be a beautiful garden. She slowly walked over to a rotten stump that was all that was left of what used to be a mighty oak tree. Artemis spent hours in the branches of this tree when he was a foal. “Everything is dead.”

Midnight Armor smiled sadly “Unfortunately, I’m not surprised. The only things that live here now are the wild plants that have taken over everything.”

Sundance turned to her husband. “We should head inside the castle.” What’s left of it.

Midnight Armor nodded to his wife before turning towards what used to be the main entrance. The large double doors have long since succumbed to the passage of time. However, given the fact that they were made of wood, I can’t say I’m surprised. He climbed the short flight of stairs before pausing in the doorway. The roof is gone, but it looks like the stone walls survived relatively well. He looked up at a large whole in the wall on the other side of the room. Well, most of them. He shook his head. I wonder what caused that.

Sundance walked past her husband and inside the castle. After a moment’s thought, she walked over to the right of the room before heading down the short hallway that lead to the throne room.

Midnight Armor, Celestia, Artemis and Twilight silently followed. Everyone stopped just inside the room.

Midnight Armor laughed softly “It looks like our children altered our thrones.”

“We weren’t the ones who did that.” Celestia quietly replied

Sundance turned to her eldest. “What do you mean?”

“This happened a little over a hundred years after the first battle with Golden Thunder.” Artemis said softly “Celestia and I began travelling to the other side of Equestria for a couple of weeks every two or three years.”

“Was something wrong?” Midnight Armor asked

Celestia shook her head. “We did that so we could help those who couldn’t make it all the way to the castle to ask for our help.”

“I see.” Sundance commented “That was a good idea.” She glanced at the thrones for a moment before turning back to her children. “What does that have to do with the thrones?”

“We always left a few nobles that we trusted in charge of the castle while we were gone.” Artemis answered “We found the thrones like this when we returned from one of our trips.”

Celestia nodded “The nobles told us that the citizens believed that it would be more appropriate for Artemis and myself to be seen on thrones that reflected us instead of the two of you.”

That makes sense.

“I see.” Midnight Armor remarked You’re right, Generosity. I suppose that was bound to happen eventually.

Sundance looked up at the ceiling. She paused when she saw a large whole in the roof. “What caused that?”

Artemis winced “T-that happened when I-”

“That wasn’t you, Artemis.” Celestia interrupted

Celestia is correct, Artemis. Night said softly I am the one who attacked your sister that day.

“I see.” Sundance quietly replied I think I know where this is going.

What do you mean? Harmony asked

Celestia turned to her parents. “That happened during my first battle with Night-Terror Knight.”

Sundance’s ears drooped. I thought so.

I see. Harmony said slowly

Sundance was about to suggest that they move on, but paused when she heard Celestia’s voice.

“Our battle took place inside and outside of the castle.” She looked up at the ceiling as well. “This was just before I used the Elements of Harmony to . . . well, you know.”

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Artemis and Twilight nodded.

“I was flying above the throne room when I was struck in the chest by one of his attacks.” Celestia continued

Sundance and Midnight Armor gasped in horror. “What?!”

Celestia turned back to her parents. “I crashed through the roof and landed over there.” She nodded towards a spot on the floor off to the left. “Fortunately, I was able to recover relatively quickly.” She lowered her head as she whispered the last part. “That was when I used the Elements of Harmony.”

Artemis shuddered as he remembered being struck by the Elements of Harmony before they sealed him in the moon. I hope I never have to go through that again. That was . . . He was pulled from his thoughts by a gentle nuzzle. Surprised, he looked down to see that Twilight was standing next to him. Smiling slightly, he returned her nuzzle before turning back to their parents.

Midnight Armor stared at his eldest for a moment before quietly saying. “I think we should move on.”

“You’re right, Midnight.” Sundance lead the way out of the throne room.

Sighing in relief, Midnight Armor, Celestia, Artemis and Twilight followed her.

Sundance poked her head into the library and looked around for a minute. The library is in need of repairs, but it is in surprisingly good condition. I wonder if any of the books are still legible.

Don’t worry. Harmony responded Most of them are in relatively good condition.

How do you know that? Sundance asked

Twilight Sparkle has made several trips here over the last couple of months. Harmony answered

Sundance’s eyes widened. Really?

Yes. Harmony replied This is where she obtained some of the information that she needed to create the spell that returned your soul to your body.

I see. Sundance continued down the hall. The damage gets more extensive the further we go. She paused at a fork in the hall before choosing to continue straight.

No one noticed that Artemis had turned down the hallway that led to the left.

Perhaps you should turn back and join your family. Night said softly

Artemis barely heard him. Instead, he stared at a large indentation in the wall for a moment. Then he slowly walked past it and into the room at the end of the hall. He stopped in the middle of the room and looked around. This used to be my room. His ears drooped. I-it’s also where I . . .

I think you should turn back, Artemis.

Artemis didn’t respond because he was lost in a memory from the past.

Meanwhile, Sundance, Midnight Armor, Celestia and Twilight walked into the room at the end of the hall.

Sundance looked around the room. “This used to be Celestia’s room.”

Midnight Armor walked over to the heavy wooden desk that stood in the corner. He shook his head when he noticed that is was covered with a thick layer of dust and dried leaves. How long has it been since the last time somepony entered this room? He was pulled from his thoughts by a soft sob. Concerned, he turned to see that his eldest was facing away from him. “Celestia?”

Sundance and Twilight turned to Celestia as well. All three of them exchanged glances before walking over to her. Their eyes widened when they saw that tears were streaming down her face as she stared at something that she had suspended in her magic.

