A Dragon's Requiem

by Crisis Novastar

First published 27th of April, 2013

The ponies I love banishes me for something I haven't done, there killed my real mother, and father, brothers and sisters. The name is Spike, and this is my story of revenges.

The ponies I once called my friends and family, they just used me, teased me, and worst of all, broke my heart until it was nothing more than ash and dust. And You know what? I’m glad they did; their… betrayal, fear, and hate have awakened my emerald eyes to the truth. The truth about the pony I loved the most. But now have a new friend, a real friend. She doesn't tease me, or use me like some toy. No, she loves me, and I love her back. Oh, my name is Spike, Captain of the Nightmare Guard. This is my story. The story of how I got my revenge… and how I stole the queen of the night’s heart.

Chapter One

Author's Notes:

Thanks to NineTailBeastBall for the edit. More will come, and I hope you enjoy

I sat in the royal garden alone, gazing thoughtfully up at the night sky before saying to myself, “She makes the most beautiful stars any dragon will ever hope to see.” The stars shone brightly throughout the sky, like an infinite array of diamonds pushing back the darkness and bringing light to all of the sky’s corners. If I was vigilant, and lucky, I would spot one of these diamonds fling themselves across the sky as a paintbrush would on a clean canvas.

It all reminded me so much of her. Childishly, I made a wish for her to spend some time at my side, despite today’s tight schedule. Who’s she you ask? My mistress, my queen, my mentor, my goddess of the night. At one point, I thought having her as my mate, was a foolish dream that would never happen. Just the thought is more satisfying than having to whisk the day away for the mules I once called my friends.

I broke out of my thoughts, as the beautiful goddess appeared and trotted to sit beside me. She smiled and gave me an affectionate nuzzle causing me to blush.

My name is Spike, or at least it used to be. The story of how I ended up here is extremely unpleasant. However, in exchange for being banished for something I didn’t do, I’ve gained a beautiful mare and learned the truth of my family’s unfortunate demise. I’ve also obtained a new family that would support and comfort me for the rest of eternity. This is the tale of how it all begun.

As always, I was slaving around the castle library reorganizing the books that Twilight so carelessly threw about the room in one of her ‘sessions’. I always was the one to clean it. In fact, work was even harder than it used to be due to Twilight getting a new castle. Ever since she was crowned the new alicorn princess, I’ve found myself with more work and less time to spend with the ones I called my friends. After Tirek destroyed Golden Oaks, the ungrateful bitch ended up getting a castle. A fucking castle!

This only gave me more work. Even after going through her castle library, I was tasked with literally, mopping the entire castle.

The thought of my teacher’s pet of a caretaker out in my mother’s glorious sun with her detestable friends, while I’m left here with all of the work angered me to no end. Twilight never even bothered to say ‘please’ or ‘thank you’ for everything I did for her. It only added to the frustration thinking of all of the fun they could be having at my expense.

I don’t understand what I possibly have done to deserve such neglection. Maybe it’s punishment for nearly destroying Ponyville in my greed-induced rage? Or was it that I ruined Twilight’s favorite book and Shining’s comic when I sneezed? I mean even now ponies would stare at me with hate and disgust, or talk behind my back whenever I walked down the busy streets. Nevertheless it’s not a fair considering all those things were accidents. Everyday I was met with racist comments.

‘Hey look, it’s that dragon who nearly destroyed our town.’

‘Why hasn't the princess done anything? He’s too dangerous to live among us’

‘Go away and die you horrible beast’ Need I go on?

I created a tempting puff of smoke around a small green book I found laying in Twilight’s chair in the map room. I didn’t care to look at much with the thought of burning this dreadful castle to ashes. This would bring such relief to the anger welling up inside me. To resist the urge to render this damned prison of a castle to ashes, I began to use what Cadence had taught me and Twilight whenever we were under stress, by clammily breathing in and out and count to ten, yes it may lower my I.Q but if it works it works.

After three tantalizing hours I finally finished cleaning the library; thank the higher beings above I don’t need to clean anything else in this huge castle. I planted myself on a nearby couch to earn some well deserved rest. It was quiet and peaceful with nopony else around. With the total silence around me, I shut my eyes and my mind slowly drifts off to dreamland.

Unfortunately, the peace didn’t last long since the seven mares, six I had directed my hatred at for most of my days came into the room, thus bringing me back to the waking world I so hated. And of course as they entered the one room I was in. I swear Twi cast a tracking spell on me. That wretched face of the mule who trapped me here, was leading the pack.

“I'm tellin’ ya Twi’, yer gonna be fine,” Applejack tried to reassure her friend with a smile. Regardless, the alicorn continued pacing around the room in quite a manner so annoying that I hoped it would be the end of her.

“I know, I know!” Twilight said frantically, “But I just can’t decide what to wear or what to do at the party. I don't even have a date, I can’t go in without one!” They must be talking about that stupid Hearts and Hooves dance in Canterlot that my pseudo sister or inconsiderate slave-driver, wouldn’t shut up about earlier today. Luna knows I still won’t be hearing the end of it.

“Twilight darling, you needn't worry about your attire, I am making all of us new dresses, remember?” Rarity said in a motherly tone, trying to sooth Twilight. Just the sound of her elegant voice made my heart skyrocket. I wanted so badly to ask Rarity here and now, but I knew I’d have to wait.

“Besides Twilight, nopony would even care if you just came in naked, we’re technically always that way anyway, right?” the pink pony said trying to emphasize every little syllable to be as annoyingly as she could possibly make them. Her innocent voice made me think that none of them have even acknowledged my presence yet. “We’ll find a date for you, no problem lokey!” Pinkie said as she tried to change her face into a reassuring smile, as if it wasn't carved into her features already.

“Yeah Twilight, I mean come on, you were Celestia’s favorite student after all. And with those adorable looks, anypony would want in on that. Heck, I might even go with you if you asked me nicely,” Rainbow Dash said with a sultry look that warranted a stern glare from Applejack. It was no secret that the speed demon and farm mare were together, and nopony really cared considering that they all knew it was going to happen anyway. Plus, Rainbow and stallions just didn’t mix at all. I don’t know if the same applied to Applejack, but I’m guessing the answer is yes.

“Don't worry, Twilight, I know plenty of ponies who might be interested in you,” the meek yellow mare in the back of the pack said quietly. This statement brought surprise to everypony in the room, including me. I’ve never seen Fluttershy date a stallion or a mare, let alone being the one willing to play matchmaker for that matter.

Starlight for one reason or the other was quiet. Normally she would voice her opinion however she must of had been thinking. Out of those seven I never really hated Starlight. Yes she tried to destroy Equestria on three separate occasions and the entire world one time after going back in time and rewriting history. But deep down she was just like me. Misunderstood, lost and most importantly, lonely.

Their interrupting banter only brought up the fact that I didn’t actually receive a ticket to this ridiculous dance they were all going to. It’s not like I wasn’t invited to any of Twilight’s parties, it’s not like I had to tape a picture of myself to her birthday photo or the time we took that group photo with me in the corner of the said photo. And sure it wasn't like this was the kind of thing I actually enjoyed spending time doing, but you would think that some of my so called “friends” would want to include me in their little parties?

The real fault seems to be Princess Celestia’s, as she did send us the tickets, VIA ME IF I MIGHT ADD! You would think she would have the common courtesy to at least inviting the dragon she mothered, but no. She had raised me to just so she could dump me on Twilight, probably because I was the only one who would befriend her outside of her family. No wait scratch that make that second friend outside her family. This might be explained a bit in the invitation stating that every invite needed a date to take along or she/he won't be get in. But did the princesses not expect me to have a love interest or did they just genuinely not care?

It’s the formal.

I've been to the grand ballroom more times than I’d like to count, but it’s really the thought that’s important, and I haven't really been getting too much of that. It’s not like I saved the Crystal Empire from eternal slavery, prevented a major incident that crushed nearly sixty ponies and three griffons, injuring hundreds more, befriended a changeling who now serves the Crystal Empire, and help dragons and ponies become friends, or anything to warrant getting a little recognition every now and then.

While in the middle of my hate filled thought process, I noticed I was angrily staring at the group with malevolent contempt, which was the usual, but now Twilight had noticed me on the couch, so I had to snap myself out of it to avoid THAT conversation again. She turned to speak to me, and I could only guess from the events of the day that she had another set of tasks for me to do. That’s all I was good for anymore, doing mindless chores for everypony in this Luna forsaken town. My trail of thought was interrupted as Twilight made her way over to me.

“Spike, what do you think?” she asked me. I wasn’t really paying that much attention, and I doubt I would even care if I did hear her properly. Instead of a helpful remark, I just shrugged at her. Then all of the sudden, I had the familiar feeling of a forced breath of fire that could only mean one thing. I foolishly attempted to cover my mouth, before a burst of green flame came out with the force of a cannon.

The flame materialized into a scroll with a golden ticket jutting out of the side. that had also decided to singe the tips of Twilight’s mane and horn. The six others gazed at the ticket incredulously as if it had just wronged them somehow. I knew almost for sure it was simply Princess Celestia being late with my ticket I halfway didn’t want... again.

“Did the princess forget somepony?” Rainbow asked and looked around attempting to account for every one using the only brain cell she had left at maximum capacity. ‘No you dipshit, it’s for the cockroach under the nonexistent carpet.’ I thought frustratingly as Twilight picked up the scroll with her magic, unwound it, and began to read it aloud.

My most faithful dragon Spike:

I deeply apologize, for it seems that I have forgotten to give you a ticket as well, you will find it attached to this letter, and I do so hope you find the right to forgive me.

Sincerely,

Princess Celestia.

This only served to annoy me more, the gears in my head started spinning faster than an out of control train. She forgot... SHE FORGOT?! Am I only viewed to her as bucking fax machine that’s able to send and receive bucking letters?! It made me question her concern for me, as well as her overall competence. If she couldn’t even recall one of her closest family members, let alone her ONLY SON, then how is she able to run Equestria? She and Twi might as well be labeled as hypocrites who only act like great leaders.

Twilight and the others stared at me until the thought process decided to catch up to them. Then the inconsiderate jerk of the group decided to do what she did best, be a complete bitch.

“Bwahahaha! You find a date?” she pointed a hoof at me as best she could while laughing midair. “Fat chance! Most girls around here don’t even like stallions, let alone dragons!” As she continued laughing, it took all of my self-control not to roast her on the spot. She was right about one thing though, most mares in Ponyville didn’t exactly swing my way. Most of them didn’t even like the male variety of their own species. I could go on and question half of the mares in the room for their sexuality, but based on the recurring theme of the town, I could probably guess correctly, which to me was sad.

Starlight gave an angry look to Rainbow, who ceased her guffawing and decided to shut up and feel guilty for once. “It’s okay Spike, I’m sure somepony would love to go with you.” Starlight told me. I thanked her and she returned a smile. Due to our time together for Princess Flurry Heart’s birth, I was very close to Starlight. She was the only one who didn’t shun me out and acknowledged my presence. I was quite happy when she first made a friend on her own.

After another few hours of the girls going on about the stupid dance, Celestia’s sun began to set. Frankly, I didn’t care much for the conversation since I was banished to the kitchen to make snacks and what not. I caught a little of everypony chastising Rainbow yet again for her thoughtless spouting of hurtful banter, which I enjoyed while it lasted. As it turned out, they were all having yet another slumber party at the castle, which only meant I would have more to clean up in the morning. While making my usual assortment of appetizers and sweets, I overheard them go into giggles and a slightly more hushed tone of voice. Curious, I decided to investigate and snuck up to the doorway and carefully peeked out into the room to be clued in on the conversation.

“So, Rarity, who will you be asking?” I heard Fluttershy say. Though the chances were slim, I silently hoped I would be Rarity’s answer.

“Nonsense! You know that it would be unladylike to not let the gentlecolts come to me for the opportunity. Though if I were to pick, I would have to say one of the more classy gentlecolts that frequent the boutique would be high on my list,” Rarity said hopefully. Heavily displeased, I recalled all of the hard hours I put into helping Rarity around her shop. I put up with the hard work, hoping it might sway her to see me as the gentlecolt... drake of her dreams. It all seems like I’ve been wasting my time the more she talks about it like I wasn’t even there.

“What about Spike? You know he’d love to go with you!” Pinkie said, asking the only question I really wanted to hear the answer to.

“Spike is a great dragon and all, and quite a good friend, but he’s only a baby after all. Plus, what would all the nobles in Canterlot think if I were to go to the dance with a dragon at my side? I would be made a fool of.” Of course, her reputation would be more important than any form of gratitude towards the dragon that has tried so desperately to win her affection.

“Besides, I’m sure he will find some dragoness to fall in love with for this night.” Bah! That was the stupidest thing I heard that night. Dragons lived on a completely different land far from Equestria, how am I supposed to set that one up? Learn long distance teleportation overnight and hope I land in a dragons den with a strapping dragoness my age? And even if I ask, I highly doubt that one would accompany me to a pony dance. Ember is the only dragoness I know, and I highly doubt she’d see me as a romantic love interest/potential mate.

I thought more and more of her as just a dumb slut rather than my future love interest. All of the work I put in for in her and she just...

It was right then that the oven rang out into the kitchen, signifying that the pizza I put in was done. I took the pan out of the oven without having to use gloves and prepared to cut my creation to be eaten. Being fireproof does occasionally have its perks. Cutting it up I brought out eight pieces to the ponies along with all of the other assorted foods I had made as well. After receiving their empty gratitude, other than Starlight who wished I had made more cause it was the best pizza she ate. I ate the remaining piece and went to the bedroom and crawl in my bed size baskets to get some well-earned sleep.

About one in the morning or so, I awoke to some muffled moans that I could only guess the source of. I left my room, to go to the bathroom. Of cause I have a bathroom in my room but I wanted to ruin the party. Making my way down the halls of the Twilight’s castles, I founded one door of the many doors in this castle. The room itself was plane side from the crystals growing from the ground. It was large, easily able to fit about twenty ponies. Inside were six twin size beds all in circle.

Most of the mares were asleep in those twin size bed in the what I call the slumber room since one:all slumped parties the girls have are held in the room and two: you know who has to clean the room. Both Applejack and Rainbow were conveniently missing. Like they couldn't go one night without a good rut in the mare mud.

I made my way to the one of the many spare room next to the slumber room, the door slightly closed and found the two mares grinding nethers together like a foal trying to violently put back together a stuffed animal that had been torn apart. Their hooves were placed over each other's’ muzzles to muffle the loud moans. Since the castle itself causes an echo effect. That being said, even with they muzzle cover I can still hear them from down the hall. And they didn’t want to wake anypony up, especially Twilight. Celestia knows what she’d do to them when she found them making sweet love in her castle.

Rather than stare at them, like any male in my situation would, I simply mustered my loudest yawn and feigned walking beside the doorway. I was rewarded with the pair having a panic attack and falling off of the bed by the fireplace, with faces as red as Applejack’s apple cutie mark.

‘The damned skanks deserved that,’ I thought with a satisfied smile. With small victories aside, I took my trip to the bathroom and retreated back to the bedroom before realizing that my interruption didn’t phase them as much as it should have, as they were right at it again as I passed. I could have told Twilight, but it would be funnier if she smelled both Applejack and Rainbow Dash’s love juices in the morning.

On my way back to my room I spotted the Starlight watching Applejack and Rainbow make out through the crack of the slightly closed door. She turn her head and looked at me. Her face as red as Big Mac coat after seeing those too buck in their friend’s home.

“You alright there Star?” I asked knowing the answer.

“Why yes Spike everything is fine,” she lied. I just shrug and walked back to my room, but before turning my head.

“You know they’ve been at this for a while now. And I think they would love it if a powerful unicorn join them.” I snicker. Starlight smirk.

“Maybe a certain perverted dragon wants to watch an all mare threesome?” she playfully countered.

“Maybe.” Was my only retorted. “But I would only watch not touch. Anyway I’m going back to sleep, night Starlight.”

“Night Spike.” Starlight giggled and returned to her room.

The week dragged on as everypony prepared for the upcoming dance. As the deadline grew to two days, I had the growing feeling that I wouldn’t actually find a date. Since the ticket counted for two, AJ gave her ticket to Apple Bloom because she had already had a fuckbuddy. This would be her third party in Canterlot following the Grand Galloping Gala. Regardless, I was going to ask Apple Bloom if she would go as my date, but it turned out that she wanted to go with Sweetie Belle. Either they’re starting them young or they didn't have a good concept of sexuality yet. I don’t know what ghost possessed my body and forced me to do so, but I asked Scootaloo to the dance. She was learning from the biggest filly fidder in town, but looking back, I was that desperate. She shrugged it off as girly nonsense and declined. Bet if it was Rainbow, she’d immediately agree.

I asked Starlight if she wanted to go, but it turns out she asked Sunburst. I wasn’t even remotely mad at her. I should have known she’d ask Sunburst. It just somehow slip my mind.

I was fed up and opted to give the ticket out to a random passerby and as if the world around me just loved to see me go through hardship simply because it wanted to watch me suffer. The first wall-eyed mare to run into me declined it on the grounds that she already had a ticket. What kind of idiotic luck is that? Not even Big Mac and Cheerilee wanted it for the love of Luna! Instead, the day drew to a close with me returning to the castle disappointingly with a mocking gold ticket in tow. Lucky me.

As I stepped inside, I found Fluttershy and Twilight in the main room talking excitedly about something, not that I cared. Instead of having to sit through the nonsense they were discussing, I decided to write to the princess about my predicament. I grabbed a parchment and scroll by Twilight’s desk upstairs and started scribbling angrily.

With that, I rolled up the scroll and sent it on its way with a plume of green flame. The embers danced right out the window towards its destination. With that done, I decided to stay home and hopefully do something fun instead, that will put myself out of my misery, the keyword being ‘hopefully’.

Dear Princess Celestia:

I’m sorry to tell you that I won't be attending the upcoming dance, it seems no one in Ponyville wants to be seen with a dragon, so I will be sitting this one out.

Your faithful dragon,

Spike

An excited purple alicorn interrupted my thoughts though, by bursting through the door jumping around merrily a direct contrast to my mood. I gave her a questioning look, reflexively of course, but took it back immediately, because I didn’t actually care. She saw it anyway and decided to fill me in.

“Spike, Spike you won’t believe this, but Trixie Lulamoon decided to be my date!” she happily rubbed in my face. “It’s kinda crazy, I mean we didn’t like each other at first. But after she became friends with Starlight, I began to grow fond of her!” she gushed out with joy. “Trixie’s into magic just like I am and is probably the most beautiful unicorn ever! This is perfect!”

Well I saw that coming like a freight train slamming into a white carriage on a dark night. Another lesbian in the town, gee what a surprise. Overall, I didn't really care and decided to play around the subject to try to get out of the dreadful castle before she tries to practice sex magic with me for the big dance. Starlight I’m very sorry if Twilight uses you as a guinea pig.

“That’s great, Twilight,” I said as deadpan as possible. I then got up to walk out of the castle before she could rope me into anything else.

“Spike are you okay? You seem… annoyed at something?” she asked with a concerned look on her face. She didn’t actually care how I felt, she just wanted me to be able to do chores for her. At that moment, I wanted to yell how she and everypony in town abused me, how Rarity broke my heart, but I didn’t. They didn’t care when it happened before, why should it matter now?

“I’ll be fine Twi,” I lied, I was far from okay. First it was the nightmares, then this shit. I begin to walk out the door until she called out again.

“Oh and Spike, Rarity said to drop by the boutique when you can. She’s finished with your suit.” I didn't bother to hear the end of that as I walked out the door to escape.

Celestia’s setting sun was making its way down the horizon, but I didn’t mind. I had already come to enjoy the moonlight Luna would bring. Tonight would be no different, it was present, cool, and all and all naturally beautiful.

I had walked past Rarity’s boutique. I didn’t want to speak to that worthless whore or her soon to be lesbian sister. I kept walking down the street, passing Sugar Cube Corner. The lights were off, telling me that Pinkie Pie was either not there, Possibly having a threeway with Mr and Mrs Cake (don’t ask), doing something random, or asleep. I put my gems on doing something random with Pound and Pumpkin Cake. Granted they're asleep.

Thank Luna for that. If she even saw me like this, She’d throw a party in high hopes of cheering me up. I do recall seeing a dark blue stallion leaving the bakery. He looked super happy, but I wasn’t going to pay him any mind. Now I think about Starlight did tell me that she seen him leaving the bakery in the early mornings.

After determining that I had traveled far enough away that I wouldn't hear anymore incessant bullshit, I stopped in the Ponyville park and sat under a tree. I sighed and looked to all of the fillies and colts frolicking about in the park. I stayed there watching them have fun, trying to enjoy the day, despite the fact it was getting dark. Even when parents came to take their foals home for the night, I didn’t move. I thought of all of my possibilities of escaping my dreadful life. I could just leave, it’s not like they'll care much. I could always find a better home in a cave to search for enough gems to make a hoard like a real dragon. Specifically, a dragon that isn’t suffering from all this hate and negligence, coming mostly from her.

My dreams of grandeur were interrupted by a familiar swell of continually heating air in my lungs. With a violent burp, the green flames produced a scroll into my claws that I casually opened and read.

My dearest dragon, Spike:

I am very sorry to hear about your troubles involved in finding a date my Spike. You will be happy to hear that I have acquitted the rules for you. You will be an exception and will be let in without a date, so you need not to fear coming alone. Also if you don’t wish to attend I won’t hold it against you, but if you do decide to come I hope you have a wonderful time.

Yours truly,

Princess Celestia.

My mind went blank for that one moment after reading it. “Well buck.”

Chapter Two

I sat upon the throne my sister and I once shared. The feeling of power was indescribable. No one was by my side though which is unfortunate, but I planned to change that very soon. If it was right, if he would accept my feelings, then very soon, this throne would occupy two once again. But that is then and this is now, bureaucracy, politics, listening to unneeded dribble, nobles that couldn’t find their way through a shoe, much less make one.

Speaking of useless nobels, I had to deal with some today, complaining that the taxes are too high, that the middle and lower income families have to pay little to nothing while they lose nearly thirty percent of their bits. I sighed, thinking why don’t I have one of my guards come in here and punish the fools?

I turn my head to stare at a stained glass window, my favorite one of them all. What I saw almost made my wings flare up. It was the most beautiful sight in the castle by far. The glass depicted my most valiant student in all his glory, standing on top of a broken white alicorn. The bitch’s wings were missing and only the base of her broken horn was left.

I adored how my dear knight takes what his enemies treasure the most and destroys them. To see my student rip the limbs off whoever was foolish enough to cross his path excites me to no end... Oh listen to me, speaking like some preschool filly. I am an alicorn, we’re above love, no matter how handsome, kind, adorable and hot he is I... I lost my train of thought.

Oh, who am I kidding?! My beloved student could probably drive any mare wild! There’s no way I could possibly be any different. Oh how I love to keep him by my side.

Oh silly me, you must not even know what I’m talking about. Let me tell you of my rise to power, it started twenty years ago.

I sat in the middle of a large round table with ten nobles, five on each side of the table. My thoughts were lighter back then, not so full of hate and disgust for those that would soon die.

‘I know you can’t hear us, but we hate you so much right now, Tia. Letting your little sister take care of these… these uncouth snobs.’ See? Very light hearted.

“And I believe that only the nobles who reside here in Canterlot should be invited to this wonderful event the Committee of Canterlot planned,” one stallion spoke. The pompous tone striking my ears worse than the others, as the stallion was none other than my conceited, spoiled nephew, Prince Blueblood. As rotten and opinionated an idiot he was, he’s still family so I couldn’t harm him, no matter how much he deserved it. Of course, the nobles all followed him, nodding to his words like dogs would to treats.

“And the elements bearers?” I ask in a nonchalant tone. In response, they all looked at me with disgust, which didn’t surprise me.

“Why princess, inviting the Princess of Friendship and her student makes sense, but why the other five?” asked one mare, her snotty nose pointing up.

“She’s right, aunty,” Prince Blueblood said not even remotely surprising me. The stallion who was unfortunately my nephew, was possibly the most snobbish pony in all the land. “I mean remember at what that… that barbarian did to my coat? I don’t think we need to invite them.”

“My dear nephew,” I spoke feigning a loving tone. “Are you saying that you refuse to invite the very ponies that saved this entire land on numerous occasions...” My facade ended and changed to my true feeling of rage, “Simply for the fact that you have a petty feud with one of them?! Despite her best attempts in making her dreams become reality!?” The arrogant fool actually nodded. Blueblood really thought that I, co-ruler of Equestria, would actually deny our heroes this opportunity.

As entertaining as it would have been to embarrass my despicable nephew, I would leave that task to Discord. Nevertheless, I believed a light punishment was in order. “Neither me nor my sister will grant your request for two reasons.” I stated, leaning on the table and placing both my hooves together almost like I was the CEO of a company. “One, if it wasn’t for them, half of this world would be frozen, while the other half would be burnt to a crisp or chaos and anarchy would be ruling the land, and a monster with the ability to steal magic from destroying our home.”

“And the second reason?” asked my spoiled nephew.

I rolled my eyes. “Second, we are indebted to the elements. You can whine to my sister all you wish, but our decision still stands. Now this meeting is over, so if you have a problem with inviting the bearers of harmony, then take it up with my sister,” I said as I walked back to my throne with two of my night guards by my side.

Once I made it to the throne room I shared with Tia, I sighed, thinking there must be something better to do than make a spoiled prince wet himself. Perhaps I could go out to one of those clubs I keep hearing about and dance my night away. Or maybe I’ll visit dear Pipsqueak in dreams. Being his favorite princess, my presence always brings joy to the colt. As I was busy considering what to do, a dull hum suddenly resonated within my mind. It was an instinct I had specifically developed to inform me when somepony important to me was having a nightmare.

Don’t get me wrong, as the protector of dreams, it is my sworn duty to assist those having nightmares. It’s just my friends must always hold precedence. I closed my eyes, letting the warmth of magic flow to my horn.

“I will return shortly,” I told my two guards, who saluted in return, and with that I vanished.

I had always imagined it was a spectacle to see: a blue light appearing in the breeze, growing in size and power until only the brave could look into it before fading to reveal the dark blue alicorn that encompaces my current form. I looked around and saw nothing but scattered bones, canyons, and piles of sand and dust. I knew I was in somepony’s dream, but I couldn’t recognize the location. As I continued looking around, I could only guess this was miles away from the Equestrian borders. I’ve been invited to the dragon lands before and not even they look this desolate.

I started to walk forward, passing skeletons and rock formations one by one, in a seemingly endless route until I took to the skies, allowing faster travel and easier sight with the rising sun in the distance. I did not find a single living soul, so I landed by one of the countless canyons and said to myself, “This place seems deserted.” However, the moment those words left my lips, my ears perked up at a sniffling sound and prompted me to step towards it. “Is anypony there?”

The sound grew louder as I approached the source of the crying. I was soon led to a wall of earth with a single, but giant hole big enough to fit a fully grown dragon. “Hello?” I ask, which made the sound stop. “I mean you no harm. I only here to help you. Please come out.” There was no response. At this point, I would have left, but something told me to go forward. My horn glowed, making it easier to see. The cave itself was huge. As I walked, I heard little footsteps and crackles of rocks hitting something.

“STAY AWAY FROM ME!” a familiar, childlike voice echoed throughout the cave. “LEAVE ME ALONE!”

“There is no need to be afraid, for I am the princess of the night. I’ve come to end this nightmare.” I stated, but I was only answered with silence. The long silence finally broke as I heard footsteps coming from behind a pillar. I turn and flash the blue light around my horn to see who it was. To my surprise, it wasn’t a pony, but a small purple scaled dragon. The eyes of the young dragon were red and puffy, showing signs that he had been crying for quite some time. “Young Spike?” That is indeed what he was known as all those years ago.

“What has happened, and why are you here in this barren wasteland?” I asked before a flash of purple caught me at the side.

“Leave little Spike here, he belongs with me and he knows it...” a possessive voice, deep and strong had spoken. “Leave this place, and never return!” With that, my vision was suddenly obstructed and I felt myself being lifted. Claws encircled my form, holding me as if I was a small grape.

“Just what are you, demon?!” My royal voice burst into the darkness, but was met with only silence.

“Demon...” it hummed. “I like that very much. The dragon of the wasteland had no better name. Don’t you agree Spike?” Shock was a first for me. This monster, this... abomination that held me in its claws, was Spike. The thought of the tiny dragon turning into this one day frightened me. “Though it pains me that after all this time, you forgot about me.” I gasped in surprise.

“Princess Luna...” The young drake, apparating from the darkness, looked up towards me. His eyes were the same as mine before I was banished to the moon, filled with nothing but sorrow.

“You’re scared aren’t you?” he chuckled, how could he possibly chuckle in this situation? “You want to escape, to abandon like all the others.” His voice grew low, angry, scary. “Go away… GO AWAY AND LEAVE ME TO DIE!!”

Spike swung his hand and the monolith of a dragon copied his movement, flinging me to a nearby canyon. I prepared for impact, for the shock, that would awaken me from the illusion, it never came. Instead, a fluffy cushion had absorbed all the impact of the throw.

“Just go. Leave me like everypony else did. I don’t have the ability to care anymore.” His voice was full of melancholy and lies.

I approached him slowly, not even flinching as a ball of flames rushed past my face. “Spike, I could never abandon somepony in need,” I spoke truthfully, drawing closer and closer as I did.

“NO, STAY AWAY!!” he screamed and the large dragon spewed forth a wall of flames, blocking both Spike and the cave entrance. I noticed this fire was different. Instead of the normal colors of orange and yellow with a bit of red, or in Spike’s case green, these flames were a dark purple. There was no doubt in my mind that these weren’t normal flames.

These were flames of darkness. And the only ones I know who would use them are the nightmares. It was the difference for me when I changed into Nightmare Moon, but overall the same. Scared and alone. I have to do something.

“You will not hurt anypony Spike,” I stated. “You could never do something so terrible,” I spoke walking into the inferno.

I had stepped through the blaze to find Spike alone, the nightmarish beast had mysteriously vanished. He spoke, “They banished me. Mother banished me and sent me here to live the rest of my life, alone. Like a dragon should,” the drake said in a heartbroken tone.

“Wait, mother?” This dream, surprisingly, only grew stranger as it progressed, I was relieved to see some logic. It was obvious in retrospect, that Spike would see Tia as his mother, as she’s the one who raised him before giving him to Twilight. “Exactly what crime could you have committed to warrant my sister’s wrath?” I asked as he look down in shame. I could tell he didn’t want to tell me, but it was a waiting game. He needed an ear to listen and I was there to provide one.

“I ate three fillies and a stallion.” My eyes widened in shock. A baby dragon eating ponies wasn’t unheard of, but I could never imagine Spike doing such a thing.

“Pony food and gems just weren’t enough,” he said as tears flowed from his eyes again. “I even resorted to stealing vitamins and nutrient packs to make the gowling stop! I couldn’t control myself... I-I was so hungry, I couldn’t stop. Everything hurt, moving, talking, breathing, everything! Then they came, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Big Mac. It hurt so bad... I’m sorry! I just couldn’t stop, I couldn’t make myself stop!”

He fell to his knees and lowered his head as he continued. “My body moved on its own. I was covered in blood, s-so much blood. I-I saw the bodies of the ponies I just killed!” Spike looked disgusted by the whole ordeal and more horrified than anypony I have seen in a very long time. He was a dragon, an omnivore that devoured everything in his path. Whether it be, gems, plants, animals. Spike was blessed with a gift dragons had not held for years, he was capable of caring for others; in his eyes, he thought of himself as a murderer.

“That’s when Fluttershy caught me and soon sold me out. The next day, I was lead down the streets of Ponyville in chains. Ponies threw stuff at me and called me a disgrace to Equestrian society. I look over to my friends who turned their heads. Not even Twilight wanted to have anything to do with me. The only two that even tried to understand me, Zecora and Starlight Glimmer vouched for me. Zecora said that it was in my nature to eat meat, as I was going through a phase where it was required. And Starlight tried everything in her power to convince the ponies that it couldn’t be helped, but nopony listened. Mother said I was far too dangerous to live among ponies, so she banished me.”

“Spike, you would never hurt anypony,” I said, my words having no effect on the dragon as a hand reached out and grabbed my form.

“Haven’t you been listening?!” the nightmarish beast’s voice boomed through the cave. “He ate fillies and stallions alike! Do you truly stand by what you said?!” he asked.

“Yes,” I responded flatly, catching the dragon by surprise. I then landed once more onto the soft, cushiony ground, not taking my eyes off the dragon. “Spike would never hurt anypony, I am living proof.

“H-how so?”

“Spike had flung me along to the canyon wall. I should have awoken the shock awakening me, but instead I was met with a cushion. Both instances you held me in your claws, you never once pressured me. You held me gingerly and carefully. Even the fires themselves did not harm me. Can you still say that you are capable of such things, Spike?”

In response to my question, the hand vanished, along with the dark flames covering the cave’s entrance. Walking towards the baby drake, it was obvious why he was having this nightmare. He fears being alone, rejected and above all, he fears he’ll one day lose control. I could sense history would definitely repeat itself if something isn’t done. “Tell me,” I wrap my wing around the small drake, who was no longer sobbing. “How are your friends treating you?”

“It’s like I’m a ghost to them. Twilight forces me to clean the castle while she goes out to play or have an adventure. I work my claws to the bone for Rarity just to make her notice me.” I saw he was balling up his fists in absolute anger. “Applejack doesn’t even want me near her farm, saying I only cause her trouble. Rainbow Dash and Pinkie keep being a jerks, pulling pranks on me constantly. Pinkie even laughed at me when I nearly died not only once, but twice during the annual Winter Wrap Up.”

“What of the shy one?” I asked. Spike looked up at me, his eyes weren’t full of sadness anymore, but of pure hatred toward those six.

“Fluttershy had been nice to me, I felt as though I could talk to her about anything. After she found her special somepony, she only talked to me about him. How he cares for and protects her. Often, the only one I can talk to is Starlight, but Twilight often drags her away.”

“I see. And what about my sister?”

“I’ve been sending mother letters, asking when I could come and visit her… But she hasn’t replied to any of them.”

“And how often do you send those letters?”

“Once every two weeks.”

Two weeks?! I know Tia is a very busy mare, but any parent, ruler or not, should put aside their work to spend time with their children. The sad thing is, I see a small younger version of myself. And I will not let this happen a second time. If nopony’s going to help him control those urges, then I’ll do it.

“I’m at the end of my rope, everyday it seems the world is against me. I wish I could just end the misery and die, pass away to where nopony will ever find me…”

“Young Spike, believe me I know how you feel. I too have walked down the path of loneliness. Therefore my dear, I shall visit you in your dreams every night from now on.”

Spike looked up at me with hopeful eyes. That look basically was asking ‘You really mean it?’ to which I nodded. I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I allowed the same thing that happened to me to happen to him. He wasn’t a monster, he was the sweetest dragon anypony could possibly meet.

As I felt Spike’s tiny claws wrap around my hoof, I wondered how anypony could possibly neglect something this precious. As the little dragon continued hugging me, I felt this warm and relaxing sensation. It was something a mother would feel. The love for her child.

I smiled and wrap my hoof around the dragon’s back. I wanted to do what Tia failed to do before. I wanted to protect him.

I don’t know how long we hugged, and I didn’t care either. I didn’t want to let go. Eventually, Spike pulled away from my loving embrace. “Young Spike I have to go and take care of some things, but fear not. As promised, I will come by and visit you every night.” He nodded and I turned and walked to the entrance of the cave as the world of his dreams began to ripple. No more bones, just canyons and the cave. I smiled, this was a very good start.

“P-Princess?” Spike called. I turn my head to look at him.

I giggled, “Please, just call me Luna.”

“Okay... Luna,” he corrected. finding it somewhat awkward to address a princess without her title. “Thank you,” he finished with a smile. I returned the smile before I waved my hoof and disappeared.

I return to the throne, my guards absent from their post. “I must have been in there longer than I expected,” I said to myself before getting up and wandering through the halls of the castle, pondering on how to aid Spike with his urges. It would help if I knew more about dragons. I hope we still have that book the dragon lord gave us. Though, I doubt it would help with loneliness. I searched through the Canterlot library, but found no books on dragons. Quite unfortunate that I couldn’t find any information in the royal library. I was more than a little upset and decided to take a walk through the garden to calm myself. I must have been out for a lengthy amount of time, as I saw it was already dawn. “I’ll ask Tia if she has it.” The idea was small but logical, Celestia must have had a book on her own son.

With the moon down for the sun to make way, I made my way toward the dining room where Celestia was. She was having her favorite breakfast, banana flavored pancakes with a mug that said ‘I love Sunday’ written in a yellow text, filled with coffee next to her plate. I took the seat next to Tia.

“Good morning dear sister,” Tia said with a smile. “I trust the meeting went well.”

“Indeed, however, I fear our nephew won’t listen to reason.”

“Just ignore him Luna,” Tia shrugged “What he thinks or feels on the matter isn’t important. That and we don’t want attend something similar to the Grand Galloping Gala.”

“Tia?” I began. “Why hasn’t young Spike been around?” Tia had changed persona at this point, not the kind sister I knew, but the distant and immaculate ruler known to all other ponies. She placed her fork down and looked at me with a stoic gaze and stone features. In retrospect, I was slightly afraid of her at that moment, but I held my ground.

“Luna, you know I’m very busy attending to my subjects, and with the peace treaties between ponies and dragons...” she said. “Times have grown busier with Dragon Lord Ember’s recent success to the throne.”

“I’ll go and talk to Dragon Lord Ember,” I reinsure her. I don’t know why, but she doesn't have to carry the burden of ruling the land. We are co-rulers for a reason.

What Tia told me about that particular incident was that she, along with her guards, had stolen dragon eggs from the dragon migration for experimentation. Once the former Dragon Lord Touch found out, he declared all out war on Equestria. If it wasn’t for the friendship between an abandoned filly and a baby dragon, the war would have caused heavy casualties for both sides.

Since Dragon Lord Ember was very close to Spike, I wondered why she hasn’t told him. Perhaps she didn’t want Spike to get harmed? Or maybe Tia didn’t want to Spike to end his friendship with Twilight and her friends?

Tia had also made the guards take a vow of silence that no particular pony must ever know about the experiments or the loss of life between the dragons. Her vile actions still remain covered up to this day.

“Tia do we still have the book on dragons Dragon Lord Ember gave us?” Tia raised a brow. Obviously, my sudden interest in dragons was under suspicion.

“Did something happen last night Luna?” I should withhold most of the truth, since I knew she’d try and deny it.

“Well, I visited young Spike’s dream last night and he seemed… very lonely. I fear history is doomed to repeat itself if we don’t act fast.”

“What do you propose?” Celestia asked taking a sip of her coffee.

“You should spend more time with him in the waking world as I’ll be keeping him company in the dream realm.”

My sister put her hoof under her chin as she considered my suggestion. “Unfortunately Luna, with all the work with our subject, and recent treaty between Equestria and the dragons, I cannot guarantee things will work out.”

“Promise me you’ll at least try to make time for your son,” I said getting up.

“No promises dear sister, but I’ll see what I can do. I did send him a ticket.”

Ticket? I thought she sent out the tickets to the elements days ago. Pushing the thought aside, I gave Tia a nod and trotted out of the dining room. I needed to know a few things, so instead of going into my room for to retire, I trotted over to my sister’s room on the other side of the castle.

Upon entering Tia’s room, I saw a bin of discarded letters. I shrugged them off, at the time, and went on to finding the book. Tia said that she kept it in her study. After finding the book I was looking for, I looked over at the bin again. Spike mentioned that she hasn’t responded to any of his letters, so I pick one out of the bin and my eyes widened from what I read. “So this is why I haven’t seen young Spike around.” Reading letter after letter, my heart nearly stopped. From what I read, it was not only neglect on Tia’s part, but abuse from the bearers of harmony as well.

I walked out of Tia’s room and began to read. I quickly became engrossed in the book. I never knew each dragon has a colored flame, representing a gem color, or that certain dragons can use magic, just like unicorns and alicorns. What surprised me the most was what I learned about a dragon’s diet. Apparently at the right age of one year or ten pony years, a baby dragon will begin to have urges to consume meat. The longer the dragon is deprived of meat, the more agitated they become. Eventually, they’ll begin hallucinating for about a week before entering into a state of rage.

What’s more is that eating meat... helps them grow...

I don’t intend to let that happen, as I already promised Spike I’ll be there for him and I intend to honor my commitment. Once I made it to my room, I took off my royal slippers and regalia in preparation for bed. Tonight, my thoughts were only of that lonely purple dragon.

Chapter Three

Celestia’s sun rose from the eastern horizon, marking the beginning of a new day. The sun’s rays filtered into Twilight’s bedroom, causing the lavender alicorn to toss and turn, attempting to squeeze the last bits of sleep she could into her day. She was eventually forced awake, not from the rays of Celestia’s sun, but from the wonderful smell of homemade pancakes. Spike was downstairs cooking breakfast, like he always did. Twilight got herself out of bed and trotted over to the upstairs bathroom, getting herself ready for the day.

Twilight’s thoughts were on her marefriend, Trixie and she had made plans to meet her over at Sugarcube Corner for breakfast. Ordinarily, there was no way Twilight could resist her number one assistant’s work, especially his cooking skills. But it was either stay at home and eat Spike wonderful meal, or go eat with her marefriend. The lavender alicorn made her way down from their bedroom and to the front door.

“Spike, I’m going out for awhile,” She said as she opened the door with her magical grip. “Make sure you have this place clean when I get back.”

“Come on Twi, what about breakfast? I made your favorite: daffodil pancakes with hay strips.” The purple dragon popped his head out of the kitchen wearing a pinkish white apron with a pink heart in the middle. Twilight had to suppress a giggle, always finding it cute to see her assistant wearing this apron.

“I’ll eat at Sugarcube Corner,” Twilight responded. “Just remember to clean up, okay?” Without waiting for the dragon to protest, Twilight shut the door, once again leaving Spike by himself.

Spike for the best part struggled to keep his cool, seeing how he was denied spending time with his older sister.

‘First mother won’t reply to my letters, now for the first time, Twilight blows off the breakfast I made her. Oh how I want to take every single book in this damn place and burn it to ashes!’ Spike thought, releasing a deep angry sigh.

Starlight came in noticing Spike had made pancakes, and felt her stomach growling. “Good morning Spike. These look delicious.” She fixed herself a plate and began eating the freshly baked flapjacks.

Spike smiled grateful that at least somepony appreciated his effort. Life around the castle wasn’t completely miserable since the little dragon had Starlight to talk to, she was one of the few ponies who actually noticed him. Still, Spike hated the fact that the others have been avoiding him lately.

First Twilight wanted him gone during one of her all day ‘study’ sessions or one of her mare only sleepovers. At times, she’ll blow him off by having to go somewhere, or do something fun with her friends while he stay in the castle, to clean up after her.

Applejack told Spike that he was too weak to buck any apples and wanted him off her farm, since he might set the orchard on fire if Celestia contacts him. She also made it clear to Spike that he wasn’t really helpful when he was honoring his dragon code.

Pinkie on the other claw would’ve gladly accepted Spike’s help foalsitting the twins. Unfortunately, the Cakes had shown concerned faces that made Spike decline the offer.

Rainbow Dash, being the bitch that she was, just laughed at Spike for being a wimpy dragon who couldn’t fly. And even though he was awesome in Rainbow’s eyes, he wasn’t cool enough to hang out with the so-called ‘best flyer that came out of Cloudsdale.’

Rarity exploited Spike’s affection toward her for her own needs, like carrying her shopping bags, or gem hunting. After they had finished hunting, Rarity often gave Spike a single gem for all of his hard labor. He hasn’t forgotten about that tiny gem she paid him with to watch her cat Opalescence. Spike used to think that Rarity was the one for him, but she was only using his crush to get what she wanted. In fact, after Twilight’s last sleepover, Spike decided to avoid her altogether.

Then there was Fluttershy, the kindness of all of his friends. (Hence the title: Element of Kindness). Whenever he was at her house, she would make him tea, listen to his stories about him being alone, the letters to the princess, and the nightmares he’s been having. She also told Spike that no one will abandon him, not even the princesses. Unfortunately, deep down inside, Spike knew that Fluttershy had a deep seeded fear of adult dragons. One day he’ll grow up to be one, or at least an adolescent dragon when Fluttershy passes on. What’s more is that ever since she started dated Thunderlane, he’s practically all she ever talks about.

Besides Starlight, it seemed that the only ponies who would hang out with Spike were the Cutie Mark Crusaders: Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Bell and sometimes Babs Seed when she’s in town. However, the mischief from the fillies has slowed down since they all got their cutie marks during an incident with Diamond Tiara and her mother.

The purple drake sighed once more before getting to work on the dishes. ‘Another day of cleaning in this forsaken castle... for the umpteenth time!’

Often Spike couldn’t help thinking he’d be better off living in the Crystal Empire. After all the crystal ponies look up to him and view him as a hero, there’s even a statue to prove it. Plus, Thorax is living over there now, having been accepted as a civilian after Spike stood up for him. Sunburst has also become very fond of the purple dragon after he helped him and Starlight set apart their differences and become friends again. To be honest, Spike really didn’t know what was keeping him from leaving.

After five hours of reorganizing, dusting, wiping, sweeping, and mopping, Spike had finally finished his chores and laid on the couch, exhausted from all of the work. The little dragon shut his eyes, letting the embrace of sleep take hold of him. However his slumber was quickly interrupted as he heard the door suddenly open.

Spike groaned before he turned to see his sister/slave-driver Twilight come in, followed closely by her sky blue unicorn marefriend. Because of her friendship with Starlight, Spike didn’t hate Trixie as much as he used to. However at the same time, he still hasn’t completely forgiven her for what she did to him during Twilight’s banishment.

‘Just my luck. It’s bad enough that Twi blows me off, but now she... she brought in that arrogant boasting bitch of a unicorn into the castle.’

“Spike,” Twilight called out to him. Spike looked up from the couch to see a happy Twilight standing in front of him and a very nervous Trixie looking from left to right. “Spike, as you know Trixie and I have been dating for a while so… I decided to let her stay here in the castle.”

“I’m sure we’ll be the best of friends little dragon- I mean Spike,” Trixie smile to which Spike shrugs just looking at the blue unicorn. He didn’t know wether to be happy for Twilight, or miserable since he now had another mouth to feed. He didn’t mind cooking for Starlight since she often offers to help as well as compliment his dishes. Trixie was a different story.

Finally, the dragon hopped out of couch and walked towards the door. “I’m going out,” Spike deadpanned.

“Oh… um okay… have fun Spike,” Twilight said waving a hoof as he shut the door. Little did Spike know, the moment he was out of their range of hearing, Trixie pounced on Twilight, sending her to the ground. Blushing, the two mares closed their eyes and kissed, allowing the passion of each other’s company take over.

Both their hearts were beating faster, all they could think about was each other. Their taste, their smell, the very sights and sounds their bodies made as they rubbed against each other. Twilight was happy to find a special pony to share her life with.

“Are you thinking what Trixie is thinking Sparkle?” She asked in a lustful tone. She then licked the tip of Twilight’s horn, earning a soft moan from the lavender mare.

“Hold on.” Twilight’s horn glowed, making not one but two soundproof barriers: one around the castle so nopony who walked pass could hear, and another in her bedroom, just in case if he decided to come back.

“I’m ready, my sexy mare,” Twilight replied excitedly, thinking about what she’s going to do this with the mare she had fallen for. Right on the floor, then and there, both knowing that the castle doors were unlocked, heightening their excitement. She didn’t care if who came in and caught them like, Twilight was going to do it.

Twilight moaned and arched her body as Trixie pressed her soft lips to her fur and moved lower and lower. When Trixie reached her target, between Twilight legs, possibly all of Ponyville would have heard the mare’s cries of pleasure if it wasn’t for the soundproof barriers.

In the meantime, Celestia’s sun was still high in the sky and the ponies were out and about, buying whatever they needed. Spike walked down the road, passing smiling, waving ponies left and right.

‘Of all the things that could have happened, Twilight has to be dating Trixie. Twilight is dating the pony who banished her from town. SHE’S DATING THE SAME PONY WHO USED ME AS A DAMN BASKETBALL AND BUCKING BANISHED HER!’ Spike screamed in his head. Though he had to remember Trixie is the first friend Starlight managed to make on her own.

It wasn’t that much of a shock to know Trixie was moving in. In fact, knowing he didn’t have much of a say in this, Spike soon lost the ability to care.

As he made his way down the street, an all too familiar white unicorn spotted him. “Oh Spike darling,” Rarity called out with seven bags in her magical grip, making him twitch.

‘Oh great, it’s as if this day just loves to bend me over and buck me. Why don’t you bother somepony else, you high class wannabe slut?!’

“Spike! I was looking everywhere for you.”

Spike clenched his claws, he hated it when these mares lied to him like this. ‘No you weren’t, you just needed somepony, or some-dragon to carry your bucking bags, you ungrateful whore.’

“I could really use some help with my shopping,” She said, levitating six of her bags over to him. Grabbing them, the dragon sighed, knowing he had to do this. Spike didn’t want to help a pony that didn’t share his feelings, let alone, used his crush to make him do whatever she wanted. But that’s who he was, a helpful little dragon.

For the next three hours, the pair walked to numerous shops around Ponyville, buying useless things that only high class ponies would buy. The pair walked back to the boutique; Rarity held three bags with her magical grip while Spike held enough bags to block his line of sight. Rarity opened the door and led Spike in. Once Spike was inside, he dropped the bags on the floor near Rarity’s sofa and tried to walk to the door. Rarity noticed this and lifted him with her magic. Twilight would often do this to him as well, and quite frankly, he hated it.

“Spike?” She said in a more motherly tone. “Where do you think your going? I have that suit I made for you, the one you never picked up.” Spike blinked a few times, he had completely forgotten about the dance. He sighed in defeat, knowing full well that she wouldn’t let him leave without the suit.

“Alright then, where is it?” Spike asked, not wanting to go to this waste of a time dance. Rarity set the purple dragon on the ground and trotted upstairs to fetch it. She came back downstairs with a shining suit that matched his color scheme. Spike put on the suit and walk to the three way mirror in the shop. Spike couldn’t help but turn around and pose, as he had to admit, the suit looked good. “It’s a perfect fit Rarity,” He said, giving her a soft smile. In truth, he did his best not to rip off and burn the suit Rarity made for him.

“Spike, I have been meaning to ask?” Rarity began. “Why have you been avoiding me lately?” The white unicorn asked with concern in her voice. Spike’s smile instantly dropped at the question.

‘Because I don’t have feelings for you anymore... or better yet, because I was stuck in the castle while you and your friends were out playing in the sun. NOW LET ME LEAVE!’

Yet of course, Spike contained his anger and answered calmly. “Because I’m not going to the dance.”

“You mean you couldn’t find a date?” Rarity deadpanned.

‘No dumbass, nopony in Equestria would want to go on a date with a monster like me.’ Spike angrily thought as he shook his head.

“Oh, I’m sorry to hear that Spike. I would’ve asked, but I already found a date.”

‘Of course you did.’ Again she lied to him, she already made it clear she had no intentions of being his date even while she was still available. She cared too much about the opinions of the snobbish nobles who would attend the dance. Sure Rarity has become quite famous with her new boutiques, but that’s beside the point.

“Honestly, I’d rather stay home... alone for Hearts and Hooves day.” Spike admitted while looking down. He really did have nopony to take to the dance with him. Even his backup mares were already taken.

Spike took off his suit and folded it neatly before placing it under his claw. “Thanks again,” He said as he sadly waddled over to the door. Rarity called out to him, but Spike ignored her as he shut the door and walked back to the castle with his new folded suit tucked under his arm.

‘Mother won’t reply to my letters, Twilight and the rest of my so-called friends keep avoiding me. Rainbow Dash keeps being a bitch, and Rarity just uses me.’

Spike was bottling up his emotions, he knew if he let his inner dragon take control and call all of them out, his nightmares would come true. He didn’t want that to happen, he never did and he never would. He just hoped that Princess Luna would come and visit him again to fill the void in his heart.

Luna’s company for the past week had seemed to brighten his mood in some way. He also remembered what she told him that she would make sure he would never feel lonely in her presence.

Spike arrived back at the castle and called out to Twilight as he walked upstairs. Rather than a reply, instead Spike picked up a musky scent that led him to Twilight’s room. In addition to the smell filling the air, as Spike entered the room, he noticed a wet stain in her bed. Honestly, Spike didn’t want to know what happened. As far as he was concerned, he’d be forced to clean this up later. Looking around, Spike confirmed Twilight wasn’t in here before pulled the door shut. Going back downstairs, Spike was about to lay down on the couch but noticed a scroll was there and began to read it.

Dear Spike

Trixie and I will be studying in the lab for a while, so please keep out. I’ve also created a soundproof barrier around the castle just in case if things get up here get too loud.

Sincerely yours, Twilight.

PS: Trixie accidentally destroyed your room when we was doing performing a spell so you’ll be sleeping in the basement. Also would you be a nice dragon and um clean up the mess?

Spike’s eye twitched, as he couldn’t believe what he was reading. Rolling the scroll up and setting the folded suit on the couch and went to the closet, getting himself a mop and a bucket to begin mopping the floor all over again.

Celestia’s sun was setting over the horizon, making way for Luna’s moon and stars. Spike was in the kitchen fixing a salad for himself, Twilight, and Trixie. The door in Twilight’s bedroom opened as two sets of hooves made their way downstairs to the now clean library.

Twilight and Trixie both walking side to side, there face shine in the recent event the two partook in Spike’s absence. When the two entered the kitchen, Spike was busy chopping lettuce, carrots, bell peppers, onions, and mincing garlic. He also wore his girlish apron, causing both Twilight and Trixie to giggle at the sight. Both mares agreed that Spike looked cute wearing that apron, but they stopped giggling when the dragon glared at them sharply.

“I take it you had fun?” Spike asked while forcing his glare to go away. Blushing, both mares nodded and the small drake went back to work.

The two talked about some formula for a spell Twilight’s been working on, and to both Twilight and Spike’s surprise, Trixie gave a full on explanation on its effect on the pony body and mind. She also boasted about how she used this spell on herself once.

After dinner, the two went into the main room and ‘studied’ the effects of magical alteration. Spike on the other claw, bid the mares good night and was about to head downstairs when a voice stopped him.

“Hey Spike,” he heard Starlight call him.

“Yeah Star?”

“Do you want to share a room with me tonight? I’d hate for you to have to sleep alone in the basement, especially with those two voices echoing throughout the castle.”

Spike smiled and nodded, seeing someone in this castle was looking out for him. As she helped Spike grab his basket from the basement, Starlight couldn’t help wondering what Twilight was thinking, telling Spike to sleep down here, as well as what she did to destroy the little dragon’s room.

After Spike laid down in his basket, he turned to Starlight sleeping in her bed beside him. This was much better, especially since he was sharing a room with someone who cared about him. Feeling his eyes grow heavy, Spike allowed sleep to take over.

Spike was sitting by the fountain in the castle gardens, looking at the stars in the sky as he was waited for somepony that promised to visit him every night when he’s asleep. Since this was a dream, he could make practically anything happen.

Spike pointed up to the stars and began to draw, going from one star to another. Spike smiled as he completed his picture, a childlike drawing of himself with Luna, Thorax, Ember and Starlight.

“Having fun there I see?” asked a familiar voice that made Spike fall into the water.

When he resurfaced, he saw the princess giggling at him. “Not funny Luna.”

“Please forgive me,” She said calming down and offering her hoof. Spike couldn’t stay mad at her, as he began to laugh a bit as well as Luna pulled him out of the water. This wasn’t nearly as bad as the ice cold water he fell into during the Winter Wrap Up. Sitting down on the ledge, Spike smiled as Luna created a towel and dried him off. The goddess was always treating him with care.

“So how have you been faring young Spike?” Luna asked as she finished drying him off.

“Honestly, not too well,” Spike replied, looking up at the blue alicorn. “Twilight has blown me off at breakfast to have it with Trixie, who she’s dating now. Rarity used me again for some shopping nonsense. And I had to clean the castle twice today.”

When Spike finished telling the princess what had happened today, Luna’s smile had turned into a frown. She hated the fact that Spike was being used as a slave. He’s smart, well-mannered, funny, slightly sarcastic, but overall, a living breathing creature, just like the rest of them. But what made her really angry (and despite the term) was Twilight and Rarity.

Twilight, the proud student of her sister, and the older sister/best friend to Spike, just denied him her company to spend time together to be with her special somepony. Whom she brought back to their house to make love. And of course when they were done, they had Spike clean up the mess they made.

And Rarity, who’s supposed to represent generosity, constantly played with the young dragon’s emotions, forcing him to carry bags almost twice his height.

Luna tried her best to keep calm; as much as she wanted to leave the dream to chew out both mares, she promised Spike that she would visit his dreams to keep him company and insure he won’t follow the same path she took a thousand years ago.

For what seems like hours, the two of them sat on the ledge. Neither of them said nothing, they just sat and enjoyed each other’s company.

“Spike,” Luna called out, breaking the long silence “I wanted to ask, who is accompanying you to the dance tomorrow?

Spike turned his gaze to the ground. “Nopony in Ponyville wants to go with me,” He answered in a sad tone.

“Don’t let that get to you,” Luna said motherly as she gently placed her wing around Spike. “You are possibly the sweetest dragon there ever is. Don’t ever forget that.”

Spike could only nod at the moon goddess’ loving words. “Okay...”

Luna smiled. “Now, would you feel better if I accompany you to the dance?” Luna could’ve had sworn she saw Spike’s eyes glimmer at the offer. A dragon going to a dance with a princess was unheard of, but it didn’t matter. Spike’s facial expression saying it all: YES! OH IN THE GOOD MERCIFUL GRACE FROM THE STARS ABOVE, YES!

“Um... Sure, if you want to. I mean...” Spike replied, barely having the courage to look at his feet as Luna giggled. Her sweet voice melted his heart as she stood up and unfurled her wings.

“Good. A carriage will arrive to pick you and your friends up from the castle. Oh, and Spike.” Spike turned and looked as Luna prepared to depart. “I’ll be waiting for you in the garden.” She winked at the baby dragon, who in return gave another small blush. However, when Luna trotted over and suddenly planted a kiss on his cheek, Spike’s blushed even harder, making Luna giggle. The still blushing dragon waved to Luna, as she disappeared in a flash.

Spike awoke in his basket with the room completely silent, but something told him that the two lovebirds were finished with whatever they were doing. He place his claw on the cheek Luna kissed and asked himself, “Am I in love with Princess Luna?” But the morning could not wait any longer.

Spike hopped out of bed and walked upstairs into the kitchen, only to find Trixie cooking breakfast. “Um Trixie... you can cook?”

“The Great and Powerful Trixie has learned many things in her travels. Cooking is indeed one of them,” Trixie boasted as Spike took in the aroma that to his surprise, smelled really really good. “And I want to apologise for what I did to you when I came back to Ponyville.”

“Hey, water under the bridge. You weren’t yourself anyway,” Spike said as he took a seat in one of the chairs. “Besides, if Twilight and Fluttershy can forgive you, so can I.”

“Anyway, when did you two start dating?” Starlight asked unable to maintain her curiosity any longer. Not that she found anything wrong about her teacher going out with Trixie.

“Well actually, it was after we met at one of Fluttershy date lines a few weeks ago. We’ve been taking things slowly though.”

Starlight raised an eyebrow. Since they were friends and keep in touch often, the light purple unicorn wondered why she was keeping this a secret. Could it be a surprise? Or maybe another friendship lesson in accepting others? “Alright? But what kind of magic did you two use to destroy Spike’s bedroom?” This was something Spike wanted to know as well.

“Oh, that, um me and Twilight were practicing an interdimensional spell, and accidentally summoned a demon… it went on a rampage and somehow ended up in Spike room. Long story short, it ended badly.”

Understanding this both the unicorn, and dragon nodded. “Alright.”

“And we may have accidentally destroyed your comics while trapping the demon.” Trixie smiled sheepishly. “Anyway Spike?” Trixie began to ask as Spike settled down at the table. “What are Twilight’s favorite things to eat?”

“Excuse me!?” Asked the shock and somewhat angry little dragon.

Chapter Four

“Excuse me?!”

The purple dragon stared at Trixie in disbelief and anger. It was bad enough that this showmare was trying to replace him. But now his first edition comic collection that he worked so hard to collect was officially gone.

“I asked what are Twilight’s favorite things to eat?” The showmare repeated. Spike didn’t respond to the question right away, his mind was fixated on ‘All my comics, destroyed.’

Starlight turned to Spike with a worried expression. She didn’t know much about dragons, but she was aware that when somepony messed with a dragon’s belongings, they tend to lose their life.

Starlight could only wonder what was going through the dragon’s mind. She reluctantly spoke for Spike, since his mind was still proceeding the question.

“Daffodil pancakes with hay bacon strips, with a cup of coffee and a tablespoon of milk.” Spike didn’t say anything, but he nodded to confirm her claim.

Trixie was so excited that she was unable to notice Spike’s disappointment or his hateful glare. That was her favorite thing to eat as well, next to the blend of cereal magic treats of course. The showmare used her magic to levitate the ingredients she needed to make Twilight’s breakfast.

Spike turned and walked to the living room, only to see it was already clean. Turning to look at the clock, Spike saw that it was a quarter to seven and Twilight should be waking up soon. With nothing else to do, the purple dragon climbed onto the sofa and curled up into a ball.

‘This is like the Owlowiscious thing all over again. If I ran away again... will Twi and the others care... oh, who the buck am I kidding? They wouldn’t care if one little monster was gone.’ The depressed dragon yawned as a single tear fell from his cheek, before he let Luna’s magical embrace take him off to the land of dreams.

Starlight felt quite guilty for telling Trixie Twilight’s favorite food. The light purple unicorn trotted up to the dragon and wiped the tear from his cheek, before walking out of the castle for some fresh air. She would make sure to make things up to Spike.

Fifteen minutes passed and Twilight once again awoke to the rays of Celestia’s sun and the smell of her favorite breakfast meal. The lavender mare trotted to the bathroom, brushed her mane and tail, then walked down from the bedroom. She saw the castle was clean, and knew that Spike was most likely behind this. But she saw the baby dragon curl up on the couch, fast asleep, snoring loudly enough for her to know he was deep in slumber land.

Twilight wondered who was cooking if Spike was in here sleeping. She knew Starlight worked hard as a student, but cooking wasn’t really her thing. The lavender mare walked into the kitchen to find Trixie cooking her favorite: daffodil pancakes with hay bacon strips. Twilight smiled at this, but also frowned. Spike had made her the same thing for her yesterday, but she blew him off to be with Trixie. She felt the little guy had earned today off, as it was her way for saying she was sorry.

Trixie turned around to face her marefriend, who was already sitting on the chair. After their ‘study session’ last night, it was nice to see Twilight so well rested. “Did you have a good rest, Twilight?” She asked as she turned around with a stack of pancakes on one plate and hay bacon strips on the other.

“To be honest Trixie, I had the strangest dream: Fluttershy, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, me and Princess Celestia were all standing around a grave. Everypony was crying, including me and Celestia, who were crying the hardest out of us all. I couldn’t read the headstone but it felt like something... sad... something I will miss.” As Twilight finished, Trixie placed her plate down and placed a hoof on her chin, thinking about what Twilight said.

“If I may ask, was there somepony missing in your dream?” Trixie asked while levitating a fork and knife, cutting her pancake.

“Now that you mention it, Spike wasn’t anywhere to be found.” Twilight looked back to the main room, showing some concern of her assistant. For a second Twilight considered that she may have worked him too hard, but she soon shrugged it off. Right now, she was focused on getting ready for the dance.

Just then, a loud burp followed by an emerald green flash of light, caused both mares to jump and run to the living room. They saw Spike still sleeping on the couch, but on the floor in front of him was a note with the royal seal on it. Twilight picked it up with her magic began to read.

“To my faithful student, Twilight Sparkle

My sister has informed me that she has made arrangements to pick you, your friends, and their dates up for the dance tonight. The carriages will pick you up at four pm and will take you to castle. And of course, she also told me that each carriage will fit four. Oh, and one more thing: No pony will be able to get on without a date. Spike is the only exception to this. I hope to see you and your date there.

Sincerely, Princess Celestia.

PS: Shining Armor and Princess Cadance will be there as well.

Twilight and Trixie both stared at the letter, then back at Spike, who was still sound asleep. Why was Spike the only exception to this rule? Did he find a date? Was she in Canterlot already? Either way, their questions will be answered at the dance. Twilight’s horn glowed as it encased the purple dragon in its light purple aura, lifting him from his spot and placing him on her back. Luckily she managed to do so without waking him.

“Once he wakes up, we’ll ask him.” Twilight turned to Trixie, who nodded and trotted toward the door. Their first stop was Rarity’s boutique.

“You’re kidding? You think Spikey Wikey found himself a date, and she’s in Canterlot?” Rarity asked in shock after reading the princess’s letter. She said to the others, who were there wanting to know if their dresses were finished. But all the eyes stared at the dragon who was happily sleeping on Rarity’s sofa.

“Ah reckon so. It does say he can get in without a date,” Replied Applejack.

“Oh come on girls. What makes Spike so special that he can get in the dance without a date anyway? I mean really, even Apple Bloom found a date,” huffed Rainbow. It wasn’t fair that nopony could get in without a date while Spike, a dragon, could. Why was the princess bending the rules for him?

“Oh! Oh! Maybe it’s because he saved the Crystal Empire, and helped everypony in town, and and and and if it wasn’t for Spike, Twilight would’ve skipped town when Discord... well... discorded us,” Pinkie interjected.

“She’s got a point Rainbow Dash, Spike helped us with a lot of stuff. Why if it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be able to find date myself...” Fluttershy meekly said. What she said was true, Spike had helped the shy mare out of her anti-social shell and encouraged her to ask out the stallion she had fallen for.

The mares all turned to look at Spike, who had just woken up from his slumber and was rubbing his eyes. The purple dragon didn’t know what was going on, but he braced himself in case impending doom was coming.

“So,” Twilight began “Who is she?”

“Or he?” Rainbow asked in a smirky tone, earning a glare from everyone in the room. “What? It’s not like it’s common for a mare to like stallions anyway.” This earned her a growl from Starlight and a hurt expression from Fluttershy. “No offense,” she said quickly.

“Oh hush, Rainbow Dash! Not everypony in town is a filly fidder like you,” Rarity scolded the cyan mare. “Ignore her Spikey, she’s just mad because no stallion would even think about talking to her... let alone ask her out.”

“Hey!” Rainbow said defensively.

“Anyway, who is she dear?” Asked the white mare.

“Who?” Spike replied raising an eyebrow.

“Your date to the dance of course,” Starlight asked smiling.

“Yeah Spike, who is this mare that asked you out?” Pinkie asked, excitedly bouncing around the young dragon.

“Yeah Spike, I’m also curious as to who asked you,” Trixie said.

Spike rolled his eyes before letting out a yawn. Evidently, these mares weren’t going to stop bugging him until they get an answer. “Not that it anypony’s business, but it’s Princess Luna.”

This answer was quite a shock for the eight mares. Rarity, Trixie, and Twilight’s eyes nearly popped out of their heads, while Applejack, Rainbow, Starlight, Fluttershy, and surprisingly Pinkie, were at a loss for words.

Applejack was the first one to break the awkward silence. “H-How did she ask ya, when y’all were aslee-” The orange mare cut herself off when she and the others remembered that Princess Luna can enter dreams. “Oh, that’s how.”

“So you’re telling me that Princess Luna came into your dream, and asked you out?” Rainbow Dash asked, hovering in the air.

“Yeah, so?” The dragon crossed his arms, his eyes stare into Rainbow’s. “Something wrong with that?”

“No,” The eight said in unison. With the mood already awkward enough, the mares broke off and started chatting with each other. The chatting lasted for a short while, until Rarity came out with the dresses she made. Each dress was made to the fit its owner personally.

Rainbow’s was something like her gala dress, sky blue with white patches that looked like clouds with a rainbow connecting it all.

Pinkie’s dress was a pink and brown sugary color, with white shining glitter for the sugary effect.

Applejack’s was a lime green country style dress pants, with an orange top that matched her saton.

Fluttershy’s was yellow with pink leaves at the mid section and below that was brown as a tree.

Starlight declined Rarity’s offer of a new dress, as she was going to wear the same dress that was made for her after she was accepted into the group. A beautiful dark purple dress with diamonds decorating the end.

Twilight’s was an orange and purple dress, designed with stars that made both the little and big dippers.

Lastly, Trixie’s dress was sky blue with two wands at either side, both which shone with glitter.

While the mares admired each other’s dresses, Spike had his thoughts on his date with Luna. A dragon, on a date with the princess of the night... completely unheard of.

