What is it with me publishing the last chapter of my stories almost a year after the last installment? Well I just want it to be the very best it could be. Longest chapter yet with over 10,000 words so buckle in kiddies, it's a bumpy one.

"It's freezing out here!"

Snow blew in every direction as winds were at high speeds. Mythic, Light, Melissa, Frosty, and Aurora had set their way towards the Crystal Empire. Light used her magic to try and teleport directly to the train station but when they arrived, they weren't even close to the station. In fact they didn't even make it past the entrance of the Empire. "Why did we end up here?" Light had asked, shivering immediately from the instant cold winds. "Maybe Tantabus has blocked out certain magics by using the Crystal Heart," Frosty shouted in the wind, "Flurry talked about it once." "We need to get out of this storm," Mythic called as he stood close to Light for warmth, "Which way is the entrance to the Empire?" Aurora narrowed her eyes as she looked across the horizon. "I think I see the entrance up ahead." Aurora said, "Let's go." They huddled closely together as they followed Aurora. Approaching the entrance, Aurora came to a stop. Looking at her, she turned her head to the others. "This is it you guys," she said, "There's no telling what we'll find in there." She felt something grab her hoof as she looked to see Frosty holding her hoof. "We're with you every step of the way." he said as Melissa stood beside him nodding. Looking to her other side, she saw Mythic and Light stand close by giving her an encouraging nod. Aurora drew in a deep breath as she said, "Okay, let's do this." The five creatures stood in a line as they looked up at the entrance. It looked completely normal. They all looked at Aurora as she waited for a minute. That's when she nodded, taking that first step forward. They followed along as they entered what seemed to be a portal in disguise.

Reaching the other side, their eyes adjusted to the light as they took in their surroundings. Things seemed eerily normal. "It seems kind of dark in here." Frosty observed. "You're right about that." Aurora replied, "Of course he'd cover the place in some sort of darkness, otherwise his minions wouldn't survive. Or Tantabus for that matter." Light looked at Aurora as she said, "It's your call Rora." Nodding, Aurora took in a deep breath as she said, "Let's take a look around." Following Aurora's lead, the five stood closely together. Their guard was up high as they observed the area. It was bare and quiet. "Where is everyone?" Mythic asked. "It's hard to say," Aurora said. "Do you think you have to go inside every creature's dream?" Frosty asked. That's when they heard the sound of a fleet of hooves. Turning their heads they saw a purple unicorn with an eerie smile on her face. Behind her were a group of ponies with the same smile. That's when they noticed that their cutie marks were equal signs. The purple unicorn approached the group as she said, "Welcome! Are you looking for a new chance at a fresh start? Follow me and I can help you." They looked at one another in cringe as Aurora whispered to Light, "Wasn't that Queen Twilight's first pupil or something?" Light nodded as she replied, "We're uh-we're good." "Suit yourself." she said as she continued walking, the group of ponies followed after her. Mythic, Frosty, and Melissa looked at one another in confusion. "What kind of nightmare was that?" Frosty asked. Aurora and Light exchanged a look as Aurora shook her head. "We need to keep moving."

As they followed Aurora, she continued, "Our first stop will be the Crystal Heart. We have to be sure it's okay and secure." "We should be getting close to the castle now." Light said. "Look!" Mythic exclaimed. The five creatures looked ahead as they spotted the Crystal Heart, seemingly in perfect condition. They rushed to surround it as Aurora let out a relieved sigh. "Thank Equestria it's still intact." "But not as long as Tantabus is here," Light said, "Who knows what he's thinking of doing with this." "Agreed." Aurora said. "Should we take it?" Frosty suggested as Mythic added, "Yeah, that way it's safe." Aurora and Light exchanged a look. "I'm not sure," Light said, "Maybe some of us should keep watch here and the others find Tantabus?" Aurora shook her head, "We need to stick together. Better together." Looking to Melissa she asked, "The Crystal Heart is just an agent type of rock, right? We can take it without disrupting its power, right?" Melissa nodded as they all smiled. As Light went to reach for it, she was shocked as she fell back. "Light!" they said in unison as they surrounded her side. Rubbing her hoof, Light said, "I'm alright but something shocked me from grabbing it." That's when a low chuckle filled the area. The five creatures all perked up as they scanned the area. "Well, well, well, what do we have here?" echoed a voice. Aurora scowled as she shouted, "Tantabus! Come out and fight!" Chuckling continued as the reply came, "Oh you'll be getting a fight, but not from him." The laughter continued as Light's ears perked. "We can take on any minion you throw at us!" Frosty shouted. "Minion?" came a reply, "I'm so much more than a minion." A shadow filled the area as a silhouette of a pony circled around them. "It seems as though you've forgotten what true fear is." it continued, "My name once rattled the land, striking fear into the citizens here at this worthless empire." The ponies tried to stay calm as the shadow hovered around them. "Are you feeling scared yet?" he asked, "Perhaps a demonstration of my power is needed." Black crystals erupted from the ground as it surrounded the five. Light and Aurora tried to use their magic to escape only to fail. "Be grateful imprisonment is all I am demonstrating." the voice continued, "For attempting to tamper with my precious Crystal Heart, I should discipline for such deeds!" Mythic tilted his head as some familiarity struck him. "Wait a second," Mythic said, "Something seems familiar about that tone of voice." Light pressed her head between the crystals as she looked out, spotting the shadow. Her heart was racing as the shadow approached them. "You little fillies and colts have no idea what you're up against. And I will not hesitate to further show my power." Aurora felt the shift in Light as she turned to her. "Light?" Aurora said as Light looked at the shadow.

