An Extended Holiday

by Commander_Pensword

112 - Give us Something Sweet to Bite

Extended Holiday
Ch 112: Give us Something Sweet to Bite
Act 16

---

“So, my dears,” Grif said as he stood before Shrial and Avalon in his costume. The enchantments had been added less than an hour ago, and he couldn’t help but give them a smile. “Do I frighten you?” His voice had been altered to come across in a thick Scottish brogue by an enchanted pendant around his neck.

“Oh, I don’t know. What do you think, Shrial?” Avalon asked with a curious quirk of her eyebrow.

“I rather like the tall, dark, and brooding.” She chuckled. “It fits the mood rather well. I wonder, Avalon, does Gryphonia have a Nightmare Night of their own? After all, Princess Luna did do a rather large number on the emperor’s troops back then.”

“They’re too proud to admit it. Though there is the night of the Shadow Haunt.”

Shrial shuddered. “They still tell that story?”

Avalon nodded the affirmative. “Sometimes the oldest last the longest.”

Meanwhile, two tiny cubs looked up at the altered appearance of their father, and growled playfully as they tried to bat at the glowing gauntlets.

“Now then,” Grif said as he turned his attention to his cubs, “lets see what we can dress you two up as. Perhaps a pair of bats?” He smiled at them.

Both girls cocked their heads in sync as they let out a confused murmur.

“I’m not so sure the girls would appreciate being constricted by a costume like that, Grif,” Avalon pointed out. “After all, they are their parents’ daughters.”

“True, but we need to find something for them. I was hoping we could attend the earlier festivities as a family, before I get trapped in storytelling,” he said as he pulled the two up by his pauldrons to let them nuzzle him.

“Why not try something like a sphinx?” Avalon suggested. “They already have the bodies of lions to go with it, after all.”

“I suppose. We’d just need to find them some headdresses.” Grif chuckled as he leaned down to the girls. “What say you, my pretties?” he asked.

The twins churred happily as they tickled their tails under his beak.

“And what of you two?” he asked Shrial and Avalon.

“Well, seeing as you’re such a birdbrain for that Arthur fellow, and for this Tolkien, Avalon had a little idea,” Shrial said with a playful smirk.

“Oh? I suppose a surprise is in order, then?” Grif chuckled.

“Enough to bewitch the mind, and ensnare the senses,” Avalon said with hooded lids, and a dramatic wiggle of her talons.

“Then I will take these two, and find a pair of proper headdresses befitting mighty, noble beasts, while you two get ready,” he said, scooping up the cubs, and flashing the two gryphonesses a devil-may-care grin. “I sense great fun on the horizon this night.”

“By the pricking of my thumbs,” Avalon started.

“Something wicked this way comes,” Shrial finished.

“Shall we, Sister?” Avalon asked as she extended a hand.

“I do believe we shall.” The two laughed together as they flew out the tower towards Ponyville. “We’ll be back soon!” Shrial called out as their voices faded on the wind, and they shrunk into the horizon.

---

Vital Spark stared nervously at the stone mask hovering in Clover’s magical grip. His garb had been set, though something had gone wrong with the application of the pomade. Instead of the slicked-back look he was going for, his hair had been styled in what looked almost to be a natural briar patch of mane. It both flowed and jutted in equal proportions, and the pendant Rarity had included in a final shipment caused it to look even longer as his eyes glowed red.

“I appreciate the sentiment, Clover, but that mask seriously gives me the creeps.”

“It’s a mask that uses pressure points in the head to turn a regular person into an undead monster. Why would it not be creepy?” she asked him.

“Wait, are we talking legitimate dark magical artifact, or are we talking prop designed to look like the legitimate magical artifact?”

“Yes, Vital Spark, I am completely insane, and have handed you a real dark magical artifact from my vast collection.” She rolled her eyes, and groaned. “Why do they always have to be so paranoid?”

“Because, if we weren’t, we’d be just like everypony else you hate?” Vital ventured as he gingerly took the mask. Its resemblance to the source material was downright frightening, although this one had been fashioned to fit down a Pony’s muzzle as well, so it wasn’t an exact replica. “How did you even get ahold of that manga, anyways? I thought Grif kept it under lock and key.”

“I’ve traveled with The Doctor,” she said, as though this should cover everything that needed to be said.

“Okay, I can’t argue with that one,” Vital agreed. “It’s still incredibly weird to be dressing as a villain for once, though. I’m just glad I’m not the arrogant jerk this guy became.” He shuddered.

“Power breeds arrogance. The difference is how we express it. Hammer Strike expresses it through indifference. Celestia expressed it through inaction. This Dio character simply expressed it in a more outright fashion.”

“Just don’t ask me to do an evil laugh, okay? I’m no good at those,” Vital said as he looked at himself through the mirror. As a whole, the costume wasn’t half bad, though he supposed he was a little scrawny compared to what the Pony equivalent likely would have been.

“Honestly, I’ll be glad to get this all done and over with,” Clover said. “This holiday makes no sense.”

“It’s for the fun of it, Clover. Speaking of which, who or what are you going as?”

“I’m much too busy for that sort of thing, Vital.” Clover rolled her eyes.

“Too busy to have fun with your friends? Come on; it’s Ponyville. It’s not like you’re going to be assaulted by nobility there. Well, except maybe for Pinkie Pie. You know how excited she gets about her parties.”

“I have important experiments to run, Vital,” Clover insisted.

Vital narrowed his eyes. “Okay, Clover, what’s really going on?”

“Nothing’s going on,” she said, rolling her eyes yet again. “I just have experiments that are on a very short schedule.”

“You know, you could always try teaming up with Time Turner. I hear he’s always experimenting on one thing or another in that clock tower,” Vital teased with a sly wink as he made his way to the door. “But seriously, is there really nothing I can say to make you reconsider?”

“Have fun, Vital Spark,” was all she said in reply as she turned to her bench, signaling the conversation was over.

Vital Spark sighed as he opened the door. “Your loss. I’ll see if I can’t bring back some goodies for you later.” With one final look in her direction, he crossed the threshold, and closed the door behind him.

Meanwhile, Clover ran across her open book once again. They really had chosen the worst night for such a holiday. After all, it was the only night she could safely resume communications with . . . them, and she felt, after the last attack, she’d need to contract their power again. She turned away from the page depicting a triangle formed of three orbs, one occupied by what appeared to be an old man with a cane, another of a lady in flowing blue robes, and the third of a demonic goat-like figure with large curved horns.