‘I wonder what she’ll be wearing?’ Spike asked himself, thinking about the beautiful alicorn wearing a dress that would show the planets, stars, and moon. His thoughts, however, were cut off as a purple glow encased his body, lifting him up and placing him on Twilight’s back.

‘Man, I hate it when she does that!’ He angrily thought to himself.

The eight mares, with Spike in tow, trotted to the spa and began their ‘beautification’, not stopping their discussions.

“So you’ve been having these weird dreams lately as well?” Asked the cyan pegasus who entered the hot tub with her marefriend and Pinkie. Meanwhile, Twilight, Trixie, Starlight, Fluttershy, and Rarity, were getting their hooves filed.

“Yeah... it’s kind of creepy. All of us crying by a grave of a pony we don’t know?” Replied a happy Pinkie Pie. “I mean, I would love to throw him or her a party.”

“If I may interject, did anypony notice that somepony was missing in your dreams?” Trixie asked while getting her hooves filed.

“Now that y’all mention it, there was somepony missing. But ah just can’t put my hoof on it.” Applejack place a hoof on her chin, thinking who was missing.

“What was the dream about?” Starlight asked. “I mean, why were you all crying?”

“We were at all attending a stormy funeral in Canterlot,” Twilight begin. “The princesses, as well as all of us were standing in front of a gravestone. We didn’t know who it belonged to, but it felt like somepony very important to me and Princess Celestia had died. After the funeral, most the ponies left, while we stayed behind. The rain soaked all of our coats.” Twilight looked down in shame. “Celestia then dismissed me. She said she didn’t want any of us to ever come back to the castle, or to the city.”

“I wonder why?” Questioned the showmare. “Princess Celestia must have been mad at you six for something?”

“I only wish I knew.” Twilight closed her eyes, and think what would cause Celestia to be angry at the six of them.

“Hey, did anypony notice that Spikey was missing?” Rarity spoke.

“Now that you mention it, I haven’t seen him.” Rainbow stated. “He’s always with us, and all.”

“M-Maybe that was Spike’s grave we were all at,” Fluttershy spoke softly. “In my dream he went missing. You don’t think?”

All of the mares looked at Spike who was in the middle of getting his scales polish with worried faces. After spending the next two hours at the spa, the eight mares, plus Spike went back to the boutique, pick up their dresses and went on their merry way. Spike was well rested, claws trimmed, scales polished, and was ready to go. The moment he opened his mouth to say something, his stomach began to growl, wanting food.

The mares giggled once they heard the baby dragon’s stomach growl. Since it was still noon, it was about time for lunch. Making their way to Sugarcube Corner, Twilight ordered ordered up three cases of cupcakes, which Spike ate all but three of them. Afterward the group of four walked back to the castle, Spike stomach growled even louder this time.

“Didn’t we just see you gobble down three boxes of cupcakes?” Twilight asked, looking toward Spike.

Starlight was especially growing concerned for the little dragon. Maybe he was growing up and required more food? She had heard that dragons can eat anything, but meat was their primary diet, save for gems.

Spike shrugged, “Must be it’s a dragon thing.” He wasn’t sure, but his stomach protested that it needed dragon type food. Once they returned to the castle, Starlight made Spike a bowl of gems. After eating them, Spike felt like he was finally full for the moment.

For the next three hours, the four were getting ready to leave. The door knocked and Spike opened the door to see Apple Bloom, who was wearing a lime green dress that Granny Smith wore when she was a filly, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie, and a dark blue silver maned unicorn stallion with a open safety pin cutie mark named Pokey Price, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, who was wearing a dress that match her coat and mane, Fluttershy, and Thunderlane.

Spike stepped to the side to let the ponies in as Twilight, Trixie and Starlight all came down wearing their dresses. Pokey and Thunderlane talked about how their dates looked in their dresses, but in the end, both came to an agreement, saying their date was beautiful in their dress, earning them a kiss on the cheek.

The door to the library knocked for a second time and Twilight opened the door to see one of the royal guards standing there accompanied by Sunburst. Starlight ran towards her date and foalhood friend, wrapping him in a warm hug. Since nopony could go without a date, the crystaller had no choice but to accompany her on the carriage ride.

“Sunburst!” Starlight nearly scream but refuse to let go. “How was the ride from the empire? And how’s Flurry doing, she isn’t giving you trouble, right?”

The orange stallion adjusted his glasses with a smile. “She’s doing well Starlight. And her magic is appearing greatly as well. Her grandparents were considerate to watch her in my place for the evening.” Sunburst was somewhat glad to get out of the castle. Even though Flurry loved to have him around, he needed a break as well. “Um mind letting go?”

“Oh sorry,” Starlight blushed then rubbed a hoof behind her head.

“Good day Princess Twilight,” the earth pony guard said with a bow. “By order of Princess Celestia, we’re here to take you all to the Canterlot castle.” The guard stepped to the side, allowing the lavender mare to spot four carriages each being pull by a set of guards. Twilight and the others walked out the door with their dates in toll to the carriages, but one of the guard grabbed Rarity by the the hem of her dress. “I’m sorry, but the princess made specific orders not to let anypony on without a date.” Rarity looked left and right. Her date was waiting in Canterlot.

‘I should make her stay.’ Spike thought to himself. “She my date.” The white mare looked back. The guard rose an eyebrow, having been told that the small purple dragon would be coming alone. But as much as he knew, this could be a last minute change on Spike’s part. The guard shrugged and let them in the lead carriage along with Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom. Twilight ,Trixie, Thunderlane, and Fluttershy share the next carriage, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie, and Pokey as well as Sunburst and Starlight all had a carriage of their own.

The ride itself was a quiet one, other than the outburst of laughter of the back carriage with Pinkie and Pokey. Spike placed his claw on his chin, watching the passing scenery. Apple Bloom was the first to break the silence.

“So, did Spike finally dragon up and ask Rarity to the dance?” She asked, making Rarity blush.

“No, I didn’t ask,” He said, causing Sweetie looked at the dragon with a raised eyebrow. Spike himself was looking out the carriage window bored.

”So wait you’re not going to the dance with my sister?” Sweetie asked, then looked at Rarity, then back at the bored dragon. “If you didn’t ask her, then why are you going?

“Because Sweetie,” Rarity interjected, “Spike is the only exception.”

Both filly stared at Spike, who didn’t pay them any mind.

“What makes him so special then?” The white filly asked.

“I couldn’t find a date and sent a letter to the princess saying I won’t be attending,” Spike answered with a sigh.

Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle looked at each other ashamed. “We’re sorry Spike,” They both said in unison. Spike just waved a claw.

“Just... forget it,” He said looking away. “By the way out of curiosity why didn’t you go with that colt you met at dance class? Or with Button Mash?” This question made Rarity curious as well. It was strange that she wasn’t going with that colt from her class, since those two seemed inseparable.

“Well, Tender Taps is doing a show in Vanhoover,” Apple Bloom said.

“And Button Mash was grounded for staying up past curfew playing that new game of his,” Sweetie pouted.

An hour passed and they reached Canterlot just as the sun was setting, making way for the moon to take it place and indicating that Luna was awake. Spike smiled when he saw the moon, grew so excited that he almost wanted to dive out of the carriage and run to the castle. Ponies of all races and colors were either on their way to the castle or closing up shop.

As they reached the castle gates, one of the night guards trotted to each carriage, taking the tickets from each pony and dragon. Soon the carriages entered the courtyard, where Spike and the rest of the gang exited their ride and proceeded into the castle. All but Rarity, who stood at the entrance, waiting for her date. Turns out her date was Fancy Pants which Spike found curious, as the last time he checked, Fancy was dating Fleur dis Lee.

Meanwhile, the gang entered the grand ballroom and Twilight’s eyes widened when she spotted her brother and sister-in-law.

“Shining! Cadance!” Twilight called out, earning their attention.

“Twilly!” The white stallion replied.

“It’s been a while,” The pink alicorn said and proceed to perform their greeting dance.

“So who’s the lucky stallion?” Shining asked.

“Oh, it’s no stallion.” On que, Trixie came out of the sea of ponies and gave her marefriend a quick peck on the cheek. Cadance giggled as Shining’s jaw dropped. He couldn’t believe his sister was a filly fiddler. It was a shock to him, but he didn’t really mind, there were a LOT of colt cuddlers in the guard. In fact, he used to experiment before dating Cadance.

“It’s such an honor to personally meet the prince and and princess of the Crystal Empire,” Trixie said with a bow.

“It’s nice to meet you... Um... Trixie, was it?” Cadance asked, then looked around. “By the way, where’s Spike? I was told he’d be here,” She asked before she reached out to close her husband’s jaw.

Shining then began to look around as well. “Yeah, where is the little guy?”

“He’s around,” Twilight said as the light dimmed. The door opened, revealing Princess Celestia. She was wearing a dress that matched her auroric light flowing mane. Everypony look in awe, seeing the princess of the sun wearing such an exotic and wonderful dress.

“Good evening my little ponies,” She began in her motherly tone that everypony loved. “I hope everypony here tonight enjoys themselves at the first annual Hearts and Hooves dance.”

As she finished her little speech, the crowd stomped their hooves and the music began to play. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Pokey Price danced along to the music, Ponyville style of course, causing most of the Canterlot ponies to raise their noses. Fluttershy and Thunderlane were busy eating the food. Twilight, Trixie were talking to Shining and Cadance about how their relationship started. But then they drew concerned looks when she began to explain the dreams she and the other girls have been having.

“I see I’m not the only one,” A familiar voice called out.

“Princess Celestia?” Twilight said. “You mean you’ve been having those dreams too?”

“Unfortunately yes. It’s Luna way of trying to tell me something will or might happen.” The regal white alicorn was now concerned that something will happen to her son. “I only wish she’d tell me before it’s too late.”

Twilight placed a hoof on her chin. “Where is Luna anyway?” the lavender alicorn asked.

“She’s in the garden, and wishes that nopony disturbs her.”

Spike walked past the two night guards that guarded the garden doors, who were ordered to only let him enter. The garden was beautiful because of the moonlight shining on the roses and other flowers with its magical glow. He also remembered when he, Celestia, Twilight, Shining (When he was off duty) and Cadance played here.

‘Man how I miss those days.’ He thought to himself, but he snapped out of it. There he saw something so wonderful that if he said that it was beautiful, it would not only be an understatement, but an insult. By the fountain under the moonlight, sat a dark blue alicorn, wearing a black silky dress that glittered like the moon and the stars, as she patiently waited for a certain dragon. “L-Luna?” Spike called out.

Luna turned her head to see Spike standing there. She swore that the dragon’s cheeks had turned a bit red.

“Welcome young Spike,” She waved a hoof, jesting him over to her as Spike walked over to her and, without warning, wrapped his arms around her forelegs. Luna returned the hug by wrapping her wing around him. “Don’t you look handsome tonight,” Luna remarked, causing Spike to blush even more.

“Y-you look stunning, princess,” Spike said looking down, making the dark blue alicorn giggle again.

“Remember Spike, there is no need for formality when we’re alone. Just call me Luna.”

“Okay Princ... I mean, Luna.” Spike took a seat by the fountain and Luna followed suit.

“So how are you feeling tonight?” The night princess asked, breaking the silence.

“I feel good, a bit hungry though.”

“Well, from what I’ve read about baby dragons, you begin to crave meat at an early age. Tell me Spike, have you been having thoughts about other animals lately?”

Spike place his claw on his chin, and thought. “Now that you mention it, lately I’ve been unable to help wondering what small animals would taste like. However, I always push these thoughts to the back of my mind.”

“Well I bring good news. I had a little talk with the zebra in the Everfree Forest and she has agreed to teach you how to hunt.”

“Wait. Zecora knows about hunting?” Asked the dragon in disbelief.

“As a matter of fact, during our discussion, Zecora told me that before she came to Equestria, her family were great friends with a pair of dragons. These dragons made an agreement to protect her tribe’s land after they healed their young. I guess you call it a dragon’s code,” Luna said with a wink. “And Spike… you are indeed special, as you are a rare breed of dragon that can perform magic.” The young dragon's eyes widened upon hearing this.

‘I can perform magic like... mother and Twilight?’

“And I’ll be more than happy to make you my personal student.” At this point, Spike couldn’t contain his excitement and squealed in delight. He was going to learn magic from the pony of his dreams, the princess of the night herself. “However, I’m afraid that it will have to wait. We have a dance to attend to after all.”

“Okay, so when can we start?” Asked the now eager dragon.

Luna giggled, seeing the dragon’s thirst for magical knowledge. “Tonight, when you sleep. For now, let’s just have ourselves a good time.”

Spike nodded, hopping off the edge and walking toward the dance. Luna sat there for a few seconds, thinking what a strong dragon he could turn out to be with her training. She soon snapped out of her thoughts before standing and following Spike.

Back at the dance, Twilight, Trixie, Shining Armor, Cadance, Starlight, Sunburst, Fluttershy, and Thunderlane were all dancing to the music of DJ Pon-3. Pinkie was singing along with Pokey as the music played. Most of the ponies were in shock to hear such horrible sounds. Others just shrugged it off and danced. Rarity and Fancy Pants, along with 20 other high class ponies, went outside to talk about their businesses and admittedly, Rarity’s work, since Fancy loved it.

The dance itself was going well. Everyone, other than the high class ponies, were having fun, and with the Elements of Harmony here, the party would only get better. That was until he showed up. A regal white stallion entered the ballroom with a dark blue unicorn mare. They both saw what the dance had become and were disgusted by what those six ponies that saved the kingdom had done. What was different was that the white mare he despised wasn’t there with her barbaric friends. Nonetheless, the prince had enough and stomped his hoof on the ground.

“THAT’S QUITE ENOUGH!” Blueblood screamed using the royal Canterlot voice. Everyone stopped what they were doing and looked at him. “H-H-How dare you... you ruffians ruin this festival! All of you should be ashamed of yourselves! And as for you...” He pointed his hoof at Twilight, Rainbow, Pinkie, Applejack, and Fluttershy. “Princess Twilight I can tolerate you and your student, but I made it pretty clear to my aunts that I didn’t want the rest of you attending! And where is that whore called Rarity, I have a bone to pick with her for what she did to my brilliant coat at the gala!”

At this point, the bearers, with the help of the former captain of the royal guard, wanted to jump on the prince, but Cadance stopped them and pointed to Luna and Spike, who had just walked in, seeing everypony just standing there. Luna picked up Spike and placed him on her back, which made Spike feel strange, riding another pony for the first time. Blueblood spotted them and made a face of confusion and disgust.

“Aunty Luna,” Blueblood called out. “What is that thing doing riding on your back?” Blueblood pointed toward Spike. Luna raised a brow, hearing her nephew insulting her new student/date.

“I’ll have you know you are insulting my date, as well my new student, nephew,” Luna spoke, making everyone in the room gasp.

‘So it’s true, Luna is Spike’s date. But what was that part about being her student?’ Twilight and the others thought.

“B-But he’s a dragon.”

“And?” Luna replied simply.

“What do you mean ‘and’?! Do you not care for our reputation? Your reputation!? Why are you letting that thing-” Blueblood stopped as a dark blue aura surrounded his neck, cutting off his oxygen flow. He was quite lucky however, as if Celestia had been there, she would have done something far worst.

“If you dare call my date a thing one more time, I shall make all the nightmares I had sent you come true. Starting with that thing between your legs.” Luna’s voice sounded dark, which surprised Spike and the other ponies in the room. Shining and Cadance could’ve sworn they saw a pinch of black fur appear around her neck. Blueblood, on the other hoof, gasped for air as Luna released her grip.

The prince fell to the ground coughing and looked up at his aunt, whose eyes began to glow. “Now take that worn out whore and get out of my sight,” She hissed. Blueblood immediately got up and left the dance with his date as Luna turned to Spike, whose eyes were still widened upon seeing the display.

“I’m so sorry you had to see that.”

Spike shook his head and smiled. “It’s okay Luna,” The little dragon said as he hopped off of Luna’s back. “The jerk deserved it anyway.”

Luna looked down and smiled, then looked at the crowd who was awestruck at what transpired, making the princess blush.

“Now then everypony, LET’S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!” Luna yelled as the crowd cheered. Luna and Spike took center stage and danced together while Twilight and Trixie, along with her other friends and their dates, watched as Spike and Luna danced the night away. It was kind of awkward from the massive size difference. Fortunately, neither Spike, Luna nor the other ponies cared. This was a time to have fun.

It was two in the morning when the ponies began to leave. Celestia had arranged rooms for the Twilight and her friends. Cadance, Twilight, Applejack, Starlight, Pinkie, and surprisingly Fluttershy, took this opportunity to use the rooms for their own after-party with their dates. Rarity had left with Fancy Pants a while ago, and Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Spike were fast asleep.

Luna looked around and saw that the ballroom was now completely empty, except for the two ponies and one baby dragon that were fast asleep on the ground, covered in confetti and streamers, while the maids were cleaning up. Ordering one of the unicorn maids to take the two fillies to bed, Luna then picked up Spike using her magic, and trotted to her chambers. She placed Spike on the bed and gave him a kiss on the forehead.

“Sweet dreams my student. For tonight, we shall start your training in the magical arts,” Luna said with a smile as her horn flashed to life and she disappeared. The sound of a snoring, happy dragon filled the princess’s room.

Chapter Five

Author's Notes:

Part Two will be coming soon

Princess Luna was sitting in the middle of a field of tall grass in the Everfree Forest. The full moon acted as a lantern and shone through the dark forest. This helped most of the creatures that wandered throughout the dangerous woods. At the moment, Luna’s eyes were fixated on a purple dragon who was in deep concentration. Spike was building up his magic, causing his body to produce a lime-green aura that coated his small body.

“That’s it young Spike,” Luna cheered, “Concentrate and let the magic flow within your body.” With the combination of his teacher’s encouragement and his strong concentration, the aura around Spike kept growing brighter. He extended his arm out toward a lone, dead log and encased it in his aura. Spike tried to lift his arm up, but he was having a difficulty lifting such a heavy object.

Suddenly, the log slowly rose, but soon fell back down. Nevertheless, Luna was impressed, as her student proved to catch on fast. After she taught Spike how to build up his magical energy many times, he was beginning to get the hang of it. Honestly, she never expected him to lift a log that was almost several times his own body weight.

“You have improved my dear student,” She said smiling at him. “Just remember, the object you are trying to move has the same density and weight as if it was moved without telepathy. Once your mind is strong enough, you’ll be able to move things much heavier than this branch,” Luna explained. “Now let’s try it again.” Spike nodded and continued his training.

The next morning, Spike woke up yawning in delight, but he soon felt a bit sad because he would have to go back with his so-called friends. Though the baby dragon wasn’t completely glum since Starlight would be around to keep him company.

Rubbing his eyes, Spike got a good look at the room he was in. Even in the light of the sun, the room still appeared to be in the dead of night with the stars and the crescent moon showcasing the ceiling. He turned to see a vanity mirror with a makeup set, then he turned the other way to see a few bookshelves.

‘This must be Luna’s room,’ He thought to himself as he got up from the bed. Coincidentally, as soon as Spike’s feet hit the floor, the door opened, revealing a regal blue alicorn smiling warmly.

“Spike, my faithful student,” Luna said in her beautiful voice, causing Spike to blush. “Let us go, breakfast is waiting.” With that, she trotted off with the baby dragon riding on her back. They entered the dining room where the elements, the other princesses with Fancy Pants, Starlight, Sunburst, Thunderlane, Pokey, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and surprisingly Prince Blueblood were sitting at the table. Luna trotted over to her chair, gesturing for Spike to sit next to her, which he agreed.

The ponies and Spike began to eat their meals with plenty of conversation. Twilight told her brother, sister-in-law, and Celestia about a new spell she, Starlight, and Trixie have been practicing. This gave Cadance some ideas for when she and her husband got back to the Crystal Empire. Spike asked Luna where Discord was. She informed him that he was in the dragon empire with the new ruler, Dragon Lord Ember, mostly annoying her to no end.

Rarity was talking about the wonderful night she had to which Fluttershy and Pinkie, who giggled and felt their cheeks growing warm, remembering the fun they had last night with their dates. Spike felt a silent anger grow at the thought of Rarity choosing to date a noble class stallion instead of someone who loved her way longer. Applejack and Rainbow just listened as Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom tilted their heads, wondering what the adults were talking about. Fancy, Pokey, and Thunderlane were talking about how they met their marefriends.

Prince Blueblood on the other hoof, was thinking like a whining brat as he noticed Spike sitting next to Luna. ‘Bah! It’s bad enough that those six are here, spoiling a good meal, including that slut of a mare who’s chatting with one of my best ponies. But to have that... that... THING sit with us as well, is just unacceptable. There’s no way I’ll allow that vile creature to eat here with royalty.’ Blueblood’s thoughts trailed off when the dragon received his plate of gem-covered salad.

“Aunty,” the spoiled prince began while staring at Spike in hatred as he began eating. “That horrible thing does not deserve to sit at the table with the rest of us!” He snarled pointing his hoof at Spike. “A beast like him should be in the garden or eating off the floor!”

If looks could kill, Blueblood would definitely be dead. The prince was stared down by not one, but all of the ponies present in the room. However, Luna gave the snobbish unicorn the worst look, causing Blueblood to shiver, knowing the impending doom that was coming to him.

“Blueblood,” Celestia began in a calm manner like usual, “How many times have I told you, never be rude to our guests? I’ll have you know Luna told me about last night. You’re lucky that I had to sleep that night, otherwise...” Her voice grew darker, which surprised everypony in the room other than Luna and Spike. “What my sister did would fail in comparison to what I will do if any harm comes to Spike.” When the sun princess was done, fear was merely an understatement when it came to Blueblood. With some luck, he was able to hold his bladder.

The now broken prince trembled so much, that he could have phased though the chair. Celestia looked over at Spike, who was staring right back at her. She deeply regretted not sending a reply back her son’s request. If it wasn’t for her to attend this meeting with the representatives of Griffonstone, she would’ve had him stay, like old times.

Finally, Princess Celestia decided to change the conversation. “Luna,” She began. “Twilight has informed me that you have taken Spike in as your personal student. Is this true?”

“Why yes, dear sister,” She replied placing a wing around her apprentice, “Spike here is a rare breed of dragon that can perform magic, much like a unicorn. The only difference is that dragons are extremely proficient with the elements around them.” As Luna finished her explanation, Spike hid under her wing to avoid the shocked glances of everypony in the room.

“Spike is that true, you can perform magic!?” Asked the now very excited young alicorn, to which Spike nodded. He didn’t want anypony to know, especially Twilight because both he and Luna knew that she would only use his magic for tasks, like getting more than one book at a time, cleaning faster or cooking better, or doing the laundry.

“Young Princess Twilight Sparkle,” The night princess said sternly, “Spike isn’t ready to perform the tasks you might ask of him. Right now, he needs to focus on his studying.” Spike looked up, happy his teacher saved him from even more slavery when they got back to the Friendship Castle.

“I understand,” Twilight said respectfully. She was disappointed Spike couldn’t use his magic for chores, but she dared not challenge Luna’s authority.

“How will you be teaching Spike, Luna?” The sun princess asked while taking a sip from her cup of tea.

“Through his dreams, sister,” Luna answered without turning her gaze from her student. She smiled as Spike nestled comfortably under her soft wing.

“I see,” Celestia responded turning her attention back to her tea.

“And I would like to appoint Starlight to help him with his studies.”Luna added. This caused the light purple unicorn to blush.

Twilight pouted but didn’t protest. Even though she would like to teach him herself, this would be a great lesson for Starlight.

With that, breakfast continued without any more problems, except some stares from a few of the ponies, mostly from one cyan-coated mare.

After breakfast, the Mane six, plus Spike, two members of the Cutie Mark Crusaders Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle, Starlight Glimmer, Thunderlane, and Pokey, all boarded the train to Ponyville. Princess Luna told Spike to head into the Everfree Forest to seek information from Zecora about his kind when he got off. During the trainride, most of the ponies chattered, mostly joking about Blueblood almost wetting himself with fear and their after parties. Spike on the other hoof was asleep along with Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle, due to the sheer boredom and mental exhaustion from his tough training.

Back in Ponyville, the gang trotted, or in Spike case walked, off their train. Suddenly, the dragon’s stomach growled, causing the gang to stop and look at him. They were confused, as they knew they all ate a good meal onboard. A meal that unfortunately didn’t satisfy the dragon’s hunger.

“Ya know, fer ah little guy, ya sure are hungry,” Replied Applejack with her now sleeping sister on her back.

“Like I said, it’s a dragon thing,” Spike said annoyed. He didn’t like repeating himself, since it just reminded him how these ponies don’t listen to him. “Anyway, I’m going to see Zecora, I’ll be back later.” Spike ran from the train station, passing the ponies who were going on with their day. While a few waved at him, most spoke on why he was still living here as he ran toward the forest.

Spike knew where Zecora’s hut was, since he memorized the safest path to take in the somewhat dangerous forest. Spike reached the hut and knocked on the door, but there was no response. This was weird, considering the zebra was expecting him. Spike tried knocking again, but there was still no answer. He was about to knock again when his stomach roared for food, causing him to clutch his belly in slight pain.

“I see a hungry dragon that I must feed, for I know the food you need,” Spike heard a familiar voice said from behind.

Spike turned around and saw the mohawk manned zebra wearing her favorite brown robe. “Princess Luna told me you were hungry, and I agreed to train your tummy.” Spike’s stomach agreed with Zecora’s words, causing her to giggle.

Zecora placed a hoof on Spike’s shoulder. “Your new teacher told me what you want and asked me to teach you to hunt.”

Spike nodded and followed the zebra shaman into the forest. He was overjoyed that the pain in his belly would finally come to an end.

The inside of the Everfree Forest was as lively as ever. One could spot a few boars, deer, rabbits, and anything that tries to gather food before nightfall. A few timberwolves and manticores roamed around as well, looking for a quick bite to eat.

Spike saw a lone boar with its muzzle buried beneath the earth sniffed for its favorite meal, the truffle. The brown tusked pig noticed a bush swaying side-to-side. When the wild boar laid its gaze on the bush, it stopped. The boar was now on high alert, fearing that a predator may claim its life so they could live on.

They it stood for a couple of minutes waiting, watching, hoping that it was something else. After a few minutes of staring, the pig went back to its hunt, thinking it was just a rabbit or raccoon scurrying for food.

Spike slowly crawled out of his hiding spot within the bushes. He remained low and stealthy as he moved in for his first kill, his first meal as a carnivore. The boar was too busy to notice the young dragon. Zecora’s advice repeated in the Spike’s head, ‘I have you warned, the first kill will leave you scorned.’ Spike took each word into consideration, knowing he could be killed out here in the wild. ‘You best keep a low head, otherwise, you’ll end up dead.”

Spike lowered his head more and raised his tail rose, like a cat about to pounce. ‘A predator must learn to blend, otherwise the hunt may come to an end.’ It was another lesson that he must cover his scent in order to catch his prey or hide from other predators.

The wild boar stopped sniffing and began making its way toward its next destination. Spike saw that as his the moment to strike. He pounced onto the boar and latched his claws around the its neck. Instinctively, the beast began to kick and buck, desperately trying get its predator off. The struggle eventually paid off as the pig bucked the dragon off. Spike landed on the ground, but quickly got up on all fours. His eyes glowed a green color, as he prepared to try again.

‘Don’t strike at your pray, for your chance might go away,’ Zecora’s words played. Spike knew he had to wait until the time was right to claim his prey’s life. The boar charged, but Spike sidestepped it at the last second. The wild boar didn’t have enough time to stop its charge, and ended up headbutting into a tree.

The pig shook its head from the impact, it was starting to get angry. ‘You and your prey must not engage. Wait until it tires from its rage.’ more of the zebra’s advice repeated in Spike’s head. The boar once again charged at the baby dragon and Spike to the chance to hop onto the pig. He quickly sank his claws into the pig’s flesh, gripping it tightly so it wouldn’t escape from his clutch. The flow of blood Spike felt was was intoxicating. The pig squealed in pain, trying desperately to get the small dragon off, unfortunately, Spike’s tight grip made it too difficult.

Zecora had taught Spike not to make his prey suffer, as he was only doing this to survive. To put the wild boar out of its misery, Spike sank his fangs into its neck. The force of his jaw snapped the boar’s spinal cord like a twig, thus ending its life.

The boar fell to the ground, motionless. Spike looked up and saw that Zecora had been watching. She wasn’t scared, or even disgusted. The wise mare knew about the circle of life, and the rules that came with it. Why prey have to run from predators. It was the balance of the world.

Normally Spike would be disgusted with himself and pour the contents in his stomach to the ground, but nothing of the sort happened. Spike was in a whole another world, he had just killed a boar. The blood of the boar running on his claws and fangs felt both good and natural. Spike wanted more, and wasting no time, he began to feast on his kill.

“Where could he be?” Asked a worried lavender mare. “It’s getting late and he’s nowhere to be found.” Celestia had lowered the sun about an hour ago and Luna’s moon now shined across the skies. Twilight began to stomp her hooves, worried that her assistant could be in danger or worst. She began to run toward the Everfree, but was stopped by a hoof.

“Relax, Twilight,” Trixie said wrapping an arm around her marefriend, “I think that Spike will be fine. In fact, I think he’ll be back before you know it.”

This seemed to calm the panicked alicorn down, but right then and there, Spike came walking down the street. He had a few scratches and bruises on his arms, but other than that he looked fine. Twilight busted out crying in happiness as she ran over to Spike and wrapped her hooves around the dragon.

“Oh Spike, where have you been? We were all so worried about you.” Twilight let him go and looked at his injured arms. “What happened?” Though Spike knew she was more concerned with him being healthy enough to do chores around the castle.

“Well...” Spike momentarily paused to think of a good excuse. “I went to see Zecora for something dragon-related, and I must’ve took a wrong turn.” It wasn’t the best lie, but the mares seemed to buy it. In truth, Spike was having a tough time hunting his prey. It wasn’t easy, but he did manage to kill the said prey, and satisfy his hunger.

“I told you, Twilight,” the showpony said with a smirk.

“I guess you’re right.” They hugged for another minute before going back inside.

For the past three weeks, Spike had been going into the forest every time his stomach rumbled after a pony meal. This occured twice a day, but Spike always waved his ‘friends’ off before he headed toward the Everfree.

The girls seemed a bit worried, but Twilight and Trixie explained to them that Spike was visiting Zecora for medical help for his stomach, so they just shrugged it off. That evening, Spike was running a little later than usual worry, Twilight asked Fluttershy to check to see if he was still over at Zecora’s hut.

The timed mare was scared at first, but after remembering that Spike was still in the Everfree Forest, she ponied up and trotted into the woods. Within moments, the timid pegasus heard a deer cry before falling quiet. Fluttershy flapped her wings and rushed toward the sound. When she found the source of the cry, the sight almost made her scream.

Laying in a field was an unmoving baby deer, and a smaller creature sitting by its corpse. To her, it seemed to be praying, but a closer look revealed that the smaller creature was actually eating it. The timid pony took a step back, stepping on a twig. The sound caught the creature’s attention, and its eyes widened in fear as they met Fluttershy’s gaze.

“F-F-Fluttershy?” The creature spoke, and to Fluttershy its voice sounded very familiar.

“S-S-Spike?” the terrified pegasus asked while Spike stepped into the moonlight. Now visible, Fluttershy saw that Spike was covered in the blood of the deer he had just killed.

“Fluttershy, wait I can...” Spike’s words were cut off as the timid mare let out a scream and ran away. She couldn’t believe that Spike, the only dragon that supposedly wouldn’t hurt even a fly, was out in the forest, killing defenseless animals. Tears fell from her eyes. She had to tell Twilight and the others what she saw. Fluttershy flew past Rainbow Dash, Applejack, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, all who looked confused and followed the shy pegasus.

Fluttershy banged on the door in the quickest way possible. When Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and the Cutie Mark Crusaders came the door, it opened to reveal Twilight with a worried look. “Did you find him?”

“Y-Y-Yes...b-b-b-b-b-but... can I come in?” Twilight moved out the way to let her and the others in.

“Where is he?” Twilight asked then looked at the pegasus, who looked like she seen a ghost as tears began to fall from her eyes. “D-D-Don’t tell me he’s…”

“N-No Twilight... I-I found him. H-He was...” She swallowed a lump. “E-Eating a b-baby deer.” Everypony in the room gasped, except for Rainbow, who just blurted out laughing.

“Y-yeah right! Spike would never do something like that.” Rainbow said as she flapped her wings. “The little guy only eats gems and sweets, as if he has what it takes to eat a deer.” Rainbow did had a point there. She, Twilight, and Rarity had followed Spike when he wanted to learn about dragons during the Dragon Migration. They remembered when those teen dragons wanted him to crush the defenseless phoenix egg and Spike refused.

Twilight put her hoof on her chin, “You’ve got a point Rainbow, but Princess Luna told him to seek information about dragons from Zecora. I wonder if she’s teaching Spike something?”

“Yeah like what? He’s way too small to hurt anypony... let alone wild animals,” Rainbow commented, but she saw everypony gasp and Twilight pointed her hoof toward the door. Upon seeing what Twilight was pointing to, Rainbow’s jaw dropped. There stood a blood soaked Spike next to Zecora. He looked quite hurt at the accusations.

“Pardon my interruption,” The zebra shaman spoke, “But there is a matter we must attend. For there is a misconception that we must mend.”

Twilight nodded. She and Rainbow after shutting her mouth went on ahead to gather the other bearers. Applejack meanwhile, took the three fillies back to the farm, where her brother, and grandmother could watch them. Now that they’ve earned their Cutie Marks, the fillies weren’t as troublesome as before, but Applejack wanted to keep them away from Spike after what she saw.

“Spike, before the others come here, you should wash the blood my dear,” Zecora advised. Spike nodded and headed upstairs to the bathroom so he could clean the blood. Fluttershy was too scared to look Spike in the eye. She didn’t see him as the cute baby dragon she once knew. She only saw a monster.

After a good few minutes, the rest of the six bearers of harmony, plus Trixie and Starlight, all sat in a circle with Zecora in the middle. Spike peered from behind the zebra, still hesitant to look at the frightened mares around him. “Now that you all have gathered here, I shall try and make this perfectly clear. Spike, as you know, has many traits among his scales, some that would sicken even the toughest males. Some are very good, and some are very bad, others keep him alive, even if it’s sad. What you all saw I’m sad to say, was a trait necessary to keep death away.”

“Hold on,” Applejack interrupted, trying to put together what Zecora was saying. “Are ya telling us that Spike needs to eat other animals in order to live?” To which Zecora nodded.

‘Well duh!’ Spike thought as he glared at the farm pony.

“There must be another way, I mean, not all dragons are carnivores,” The white mare spoke, shocked from hearing this.

“True dragons may eat whatever they want, but at a certain age, they must go on the hunt.”

“Just like the the raid during the migration,” Twilight said as she put two and two together.

“Yes, newly winged princess, it was very much like that clash, when the other dragons found eggs for him to smash. For it was not only for fun and games they did try, but to learn to hunt in a packs without being shy.” The zebra cleared her throat. “Now back to the matter at hoof, if you will, if he hadn’t eaten flesh, many hearts would’ve stood still. For if not his life to be lost by the need, but his instinct to take rise, like greed.” She didn't need to say more, the room was silent from the news that if he hadn’t, not only might he have died, but he could've became a monster again, only with a need to eat rather than hoard.

“Unless there is another question, I think it is best to end this session. Not that I wish to retire, but I fear I left something over my fire.” And with that, Zecora left the map room, leaving the eight mares gasping.

“He did what?!” Asked a light pink mare who was snuggling against a white stallion. They were both was laying on a king sized bed, with golden silk sheets covering their tired bodies after their passionate night. Blueblood had recently dumped the blue mare he brought to the dance, under the account that she was too boring.

“He ate a deer today. Aunty Luna is insane, keeping that dangerous lizard around,” Blueblood said wrapping his hoof around his partner. “She even had the nerve to take the little demon in as her student.”

“That’s awful! What if he gets out of control and goes on a major rampage!?”

“Don’t worry my little love bud, I have a plan. He’s in Canterlot with his master for the next two weeks. I’m sure a prince like me can pull a few strings.” The two nastily chuckled before the prince spoke again. “Now, how about this handsome prince make a lovely mare his princess?” With that, Blueblood tossed the covers over both of their heads. Soon, giggles and moans could he heard throughout the room.

Later on, Celestia was in the throne room reading the letter both she and Luna have received. To say she wasn’t surprised was an understatement, she and her sister weren’t surprised at all. In fact, they were hoping Dragon Lord Ember would’ve told Twilight that Spike will be at the age where he needs to eat meat before he ends up hurting somepony while rampaging.

“I always knew this day would come,” Celestia spoke softly thinking of the repercussion that would befall her ‘son’ if other ponies find out.

“How do you think this will affect his relationships with the others sister?” Luna asked worried about her student’s well being.

“I highly doubt they would look at him the same way for quite some time. Giving it some time, I hope they’ll realize Spike is still the sweet dragon he’s always been.”

“I hope you’re right about this Tia.”

“Have I ever been wrong Lulu?”

Luna rolled her eyes. “Well, there was that time you let Discord track down Tirek. Then there was that time when you said and I quote ‘I’m an immortal alicorn and don’t need love.’ Yet, you feel affection for Sombra, and never said a word about it before the crystal war incident. Then there was that time when you ate all of those sweets during that contest and got sick for the next few days.”

Celestia blushed annoyed, “You’ve made your point Luna.”

The midnight blue alicorn just giggled. “Anyway, I believe it’s time for you to retire for the night.”

The older white alicorn just nodded as she got up from her throne and trotted towards the doors. “Goodnight Lulu. And good luck on your student’s dreams.”

“Goodnight Tia.” Luna waved her hoof, but raised a brow after hearing her comment. “Oh right, Spike’s going to feel horrible tonight.”

Celestia trotted down the hallways, enjoying the scent of the flowers Luna aligned the walls with to help the servants, and off duty guards sleep. On her way towards her own room, she spotted her nephew, Prince Blueblood, obviously waiting for somepony. Sadly, that somepony was her.

“Good evening aunty,” The prince spoke with a smile on his face.

“What are you planning Blueblood?” The alicorn asked, knowing he was up to no good.

“I don’t know what you mean.” The answer was vague and unconvincing.

“You know what I mean,” Celestia replied as she began to lose her patience.

“Well news does travel fast aunty. I heard that little lizard of a son of yours did what most ponies here would never do. Namely, eating other animals,” The prince smirked. “Now what would Equestria think if they find out, huh?”

Celestia’s eye began twitching, “Are you blackmailing me, one of the princesses of Equestria?” She asked. “Because I’m pretty sure that is considered treason.”

“If you thought I was trouble before, aunty, imagine me and almost all of Equestria’s nobility as your enemy. Surely, you don’t want that. Because if you continue to entertain the idea of spreading harmony with other creatures, including that... thing you call a son, well... let’s just see how long the alliance of the nobility will hold. Then there is the matter of your secret project involving the dragons. It would be a shame if Princess Twilight were to learn who her mentor truly is.”

“You’re right, that would be quite a shame,” Celestia sighed as she lowered her head. “But it would also be a shame if the ex Dragon Lord Torch and Dragon Lord Ember hear wind as to who’s the pony who put the sword in Inferno’s heart. And if you don’t know who Inferno is, that would be Ember’s mother and Torch’s mate.” Her eyes turn to Blueblood. “So go ahead and tell Twilight and the other nobles about my son.”

“You’re willing to put Equestria at risk?”

“If you want to blackmail somepony, better do a bit more digging my dear nephew,” Celestia said as she continued on her way to her chambers, leaving a stunned prince behind.

It had been almost two weeks since they left Ponyville to visit Twilight’s parents while Spike visited his mother, who was happy to push her schedule to spend time with him. Even with the new settings, he continued his lessons with Luna every night, and he was getting good at controlling three of the four natural elements. But today, Spike and Twilight where at Pony Joe’s for a small snack where Spike was enjoying a tasty donut when the royal guards trotted through the door.

“Spike the Dragon, by order of the princess, you are hereby under arrest,” The captain announced in a harsh tone.

“Under what charge?” Twilight asked, blocking the guards from trying to apprehend the young dragon.

“First degree murder of the noble Esquire family, and attempted murder of Princess Flurry Heart five days ago,” they answered approaching the dragon.

“W-WHAT?! I NEVER MURDERED ANYPONY, I SWEAR!” the dragon screamed. “Tell them Twi!” he begged.

Twilight shook her head. “He’s telling the truth. He was in Canterlot castle with Princess Luna.”

“Both the attack on Princess Flurry and the murder of the Esquire family took place approximately an hour our after Princess Celestia lowered the sun. Where were you at that time?” One of the unicorn guards asked.

“Like Twilight just said, I was with Princess Luna in the garden,” Spike defended himself. The guards looked at each other before turning back to the dragon.

“I’m sorry Spike, but we’re under orders,” He said obviously not listening to the defenses. “Colts, take him!” He ordered as the unicorns’ horns came to life. The sky blue aura covered the small dragon from head to toe, lifting him off the ground.

“TWILIGHT!” he screamed, that his last word before the guards trotted off to the castle. Twilight could only watch in horror as her little brother was arrested for something he obviously didn’t do.

“DON’T WORRY SPIKE, THE GIRLS AND I WILL FREE YOU! I PROMISE!!” She called out to her assistant to give him hope.

Chapter Six

What little hope the little dragon had left has seemed to have changed into despair. He was being charged with first degree murder and regicide, which confused him greatly. He never harmed anyone from the royal family (since he’s actually part of it) let alone his cousin, Flurry Heart, who he’s so fond of.

Spike’s arms were tied up tightly, making it almost impossible to move. His mouth was muzzled so he couldn’t breathe fire. It was so demeaning, the small cage that he had been placed in made him look like a savage animal waiting to be put down. Within his cell, a few minutes seemed like an eternity.

Around him were seats in rows of three, with four doors on a circle pattern with four seats in the middle that was meant for royalty. Standing beside the cage was a light cream unicorn stallion with a lime green mane and tail, wearing a blue suit and tie. His cutie mark was a scale with a book on one end and nothing on the other.

Spike couldn’t sleep to inform Luna on what happened, whenever he tried to close his eyes, the guards would jab his side to keep him awake. Hopefully, the moon princess would enter the room very soon and come to his defense.

Ponies began to enter into the courtroom. Most of them looking at Spike with contempt and disgust. The only exception were his friends, who looked quite confused and worried. Twilight has already told them what happened, and rushed to defend their friend. While they understand Spike is a carnivore, and needs to eat meat, him using his skills to kill ponies and try to assassinate Flurry Heart wasn’t like him at all.

Suddenly, Luna appeared and looked at Spike’s cage in fury. “What is the meaning of this?!” she asked with the others princesses entering beside her.

“Spike tried to murder my child,” Cadance replied with a mixture of rage and sadness in her voice.

“Is this true, Spike?” Luna needed to hear it in Spike’s own words, as she was well aware how close he was to Flurry Heart. She used her magic to undo the muzzle off so Spike could speak.

Once the muzzle was off the dragon replied, “No. You gotta believe me, I was with Luna when this happened.”

“This lizard tells nothing but lies!” one stallion spoke, but quickly found it hard to breathe. Luna’s horn glowed brightly, as her magical aura was tightly encased around the stallion’s neck.

“ORDER!” Celestia yelled in her royal Canterlot voice. “Luna, let Pendulum go, now.” Growling, Luna obeyed her sister and released the stallion.

“If you’re innocent, how do you explain why your footprints and claw markings was at scene of the crime?” asked Pendulum after coughing a few times.

“I don’t know, I don’t even know the pony you’re accusing me of attacking.”

“Or maybe you can be at two places at once? Or could it be you learned how to stop time itself?”

Starlight spoke up, having heard enough of this. “Your highness, Spike only started his magical training with Luna a few weeks ago. What the prosecutor is trying to suggest is impossible for some er... dragon to perform in the short amount of time. Only proficient users of magic, like Twilight and myself, are capable of such.”

Spike smiled, seeing Starlight defending him, giving him hope, even in this predicament.

“She’s right,” Twilight said, nodded her head.

“Plus, he only knows how to case base level elemental magic,” Starlight added.

“If that’s true Miss Glimmer,” the stallion walked around the dragon’s cage. “Then what if this dragon here accidentally made a clone of himself and not realized he did so.” The stallion stopped and looked around, to find a few ponies whispering.

“Performing a cloning spell it takes a lot of focus and energy to do which divide one magical output in half.”

“I admit I do not have the knowledge to go in depth in magic like you, or the princesses. However, isn’t it stated on paragraph one; section five on Cloning Magic 101 that cloning another living creature without following the correct methods may result in a split personality on the target intending for cloning?”

“Well, yes-”

“And didn’t you perfect Starswirl’s time magic to go back in time to stop Miss Rainbow Dash from getting her cutie mark?”

“Wait, how did you know-” but she was cut off again.

“Not only that, how long did it take you to learn the spell to remove ponies cutie marks?”

At this point, Starlight begin to shake. This pony somehow knew everything about her. She covered her eyes with her hoof. “A few minutes,” she admitted.

“I rest my case,” Pendulum smiled, knowing he had this case in the bag.

“Well, what else are you training that lizard to do, Aunty Luna, eat innocent ponies?” Blueblood smirked.

Luna wiped the grin off the snobbish prince’s face as she began choking him with her magical grip. “IF YOU CALL HIM A LIZARD ONE MORE TIME-”

“Luna enough!” Celestia screamed and Luna reluctantly released her nephew. “Blueblood, if you make another comment like that, I will hold you in contempt,” Celestia warned before returning her attention to Starlight. “Starlight, do you have anything else to share?”

Starlight only shook her head, even though she knew for a fact that Spike could never have mastered those spells in such a short amount of time.

“For all we know, creatures like dragons learn differently!” Pendulum shouted. “And Canterlot libraries have a vast amount of book related to all different types of magic. How are we to know he didn’t secretly gain such spells without anypony knowing?”

“We don’t have any records of any dragon learning high levels of magic in such a short amount of time. And if Spike is guilty, is there any evidence of his crimes? Or is this all purely speculation?” Twilight asked.

“The only dragons I know of that can perform high level spells are the dragons lords,” Celestia began. “But that aside, IS there any evidence against the accused?”

“There is, your highness.” The stallion’s horn glowed. Several photos of a small dragon appear walking away from an ally, parts of it was covered in blood. And a few with the body of the dead pony with bite and claw marks on it body Along with a photo of a pink alicorn foal with a dark to like purple mane and tail with a blue streak. The photo showed claw markings around Flurry’s neck, and sides of her body. The mother of the said alicorn glared into the dragon, causing him to whimper.

“It’s possible to create fake photographs, you know!” Starlight shouted.

“Stop Starlight, it’s no use. As much as I want it to be true, you’ve lost all your credibility, and this court will no longer take your words into consideration,” Twilight said, causing Starlight’s jaw to drop, hearing such words from her own teacher.

“As you can see here, that small dragon was seen here, walking out of the alley near the library. The next photo shows the marks, and Spike the Dragon was the only dragon in the city at the time.”

Luna couldn’t believe her ears, how could these ponies make such accusations of a sweet dragon. As Starlight said, with the new technological advances and magical spells, fake photographs can be created.

“How can we be sure those are not fake? Despite Twilight’s student losing credibility to this court, she has made a valid point. How can somepony take photos of the accused murdering without being sniffed out? Dragons are known to have a remarkable sense of smell.” Luna asked.

“From what investigators have concluded, the scent of blood was strong enough to mask any other scent in the surrounding area.” Pendulum explained.

“That’s a lie!” Spike shouted. “I can smell perfectly when I’m out hunting!”

“So you abide in murdering the Esquire nobles?”

Spike clenched his tied claws, “I didn’t say that!”

“You’ve said quite enough, Pendulum. Let me ask the questions,” Luna said, managing to keep control of her temper.

“Spike, prior to the night you were incarcerated, when and where was the last time you ate?” Luna asked even though she knew her student was innocent.

“The castle dining hall with you, Celestia, Cadance, Twilight, Shining Armor, and Flurry Heart. I had a gem salad, with some shrimp. Then later, after my magical studying, I went with Twilight to Pony Joe’s to have a light snack. That’s when the guards came to arrest me.” It was all clear like day in Spike’s mind, to which Luna remembered, because she was there with him to go over magical telekinesis, to which Spike was getting the hang of.

“Since that’s done with, what about Flurry Heart?” asked the calm pink princess. “Where were you if you didn’t attack her?”

“I already told you, I was with Luna!” Spike shouted. This trial was getting ridiculous.

“Princesses, may I present a witness?” Pendulum pointed to Blueblood who was sitting next to Twilight.

The stallion's horn then glowed, forming a grey cloud. Closing his eyes, the prince focuses on the night where he ‘encountered’ Spike.

Blueblood was walking down the hall after having a hearty conversation with a delegate from Manehatten. He turned to the corner of the east wing of the castle and what he saw was horrifying: two crystal guards were lying in a puddle of their own blood. Wanting to be brave, the prince trotted over to the two corpses, and discovered that they had claw marks around their bodies, despite wearing armor. Walking into the wing, Blueblood nearly gagged, seeing the carnage. Body parts everywhere; maids on the floor with holes and organs scattered about, all leading into the room.

A room his ‘cousin’ was in. Fearing her safety, Blueblood rushed into the room, It wasn’t clean, but he did see a small creature holding the young foal in his arms, with his lips closing in on her neck. “Stop!” the prince called out, causing the creature to stop. “Release her at once, demon!” the prince demanded, to which the monster growled. The white stallion used his magic to snatch the foal from the creature’s arm and then sent a bolt at him, to which he reflected it and sent a magic bolt of his own. It wasn’t very clear, but the creature appeared to be small, purple, and bipedal, with green spikes lined from the top of its head to the end of its tail.

The cloud disappeared with the dragon’s jaw hitting the floor. “That’s the biggest lie I ever heard or in this case, seen!” yelled Spike. “I love Flurry! I would never hurt her! Cadance, don’t tell me you’re actually believe this clown over the one who saved your kingdom twice?”

“Clown?! How dare you! I’ll have you know I’m well-respected in Canterlot!” Blueblood snarled as he pointed his nose in the air like the snob he was.

“Well-respected? You’re the most hated, reviled, and rudest pony in all of Equestria.”

“ENOUGH! The both of you!” Celestia shouted, causing both Spike and Blueblood to stop arguing and turn their attention towards her. “Now if it’s true, then please bring in Flurry Heart to see if SHE remembers the incident.”

The doors behind Spike opened as Sunburst entered the room, pushing a crib with his magic. The unicorn didn’t... couldn’t believe that a hero of the Crystal Empire would try to take the life of the innocent foal.

Though Sunburst knew that Spike was learning magic, he found it impossible for a dragon, who was still learning the basics of magic, to perform anything he was accused of.

The unicorn picked up Flurry, who was happy to be in Sunburst’s grasp, to watch the crowd of ponies went ‘aww.’ That was until her eyes laid on Spike.

Using her magic, the foal clung to her foalsitter tightly, as if holding on him for dear life. What’s more, Flurry created a barrier to separate herself from the dragon, much to his surprise and shock.

She was shaking, and the princesses could tell that Spike somehow traumatized the foal.

“Didn’t try to kill her, you say? I rest my case.” Pendulum bows.

“Mares and genltecolts, now that we've heard the cases of both sides, the fate of Spike The Dragon will rest upon a group of his peers; the Elements of Harmony,” Celestia stated, making Luna turn her head. “I believe Princess Twilight and her friends will make a true and just decision.”

Inside a small room, which held a wooden, circular table with six seats, sat Twilight, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, and Fluttershy, all in deep thought. Even with the evidence presented to them, all scattered across the table, it was hard to imagine that their friend was a pony eating murderer.

“I don’t know about him trying to kill Flurry Heart, since it was Blueblood who claimed to see him there...” Rarity started, breaking the ice. “But the ponies he killed-”

“Now hold on, Rarity.” Applejack cut her off, “How do we know somepony ain’t framin’ him?”

“Well, as the prosecutor said, dragons learn differently,' so it would be possible for Spike to learn high levels of magic in a short amount of time.” Twilight didn’t want to believe it, but the words of Pendulum was still hot on the princess’ mind.

“So y’all belive him more than Spike?”Applejack asked.

“What I’m saying is that maybe they something more to this?”

“Like what Twi?”

“I don’t know Applejack.” Twilight placed her hooves on her head, rubbing it. “This is all happening so fast.” the young alicorn cried out. “He’s... he’s...”

“A m-monster...” Fluttershy spoke.

Twilight looked down at the photos. “Even if he’s our friend... he’s changed...”

“Ah guess yer right,” Applejack replied.

“She’s right, darling... I don’t know what happen but Spike has changed in more ways than one,” the ivory unicorn sighed. “He used to help me with a lot of stuff, but, lately, he’s been trying to avoid me, like I have some kind of disease.”

“Not only that, he has been glaring at us for some time now.” Rainbow spoke, then look down. “Ahhh I don’t know who he is any more!” The rainbow maned pegasus rub her head in confusion. “I me he’s still the coolest dragon I know, but Twilight’s right, he change.”

“So we all believe that he’s guilty on the murders?”

“Oh definitely darling, despite what Starlight had said.” Rarity spoke in a claim tone.

“If it wasn’t for what that Pendulum fellow said ah wouldn’t believe the little fellow was innocent. guilty.”

“I-I-I think h-he’s g-guilty too...” Fluttershy stuttered.

“Face it, Pinkie, ever since Spike started to eat meat, he’s became a completely different dragon,” Rainbow replied.

“But Spike’s our friend...” Pinkie sniffed. “Sure he eats meat, but he's done everything for us, like cook and clean and...”

Applejack placed a hoof around Pinkie. “Sorry, Pinkie, but what if Spike gobbled up Pumpkin and Pound Cake? Ah know it’s hard, but we’re all thinking about our families, here.”

“So we’re all in agreement?” Twilight asked to which all the mares nodded.

“I guess so...” Pinkie said as her mane flattened, like it usually did when she was upset.

“Yes darling.” Rarity raised her hoof.

“Same here.” Rainbow Dash raised her hoof as well.

“Ah agree with ya Twi.” Applejack also raised her hoof.

Fluttershy just nodded before she raised her hoof.

With that, the Mane Six got out of their seats and exited the delegation room, preparing themselves to tell the court of their decision.

Back in the court, the ponies were waiting patiently for the elements to return with their decision. Spike couldn’t help feeling shaken up.

Everyone noticed the elements return to the court. “Princess Celestia we’ve reached our decision. We the jury find the offended guilty on all counts.”

“D-D-Do you really believe this, Twilight?” Spike asked with tears filling his eyes, “After everything we’ve been through together, you girls actually believe these ridiculous accusations and consider me a threat?”

“The evidence is clear, Spike. It’s hard to believe it, but you’re guilty,” Twilight answered.

“Sorry partner,” Applejack spoke next, taking her hat off, “But ah don’t feel comfortable with ya being on the farm, with ya being a predator and all.” She then lowered her head out of shame that she had to be truthful with the poor dragon.

“Sorry Spike, but I don’t think the Cakes would want you near their shop,” Pinkie added with her mane still straight. “I’m sorry,” she said, but she clearly didn’t mean it.

“Um... I-I-I-I-I-I-I...” Fluttershy stuttered, while hiding her face behind her mane. “Think you’re dangerous, Spike...” she finished in a quiet voice, but Spike was able to hear her.

“I’m sorry too, Spikey,” Rarity said, “But I’ll lose all my clientele if they knew I was friends with a murderous dragon.” Typical, the fashionista was more concerned of her social status with some uptight nobles than the fate of the dragon who loved her.

“You brought this on yourself, Spike! This is your punishment for hunting and killing other ponies!” Rainbow spoke, glaring at him.

“B-b-b-but... I didn’t murder anypony...” Spike’s voice broke. He felt betrayed that the ones he called his friends and family were actually buying these lies.

“Don’t waste your breath with those foolish mares, Spike. I know you’re innocent.” Luna’s smile seemed to have calmed down the baby dragon.

“I want to believe you, Spike, I truly do, but with the evidence presented to us, I find it impossible to do so.” Celestia closed her eyes and sighed. ‘I really wish it wouldn’t come to this’ The white alicorn thought.

“Spike the Dragon...” Celestia began with a heartless look in her eyes.

“You have to believe me, mother! I haven’t harmed anypony! Please don’t send me away! Please! PLEASE!” Unfortunately, Spike’s pleas fell on deaf ears.

“Normally, attacking a member of the royal family is considered treason, and is punishable by death, however, since you have served a great deal to Equestria, I won’t execute you. Instead, for the crime you have committed, I hereby banish you from all of Equestria!” she declared. The heartless ponies of the crowd actually began cheering... cheering at this perversion of justice.

At this point, Spike opened the floodgates and cried. His worst fears have come true: he had just been banished from the country he hatched from; banished from the ponies he called his family and friends, all because society viewed him as a pony-eating monster. Luna was not only dumbfounded, but ashamed that she had a sister that would throw a baby dragon, who she called her son, out all alone into the wild, granted he now knew how to hide his presence, and learned how to survive out there.

“Please reconsider, mother!” Spike begged.

“Why should I?” Celestia asked coldly, causing the drake to drop his jaw. “I find it understandable for you to kill wild animals as a dragon needs to survive, but murdering fellow ponies is not acceptable. I have no obligation to help you, nor do I see any reason to raise you either.” She pointed her hoof at him. “You are a danger to Equestria!”

Spike couldn’t believe what he was hearing, his benevolent alicorn mother had never talked to him like this before. “But mother...”

“I have nothing more to say to you!”

Tears fell from Starlight’s eyes. She couldn’t believe that they would accuse Spike of doing such things.

“H-how could you, sister?” Luna began, breaking the cage and placing Spike upon her back. “How could you throw your own son out in the wild? If it wasn’t for Spike, Sombra would still be alive, and we’d be in war with Crystal Empire. If it wasn’t for Spike, dragons would have remained our enemies. Without Spike’s support, Princess Twilight and the other bearers wouldn’t have defeated Discord.”

“Luna, you must understand, I had no choice,” Celestia said trying to restrain her sister.

“That is a lie, sister!” Luna yelled at the pathetic excuse. “You simply chose to ignore the calls of your son and put the desires of those snobbish ponies ahead of his dire needs!”

Luna then turned to the Elements of Harmony. “And as for you, the saviors of Equestria, you have not only abused Spike, but have treated him like your personal pet. I’m embarrassed to have ever considered any of you my friends!”

“We haven’t...” Twilight started, but was quickly cut off.

“SILENCE, BEARER OF MAGIC! THE REAL CRIMINALS HERE ARE YOU PONIES!!”

“Aunty Luna, please don’t! We can talk about this!” Cadance pleaded, but it was no use.

“SHUT UP, CADANCE!” Luna screamed causing the entire room to gasp. “Both you and Shining know damn well that Spike would never cinge a mane on Flurry’s head, yet you believe that lying dribble of snot over Spike!” Luna’s coat began to blacken, but she took no notice.

“For all I know, you ponies are just a miserable excuse for trash. I made a vow that I would stay by Spike’s side, no matter what, and I intend to keep it. As co-ruler, and princess of Equestria, I hereby exile myself from Equestria.”

“Princess Luna, you can’t do this!” Twilight called. “Who will bring the nights?!”

Luna ignored the young alicorn as her horn began to glow. Her fur had turned to pure black, while her eyes changed to a pair of demonic slits. Her legs had grown longer, as did her wings. Lastly, her cutie mark morphed into a purple haze over a crescent moon. It was no longer Princess Luna, but Nightmare Moon, the demon that hides under foals’ beds. Before anypony could even react to her transformation, the dark alicorn casted her spell, causing her and Spike to disappear.

Chapter Seven

Princess Celestia and the rest of the ponies just sat there, awestruck and jaws wide open. They have been shocked into silence, not only by Luna’s regression back into Nightmare Moon, but the fact that she just exiled herself.

The only one not surprised was Starlight, who was still crying over this injustice.

‘I won’t let this go,’ she thought as she disappeared in a flash.

The others took no notice into Starlight’s absence, they were more focused on Luna’s transformation. “What have I done?” the sun princess said, breaking the silence that plagued the room. Luna’s words sunk into Celestia, the Mane Six, and Cadance’s heads; she was right. If it wasn’t for Spike, Shining and Cadance wouldn’t have the Crystal Empire. If it wasn’t for Spike, Discord would’ve won...

“You did what had to be done princess,” one mare said, pointing her nose in the air.

“She’s right aunty. Could you imagine that heartless monster, eating our little foals for food?” Blueblood spoke. “Equestria is better off without that pony eating dragon running loose.”

Other than Celestia, Cadance, and the six bearers, the rest of the ponies nodded. Twilight, Rarity, and Pinkie looked down in shame. Letting Luna’s words hit them harder than anything else.

“You have no idea Blueblood,” the princess sighed. “No idea what will happen.”

Blueblood raised an eyebrow, “What do you mean aunty?”

“Twilight, do you remember when you asked about Spike’s origin?”

“Of course, princess. You said that Spike’s egg was abandoned.”

“I lied.” Everypony in the court gasped in surprise before Celestia continued. “The egg wasn’t abandoned. I found the dragoness holding his egg in the badlands over twenty years ago. She was about to enter her 100 year hibernation and asked if I could raise it since she wouldn’t be able to care of him. I agreed and took the egg home with me.”

“What happened to his real mother?” asked the lavender alicorn.

“Diamonds Dogs,” Celestia answered ominously. “They dug their way inside her cave, stole her horde, and took her life. When I returned to the cave, her body was already dismantled. That was until her mate flew in to check on her. What he saw horrified him.”

“What did he do?” asked Fluttershy, putting her hoof in front of her muzzle.

“He attacked me,” Celestia replied as she lowered her head. “He thought I had killed his mate and taken their egg. I tried to explain the truth, but he did not hear my pleas and he left me no choice. I aimed and fired a numbing spell to his heart, killing him.” The princess sighed. “I didn’t tell Spike because I feared he’d want revenge on me and the Diamond Dogs.”

“We understand princess,” the crowd of ponies said in unison.

“You may all leave, this court is adjourned.” Those were the last words the princess said before she walked out of the room. ‘I can only hope he can forgive me for what I’ve done to him and his family.’

Applejack tapped Twilight’s shoulder as they exited, “Twi where’s Starlight?”

“Starlight!?” Twilight called out, but her student was nowhere to be found. “Maybe she went back to the castle.”

Nightmare Moon had teleported herself and Spike near a small river outside of Equestria. Despite the scene she had created, Spike was still crying in disbelief that the ones he considered his family, had banished him like that.

Nightmare looked at the broken dragon and felt her heart sink. The poor thing reminded her of herself when she was banished.

“Listen Spike, I know this is hard for you, but I promise you I’ll always be here for you.” Nightmare encased the small dragon in a midnight blue aura and gently placed him on the ground. The black alicorn wrapped her wing around Spike just like she did when she entered his dreams. “It’s alright my sweet dragon, let it out.” With that, Spike cried his heart out.

“I’ll never abandon you. I will always be by your side in times of need. Even when things are at their worst, I will always be there for you, my little dragon.” Nightmare’s words helped, but Spike’s heart was still shattered. Overtime it would heal, but for now, all she could do now was comfort him.

An hour later, Spike had finally calmed down. His eyes were still red and puffy as he looked at Nightmare. Normally, he would’ve been scared, but now, he saw someone that wanted to comfort him and never abandon him. Nightmare looked at the dragon with sorrowful eyes, ashamed that her sister would throw out her own son.

“Spike?” Nightmare spoke, “Do you know what happened to your real family?”

“Mother- I mean Celestia said that my family abandoned my egg.”

“She lied, Spike,” Nightmare said as she began to tell the true story. “During the last great dragon migration, she ordered a squadron of soldiers to capture dragon eggs and eliminate anything that came across them. They teleported the eggs away from their parents’ nesting site, and brought them to Canterlot for experimentation.”

“I don’t get it Luna, what would Celestia want with dragon eggs? For that matter, what does this have to do with me?” Spike asked.

“One of them... was your egg, Spike,” Nightmare answered stroking the purple drake as he took this in. He would have never guessed that he was a part of such immoral experimentation.

“When the ex Dragon Lord Torch found out about the experiments, and the death of his mate, he ordered an all-out war on Equestria. If it wasn’t for one brave filly who not only befriended a baby dragon, but treated it like it was her own, Equestria would’ve been... burned to ashes.”

“Does this mean I would’ve had siblings?” Spike asked, balling up a fists. His sadness was now replaced with anger from the betrayal by his former family along with this new revelation.

“Yes Spike,” Nightmare answered, completely understanding her student’s rage. “At least five of them.”

Spike suddenly held his stomach, Nightmare knew what was to follow. She unwrapped her wing from the dragon and took a step back as Spike burped out a scroll with the royal dragon seal. Spike opened the note and began to read.

Dear Spike

I hope you’re doing well in that lovey-dovey land of Equestria. As always you are welcome into the land my small friend. I just wanted to let you know that I’ll be visiting Canterlot three days from now to discuss the peace treaties between the dragons and ponies and I wish no order for you to come greet me when we arrive. See you soon Spike.

Sincerely yours, Dragon Lord Ember

Upon finishing, Spike looked up and asked Nightmare for an ink well. Smiling, Nightmare teleported a feather and a ink well to the dragon. Thanking her, Spike sat down and began to write what happened up to this point. Once he was finished, Spike blew the letter into ashes and sent it back to Ember. Suddenly the two of them heard bushes rustling.

“I know you’re there,” Nightmare called out, not bothering to turn around. “Come out at once.” The bushes shook in reply and revealed that their spy was none other than Starlight Glimmer.

Along with Nightmare, Starlight was one of the few ponies Spike didn’t hate. He ran up to hug the unicorn, he saw how she defended him during the trial. With tears in her eyes, Starlight immediately hugged Spike back, glad that he was okay.

The newly crowned dragon ruler, Dragon Lord Ember, sat on her throne, listening to a certain draconequus’ tale. “...And then the little pansy screamed like a filly,” both the dragon empress and Equestrian representative laughed for a good while, until a trail of emerald ashes floated from the hole used as a window. The two took notice just as he ashes swirled around and materialized into a letter.

Discord picked it up and began to read it. “Your majesty, I could’ve sworn you’ve sent this letter,” the confused draconequus said, raising an eyebrow.

“Why yes, but what I don’t get is why he sent it back?” Ember replied as Discord turned the letter over.

Discord’s eyes comically popped out of their sockets as he read about today’s trial. “It says Spike was banished.”

Ember dropped her glass of wine, flabbergasted at what she had just heard. “What is the meaning of this!? Spike is the kindest dragon I’ve ever met, I never would have got the throne without his help! For what crime was he exiled?!”

“The murders of some snobby noble family member, and the attempted murder of Princess Flurry Heart,” Discord answered, but Ember wasn’t satisfied.

“That’s utter nonsense!” she yelled digging her talons into her seat.

“I’m inclined to agree, milady,” Discord said as he finished reading, “It says that he was with Luna the night of the murder.”

“It has to be a setup!” Ember shouted, “Go talk to Celestia, NOW!” She ordered.

“Okay, okay! Sheesh! You don’t have to yell.” With a snap of his fingers, the draconequus disappeared.

The ex dragon ruler, Torch, sat beside his daughter as they tried to piece together why Celestia banished Spike. She could have at least imprisoned him until this whole mess was shorted out. Then it dawned on him, maybe he found out about what happened to his real family.

As Ember handed her father the small pieces of paper, Torch used his magic to enlarge it.

“Region, Diamond, Inferno, I wish I was there with you on the migration when you three and your offspring lost your lives.” The former king had lived for so long, he had even failed to recognize Spike when he was summoned to compete for the Gauntlet of Fire. Torch looked up to the stain glass over his throne depicting three dragons. On the far left was green dragon with matching spikes, to the right a light purple dragoness with green spikes. The one in the middle, was Torch’s now deceased mate, and Ember’s mother, a blue dragoness much like Ember: Inferno.

Torch balled up his fist, wishing the treaty between the Dragon Empire and Equestria didn’t exist. But due to his daughter’s friendship with Spike, Torch would help the purple hatchling have his revenge.

The princess of the sun was in her royal chambers, her once regal glaze had gone as she look into the distant sky. She had lowered the sun a few hours ago, but didn’t see her sister’s moon. “Luna must have it on its dark side again. Another moonless night,” the princess sighed, remembering when her sister used to do this out of fun.

“Is it really true? Did your little dragon really murder somepony?” Celestia turned around and saw Discord materializing from the ground.

“I wish it wasn’t, but the evidence doesn’t lie.”

“Fill me in sunshine,” Discord scowled, “What exactly was the evidence?”

Celestia glared at him because of the insult, but answered nonetheless. “Photographs displayed Spike covered in blood, and Flurry Heart was traumatized when she saw him.”

“No eye witnesses? ” Discord crossed his arms. Celestia nodded in shame. “Celestia, I thought he was your child.”

“He is!” she defended, “He was my son!”