“I recognize that.” Sundance commented “Artemis gave it to you for your tenth birthday.” She laughed softly “You insisted on bringing it with us when I took you to the ocean.”

Celestia slowly shook her head before whispering. “That doll was destroyed in a fire several centuries ago.”

“I see.” Midnight Armor replied “Where did you get the one that you’re holding?”

“I still can’t explain why, but losing that doll truly upset me.” Celestia said softly “Artemis must have noticed this, because he made me a new one for my next birthday.”

Sundance smiled “That sounds like something that he would do.”

Celestia laughed softly “I was one hundred years old . . . and excited to get a hoof knitted doll for my birthday.” She glanced at her mother. “This doll has a secret.”

“What do you mean?” Sundance asked

Celestia removed the pink fabric on the mane and tail to reveal the light blue mane and tail underneath.

Sundance gasped “I-it’s me.” Artemis made this?!

He did a wonderful job on it. Harmony commented

You’re right. Sundance replied

Celestia nodded “We were extremely close when I was really young.”

“I know.” Sundance whispered

What happened? Harmony asked softly

We gradually grew apart as she got older. Sundance quietly replied At first, I thought it was because she was an adolescent. I didn’t do anything about it because I was sure that things would work themselves out when she got older. Then Celestia and Artemis began telling Midnight and I what they had discovered about Golden Thunder. Her ears drooped. I’m sure you already know this, but we didn’t believe our children.

Harmony wasn’t sure what to say, so she stayed quiet.

Both of them were extremely upset by this. Sundance suppressed a sigh. They began spending most of their free time together. Then . . . She was pulled from her thoughts by Celestia’s voice.

“Artemis was the only one who truly understood how devastated I was when it appeared that we lost you.”

Tears began to well up in Sundance’s eyes as she stared at her daughter. Celestia . . .

Celestia laughed again, just as softly as before. “He didn’t tell me about the doll’s secret. Instead, he waited for me to discover it on my own.” She paused thoughtfully “You know, I don’t think he is aware of the fact that I know about it.”

“How has it survived all this time?” Midnight Armor asked

“Artemis cast a powerful preservation spell on it before he gave it to me.” Celestia answered “Even so, I thought this was lost forever.”

Sundance nuzzled her eldest before glancing at the tears that were still streaming down her face. “Why are you crying?”

Celestia’s ears drooped. “He gave this to me around the time that I began putting my duties to Equestria above those to my little brother. Artemis often asked me if we could do something together, but I always told him that I was too busy. It eventually got to the point that we only saw each other during court. Even then, I rarely spoke to him . . . except to tell him to do something. I see now that it was the beginning of . . .” She trailed off as another sob escaped her.

Midnight Armor pulled his eldest into a tight hug. His ears drooped when she buried her face in his shoulder. I haven’t seen her like this in a very long time. “It’s alright, Celestia. You don’t have to finish.”

Celestia was about to respond, but paused when she heard her sister’s voice.

“Where did Artemis go?”

Sundance, Midnight Armor and Celestia looked up. “What?!”

“I know he was with us in the hall.” Midnight Armor commented

Sundance nodded “Perhaps he went to his old room. Let’s go check.”

The four of them returned to the hall before turning down the hall that Artemis had gone down earlier. Sundance, Midnight Armor and Twilight sighed in relief when they saw him in the room at the end of the hall.

Celestia’s eyes widened when she saw that he also had tears streaming down his face. “Why is he crying?”

The four of them immediately began to walk faster.

Artemis was still standing in the center of his old room. He didn’t notice that his family had entered his room because he was also still lost in a memory from the past.

Night sighed in relief when Midnight Armor, Twilight, Sundance and Celestia walked into Artemis’ room. Thank goodness. Perhaps one of them can snap him out of it.

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Celestia and Twilight exchanged glances when they noticed that Artemis’ eyes were squeezed shut and his body was shaking.

Midnight Armor sighed It looks like he’s lost in a memory that is extremely unpleasant.

You’re right. Kindness replied Is there a way to get his attention?

We’ll find a way. Midnight Armor nuzzled his son. “Artemis?”

Artemis didn’t respond.

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Twilight and Celestia gasped when a voice echoed around the room.

“Artemis cannot hear you because he is lost in a memory from a thousand years ago. Unfortunately, not even I can get through to him at the moment.”

“I-is that who I think it is?” Sundance asked

Celestia nodded “Night”

“I see.” Midnight Armor slowly replied

Artemis was finally able to escape the memory that he had been trapped in. Unfortunately, he continued to hear voices from the past.

There he is.

You’re right. It’s the evil bringer of the moon. What is he doing here?

I’m sorry, Artemis. I wish I could go flying with you, but I can’t spare the time at the moment.

Did you hear? Prince Artemis has been entering our dreams.

I know. We can’t even escape the evil bringer of the moon when we sleep.

You must be imagining things, Artemis. Our subjects would never treat you like that. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have work to do.

Did you know that he has been entering the dreams of our foals? He must be trying to turn them against us.

You’re right. We need to tell Princess Celestia about this.

Good idea. I’m sure that she will be able to stop him.

I’m sorry, Artemis. I won’t be able to join you for dinner. I wish I could, but this can’t wait. Tell one of the chefs to send my meal to my room.

We need to deliver this invitation. However, we must ensure that it gets to Princess Celestia.

That’s true. We don’t want Prince Artemis to know about this.

Good point. He isn’t invited . . . is he?