---

Pensword stood in the middle of the room. A dusty and faded tricorner hat sat on his head. His once white mane had been turned black, and a busy black beard had been grown as well, courtesy of Twilight. He had been careful to get the beard braided and waxed into strands with magic fuses burning in them to cause smoke to curl out. He had a large heavy duster, with bandolier that housed four flintlock pistols, thanks to the loans he’d gotten from Grif and the others. A large cutlass hung at his side In a weatherbeaten scabbard, ready for use at a moment’s notice. Thanks to another spell, his eyes glowed with a yellow light as he glared at the doors. “How did you all pull this off?” He pulled out the sword and found that the tip had been broken off. He prayed Hammer Strike would never find out. There were few things the smith lord hated more than an ill-maintained weapon. He let out a sigh of relief as he got a closer look at the blade’s crafting. There was no sign of the smith’s mark. That meant this sword wasn’t of his making. Hopefully that would give him some leniency in the matter.

“Magic?” Lunar Fang offered as she exited the room. She wore a dark blue long coat with a purple brassier tied around her chest to keep true to the pictures from the book. A black bandanna slanted over her right ear, and her mane had been done up in a braid that hung over her right shoulder. A cutlass hung on her side with her tomahawk on the other. A single flintlock had been holstered across her chest to let any potential “enemies” know that she meant business.

“Dear, when did you get a flintlock?” Pensword asked as Moon River leapt from the shadows, and jumped on her mother’s back, grinning as she squeaked softly in Lunar Fang’s ear.

“Hammer strike gave it to me not long after the attack. I suppose he figured it would be better to have it available, should the situation demand.”

While Lunar Fang answered, Pensword looked at his daughter’s costume. Another tricorn hat sat on her head to complement an open overcoat jacket with a white lace shirt. A series of thin golden chains around her neck rounded the look nicely. True to her usual habits, her toy crossbow remained on her back. And while it didn’t fit the books on pirates from Earth, it allowed her the opportunity to be her own pirate. After all, wasn’t one of the reasons for being a pirate to flaunt the rules, and be your own person? A wooden sword hung from her side, painted to look more like a real blade. “I take it this is to avoid scaring the other mothers?” he asked as he motioned to the sword.

“We’re visiting Ponyville tonight. I think they’re going to have enough frights from being invaded by new Unity. Best to give the parents a little break,” Fox Feather spoke as she stood in the doorway, looking more like a barmaid then a pirate captain, but the dagger stuck into one of the cloth foreboots hopefully would prove enough to deter anyone from making any moves in a drunken state. Though, even lacking her usual weapons, Fox Feather was still a force to be reckoned with. A wooden plate was attached by the fake belt to her back, with wooden mugs attached to the plate.

“Dear, you really are wearing the booze a little thin,” Pensword answered.

“Please,” Fox Feather sputtered, “a drink that can hammer us would kill a human. Hay, normal fruit punch gets fermented in your gut.”

“Don’t remind me,” Pensword muttered, then sighed. “Still, I suppose it is your costume.”

“And my first Nightmare Night,” Fox Feather added. “I have to say, I’m only doing this because Princess Luna told me she likes the holiday.” She giggled. “Besides, where would I put my candy?”

Pensword blinked as he looked at Fox Feather. “I forgot this was your first Nightmare Night. That would explain the other Demon Slayers wishing to watch the base tonight. Still, on the plus side, I think the High Chieftess will be visiting Ponyville some time tonight. She loves entertaining the foals.”

Inigo walked out wearing all black, with a facemask, and a shirt with sleeves that stretched all the way down into his boots. To top it off, a wide-brimmed black hat added that final element of mystery, allowing him to cut a very striking figure. Pensword couldn’t help but smile as he looked on the foal. The costume reminded him of a mix between the Dread Pirate Roberts and Zoro from Matthew’s memories. A thin rapier with a hoof guard hung at the young foal’s side to make use of, should the occasion arise. Its lighter nature would make it easy to manipulate with his pale wings.

It was at that moment that Pensword realized one very important fact. All of his children were blank flanks. “Oh no,” he groaned.

Day Moon and Cristo walked out dressed as simple sailors with daggers at their sides. Each carried a large wooden chest between them. The lid had been propped open, most likely to hold all the booty they would be getting that night in the form of candy and treats. They smiled at their uncle, and Pensword couldn’t help but smile back, despite his worries over the potential treatment Diamond Tiara might try to give them. “Where did you get your chest?” he asked.

“Clover gave it to us when we asked her if she knew a way to help keep things light, even if there’s a lot of stuff inside,” Cristo spoke

“Clover . . . gave you a chest?” Pensword deadpanned.

“Well, she more or less tossed it at us when Moon River started to cry, after she said she was too busy with experiments, but I think Moon River was faking it, just to get her to make the chest,” Day Moon responded. Since the trio had agreed to be pirates on Moon River’s crew, the tin plates had been reshaped to create some patches of light armor that would fit in with the theme of piracy, like pauldrons and bucklers.

Inigo shook his head. “I think I caught her smiling, after she tossed it at us. So, maybe she wanted to see what we were willing to do to get the chest?” He rubbed his chin in thought, and sighed. “Adults are weird sometimes.”

Pensword chuckled. “That sounds like Clover, all right. Heart of gold, but stony of face. And don’t any of your tell her I said that, or I will ground you to walking for a week,” Pensword threatened in a low growl.

He was shocked as his children replied with cheers and agreements, not to mention an overall excitement for how well the tone matched his costume. He couldn’t help but smile at how well they handled the pressure and threats. It must have been the Thestral blood in their veins. “Well, let’s get to the courtyard. We need to be ready to move out soon.”

“Yes, sir!” the foals said with eager salutes as they snatched up the chest, and made their way into the hall with Moon River grinning cutely from her perch inside. It seemed Clover’s spellwork was holding up rather well, if the expressions on the other foals’ faces were any indicator. Pensword chuckled, and made a note to thank the mage later for her kindness, before placing a wing around either of his wives, and joining his children. A night of merriment and excitement was just around the corner, and he could hardly wait.

---

Rarity and Sweetie Belle stood behind a large screen in the newly restored storeroom. True, it had been a bit of a costly venture, but Rarity was confident she’d be able to earn the money back easily enough, once the next fashion season came in. That, and all the costume commissions she’d received for this year’s Nightmare Night would surely be enough. The scent of freshly varnished wood and sawdust filled the air. And since the room had only recently been finished, it proved an ideal place for Rarity to put the finishing touches on Sweetie Belle’s costume. After a few more minutes of primping and fussing, Rarity took a step back to admire her handiwork. “I think you’re finally ready, Sweetie. Go on, and have a good night with Hammer Strike, okay? Just be careful not to get too far away from him. If you get separated, I’ll be helping Applejack at the apple bobbing contest, okay?”

“I know, I know,” Sweetie said as she rolled her glowing yellow eyes. Then she smiled. “Thanks for all your help, Sis. I really appreciate it.” She gave Rarity a big hug, before making her way towards the storeroom door. “I can’t wait to see what you’re going to be this year.”

Rarity laughed. “See you soon, Sweetie Belle. Just be careful not to eat too many sweets, all right? We don’t need a repeat of last year.”