“So why did you banish him? You could have at least put him in prison until more evidence came up.”

The princess sighed. “I wish I could’ve, but like Twilight and her friends, Equestria is indebted to Spike as well. And you of all creatures should know what happens when someone commits an act of treason.”

Discord nodded “Death...” he replied in a monotone. “Nevertheless, I will have you know, Dragon Lord Ember is quite close to your so-called ‘son’ and along with her father Torch, is pretty furious. I do hope you have a good reason why you banished him,” Discord disappeared with a flash of light, leaving the white alicorn alone.

Twilight with her five best friends and Trixie were all at the Castle of Friendship. The six mares shared tears for their now banished friend, remembering the abuse, neglect, and teasing they’ve done to him. Twilight, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and surprisingly Pinkie Pie all sat silently as Princess Luna’s words still ran through her heads.

Fluttershy’s specialty is animal communication, she could understand them, yet she was blinded by her fear that Spike was a predator. She was the element of kindness, yet she ratted him out. She was supposed to listen to Spike on how he was always alone, yet she ignored him and went on about her love for Thunderlane.

Pinkie’s mane flattened, remembering all the times she laugh at Spike and pulled pranks on him. She never considered that he could’ve died with that winter prank she and Dash did. ‘I’ll make it up to you, Spike. I Pinkie Promise!’

Rainbow Dash just sighed while Applejack held her close. Their tears as matted each other’s coats. Normally Dash would be pissed at whoever made her, her friends, and especially her marefriend cry, but she felt guilty for what she did to Spike. In fact, it made her feel worse than a jerk, she felt like a downright bitch. Always making fun of him, laughing at him when he had trouble getting a date to the dance. ‘Some friend I was...’ she thought to herself while holding AJ close.

Rarity and Twilight felt the worst, as they had used Spike for their own selfish needs and never once considered his feelings. He had to stay in while Twilight went out to play with her friends, making him do all of the cooking and cleaning. She rarely talked to him anymore. Hell, she had a date before he did, and what did Twilight do? Rub it in his face, that’s what. She sighed, lowering her head. Trixie patted Twilight seeing how the princess’s ruling devastated her. “Please forgive me, Spike. Wherever you are...” She softly cried onto Trixie’s coat.

Rarity wasn’t faring any differently, as she had used Spike’s crush for her own needs. She also let out a soft sigh and looked out the window, the sun was already setting and she could only wonder what her Spikey-Wikey was doing. ‘I hope you’re safe out there Spike... and I’m sorry.’

Starlight Glimmer had nothing to say to her teacher or the others. From what she had learned from the trial, those six ponies were nothing more than monsters. Starlight dismissed herself as Twilight’s student and left Ponyville. As far as Starlight was concerned, after banishing Spike for something he obviously didn’t commit, Twilight lost the right to teach her or anypony about friendship.

Starlight told the elements she was going to live in the Crystal Empire with Sunburst, which was only partially true.

Three weeks have passed since Spike’s banishment and the dragon had greatly improved as he continued with his training. Right now, Spike was standing by a nearby cliff, staring down a boulder ten times his size. The wind blew wildly as the purple dragon raised his arm. The wind swayed around his hand, creating pressure. With a roar, Spike brought his hand down, sending the pressured air toward the boulder, slicing it to pieces. The small purple dragon was panting after using so much magical energy while a black alicorn stood beside him. He couldn’t help admiring her galactic-styled mane and tail that flowed on a nonexistent wind.

“Very good, Spike,” the mistress of the night spoke, earning a blush in response to her comment. “But you still have a long way to go if you want to stand a chance against my sister.”

“Understood, Nightmare,” Spike said, still having the sharp air current swirling around his claws.

Nightmare giggled and lifted Spike’s chin with her hoof. “You may call me Luna if you like my dear student,” she said smiling warmly.

Spike couldn’t help blushing at her beauty, “Okay Luna... May I ask you something?” Spike asked. “How do you know so much about dragon magic, anyway?”

Nightmare giggled at the question. “Well, my faithful student,” she began and Spike’s blush had deepened from hearing those words. “The dragon lord at the time of your hatching, had sent Celestia two books on how to take care of baby dragons. One was for the basis, while the other was for magic.”

Spike nodded before his stomach growled. He once again blushed and looked down. The alicorn of the night only giggled, “Go on Spike, I don’t mind.”

“B-But...” He was cut off when Nightmare placed her hoof under his chin.

“Spike sweetheart, if you want to get revenge on the Elements of Harmony, you’re going to need your strength. And unlike your ‘former friends’ neither me or Starlight will abandon you.”

Spike nodded and ran into the bushes to hunt for a meal. Feeling a bit hungry herself, Nightmare returned to the campsite and pulled an apple out of the bag. Dark thoughts played in the goddess’ mind as she chewed on the apple. ‘One day, sister… One day you, as well as the bearers of harmony, will learn to never betray a dragon’s heart!’

Not long after Spike left, the bushes rattled beside her. “Come on out,” Nightmare ordered as she turned around. It was none other than Pinkie Pie.

“I assume you’ve come to apologize?”

“Yes. Please tell me where Spike is,” Pinkie pleaded, dropping herself in front of Nightmare’s hooves.

“Right now, he’s out hunting. If you’re really sorry, then show it to the dragon you nearly got killed.”

Nodding, Pinkie sat beside the tent Nightmare created. She sat there and waited.

Ten minutes passed, yet there was still no sign of the dragon. “Does he always take this long?” the pink mare asked.

“Yes, you rotten excuse for a pony!” Nightmare snarled, causing Pinkie to flinch. “If you’re bored, make yourself useful and help Starlight gather some firewood!” she ordered, gesturing to the purple mare. The pink mare nodded and jetted off into the forest.

‘Starlight is here? I thought she was staying with Sunburst.’ Pinkie thought, but shook her head and took off towards the forest.

After another five minutes, the purple dragon returned with his arms and mouth covered in blood. “Sorry I took so long, the animals here can put up a fi...” Spike never got to finish his sentence, as he eyes were met with light blue ones. As Spike clenched his claws, the campfire changed from its warm orange color to an emerald green.

“WHAT THE BUCK ARE YOU DOING HERE, PINKIE?!” Spike growled, causing the pink pony to take a step back.

“I-I came to apologi-” Pinkie never had a chance to finish because Spike fired a green fireball at her, scorching the side of her face. Pinkie put a hoof to her slightly burned cheek.

“BULLSHIT, PINKIE! I WAS JUST SOMETHING FOR YOU WHORES TO PLAY WITH! JUST GET THE BUCK OUT OF HERE! I DON’T WANT TO SEE YOU OR THOSE BUCKING BITCHES EVER AGAIN!!”

Pinkie trembled, but held her ground. “But Spike-”

Spike blew another fireball toward her, this time the flames burned the side of her right foreleg. Spike began to gather energy, and was about to test his new wind spell on the pink traitor when Nightmare appeared, carrying a log for the fire. Starlight stood alongside her, carrying a log of her own.

“With all due respect, Celestia, Cadance, Shining Armor, Twilight, and her friends all learned where you were from Discord, but only Pinkie came to apologize,” Starlight reasoned. “Maybe she means it.”

“She’s right, Spike,” Nightmare agreed, “Let’s here what this mule has to say.”

Spike obeyed Nightmare’s order, and the aura disappeared. “You’re lucky Nightmare and Starlight are here, otherwise there would be nothing left of you,” Spike growled and crossed his arms. “Well, I’m listening,” he said, impatiently.

Pinkie cleared her throat, “Spike, I’m so sorry for everything I’ve done. For making fun of you, pulling all those nasty pranks on you, nearly killing you during Winter Wrap Up, and... for being a lousy friend.”

Spike folded his arms, looking at the party pony unimpressed. “I don’t believe you,” he said flatly.

“Please believe me, Spike!” Pinkie pleaded close to tears.

“Why should I? You just sat there like the others when I was on trial, not saying a single word against those outrageous accusations-” Spike stopped as an idea came to mind.

“Okay, I’ll give you a test. If you pass it, I’ll forgive you and you can help by acting as a spy in that backwater of a town and keep us informed.”

Pinkie wanted to say no, but something told her that it was either comply or be killed right then and there. “Okay,” she replied reluctantly.

“This is the test. I want you to go out there, into the woods, and bring me back a deer. Not alive, dead, with your bare hooves.”

Pinkie raised a brow, confused as to why he wanted a dead deer. She was about to ask why before she remembered that Spike was covered in blood. “I-I-I can’t,” she stuttered.

“You want Spike to forgive you, right?” the black alicorn questioned, sitting by the fire. “Then you must know what it feels like to take a life. For Spike never chose the life he lives, now you must feel the pain along with other carnivores like him feel in order to live.”

Pinkie looked at Starlight who had reluctantly kept silent, but nodded in agreement. She couldn’t change Spike’s mind on this matter, Pinkie would have to earn his trust.

“O-Okay,” Pinkie was unsure, she had never taken a life before. The pink mare ran into the woods. ‘If I k-k-kill this deer then Spike will forgive me. He’ll forgive me, and we can have parties again. Oh, I’ll make sure he’s invited too.’

“Do you think we can trust her?” Spike asked turning to his teacher, “I mean, she did betray me like the others.”

Nightmare acted offended, “Do you not have faith in me Spike?”

“OF COURSE I DO!” Spike covered his mouth before speaking again. “I-I mean, of course I do,” he repeated much calmer than before.

Nightmare dropped the act and giggled. “I’m just joking Spike, I would have understood if you refused. It’s just that something tells me that this mule is... different.” Nightmare then turned her attention to the blood that covered her student’s scales. “Now please be a dear and get yourself cleaned. I hate seeing blood on those beautiful scales of yours,” she said with a playful wink. With a nod and faint blush, the small dragon walked to a nearby pond to clean himself.

‘Perhaps I shouldn’t have said that,’ she thought as she watched him get cleaned. ‘He looks rather cute covered in blood.’ The thoughts soon made Nightmare’s wings shoot up. ‘Oh dear, how naughty of me, thinking of my student like that.’

“Look like somepony likes the idea of being covered in blood.” Starlight giggled and pointed to Nightmare’s wings that were standing.

“I hope he has enough for a massage when he done,” Nightmare said as she laid by the fire; her thoughts remained on her student.

Starlight laid on the opposite side of Nightmare Moon. “So do you really think Pinkie will go through with the task?” she asked.

“That remains I be seen,” the alicorn replied.

“That reminds me, Sunburst and I discovered something about Flurry Heart.”

This caught Nightmare’s attention. “Do tell,” she urged.

“Apparently, she’s been found to have latent magic influencing her memories, suggesting she was brainwashed by somepony who desperately wanted to frame Spike. Sadly, nopony believed this when Sunburst came with the conclusion. We do have our suspicion as to who would do it, too, but we’re not rolling her out yet.”

“Anything else?”

“Well, along with many other civilians of the Crystal Empire, Thorax caught wind of Spike’s banishment. And, well, let’s just say he’s not a happy changeling. Ever since the Crystal Empire learned of their hero’s banishment, they’ve been questioning their loyalty to the royal family.”

“This could definitely come to our advantage,” Nightmare said looking at the sky.

“I agree. I’ll be sure to keep you up to date while I’m living in the Crystal Empire,” Starlight assured as she bowed her head.

A baby deer was out drinking water from a small stream. It was a beautiful fawn, minding its own business as it drank. Unbeknownst to it, Pinkie Pie laid on top of an overhanging tree branch. How she got up there, only she and Discord knew. She made sure to be very quiet, as deer have a remarkable sense of hearing.

Pinkie’s eyes gazed at the deer, her soul screamed at her not to kill it. Of course, Pinkie knew the deer hadn’t done anything wrong, but she had to make up for the pain she had caused Spike. ‘Okay Pinkie, you can do this. It’s just one deer.’

Unfortunately, as Pinkie scooted closer, the branch broke, sending her crashing to the ground. The fawn’s ears perked up from the crash and went to hide among some nearby bushes. After a few minutes of waiting, Pinkie stood and brushed off the leaves and twigs that stuck to her mane and tail. Once the deer saw she was a pony, it came out from it hiding spot, its legs shaking in fear.

‘I can’t hurt the poor thing.’ she involuntarily took a step back. ‘I-I can’t.’

‘What about Spike? What about all the pain you cause him? Do you want to make up for betraying him?’ the other half of Pinkie’s mind shouted.

‘But it’s innocent! Why kill something that didn’t do anything to you?’

‘Because that’s the rule of nature, everything has to die, that’s what Fluttershy said. That’s what you were taught. That’s how Spike feels. He only kills so he can live.’

‘But it’s wrong.’ At this point, the deer felt less threatened and came closer to Pinkie.

‘Oh, if it’s so wrong then why are we alive then? Why are you even here?’

‘To ask for forgiveness.’ A tear leaked down from Pinkie’s eye to her cheek. The deer noticed and sweetly leaned closer to comfort her.

‘For what? Killing someone? As a carnivore, Spike has to wake up and kill something or he’ll starve to death. As the prey, the deer knows that it has to wake up and run faster than its predators or it’ll be killed. It’s the natural order.’

‘B-But...’

‘But what? It’s not the beautiful fairytale that we like to believe, it’s the truth. Spike is the predator and the deer is his prey.’ The voice in Pinkie’s head grew louder, ‘LUNA AND ZECORA TRAINED SPIKE SO HE WOULDN’T BECOME A MURDEROUS RAMPAGING DRAGON! YET WE ALL FAILED TO UNDERSTAND THAT HE DIDN’T HAVE A CHOICE! THIS ISN’T EQUESTRIA DAMNIT! HELL YOU’VE BEEN TO GRIFFONSTONE, YOU HAVE MET A GRIFFON AND YOU DAMN WELL KNOW WHAT THEY EAT. SO WHY IN CELESTIA’S NAME WOULD SPIKE BE DIFFERENT!?’

‘Y-You’re right,’ Pinkie sniffed. With her mind made up, she wrapped her hooves around the baby deer’s neck. It surely would have panicked if it knew her true intentions. Surely Spike would end her life if she come back with nothing. ‘I need to make things up for Spike. He deserves good friends since he’s helped us so many times. But when he needed us, we turned away from him. I won’t let him down again!’

Pinkie’s tears ran across her cheeks, as she finally understood what Spike was feeling. The horrible feeling of being forced to kill in order to survive. She gently kissed the deer’s head, causing it to blink confused. “Please forgive me,” she whimpered before twisting the fawn’s neck, thus ending its life.

“I understand now, Spike,” she said as she picked the dead deer and flung it on her back. She then began her walk back to camp.

Back at camp, Nightmare was moaning in both pleasure and relaxation. Her back legs were stretched before bucking from the soft touch of Spike’s claws going up and down her back. The massage had started with him tending to her wings, softly rubbing them from their stiffness, then moved towards her back. Starlight was waiting for her turn, seeing Nightmare was enjoying herself, and she highly doubted Spike would refuse.

Nightmare turned her head and was about to ask if he could do her hooves when Pinkie returned with both her mane and tail back to it puffiness. Spike raised a brow, while both Nightmare and Starlight groaned, being denied a wonderful massage.

“I understand now, Spike! I understand!” she sang while hopping around the three with the baby deer on her back. “Now if you don’t have anything else for me, I’ve got some spying to do!” Pinkie said, dropping the deer by the fire and disappearing behind a tent.

“I doubt I’ll ever understand that mare,” Spike said, scratching his head.

“Neither will I,” Starlight replied.

Nightmare giggled as she could relate to their confusion. “Well, I’ll never understand Discord. Anyway, my dear, please come back here and massage my hooves,” Nightmare said awaiting her student’s gentle touch.

By this point, Spike didn’t care if the others found him. They had their chance to make up for their mistakes and they threw it away. He turned his attention back to Nightmare’s hooves, filling the rest of the night with moans as Starlight laid down next to them, patiently waiting for her turn.

Spike was now fast asleep under Nightmare’s wing, preparing to call it a night.

“Rest, my dear student. Tomorrow, your training will intensify.”

Nightmare’s ears flickered as she picked up to sound of flapping. Looking up, she saw a bat pony mare dressed in midnight blue armor descending. This was one of Nightmare Moon’s most talented soldiers, Lieutenant Midnight Blossom. “Hello your majesty,” she greeted softly, careful not to wake Spike.

“So only you were able to make it. What is the status of the other Lunar Guards back in Canterlot?”

“Most of the Lunar Guard have been ether relieved of their servers, or arrested by order of Prince Shining Armor for conspiracy. Currently, we have about thirty members of the Lunar Guard on Canterlot grounds,” Midnight replied.

The dark alicorn rubbed her chin. “Are they still loyal?”

“Yes milady and waiting your orders.”

“At the moment, all I can say to you all is to keep me informed as to what’s going on there. As much as I approve of your strength, I can’t risk you attempting to free our imprisoned guards. Also, I have a special task for you, Blossom.” She lifted her wing, revealing her student. “I want you to train Spike here in hoof to hoof... well, claw combat.”

The bat pony stared at the small sleeping dragon. Of course she knew about Spike and his outrageous banishment. While she didn’t know him personally, the things his so-called friends put him through was more than enough of a reason to accept. “Consider it done, your highness.”

It was the next morning that I first met former member of the Lunar Guard Midnight. She had a tough girl behavior like Rain-Bitch, but I warmed up to her, as she never ridiculed me. She even gave me some hunting tips to catch my prey.

Anyway, as Luna said last night, my upcoming training would grow more difficult, but I pushed through it. I would never forgive the ones who tossed me aside, nor the fat bitch who slaughtered my kin.

Alongside Pinkie, Starlight, and Midnight, I resumed my training with Luna and pushed my body far beyond its limits. And to me, even that wasn’t enough.

I told you in the beginning how my name used to be Spike. Wanting to start my life over, I refused to keep the name my hypocrite of a sister gave me. It only served as a painful reminder of the fool I was made out of. So I fashioned a new name that ponies would remember when I returned. A name that will someday make even the mightiest enemies shiver. A name for the one Equestria believes is dead, but will come back alive.

Spike is dead. He died when his ‘family’ abandoned him. From now on, my name is... PHANTOM!!!

Nightmare Moon smiled. “My dear drake, you’ve done well,” she commended, circling around her student and observing his progress. He was now a teenage dragon with a muscular build received through the alicorn’s intense training. He had mastered the four elements of earth, wind, water, and fire, as well as several mystic arts, such as teleportation, chants, and minor matter manipulation. Though he still wasn’t as powerful as Celestia, with his training, he could definitely hold his own against Twilight.

“How many do you want dead?”

Phantom thought back to all those who had used him, ridiculed him, and then banished him. His veins popped out in absolute rage and a green aura of magic radiated off his scales. “Ponies I want dead? Dozens of them, including those six bitches, the love whore, her dick of a husband, and that sun bitch! I want them all dead!”

As Phantom had proposed, upon forgiving Pinkie, he entrusted her with the duty of returning to Ponyville to spy on his former friends. Twilight and the others never questioned Pinkie’s disappearances, thinking it was an act of her just being Pinkie Pie.

In all her service in the Lunar Guard, the only one who could match Midnight Blossom in physical combat was Shining Armor. Over the years, she helped Phantom with his physical training as Nightmare Moon had requested.

What’s more is that specific individuals would join the dragon.

A black dragon named Obsidian acted as an advisor for the Equestrian Dragon Empire. A few months after Phantom’s banishment, Obsidian was elected to assist the drake in his revenge which Dragon Lord Ember happily accepted.

As an emissary for Dragon Lord Ember, Obsidian served as a great asset to Phantom’s team. With Obsidian’s knowledge of the Dragon Empire’s connections to other nations, Phantom became quite influential in foreign business. With Obsidian’s help, Phantom was soon able to begin making secret deals and acquire some forbidden spell books and other items for his training without Celestia or Twilight’s notice.

Over the years, Starlight had been secretly exploiting the Crystal Empire’s dedication to their hero to recruit soldiers. Sunburst knew the system of the Crystal Empire very well due to his positions and helped convince guards to side with Phantom. By this point, about fifty-six percent of the Crystal Guard were secretly working for Nightmare Moon.

Thorax and Sunburst would secretly leave the Crystal Empire to visit and help with Phantom’s training. Sunburst could slip away quite easily, as Shining and Cadance would never suspect the crystaller. He was able to teleport away when his duties were over to train with Starlight without causing any attention.

Thorax, however, wasn’t as fortunate, due to his friendship with Phantom. Shining had ordered guards to keep an annoyingly close watch on the changeling. Unbeknownst to the prince, however, these guards had secretly abandoned their loyalty after Phantom’s banishment and, as such, allowed the changeling to sneak away to train. Neither Shining nor Cadance were able to notice anything.

Many other civilians however, didn’t keep quiet at Phantom’s banishment. Riots have been breaking out in a few areas in the empire. A few of the crystal ponies sided with Shining and Cadance and believed that they would only serve as fuel to the dragon’s hunger. Others believed that Phantom would never do such a thing. Even if he ate meat, he would never hurt anypony, let alone Flurry Heart. They all believed it was a lie and subsided from the empire all together.

Princess Cadance tried to tell them that she was only doing what was best for her ponies. However, they didn’t listen; they believed that something else was at work. Shining, on the other hoof, let go of nearly one third of his offices that were protecting the kingdom, and served as the crystal army.

For a while, Zecora remained in her hut and only came out to gather some plants. When she heard the news of Phantom’s unfair banishment, she didn’t believe it until Pinkie told her that he was framed. Furious, she told the ponies to stay away from her hut, and never ask for medicine again. Not too long afterwards, she had secretly received an invitation into the group from Pinkie. Not that it drew any attention, as the elements broke off contact with Zecora when she stopped providing medicine.

Phantom knew Zecora trained Twilight during Trixie’s takeover of Ponyville. Her knowledge on potions and medicines would serve as a great asset to their future regime.

To all who would look at Equestria, it would seem like a gentle and peaceful place, but this was sadly mistaken. Ever since the baby dragon’s banishment, the treaties Equestria had with both the dragons and the griffons had been at risk.

The Dragon Empire was so close to declaring war with the ponies, only stopped by what Phantom told them. Griffonstone, however, wanted nothing to do with Equestria since their willingness to banish any predator that ponies may think will hurt them. As a result, the soon to be queen Gilda, and Cutie Mark Crusader member Gabby’s friendship with the ponies has become strained.

Each day, civil war in the Crystal Empire grew worse until the two remaining princesses decided to step in and cease the fighting. Though some managed to escape, Celestia placed many who were loyal to their Phantom into prison.

Ponyville however, was faring much better than the Crystal Empire. Once news got out that Spike was banished, the ponies cheered, thanking Celestia that the ‘ticking time bomb of a monster’ was gone. There were only three colts who weren’t happy: Pipsqueak, Snips and Snails.

Snips and Snails missed their friend, who was the only one that often talked to them, while Pip missed Princess Luna, who he admired with all his heart. Pinkie was the only one to tell the three were Spike and Luna were, and invited them to join their little spying game. Without anyone noticing, the colts would occasionally visit Spike and undergo his training with Nightmare Moon for the following years.

With Thorax sometimes assisting her, Pinkie was given the responsibility to train the three colts in stealth so they could gather intel without being noticed. Pip excelled at his training, however Snips and Snails initially had a difficult time. However, after several months of intense training, all three colts evolved into experienced spies, taking their jobs very seriously.

Sunburst, Thorax and Zecora on the other hoof received magical training with Though Sunburst was brilliant at explaining spells, he wasn’t able to perform them very well. After a few years training with Starlight that quickly changed.

After completing their training, Pinkie along with Snips, Pip, and Snails were assigned to stay and live in Ponyville and report anything to Phantom.

Starlight, Thorax, and Sunburst were assigned to the Crystal Empire, but most importantly protected, and watch over Flurry Heart as well as to inform either Phantom or Nightmare Moon about changes within the empire.

Midnight was assigned to return to Canterlot and keep Nightmare informed about the status of the Lunar Guard. Right now, it was still too early to free the soldiers that have been imprisoned by Shining Armor.

In due time, another six individuals would pledge themselves to Phantom. Pinkie, Starlight, Midnight, and Obsidian each had three subordinates working alongside them. Adding up to the number of 12, Phantom would later name these subordinates the Zodiacs, and he and Nightmare Moon acted as the supreme leaders.

One afternoon, while writing a full on report to Twilight about the recent events, a letter appeared from out of nowhere. Celestia opened the letter.

Dear Princess Celestia

I’m not going to tell you too much, but I just wanted to say, I know the truth about what happened during the dragon migration. In other words, you heartless bitch, I know that you and your pissant ponies killed the dragons and abducted and their eggs for your experiments!

I’ll have you know that the only reason the Dragon Lord hasn’t ripped your wings off is because I want to do it myself. That’s right, fatso, I’m coming for you. Hell, I might as well tell you what I’m going to do. I’ve grown far more powerful than King Sombra, and I plan to do what he failed to do. I’m going to kill Princess Mi Amore Cadenza and Prince Shining Armor. Then, one by one, take the lives each element bearer. After that, I’ll finally turn my attention to you. Hope to see you soon.

Sincerely, your soon to be killer, Phantom

Celestia was shocked after reading this. First, Discord stopped speaking to her, then the griffons and dragons threatened to end their treaties, now this ‘pony’ knows the truth. Normally, Celestia would just throw it away, deeming it some empty threat, but something about this ‘Phantom’ seemed so familiar. Celestia didn’t want to take the chance of the letter being a bluff. Desperate, she called on her guards and stationed a number of them at the Crystal Empire, and the rest to protect the elements at all cost.

The Crystal Empire was on high alert. Celestia had passed the warning to her niece and Shining Armor that a pony calling himself Phantom was targeting them. What they did not realize, was that their enemies have been planning this for quite some time.

“Are you sure this pony going to come here first?” the princess of love asked as her growing daughter, Flurry Heart, stood beside her. It’s been nearly eight years since Flurry Heart was born, and with the coming of yet another member to the family, she, Cadance, Shining, and Twilight were ecstatic about the news, but now it worried them, since this mysterious individual is coming to kill them all.

Honestly, Flurry didn’t like her parents very much since Sunburst, Thorax, and several of the Crystal Guard have secretly told her about what happened seven years ago. Of course, that means Flurry also learned she was brainwashed into hating Spike, who would often play with her. Even though she was too young to fully remember, she was often told how she enjoyed the dragon’s company as much as she enjoyed that of her aunt, foalsitter, Thorax, and Starlight.

“Yes, princess,” one of the guards said in his stoic tone. “I suggest we move you and your daughter away from the castle.”

“No!” she argued. “I’m not leaving without my husband.”

“With all due respect, your highness, the safety of you and your foals come first. Especially your baby.”

“It’s okay, honey,” Shining Armor assured, placing his hoof on his wife’s shoulder. “I’ll be fine. I want you to take Flurry and get out of here.”

Later that night, the three guards were standing around the crystal heart, while the others stood outside the royal bedroom of Shining Armor and Cadance. Shining had created a barrier around the whole empire, hoping it would prevent this ‘Phantom’ from fulfilling his threat. The guards reasoned that Phantom was planning on killing them and destroying the Crystal Heart. Shining didn’t take the news lightly, he already saw what happened when the crystal broke during Flurry Heart’s birth, and he wasn’t going to let such a thing happen again.

The clock had just struck midnight, and Shining Armor was standing on the balcony of the castle when he noticed something was wrong. A thick fog was quickly covering the whole empire from within, making it hard to see anything.

“KEEP YOURS EYES OPEN, SOLDERS!” Shining barked before a scream echoed throughout the streets.

“What’s happening?!” Shining barked once again, but there was no response. “SOMEPONY ANSWER!”

“Hello... ex-brother,” a young, yet deep voice rang from the fog.

“S-Spike... is that you?”

The dragon smirked as two soldiers stepped out from behind him, neither had a single scratch. In fact, they were... smiling! Another guard, however, was in the dragon’s claw. His body motionless, with blood dripping down to the floor.

“Correction,” the drake replied, throwing the guard aside. “The Spike you know died long ago. My name is Phantom,” the dragon said as the two guards bowed.

The realization hit Shining Armor like a ton of bricks. This Phantom, who sent Celestia the letter... was Spike! And what’s more is that his own guards were helping him!

“N-no way…” he muttered, “You’ve been on his side all this time?” A buzzing echoed through the thick fog as an all too familiar individual descended to join Phantom’s side, Thorax.

“To be honest, more than half of the Crystal Guard have been on his side for the last few years. Needless to say, going undercover was like second nature the guards of your empire. As well as my experiences with the hive,” the changeling explained.

Infuriated by this betrayal, Shining fired a blast of magic from his horn, but only hit the ground, as the fog covered up the four individuals. “Where are you, Spike? And how did you get past my shield... nopony has ever broken through my shield before!”

“First of all, if you’ve forgotten, which I’m sure a dumbass like yourself has, I’m not a pony. Second, it was thanks to Nightmare’s magic and Sunburst’s knowledge that we made it through, undetected,” Phantom’s voice echoed while a light passed by Shining’s cheek, drawing blood.

“And third…” The white stallion’s eyes widened as he looked down at the crystal shard that was embedded in the marble floor behind him. He then turned his head to see the purple and green winged, scaled dragon next to him. His right arm pulled back. “My name is no longer SPIKE!!” That was the last thing Shining heard before he felt a heavy fist punching him right in the cheek, sending him flying through crystal walls, skidding on the floor in the castle’s throne room, coughing up blood and spitting out broken teeth.

As Shining struggled to get up after the surprise attack, Phantom walked into the room. Shining’s vision was blurry, but what he saw wasn’t the baby dragon he knew. Phantom was almost as tall as Celestia, and had such beautiful wings. He lost all his baby fat and was somewhat lean, yet muscular. His scales shined as the moonlight hit him.

Shining shot out another bolt of lightning at Phantom, who swatted it aside before reaching out and grabbing Shining’s horn. Phantom growled before he flung his arm around Shining Armor, and tossed him out of the castle. Shining crashed through the marble, railing and skidding right next to the pillar where the Crystal Heart sat. Phantom flew down and slowly approached him.

Phantom noticed Shining turn his glance to the Crystal Heart behind him. “Rest assured, I’m not going to break the Crystal Heart. So many of the ponies here still love me. And, it that crystal makes it so much easier to handle the weather.”

Shining noticed that the thick fog was clearing. As the drake drew closer, Shining’s horn glowed, creating another barrier, but Phantom released a blast of magic, shattering the barrier. “Don’t even think of apologizing... you had seven fucking years to do that.”

“W-why, Spike? I thought we were brothers... family...” Shining Armor said, looking into Phantom’s eyes, who only saw hatred towards him.

“Enough with the family bullshit! And don’t call me Spike, I threw away that name long ago! My name is Phantom, I’m pretty sure we’ve established that! And how dare you call yourself my family?! What kind of family throws a baby into the forest, left to be eaten by timberwolves!? What of family neglects, teases, and lies about what truly happened!? WHAT KIND OF FAMILY WOULD BANISH A BABY DRAGON WHO DID NO WRONG?!” he shouted.

Phantom was about to scorch the stallion when an idea came to his head. He reached and grabbed Shining’s horn before the stallion could even blink, and he snapped it. The painful scream of the stallion filled the air, waking nearly everypony in the empire, drawing their eyes to the Crystal Heart, but nopony was there.

Cadance was sweating, being woken up by the sounds of explosions. She sat up and looked around. “W-What’s going on? Why am I here?” She then turned her head to the door. Her face became pale as she noticed the black alicorn standing there. Her glazed demonic eyes frightened her, but what was more shocking was the mare standing next to her. Nightmare began to walk, each hoofstep from her dark blue horseshoes echoed throughout the room. While Pinkie hopped over to her. Cadance tried to move, but she was frozen by fear.

“Why Cadance... it’s been awhile.” Nightmare’s tone was that of a loving relative, and that of a malicious ruler. “I see your daughter has grown quite a bit since I last saw her.” She turned toward the Flurry with a smile. Flurry couldn’t explain it, but for some reason, she didn’t feel as intimidated by the black alicorn’s presence as her mother did.

“H-H-How did you...? A-A-And why are you here, Pinkie?” The princess was cut off by Nightmare raising a hoof.

Suddenly, the door opened and Cadance felt relieved to see Sunburst walk in, accompanied by Starlight.

“Sunburst, thank goodness you’re here! I need you and Starlight to take Flurry and get out of here!” To Cadance’s confusion, however, neither Sunburst nor Starlight budged. They just stared at the pink alicorn with blank expressions.

“What are you two doing!? This is a direct order!”

“Sorry princess, but I don’t take orders from you anymore,” Sunburst sighed as he pushed his glasses up. “For the past couple of years, I’ve been training with Starlight. Like her, my allegiance lies with Nightmare Moon and Phantom.”

“Phantom? You mean the one who threatened to kill us?” asked the pink alicorn to which Sunburst slowly nodded.

“W-Why?” asked the terrified princess.

“That’s not important,” Starlight said, placing her hoof on Sunburst’s shoulder. “What is important is the nightmare you just had.”

On cue, the floor erupted as green flames shot from the ground and Phantom appeared, holding Shining Armor by his mane. His pristine white coat was now stained with blood and burn marks, and his horn was missing.

“SHINING!” Cadance screamed in horror, seeing the state her husband was in. Once the flames died down, Phantom threw Shining to the side, right into the wall.

As Cadance got a good look at her husband’s attacker, she instantly recognized him. “S-Spike?!”

“Sorry princess, but you and the rest of the ponies murdered my first friend years ago.” Cadance saw Thorax appear from the newly formed crater.

Cadance thought for a moment, and then it hit her. They knew an individual named Phantom has threatened to attack the Crystal Empire, and if Spike was the one who put Shining in this condition, that means...

“Ph-Phantom…” the princess of love said ominously, receiving a nod from the dragon in response.

“That’s right, Cadance,” he spoke, walking up to the pregnant mare and her daughter. “I’m Phantom.” He then locked his green eyes with Flurry, and with a soft smile, he walked over to the two.

“Oh Flurry,” Phantom said with a loving look. “The last time I saw you, you were just a baby,” he said gently stroking the alicorn filly’s cheek.

“Don’t touch her!” Shining snarled, but Phantom ignored him.

“I’m sure you don’t remember me, you couldn’t even speak when I came to visit and play with you. Despite the grudge I hold against your parents, I could never come to hate you, Flurry.”

Flurry Heart didn’t know what to say, but she felt a soothing feeling from Phantom’s charming words. ‘What is this comforting feeling?’ she thought. “Cousin Spike?” Flurry asked, still mesmerized by the dragon.

Phantom didn’t lose his temper from hearing his old name. No, he couldn’t when Flurry called him that. She would catch on eventually. “I used to be. Seven years ago, you were brainwashed into fearing and hating me so the snobbish geezers in the court would have a reason to punish me for a crime I didn’t commit.”

“I know,” Flurry responded turning to Starlight and Sunburst. “Mr. Sunburst, Mr. Thorax, and Ms. Starlight all told me a year ago.”

“Sunburst! What are they talking about?!” Shining demanded, struggling to stand up after the beating Phantom gave him.

“Well, as I explained the same week Phantom was banished, it is VERY easy to brainwash infants. Unfortunately, most of Canterlot refused to listen to me. Even the two of you.”

Nightmare spoke up next. “Tell me... what does it feel like to lose everything?” Nightmare asked as her horn began to glow and a dark purple aura encased the pregnant alicorn, levitating her from the bed.

“Oh! Oh! I know! I know! Pick me! Pick me!” Pinkie hopped around like an excited school filly.

Nightmare rolled her eyes. “Yes Pinkie?”

“It feels like you failed at everything you did to please the ponies you care for. But you’ll never understand the pain you, your husband, and those five I used to call my best friends put Phantom through when you all deemed him too dangerous to live among us. Nightmare and Zecora were training him so that he wouldn’t get out of control. But no... you no good snobby ponies wouldn’t have that, because it wasn’t Phantom’s choice to take a life in order to live. It was only after I was forced to kill something in order to live that I learned what Phantom felt. Something your deadbeat-of-a-husband should know.” Pinkie pointed a hoof toward a now beaten Shining Armor. “After all, he is the captain of Celestia’s army.”

“Thank you Pinkie,” Nightmare said with a smile, then turned back to Cadance. “Now then, this is your part, Phantom... Would you please show them what it’s like to lose something dear to them?”

The dragon slowly walked over to the five month pregnant Cadance. “Move and you die where you stand,” Phantom warned causing the pink mare to shiver. Once he was near, he looked over at Flurry with sadness in his eyes. “Flurry what I’m about to do isn’t for little foals like you to see.”

Flurry nodded sadly, understanding what the dragon was planning to do.

Sunburst and Starlight walked up and gently led the pink filly out the door. Sunburst smiled and closed the door. Phantom was going to make sure Flurry wasn’t alone in the world, he wanted her to have a someone to look up to.

When the door shut, Cadance readied her horn to blast her imminent assassin. Unfortunately, Phantom, thanks to Nightmare Moon’s teachings, sensed the magical energy and swiftly released an air current strong enough to cut Cadance’s horn clean off.

“Alright since that’s out of the way...” He delivered a soft tap to Cadance’s stomach resulting in the baby kicking. “Kiddy punch.”

“W-What?” asked the now very confused princess.

A wave of silence washed though the room. Cadance just stared at Phantom, wounding what this murderous dragon would do next. The answer shocked both Cadance and Shining. Phantom delivered a hard punch to the princess’s gut, and to her unborn foal. Cadance coughed up blood, and Shining looked on in horror at what Phantom had done. Cadance’s eyes widened as she gasped from the punch and felt something wet running down her legs.

“WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO OUR BABY?!!” Shining and Cadance shouted in unison. The prince roared and charged at the dragon. Phantom stepped to the side and kicked Shining in the side, causing the stallion to fly back a few feet, landing on the crystal floor beside his wife’s dresser. Before he could react, Phantom grab Cadance’s severed horn and flung it toward the stallion’s arm. If Shining had his horn, he would’ve projected a shield, blocking the incoming attack, but without magic, the horn was implanted into his foreleg, causing the stallion to yell in pain.

Phantom had killed their foal, his face calm and collected before letting out a sigh. “Sorry, Cadance, but I have to send a message. Fortunately, it seems you’ve already generously donated a carrier,” he said, causing Cadance to cringe.

“What are you-” her words instantly cut off as a scream resonated throughout the Crystal Empire. Phantom was tearing his claws into Cadance's underbelly. Her swollen stomach instantly flattening as her carriage was sectioned out of her.

“WHAT THE BUCK!?" Shining roared, he instinctively attempted to cast a spell but only received unimaginable pain as he was reminded that his horn had been cut off.

“Quiet Shining, my message is clear! You’ll all suffer the same way I have, the same way my family did.” He slowly sank into a hysteric diatribe. “I’ll make all of you suffer. For your betrayals, your lies, your mockery! ALL OF IT!!” Phantom aimed his head towards the still lump of flesh, Shining’s eyes widened with understanding.

“Don’t-!” he shouted, but it fell on deaf ears. Phantom released a plume of flame. Unlike his regular green mist used for transportation, this flame was created solely for the purpose of incinerating.

“Dark, just like my heart,” Phantom spoke.

“No my dear, your heart is clean and pure, marred by these sycophants and ‘great ponies’. Never forget that,” Nightmare said, her face indifferent to the scene unfolding before her.

“She’s right, Phantom,” Thorax agreed. “We’ll always be with you.”

Pinkie just nodded rapidly.

“Thanks, you guys. Now where was I?” Phantom thought. “Oh yeah, sending my message.” Picking up a nearby piece of parchment, Phantom began to scrawl something out before rolling it up and laying next to the bloody mess he had caused. “Shining, did you know that when I send a message, the immediate area around it burns with it? I discovered that a little over 3 months into my banishment. Now I can send a whole newborn foal with the message, isn’t that convenient?” He was met with grunts of hate. “Well, I’d better send this, you know how Twilight gets when her mail is late. I wonder how she’ll react,” he said, knowing what impact the statement would have on Shining and Cadance’s already crumbling stability.

Neither Cadance nor Shining Armor did anything to stop him. They were mentally shattered at their foal’s death. His form was so tiny... so lifeless, dead before even sucking its first breath.

“Since you’re so preoccupied, how about I send this message and leave with only a few parting words?” Shining and Cadance didn’t respond. Phantom released a plume of smoke with the intention of transporting the foal and scroll to a certain alicorn’s castle.

“I leave you with two options,” Phantom said, approaching a stunned and paralyzed Cadance. He reached down and ripped off both her wings. Cadance released a loud scream, which was quickly snuffed out by a claw to the muzzle.

“I’ll turn around, and for exactly 30 seconds, I won’t move or even look back. You can ‘try’ to escape, and live with whatever you can salvage of your former life for the rest of your days. I know you can feel it, Cadance; we both know you can no longer have another foal, no matter what you do. Your other option is to jump out that window: the impact will kill you instantly, and if you do, try to think of how all this could have been avoided on the fall down.”

“Your choice,” Phantom finished before turning around.

Allowing the situation to set in, Cadance and Shining took a moment to think. They were powerless to stop Phantom, and even if they could, no doubt the others would interfere. Their only daughter walked out on them, and maybe even hated them for what they did. Even if they were able to leave the empire, the two could never have another foal, thanks to Phantom’s actions. They arrived at the same unspoken conclusion.

After 30 seconds passed, Phantom heard a large crash echo behind him. Turning around, he saw that the crystal princess and the captain of the royal guard had disappeared from the room.

“Quite the obvious decision.”

Chapter Eight

Phantom turned around to gaze at his work. Shining and Cadance were gone, leaving ther only daughter alone. Well, she would be alone, if it wasn’t for Phantom and his group of friends, who intend on keeping her safe.

Starlight and Sunburst returned to the bedroom. “You know, even though she understands your pain, there may come a time when she’ll come to hate you,” Sunburst warned.

“I’m well aware of that... and I’ll be prepared for if that day should come,” Phantom sighed. “When she feels remorse over the loss of her brother, and when she wants to take her anger out on me, let her. If she want to kill me in the worst, most painful way, let her. I know what I did, and even though it had to be done, I feel terrible about taking her family away.” The dragon then chuckled, realizing the irony of his actions. “I’m becoming more like her, aren’t I?”

Nightmare couldn’t help take time to admire how much her student has changed. He has become both a leader of, and a killer of, ponies. Occasionally, Phantom would show the same cheerful attitude that he had in his youth, but he's also grown to develop a charismatic and suave side, which he has shown towards Flurry. However, this question considered her. Even though she was still being imprisoned in the moon during the incident with the dragons, she undoubtedly felt his pain.

“No, you haven’t,” the goddess answered as she trotted up to Phantom’s side, giving him a nuzzle. “I have taught you well.”

Indeed, that was true; because of Nightmare’s teachings, Phantom has a practical intelligence, making him a brilliant strategist. He doesn’t hesitate to show his burning desire to get revenge on the ones who mistreated him, as well as avenge his birth family. As such, in battle, Phantom displayed a temper that could mentally destroy others. In addition to his fun-loving and charming side, her student has truly grown to have one of the strongest personalities ever.

“Yeah, when they were all like broken and you left them options, and then they committed suicide by leaping out of the window. And-and-and...” Pinkie kept rambling before her muzzle was covered by Nightmare’s mane.

“I agree with you, Pinkie, especially when though I feel sad about Flurry Heart since we took away her brother.” Starlight looked down, then closed her eyes in the moment of silence for the lost of life. It only lasted five seconds.

“All of this was possible because I have the best teacher in the world.” Phantom’s words caused Nightmare’s cheeks to heat up. “And great friends as well,” he added smiling. “And don’t worry, Starlight, I’m sure you and Sunburst will be great guardians to Flurry Heart.”

“W-Why thank you, Phantom, but we really should leave before the guards come.” Nightmare said, knowing full well how effective the castle guards could be.

The drake nodded, taking one more appreciative view of the piece before them; the lack of the occupants, the blackened floor, the window’s glass shards littering the floor, meager in amount, given the view outside, and the occupants outside, who’re now painting the ground a new color. Phantom smiled, imagining the horror and lies that will erupt, making the situation all the more scandalous.

It was safe for Starlight and Sunburst to remain in the Crystal Empire as none of the surviving enemy guards know of their allegiance toward Nightmare. They would be able to look after Flurry Heart in peace.

With a smile and reminiscent eyes, they disappeared in a bright purple flash erupting from Nightmare’s horn.

Princess Twilight, like always, was reading a book titled “How to raise a baby dragon.” She told Trixie that their lives were in danger, and this Phantom character was on his way to Ponyville to kill them and the rest of their friends. Trixie didn’t want to believe it at first, that this pony, for whatever reason, wanted to kill her and Twilight. That was until a cloud of green dust entered through the window, condensing into a piece of paper and an oddly shaped lump of charcoal. Twilight picked up the scroll and, with trepidation, unwrapped it, beginning to read whatever news was contained within it.

Dear Princess Twilight

Attached to this note lies the charred body of your brother, Prince Shining Armor, and his wife, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza’s, unborn foal.

Upon reading that sentence Twilight look down in horror. “T-T-That was... This is...” She trembled, then soon enough, the lavender alicorn screamed her lungs out, before pouring out the contents in her stomach.

You’ll find out who I am soon enough. For, very soon, all of Equestria will know it as well. Anyway, as you’re now aware, I’m coming for you. All of you, starting with the mare who's most afraid of dragons. By the way, if news gets out that it was I that killed your brother and Cadance, that’s one of the many lies that Celestia has spread. And don’t worry, your beloved niece, Princess Flurry Heart, is still alive, You have my word that I will never hurt her. In fact, she’s still living in the Crystal Empire, under the care of your former student, Starlight Glimmer, and Sunburst.

Sincerely yours, Phantom.

PS: Don’t try to run, cause I will find you. I have eyes and ears EVERYWHERE.

After reading Phantom’s letter, the two mares were left in a state that if one were to describe it as shocked, it would be an understatement. Twilight didn’t even know who this Phantom character was, so why would he do such vile things?

“What do we do now?” The show mare asked, now shivering in fear.

“Run. If this Phantom pony is coming for us, then I want you to be safe.”

“No... I may have lost her friendship with Starlight, and stuff, but I will not leave my beloved mare behind to this beast! I’ll stay by your side, no matter what!” The show mare stomped her hoof on the wooden surface. Twilight didn’t say anything, but she did hug her marefriend.

“I’ll do whatever I can to protect you and the others,” Trixie assured.

Dragon Lord Ember was currently busy discussing business progress with Obsidian.

“To be honest, Dragon Lord Ember, business is going so well that it practically runs itself. Still, I can’t exactly take the risk of taking a vacation,” Obsidian said, causing the queen to giggle. “You’d be surprised how much Phantom has improved in these past seven years.”

Ember only nodded. “Not surprising for someone from ‘that’ clan.”

Beside Obsidian stood a green crystal pony, dressed in an elegant black robe. This stallion was none other than one of the Zodiacs, serving under Nightmare Moon: Emerald Wind.

Emerald Wind was an influential spokespony, who was heavily involved in the Crystal Empire riots. It’s not just because Phantom saved the Crystal Empire, Emerald had admired dragons since he was a young colt. He was one of the ponies who orchestrated the protests against Shining Armor and Cadance.

Due to Celestia’s involvement, many of the rioters were placed in jail. Emerald was one of the few ponies who managed to escape. Though he fled the empire, Emerald’s charisma had caught Starlight Glimmer’s interest. After she found him, she invited him to join their team. He was soon enlisted as one of the Zodiacs, working for Obsidian’s division of foreign business, particularly with Dragon Lord Ember, who always found it pleasurable to do business with the charismatic stallion.

“Pardon my intrusion, your highness, but what is this clan you speak of?” Emerald politely asked.

Ember widened her eyes with surprise. After all those years, she thought Obsidian would have told told the ponies about dragon culture. “Of course, you ponies don’t know, do you? There are many clans within the dragon culture, like families to you ponies. I hail from the Fire Dragon Clan and Obsidian hails from the Stone Dragon Clan, but Phantom hails from Mystic Clan,” Ember explained.

“Mystic Clan?” Emerald asked.

“The Mystic Clan was a clan of dragon known for the magnificent ways they used magic.” Obsidian explain. “In fact, legend says that they were one of the only twelve creatures who discovered the origins of magic.”

Just then, a bright flash appeared and Ember, Obsidian, and Emerald all turned to see Phantom and the others.

“How did it go?” Obsidian asked.

“Perfectly. Shining Armor and Cadance are dead, and I have Flurry Heart, being looked after by Sunburst and Starlight. I’ll be sure to make a letter, warning Celestia that if she sends somepony to retrieve her, then she’ll have her head laying before her hooves.” Just then, Phantom let out a yawn. “Now if you excuse me, I’m turning in for the night.” With that, Phantom exited to his room to get some rest.

Everypony was reeling from Cadance’s and Shining Armor’s deaths, ponies mourned the loss to the royal family. The six bearers of harmony sat at the front row, comforting Twilight and her parents, who had the daunting task of telling them what Phantom had done.

Sunburst and Starlight attended the funeral as well. Other than Pinkie, nopony else in Equestria was aware of their allegiance to Phantom, thus allowing them to act and comfort her and her family.

Celestia, herself, was trying to comfort and ensure them all that this Phantom would be apprehended. However, Twilight did tell the princess that Phantom was aiming to kill the one that was afraid of dragons the most. This confused Celestia at first, since so many ponies feared 'those wretched beasts.' And what Phantom did only strengthened their fear. But then the realization hit them all: the one pony who was deathly afraid of dragons: Fluttershy.

Though Phantom was still at large, there have been no updates or rumors about his whereabouts. Nopony even knew what Phantom looked like. Ponies who haven’t sworn allegiance to Phantom began to worry. Even the resisting guards worried about Phantom’s impending attack against the castle, or trying to claim the Fluttershy’s life, but nothing happened.

The only thing that this Phantom had sent was a letter, saying that they should not attempt to take Princess Flurry Heart, unless they wanted her killed. Though, he knew that Celestia wouldn’t gamble Flurry’s safety.

As the sun began to set, everypony was either heading home for the night or getting ready for bed. Inside the morgue, two guards were changing shifts. The gray unicorn with a black mane opened the door and welcomed the gust of wind that flowed through the room, hitting everything.

“Night Point,” the creamy peach colored stallion with a two toned, orange and white mane said, giving a wave.

Night Point just stood there, as if he became a statue, unmoving, resolute like a portrait of the most decorated soldier. It was really creeping him out. After calling his name several more times, the stallion decided to make his way to night point, hoping to illicit a response from him. Tapping him lightly on the shoulder, his eyes closed with a beaming smile, hoping to dispel the awkward tension, until he heard a squelching sound, akin to wet clothes hitting the floor. Opening his eyes, he found the severed head of his partner lying on the floor. His serene and stoic expression still glued to his face. The guard didn't really know what to do at that instant, he just stared. Dumbfounded, flabbergasted, and in shock. He wasn’t expecting the tap on his shoulder, even less the claw that came with it.

“Hello, puppet.” The guard turned around to see a tall cloaked figure standing behind him. “So, what are you watching?” the figure asked jokingly, as if they were watching a play and he had simply forgotten the name. He spread his bat like wings, making the stallion gulp and shake in fear.

”I-I-I’m watching the dead body!” The stallion said quickly and fervently. “S-State your business!”

“To pay my due respects to the royal couple that died nearly a month ago,” the figure answered, showing his sharp talons. The guard shivered wildly, fearing for his life.

“If you want to know where the bodies are, there down the hall. Please don’t kill me!”

“I thank you for this information. Unfortunately, now that you’ve seen me, I can’t let you live. They don’t deserve to know who I am just yet.” With that, Phantom focused his magic on a wind spell, and sliced Night Point’s head clean off.

As he walked down the corridor, Phantom saw torches aligning the walls and casting an ominous glow across his scales. He realized he was in the tomb of the crystal rulers. His eyes scanned the walls, wary of any magical traps left in the mausoleum. Soon enough, he came across a rather stunning sight: it was a high roofed room with ornate jewels lining the dome. There was also a pristine gold chandelier, hanging rather precariously over the coffin, with white marble serving as the floors and pillars that held it all together. Though this paled in comparison to the appearance of the coffin, itself. The grave was encrusted with gold, and the highest quality gems that Phantom has ever seen.

Even if he was a dragon, and had every fiber of his being telling him to devour everything in the room, Phantom was no fool. Thanks to Nightmare’s intense training, he was able to feel magic radiating from every piece of jewelry and furniture in the crypt. Even the expansive floor had a simple detection spell placed onto it.

Furious at this deception, Phantom gave himself eight, maybe five minutes before the guards swooped in and were decimated horribly. Sizing the coffin up, Phantom walked directly towards the container, and with just a simple movement from his fist, he blew apart every trap within the room. Needless to say, it was bare by the time he was through.

He peered inside and saw the still fresh corpses of the crystal princess and prince. A look of hatred filled his face from looking at the happy couple. With a breath, they were both gone; transported to where they needed to be, and with that, he waited, but not for long, for within moments he could hear the shuffling of hooves and armor. A smile spread across his face as he extended his razor sharp talons, “Oh, this is going to be fun.”

Four days was all it took to not only strike fear into the ponies, but to give them reason to hold such fear. It had first arrived in the daily news headline, “Crystal rulers grave robbed!!” The gaudy newsprint and ink were doing it no favors, it outlined how not only were the corpses of Cadance and Shining stolen, but also how a whole platoon of guards had been massacred. Only one was left alive, citizens came immediately to the conclusion that Phantom was the perpetrator, and it didn’t take long for news to spread all over Equestria about this mysterious individual.

What was most chilling about the papers was the interview of the sole survivor from his hospital bed, telling the tale of what transpired that night:

‘

We came in and saw a dragon dressed in a black cloak just sitting there in the, uh... on the edge of the coffin, just waiting for us to get there... and when we did, it was a nightmare. He laughed! Laughed in the faces of fifty of the strongest, most well trained soldiers in all of Equestria. It was horrible. We were nothing before this... this thing!! We charged at him, all fifty of us, bearing down on him at the same time, and it still wasn't enough. Six guards went down before even reaching him. He went hoof for claw against each earth pony, dodging the bolts from the unicorns, even in the air, he had outmaneuvered the pegasi. Shouting that we were nothing compared to the elements of harmony, even less compared to his teachers. What the buck?! We were the best of the best, and five minutes was all it took to end it! Buck!!”

Though that wasn’t the worst part, no, the worst part was when the reporter ask him how he managed to defeat the dragon.

“Defeat him? Are you insane!! Fifty of Equestria’s best were taken down! And he barely thought they were playthings. I only managed to live because of my armor, and only barely at that. I don't know if he thought I was dead or not, but he walked past me like I wasn’t even there. Some part of me shouted out to him and he looked back... and I f-felt fear. His eyes were cold, looking straight at me, yet I swear they were looking through me. I was nothing in his eyes, like a fly that he could squash at any moment. The only words he said was to tell them what I saw. Then he bursts into flames. It wasn’t normal fire, though. It was white. After the flames died down, he was gone.”

The article sold out everywhere.

In the little town of Ponyville, a cross-eyed, gray coated pegasus was flying through the sky like any other day, it all seemed normal, except for the the rumors about the royal couple’s bodies being stolen. The pegasus landed on the cloud manor that was the home of Rainbow Dash. The pegasus dropped the paper on Dash’s door, along with the mail (mostly fan mail from Scootaloo) , before flying off.

Dash opened her door to see Derpy flying off in a zigzag pattern. Shrugging it off, she picked up the the mail and paper and headed inside. She placed the junk mail on the counter by the door and opened the newspaper for a good read.

“So it was true. But who?” she spoke out loud and read on. If she was drinking coffee, or anything else for that matter, she would have done the fabled spit take. But instead her rose colored eyes bugged out. “H-H-H-HE DEFEATED FIFTY OF THE MOST STRONGEST GUARDS CELESTIA HAS, LIKE IT WAS NOTHING!” The cyan mare screamed, then shot out of the window and head to the Castle of Friendship.

She landed by the front door of Twilight’s castle. Normally Rainbow would just bust through the door or window of a house whenever there was big news or juicy rumors about somepony in town. However, after one wild night two years ago, the sight of a mare blindfolded and being sandwich by Twilight and Trixie with two sex toys sticking out of the mare in the middle still burned in Dash’s mind to this day, and vows never to burst in again. She frantically knocked on the door. “TWILIGHT! I KNOW YOU’RE HOME! PLEASE ANSWER! YOU’VE GOT TO SEE THIS!” the cyan mare screamed as the door opened. Twilight stepped out with a matted mane.

“What do you want, Rainbow?" Twilight asked, letting a big yawn escape her lips. Twilight, being an official princess, had a lot of paperwork to do, so she had yet to catch up on sleep.

“You have to read this!” Rainbow shouted, shoving the paper to Twilight’s face. Using her magic, she began to read it. She gasped, reading what Phantom had done. “I-I-I c-can’t believe this...”

Rainbow rolled her eyes, seeing that even the most powerful warriors Celestia has in her disposal still aren’t strong enough to take down one dragon. “Pff. Big deal, this little bastard got lucky,” Rainbow retorted, flapping her wings. “Why I wish Phantom would do those things to me and AJ. He’ll be no match for us!” Truth be told, she was afraid. More afraid than she had ever been in her entire life.

Twilight face-hoofed, thinking why was she even friends with a pony who was clearly out of her mind. “Okay, number one, this Phantom is not a small dragon. The papers say he’s about twice the size of Luna. Two, he’s obviously a dragon that can perform magic, like Spike. Lastly, this dragon took out fifty of Celestia’s best soldiers.”

Rainbow sighed, knowing Twilight was right, and that she’d be lying to herself if she said she had even a remote chance of beating Phantom in a fair fight. “Alright Twi... I’ll go tell AJ and Pinkie about it.” And with that, she shot up into the air, leaving behind her famous rainbow streak.

Later, at Sweet Apple Acres, after greeting the Apple family, Rainbow told them the news. AJ and Big Mac’s mouths dropped to the floor, neither of them could believe that Phantom was strong enough to take down fifty of Celestia’s best guards. Needless to say, they began preparations to leave immediately.

“Princess Cadance and Shining Armor’s deaths were just the beginning. Ah reckon Phantom will be after Shy sometime tonight,” Applejack said, lowering her head.

“AJ, ah want you to take Apple Bloom, Cheerilee, and Granny and run. Ah’ll stay behind and deal with this Phantom feller,” Big Mac said.

Applejack was many things: a farmer, hard worker, the elements of honesty, but most of all she was a sister. Leaving her brother to take on this monster by himself, was not something she felt right doing.

“Ah don’t think that’ll work,” AJ objected, “He’ll find us if we up and run, Mac. If he wants me and Dash, then he can have us. But we’ll put up one hay of a fight if he shows his face around here!” Applejack said, her voice was so full of confidence, it almost fooled her brother. Almost.

“AJ, are ya-” Applejack cut him off.

“Come on Big Mac, get going! Just cause Phantom is after us don’t mean y’all gotta get hurt too!” she beamed. Big Mac wanted to argue how insane the idea of leaving her alone was, but whatever objection he had died in his throat. One fraction of a second later, Applejack dropped the act. She showed just how scared she truly was, how much she wanted to run. If anything, that just increased Big Mac’s vigor to help her.

“Please, Big Mac... Just go... Ah’ll be fine,” she pleaded, practically crying.

‘She knows this is it,’ Big Mac thought, as Applejack’s face gave her away. Applejack knew as soon as Phantom arrived, her time would be up.

“Just go, ah can take care of myself!” she shouted, stern, strong, and resolute, just like the old Applejack. “Y’all got Granny and Apple Bloom, plus Cheerilee. Ya gotta take care of em.” Her eyes seemed to glaze over. “If you come back, ah swear by ma and pa that ah’ll curse you from beyond Tartarus!” she threatened.

The carriage was packed without another word, Rainbow Dash filled the cart as fast as she could. Applejack was saying her last goodbyes. Apple Bloom, as old as she was, still holding an innocence that only a child could have, asked why they had to up and leave. No one gave her an answer. She asked why Applejack and Rainbow Dash had to stay. No one gave her an answer. She knew when to stay quiet, and this was definitely one of those moments.

“Bye, y’all.” AJ kept up her appearance, if only for Apple Bloom’s sake.

“Applejack,” Rainbow called from behind her. “Can you put Scootaloo on the cart, please?” Holding the unconscious teenage filly in her arms, looking at the farm mare with a pleading look.

“Course, sweetie,” she replied, taking Scootaloo and placing her comfortably next to Apple Bloom and Granny Smith.

Pulling the cart, Big Mac didn’t look back, knowing that doing so would crush all hopes of ever leaving.

‘I gotta do this! It’s her last wish, consarnit! It’s not supposed to be this way!’ Big Mac was torn, he always thought AJ that would be to one to bury him, given she would outlive her older brother by a good wide margin. Yet, here he was just tossing his little sis right into the fire. For half a second, he stopped, thinking about running back to help, do something, just not to run away.

“Big Mac, are ya okay?” Apple Bloom asked, her innocent and ignorant tone triggered him to move forward with an extra skip.

“You sure this was the right thing to do?” Rainbow asked AJ. “You could’ve left with them. Get away from here.”

“He would've found us. Phantom’s beef is with us. Ah have to believe he wouldn't go after them. I can admit we deserve this. After the way we treated Spike like th-" Rainbow cut her off.

“We do not deserve this! Don’t ever think that this... this monster’s actions will ever be justified!” Rainbow steamed. Applejack looked to her, her tired eyes and flat mane spoke volumes.

“You remember that day, when he ran away. I mean, into the Everfree forest, thinking Twi got a new assistant.”

“What does that have to do with anything?”

“Spike thought he lost his place. Not as an assistant, or a friend, but as a livin creature. Everypony warmed up to that owl a lot faster than with him. Can ya imagine how much that musta hurt him? That he was lower than a pet; nothing more than a convenience; a broom in the corner of the house to use when there’s a mess.” Applejack looked off into the horizon, as if thinking of some far off memory. “There are lots a times ah could think of when we treated him like nothin’ more than that.”

“That doesn't have anything to do with anything! So we treated him like crap a few times!”

“You’re missin’ the point, Dash,” Applejack sighed. “We almost killed him and he didn’t think nothin’ of it, but it’s true. He ran into a cave full of Diamond Dogs without a second thought to save Rarity. In fact, Spike’s always been there when we needed him... But ah can’t think of one moment when we were there for him. Ah mean really there, not after some big event when we would pour our souls out to each other, but just to sit there an’ talk. We’ve known Spike for years, and ah only have a few memories of us jus’ talkin’,” Applejack lamented. “The worst was when he needed us the most, we turned our heads.”

Rainbow wanted to say something, but Applejack cut her off.

“That’s jus’ what ah think. Ah’m not sayin’ that this is the way to go about ventin’, but ah understand how much we hurt Spike. But like buck ah’ll let this Phantom character take me that easily!” she finished, not sparing a glance at RD. As the two walked into the barnhouse, Rainbow let her marefriend’s words sink in.

‘She’s right. Man, why didn’t I stand up for him?’ Rainbow mentally screamed at herself before shutting the barn door.

It was six in the morning, three days after the crystal rulers were robbed from their graves, when a sharp scream penetrated the calm, peaceful air of Ponyville.

It didn’t take long for the police to arrive, even less to find out who and why such a loud scream was made. It was nightmarish; something out of Tartarus, itself: the royal couple was hanging from the balcony of the Friendship Castle. Their innards had been cut out and laid below them. Their blood painting a horrific mural of a pony: small, meek, surrounded by animals, with a decapitated head next to her.

Half an hour later, Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie arrived at Twilight’s castle. They couldn’t believe the sight of their friend. The young alicorn was a mess, huddled against Trixie, crying, all forms of semblance gone from her mind after witnessing her brother and sister-in-law in such a state.

“Twilight, are you okay?” Pinkie asked. Much to her surprise, a hoof smacked Pinkie hard across the face.

“Am I okay?! My brother and foalsitter are hanging in a tattered mess on my balcony, and you’re asking if I’m okay?! The worst part is that I don’t even know who's responsible for this, you psychotic pink mess! WHO IN THEIR RIGHT MIND WOULD POSSIBLY BE OKAY WITH THIS!?” Twilight shouted.

As shocked as the mares were from hearing Twilight yell like this, the sudden change in attitude was not the key issue right now. “Look, Twilight, we know this is hard, but Fluttershy’s in trouble. What happened to yer brother and Princess Cadance is horrible, but whatevah’ Phantom has planned fer Fluttershy is goin’ to be worse,” Applejack said.

Whatever anger was in Twilight died instantly, even Trixie looked at the four as if they were crazy.

“What makes you think Phantom would attack today?” She asked.

The five mares were speeding throughout Ponyville as fast as they could, all but Pinkie, who stayed behind, ‘in case Phantom was in the area.’ The gang doubted it at first, until Pinkie gestured toward a building and disappeared. The gang shrugged at her randomness, and went on ahead.

It took six to seven minutes to get to Fluttershy’s cottage to find the front door broken down, windows shattered, and blood covering the ground.

As the mares entered the cottage, they saw something that made their skin crawl. Fluttershy was gently rocking in the corner, her wings were torn off, her cutie mark was skinned clean off, one of her hind legs had been crushed, the blood of her animals painted the walls, and any other remains were left to rot on the floor around her. In the middle of the room, was the burnt corpse a pony, who they found out was Fluttershy’s husband, Thruderlane. The mare was only barely clinging to life, mumbling a strange song.

“I watch you change,

Into a fly

I look away, you were on fire

I watch you change

In you.

Like you never.

Had wings.

And you feel so alive,

I watch you change

I took you home

I set you on the glass

I pull off your wings

And I laugh

I watch you change

In you.

Like you never.

Had wings.

Feel so alive.

I watch you change.

I gave you a cross.

I hand you the knife.

To cut me away.”

The five mares just stood there and listened to the babble of a mare who had lost everything, until it was too much to watch.

“Shy!” Rainbow was the first to react, grabbing the mumbling pegasus in her hooves. “Come on girl! Speak to me! What happened!?”

“S-S-S-S-S-S-Spike... a-and P-P-Pinkie...” Fluttershy squeaked. The mares gasped, hearing these names. “T-They let me live... Why didn’t they just kill me?” She opened her eyes and Rainbow was met with only her own reflection. Fluttershy’s eyes were emotionless, devoid of even a single spark of life. Whatever happened here was horrible, scarring the pegasus for Tartarus knows how long. “It was last night, I was sleeping so nicely, everything was perfect... until...”

Fluttershy and her husband were cuddling in bed after the last three hours of passionate intercourse. The two were tired and needed rest, but within forty-five minutes, the couple heard a loud noise coming from the kitchen.

Living in a cottage offered many things: seclusion, privacy, a drop of pretext, but maybe the most important thing that it offered was the chance to live amongst the animals. This was imperative. The chatter from a disturbed animal was distinctive in her home, and Thunderlane knew that any chatter at night could mean any number of things, from animals fornicating to simple nightmares, but Fluttershy knew better. This was the sound of scared critters.

After being urged to see what was going on, Thunderlane trotted downstairs. The gray pegasus didn’t notice out of the ordinary, yet the chatter didn’t die. If anything, it only got more urgent as he grew closer to the front door. There were three quick knocks on the maple door, scaring the manure out of him.

“Hello? Is anypony home?!” a raspy voice shouted from the other side of the door. “I need your help!”

“Look, it’s late. If it’s important, then I’ll get Shy. If not, buck off,” the gray stallion said crossly, not wanting to deal with anypony at this hour.

“Oh, this is important. Very, very important,” the voice said. The gray stallion sighed and opened the door, only to be greeted by a scaly fist to his face. The punch broke the stallion’s snout and sent him flying back to the middle of the room with a loud thud.

Phantom entered the cottage, followed by Pinkie Pie, and then by his mentor, Nightmare Moon. The three of them looked around, seeing many pictures of Fluttershy’s friends and husband lining the walls, and most of the furniture.

Phantom cracked his knuckles as he returned his attention to Thunderlane, who held his broken nose. The grey stallion would get a good taste of Phantom’s training with Midnight as soon as the dragon began the enjoyable task of beating the living crap out of the him. Nightmare made herself comfortable on the nearby sofa, watching in enjoyment.

“I’ll go get Shy. I can’t wait to see the look on her face once she sees you, Phantom.” And just like that, the pink mare slowly walked her way up the stairs.

This didn’t go unnoticed by the animals, they wanted to do something, they wanted to at least tell Fluttershy to get out of the house, but fear held them in place. Phantom, although beating every piece of conscious out of Thunderlane, kept a keen eye on the animals, painting visions of their splattered remains and broken bodies in their mind. Phantom did, however, let one animal slip by, his cottontail disappearing up the stairs in an instant.