Of course not. Why would we invite the evil ruler to our celebration?

“Artemis?”

“Leave me alone!”

Artemis! Night shouted Open your eyes and look at who you just yelled at!

Artemis’ eyes flew open. The first thing he noticed was that Twilight was standing in front of him. His eyes widened when he saw that her ears were pinned flat against her head and her mouth was open in shock. Her eyes were wide and tears were beginning to spill down her cheeks. He gasped in horror. Please tell me that I didn’t do what I think I did.

Night didn’t respond.

Artemis took a tentative step forward. “T-twilight?”

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Celestia, Night and Artemis looked on as Twilight suddenly vanished in a flash of magic.

Artemis stared at the space that his wife had occupied for a moment before closing his eyes again as fresh tears began to stream down his face. I-I hurt Twilight . . . T-then she . . . His horn began to glow.

Celestia, Midnight Armor and Sundance gasped when Artemis vanished as well.

Midnight Armor turned to his wife and their daughter. “Where did they go?!”

“I-I don’t know.” Celestia replied

“That wasn’t Twilight’s magic signature.” Sundance commented “Somepony teleported her away from us.”

“You are correct, Sundance.” Harmony replied “Magic was worried that Artemis’ use of the Royal Voice would cause harm Twilight Sparkle’s foal. Therefore, she decided to get her bearer out of the situation.”

“Where is Twilight now?” Midnight Armor asked

“I assure you that she is safe.” Harmony answered

Sundance narrowed her eyes. “Harmony.” She said slowly “Where is my daughter?!”

Celestia’s eyes widened as she turned to Sundance. I haven’t seen Mother this angry in a very long time.

Harmony hesitated. I could tell her that one of them is right in front of her. However, something tells me that that would not be a good idea. “Magic teleported Twilight Sparkle to her room in her castle in Ponyville.”

“Send me there as well.” Sundance instantly replied

“Magic believes that her bearer needs some time to herself.” Harmony slowly replied

“Don’t make me repeat myself.” Sundance growled

I am fairly certain that Sundance doesn’t realize how powerful she really is. If she continues like this . . . No. This is not the right time for her to discover the full depths of her power. Harmony quickly did as her bearer had requested.

What just happened?! Loyalty, Honesty, Laughter, Generosity and Kindness asked

Magic teleported Twilight away from us. Midnight Armor replied Artemis vanished a little over a minute later. Then Harmony teleported Sundance to Twilight. As for the rest, I’ll let you know when I figure it out.

It’s obvious that you have a terrible headache. Honesty commented

I’ll deal with my headache later. Midnight Armor replied Right now, I need to . . . He paused when a healing spell swept over his body. Surprised, he looked up to see that his daughter’s horn was glowing. “Thank you.”

Celestia smiled at her father. “You’re welcome.” Her smile faded. “What should we do now?”

Midnight Armor took a deep breath. “Your mother will take care of Twilight. I think we should look for your brother.”

Celestia nodded “Good idea. He might still be somewhere in the castle.”

They spent the next thirty minutes carefully searching the castle, but couldn’t find any trace of Artemis.

Meanwhile, Sundance appeared in the middle of the room that Twilight shared with Artemis. She instantly noticed that Twilight was laying on the floor next to her.

“Oh Twilight.” Sundance dropped to the floor before draping a wing over her sobbing daughter. She was standing right in front of Artemis when he used the Royal Voice. I know that he didn’t mean to harm her, but I’m sure that her headache is much worse than mine.

Harmony and Magic watched Sundance cast her pain relieving spell on herself and Twilight before teleporting both of them to the bed.

Sundance rolled onto her side before wrapping both of her forelegs around her daughter. Twilight buried her face in her mother’s chest, but didn’t stop crying.

“That’s it.” Sundance whispered “Just let it out.”

Harmony looked on as Sundance began to quietly hum her lullaby. Perhaps it is a good thing that I teleported Sundance here.

It was almost half an hour before Twilight was calm enough to speak. She slowly lifted her head. “I-” Her eyes widened as her body suddenly went rigid.

Concerned, Sundance nuzzled her daughter. “What’s wrong?” I hope she doesn’t tell me that something else happened.

“H-he’s gone . . .” Twilight whispered

“Who is?” Sundance asked

“Artemis!” Twilight exclaimed

How does she know about that? “It’s true that he vanished, but your father and Celestia are looking for him.” Sundance said softly “Perhaps they’ve already found him.”

“You don’t understand!” Twilight shouted “I can’t sense his magic!”

Sundance gasped “What?!”

Twilight buried her face in Sundance’s chest as she began to sob again. “He’s gone!”

That can only mean one of two things . . . and neither of them are good. Sundance turned her attention to Harmony. Please ask one of the spirits that Midnight is able to communicate with to teleport him and Celestia to us . . . right now.

Understood. Harmony immediately replied Sundance is correct. This has the potential to be very bad.

Midnight Armor and Celestia appeared next to the bed a little over a minute later.

Sundance raised an eyebrow. Why did that take so long?

Loyalty thought it would be a good idea to inform them of the situation before teleporting them to your current location. Harmony answered

I see. Sundance looked up at her husband. “What do you think we should do about this?”

Midnight Armor leaned down to nuzzle Twilight. “Please bring the four of us to Artemis’ last known location. That may help us figure out what happened to him.” At this point, it’s the only lead we have.

Twilight began to shake. “B-but he said . . .”

Celestia lay down next to her sister before gently nuzzling her. “Please, Twilight. You are the only one who can take us to Artemis.”

