Sensing an unfamiliar presence, Princes Luna turned, her hand resting on the handle of the epée sheathed on her belt, her eyes glinting in the moonlight. But was the presence really that unfamiliar? A darkness such as this, she was sure she should be able to recognize it. Luna closed her eyes and concentrated, and it came to her
Nightmare Moon.
The moon princess opened her eyes wide in shock. Nightmare Moon must not return. Luna could remember, as if she were a distant observer, the atrocities she had committed while possessed by the evil spirit of the Mare of Darkness. She knew in her heart of hearts, that if Nightmare Moon was to return, it would be the end of Equestria as she knew it.
"Shining Armor," Luna said, addressing her companion on the Canterlot wall, "the hour is late. We can take it from here." She winced at the use of her antiquated speech, but she realized it was not something that could be easily remedied.
"Yes, sir," replied Shining Armor, saluting. "Thank you, sir." He turned and left, down onto the street below. It was good that he hadn't questioned her. Luna liked the young captain, it was hard not to, and she didn't want anything to happen to him should Nightmare Moon return this night.
The very moment he entered his home near the base of the wall, Luna fell to her knees, clutching her head in agony. She fell, unconscious into a heap on the ground.
When she stood, her starry, dark blue hair, which usually flowed out as if caught in an invisible breeze, hung dull and limp over her shoulders. Her deep, purple eyes were as black as coal.
Chuckling to herself, Nightmare Moon turned and walked off toward the castle.