Despite the excruciating pain, Angel forced himself to hop upstairs as quickly as he could, reaching her bedroom before Pinkie. He grabbed the sheets and tugged them off, trying to wake her up. “Let mommy sleep some more.” Angel face-pawed himself and hopped on the bed, kicking his owner in attempt to wake her up. In annoyance, Fluttershy finally opened her eyes to see something was wrong. Thunderlane wasn’t back, worst yet, there were noises downstairs that didn’t match anything she had heard in her house before. The worst part of it was that someone was coming up the stairs. The timid pegasus looked to Angel, who was pointing to the window, wanting her to escape.

“No, Angel, not until my Laney is safe.” She got off the bed, but Angel held onto her tail, pulling it as hard as he could, but it was useless as Pinkie entered the room.

“Why Pinkie, what bring you here?” Shy asked while Pinkie pointed down the stairs.

“It’s Gummy. His teeth have finally grown in and he’s hungry. So I wanted to know if you had any meat for him to eat?”

“Hmm. I think I have some, let me check. Oh, do you know what Laney is doing?”

The pink mare giggled. “He’s out. You know him, tired.” Fluttershy nodded as Pinkie headed downstairs, followed closely by her friend.

Nightmare heard hooves touching the wooden surface. The dragon’s smile was wide and menacing. Holding the now beaten stallion by his mane, Phantom stood in the dark, his eyes concentrating on the stairs as the bubblegum pink mare made her way down, follow by the butter coated pegasus who gasped as soon as she saw the two figures awaiting her in the dark.

“You should have listened to Angel,” the drake said jokingly as the light teal eyes of the now terrified mare saw he was holding a terribly beaten Thunderlane by his mane. She tried to fly to her husband, but was stopped as Phantom’s free hand, swatted her to the wall by the window. “Nightmare... if you would.”

Nightmare nodded as her horn lit up, creating a soundproof barrier around the cottage.

“P-P-Pinkie, take Gummy and Angel and get out of here!” Fluttershy screamed, but Pinkie just smiled widely.

“Oh silly... I don’t have Gummy. What I told you before was just a lie to you to get you to come downstairs, so you could finally meet Phantom!”

Fluttershy couldn’t believe what she was hearing as she laid eyes on the purple dragon in front of her.

“W-W-Why, P-Pinkie?” The timed mare asked as she rose back to her hooves. She couldn’t help flinching in pain, though, as Phantom swatted her pretty hard. “A-And why are you with Spike?” The butterscotch mare heard a growl come from the dragon as soon as that name left her lips.

“Why don’t you take your time and think, so the answer will come to you. After all, caring for animals is your passion, right? You... no, we killed him seven years ago. He goes by the name Phantom now,” Pinkie explained.

Phantom moved in close to the trembling mare, she wanted to grab her husband and fly off to warn the others about Phantom and Pinkie, but her wings were locked. “Hey Shy,” the drake said with a smile. “I’d like to sing you a song.” Phantom clears his throat and began to sing. “I watched you change.” Phantom sang, pointing to Fluttershy’s now semi-conscious husband.

“Into a fly,” Phantom turned his gaze over to Thunderlane, putting on a sickly grin as he turned to Fluttershy, who was still staring with horrified eyes.

“I turn away.” Thunderlane slowly stood up; due to Phantom’s beating, he was swaying side to side, like a drunkard.

“I look away. You were on fire.” On cue, a green light passed through his claws, hitting the gray stallion on the head. In no time at all, the beaten pegasus burst into flames, his gray coat turned black, his skin boiled and blood soon dripped from his legs.

“I watch you change,” Phantom sang as he began to walk around the frightened mare. Thunderlane looked down, inspecting his burning body melt as the stench of his burning flesh filled the air. He couldn’t scream, he felt nothing, the flames were so intense, they already reached the nerves.

“In you. It’s like you never had wings. And you feel so alive, I watch you change.” It tore at his skin, burning it away until there was none left.

The drake pursed his lips and stood behind the timed pegasus. He smiled and sang in a low voice. The grin on his face wasn’t helping to ease her mental fright. It had burned him to the bone, charring and cleaving out chunks of him that fell to the floor. Fluttershy was no doctor, but even she knew it was instantaneous. The moment the flames began spreading over his body, Thunderlane had died.

“I took you home.” Fluttershy shivered, feeling her hind legs begin rubbed as Phantom slowly moved his claws to feel around her flank, crossing so closely to her marehood, slinking closer and closer to her once sacred flower. Fluttershy was frozen in terror, Phantom had done many horrible, despicable, disgusting things. But this... this was a new low, even for him. A cough from the couch broke Shy from her displacement. She could’ve sworn she heard Phantom chuckle a bit as Nightmare gave a death glare.

“I set you on the glass.” Using his magic, a lime green aura encased Shy’s body, lifting her off the ground. Again she shivered, feeling the base of her wings being held.

“I pull off your wings.” Phantom sang in a hushed tone. And like the song suggested, Phantom pulled her wings off, coating his muzzle and her back with blood. Fluttershy screamed so loud, she would’ve woken the entire town, had it not been for Nightmare’s spell.

“Then I laugh.” In a twist of insanity and madness, Phantom, Nightmare, and Pinkie, all laughed like foals. The lime green aura disappeared as the bloody corpse of the mare dropped to the floor with a loud thud. All she could foresee around her, was death. She had to get out of here and get help. With what little willpower she had, Fluttershy began the torturous task of crawling to the door. But it seemed pointless when Nightmare, Phantom, and Pinkie noticed what she was trying to do. Pinkie quickly hopped over and opened the door to the cool crisp air of the outside world, to the end of this nightmare of hers. While Phantom leaned forward, gesturing that the yellow pegasus is free to go, and Nightmare stayed on the couch, enjoying the antics unfolding in front of her.

The scared pegasus slowly crawled to the door. Soon, she was just as a single inch away from freedom. Her hopes and dreams were instantly shattered when Pinkie slammed the door. Fluttershy could only stare in horror that her only chance of escaping from this nightmare was gone. Phantom laughed heartily as Nightmare giggled, enjoying the show and Pinkie rolled on the floor laughing uncontrollably.

“W-W-W-Wake up Fluttershy. It’s not real. It’s just a scary nightmare.” The trembling pegasus covered her eyes, hoping she would wake up alongside her beloved Thunderlane. That’s all this could ever be; that’s what this had to be; nothing but a nightmare. When she woke up, Thunderlane would be next to her, sleeping soundly, ready to hear of this terrible image she had. Unfortunately, fate is cruel and reality is harsh.

“Oh, I’m sorry... you’re still here? This is a nightmare, I can admit that, but... this one is quite real. But, I guess I can prove to you that this is real. Come on, let me show you how real this is.” With a snarl, Phantom brought his foot down on the timid mare’s hind leg, crushing the bones from the forceful impact. She again screamed in pain before looking turning to her tormentor. She now regretted looking at him, as Phantom’s eyes were filled with nothing but hatred for her and the rest of her friends.

Phantom gripped Shy’s pink tail and dragged her a good five yards from the door. Then the purple scaled monster went into the kitchen as Nightmare kept giving Shy an empty stare. There was no happiness. No pity. No anger. It was nothing. Pinkie meanwhile, just looked at her former friend with disappointment.

“P-Pinkie... w-why are you helping him?” Fluttershy managed to ask.

“Oh, I don’t know,” the pink mare said sarcastically while placing a hoof on her chin, pretending she was coming up with an excuse. “Maybe it has something to do with HIM BEING INNOCENT!” Pinkie yelled. “Unlike the others, I had enough of a pair to ask him for forgiveness. And I felt the pain he was going through. But you of all ponies should’ve known what it felt like to kill others to stay alive.” Fluttershy said nothing, the look of shame said it all. “I mean, Spike never killed or ate anypony. And you, just like my other so-called friends, didn’t even defended him!”

Moments later, Phantom came back holding a kitchen knife and a scalpel, taken from Thunderlane’s personal medical kit. Moving his claws along the mare’s flank seemed to draw a reaction from Nightmare, a subtle quick glance of the eyes from Phantom to her flank and his claws. It lasted an instant, but it was enough for Fluttershy to pick up. She was about to say something when a sharp pain entered her side.

Phantom had begun to slice off her cutie mark, cutting off a fine layer of skin, just barely below to the epidermis, but still letting out a fine pool of blood from the incision.

“Do you know what this cutie mark was supposed to mean, Fluttershy?” Phantom asked, his claws slicing with surgical precision. “The butterfly is a strange creature, it has no sense of imminent danger. If someone moves, it will fly away, that that it if it doesn't, it will crash into it and possibly be killed. But if you have, say... a flame, then the butterfly would float straight into the blaze without so much as a second thought. Why? A butterfly who would sooner run away from an unlikely enemy would fly head straight into certain death. Do you know what that means?” His words dripped with cynicism and contempt.

“It means that my student here will give you a choice,” the black alicorn finally spoke. “A chance to fly away, or be eaten like your animals. Because soon, they will all be Phantom’s dinner, and your choice will determine whether you are part of the banquet, or a guest to the feast,” Nightmare finished.

Fluttershy blinked once, twice, three times before anything came from her mouth. “What?” Was the only thing she could honestly say, much to the amusement of the three.

“It’s simple, Shy. Either you dine with Phantom, or he’ll dine on you,” Pinkie explained, grinning while her mane turned straight once more.

“You want me to eat my own critters?!” She hollered. Normally that kind of tone coming from the shy mare would’ve surprised them, but this time, they couldn’t care less.

The three nodded as Phantom’s eye stopped at her pet bunny, Angel. “And you’ll start with him,” the drake stated as he lifted the bunny by his tail, presenting him to Fluttershy. “Heck, if you cook him yourself, the taste will probably match his attitude. I never mentioned it, but the bunny caused me a lot of trouble when I was petsitting. Or do you want me to do it?”

Fluttershy had finally broken down, Angel the first critter she got, his attitude and seeming anger hid the loyal, caring, and loving pet he actually was. But to eat him...

“I won’t...” Fluttershy said.

“Okay then! I’ll get started on the skinning, draining, and grilling,” Phantom said as if Fluttershy had not said anything.

“I said I won’t do it!!”

“I heard you the first time,” Phantom snarled.

“Then let Angel Bunny go!!” she demanded. She didn’t notice it, but the veins on Phantom’s forehead began to pop out in anger. Only Nightmare could give him orders.

“You misunderstand, Fluttershy. You see, Phantom will eat your pets, whether you engage in the activity or not. And I suggest you do... unless you want to die along with them,” Nightmare said. “But if you need more incentive as to enjoy this feast, imagine Phantom was not wrong in the order in which he would kill your pets. First after he kills his prey, he will drain the fluids of his kill, then he’ll skin them. But if he’s feeling... Oh, what the word? ‘Cruel’, he’ll set them on fire and watch them burn.

“I found out about that in a rather grim way. I was cooking a coyote with my own flame. I thought he was already dead, but the thing suddenly started thrashing around, howling and barking about,” Phantom said, while he was slicing apples and carrots into a pot. “Nightmare, explain it to her, if you would.”

“Phantom will then proceed to cutting them along the jugular. Quickly and efficiently, it won’t hurt at all... if not for the roasting. The living nerves will continue to operate, even near death. To the animals, it will be the same as slicing themselves open and drowning at the same time.” She continued the morbid detail of the upcoming events just as Phantom was drawing his first breath.

“STOP!!” Fluttershy shouted, but her pleas fell on deaf ears as Phantom let out a jet of green flame, roasting the bunny. “NOOOOOO!!” She screamed, dragging it out until all the air left her lungs, watching as Angel Bunny twitched and squirmed in pain.

“Did you say something, Fluttershy?” Phantom asked nonchalantly. “Sorry, couldn’t hear you over the cries of burning bunnies.

Fluttershy sprung forth, stealing the scalpel from Phantom’s claw, she had it aimed at his throat. Nightmare instinctively got up to assist her student, while Pinkie pulled out her party cannon, seemly out of nowhere, and aimed it at Fluttershy.

“Don’t worry, ladies, Fluttershy knows that knife won’t cut through my scales. This is where it gets good.” His smug tone assured both mares that Fluttershy wouldn’t do anything stupid.

With a sniff and a look of disdain, Fluttershy went over to her bunny’s side. “I am so sorry Angel Bunny... This is the better option.” Even with all the pain he was in, Angel still found the strength to be defiant. Swishing his head back and forth, telling Fluttershy no. Even he knew this was the easy way out, but only for him. He knew Fluttershy just as well as Phantom did, he gave her an impossible choice, with no real option in the say as she sliced his head off, dropping the scalpel to the floor.

“I think I’ll have the beaver then.” Fluttershy’s eyes went wide as Phantom’s words struck her. “Still, that was a noble thing for Angel to do, don’t you think so, ladies?”

“That bunny was still a great friend to dear Fluttershy. He deserves respect for his actions,” stated the still onlooking Nightmare.

“He’ll be missed... a lot.” Pinkie bowed her head, paying respect toward the lost bunny. “Okay I’m done.”

“Stop... Stop... Please... Please...” Fluttershy begged.

“You know, Fluttershy, out of you six girls, you were the one that really offended me. Why, because of your fear of us dragons... though mostly me. I would’ve been dead if it hadn’t been for Nightmare and the others. You’re supposed to be the element of kindness, yet ironically, you turned your head along with the others. As an animal expert, you of all ponies should know that dragons need meat to survive!” Phantom stomped his foot on the ground, pausing for just a single moment.

“You have nopony to blame but yourself! No matter how much you beg, I won’t stop. Not until you’re dead, not until Apple-Jerk’s dead, not until Rain-Bitch’s dead, not until that fucking whore’s dead, not until Trixie’s dead, not even when Twilight’s dead. Every last one of you will suffer by my hands.” He gripped his claws tighter, practically feeling their blood already.

“You all left me to die, not when I left, but well before that. None of you cared, none of you even bothered with me. Do you know why I'm letting you live now? Because you pretend to care, because you quaked in fear and ran away like the little crybaby bitch you are!” Fluttershy quivered while Pinkie nodded. “That contributes, yes. But really, it’s because I want to make you suffer. I want you to cower in the corner, knowing your turn is coming as you watch your friends die,” Phantom finished with a grin.

“Do you know what you’ll do after you kill all your animal friends here?” Pinkie added. “You’ll latch onto the remaining ponies! It’s a fact! Even now that you know, you’ll still look to them to have a place among them, to try and be surrounded by them. This will only hurt you though. We will kill them, all of them, and you will stay alive just long enough to see most of them die. And all because you grew afraid of someone that would never, in million years, even think of hurting any of you.” Pinkie finished as Phantom regained his composure.

“Funny, I could’ve died all those years ago, still happily believing you guys thought of me as a friend. But then I would’ve met my parents, my brothers, and sisters all in disgrace, for not only allowing myself to die, but also for being killed by the very hooves that killed them,” Phantom said, borderlining the psychotic yet again, scaring Fluttershy and exciting Nightmare. It was such a turn on when a student was like this. “Did you even know?” He asked the quivering mare.

“K-K-Know what?”

“Who killed my family, of course.”

“No, Celestia said your egg was abandoned.”

“LIES!! CELESTIA FED YOU THAT SHIT AND YOU WERE STUPID ENOUGH TO ACTUALLY BELIEVE THAT FUCKING BITCH!?” Phantom roared, trying his hardest to control his anger before finding another way to approach.

“Fluttershy, you do know that a dragon is many things: a killer, a hoarder, a monster, but above all else, they are beings of reason. A dragon will never, and I mean NEVER, abandon its egg! The real truth is far more vile than anything I have done. Celestia ordered her soldiers to kill my true parents to obtain their eggs and experiment on each and every one of them, save mine. Sometimes she killed and reanimated them as she saw fit. Where I have killed one unborn child, Celestia has killed hundreds, if not thousands, or more.

“Do you know how much hatred can sprout from a ‘what if?’ What if I had lived with my parents? What if it wasn’t Twilight who hatched me? What if my parents didn’t even want me? These were all questions that have been exploding through my mind when I lived amongst you... but all that time, it never occurred to me that I could’ve had siblings, even less that I had so many. Imagine it. I could've been the big brother or sister, yet I could do nothing as they were all killed around me. Every last one, until my useless egg was tossed into the School for Gifted Unicorns...” Phantom paused for a moment. Pinkie was about to walk over to comfort him, but Nightmare held her hoof out, blocking the pink mare.

“I’m not even supposed to be alive, my egg was dead when Twilight had her exam... I was dead before I even had a name. What if I had just stayed dead?” He finished. It was at this moment that Fluttershy took actual note on what Phantom was doing, he had herded her animals to a central point in her house. “You have ten minutes to kill them. All of them.”

The story Fluttershy told them was unheard of. Phantom, or Spike, as they once knew him, not only let her live to tell them that he won’t stop until everypony he knew was dead, but he also forced her to eat most of her critters. The girls tried to ensure her that she was safe now.

“That’s not all...” the traumatized mare said. “He gave me the chance to kill him. To stick a knife in his back... like we did seven years ago... I-I-I tried, but I couldn’t bring myself to do it. He, Pinkie, and Nightmare Moon left after that. But before they left, Pinkie said that it was our own fault that Spike turned out the way he did and that he would have forgiven us all if we came... T-Then he sang once more. I-I gave you the cross. I-I hand you the knife. T-To cut me away.”

After a few more hours trying to comfort Fluttershy, the five mares went back to Twilight’s castle. Once the door shut, Twilight was the first to break down and cry as Trixie squeezed her marefriend in a loving embrace, attempting to pour all her love and support into it, but the lavender mare simply pushed her away. She couldn’t believe it. Spike! The one she grew up with. The one who she treated like a little brother was gone. Replaced with this... this monster calling himself Phantom. And to make matter worse, Pinkie Pie has joined his side.

‘He's the monster? Did you even pay attention? Did you not hear what Celestia did to his family? To his brothers and sisters? To his kind? Are you so bent on being the good mare that you can’t see what is in front of your eyes!? If none of this would’ve happened, he would’ve died, forgotten in a week at most! Look at you, such a great big sister, ignoring your brother, isolating him, working him to the bone just because you wanted to hang out with your friends. And to make matters worse, when he needed you most, you turned your back on him! He’s not the monster! You are!’

“Twi, this is hard for you, but we have to face facts. Spike is out to get us all, and we need to be ready. Ah already sent Big Mac and the others to Manehattan. So he won’t be after them,” AJ stated, placing a hoof on her back.

“Hard for me?” Twilight rose a brow. ”HARD FOR ME?! SPIKE TORTURED FLUTTERSHY, MADE HER EAT HER OWN BUCKING ANIMALS, BURNED HER HUSBAND, AND TO MAKE MATTERS WORSE, HE ALSO KILLED MY BROTHER AND SISTER-IN-LAW! HOW THE BUCK ISN’T THIS HARD FOR US?!” The young princess screamed, causing her friends to back away. “HE WAS SUPPOSED TO BE MY RESPONSIBILITY! MY FIRST FRIEND... my little brother...” Twilight’s voice cracked after saying those three words, soon breaking down again. She had failed. Failed as a friend, failed as a guardian, and, most importantly, she failed as a sister.

“I should’ve stood up and defended him. I should’ve looked for him like Pinkie did. I should’ve apologized for neglecting him.” The now broken mare sobbed as the others hugged her in a tight embrace.

Celestia was reading the latest reports on the whereabouts of Phantom and Nightmare Moon. It was bad enough to know that the drake she once called her son and this Phantom was one and the same, but what was even worse was that she had discovered that the element of laughter, Pinkie Pie, was amongst his ranks. She could only imagine how many more would join his group.

Celestia had already sent the royal guards to many locations throughout Equestria in order to find him, but it proved pointless when they all returned empty-hoofed. Of course they could check the Crystal Empire, but Phantom’s letter threatened Flurry Heart’s life if she set hoof in the empire, and she couldn’t take any chances of it being a bluff.

The sun princess peered out the window until a cloud of thin green dust slithered through the window, briefly obstructing her near perfect view of her kingdom. It began swirling around her, menacing swirls of smoke and dust, dancing an evil jig as they finally materialized three skinned cutie marks and a scroll. Celestia instantly knew who the cutie marks belonged to, two of them were very familiar to her, with the third serving as the groom to a magnificent wedding. Hesitantly, Celestia used her magic to pick up the scroll and began to read.

Dear Sun Bitch

One down, four more to go. Oh, and in case you were wondering, I haven’t killed Fluttershy yet. I will in due time, though I don’t think it really matters, the Elements of Harmony can’t be used anymore anyways. By the way, I wouldn’t send guards to protect them if I were you... Remember what happened last time? And before I forget, let’s make this a little more fun! Neither me nor Nightmare are in Equestria, but a few of my spies are.

Sincerely, your dead son Spike.

Author's Notes:

The song Spike sings is Change(House of flies) By Deftones

Chapter Nine

It had been a week since the incident in Fluttershy’s cottage. Ever since then, Fluttershy would spend her time secluded inside her room at Sweet Apple Acres, after Applejack offered her a place to stay. This was mainly because Fluttershy couldn’t bare to return to the cottage where she once lived so happily and peacefully.

Traumatized, she never stopped singing that awful song Phantom had sang in front of her. What’s more is that her legs have been so horribly crushed that she could never walk again. Nor could she fly, since Phantom ripped her wings off.

Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Trixie tried to prepare themselves for their battle against Phantom. If it could even be considered a battle more than trying to do something to save their lives, the ones that were working their hardest were Rainbow Dash and Applejack.

Applejack for her part knew and was even willing to accept her fate, she knew all of them had done horrible things to him, she knew they even deserved what was coming to them but she wasn't going to let Phantom kill her without a proper fight. ‘Ah should’ve found the little feller and apologized when ah had the chance.’

Rainbow Dash, on her part, was fully set on not letting Phantom get away with what he was doing. Stubborn as usual, she was convinced that his revenge was unfounded and that she didn’t deserve what was going to happen. She couldn’t fathom the idea that Phantom was out there, preparing to kill them mercilessly for something so insignificant, even less for Pinkie, her once best friend, to side with this monster was just the icing on the cake.

She held her brash attitude, her eagerness and her normal boasting self to everypony’s eyes, but deep inside she was terrified because of what Phantom did in the Crystal Empire, what he had done to Fluttershy and the elite guard only served to demonstrate he was a monster set on destroying those who had lied and had used him. Those who never appreciated his efforts and his affections. And mostly, destroy those who betrayed him. Even if she thought she didn’t deserve it, Rainbow knew he was right.

Twilight and Trixie were practicing almost every waking moment, training themselves for the upcoming battle, learning every single spell out there that each of them could master. Some spells were even forbidden dark spells, performed by King Sombra himself, all on a effort to be able to stand up against him.

Twilight regularly begged Trixie to leave, Phantom had no ill will against her aside from some minor ‘problems’ that did not deserve to be faulted as downright awful. But Trixie refused each time, saying she would rather die along her side in a horrible, agonizing, brutal death than to run like a coward only to regret it for the rest of her life. Starlight was the show mare’s first real friend and she loved her with all her heart and that was the truth.

Rarity continued to design dresses. They, however, lacked a central frame. She knew Phantom was coming for her. She thought countless times, that she was going to be the last one whom Phantom would kill. She felt a slight bit of happiness knowing her sister was with their parents, and away from danger. Fancy Pants meanwhile was away on business.

Her thoughts however were rudely interrupted by a green dust floating by the open window. She like the rest knew it could be only one thing. The dust materialized into a scroll. Rarity was shaking, fear taking over her breathing. She hoped whatever was in this scroll wasn’t bad. Using her magic, the white mare begin to read.

Dear White whore, Rain-Bitch, and Apple-Jerk.

If you're reading this, then that must mean I didn’t made it clear to you. When I said not to run, that applied to your families as well. I might as well tell you how I found out where your families are, In case you have forgotten, Queen Nightmare is the goddess of the NIGHT, meaning she can enter dreams! You’re lucky I asked her not to break the minds of the ponies she enters. That being said, I assure you that Big Mac, Cheerilee, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle are all fine. Sadly, AJ, Granny Smith unfortunately died when we tried to take her. Believe me, your grandmother’s death actually saddens me, since I got along so well with her. And it pains me to kill Big Mac as well. Beside several other stallions and colts, he was the best when it comes to our game nights. Anyway, I hope to see you girls tonight.

Sincerely yours, Phantom

“No... he... Spike is coming...” she whispered as the scroll fell to the ground, echoing in the emptiness of her boutique.

Celestia was sitting on her throne room alone, not even her guards were with her, she had ordered that she didn’t wanted to be disturbed for the day, she had a lot on her mind, and how could she not? Four days ago, three and a half weeks after the deaths of Cadance and Shining Armor, the Crystal Empire erupted in an uproar, the ‘Loyalists of the Dark King’ were taking over the Empire little by little, almost half of her army was over there trying to oppress those so called loyalists, the other half was divided into the rest of the kingdom with a special task force guarding the elements from the shadows. Even if Phantom told her not to send more guards to protect Twilight and the others, she wasn’t going to let him win that easily.

Spike, the one she once called her son, she remembered the day she saw him as a little hatchling, all those atrocities she had done to his family, to his kind, and to him. From the moment she adopted him, everything she did suddenly vanished, and was replaced by a true and genuine motherly glee. Very few knew of their relationship.

Celestia couldn’t help but smile. Those days where she came to her chambers, exhausted after a full day of laws, treaties, and pesky nobles, to find her little dragon baby sitting on her bed, waiting for her with a smile on his scaly lips and the laughter only a little child could produce, all those times he called her mommy, all those times he said that he would protect her, that he would be there for her, that he loved her with all his heart made her smile grew more and more. And yet she couldn't remember the time when all changed.

“I’m so stupid.” Celestia said to herself. “Where did I go wrong? Everything was going so smoothly, so perfect.” A coy laugh escaped her lips. “I finally had my baby, the baby I always wanted, I was happy, Spike was happy and then... and then I failed...I failed as a sister, as a ruler, and most importantly, as a mother.”

Celestia clenched her teeth in anger. “Now many ponies will suffer for my stupidity and incompetence... All because I couldn't be a loving mother towards a son... a son who was dying on the inside.” For the first time since Luna’s return, tears began to fall from the sun deity’s face.

Outside the cloud mansion that was Rainbow Dash’s house, the said pegasus was tossing and turning in her bed. She couldn’t sleep, not after what Phantom did to her childhood friend, not after he ponynapped AJ’s older brother, Cheerilee, and the CMC, not after the nightmares that constantly plagued her dreams. Nightmares of AJ dying in her hooves, having her legs ripped away by a monster that she once called a friend. She sat up drenched in sweat, she couldn’t stay here. She couldn’t stay here alone. She knew the one pony who’ll help her. She needed to be with her lover, AJ.

Dash hopped out of her bed and zipped out the window, heading for Sweet Apple Acres. Flying as fast as possible, she arrived to her lover’s home, she saw a light turn on and descended to the ground. The moment she touched the ground she saw about ten figures moving through the bushes and the distance.

“Show yourself!” Rainbow shouted and, almost immediately, a small regiment of guards came into view, six pegasus and five unicorn guards. “Who are you?”

“We're guards sent to protect you by order of Princess Celestia,” answered a pegasus guard.

“I thought Spike said he didn’t wanted to fight against any more guards.” Rainbow asked them.

“Yes, but we volunteered,” one of the unicorns said. “We’re not going to let that monster come and kill the bearers of the elements just like that. If he wants to kill you, he’ll have to go through us first.”

“B-but...” Dash tried, but was cut off.

“Please don’t say anything, just go inside and stay with Lady Applejack.”

Before Rainbow could reply, the guards disappeared from her sight, leaving her alone in the field. Letting out a sigh, the bearer of loyalty flew the rest of the way to AJ’s room. Upon reaching her destination, Rainbow found her lover sitting on her bed. Applejack tearfully stared at the floor, seemingly unaware of her marefriend’s presence.

“AJ?” Rainbow asked while trotting toward her, but to her surprise, the orange mare leaped up and wrapped her in a tight embrace. It didn’t take long before her cyan coat was matted with her tears.

“A-Ah-Ah…” Applejack sniffed. “T-The nightmare... Ever since we got those letters, ah kept havin’ nightmares. Ah saw Big Mac, his special pony, and mah little sister all tied up...”

“Take deep breaths AJ,” Rainbow Dash consoled.

H-He asked me if I love em more than you. Ah didn’t know what to say...” It was obvious who Applejack meant by ‘he.’ The tears of the cowpony kept flowing, but she continued her explanation. “H-He killed each one slowly, sayin’ that ah never loved em...”

Rainbow patted her marefriend’s back, “Shh it’s alright AJ. It was just a bad dream,” Dash said, calming her down. In all the time Rainbow has known Applejack, she’s never seen her this scared.

“Dash... I don’t wanna be alone tonight...”

“You’re never alone, AJ. Plus, you have Fluttershy with you. How is she, anyway?”

“Poor girl’s still the same, she hasn’t stop singin’ dat song. Other than that, she’s fine.”

Rainbow nodded and laid down. AJ followed and gave her a soft kiss which Rainbow gladly returned, quickly turning into a heated passionate one as their tongues slowly met. The two mares drew closer in their embrace, entangling each other passionately. AJ broke the kiss, moving her lips lower, causing Rainbow’s body to shudder in delight from the softness of AJ’s lips as the farmer reach her destination, her lover’s wonderfully beautiful forbidden flower, moistened from their passionate kiss as she began tasting and licking in bliss.

Rainbow softly panted, feeling the warm breath on her delicate parts as she drew wetter with each breath. “A-Apple-” She let out a soft gasp, feeling AJ’s tongue lap around her clit, sending Rainbow’s mind into a haze, completely forgetting about the world around them. She didn’t care if Phantom and his gang bursted through the door and kill them right then and there, all she wanted was to be with AJ. To pleasure her. To show her that in this dark world, she’ll never alone.

Rainbow moans became louder once she felt AJ’s hoof replace her tongue on her clit. “L-Let me repay you, AJ.” Rainbow said flatly, prompting the cow-pony to shift her body over to her, exposing her to the most beautiful sight she could ever hope to see, the same sight she’s been dreaming of ever since she first saw the orange mare. Wasting no time, she leaned in and let her tongue run against her slit, soaking in AJ’s juices as they ran down her tongue, making the mare on top shudder in pleasure. Rainbow enjoyed everything about her, from the taste to the light scent of apple that wafted into her nose. She wanted more. She wanted to taste every inch of her. She slid her tongue inside and forced a sharp gasp from her lover.

“AHHH, Dashie!” AJ moaned, feeling that tongue of hers at work, making her walls tighten from the sudden intruder, causing RD’s tongue to work even harder as she kept up her assault on Dash’s clit, receiving twitches and intense buckling of the hips between licks.

Their pleasure built as AJ took Dash's clit into her mouth, sucking it fiercely as Dash screamed, “AHHH! YES, JACKY! RIGHT THERE!” Before quickly doing the same for the orange mare, sucking and gently licking on each other's sensitive clits. With one final moan, the two mares both released their juices onto each other's lips, savoring the taste from their climaxes.

Coming down from their climax, AJ leaned up and turned back to Rainbow for another passionate kiss, intensified by the wonderful taste of their own juices mixed together.

“Ready for the real fun, sugarcube?” asked the still horny orange mare. Dash nodded as AJ moved her hips down, forcing both of their wet slits together and sending shivers up both of their spines.

Then they moved, grinding their flowers against each others’. Both mares kept moaning the other’s names as the pleasure again build between them. Neither wanted to stop their love for each other, but Rainbow stopped to lay down as AJ leaned up on top of her, grabbing RD’s right hind leg, allowing her better access to her wet nether regions with hers. Rainbow pressed her lips firmly against AJ, stuffing their moans as the two rubbed faster and faster. AJ broke the kiss when they both screamed each other name in a humorless tone as they reach their climax, spraying their juices all over themselves.

As they came down from there high, the two kissed. It wasn’t deep or just a peck, it was full of love and passion. “Ah love you RD.”

“I love you too, AJ,” The cyan pegasus softly said as the soothing comfort of a peaceful night’s sleep finally embraced them.

The guards stood ready and strong for anything. According to the letter, the one the elements received earlier, Phantom was going to attack three of the elements that night, and they were preparing for a fight, sharpening their weapons, exercising, and just about everything to be ready for anything. Not a word was shared between them, not even a single glance, they had to be ready for anything their enemies could throw at them. What they did not know is that Phantom anticipated this resistance and sent a few individuals to deal with the guards.

The guards spotted two figures approaching. One was a young unicorn mare while the other was an elderly looking griffon. However, the guards could tell from the armor they wore that they were working for Phantom and charged. This would quickly prove to be a foolish mistake.

Phantom and the others watched everything unfold from a distance. These two strangers, who easily overpowered Celestia’s guards, were two of the Zodiacs, trained by Midnight Blossom. Their names were Goldbeck and Ruby Bandit.

Ruby Bandit was a young unicorn mare who lived up to her name, as she came from a thieving and uncaring family. Phantom caught Ruby’s parents defiling the Everfree in search for goods. The moment they spotted him, they pushed their own daughter towards him as they ran away. Of course Phantom didn’t eat her, rather he took her under his wing. During her training, Ruby had her body genetically modified by Nightmare Moon’s dark magic. She then had Midnight train her in hoof to hoof combat. Even after being taken in by Phantom, she still retained some of her greed. She also learned the hard way never take treasure from comrades, much less a dragon.

Goldbeck was an elderly, but powerful emissary from Griffonstone. Goldbeck was one of the more honorable griffons. Like Ruby, Goldbeck was trained in physical combat thanks to his time when Griffionstone was in proptive. Even now, his old age doesn’t falter his combat in the least.

Despite his fierce loyalty to Phantom and Nightmare Moon, Goldbeck still had an eye for bits. Yet, he always put his mission before the treasures around him. Ruby Bandit on the other hoof, was more interested in gemstones.

“Let’s make our little treasure hunt a quick one,” Goldbeck said gruffly as he removed a sack of bits from one of the defeated guards.

“Agreed, Phantom sure does hate it when we take our sweet time.” Ruby use her magic to open the sack she took, and was a bit disappointed only to find four bits.

“Are you guys done yet, we have an order to keep.” Phantom, along with Pinkie, and Starlight appeared from the shadows.

“My apologies, sir. Did we take too much time?” Goldbeck asked.

“Nah, you were off by a couple a minutes, tho.” The dragon look down at the defeated guard. “I thought I told you two to ‘take care’ of the guards.” Phantom crossed his arms, waiting for an explanation

“We did,” Ruby assured, “We just-” Before the two could reply three more guards, two pegasus with bat wings that wore the golden armor for Celestia’s day guard, the other was a white pegasus with a blond mane appear behind the alicorn, dragon, unicorn, and earth pony.

Nightmare turned around to see Phantom, Starlight and Pinkie actually surprised about the three guards quickly discarded their spears and bowed before them.

“What is the meaning of this?” Nightmare asked, clearly confused.

“With this action,” both replying at the same time, “We show our love and loyalty towards you.” Discarding their helms and breaking the spells on them, they revealed their true faces, Lunar guards.

“I thought Bitchlestia disbanded the Lunar guards,” Phantom growled.

“She did, master Spi- I’m sorry, Phantom.” one of them quickly corrected himself. “Most of those treacherous scum joined the solar guards. But some of us, the ones loyal to you and our rightful princess, decided to help you from the shadows and inside the castle, we are few but you have us at your disposal.”

Nightmare, Phantom, Pinkie and Starlight all shared a surprised look, they truly hadn't expected such an event, but they weren’t going to waste such help. Even if it was little, their help could prove to be a great aid to them.

“If you are speaking the truth then you will allow me to scan your memories.”

For a moment both of them stood still while the magical mane of Nightmare wrapped around their heads, after ten second she let them go, smiling at them.

“You speak the truth and we are happy,” she said, eyeing them once again. “Go now, inform the rest that the Lunar Stallions are no more! From this night on, you shall be the Nightmare Guard!”

“Goldbeck, Ruby Bandit you may go back to the Empire and assist Zecora.” Nightmare commanded. Both pegasus nodded and without a second thought, flew away to their destination. They needed powerful figures to aid them in this revolution and this girl had displayed an unusual determination.

Phantom smirked and suddenly placing a claw on Luna’s back, right above her wings. The sudden action caused the alicorn to blush. “You know, I can understand why they’re still to loyal to you,” he said, caressing her lightly. “I mean, wouldn’t want such a wise and beautiful goddess as their queen?” This attention caused the queen’s blush to intensify.

Pinkie Pie bounced around the two, “Oh! Don’t forget kind! ... Ooh Ooh! And passionate! You can’t forget about passionate! I mean just the other night, Queen Nightmare-” She was cut off as Nightmare wrapped her mane around the mouth. Any more out of the motormouth and her face would turn completely red.

“Enough talk you two,” she said, trying to hide her immense blush and happiness. “We have to pay a visit tonight.”

“You’re right,” Phantom said, letting go of his teacher, unaware that she still tried to lean back against him.

“Shall we start the party?” Starlight asked causing Phantom to smile. The two then vanished in a burst of flames.

“Now then... let get started.” Nightmare giggled, making her way to the house.

“Okie Dokie Lokie!” Pinkie said grimly and saluted, following Nightmare.

Rainbow and AJ were sleeping soundly. RD dreamt about flying with her heroes, the Wonderbolts. Performing tricks while her four friends, her student, and marefriend watched and cheered.

AJ dreamed that she was sitting under a golden apple tree with her marefriend. The sun was setting as the two leaned against each other. The precious moment, however, was interrupted by the sound of the door slowly opening. Applejack opened her eyes, quickly remembering that she locked all the doors in the house so no pony could come in, and the only ponies out there were the hidden royal guards.

‘Maybe they came inside fer a drink?’ the cowpony thought. However she heard metal clanging hoofsteps, follow by a plain one. ‘Wait a tick, royal guards are on duty. And nopony should’ve been able to get in!’ The realization hit Applejack harder than her brother bucking an apple tree. She frantically shook Rainbow Dash, wanting her to get up. “Dash, Dash! wake up! Somepony is here! We got to grab Fluttershy and get out!” AJ shouted in a whispering tone at her lover’s ear.

“Unfortunately, that’s not going to happen,” said a voice all too familiar.

Rainbow awoke, yawning and mumbling, she was about to protest why was she woken up so rudely but stopped when she saw the fear in AJ’s eyes. Seemingly understanding, she hopped off the bed and both of them cautiously shot towards Fluttershy’s room. As they moved between the corridors of AJ’s home, they could see nothing but darkness and it was almost completely silent. Opening the door to Fluttershy’s bedroom, they couldn’t help but gasp in fear. There he was: Phantom, tenderly stroking the sleeping mare’s mane, whispering the song that had traumatized her.

Phantom stopped and looked up to the entrance Rainbow and Applejack were standing in, smiling at them.

“I can see you two ‘relaxed’ a bit before we came here,” he chuckled, causing both mares to angrily blush. “And I have to say, I feel a bit frisky myself.”

“H-How the hay did ya get past the royal guards!?” Applejack demanded.

“I guess neither you nor that fat bitch of an alicorn got the memo,” he sighed. He removed Fluttershy from his lap, leaving the butterscotch mare trembling in her sleep. “I was very clear when I told you skanks not to run or send any guards to protect you. If you had followed my terms, they would still be alive.”

The two mares charged at the dragon, but Phantom just stood there. Rainbow was the first to land a hit, her hoof making contact with Phantom’s scaly cheek. Applejack followed the pegasus’ lead and bucked Phantom in the stomach. Unfortunately, both attacks proved to be ineffective when the drake cracked a smile.

“Idiots. Dragon scales are able to withstand the heat of lava and tough enough to withstand a sonic boom. Attacks like those only might tickle me.” He then pulled his arm back, “I can’t say the same for a pony, however.” This time, Phantom was the one to hit Rainbow Dash’s cheek, sending her flying through the wall and into Apple Bloom’s room. He then wrapped his tail around and hit Applejack, slamming her against the hard wooden floor.

Rainbow got up, and with a burst of speed, charged at the dragon once more. Phantom side stepped and held out his arm, easily clotheslining her. The impact of his arm cause her to skid out of control, hitting the wall beside Applejack.

Applejack leaped into the air, hoping to bodyslam the monster. That didn’t work, as Phantom had seized AJ by the throat and slammed her through the top two floors, landing her in the basement with a sharp yelp of pain.

Phantom looked down at the hole he made, only to see AJ getting back up. Phantom sighed, “Stubborn as always.” He looked up, only to be greeted by a pair of hooves bucking him in the face, causing him to growl in annoyance.

Applejack slowly got up and looked up as the hole Phantom had made. ‘That brat! When ah get back up there, ah’ll literally rip his-’ Her thoughts were interrupted by a loud crashing sound coming from upstairs, followed by another. Soon the sound of many hooves touching the wooden surface, squeaked throughout the house.

‘The guards... are here?’ the orange mare thought, as she took a step towards the stairs. If Applejack’s theory was correct, she’d have to warn the guards that Phantom was about to kill her lover. However, the sound of hooves moved in two different directions. Some going upstairs, while the others were heading her way.

Meanwhile back upstairs, Rainbow Dash was on floor again coughing up blood. Evidently, the cyan has been roughed up pretty badly by Phantom. She slowly rose as three gray ponies enter the room, followed by Pinkie, Starlight, and Nightmare Moon.

Phantom turned his attention to Nightmare as Rainbow struggled to get back on her hooves, but to no avail. “So how many guards did you have?” he asked, “This slow ass mare is beginning to bore me.”

Rainbow Dash didn’t take the insult well. Forcing herself to get back on her hooves, her wings flapped from the new blood rushing through her body. But all of that ended when she saw a soft lime green glow encase her body. She could no longer hide her fear as she shakily looked up to see Phantom’s claw glowing the same color.

Phantom brought Rainbow Dash closer to him and cupped her chin, forcing her to look him in the eye. “You know, it disgusts me just to look at you, Rain-Bitch. You go around acting like a hotshot, but I know that deep down inside, you’re an insecure bitch worried about your future. That’s why you often pranked and tore me down, to make yourself feel superior.”

Rainbow glared at him, but couldn’t help shivering at the same time.

“I-I-Is that supposed to scare me?” Phantom tightened his grip on her chin in response to the question.

“Even though you’ve officially become a member of the Wonderbolts, you’ll never be like Spitfire.”

“B-Bastard…” she managed to spit out.

“Quite frankly, I’ve had enough of you playing hero,” he growled, letting go of Rainbow’s chin. “It’s time to sleep.” He lifted her up via magic and tossing her through the wall and into the ground outside the house. ”Oh, brilliant!” he spat as the three guards were ordered to make sure she was still alive.

Rainbow Dash had finally woken up and looked around to check her surroundings and saw it was dark, humid, but, most of all, noisy. She could hear voices, voices she didn’t recognized. She tried to move her legs, but something was holding her down, or keeping her from moving at all.

“Long time no see,” one of the voices said. “I’d like to play a game with you, Dashie.”

“Who’s there?” Rainbow asked, still off-sided and confused.

“Can’t recognize my voice? Of course you can’t. After all, you seem to forget your friends pretty quickly,” Pinkie said as Dash looked around, seeing she wasn't the only one in the same condition.

“W-What in the hay? W-Where are we?” asked a moaning red stallion, who was beginning to wake up. His green eyes spotted his litter sister, Apple Bloom, and his fiancée, Cheerilee, bound and gagged with guards standing by them. The red stallion tried to move, but his fore legs were chained into the wall. Using all his strength, Big Mac pulled at the chains, but his attempt in brute strength proved useless, as neither the chain or wall would give in. He turned his head and found AJ just waking up.

“B-Big Mac...w-what in the hay are you doing here?! Ah though you and the other...” Her sentence was cut short, remembering that Phantom had ponynapped them.

“Now that everyone’s awake... Phantom, would you be so kind to explain the rules of our little game?” Pinkie asked while Nightmare sat by the stairs, eating some popcorn Pinkie made for her. This ensured her that the show wouldn’t be boring.

“Of course.” Phantom said. ”Alright. Slowass,” Dash cringed at that word slow. “Since you don’t like anything to do with a penis, let’s test your lover’s loyalty towards you. I wonder who AJ loves more... you or her family? The rules are easy.” Phantom moved the pegasus to Mac, shoving her face against his crotch. “I will ask a series of questions. We all know Applejack won’t ever tell a lie. So here’s the deal: the more truthful she is towards you, the more her sister, and soon to be sister-in-law, will be raped by these stunning, and, might I add, well endowed stallions.” The drake cleared his throat and walked over to AJ, her eyes wide in shock and fear, while signaling the guards to get ready for some fun, Apple Bloom and Cheerilee cringed and tried to free themselves at that moment.

The six dark gray stallion that stood side by side, each member stood hard from anticipation and ready to take the school teacher and the teenage filly, eagerly awaiting the signal.

“But the more truthful you remain to your family, the more your big brother will have his way with her,” Phantom said darkly.

“YOU’RE OUTTA YER MIND!!” Big Mac shouted.

“Starlight, if you’d please?” Phantom asked glancing at the light purple mare.

“With pleasure,” she said lighting her horn. A spell then hit Big Mac in the head, making him drowsy for a second before snapping his eyes open with a purple glow over them.

“Ah will do as ya say, mah master.”

“Master? I like that,” Phantom chuckled darkly. “Now AJ, what will it be? Who are you going to let be raped? Your lover by your own brother, or your family by these royal guards?”

“Yer a monster,” AJ mumbled, looking at him with pure hate in her gaze.

“Monster? I doubt you would comprehend how much I suffered, so what gives you the right to call me that?” Phantom snarled.

“It’s your fault that you betrayed our beloved boss, so don’t blame him!” Pinkie stated, childishly sticking her tongue out. She then reached out and grabbed the country mare’s head. “Besides, the readers would love to see that bitch of yours suffer.” She pointed Dash who was looking back.

“Pinkie, what are you talking about?” Starlight asked.

“Oh, we’re all in this story called... You know what, I’ll be quiet now, before the author kills me off as well.” Pinkie zipped her lips shut, leaving everypony and dragon confused. Phantom let out a chuckle, as Pinkie’s randomness amused him to no end.

“Anyway,” Phantom said tapping his hand on Rainbow. “If you refuse to answer, then all of them will be punished severely…”

“First question,” Phantom began with a smirk. “Was Rainbow Dash your first lover?”

“No...” Applejack reluctantly answered. Rainbow was struggling against Big Mac when the answer arrived at her ears, which made her look at AJ surprised, and slightly betrayed.

Phantom grinned knowing what he’ll ask next. “Then your first lover, who was she?”

“What makes you think it was a mare?” the orange cowpony asked with a smirk.

Normally that remark would had angered the purple dragon, but he just rolled his eyes. “Alright then,” he said, “Since that cheeky remark that doesn’t answer the question...” Phantom was about to snap his claws, which would inform the guards and the controlled Big Mac, to do as they please.

“NO PLEASE! AH’M SORRY!” the orange pony pleaded, looking at her rainbow-maned lover with a look that begged for forgiveness. “Her name was Maple Tree. She was an earth pony who lived in Ponyville but moved to Baltimare. She was like a goddess. Her amber mane and tail, her light brown coat, and her lime green eyes.”

Phantom was eating up the moment, “Who was the better lover?”

This made Applejack blush. She didn’t know what to say. Maple wasn’t as rough, but she was passionate, Rainbow was both. She knew Phantom wouldn’t forgive her if she refused to answer the question a second time. “M-M-Maple was the better lover!” she yelled, causing Rainbow’s eyes to widen at the outburst. “A-A-Ah’m sorry Dashie... Please forgive me.”

Rainbow didn’t want to believe that this Maple was a better lover than she was. Her rose colored eyes turned to Phantom, who just waved at the red stallion to stand down for now. To him, this was too good to be true.

“Well Rainbow Slow, what do you have to say about this?” Rainbow Dash didn’t reply. “Nothing? Alright, moving on. Apple-Jerk, who do you love more?” the drake chuckled. “That self-centered bitch that your brother is over?” Phantom asked while both Apple Bloom and Cheerilee stared at the cowpony. The two struggled against the rope but it seemed useless. Both hoped, no, wished, that this nightmare was over, or that Applejack would answer right. “Or your family?”

AJ didn’t know how to answer this one.

Met with silence, Phantom shook his head while both mares looked in horror. He snapped his fingers signaling the four guards the do as they pleased.

“NOOO!!!” both mares screamed. Two of the guards moved towards the two mare at the same time, both their movements synced together. Their heads lean down to look at both there dry slits.

The yellow teen and violet school teacher felt violated from having their privates stared upon. The two guards move closer. Both the teen filly and the teacher closed their eyes, tears slowly dropped feeling their nether regions being touched by their tongues. Rainbow turned her head to see the two crying mares. She then looked to see Phantom, Nightmare, Starlight and Pinkie all just sit and watch the predicament.

“M-Make them stop! You only want us! They have nothing to do with this! “ Rainbow yelled, but her words fell on deaf ears. Phantom and Nightmare rolled their eyes.

“If you remember, dumbass. I asked Applebloom to the dance before Luna asked me.” the drake ranted. “Don’t get me wrong, I have nothing against her or her friends. But this is punishment, AJ. Which brings me to my next question.” The drake rose a claw. Signaling the guards to stop what there was doing. “Tell us, Applejack, did you really believe I was innocent?”

“Y-Y-yes.”

“Then why didn’t you defend him?!” Nightmare demanded.

“Or go to find him when Discord told you where he was?!” Both Starlight and Pinkie asked.

“B-B-Because ah thought, maybe the story was true. M-maybe Spike did do something like that? Since he ate meat.”

Applejack felt a sharp pain as Phantom casted a stinging curse. “My name is not SPIKE!!” he roared, absolutely infuriated by what he had just heard. It was already despicable for Applejack to make the mistake of calling him by the name he threw away. For her to admit, she deemed him innocent and did nothing to help him, is what really set him off.

Phantom increased the pain causing Applejack to scream louder. Nightmare gently placed a hoof on his shoulder, and he finally ceased the curse.

“Really? Did you tell the ponies in town what happened?!” Starlight asked, getting into the orange mare’s face.

“Yeah,” Pinkie interjected. “Did you say how you and that slow, worthless, piece of crap known as Rain-Bitch helped that fat slut of a tyrant banish Phantom?!” Applejack was at a lost of words, hearing the hurtful words her pink friend was saying.

Applejack was forced to witness her sister and Cheerilee being lined up, ready to be raped. “Y-Y-Yes ah have!” she replied.

“And what did they do?” asked Phantom, folding his arms.

“T-They were shocked at first, but then they were glad you left.” He looked at Pinkie, who nodded her head. He then looked at Apple Bloom, then Cheerilee, whose eyes were opened, meeting the gaze of a now hurt and enraged dragon.

“The whole town was glad I was gone?” he asked, as his anger silently built up.

“Y-Yes...” she confirmed with a gulp.

Phantom looked at the two, then walk over to the bound earth pony. He pulled off the chain and grabbed her hind legs. “SO AFTER ALL I HELPED YOU, YOU BITCH! AFTER ALL THE TIME, YOU NOT ONLY BANISHED ME FOR SOMETHING I DIDN’T DO, BUT YOU ALSO CELEBRATED?! WELL FUCK YOU ALL! BETTER YET AJ, YOU CAN WATCH HELPLESSLY WHILE YOUR DUMBASS SOUTHERN FUCKING FAMILY AND SLOW ASS LOVER ARE RAPED AND YOU’RE HELPLESS TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT!!” Phantom shouted, causing the windows to shutter.

The drake then pulled the farm pony’s leg to his mouth, his razor sharp fangs dug deep into her flesh and bone like it was nothing more than paper. Applejack screamed in agony, but neither Phantom, Nightmare, Pinkie, Starlight nor any of the guards could care less. Phantom pulled his jaw to the right, tearing the leg off the strong and proud earth pony. Blood sprayed out of her torn leg, some of her blood hitting the drake’s face and he simply licked it away with his long tongue.

Phantom drops the farm pony, and signaled the ponies to begin. The guards and Big Mac nodded and released them from their bonds. However, the three stallions pin the mares down. And with no consideration, the stallions became aroused via Nightmare’s magic.

Once all of the stallions were ready, each pressed their tips on the lips of their mares. The three pushed their hardened rods in the mare’s slits, causing two of them to gasp while the teen filly cried as her virginity was being taken away. Blood poured from her slit while the stallion pulled out, they push it back in, causing the three to gasp and whimper. Applejack could only stare in horror as the blood kept pouring out of her torn leg.

“L-Let them go, Spike. It’s me and Dash you want! They have nothing to do with this!” the cowpony pleaded. “Please, let them go and take me instead.” Applejack’s pleas, however, fell on deaf ears as the two stallions turned Applebloom and Cheerilee around. Both stallion spread their flanks showing their plot holes.

“P-P-Please, Spike. D-don’t do this, it really hurts! I’m beginning you!” the teenage mare pleaded, her eyes watery from the stinging thrust to her lower regions. Neither Phantom, Pinkie, Starlight or Nightmare cared. In fact, each mention of his former name just angered the purple dragon even more.

The two other guards grab their flanks, their shafts thrusting into the young mare and teacher’s plot holes, causing them to scream as loudly as they can. Rainbow felt Mac pulling his thick member out of her hole, and like the others, the red stallion thrusted his thick, well endowed shaft into her plot hole. The pain was unbearable.

“You can beg all you want,” the pink mare said, moving over to her queen of the night. “You all hurt Phantom in ways that would break anypony. You should’ve came with me. Discord told us where to find him. He would’ve accepted our apologies, but all of you were too scared to see how much pain Phantom was going though.”

Rainbow screamed louder than the teenage filly and teacher combined. The big red stallion pumped her as hard as he could. Her anus was bleeding from the large invader thrusting in and out. Applejack’s vision faded from the lack of blood. She had to do something to stop her brother from raping Dash. The guards too from raping her family. She had to. For her crying sister. For Dash.

The stallions kept thrusting their shafts inside the three mares’ holes. Using them as their own sex toys. The stallions groaned as their climax approached. The mares cried out as they felt their rapists’ members getting thicker. And without warning, the stallions poured their seed inside the three mares holes as the three cried out, horrified. After a few minutes, their climaxes came down and all of the stallion pulled their limp members out of the mares. The four sighed happily while the black alicorn ordered them to return to the Crystal Empire. They nodded and left the room as Phantom picked up AJ and smack her a few time before tossing her to Rainbow.

“It’s a shame, really. Apple Bloom and Cheerilee would make perfect breeding sluts for your guard Nightmare.” That was the last thing the mares heard before losing consciousness.

Applejack woke from her slumber sweating and panting. She looked around and saw nothing but darkness, but felt somepony on top of her. She released a sigh, seeing her lover RD was safe and sound asleep, but she was also sweating.

‘Was it real?’ She asked herself, rolling Rainbow to the side and stretching all four of her legs. ‘Wait,’ she thought, looking at her legs. She had all four of them. ‘Didn’t Spike tear em off?’ The cowpony took a step forward, feeling a stinging sensation on her hind legs. She look and saw a gaping hole where her cutie mark had once been. It was gone. “What in tarnation?!” AJ pulled the covers to see RD’s cutie mark was gone as well. AJ shook Rainbow to get up. The rainbow mare popped her eyes open and screamed.

“AHHHHHH! AJ!” she screamed wrapping her hooves around her. She was afraid and didn’t know what to do. After ten minutes of her marefriend pouring out her tears, the lantern lit in AJ’s dresser, with a note on it and a hourglass that glowed in a lime green aura, stopping the sand from falling. AJ turned and began to read.

Dear Apple-Jerk and Rain-Bitch,

I do hope you enjoyed the nightmare you had, because that’s what you did to me seven years ago. Oh, and I hope you don’t mind me taking your cutie marks, since you’re both going to die within the next the few minutes anyway. And I think I have a really fun way to pass the time! Let’s play a game! A game to see if you want to live. Here are the rules: there's a gas leak in the house and in ten minutes, the house, along with everything in it, will go up in flames. This house is boarded shut and has a spell protection, so the only way out is through the basement. But after the sand reaches the 2 minute and 30 second mark, both of the basement doors will be locked shut. The hourglass on the dresser will start once the doors to the house are opened and the game will begin. Will you save yourselves and leave those you love to die? Or will you stay and let the explosion kill you all? It’s your decision.

Phantom.

PS: I took Fluttershy with me.

As soon as the doors opened, the sand began to drop. AJ and Rainbow stared in horror.

“We have to go! Now!” Rainbow screamed, trying to flap her wings. But in attempting to move them, a sharp pain coursed through her body. She looked to her wings to find they were broken.

“W-we can’t... What about the others? Ah’ll get Apple Bloom and Scoots, you get Mac and Cheerilee.” AJ got out of bed and rushed to Apple Bloom’s room. There, she and Scootaloo slept soundly. She shook the two wildly, waking them up. Apple Bloom leaped into her sister’s arms, crying while Scootaloo tilted her head.

“Sis it was horrible! Spike and Nightmare...” the young mare choked. “T-The stallions...”

“Shh... it’s okay Apple Bloom. Right now, we have to get out of here.”

Applejack, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo ran downstairs. Rainbow did the same, but she was a bit hastened from seeing Mac under Nightmare's spell. But she knew she had to get them up.

“H-Hey!” Rainbow said, shaking both Cheerilee and Big Mac. “Hey, guys! Come on, we need to go! And I mean right NOW!”

Both the mare and stallion opened their eyes. Big Mac jumped out of bed, placing his hooves together and begging for forgiveness. “A-Ahm sorry...” Was all he could say before getting cut off by a hoof to his lips.

“Hey, it’s okay, it wasn’t your fault. Right now we need to concentrate on finding a way out of here. Phantom set off a gas leak and we have ten minutes to get out.” Both the stallion and mare nodded as the three rushed downstairs to the kitchen, only to find Applejack, Applebloom, and Scootaloo standing there, watching the sand in the hourglass on the door drop.

“What are you three doing?!” Rainbow screamed.

“The door will only take one. And once that pony’s through... it’ll magically lock...” AJ explained, handing Rainbow the note.

Five minutes remaining. “Then who should go through?” The school teacher asked, looking down at the hourglass.

“I vote Big Mac,” Rainbow raised her hoof.

“Eenope.”

“Oh come on, you’re a strong stallion.”

“Ah’d have nothin’ ta live for,” he said holding Cheerilee close. “Specially if livin’, means leavin’ my special somepony to die.”

Rainbow looked at the her marefriend,“If Applejack’s staying, then I’m staying too,” she said wrapping her hooves around Applejack.

“Applejack?” Apple Bloom asked, but the orange mare shook her head.

“We all knew this was comin,” she replied with tears flowing down her freckled cheeks. “Ah’d rather go through torture than see ma family die.”

The teen filly turned to Cheerilee next. “Miss Cheerilee, what about you?” she asked.

“Sorry Apple Bloom, but if Big Mac or any of you girls die, I wouldn’t be able to live with myself.” The schoolteacher snuggled closer to Big Mac. If she was going to die, she’d die with the stallion she has come to love.

“Then, what about you Apple Bloom?” Rainbow turned to the yellow filly who just stood there.

“A-Ah don’t want to leave no pony.”

Another slow pause, three and a half minutes remaining. “I... I think it's gotta be you, Scoots...” Rainbow said dejectedly. “I don't want it to be this way, but I don't think he has anything against you. I know you always tried to consider him a friend, and you have whole life ahead of you.” She couldn't hold her tears back. “Like Applejack said this is our fault. We betrayed him.”

“S-She’s right...” Applejack agreed, “Scootaloo yer the only one that hasn’t done anything bad to Spike... She’s the only one that has a chance,” They were all crying at this point. “Just don’t forget about us, ya hear?”

“You and Sweetie Belle are the bestest friends ah could have asked fer.” Apple Bloom said, hugging Scootaloo. “Ah’m glad we lived to get our cutie marks together.”

“You be a good filly now, it’s been a joy being your teacher,” Cheerilee smiled.

“Eeyup,” Big Mac spoke.

“Remember to be an awesome stunt filly,” Dash said placing a hoof on the filly shoulders.

Scootaloo sniffed, “I-I‘ll never forget you, any of you.” With that, she stepped through the door with only few seconds to spare, leaving them through the twisting passage that lead to the surface, spending the time remembering all the good times they had together. All the memories she had with Applebloom and Sweetie flooded her mind. She remembered when she met the yellow filly, the time they spent trying to find their special talents, how they won the talent show for best comedy, when they made Big Mac and Cheerilee fall in love. The best memory was how they all finally got their cutie marks after helping Diamond Tiara make friends.

But all that came to an end when the orange pegasus rose from the cellar, right as the house exploded. The sight sent Scootaloo to the ground, crying for the loss of some of the greatest ponies she’s ever met. The loss of one of her best friends, her teacher, and most of all, an older sister.

Chapter Ten

I sat in the royal garden, alone, gazing thoughtfully up at the night sky before saying to myself, “she makes the most beautiful stars any dragon will ever hope to see.” It was beautiful, the stars shone throughout the sky, like an infinite array of diamonds pushing back the darkness and bringing light to all of the corners of the dark sky. If I was vigilant, and lucky, I would spot one of these diamonds fling themselves across the sky as a paintbrush would on a clean canvas.

Twilight and Trixie were in their bed, their bodies were covered in sweat after the passionate activities they’ve recently engaged in. The two laid there, lidy embracing each other, glad that Nightmare allowed them entrances into the dream world. Their sleep was interrupted by some magical ashes flowing past the opened window above their bed, coiling like a snake finding sanctuary for sleep, and coalesced into a singular mass until, in a flash of magic, it materialized into two very recognizable, skinned, cutie marks. The orange fur and shining red triplets were accompanied by their cyan and spectrumed counterpart.

To the dismay of the bed’s occupants, they did not wake up instantly. No, the message had come in the dead of night, in the prime of sleep, when all was quiet, and it sat, festered, and allowed the still bleeding skins to release their juices into the covers. It was not until the crimson liquid began to soak the sheets that the two mares were warned of the disturbance. Twilight had awoken to mild discomfort that would come from the soaked linens rubbing incessantly into their flesh. She then screamed and screamed, and then screamed some more. She had awoken her lover, the pets that remained in their domicile, and many ponies that took residence within a few blocks.

The identity of the flesh the two mares saw was apparent, given the uniqueness of cutie marks, and that simple fact caused Twilight to shiver in horror. Phantom had gotten to Applejack and Rainbow Dash, it was his signature, but no letter had appeared as per the usual modus operandi. He had always left a message to show that it was him, to show that he was coming so he could instill fear into the ponies he was after, the fact that there wasn’t a letter was either a blessing or a curse that Twilight could not determine.

Rushing to confirm the well being of her friends, Twilight and Trixie tossed all caution to the wind, leaving the royal guards eating their dust, praying to Celestia, Luna, even Discord himself that they would be safe, that they would, by some miracle, escape the death bringer that was Phantom. Obviously their prayers would not be answered.

Even with their quickest rush they were still a quarter of a mile away when an explosion resonated through Sweet Apple Acres, the magnitude of the explosion was so great that it caused their teeth to buzz with power. Ash and smoke quickly filled the air as Twilight and Trixie made their way to the barn, an extra gear in their run. Twilight, who was no stranger to explosions, knew just how powerful that explosion was, making her pray all the harder for her friends to be okay.

When they got there, however, it was a nightmare all over again. They were greeted by corpses and death. The corpses of the guards were laying motionless. Twilight knew eleven guards were posted by the house, five unicorns and six pegasi, but she only counted nine guards lying there dead. ‘So where are the other two?’ Twilight thought to herself, but her thoughts were cancelled by a gaping hole where AJ’s house use to be. The two mare gasp from the sight. The two ran around the crater of the former house until they both heard crying from the orchard. Twilight and Trixie ran to where it was coming from and they saw the teenage filly.

“What happened?” Trixie asked, looking around.

“Spike...” she sniffed. “I-It was him and Nightmare... they put Apple Bloom and me to sleep... All I can remember is that there was a gas leak, a-a-and I left. I left Apple Bloom, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Big Mac, and Miss Cheerilee to die...” she sniffed. The teen then broke down in tears, having both her idol and best friend dead. Twilight wrapped the teenaged mare in her hooves, trying to calm her down.

“H-How did this happen?” Twilight asked. Scootaloo looked into her eyes and told her what Applejack had told them. Twilight couldn’t believe what she was hearing. From Scootaloo’s words, Phantom had set off a gas leak, sealed all the doors and windows other than the basement, and had to make them choose who to let go while the others died. Twilight was in shock that Phantom did all of this. “And where’s Fluttershy?”

“I-I don’t know…” she sniffled. “I was with Granny Smith, Winona, Big Mac, Miss Cheerilee, and Apple Bloom when he and Nightmare Moon appeared. The last thing I remembered was Spike eating Winona before I blacked out. When I woke up I was in the bed with Applebloom.” The filly would keep sobbing all throughout the night, but for the moment she would feel anger, in a moment she will know an anger she has never felt before.

A cough was all it took, one tiny misplaced sound, one so familiar and so out of place that it was impossible to miss.

“Bah,” they heard someone say in a displeased tone. “You gave away my position Scoots,” The voice was coming from the left. “And quite frankly, I’m tired of hearing my old name.”

“Murderer!” Scootaloo shouted as the figure walked forward, seemingly operating from the shadows themselves. It was a dragon, as tall as Celestia, lean, yet with a distinct tone to his muscles, purple scales, green underbelly and spines, wings, and those emerald eyes that radiated a softness and kindness that Twilight knew only one such being had been able to before.

“Spike?” she asked, her fated meeting with him was anything but her dream reunion. She had wanted to reunite with him alone, far from the eyes of her mentor, her lover, and anything remotely sentient. “Or should I call you Phantom now?”

The dark drake laughed, “I see you’ve found out about my name. Yes, it’s me Twilight,” he said, spreading his arms and wings in a grandstanding gesture. “In the scales.”

His smile turned back into a frown as he stared at the sole survivor of the barn massacre. “Scootaloo, I’ve got to be honest, I’m surprised they let you out,” he said, directing his attention to the quivering young mare before him. “I would’ve bet that you’d want Apple Bloom or maybe Rainbow Dash to live. I would’ve at least considered Apple Bloom a threat. They had thirty seconds, more than enough time to have an earth pony walk through.”

Phantom then placed a claw to his chin in thought, completely and utterly perplexed by the string of actions that unfolded before him. “Ah!” he exclaimed breaking the silence, “They were being cruel.” There was a mirth in his tone that simply didn’t belong. “Even to the last second, they were unbelievably cruel.”

That was the straw that broke the camel’s back, Phantom had gone too far. Scootaloo, with all the rage she could muster, released a deafening roar as she charged at the dragon. Unfortunately, it was useless, as Phantom was just too strong for her. He could have easily matched her blow for blow, but he just merely, narrowly, and mockingly, dodged her every punch.

“You lack martial arts training, Scoots. Your attacks are weak and unfocused. At this moment, you’re just a pathetic, exhausted beast.” Scootaloo temporarily stopped her assault and looked at Phantom with pure hatred in her purple eyes.

The dragon held up his hand with a smile. “Scootaloo, please relax a little,” he said playfully.

‘This jerk, he’s making fun of me!’ She jumped into the air again and threw her hoof for another punch. This time, Phantom swatted her hoof to the side, causing Scootaloo to fall to the ground.

“Think,” he continued as he dodged another strike from her hoof. “Applejack and Rainbow Dash were content to die together, Big Mac wanted to spend his last few moments in the embrace of his lover, much like she wanted as well, leaving only the two little fillies as a viable option.” Ducking under a rather lethal shot by the pegasus. “Apple Bloom would have been the better choice, as she had family, extended beyond compare, and I wouldn’t have even tried to harm her. The one who escapes is the one who lives, I was very specific. Yet in light of that, you came out. Why?”

Phantom stopped dodging her barrages, and simply accepted them for the tickles they gave him. “It’s because you’re alone.” That one sentence had frozen the orange mare stiff and Phantom kneeled down and placed a claw under Scootaloo’s chin. “Where are your parents, Scootaloo? For that matter, where are the ponies who would miss you when you pass? Many of them were in that hole just over there.” He pointed to the crater that was the Apple family house. “Most that mattered anyways. Can you tell me how cruel it is to allow somepony, who has nothing, watch as those that matter most are killed by her very hoof?”

“You killed them!” she shouted in rebuttal as she shoved herself away.

“Yes, I did kill them, a premeditated fiasco, but I didn’t leave them to die did I?” he smiled. “I had planned to kill them from the very start. Yet, you chose to leave them after they decided you must be the one to live. You could have refused and died with them, but you left your best friend behind.

“Y-You’re a monster...” Scootaloo said, as tears returned to her eyes.

“I’m surrounded by hypocritical mules,” Phantom sighed, knowing his words weren’t going to get through to these stubborn ponies. “If I am a monster for planning on killing ponies that have wronged me, then you’re worse for leaving a friend that thought everything of you.” Phantom clenched his fists as the playfulness in his tone ceased. “I already know what it’s like to be abandoned so I thought I’d give someone else a taste of the bitter feeling.”

