The Clockwork Consequence

by Michy

Chapter VI: Secrets of Midnight City

Chapter VI: Secrets of Midnight City

Chapter 5 Recap: Twilight Sparkle alongside her mysterious new companion Moondancer, have found themselves caught in the middle of a sudden and foreboding regime enacted by Princess Nightmare Moon. With little to no idea what is happening, Twilight has taken the risk to stay within the city against Moondancer's wishes, until she can reunite with her family located in a more distant sector. However, unknowingly, vindictive forces have begun to surround the unicorn as she aims to make sense of this entire mess. All the while, a darker, less matured presence has emerged on stage, bringing with it malevolent consequences of its own.

---

In a distant memory, Tantabus laid on his belly as he relaxed in a furnished bedroom. The lights were all off as to suggest the colt enjoyed spending his time primarily in the dark. Though there was one light source, originating from a glowing box powered by magic, as the colt just laid in front of it with a controller in hoof, giggling as he played some new edition pony game. He had deep black bags under his eyes even back then, as though he looked exhausted, it didn't show in his vibrant persona. He was ecstatic with joy as he played, snickering all the while at that current time. "Hah, take that! This is way too easy for my skill level heh heh!" He bit his lower lip as he began bashing the buttons on his controller while he rolled onto his back and looked at the glowing magical box with a concentrated stare.

But his peace was interrupted, when an unknown figure burst into his room. As the door swung open, a pitch black alicorn now stood, towering in comparison in the open doorway with an impatient gaze. She was wrapped in absolute shadow, as her eyes were all that was visible upon her presence, while her pupils were locked onto the colt specifically. "Get up Tantabus." She trotted forward slowly.

Tantabus flinched of course upon even realizing somepony entered his room, and glanced back absently. "Huh, what do you want Momma? Can't you see I'm playing a game!? Leave me alone, you never let me play around with you anyway." But Tantabus suddenly felt himself rise as he was jerked upward and lunged into a wall at the side of the room. A shadowy black tentacle was wrapped around his waist as he glanced down at it with a shocked cringe. "Ow! W-Wha?" He began tugging at it, desperately attempting to get it off. "What is this!?"

But the impatient alicorn trotted up to him, as the writhing tentacle was seen to originate from her shadow. "How many times must I tell you to address me as Princess Nightmare Moon? But since I have entertained your notion for all these years, I believe it is about time you finally owe me the favor." She glared at him still, though she squinted at the colt also in silent contemplation.

Tantabus gave her a tired stare, realizing quick she was actually serious. "F-Fine fine fine. What is it? W-What do you want?"

Nightmare Moon released him from the tentacle's grasp, before turning around and trotting away as she spoke. "If you succeed, I will not only release you from your castle restrictions, but I will fully acknowledge you as my colt. Would that suffice for you, Tantabus?" As she spoke, the slithery tendril she'd summoned sunk back into her shadow as if it were a mere pool of water, disappearing entirely.

Tantabus' eyes widened exponentially as he was laying on the ground after being dropped by the tentacle. He looked up at her, at a loss for words as he replayed what she said in his head, causing a bright and ecstatic smile to emerge upon his face. "R-Really? Really!? You really mean it!?" Tantabus rose as he began jumping around ecstatically in circles. "Yes yes yes yes!" He placed a hoof upon his chest as he eagerly looked up at her again. "T-Then I'll be official!? You'll let me hang with you!? No more dumb games!? That means we can go to the cities and you'll show me around! I'm so so excited! You finally see how great I am!" He cheered and hugged her leg. "Thanks Momma!"

Nightmare Moon looked down at him, not revealing a speck of emotion. "Do not fail me Tantabus, this is an important task." Though as the colt clung to her leg, she wrapped a hoof around the back of his neck, then regarding him with uncertain conflicted eyes. She spoke with a hint of sincerity. "You have certainly been quite the nuisance in your time as a living breathing pony. But, you are of my essence." She paused, "I must go soon Tantabus, but as my creation, I expect even a task such as this will be of little trouble to you."

Tantabus blinked a bit, realizing he got caught up in the moment. He backed away from her, and coughed into one hoof. "R-Right!" He snickered as he dissipated and broke down his form, then reappearing on his bed nearby, bouncing excitedly. "So, what is it!?"