Green eyes flickered as Light felt her heart stop. "No, it can't be." she said in disbelief. The shadow began to shape into a sturdy figure as tears came to Light's eyes. "Dad?" she said. Now out from his shadow form, King Sombra stood there with purple magic pooling from his eyes. The others gathered around as they looked in disbelief at the corrupt King. "King Sombra!" Mythic said in shock. "Yes it is I, King Sombra." "Dad, snap out of it!" Light called, "This isn't real, this isn't you!" He looked at her as he scowled. "And what would a little filly know anything about me?" His eyes widened as he saw her wings. "Another alicorn?" he said in shock. "He doesn't recognize me." Light said in disbelief as Aurora reassured, "Remember Light, this is a nightmare." "And what is his nightmare?" Light turned, "Forgetting I exist?" Turning back she scowled at her corrupt father as she shouted, "What have you done to my dad!?" King Sombra scowled as he replied, "I don't think I like your tone little one. You should know how to speak to a King." Light pounded her hoof as she replied, "You couldn't have forgotten me! It can't be." He sneered, "I haven't time to argue, I must take the Crystal Heart and begin my rise back to power." He turned his back on them as he stalked to the heart. "No!" Aurora cried, "If he tampers with the Crystal Heart, he'll be freeing Tantabus from the Empire and it'll be impossible to stop him!" "Light?" Mythic said. They all looked at Light as she was red in the cheeks. "Don't turn your back on me." she said darkly. Her mane began to flow as they all took a step back. Her horn charged with magic as she opened her eyes to reveal pure white. Suddenly she vanished. Just as King Sombra approached the heart, Light appeared on the other side as she scowled. He looked in shock as he said, "How-how is this possible? No creature can escape from my spells." "I'll ask you one last time," Light said darkly, "Where is my father?" Scowling he charged his magic as he said, "Step aside little alicorn." "Not until I get my father back." she sneered. King Sombra launched his magic at her as she quickly countered it with her magic. She used her magic to make a shield to push her father back. "You're not getting this Crystal Heart." Light declared, "You're going to tell me what you've done to my father." "Foolish girl," he hissed, "I am no one's father except for the shadows!" He attacked her as she was pushed back. "This can't be your nightmare," Light insisted, "It doesn't make any sense." "What would you know anything about nightmares," Sombra asked as he pinned her to the ground, "I am the maker of nightmares!" She kicked him off as she replied, "No you're not! There has to be some other reason." "My purpose is to obtain the Crystal Heart and rule over all Equestria." Sombra said, "And I'm not gonna let some little alicorn stand in my way!"

As the fight continued, the others were watching from the crystals. "Aurora, we gotta get out of here and help Light!" Mythic said, "There has to be a way out." "If we can get Uncle Sombra to break from his nightmare, we won't have to find a way out on our own." "But what is his nightmare?" Frosty asked as Mythic continued, "Yeah. Light has a point, why would his nightmare be forgetting his own daughter?" "I'm trying to think." Aurora said looking back at the battle between her cousin and Uncle. She watched carefully as she started to think about what was missing. That's when it hit her. "That's it!" Aurora exclaimed. Light was thrown back as she slid near the Crystal Heart. She was heaving as she looked at her father. "You were no match against me." he said, "And now I'm gonna show you what true power is." "King Sombra!" Aurora yelled, "Remember Celestia!" He stopped at the mention of her name as he turned to face the trapped ponies. "That name," he said. Light realized what Aurora was insinuating as a memory came to mind. "It all makes sense now." she said to herself. Standing back up she faced her father as she said, "This isn't the source of your nightmare." King Sombra turned his head to Light as she continued, "I remember you told me of how I was born, how they took my mother. How serious the situation was when she went into labor." She approached him as she said, "If things had gone wrong, what might have been. How it would have affected your life." She was a few steps away from him as she stood her ground. "Tell me King Sombra, where is Celestia?" His eyes were wide as he shook his head, "No. No." "Your nightmare isn't conquering the world." Light said as tears came to the corner other eyes, "It's losing Celestia to that day, isn't it?" She paused for a moment as she added, "And your daughter." Sombra felt tears in his eyes as he shook his head, "N-no!" "That's why you don't recognize me." Light understood, "Because you're stuck in a nightmare where I never grew up…where I never survived. And because of that, you fear of turning into this." Sombra growled as he said, "I lost everything I ever loved!" He lunged forward as Light moved away from his blow. "You didn't!" Light said, "That never happened!" Sombra struggled as the purple in his eyes began to fade in and out. "Th-that's not true." he struggled. He charged his magic as he aimed it at her. "Light get out of the way!" Mythic called as he tried to use his magic to escape but failed. He towered over her as Light remained unmoved. With tears in her eyes she said, "Come on dad, snap out of it. Mom's alive and so am I. It's me, Light Breeze." He locked eyes with her as she remained unmoved. He closed his eyes before struggling. "This…isn't….real!" His magic turned from red to blue before glowing. His appearance went back to normal as the black crystals broke, freeing the ponies from their containment. He stood there a moment before opening his eyes. They were back to normal as he looked around the area.

Looking at Light he said normally, "Light?" Light broke into a relieved smile as she threw her hooves around him. "I knew you'd come back!" she cried as he hugged her. The others raced to them as Sombra put a hoof to his head. "Light. Aurora? Mythic, Melissa, and Frost Needleheart? What are you guys doing here?" "It's a long story but we have to find Tantabus." Aurora said. "The Tantabus." Sombra said slowly, "I remember! We were in the main throne room when we were first attacked by…by that!" They all turned to find one of Tantabus's shadow minions approach them, only it was twice as big as the ones they encountered back in Canterlot. "Must have been from his nightmare." Light said as Aurora rushed towards it. She cast a light spell as it began to hiss at it. It lunged forward to try and swipe at her as she avoided its attack. She strained to wipe it away before Light joined her side. Together they used their combined light to rid of the shadow forever. Panting they went back to the group. "Uncle Sombra," Aurora said, "Tanatbus is trying to bring his nightmares to the real world! He's already managed to do it here at the Empire, as you can see, but the Crystal Heart is preventing him from breaking free completely! Can you guard it and make sure he can't take it?" "I would Aurora but-" Sombra started before they heard a dink! Turning they saw Melissa standing over the Crystal Heart. She wiped her hoof across it as paint smeared showing a gray color. "It's a fake." Melissa said. Looking at one another Aurora turned as she looked over her shoulder saying, "Come on! We have to get to the throne room!"