“Quiet!” Twilight finally interrupted. “Scootaloo did nothing wrong! It was either they saved one pony or they all die! Like buck Rainbow Dash would leave anypony to die when she can save them. It is you who is in the wrong here... Ph-Phantom!” Tears came from her eyes as she choked out the name. He was no longer the dragon that he used to be.

Turning back Phantom vanished and reappeared right in front of the alicorn of friendship. He swiftly delivered a punch to her chest causing Twilight to fall to the ground, and hold her gut in pain.

“Twilight...” his deep baritone resonating in her ears. “You’re lucky I held back that punch. I know that you’ve really powered up since last I saw you, I don’t want this to be too easy.”

“Still, why couldn’t I have a little fun?” His serious tone had changed to a playful one. “Survivor’s syndrome is such an interesting thing to see develop. It’s no fun when ponies get in the way.” His face turned sad, flashing in Twilight’s mind the times when her young charge would come weeping in the middle of the night, spouting nonsense of her leaving him.

Despite the pain in her gut, Twilight forced herself to get back on her hooves. “Don’t make that face!" she shouted, sudden rage overcoming her. Phantom knew she was acting this way to keep herself from feeling guilty.

“This is my regular face, Twilight. Does it look wrong?” he asked.

“It’s the face that belonged to my number one assistant, you have no right to even know about it!” she screamed.

“That’s preposterous Twilight,” Phantom said eating up the moment, “All I did was change my weak name, this is still my face. Or maybe I’m some other handsome dragon?” He played along, enjoying the light banter with a soft smile.

“STOP IT!!” She fired a focused blast of energy at the drake, but Phantom simply flicked it away with his index claw. Though surprised by his strength, the purple alicorn continued her assault.

“That’s a smile only Spike should have! STOP IT! STOP IT! STOP IT!!!” She continued firing bolt after bolt, each with the intention of killing this imposter, this doppelganger. Phantom that had taken the form of her best friend, her beloved brother. Phantom rapidly deflected each blast, unfazed by even one ray.

“That’s under the assumption that I have changed from my usual self, Twilight. Which I have to say, is very concerning. Talking without having all the facts doesn’t surprise me, given that damned hypocritical complex of yours,” he spoke while dodging her shots. “Like I just said, the truth is only the name I bore in my miserable life has been changed.”

“No! Spike wouldn’t have done all of these horrible things, my Spike wouldn't have threatened to kill all of his best friends. Spike isn’t a monster!” she screamed.

“Calling me a monster while you were the one who abandoned a baby dragon for something he obviously didn’t do?” His eyes then flashed in silent rage, “You really are a hypocrite,” he spat. Twilight’s eye twitched, it was like his catchphrase and she hated it every time.

“You’re right about one thing, I’m no longer Spike, the dragon you used to know and treated like shit,” he said. “Spike was weak trying to convince himself that the ones who abused and eventually abandoned him were his friends. He would have gone to the end of the earth to find anyone that would have harmed you and make them pay. Stopping at nothing to seek retribution to the perpetrator. I haven’t changed, Twilight. It’s simply that instead of you, it is my family.”

“Now I have a group who truly cares for me. They are my family now and I would have been content with just that,” Phantom sighed. “To tell you the truth, I really would have just disappeared from Equestria without so much as a single huff of annoyance. However, Queen Nightmare told me what happened to my family and my kind during the dragon migration. I’m sure Fluttershy told you, right?”

Twilight’s mind flashed to beakers and test tubes, cracked eggs and mangled corpses, electrodes and cries of pain, research of a hostile species.

“My family is the reason why I would walk to the ends of the earth. That I have walked to and past for. To make right a wrong that was caused simply for the sake of curiosity. To atone for the killing of the innocent.”

“That’s the same thinking a villain does in a cliched book,” Trixie spoke, the first time since arriving there. Phantom hated that she interfered in a conversation that didn’t concern her.

“Maybe, but I don’t seek world domination,” Phantom argued. “Some ponies hurt me in such a deep way that I will never be able to profess. You should know what betrayal feels like, Twilight. How did it feel when you found that your brother and foal sitter had died? Didn’t you feel enraged? Despaired? Shattered?”

“You at least got to know them, watch as they grew up, to see their story, say hi to them in the morning. I was robbed of that. When you felt angry or sad, or happy, you had your parents to talk to, but I had no one. Have you ever felt discarded or unwanted!? I had that in spades!”

Suddenly, Phantom began chuckling as if he found some comedy in this tragedy that was his life. “The funny and ironic part was that I didn’t even know!” he laughed. “I must have been a big joke to her, huh? Laughing and smiling when I came into this world, with the deaths it took to make it so. Trying my hardest to make friends with ponies, heck even making myself believe that I had any in the first place.”

The laughter died down and Phantom returned to his serious tone. “Me and Nightmare returned to Canterlot the day after we disappeared, to make sure of a few things. And do you know what happened the first time I asked somepony if they knew the dragon in the papers?” He shook in rage of the upcoming answer. “It wasn't Spike the dragon or your number one assistant, or even pet. It was ‘that purple alicorn’s slave’!”

Phantom threw his arms out and his eyes glowed bright green. “Given the same hypocrite of a princess was the one who named me, the name ‘Spike’ only served as a reminder of my abuse and humiliation!” he growled. “That’s why I saw fit to create a new name. I am Phantom of the Nightmares, nothing more, nothing less!”

Finally finished, Phantom turned around and reaching into the shadow of a tree and pulled out Fluttershy’s wheezing form. “Nevertheless, I’m rambling and it’s getting late.”

He tossed Fluttershy at the mares, Trixie caught her effortlessly while Twilight readied another bolt. Phantom huffed as he saw Twilight’s horn still glowing, it was as if she hadn’t understood a word he said. “Take her, I was simply making sure she didn't do herself in.” He began walking down the path out of Ponyville, no one protecting him, not once turning his head, but he did stop a few feet from Twilight and Trixie.

“Remember this Twi, I won’t stop until all of you have paid the price for what you put me through.” Phantom’s eyes flashed brightly for a few seconds before returning to their usual appearance. “Today I’ll let you go so these words can sink in, given you’ve actually listened to what I’ve told you.” A bright green aura of magical energy radiated off Phantom’s scales. “But next time...” he pointed at her, “I will show you hell.”

Shivers ran down Twilight’s spine at these words. She couldn’t find the ability to verbally respond to the threat. All the purple alicorn could do, was continue to tremble at the menacing aura that Phantom gave off.

His faced turned neutral as he turned to walk away. That’s when Scootaloo struck. A war chant of old resonated through the slightly energized air as she cut through it like a hot knife through butter, using debris from the house as a makeshift weapon in her hands, rushing to claim his life. Phantom grabbed her by her throat without hurting her. She wasn’t even worth killing.

With one directed look of malice, Scootaloo had experienced such fear, that almost made her pass out. “Do not be so quick to die, Scoots,” he whispered. “There are still more acts to this play. The truth is, I actually like you, so I recommend you watch quietly if you don’t wish to see the other side.”

Phantom gently released Scootaloo and continued his way home. Paralyzed by the dragon’s warning, all Scootaloo could do was watch as Phantom walked away. Entering the shadow of the orchard, green flames engulfed Phantom’s immediate area. When the flames extinguished, Phantom was gone. Having lost the chance to avenge Apple Bloom and the others, Scootaloo began to cry.

Ponyville was in disarray, fearing that the dragon would fly over and burn them all to ashes during the funerals, which were held in the barn. All of Ponyville was there. The Apples and Oranges also attended to pay their respects to their lost kin. Even the princess of the sun attended, having to say that she had tried her hardest to protect her subjects, but failed.

The remaining elements spoke, paying their last goodbyes. Scootaloo didn’t speak, she didn’t want to speak, all she wanted to do was cry. After the funerals, ponies volunteered to harvest the apples in respects to the memory of the element of honesty and her family.

Applejack’s foalhood friend, Rara attended the funeral as well. Even though she was a busy pop star, she still have time to visit her old friend every now and then. She was absolutely aggrieved when she learned of AJ’s death.

The Wonderbolts established a memorial for the boastful Rainbow Dash, as she became an official member seven years ago. Even as a filly, she showed great potential as a flyer. It was such an honor to have her in their ranks.

Nightmare Moon was now officially the queen of the empire until they take over Canterlot, sat comfortably on her throne with Phantom standing beside her. Flurry Heart for her part understand and wasn’t ready to rule due to her young age. Of course, Nightmare Moon took her in and is helping her to rule what will be hers someday.

At the moment they were listening to a red pegasus mare’s progress. This pegasus was named Scarlet Blaze. Like Emerald Wind, Scarlet was one of the Zodiacs working for Obsidian. In her case, instead of dragons, Scarlet was in charge of the business with Griffonstone.

Doing business with the griffons was fairly difficult due to their greedy nature. However with patience, the griffons came to become reasonable, with the exception of a few. With Scarlet’s charisma Griffonstone agreed to exchange resources with Phantom and Nightmare. In fact, it’s because of Scarlet Blaze that Griffonstone’s queen, Gilda allowed Goldbeck into Phantom’s army.

“Captain, Snips, Snails and Pip have returned to bring a report.”

“Let them in,” Nightmare said from her throne. The guards saluted and opened the doors to let their guests into the throne room. With Pinkie’s allegiance to the Nightmare Guard now known, it was no longer safe for the pink mare to spy in Ponyville.

All three have physically and mentally changed from their training with Pinkie.

“Mission report,” Phantom asked as the three stallions entered the room.

“Ponyville is scared that you might come back,” replied Snails. “And some of the residents are moving out.”

“That’s a good start, at least.” Phantom said.

“Also there were reports that the Wonderbolts and the Royal Guard are joining forces to help fight against us,” Snips added.

“Figures,” Nightmare scoffed. “Anything else?”

“We don’t know if it’s true, but there’s a rumor around Ponyville that Appleloosa is making a militia to kill you,” Pip answered.

“I would love to see them try,” Phantom scoffed. “Anyway, this information is quite useful, so I thank you three.” The three stallions bowed as Snails teleported them all back to Ponyville.

Nightmare was getting bored of just sitting around and decided to take her free time as a chance to have some time with her student. “Phantom let’s go for a walk, shall we?” Nightmare offered in a tender tone. After all she made it a lovely night for a stroll through their new empire.

Phantom and Nightmare Moon exited the castle and walked down the streets of the Crystal Empire. Phantom was happy that two of his so-called friends were dead. The way he made those mares and their family pay for what they did to him seven years ago brought himself pride. Now Phantom could focus on the rest of the elements and their lovers, if they didn’t break up with them that is.

As they walked down the quiet streets, Phantom concentrated on tonight’s sky. As he looked up, he couldn’t help but admire the beauty of the night that Queen Nightmare had brought. The full moon brightened the dark skies along with the stars shining like diamonds. It was all so beautiful, but the beauty of the night couldn’t compare to the queen’s natural beauty. Her long, powerful, toned legs and gorgeous flank were moving from side to side. The way she just trotted down the streets would make any stallion or mare climax from the sight alone.

Phantom couldn't help but take a quick peek, the sight was beyond beauty. However as his interest in the queen’s flank, didn’t go unnoticed. Nightmare Moon purposely wiggled her flank and continued to trot, adding a little more pep in her steps. She really did enjoy teasing her student from time to time.

Phantom heard the childish giggle coming from his mentor. “See something you like, my dear?” the mistress of the night asked teasingly, causing Phantom to blush. Turning around Nightmare cupped Phantom’s chin with her hoof, and gave him her usual motherly smile. “It’s okay, my beloved student. You’ll have the permission to look as much as you like once we’re done dealing with your former friends.” The alicorn hissed at the word ‘friend’.

“We have to wait for Pinkie, Starlight and Midnight to bring the other guards?” the drake asked. Nightmare nodded to his question.

“So what now? I mean, we did force those pissant soldiers back to where they came from, and the crystal ponies that supported us have been released from the prisons.” Phantom did have a point, they’ve done all they could do to push back the guards and bring back some of the Lunar Guard at the same time. She stopped and placed a hoof on her chin, thinking about what to do before the guards arrived.

“Please follow me,” the dark alicorn said before walking off to the crystal fields. Phantom tilted his head in confusion, then followed in pursuit. Minutes later, the two walked toward the field in the outer city, to their amusement it wasn’t bloody nor did it have the lingering stench of death and decay that was prominent within the other areas. The gentle night breeze passed through fur and scales, giving off a good vibe. No fighting, no killing, and no torturing.

This was like the time Phantom was living in the woods, as he had nothing to worry about. It was just him and Luna, playing and enjoying the nature of the world. Phantom really wished he had spent more time like that with Luna before his unfair banishment. He always enjoyed listening to her stories of the night sky, cuddling her in his sleep and feeling her gentle hooves on his spines. Phantom really did enjoy her company, he was falling more for the alicorn with each second.

Feeling mischievous, Phantom leapt into the air and tackled Nightmare. They both fell and rolled around the field until they came to a complete stop. The drake rested on top of the alicorn queen with his eyes locked with her. They were able to see each other blushing.

Out of pride, Nightmare made an effort to hide her blush by turning her head toward the view of the city. Phantom placed his claw on her cheek, gently leading her to look back into his emerald eyes. Their heart rates quickly picked up. Phantom was the first to lean into a kiss, their lips inches away from each other. It was exciting, Phantom’s first kiss was about to be with the queen of the night.

“PHANTOM! NIGHTMARE MOON!” Pinkie’s high pitched voice sang through the air, gaining both their attentions, and ruining the tender moment between them.

‘Every fucking time!’ Phantom angrily thought.

Nightmare bucked Phantom off her and stood. Phantom, groaning from the mild pain, stood as well, rubbing his underbelly

“I brought the night guards like you asked me to, it was real easy. First, I gathered them for a super awesome party, then I told them-” Before Pinkie could finish, Midnight placed a hoof on Pinkie’s mouth.

Starlight blushed in guilt that she had ruined the moment. “Sorry we interrupted but you two, but we’re all here,” she said. Phantom and Nightmare dusted themselves off and looked at the seventy five lunar guards that had gathered. Twenty-five were earth ponies, twenty-five unicorns, and twenty-five pegasi. All of them had bat-like wings and slit eyes like a cat.

“How many have you brought?”

“Seventy five, milady. We have five more who are remaining in the castle gathering information. The other twenty still remain loyal to Princess Celestia,” Midnight informed them.

“Didn’t you have more Nightmare?” Phantom questioned the fact that there were over nine hundred to a thousand soldiers in the royal guard.

“I wish, my dear. When we returned, my ‘sister’ gave us a hundred guards and asked the rest if they wanted to join. Sadly, there were none that wished to join, so we made them our personal Lunar Guard,” the dark alicorn explained. “Now listen up.” Nightmare spoke in her regal tone, getting all of the guards’ attentions. “The Lunar Guard is no more! From now on, the Nightmare guards will patrol and protect the night and her princess!” The guards saluted to the alicorns words.

“Now, from this day forth we will set up a brand new system with Spike or who you will all know now as Phantom as captain.”

Phantom stepped forward and addressed the new recruits in a powerful voice.

“CRYSTAL PONIES, LUNAR SOLDIERS WE ARE ALL ONE NOW! MERELY A NATION PRETENDING TO EMBRACE FRIENDSHIP AND LOVE YET IGNORING. WE WILL THIS IGNORANCE UPON OVERTHROWING CELESTIA! SOON ALL EQUESTRIA WILL BOW TO OUR REGIME AND OPEN THEIR EYES TO A TRUE LAND OF HARMONY AT THE BEHEADING OF THE SOLAR MONARCH EQUESTRIA AND THE DRAGON EMPIRE WILL SERVE AS ONE NATION FROM THIS DAY FORTH, WE ARE THE NIGHTMARE FAMILY!!!”

The guards threw their hooves into the air as their captain finished his speech.

These soldiers were not fools, they knew the crimes their new captain had already committed, the atrocities he has done, but they also knew they were done with good reason. They heard of the dragon’s unfair banishment and were willing to support him to the end in anyway they could. Above all, they were loyal and from what they had heard, Phantom’s betrayal and misjudgment was something many of them could not even begin to comprehend. But what really bothered them was that one of the elements, who they say betrayed him, and ask for forgiveness. Loyal as there were, they still wouldn’t trust her.

“Captain Phantom,” Midnight stood ready to follow Phantom’s commands. “What are your orders?”

“Midnight. I want you to take fifteen guards and post them by the borders of the empire, and have two help guard Princess Flurry Heart when she’s not with Sunburst or Starlight, then come back to the castle, I have an assignment for you. The rest of you will be living in the castle. I don’t want that bitch and her guards attacking my empire or my family. Is that understood?”

“YES SIR!” the guards said in unison.

“Pinkie,” Phantom began as he turned to the pink mare “I want you to make sure Snips, Snails and Pip keep an eye on that white whore.” Pinkie nodded and in her own random fashion, hopped south where she seemly disappeared. ‘I got to find out how she does that.’

“You are dismissed,” Phantom shouted and the guards once again saluted before Midnight began picking the five guards and escorted them to the border. After the guards were settled in their respective barracks in the castle, Midnight flew back to the throne room, interrupting a small conversation Phantom and the queen were having. Phantom stepped down while Nightmare took the throne, turning and walking over to Midnight.

“Afterwards, I want you to send somepony to Las Pegasus and tell them to hold a fashion show. In case they ask, tell our messenger to say it’s a request from Hoity Toity to get some snot-nosed assholes and bitches for his next fashion line... And make sure Fancy and that white bitch get the invitation.” Phantom spoke stoically as Nightmare giggled as she was remembering the way the guards had spoken, Phantom made a perfect impression.

Pinkie saluted and ran to fulfill her orders. stopped and turned to her captain. ”Before you go, make sure our guest is well fed and rested. Wouldn’t want her to miss her sister’s big execution.” Midnight nodded to Phantom’s orders and flew out of the throne room, leaving Nightmare and Spike to themselves once again.

Nightmare still gazed at the dragon, who just yawned. He hadn’t slept in two days, busy fighting guards and freeing the crystal ponies who sided with him. “Get some sleep, my student. As the captain, you need the most rest.” Nightmare spoke in a motherly tone.

“You sure Luna? I mean, the ponies that I saved-” The drake was stopped when Nightmare raised her hoof.

“I understand, Phantom, but you’ve been up for two days. I want you to be well rested for what fate brings tomorrow. And don’t worry, if something happens, I or the guards shall contact you.”

Phantom nodded to Nightmare’s words before he bowed and walked to his chambers. Before he exited through the door, Phantom turned and looked at the alicorn who sat upon the shared throne. She smiled lovingly, causing her student to do the same.

‘Someday, I’ll be sitting on the throne, with you by my side. By my side... as my queen,’ Phantom thought, fantasizing about his new love. The queen of the night, had not only repaired his heart, but claimed it for herself. Looking at her one last time, Phantom left the throne room. His said chambers happened to be the same room where Shining Armor and Cadance once slept.

Phantom looked out the nearby window and gazed at the city of crystals. The queen’s moon reflected off the crystal buildings, making them glow like lanterns. The Crystal Empire, was now his.

Las Pegasus, the second largest city and one of the most popular cities in Equestria. The lights and colors, the ponies working in the casinos, bars, and restaurants, and even the atmosphere, it was a place where ponies could win or lose it all. A place where even Pinkie could party from dusk to dawn. But what made this city great was the cloudwalking spell that was placed on the entire city. The spell was meant for anypony other than winged creatures to walk on the linked clouds to go to see the breathtaking building and shows. It was a marvel of pony engineering, each individual cloud having a rune generate the power and work the magic that allowed grounders to walk on them.

Rarity was in a fancy hotel building named Las Paradise, owned by her soon-to be husband, Fancy Pants. She loved him deeply and tried to break it off with him for his own safety, but as a perfect gentlecolt, he is willing to sacrifice himself so she could escape the monster’s wrath. Fancy requested to have at least twenty or so guards posted around the hotel.

At Hoity Toity’s request, Rarity was to present her finest and latest fashion line for a fashion show he was hosting. Rarity had declined at first, as her sister’s disappearance was at the forefront of her mind. However, the letter she had received from Phantom the day after Rainbow Dash, Cheerilee, and Apple family’s funeral, stipulating that Sweetie Belle will attend. Without, a second thought, the seamstress started packing.

The white mare pulled out a small box from under her bed and opened it, inside was a heart shaped fire ruby, the one Phantom willingly gave her the day before his birthday. Rarity hugged it against her chest tightly. ‘Please come back to us, Spikey-Wikey. Please.’

Hours later, Rarity was sitting in the front row seat of the fashion show, right next to Fancy, but this seemed to worry her. The guards that were posted all around the ballroom gave Rarity strange looks. The light dimmed down, the spotlight shone on the stage.

“FILLIES AND GENTLECOLTS,” a stallion’s voice echoed throughout the ballroom. “WELCOME TO THE TENTH ANNUAL EQUESTRIAN FASHION SHOW, HOSTED BY THE MASTER OF FASHION, HOITY TOITY. IN THE FAMOUS LAS PARADISE, OWNED BY ONE OF CANTERLOT NOBLES, FANCY PANTS. NOW WITHOUT FURTHER ADO, LET THE SHOW BEGIN!”

Ponies began to pour out of the back room wearing the most breathtaking of dresses that anypony has ever seen. Even Hoity was clapping his hooves together, enjoying the ponies creations in ways only one could imagine. Some fancy, other revealing, but what made even Hoity and the rest of the ponies gasp, but Rarity eyes widen, was a young white coated mare with a two tone light/dark purple mane that came out to the stage. She wasn't wearing anything special, just a plain khaki dress. What’s more, she was crying.

“What’s the meaning of this, Miss Rarity?” the dark gray stallion gasped before the light turned off, filling the room with gasps and mumbles. When the light came back on, a purple scaled dragon was standing right behind the teenage mare with his wings spread, signaling fear. He was wearing a black coat with gems decorating the shoulders, and crescent moon symbols on each breast.

By Phantom’s side were several other individuals: Starlight Glimmer, Thorax, Zecora, Midnight, Goldbeck, Obsidian, and somepony dressed in a hooded cloak, shielding their identity.

Suddenly a bright flash appeared, and the audience saw two more ponies once the light cleared. One was the dark alicorn everyone knew, but what surprised Rarity, Fancy, and even Sweetie more, was the second pony. Rarity gasped, knowing the only pony with a cotton style mane.

“S-Spike? P-Pinkie?” Rarity gasped in surprise, seeing them here.

“Hey all!” Pinkie begin as Phantom grabbed Sweetie and tossed her towards the edge. To keep things dramatic, the pink mare was dressed as a jester. “Welcome to the fashion show of horror! Hosted by falsely accused, Phantom the dark dragon!” The jester mare paused for a moment as one of the guards rolled a now shivering Fluttershy onto the stage. “Captain of Nightmares,” she said coldly, sending shivers up everypony’s spines.

“W-Who invited you... you monsters!?” Hoity asked in a venomous tone. “This event is for the nobles and nobles only!” Fancy held his bride-to-be as Sweetie leapt off the stage and ran toward both her sister and soon to be brother-in-law. “Guards! Guards! Come get these barbarians out of our sight!”

The guards didn’t listen, they only stood by the doors, waiting for their queen and captain’s orders.

Amongst these guards was a white stallion named Cloud Skipper, who was one of the three Zodiacs trained by Midnight. Cloud Skipper and Midnight have known each other since they were foals. They did everything together including play, sing, and even joined the Royal Guard at the same time. Midnight of course was always better at close combat than Cloud, but not once was he jealous of her. Though the stallion was more strict when it came to the rules, while Midnight was like a wild card.

Cloud didn’t become one of the Zodiacs because he wanted to or anything like that. He joined because of his friend, and because of the betrayal Phantom suffered seven years ago. In fact, he was one of the stallions that knew the truth about the relationship between his captain and Princess Celestia.

Hoity Toity and Fancy Pants had no idea the guards they had hired were working for Nightmare. “What’s wrong with you guards, do something!” Hoity screamed, much to Nightmare’s amusement.

“It’s no use,” Midnight said with a smirk. “All of the guards you hired are actually part of Queen Nightmare Moon’s army.”

“Don’t be foolish enough to try to leave either,” Nightmare spoke. “The room is magically locked, and if you ponies even try to escape... you will know the true meaning of eternal slumber.”

“So with that said, let’s start this show with a magic trick. Of course, I’ll need a volunteer.” The dragon walked to the end of the catwalk then smiled, pointing to the crowd of frightened ponies.

“How about you, Fluttershy?” Phantom turned with a sickened grin. The mare meeped, turning away, unable to utter the words she needed to protest. Not after what Phantom had become. Phantom snapped his claws, instigating he wants something. The guards pulled out two boxes: one metal, the other wood. Each box was big enough to encase a full grown pony.

“For this trick, my scared former friend, Miss Fluttershy here, will be in one box, and come out all good and new... Well not so new, she may come out with burns and some holes, but she’ll be fine out of the other.” The drake smiled as a lime green aura encased the broken mare’s body. Phantom levitated her from the wheelchair into the wooden box. The guards chuckled, shutting the door.

“Now,” began the drake, as Nightmare took a seat next to the ponies. Pinkie hopped to the back, but came out a second later with a bag of razor sharp swords.

Obsidian noticed one brave stallion rise to his hooves and run towards the door. The pink coated stallion tried desperately to open the magically sealed door, but Obsidian shot a grey ball of fire at the stallion. As the flames encased the stallion, he screamed bloody murder as he slowly turned to ash. Phantom and Pinkie looked at him with little to no concern while Nightmare just sat there, watching her student and friend’s performance. The others, however, turned their attention towards a guard laying still, sentinel on the door she’s guarding.

“Lady Nightmare said that anyone who tries to leave will die.” The drake paused while the ponies turned their heads. “Now then, let’s begin Pinkie. Oh, and remember what we talked about. Don’t hit her vital points, or the fun will end early.”

“Yes siree, captain!” she said, taking one of the blades in her hoof. “Just like this!” she said, thrusting towards the wooden box, stick it in. Unfortunately, the blade missed its target. “Oopsies, I missed,” Pinkie giggled, and grabbed another sword, aiming for the other side. The blade pierced through the wood, hitting the shoulder of the mare trapped inside. The only thing that was heard, was Fluttershy’s piercing scream.

Phantom blew a small jet stream of flame towards the wooden box. The screams of the shy mare filled the the room. Rarity watched as the heat of Phantom’s flames slowly burned the wooden box and the screams of her friend filled the air. She couldn’t take it anymore.

“STOP THIS NONSENSE AT ONCE, SPIKE!!” Everypony turned to see the ivory mare leaving Fancy’s side, and get up on stage. Phantom raised a brow, seeing the heart shaped fire ruby necklace she had on. All while the wooden box burned away as it did, Fluttershy’s screams faded.

“It’s been awhile you slut,” Phantom said as he leaned in, only to feel Rarity’s hoof smack him across the face. Rarity cringed as her hoof hit his hard scales, but managed to resist screaming in pain.

“I’m ashamed of you!” she began. “The Spike I knew wouldn’t go around killing his closest friends. Nor would Pinkie help it if it meant the death of her best friends.” Nightmare snorted at the sound of ‘closest friends’, but Rarity ignored it and continued. “The Spike I knew, the one who would follow me around like a puppy, wouldn’t act so uncouth with all those atrocious acts!” Rarity stomped her hoof, but before Phantom could speak, Nightmare stood up and walked toward the stage. She had been, and would’ve been fine with simply watching her pupil perform, but Rarity’s puppy comment had made her snap.

“WE COMMAND YOU TO BE SILENT!!” Nightmare demanded in her royal Canterlot voice. Rarity immediately stopped her rant.

Thorax spoke next, “Phantom could only make unreasonable action if he wasn’t dead, Rarity,” the changeling said coldly.

“His name is-” Rarity began but Nightmare cut the seamstress off before she could use her student’s old name. She hated that name just as much as Phantom did.

“I SAID SILENCE!!” she fumed at Rarity’s ignorance. “Seven years ago, you and your so-called ‘friends,’ banished a poor baby dragon for something he hasn’t done. You’re the bearers of harmony, are you not? Do you feel even remotely guilty for what you did to young Phantom, here? Where were you when he needed you?” Nightmare’s questions left the ivory mare speechless as Phantom opened the metal box to reveal the butterscotch mare, now covered in blood and ash from head to hoof.

“Ooh! Ooh! Ooh! I know! I know!” Pinkie exclaimed bouncing around the stage. “She was with her coltfriend, having some late night fun in his bed. And then when Discord told us where to find Phantom, she returned to Canterlot because she was too afraid to see Phantom face-to-face.” Pinkie stated. Rarity’s jaw dropped, wondering how Pinkie got this infomation about her sleeping with Fancy.

Nightmare turned her gaze to the cloaked pony beside Obsidian. “That’s your cue. Reveal yourself,” she ordered, much to the audience’s confusion.

The hooded pony took her cloak off to reveal her identity. The audience gasped at who now stood there. It was a mare who had disappeared about six years ago.

Fancy Pants’ former marefriend... Fleur Dis Lee.

Phantom looked at the former supermodel with sympathetic eyes. Seven years ago, he found it suspicious that she didn’t attend the Hearts and Hooves dance as Fancy Pants’ date. Turns out that Fancy was more of a jerk than Phantom knew, as he had dumped Fleur for a younger mare. When the news of this got out, Fleur was humiliated and heartbroken, and so she fled to the Crystal Empire. Not too long afterward, Starlight found her and offered her a chance to get revenge on the ones who humiliated her.

Fleur knew much about business since she was Fancy’s marefriend. Therefore, Nightmare had Obsidian take her under his wing. Over the next years, the black dragon educated the unicorn mare about the business with the other nations who are connected to the Dragon Empire. Now, Fleur serves as one of the twelve Zodiacs of the Nightmare Guard and an executive for Obsidian’s division, along with Emerald Wind and Scarlet Blaze.

While Emerald did business with the dragons and Scarlet worked with Griffonstone, Fleur had the responsibility of making deals with Prince Rutherford and the yaks. The yaks were always respectful to Fleur and found it a pleasure to do business with somepony so charming. Honestly, Fleur’s been living a much better life providing for Phantom, who treated her much better than the snobs in Canterlot. Plus she’s secretly become quite... fond of Obsidian.

“F-Fleur...” Fancy managed to say, “Why?”

“Oh honey, you should know why.” Instead of screaming or yelling, the mare was calm and collected. “After the break up, you ended my career. I had it all, fame, money, and a stallion who loved me. But that wasn’t enough for you was it?”

Fancy gulped then nodded. “Yes you were enough, but something happened.”

“Please enlighten us Fancy. Why would you dump a supermodel like me for a bitch like her?” Fleur asked, pointing at Rarity.

Fancy didn’t say anything. He wanted to explain, but he couldn’t find the words.

“That’s what I thought,” Fleur scowled.

By this point Fluttershy began to come back to her senses. The pain of being burned and stabbed had caused her to pass out. “Oh, hey Shy... you’re just in time,” Phantom smiled once more.

Starlight’s horn lit up and she zapped Rarity with a paralysis spell. This, however caused Fancy to get up and place a hoof on stage, but he was stopped by Nightmare’s galactic tail wrapping around him.

“Unless you want your bones crushed by our queen’s grip, I’d keep quiet,” Starlight warned. Fancy shivered at her words. Starlight then turned to Sweetie Belle and lifted her back on stage via magic. Phantom looked at Rarity while Starlight held her sister in her magical grip.

Fleur couldn’t help but giggle at her former coltfriend’s predicament. “So unsightly,” she mocked.

“I’m inclined to agree,” Phantom said, smirking at the pink mane unicorn. “Say, I’d like to play a game,” he said walking towards the imprisoned mare. “You remember that song Shy sings? Well, I want you to sing it.”

“E-Excuse me?”

“You heard me. And if you get one word wrong... you can tell your sister how you failed to save her life.” With that, Phantom readied his dagger-like claws.

The ivory mare shook her head. “I refuse! Sweetie Belle has nothing to do with what we did to you, Spi-” Rarity cut herself off. If she addressed him by his discarded name again, Phantom might kill Sweetie Belle right now. “I mean, Phantom. Let her go and-” Rarity was cut off by the sound of tearing cloth, the young mare was now exposing her body in front of the ponies in the ballroom. Phantom placed a claw on her chest, piercing Sweetie’s white coat. The red liquid fell from the small cut, earning him the cutest groan he had heard.

“He’s not joking, and don’t you dare help her Fluttershy,” Starlight snarled. The mare shivered in response, but nodded.

Satisfied, Phantom turned his attention back to Rarity. “I don’t like to be kept waiting skank,” he growled.

“B-Before I begin, h-how did you know we’d be here? And how do you have Fluttershy when she was in the hospital in Canterlot under heavy supervision? And why are Pinkie and Starlight helping you?” Rarity asked. “Pinkie, you were the one that nearly killed him during Winter Wrap Up. And Starlight, you were the once student of friendship!”

“Oh, that’s easy, and since Fluttershy nor Sweetie can speak, the Nightmare Family has spies on the inside, as well as in Ponyville. That’s all.” Phantom shrugged. “And as for why Starlight and Pinkie are helping me, One: unlike you ungrateful cunt Starlight defended me during my trial. Two: Pinkie was the only one to seek me out and asked for forgiveness. NOW SING!”

Rarity began to sweat, knowing Phantom would kill her little sister if she messed up even one word. “I-I-I watch you change...” Rarity sung. “I-Into a fly. I turn away. Y-You were on fire.” Phantom nodded, wanting her to continue.

Rarity gulped and continued her singing “I-I watch you change, in you, l-Like you never. Feel the same.”

“I-I watch you c-c-change. I-I-In you. Like you never, feel the same… I-I took you h-h-home.” Fluttershy covered her ears, remembering what Phantom and Nightmare Moon did to her.

“I-I-I put you on the glass. I pull off your wings.” She stopped and sniffed at the humiliation. “T-Then I lie!” Phantom shook his head and began snickering. Nightmare, Pinkie, and the rest of Phantom’s clan soon joined in.

“Wow,” Phantom said as his laughter died down. He placed his claw to Sweetie’s neck. “You not only failed, but you messed up the first line.” Phantom leaned in closer and whispered, “Any last words before you go to sleep?” Sweetie didn’t respond. “Good, because I’ll be taking away what you hold dear, Sweetie.” Sweetie was shocked to hear that he’ll take away the one thing she had worked so hard to earn.

Her voice.

Phantom raised his claw in the air and Fancy tried to fire a spell to stop him, but Nightmare’s ethereal mane and tail which was still constricting him, cancelled out the spell. With great speed, Midnight appeared in front of Fancy and kicked him in the face, as punishment for trying to hurt Phantom.

“Bastard,” she snarled.

Fleur walked over to Fancy with a smirk, as the kick had caused some of his teeth to break out. Ashamed, Fancy tried to turn away, but the unicorn cupped his chin forcing him to look at her. “You’re starting to look better, dear.”

Rarity could only watch in horror as Phantom’s claw came down, gashing Sweetie Belle’s throat deep. The crowd gasped in shock and horror. Most mares, stallions, and the host fainted seeing the blood pour down the teen’s white coat. She tried to speak, but couldn’t as Phantom tossed the body toward the floor. She rose a shaking hoof toward her sister, moving her lips, trying to say something. But with her final breath, she mustered up four words.

“I love you Rarity...” she said with her last dying breath. Her hoof dropped.

Rarity let out a blood curdling scream and charged towards Phantom, eyes filled with rage. “Y-Y-Y-Y-Y-Y-Y-YOU MONSTER! HOW COULD YOU?!!” she screamed, as she ran towards Phantom. The dragon simply stepped to the side before delivering a kick, sending the white mare crashing into Fluttershy.

“Monster? I’m sure many of you think I’m a monster don’t you?” Phantom asked, spreading both his arms and wings in display. Ponies who hadn’t fainted nodded, some even screamed ‘monster’ or ‘heartless dragon.’

Nightmare gritted her teeth, she and signaled Obsidian to silence these snobs for insulting her student. Obsidian’s eyes glowed as he unleashed his dragon wrath, slashing and burning a few ponies in the audience.

Completely shocked at what had occurred, the audience had stopped jeering out of fear they would be next. Obsidian growled angrily as he has comforted Phantom as one of his first soldiers. It was disgusting how society would shun him, just for being a dragon.

Pinkie took the a few swords into her hoof and begin to juggle them, her eyes glaring at the ponies, ready to throw them if they dare insult Phantom again.

“Really?” Phantom scoffed as he pointed to Fancy, who was still trapped in Nightmare’s mane and tail. “And I guess no one here but this prick who may or may not cheated on poor Fleur knows that I was banished from the country now, did you?” Phantom asked, walking to the end of the catwalk.

Finally, a mare got the courage to speak up, “We all know about your banishment and murders, you monster!” she yelled. She was quickly silenced as Midnight rushed forward and kicked her. Midnight’s great strength and speed caused the mare to fly straight through the wall.

“But did you all know that I once thought of Celestia as my mother!?” The remaining crowd gasped, hearing Phantom’s words.

The crowd of ponies began to yell, thinking he was lying, as one stallion shouted, “Princess Celestia would never take in an evil beast like you!” A foolish mistake, as Obsidian thrusted his claws into the stallion’s stomach and pulled his innards out.

“Oh, it’s true,” Phantom assured, unfurling his wings irritably. He was getting tired of these arrogant nobles cutting him off. He then walked toward the two mares, “I’m guessing they didn’t tell you, but Celestia killed my real family and many other dragons during the great migration over two generations ago.” The drake turned around to look at the ponies, who were now in disbelief.

“Again, this monster of a lizard speaks nothing but lies!” another stallion said, but was silenced by Starlight. The unicorn encased the stallion’s neck in her magical grasp and twisted.

Phantom’s veins popped out, as he was reaching his limit. “If you snobs would stop interrupting me, I can get to the point!” he growled. “Also, the next one who calls me lizard will either have a sword to the face, or burned to death!” Pleased with the silence, Phantom cleared his throat and walked over to Rarity, who was readying a spell.

“As for you, I had fallen in love with you the day I laid my eyes on you whore.” He clenched his fists so tight, his thumb claw cut into one of his knuckles. Phantom easily ignored the pain as blood dropped from the fresh wound. “I worked tooth and claw to at least get you to notice me, and for what!? So you can flirt around and spread your legs for any stallion that gives you the slightest stare!? Well, I’ve been waiting for this for some time now.”

Phantom held Rarity’s cheek and slowly moved toward her lips. Nightmare’s eyes widened in shock, seeing that Phantom was about to kiss the pony that toyed with his heart. Such an action, almost made her burst into flames, but apparently Phantom wanted this. She would definitely deal with it later. Pinkie just stared at Rarity, with an ‘I’m sorry for you’ look in her eye.

Rarity was in shock and confusion as Phantom was just mere inches away. She knew Fancy wouldn’t like it, but maybe this small act could get her Spikey-Wikey back. It didn’t work, before their lips touched, Phantom pulled away.

“BLAH! She smells like shame! Like a loose bitch!” The dragon slapped Rarity hard across her face, causing her to fall to the floor. She got up from the floor and held her bleeding cheek, shocked that Phantom had insulted her in front of a crowd of high class ponies.

Phantom turned to the black alicorn and bowed. “I’m sorry Nightmare,” he said. “I’m ashamed I even considered giving my first kiss to this worthless whore.” Nightmare was relieved, for a moment, she actually believed her student was going to give up his first kiss to a pony who took advantage of him.

Phantom grabbed both Rarity and Fluttershy by their manes and pulled them across the catwalk. Ponies were too scared to escape, they knew full well the consequences of attempting to leave.

Phantom lifted Rarity by the mane, threatening to rip it out, as he lifted her higher into the air for her to dangle. Phantom was about to thrust his arm and stab Rarity in the back. An idea popped into his head. He had thought of how Rarity slept with rich stallions while ignoring his genuine feelings. “No, I have an even better idea,” he said as he dropped her.

Nightmare didn’t know what her student was up to, but she loved that look in his eyes. She couldn’t explain it, there was just something about Phantom’s dark side that made her adore him.

Phantom signaled one of his unicorn guards onto the stage. “Teleport her to the Crystal Castle dungeon, but don’t kill her. I have something special in mind for the white skank.” The unicorn guard saluted and wrapped his arm around Rarity's throat as he teleported them both to the empire.

The crowd of ponies all gasped, as Nightmare and the guards smirked, while Pinkie closed her eyes, praying for her former friend. Fleur on the other hoof couldn’t help letting out a small giggle, out of excitement at what Phantom had in store for Rarity.

Phantom turned his attention back to Fancy Pants, who was screaming and trying to break free from Nightmare’s grasp. His struggling proved useless until the black alicorn released her hold.

Now free, Fancy advanced toward Phantom. “GIVE HER BACK!!” he shouted. Sighing, Phantom caught the stallion by the horn and tossed him across the ballroom. Fancy got up and noticed blood pouring down his head. He glared at the drake, the monster who had just kidnapped his love, holding a horn of a unicorn. Fancy’s eyes widened, knowing who’s horn it was.

Phantom flipped into the air and delivered a dropkick to the hornless stallion’s back. Fancy Pants dropped to the floor coughing blood; the kick had nearly broke his spine.

“Fancy, you’ve known me for years. Do you really think I would do all this simply because I wanted to?” Phantom asked the stallion. Though furious, Fancy was quelled by the shock of having his horn torn off, it had left him, somehow, with a calm and clear head.

“I would not have expected this from you Phantom, if that’s what you call yourself now. What happened to you?” he asked.

“I shouldn’t answer as you would never understand my suffering,” Phantom scoffed. “I was betrayed. Not just by my friends, but by everyone. Did they tell you what my banishment was for?”

“You murdered a noble Equestrian and attempted to kill Princess Flurry Heart.”

“No, I was framed,” Phantom corrected.

“Stop lying! The princess herself said that you posed a threat to Equestria!”

“How could I have posed a threat?” Phantom asked managing to keep his cool. “We all know I’m not above killing, but I take life for specific reasons. As a carnivore, I’ve been forced to kill wild animals, in order to live. The ponies who had banished me, like the slut who is currently awaiting her fate back in the Crystal Empire, used me for their own selfish gain.” Phantom’s emerald eyes shined as he grew angry at how he was treated. “That includes that bitch and her fuck toy who teased me for being weak, or like most of you, who just fears me for what I could not help, being a dragon, even with the knowledge that she held for animals... even with the knowledge that some of them eat meat as well.”

“I’ve gotten to know Phantom as one of my first friends,” Starlight spoke placing her hoof on her heart. “He helped me reconnect with my foalhood friend, who is now the love of my life.”

Thorax spoke next, “After the failed invasion on the Canterlot royal wedding, I could no longer stand life in the changeling hive, so I deserted the kingdom. And that’s when I met him..” Thorax turned to his captain with a smile. “Phantom treated me like no one else had, I was ashamed of what I was. That’s why I’m officially done with the changeling hive, I’m never going back. My loyalty forever lies with the one who saved me.” Then changeling’s eyes then grow angry. “I’m one of the few who can truly relate to Phantom. Just like him, ponies judged me simply for my species and tried to kill me.”

“When Phantom was banished.” Pinkie began, still catching and throwing blades in her hooves. “I was the only fucking pony out of the six of us closest to him that came to ask for forgiveness!” Pinkie shouted twitching. “He told me to go out there and feel the pain he feels every time he has to kill, and I did. I understood the pain he felt. He never wanted to kill anything. Oh, no no no no no no no! He only did it because he didn’t have a choice!”

Pinkie paused for a moment to look at all the ponies in the room. “You know, I bet most of you snobbish, boring ponies don’t even know what a zebra is, or why it has stripes. Don’t bother to raise your hooves, because, you're blinded by what goes on inside Equestria so much that we don’t worry about what happens outside of it.” Pinkie looked over to Nightmare who nodded at her speech before Phantom continued.

“I loved all the ponies that raised me,” Phantom began, still playing with Fancy’s broken horn with his claws. “But you all treated me like a doormat just like that scorched mare over there,” he said as he pointed to Fluttershy. “What’s worse, is that your princess, the one I once called my mother, killed my family and my people. Having suffered enough, I threw away the name given to me by the mare who caused me the most pain; your newest princess, Twilight Sparkle. I am not Spike, the weak dragon who always let himself be pushed around, and as a result died. No, my name is Phantom now!”

He then threw Fancy’s horn aside. “All of this is to avenge my deceased kind and get back at the ones who abused me. So if you still want to call me a heartless monster, you should first take a good look at yourselves and your princess.”

Fluttershy, who just stared in horror. She knew Rarity was alive, but the yellow pegasus couldn’t imagine what would happen to her. Not able to take it anymore, she looked at Fancy’s horn which had rolled up to her. Taking it in her mouth, the pegasus stabbed herself.

The butterscotch mare knew by this point, that she brought everything that had happened to her on herself.

Neither Phantom, Nightmare, or any of their soldiers cared about the butterscotch mare’s death. As far as they were concerned, Fluttershy had served her purpose. Fluttershy knew this would come eventually.

“We’re done here,” Phantom announced as he stepped off stage, walking out of the room with Nightmare and the rest of their clan in tow. He had special plans in store for his newest prisoner, death wouldn’t satisfy him after the way Rarity had broke his heart.

He let out a laugh, unable to hold in his thoughts. “You’re next, Twi... Oh, I can’t wait to see your face again,” Phantom chuckled, already hatching a sick and twisted plan to murder his former best friend, his ex-caretaker, and older sister.

The ponies that attended the fashion show now sat in waiting as the guards left one by one, the atrocities still burning deep in their minds, the stuff of nightmares filling their thoughts nearly as much as Phantom’s words. For if they were the truth, then the princess had much to answer for. The deaths of many and the broken relations of foreign countries could be but the beginning. Celestia had much to answer for, indeed.

Chapter Eleven

Phantom, Nightmare, Pinkie, Starlight and the rest of the Nightmare Guards returned to the Crystal Empire after their three day trip in Las Pegasus. It had been nothing but fun, namely for Pinkie Pie and her luck in the form of Pinkie Sense, winning all of the games and earning them over a million bits. No doubt they could use this money in their future business dealings.

The Nightmare Family had lots of guards itching to get their hooves on a mare. Instead of killing her, Phantom decided to keep Rarity prisoner and let his guards have their way with her. He couldn’t think of a better punishment for the mare who took advantage of his feelings while sleeping with random stallions. In due time, she’ll be begging someone to kill her and Phantom will put her down... Soon, but for now it was better to just let the guards do what they desired to the unicorn who broke his heart.

As a bonus, Phantom made the ponies think about what their so-called ‘benevolent goddess’ had been hiding from them. After all, if someone has one secret, they’re bound to have more.

Upon returning to the Crystal Empire, Phantom began to formulate his army. The army consists of four divisions, each with a specific purpose. Obsidian, Pinkie Pie, Starlight Glimmer, and Midnight Blossom have been chosen to act as the four elite commanders of the army. The twelve Zodiacs acted as executives, three for each division.

Obsidian led a group of business dealers. The three Zodiac executives serving under him were: Fleur dis Lee, Emerald Wave and Scarlet Blaze. Each member made business proposals, and helping marking with other countries, giving ponies both Equestria and the Crystal Empire jobs.

Midnight Blossom led a group of fighters. Her Zodiac executives were: Goldbeck, Cloud Skipper and Ruby Bandit. As the toughest fighters in the army they were in, soldiers in the Nightmare Guard benefited from the training provided from the four. Flurry Heart and Nightmare Moon were glad how they turned out. Loyal, and kind, but aggressive killing machines when their two rulers are threatened.

Pinkie Pie led a group of spies. The three Zodiac executives were: Snips, Snails, and Pip. During their training, Thorax had helped Pinkie teach the three colts to become competent spies. Snips and Snails, used to be very foolish, however with Thorax’s help, Pinkie was able to condition the two into taking their jobs seriously. After finishing their training all three were assigned to gather what they needed from the little town which house the princess of friendship. However due to Pinkie being involved with Phantom, she was wanted in every part of Equestria.

Lastly was Starlight Glimmer, who led a group of magic professionals. The three executives were: Thorax, Sunburst and Zecora. This group’s main focus was training their soldiers in magic. Sunburst had learned how to perform different types of magic thanks to his lover, Starlight, and was entrusted in watching over the castle library. With her knowledge in medical herbs, Zecora became the medical witchdoctor for the empire. Thorax had helped Pinkie train her army of spies in his spare time, but as an executive for Starlight’s division, he mostly focused on training new recruits in shapeshifting spells.

“So this is where the monster that kill our kin lives?” a deep country voice asked.

“Eeyup,” another country pony spoke. “The bastard murdered our cousins Applejack, Apple Bloom, and Big Macintosh!” It was none other than Braeburn. “Ah’ve also heard he kidnapped Rarity, and keepin’ Flurry Heart as their prisoner.”

“So what now? There are guards everywhere,” questioned one mare. “And even if we get in the empire, what then? I’m sure Nightmare Moon or anypony else in the empire is going to just hand Phantom over.”

“Ah’m aware of that,” Braeburn said before quickly regaining confidence. “That’s why we brought our family here ta bring that damn monster down.”

“Well in case you forgot, he took out fifty of the princess’s elite guard all by himself. What make you think we all have a changes at even hurting this thing?”

“Shut up! Somepony is coming,” another stallion spoke with a Manehattan accent, making all the other ponies silent. An earth pony wearing midnight blue armor walk pass a few bushes. Once the guard was out of range the mare spoke again. “Alright, we’ll be going back.”

“But why?” asked a stallion.

“Because we don’t have enough ponies to mount an assault on the empire.”

The Nightmare Guard captain, was in his room, relaxing after the little vacation he had in Las Pegasus. He was snapped out of his thoughts as he headed a knock on the door.

“Come in,” Phantom said as the door opened, revealing one of the four elite generals, Midnight.

“Did you need something Midnight?” Phantom asked, calming down and smiling to one his closest officers.

“Phantom, I wanted me to ask if you like to go out with the rest of the guard to get some drinks? I know you have become quite close to everypony… including the queen.”

“Sure,” he answered somewhat reluctantly. “I'll go with you, but to somewhere less conspicuous. Somewhere where a dragon can get a stiff drink.” Phantom rubbed the bridge between his eyes as he felt the oncoming stress of the day. Still, he was happy, despite the hatred and anger Phantom still has towards ponies, this was a welcomed change. Maybe he could finally clear his chest by telling somepony how he felt about the lunar monarch.

Midnight smiled, “I got just the place captain,” she assured as they walked out of the castle.

It was about a five minutes before the two arrived at their destination, “The name is Open Crystal. It’s one of the most popular bars here in the empire.” As both they both came to the bar in question, Phantom saw it was a two story building. Like all buildings in the empire the bar was made crystal, but with a pure white color.

“Nice place,” Phantom commented whistling at the sight.

“I know, let’s go in,” Midnight said as she motioned for her captain to follow her inside.

Phantom for his part, had never been inside of a bar when he lived in Ponyville. He had heard stories that ponies would get drunk and have a good time. The heavy drinking usually resulted in ponies getting into fights or having sex in the bathroom.

This bar, however, was different from the ones in the stories. For one, it was nice and clean, just like any other restaurant one might go to. Also, there weren’t any drunk ponies fighting or vomiting. It was just a 60,000 square feet building with two service stations on the massive bar at the center. There were also a few private booths on the sides, followed by a massive royal booth that lead up all of the second floor.

Once they were inside, the crystal ponies stopped what they were doing and stared at the dragon and the bat pony mare. For a minute the crystal ponies did nothing but stare, but then they started to cheer, “Phantom! Phantom! Phantom!”

Midnight and Phantom walked up to the bar and seated themselves on the stools just as the bartender with clear white crystal coat, topaz colored mane and tail greeted them. “Captain Phantom! High Officer Midnight!” he exclaimed with a big smile, “Welcome to the Open Crystal! Can I get you something? Oh and as the heroes of our empire, our drinks are on the house for you and any Nightmare Guard. Plus as a bonus, feel free to use the royal booth anytime you want!” Midnight smiled while Phantom nodded

“Starlight Glimmer wanted me to tell you she’s waiting upstairs,” he informed. Thanking the kind bartender, Phantom and Midnight rose from their seats and made their way towards the gem encrusted staircase. There were two ponies guarding the crystal clear door to the booth, but they immediately stepped aside when they saw their honored guests approaching.

Inside was the fanciest thing Phantom had lay eyes on. Other than the white leather sofa in the middle of the room, everything was made out of pure crystal. The service station, the tables, even the glasses and plates. Starlight Glimmer who was enjoying her drink on a leather couch, waved over to the two. Phantom joined Starlight on another couch, in front of her and stretched his arms in relaxation.

Midnight went to the bar and ordered two glasses of scotch. The bartender in the booth nodded and grabbed two glasses and a bottle of scotch. He then took the liberty to open the bottle and pour the golden brown liquid into the crystal clear glasses. Midnight was about to place the tray on her back when she was stopped by a mare who carried the tray and bottle for her with a smile. The two walked back to the sofa where Phantom and Starlight were both ready to fall asleep from the comfort they were in.

The mare placed the tray on the table and went back to the bar as Midnight took the glass and gulped it down. She sighed and shivered from the much needed drink as Phantom took his own glass and looked toward Midnight. The bat pony just smiled, and Phantom turned his gaze back to the glass and took a sip. What followed was priceless in the two mares’ eyes. Phantom, the captain of the Nightmare Family was choking and coughing up the drink. He made a face that said, ‘that was the most disgusting thing I ever tasted,’ and neither Starlight or Midnight couldn’t help but laugh.

“Your first?” asked Starlight, looking at her now empty glass. Still feeling thirsty, she levitated the bottle of scotch and poured herself a cup.

“Unfortunately yes,” Phantom nodded smacking his lips to rid himself of the taste.

“Don’t worry, you’ll get use to it,” Midnight said going for a second glass. Smiling at her captain, Midnight tapped her glass against Phantom’s, “Cheers.”

A few minutes of silence in the dark and shaded booth sitting on the comfortable round leather couch with a stiff drink, Phantom made his decision to confess his feelings.

“What I’m about to say will be quite a shock. Can you all keep this a secret please?”

“Of course,” Midnight and Starlight Glimmer both assured. The two crystal ponies nodded and zipped their lips shut.

Phantom sighed before finally getting his secret off his scales. “I’m in love with Queen Nightmare Moon.”

Midnight immediately spat out her drink. The two bartenders’ jaws just dropped in complete shock at the captain’s confession. Starlight just giggle picking up the signs over the years she been with them.

Coughing a few times, Midnight wiped her mouth and smiled, Starlight did the same. “You have a crush on the queen?!” Starlight squealed, joy quickly flowing through the usually calm mare as Phantom’s blushing expression spoke it all.

Midnight flew over and nearly threw herself onto him. “Sir, please tell us how it happened! I promise, I won’t tell Queen Nightmare anything!”

Phantom sighed as he began his story. “It all started when Nightmare appeared in my dreams, when all the bitches were still alive. Back then, I still used my old name, as I was still just a lonely baby who would’ve died if it wasn’t for Nightmare’s devotion. When I was exiled, I had no one until she stepped in and exiled herself so I didn’t have to feel what she felt. I owe her my life.”

“After my banishment my training with Nightmare intensified and we grew even closer. I fell in love. Her beauty, her ideals on how those bitches should be detested for how they treated me. I fell in love with her... in every way. Not long after, I decided I would make her the ruler in Celestia’s place.”

Phantom then closed his eyes remembering what he said the day Luna banished herself to be with him. How her loyalty to him gave him hope to live on.

“She gave me hope to fight on,” he continued as the thoughts came to an end. “If it weren’t for Queen Nightmare Moon, I probably would have never trusted ponies again for the way I was treated.”

Midnight nodded after Phantom finished, noticing that the other two ponies were also touched by the raw emotion pouring out of the drake so much that they nearly cried. “I’m sorry Phantom...” Midnight muttered as she wiped a tear with her hoof as the two other ponies nodded. Both Starlight and Midnight wanted to embrace the drake, and Phantom happily accepted their hugs.

Phantom continued rubbing the mares’ backs as they held onto him. ‘I’m not going to get used to this.’ he thought remembering the press conference he attended two days ago.

Ponies lined up by the gate, hoping to get the truth from their ruler as the mumbles and whispers echoed throughout the cobblestone streets of the equestrian capital. When the gates opened, lights from dozens of cameras immediately flash to a lavender mare with a light cyan mare wearing a magician hat as they came out from the gate and to a podium set up in front of them.

“Princess Twilight! Princess Twilight! Is it true that Princess Celestia performed experiments on the dragon eggs that were claimed to be Spike’s siblings?”

“Princess Twilight! Here! Here! Is it true that you and the other elements abused him before his banishment?”

“Is it true that you locked him up in the library when you out frolicking in the fields?”

“Is it true that you never went to see him after Discord told you where he was?” The questions kept coming in, one after the other, all accusing either her or her teacher of some wrongdoing.

Twilight placed her hooves on her head, not wanting to answer, she couldn’t, not after hearing what Phantom had done to Rarity and Sweetie Belle. She was scared, scared that her former brother will claim her and Trixie’s lives

Twilight wanted to leave Equestria, but where could she go? Phantom had acquired many allies from all over the world. Twilight couldn't go to Griffonstone. The new queen, Gilda, knew what how the elements banished Phantom and became furious for Rainbow Dash’s hypocrisy. She would just kick her out. The buffaloes were also out of the question as they too have become fond of Phantom after his banishment. She definitely couldn't go to the dragons, Dragon Lord Ember and her kind hate her as much as Celestia. She couldn't go run towards the Everfree with Zecora because she wanted nothing to do with her or the ponies in town. In fact ever since Phantom’s banishment, she went missing.

“NO!” screamed the magician holding Twilight in her hooves. “PRINCESS TWILIGHT HAS NEVER ABUSED SPIKE, NOR DID SHE LOCK HIM UP! HE WAS MORE THAN HER ASSISTANT, HE WAS HER YOUNGER BROTHER!”

“Then why was Spike banished?” one stallion asked, silencing her and making Twilight cry. The crowd obviously wasn’t convinced by their lies.

“T-Twilight had no choice. Spike was a threat to all of Equestria!” Trixie defended.

“Because he eats meat, or because we labeled him as a murder?” The questions just kept getting more specific.

“THAT’S ENOUGH!” All the ponies stopped their questions when Princess Celestia used her royal canterlot voice to silence them. “LISTEN TO ME, ALL OF YOU! WE ALL STRONGLY BELIEVED THAT SPIKE WAS TOO DANGEROUS TO STAY AMONGST US PONIES! ALL OF THE RUMORS ABOUT ME KILLING HIS PARENTS, AND EXPERIMENTING ON HIS SIBLINGS WERE ALL LIES FED TO HIM BY MY SISTER, PRINCESS LUNA!!”

“Then what truly happened?” one stallion with a bandaged head trotted up. The injury was obviously caused by the Nightmare Family. “Spike wouldn’t do this to anypony.”

“You’re right. As I said with the ponies in the court, Spike’s real father attacked us.” Unknown to them, the dragon they all feared so much was closer than they realized. Hearing their so called ‘benign ruler’ lie about him was bad enough, but lying about the mare who saved him was something he would never forgive.

The cameras kept flashing it blinding light upon the princess. “But what about the dragon massacre generations ago?” one mare asked. “And if it’s true, will Spike attack Ponyville after he kills Twilight?” The question left the sacred mare to shiver.

“THAT MONSTER WILL NOT LAY A CLAW ON TWILIGHT SPARKLE! I THE GREAT AND POWERFUL TRIXIE WILL SLAY THAT DRAGON, EVEN IF IT IN HER LAST BREATH!”

“A question for you Lady Lulamoon!” another reporter shouted. “I heard Starlight Glimmer is one of Spike’s strongest soldiers. Princess Twilight here says you were the first friend she made, so why didn’t you go with her to apologize to Spike?” That question hit the blue unicorn where it hurt and she could no longer make believable excuses.

A stallion reporter with a fancy mustache had the next question. “Is it true that you raised Spike, princess?”

“Yes,” the princess paused for a moment, trying not then let her emotions take control. Unfortunately, the damage was dealt and the ponies mumbled about the bombshell. “The Spike I raised like my own child, died all those years ago and was replaced by this heartless killer, Phantom. But I promise that with all of my power that I will put an end to this madness. Twilight Sparkle, and her family, they’ll be placed under protection until this monster is no more.”

“Princess, one more question!” one mare yelled.

“This press confess is over,” Celestia said, wrapping her wing over the two of them and lead them back into the castle, trying to escape the blinding camera flashes and the countless ponies that wanted more answers.

“I beg to differ Sunbutt!” a very familiar voice called from amongst the crowd.

Celestia stopped walking as the voice couldn’t fool her. Shaking, the white alicorn slowly turned to see a single figure in the sea of ponies, sticking out like a sore thumb. Not for being a dragon, not even for his stature, but for the pure hate that radiated off his body.

“Ph-Phantom...”

“How dare you...” he moved through the group of ponies, paying them no mind as they parted before him. “QUEEN NIGHTMARE MOON LIE TO ME!?” he shouted arriving at the base of the podium.

“Guards! Guards! Come here!” Celestia cowardly ordered, as two regiments of guards rushed the square.

“Dark dragon, Phantom, you and your clan have been accused of murder, arson, kidnapping, and threatening the crown! How do you plead?!”

“Oh you damn well know I’m guilty,” Phantom growled. “I have killed those that had tossed me aside, murdered those that had no quarrel to kill me, burned the barn of a conspirator against me, and vowed to kill my birth family’s murderer.

He began to grow amused as the guards surrounded him. “You can arrest me if you think yourself strong enough, but know this I only come to speak, nothing more. I am no threat as of this moment and until I have finished what has to be said.” Phantom stood before the guards, waiting for their action or inaction. “How every attacking me will cost you your lives.”

They went with the first.

Six guards had rushed Phantom with spears drawn, ready to end his life. “Idiots...” he sighed, knowing it was futile. The blades shattered upon contact with Phantom’s scales.

One guard struck the ground so hard it left a clean slice where his sword fell. Another adjusted his attack to slice at the area Phantom had dodged to.

“Is that it?” he asked before turning back to Celestia and Twilight with absolute rage. “I’ve been with you both through thick and thin, through sweat and tears, through the best and worst of times, and what was my reward for all that?” Phantom ducked as a sword slashed through the air where his head used to be. “To be used, tossed aside, forgotten.”

With each word a swing of sword sliced through where his head had been moments earlier. It was irritating Phantom. “THAT WAS MY REWARD FOR ALL MY HELP?!!” he shouted as he finally ceased dodging and let the sword shatter upon contact with his scales. “Explain to me how I’m the evil one?!” he asked as the shadow of twelve guards appeared behind him. “You need to do better.”

Phantom then grabbed one of the swords in mid-air, pulling it along with the guard. Swinging his fist down where Phantom had hit the guard across the chest instantly knocking him out. “Come at me with your bare hooves,” he taunted snapping the sword in his hand like a twig under a boulder.

The remaining guards advanced towards the lone drake, determined to take his head. One after another, the soldiers came and were each quickly defeated. The advancement didn’t cease until there was a sight that both awed and scared the remaining royal guards. A heap of bodies breathing but unconscious formed under an unstoppable monster.

The guards had come to accept the truth that none of them were even close to taking Phantom down. If he managed to stop the fifty Canterlot elites by himself, these soldiers would just be deadweight.

“Had enough?” Phantom asked, stepping down each body like they were nothing but floormats.

“You’re a monster!” the captain screamed. Phantom came up and punched the royal guard captain that had apparently replaced Shining Armor. He fell to the ground coughing blood.

“Another one who doesn’t know when to hold his tongue,” Phantom snarled. “If I’m the monster, then why are you and your fellow soldiers still breathing?” he pointed to the pile. “I’ve only killed those who became insurmountable obstacles in my objective,” Phantom reasoned walking back to the podium, staring at the frightened mares and resolute alicorn. “That objective is your deaths.”

He pointed to Trixie and Twilight. “You can have all the guards protect you, you can have the entire Canterlot army on me and my forces, but I promise you this... You two will be the only ones to die in that fight. Over the past years I’ve gathered and trained with so many powerful comrades who can hold their own in a fight… Compared to them, this is mere child‘s play.”

“I hope you are ready for it,” he said as he began walking away from the irate solar alicorn and the trembling princess of friendship. “Because I’ve been waiting for this revenge for the past four years!”

Phantom raised both arms into the air as a powerful aura surrounded him. “PREPARE YOURSELVES PONYKIND!” he roared. “SOON YOU ALL WILL EXPERIENCE THE GREATEST WAR IN EQUESTRIAN HISTORY!!” With that a powerful burst of energy shot out from around his body. The ponies struggled not to be blown away by the burst of air.

Phantom then ascended into the air with a single but powerful flap of his wings. A few feet up and he burst into flames and was gone.

Phantom had just finished his fourth bottle of scotch. Normally a pony would’ve shown the usual sigh of being drunk. Fortunately, because Phantom’s fire sac burned nearly ninety-seven percent of the alcohol in his bloodstream, the drake was barely even buzzed. While passing the time by having a conversation with the bartender and server, asking if they thought he had even a remote chance with the queen of the night. Both Starlight and the bartenders answered honestly by saying that he’ll be the luckiest dragon alive to get to court Nightmare.

The crystal clear door opened, and Phantom turned to see who had entered. To his surprise, it was Nightmare Moon who had just come in. In place of her midnight blue armor, the black alicorn wore a beautiful indigo dress, causing the drake’s face to turn red.

Noticing her student’s presence, Nightmare trotted in with a questionable expression on her face. “Oh Phantom, what are you doing here?” she asked with a smile.

Still blushing from seeing the goddess, Phantom turned away to hide his blush. “M-Midnight ask me if I wanted to grab a drink,” he answered trying not to look at his teacher in the eye.

“I see... please face me my dear,” Nightmare commanded in her usual motherly tone. Reluctantly, Phantom obeyed and turned so his slit eyes met his teacher’s. “Come my loyal dragon,” Nightmare said as she trotted over towards the sofa. Phantom did as he was told, and took a seat across from his teacher.

The drake couldn’t help but gaze at Nightmare’s beautiful form as she laid on her belly. She placed her order, and the server returned shortly afterwards with the queen’s martini and a bottle of scotch for Phantom. Nightmare to shivered in delight as she enjoyed the sweet, dark-red drink.

Looking up, the alicorn giggled as she saw her student trying to get used to the taste of alcohol. “You know, I should arrest you all for serving a minor,” she said pretending to scold them. Phantom instantly spat out the contents that were in his mouth, while the employees’ eyes widened.

“I’m only joking dear bartenders,” Nightmare giggled, returning to her benign tone, “Even though he’s about eighteen years old in pony years, dragons can start drinking in early their teens, because of they fire sacs in his lungs. So letting Phantom drink here won’t be a problem.” Phantom along with the workers sighed in relief. Nightmare giggled more before taking another sip of her drink.

Phantom just stared at Nightmare, while drinking his bottle. Knowing what her student liked to see, Nightmare mischievously wiggled her flank. Phantom’s eyes widen watching her flank move from side to side. Midnight smirked while Starlight gave the two crystal ponies a strict look signaling them to turn around and give the two some privacy.

To be honest the bar ponies weren’t sure if they wanted to know what would happen. Normally when Shining and Cadance did stuff like this, the moment ended with something sexual. However the queen’s behavior was just plain teasing, which she obviously enjoyed. If Pinkie were here, she’d do something so unexpected that it would make Phantom’s cheeks redder than Big Mac’s coat and instantly make his dragon hood stand.

Nightmare was about to say something when Pinkie Pie accompanied by Snails, bursted through the door. “Captain Phantom! Queen Nightmare Moon! We have urgent news!” she nearly screamed.

“This better be good,” Nightmare said pouting, and lost what she was about to say. Snails gulped, hoping they hadn’t made the alicorn angry.

“It’s better than good milady!” Pinkie shouted bouncing around as she usually did, “I’ve just gotten word from our spies. We now have proof that Captain Phantom was set up!” The moment those words escaped, everypony within the area stop what they were doing. The felt a magical energy so intense that the entire empire shook.

“Who?” Phantom asked while furiously gritting his teeth. “Who’s the fucker that ruined my life!?” A powerful green aura radiated off his scales as he awaited his answer.

Off on the the south-eastern edge of Equestria, laid a beach house where the royal family would stay during their vacations. Well, most of the royal family. This three story, six acre house is indeed owned by Celestia and Luna, but as of this moment, Blueblood was the one occupying it.

Blueblood knew Phantom would someday attack the castle and planned on leaving Equestria until things cooled down. What he didn’t anticipated was that two of the royal guards that accompanied him were really spies of Pinkie’s division. overheard Blueblood talking to some of his associates about how it was more than coincidence that Phantom was banished, followed by snarls of good riddance and thoughts of needing to do it again. Apparently, he had hired a hit pony to take out one of the nobles at random. Sadly it had to be a member of the Esquire family and have his body dumped somewhere in the wastelands for the buzzers to feed.