Nightmare Moon's shift in demeanor was swift, as she was fully serious in regards to his question. "I will inevitably return, but until then I am unable to keep watch nor concentrate on ponies of question here, far closer to home. Which is why I will send you instead." She paused for but a moment as she still focused on him with an uncertain gaze. "This is a simple test for you, but take it seriously."

Tantabus gave her a head tilt of curiosity, still awaiting what she wanted him to do.

The princess continued absently, with little emotion yet again. "There's somepony I need for you to find."

Tantabus continued to listen, still awaiting a bit more information he could go with. But he sighed, "Uh, agaaaain?"

Nightmare Moon closed her eyes for a split second, before focusing back onto him. "And that pony's name is....."

---

Back in the present, Tantabus exited from the ticket booth as his gaze drifted up towards the sky. Though the city was no longer drowned in the sound of sirens, it was still cast in flashing red lights originating from the orbs of magic which brought forth concerned citizens from their homes. But that's not what drew the colt's attention the most, as descending in a slow graceful manner, were snowflakes. The sky had become a canvas of plastered gray, while the stars were no longer visible in the night sky. Tantabus appeared surprised at first, until his expression casually sunk back into one of disinterest, as if he had some sort of realization. He gazed ahead again in a tired manner, while his red scarf rustled with timid winds.

In the distance, he saw Captain Dash standing there upon the platform, leaned up against a steel pillar close to the tracks. He didn't feel surprised by her stern glare either, locked onto him as if he'd committed some sort of atrocity. Her team of other pegasi stood close by, which also wasn't surprising to him. Though, Lieutenant Dust always had some eager smirk, which often made him wonder what was going on in her head. Tantabus eventually glanced over towards the edge of the platform, seeing some of the mass crowd he knew was gathered waiting to be addressed. Many of the nightmare guards were standing upon the edge, as to ensure nopony climbed up or attempted to do anything brash. He sighed deeply, as he began making those sluggish and unmotivated trots forward, realizing that they weren't going to wait much longer. Though he had far more dire matters he was concerned about. Stupid Dash....

You just had to follow me here didn't you? You couldn't just stay back at the castle. He casually waved his hoof, as to create a space between two guards who stood at the center of the platform. He had little to no expression as he did this, merely wanting to get all of this tedious stuff over and done with. He exhaled gradually, before taking in the grand sight of the civilians gathered before him. The sight struck him a little by surprise, as he never expected it to appear so mesmerizing. The entirety of the city looked to be an urban maze, glowing with numerous shades of an endless assortment of colors, while the red overcast was accompanied by falling snow. He stood there in silence for a moment to take it all in, but eventually shook his head as he gazed back down towards the citizens. I wonder who Dash is looking for? Either way, I can't let her steal my chance to win Momma over. You're not taking anything from me Dash. He smirked confidently, as he looked down upon the citizens still. Ambushing me, suspecting me, watching me. I'll show you who's the boss of this city you dummy.

Captain Dash leaned up a bit from the pillar, noticing Tantabus' smile, with skepticism. Wait a second, what is he-

Tantabus opened his muzzle, preparing to address the citizens. "Hey there, ponies of Canter-"

"Excuse me! If I may!" A mare interrupted.

Tantabus flinched, as he gave a look of disgust to the particular pony who'd interrupted him. It was a pure white mare with a mane consisting of pale purple and pure white segments. Tantabus appeared gravely upset. "No, no you may not lady! Wait your turn!"

Though the mare, standing beside her husband, a dark blue unicorn stallion, remained persistent. All eyes were on her as she continued to address the colt, with little to no fear. "For one, you're a colt! For two, I am the mother of Commander Shining Armor!"

Captain Dash, as well as the rest of her squad, all froze, stunned by the proclamation of the mare.

Even all the nightmare guards couldn't help but stagger a little, as if her words struck them like swords to their armor.

Captain Dash, who was still mid questioning of Tantabus' actions, had all her attention drawn by the unicorn mare in the crowd now, as did all of the citizens. The commander's family wasn't already evacuated!? Did the princess not tell him about this!?

Tantabus' nose wrinkled though, as he was the only one who didn't seem to care. He still looked at her with disgust. "So?"

However, Captain Dash was quick to bull-rush the colt hurriedly, and snatch him up by his scarf. "Hey! Show some respect!"

Tantabus glared up at Dash grumpily as he was held. "You're one to talk!"

Captain Dash got in his face still. "That's the mother of Commander Shining Armor, who outranks even you! He was chosen to personally escort the princess on her trip along with Princess Cadence! Not you! So it's probably smart to show his mom some respect!"