Sweetie shuddered. “Yeah, I know. I don’t want to be that sick ever again.”

“That’s my girl. Now go have some fun.”

“See ya later, Rarity!” And with a final slam, Sweetie Belle was gone.

Hammer Strike rolled his gloved hoof as he worked on securing the last of his costume in place. Once Sweetie Belle was done with her preparations, she would come to his office, and they would then head to the courtyard to meet with everypony else. After that, it was off to Ponyville.

The door to his office banged open as Sweetie Belle rushed in, then leaped up to hug the stallion. “Thank you so much for letting me be your partner tonight, Hammer Strike. We’re going to be some of the coolest Ponies there!”

“And the least expected, too.” Hammer Strike chuckled. “Don’t forget the nickname. It really completes the set.”

“I guess I can call you Mister B, then. You’re gonna be my big brother soon enough, anyways, aren’t you?”

“That is correct, yes.”

“Just wait till I cook you two your after-party breakfast!” she said cheerfully.

“I look forward to it,” Hammer Strike chuckled as he grabbed his helmet. “Thankfully, with all the enchantments, you should still be able to understand me without me having to open the vents in the helmet.”

“That’s gonna make it even better when we meet the others.” She grinned. “I can’t wait to see what Princess Luna thinks of our costumes.”

“Neither can I,” Hammer Strike replied, before putting on the helmet. He twisted it to the side, and it clicked into place. A soft green light filled the room, accompanied by a low rumbling groan as the crystals and their enchantments took effect.

Sweetie Belle hopped up onto his back, and giggled as she lifted the syringe in her telekinetic grip. “Let’s make this the best Nightmare Night Ponyville’s ever had!” she cheered.

---

Pensword looked to the troops that would be staying behind, namely the Demos and the Demon Slayers. Well, minus Kahn. He was Faust knows where.

“If a Pink Demon shows up, let her party around, and dance with her. However, this is the main problem: If we have Ponies knocking for candy, give it out from the giant barrels there.” He pointed to six full large barrels overflowing with sweets. “Give generously. They will have traversed through the Everfree Forest, so they deserve rewards.”

“How many foals do you think are going to come out here, honestly?” Forward Scout asked.

“You mean other than the foals that live in New Unity?” Espionage asked with a quirked eyebrow.

Before anypony could say anything, they heard a large knocking at the door. Pensword grinned. “Well, colts, go hand out the candy.”

“Huh. Whadda you know.” Forward Scout shrugged, and headed to the door.

“Poor fool didn’t realize how far kids will go for candy,” Grif spoke up behind Pensword as he approached with a twin on each wing. They both wore a gold-painted cardboard headdress.

“Do I have to answer a Riddle or something?” Pensword asked in response. “Also, I agree. Foals do come all over the land for the hope of candy.” He smiled knowingly. “Well, I guess we are waiting for Hammer Strike now.”

“And vital,” Grif noted. “Also, Shrial and Avalon are still getting ready.”

“Very true. I hope we don’t meet any ninjas,” Pensword muttered as he looked back at his family of pirates.

“Not keen on seeing how that feud would end?”

“And most likely they will be foals that I know, and I don’t want to scare any of them any more than I will with what I have right now.”

“Did someone say scary?” Vital Spark asked as he smirked cockily, exposing two sharpened fangs as his eyes glowed scarlet. Cold seeped into the air as he walked past, and his cape flapped dramatically as he took off the mask. “Hello, everypony. How do I look?”

“You’re a Ken doll?” Grif asked as he let out a chuckle.

Fox Feather giggled as she gave Vital a flirtatious grin, and bumped against his flank with her hip. “Nice fangs. You’ll snag a Thestral tonight for sure.”

“You dare to insult the ultimate life form? I have transcended above all of you miserable creatures!” Vital said as he grandstanded for all he was worth.

Pensword spoke his first words in Draconic. “So you’re Shadow?” he asked.

Vital Spark facehoofed. “Pensword, you ruined it.”

Lunar Fang hid a smirk behind her hoof. “Now you’re just aiming for a Thestral warrior mare.”

“Besides, boy,” Grif said as his eyes glowed, “you’ve got a few centuries before you're ready to play with the big boys as far as vampires go.”

Vital kicked a stone, and sighed. “Killjoys. Can’t you let me be cool just once?”

Pensword looked confused. “Why am I a killjoy? And you do realize that some Thestral mares like that talk and fangs on a Unicorn, right?”

“You have to work for it,” Grif said bluntly. “So, now it seems just Hammer Strike, Sweetie Belle, and the girls have to come, and we can go.”

A low groan filled the air as heavy footsteps made their way towards the main doors of the castle. The doors opened to reveal a Pony version of the old fashioned deep sea diving suits; however, a very large drill replaced the standard hoof gear, attached to metal rails that would allow it to slide up and down along the forehoof to allow walking when not in use. A similar design had been included on the other hoof as well.

Pensword gaped. “Is that a rivet gun? How can you see? There have to be at least eight portholes in that diver’s dome!” The helmet was essentially a large bulb with a wire cage around it, and a row of six portholes right down the middle in two columns, each three deep, with two extra holes added in the middle to make a row of four. His whole body had been covered in the material, making it look like it could easily function underwater.

Hammer Strike groaned in response.

“Nod up and down?” Pensword asked, "or shake no.”

Hammer Strike groaned once again as Sweetie Belle chuckled. “Hi, guys,” she said as she hopped up on top of Hammer Strike’s diving helmet. Her cute little bow drooped on her mane as her ragged dress rustled in the breeze. Her eyes glowed an unwholesome yellow as she waved. Her hooves appeared to have been spattered in some sort of dark substance, whether dirt or fake blood was unclear. A long syringe with a glowing red holding container hovered in the air next to her. “Like our costumes?”

“As long as you don’t start calling us angels,” Grif said.

“Why’s that?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“I’ll let Mister Bubbles explain it to you later,” Grif said. “Now where are those two?”

A low whisper carried on the winds, and echoed in the party’s ears in a language Grif knew all too well from his time as a human. A few moments later, Shrial descended. A long flowing black headdress trailed down her neck, and played freely in the wind as a shining pendant of silver and crystal glowed faintly in the torchlight. Her dress was a simple grey, studded with little glowing crystals to replicate a gentle white light. “Greetings, devil slayer,” she said with a playful smile. “How do I look?”

“You look amazing, my dear,” Grif said, approaching her slowly. “A vision of starlight given form.”

“If you like this, then you’ll love what comes next.” Shrial smirked as a white speck gradually drew nearer, circling gently on the thermals. A shimmering aura surrounded the lady as she dropped lower and lower to reveal a beautiful white dress with careful trimming designed to billow and move with the winds her focus manipulated around her. Even as Avalon landed on the ground, the eddies continued to play with her dress, giving the impression of floating in water. A sword in a sturdy leather sheath lay in her talons. Its pommel had been formed into the shape of a dragon’s head with a giant polished ruby held in its jaws. The gilding along the hilt and crossguard portrayed the flames of the dragons that were purported to have forged the weapon. A crown of teardrop sapphires had been tied around her head, and she smiled as she curtsied to Grif.