The guards couldn’t wait to watch the prince be tortured by Phantom and Queen Nightmare Moon.

“I know... let’s get that bastard,” the pegasus spoke to her partner as they stood in front of the prince’s bedroom door, quickly turning around and opening the marble door. The room itself was decorated in white, a few dresser lining up the walls with a vanity mirror and a white bed under the white glow of moonlight. All in all, it would be a perfect setting for a romantic moment, but under the silk sheet was the vile prince himself, safe in his own little dream. Blossomforth looked in disgust, as her queen and captain were suffering while this miserable wretch was living the life of luxury.

“Your highness, wake up! We must go! ‘He is here.’ ” the mare guard ordered, waking the stallion. The two guards helped by taking off the sheets that covered Blueblood’s body. Growling, the spoiled prince used his magic to wrap it back over himself.

“Buck this,” the stallion guard proclaimed as he called in more guards to help carry the prince’s body to the carriage.

“WE LOVE YOU BLUEBLOOD!”

“YOU'RE THE BEST KING ANYPONY COULD EVER HAVE!”

“THANK YOU FOR KEEPING THOSE FILTHY COMMONERS OUT OF OUR FAIR CITY!”

“YOU ARE THE ONLY ONE MEANT TO RULE!”

“Thank you. Thank you, my subjects,” the prince said, raising his hoof to silence the thousands of ponies attending his coronation as king. “Loyal subjects, I thank all of you. If it wasn’t for you, I too would have fallen prey to that awful beast. Now as your newly crowned king, I pledge to cleanse Equestria of its filth. Such includes these rebels calling themselves the Nightmare Family. I will make them all wish they had never messed with the Canterlot elite!” As the prince concluded his speech, the ponies’ cheering and clapping hooves sounded like thunder under the most fierce storms.

Blueblood smiled snobbishly, enjoying the cheers of his subjects. Sadly, all dreams must end and his ending was but another beginning. The ponies still cheered before him, only to a different name. The name belonging to the one who caused the prince so many nightmares upon his banishment. The name that could turn bravery into fear. A name whom everypony had come to know... Phantom.

“WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS?!” Blueblood yelled with his royal Canterlot voice. “S-STOP CALLING THAT MONSTER’S NAME AT ONCE! AS YOUR KING, I COMMAND IT!!” As loud as the Canterlot voice was, the ponies still chanted.

“PHANTOM! PHANTOM! PHANTOM! PHANTOM!” The loud cheers, the thunderous stomps, the whistles, it was all torture to the king. But what truly ran chills through Blueblood’s spine was the warm breath that flowed through his fur. He turned and saw not to see his castle, but a somewhat enraged, five story tall, dark purple and green dragon with eyes that held an eerie glow to them, staring down at the king.

“Broadcast this for the royals, I wouldn’t want them to miss this,” Phantom ordered.

“Yes sir,” Obsidian saluted and with a wicked smile, his eyes glowed to magically record Blueblood’s predicament.

“You took away my life, you made me kill the ponies I thought were my friends, and worst of all.” The dragon rose up. “You took my bride’s life.” Those were the last words the king heard as the emerald flames encased his body, burning his flesh away. The ponies awed in the spectacle of flames as the prince’s screams filled the air along with the scent of a roasting pony. Before he let out another scream, a claw came down, threatening to smash him into the ground.

The prince screamed as he awoke in a hardened, glass-like bed. He looked around to find nearly everything around him was made of crystal and he quickly realized where he was. “Get me out of here!” the prince demanded as he rose out of the bed and ran to the crystal bars. He peered out to see two bat ponies sitting at the far side of the hall connecting the cell, playing a card game. He knew they heard him, it was clear that they were just ignoring his pleas and cries. “I know you bats can hear me! As your prince, I order you to let me go!”

“Sure, we’ll let you go... after our commanding officers are done with you,” one of the guards said, putting down a three of spades.

“Wait, what do you mean after they’re done with me?” Blueblood asked.

“We found out, just a few hours ago, that it was you who set up our captain and caused his banishment. Personally, I would be more than glad to end your rotten, spoiled life, but those three deserve it more.” The second guard said, picking up a card. Blueblood tried to use his magic and felt his horn glow, but there was something stopping him. Both guards turned and watched the prince’s fruitless action while enjoying a good laugh.

“Oh, this is really funny, Bluewuss thinks he can use his magic,” the stallion guard chuckled.

“You’re right, that ring really does work.” Blueblood placed a hoof on his horn, feeling the round golden lump fixed on it.

“Best get some sleep, your highness,” the mare mocked. “For tomorrow is your last day.” The guards all laughed before getting up and leaving the prince alone to his thoughts throughout the night, trotting around the cell, knowing he couldn’t sleep as his aunt would give him nightmares. Nightmares of what would come in the morning.

After six hours and one final dinner consisting of something to suit his taste, Blueblood sat on his bed waiting desperately for some sort of rescue. He nearly jumped at the noise of somepony coming into the hall, hoping it was what he prayed for, but it quickly turned to fear as he heard the metal clanks come in a slow, rhythmic motion, allowing his fears to get the best of him. He thought it was the dragon or his aunt, but much to his relief, it was his two guards, but they were wearing the midnight blue armor that was meant for the Nightmare Guard.

“What the meaning of this?! Why are you wearing that that awful armor for?! Oh nevermind, just get me out of here!” the prince demanded, glad to see the two. But his hopes shattered when the two guards stared daggers at him. In that one look, all his hopes faded into the abyss of darkness.

“Listen here, you arrogant asshole, we aren’t your slaves. We were only ‘protecting’ you because we were ordered to as spies for the Nightmare Guard!” spat the mare guard.

“You should be more careful who you trust Blueblood,” the stallion guard spoke still holding his partner in his hooves. “We know what you did all those years ago.”

“And what proof do you have?” Blueblood shot back smugly, “The body’s gone and the hit pony is nowhere to be found. So, HA to the both of you!”

“You know, the interesting thing about Queen Nightmare is that she has the power to look inside the memories of others. That, of course, includes a sorry excuse for a pony like yourself,” the mare guard explained, making the white stallion even whiter.

“He’s right. As much as we all would love to give this bastard what for, it would be best if we let Captain Phantom deal with him,” a voice spoke as the sound of hooves echoed throughout the halls of the crystal dungeon and stopped whatever it was that there were doing stood tall and saluted.

“Elite Officer Midnight Blossom! Elite Officer Pinkamena!” the two said in unison.

“At ease,” Pinkie ordered and the two stood down, awaiting her orders. “It’s time. Bring that pile of pony excrement to the field.” she commanded twitching in sadistic glee.

“Yes High General Pinkamena!” The two grabbed the prince, cuffed all four of his hooves, and proceed to walk along the outside the castle. Upon exiting they entered into the arena that once held the Equestrian Games.

Inside the arena, thousands upon thousands of crystal ponies lined up the row after row of seats. Some were eating crystal popcorn, or any other crystallized foods and beverages, while others engaged in conversation.

The executives of the Nightmare Guard stood In the middle of the arena were three podiums reserved for the top executives of the Nightmare Family. The black dragon looked up at his magic crystals that were broadcasting the a white event for the Dragon Empire and other countries supporting Phantom. Suddenly light blinded everypony except Pinkie, who put on the sunglasses she pulled out from under the wooden floor. Once the light faded, the ponies started cheering for their beloved queen, Nightmare Moon, as she now stood across the table from the pink pony.

The crowd then fell into silence as a shadowy figure passed by them. It landed softly on the podium next to Nightmare and the four elite generals. As he waved to the audience, the ponies cheered as loud as possible for their hero’s arrival. He wore wearing his flowing jacket, adorned with a crescent moon. The cheers continued until Nightmare stomped her hoof to silence them.

“Mares and gentlecolts,” Phantom said with a loud, yet clear voice, “It is an honor to have you all here for the event that has been in the making for many years. One that has been building through the turmoil, through the hardships, and through the suffering that a great many of us have endured along with the times of growth and prosperity that we hope to see blossom forth. A day that had started back when I was but a lowly, naive, and pitiful slave.” The crowd began tossing murmurs and rejections of Phantom’s description before he held up a hand to silence them.

“No, no, it’s true,” he continued after the audience quieted down, “I was a lowly slave, walking down the road of death with a smile upon my face, happy to venture to my demise. Because I was a different creature. Because I wasn't like them. Because I frightened them. Because I am a creature that requires the consumption of meat to live. Because they feared that I would choose to eat something I would never even dream of eating, even in desperate hunger.” He paused for a moment to draw himself together. “And even before that, I was feared, hated, ignored, and plainly forgotten by all of those closest to me. That was, until I met... her.” He gestured towards the alicorn beside him.

“It was our beloved queen here who shown me the righteous path, who taught me with her own hooves, and shown the lengths a true friend will go. And those facts were shown most clearly at the trial.” Even at the mere mention, a good collection of jeers broke the silence in the crowd.

“For Queen Nightmare Moon was the only one at the time not demanding my head to be placed on a pike. Not only for a crime I clearly did not commit, but for the pure hatred of my kind and any unlike their own. And because of that, I was banished. Forcefully removed from my home, my family, my friends, and my life. All but Nightmare was left.” He paused, looking down in sorrow as the crowd took on both meanings, collectively.

“So the question still remains: Who is the one truly responsible for the crime I was punished for? Who was the pony to kill and frame the innocent? Who was the pony that slept like a baby in a gilded bed, knowing that he was not only responsible for countless deaths, but the hatred of every single creature that isn't a pompous, royal, equine, prick?” He paused, letting the crowd lean in to hear every word. “After all these years, we finally found the stallion personally responsible for all of the crimes and suffering that plagued this great kingdom! PRINCE BLUEBLOOD!”

The stadium erupted into jeering and booing as Phantom gestured to the side, signaling the stallion in question to be brought out to the table. “Today, my fellow ponies, revenge will be taken on this beast that has condemned us to this fate.” Phantom roared as the crowd once again started their cheers back up. “Though now in this stance, I feel the need to also thank him for opening my eye’s to the truth. For allowing me to see what I have, so avidly, avoided before. For exposing that fat bitch's true colors were, along with all those that shunned me. And for shining light on those who truly do care for others.” Phantom’s voice was calm and composed, not a single shred of malice. This made a few ponies murmur within the crowd.

“And for that, he is to only be killed THREE TIMES!!!” he finished, causing all ponies to guffaw and wail in cheers and admiration, in awe and fear, and a few of pity. “But I feel it best to let you decide his fate in each slaying, as it was you who accepted me and brought an end to my horror. SO I ASK YOU: SHOULD HIS FIRST DEMISE BE QUICK AND PAINLESS?”

Phantom waited for the yays and neighs that would surely rise from the crowd, but to his astonishment, there was nothing but a quiet silence. Blueblood, who was previously wetting himself at this public lynching was briefly glad to hear the lack of noise, thinking that the dragon was foolish to try and coerce the ponies into deciding his fate, to make them his judge, jury, and executioners. But he was mistaken. What Phantom was viewing right now, was not the face of forgiving ponies, but faces of astonishment and disgust. That prince deserved worse, much worse than a quick death, the eyes of the ponies said so. “OR SHOULD IT BE SLOW AND EXCRUCIATING?” At that very instant, the arena was abuzz with noise making the previous cacophony seem like a whisper spoken to the wind.

Lowering himself next to Blueblood’s ear, Phantom whispered, “Slow and painful it is.”

After placing the white stallion onto the operating table, Phantom reached for a scalpel, placing the instrument of healing and curing onto the bare flesh of the patient below him. Not deep, not deep at all, barely past the epidermis he continued slicing into Blueblood with medical precision. Four clear lines, beginning from snout to forehead and from the corners of his mouth to the edge of his jaw. The wails of pain from the stallion only pushed the crowd further into their hysteria of madness. Phantom then began pulling at the cut skin. Tearing and ripping at his flesh exposing the muscles veins and bone underneath kept neat and tidy by Nightmare’s magic. Phantom thought about taking the scalpel and jamming it straight into Blueblood’s heart.

But as much as he wanted to, he couldn’t bring himself to do it. It wasn’t that he didn’t want to, it’s just Nightmare and Pinkie wanted a turn at killing him. Putting down the scalpel, Pinkie had handed him a bag of salt. Blueblood, for his part, was in shock when he saw the bag. The stallion struggled, wanting to be free of his bonds, but it was a fruitless effort. Phantom poured the contents in the stallion’s wounds. As Blueblood screamed in agony, Phantom continued to rub in the salt.

Pinkie giggled as she watched this sad excuse of a prince get what he deserved. She couldn’t wait for her turn. The stallion who destroyed her friendships, who was forced to kill the innocent so she could understand the pain Phantom was going though. And all in all, ruined her relationship with Pokey.

Once the Nightmare captain was done, he whistled, calling out to somepony. Slowly the crowd turn there head to see Zecora walking toward the stage. She was dragging bottles and vials, ment for healing. When she approached the stage, Phantom levitated the cart onto the stage as the zebra one of the vials. She then forced the prince to drink it; the substances made the hid eyes heavy. Soon Blueblood was asleep. Now, it was Nightmare’s turn.

The prince was on the field, however he wasn’t wearing his signature tie. What he was wearing were similar to that of the late Big Mac. Around the stallion neck were a brown yoke meant to pull plows. It would be easy for a normal stallion to pull said plow, but being a unicorn who was raised into royalty, Blueblood lacked the muscle an earth pony would need to carry out this task.

However, the worst was yet to come. Blueblood’s flesh was slowly ripping itself away with each step. That wasn’t all, above him was a flock of crows ready to feast if he so much as stop. The pain on his body was unbearable.

From the distance, were the thunderous roars of the crowd. Almost all of them were stomping their hooves, as they hear the prince scream in agonizing pain, as he plow this distant field of dirt and rock. As fate had to be the most unfair thing in the land, a stone was place deep beneath the earth, causing the plow to stop. Resulting in Blueblood choking for a quick second and fall on his back. It was a fatal mistake on his part.

The flock came down like rain in a tropical storm, each with their beaks ready. They landed and began to peck at what remaining flesh the prince had. He flailed his hooves making a few fly away, but the birds quickly returned in even greater numbers. Soon the crows covered the stallion’s bloody, mangled body. The screams die down, thus waking him up.

Blueblood screamed as he looked around. The first thing he did was to check his body. There were no cuts, no salt, nothing. The prince smile thinking it was all a dream. That dream soon turn to reality when he stood from the table, with four pair of eyes glaring daggers at the stallion.

“It’s about time you’ve woken up from your first death. Phantom, would you be a dear and show this miserable colt what it means to live in your scales?” the dark alicorn asked sweetly. Phantom nodded and snapped his claws; two crystal pony dressed like chefs, walked into the arena carrying two silver tray.

“I hope you are hungry dear nephew, because we have something special for you.” The two ponies placed the tray on the table that Nightmare had made from her magic. Blueblood wanted to puke when they opened the tray. The first plate laid two tender roasted chicken tender, covered in honey. The other he didn’t find as revolting, as it held a nice garden salad. Phantom drooled from the smell of the honey, and the perfectly cooked chicken. He want to dig right it both of them but he held himself back, not that anypony in the stands pay would mind. The audience knew that Phantom needed meat.

“For his next torture...” Phantom announced to the spectators, “You the ponies, will get a choice between the foods this little prick should eat. However, one of the dishes has been poisoned.” Phantom grabbed a knife, and fork, “I recommend the roast as our chefs became quite adept at cooking chicken after I taught them how to clean and pluck the feathers of the very thing this prick is. A chicken.”

Phantom took his knife and began to cut a piece of chicken. Taking the piece, the drake ate it like the respectable gentle-drake he was. Blueblood remained silent as he watched the spectacle. After he swallowed the prices of chicken, Phantom continued. “Now my little ponies, what do you say? Make him eat the chicken, or salad?”

“MEAT! MEAT! MEAT! MEAT!” the ponies chanted into a roar, wanting to see Blueblood become the second pony in history to eat meat.

Blueblood shot his nose up in the air. “I’m not some barbaric beast like you! I refuse to eat this horrible, grotesque excuse for food!” Despite the predicament the rotten prince was in, he still behaved like the spoiled brat he’s always been. “And telling me that one of the foods are poisoned was not a smart move on your part. I know you poisoned that abomination you call food,” he said, pushing the plate to the side. Phantom, Nightmare, and all anticipated this, yet Phantom threw down both his knife and fork and raised his claw

“Alright, you got me,” Phantom said as the crowd of ponies booed until Nightmare Moon cut them off. A single stomp of their queen’s hoof, was all it took for the boos to cease.

Now that the stadium was silent Phantom turned back to Blueblood, who of course, still hasn't budged. “Oh, by the way...” he began as his eyes shined an emerald glow, “You don’t have much of a choice. You see, I’m a dragon that likes to eat his meals while they’re still alive.” There was an eerie sound in his voice that made the prince shudder.

“Still, I have refined taste, so eating you would either cause me to puke you back up, or spend an entire day in the bathroom. So I’ll make this simple... eat it or die. This is the choice I faced when I was forced to start hunting.”

The fork Phantom was holding was cover in a green aura, it then shot into Blueblood chest. Before the stallion could react, the fork had buried itself deep within his chest, mere inches away from his beating heart. The dragon took the fork out of his chest, letting the blood trickled down his coat.

“And before you ask... Zecora,” Phantom called, as the zebra shaman approached Blueblood, staring into the rotten prince’s eyes.

“Who are you?” the prince asked, seeing as she was the same zebra who forced him to swallow that mixture.

“Nothing to worry about dead prince, simply the butcher ready to mince. I have come to warn your broken soul, of a tainted foal inside this hole” Zecora spoke. Blueblood just tilted his head in confusion.

“Since you fail to understand, let me point it out,” Phantom growled as he hated to wait. “We poisoned both foods. Now eat, or be eaten.” Blueblood gulped, having to make a choice resulting in death is not easy. If he ate it, then he could have at least die peacefully in a scenes. But if he refuse to eat, then this beast, this monster, this thing, would lodge that fork of his back in the prince's chest, this time, it would reach his heart. Blueblood didn't want to die by the hands of this dragon. But if he was going to go, then he’ll go with grace.

‘It’s a simple choice. Eat the meat, or be eaten by savage animals. Think Blueblood! Think! Think! THINK!!’ the prince screamed in his mind. With nothing else, he did what that everypony wanted to see. He ate the meat.

Phantom, Nightmare, Pinkie, Starlight and all the other executives watched in amusement. Of course, Obsidian was still broadcasting the entire scene for the royals.

“Sorry to burst your bubble, but the chicken you ate contained a poison that wasn’t meant for ponies,” Phantom said as he wrapped his tongue around the tender, retracting it back in his mouth, with the chicken in tow.

“The poison you just consumed was meant to upset a dragon’s stomach. The poison then spread through their bloodstream cutting off their fire. Within the hour of ingestion, there immune system starts to fail, following by the cut off their air supply, then death. Now then my dear nephew...” Before Nightmare could finish, Blueblood started laughing.

“Ha! You stupid lizard, you should really know your toxins! Trying to poison me with…” the prince stopped as he began coughing violently. Phantom only placed his elbow on the table, looking at the stallion with a sick grin.

‘That’s what I like to see!’ he thought as his grin widened.

“We’re sorry, did you say something?” Nightmare asked smugly. “You should have let us finish. The poison will affect a dragons in about three days, but for ponies...” She stopped and smiled nastily before she continued. “It only about three minutes after ingestion.” the dark monarch spoke. The royal stallion started choking, finding it harder to breath.

“We know you can hear me. So before you enter into eternal slumber, we all want to know the true reason you framed this wonderful drake here. Why have you caused him, and his loved ones so much pain?” the queen asked, before the prince could fall in her embrace.

The cold embrace of death itself wash over the prince body. Blueblood closed his eyes, feeling his body floating in limbo. For the first time in his spoiled life, he felt as if he was in peace. Peace from all the things that transpired that day. This spritely peace was intruded by a sharp pain that was coming from his chest.

“Rise and shine Bloody Wuddy!” the pink party pony spoke, pulling out the an empty needle. “Now for the real fun.” she said with a wicked grin. The party pony gripped the fabric of the sheets with her teeth and pulling them on the tray. Revealing scalps, rusty saws, and lemon juice. Grabbing the scalp, she was over to the now retire up prince. Oh she was going to enjoy this. With perfect medical precision, the scape touch and dig deep with the stallion skin. Much deeper than one might hope. The blade slide across his chest. Blueblood wanted to scream, but soon realize he was gagged. The sharp blade left his chest, only to slide down from the other side. The scalp then move down the stallion’s body, stopping at his midsection. The segonal dark pink pony, then grab two sets of hooks, separating flesh and muscle. Phantom went and removed the gag.

“Pinkie, the ponies here want to hear him scream.” Starlight said handing Pinkie a rusty saw. Obsidian was also displeased as the nobles watching this were eager.

“I know silly willy and…” Pinkie’s mane deflated as she grew furious, a rare sight for the happy-go-lucky mare. “I’M SORRY CRYSTAL PONIES! BUT THIS ASSHOLE HERE RUINED MINE LIFE AS WELL!!” she yelled causing the audience to mumble in confusion. Pinkie took the rusty saw and set it on Blueblood’s right hoof. “I WAS IN LOVE WITH THE STALLION I TOOK TO THE CANTERLOT HEARTS AND HOOVES DANCE SEVEN YEARS AGO!” She screamed as she rocked the saw back, gashing the leg of the prince. “I LOVED HIM WITH ALL MY HEART, HE PROMISED ME HE’LL BE WITH ME, EVEN AFTER SPIKE WAS WRONGFULLY BANISHED... THAT WAS UNTIL DISCORD TOLD US WHERE TO FIND HIM.”

The prince began to scream in pain. The rusted saw dug deeper into the stallion’s leg. The crimson fluid sprayed onto her face and armor. “I BEGGED THEM... POKEY, THE GIRLS... ALL OF THEM TO COME WITH ME AND APOLOGIZE TO PHANTOM. AND YOU KNOW WHAT HAPPENED, POKEY BROKE UP WITH ME! HE THOUGHT I FELT PITY FOR A MONSTER THAT HASN’T DONE ANYTHING! NOPONY HERE IN EQUESTRIA UNDERSTOOD THE PAIN I WENT THROUGH. ALL BECAUSE OF A ROYAL, ROTTEN, SPOILED BRAT WHO COULDN’T BREATHE THE SAME AIR WE ALL BREATHE!!!” Pinkie had finished her speech just as the saw reached the bone where it couldn’t cut.

“I do believe the queen asked you the question everypony’s wondering. Why did you frame me?” Phantom calmly asked as the crowd stayed in perfect silence, waiting for his answer.

Obsidian made sure he didn’t miss this now or never chance. So many nobles across the world were watching the execution and awaiting Blueblood’s reply. Dragon Lord Ember, Prince Rutherford of Yakyakistan, Queen Gilda of Griffonstone, Chief Thunderhooves of the buffalo tribe. All these allied leaders were listening to Blueblood’s excuse for framing the captain of the Nightmare Family.

“I-I...” he began weakly, he barely managed to keep conscious with the little blood he had left. “...I wanted to cleanse Equestria from filth like you and those dirt poor commoners...” These would be the last words the miserable prince would speak before he faded from the waking world. This didn’t last when Pinkie jammed another alduraling needle in his heart, forcing him to wake up.

No one could believe what they had just heard, that was the reason for ruining an innocent baby dragon’s life? The veins on Phantom’s forehead popped out as he grew more furious than he had ever been in his entire life. His claw burst into flames as he touched the nearly torn wound causing the bone snapped, and stopped the bleeding. However it didn’t stop there, Phantom made the flame even hotter, cutting of the remainder of meat.

Phantom turned to look at his equally ire teacher; she was merely minutes away from sending a chunk of the moon at the prince. “Elite Officer Pinkamena,” Nightmare called in a voice darker than usual, frightening everypony except Phantom. “Tear off that waste of space of a nephew’s horn and whatever limb you can get from the bastard.” Her tone calmed down as she turned to Phantom.

“Phantom would you be a dear and take a letter please?” she asked sweetly. Phantom nodded having also calmed down, and breathed out a plume of green flames. The flame materialized into a scroll and quill and Phantom began to take the letter.

Having finished her royal duties, including lowering the sun, Celestia was relaxing in her chambers. She was about to close her eyes, when a scroll popped out in front of her. Curious of what Phantom had reported, she unrolled the parchment and began to read.

Dear sister

It has been a while since we last talked. I just wanted to let you know that unlike you, who didn’t properly investigated the murder at all in these seven years, we’ve found proof that Phantom, was innocent of the crime he was banished for. You see, our dear nephew here, had just admitted he hired a hit-pony and dumped the bodies in the badlands. We’ll let you keep the rest of Blueblood since we’re done with him. I’m about to send him to you so he can tell you of his actions personally. Unfortunately for you, he won’t be alive for long. Know that because you refused to speak the truth of the banishment, you had sealed the fate of you and your hypocritical student, who broke her promise. We are coming for you. One. At. A. Time.

Sincerely yours

Nightmare Moon.

PS: If you’re wondering, the pony Blueblood hired has already been dealt with.

Celestia’s eyes widened after reading the letter that came with the mangled, broken unicorn that was breathing its last breath. The letter dropped along with the glow of her horn and looked at her nephew, he was trying to call her for help, but soon was engulfed by the flame Phantom was known for. His green flame.

The flames burnt off his white fur, Celestia tried to help her nephew, but the flames themselves were hot enough to ward her back. Blueblood’s skin began to boil, oozing blood as he screamed like he never screamed before. Celestia called her guards, wanting to put the flames out but it was fruitless when there came close to the flame. Blueblood’s breathing was heavy, his blood soon evaporated under the intense heat.

He reach out his foreleg to his aunt. “I failed to protect Canterlot…” he muttered. Those were his final words. In the end, he remained the snobbish pony he always had been. The flames covered the rest of his body, and stayed for a few minutes until they disappeared, leaving behind only the ashes of the spoiled prince.

Phantom sighed happily as he was being squeezed by a pair of black forelegs. Nightmare was happy to prove his innocence, sadly it has been seven years since it truly mattered. Celestia never looked into this murder, but the answer was still found. Thanks to Obsidian recording everything, various other kingdoms also knew the truth of Phantom’s banishment.

Sighing happily Nightmare traced her hoof around Phantom’s chest as he relaxed in her embrace. Her cheeks turned a slight red, as she felt herself fall more for the dark drake every time she saw him. Unable to hold her feelings back any longer, Nightmare did something she never thought of, nor had her student never expected. Cupping Phantom’s chin gently, the goddess of the moon leaned in and kissed him.

Phantom couldn’t believe it, he had finally received a kiss from Queen Nightmare Moon. Instead of panicking, Phantom closed his eyes and melted into his very first kiss. His arms, legs, and wings drooped down, around the alicorn, enjoying the softness of her lips. He wanted to deepen the kiss, feel more of her warm lips and fur. Much to his disappointment however, Nightmare broke away.

“We should get some rest, my beloved student,” she said nuzzling against Phantom’s shoulder. “In fact, you, Pinkie, Starlight, Obsidian, Midnight... all of you take the rest of the day off.” Phantom nodded before the queen gave him one more kiss then went off to bed.

Upon reaching his chambers, Phantom threw himself onto the soft mattress. Both mentally and physically tired, it didn’t take long for the drake to fall asleep. For the rest of the night, Phantom dreamed only one thing: the eternal beauty of Queen Nightmare Moon.

Chapter Twelve

After the funeral of the late Prince Blueblood, the news got out of Phantom’s innocence, and spread like wildfire. Some ponies, mostly elites and nobles groaned, believing that the dragon was guilty, and deserved a slow and painful death. Others began to question why the matter wasn’t investigated. Did someone pay ponies off not to speak, or did Celestia just want to keep the matter covered up?

After learning Phantom was framed, Twilight couldn’t believe she never suspected Blueblood of all ponies. What was the reason? Was it because he was close to Celestia or any other princesses, or was it because of spite? Either way, because of his actions, she along with her friends have to pay a price.

And for that, she hated Blueblood, and hoped the rotten bastard was rotting in hell right now. For all of this, death, chaos, mercy and despair, all of it was because of Blueblood. Fluttershy, Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Starlight Glimmer, Shining Armor, and Cadance. If it wasn’t for Blueblood, all of them would still be together.

Not a day goes by without Twilight doesn’t wonder, where did she go wrong, later to learn that she banish her younger... no a dragon she once called her friend, who was completely innocent.

Celestia had Twilight and Trixie under constant protection, and relocated to Canterlot, in case Phantom ever attacked them. Other than Flurry Heart, the only relatives Twilight had left were her mother and father, who Celestia had relocated to Fillydelphia in case Phantom decided to attack them. The mares acted as each other’s bodyguard, and stood together at all times. The only exception was when either of them had to use the restroom, or take a bath.

A week has passed since the death of Blueblood, and Twilight’s sanity was fading with each passing day. She blamed herself for Phantom’s radical actions, as she wasn’t there for him when he needed her. Not even a loving tender kiss from her marefriend was able to cheer her up. Twilight knew that it was her fault. It was her who made the decision to banish him, her for not seeking him when Discord told them where he was.

Sooner or later, the time would come where Twilight would have to fight Phantom. Celestia had agreed to teach her and Trixie forbidden spells in order to combat her sister and her deadly student. However, she was worried about Twilight, as she could feel her mind slipping. At times, Celestia even heard Twilight mumble to herself about going to the Crystal Empire to beg Phantom for his forgiveness. After all, they used to share a bond that rivaled the bonds of the elements.

Nightmare on the other hoof was sitting on her throne in the Crystal palace. Her slit eyes were fixated on her student, who was sitting in the middle of the crystallized floor.

“Focus Phantom,” the dark alicorn instructed, as the lime green aura encased her student’s body. Phantom’s mind was focused on one thing, and that was to enter into the realm of dreams. A power that originally, only Luna knew how to perform. They were also legends stated that others know how to enter this realm as well. Today, Phantom would become one of those individuals.

The aura grew brighter and brighter until it faded. When the light died down, Phantom had disappeared.

“I’m so proud of you,” Nightmare said with a smile, before she too disappeared. Her student never ceased to amaze her.

Two unicorns were sleeping soundly, one was a pale white mare with a two tone purple and white mane and tail the other was a blue stallion whose mane and tail was a dark blue. This couple were named Night Light and Twilight Velvet, Twilight and Shining’s parents.

The couple have been living comfortably in their new house given to them by Celestia. The downside was that they were far away from their surviving child and fear of the horrors that may come, should Phantom find them..

In Velvet’s dream, both of her children were safe, sound and away from that monster that harmed them. The family was on a purple blanket. Shining, with Cadance, and their seven year old foal, Flurry Heart. Twilight came with her wife Trixie and their adopted filly unicorn named Wand Sparkle.

They were having a nice family picnic. Cakes, pies, daffodil sandwiches, and lemonade. It was a nice and clear day, the sun was shining with a few clouds in the air.

The family talked about their day to day lives until... the sky darkened. The eight ponies froze when they saw him, the creature that hunted them. The dark dragon, Phantom was standing there. Behind him was the goddess of terror herself, Nightmare Moon.

“Wow, I’m impressed, you’re able to find Twilight Velvet’s dreams,” Nightmare spoke while clapping her hooves. “Remember though my dear, you must leave the dream before she wakes up, or you will be forever trapped in the realm of sleep,” she warned.

“Yes my queen,” Phantom said, causing the alicorn to blush. Hearing her student suddenly call her his queen was not only cute, but also a turn on. But Nightmare shook the thoughts away, as there were important matters to attend to.

As Phantom’s eyes met that of Velvet’s, everypony else suddenly vanished, leaving the mare alone with these two monsters. The dragon took a step forward, causing the mother to crawl back.

“It’s been a long time Mrs. Sparkle? Or should I said mom?”

“You’re not my son, you monster,” the mare hissed.

“No you’re right, he died a long time ago, thanks to your daughter And her friends.” The dragon eyes then turn to look at the rest of the family, who long since vanished. “Well no need to break your mind, so here’s what going to happen. By noon later on, my guards will come and pick you and your husband up. And you have my word No harm will be done to either of you.” Phantom said placing his left hand on his chest.

“Why should I believe you... you... murderer!?” the mare yelled.

“Think about it madam. We could have our guards come and kill your husband and enslave you,” Nightmare said shrugging. “There are a lot of horny stallions back in the empire. They could use a new mare since the one we have... well, let just say she’s very loose,” she said, making the mare shiver.

“Yet, my student here made me promise not to,” she concluded, causing Velvet to calm down. “Now, if you please inform your husband, two pegasus will pick you up and take you some place random.” Velvet nodded in response to the queen’s instructions.

Phantom walked up to Velvet and gently lifted her chin. “I’ve always treated you and Night Light like a mother and father.” The dragon lets her go. “Believe me, I really didn’t want to get you guys involved, but I need somepony to really mess Twi up.”

Suddenly, the background begin to ripple, the dragon knew what this meant. “Oh and if you try to put up a fight, then my guards will take your husband’s life, and you will join Rarity.” With a blinding flash of light, both he and his teacher were gone.

Both Phantom and Nightmare reappear in the throne room. Nightmare really happy that Phantom is able to jump into dreams now. She lean over, giving the drake a small nuzzle, who was blushing profusely. “Now my student go and get our guards ready to depart for Fillydelphia, we have to gather our guests.”

“Yes my queen,” Phantom said with a bow.

“Please, you don’t have to call me ‘your queen’ every time we talk,” she said as she covered her muzzle with her wing to hide her blush. “I-It’s embarrassing...” she muttered.

“My apologies,” Phantom spoke before turning around and walking away, leaving the black alicorn alone. Once the door closed, the alicorn placed her hoof over her heart with a small smile.

“One day my beloved Phantom... One day, I will confess my love for you, and make you a king. My king,” Nightmare sighed, and looked to the ground.

Phantom walked down the crystallized halls of the castle. He thought back to the two days after the death of the vile prince that everypony has come to hate. It was the time to celebrate the Nightmare Guard captain’s innocence. Crystal ponies, and the Nightmare Family were partying like there was no tomorrow. Even Zecora, who normally prefers quiet places, had come to celebrate.

Ponies drunk off their flanks, talking, laughing, just having a good time. Some of the ponies even made love under the stars instead of their houses.

Others, specifically Pinkie Pie, Snips and Snails, were running around, buying cake, and other sweets. Despite their positions as executives of the army, Snips and Snails still enjoyed eating sweets and having fun. To the three’s delight, everything in the stores was on the house tonight.

Most of the guards and their officers were at the Open Crystal, getting their drinks on, singing, chatting, laughing. Phantom, Pinkie, Obsidian, Midnight, Thorax, Goldbeck, Zecora, Fleur, and surprisingly, Nightmare were all in the in the royal booth. Pinkie and Midnight were dancing around, while Phantom drank with Nightmare and Obsidian. Both dragons ordered a moon runner, while Nightmare had a cosmopolitan.

Glancing over Phantom looked at Pip who was surrounded by some young maids. The brown spotted stallion has become quite popular. Phantom couldn’t help but chuckle as he saw the crystal mares flirting with a now blushing Pip.

Things began to settle down an hour later. Pinkie and Midnight all worn out, were the first to head back to the castle. Obsidian soon took his leave, followed by Pip who was covered in lip marks from the amorous maids. Now it was just Nightmare and Phantom were alone. Things had became very awkward between the two. They just silently stared into each other’s eyes with racing minds and pounding hearts. They wondered which of them would speak first. Their lips made contact in a passionate kiss.

Phantom’s memory was interrupted when he saw Goldbeck and Cloud Skipper flying over three of their soldiers, who were running laps around the training camp. As executives for Midnight’s division, they had the responsibility of keeping their guards in shape.

‘Just how long were they running?’ the dragon thought.

Phantom decided to step in and give the soldiers a break. “At ease,” he commanded at the three who had ran around the track thirty times already lowering their hooves. “Pinkie, I need you for something,” Phantom said as he turned to the pink mare.

“I’m all ears, captain!” she said with a big smile.

“Pinkie, I want you to send some ponies to sneak into Fillydelphia and pick up Twilight Velvet and Night Light,” Phantom ordered.

“With all due respect sir, aren’t they the parents of Princess Twilight?” Midnight asked in which her captain nodded.

“You three go get some rest and be back in about an hour,” Goldbeck shouted. The three saluted and left the arena.

“Oh and before you go. If they resist or attempt to run, you know what to do.”

“Understood captain!” Pinkie disappeared behind the castle.

Midnight looked at Phantom, “Honestly, how do you think she does that?”

“I stopped questioning it a long time ago. It’s Pinkie Pie,” Phantom replied.

Within twenty minutes Pinkie had returned with the other two Phantom requested. While not as stealthy as Snips, Snails, Thorax or Pip, these two guards could still enter into Fillydelphia without drawing unwanted attention.

“Alright listen up,” the dragon spoke gaining the attention of the three flyers. “Our targets are located in , they will be near the edge of the city waiting for you three. Your job is to transport them to the pier of the Manehattan harbor and wait for me to get there. And no Midnight, you can’t harm them unless I say so.”

The bat pony pouted cutely. Midnight was always eager to attack, she wanted to at least suck some of their blood. Phantom chuckled causing the bat mare to blush and stop her whining.

Phantom returned his gaze to Pinkie, “Anyway, by the time your soldiers get to Fillydelphia, Velvet and Night Light will be waiting.” Phantom said. The three pony saluted and took flight.

Watching them disappear from sight, Phantom turned and walked back inside the castle. Once inside he fond himself being tackle by a seven year old filly, who wrap her hoof around the guard. Accompany her was a teenage colt with blow spots on his body. He wore the nightmare’s armor since he wasn’t on duty.

“Hey there Flurry,” the dragon said with a smile. “Come to slay a dragon?”

“Yes! I, Princess Flurry Heart of the Crystal Empire, will stop the evil dragon!” the princess laughed while pounding her hooves against Phantom’s scales. Phantom found this act to be adorable so he just played along. With her pounding the dragon fall to the ground, all while making some silly sounds.

“No! I’ve been defeated!” The dragon jerk his feet and tail, not before the filly giggled and wrapped her hooves around his neck, and nuzzle her cousin.

“By the way, Phantom, I was wondering about you and Queen Nightmare.” A faint blush appeared on Pip’s cheeks. “Is it true that you love each other?” Flurry stop and look at the dragon, with eyes sparkling.

“Cousin Spike loves Queen Luna?” the filly spoke, but quickly closed her mouth hearing from the others as well, as Sunburst and Starlight that he doesn't like that name. However both the guard and dragon were okay with her saying his name.

Phantom raised an eyebrow “And who told you this?”

“Well, I saw you two sitting so close together at the Open Crystal, so I just assumed.” Phantom kept his eyebrow raised. “Okay honestly, I’m a tad jealous you get to spend time with the queen.”

Phantom just stared at him, not saying a word. “Truth be told I like Luna as well. But if Luna is in love with you, I guess I have no chance with her.” The teen colt looked down, feeling dejected.

Phantom knew Pip’s words were true, as he saw him call Luna his favorite princess on his first Nightmare Night. Since then, Luna had returned to Ponyville to scare the kids for a good laugh and Pip began to develop secret feelings for the princess of the night. But ever since Phantom came into the picture, he felt envious toward the purple dragon.

Phantom for the most part picked up Flurry, then stood up and put his claw on the stallion’s shoulders. “Look I’m just going to come out and say it. I’m not good with those things, and yes, I am indeed in love with our queen. Yes it may hurt, but there are plenty of mares out there. I saw the way those lovely employees were treating you last night,” he said with a short nudge. Phantom though serious most of the time, still had a playful side and enjoyed teasing his friends every once in awhile. He then place the filly down.

The stallion blushed, as he couldn’t possibly forget how clingy the ladies were with him. Phantom then leans down and pat her. “And sorry Flurry, but Phantom is a tad busy to play around. Maybe next time after your lessons with Starlight, okay?”

Flurry looked at him with big eyes. “You promise?” she asked.

“Pinkie promise,” Phantom said with smile, before he walked away from Pip and Flurry. There was a little something he had to take care of before Twilight’s parents arrived.

Phantom walked down the hall of the dungeon examining the cells, which were all empty... except for one.

The dragon stopped at the last cell, which housed a white unicorn mare. Her hooves were chained against the walls, whatever makeup she had on was ruined, and her mouth, folds and tailhole were leaking out the seeds of many many stallions.

Rarity had been raped so many times by the many guards within Phantom’s army, that she had lost the will the scream or cry. Luckily for her, she been fed and washed before being used again.

The mare looked up seeing the dragon behind the cell. The once beautiful eyes now void of life. “I’ll be honest Rarity,” Phantom said as entered the cell, “I’m surprised you’re still alive. I thought the guards would had done you in by now.”

She didn’t reply.

“You can’t even speak, can you?” he asked as he lifted the broken mare by her chin.

“I hope you’re not blaming this on me,” Phantom growled. “This is all punishment for the way you took advantage of my genuine feelings only to sleep with random snobs,” He then let go of the mare, and stood over her. The thought of once having feelings for a mare who used him made him want to vomit.

Phantom only watch her, thinking on what to do with her. He knew that his guards would be upset to see this whore die, but there was no use for her here.

Phantom gritted his teeth in annoyance. “Damn, now I regret killing Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle. They would’ve make such good obedient sluts for the guards.” There was still no response from the white mare. “Oh well.” The dragon just shrugged.

“Oh I didn’t know you hear but Blueblood framed me,” he added.

“K-Kill me...” the ivory mare weakly mumbled. She had lost everything, her lover, her sister, and her career. She had nothing else to live for.

Phantom put a claw to his ear as he leaned down, “What was that?”

“Please... I-I have nothing left to live now...” she pleaded a little louder this time.

Phantom gripped his claws angrily, before he smacked Rarity hard across the face. “Now you know how I felt all those years ago when you banished me without a second thought.”

“Please... take me away from this world...” were the only words she muttered.

“Hmm tell you what. I’ll do to do what you did to me all those years ago,” Phantom leaned next to her ear. “Crush your hope,” the dragon growled before he stood up and walked out the door.

“Wait, please Spike... please end my life,” she pleaded. Phantom only ignored her.

“Be sure to gag her before she bites her tongue off. Also... skin her cutie mark,” the dragon commanded as four guards nodded and closed the door behind him. He would be sure to send her cutie mark later, but right now he have something to do.

Fillydelphia was just like any other city. Nice and clean, with a very little crime rate in the poorer areas but all and all it was a peaceful city to live with. Ponies live out their lives like normal, with the exceptions of one married couple. Night Light was pacing back and forward around the lustes green fields oh Fillydelphia waiting for his and his wife’s cart to come. The moon was bright and the stars shined, the wind was gentle and cooling to the touch. This would be the sight of any romantic scene that would take place, but there was none.

Deep down inside, Night Light and Velvet still loved Phantom, but had a difficult time trusting him. After the all, he had killed their son, his wife, and captured her granddaughter. Now he was after their youngest daughter. However, Phantom made a promise that they wouldn’t be harmed, as he held no grudge towards them.

So as Velvet waited for their ride to arrive, she thought of the time she spent with her children. When Twilight got in trouble for taking a cookie from the cookie jar, or Shining Armor when he was out late. The proud moments when Shining entered and became captain of the royal guard, and Twilight became Celestia’s personal student. The memory faded when there saw three figures, heading toward them Those three were carrying a chariot made for two ponies. The three flyers landed near them.

“Night Light, Twilight Velvet?” one of the ponies politely asked, which the couple nodded. “Please get in,” he said. Both unicorns obeyed and got into the surprisingly, comfortable seats. Making sure their passengers were secured, the guards took off to the Crystal Empire to meet the captain.

Back at the Crystal Empire, Phantom sat perfectly balanced on the pointed tip of Crystal Castle. Midnight and Cloud Skipper looked up at their captain, wondering what he was thinking.

As he stared at the clear sky, the memories of Phantom’s time with Twilight started to flood his mind. All the times he helped her with her studies, gathering books, paper, parchment, and quills. He also kept her sanity from going downhill, by keeping the castle clean, feeding her when she hasn’t eaten, and being her voice of reasoning. And the painful neglect, the neglect to leave him to clean up her mess while she flocked around with her friends, when she has a party and didn’t invite him. Remembering it caused him to grip the sides of the castle with more force. His anger for the mare who he called friend... family. The mare who promised to never leave him.

Despite all of his hate, the truth is Phantom wanted nothing more than an apology for what happened all those years ago. ‘Twilight, you bitch!’ he thought to himself, ‘You promised you’d never throw me out, you fucking hypocrite!’

Phantom snapped out of his thoughts as he noticed Pinkie’s escorts approaching the castle. Once they landed at the entrance, Phantom unfurled his wings and descended from his spot to meet them.

“Good work fellow guards,” he commended, and they saluted their captain in response. Phantom then turned his attention to his guests who began shivering, believing Phantom might change his mind and kill them.

“Night Light, Velvet, or mom dad,” he said as he stepped forward.

“Don’t you call us that!” Night Light shouted as he held his wife close.

“I’m sorry... Mr. and Mrs. Sparkle,” Phantom corrected before he cleared his throat, preparing to get down to business. “I’m here to offer you a deal, a deal that involves your daughter,” Phantom spoke in a calm tone. “You see, she made a promise that she herself had broken. When we were sent to the Crystal Empire, we came to a room. In this room, there was a door that showed your worst fear. Mine was being kicked out by Twilight. When I told her what I saw, she made me a promise that she’d never abandon me.”

“What you getting at you monstrous beast?” Night once again snapped as his horn came to life. However the purple glow faded as Cloud struck the blue stallion in the stomach. Velvet stood in horror as Cloud and Midnight began attacking her husband.

“IF YOU DARE INSULT OR THREATEN OUR CAPTAIN AGAIN, I’LL SNAP YOUR FUCKING NECK LIKE IT WAS A TWIG, YOU SON OF A BITCH!” Midnight shouted while she repeatedly kicked him in the side.

Phantom snapped his claws, signalling the two to get off of Night Light. If they kept this up, they would kill the unicorn stallion. Phantom then leaned down and roughly grabbed the blue stallion’s chin. “I already told your wife that neither of you will be harmed as long as you behave yourselves. I’ll let this outburst of yours slide, but remember that I won’t hesitate to have some of my guards run a train on your wife if you insult me or any of my friends here again. You still want to test me?” he asked darkly.

Phantom’s threat of allowing his guards to rape Velvet, caused Night Light to shutter. He managed to shake his head. “That’s what I thought.”

“Anyway, I’d like to play a game. The rules are simple. We’re going to separate you two for the next three days. And like I said, as long as you watch yourselves, nopony will harm you,” Phantom said. “In those three days, my guards will watch, and feed you. But in those three days Twilight may not want to look for you. And I’ll give her the rules. But for now you two will stay put.” Phantom reached into his pocket, and took out a pair of anti magic rings. The dragon place the two rings on each of their horns.

“Now if you try to escape then the guard will punish you... got it?” The two nodded. “Good. Midnight, Pinkie, you’ll take Velvet to the abandoned warehouse in Trottingham. Make sure to watch her until the group arrive. Cloud Skipper, you’ll take Night Light to Manehattan pier.”

“Oh and because I’m a nice guy, I’ll allow you to see Flurry Heart before you two go. You’ll have one hour to talk to her.”

One cue, Flurry Heart ran from the hallway and flew onto the dragon’s shoulders and hugged his neck. Phantom chuckled as he reached up and stroked the alicorn filly’s head.

“Look Flurry, you have some visitors,” Phantom said.

She hopped off the dragon and ran to give her grandparents a hug. She missed them deeply.

Within an hour, the unicorn couple played with Flurry, thinking it would be the last time the would see their granddaughter. Both Night Light and Velvet told stories about how they met, and how they fell in love, and embarrassing stories about her father, and Aunt Twilight when she was little. However they didn’t dare tell her anything embarrassing about Phantom, out of fear that they would be punished.

“Okay time’s up,” Midnight said as she entered the room. “It’s time to go,” she said causing the alicorn to frown. Seeing this, the mare smiled. “Don’t worry princess, Phantom’s given us orders not to harm them.”

“Really?” Flurry asked.

The two nodded before giving the filly a kiss on the cheek. “Flurry, we love you.”

“I love you too grandma, grandpa.” The filly smile when they walked out of the room, and follow the mares to the destination. Outside of castle awaited two carts. One with Pinkie in it, the other where Cloud Skipper sat, waiting.

Night Light gave his wife one last hug before the two of them were separated.

“Why do you follow him?” Night asked, as he was pushed into the cart.

“Justice,” the stallion said before shutting the door, the cart began to move.

Twilight was looking out of the window unable to sleep due to the nightmares kept having. They were none other nightmares of her former friend, and little brother, tearing out her limbs as if it was paper. But out of all of this, pain and neglect, the dragon who was a monster, was shedding tears. Each part he took off the dragon cried even harder. The lavender mare took one final breath, she couldn’t hear him, but she manage those three words Phantom longed for, to hear every since his banishment. Because of her foolishness, Spike was gone and Phantom had taken his place.

“I’m sorry Spike...”

Twilight’s train of thought was interrupted when a green mist appeared in front of her, and materialized into a scroll. She and Trixie gasped as attached to the scroll was a three diamond cutie mark. Twilight knew who sent this scroll and when he sends it, it wasn’t good.

Picking up the scroll with her magic, Twilight ran toward the princess’s throne room. There, Celestia and Trixie were talking about ways to improving a hex spell, until the lavender mare rushed in with a scroll with a golden dragon seal. Upon opening the scroll with her magic, Celestia begin to read.

Dear Twilight Sparkle

As this cutie mark implies, I’ve recently killed Rarity. You should have seen her, the slut was such a mess. Anyway, that’s not important. If you aren’t fully aware by now, only two things are keeping you from losing your sanity. That wannabe magician and your remaining relatives.

You believe that you can save everyone in Equestria, like you did on a number of times. Well this time, you actually CAN save somepony, so long as you follow my instructions.

Here’s the deal. All you have to do is remain inside the castle for three days. Don’t do anything, don’t cast any spells, just live your life like normal for three whole days, and both your parents will return unharmed. However, if you do leave the castle, No if you set one hoof outside, the timer begins. You’ll have three days to find them. I would tell you where they are, but seeing as smart as you are, I thought about leaving you a couple of clues. The first is located in a maze where the waters crash, and the other is in a place where smoke and fog are common. But I advise you remain indoors.

Sincerely yours, Phantom.

PS: Pinkie and Starlight said hello you damned hypocrite

After Celestia finished the letter, she looked at Twilight, who had a look of horror. Phantom has her parents and may kill them. Twilight had lost her sister-in-law, her brother, her niece, and her unborn nephew, she will not lose her parents to this monster. Her horn came to life, glowing brighter and brighter, blinding her teacher and lover.

“Twilight, wait!” were the last words Trixie spoke before Twilight teleported out of the area.

Author's Notes:

To anyone asking why is Spike calling Twilight Velvet and Night Light mother and father? It because Celestia didn't want no pony knowing she had a kid.

Chapter Thirteen

The Manehattan pier, a once a busy port of trade good during the warm glow of the day. Unknown to most of the busy town, the trade industry are secretly working for the Nightmare Family’s business. Artifacts from years past, or other goods were being transported throughout bases. In fact, the Nightmare Family operated in various places in Equestria. Due to the queen broadcasting through ponies’ dreams the Nightmare Family seemed to be getting more supporters each day.

A fresh shipment of supplies has recently arrived from the Saddle Arabia. As an executive for the Nightmare Family’s business dealers, Emerald Wave has been left in charge of supervising the work while Starlight Glimmer and Cloud Skipper watched his back.

As Cloud Skipper stood at the pier, He looked at the moonless sky watching the stars twinkle like diamonds. The stars, combined with the sound of waves crashing against the cement walls and wooden pillars made it a nice place to rest.

Skipper walked over and took a seat on top of a crate that held Twilight Sparkle’s father, Night Light.

Even before becoming an executive for Midnight’s army, the stallion had been lead to kill those who threatened the lives of him, his friends, and country. However the difference is back then, he did it all for his princesses and the country, he had sworn to protect. Though after all that had happened in the past four years, he decided to abandon his family. Regardless if his captain as innocent, his family hated dragons and he knew they would never forgive him for taking Phantom’s side.

The answer to this was clear to him like the sky above him. ‘This is justice,’ he thought to himself. The sudden sound of flame bursting on the deck of the cargo ship carrying the resources delivered from the leader of Saddle Arabia. The green flame draw bigger, Cloud knew it was Phantom. What he didn’t expect, was three other nightmare guard ponies accompanying him. They were all unicorns trotting out of the fiery portal behind the drake himself, before the flame disappeared.

“Any sign of her yet?” Phantom asked.

“No sir,” Cloud answered looking up at the moonless sky.

Sitting down next to him, Phantom took the chance to strike up a conversation with Cloud Skipper. “Midnight says your training has put you on par with Goldbeck,” he praised. “Though I honestly must say, I still don’t understand why you decided to help us.” This question kind of caught Cloud off guard.

“Well sir, when I heard you was trial for murder, I thought why in Luna’s name would you do something like that? I then heard rumors that you were set up, but we couldn’t find any evidence until Blueblood confessed. He let out a sigh, “To answer your question, I did it because of Midnight.”

Phantom saw the stallion’s cheeks turning pink. He smiled knowing the sign all too well. “You love her don’t you?”

Cloud’s blush intensified but he didn’t deny it. “Yeah, I mean we were together since we were foals.”

“Does she know?” Phantom asked.

Cloud sighed and shook his head, “I’m not sure, but knowing her she might have known.”

“You should ask her. Midnight has been one of my best friends ever since I was banished. Despite her tough attitude, she can be really sweet.”

“Thank you sir,” Cloud said, grateful for his captain’s encouragement.

“Rest assured, your secret is safe with me as I know how you feel,” he said getting Cloud’s interest. He leaned in next to the pony’s ear, “I have feelings for Queen Nightmare,” he whispered.

He smiled as Phantom patted his shoulder. “You think she’ll come?” Cloud asked, changing the subject of his love life for the elite general.

“No,” Phantom answered, causing his fellow general to raise a brow until he finished his statement. “I don’t think she’ll come, I know she will,” Phantom’s green slit eyes stare into the moonless night as a powerful aura of magic appeared around him.

“After all, she’s a mental wreck right now.”

Princess Twilight was flying through one of the busiest cities in Equestria, Manehattan. It was a city that never seemed to sleep as well as one of Luna’s favorite cities to visit. In fact, she would have built her own castle, if she wasn’t banished in the moon for a millennia. The sights of tall buildings, ponies running about to go to work or enjoy what the city had to offer.

Normally Twilight would stop and take in the city lights. Unfortunately the lavender mare couldn’t stand and watch. As usual Twilight didn’t listen and chose to seek out her parents, before Phantom did anything to them. Not a wise choices for her part. Her horn glowed once again, and she disappeared in a flash of light.

Twilight had teleported again, but this time, she came face to face with Cloud Skipper. She recognized him, as he was a member of the Royal Guard who served under her brother.

“Where are they?” she asked with a hint of anger in her voice. “YOU FUCKERS KIDNAPPED MY PARENTS NOW WHERE ARE THEY!?” It was very rare to see a princess use such language, even Luna limited her swearing.

“Oh my a princess using such language. That’s a first.” Starlight fire a beam at the princess who quickly put up a shield but the impact made her skidded. Twilight didn’t know what happened to her, but Starlight wasn’t the same as she was when they last saw each other.

She knew that her former student was helping Phantom to commit this crimes, but she didn’t understand why? “Starlight!” she screamed. “Why help Spike do this?! I thought we were friends!”

Starlight gritted her teeth, “First of all, his name isn’t Spike anymore, it’s been Phantom for the past seven years. Second, you think I don’t know you treated him, even before you banished him!? After that trial, I followed Phantom and Nightmare. I tried so hard to defend him, like you would do for me, and for what? For you to toss him aside and forget about him?” Twilight took her words to heart.”

“I was wrong all this time, you’re no princess of friendship.”

Emerald smiled, “And please don’t use words such as ‘kidnapped’. I assure, you your parents came with us willingly.”

“I REFUSE TO BELIEVE YOU!” Twilight screamed, causing both ponies to roll their eyes.

“We don’t mind if you believe us or not,” Emerald said. “But the fact is Phantom gave you a choice and you didn’t listen.”

“Anyway, it looks like you paid attention to Phantom’s clues,” Starlight said as she tapped the crate. “Although Phantom did say that your parents will both remain unharmed if you remain in Ponyville, but guess that was a bit too hard for you to handle,” Starlight said with a smirk. “Your daddy is inside this crate, alive and well.”

Emerald unlocked the crate with Night Light inside. He wasn’t tied up on anything, the only thing that was on him was a horn ring to prevent him from escaping via magic.

“Unfortunately, your foolishness will not go unpunished.”

Twilight knew what that meant, and took off her father’s ring. “Dad teleport to Celestia’s castle, I’ll be there soon.”

“No honey, just come with me.” Night begged, but Twilight shook her head.

Cloud Skipper hopped of the crate and got into a fighting stance. Even if his opponent was an alicorn princess, the proud Zodiac wasn’t afraid.

Emerald smiled, “Well, you sure are eager.”

Reluctantly, Night Light teleported away like Twilight told him. Now she didn’t have to worry about him being killed during her fight.

“Cloud Skipper, I know you were a soldier in my brother’s guard. Why are you here?”

Rather than answer, Cloud Skipper rushed forward with his hoof raised. Unlike Starlight, who uses magic to attack from a distance, Cloud Skipper fights like Midnight and doesn’t hesitate to attack his opponents head on.

Twilight made a force field in time to block the stallion’s attack. However, the power Cloud Skipper possessed, managed to push her back.

‘What power!’ Twilight thought as she barely managed to hold the barrier. Quickly dispelling the force field, Twilight fired a powerful beam of magic right in the middle of Skipper’s chest.

She was surprised at how quickly the stallion shook it off. Besides his skill in physical combat, Cloud got his rank as an executive, because he had an unusual toughness that made him take very little damage from powerful attacks.

Twilight was about to fire a more powerful beam than before. Suddenly, a scaly arm deflected the wave of magic, causing it to hit a nearby building in a powerful explosion.

Twilight looked to see Phantom appeared. But that’s not all that surprised her. He was holding... Rarity by her mane.

Twilight couldn’t believe her friend’s condition. Her horn was removed, her mane matted, her cutie mark skinned. Suffice it to say, Rarity had seen better days.

The dragon only snickered, seeing his former best friend expressions. “Well this loose whore has outlived her usefulness in the dungeons. Even our horny guards have become bored with her.”

Twilight twitched her eyes in fury from hearing these words.

“Let her go Spike!” she demanded.

“You shouldn’t have come Twilight. If you’ve stay home, then both parents would be fine.”

He raised the broken mare up high, while green flames appeared around his other hand.

Twilight’s eyes widened, as she knew exactly what Phantom was thinking. “Spike DON’T!!” she screamed, but it was no use.

Phantom jammed his flaming claws... right through Rarity’s chest. The white mare coughed up blood and with her last bit of strength, looked down to see Phantom was holding her heart in his fiery hands. It didn’t take long for the organ to disintegrate.

“N-No... RARITY!!!” Twilight screamed, as tears fell from her eyes. Now it was official that the white mare was dead.

Looking at the now dead mare, Phantom tossed Rarity into the ocean. In mere seconds, the unicorn’s corpse sank below the water.

“You monster!” Twilight scream out then unleash a powerful beam toward the dragon. Who seemed to take a direct hit. Within the light it seem it over take him, as he suddenly vanished.

“Oh drop the act Phantom,” Starlight giggled. On cue, the dragon suddenly reappeared in a burst of fire. He looked quite amused.

“Oh alright,” Phantom snickered, deciding to stop pretending to be dead. “I admit Twilight, you’ve improved quite a bit since our last confrontation.”

“You want my help?” Starlight asked as her horn glowed. However, it died down as Phantom held an arm out.

“Thanks for the offer, but no, she’s my prey. Just take the shipments back to the empire,” Phantom ordered, cracking his neck. Both Starlight and Cloud Skipper nodded and joined Emerald Wind’s side. The three of them teleported back to the Crystal Empire with their fresh shipments.

“It’s just you and me now Twi. I’ve been waiting for my chance to get even with you!” Phantom’s body glowed with a powerful aura of magic that seemed to shake the ground. “I’m going to take my sweet time torturing you for all the shit you put me through! And once I’m finished and that hypocritical face of yours is fixed, I’ll be sure to rip off your cutie mark just like the others!”

Twilight looked disgusted, “You really have good taste,” she sarcastically said, gritting her teeth. “BUT I REFUSE YOU DAMNED MONSTER!!”

At that moment, Phantom couldn’t help bursting into laughter.

“What’s so funny?! WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE LAUGHING AT THE PRINCESS OF FRIENDSHIP?!!”

Phantom calmed down from his laughing fit, “Hypocrite, you’re supposed to be a princess yet you don’t listen to what others tell you. I told you already who I am, I’m Phantom. I’m nothing more, I’m nothing less.”

“SHUT UP!” Twilight scream, she fired another blast of her magic. It hit Phantom but the beast still stand, unphased by the magical stream of energy. “AND STOP MAKING THAT FACE, IT BELONG TO SPIKE, MY NUMBER ONE ASSISTANT!”

She flew into the air preparing a wind spell; channeling the magic to her wings, she flapped to create a strong whirlwind. As the air wave advanced toward the drake, Phantom’s eyes glowed at the rage of being underestimated. With a loud roar, he released a concussive blast from his palm, causing Twilight’s vortex to dissipate.

Snarling, Phantom rushed forward toward the shocked mare. His face was inches away from her own, as he quickly pulled back and punched Twilight in the face. The young alicorn rolled across the concrete.

“The smile belongs to your assistant?” he asked as Twilight stood. “The assistant you neglected and left for dead!?” His words hit her like a freight train going over 100 miles per hour. The drake then stomped the ground, creating a small crater upon impact. “Friendship is magic my fucking foot!” Phantom then jumped over Twilight and casted a spell to summon a wave of green flames.

Twilight quickly formed a barrier just in the nick of time. The powerful flames pushed against the field of magic. She was panting heavily only barely managed to block the explosion.

“You never listen,” he continued with anver in his tone. “I told you your parents were safe here with me, but no! Like always, with that hypocritical ego, you refuse to listen, worried that I might kill somepony!”

Phantom put his hands together to gather his magic. “I never want to hear that fucking mouth of yours ever again! I’LL SILENCE YOU FOR GOOD WITH THIS!!” He released a powerful beam of magic from his hands.

Twilight countered Phantom’s blast with her own wave of magic. The waves of magic collided in a powerful explosion.

Phantom’s anger grew as he thought about all the ponies who were still supporting Twilight and Celestia in their efforts to destroy him. “You’re quite popular these days, aren’t you Twi? Playing the damn hero of friendship like always?” The look on his face sent shivers down Twilight’s spine.

Filled with hate and fury, Phantom’s aura erupted from his scales. “EVERYTIME I LOOK INTO THOSE DAMNED EYES FULL OF DECEPTION AND MOCKERY IT MAKES ME WANT TO PUKE! YOU WOULDN’T HAVE A CLUE WHAT I’VE LIVED THROUGH BECAUSE OF YOU!” His eyes glowed even brighter as he increased the power of the fiery beam. “I’LL EXPRESS IT TO YOU WITH THIS FLAME!!”

Phantom’s wave of magic pushed against Twilight’s. “BURN AWAY TO ASHES, YOU FUCKING HYPOCRITE!!!” he roared as the wave continued pushing towards Twilight.

It was the end of Princess Twilight Sparkle as the the heat increased, the flames rapidly draw closer. Because of her actions, she lost Spike, Starlight, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Shining Armor, and Cadance. Because of her she lose her closest friends, and family. As much as she knew, Phantom might be telling the truth. The heat waiting for death to send her with the ones she lost, what she didn’t expect a barrier forming around the mare.

It was none other than her marefriend and her former classmate Moondancer using every bit of magic they could muster to block the wave of fire. It wasn’t enough. Phantom let out another roar as he drew out more power from his rage and hatred, causing his magical blast to grow even stronger.

“T-T-Trixie? M-M-M-Moondancer?” Twilight spoke before falling unconscious. Before Phantom was able to incinerate them, Trixie teleported the three of them away.

Moondancer, Trixie and Twilight appeared at Central Square, the biggest park in Manehattan. It was the perfect place for a good workout; young foals could play around while the adults sat on a bench and relaxed.

Trixie’s horn glowed a greenish color, her magic begin to heal her. “Twilight, you foal,” the show mare said in a harsh tone, worried about her alicorn marefriend’s mental stability. They only barely managed to get away, next time the two of them probably won’t get so lucky.

Back at the pier, Phantom was just standing there in the aftermath of the whole ordeal. “So that’s the side you chose Moondancer?” The dragon quickly balled up his fists.

Trottingham was just like any other town in Equestria at night, Quiet with only a few ponies out and about. The seemly foggy town was peaceful as Ponyville, with only a few problems.

Down by the edge of the foggy town, laid a special building. This building was once a factory that made ice cream, but after an incident with the mad cow disease, the factory shut down and left abandoned. Plants grow along the forgotten walls, glass busted from delinquents throwing rocks at the window, leaving shards on the cold concrete floor. The wall inside the structure in far worse condition. The once bright room that was used to make the yummy treats, now aged, ready to be peeled off, while the machines were left to rust.

One might think nopony would consider stay at the factory. But as a matter of fact, there were seven. Seven ponies, all in different locations throughout the factory

Amongst these seven were Pinkie Pie and Midnight Blossom. The other five were mere guards who served in their divisions. As Phantom had ordered, Midnight and Pinkie brought Twilight Velvet to this abandoned warehouse as part of their little game.

The guards wanted to pounce Velvet and have their way with her, but Pinkie gave them stern looks, as they knew their orders. They were all responsible of making sure no harm comes to the mare, as well as keeping her fed. To their disappointment, the two have to obey, otherwise the punishment will be severe.

At the moment, Velvet was asleep. Nightmare decided not to visit her dream that night and allow her to have a peaceful dream. One where her family were together, and happy. That was until she heard a horn, taking her away from the dream.

Pinkie blew a horn, waking the silver coated mare from her slumber. “Wakey wakey! Phantom is going to be here soon.”

“W-Why are you doing this Pinkie?” Velvet pelted “You’re supposed to be friends with my daughter, why help...” She wanted to say ‘monster’, but she feared the consequences of insulting the captain. “...Phantom?”

Before one of the ponies above could speak, Pinkie spoke. “You want to know why I joined Phantom? It’s because I felt the pain he was going through, the agony of being ignored and abandoned! Something you may never understand!”

The moment she finished, the factory doors opened and everypony turned to see the captain of the Nightmare Family himself.

“At ease,” Phantom said walking over to Velvet. “She didn’t listen,” he spoke in a calm tone. “I nearly finished the job, but Lulamoon and Moondancer got in the way and they escaped.” The mare let out a sigh of relief.

“Moondancer, you mean that pony Twilight would have been if Celestia had never sent her to Ponyville?” Pinkie asked, to which Phantom nodded.

“Interesting. Why would she help Twilight?” Midnight asked.

“Maybe because she cares for her, or something else,” the dragon shrugged. “It’s a shame, I actually liked Moondancer.”

Entering Velvet’s cell, Phantom leaned down and gently stroked the mare’s cheek. Velvet couldn’t express it, but this dangerous dragon filled her with a comforting feeling.

“I’m not going to kill you. Oh no. But I’m going to use you.”

“U-Use me?”

“I don’t want you to remember anything that will happen from here on out. So I’m going to suppress your mind with my magic.”

He continued to stroke her cheek, “I know that deep down inside you don’t hate me, despite everything that has happened. And you should know why? They killed me like they did to my real family.” Phantom explained to Velvet of how Celestia experimented on his real family and stole his egg from his parents.

Velvet couldn’t help what happened next, she began...to gasp in horror from the detail Phantom have provided with Velvet. Tears soon began to fall from her eyes, despite Phantom’s crimes, she believed him.

Phantom touched Velvet’s forehead and began to activate his magic. This spell would suppress the grey unicorn’s consciousness. It took quite a bit of concentration, but Phantom managed to complete the lock.

Velvet looked at him with a blank expression. It was clear that she was completely unaware of the world around her.

“That’s better.”

The guards behind him were eager to get their hooves on Velvet. “Uh sir can we...”

He was cut off as Phantom shot them sharp glare, causing the guards to whimper.

“And that the situation your highness,” Obsidian said having finished reporting his a message from the Dragon Empire. Dragon Lord Ember has offered the aid of her empire to help fight Celestia, when the time came.

“I see,” the queen stopped and blushed, thinking about how charismatic Phantom has grown.

“If I may ask your highness, do you think Master Phantom would be able to kill her?” Obsidian asked with a bit of worry.