Tantabus' brow twitched as he crossed his forehooves eventually, and looked away. "Hmph!"

Captain Dash placed the colt down with a grunt, as she immediately placed a hoof over her chest afterwords, bowing her head to the unicorn in the crowd. "Lady Velvet, Sir Nightlight. I personally apologize for this mess! We had no idea you two were still in the city."

Twilight Velvet, and Nightlight casually made their way through the crowd, as many regarded them both with grumpy stares seeing as they were getting special attention. Though Twilight Velvet glanced up at the platform and Captain Dash in slight irritation, "My daughter is also in the city. I expect that you will help me get to her as well?" The guards helped both the stallion and mare up onto the platform.

Tantabus continued to watch these two grumpily with his hooves crossed, looking no different from the civilians.

Captain Dash's nervousness showed as she was caught off guard by word of a daughter. "D-Daughter?"

Standing nearby, Lieutenant Dust cut in with a whisper towards Dash. "Yeah, name's uh, Skylight or somethin I think."

As she reached the top of the platform, Twilight Velvet nodded to Dash as well and glanced over at the rest of her companions. She'd even turned her gaze to the abnormal colt with suspicion before looking back to Dash. "Yes, my daughter." Though she tried to remain serious it was hard for her to keep a straight face with the entirety of the crowd glaring at her. A sudden nervousness overcame the mare as she couldn't help but chuckle a little as she rubbed at the back of her mane. "Uh, might we go somewhere a bit more private?"

Captain Dash nodded and placed a hoof over her chest again. "Of course!" She glanced back sternly at Lieutenant Dust. "Dust, you watch over the citizens. Brief them as much as you can about the LD." She glared at Tantabus, "And you, you're coming with me."

Tantabus flinched again as he looked at Dash, shocked. "Wha!? Why do I have to go with you!?"

Captain Dash turned to face him momentarily, "Because I don't trust you. I'm not letting you out of my sight Tantabus."

Tantabus scowled a little as he lowered his head in disappointment. "Pft!"

Captain Dash focused on Tantabus a bit more, though she appeared gravely troubled by him. Tantabus, despite being a stubborn colt, still has some respect for authority whether he likes it or not. I guess I have to thank the princess for nailing it into him. Dash's brows furrowed as her nose wrinkled a little. If I recall, negative energy feeds Tantabus, I need to be careful not to get him to a point where he can cause harm to me or the citizens. What was the princess thinking having him watch over an entire city in a scenario such as this? It's crazy.

Captain Dash sighed and looked back to Twilight Velvet again worriedly. And now I need to make sure we're able to recover Lady Velvet's daughter, still ensure the LD goes smoothly, and find that pony before she ends up getting away, if she hasn't already. This is all getting so tedious. Captain Dash turned to face her again fully. "This way Lady Velvet, there's a restaurant near here, we can go there." Captain Dash trotted on past her, as Twilight Velvet and Nightlight didn't hesitate to start following her. As the group trotted away, Captain Dash glanced back at Lieutenant Dust, nodding to her as thanks, and acknowledging Cloudchaser and Flitters as well with two more silent nods.

Lieutenant Dust smirked still and saluted Captain Dash swiftly, before heading to the center of the platform. "Aaaaye Everypony!"

Whereas Corporal Cloudchaser and Specialist Flitters saluted silently and seriously, having utmost respect for their captain before making their way a bit closer towards the center of the platform along with Lieutenant Dust. But they stood further in the back.

Captain Dash looked ahead again realizing quickly she had no need to worry when it came to members of her squad. The three made their way further from the scene of commotion, in order to get to an area a little more private. The more they drifted from the location where all the citizens were gathered however, the more Dash realized how much other parts of the city nearby had become a ghost town. But Dash froze as she realized another thing she'd forgotten while gazing ahead. She stomped a hoof, "Tantabus! Get over here right now!"

Tantabus whom was still standing near the center of the platform, growled beneath his breath and lowered his head as he tiredly and sluggishly began to follow after Dash. He kept his eyes on the ground, and like a pouting child, muttered the whole while along the way.

The group of four, now made their way towards a more deserted area, to speak casually about current matters.

---

Eventually, they reached an emptied out restaurant with pale yellow lighting, as Tantabus and Captain Dash sat across from the couple. Captain Dash had her eyes closed but slowly opened them, sitting respectfully as she spoke. "You can ask away Ma'am."

