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

Chapter 42: The Setting of the Trap

                     The tension in Canterlot was palpable as Nightshade's forces regrouped, preparing for their next assault. Though his initial attack had faltered, the dark general's influence had only grown stronger. Rumors spread like wildfire of powerful allies being summoned to his side—beings of ancient power that could tip the balance in his favor.

Within the castle, King Cosmos and Queen Galaxia held council, their once-unshakable confidence now tempered by the grim reality of war. Advisors filled the grand chamber, but the air was heavy with unease. At the heart of this unease sat Nocturnus, his presence a constant reminder of the kingdom's fragile unity. His near-assassination had sent ripples of suspicion through the court, though no one dared voice their doubts openly.

Seated beside Galaxia, Cosmos looked weary, his normally vibrant expression weighed down by the burdens of leadership. His voice, when he spoke, was calm but carried the gravity of the situation.

"We cannot afford division now, not when Nightshade grows stronger by the day," Cosmos declared, his gaze sweeping across the assembled council. "This kingdom was forged on the unity of our people, and it will be saved by that same unity."

A murmur of agreement filled the room, but beneath the surface, the cracks were widening. Duke Starfire sat in silence, his eyes dark with hidden intent. Though his attempt on Nocturnus's life had failed, his resolve had only deepened. He knew that as long as Nocturnus held power, Canterlot would never be safe. But now, he had to tread carefully. Nocturnus was watching him, and any misstep could reveal the depths of his treachery.

Galaxia's voice cut through the tension. "We must focus on strategy. Nightshade has retreated for now, but we know he won't remain idle. His next move will likely involve those allies he's calling upon, and we need to be ready."

Nocturnus, who had been standing quietly to the side, stepped forward. His presence still unnerved many of the council members, but he spoke with the authority of someone who had long understood the mind of their enemy.

"Nightshade is biding his time," Nocturnus said, his voice low but commanding. "He's gathering forces that could tear through Canterlot's defenses. If we're not proactive, we'll be caught off guard."

There was a brief silence, and then Starfire spoke, his tone cold. "And what would you suggest, Nocturnus? You who once stood with Nightshade—how can we trust that your advice will not lead us into a trap?"

The question hung in the air, heavy with accusation. Nocturnus turned to meet Starfire's gaze, his expression unreadable. He knew Starfire was behind the attempt on his life, but now wasn't the time to expose it. Instead, he spoke with a calm intensity.

"My loyalty to Nightshade ended the moment I saw the destruction he would bring," Nocturnus replied. "I have made my mistakes, but I stand with Canterlot now. I will do whatever is necessary to protect this kingdom."

Galaxia, ever the peacemaker, placed a hand on Cosmos's arm, giving him a subtle nod. Her calm voice cut through the tension. "The past is behind us, Starfire. Nocturnus has proven his commitment. We need to trust each other if we are to survive what is coming."

Starfire's jaw tightened, but he said nothing further. The moment passed, but the seed of distrust had been planted deeper.

Later that night, as the castle slept, Starfire met with his most trusted confidants in a secluded part of the city, far from prying eyes. The failed assassination attempt weighed heavily on his mind, but he was determined to finish what he started.

"Nightshade grows bolder, and Nocturnus plays the hero," Starfire muttered bitterly. "But we know the truth—he's still a threat to everything we've built."

General Marcellus, standing at Starfire's side, nodded in agreement. "The council might be willing to forgive, but I'm not. His presence weakens us, and we can't afford to show weakness now."

Starfire's gaze hardened. "Then we don't. I have another plan—a more subtle approach this time. We'll remove Nocturnus quietly, away from the battlefield. No grand gestures, no obvious signs. Just a quiet disappearance."

Lady Selene, ever the strategist, raised an eyebrow. "And how do you intend to do that without raising suspicion? The court will notice if one of their key allies goes missing."

Starfire smiled coldly. "Leave that to me. I've already arranged for certain... circumstances to unfold. All I need is for Nocturnus to take the bait."

Marcellus looked intrigued. "And what bait would that be?"

"A personal offer," Starfire replied, his voice dripping with mock sincerity. "He's a prideful one. If I appeal to his need for redemption, he'll be easy to manipulate. Once I have him isolated, we'll deal with him, and Canterlot will be rid of this shadow."

The plot was set in motion, a web of deceit spun ever tighter around Nocturnus. Starfire knew the risks, but in his mind, they were outweighed by the potential reward: a Canterlot free from the lingering threat of Nocturnus and his dark past.

The next morning, Starfire approached Nocturnus, his demeanor uncharacteristically cordial.

"I owe you an apology," Starfire began, his tone smooth. "I've been... distrustful of your intentions, but recent events have made me realize that I may have judged you too harshly."

Nocturnus regarded him warily, sensing the shift in Starfire's demeanor. "What's brought on this change of heart?"

Starfire gave a slight smile. "The realization that we cannot afford division. We're both here to protect Canterlot, and if you'll accept my apology, I'd like to offer you a way to prove that."

Nocturnus's eyes narrowed, suspicion gnawing at him, but he nodded slowly. "What do you propose?"

"There's an area just beyond the city—an old fortification, abandoned for years. I believe it could be of strategic use, but I need someone with your experience to assess its value. If we're to outmaneuver Nightshade, we need every advantage we can get."

Nocturnus frowned, considering the offer. It seemed simple enough, but there was something about Starfire's sudden change in tone that made him uneasy. Still, the idea of contributing something tangible to Canterlot's defense appealed to him.

"I'll look into it," Nocturnus finally agreed.

Starfire's smile widened. "Good. I knew I could count on you."

As Nocturnus left, Starfire's eyes gleamed with cold satisfaction. The trap was set.