Nightmare knew with the dragon’s knowledge of ancient secrets of magic, they could indeed take out Celestia. Unfortunately, her beloved Phantom, even with his seven years of brutal training, wasn’t powerful enough to kill the princess of the sun.

“I doubt it,” she answered reluctantly, “My dear Phantom is far too weak to stand up to her alone, but only because my sister has more experience,” Nightmare answered. Nightmare felt safe discussing her feelings with Obsidian. The black drake kept his word, and never spoiled any secrets. To be honest, he understood her feelings as he was beginning to feel affection for Fleur.

She sighed happily telling the elite general how she had watched Phantom’s progress. The young drake had continued to grow more powerful, stronger as time flew by. Maybe it was natural for dragons to impress their mates by showing how strong they were. Nightmare knew one thing, her student had impressed her to the point where just seeing him smile, would get her through the day.

“Anyway, what should I tell the kingdoms about slave driver of a princess?” Obsidian spat. Through the army’s connections with the outside world, many other countries have learned of Phantom’s unfair treatment and unjust banishment. Once this war ended the world the dark drake will be united more than Celestia ever had.

“As long he can keep getting into her head, my dear student can defeat her,” she giggled. “Anything else?”

“Dragon Lord Ember wants to know where Discord is, and why he didn’t help?”

Nightmare sighed, “He washed his hands from Equestria after Phantom’s banishment. She turned and looked out the stained window, “I don’t know where he is right now or what he’s thinking... If I had to guess I’d say he’s over at Fluttershy grave. Truth be told, we wouldn’t be able to go as far as we could if he was on their side.”

Being the first friend he ever had, Discord has been visiting Fluttershy’s grave ever since he heard she killed herself. Still, he didn’t like the fact that she and the others, didn’t seek Phantom and apologize for all they did to him. In fact, when the draconequus urged her to go, she replied she was too scared. Though, Discord lectured her about overcoming her fears, it didn’t work.

“Anything else?”

“No milady,” the black dragon replied with a short bow.

“Then you’re dismissed, and do inform Dragon Lord Ember that we appreciate her assistance.”

Obsidian nodded and walk out of the throne room, to contact the dragons. Before he exited, he looked back at to see Nightmare slowly closing her eyes. “Lucky,” he said before he continued to make his way down the halls.

After Obsidian had left, Nightmare Moon fell asleep, her thoughts focused on her student.

It has been two days since since Twilight’s parents were taken to the Crystal Empire. Even though her father is safe, two days have passed and Twilight hasn’t had any luck in finding her mother. Princess Celestia had offered to help by sending the royal guards to Trottingham to search for Velvet. Meanwhile, Twilight, Trixie, Moondancer and three guards poked around all of the piers in Manehattan.

Twilight’s sanity was fading quicker and quicker by the hour. She didn’t rest, she couldn’t after all. Her mother was missing, and she lived in fear that she might never see her again. Celestia had lowered her sun, but the moon remained in its place.

“Trixie couldn’t find her,” the light blue mare said while she trotted up to Twilight who was sitting in the hotel room Celestia had arranged for the search.

“Nothing on my part. And the ponies here aren’t much help ether.” Moondancer lower her head in shame.

“I’m sorry Princess Twilight, but there no sign for your mother,” one of the guards said. His horn softened tired from using a searching spell.

“We have to keep trying!” Twilight said, her horn continue to glow with no rest.

“Twilight, Trixie suggests you take a break,” Trixie said with consideration of her marefriend’s wellbeing.

“Not until I find her,” Twilight response in a raspy voice, “Not until my mom is safe from that monster!”

A guard came trudged inside looking battered and bloody “Princess Twilight Sparkle!”

Twilight noticed the guard’s state “What happened?!”

“I was attacked by one of Phantom’s generals...he’s waiting by the…” Before he could finish, the guard fell unconscious.

On the armor was a note saying to meet him by a warehouse

With no other words, Twilight has teleported out of the room. The said officer could tell her where Phantom’s hiding her mother.

Phantom was sitting on the safuto with two of his elite Nightmare Guard generals, Starlight Glimmer and Pinkie Pie. He had sent the others back to the empire to await further orders. Phantom and Pinkie stare down at the door, thanks to Pinkie’s Pinkie Sense, Twilight, Trixie and Moondancer would walk right through those rusted doors any minute now.

“She’ll be here very soon,” Pinkie said twitching every body part. While all four elite officers enjoyed bloodshed to a certain degree, Pinkie seemed to enjoy it the most. Often the party pony would be shaking, eager to fire her party cannon.

“And... they’re... HERE!” Right then, the doors opened. There stood the unicorn magician, the bookworm, and the alicorn princess of friendship.

“Three on three, I like those odds,” Phantom said leaping down the scofton, landing with a heavy thud. The three mares stare Phantom, Starlight and Pinkie down, the only sound was the wind blowing through the grass.

“Can I get Trixie?” Starlight asked, looking at the magician in the eye.

“By all means,” Phantom answered. “Remember you two, Twilight is mine.”

“I guess that leaves me with Moondancer,” Pinkie said, bouncing excitedly.

“Where did you bastards take my mother?!” Twilight yelled, his horn glow ready to fire at the drake.

“Oh I can’t tell you that,” Phantom said in a tone that made him sound like he was talking to a child. “If I do you’ll immediately leave to retrieve her.”

In response to Phantom’s mockery, the princess of friendship did something nopony should ever do. She charged at the captain of nightmares.

Like most creatures who wanted to avoid things, the purple dragon sidestepped to the side, resulting in the enraged alicorn to crash to a pillar head first. Luckily for her she quickly recover and fire a magical beam at the dragon.

Phantom swatted the beam aside, before slamming his hands to the ground. Channeling his elemental magic of earth, Phantom reshaped the underground minerals into spikes, which sprouted all around the purple alicorn.

To avoid getting pierced, Twilight flew out of the range of the spiked rocks. Her eyes widened however as she saw Phantom had ascended in front of her pulling his fist back. She quickly generated a barrier, creating a loud sound as the dragon’s scaly fist connected with her shield.

Trixie charged up her horn and fired a beam of magic at the dark dragon, but the blast was met by a energy wave from Starlight.

“You’re fighting me,” the light purple mare snarled.

“I don’t want to fight my first friend.” the magician sighed, but charge up her horn anyway. “I thought we had a special bond, why join him?”

Having enough, Starlight fire her magic bolt at the mare, who quickly created a barrier. “Our friendship ended the moment you I’ll give you the short version, I knew he was innocent.”

Pinkie had her attention on Moondancer and pulled her party seemingly out of Phantom’s flame before they fizzled. The cannon had been altered by Nightmare Moon’s dark magic, and could now shoot its own dark energy.

“Aww, and here I wanted Trixie, oh well.” She aimed her cannon at the Moondancer. “Tho I kind of wondering why side with Twilight... Oh! I know! I know! Ever since Twilight came back into your life, you’ve wanted to shared memories with her.”

Moondancer felt sad, as she remembered Pinkie had helped with her party to rebuild her friendship with Twilight. “Like that’s any of your business.” Before she could say anything else, Pinkie fired her cannon.

Twilight narrowly avoided being swiped by Phantom’s claws as they made contact with the ground, creating a small crater. Quickly pulling his hand out of the ground, Phantom swiftly delivered a powerful kick to Twilight’s stomach, sending her crashing into the wall once again.

“Twilight!” Moondancer shouted looked away to her friend.

While her opponent was looking away, Pinkie wrapped her hooves around Moondancer and squeezed her in a powerful grip. When Pinkie hugged somepony, she was always seemed strong enough to snap their spine. Now she was going to put that random strength to use.

Moondancer tried to focus on a spell, but the pain from Pinkie’s bear hug kept her from concentrating. “Damn...!” she gasped. Moondancer knew she had to do something, or else her spine would give in. Leaning down, she bit Pinkie’s ear, causing the pink mare to moan and loosen her grip.

Moondancer took this opportunity. Channeling her magic, she generated a force of magic, sending Pinkie flying toward one of the beams that held the fondaction to the building they were in.

‘What in the?’ Moondancer saw that the pink mare was giggling, it was as though she found some sort of pleasure in the pain she was feeling. Pinkie hopped back onto her hooves with a wide smile.

Moondancer fell to the ground, as she felt a sharp pain in her back. ‘Damn it!’ she thought, unable to stand. She could only watch helplessly as the psychotic pink pony began to hop over to her.

Trixie wasn’t faring so well either, as she landed onto the ground, having taken a direct hit from one of Starlight’s spells. The light purple mare levitated above her, before casting a paralysis spell on Trixie.

“You lose,” she said, as she descended beside the show mare preparing to finish her off.

Twilight had blood dripping from her muzzle as she slowly lifted her head. ‘He’s so fast…’ she thought.

Phantom began walking towards Twilight, generating more green flames in his hand. “Things don’t look so good for you Twilight,” he said with a scoff.

One side of Moondancer’s glasses were broken, as Pinkie repeatedly kicked her in the side. Due to her damaged back, Moondancer could only lay there and bare with the torment.

‘This isn’t good.’ Twilight knew this was the end, and in one final act, she charged up her horn. Unfortunately, before Twilight could cast a spell, Phantom, Pinkie and Starlight all began to glow in a blue light. The three then disappeared in a bright flash, leaving the three mares confused.

Phantom, Starlight and Pinkie Pie appeared in the throne room of Crystal Castle, now standing in front of their queen. Nightmare Moon sat upon the crystal throne, with one of her hind legs crossed over the other. Since Nightmare summoned the three when victory was so close, they assumed this was important.

“Why have you called us, is there an assassin plotting to weaken me, to kill you, or the others?” Phantom’s mind begin to race, and in a comical fashion, causing the black alicorn to giggle. Nightmare blushed as she knew that she meant the world to her student. If anything were to happen to her, Phantom would never forgive himself, so it was quite normal for him to act this way.

“No my dear student, you can put your worry to rest,” Nightmare said causing Phantom to calm down. “I was watching your battle, and I’m sorry I interfered. But I propose that before you kill that wretched mare, we should deal with the citizens of Ponyville first.”

Phantom thought about it. He has nothing against it citizens other than Twilight’s pet owl, who Pinkie told him Twilight sent away since the attack on Rainbow Dash and Applejack. “Huh... now that I think about it, I really should pay Ponyville a visit.”

“Before you go Phantom, would you like to send something to Celestia?” Nightmare asked to which he nodded.

“Starlight go bring Velvet,” Phantom ordered.“Right away, Phantom,” Starlight said as she teleported to the dungeons. About two minutes later, the light purple mare returned with Velvet next to her. The blank look in her eyes let Phantom know she was still under his control.

“Now then...” Nightmare began, “Obsidian get the crystals and make a broadcast.”

Nightmare Moon channeled her magic to a pillar of crystal in the corner causing the gems to glow. Princess Celestia appeared on the pillar and quite coincidentally Twilight, Moondancer, and Trixie were there with her, still injured from the fight. Their faces show a bit of anger and worry.

“Ah hello dear sister.”

“And you as well you slave driver!” Pinkie hissed twitching.

Celestia opened her mouth to say something, but Nightmare cut her off. “Before you ask dear sister, yes we can hear you, and you can hear us,” she explained. “Also I know your most trusted student knows about this crystals here.” Twilight own shook her head, not knowing what the crystals were or used for. “Oh dear...well let just say that those are meant for long distance communications.”

“What do you want Nightmare? And what have you done to my mother?” Twilight screamed in fury. “If you hurt her, I swear my brother’s grave, I’ll kill every single last of you!”

Nightmare just giggled from the empty threat. “You don’t need to worry about your mother,” As soon as her words pass by her mouth, Velvet came into sight of the crystals.

“M-Mom?” Twilight stuttered, thinking she’ll respond.

“It’s no use Twi, she can’t hear you,” Phantom said as he walked to Velvet’s side. “I’ve suppressed her conscious mind with dark magic. She’s little more than a doll.” Phantom cupped Velvet’s chin to make her look at him.

“You want her don’t you. I bet you ready to teleport her to fight us for her. Well unless you want to fight the all stars of our family, don’t bother coming,” the dragon warned.

“Now then sister, Twilight and company. Before you think that I will bring Equestria everlasting night once Phantom kills you all. I won’t. You see, there are many things outside the sheltered life in this little country of ours. Let’s say, a myth that balances the world we live in. If I were to bring everlasting night, it would end badly for all of us,” Nightmare explained before smirking.

“Oh before you say anything... I want you to feel what I felt all those years ago. The betrayal that I believe you will return. I was wrong. You’re nothing but a heartless bitch...and I can’t wait to see you burn! It’ll be a fate suited for a bitch with such a hypocritical complex!”

Twilight felt her veins popped out as rage built. She hated how he kept saying that. Before Twilight could retort, the light from the crystals faded thus ending the transmission.

Ponyville were on high alert, ever since the gas leak in Applejack’s house. Ponies were scared to even leave the small friend town fearing that the dragon would appear, and kill them in some horrible twisted manner. Ponies had the right to be scared, Phantom has told them he was coming, and nothing will stop him.

To make matters worse, Nightmare had put up a barrier to ensure that Celestia’s guards wouldn’t interfere. Celestia could only watch, as the dragon she raised as her son she betray burn down his memory...that awful memory of that castle, and the town that which no pony help with the dragon’s loneliness. With Nightmare’s barrier active, nopony could leave town. Once a pony is in, there’s no way out.

Late one afternoon, the green fire burst in the middle of town, and out from the flames, came out the drake of everypony's nightmare. The dark captain... Phantom.

Ponies who were smart enough knew to run into their homes, hoping that this monster would go away. Others refused to take their eyes of the dragon they feared more than any other.

Phantom looked around, seeing ponies hide, while others scowled at him. The stallions wanted to pounce, and beat the drake to death. Such an action would be a bold move, given they wanted to their lives to come to a quick end.

The purple and green dragon walked around the town, this place was once called his home after all. He could always burn it down, and reduce the small town into a pile of ashes, but he wouldn’t do that. There are some ponies here that he liked and wanted to offer refuge in the Crystal Empire, so it would be a waste to kill everypony nor his magical energy.

While he continued walking, he came across the abandoned building know as Sugarcube Corner. With the Cakes and Pinkie Pie in the safety of the Crystal Empire, the building interior was run down and covered in dust. What made Phantom happy was that the Cakes understood his pain, During the third year of his banishment, Pinkie gave both Nightmare Moon, and Phantom a letter saying there apologize for their paranoid behavior.

Phantom took the news rather well. After the death of Shining Armor and Cadance, Phantom went to the Cake family and told them that they were forgiven.

Jumping out of memory lane, Phantom moved down the street. His next location was Carousel Boutique, the home of the whore who broke his heart. With Rarity gone, the boutique like Sugarcube Corner has been left to rot. Phantom figured Opalescence must have either died from neglect from the missing owner or ran way. Yet the pain of his free time being wasted away in attempt to get noticed by the fashionista was still fresh in his head. This was another building Phantom would have to burn.

Finally the drake moved, each step making a soft thud when his foot made contact with the ground. Phantom looked around as more and more ponies followed him, waiting to see what he’ll do.

One stallion, a navy blue stallion with a music note cutie mark couldn’t handle it anymore, and leaped toward the dragon. This may had work, if only Phantom’s thorny tail didn’t hit the stallion in the jaw, sending him crashing to a nearby tree. It didn’t kill him, just render him unconscious, this also served as a warning that the next one to jump, will have their neck broken. Four ponies rush over the the stallion to help him up, and get him to the seek medical attendances.

The last destination was quite a walk, but Phantom made it to his former home, the Friendship Castle. He looked at the crystal building with hatred and disgust. All those times cleaning, all those time picking up book after book, only to find them back on the floor an hour later. The place where he labored and despised more than anyplace on the planet. He then turned around looking at the crowd of ponies that follow him.

“Mares and gentlecolts,” Phantom said in a clear loud voice. “As you all know this is where I used to live, that was until my so-called friends and Celestia banished me for a crime I didn’t commit. I was left homeless and hopeless until Queen Nightmare Moon came along.”

Finishing his speech, Phantom walked up to the castle and touched the crystalline exterior. Instantly, the castle began to catch fire.

As the flames continued to spread, Phantom took his time watching the flames consume the castle, destroying everything within it. Such included the massive amount of books that Twilight would die to protect. Twilight’s room has a few pictures of herself and her friends. Phantom had to admit even though he despised the castle, it was burning quite beautifully.

After the castle was completely destroyed, Phantom turned his attention to the crowd. “I’m here to tell you the princess you think you ponies know is a lie!” Phantom said as the ponies booed. Nevertheless, he continued despite the booing.

“You ponies who shun me after my greed episode, know nothing about the real. I kill for a living, so I can have food in my belly, but would I ever hurt innocent ponies?” He stopped and look over at the crowd. “The very same ponies who slowly shunned me, were happy I, the monster was vanished never to return,” he looked around the crowd once again before continuing. “Were you all happy as well?” he asked. Most shook their heads, while others nodded.

Phantom then pointed to a young mare with a silver mane, gray coat with purple glasses. She was standing next to her long time friend, a young pink mare, with a white streak going down her mane.

Phantom called them both over to him. The teenage fillies were hesitant at first, not wanting to go but in the end they decided to obey, in fear of what he might do.

“I’m curious, were you two glad I was gone?” he asked, making the mares gulp. They slowly nodded and closed her eyes, thinking Phantom would kill them for their answer. Strangely, this never happened.

The fillies open their eyes, and found it rather shocking to see a dragon just standing there giving them a blink expression. As he could see the eyes of the fillies, Phantom remembered the day Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara became friends with the Cutie Mark Crusaders.

“You girls know what happened to Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle, right?” he asked and the frightened young mares nodded. Diamond and Silver Spoon were devastated when they heard of the murders that were caused by the Phantom. “And you two think that I’m going to do that same to you, right?” Once again, the two nodded in fear of lying to the perceptive dragon. “Put your fears to rest, I won’t kill either of you.”

“W-wha?” were only words Diamond Tiara spoke.

“I’m well aware that you only treated ponies poorly because of your mother’s influence” Phantom said looking over to Diamond. “She tried to force you to become a high class pony, making it hard for you to make friend. I learned from Scootaloo that you wanted to change and become a better pony,”

“Despite what Apple Bloom and Sweetie said about helping you make friends, they shunned me out like I didn’t exist and did nothing to prevent my banishment.” Phantom said gripping his fists until his palms bled. “All those things you’ve heard about me killing out of cold blood were lies.”

Silver Spoon looked at her friend before back at the dragon.

For Diamond Tiara it was true Her mother did wanted her to act more like a spoiled brat and only befriend the rich and powerful, but over the years she have come to accept friendship and accept anyone willing enough to befriend her and Sliver Spoon.

“Truth be told, we were glad that you was gone at the beginning. We... no everypony here believed you was a ticking time bomb. We never thought that you wouldn’t hurt anpony,” Silver Spoon spoke.

“And what do you believe now? And you have my word I won’t harm you two if you’re honest.”

Diamond took in a deep breath. “You were an annoying little kid who hanged out with Twilight all the time, doing whatever she said as if you were a pet. We were happy you left, until you came back and started to take out your anger on the princesses, and kill our friends. Despite this, deep down... me and Silver know you’re not evil.”

“We thought that you was set up. When we told the Crusaders about this, they didn’t believe us.” Silver Spoon look down, to which Diamond move to conform her friend.

“I know what you mean,” Phantom said, placing his claw on her shoulder. “Are you two willing to come with me, and leave behind your former lives?”

Both the earth pony mares nodded. Because of the Cutie Mark Crusaders they weren’t the snobbish ponies they were before, but they still can’t forgive them for what they put Phantom through.

“I offer you ponies one last chance to make up for your mistakes. Join me, in supporting my cause. Those who were betrayed by your lovers, your friends and family like I have been, I offer you and your families protection under the queen.” Some ponies mumble amongst each other. To Phantom’s surprise, ponies started to walk toward.

Derpy, who was considered to be retarded due to her eyes, held her daughter Dinky who were ridiculed of being related to Derpy. Unlike the other ponies, she deeply believe the poor dragon before them was wrongfully banished. She even broke up with her long time coltfriend, who thought Phantom got what he rightfully deserved. Behind her were Lyra and Sweetie Drops, the spa twins, Berry Punch and her daughter Ruby Pinch. Finally Featherweight and his parents, Daffodil and Cloudy Grey.

“I originally want to cleanse this town from all of those who still believe that your false goddess Princess Celestia would come and save you. However, it would be a waste of my time to kill each and every one of you. So I’ll let you live your sheater, miserable lives.” Phantom turned around to look at the now destroyed castle.

The barrier that surrounded the town slowly disappear. Once it was completely gone, Phantom and his new allies bursted into flames. Once the green flames subsided, there were gone.

Celestia, Trixie, Moondancer and Twilight watched the crater of her once beloved castle the upper portion of which disappear. Twilight had nearly lost everything. Cadance, Shining Armor, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and now her home in Ponyville.

As the two unicorns, and alicorn watch Twilight had shed enough tears to fill three lakes. It wasn’t enough for Phantom. It wasn’t enough for him to take the lives of her five friends, and family, but the home they once shared.

Her mind begin to play the events that lead to this. The mistreatment, the slavery, and the worst of them all the betrayal. Yes she could’ve apologize to the drake years ago, but after the trial, she feared that their friendship was over. She had hurt her little brother in the worst way possible.

“This is my fault.” Twilight said in a hush tone.

“It’s not,” Celestia said in her motherly voice. “It’s not your fault Twilight Sparkle.”

“No princess, it is my fault. My foolishness awakened the devil inside Spike. Instead of defending him during the trial I banished him while acting like a princess.” She fell to the ground, she finally decided to admit it. “What a hypocrite I am...”

Chapter Fourteen

“Twilight. Twilight!” a voice called out to the lavender alicorn.

“W-Who are you?” Twilight responded. She was in the woods. It was dark, the wind blew resulting the leaves brushing against each other. “Where am I?” she asked once more, not sure how she got here. Lighting her horn, all she saw was trees, dead leaves, dirt paths, and grass.

“Why?” the voice whispered. “Why have you forsaken me?”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“You know what I’m talking about...Twi. Follow the voices and find out.”

Twilight obeyed, and followed the whisper that led deeper into the forest. The further Twilight went, the louder the whisper became. Soon she could hear the voices of those she cared about. Applejack, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Trixie, Moondancer, Cadance, and Shining Armor. “It’s all our fault...” they all said in a creepy, harmonic tone.

“Why didn’t we listen to him?”

“Why didn’t we console him?”

“Why did we abandon him?”

“Why did he die?”

Over and over again, the voices danced around the young alicorn. Twilight of course, ignored them and continued trotting down the darkening path. After about ten minutes, she came across a cave. It was like any standard cave that a full grown dragon, or ursa would live in. Only it had a creepy vibe to it, a vibe that said run away and never come back.

At the foot of this cave were two young mares. One was white unicorn with a light pink, and a dark purple two tone curly mane and tail. The unicorn mare however was wearing a plain white dress. A dark red substance ran down her neck, staining not only her coat, but parts of her dress as well. Upon closer inspection, the white filly had a long gash around her neck. On the other side was a yellow coated filly with a pink bow tied behind her red mane. Well, what was left of the teenaged mare; her body was gone, only to be replaced by a black skeleton.

“Sweetie Belle? Apple Bloom?” When Twilight’s voice was heard the two turned their heads and stare at her. They both had eyes that could pierce through the soul of anypony. Twilight took a step back, but was blocked by sharp thorns that grew out of nowhere.

“He’s waiting for you,” both mares said in unison, their voices void and lifeless. There was no joy, no anger or rage, nothing. Twilight was thinking whatever or whoever did this, was a monster with no morals.

Gulping, Twilight slowly and hesitantly walked past the young mares and entered the cave, only for them to block her only path of escaping. Their eyes kept their cold lifeless gaze on their target. This made Twilight shiver in fear, but she kept walking.

As she theorized before, the cave was big enough to fit a full sized dragon, along with its treasures. However like many others, this cave had chambers and pathways. Along those pathways, were a group of the elite guards, standing there, lifeless. Their blank eyes stared at her when she entered the chamber. What was creepy was that they only said these words. ‘He’s not here.’ After a flash of light that blinded her, the guards vanished.

As Twilight trotted deeper within the cavern, she could hear Fluttershy’s voice echo.

“Hush now, quiet now: It’s time to lay your sleepy head: Hush now, quiet now: It's time to go to bed.”

“Hush now! Quiet now! It's time to lay your sleepy head! Said hush now! Quiet now! It's time to go to bed!”

“Driftin’ (driftin’) off to sleep! Exciting day behind you! Driftin’ (driftin’) off to sleep! Let the joy of dream land find you!”

“Hush now! Quiet now! Lay your sleepy head! Said hush now! Quiet now! It’s time to go to BED!”

The voices of Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Trixie, and Princess Cadance followed. Their voices sounding a bit darker and somewhat out of tune. Twilight’s gut told her to turn away, and flee. She turned to find the guards, but the two fillies standing in her way. Their eyes as black as the deepest darkest pit. Twilight somehow knew that if she did flee, they would hunt her down, find her, and bring her back.

After five minutes of walking, she came to an open area. What she saw, horrified her. In the middle of the area, And much like Apple Bloom’s condition stood Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Big Mac, and Cheerilee. Next to Dash was Rarity with a gaping hole on her chest where her heart should be. Next to the heartless mare were Shining Armor, and Cadance. Their horns were broken, their heads lay against their necks. Cadance’s wings were ripped from her back and there was a closed hole in her stomach, where her unborn foal used to be.

The only pony that seems to be unharmed was Pinkie Pie. The ponies were all standing around in a circle, and in the middle was Fluttershy. Like Cadance her wings were rip off, and both her hind legs were broken. She was holding a decaying Spike in her front hooves. His scales were pale, and his tail, right leg, left arm and parts of his left side were missing. And there was a bit and scratch mark on his frail body.

“It was our fault.”

“He saved our kingdom.”

“He helped me with minor task around mah’ farm.”

“He helped me with my confidence.”

“He helped me with my dresses.”

“He was our friend.

“We should have defended him... W-We killed him...”

The next voice Twilight recognized all too well. “Why have you forsaken me Twi… I did everything you asked. I was your friend. Why?”

Twilight didn’t say anything. She just stood there, watching her little dragon try and stand, it broke her heart seeing her little Spike, and the rest of her friends like this.

“I didn’t mean to...”

“Lies!” the dragon said in a fit of anger. “You used me, and then threw me out when they said I was too dangerous. You're no friend.. You never were the embodiment of harmony! You’re just some hypocritical bitch and for that, you will die!”

Twilight awoke covered in sweat. Her mane matted and her eyes heavy from the lack of sleep. Ever since Shining Armor and Cadance’s deaths, she’s been having nightmares, which got worse each night. Nightmare Moon would sometimes gave her sweet dreams that soon turned into gruesome nightmares, ones that would make even the bravest ponies go insane.

How Twilight has not been able to go and confront the Crystal Empire’s army was a miracle. Her marble room in the castle was dark but with enough light coming from the moon to see what was what. Beside her was Trixie, sound asleep in the queen size bed they shared.

The lavender alicorn stood up and trotted over to the bathroom, taking extreme caution not to wake her marefriend, who was lucky enough to be having peaceful dreams. Turning on the light, Twilight then turned the handle of the sink that said cold. As the clear cold water filled the sink, Twilight looked into the mirror, only to see her own reflection. When she came up to look at her reflection, she found something horrible. Her lavender fur blackened. And her eyes pitch back.

“There’s a special place in hell for what you did to him, you hypocrite,” was all it said in its demonic tone before disappearing in the blink of an eye.

Twilight looked on, too scared to do anything really. Maybe this was punishment for treating Phantom like a slave, or for betraying him. Either way she’s going to face him sooner or later.

Meanwhile in Celestia’s chambers, the solar alicorn was having nightmares as well, only hers were much worse than Twilight’s. It started out as simple nightmares, such as attending the funerals of her son, sister, niece, and student one by one, to just being alone for eons with nopony to talk to.

Soon the nightmares became worse. Hearing the cries of the creatures she killed. The cries of her sister being blasted to the moon. The cries of her infant son, begging to be held by his mother, instead being eaten by this monster. The cries of her niece and her husband slowly being tortured and killed by said monster. And finally the cries of her student, meeting the same fate as her niece and subjects.

The worst thing was, that the alicorn couldn’t do anything about it except stand there and watch in horror. All those victims slowly rose from the dead. The dead, included her family and friends advanced towards her, repeating a single word, ‘monster’. Celestia couldn’t sleep for most of the night because of one final and gruesome nightmare her sister had for her.

It was the Summer Sun Celebration, and all of the ponies were gathered in one place over at the crystal valley. It was still dark, but many ponies had gathered nonetheless. But there was something different. The dragons had attended the event as well, with some sitting on clouds with pegasi, while others just lay there with ponies on top of them. But the weird part of this was that they were engaged in conversation.

There was a wooden platform with a loose rope in the middle of the platform. As the ponies and dragons talked amongst each other, almost like they were friends, the elderly dragons, gave the ponies some advice on not only life, but the outside world. Others just asked what it was like to be a dragon or live as one.

After a few minutes of talking, several figures walked towards the wooded area. One being a broken white alicorn with a half cut horn, and for additional safety, an inhibitor ring. Her legs were chained and her wings clipped. Celestia with a couple of the crystal guards, stood there waiting for Phantom and Nightmare to show.

Within a couple of moments, a purple and green haze floated toward the stage, before swirling around in perfect harmony. The purple and green dragon, and the black alicorn walked out of the vortex, Phantom’s arm wrapped around the shoulders of his now mate.

During their speech, the ponies placed the looped rope around the neck of the alicorn and positioned her on the trap door, as Nightmare Moon raised the sun.

“Any last words you harlot?” Phantom asked in a hateful tone. His claw gripping against the lever.

Celestia’s eyes teared up seeing the hate in his eyes. She had endured torture after torture, but every time she looked into his eyes, it saddened her greatly knowing that one day, the drake she raised would hate her to the point that he’d seek revenge. Yet, despite all he did to her, including taking the lives of several ponies, this includes the five elements, deep down inside, she still loved him.

“Goodbye forever, my little fire starter.” Her words were weak, but sincere. Phantom could sense her sadness, but he no longer had to ability to care what she felt. He just pulled the lever, and the trap door opened from underneath her. She dropped, but stopped when she was about ten inches above the ground. The tight rope held her by the neck. Slowly, her vision began to fade. The last thing she heard was Phantom proposing to Luna, in front of everypony and dragon, to which she happily accepted.

Celestia woke from her slumber and wept. This was normal for her, considering all that has happened. Ever since her son’s banishment, she wanted to see him and apologize for all she had done. She wanted to hold him, and tell him that she’d never abandon him again.

“What a lovely night.” Phantom said sitting in the plain grassy fields of the Crystal Empire with his mentor and love interest, Nightmare Moon. It had been an enjoyable week, and it was even better to have the queen sitting beside him looking at the stars and moon. Both Nightmare and Phantom needed time to themselves, despite Pinkie making a big picnic for the two of them. The night was calm, and the breeze was a nice welcome.

“Indeed my beloved Phantom,” Nightmare replied with a small blush on her muzzle.

Phantom closed his eyes, and leaned over to Nightmare, who in return leaned toward him. The two didn’t say anything, they just enjoyed each other’s company like always. Phantom rested his tail on Nightmare’s, which she responded by curling it around his.

“Phantom, what is your next phase in your plan?” the alicorn asked with a purr in her tone, impressed on how he’s tormenting his former friend.

“Seeing how messed up her head is, Twilight will be coming to us soon.” Phantom really didn’t say anything else, but closed his eyes, letting the cool wind pass through his scales.

“Luna?” he asked breaking the long silence.

“Yes my dear student?” she asked, cuddling against his cool scales.

“If you could go back in time to change one event, what would it be?” This caught the alicorn off guard. There were many things she would had change. Her own banishment. Phantom’s false trial and banishment. Taking the last banana cake out of the fridge when she and Celestia were still ruling together. This indeed was a tough question.

“Honestly, I don’t have the answer to that Phantom. There are many things I want to change. Like preventing the death of your parents. Then again, if I did that, you wouldn’t be the dragon I know today...” Nightmare paused, “But if I had to change events in history, I would go back and stop Blueblood from framing you.”

“Well, there is that time spell in Starswirl’s wing-” Before Phantom could say anything he felt the metal of Nightmare’s midnight blue shoe on his maw.

“Sweetie, I’m well aware of the spell, but time moves forward,” she said sadly as she nuzzled underneath the drake’s chin. “If we changed the events in the past, then the present would most likely be affected.” A tear fell from her eye from the unfair reality, “Even if we managed to get our message across, there would be no point. The first hint of murder or theft with no possible leads would go straight to you. Ponies will believe you did it without even a second glance because they see you as a threat. It may take years but believe me, they’ll point their hooves at you,” Nightmare explained, and Phantom realized she was right.

“Fate can be so cruel,” he sighed.

“I know my dear, I know.”

The two looked into each other’s eyes, before leaning in for a kiss. A few minutes passed before their lips separated and they went back to looking at the starry sky.

The next day, Celestia was eating a breakfast which consisted of toast, pancakes, hay bacon strips and her morning coffee. There was no movement yet of the Nightmare Family and getting into the Crystal Empire seemed to be impossible. With four of the six elements dead, and one on the enemy side, the most greatest and powerful weapons Celestia had were perfectly useless.

She began to replay scenario after scenario in her mind. If she never ordered the attack, then Equestria would have been spared. There wouldn’t be war. But with the cost of Phantom being with his real family and never knowing about the ponies here. If she did send him to jail, then the ponies would’ve rioted over her kingdom. And if they had put Phantom to death, no doubt the Dragon Lord would’ve sent the dragons to attack Equestria if she found out.

Celestia then considered what if she had stopped Blueblood from framing Spike. Maybe this whole thing could have been avoided? Those thoughts plagued her mind like a swarm of parasprites nibbling at her brain. ‘Spike would have discovered the truth eventually. What if I hadn’t giving him to Twilight? What if I had just kept him by my side?’

At that moment, a royal guard pegasus burst through the door, panting like he had just ran a mile. In his wing was a letter “S-So sorry to disturb you princess, but I found this in Twilight Sparkle and Trixie Lulamoon’s room.” Celestia’s horn glowed, levitating the letter over to her and read it.

Dear Princess Celestia

Before we banished Spike, I’ve been having nightmares on what would happen when Spike had passed. My heart aches seeing what the outside world would do to him. To see his body disfigured and bloody. Harmed because of our negligence towards him. It was my fault for not believing in him, for not being there when he needs it. I’m writing this because I might not come back today. In fact, me Trixie nor Moondancer might never see your sun again. Even if we somehow survive we’ve decided we would go into hiding as we’ll never be able to forgive ourselves. Please princess don’t follow us to the Crystal Empire. It’s our choice to confront Spike. Goodbye forever.

Sincerely your favorite student Twilight Sparkle.

Tears dropped from the sides of her muzzle as she finished the letter. This will be the last time she’ll ever see her most faithful student again? She prayed to anyone that Twilight would come back safe, or that Phantom showed mercy and let her live.

The Crystal Empire was busy going on their daily runs. Shopping, working or getting ready to work, or cleaning their fair crystalize streets. Due to most of the Nightmare guards’ nocturnal nature, they were asleep, thus making Phantom, Pinkie, and Midnight recruit ponies as guards for day patrol. What’s more is that Phantom, who had been hanging with Nightmare and some of the bat ponies, adopted this nocturnal nature as well.

The streets were booming with activity. Ponies were minding their own business and guards were just roaming the area. Even if there wasn’t a crime, they were always on alert. Buying and selling goods that would make Fancy blush.

The calm and sincere morning was interrupted by a bright sphere appearing by the streets of the Crystal Empire. Once the bright light disappear, Twilight, Trixie and Moondancer were standing in the middle where the light was. Ponies just watched the two in amazement. Neither party didn’t know if those two were brave or dumb. Either way, the ponies were giving orders, and the guards did what they had to do.

The crystal ponies ran and the guard ponies attack. Some threw spears while others unleashed their magic. Unknown to them, Twilight, Trixie and Moondancer were training to take out Phantom. Trixie put up a deflective barrier that shielded them from the upcoming weapons and magic blasts. The show mare created an opening for both Moondancer and Twilight to return fire. Magenta and sky blue auras were sent flying, hitting their marks. The magic that hit the guards wasn’t any normal blast. It contains a spell that painful eats away at the fresh. The guards begin to cry out in pain as there fresh slowly deteriorates, leaving them to wander the world as a bloody walking freshness ponies.

The three weren’t done however. Twilight and Moondancer conjured up a fire so hot, that even the crystallized streets melted. The ponies around them burn into a crisp in a matter of seconds. The ones that survived stare into shot, but their wasn’t going to go down without a fight. One guard lunge at the two but was quickly halted by Trixie magic where Twilight blasted promptly his head off. The blood from the now headless guard squirted, covering the streets with his blood. “You think this will get his attention Sparkle?”

“Yea...it will.”

“EVERYPONY STAND DOWN!” came the echoing sound of Pinkie hopping to the scene with her midnight blue armor. Many others were by her side including: Midnight Blossom, Goldbeck, Ruby Bandit, Cloud Skipper, Starlight and Thorax. However the last pony to appear really caught Twilight’s attention, as it was... her mother.

“M-Mom?” Twilight asked, but didn’t get any response from the silver unicorn.

“Didn’t you pay attention to what Phantom said before?” Thorax asked as he cupped Velvet’s chin. “She is completely unaware of the world around her due to our hold on her mind.”

It was as Phantom had said before, Velvet was little more than a doll.

“Anyway, it was so foolish of you to come here. Three of the elite officers are here!” Thorax said gesturing to Pinkie, Starlight and Midnight. “Including me, we have four of the twelve Zodiacs. With your mother alongside us, there are eight of us and only three of you.”

“Plus reinforcements will be here very soon,” Midnight said as she popped her neck. “Given you’ll still be alive once they get here.”

“We’ve been loyal to Phantom for years. Very soon he will overthrow your despicable princess and expose the vile actions she has committed upon his kin. However as long as you are alive, you pose a threat to that glory! We will not allow you to shatter our captain’s future!” Thorax stated.

Starlight smiled at her Zodiac. “Well said Thorax,” she commended with a wink.

Pinkie looked around at the surviving ponies. “We’ll handle them. Go wake Phantom up and tell him that they’re here!”

Out of nowhere Twilight blasted the pink demon in the chest. The mare inflated than burst into confetti. Twilight was about to say something but was hit by a hardball that not only passed Trixie shield but manage to skid the lavender mare a couple of yards out of the barrier. Trixie turn her head to see that Pinkie Pie was standing there with her party cannon at the ready. “Is that how you say hi to a old friend? Geez Phantom was right, you are an insensitive bitch.”

Twilight huffed, thankfully the protection spell she learned from her brother kept the ball from breaking any of her ribs or internal organs. However, that left her wide open until the shield reformed itself. “One; friends never go behind their back and help a crazed dragon with issues. Two; we stopped being friends after you left Fluttershy broken, both mentally and physically and three; how the fuck are you still alive!” Twilight screamed demanding how the pink crazy pony was alive.

“Oh silly.” Pinkie giggled, only to feather Twilight’s anger. “ Unlike you, who suppose to be the princess of friendship is here supporting her friend. But here’s the craziest part... I’m one of Phantom’s elite commanders.”

Trixie wanted to shut Pinkie up.

“Trixie look out!” Moondancer shouted.

Looking above, the show mare barely had enough time to move out of the way as Midnight Blossom descended and jammed her armor cover hooves into the ground.

“Trixie thanks you.”

“You’re welcome, but-” Before Moondancer could finish, Trixie rolled her out of the way where the cannonball dug itself into the ground. “We need that cannon away from her. One hit with anti magic balls and we’re dead.”

“Wait, they have anti-magic?” Trixie look at her in shock before teleporting to a nearby alleyway, away from the pink mare and her group of friends.

“Didn’t I tell you before we left? They’re not going to hold back. Especially with us. Look around at where we’re at.”

“She’s right, and we're wasting time fighting his minions.” Moondancer sighed and adjusted her glasses.

“Yea, but Trixie didn’t think they’d use such material,” she said, looking around the relatively clean alleyway. “ They even keep their allyways clean. Which reminds Trixie. Why did you teleported us here anyway? Shouldn’t we be in the throne room?”

“Do you want to face Nightmare Moon by yourself?” Twilight reassured her. “Besides, all this noise we made should arouse Phantom’s attention.”

“Oh I may have forgotten one teeny, tiny, little thing... Nightmare and Phantom are normally, active at night.” Pinkie said with a frown, shocking the three into attention. “Poor guy... worked himself to the bone those last few nights,” Pinkie said, smiling sheepishly.

“By the way, think fast!” The moment Pinkie said those words, Twilight rolled her, Trixie and Moondancer out of the way from a magical blast.

Twilight looked up, and was shocked to see the one pony she wished not to see. It was none other than her mother, Twilight Velvet. Her eyes were still devoid of any emotion, as she was still under Phantom’s control.

Before the alicorn fraire up her horn, she created a small shield to deflect the light blue beam to an incoming changeling, knocking him out of the sky. “Sorry Thorax,” Starlight said, not meaning to cause a friendly fire on her teammate. However Velvet didn’t when Twilight lower her shield causing the mare to skid back to the sidewalk.

Trixie rushed to Twilight’s side, helping her up and seeing the burn now marked into her side.

Pinkie, who already had her cannon out, aimed and was ready to launch another assault, but before she could fire, Trixie teleported both her and Twilight to another section of the empire, with Moondancer following behind them

“Still think this was a bad idea, Sparkle?” Asked the light blue mare, who now appeared on the roof. “Trixie thinks we should retire for now.”

“I hate to say it but I agree, we should just run and live to fight another day.”

“No... we came here to take out Phantom, and we’re not leaving until he’s…” Before she could finish, the empire’s sirens rang out, alerting everypony to evacuate. “Great...” Twilight groaned.

Trixie’s horn glowed with a bright clear green glow and aimed it towards the burned spot. “Trixie really thinks we should leave before more Nightmare guards shows up.”

“We can’t leave yet, Trixie. We have to take Spike out.” Twilight said, wincing in pain that, thanks to Trixie magic, was slowly fading. “Plus, I know they won’t kill us.”

“Why not?” Trixie shook her head. “Is it because that’s Phantom’s job?”

“Yes,” Twilight replied before teleporting to the ground as soon as her side was healed. The young alicorn’s horn glowed, sending sparks crackling around as she fired her magic towards Cloud Skipper and Goldbeck. Her magic made a direct hit causing the two Zodiacs to fall to the ground with a great collision.

Trixie looked down at Twilight, who turned around and smiled. “I won’t let anything happen to you Trixie.” The moment Twilight said those words, a green beam of light, pass through the skies; one that was capable of destroying the side of a roof. “TRIXIE!” Twilight cried out, but her worries were over when said mare appeared beside her, though parts of her coat were torn off and her horn was slightly cracked.

As Twilight and Moondancer helped Trixie back onto her hooves, they turned to see it was Thorax who had fired the beam. Glancing over she also noticed Cloud Skipper and Goldbeck stand back up.

Twilight returned her gaze back to Thorax, knowing he was one of Phantom’s closest allies. “I always knew changelings couldn’t be trusted,” she snarled.

One of Thorax’s veins popped out in response to the insult. “Silence! As if ponies are any different!” he shouted.

From a distracted Starlight fire another magical blot towards Trixie who quickly created a shield only to have burst from her former friend power. “Huh thought you’d be stronger than that. I guess I was wrong,” she said with a shrug.

“You bitch!” Moondancer snarled, pointing her horn at the light purple unicorn. But before she could fire, the light purple mare disappear in a flash of light. Causing all three mares to look around for her.

“Why so distracted?” a different voice said. Moondancer turned only to be met by a fist sending her flying into a nearby wall. It was Goldbeck.

Twilight rushed over to help her friend, but was stopped as Midnight descended in front of her. The executives of the Nightmare Guard were everywhere.

The alicorn barely managed to avoid a swipe from Midnight’ clawed hoof shoes. The shoes have been magically enhanced so Midnight could generate electricity.

Flying a good distance, Twilight shot a blast of magic. Cloud Skipper moved in front of Midnight and held out both hooves. As Twilight’s beam made contact, Skipper used his strength to push against the energy wave.

Midnight flew towards Twilight with her hoof raised and brought it down in which Twilight managed to avoid, only losing a feather. ‘What’s with them? All they’re doing is rushing forward and attacking,’ she thought.

Midnight raised her hoof up proudly, as she could tell Twilight was confused. “I don’t do defense, there’s only attack in my strategy! The same goes for the Zodiacs who work under me!”

Goldbeck, Cloud Skipper and Ruby Bandit all stood beside Midnight with confident smiles. Indeed, unlike fighters like Pinkie and Starlight who have methods of attacking from a distance, Midnight and her team take their opponents head on.

Twilight narrowed her eyes, considering her situation. ‘She’s just as rash as Rainbow Dash. Regardless, close combat isn’t my strong point, I’ll need to keep my distance.’

With their three intruders distracted with their fights, Starlight took this opportunity to teleport back inside the castle. She believed it was about time to bring Phantom up to speed in what’s going on.

When Phantom was little, he would cuddle with Celestia and nuzzle into her coat. He would do the same with Twilight whenever they took a nap in the afternoon sun or when he had nightmares. This of course, didn’t change during his banishment, as Phantom would cuddle with Nightmare. Most times, he’d hold her tightly in his grasp, afraid she might abandon him. Even if the black alicorn needed to use the little filly’s room, Phantom would be sleeping in the large king size bed holding her hostage.

The black alicorn, of course, loves cuddling with Phantom, and it wasn’t just because she felt safe in his arms, but because he was very warm. This warmth was a blessing in the wilderness, since the temperatures could drop to near freezing at night.

While the alicorn and the dragon slept, their dreams intertwined and held each other once more. They were on a small, yet seemingly long raft, sailing under the endless stream under the full moon. Their bodies were comfortably nestled against each other as they gazed into the heavens. It was such a beautiful moment to Phantom, so much that he began to softly sing. Even though neither the song nor voice was grandeur, Nightmare still loved every second of it.

Their sweet dream, however, came into abrupt end when the sounds of heavy banging and sirens made themselves known to them. The most annoying and recent sound was somepony screaming Phantom’s name. Phantom knew it was Starlight.

Both Phantom and Nightmare groaned. The dragon moved off the bed, walking over to the door, and opening it. “What is it Starlight?” he asked with a yawn.

She bowed, “Sorry to disturb you from your rest, but Twilight, Trixie and Moondancer are in the city. Right now they’re engaged in battle with our Zodiacs and Velvet.”

“Are they dead?”

“No, but intel reports that even though we have them outnumbered, they’re putting up a good fight.”

Phantom looked back at Nightmare, who was still sound asleep. “Alright... I’ll be there in five minutes. Let’s just hope Pinkie and the others saved some of the fun for me.”

Twilight skidded across the crystalline streets, panting hard. Her coat was heavily bruised from the nonstop attacks. Sweat and blood began to pour down her face, muzzle and parts of her body; slowly but surely she was getting tired. And she knew that most of the elite were getting tired as well, with the exception of Pinkie.

She looked up to see Midnight descending with her hind leg raised. Twilight managed to teleport out of the way, as the bat pony’s hoof struck the ground, creating a crater.

Trixie, on the other hand, was doing far worse. She’s been blasted by Thorax three times; one blast nearly ripping off one of her legs, while her coat remained heavily bruised, and her horn crack from the initial blast.

“Oh girls... you can’t be tired already.” Pinkie pouted, seeing how slowly they moved. This fight has been going on for almost 45 minutes, however Pinkie was still full of energy, unlike the others. “We’ve only gotten started.”

“Moondancer we had a little interruption during our last fight,” the pink mare said cracking her neck. “Hopefully, that won’t happen again.” That being said, Pinkie released a powerful blast from her cannon, to which the light cream mare avoided by teleporting out of the way.

Trixie quickly moved out of the way to avoid being struck down by Ruby Bandit’s magically encased hooves. Even though Bandit is the only member of Midnight’s three Zodiacs that can use magic, in battle she only uses it to increase the power of her strikes.

Suddenly Thorax glowed taking Trixie’s form with a smirk. Twilight didn’t know what he was up to, but the form infuriated her.

Thorax was blasted into a wall. He began... snickering

Twilight couldn’t believe it, Thorax’s burn marks were beginning to vanish. But what really caught her surprise is the cry of pain she heard from the real Trixie. Turning to her marefriend, Twilight saw the same injuries that were previously on Thorax appear on the show mare’s body.

“H-How?”

“I’ve had my transformations enhanced during my training with Starlight. As long as I’m disguised, any damage I receive is instantaneously transferred to whomever I look like,” Thorax explained. “We call it the mirror reflected spell.”

Trixie struggled to return to her hooves.

Twilight was about to say something, but Goldbeck rushed up lifted her. Spreading his wings the griffon flew high into the air. Twilight knew what was coming and encased her body in a magical armor hoping it would be strong enough to absorb the attack. With a loud lion roar, Goldbeck began to rushed back to the ground at a very high speed.

“LET’S SEE YOU TAKE THIS!!” he roared as he brought the alicorn down with a powerful collision. Twilight managed to absorb most of the shockwave, but the remaining damage caused her to cough out some blood.

“Bandit, it’s your turn!” the griffon announced as he flew back.

“Right!” Ruby shouted as she rushed towards Twilight. The alicorn quickly put a barrier, as she saw the charging mare encase both hooves in magic. She began her assault on Twilight’s barrier, pounding it in a boxing manner.

‘Such power...’ Twilight thought as she struggled to hold her ground.

Ruby smirked as she saw Twilight’s barrier was actually beginning to crack. ‘This should finish it!’ she thought as she concentrated her magic for her next strike. Before her hoof made contact however, she was blasted by a blast from Moondancer. The young unicorn skidded to a halt beside Goldbeck, easily shaking off the pain.

“How can you guys follow somepony like Spike?!” Twilight asked.

“What have we told you about using the young master’s old name?!” Goldbeck snarled, ruffling his feathers.

“I won’t forgive you for insulting Phantom! I’ll have you know he took me in after I was abandoned by my parents!” Ruby shouted.

This caught Twilight by surprise, but before she could respond, green flames suddenly erupted from the ground, and out came the big boss himself. Phantom looked around the battlefield. A few injured, but nothing serious.

“I thought you guys would’ve finished them off by now,” Phantom said before smacking his lips together. Despite being wide awake, the dragon was still tired, and turned his attention to Twilight.

“What brought you out of your den, you lizard?” Trixie growled. “Did you finally grow tired of banging your slut of a queen?!”

Phantom’s eye twitched. She had just insulted the queen, something Phantom would never forgive no matter how much they begged.

Twilight didn’t hasted to fire the same heart stopping spell that killed the dragons centuries ago. The spell would work if it hit it target. Suddenly Starlight appeared and constructed a shield to block the beam.

“Thanks Starlight.”

“Anytime Phantom,” Starlight replied, ready to defend her captain.

Phantom looked at Velvet, whose blank expression let him know she was still under his control. “Hey Thorax, teleport Velvet back to her cell.”

“Yes sir!” With that Thorax’s horn came to life.

“You bastard! Give me back my mother!” Twilight screamed.

“Relax, I have no intention of killing your mother,” Phantom said. “Not that I care if you believe me or not.”

As Phantom activated his magic, the surroundings began to change.

“What are you doing?!”

“I just want to destroy you in style Twilight.”

Looking around, Twilight saw that Phantom had teleported them to the ancient castle of the pony sisters. Home to the once powerful alicorn sister Celestia, and Luna at the edge of the Everfree Forest, now lay in ruin after a thousand years of abandonment. Grass, weeds, and moss grow on the exterior of the structure. Inside however were a different story. Pillows lay on the ground with cracks on the floor. Pictures of ponies ranging from counts to dukes, ladies and duchess lay preserved in their place in the walls. Outside the once beautiful garden of wildflowers and roses now cover in moss and high weeds.

Twilight Moondancer and Trixie glare at the dragon. “Now let us continue.” Phantom opened his mouth letting out a stream of his green flames at Twilight, but she quickly put up a barrier. Once Phantom closed his mouth, he spread his wings and took off into the air. Trixie rapidly fired bolts of magic blasts, hoping to hit the dragon.

One of her bolts indeed hit her target, but he took very little damage due his natural resistance to magic. Phantom tilted his head down, then back up. Twilight saw a glow in his hand as he held it out.

“Trixie look out!” screamed Twilight. Phantom fired a ball of energy at the showmare, but Twilight form a barrier around her marefriend. Sadly it didn’t held up when the ball hit, shattering the barrier on impact. Trixie was sent flying back, but Twilight caught her.

“Oh you should be more worry about yourself!” the dragon roared while sending a volley of flames, making it look like it was raining fire. Both mares teleported to another part of the castle to avoid the flames.

“Okay we need a plan.” Twilight pant then cast a spell to hide both hers, Moondancer and Trixie presence from Phantom. Magic blast seem to be ineffective against his scales.”

“Trixie says she would get Spike’s attention while you think of a spell. Trixie may know little to nothing about dragons, but she can stall one for you.”

“You sure Trixie?”

“Don’t doubt the great and powerful Trixie. She will stall that dragon for you my love!” Trixie pump her chest. unbeknown to them both that the location there were in did have a hole in it, and there voices echo throughout the room. It wouldn’t be a surprise that a centenary flying dragon head there plain. Quietly he leap down the glided toward the garden.

The light blue mare teleported back into the garden. “HEY YOU SCALY SACK OF CRAP. CAN'T HIT THE GREAT AND POWERFUL YOU FOUL BEAST!” Trixie yelled, then wiggle her flank in which got slightly burn when Phantom blow his flame towards it. Trixie growl at her now burn tail. bit didn’t take account of the dragon’s speed. Phantom was now face to face with the mare, who not only was one of the main reason he despised Twilight, but one of the reason why she ditch him.

Without a world of warning, the dragon landed a hard punch to her cheek, nearly dislocating her jaw. But thanks to the shield magic she learned from Celestia. The sky blue mare skidded across the garden and stopping at a hill which used to be a pond. Slowly the dragon walked over to the somewhat hurt mare.

“So... how do you want me to break you?” As he took another step, his wing instinctively reacted, deflecting a magic beam.

“Sneaky Twilight. Shooting a dragon behind,” Phantom sighed. “Where’s your honor?”

Twilight took some time to process what she just heard. “Honor, what would a monster like you know about honor?!”

“Well...” Phantom paused. “I know banishing a baby for a falsely accuse crime isn’t honorable.”

“You.” Twilight’s horn began to glow. “Wouldn’t.” Her horn soon glowed even brighter. “KNOW HONOR IF IT BIT YOU ON THE ASS, SPIKE!”

That set him off, as magic radiated off the ballistic dragon’s body at the mention of the name he threw away. “DO NOT CALL ME BY THAT NAME!!!” he shouted, his voice shaking the castle. “HOW MANY TIMES MUST I TELL YOU, I AM THE CAPTAIN OF THE NIGHTMARES, PHANTOM!!!” Phantom’s hands shot beams of heat energy into the sky. The rays shot down towards Twilight, surrounding her in a vortex of flame.

“Such incredible heat...” Moondancer groaned.

Phantom continued to increase the heat of the firestorm “Burn away to bones!” The intense heat from said fire was hot enough to melt rock and stone on contact.

As the flames began to clear, Phantom saw the devastation he made, luckily none of the flames hit the forest. He didn’t to cause more panic. But what surprised him even more was the three ponies still standing, having withstanding such heat while being protected by a bubble.

“I’m surprised you three are still standing.”

“I’m not through yet...” she panted. She lit her horn preparing her next spell. She felt a sharp pain as she prepared her spell and fell to the ground coughing blood. ‘I-I’m more damaged than I thought…’

“Seems you got roughed up by Midnight and the others,” Phantom said. “Along with your constant use of your magic and-” Before he could finish his eyes turned over to see Trixie and Moondancer readying a spell.

Phantom sighed as he readied his own spell. Pointing to the two a green shield cover the two. “And you two get to watch as I slowly kill this hypocritical alicorn of friendship.”

Phantom looked down and saw roses sprout from his scales. However he quickly realized that these weren’t ordinary roses. He could feel that his magic was slowly being drained by the flowers.

“Celestia taught you some pretty interesting spells... however...” Phantom began to set the flowers on fire, burning it away. Looking down Phantom picked up a sole surviving rose, admiring its beauty. “I should thank you, Twi,” he smirked as he sniffed the rose. “I’ll give this rose to the queen.”

Twilight growled, as her magic aura surrounded the rose in Phantom’s hand. Within seconds, the rose rotted away, but the purple dragon just chuckled.

“You’re terrible Twilight,” he said keeping a smirk. “And here I wanted to give this flower to Nightmare.” His expression remained the same. “You haven’t changed at all from those years.”

Phantom ran towards Twilight with both of his claws ready to skin her. “I PUT UP WITH YOUR NEGLECT, I CLEANED UP YOUR MESSES ALL TO MAKE YOU SMILE!!!” he shouted and blow some flames at the mare but Twilight struggled to avoid his strikes. The flames despite missing it target was close enough to burn her coat.

Stopping his assault, Phantom spread his wings and soared up high and began channeling his magical energy into his leg, causing it to glow brightly. “LET’S SEE YOU TAKE THIS, HYPOCRITE!!!” he roared as he rushed towards her with his leg

Twilight’s entire body was in pain, but as Phantom flew towards her, she forced out as much magic as possible to construct a barrier. She coughed out blood, due to the strain, but ignored the agony to keep the force field active.

Phantom’s leg made contact with the barrier, causing the ground to shake violently as his and Twilight’s magical power pushed against each other.

With a roar, Phantom’s kick sent Twilight, still encased in her barrier, flying into Moondancer and Trixie, creating an explosion. When the dust settled, the three mares were revealed unconscious and defeated.

Phantom was panting heavily as he fell to his knees. Now that Twilight was defeated, he was thinking what he should do with her and the other two mares for when they wake up.

“Phantom?” The victorious dragon turned to see Starlight, Pinkie and the others walk towards him.

Phantom returned his gaze to the three unconscious mares, and an idea popped into his head. “Alright, here’s what I want you to do...” he began.

Twilight woke up after the sudden burst of magical energy rendered her, Trixie, and Moondance unconscious. The area was dark and humid. The only light was the one swinging slightly over the ceiling. The mare place her head rubbing it. How long has she been unconscious? Hours? Days? Weeks? She rose to her feet looked around only seeing the darkness.

The lavender mare was wearing a saddle bag. She open the bag and dig in, only to find a green vial.

“I see you’re awake miss Sparkle.” A voice echo from the darkness. The mare turn her head from one side to the other looking to locate the voice.

“Hello Twilight Sparkle, it's been a long time. I hope you have prepared to pay for your crime,” Another voice came from the darkness, but Twilight knew who the voice belong to.

“Z-Z-Zecora?” Twilight spoke. On cue the zebra came out along with the black alicorn. The sight of Zecora here was a shocking. Most of Ponyville thought she move back. But why is she here? Why is she helping Phantom and Nightmare Moon? “Why are you helping them?”

“You wish to know why dear Twilight? Surely you should know since you're so bright. Think back to when you stormed my room, all because you thought I was cooking Apple Bloom" Twilight looked down in shame. Now realizing what she meant. “That look on your face tells me your shame, for that and what you've done to Phantom is one in the same.”

“If you’re wondering where Trixie and Moondance are, they’re safe...for now.” Nightmare spoke but then moved out the way to reveal a wooden door. “Outside this door, your journey begins. Phantom has giving you a chance to make up your past mistake.” Nightmare growled, not fond of the idea that Phantom, is willingly want to give her a second chance, not after what she did seven years ago.

“After your defeat, Phantom gave orders to inject him, Moondancer and Trixie with a lethal poison. At this moment, all three of them lay in a secure place with the toxin which only you hold the cure for. Both the lives of your marefriend and the friend you abandoned are at stake. Which one will you choose, the choice is yours to make.”

The door open via Nightmare Moon’s magic. The mare trotted past the two and enter the dark eerie hallway. Torches lit with every step she took, brightening the way for her. Spiders and other insects crawled into the cracks and holes in the halls and stone floors of the old castle.

Her thoughts were on the tough choice she would eventually have to make. If she saved Phantom, he’ll forgive her and things would be slightly normal. But on the other hand, Trixie and Moondancer will die. But what if she saved Trixie instead? What would happen if she gave the mare whom she loved the antidote to the poison? Phantom had killed four of her best friends, her brother and sister in law, along with their unborn foal. Why should she spare a creature that caused her so much pain and misery these past few weeks? “Why why why why!” Twilight screamed, hoping to get her answer. Her answer indeed came in a form of a voice.

“You Abandoned him, He’s a child who knows nothing.”

“The little guy cried for us.”

“He was family.”

“He was more loyal and honest than any of us.”

“No no no...He’s a monster!” Twilight scream into nothing but the halls.

“Because we made him that way Twilight. It was our fault. All our fault.

At that point Twilight went into a full gallop, trying to escape the voices that plagued her mind. She checked one room after another hoping to find either one of them. She ran up the spiral stairs to check one of the remaining towers, ignoring the light of the moon. Sadly, she found a note that reads “They’re in a room of celebration and happiness. But hurry, they’re end is near.”

“A room of celebration?” She looked around, but then it hit her. “The ballroom!” Quickly she ran to downstairs. Surprise that she didn’t trigger any traps. The ballroom like the castle lay in ruin. Curtains were tedder, rip and dusty, the marble equine statue that once stood for decoration and beauty now old with cracks and missing parts due to the years of dedicated. However something was a bit different in the room. flames from the candles that scatter the room lit and dance. A soft yet beautiful choir echo through the air. Maybe Twilight was hearing things. Has she finally succumbed to the insanity that tormented her mind for weeks?

Laying in the middle of the room were three figures, but of their bodies weaken from the poison ejected in their bodies. Twilight pull out the vial and look at it, and the two. ‘Oh what to do? Do I save Trixie the mare I love, Moondancer my old friend or, Spike, the animal that kill my family and friends?’

She turned to look at Phantom. Twilight knew this was one of his twisted game, and since she could use her magic, it would be easy for her to take his life while he in this condition. ‘So weak.’ The memories of them together begin to flood her mind. From the time he cry from nightmares, until the relaxing moment of the two huddling together on Hearthwarming eve. The fight about him eating a cookie from the cook jar, to him running away in fear of an owl replacing him.

Both the dragon and the two mare open their eyes slightly. There vision still blurry, but they could still tell who was standing in front of them. She shake her head, and look at the dragon. She smile, her horn glow in a bright. He could tell she was making the right choice. Maybe Nightmare Moon was wrong.

“I’m sorry Spike.” That was it. Those three words he wanted to here, after all those years. How ever his eyes turn from happy to shock when a purple light appear on the floor. “But your crimes against Equestria, my home can’t be forgiving. “For the deaths of countless ponies including Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash, along with Cheerilee, Big Mac, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Prince Shining Armor, and Princess Cadance I by the power invested in me, granted by Celestia, sentence you to death.” With that Twilight unleash a massive amount of magic that shot into the sky. The screams of a dragon could be heard outside the castle.

When the light faded, Phantom laid on the ground with a huge hole burned through his chest. There was no heartbeat, no breathing, nothing. Twilight smirk seeing her job done. She had killed the one that tormented her and slaughtered her friends and family. Twilight walked over to Trixie and Moondancer, the cure still in her magical grasp.

“Celestia might be displeased that I killed Spike, but it’s for the safely of Equestria.” Opening the vial, she open her marefriend mouth lightly and poured the contents in. She then moved to Moondancer and did the same.

The taste wasn’t the best potion in the world, but it work nonetheless. After about five minutes of taking the cure, both mares were better.

“You killed him? Why?”

“Wasn’t he your friend?” the voice in her head echoed even louder.

“Y-You... You’re a murderer...”

“Murderer!”

“MURDERER!”

“No you’re wrong. I’m not the murderer... He is!” She pointed her hoof at the crisp body.

“He trusted you, with everything; his heart, body, and soul!”

“And you killed him. For what, because you saw him as a threat? A dragon?”

Twilight said nothing to this as she began to ponder the voice’s words.

“He would never even dream of hurting anyone, and you killed him.”

“Tell me Miss Sparkle, what would you think will happen if you six expired. do you think he could go on when all he know and love dies.” This voice was different than the others. “As you know dragons live for a long long time.”

Again Twilight didn’t respond. But knew what this voice was right. Celestia is over a thousand years old she had seen ponies past due to time. “Maybe you’re right. I don’t know what will Spike do when we pass. But... that doesn’t give him the right to kill us.”

“No no... you’re right... Not unless you know the pain of being alone, shunned, forgotten, even hated for everything that you are.” The voice echo louder, but the mare was able to located the source. Right after the flames candles flicker the dark alicorn herself appear. She look over at her mare and her marefriend she was holding.

Turning around she watched in horror as Phantom’s eyes opened He was... still alive?! How? Was it some kind of trick?

Phantom gripped his fists, feeling more angry and betrayed than he had ever felt in his entire life. “I wanted to believe that after all of this, after you, the cunt licking bitch that you are, abandoned me, that I would find forgiveness in you. But no. You wanted me gone. You couldn’t stand me. I was nothing but your fucking expendable servant.”

Phantom held out his arm, letting a small glow of magical lime green aura cover his claw. “You, the same bitch who threw away her longest friend outside to suffer alone. her own family. I thought we could go back to normal but I was wrong. all you care about, all you ever cared about was yourself.”

Despite Twilight beginning to shed tears, Phantom began crying as well. He was crying out of sadness because he was betrayed by Twilight, yet again.

Phantom turned to Trixie and Moondancer who were now cured of the poison but remain unconscious. He looked over at the two the back at the alicorn.

“Starlight separate them,” Phantom ordered. The light purple unicorn obeyed, encasing Twilight in her magic.

Phantom grabbed both Moondancer and Trixie by their faces and his hands soon bursted into flames.

“N-No DON’T!!!” but her pleas fell on deaf ears. Phantom incinerated both mares, leaving Twilight completely distraught.

Sadness quickly turn to anger when Twilight turn her head. Ready to fire a magical blast to the dragon. Before she was able to fire, Starlight fired a beam of magic, cutting off Twilight’s horn.

“He gave you a choice, once again you chose wrong,” Starlight snarled.

Blood pour out of the wound. With no magic, Twilight began to back away. There was only one thing she could do. She quickly turned and bolted out the room. She no longer had magic to defend herself. All she could do now she had to get away from Phantom.

The mare ran out of the ballroom, down the halls and out of the castle. She made it to the bridge, where she ran like never before. Adrenaline rushed through her veins. She had made it out of the castle. She pass by tree and bushes which blow from the force. She had to reach Ponyville. Once there she could get help.

‘Halfway there, just keep running.’ she said things in her mind.

After about forty minutes of avoiding logs, stumps, and pretty much anything that could slow her down. She could see the small town ahead. With a small burst of energy she ran as fast as her hooves could carry her. “I loved you. I done everything thing for you.”

Time seem to slow down as the voice ring like a echo throughout her head. “You said you would never throw me out.” Whatever hope Twilight had left had vanished when the same lime arua that took her horn cover her body. “You lied to me.” And just like that her dreams of escaping was pulled away when she was pull by the magical force. The magic turn her around. Her eyes gaze the the caster pulling her towards him. Twilight struggle for a few short seconds until.

A sharp pain pierced through her body mere inches away from her heart. Her body slowly slide down his arm, leaving a trail of blood. She cough up blood where some of it landed on Phantom cheek who lick it off. “Hmm tasty shame I can’t eat you. I don’t want to upset Luna or any of my NEW friends now will I?”

“S-S-S-Spike...” was all she could said before she was intruded by the touch of his glowing claw. before kicking her off. Her body drop to the floor resulting in her coughing up more blood.

“Any last words?” he asked before licking the blood off his arm.

“I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I’m sorry.” She closed her eyes, desperately praying he’ll forgive her.

“Far too late for that. You missed your chance SEVEN YEARS AGO!!!” Phantom moved his hand that was covered in his magical aura across his held put his hand, encased in a blade of magic, preparing to decapitate Twilight.

“These are the last words you’ll ever hear Twilight,” Phantom growled as his veins popped out. “I’ve always hated you. From the time you started leaving me behind to clean up all the crap you made. Always pushing shit that no one cares about in my face, and for what? Not evening a fucking thanks. It was always about you, you, YOU!!”

“Goodbye, forever, Twilight Sparkle. I hope you burn in hell, you fucking hypocrite.” With that, Phantom swung his bladed hand through Twilight’s neck, causing her head to fall off her shoulders.

Phantom look at the headless body, then the head of Twilight Sparkle. The pony that once meant the world to him, was now gone. For the first time he felt free.