Tantabus sat bored, with one cheek leaned onto a hoof as he absently rotated a fork on the table with a tired stare. There were even still plates of warm food upon empty tables around the restaurant, as most chairs at other tables were toppled over as well.

Twilight Velvet nodded to Dash, as she glanced over to her husband. "Honey, anything you'd like to ask first?"

Nightlight gave Velvet a blank stare, before looking over to Dash worriedly. "For starters, what's happening?"

Captain Dash nodded to him, crossing her hooves over the table. "For awhile now, it's been no secret many ponies out there don't agree with the princess' methods of ruling. Some say that it's against what Equestria was founded upon. Others feel they're commonly mistreated, and some just don't like how they've been treated compared to the past." Dash glanced down at the white table cloth for no particular reason, as if simply letting her thoughts flow from her muzzle. "There's no doubt in my mind Princess Celestia was far more kind than Princess Nightmare Moon, and even more so, far more tolerant of Equestria's enemies. But, whether I believe that's right or wrong is a different story." She looked seriously to Nightlight and Velvet. "What the princess does is sometimes questionable, but I assure you it isn't just about tyranny. She has a reason for all her actions, and this regime, this sudden plan enacted by her, is no different as well."

Twilight Velvet squinted a bit at Dash as she seemed skeptical. "You still haven't told us what's happening though."

Captain Dash sighed, nodding in agreement as she continued. "R-Right. What's happening now, is a far more impulsive and strict regime enacted by the princess. It was planned in the dark, without citizens knowledge, and it's happening in every major point in Equestria as we speak. It was done so the princess could more accurately pinpoint the location of her enemies, and perhaps weed out any that may be in hiding." She glanced back down at the table cloth, "Of course, before the alicorn showed up, there was little to no reason for the princess to act in this manner. She is acting out of fear that her rule may be overthrown, and as a result, has even left to pursue a lead she's found in a more distant region." She focused back on Velvet and Nightlight. "I have no idea when she'll be back, but she will be."

Twilight Velvet flicked her hoof off the side of her own head in a estranged gesture. "What!? W-What is she thinking!? Many of the citizens won't stand for being trapped as prisoners in their own cities! Does she have any idea how much backlash she'll get from this!?"

Captain Dash rebutted immediately and with little tolerance for Velvet's reaction. "According to who? We the guards are fully compliant with the princess' demands, who's to say majority of the citizens won't be the same?" She tilted her head to the right, having a stern gaze. "Yes, the princess is not in the right mindset right now but who wouldn't be? This alicorn directly threatened her rule. Princess Nightmare Moon has ruled over Equestria with an iron hoof, but she's also kept us safe from outside threats. Would you rather act out against the princess and help some unknown alicorn overthrow her? Possibly leave Equestria's seat of power empty for foreign enemies to take? How do you know if this alicorn isn't even worse than the princess, or has worse intentions? All you're doing is assuming the worst!"

Tantabus looked at Dash in surprise while remaining silent. He had no idea she was so loyal to what he considered his mother.

Twilight Velvet leaned forward on the table as she spoke in a soft yet direct tone. "Listen Captain, I don't care what sort of logic you use to justify this behavior, but it's wrong whether you see it or not. I'll most certainly have a talk with my son about what he thinks about all this once he returns with the princess. Speaking of which, if I am right and there is backlash, then how will the princess deal with it hm?"

Captain Dash went back to focusing on the table cloth in silence. Yet her eyes were empty and full of certainty, as she gazed back up towards Velvet, carrying that tired gaze back up with her as she spoke sharply. "Then we'll deal with it, as we always have."

Twilight Velvet flinched, thrown off by Dash's sudden change in demeanor. Though as she acknowledged the pegasus for a few seconds further, she was hit by a harsh and frightening realization. "You, y-you're, you're hoping for a backlash... You want a resistance!"

Captain Dash glanced down. "If they harbor thoughts of rebellion, then they were never loyal to begin with."

Twilight Velvet slammed her hoof on the table. "This is wrong Captain! You can't force the citizens into a corner and then bunch them all up into the same category as the real villains, just because you're supportive of some crazy sense of rule!" She held a hoof in front of herself in question, shaking her head at the pegasus. "And if she isn't even here! Who are we expected to trust to take care of us during all this!? Who's to keep the order while the princess is away looking for some unknown alicorn nopony else knows about huh!?"