“Greetings, and fair fortunes to thee, Dark Knight,” she said with a smile.

“It seems that this beast shall have beauty for his company tonight.” Grif grinned as he pulled them both in. “Shall we?”

“Are we all assembled?” Avalon asked.

Grif looked to Pensword. “Is anyone missing?”

“Well, I’m not sure. I think we’re okay?”

“Oh!” Fox Feather gasped, then laughed. “I invited Link and Zelda to come along with us. Epona said she had to close up shop, so she won’t be able to make it till later. I hope you don’t mind having them along.”

“We’re here!” a familiar voice called just at that point as epona trotted to the gate with link and zelda following close behind. A plain homespun white dress with blue symbols stitched into the hem fluttered in the wind. Two sturdy sets of horseshoes clopped on the ground behind her as she made her way towards them.

“Epona, I thought you said you couldn’t make it till later,” Fox Feather said in surprise.

“Link and Zelda insisted on helping.” Epona laughed. “The things these two can do when they put their minds to it is just amazing.”

Pensword blinked, then leaned in to whisper to Grif in Draconic. “Taze, you do see? I am not seeing things? Link . . . is that a green tunic he’s wearing? And the cap?”

“It looks that way.” Grif nodded.

“Look at Zelda,” Vital whispered. “She’s the spitting image of Sheik. She’s even got the harp.”

“Okay . . . if anypony sees a fairy, we are running,” Pensword muttered. “Or some triangle of gold starts glowing.”

“Technically, they were pixies,” Grif noted. “And, honestly, Ganondorf rising from the dead to try and take over the land in a rule of chaos and darkness? That wouldn’t even register in the top ten of weird stuff that's happened since we got here.”

“Yes, but in those situations, we would somehow be powerless to stop him, and it will be up to one person to win. I don’t like that, especially since I run the military with Luna’s help.”

Fox Feather bapped Pensword on the head. “Stop talking like a dragon. Save it for the kids. Remember, you’re helping with the haunted house.”

“Yes, dear,” Pensword replied sheepishly in Equish.

“Isn’t it funny that she still hasn’t picked up Draconic?” Grif asked Shrial with a chuckle.

Hammer Strike groaned in response. After a moment, he reached up, and twisted the helmet with a soft click. “There we are. For now, I’ll leave some additional vents open.”

“Getting a little toasty in there, Hammer Strike?” Vital asked.

“Nope. I figure you all would prefer to understand me, for the time being.”

“Hey. My sister’s marrying Big Macintosh. You learn to translate his eeyups and nopes. The groans of a Big Daddy might as well be Shakespeare.” Grif chuckled.

“Yes, but I’m positive that isn’t the case with everyone else.”

“I do concur. All I hear are groans,” Pensword answered. “But I am glad at least one of us can understand him.”

“Actually, make that two,” Sweetie said. “Hammer Strike did some special enchanting, so we can talk to each other while he’s wearing the helmet.”

“You're going to have him sneak up on Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, aren’t you?” Grif asked.

“You think it’ll be too much?”

“It’s going to be up to Hammer Strike, if he wants to,” Pensword replied, only to be blinded as Lunar Fang kissed him on the muzzle.

“Meh, it’s karma.” Grif shrugged, and ruffled Sweetie Belle’s mane. “I figure she owes Sweetie Belle a solid here.”

“Do you think the drill would be too much?” Hammer Strike questioned as he brought his hoof up, and slid the drill into place.

“Well, that depends. Are you planning on getting close enough to do harm, or just scare–?” Vital started.

The drill on Hammer Strike’s hoof whirred to life, and the motor rumbled menacingly as it revved up to speed, before coming to a calm stop.

“Nice. I’m going to have to stay nearby to watch this in action,” Fox Feather said with a notorious giggle. “I’ve heard about this foal, and I’d say she deserves a good scare.”

Vital Spark groaned. “Why do I get the feeling something tonight is not going to go well?”

“Probably because it’s a Tuesday,” Zelda said as she pulled down her mask. “Weird stuff always happens on a Tuesday.”

“Between me and Hammer Strike, we could probably take out a zombie army with just what we have on us. I think we’re safe.” Grif chuckled.

“Please don’t mention zombies,” Pensword muttered. “I really, really dislike them.”

Link just pulled out his wooden sword, and held it dramatically in his hoof, before letting out a mighty yell as he lunged forward, and attacked a scraggly patch of grass. Surprisingly, the grass bent, then broke, and fell over in a single gust that rendered the stalks rootless.

“If he can do that with wood, I shudder to think what he could do with a real sword,” Vital Spark said in Draconic.

“What would have scared me more was if he found rupees or candy from cutting the grass,” Pensword replied.

“Well, we’ve stood around talking for a few paragraphs longer than necessary. Let's get this show on the road,” Grif said as he placed a wing on either of his wives’ backs, and let the little ones settle calmly as they giggled to one another.

“Wait, what?” Pensword asked. “That sounds like something Pinkie Pie would say.”

“It’s Grif, Pensword. What would you expect? Pinkie always was his favorite,” Vital pointed out.

“Well, all right. I suppose you have a point.” Pensword turned. “Get that door open, Demos. And no drinking till we get back!” he barked as he prepared to march with his crew of pirates towards Ponyville. He grinned, looking to Moon River. “Ready to have fun, my little captain?”

Moon River just nodded with a confident smirk as the foals cheered, while Link spun in a circle with a victorious yell. The gates boomed open, even as the Demos wept, and the party marched on to Ponyville, and a night of candy and adventure.

---

Ponyville was full of activity, as was usually the case on Nightmare Night. Houses were decorated with spider webs, jack o'lanterns, and other such things. Foals moved excitedly around, showing off their costumes, and attempting to gain candy at the various doors (or a muffin in the case of the Hooves family, but they were just as sought after) in the market place. Stands normally full of fresh fruit and vegetables had been decorated and lined with pumpkin pasties and other treats in the spirit of the season. There would be no salesponies tonight. As was tradition, everything offered was free for everyone to enjoy.

Games had been set up, and groups of Ponies tried eagerly to hit targets with a spider, or get the projection just right on their board makeshift catapults to hurl their pumpkins to the desired spot. Music played on a nearby stage, provided by the legendary DJ PON3. Overall, the atmosphere was one of joy and calm as the group made their way into town.

“Looks like the girls really went all out for the presentation tonight. I didn’t know Octavia even had an electric cello,” Vital Spark said as he looked toward the stage, where the two partners played spooky and upbeat music, complete with acrobatics.

“Aye. It’s a very pretty picture.” Grif chuckled as he worked on getting into character. “Makes you wonder how many of them are wearing a mask.”