Heading to the entrance of the castle, Aurora tried to open the door. "It's locked shut." Aurora said. "Leave it to us." Frosty said as he looked at Mythic. Hoof bumping one another, Frosty changed into a giant bug bear. He tugged on the door in an attempt to open it but no luck. Mythic used his magic as he Frosty grew even bigger than the normal size of a bug bear. Now three times the normal size. One punch and the door were busted in. Mythic transformed Frosty back into the regular size bug bear as he returned back to his changeling form. The two Princesses sighed in bliss as they entered the castle. Upon entering, they looked at a scary sight. The castle was altered, more dark and grim. There was hardly any light anywhere. "We're in the belly of the beast now." Frosty commented. "The main throne room is at the very top of the castle, up these stairs." Sombra said. As they headed for the staircase, a hot-cold wind pushed them all back. Laughter followed as a voice filled the room, "Would you look at that? Unwanted guests have come and destroyed my new front door. How rude." Aurora growled, "Tantabus." "Why don't you show yourself, you coward?" Sombra called. "Ah King Sombra," Tanatbus said, "What's the matter? You didn't enjoy your, sweet dreams?" "You're sick, you know that? You're gonna pay for everything you've done." Light called out. "Come now Princess, where's your sense of adventure?" his voice filled around, "After all, wouldn't you ever dream to do something like this?" "That's enough Tantabus!" Aurora declared, "Where's the real Crystal Heart? What have you done with my family?" "This conversation is really starting to make me sleepy." he yawned in reply. Aurora noticed something lurking in the shadows as she called out, "Look out!" Placing a shield around the group, a gust of smoke bounced off the shield, the same smoke that made Aurora fall asleep. Laughter ensued as he said, "It's cute to think you'll ever be able to reach me." "You won't be laughing when we get to you." Aurora sneered. "You'll have to get past my new recruits before even having the chance to get to me." His laughter filled the area as something landed a few feet from the staircase. Sombra squinted before smiling. "I'd recognize that silhouette," he said as he went forward, "Celestia." But before he could reach her, fire ignited making him stop in his tracks. "Celestia?" he said in disbelief. "I'm sorry, but Celestia is unable to come to your call right now." she said, "I'm afraid she's locked away right up here." She pointed to her head as they all stood at guard. "There is only Daybreaker now." she chuckled. "What is it with everyone's nightmare being an evil version of themselves?" Mythic asked. "Nevermind that lad," Sombra snapped before looking at Aurora, "You guys go and stop Tantabus, I'll handle this." "Uncle Sombra, you can't do this alone." Aurora said. "He won't be." Light said coming to his side, Mythic joining. Daybreaker lunged forward at the group as they split. Sombra pushed her back as Light called, "Aurora. Frosty. Melissa. Go now!" As she went to help her father Mythic added, "We'll come after you as soon as we help rescue the Queen!"

The three started climbing the stairway. Spiraling upwards, they made their climb before reaching the top floor. A long hallway lay ahead as the three slowly walked down the hallway. It seemed as if the closer they got, the more sinister and corrupt the castle became. Aurora gulped, "After this, I'm getting a nightlight." "The throne room should be straight ahead." Frosty said as they crept down the hallway. As they quietly trotted, it felt as if they were being watched. Aurora's ears twitched as she stopped in her tracks. "What's wrong Aurora?" Frosty asked. Aurora scanned the area as she watched carefully. That's when she spotted a figure lurking above them. "Who dares enter these chambers?" came a voice. Aurora immediately recognized it as she said, "Dad?" Dropping to the floor, he lurked forward as he said, "I asked you a question. Why are you here?" "Dad, you gotta listen. This is a nightmare. I don't know what you need to overcome but if you just let us-" She stopped as a sword was brought out and pointed at her. "I won't ask again," he said, "What are you doing here?" "Dad. It's me, your daughter." she started, fearing she might be in Light's position now. "I know who you are," he replied, "But what are you doing here?" "We've come to rescue you," Frosty said as Aurora continued, "I'm not sure what your nightmare is but if we can just-" "Hush child." Nova said as he placed his sword in his belt, "I haven't the time for your games. I've told you once, I've told you one too many times, not to come to me during work." "What?" He stalked away as he said, "It's better this way, to keep as far away from me as possible. You don't want to be like me. I'm not good enough for you." Aurora's eyes widened as her heart felt a tug. "Dad…" she started as she walked towards him. She reached out before he turned to her with an angry look. Aurora flinched back, she never saw her dad like this. He was angry and more rugged. "I said, stay away from me." he snarled as Aurora backed away. "Aurora?" Frosty started as she stared at him.

Suddenly three blobs shifted in the darkness before getting a grip on the three creatures' legs. Getting pulled back they all were being held by a shadow blob. Melissa began to fight back as Frosty and Aurora began to tussle with their own blobs. "Don't let it consume you!" Aurora called, "Or you'll be trapped in your nightmare!" Aurora was gonna use her magic before the blob covered her horn. "Oh come on, gross." Aurora groaned as she struggled against it. Looking back she saw her dad stalking away. "Dad!" she called. He didn't reply as the blob started pinning her down. Panic began to rise as she tried fighting against it. "Dad!" she called again as she managed to free one of her hooves, reaching out to him. Still unresponsive as he continued to walk away. "Aurora!" Frosty called as she looked over at him. They were all struggling to combat against them, they were certainly stronger than the ones they faced back in Canterlot. "No, no, no, no, no." Aurora said as she said, "Keep fighting!" As they all struggled, Aurora looked back at her dad. If it weren't for her enhanced night eyesight, she'd have lost him. But he was almost too far away as she looked at him. Pain filled her heart, she's never felt like this before, especially with her dad. The blob got ahold of Aurora's hair before pulling back on it. This brought pain as Aurora cried out, "Dad! Help me!" This made Nova stop in his tracks. Turning back he looked at the three struggle with the blobs. Each was almost consumed before laying his eyes on his daughter. The blob had her hanging from its grip as she looked back at it in distress. She had tears come down her eyes as she struggled to break free. Nova stared at her as he struggled with himself. That's when he was reminded of a memory. Nova sat beside Luna as she held the small infant in her hooves. "Careful now Nova, she's very tiny." she said as she placed the baby in his arms. Moving the blanket slightly he stared down at the small bundle. She shifted slightly in discomfort as she began to whimper slightly. "Shh shh shh, it's okay. It's okay." he said softly, "I got you, daddy's got you." This brought instant comfort as she settled back into a cozy trance. Nova had tears in his eyes as he looked at her saying, "I promise to always be there for you when you need me, Aurora." Nova blinked as he stared back at his daughter. She was almost consumed before she heard, "Hey!" The blobs all stopped to turn and face Nova. He was no longer looking like he did before as he stood tall. Staring back at them he said, "You let my daughter and her friends go. Or I'm gonna be your worst nightmare." He charged forward as he gripped one of the blobs with his teeth. Giving a good pull he stripped the first blob off of Melissa. The two then help shake off the blob from Frosty before untangling Aurora from her own. Frosty used what magic he had to usher the blobs away as Aurora took in a breath. Her father stood over her as she looked up at him.