Sundance nuzzled her youngest as well. “Your sister is correct. Your father and I will deal with Artemis’ anger.” If he gets angry at all.

Twilight took a deep breath before doing as she was told.

In the stars, Night turned when he heard the telltale sound of a Teleportation Spell. I was wondering how long it would take Twilight to get here. His ears drooped when he took a closer look at her. I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised. She was standing less than a foot away from Artemis when he yelled . . . in the Royal Voice. Additionally, she probably doesn’t know that his words weren’t directed at her.

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Twilight and Celestia gasped when they saw the black-coated stallion.

Midnight Armor quickly moved in front of his wife and their daughters. Then he spread his wings and took a fighting stance as his horn began to glow. “What have you done to my son?!”

Night just looked at Midnight Armor for a moment. That is the stance of an ancient, but extremely effective, fighting style. He resisted the urge to shake his head. I would love the chance to spar with him, but this isn’t the time for that. For now, I’d better answer his question. “Nothing. Artemis is so distraught that he dove deep into our shared mental landscape. In fact, he went so deep that I had to take over his body in order to keep his vital organs going.”

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Twilight and Celestia gasped again. “What?!”

“You are capable of mental communication with him, correct?” Sundance cautiously asked

“Yes.” Night answered “I have been attempting to contact him, but he has not responded.” He walked past Midnight Armor before laying down in front of Twilight.

Midnight Armor quickly moved to stand next to his wife. He better not try to harm Sundance, Celestia, Twilight or Lavender Selene. If he does . . .

Sundance instantly tightened her wing around her youngest. “What are you doing?!”

Celestia looked at Night thoughtfully. I don’t sense any hostility from him. What does he plan to do?

Night ignored all three of them. Instead, he used his magic to gently lift Twilight’s head. “I believe you are the only one who can reach Artemis.”

“B-but he said . . .” Twilight began

I thought so. “I know what he said.” Night said softly “However, he wasn’t talking to you when he said that.”

Twilight’s eyes widened “What?”

Night sighed “As I said, he was trapped in a memory when the four of you found him. He eventually escaped that, but was still hearing voices from the past. That is who he was yelling at. He was about to apologize when you teleported away from him.” He lifted his head when a voice echoed around them.

“Twilight didn’t cast that Teleportation Spell . . . I did.”

“You must be Magic.” Night remarked I know that it could also be Harmony, Honesty, Loyalty, Kindness, Laughter or Generosity. Even so, I’m fairly certain that it’s Magic.

I’m not going to bother asking him how he knew that. “That’s right.” Magic replied “I was concerned that Artemis’ use of the Royal Voice would harm their unborn foal.”

I don’t blame her for that. Especially since it is a valid concern. “I see.” Night replied “Unfortunately, Artemis believes that Twilight left him. He also believes that he hurt her . . . both physically and emotionally.”

“I see.” Magic slowly responded

Sundance glanced at her youngest. Artemis is correct. He did hurt Twilight. However, I don’t think it would be a good idea to tell him that.

You’re right. Harmony replied

“How am I supposed to reach Artemis if you can’t?” Twilight asked

Night turned back to her. “Are you familiar with the technique that allows one pony to enter the mental landscape of another?”

Surprised, Twilight nodded “I know the theory, but I’ve never actually done it.”

“Good.” Night replied “As you know, my soul is linked with Artemis’. This means that I can allow you to enter our shared mental landscape. You should be able to reach him from there. He may not be responding to me, but I am certain that he will respond to you.”

“That could work.” Celestia said slowly “However, that technique is dangerous because the mind of the second pony could attack the mind of the first.” She glanced at Twilight. “This is complicated by the fact that Artemis’ mind could attack Twilight’s as well.”

Sundance stared at her eldest in shock. She knows quite a bit about this technique. Has she used it before?!

Night shook his head. “That is not a concern in this particular situation. My mind will not attack Twilight’s because I am willingly allowing her inside. As for Artemis . . . he would never purposely harm her.”

“That is a good point.” Midnight Armor finally allowed his magic to fade. “If I understand correctly, Artemis is in this situation because he believes that he hurt Twilight.” He sighed “His emotional state at the time probably made things worse.”

“You are correct.” Night replied “He was already extremely upset because of the memory that he had just relived. Then he was forced to listen to several voices from the past.” He turned to Celestia. “One of them was yours.”

“What was I saying?” Celestia hesitantly asked

“You were repeatedly refusing to spend time with him.”

Celestia winced. I was afraid of that.

“There is one more thing.” Night remarked I know that this will upset her, but she needs to know about it. “He told you about the way that your subjects were treating him . . .”

“But I didn’t believe him.” Celestia quietly finished “Then I pushed him away so that I could focus on what I was working on at the time.”

Night nodded

“No wonder he was so upset.” Sundance said softly

Midnight Armor nodded as well. “You’re right, Honey.” Artemis was clearly horrified when he realized that he had accidentally hurt Twilight. Then she vanished before he could apologize. That must have been what pushed him over the edge.

You’re probably right. Kindness said softly

Twilight wasn’t listening to the conversation taking place in front of her. Instead, she was going over what she had read about the technique that Night had mentioned. She took a deep breath before looking up at him. “I’ll do it.”

Sundance, Celestia and Midnight Armor gasped. “Twilight?!”

Thank goodness. Night smiled “Don’t worry. I will take care of the necessary preparations.”

Nodding, Twilight lay her head on her forehooves and closed her eyes. Night made sure that his horn was touching hers before doing the same.