Tantabus smirked for a split second, not saying anything but being utterly pleased by the current atmosphere.

Nightlight placed a hoof against Velvet's side in a comforting manner. "C-Calm down Honey."

Twilight Velvet glanced back at Nightlight apologetically. "Sorry Sweety, I'm just getting a bit emotional is all."

Though while Velvet and Nightlight got mushy, Captain Dash reached into her armor and pulled out a scrunched up map, before unwrapping and unveiling it to them. It was a map of Equestria, where all the major cities were circled in red. Canterlot had a big red circle surrounding it, as did Manehattan, Fillydelphia, Baltimare, Vanhoover, and Tall Tale. The Frozen North was completely blocked out by a thick purple line, whereas the San Palomino Desert, Macintosh Hills, and the Badlands specifically were blocked out by a red border. Captain Dash placed a hoof over Canterlot, "All cities encircled in red are, much like Canterlot, now considered sectors. Each city has a supervisor until the princess returns, which we hope means that this situation won't escalate any further when she does. Until then however, each of these red zones is under the care and rule of its directed supervisor. In which we can ensure no citizens who might harbor thoughts of rebellion can escape and form some meager alliance in the open lands. This keeps everything nicely constricted until a dream sweep can take place. This also ensures if the princess is wrong about her lead, then the the alicorn who could possibly be hiding out in one of these major cities, still needs to unveil herself to avoid capture. Once every city has been cleared, then things can return to normal." But Dash's eyes fastened on Canterlot. Unless Dust is right, and I capture her first here and now, making up for my failure and ending this all tonight.

Twilight Velvet leaned back, skeptical, as she sat comfortably in her seat again. "Then who's Canterlot's Supervisor?"

Captain Dash' expression sunk firmly as she refused to glance over at Tantabus, but it was written all over her face.

Tantabus still didn't say anything, as he continued to rotate and play with the fork on the table.

Twilight Velvet couldn't get the hint at first, as she only looked at Dash confused. But as she began to realize what the pegasus was implying, as looked to the colt in disbelief and shock, then back at Dash. "What!? This little child!? Does she take us for a joke!?"

Captain Dash sighed again. "Ma'am, despite what you may believe, Tantabus is one of the most capable of ensuring no fights break out in the city. As you've probably noticed he is unlike other ponies, and has a unique school of magic which can prevent even magic duels from breaking out." She frowned still however. Why she thought he was mature enough to not be supervised himself is another question.

Twilight Velvet looked to Tantabus then for an explanation. "Do you have anything to say for yourself in all this!?"

Tantabus continued to lean his hoof against his cheek in a bored manner. "Nope, sorry Lady...."

Captain Dash gave him a tired stare still, in even further disbelief by how unfit she felt he was for this job. Captain Dash wanted to move on from Tantabus being the topic as quickly as possible, so looked back to Velvet. "Ma'am, do you have any other questions?"

Twilight Velvet placed a hoof over her head in a distressed manner as she shook her head. "No, no I don't think I do. I believe I've learned all I've had to over the course of this madness." She looked to Dash seriously, "For now, all I want to know is what's happening in the north eastern area of the city, my daughter lives up there. If possible, I'd like to go and retrieve her before she ends up panicking."

Captain Dash waved her hoof absently as she spoke. "That can be arranged." She backed away from her seat, relieved that this discussion was finally over. Now perhaps she could finally get back to focusing on what she came here to do, and finding out about that alicorn who possibly lived here. She could just take Dust with her, and perhaps Tantabus in case things got complicated. Corporal Cloudchaser and Specialist Flitters were a bit lower ranked to be supervising an entire area of the city, but maybe it'd be a good test for them. Dash continued to think about such things as she made her way away from the table, heading now towards the door. "Let's make our way back to the train station, I'm sure Lieutenant Dust is still in the middle of answering questions after her briefing, that's almost certain."

Twilight Velvet nodded to Dash as she looked to Nightlight, "Let's go Honey." She then scooted out from the table much like Dash, as she began to trail after the pegasus as the two were busy making their way towards the exit of the empty restaurant, back outside.

Nightlight began to mimick Velvet's movements as he prepared to trail after her.

But Tantabus interrupted his actions with a curious inquiry. "Hey Mister?"

Nightlight's eyes widened a bit as he glanced over at Tantabus. "O-Oh, uh, hey kid. What is it?"

Tantabus looked at him in a curious manner. "You've lived here for a long time right?"