"Oh dad!" Aurora wept as she embraced him. They held onto one another for a moment before pulling back. "I told you kiddo, I promise to always be there for you." he said, pressing his forehead to hers. Suddenly both their ears twitched as they turned to see some shadow ponies surrounding them. One of them had an arrow pointed to Aurora as they released. "No!" Nova said as he went in front of her and took the blow. Hitting above the left shoulder he let out a cry before falling to the ground. Aurora looked with round eyes as she saw her father fall to the ground, Melissa and Frosty looking in shock. "No." she said. Her eyes flashed as she cried, "NO!" She sat over her father as the cronies edged closer to them. "We've got to stop Tantabus." Frosty said looking at Melissa, "But there's too many of them." Melissa blinked at Frosty as his ears perked up, understanding her stare. Melissa went over to Aurora as she placed a hoof on her. Aurora looked up teary eyed at Melissa. "You and Frosty get to the throne room and stop Tantabus. I'll handle this." "But-But, what about my father?" Aurora sniffled looking at her father. Melissa ran her hoof near the area of impact, the arrow still in his shoulder as blood seeped out. "I promise to keep him safe. There's still hope but you need to go now." Nova groaned slightly from the pain as he weakly looked at his daughter. "Aurora, I'll be okay. Go." he strained through the pain. Aurora took one last look at her father before reluctantly getting up from his side. Going to Frosty's side, Aurora looked back at her squire and father. Melissa nodded as Aurora nodded back. "Come on Aurora," Frosty said, "Let's end this." Nodding, the two opened their wings as they flew over the shadow cronies. Nova smiled after them before groaning slightly from the pain. Melissa stood in front of him as she pulled out a weapon from her hair.

Reaching the entrance to the throne room, Frosty and Aurora stood. Looking at each other they nodded before Aurora used her magic to open the doors. Stepping into the throne room, their eyes met with Tantabus at the other side. He was sitting at the chair as he watched the two enter the room. "So, you've finally made it." Tantabus said. "This ends now Tantabus." Aurora declared. "But Aurora, we're just getting started." Tantabus replied. "You're gonna tell us where you've hidden the Crystal Heart and tell me where my mother is!" Tantabus rised to his hooves as he said, "Oh Aurora, that isn't any way to talk to an old friend." He walked to the side of the room as he said, "But since I'm such a good pal, it's only fitting I show you what I have in store." He took a sheet off as Aurora and Frosty looked in shock to see the Crystal Heart. Instead of its pearly shining blue, it was grim and darkened. There was still some blue but not much left of it. "When I first was able to break out it was through the Princess of Love's dreams. The Crystal Empire is such a lovely place, I had to let my little blobs out to play. I knew those Canterlot Royals would ruin my fun so I forged a letter and sent it off, calling for their help. Pathetic. So when they arrived here, naturally I wanted to make them as comfortable as possible. There were some protests but each of them found rest. Well, all except for my dear old friend Luna." They were on guard as he started to circle towards them. "See Luna and I are old friends. Why, it's because of her I was able to truly have a body. Nightmares have always existed but it wasn't until your mother wanted a constant reminder of her days of Nightmare Moon, to never turn back to it again, she gave me a body to the nightmares. And it was amazing! With a body I was able to do so much more! But then I was foiled. I was banished, never to be seen or heard from again." he giggled, "That is, until you of course."

Frosty held Aurora's hoof in encouragement as Aurora said, "Where's my mother?" He groaned, "Must you be so hasty." He went back to the chair he was sitting on as he grabbed a chain from behind his seat. Tugging on it he pulled Luna into view. Frosty and Aurora looked in horror at the Queen's condition. Dark bags were under her eyes, the flow of her mane was drooping, and she looked sickly almost. Tantabus cupped her cheek as he said, "See it's thanks to my power and your mother's special talent I'm able to bring all this to the real world! Of course it requires a lot of time, energy, and of course magic but it's for a good cause." He left her side as he said, "Once I'm done corrupting the Crystal Heart, I'll be able to break from its magic barricade and be able to take my nightmares globally!" Aurora growled as she stepped forward, "You won't get away with this." "My dear, dear Aurora. Getting here must have been exhausting, why don't you relax and rest for a while." he said. Aurora, without moving, used her magic to block an attack from behind as she pinned her ears back. "That's not gonna work on me this time. You're gonna have to fight me yourself." Tantabus scowled as he casted his long arms forward to crush upon the two. Frosty and Aurora split up as they looked across to each other.