“Are we speaking literal or metaphorical?” Vital asked.

“I don’t know, but I am prepared to give a speech or story about the outfits.” Pensword paused, and switched to Draconic. “I can’t wait to get our military tech to the civilian tech levels.”

Vital rolled his eyes. “Not yet, Vulpix,” he groaned. “Besides, tonight should be about having fun, not focusing on tech advancements and army building.”

“And I have a few stories that need to be told on this night.” Grif chuckled as he returned the group to Equish. “Isn’t that right, my dears?” he asked the twins. Both of them giggled, and sliced at the air, while making threatening noises that really made them sound all the cuter.

“They’ll be the most adorable little terrors at the carnival,” Avalon said with a smile as she ran a talon under each of their beaks.

“Just wait till they get old enough to start training,” Shrial said.

“Yes. And then we’ll see just how much damage they can do.” Grif chuckled as he nuzzled each of them. “But for tonight, they’ll have to serve as intimidation, I fear.”

“But they’re so cute!” Vital said. Athena proceeded to nip his ear as Grif walked by.

Vital winced. “Okay, might have deserved that one,” he admitted.

“So I guess this is the place where we split up,” Grif noted. “We’re headed to The Punch Bowl to set up.”

“I think Moon River and the foals will want to do some candy gathering first. Meet you at the punch bowl later for the tribute ceremony?” Pensword asked.

“We’re not obligated to do the tribute part,” Grif noted. “We’re not collecting candy, and I think Luna would appreciate the stories as a tribute more, anyway.”

“Do you want us to at least share some of our candy with you?”

“We’ll be fine.” Grif chuckled. “Well, I’ll be. You’d have to ask the girls. The twins are too young yet.”

Pensword looked to Shrial and Avalon. “So, can I give them some candy later on, or should that be holden to next year?”

“Definitely next year, Pensword. This is a crucial stage in setting up a proper diet for them. We’d rather not ruin it by getting them hooked on sugar,” Avalon said.

“You have no idea how hard it is not to have any when I have to nurse these girls,” Shrial said with a shudder. “Denying a girl chocolate cake for that long should be a crime.”

“When the girls are weaned, dear, I promise we’ll find you the best chocolate cake we can,” Grif said as he kissed her cheek. “Even if I have to bribe Celestia’s pastry chef to get it.”

“You flatter me, stranger,” Shrial said playfully as she pecked him on the cheek. “Such a warm response from one who’s supposed to have such a cold heart.”

Pensword shook his head. “Well, you have fun. We’ll meet up when we are done with our candy run. Okay, children, cast off! We set sail for adventure!” He drew his sword, and swished it about in the air to the cheers of his motley pirate crew mates, before they made their way as a family into the carnival and the homes of the square to seek after those delicious treats.

Vital Shrugged. “I guess I’ll just sort of nose around a bit, see what the celebration’s like. This is my first Nightmare Night, after all,” he said with a wink. “I’ll catch you guys later, Grif.” With a casual salute, Vital disappeared into the crowds as he navigated towards the booths and party tables.

---

“Well, I guess I might as well start at the classics,” Vital said to himself as he approached the star-studded red tent with its sheltering entry flap. There wasn’t any sign of rain, but he supposed this just was how most of these types of fortune teller tents were designed. A purple-pink mist flowed out from inside, and a musty darkness kept him from seeing whichever Pony was in charge of the readings this year, at least from the entrance. He casually walked in, and, eventually, approached the table, though there was no sign of the fortune teller just yet.

“Hello?” he called.

“Welcome, wanderer. If you’ve come seeking knowledge about your future, and what it may hold, you’ve come to the right place.” Blue smoke that smelled strongly of lilac filled the room as the familiar voice echoed. “You have come to the Omniscient and All-knowing Madame Trixie!” The smoke cleared as quickly as it came in, and there, sitting on the opposite end of the tent, was Trixie, dressed in a powder-blue robe, and a matching turban with a red feather sprouting from the front center.

“Exchanged the Great and Powerful for the Omniscient and All-knowing, eh, Trixie?” Vital asked with a chuckle. “I might have known you’d be asked to run this tent.”

“Trixie knows that sometimes titles must be exchanged for the sake of the character. You do not come to one who is powerful to see the future, and you don’t go to one who is omniscient to move mountains.”

“Or defeat giant ursas?” he teased.

Trixie blushed, and cleared her throat. “Yes. Well, have you come to Madame Trixie to have your future seen, or simply to laugh?” she asked.

“Naturally, I came to see my future. You know, I’ve never once been to a fortuneteller’s tent at a carnival before. And better yet, this is my first Nightmare Night,” he said with a wink. “Do you think you can help make it a memorable one?”

Trixie blushed a little deeper. “W-well, we shall see what we shall see. First, Madame Trixie needs her crystal ball!” Trixie’s horn glowed, and a ring of candles on the table before them lit in perfect sync. Smoke far too thick to come from simple candles began emanating from them. “Spirits! Hear Madame Trixie, and send unto her the orb that shall light this poor pilgrim’s future to her!” As she spoke, she gestured dramatically with her hooves, and the pillars of smoke coming from the candles swirled together. Instead of rising, the smoke seemed to billow into the center of the table, forming a perfect spherical shape. Trixie suddenly brought her hooves heavily onto the table, and the candles extinguished. The smoke dissipated to reveal a large glass orb glowing an almost haunting raspberry light before them.

Vital whistled. “Very nice,” he said appreciatively.

“You don’t spend years putting on a stage show without learning how to be flashy,” Trixie noted.

“I’m curious, though. How did you change your magical aura? Or is this part with the assistance of another Unicorn from town? Or is it, perhaps, as they say in show biz, smoke and mirrors?”

“A good magician never reveals her secrets.” She chuckled. “Now, shall we see what the spirits say about your future?”

“Do lets. I’m rather excited about this.”

“Place both hooves on the table, and, no matter what happens, do not do magic. It will interfere with what Trixie will see,” she said with more dramatic gestures over the ball.

“From past to future, and future to past. All time is an eternal round,” Vital said cryptically as he placed his hooves onto the table. “Let us see what the wheel of fate has to show, shall we?”

Trixie’s eyes glowed in unison with the crystal ball as she gestured, her voice becoming eerie and dual-toned. “Great knowledge and adventure lie in your future. Weather the storm, for the path to power is slow, but you shall see the end.”

“Considering we’re both being taught by Clover the Clever, I’d say that’s definitely an accurate statement,” Vital agreed.

“Love will follow you like the waves follow the wind. Be warned, for the tide will swell, and you must avoid being swept up in the waves. Many will profess their love for you, but the direction in which you sail is your own choice.”

That one made Vital blush. “Okay, I guess I deserved that one, after the teasing,” he admitted.