Nightlight nodded to the colt promptly. "All my life, why do you ask?" He raised a brow curiously.

There was a brief momentary silence between the two.

Tantabus leaned forward a bit, almost pleadingly with a whisper. "You know where I can find somepony?"

Nightlight looked a bit thrown off by the question, still having a raised brow at the colt. "Hm?..."

---

As Captain Dash and Twilight Velvet reached outside far earlier than the other two, they stood alone in a small deserted block of the city. Though the area was still filled with light, there were no signs of commotion which was good to Dash. This must've meant Dust was doing a great job handling the citizens, which she wasn't surprised about anyhow. Dust was always such a social mare, that handling distraught citizens was probably her secret calling in life. Dash couldn't help but humor the thought as she stood there, but also took a second to acknowledge the beautiful scenery of Canterlot City, which always appeared so mystical whenever she took the time to visit it.

Twilight Velvet looked troubled as she stared at the restaurant door. "What's taking those two so long?"

And as they finally emerged, Captain Dash glanced over towards the entrance for no particular reason, or perhaps just to absently assure herself Tantabus was still there. As she saw him, she nodded and then turned back towards the direction of the train station.

Twilight Velvet groaned softly as she peered at Nightlight in annoyance. "What were you doing in there!? Chatting it up!?"

Nightlight frowned as he scratched at the back of his mane. "No, don't be so dramatic!"

But as the colt and stallion stood there, Tantabus ensured to tug at his tail suddenly.

Nightlight's eyes widened as he glanced back and down curiously at the colt. "Hm? What is it kid?"

Tantabus looked up at him gleefully, filled with satisfaction. "Thanks a lot," as his form started to break down progressively. The sound which accompanied his dissipation was eerie, and abnormal, similar to that of crackling flames. "You really helped a lot."

Twilight Velvet called back out to him, "What're you two doing!? Hurry up!"

Captain Dash, also finding it suspicious they were taking so long also glanced back again. "Hm?"

Tantabus continued to disappear while his excitement never faded. "Now I can do what I came to, without any worries."

Captain Dash's eyes widened slowly as she turned swiftly, and spread her wings while gritting her teeth. "Move!" She lightly pushed Velvet aside, causing the unicorn to stumble and barely catch herself on her hooves still, as Dash prepared to launch herself forward.

Twilight Velvet glared at the pegasus, as she snarled, leaning her head back some. "H-Hey! What's with you!?"

But Dash didn't answer, as with a push on her hind legs and a flap of her wings, she surged ahead at a crackling speed.

Tantabus continued to smile, looking up at Nightlight. It doesn't even matter if Dash is here n- but Nightlight was hurriedly thrust aside as Captain Dash immediately latched onto the colt, which caused him to cringe heavily in shock. "Guess I spoke too soon?"

Captain Dash was in a passive rage, staring blankly up at the colt. "Where do you think you're trying to run off to, Tantabus?"

But Tantabus' nervousness dissipated quickly as the colt chuckled. "You're still such a big dummy head, Dash."

Captain Dash' eyes widened as she continued to hold the colt up, but raised a brow as her gaze drifted to his tail, which was outstretched in an abnormal manner. The purple ethereal essence flowed, reaching out and looming over the two as the colt's tail had already taken on another shape. Captain Dash had only just noticed that a dark shadow now hung overhead as she glanced up, only to see a large misshapen purple claw, twitching and curling in its sharp appendages, eager to grab at something, anything. Dash was hit with the realization, as she immediately tossed the colt away in a split second, and leaped back as the claw came slamming down upon the pavement.

Twilight Velvet called out to the pegasus in concern. "C-Captain!? What're you two doing!?"

Captain Dash snarled as she was still in mid leap, gritting her chops as she was focused on the large manifested claw the colt had created. It dug into the pavement, and broke stone tiles as if they were but clumps of clay. Her gaze slowly drifted back to Tantabus whom all the while, in that split second as he'd been released, smiled with bright beady eyes at the pegasus, before putting on a cheeky smirk. That smirk was all that was needed to send the pegasus into another burst of rage as she caught herself on the ground, landing on one of her back hooves and pushing off again as she attempted to reach for the colt in another burst of speed. "You're not getting away runt!"

But with no movement required, Tantabus' claw shaped tail, flicked one sharp appendage upward, hitting the pegasus in the belly and causing her to surge up into the air. As the colt landed, he stood upon his hind legs, before spreading his forehooves and looking up at her towards the sky. He let off merry laughter, as snow continued to descend down onto the pathway. "Hahahaha! You're so dumb Dash! You want the city so bad then you can have it! I've got better things to do loser!" And slowly the colt began disappearing again, fading.