Inside Artemis and Night’s shared mental landscape, Twilight opened her eyes and looked around. Surprised, she just stared at her surroundings for several minutes. “I’m not sure what I was expecting, but it definitely wasn’t this.” She took a couple of steps forward. It looks like my castle is on the moon. She jumped when Night’s laughter echoed around her.

“This is a combination of the things that mean the most to each of us. For me, it is the moon and night sky. For Artemis, it is your castle.” He paused “Well, that’s not entirely accurate. What really matters to him lives inside your castle. Before you say anything, I am not referring to that young dragon. I am talking about you.”

Twilight smiled slightly. “In that case, I’ll probably find him inside.” She started walking towards her castle. It only took her a couple of minutes to reach the front door. She tried to open it, but was surprised to discover that it was locked. That’s a new one. I’m locked out of my own castle. She was about to try to unlock it, but paused when a different voice echoed around her.

“What is it, Night?”

Night made sure to keep his thoughts quiet. I’m not going to answer him because he needs to realize that Twilight is here. Hopefully, she’ll . . . He was pulled from his thoughts by Twilight’s voice.

“It’s me.” She said softly

Night suppressed a sigh of relief. Perfect.

Artemis gasped “T-twilight?! I-is that really you?”

“Yes.” Twilight replied “May I come in?” I can’t believe I’m asking for permission to enter . . . She was pulled from her thoughts when the front door unlocked and opened for her. She walked inside before watching the door close behind her. She turned her attention to the hallway in front of her. “If this was a normal situation, I would just head to our room. However, this isn’t a normal situation. Maybe I should . . .” Her eyes widened when a glowing moonflower appeared in front of her.

“Thank you, Artemis. It’s beautiful.” She took a moment to smell it before placing it in her mane, just in front of her left ear. “Where are you?” There was a flash of Artemis’ magic in the direction of the staircase. “Maybe he really is in our room. In that case, I’ll look there first.”

Twilight arrived at the door to their room a few minutes later. She was about to knock, but paused when it opened for her. The first thing she noticed was that he was laying down on the large purple cushion that he had given her four months before. However, in this case, it had been placed on the floor in the center of their room.

Artemis silently watched her walk into their room.

She walked over to the edge of the cushion. However, instead of immediately joining him, she stopped there and took a moment to look at him. It’s obvious that he has been crying for as long as I have . . . if not longer.

Why is she just standing there? Artemis was about to ask her what she wanted, but paused when she walked onto the cushion before laying down next to him.

Stunned, he just stared at her for a moment. Then he managed to stammer a single word. “W-what . . .?”

“I already know most of what happened.” Twilight said softly

“H-how do you know about that?” Artemis responded

“You went so deep into your mental landscape that Night had to take over your body in order to keep both of you alive.” Twilight shifted a little so that she could face him. “As I’m sure you’ve guessed, I instantly sensed that your magic had disappeared. I brought Mom, Dad and Celestia with me when I teleported to your last known location. We found Night waiting for us. He explained the situation.”

“I see.” Artemis said slowly I suppose that makes sense. His eyes widened. Wait a minute. “What are you doing here? N-not that I’m unhappy to see you . . . it’s just that . . .” He trailed off when she laughed softly.

“Night allowed me to enter your shared mental landscape.” She explained “He did so because he believed that I was the only one who could reach you.”

Artemis gasped “Y-you took the risk . . .”

“Of course I did.” Twilight paused “To be honest, there wasn’t much of a risk. Night promised that he wouldn’t harm me. That just left you.” She smiled at him. “I knew you wouldn’t hurt me. In fact, I was more worried that you wouldn’t let me in.”

Artemis laughed softly before repeating Twilight’s words. “Of course I did.” His smile faded. “Why did you teleport away from me?”

“I didn’t.” Twilight replied “Magic teleported me to our room in Ponyville because she was worried that your use of the Royal Voice would hurt Lavender Selene.”

“I see.” Artemis quietly replied “I-I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to harm you.”

“It’s alright.” Twilight responded “I’m not in any pain.”

Artemis gave her a skeptical look. “You were standing right in front of me when I used the Royal Voice.”

“Mom appeared in our room a little over a minute after I did.” Twilight explained “She immediately cast her pain relieving spell on both of us.”

Artemis sighed in relief. “That’s good to hear.”

Twilight nuzzled him. “Are you ready to take control of your body?”

“Y-yes.” Artemis hesitantly replied

“Don’t worry.” Twilight said softly “All of us are there with you.”

“Very well.” Artemis paused “Unfortunately, I need to force you out of my mind before I can take over my body.”

Twilight smiled “That’s alright. I’d much rather have you in control of your body.”

Artemis pulled his wife into a deep kiss. When it broke, he whispered “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” Twilight replied

Artemis gently pushed her out of his mind.

In the stars, Midnight Armor, Sundance and Celestia sighed in relief when Twilight opened her eyes.

Night opened his as well. He lifted his head and smiled at her. “Well done, Twilight.” He closed his eyes and allowed Artemis to regain control of his body.

Midnight Armor, Twilight, Sundance and Celestia smiled as they watched Night’s black colored coat turn to a deep sapphire before Artemis opened his eyes.

“Thank goodness.” Sundance nuzzled her son. “You had us worried.”

Artemis slowly turned to face his mother. I don’t want to anger her, but . . . He was pulled from his thoughts by another gentle nuzzle.

“Don’t worry.” Sundance said softly “Your father and I won’t get angry with you.”