"Find a way to free the Queen." Aurora shouted, "I'll handle Tantabus." Frosty nodded as he raced to help Luna. Tantabus saw this as he used one of his shadows to pull the chain around Luna, causing her to stumble forward to his side. Aurora cast a light spell as it just barely missed Tantabus. He growled, "I've waited far too long to be stopped by a bat-hybrid freak!" Swiping his tail, Aurora jumped over it as she replied, "The night is meant to be enjoyed and bring out the beauty in things we often overlook. What you're doing is ruining that beauty of the night and dreams." "And you think I care?" Tantabus replied, "The darkness and fear welcome me. It gives power and authority over all, even you "so-called" royalty." He cast his magic as Aurora brought a shield to block it. "So long as I stand and breathe, I will fight to make sure your nightmares never reach anyone in the way it's affected me, my family, my friends, and my subjects!" she shouted as Frosty came behind him. Changing into an Ursa Minor, he swiped at Tantabus only for it to go through his body. "What?" he said as Tanatbus scowled. Kicking him backwards, Frosty fell back as he hit the wall. He chuckled before feeling agonizing pain on his shoulder. Looking back, Aurora had gotten a hit off of him. Growling rattled in his throat as Aurora started to close in on him. "I'm going to make you pay for everything you've done to me and my family." she muttered as she charged her horn. Tantabus looked to the side to see Frosty slowly getting to his hooves. He smirked, "I won't be beaten that easily. It seems that attacking you in your nightmares wasn't enough. Perhaps I need a different approach to get through to you." Shooting a ray of gust towards Frosty, it hit his face as he began coughing. Aurora's eyes widened as she called, "Frosty!" Frosty started to groan as he began to shake his head back and forth. Suddenly his eyes changed from blue to purple as he stood up straight.

Frosty calmly walked over to Tantabus' side as he stood at attention. "Frosty, get away from him!" Aurora said as he remained unmoved. Tantabus chuckled as he said, "The Changeling Prince is unavailable at the moment. Though I'm sure I can leave a message." He used his shadow to make a snapping noise as Frosty looked at Aurora. Lighting his magic, he shot at Aurora as she took a step back. Lowering his horns he scuffed the floor before charging at her. "Frosty," she said in disbelief, "What are you doing?" He didn't answer as he managed to knock her to the side with his horns. Aurora winced from his impact as he changed into cragadile. He began advancing forward, snapping his sharp jaws at Aurora. She flapped her wings to get away from his attacks as she said, "What did you do to him?" "If I told you, it'd ruin the fun." Tantabus replied, "I've been working on something new. Expanding my abilities, you can say." Frosty changed into a dragon as he flew towards her. Puffing his cheeks, he shot fire at her. Aurora dived down as she avoided the hot flames. Tantabus laughed as he looked at the Crystal Heart. "In just a few minutes the Crystal Heart will be no more and I will finally be able to conquer the entire world in my living nightmares!" "I won't let you-" Aurora called before getting hit by Frosty, who had changed into a manticore and struck her with his tail. She fell to the ground as Frosty landed just a few feet from her. Transforming into an Ophiotaurus, he used his serpent tail to wrap around Aurora. Aurora struggled in his grip as he squeezed her body. Letting out a painful cry she looked towards Tantabus. Her mother was struggling to stand. "Mother." Aurora said as she let out another cry from the grip. "For what it's worth Aurora, I did like you. You were impressionable, why if it had not been for your grounded morals, I would offer you to rule beside me." Tantabus said, "But alas, you're just like your mother. And now I'm going to be able to get rid of both rulers of the night at the same time!"

Aurora struggled as she began to talk to herself. This can't be how it ends. How could I have messed up so badly like this? There has to be another way. She looked back at Frosty who had an emotionless stare. Aurora stared into his eyes as they glimmered purple. Squinting she felt some sort of dream-like energy in his eyes. An idea popped into her head as she closed her eyes and began to use her magic. That's when her eyes opened revealing pure white. She was suddenly watching the entire scene from above. She saw herself in Frosty's grip, Tantabus gloating from afar, and her mother. She looked at herself before looking back as she said, "Woah, this is new." That's when she heard faint cries. Turning to Frosty she floated through the air before hovering in front of him. The purple in his eyes were displaying something as she used her magic to enter upon what he was seeing. Upon arriving she was once again in a dark area, this time in a forest. "Frosty?" her voice echoed. "Frosty!" She listened carefully as she heard faint cries up ahead. Running she soon spotted Frosty, bruised and scratched up. "Frosty!" she exclaimed as she ran to him. "P-Please! Stay away!" he pleaded. Aurora stopped as she replied, "Frosty it's me." But he didn't seem to take notice of her as he looked past her. Turning to look in his direction she saw a shadow of a pony. "You honestly think you have what it takes to be a Prince, let alone a King?" came a voice. Chuckling followed, "You are a fool!" The pony raced forward before magic caused Frosty to tumble back into hitting a tree. "Frosty!" Aurora exclaimed as she raced to his side. "Frosty are you o-" she began as she reached for him only for her hoof to phased through his body. "What?" she said in disbelief as she tried again. When it phased through she looked at him with a concerned gaze. "You can't see me." she whispered as Frosty groaned slightly. "I'm…plenty capable." he replied. The laughter filled the area, "Please, you're hardly even a man. I'm more capable of taking care of myself and your weak flank than you could ever try." The shadow came closer as Aurora said, "Who is this guy?" Light began to make out the appearance of the pony as Aurora felt her jaw drop.