Captain Dash spread her wings, as she came to a screeching halt midair, then pushed off it as if it were simply another surface, and desperately attempted to reach the colt still. She bit her lower lip as she realized just how far she'd been sent up by his counter.

Tantabus continued to laugh gleefully. "You're always so mean! But it only makes me better than you! Too bad you're too dumb to see that!" He paused, "The city! The other ponies! I don't care about that stuff! But you do! So have fun with it you jerk!"

And as Captain Dash finally reached the colts position, she slammed into the ground, only hitting the pavement and empty air.

Tantabus had faded entirely in that precise moment, only to leave behind final mocking words. "See you later! Loser Dash!"

Captain Dash gritted her teeth again as she was upon the broken pavement, looking down at the ground in disbelief and pure agitation. She knew he was here for another reason! She'd grown careless! Even if the princess sent him here, the mere idea she trusted him to be on his own in the first place infuriated her, and in that blind fury Captain Dash slammed her hoof upon the ground, letting off a furious howl. She began repeating the action as she continued to scream, slamming that one hoof upon the ground continuously.

All the while, Nightlight laid on the ground not far off as he was still a little overwhelmed, and filled with shock.

And Twilight Velvet looked at Captain Dash with concern, not even sure what that whole mess was about.

---

Meanwhile, back at the station, Lieutenant Dust continued to answer citizen's questions. She looked entirely comfortable being the center of attention as well, as she chuckled merrily and pointed to many citizens like some teacher. "You there! With the funny coat haha!"

Corporal Cloudchaser and Flitters stood a bit off in the background. Though Flitters seemed extremely annoyed with Dust as she glared at her, whereas Cloudchaser glanced over at her sister. "Hey Sis, do you think it's a bit too easygoing right now? How do you think the guards in the other parts of the city are doing? For such a strict protocol, the citizens are acting much better than I expected."

Flitters glanced over at Cloudchaser. "Not everyone hates the Princess you know. Like Captain Dash says, we shouldn't always assume the worst about how the citizens will react, and if they do, we'll deal with it like always." She huffed with a deep and heavy sigh, before looking back to Lieutenant Dust. "Besides, if they haven't gone crazy hearing the Lieutenant yet, then, I doubt anypony is harboring thoughts about betraying the princess. I wonder what's taking the Captain so long anyway? I want to hurry up and get out of here."

Cloudchaser looked towards the ground, as she seemed contemplative, and a little more worried than usual. "Y-Yeah..."

While Lieutenant Dust continued to have fun with her situation, picking anypony she wanted out of the crowd with glee.

But despite the calmness of the situation, particular figures in the crowd remained hidden amongst the others. They wore thick white hooded drapes, and all had those hoods raised. Holding their drapes together at the center were sun shaped pendants. As they remained silent and stood towards the back, two of these ponies in particular looked at one another, nodding simply, then pressing forward.

Comments

[Betshet]

Wow, heavy stuff here. The whole strict regime thing is giving me a strong 1939 feel. You start by pointing a mutual ennemy and tightening the security, and then you make arbitrary accusations in order to move your ennemies out of the way and establish a reign of terror. That's how the 3rd Reich and the URSS began.
Involving Twilight's parents and making them important ponies is also a very good idea. The fact that the "alicorn" she is searching for is in fact related to the guard she trusts the most... That's sure to drive NMM wild.
Great job.

[Hyperkirbytwo]

keep up the good work.

[pahnazd]

Whelp, Tantabus evolved into an incorporeal form. And that's not even his final form.

Nice chapter though, quite an enjoyable read!

Also, white hooded figures. ASSASSINS!
Stuff is getting more convoluted. Weehee!

[Seizure Specialist]

Ok, so what the fuck's with tantabus?

[JavaScript]

I wonder how Velvet and Night will end up reacting to their daughter being an almost exact copy of Classic Sparklebutt.

Makes for some interesting internal conflict.

[Backlash91]

I liked the chapter but....wow...it was short and rather suddenly over....I can respect your reasoning behind the shortness though.

[WezzaHD]

There's a part of me that wants to see Tantabus succeed in this, you just wrote him to be so charismatic, even if Dash disagrees.