“You have traveled far, and will travel farther still. As you have said, time is an eternal round. Be ready for the first step, and don’t shrink back from it.” Vital Spark missed the eerie ripple that went through Trixie’s voice when she said that.

“Anything else?”

“Danger will soon come to you. Be wary of the colors blue, orange, and purple together. Be wary of the song from the sea. It will seek to bind you. Beware.” With that, Trixie let out a gasp, before falling back as the crystal ball sparked a few times, before exploding into a cloud of smoke.

“Um . . . Trixie, are you okay?” Vital asked, after a few seconds.

“Fine!” Trixie shot up immediately. “Trixie is fine. That was . . . completely intentional. Trixie meant it all for the performance. Yes, the performance!” She grinned as she drew herself up, even as her eyes darted nervously back and forth. “And how did Trixie do? Did she startle? Did she amaze?”

“You certainly did an amazing job,” Vital Spark said with a nod. “Though I think you might want to add confuse to the list. Which is good!” he added quickly. “A fortune shouldn’t always be straightforward, after all. Sometimes they need an air of mystery.”

"Trixie thanks you for your praise. Unfortunately, Trixie is sure there was quite a line up behind you, and she must set up for the next person,” she said.

“Of course, of course,” Vital agreed. “The work of a fortune teller is never finished. Many still seek the counsel of the Omniscient and All-knowing Madame Trixie. I shall leave the mighty medium to her work. May you find much success on this night, when the veil between the realms is at its thinnest, and might and magic are most potent. Until we meet again, great lady, farewell.” Vital Spark bowed, then gave her a playful wink, before making his way back to the entrance. “I’ll make sure to tell everypony about you. You’ll be swamped by night’s end. I guarantee it.”

Trixie waited until he’d left, then pulled the poles out from the tent flap, and let it fall. Her horn glowed, and a sign appeared outside labeled Back in Five Minutes, before she fainted in a swoon.

---

Rainbow Dash laughed from her place on the thunder cloud she’d just set off. Two screaming fillies retreated in the distance, while three more cowered in a corner as the giant creature approached with its glowing portholes, and deep, creaking groans. A menacing shadow with glowing yellow eyes rose from the top of the creature’s helmet, and the three little fillies screamed.

“We’re done for!” Scootaloo wailed.

“They won’t even know what happened to us,” Applebloom sniffled. “I wish my big sis was here.”

“It’ll be okay, girls. I promise. Just . . . just give me some time to think,” Dinky said as her eyes darted left and right.

The shadow cocked its head, then stepped into the light to reveal Sweetie Belle. “It’s just me, Crusaders,” she assured them. “You really think Rainbow Dash would let you get eaten by a real monster on her watch?”

Scootaloo blushed. “O-oh . . . right.” She chuckled nervously.

“Sweetie Belle,” Apple Bloom whined. “That wasn’t very nice.”

Sweetie Belle hopped off the creature’s head, and went to nuzzle her friends. “Sorry about that. Rainbow Dash and Hammer Strike said it’d be the best way to get at Diamond and Silver Spoon. He doesn’t like seeing bullies putting down other Ponies.”

Dinky approached the creature that had now been identified as Hammer Strike, and pulled out a typical showman’s magic wand. She held it in her magical grip, and the top opened to reveal a little light that made a familiar whirring sound as she ran the wand over the costume. Then she pulled it back to her, and a tiny panel opened to reveal a display that she read over.

“Interesting. It appears you’re using a variety of conductive magical crystals to ensure a Pony to Pony conversation on a unique frequency. And others to give the creepy lights and groaning sounds. The unique chemical composition seems to indicate a mixture of those mined from beneath Canterlot, shipped from the Crystal Empire, and, if I’m not mistaken, a unique blend not found in any known database. I wonder what vectors you must have utilized to synthesize it,” she spouted.

“Say what now?” Apple Bloom asked.

A loud ‘clunk’ sounded from Hammer Strike, followed by a faint hiss. “She’s saying I put way too much effort into this costume, and it was worth it.”

“Did you see the looks on their faces?” Rainbow Dash gushed as she zipped in behind the girls. “That. Was. AWESOME!”

“It was fun.” Hammer Strike chuckled. “A shame I didn’t get to use any other part of the costume, besides the weight and noise.”

“I don’t think we wanted to scare them that much, Hammer Strike,” Sweetie said. “I mean, I know I wouldn’t want to be in front of that. But, if we caught them alone, that’d be a different story.”

“And that’s just half the fun.”

“Half the fun?” Apple Bloom asked. “Wadaya mean, Hammer Strike?”

“The other half of scaring individuals. Just watch for the paranoia.”

“You mean just sorta intimidate ‘em?”

A faint chuckle sounded from Hammer Strike. “We’ve already done that part. Keep an eye on them tonight.”

“Um . . . this isn’t going to hurt them, right? I mean, yeah, they’re mean, but we don’t want them to be, uh . . . what’s the word your big sister would use, Sweetie Belle?” Scootaloo asked.

“Scarred for life?”

“Yeah, that!”

“Oh, no. I’ve already done everything I needed to. All I have to do now is just walk around, and their own paranoia will follow. This suit makes a very distinctive noise, after all.”

“That didn’t exactly answer the question, Hammer Strike,” Dinky pointed out.

A faint chuckle followed as Hammer Strike twisted the helmet once more with a clunk.

“Come on, girls. Let’s get your mind off of this, and get some cotton candy. My treat,” Rainbow Dash said. The girls’ eyes instantly widened as they shook with excitement. All except for Dinky.

“Aren’t the treats all supposed to be free tonight?” she queried.

“Who cares? We’re getting candy!” Scootaloo cheered.

“Cutie Mark Candy Crusaders!” the trio shouted together.

Dinky giggled, and shrugged. “I guess this is what Daddy feels like sometimes, when he’s explaining things to mommy,” she said to Hammer Strike, before turning to see the girls had already gotten ahead of her. “Hey, girls, wait up!” She immediately hastened to catch them as Hammer Strike followed behind.

---

The Punch Bowl was blacked out when the foals entered. The only light came from the fireplace, where the barest silhouette of a figure sitting in a chair could be made out. The foals in question were herded towards the spot by a zombie Berry Punch carrying a torch.

“So.” The voice from the figure in the chair was low, and dark, with an almost gravelly texture to it. “I hear you all have come to my parlour looking for a story?”

“Yeah,” Pipsqueak cheered from the head of his crew. Gryphons and Ponies alike stood behind, each looking on to the great brooding creature. Grif’s metal gauntlets clanked ominously as the interlocking plates along his talons clicked against one another. An ominous blue glow shone behind him from a large sword, and his eyes glowed a bloody red as his fangs glinted in the firelight.