Standing just a few feet away from him was none other than herself. Her alternate self snickered, "Did you honestly think you ever had a remote chance of having me? You're lucky enough that I even tolerate you as a "friend"." Frosty got to his hooves as he said, "I know I'm not the bravest or strongest changeling but I-" "But you what? Have heart? Give me a break, you're living in a fantasy! A fantasy that will never come true." she replied. She used her magic to strike at him as he let out a painful cry. "No!" Aurora said but stood there helpless, invisible to what was going on. "Aurora, please." Frosty said weakly, "We're friends, more than friends." "I'm sorry Prince Needleheart, you're too late." she muttered darkly as her eyes glistened. Aurora watched with a heavy heart as she thought to herself His nightmare…is me? "I'm not going to fight you." Frosty refused. Aurora huffed as she said, "Coward! A true leader would fight no matter what they're up against, even those they love." She used her magic to cast him aside as he slid across the dirt. Frosty coughed as he said, "I won't fight you." Aurora rolled her eyes. "Then you'll die a coward." Aurora's eyes widened as she said, "No! There's got to be something I can do!" She looked around the area to see if there was anything that could get Frosty's attention. And in the midst of the gray and darkness, she saw something bright. Racing to it she found the petal from a cherry blossom tree. Aurora smiled as she picked it up and rushed back to Frosty and herself. Aurora stood over Frosty as she charged her magic. "Last chance Changeling Prince, stand up and fight." Frosty looked at her with tears in his eyes as he shook his head. "So be it then." As Frosty stared at her he felt his whole world ending before even being struck. That's when he spotted something bright above Aurora's head. It was a petal from a cherry blossom tree. Aurora was flying above her dream self as she held the petal high enough for him to see. And while Frosty couldn't see her, he was reminded of her. His heart thudded in his chest as he used all his strength to stand up. Just as Dream Aurora launched her magic, Frosty used his own to deflect it. "So you're actually going to fight." Aurora taunted as Frosty rolled his shoulder. "No," he muttered, "I'm ending this nightmare." "What!" Dream Aurora said in disbelief. "Though my doubts and fear can overcloud my eyes," he said, "The truth will overcome and set me free. And the truth is that Aurora loves me for me and I am more than worthy of her love, it just took me a little while to truly realize it." Aurora smiled at him as Dream Aurora distorted and shouted, "You can't do this to me! I will always be wavering over you." "Maybe," he replied, "But I'll never let it rule me again." Frosty used his magic as Dream Aurora faded away from his light. He stood there with a confident gaze as Aurora beamed at him. She was suddenly being sucked away as everything went black.

Aurora gasped back into reality as she was still trapped in Frosty's grip. Tantabus was still standing aside as Luna was still trapped in the chains. It was as if time had stopped. But Frosty's demeanor had changed. The purple in his eyes were draining away as he blinked back to reality. He looked at Aurora as he said, "Aurora?" "Frosty!" she exclaimed in relief. He released her from his grip before changing back to his normal self. Tantabus looked in utter shock. "How-How is this possible?" he started, "I had his nightmare directly over brain and eyes. There's no way you were able to enter his dream and resolve it in that short amount of time." Aurora smirked, "You underestimated my power." Tantabus growled as he looked to the Crystal Heart, the blue was nearly gone as he smiled. "I haven't come this far to be stopped now." He grabbed Luna as he tossed her forward. She fell to the floor as her magic began to fade in and out. "I've still got one trick up my sleeve." he said as Luna groaned. "Decision time Princess, save your mother or stop me. You can't pick both." He created shadow blobs as they began to surround Luna. Aurora watched as Tantabus went to the Crystal Heart as she looked back to her mother. "Come on, let's go help her!" Aurora said as Frosty followed her. Luna hazily watched the blobs surround her as they began to close in on her. Just as they were about to attack, Aurora and Frosty worked together to create a large enough light to vaporize them from where they stood.

Kneeling beside her, Aurora tried to help her mother to her hooves. "Aurora?" Luna said softly. "Don't worry mother, we're gonna get you out of these chains and get you out of here." The Queen shook her head as she said, "No. Forget about me and stop Tantabus." "What?" Aurora said in disbelief. "You must defeat Tantabus before he corrupts the Crystal Heart." Luna groaned. "We need to help you first and have you stop using your magic-" Aurora began before Luna cut in, "No. Tantabus must be destroyed before you can free me. What he failed to menion is once the Crystal Heart is completely corrupt with his magic, it'll transfer all of my own into it." "Meaning?" Frosty started. Luna winced as she could feel herself growing weaker, "Meaning I'll never wake again, forever trapped in the dream realm as he once was before." Aurora's eyes were wide before she scowled. Turning to Tantabus he stood over the Crystal Heart. Standing up she said, "Frosty, stay with my mother. I'm ending this now." "Aurora." Frosty said as he placed a hoof on her shoulder. Looking at one another he kissed the top of her forehead before looking back at her. "Be careful," he said. She nodded as she raced towards Tantabus. Tantabus held the heart in front of him with a glimmer in his eye. "Any moment now and I'll be able to truly break free." He heard the sound of hooves hitting the floor as he turned to see Aurora approaching him. He groaned, "You don't know when to quit, do you kid?" Aurora used her magic to create a sword and shield made out of light. She brought her sword forward before getting blocked by Tanatbus's shadow. Pushing her back, she stood her ground. "You manipulated me. You abused my friendship. You betrayed me. You attacked my friends, you attacked my family, and you attacked me! There isn't a punishment worthy of what you've done." she projected. Tantabus hit back as she brought her shield up to defend it. His skin seared as he let out a cry. Growing in size as he said, "You're still the same weak filly I met all those months ago. Do you honestly believe you could stop me now?" She spun the sword in her magic as she said, "Yeup."

The two clashed as the battle ensued. They fought back and forth in the battle of dark and light. Aurora flew over him as she swung her sword at him. She hit the side of his flank as he cried. He tried to pierce an arrow through her as she used the shield to dodge and counter it by cutting through his shadow. With each hit and attack he grew more and more unstable. "You're getting sloppy on me." Aurora taunted. He brought his fist forward before Aurora rid of her weapons and created a ray of light. His hoof shriveled in it as he kneeled to the ground. Approaching him she said, "This is the end of the line for you Tantabus." He scoffed, "Never. There will always be fear and nightmares. And so long as they exist, so will I!" "Maybe, but through light and love, surely we'll be able to overcome anything you even attempt to throw our way." she said. Opening her wings she powered her horn with a mighty glare. Tantabus began to chuckle, "You forget one thing, I know for a fact you don't have enough magic to create a bright enough light to truly get rid of me. It'll take more than a bright light to defeat me." "You're right," Aurora agreed as she started flapping her wings, "But the funny thing about light is that it can reflect on glass-like surfaces and we just so happen to be in a castle made of crystal." Tantabus's eyes widened as he realized he had fallen into a trap. "No." he started. Looking up he realized that they were under a crystal chandelier as he looked back at Aurora. "This-this can't be. This can't possibly be the end." Aurora's eyes burned into his as she gritted her teeth. "I banish thee from the hole you crawled from!" She looked at the chandelier as she shot her magical light towards it. The ray of light flew in the air before hitting the chandelier. Suddenly the entire room started reflecting with light. The room grew bright very quickly as it blinded Tantabus. "NOOO!" he writhed, "I…will…return!" His skin began to boil as the light pierced through his skin. "Not like this." Aurora declared. Tantabus took one last look around the room before he looked past Aurora. He chuckled as he said, "You may have defeated me but you've forgotten one very crucial detail!" His laughter filled the room before he was completely vaporized in the light. Aurora stared at where Tantabus once stood as she let out a heavy sigh.