Midnight Armor leaned down to nuzzle his son as well. “Your mother is correct, Artemis. Tell us what you’re thinking.”

Even so, I should choose my words carefully. Artemis took a deep breath. “Now you know why Celestia and I didn’t want to go to our old castle.”

Celestia nuzzled her brother before turning to their parents. “I don’t think you understand how deeply it affects us.”

“We will deal with what happened in the past.” Artemis promised “However, we are not ready to do so yet.”

“I understand.” Sundance gave her children a sad smile. “I’m sorry.”

“I’m sorry as well.” Midnight Armor nuzzled both of his older children. “Your mother and I will help you when you’re ready to deal with what happened in the past.” Sundance and I will come up with a plan to ensure that this doesn’t happen again.

Good idea. Kindness said softly Generosity, Laughter, Loyalty, Honesty and I will help you.

Surprised, Midnight Armor lifted his head a little. I’m not complaining, but your reaction confuses me. Why would you do that?

Celestia and Artemis were our previous bearers. Honesty explained We would like to help them.

I see. Midnight Armor replied Thank you.

You’re welcome. The five of them replied.

Midnight Armor turned to Twilight. “I need to apologize to you as well.”

Twilight blinked “Why?”

“The events of this morning wouldn’t have happened if we hadn’t forced the three of you to accompany us.” Midnight Armor explained

Sundance pulled her youngest closer. “Your father is correct. Both of us share some of the blame for what happened today.”

Twilight opened her mouth, about to say that it was alright, but paused when her mother shook her head.

“It’s not alright.” Sundance said softly “Don’t worry. Your father and I will find a way to make it up to the three of you.”

Midnight Armor smiled slightly “Your mother is correct.”

Celestia, Artemis and Twilight glanced at each other before turning back to their parents.

Artemis was about to respond, but paused when his stomach growled. Surprised, he turned to his sister. “What time is it?”

“Give me a moment.” Celestia focused on the sun for a moment before turning back to her brother. “It’s time for lunch.”

“I know that.” Artemis glanced at Twilight before turning back to his sister. “I was just wondering if we were going to be eating a late lunch.”

Celestia laughed softly “Don’t worry. It’s almost twelve-thirty.” She stood before lifting the doll with her magic.

Artemis’ eyes widened. “Is that what I think it is?”

Celestia smiled at her brother. “It’s the doll that you gave me for my one hundredth birthday. I found it in my old room.”

Artemis glanced at the doll. I wonder if she has discovered that doll’s secret yet.

It has a secret? Night asked

That’s right. Artemis smiled slightly when Celestia removed the pink mane and tail. “I see that you have figured it out.”

Celestia laughed a little harder this time. “I discovered this doll’s secret centuries ago.”

That looks like your mother. Night said softly

That was the point. Artemis replied

I see. Where did you get that?

Artemis blushed slightly I made it.

You made it? Night slowly repeated

Yes. Mother taught Celestia and I how to knit when we were very young. It’s not my favorite hobby, so I don’t do it very often.

Perhaps you should.

Artemis was about to respond, but paused when Twilight nuzzled him. Surprised, he turned to her. “Yes?”

Twilight glanced around them for a moment before turning back to her husband. “We can’t eat the stars.”

Night laughed

Oops. Artemis blushed “I’m sorry.”

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Celestia and Twilight laughed as Artemis’ horn began to glow. They found themselves in his room in the castle in the Everfree Forest a little over a minute later.

Midnight Armor immediately teleported the five of them outside.

Sundance nuzzled her husband before whispering. “Good idea.”

Midnight Armor watched his children carefully for a moment before shaking his head. “I thought so.”

“What are you talking about?” Sundance quietly asked

“Take a closer look at Celestia and Artemis.” Midnight Armor said softly

Concerned, Sundance did as she was told. She shook her head when she noticed the same thing. “I see what you mean.”

What are you talking about? Harmony asked

Celestia and Artemis are angry . . . and that anger is probably directed at Midnight and I. Sundance turned back to her husband. “I don’t blame them for being angry. However, we have to address the way that they are dealing with it.”

Midnight Armor nodded “We can’t allow them to bottle their anger. That will only make things worse.”

“You’re right.” Sundance replied “However, I think we should wait until after lunch before we talk to them.”

“Good idea.” Midnight Armor raised his voice as he turned to his children. “Let’s head back to Ponyville and get something to eat.”

Celestia, Artemis and Twilight responded by spreading their wings and taking flight. Sundance ad Midnight Armor did the same.

In Ponyville, Midnight Armor, Sundance, Celestia, Artemis and Twilight landed in front of Sugarcube Corner. They glanced at each other for a moment before silently walking inside.

Pinkie, Mr. Cake, Mrs. Cake, Pound and Pumpkin walked out of the kitchen when they heard the door open.

Twilight forced a smile as she stopped just inside the bakery. “I’m sorry about the unannounced visit. I haven’t had a chance to go grocery shopping yet.”

Mrs. Cake returned the smile. “It’s alright, Twilight. You have good timing. We’re making our lunch right now, so it will be easy to make more. Is cucumber, lettuce and tomato sandwiches alright?”

Twilight nodded “That sounds good.”

The Royal Family sat at the table to wait for their food. They looked up when Pinkie walked over to them with a large tray balanced on her back. The tray held three sandwiches for each of them, a large pitcher of lemonade and five glasses.

Celestia levitate the tray to the table before looking at Pinkie in time to see her nuzzle Twilight.