Nightmare Moon and Zecora trotted behind the dragon. At this point, the body fell as a pool of blood began pouring out.

“It’s done. After seven years, and half a month, it’s finally over. She’s dead.”

“Tell me Phantom, now that Twilight Sparkle’s finally dead, how do you truly feel?” the alicorn asked, giving her student a peck on the cheek.

“As free as an eagle flying high in the sky...”

Princess Celestia was sitting on her throne looking at the stained window, depicting Twilight and her friends defeating Nightmare Moon. She knew the weapon that would save everypony in the land was now out of the question. The sun princess stopped crying hours ago, but the sadness in her heart had left a hole of despair.

With a heavy sigh, the princess dragged herself out of the throne room. “I’m going to retire. You men have the rest of the night off.” She told her guards, still saddened by Twilight sudden confrontation with Phantom. She hope that she, Moondancer and Trixie were alright, that Phantom found it in his heart to forgive them.

The princess entered her bed chambers and crawled into her bed. Exhausted from her duties and the stress of her student’s safety, the solar goddess fell asleep instantly.

Celestia found herself in a black void that seems to lead to nowhere. She lit her horn to illuminate the area, only to find it void of anything. There was grass, trees, water, air, or life.

Just then, a flash of light suddenly appeared, temporarily blinding the princess. When the light faded she was in the middle of the throne room inside the abandoned castle on the edge of Everfree Forest. The white alicorn began walking deeper into the forest, curious of what she would find.

“They failed.”

The ghostly sound rang throughout Celestia’s mind. With that, she ran. The voice grew louder and louder with each step she took. The forest grew denser, more darker, that was until she saw the light. Normally any sane pony would try their best to avoid it. But this voice, it was calling her, and with no other choice Celestia ran towards the light.

Once there, the view of the old castle came into view. The solar princess spread her wings and took off. She landed on the old throne room, then gasp in what she saw. Laying on the floor... was her student as well as the charred bodies of Trixie and Moondancer.

“They failed to kill him.”

Ignoring the voice, she turned and lifted Twilight’s body. However, the moment she did so, the purple alicorn’s head fell to the floor with a thud.

“No no no no this isn’t happening.”

“Oh it’s happening Tia. You should have seen it. I’ve never seen my beloved student so intense, so focused on killing her,” the voice of Luna giggled, making the white alicorn snarl.

“One... two... Phantom’s coming for you...” various voices began echoing throughout the room. The voices were singing in a harmonious yet creepy tone. Celestia could make out each voice.

“Three... four... better lock your doors.”

“Five... six... better hope it’s quick.”

“Seven... eight... there’s no escape.”

“Nine... ten... never breathe again.”

Chapter Fifteen

Sadness is a word which defines emotional pain that’s either associated with, or characterized by feelings of disadvantage, helplessness, or sorrow. An individual experiencing sadness may become quiet or lethargic, and withdraw themselves from others. This is precisely what both Princess Celestia and Twilight’s parents were feeling.

Not long after Twilight, Trixie, and Moondancer’s deaths, Phantom had ordered Velvet to be released, as she had served her purpose. Because of Phantom’s control of her mind, Velvet had absolutely no memory of the fight against her daughter. The only thing she knew, was that Phantom had taken away both her children.

Normally the sun would shine, a sign to start a happy day. Obviously and unfortunately, this was not one of those days. Rather, today was a day of absolute sorrow. The clouds covered the sun, blanketing the town of Ponyville. What started as drizzling, soon turned into pouring rain; a fitting setting for a sad day.

On the hill outside of town laid five stones, each carved to remember the fallen: Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Applejack, and Twilight’s cutie marks. Celestia had Fluttershy and Twilight’s body hidden away so neither Phantom nor Nightmare Moon could use them for their twisted games.

It’s been three days since the princess of friendship was announced deceased and ponies began to come to pay their respects. While most of them came from Ponyville, there were a few who came from other places. Some of the ponies who stayed throughout the service were: Mayor Mare, Caramel, Time Tuner, Bulk Biceps, Ma Hooffield and Big Daddy McColt, several member of the Apple family, and Scootaloo. But what shocked ponies the most, was that the mischievous spirit, known as Discord, was there along with Princess Celestia. Both staring down at Twilight’s tombstone in silence; neither saying a single word.

Celestia turned, showing an expression nopony, neither her sister, her son, not even Twilight, has ever seen: pure sorrow, and regret. She looked upon her subjects and did her best to address them properly.

“My fellow ponies,” she began. “I-I,” she choked, as the images of her nightmares began to haunt her once again. At quick glances, she saw both Phantom and Nightmare Moon standing at the far end of the crowd of ponies. When she rub her eyes making sure her vision wasn’t messing with her, the two were gone.

“I’m,” she began again, only this time, both the black alicorn and dragon were accompanied by their victims: Fluttershy, Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Big Macintosh, Cheerilee, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Thunderlane, Cadance, Shining Armor, Trixie, and Moondancer. All of their eyes were hollowed out, but she knew there were staring at her, waiting for her to finally tell the truth.

“I-I have lied to you all, my little ponies,” her voice begin to crack. “I lied about Phantom’s past, including the demise of his family. The truth is that I wished to learn more about dragons. So when the dragons were migrating... I ordered my elite guards to exterminate as many as they could, and bring back both their bodies and their eggs.”

Celestia paused, trying to regain her composure, “I conducted experiments on them... horrific, torturous experiments, killing off the hatchlings before even their first breath, but more so to the ones that did.”

The crowd was absolutely speechless. To hear that their beloved Princess Celestia, a pony who others look up to as a goddess, had committed such dreadful deeds, especially to those who didn’t even had a chance to live.

“When the Dragon Lord heard of what I did, he wanted revenge for his fallen brethren and sistren, thus the beginning of the dragon-pony war.”

“Both sides suffered great casualties,” Discord interrupted, giving a more refined explanation of events long past. “But given your royal mages’ knowledge of dragons, the ponies barely had an upper hand. If it was not for a certain mare befriending a baby dragon, the war would have continued until it wiped out both of your kinds.” Discord said solemnly, his eyes still glued to Twilight’s tombstone. “Among Celestia’s so called ‘experiments,’ she kept hold of only one, dead, egg. I’m sure you can put two and two together.”

“To my surprise, a very few number of unicorns were able to revive the egg and keep it in stable condition, but only one was able to hatch it.” Tears begin to roll down her face, but, thanks to the rain, she was able to hide them.

“After Twilight Sparkle hatched the egg, I decided to raise the dragon out of guilt of what I’ve done. To be honest, I’ve always wanted to know what it was like to be a mother. I quickly grew fond of him, I loved him like he truly was my son. After a while however, he started to want to help Twilight, and he left with her. I gave him to her because I sensed a bond between them, a bond that rivaled that of the Elements of Harmony.”

“The magic of friendship,” Discord spoke, interrupting the princess. “It’s hard to believe, I know. However, Phantom was always there for Twilight when she needed him. But what did he get in return? Only glares and shutters of fear, right when he needed her the most.” He clenched his eagle claw, looking as if he wanted to punch something.

“I mean, what does it tell you when she didn’t even invite him to her birthday party? What kind of friend wouldn't invite their supposedly ‘closest friend, almost family,’ I ask you. A brat that believed that he was falsely banish, but did absolutely nothing to stop it. Rather, she only agreed with them to send him away for nothing!”

He turned to the crowd, boiling tears of both rage and sadness flowing freely. “I even told all of them where he was, that includes you, ‘princess.’ But in the end... Pinkie Pie was the only one who didn’t see Phantom as a dragon, or a monster, but as a friend and asked for his forgiveness. And what did the rest of you do? Nothing.”

It was a sight nopony, not even Celestia had ever seen, tears were pouring out of the draconequus eyes. “And yes, I’m crying because it resulted in the lost of a very special friend, but do I blame her? The answer is both yes and no.”

“Discord...” Celestia began, but before she could say another word, she felt the draconequus press his paw against her muzzle.

“I wouldn’t worry about me, princess. I’d be far more concerned about yourself, since it was you who robbed him of his actual family. And without the elements, you won’t be able to stop him.” This realization hit her harder than a ton of bricks. Twilight and the others are dead. Pinkie and her own sister has joined against her.

“Princess,” Braeburn spoke. “Ah can understand why ya did what you did, but we all have a beef with Phantom for what he did. He took out his own rage on our friends and family, all to get after you.”

“Cousin Braeburn is right. Despite his reasons, Phantom must be stopped by any means,” Babs said as she rose to her hooves. “We know what he’s planning, and we can help you get ready for it.”

Celestia, whose face was still fresh with tears, wondered how they knew of Phantom’s next move. She knew that her ponies, mostly the apples, had formed a small army after the deaths of their kin.

“He’s going to attack the castle by the end of the week,” Babs said.

“Oh, and how can you be sure he’s going to attack?” Discord asked, raising an eyebrow.

The draconequus’ question caused both the stallion and the teenage filly to grin. “We have a spy.”

Within the halls of the Crystal Castle lay, like all castles, a dining hall, complete with a round, clear, diamond-like table. The the seats that once belonged to the late Princess Cadance and Prince Shining Armor, were now occupied by Phantom and Nightmare Moon. Pinkie Pie, Starlight Glimmer, Sunburst, Emerald Wind, Scarlet Blaze, Snips, Snails, Pipsqueak, Thorax and Ruby Bandit sat next to Phantom, while Flurry Heart, Midnight Blossom, Obsidian, Goldbeck, Cloud Skipper and Zecora, sat beside Nightmare Moon.

In front of them was a very large salad and an assortment of fruits for the ponies, and two steaming hot 64 oz steaks for Phantom and Obsidian. Next to the food were cups filled with wine for the grown ups, and grape soda for Snips, Snails, Pipsqueak, and Flurry Heart.

Unlike Celestia, Velvet and Night Light, the Nightmare Family were all having the time of their lives. In fact, this was the happiest anypony has ever seen Phantom. After all, killing Twilight finally broke the chain that bound him for all these years.

Nightmare Moon couldn’t have been prouder of her student. To see him free of his tormentors. However, she knew that deep within his heart, no matter how much time goes by, there will always be that light reminding him of the bondage of Twilight and her friends.

Nightmare tapped the glass, causing all eyes to turn to her. “I’d like to propose a toast, to the fall of Twilight Sparkle. For years, she had treated a baby dragon like her own personal slave. She has also lied to and betrayed him. But now... because of my teachings, my student was finally able to kill Celestia’s prized student. Let us rejoice and feast, like queens and kings. To Phantom.”

“Here here!” the rest chanted, taking slips from their respective drinks and ate their respective meals.

“Captain, Cloud Skipper,” Midnight began. “What about that thing we talked about three days ago?” the bat pony asked with a wink. Both Phantom and Cloud Skipper’s cheeks turned a dark shade of pink, as they remembered what she was suggesting,

“Why don’t we find some place a little more private?” She then pointed to the queen, who returned her lustful smirk.

“Alright, but my dear Phantom... do not hold back,” the black alicorn whispered seductively. Phantom only nodded and stood, along with Midnight, Nightmare and Cloud Skipper, who all walked out together. When the door closed, Phantom’s tail started to wag, as if he were a happy dog.

Phantom along with Nightmare Moon, Midnight and Cloud Skipper, walked down the hallways of the castle. They passed stained glass windows that depicted some of the great moments of their siege: the crushing of Fluttershy’s legs and the dismemberment of her wings, the demolition of the Apple family house, the literal ripping of Rarity’s heart next to her sister in a pool of her own blood, and finally, the decapitation of Twilight Sparkle.

Unbeknownst to the four, they were being followed by hoofsteps as silent as the night. The figure’s wings were folded back as he hid in the shadows. He was close, and he yearned for vengeance. His actual orders were simply to infiltrate and observe the Nightmare Family’s movements, and report back. However the pony decided to disobey his orders, as Phantom’s guard was down. It was the perfect chance to kill the dragon of nightmares.

Before Phantom could say anything, the pony leaped from the shadows with a dagger in his muzzle. He charged at the dragon, disregarding the others, and thrusted his knife. Unfortunately, the dagger missed its target by a few inches, bouncing off the purple scales of his shoulder.

“Damnit...” that was all the pony had time to say before his face met Phantom’s foot. The impact sent the would be assassin flying to a nearby pillar. Doing so caused the dagger to fly out of the stranger’s mouth and skid across the polished crystal floor, before stopping at Phantom’s feet. Nightmare Moon, like a worried mother, quickly trotted over to check on Phantom.

When the pony got up, he was quickly pinned by Midnight and Cloud, their hooves pressed firmly against his head.

“Two questions you little bastard, who are you, and why did you think it was a good idea to attack the captain?” Midnight asked with venom.

The pony glared at Phantom, whose eyes showed he was wondering the same thing. “You don’t remember me, huh?” he huffed, beginning to struggle, only for Midnight to press harder.

“I guess it’s to be expected since you’re a psychopathic monster and all. I’m Rumble, Thunderlane’s younger brother!” the young, light gray stallion said in a hateful tone. “And I’m here for revenge since you murdered him as well as Fluttershy!” This of course, made Phantom, Nightmare Moon, Midnight and Cloud all laugh hysterically.

“M-Midnight C-Cloud S-S-Skipper, y-y-you can g-get off of him now,” ordered Phantom while laughing. The two immediately complied released Rumble, whose cheeks were red. “Revenge? That’s a good one,” the dragon said, picking up the dagger.

Calming down, Phantom’s tone became serious. “However, me a monster? You got that crap mixed up. You see, before I became Phantom, I was just a peaceful baby dragon. That was until during my first birthday in Ponyville, when I accidentally entered my greed growth and nearly destroyed the entire town.”

Nightmare sympathetically placed her hoof on Phantom’s shoulder. “After that misfortune, nopony wanted to speak with Phantom or even look his direction. Remember how your brother always ignored you in favor of Fluttershy? Imagine suffering the same loneliness from every single pony you’ve ever known, just for having done something you had no control over. That was how Phantom here felt for years on end, living with ponies like your brother. Yet, you have the nerve to intrude our castle, and insult and try to assassinate him.” Nightmare spoke with Phantom twirling the dagger in his claw.

An idea then popped into the queen’s head and she smiled at her student, who returned the expression. “However, I understand where you’re coming from. I, too would want the head of anyone who dares harm my sister. So here’s your chance.” On que, Phantom tossed the dagger into Rumble’s mouth. “You shall have three tries to kill this, so-called, ‘monster.’ I’ll even give you a handicap.” She turned her attention to Phantom. “Phantom, you are forbidden from using your magic, even your protection spell.”

“I understand, my queen,” Phantom obeyed, setting his arms to his sides. “I wasn’t going to waste a spell on this trash anyway.”

Nightmare’s cheeks turned red from hearing Phantom call her ‘my queen’ again, nevertheless, she was grateful of her student’s cooperation. “Good. Now...” as soon as she said that, Rumble lunged at the dragon with the dagger clenched tightly in his mouth. He was aiming for his eyes, hoping to blind him, this, of course, backfired when he simply moved to the side, causing the dagger to slip from Rumble’s mouth and jab itself into his own leg. Rumble willowed in pain, but he managed to stop himself from bleeding soon after.

“One,” Nightmare counted growing amused. Blushing in embarrassment the teen pull out the dagger, ignoring the pain and the blood pouring out, splattering onto the floor. He snapped his head back and flung it forwards, the dagger flew, but Phantom caught it by its handle.

“That’s two,” Phantom chuckled while tossing the dagger behind him. “Well,” he spread out his arms and wings. “Come on... hit me already,” he said.

Rumble spread his wings and with one powerful flap, he took to the air, only to stop mere inches from the ceiling. Rumble begin to fly in a circle, gaining speed with each rotation. Phantom was in a daze, the teenage stallion dashed down at break neck speed, soon colliding his hoof with the chest of the monster that killed his brother. Only it backfired when Phantom grabbed it, the force of his blow only managing to push him back a few feet.

“Are you done?” he asked before letting out a sigh. “Alright, quick question: do you have a mare and or stallion you like?”

“What’s it to you?” the teen asked, leaking pure hatred as he stared into the dragon’s calm, but rather disappointed eyes.

“Because I need to know who to send the flowers to, of course.”

“I believe our spies told us that he and Scootaloo were a thing,” Midnight stated aloud, causing Phantom to smirk.

“That gives me an even better idea. Anyway, that last attack makes three,” Phantom announced as he cocked his arm back. His smirk turned into a serious frown, and his eyes began to glow sending shivers down Rumble’s spine.

“Now it’s my turn, only I get to kill you in three hits.” When he said that, the arm came forward, hitting the colt square in the muzzle, causing the light gray pegasus to fly back, blood streaming out of said muzzle. “One,” Phantom began to count.

Watching the young stallion recover from the first strike, Phantom flapped his wings, closing the gap between him and Rumble while holding with his fists in the air. “Two,” he said before bringing his fists down with a force that on Rumble’s back, causing the stallion to crash to the hard floor.

Midnight couldn’t help licking her lips in enjoyment as she watched Rumble fall to the floor. After all, she was the one who trained her captain in physical combat. What’s more is that Phantom was simply toying with Rumble in order to prolong his misery. This after all was punishment for his arrogant attempt to assassinate him.

“And three.” Taking a deep breath, Phantom released a jet of his flame, scorching the pony below him. Sadly, Rumble didn’t roll in pain, mostly due to the concussion Phantom delivered mere seconds ago. Phantom watched as the flames to dance away, burning and tearing Rumble’s flesh, and drying the blood as it came forth. If didn’t stop there, the flames would’ve completely destroyed him, leaving nothing but ash to drift in the wind. However for some reason, Phantom snapped his fingers, extinguishing the flames.

“Now, before you go, I have a little message to tell you.” Phantom said as he came up to the barely conscious stallion, only to whisper into his ear, “I’ll be sure to find you again on Friday. If you do manage to live that long, which is very unlikely, I’ll do the same thing to you that I did with Fluttershy, only this time, I’ll be sure to do it in front of your lover.” The stallion quickly turned to ashes and soared from the hall, into the open air, moving swifter than the wind.

Scootaloo, Babs Seed, and Braeburn were all standing around a small round table inside the royal war room, alongside four other royal guards, who were given command of the royal army though Celestia’s royal decree. The seven were discussing the positions and posts for the upcoming invasion, dutifully and strategically placing lines and orders.

They immediately stopped talking as they saw a cloud of green mist appeared before them, spiraling and growing bigger, and bigger, until a pony magical appeared from the mist. His coat was burned clean off, along with his feathers, he was barely breathing. He looked into Scootaloo’s eyes, filled with sadness and disappointment. “A-A-Am sorry,” was all he could mutter before falling into unconsciousness.

Scootaloo quickly wrapped her hooves around him. She lost her two best friends and her older sister to this monster, she wouldn’t be able to live with herself any longer if she were to lose her lover.

“Somepony get a doctor, immediately!” one of the royal guards yelled.

“Don’t die... don’t die... don’t die...” cried the teen with her forehooves wrapped tightly around the colt. When the medical team came, they place the nearly dead pegasus into a stretcher, carrying him to a nearby hospital, with Scootaloo, Babs, and Braeburn following behind them.

At the hospital, the door to the operating room was closed, the light above it was glowing red, and Scootaloo was pacing in front of it, fearing the worst. Almost four hours later, the doctor came out, only to be face-to-face with the orange pegasus.

“How is he?” she asked excitedly.

“He’s in a stable condition right now, he sustained a concussion, a fractured cranium, a shattered maxilla, and third degree burns all over his body. Whatever he was doing, and whatever he planned on doing, will have to wait.

“Oh thank Celestia,” Scootaloo, along with the two earth ponies, sighed in relief.

“Can we see the feller?” asked the country pony.

“Of course,” he said, opening the door. Rumble was in a hospital bed, his body was wrapped in bandages, he couldn’t move or speak, only hear, see, and smell.

“Rumble!” Scootaloo screamed as she ran towards the teen, wrapping her hooves around the colt’s neck, to which he winced in pain. “You idiot! We told you not to engage Phantom, no matter how defenseless you think he is.” From the sound of her voice, Rumble could hear her cry. Sadly, he could only mumble.

He mumbled loudly, wanting to get the nurse’s attention, which he did. The stallion did some signs, gesturing for something to communicate with. The nurse blinked, but walked out of the room and, after about five minutes or so, the mare returned with a hoof-strap-pen that’s used for patients that can’t use their mouths. She strapped the device around the colt’s hoof, and immediately, he wrote, ‘Phantom and his army will attack friday night, three hours after Celestia lowers the sun. But that’s not all. He knows we’re a couple.’

Both Braeburn and Scootaloo gasped after reading his massage. “We’ve got to hide him! Ah’ll reckon Phantom’ll be looking for him,” the cowpony stallion said, rubbing the back of his neck.

“But the last time we tried that, they found where we hid Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo, right before he... he...”

“I know.” As the orange pegasus lowered her head, in remembrance of Rainbow Dash, Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle, Rumble began to write once more.

‘Scoots, you know I love you, but we need to think of something before Friday night. From what I know, the Nightmare Guard, if they do fail, have a backup plan: if Phantom were to die, the Crystal Empire won’t be the only ones after our heads.’

“What do you mean?” asked a confused Babs.

“Phantom is the sole survivor of Celestia’s so-called experiments, right? And as we know, the dragons are on a ‘kill on sight,’ basis with any pony they see, with signs saying such all over the badlands, and the dragon’s empire.” explained Scootaloo.

“And if we’re able to kill Phantom, there’s no doubt that his death will trigger another pony-dragon war.”

‘It’s much worse. Nightmare Moon has very strong feelings for Phantom. And if he dies, it may cause the end of us all, because Nightmare Moon may decide to destroy her moon, and the world with it.’

“And you tried to kill him?!” screamed the city pony. “What’s wrong with you?!”

‘He killed my brother, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Ms. Cheerilee...’

“I know, but...”

“Nonetheless, we need to find someplace to hide Rumble.”

“How about the catacombs beneath Canterlot?” Babs suggested.

“That sounds good, but while we’re all here, I want make a proposal to you: why don’t we attack them before they have the chance to attack us? They’re still getting things prepared for the invasion, and 95% of their guards are nocturnal, so we can surprise them during the day while they’re basically defenseless,” Scootaloo suggested.

“That sounds like a plan to me!” shouted Braeburn, clapping his hooves.

“Alright, me and cousin Braeburn will get the army ready. As for you two... just stay together,” Babs instructed as she left the room with the cowpony.

“Do you really think we’ll be able to kill both Nightmare Moon and Phantom?” Scootaloo asked, to which Rumble replied with a nod.

The Crystal Fields; a grassy plain where the winds blew the countless blades of grass before the empire of crystal. The skies were clear, the air was pure, it was a day that a pony could frolic in and fall to the ground to relax. This would be a perfect setting for any planned activities, though, sadly, this wasn’t one of those days, for today was a day of an invasion.

Thanks to the tip, the civilians were peacefully asleep or enjoying the day off in their homes, despite it being such a glorious day, unaware of the ponies coming over the horizon, three hundred ponies: one hundred unicorns, one hundred pegasi, and one hundred earth ponies, clad in Celestia’s golden armor, silently marching through the fields with Braeburn leading them.

Normally, there’d be guards watching the outer city, but for some reason, there were none; no sight of even one Nightmare Guard. It was strange considering there would at least be a few roaming around the area. “Alright men, spit up and surround the empire, you know the plan: Sneak in, secure the base, and eliminate any Nightmare Guard you see, along with Nightmare Moon and Phantom.” The ponies saluted and scattered like flower petals in the wind. A hundred ponies at all each corner of the field, surround the empire.

Slowly, they began to move, only to find that the streets were suspiciously empty, and as they drew closer to the city, not a single soul could be seen or heard. There were no carts, no barrels, nothing. The only things that could be seen between the houses were the poles at each corner of the empire, each with speakers attached on top of them.

Before they could walk even a single step onto the crystallized streets, the Crystal Heart activated, forming a shield around the empire, making entry impossible. When that happened, a lime green light sprang up, making an impenetrable wall. The pegasi spread their wing and flew up, only to be shot down by the same lime green light.

“What the?” Braeburn said as the speakers came on.

‘Twinkle twinkle little star,’ the singing voice of a small filly began to emanate from the speakers. ‘How I wonder what you are.’ Everypony looked confused as to why the song was playing. ‘Up above the world so high, like a diamond in the sky. When the blazing sun is gone, when he nothing shines upon, then you show your little light, Twinkle, twinkle, all the night. Then the traveler in the dark, thanks you for your little spark, he could not see which way he go, if you did not twinkle so.’ The song looped over and over again, each time getting creepier and creepier.

‘When the blazing sun is gone.’ At that moment, something unexpected happened. The moon, which should have been on the other side of the world, moved towards the sun, blocking the light’s rays. ‘When he nothing shines upon.’ With the sun blocked, there was nothing but pure darkness, but at the outer edge which that two disappear. ‘Then you show your little light’. a small light appeared in the sky, which soon turned to thousands of little lights.

The voice soon changed. ‘And you fall upon this world, hitting those with all your might.’ The beautiful singing voice echoing throughout the speakers, belonged to none other than Queen Nightmare Moon. As she continued singing, the stars began getting closer and closer, increasing their speed as they approached Braeburn’s army. One of them slammed into one of the soldier’s helmets with such speed and force that one would think it would have punched through it, but thanks to unicorn magic, it didn’t. Though it did knock the wearer out.

The stars continued to rain down upon the grassy field, most were, if not all, lucky to avoid them as they fell, though a few were not as fortunate. One of them managed to hit a few pegasi wings, blowing them away from their bodies, who fell to the ground, only to be caught by their teammates while some got hit, but managed to keep moving on their own. The unicorns put up a shield around their units, to protect them.

This is what Phantom wanted: for all the unicorns to put up their shield spells, trying to protect each other, along with their commander while the meteor shower kept the pegasi at bay, if they decided to try and fly. A bright blue light appeared on the ground beneath their hooves, and slithered up each and every unicorn’s leg. The light wrapped around them, covering their horn before disappearing, unnoticed by them until they tried to use their magic again, only to find that it didn’t work. The song changed again.

‘Ring around the rosie, a pocketful of posies.’ With Flurry Heart’s childlike voice and the ambiance playing in the background, it was becoming much creeper. ‘Ashes, ashes, we all fall down.’

Braeburn’s ears perked up after hearing the word ashes. Then it dawned on him, Phantom was going to set this field on fire, with them in it! “EVERYPONY RETREAT!!” he yelled at the top of his lungs, now figuring out the trap. Unfortunately, with the green walls of light, escape was impossible.

‘Ring around the rosie. What do you suppose you can do to fight the darkness in which we drown.’ The ponies scrambled, each of them hitting and banging against the wall of light. The area was beginning to warm up.

‘Ring the round the rosie.’ The next part of the music started to get louder, alongside with the heat. ‘This evil thing, it knows you. Lost ones, around you.’ After that, the music not only played louder, but it also distorted itself, adding to the distressing situation. All the ponies were panicking. They began to sweat; the heat rising higher with each passing second.

‘You all burn down.’ With that, the field suddenly burst into flames. The screams and cries of the ponies burning was heard far over the mountains. Their coats, tails, feathers, and manes slowly singed away, along with their flesh. Each pony did whatever they could to to stop the flames: some stopped, dropped, and rolled, others used what remaining feathers they had to blow away the flames, but their effects were fruitless.

Amongst the chaos, Phantom, wearing an elegant black robe with the Nightmare Guard’s symbol, walked over to barrier, only to stop at the foot of it, watching the burning ponies on the other side, screaming in pain and agony. The sound was music to his ears: the screams of the torment and torture of ponies. Despite being naked, and the metal armor now glued to the skin, Braeburn charged up and hit the barrier, which did nothing other than amuse Phantom.

“So, I’m guessing you didn’t get the hint when there was nopony in my empire, huh? Of course not. Those dumbass inbreed minds of yours were too fixated on killing me and Nightmare.” Phantom tapped the barrier. “It’s such a shame too. I really enjoyed this field, it was so beautiful. Fortunately, it will grow back in time, with help from the ashes of all the ponies you brought.”

The dragon let out a small yawn. “Oh, and by the way, I know you brought one more, with you. The only reason I let him live is because I want him to tell Celestia, herself, that her army couldn’t enter my empire, or even touch a single member of my precious family.”

Phantom turned and walked away. “Make sure to pay attention to your precious cousin Apple-Jerk, as well as the rest of your relatives as they lecture you in the next world. Goodbye, Gayburn.” Having said that, Phantom spread his wings and flew off to the castle, leaving the cowpony and the his soldier army to their graves.

Celestia was on the balcony of her castle, struggling to lower the moon. She took notice of the stars that were falling in the distance, but with her sister putting up a fight, she couldn’t do very much to stop them, or do much of anything to aid the ponies trying to retake the Crystal Empire. But then, it suddenly stopped.

Sweat dropped from Celestia’s forehead as her horn shined stronger, but the moon still wouldn’t budge. The ponies below her, look up in confusion; some knew that a solar eclipse was scheduled to happen a couple of months from now, but none thought it would happen this early. Something was up, and it worried the ponies. Could one of the cities be under attack? Are we at war?

During the confusion, a lone pegasus could been seen off the distance, and from the looks of it, he was in a hurry. Believing she had won the fight, Celestia focused on lowering the moon, brightening up the skies once more. It didn’t take long for the pegasus to land in front of the princess, exhausted from his ordeal.

“P-P-Princess...” he said, coughing. “O-O-Our soldiers... i-i-it was a trap...” the stallion said, trying to stand. “H-He knew we were coming...”

“How is this possible? Are the ponies okay?” the princess asked worriedly.

“T-They’re all dead... Phantom t-trapped them in the fields, and s-s-set them on fire...”

“Rest, my little pony,” she said, teleporting him to her room. The white alicorn then walked into the hallway. “I should’ve done this when he returned,” she said softly, walking passed her assistant, Inkwell.

“Inkwell... get me Scootaloo and Babs Seed, I’ll be in the armory.” The white coated, black maned pony nodded and left, and after about five minutes, Inkwell did as she was told, walking into the armory with both teens in toll. “Ink Well, this will be my final order. I want you to take whatever personal items you have, and leave the city. Do not return here after Sunday.”

“May I ask why, princess?” the mare asked with the two teens looking on in confusion.

“Phantom will be here tomorrow night, and he’ll be looking for blood.” Celestia said as Inkwell bowed and left, leaving the three alone.

“Tomorrow... what do you mean tomorrow? I thought he said Friday?” Both teens looked shocked from the news. “What happen to the ponies we sent to retake the empire?”

“Phantom... won’t honor his word. This is a tactic I’m familiar with. He knew that my army was too numerous for a full on frontal assault, so he stage a trap. A trap I should’ve seen coming.” As she explained, the door opened, revealing an array of spears, arrows, and metal armor. Walking in, the two were shocked to hear that the three hundred stallions, including Braeburn, had died in Phantom’s trap, almost causing Babs to cry.

“N-No... It can’t be.” Babs began to quiver... was there any way to stop something you know nothing about?

“Fear not, my little ponies, for I’m going to give you, and the remaining militia, a very special supply of armor and weapons. Ones that can do harm to even the most powerful dragons.”

The three stopped at a pure white and gold vault, to which the princess used her magic, undoing the spells protecting its contents. What the saw inside was quite similar to the outside, only they were made from dragon scales and bone. “We discovered that dragons are weak against each other, bones, scales, even their blood. We forged the armors out of them, and they were pretty resistant to the elements, back in the war. ”

“Woah... why don’t you show us this before now?” questioned the orange pegasus.

“Simple; there’s only enough armor here for a small army of a hundred, and that I hoped they could’ve taken out Phantom and Nightmare while they slept, but I was wrong.”

“So, with this, we can take out the Nightmare Family?”

“Probably. This armor is stronger than normal armor, but magical objects can still cut through it. I want you and ninety-eight guards to wear this armor, and be prepared. For tomorrow night... all of our lives will be on the line.”

Phantom said that he and his army would arrive three hours after sunset. It was sunset now, and Celestia had her army ready, because she knew Phantom, she knew he will come the moment the sun was gone. Ponies, including Fancy Pants, have already evacuated the city, it was better for her to not have her ponies becoming part of the collateral damage.

Buildings were abandoned, paper and other items littered the streets, unicorns lining the walls, armed with spears and armor of all different colored scales, earth ponies on the rooftops, ready with arrows ready to fire, and pegasi lined up, ready to do battle in the sky. The sun lowered to the horizon, with only a minute left before the battle.

As Phantom’s spies had reported, The Wonderbolts are fighting alongside Celestia with Spitfire and Soarin along with Vapor Trail and Sky Stinger bearing personal hatred towards the dragon. Not once since the death Rainbow Dash, and Princess Twilight Sparkle have they forgotten their grudge against Phantom.

The two stood high in the clouds above the city with the rest of the five hundred wonderbolts waiting for the time to strike.

“So, you think we can take him?” asked one stallion, looking up at the sky.

“Well, the commander gave half of us this dragon armor. So, yea... we can take them,” replied another guard.

As the sun moved over to the horizon, the sounds of flapping could be heard. Thirty of Nightmare Guards and twenty have arrived, with Phantom leading the pack. “Wait, only Phantom... and the flyers... what.” One stallion said before having several spear jetting out of his shadow and impale him in sarvel angles with a couple going through some major organs, thus killing the armor stallion.

“BE CAREFUL OF THE SHADOWS!!” yelled Babs, but it was too late. Several soldiers creep up from the shadows, under which the ground forces stood, and lunge there spears, pricing their sides and necks.

The first blood had been spilled.

Phantom along with several of his flyer which included Thorax, Midnight, Goldbeck, Obsidian and several other members took off to the skies. While Nightmare along with Starlight, Pinkie, and the others approached Canterlot though a magical portal thanks to Sunburst, Starlight, and Nightmare.

“LET’S SHOW THEM THE POWER OF OUR FAMILY!!” Midnight shouted as their soldiers soared in front of her captain with others following.

The fight has begun.

In range, the Wonderbolts leaped down to intercept the Nightmare Family’s ariel team. Soon Spitfire was clashing with Midnight, while Sorian fought Goldbeck.

On the ground, four Crystal Guard were shot down, however the Royal Guard responsible was quickly punched down by Ruby Bandit who encased her hooves in a magical aura. Bandit then morphed the aura to take the appearance of tiger heads and rushed forward.

Snips was wielding a giant pair of scissors conjured from his magic. Though not as good as close combat as Midnight’s team, the green unicorn could still hold his own.

While Emerald fought alongside Scarlet Blaze, Fleur dis Lee made sure to stay close to Obsidian.

During the fight, one of the guard stab the black dragon in the shoulder with a dagger which cause him to scream in pain. Taking the dagger out the stallion holding it was ready to jam it into the dragon’s head but was blasted with a beam of blue and pink magic. Starlight and Fleur rushed over to Obsidian, only to be stopped but a few more guards. Their spears headed toward their necks.

In a quick act, Starlight created a barrier, only for them to pierce through the force field. Both unicorns were able to avoid the fatal blow, since the barrier luckily slowed the speed of the spears.

In retaliation, Starlight casted a spell, causing sharp crystals to rise from underneath the soldiers. They coughed out blood as the crystals pierced straight through their stomachs.

“Obsidian, are you okay dear?” Fleur asked, inspecting the black dragon’s injury.

“I’m fine,” Obsidian assured with a smile before a look of seriousness returned. “Be careful, there’s something odd about these weapons.”

The aerial unit, with Phantom at its head, flew right into the pegasi, colliding with them. Phantom grabbed one of the pegasus’ wings and ripped it off before giving another a hard punch to the ground. With Phantom punching and kicking, he failed to notice the arrow that was heading towards him. Fortunately, it missed his heart, but it did reach his shoulder.

The Nightmare captain grunted as the arrow pierced through his dark purple arming and though his armor-like scales. Phantom pulled the arrow out to take a look at it. The moment he looked at the bloody tip which was cover in pink scales after cleaning his blood off it. It wasn’t an lizard scales, but dragon scales. One of the few items that could cut through dragon scales.

Then it suddenly dawned on him.

Phantom folded his wings, only to open them, letting a roar that shook the entire mountain. As the dragon roared in rage, he began gathering magical energy around his mouth.

Phantom unleashed a beam of green light towards the ground, moving it up toward the castle tower and leaving a line of fire in its wake, with a few pony who was in the path, both sides being reduced to ashes before the dragon’s wrath.

‘Phantom, calm down,’ the voice of his mentor echoed through Phantom’s mind. ‘I understand you’re furious for them using your family’s bodies against you, but you need to save it for Celestia.’

“Where is she?” he asked darkly as the ponies in the sky dove straight towards him. Sadly, that didn’t work as the soldiers were all shot down by Starlight and Sunburst.

‘Try the throne room,’ Nightmare instructed.

“Anyone using a dragon weapon or any dragon scale armor...” he paused as his veins popped out.“IS GOING TO HAVE THEIR FUCKING HEADS SKEWERED ON A PIKE!”

“Okie dokie Lokie!” Pinkie said, firing her party cannon towards one of the ground forces. After hearing and conforming that the ponies were using dragon armor and weaponry, the dragons went on a rampage. Buildings were set on fire, along with a few armored ponies, forcing some of the Nightmare Guard to retreat.

As for the Wonderbolts, Spitfire crashed to the ground having taken quite a beating from Midnight.

Soarin tried to interfere, but was held back by Goldbeck. “Get out of my way old timer, or else-” he was cut off as the elderly griffon’s powerful fist made contact with his jaw, causing the stallion to fly back, but soon recover.

“We won’t let you get in the young master’s way!” Goldbeck yelled as he continued beating the grey pegasus.

Seeing that his army had things under control especially with the dragons going on a rampage, Phantom flapped his wing, and flew towards the castle with Nightmare Moon following behind.

‘It’s time to settle this you fucking fatso!’

Celestia’s violet eyes were glued to the giant double doors as she waited for her enemies to show up. She was clad in light violet scaled armor with a dark purple helmet that had streaks on the sides. There were no guards at her side, but there were some standing outside her door. She smirked, hearing Phantom’s roars of anger. Despite his age, he was still hot-tempered, and even if he’s as powerful as Twilight was before becoming a princess, he still won’t be able to defeat her.

Phantom, at this point, was in full rage mode. Seeing the scales of his fallen kin use as battle gear was dishonorable. With each guard he passed, he either teared off there heads with his wind magic, or teared them to shreds with his raw strength, each one making his anger grow stronger.

‘Damn, I should’ve anticipated this,’ Nightmare mentally scolded herself. She knew that even if she tried to calm Phantom down, it most likely wouldn’t work, due to the state he’s in. ‘If this keeps going, Phantom might end up killing us all..’

After about five minutes of bloodshed and destruction, Phantom was in front of the royal doors, and wasting no time, he kicked them so hard that they broke off and fell over. Phantom looked in front of him and glared at the alicorn responsible for so much misery to his kind.

Two individuals, both of who embrace the darkness, their battle begins here.

“About time you showed up, my little fire starter.” Celestia stood from her throne and walked down the regal carpeted stairs. The only thing she heard was the growls of a pissed off dragon. “And Luna,” the princess stopped with a smirk. “What’s the matter... my son? No witty retorts?”

“Infuriating a rampaging dragon even further isn’t wise, sister,” Nightmare stated as she came from Phantom’s shadow.

“Oh, why not? Oh, don’t you like what mommy is wearing? I guess you could say it was a... ‘gift,’ from your parents, Spikey.”

Phantom stopped growling, as his eyes widened along with his mentor’s. Naturally, they were both were horrified to see what became of the teen dragon’s mother and father.

Enjoying their shock, Celestia flashed a sadistic smile. “Oh Spike, you should’ve seen their faces, especially your mother when they took you away along with the rest of your siblings.”

Phantom had enough, and, with his speed, dashed towards the princess, wrapping his claw around her neck before tossing her towards one of the pillars. Celestia shifted her body and landed hoof-first on the pillar, though she wasn’t expecting a beam of raw magic to head straight towards her.

Her horn glowed, then she disappeared in a flash of light, avoiding the deadly beam that blasted through both the marble pillar and stained glass behind it. The moment she reappeared, the white alicorn fired a golden ray towards the dragon, only to be block by Nightmare’s midnight blue shield. When the shield faded, Phantom, out of anger, rushed towards the white alicorn.

“Phantom, calm down!” Nightmare yelled, but with Phantom’s state of rage, it was impossible. This is what Celestia wanted: for him to be angry, and with his anger, he’ll be sure to make mistakes.

Phantom let out a ray of pure magic towards Celestia, which she expelled one in return, causing a small explosion. Quickly, Nightmare used her magic to pull Phantom into the shadows before he got himself killed. Once there, she sent her hoof across the dragon’s face several times.

‘Phantom, you have to calm down! This is what Celestia wants! For you to get mad! You’re falling into her trap!’

Phantom was at a loss for words. He was indeed furious, but Nightmare was right.

‘Yes, I know what she did, and I know how egregious it is, but in order to avenge them, you must think calmly. Otherwise, you will give her opportunities neither of us want her to have.’

“Oh Spiiikeeey... Luuuluuu... where aaare youuu? Don’t tell me you’ve retreated after you’ve come so far. I’m right here!” Her voice sounded playful and mocking as she trotted around the room. “Oh, please don’t tell me you don’t want to play, anymore.”

“Celly,” a soft voice echoed into the alicorn’s head. “Celly,” the voice repeated, it sounded so... familiar. It was almost like Fluttershy’s soft and gentle voice, possibly even more so.

“My sweet daystar.” Those words instantly hit the white alicorn like a ton a bricks.

“M-Mother?” she asked, turning around to see two unicorns standing before the entrance. One with a coat of pure white and violet mane, while the other was a blackish shade of blue with a crimson mane. “Father?” the alicorn asked, her eyes widened. How many millennia have passed since she last saw her parents?

“W-W-What are you doing here?”

“Well, Tia. We’ve been watching both you and your sister for quite some time, now.”

“More like, ever since the two of you turned to alicorns and outlived us,” the stallion said, correcting his wife.

“We were so proud of the both of both of you, sweetie,” the white unicorn said, walking up to the smiling princess. But what Celestia missed was the key word ‘were’. Her smile turned to shock when she felt a hoof smack her across her face.

“How could you?” The sweet tone of the mare soon changed. “We raise you better than this, Celly.”

“W-What?”

“Don’t ‘what’ your mother, young filly... you know what you did.”

“You’ve killed innocent dragons, Tia... why? They did nothing to you, or your country.”

“B-but...” she began but she was cut off before she could even think of an excuse.

“We’re very disappointed in you, Tia.” the two said before fading away, leaving her all alone.

“Where were you, princess?” another voice echoed throughout the room. “Where were you when Spike attacked us?” more voices cried out. “Why didn't you come and save us?”

“We believed in you. I believed in you,” an all too familiar echoed through her head. Celestia turned and saw the head of her beloved student sitting there. Her dead, purple eyes staring down at her. “Why?” was all she said before flashing a white light, blinding her.

“Mommy... mommy, where are you?”

“No... not that. Please, anything but that...” she begged with terror in her voice. What she saw next, was a frail and shivering baby dragon, walking around with a teddy bear in one claw, and a blanket in the other.

“Mommy, I’m scared. It’s really scary, mommy. Please make the bad things go away,” the young dragon pleaded helplessly. The dragon stopped and hugged the teddy tightly. “Mommy?” he said in a whisper.

“Spikey, it’s okay! Mommy’s here!” the princess cried out, only to have it fall on deaf ears. She ran towards the infant, but he moved away, slowly fading into the darkness.

“Mommy! Where are you!” The dragon began to cry as Celestia wrapped her arms around something. She didn’t know what, but she held on, hoping it was her baby boy.

“Just like I told Twilight, the Spike you know is dead. He died seven years ago... after you banished him,” Celestia heard a voice speak before she felt her horn being grabbed.

“You killed your own son for what? A crime you KNOW he didn’t commit?” A moment of silence passed, but it was broken when the alicorn heard a loud snap. Soon, the pain rushed into her head, blood pouring out... from her now missing horn.

Celestia then felt something hitting her face with enough force to shatter bone. The princess flew into the air and skidded across the floor. Her vision was blurry, but she could see two scaly, purple feet walking towards her. She then felt the figure grab her wings, and what happened next was something she wished she never felt. The ripping of her wings.

Phantom tore the flesh and bone off the now powerless princess’ back. Blood spattered across his face, as a pool of crimson soon formed below them.

Nightmare watched everything from behind her student and licked her lips. ‘That’s it Phantom. That’s what I wanted to see...’ she thought.

Phantom leaned down and smacked Celestia hard across the face. “The day of my banishment was the worst day of my life. You knew very well I didn’t murder anyone. I begged you not to send me away. And what did you say to me?!”

I have no obligation to help you, nor do I see any reason to raise you either. You are a danger to Equestria!

Phantom clenched his fists so hard, blood began to pour from where his claws dug in. “Deep down inside, I knew you weren’t my real mother, but I treated you as my biological parent and never questioned my origins. Hearing those words come out of your mouth completely destroyed me!”

‘I-I can’t believe it! How could I of all ponies lose to this brat?!’ Celestia thought. However she was unaware that Nightmare Moon was using telepathy to read her mind. The black alicorn caught her sister’s attention as she began to giggle.

“For these last seven years, Phantom has received incredible training both physically and mentally. His skills at observation even surpass yours, sister. While you were insulting him, you didn’t notice as Phantom casted an illusion on you, causing you to see our parents as well as his younger self. Overcome by sadness, Phantom took the chance to cut off your horn.”

Celestia couldn’t believe how foolish she was.

“Because of the defensive of that dragon armor, you underestimated and overlooked Phantom’s other abilities, thereby allowing yourself to fall under the spell. Your arrogance is what led to your defeat.”

Celestia glared at Phantom and Nightmare, who returned with mocking smirks. Without her horn, even she was defenseless and she didn’t intend to find out what they were going to do with her.

Turning around, Celestia ran out. Phantom had a nasty smile as he watched her exit. He intentionally gave her a head start to make her believe she had some hope of escaping. With the great loss of blood, the white alicorn wasn’t going to get far.

In the hallways, Celestia left a trail of blood as she limped out. As Phantom predicted, the loss of blood quickly caused her to slow down. And without her magic, she could no longer teleport.

Phantom was walking behind her, taking his sweet time. His eyes glowed as he the distance between him and the alicorn responsible for massacring his family continued to decrease.

Celestia finally collapsed, exhausted. She tried to stand back up, but Phantom placed his foot firmly on her back, holding her in place. A few seconds later, Celestia finally stopped struggling.

“After everything you’ve done, death is far too good for you, ‘mother,’” he spat at the word while pressing his foot harder. Celestia groaned as she could feel Phantom’s toe claws dig into her.

“I assure you, your torment is only just beginning, but first I think your army deserves to see the state of their defeated princess.” With that, Phantom roughly grabbed Celestia by the mane and began to drag her out of the castle. Celestia didn’t even try to fight back, having accepted the fact that it was all over.

Outside, despite the dragon weapons being used against them, the Nightmare Guard was winning the war, only suffering a few castries. Midnight had a broken wing, Thorax had some broken hooves, and several of the Nightmare Guard including a couple of dragons who died during the fight.

Even though they were obviously fighting a losing battle, the Royal Guard refused to back down. They believed as long as their princess could fight, they had a chance of claiming victory. However as the castle doors opened, everypony was in for quite a surprise.

There stood Phantom and Nightmare Moon, but what really caught everypony’s attention was the condition of their princess as Phantom held her by her mane. Celestia didn’t dare look up at the reactions of her fellow soldiers, too ashamed of what they thought of her defeat.

Seeing that the princess of the sun was both incapable of flying or using magic, the Royal Guards dropped their weapons, having accepted that defeat is inevitable. Phantom noticed that some were even crying.

The Nightmare Family’s four elite commanders as well as the twelve Zodiacs all joined Phantom and Nightmare Moon’s side.

This war is over.

Chapter Sixteen

I stood beside my beloved student, a little surprised at how quickly the Royal Guards had surrendered. My student, my prized dragon had defeated their last hope. I knew he could do it, but to see her laying there in a pool of her own blood was such a turn on. Of course, Phantom stopped the bleeding so she wouldn’t die, he had plans for her after all. We needed her alive to watch everything she cared for burn to ashes before her very eyes.

We won this fight. Me, Phantom, Pinkie Pie, Starlight, Midnight and everypony else that supported the Nightmare Family, we won.

I turned my head to look at Phantom. At this moment, he couldn’t be happier, seeing the Royal Guards drop their weapons. Breaking the long silence, Phantom began to laugh in a way that would make even King Sombra shake in his hooves. Yet the laughter made me flutter, it was like a song. A few seconds later, he calmed down.

“Phantom?” I spoke, but all of a sudden, I found myself being pulled into his embrace. His lips were inches away from mine. My heart was racing, I felt sweat dripping down my forehead. It’s so tempting…

“Thank you,” he said before pressing his lips against mine. It was our first kiss since Blueblood was killed. I slowly closed my eyes, melting into my student’s lips. The next few seconds felt like hours, but Phantom pulled away.

“Without you, all of this wouldn’t have happened.”

Two days have passed since the war ended. It was quite a dishonorable act, using my own kin’s body parts against me. However, the moment they saw their precious princess had lost her horn, even Celestia’s most loyal guards lost hope and surrendered.

Immediately after we obtained victory, I had the Wonderbolts and the Royal Guards sent to the dungeons. I placed Spitfire, Fleetfoot and Vapor Trail in a separate dungeon from the males. I just know our guards will go to town with their new sluts. They’re just lucky I placed Soarin and Sky Stinger in a separate dungeon so they wouldn’t have to watch as my guards railed them.

As for Celestia, I made it very clear that I wouldn’t give her an easy death. I intend to make her suffer for everything she has done to me and my kin. From what Nightmare has told me, as an alicorn, Celestia is immortal and can no longer age. So I had her locked in the dungeon next to the others and have my guards make use of her.

Unfortunately Scootaloo, with a few of her friends snuck away. Truthfully, I could have stopped them, but it would be so much more entertaining to keep her living in fear as she tries in vain to escape me. In due time, no matter where she is, I’ll find her and then I’ll force her to watch as I tear Babs Seed and Rumble apart in front of her.

As for the members of the Nightmare Guard who have fallen, I made sure to give each of them proper burials. In fact, I ordered Obsidian to report to Ember that while many dragons died, Canterlot had been defeated.

As for Celestia Royal Guard, and those wearing the scales of my kin, let just said I took care of that, and in my own sick and twisted mind put them on display for all to see, well all of Canterlot to see. Inside the garden lies, I believe several wooden spikes in said garden and the ponies.

Now here’s the messy part. Each spike was shoved up the asses of the guards, non lube of course. They slowly passed through their intestines and out right through their necks. One even went from one end and came out the other. It was slow, painful and to some, amusing way to die.

Now that I’ve got my revenge, I could focus on the more important things, like gaining back the trust of this country. After all, I’m still the most feared dragon in the land. I would say world but I know without a shadow of a doubt that there are some creatures that can compete with both me and Luna.

That reminds me, we still have to decide who will be raising the sun now that Celestia has lost her magic. If I had to guess, I would say Luna or maybe Starlight if she’s strong enough.

Well here I’m sitting under the stars, connecting the dots which form my queen on the night. My cheeks redden as I remembered the first time we kissed. Luna’s soft lips touching my scaly ones. Such softness, such warmth...

Oh no, no, no! I can’t think like that now. I have meetings to attend, and ponies to talk to.

I sat up and made my way from the garden and into the castle where the guards roamed about. While most of them saluted, some waved as I passed by. Either way, I walked pass all of my guard until I reach my destination and that was the throne room. And despite it being only a couple days, there were a line of ponies, both big and small.

“Let’s just get this over with,” I sighed before walking past the ponies. All of them seem tensed to see me. For that matter, I’m more surprised that they didn’t retreat to a nearby shelter upon seeing me, but I just ignored them.

And there Luna was, sitting on her newly acquired throne that I... we took from that other princess who is properly wishing we killed her. But that’s neither here nor there. Right now, my focus was on the queen of the night.

She was wearing a beautiful indigo and blue colored dress, which sparkled in the light. She also wore her usual matching pair of horseshoes, that go with her black coat. Since she chose to wear this dress instead of her armor, there was no reason to wear her helmet, so her mane flowed freely without any restriction. She looked so elegant, so charming, so beautiful like the queen she was.

Now I think about it, there was a comic I read a few years ago that use her likeness... somewhat. Just this mare’s coat was gray and her mane was smokey white.

Luna noticed me looking at her, and gave me her usual motherly smile. Blushing, I decided to look away.

“Phantom,” she said calmly gaining my attention immediately. “I’m so glad you came. I could use your help in easing my subjects worries.” She winked. I know what that wink means. It the ‘get me out of here’ wink. I nodded then I turn to look at the long line of ponies who in turn was staring at me.

“Fellow ponies, I’m well aware that you all wish to see your new queen, unfortunately that’s out of the question for now. Instead, I’ll answer what’s all on your minds. First off, yes, Celestia is still alive, but in her place either Queen Nightmare Moon or Starlight Glimmer will be raising the sun. Rest assured, we’re not going through that eternal night nonsense, as we don’t want to deal with powerful creatures from other lands.”

“Now unless you have any other questions for our new queen, then she must retire for the night. Goodnight,” I said, only hearing mumble among the crowd. “I said GOODNIGHT!!’ I roared with fire coming out of my mouth. This caused the crowd to rush out of the door.

“Thank you, my dear captain.”

I got down on one knee, bowing to her. “Your thanks is unnecessary. You know very well there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for you, my queen.”

“Let me tell you something Phantom,” she began, followed by the sound of her getting up from her throne and walking over to me. “Over my years ruling, I’ve had many subordinates who’ve served me in hopes of sucking up to me.”

I kept my head down, feeling embarrassed, but I was forced to return my gaze to Luna as she cupped my chin. “But Phantom, you’re different.”

“Sometimes I wonder if I am worthy of you,” I admitted, unable to take my eyes off of her beauty.

Luna tilted her head with a smile. “Phantom you’re a terrible liar.”

My expression didn’t change. “My queen, I could never lie to you.”

“Phantom I’m joking,” she said with a titter. “I know you’d never deceive me.” With that, Luna leaned down and kissed my forehead.

“Get some rest, you’ve earned it,” she said as she began walking back to her throne. I couldn’t help taking a peek at her flank which was sadly covered by her dress. Luna must have caught my eye, as she stopped and began wiggling her flank.

Whether she was teasing me or wanting to give me a nosebleed, Luna used her magic to lift her skirt. I was not only caught me by surprise, but Luna succeeded in giving me a nosebleed, as she was wearing pair of black panties. I quickly wiped the blood off my nose, thanking the stars that there were no other guards around.

As I lay in the deep, dark abyss, my mind raced on the events that had transpired during the war. I don’t know how long it’s been, maybe a week, month, or even a year. But in those painful memories, I knew that I deserved this. For what I did to the dragons, for what did to my student, my niece, my captain. But most importantly, for what I did to Spike, or Phantom as he’s known as now. If I haven’t succumbed to the temptation of curiosity, none of this would have happened.

The more I fall, the more I think of the many lives that have been ruined because of me. All those ponies killed at the hooves of my sister, and the claws of her feared student. I should of have prevented it, I should have had Spike locked away until this matter was settled. Like the dumb leader I am, I ended up listening to my instinct and banished Spike, hoping that whatever lied beyond Equestria’s borders would finish him off. Worst I should never told Luna what happened since she was banish. It’s my fault that all this happened.

“Of course, it’s your fault Tia,” an all too familiar voice echoed throughout the darkness.

Try as I might, not even my eyes could see in this darkness. With my wings torn off, I couldn’t fly, my legs despite me wanting to get up, refused to move. The only thing I could do, was listen to whoever was talking had to say.

However, I at least want to see who I’m speaking to. My wish was granted, as a light flashed next to me revealing my visitor was none other than the twisted monster who was once my loving sister.

“I know...” I replied in a broken voice.

“Lighten up, dear sister. After all, we both know that this outcome is only reality. You’ve been defeated by the one you took in, once he found out the truth. He knew death was too good and has come up with other ways to punish you for everything you’ve done,” this abomination taunted me. “Oh if only you can look at yourself, the great and powerful ruler of Equestria lying here defeated.”

At my current state, there was not much I can do. If I had my horn, I would’ve blasted this monster away, but there was no use thinking that. I only said one thing.

“Go away...” The monster that appears before me in Luna’s form laughed.

“Why would I do that? I know you need company. Or... do you prefer the company of the guards?”

“What guards?” Smirking, Nightmare lit her horn, causing a mirror to appear out of the darkness. What I saw angered and disturbed me, as the mirror displayed an image of me bond in chains on a table. My eyes were blinded and my lips were gagged. My leg spread out for all to see my private bits. Semen flowed down both my holes. In fact, practically my whole body was covered in the stuff.

“W-What's the meaning of this?!” I asked taking a step back. The sight in the mirror was vile, but Nightmare found it amusing.

“Why this sister, is what’s happening to you right now. The guards we command are using your body to relieve themselves. But that’s not all,” she giggled. “After you lost so much blood, your so-called army immediately surrendered. However Phantom refused to forgive those who had the nerve to put on that armor, so...” The mirror changed to the image of the streets of Canterlot. The streets were line up with coffins standing out the ground, each had the name of a pony who wore the armor.

“What that matter Tia? Don’t like what you see?”

Of course I didn’t like what I saw, it was just horrible. My army was defeated, and my body is being used as a sex toy to Nightmare’s lackeys.

“Honestly, the only reason you’re still alive is because Phantom wants to give his guards a bit of a reward. Nevertheless, you probably will never see him until he decides to put you down.”

“And what of him? You’ll make that lizard king while I rot in chains, being used as a whore?!” I snarled.

“Phantom will work hard to regain the ponies trust and undo the damage you have caused. He will bring peace between the nations and then... yes. In due time, I will make him a king... my king.” she finished with a blush.

“That would be some other day though, but for now. Let enjoy our time together, oh by the way, you’re not alone.”

It didn’t take long for me to realize what my sister meant. Right beside my cell were several mares all of them were ether out of breath or pass out. However they were in the same state as I was. The mares were all blindfolded and chained up with their hind legs spread. Amongst these mares were three I knew all too well. Spitfire, Fleetfoot, and Vapor Trail were all just laying there, used and broken.

“As I established before, you have nopony to blame but yourself, Tia. Those broken mares, the loss of the innocent, as well as future executions. But I have to inform you that they might, and by might I mean there’s a very small chance that of hope.” Upon hearing those word, I perk my ears, wondering what the one I once called my sister was going to say.

“Scootaloo and a few ponies are well forming something to save you. Though with Equestria under my rule, finding her would entertain both me and Phantom. I’ll have you know he’s already threatened to kill her lover in front of her after a little assassination attempt. It’s not going to be pretty.”

I gritted my teeth as Nightmare sighed in excitement of what that lizard would do to Scootaloo and her friends. “Do you find pleasure in the torment of children?!” I snarled.

“Oh you’re the one to talk, you murdered hundreds of young dragons remember?”

My anger suddenly went away. It was replaced by shame, as I realized I was in no position to be criticizing Scootaloo’s fate.

“Anyway, that’s enough chit chat. After all, you still have some stallions itching to have a go at you.” I twitched my eye as Nightmare gestured to the mirror which showed some guards approaching me. “I hope you enjoy yourself,” Nightmare she disappeared in a bright flash, thus ending my dream.

I woke up, still gagged and covered in semen and looked to see the guards rubbing their sheathes. There was nothing in their eyes except for lust.

So much has changed over the years. While the Nightmare Guard is still active, the system of the Zodiacs and their commanders has been dissolved long ago.

Flurry Heart was now a grown twenty year old alicorn, as well as the official princess of the Crystal Empire. Her adopted parents, Starlight Glimmer and Sunburst taught her well, and made sure she grew up to become the wise young mare she is today.

Of course, Phantom would pay her visits from time to time, when he’s available and Flurry Heart who still loved him like her cousin. But deep down despite her already forgiving him for the actions he did, she still have a somewhat hatred towards the dragon, not for her parents but for her unborn brother.

After the war, Starlight and Sunburst began to settle down for a peaceful life. It didn’t take long before the two unicorns were married. Several months later, Starlight gave birth to twins.

Sunburst has kept his position as crystaller for years and hopes that one of his children would carry on the title when he decided to retire.

Despite retaining some of her greedy nature, Flurry Heart trusted Ruby Bandit and after becoming princess, she chose her to become the new captain of the Crystal Guard. Due to her magical and physical skills, Bandit filled out the role quite nicely.

Encouraged by Starlight’s wedding, Cloud Skipper proposed to his foalhood friend, Midnight Blossom a month later after a night of partying during Phantom’s birthday. Two months after Starlight had her twins, Midnight gave birth to a bat pony filly who inherited her mother’s mischievous nature as well as her father’s white coat.

Now that Equestria seems to admire Phantom rather than hate him, Zecora learned to forgive the ponies. She still acts as the Crystal Empire’s medical witchdoctor.

Pinkie Pie decided to move to Starlight’s old village and eventually formed a relationship with Party Favor. She thought that Pokey Pierce was the one. But after the event of what transpired, he wanted nothing more to do with the pink pony, leaving her devastated. Luckily due to Party Favor’s friendship with Starlight, he along with the rest of the village understood Phantom’s actions and refused to abandon the pink mare.

After a year spending time together, the two got married and had a foal. Despite the protests from the village, Pinkie decided to moved back to Ponyville with her husband and foal, and now works part time with the Cake twins at Sugarcube Corner.

Pip served as a lieutenant in the Nightmare Guard for ten years before he decided to retire and go back to Trottingham.

Goldbeck died a few years back, having finally succumbing to his old age. Phantom had made sure to give the griffon a well deserved burial for his services. Afterwards, he generously donated a pure gold statue of Goldbeck to Griffonstone. After all, Queen Gilda was the one who provided the Nightmare Guard with such a great warrior.

Though no longer a Zodiac, Thorax is still as loyal to Phantom as ever and works as an advisor for him and Queen Nightmare Moon.

Rather than return to the Dragon Empire, Obsidian has decided to settle down in the Crystal Empire along with his lover, Fleur dis Lee. In traditional dragon culture, a dragon who’s in love will willingly give up their soul to their mate. This practice has been a sign of fatefulness for centuries.

There are some benefits to having dragon’s soul. For one, any non dragon species would live as long as the dragon lives. The other is that the dragon will forever be loyal to its mate, even if he or she doesn’t return the feelings. Dragons could live up to four thousands years, but Obsidian didn’t intend to live that long if it meant outliving the one he has come to cherish. Hence the reason why he cut his life in half.

To this day, Dragon Lord Ember and Phantom still remained good friends and visited each other often. Both Ember and her father, Torch were overjoyed when Obsidian had reported Celestia’s defeat, as Phantom had finally avenged the many dragons who were murdered by the hooves of Celestia.

Though the dragons still showed hostility towards ponies, laws have been put in place in order to avoid another conflict. If a pony somehow murdered a dragon, and or stole an egg then the parents have the right to touch a village and torture or kill its inhabitants within a ninety-six hour time period. And if a dragon decided to ignore pleas of the ponies and sleep within a city or village limit that is inhabited by life or burn down said village, that pony has the right to kill the said dragon.

Phantom was sitting in the famous garden. Normally, he would be donning his usual black coat, but today he just wanted to feel the cool winds off his scales.

‘I wonder, should I confess my feelings already?’ he thought as he looked at the full moon.

Throughout the years of being together, the dragon had found it hard to even look at Nightmare, despite the teasing she does on occasions. Even then, his cheek flustered and his heart feel like it was about to burst. Phantom figured that after everything they’ve been through together, she probably already knows about his feelings for her.

‘Yeah, I basically suck keeping secret crushes to myself,’ he thought with a sigh.

At that moment the purple dragon heard hoofsteps from behind which caught the dragon’s attention. He looked up only to see his queen dress in a midnight blue dress. He also noticed that she had a light blue flower set behind her ear.

“Your moon looks as lovely as always, my queen,” Phantom said as Nightmare took a seat beside him. As she held up a wing to cover her face, the drake realized she was blushing.

“T-Thank you, Phantom,” she stuttered as she leaned on his scales, relaxed by the cool feeling.

‘This is as good a time as ever,’ Phantom thought as his claws dug into the ground in growing frustration. ‘Why? Damn it! Why can’t I say it?!’ he mentally shouted.

However, Phantom was unaware that at the same time, Nightmare was having very similar thoughts. ‘This is ridiculous, he’s right there! I’m the queen of Equestria, so why is it so hard to confess my love?!’

The alicorn and dragon awkwardly looked at each other then looked away.

‘Okay think Phantom, think! You took out Celestia, your friends are begging you to make a move on her. Do it!’

“L-Luna. I...” Before he could say anything else, he felt Nightmare press her hoof to his lips.

“Phantom... no Spike.” Normally she wouldn’t use that name of his, but this was something important. “For years I know you have stayed loyal to me. You’ve even risked your life to protect mine. No matter how much treasure I give to you, or anypony else, none of it could compare to the treasure I have right before me.”

“My queen I...” He tried to speak, but she cut him off again. This time instead of her hoof... her lips stopped him, which caught the dragon by surprise.

“I promised myself long ago when the time came, I would make you a king,” she said after pulling away. “Every time you address me as your queen, it makes my heart flutter. I-I can’t hold back anymore...”

“Spike I...” Before she could say anything else, the dragon cut off her by his lips. What she saw was flames covering her body, however they didn’t burn. To her, it was a warm, comfortable feeling. And she knew what this was about, and was somewhat shocked.

“I’ve waited for this day for so long, Luna,” he said as happy tears ran down both of their faces.

“S-Spike, you...”

The dragon nodded knowing what he had done. “Gave you half my soul.”

“You know you just cut your lifespan in half my darling.” Luna spoke before the dragon nodded. “Well lucky for you, I know a little trick.” The alicorn smiled as she used her magic to signal her guard to bring in her prisoner.

“This is a spell that not even Starswirl the Bearded knows. It was written long time ago when magic was still new. From what Discord and Torch told me, a powerful sorcerer named Fortune Seer discovered a spell to grant immortality. However, it came at a cost.”

The prisoner that the guards brought in was none other than Celestia. Her mane matted with the seeds of males, her horn broken, scars on her back signally that she had wings, and her cutie mark was marked with a red x. Her hooves in chains and her eyes were covered by a pink blindfold.

Phantom raised a brow when he saw Celestia in this stated. “The cost is a life must be forfeited in order for this spell to work.” Nightmare grinned darkly as she looked at her former sister.

“Take the blindfold off,” Phantom instructed with a smirk. The guards did as he said. For the first time in thirteen years, Celestia stared at the one she was called her son. She knew if that she’s been brought outside her cell, that means... her time is finally up. She knew this day was coming and had accepted her fate thirteen years ago.

“Any last words before you die... mother?”

Celestia hung her head low. “Yes...” she answered as she gathered her thoughts. “Even though you despise me more ways than one, even though I took away what you should’ve a long time ago, even though you tortured me for so many years… deep down inside, I never stopped loving you, my little fire starter.” For the first time in over a decade, the former princess smiled.

Phantom’s expression didn’t change. “Are you done?” he asked to which Celestia nodded slowly and closed her eyes.

“Do as you wish.”

With that, Nightmare Moon lit her horn and prepared the spell, covering both her sister and dragon in its glow. Celestia’s eyes glowed as her soul was extracted though her mouth which floated around for a bit. It soon then floated into the dragon’s mouth, which caused him to gag at first before swallowing the alicorn’s soul. Once done, Nightmare’s horn stopped glowing, causing both the dragon and the now dead alicorn to drop onto the floor.

Phantom looked at his claws, but then he felt something burning, which of course wasn’t normal in dragon standards. The dragon suddenly fall on his knees and scream out in pain. The guards wanted to help, but Nightmare held out her hoof, telling them that he’s fighting for dominance. A bright fiery aura appeared on Phantom’s body, one side was green, and the other side was yellow.

This lasted for about a few minute with the yellow side covering ninety percent of his body. However suddenly, the green side overpowered the yellow side, signalling that Phantom was getting control. Once it was done, the aura disappeared, leaving Phantom panting.

However Phantom’s exhaustion did little to stop the wide smile that was growing on his face. “It’s done,” he said, rising back up to his feet.

Nightmare walked over and wrapped her arms around Phantom. “Now you truly can be my king,” she said kissing his cheek. “Forever.”

Phantom only nodded as he wrapped his arms around Nightmare, pulling her into an embrace. “For all times, let’s partake in eternity together.

Author's Notes:

And that's the end.

If you want to know what happen to Scootaloo and her gang. . .well you just have to write the story yourself. Will Flurry Heart help Scootaloo? The choices are yours and yours alone.

I like to thank my editors
Bennet001, NinetailBeastBail and Beirirangu

Hope you enjoy this story.

This has been Crisis Novastar Not saying goodbye just saying.