"Aurora!" Aurora's ears perked at the call of her name. Turning she saw her friends and family slowly piling into the room. And at the front was her father, who was leaning against Sombra for support and a wrap around his shoulder. Joyful tears came to her eyes as she raced to him. "Dad!" she cried as she embraced him. Nova tensed at her strong impact but reluctantly hugged her back. Pulling back she looked at him as she said, "You're-you're alive! I-I thought after the arrow you-you were-" "Dead?" Nova chuckled, "Heh well, the arrow got me just inches above my heart, though I am in tremendous pain still." Aurora giggled slightly as she looked at her family. First she hugged Melissa saying, "Oh Melissa, thank you for being the best squire and friend I can ask for!" Melissa had a small smile as she patted her head. "And what does that make me?" Light joked. Aurora chuckled as the two girls exchanged a hug. "You did it little cousin, I'm proud of you." Light said, pulling back. "I couldn't have done it without all of you." she said. "Where's Frosty?" Mythic asked when he didn't see him near her. Aurora gasped as she said, "Frosty." Turning away from them she raced to where Frosty was sitting, his back turned to her. "Frosty!" Aurora called. As she approached him she asked, "Is she okay-" But she trailed off when she saw Frosty turn to her with tears in his eyes. Concern began to claw in the pits of her belly as she said, "Frosty?" "I'm sorry Aurora," Frosty started, "But the Queen…" He trailed off as Aurora finally came to his side. Looking down she saw that her mother was lying on the floor, motionless. She went to her as she stared at her unmoving body. "Mom?" Aurora said softly as she came to the side where she was laying. Placing a hoof on her side, she softly shook her to try and get her to wake up. "Mom?" Aurora said again, this time with a little bit of worry sticking in her voice. She tried rocking her awake but she remained unresponsive. At this point panic and desperation prickled throughout her body. "Mom, wake up!" Aurora's voice cracked. Luna remained unresponsive as Aurora started crying. "No, no, no, no, no! Mom wake up! I defeated him, he's gone! You should be free now! Why aren't you waking up?" "Aurora." came another voice. She turned her head to see Celestia, Sombra, and Melissa standing a couple feet away from them. The two Royals looked in distress as Melissa held up the Crystal Heart, it was completely corrupted. Aurora's eyes widened as the tears began to pool out faster. "No. No! NO!" she shouted as she looked back at her mother. At this point Nova and Frosty came to her side and began to pull her back from her mother's body. "No! Let me go! It can't end like this! It can't end at all!" she shouted as the boys held her. "Aurora, she's gone." Nova said, choking up at the sight of his wife but trying to remain strong for his daughter. "She can't be gone!" she cried looking back at her, "I-I never got to apologize to her for everything I've ever done! From helping Tantabus to the fight we had all those months ago. I never got to tell her I'm sorry! Because I was so angry and-and-" She hyperventilated as Frosty held onto her. "It'll be okay Aurora." he said, trying to comfort her as best he can. "No it won't! Not without her!" she sniffled as she rammed her head into his chest. She sobbed loudly as the ponies in the room just stood there, mourning and crying where they stood. As Aurora calmed down a bit she opened her eyes as she stared back at her mother. She left Nova and Frosty's side as she went back to her mother's body. Her voice was shaking, "I never got to tell her how much…I love her."

Silence filled the room as Aurora's cry filled the room. It stayed like that for a couple moments, before the sound of hooves filled the room. Everyone but Aurora turned to see Flurry Heart standing at the entrance of the throne room. "Princess Flurry Heart!" they all said. She walked silently as she approached Aurora and Luna's body. Flurry Heart placed a hoof on Aurora's shoulder as she turned to look at the Princess of Love. A twinge of anger came over her as she snapped, "And where have you been for all this? This is your kingdom." "Aurora!" Nova said in a stern tone as Flurry Heart simply gave a soft stare. Looking back to Aurora, she spoke, "I was the first pony to have been trapped under Tantabus's control. It was through me he was able to first enter the real world. I've been trapped down in the bottom of the castle's chambers until just now. And it's because you defeated Tantabus." Aurora sniffed as she looked away from her, "Yeah but I didn't make it in time. The Crystal Heart is corrupt and my mom, she's-" She trailed off as Flurry Heart reached forward and turned her to face her. "Don't be so quick to give up hope, little one," Flurry said, "For as long as you have hope, there is always life." Aurora tilted her head, not understanding what she was going on about. Flurry Heart left her side as she approached Sombra, Celestia, and Melissa. Flurry Heart gave a small bow, "Queen Celestia. King Sombra. Squire Melissa. I'll take this from you now." The rulers looked at one another as Melissa extended the Crystal Heart. Flurry Heart encased it in her magic as she smiled. Running towards the balcony exit, she opened the doors and leaped off the building. She soared to where the Crystal Heart belonged as she placed it down. It sat there as crystal ponies slowly started to come about and surround the heart and Princess. Flurry Heart beamed as she looked at her subjects. "So long as we have hope, there is light." she said allowed. She used her magic as a single heart floated in the air and sank in the middle of the Crystal Heart. Nothing happened until a very very small blue began to flash in the middle of the heart. The subjects all began to smile as one by one they began to bow. This created a magical aura as it traveled to the heart, powering it. And quickly the heart's gray began to fade away and blue came back in its place. It began to spin before creating a burst of light, spreading throughout the Kingdom. The ponies went to their crystal forms as the burst of light traveled to the main throne room. Everyone in the room glowed as they unlocked their own crystal pony forms. They gleamed as they all looked at one another with smiles. Aurora didn't take any notice as her eyes were glued to her mom. A minute passed by as her eye began to strain. Aurora felt hope arise as Luna began to twitch more and more. Her eyes strained open as she began to make out fuzzy images in the room. Slowly, she lifted her neck as she saw a figure standing over her. As she began to make out the image, she saw her daughter sitting over her. She had tears in her eyes as the crystal on her fur began to shine. "Aurora." Luna muttered softly. Aurora laughed through her tears as she lunged forward and embraced her mom. Luna fell back slightly but couldn't help but smile and hug her back. Aurora held onto her tightly as she said, "I love you mom! I'm so sorry for everything." "Oh Aurora," Luna said as tears fell down her cheek, "I'm sorry too. I love you so much." They held onto one another as Nova came beside them and brought them into his embrace. Aurora began to hear voices fill the room but she blocked them out, all she cared about was being there with her mom and dad.