“I’m sorry.” Pinkie told her. “I’m working on the recipe for a new cake.” She smiled “I want you to be the first to try it.”

“Why didn’t you want me to see it?” Twilight asked

“It’s not ready yet.” Pinkie answered “I’ll let you know when it’s done.”

Twilight nodded again “Alright.”

Well done. Laughter commented

Thanks. Pinkie replied “I have to get back to the kitchen.”

“Are you still baking?” Artemis asked

Pinkie nodded

Artemis nodded as well. “We are leaving about an hour before sunset.”

“Okie Dokie” Pinkie walked back into to the kitchen.

The Royal Family quietly ate their lunches. Celestia summoned a bag of bits and set it on the table before they walked outside when they were done.

Sundance and Midnight Armor waited until they had walked into Twilight’s castle before turning to their children.

“You will be spending this afternoon with me, Celestia.” Sundance commented

“The same applies to you, Artemis.” Midnight Armor remarked

Artemis blinked “What?” I’m not complaining, but this is unexpected.

“Why?” Celestia asked I thought we already had plans for this afternoon.

“You’ll find out.” Sundance turned to Twilight.

Twilight didn’t give her mother a chance to say anything. “I’m going grocery shopping. This way, we won’t have the same problem next weekend.” She paused “Well, Artemis and I will be coming to Ponyville next weekend . . .”

Midnight Armor smiled at his youngest. “Your mother and I would like to come as well.”

Twilight nodded “I need to go see what we have so I know what I need to buy.”

Sundance, Midnight Armor, Celestia and Artemis watched her walk down the hall before turning to each other.

“Your father and I have noticed that both of you are angry.” Sundance began “Additionally, we are aware of the fact that your anger is probably directed at us.”

Celestia and Artemis flinched.

“We don’t blame either of you for that.” Midnight Armor assured them. “However, we won’t allow you to bottle your anger.” He turned to his son. “We will be returning to our old castle.”

Artemis’ eyes widened. What?!

Night stared at Midnight Armor. Did he learn anything from what happened this morning?!

Midnight Armor shook his head. “Don’t worry. We won’t be going inside. Instead, we will be using what’s left of the training course behind the castle.”

Artemis sighed in relief. “Yes, Father.”

Night quickly revised his opinion of Midnight Armor’s plan. I stand corrected. This may be just what Artemis needs.

Sundance watched her husband and their son walk out of Twilight’s castle before turning to her daughter. “I don’t believe we need to use such a physical tactic. Therefore, we will be in your room.”

Celestia responded by teleporting both of them there.

Sundance resisted the urge to laugh. Instead, she waited to see what her daughter would do, or say, next. She was surprised when Celestia didn’t move. This is unexpected. She is waiting for me to make a move.

Harmony laughed I think you’re right. You taught her well.

I don’t remember teaching her this. Sundance replied

Perhaps she learned it by watching you. Harmony suggested

You may be right. Sundance slowly responded I used this tactic fairly often when Celestia and Artemis were young.

Celestia raised an eyebrow when her mother didn’t move either. It appears that both of us are doing the same thing. I know from experience that Mother can keep this up for hours. Ordinarily, I would consider that an amusing challenge. However, I’m not in the mood for it at the moment. She walked over to a pair of couches that were positioned next to the large window and sat down on one of them.

Sundance sat on the other couch. This tells me that she is not completely comfortable.

What do you mean? Harmony asked

We would be lying on her bed if she was completely comfortable.

I see.

Celestia waited for her mother to say something.

I’m not falling for that, Celestia. Sundance silently waited for her daughter to begin.

Celestia resisted the urge to laugh. I should have expected that. If I’m right, she has already figured everything out. This means that she is purposely allowing me vent some of my anger. “Artemis and I wouldn’t have cared if you and Father visited the old castle by yourselves. This is because, despite what ponies currently call it, that was your castle. Additionally, we knew that you would want to visit it at some point in the near future. The problem came when you forced us to accompany you. I told you that we didn’t want to go to the old castle. I also told you why.”

Sundance nodded, but didn’t say anything.

“However, that isn’t the reason behind my anger.” Celestia continued “What really angered me was the way that your actions hurt Artemis and Twilight. That wouldn’t have happened if you and Father had listened to me.”

I knew it. Sundance smiled slightly. She has grown into the perfect older sister.

You’re right. Harmony slowly replied Celestia doesn’t seem to care about the fact that she suffered as well today.

Sundance finally opened her mouth. “I am not dismissing your anger, or the concerns that caused it, but I want to make sure that you understand the reason behind the actions of your father and myself.”

“If I understand correctly,” Celestia began “both of you believe that Artemis and I need to put the past behind us.”

“That is the overall goal.” Sundance agreed “However, it was not the reason behind our actions this morning.”

Confused, Celestia tilted her head. “Then what was?”

“Your father and I did not expect either of you to resolve anything today.” Sundance explained “We simply wanted to get the healing process started. Additionally, we wanted to ensure that we were present when that happened. This is because we needed to know where each of you are in the healing process.”

Celestia’s eyes widened “Now that you have that information . . .”

“We will use it to create a plan to help both of you when you are ready to deal with what happened.” Sundance finished

“I see.” Celestia slowly replied I should have known that Mother and Father had a good reason for their actions. It’s true that their actions caused us pain today, but the information that they gained will help Artemis and myself in the future. However . . . She looked up at her mother. “What about Twilight?”

“I made her come with us because I knew that she would be able to help your brother.” Sundance sighed “I did not expect Artemis to lash out like that.”