[TheDriderPony]

"Is it better for a ruler to be feared or to be loved?"
"Either can work, so long as they avoid being hated."

Not too sure which path NMM is trying for.

Nice chapter, needs a quick once-over from a grammar editor, but not bad overall.

[sakonaga1]

6918189 URSS? Do you mean USSR?

[Betshet]

6918637 Oh yeah sorry, I forgot that's how it is called in English

[sakonaga1]

6918644 it's ok. I always liked to think of it as United States of Soviet Russia Can't wait for the next chapter

[Elsaack]

6918654
Yeah, I hate acronyms from other languages translated to english. It doesn't make sense to me. Like ISIS, why translate the name into a flattering for us form? That's why I call them Daesh instead, true to the arabic and insulting to them.

[Iron Comet]

I just like that Tantalum just asked the first stallion he ran across for advice. I have a feeling the little bugger has been surronded by mares his whole life.

[magicstorm4]

not sure I get what going on with captain dash( not my top any fave no offence) but I hope it going to end soon she has way too much attitude lately and with the situation going the way it is what is going to happing to twilight when she is found out, (if it going the way I think)

I just hope luna is going to all right after al this with celstai ( bad speller sorry). please update when u can please

[Myrtylbrother2]

Yeeessssss it is here

Time to read

[Myrtylbrother2]

I'm guessing its twilight that's getting hinted at but idk

This was a fun read keep up the good work!

If you feel shorter chapters are the way to go I support you in that decision.

More story plz.

[terrycloth]

6919228 The Russian for it would be SSSR.

[Bumblebee Tuner]

I didn't read this chapter a carefully as I should... I might re-read it tomorrow.

[Elsaack]

Да, СССР «Союз Советских Социалистических Республик» б русский яазык.
Sorry, couldn't help myself, SSSR is the correct english, russian just uses different letters to make those sounds. Back on the topic.

I can't tell if Dash is trying to stop Tantabus because she wan'ts to be the one to find the alicorn first of that Tantabus' method is so horrible she feels she has to stop him. Both seem very loyal to Nightmare.

[Spiritus Arcane]

Twilight Velvet proves to have bigger balls than most of Equestria right now. She might not be actively resisting (yet) but she's definitely seeing the writing on the wall as to where NMM's regime is going, and nearly said as much to Dash's face.

[ArcaneGadget]

Nightmare Moon closed her eyes for a split second, before focusing back onto him. "And that pony's name is....."

Or was that just me? XD

[Lauralite]

Chapter VI: Secrets of Midnight City PreviousChapters Next
Chapter VI: Secrets of Midnight City
Chapter 5 Recap: Twilight Sparkle alongside her mysterious new companion Moondancer, have found themselves caught in the middle of a sudden and foreboding regime enacted by Princess Nightmare Moon. With little to no idea what is happening, Twilight has taken the risk to stay within the city against Moondancer's wishes, until she can reunite with her family located in a more distant sector. However, unknowingly, vindictive forces have begun to surround the unicorn as she aims to make sense of this entire mess. All the while, a darker, less matured presence has emerged on stage, bringing with it malevolent consequences of its own.

Am I the only one who read this in the Pokémon Narrators voice?

[Leonzilla]

...then the the alicorn who could possibly be hiding out in one of these major cities, still needs to unveil herself to avoid capture. Once every city has been cleared, then things can return to normal." But Dash's eyes fastened on Canterlot. Unless Dust is right, and I capture her first here and now, making up for my failure and ending this all tonight.

"The" x2

[crossed]

Nightmare Moon closed her eyes for a split second, before focusing back onto him. "And that pony's name is....."

MOONDANCER CENA!

[Helljumper206]

White Hood wearing ponies blending into croweds stalking the gaurds

Ponys creed

[Rising Shine]

Oh dear, wonder tough if Tantabus is hunting for Twilight or not

[AMuffinlover]

Tantabus had faded entirely in that precise moment, only to leave behind final mocking words. "See you later! Loser Dash!"

oh wow, loser dash, she just got roasted

[the other sans]

Dash' brows furrowed as her nose wrinkled a little

1. Dash's.

[Misty Spell]

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But despite the calmness of the situation, particular figures in the crowd remained hidden amongst the others. They wore thick white hooded drapes, and all had those hoods raised. Holding their drapes together at the center were sun shaped pendants. As they remained silent and stood towards the back, two of these ponies in particular looked at one another, nodding simply, then pressing forward.

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