We did.

…Who are you, anyway?

No, We’ve been rather distracted with Arcel…

The Lunar Republicans are a joke. Equestria HAS to be ruled by a god, otherwise everything will fall apart. Look at the Everfree Forest. Without a divine on the throne, all of Equestria will become like that…

Yes, We’re back.

*Swats at Loluna.*

We have to be with Arcel now. He’s been through a lot. Galaxiour’s a big god, he can take care of himself. Sorry…

If he’s still in trouble later, though, We’ll try and help.

He’d better be…

Thank you. It’s good to be back.

You aren’t exactly in the position to make demands, now that We are again Nightmare Moon. But We will humour you. What is this promise you seek from Us?

How can We help you, and how can you help Us?

*The shadow severed from Arcel flys rapidly away from Ponyville and into the Everfree Forest, drawn like iron to a lodestone toward it’s former mistress. It reaches the clearing where Nightmare Moon is standing, then flows into her. Her former powers bind to her new body, shifting and transforming it until she stands, for the first time since her separation from Luna, as true alicorn.*

My power! It is even greater than it was before! BUAHAHAHA. *Dramatic lightning.*

*The Old Mare again steps out of nowhere.*

Nightmare Moon: Is it done? Is he safe?

Old Mare: Of course, dearie. Granny keeps her promises, don’t you fret. He’s just getting his wind back, that’s all. He should be right as rain in a little while. Now, for your end of the bargain…

*She holds out a small black seed, which Nightmare Moon takes. As soon as she holds it in her hoof, it burrows into her body. She winces for a moment in pain.*

Nightmare Moon: That stings… But We will keep Our promise. When We face Celestia, We will use the seed like you showed us.

*Grandmother grins wide, then vanishes.*

Old Mare’s voice: Good girl. I’ll be watching and waiting to see you shine…