"And begin!"

Melissa raced forward as she brought her hoof down at an attempt to stomp her opponent. But he quickly maneuvered around it and went to bring his elbow down from behind. Melissa easily blocked it and redirected the hit in the opposite direction. Her opponent dragged his hoof before charging forward. Melissa stood there until he got close enough before moving at the exact moment. He crashed into a bean bag as he shook his head. Melissa grabbed some bean bags as she started launching them at him. He was able to counter every throw with a block. They stood off against one another as the opponent attempted another ram. Melissa got ready to move once again, only this time, the opponent leaped into the air. Jumping over her, he landed on the other side as he knocked Melissa down. Melissa looked back up as her opponent held her at guard. After a moment he withdrew from the guard as he looked to the side of the room. "How was that?" Nova was sitting on the other side of the room. Two weeks had passed since Tantabus's defeat and he was recovering well. His arm was in a sling as Nova smiled. "Not bad kid, but it's not over." He tilted his head when suddenly he was lifted into the air and landed flat on his back. He looked back up to see Melissa pinning him down, a blank look on her face. "Now it's over." Nova chuckled. Melissa took a step back as she extended her hoof, "You did better this time. Nice job Frost Needleheart." The changeling took her hoof as he stood up. "Yeah well, there's a reason you're Aurora's Squire." "Don't sell yourself short kid," Nova beamed, "You got potential." "I thought you said you were just gonna pass by?" came a voice. They all turned to see Luna standing in the doorway. She was attire free as she looked better from before. Nova gave a shy smile, "I did and I just so happened to watch and give some tips, that's all." "Mhm." Luna smiled as he went to her. "Besides," Nova said, "As if you're one to talk Miss I-need-to-make-sure-everyone-is-okay-before-I-think-of-myself." Luna chuckled, "For your information I was on my way to get some medicine before heading back to bed but if you rather sleep on the couch tonight." Nova took her hoof as he kissed it saying, "As if you can go one night without my touch." Luna blushed as Frosty approached the two. "Queen Luna, do you know where Aurora is at?" he asked. "She's getting ready to bring out the moon and stars. And I'm sure it'll be a matter of time before going to the dream realm." "With your permission, may I go accompany her before her duties?" Luna chuckled warmly, "You don't have to ask us everytime to go see our daughter." "You're always welcome too." Nova added. His ears perked as he exited the room, waving, "Thank you your majesty!" They watched after him as Nova said, "Good kid." "Yeah, just needs to work on his combat better." Melissa said, appearing between the two.

Aurora had her eyes closed as she took in the area. There was a nice calming breeze as she took a deep breath in. Without opening her eyes, she used her magic as the moon began to rise into the sky. Settling in place, one by one, little stars began to fill up the night sky. The sound of hooves landing came behind her as a voice followed, "I'm heading in for the night, see you tomorrow Aurora." She smiled as she replied, "Goodnight Light." The gray alicorn smiled as she made her way inside the castle. Aurora remained standing on the balcony with her eyes shut. She stood in the silence as she took in the senses around her. She could feel the cool breeze flow in her hair, the smell of lavender carrying in the air, the sound of the wind making a melody like tune. Peace. She thought. Her ears flicked as she said, "Hello Frosty." "Heh, there's no chance of sneaking up on you, huh?" he replied as he stood at the entrance of the doorway. Aurora turned, finally looking at him. "There is, you just got to be light on your hooves." she smiled. Frosty held up a lavender flower as he placed it in her hair. She gazed into his eyes as he got lost in the abyss of her galaxy shimmer. They placed their foreheads on one another as they enjoyed the quiet moment together. "I just came by to wish you a good night before going to the dream realm." he said. "Thank you." she replied. Pulling back Frosty tilted her chin as he brought her in for a kiss. Aurora melted away into his embrace as she said to herself. And just like that, the storm has come to pass. Sometimes it's hard to speak words to the ones you love. But it's one of the most important things you can do. I've still got a lot to learn and I'm sure I'm gonna make mistakes along the way. But one thing's for sure, I will never let my fears and doubts take the lead of me ever again…well except for my mini freak outs. Frosty pulled back as Aurora opened her eyes. He looked at her with a smirk and an eyebrow raised. "What?" Aurora said, thinking she messed up. "Aurora, were you narrating during our kiss again?" Frosty teased. Aurora felt her face flush as she stammered, "N-No! I mean my brain was just you know thinking about how I enjoy being with-" Frosty chuckled as he cut in, "It's okay. I was doing the same thing." Aurora broke into a smile as she gripped his shoulder and brought him forward for another kiss.

And just like that we come to the end of another story from the Lightverse. Gotta say, my job as a writer is to create a story better than the last and I think I can file this as a success! I hope you all enjoyed Aurora's story. It got dark at some points and I even considered k*lling off Luna for good! However, to anyone who knows me, I don't have a heart to do that...yet. There is a high possibility this will be adapted into a audio drama format but not to the extent of Life's a Breeze.

If you enjoy this story, check out my original new cartoon show "Gamma Girl and Friends"! You can check out my new channel "Blue Bird Studios" to check out the upcoming new series and find out how you can support today! Until the next story~