“Slave! Bring me another drink,” he hissed, and there was a bumbling sound as Berry quickly ran up to him, carrying a large crystal goblet filled with a viscous red fluid. Sneaking a wink at her, he swiped the goblet, and took a drink, letting the fluids drip down his beak savagely. When he finished, he wiped his beak, and grinned. The gauntlets on his arms ignited in orange fire, and then candles all around him suddenly began to burst into flame, creating just enough light to cast spooky shadows.

“What’ve you got for us today, Grif?” Pipsqueak asked.

“Tell me, pets, how many of you have cats at home?” he asked.

Some few raised their hooves.

“Do you take good care of them?” he asked.

They nodded eagerly.

“Well, after this story, you all may want to give them another treat tonight. The boy in my story liked cats, too. In fact, he liked to draw them, a skill that saved his life. Gather ‘round, children, as I relate to you my tale of the boy who liked to draw cats.”

One of the Gryphon cubs scoffed. “A story about drawing cats? Really?”

“It all started in a country not all that different from Neighpon, in a small village, in a small house that contained a large family. . ..”

---

Twilight giggled as she skipped along the wooden floor of her library with a spring in her step, just like Pinkie Pie, including sound effects. An explorer’s belt had been strapped across her chest, and over her shoulder. A simple white shirt, and a set of thick cargo pants completed the ensemble with the adventurer’s pack and a thick black leather book with gold-embossed characters.

“I can’t believe you guys are all here! This is so exciting. I get to show you around Ponyville, and we get to take the foals out to get sweets, and then you’ll all get to see Princess Luna’s show!”

“Princess Luna has a show?” Cosy asked as he cocked his head in confusion. His tight green spandex suit clung to his frame, accenting the beginnings of muscle that had formed from the guard training Shining had placed him through after the events that had unfolded at Gryphonia. A toy dagger with little holes along one side of its blade had been included, and a green helmet with a crystalline visor hovered at his side in his magical grip.

Cadence giggled in her glittering snowy gown. A gossamer fringe had been included around the shoulders and breast, and her mane had been styled into two large balls that trailed back in luxurious ponytails alongside her mane. Shining stood by her side with a loving hoof around her shoulders. A set of thick pauldrons jutted out from his shoulders as a flowing red cape fluttered against his back. A thick blue suit flowed up his forelegs, and down his torso, with some minor breast plating, and thicker enforcement down by his waist. A longsword hung casually in its scabbard, and his hair had been styled with a part over his bangs, which shone from the gel that had been used to style it.

“She has a soft spot for Ponyville this time of year,” Cadence explained.

Alto giggled happily with her sister. She was dressed in a leather smock with soot that had been smeared artfully on her face and hooves. A small forging hammer had been tied to her side, next to one of the bulging smock pockets.

“Then what are we waiting for? It’s time for us to have some fun. Come on, Alto!” Cosy cheered as he raced towards the library’s door.

A light purple aura surrounded the colt, lifting him up in the air. “Hold on a minute, Cosy. I know you’re excited, but we need to make sure everypony’s ready, before we head out. Has everypony got their knapsacks?” Shining asked.

“I thought you weren’t going to be participating this year, Shining,” Cadence said teasingly.

Shining blushed. “Well, somepony has to keep an eye on them,” he protested.

“As I recall, Shining always had a bit of a sweet tooth,” Twilight said with a giggle. “Don’t worry, BBBFF, I’m sure Cosy and Alto won’t mind if you tag along, right?”

Cosy and Alto did their best to suppress their snarks and giggles. Naturally, they failed most spectacularly.

“Careful, you two. I also was known as the scare master growing up,” Shining said as an evil gleam shone in his eye. “Don’t tempt me to turn those skills on you.”

Suddenly, and without warning, a high-pitched scream echoed behind Shining Armor. “PEN PINEAPPLE APPLE PEN!”

There wasn’t much time for Pinkie to react after Shining’s sword stopped less than half an inch away from the party pony’s throat, or this was his intention, as he found the blade locked in the spikes of two sais held firm by an outrageously pink ninja.

“Pinkie!” Twilight chided with a pout. “You know Shining’s been on edge since Sombra came back. You apologize to him right now!”

“Calm down, Twilight,” Cadence said as she shook her head. “It’s Nightmare Night.”

“The bestest, most awesomest night to be scared to pieces!” Pinkie cheered as she popped up between the two younger royal siblings, and slid a cupcake into each of their sacks, before pulling them in next to her for an awkward face smooshing, grinning combo. To further emphasize her point, her foreleg popped off, and broke into three parts on the floor. She then proceeded to pick up each segment, and shove them back onto her body.

“How did . . .?” Cadence began.

“It’s Pinkie Pie, Cadence. Don’t question it,” Twilight suggested. “It’s better for your sanity in the long run.”

“Neat!” Cosy said. “How’d you do that?”

Pinkie giggled. “It’s an old family secret. Grannie Pie taught me.”

“You think you could teach us?” Alto asked.

“Sorry. Granny Pie said I had to keep it to myself. But I’ll tell you what, how about I take you to the best place for sweets around town? Everypony knows me here, and I know my candy,” she sang.

“Well what are we waiting for?” Cosy asked as he levitated the dagger to his hooves, and began to play it like a flute. A powerful trumpeting fanfare greeted everypony’s ears. “Let’s go. It’s candy time!” he shouted as he struck a dramatic pose. The rest of the room promptly burst into a fit of laughter as they made their way out into the night.

---

“And as the colt walked through the halls of the monastery–” Grif kept his tone low and cool “–every cat he had drawn stood staring watchfully, each ready to pounce with fresh blood running from their claws and fangs.”

“You mean they were alive?” one of the foals asked. “But . . . were they going to try to eat him, then?”

“He loved to draw so much, and he drew so well, that he was able to harness that love, and put it into his drawings,” Grif explained. “And because of that, they loved him, and protected him. After all, what better to kill a rat than a cat?” It was at this time that a Thestral appeared from the shadows, and whispered into Grif’s ear. “It seems, my friends, that our dear Princess is on her way.”

“Princess Luna is coming?” Pipsqueak’s eyes widened as he took a deep breath. “Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy!” The other pirates soon picked up on his enthusiasm. “That means it’s time to get our treats over to the statue! You guys are gonna love it!” he told the Gryphons.

Grif swiped with a wing, and the candles all went out simultaneously. Grif stood by the firelight once again, only now shielded by one of his wings. The gilded skeletal structure gleamed in the low light.

Some of the foals screamed in utter fright, while others screamed in utter delight.

Grif looked over the edge of his wing, his red eyes glowing brighter in the dark as the sound of drums, oboes, and clarinets began to filter in through the open windows, while the shutters clattered against the wall. slammed open. “Colts and fillies of every age, wouldn’t you like to see something strange. . .?”

---

Alto ran through the paths of Ponyville quickly. She’d slipped away during the heartsong somepony had started, and was now looking for Hammer Strike. She stopped a princess and her servant in the streets, asking if they had seen the smith, or knew where she might find him.