Neither did I. “You were right.” Celestia said slowly “He was obviously upset when I mentioned using the Elements of Harmony during my first battle with Night-Terror Knight.”

Sundance nodded “She was able to comfort him.” She sighed again. “Your father and I also didn’t expect Artemis to have such a negative reaction to seeing his old room.” She shook her head. “I wish I knew why he was so upset . . . aside from what Night told us.”

“I am fairly certain that Artemis was standing in the exact spot where he was when Night took over his body and power a thousand years ago.” Celestia said softly

Sundance gasped in shock. “What?!”

Celestia nodded “If you look at the floor of his old room, you will see two different sets of hoof prints. One is Artemis’ and the other is Night’s. Both are in the center of the small crater that must have formed when the change occurred.”

Sundance gasped “That might be the memory that he was reliving when we found him!”

Celestia gasped as well. “I bet you’re right!”

“I have no intention of asking your brother to tell us exactly what memory he was lost in.” Sundance commented

“Same here.” Celestia replied “This means that we will probably never know for sure.”

“You’re probably right.” Sundance looked out the window towards the ruins of the castle in the Everfree Forest. “Hopefully, your father will be able to calm Artemis.”

Celestia nodded

Sundance turned back to her daughter. “You should stay here and relax. Perhaps a long, hot bath will help.”

“What about you?” Celestia asked

“I am going to find your sister.” Sundance replied “I need to ensure that she is taken care of as well.”

Celestia smiled “Good idea.”

Both of them stood. Sundance nuzzled her daughter before turning towards the door. Celestia watched her mother closed the door behind her before walking over to the bed and laying down.

Meanwhile, Artemis and Midnight Armor had walked out of Twilight’s castle. They nodded to each other before spreading their wings and taking flight.

They arrived at the castle in the Everfree Forest a little over ten minutes later. Midnight Armor didn’t even glance at the main entrance to the castle. Instead, he flew around the left side towards the training course that he had built. Artemis silently followed his father.

Midnight Armor landed in a clearing and looked around. There is nothing left. I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised . . . it has been fifteen hundred years.

What are you going to do? Loyalty asked You were planning to use that course to help Artemis.

That’s not entirely true. Midnight Armor replied I just needed a location that was relatively empty. It doesn’t matter how rough we get here because everything around us is already in ruins.

Honesty laughed In that case, your current location is perfect.

You’re right. Midnight Armor turned to his son. “You should take everything off and stretch. I will let you know when I am ready to begin.”

Curious, Artemis did as he was told. What does he plan to do? Celestia told me that the training course was destroyed centuries ago.

Fifteen minutes later, Midnight Armor finished stretching and turned to his son. “Are you ready?”

Artemis finished stretching his wings before folding them and nodding to his father. “What will we be doing?” He couldn’t be planning to do that . . . could he?

Curious, Night asked What are you talking about?

If I’m right, you’ll see soon enough. Artemis replied

Midnight Armor took a fighting stance. “I’m sure that you have already figured it out.”

I was right. Shaking his head, Artemis took a fighting stance that was a little different than the one that his father was using.

Midnight Armor carefully examined his son’s defenses. Impressive. He has found a way to cover this fighting stance’s only weak point. He smiled slightly. This should be interesting.

Night, Loyalty, Honesty, Laughter, Generosity and Kindness gave Midnight Armor and Artemis their full attention.

As if there had been some sort of signal, both of them charged each other and met in the middle.

Midnight Armor’s smile widened when his son easily blocked his first blow. His horn began to glow as he pretended to prepare a powerful beam of magic.

Nice try, Father. I’m not falling for that. Artemis ignored the beam of magic. Instead, he blocked the blow that Midnight Armor aimed at his stomach before aiming one of his own at his father’s chest.

Midnight Armor grunted as he was pushed back a couple of feet. He spread his wings and used them to propel himself towards his son. “I know that you can speak while you train, Artemis.” He raised an eyebrow. “Or have you lost that ability during your time on the moon?”

“Of course not.” Artemis blocked another of his father’s blows before launching one of his own. “What do you want to discuss?”

Midnight Armor dodged the attack by taking to the air. “I am sure that you already know.”

Artemis spread his wings and joined his father in the air. “I assume it has something to do with what happened this morning.”

“That is correct.” Midnight Armor replied “I’m sure that you have something to say about it.” He dodged another of his son’s attacks before launching one of his own.

Artemis easily dodged it. “Why didn’t you listen to Celestia?”

I knew he was going to ask that question sooner or later. Midnight Armor’s horn began to glow again. I wonder if he will ignore this one. “As I said earlier, you need to deal with what happened in the past before you can move on.”

Artemis resisted the urge to laugh as he watched the beam of magic head towards him. I wonder if Father knows how predictable he is.

What do you mean? Night asked

When training, the first beam of magic is almost always a bluff. Artemis explained However, the second is always real. The ones after that are harder to predict, but there is usually a way to tell which one he is going to use.

I see. Night replied

Artemis created a shield around himself just before his father’s attack hit him. He released his shield before launching a beam of magic of his own at his father.

Midnight Armor surrounded himself with a barrier that easily blocked the attack. He raised an eyebrow when his son charged him while he was lowering the barrier. “You realize that my size makes it difficult for you to knock me out of the air with a charge like that, right?”

Artemis’ head on attack was a feint. The second, aimed at his father’s left side, hit its mark. He watched his father fall several feet. “Size isn’t everything, Father.”

Next Chapter: Chapter 81 Estimated time remaining: 1 Hour, 23 Minutes