Cosmos and Galaxia: The Birth of a Kingdom (MLP AU)

Chapter 20: The Chains of Fate

              The aftermath of the battle left Canterlot in a state of cautious recovery. The city, though scarred by the recent conflict, began the process of healing and rebuilding. The sun's rays illuminated the streets, a stark contrast to the darkness that had once threatened to engulf them. Yet amid the renewal, the fate of Nocturnus remained unresolved.

In the grand hall of Canterlot Castle, a somber assembly had gathered. The room, normally a place of celebration and diplomacy, was now filled with an air of gravity. The high ceilings, adorned with tapestries of past victories, seemed to echo the weight of the moment. Cosmos, Galaxia, Queen Vega, and Empress Amore were present, along with the representatives of the allied kingdoms and the citizens of Canterlot.

At the center of the hall stood Nocturnus, restrained by chains of shimmering light. The chains, a creation of Galaxia's magic, glowed with a soft, blue luminescence, holding him in place and dampening his dark powers. His once-proud demeanor was now marred by defeat and the weight of his confinement.

Galaxia stepped forward, her expression solemn as she addressed the assembly. "Nocturnus, you stand accused of crimes against the kingdoms of Equestria—of treason, of assault, and of an attempt to plunge our world into eternal darkness. The question now is how we will ensure justice is served."

Nocturnus's eyes, filled with a mixture of anger and resignation, scanned the room. "Justice?" he spat. "Is this justice or mere retribution? You cannot imprison the night."

"We do not seek retribution," Cosmos replied firmly, stepping forward beside Galaxia. "We seek to protect our lands and ensure that such darkness cannot threaten us again."

The trial was swift but thorough. Evidence of Nocturnus's actions and the consequences of his dark magic were presented. The witnesses included those who had fought on the frontlines, as well as those who had been directly affected by his attacks. The testimonies were heart-wrenching, painting a vivid picture of the chaos and suffering Nocturnus had caused.

Despite his attempts to justify his actions, Nocturnus's defense was weak against the overwhelming evidence of his transgressions. The assembly, guided by a sense of justice and the need to protect their future, reached a unanimous decision.

The sentence was announced by Queen Vega, her voice carrying the weight of authority and compassion. "Nocturnus, for your crimes against the kingdoms and the peace we cherish, you are hereby sentenced to life imprisonment. You will be held in the deepest confinement within the heart of Canterlot's dungeons, bound by magical chains that will suppress your powers. This sentence will ensure that you can no longer threaten the light of Equestria."

The news of Nocturnus's imprisonment was met with a mixture of relief and sorrow. While many were glad to see the end of the threat, the reality of holding such a powerful being in captivity was a sobering thought. The leaders of Equestria, however, remained resolute in their decision, believing it to be necessary for the safety and future of their kingdoms.

Cosmos and Galaxia, standing together as the newly crowned rulers of Canterlot, looked out over their city. The streets, though still bearing the marks of battle, were filled with the signs of recovery and hope. Their people were beginning to rebuild, to repair the damage, and to forge ahead into a new era.

As the sun set over Canterlot, casting a golden glow over the city, Cosmos turned to Galaxia. "We've faced great darkness, but together, we've come through it stronger. We will ensure that Canterlot remains a beacon of hope and light for all of Equestria."

Galaxia nodded, her eyes reflecting the warmth of the sunset. "And we will remain vigilant. The shadows may retreat, but we must always be ready to protect what we've built."

In the depths of Canterlot's dungeons, Nocturnus was led to his new confinement. The cell was a stark, cold place, lined with walls of enchanted crystal that glowed faintly in the dim light. The chains binding him were not only physical but also magical, designed to suppress any attempt at escape or use of dark powers.

As he was placed within the cell and the heavy door was closed behind him, Nocturnus's eyes burned with a mixture of anger and defiance. "You may have won this battle," he said through gritted teeth. "But the night will rise again. It always does."

With those final words, the cell was sealed, and Nocturnus was left alone in the shadows of his confinement. The once-mighty alicorn, who had sought to engulf the world in darkness, now faced the eternal solitude of his imprisonment.