The pony dressed as a princess shook her head, and seemed scared at the mention of the lord’s name, before trying to sneak away. The servant only pointed a shaking hoof towards an alleyway. Alto grinned, and took off, following the unspoken direction.

“Hammerstrike? Hammerstrike!” Alto called out as she looked around.

A loud groan responded to the calls, followed by heavy thud.

“Who’s there?” she called out in surprise as she grabbed her smithing hammer.

Hammer Strike rounded a corner, still fully encased in his costume as the green lights of the diving suit almost seemed to focus on Alto.

Alto took an involuntary step back. Then, mustering what strength she could, she tossed her hammer at the thing in front of her. It pinged ineffectively off the lower part of the helmet.

Hammer Strike sat down, and reached up towards his helmet, turning it with a hiss once more. After a moment, he let out a faint chuckle. “Quite the effective attack, Alto.”

“Hammer Strike?” She squeaked, then blushed. “S-sorry.”

“It’s quite fine. I didn’t know you were coming down to Ponyville for Nightmare Night. I take it the others are here as well?”

Alto nodded “Cady wanted us to see what it was like, before the empire starts doing it next year.”

“Ah. Are you enjoying your night so far? Though I’m unsure when you started your adventure.”

She nodded again. “Everypony was singing a funny song earlier about Nightmare Night.”

“Have you gathered much candy?”

She shook her head. “The ponies I passed by gave me a few pieces, but we haven’t been here that long.”

“Then perhaps Sweetie Belle and myself could assist you, right?” Hammer Strike replied, before faintly turning to his side.

“Hiya, Alto! Nice to meetcha’! I’m Sweetie Belle, Rarity’s little sister.” The cute little foal extended a hoof, and let loose the full devastating power of her cute smile.

Alto took it shyly. “I’m Alto Viola Cadenza,” she said, “but I prefer Alto.”

“So, you wanna get some candy, huh?” Sweetie asked as she opened her sack. “Show me what you’ve got so far.”

Alto pulled a few different candies and a sucker from her pocket.

“I meant your bag, silly.” Sweetie giggled. “Come on.”

Alto pulled out her bag, which was empty.

Sweetie Belle immediately turned her sack over, and poured half her bag into Alto’s. “There. now we can join everypony else at the statue, and get more treats after,” she said with a satisfied smile.

“Thank you,” Alto said as her smile widened in gratitude. She leaned in, and hugged Sweetie Belle as hard as she could manage.

“What else are friends for?” Sweetie asked. “Now come on. You don’t wanna miss Princess Luna. She’s amazing!”

Alto followed Sweetie excitedly, taking a moment to retrieve her hammer, and dust off the dirt that had accumulated on its handle and edges after the fall.

“Say, Hammer Strike, do you have enough room on your back for the both of us?” Sweetie asked.

“Easily,” Hammer Strike replied as he lowered himself.

Alto climbed up happily.

“Perhaps you could give her one of the spare crystals?” Hammer Strike said as he turned his helmet once more, before standing up.

“Oh, yeah.” Sweetie reached behind, and pulled out a crystal from her pocket. “This’ll let you understand what Hammer Strike is saying. While he’s got that helmet on, nobody can hear him but us.” She giggled. “You should’ve seen some of the other girls’ faces when they saw us together.”

“Wow,” Alto said, taking the crystal carefully, and putting it into her smithing apron’s pocket.

“Yup.” She giggled. “Now come on, Mister B. We’ve got a ceremony to get to!” she said as she struck the helmet lightly. “Yeehaw!”

Hammer Strike chuckled as he turned. “Wouldn’t want to be late now, would we?”

---

The group of pirates were all gathered together in a horseless cart, with a treasure chest full of candy shaped and wrapped to look like bits. They all grinned as they hefted a smaller chest for their tribute. Two Lunar guards struggled in the back as they tried to remove the gags over their mouths. Their hooves and wings had been securely tied down with so many knots, even the cleverest of Unicorns would take some time to undo them all. Moon River sniffled as she nuzzled Cosy, while the rest of the foals gave the guards dirty looks. It was pretty obvious what had happened, and the foals would have none of it.

Pensword couldn’t help but chuckle at the sight. His daughter certainly knew how to rally people around her. That would make a useful trait in her later years. The fuses in his beard filled the air with smoke as he roved through the night, and his eyes glowed in the moonlight to compliment the so-called fiend fire he had produced. Pipsqueak and Tall Tale had also dressed as pirates, and had joined the group during their adventures. Toy swords and daggers had been stuffed into their cloth belts to slap their flanks as they walked.

Pensword had plans to put the guards with the candy offering, alongside a note explaining what they had done. Once Luna found out, he had a feeling this little indecency would only be the start of their punishment.

Zecora chuckled as she took her place in front of the statue of Nightmare Moon, and beckoned with her hooves for peace. The stirring and the singing died as she stood perfectly poised atop her bo-staff.

“Welcome, Ponies. Come, gather round. A glorious tale is to be found by those of you who are stout of heart. The rest of you need not take part, for Nightmare Night is a time of scares. For those who fright easy, you’d best beware.” She shut her eyes, then opened them again to reveal a bright yellow glow as she rose into the air. Her dark robes fluttered behind her, and her free-flowing mane hung weightless as she reached into a side pocket, and threw clouds of yellow powder into the air to sift slowly towards the ground.

She laughed, and a flash of lightning clashed across the sky. “Listen close, my little dears. I’ll tell you where you got your fears of Nightmare Night, so dark and scary. Of Nightmare Moon, who makes you wary. Once a princess, long ago, in beauty she ruled o’er her subjects below. But those whom she loved did shun her night, and clung, instead, to the greater light.”

With a wave of her hooves, the powder shifted to take on the forms of Ponies adoring an Alicorn with a golden sun curling behind her, while the other side portrayed a smaller filly with a crescent moon behind her. No Ponies stood by her side. Instead, all that could be seen were a series of little houses.

“She hid her grief, and bore it well as more Ponies fell under the greater light’s spell. For while she had less than the greater light, she still had her own children of the night.”

The houses shifted to create tiny Thestrals that flew around the Alicorn of the moon.

“Yet those who were driven by hatred and fear would not suffer her children to gather near. In time, these children of the day, they drove the children of night away.”

Zecora blew the clouds of Thestrals into the air, dispersing them, and leaving a sad and confused Alicorn of the moon behind.

“With none to give comfort, adoration, relief, our princess was lost in a sea of grief. And so, in blinding light of day, the elder’s duties held the sway, and she stood blind to the moon child’s plight, enthralled as she was in the new limelight that, to her, had become the norm, while rage and jealousy slowly took form.”

The image of the moon princess dropped several tears that slowly drifted towards the ground. As she cried, the motes slowly began to part in her chest, leaving a hole that could clearly been seen through to the other side. Zecora blew two tiny puffs of red and green that filled the void, but none would mingle, and the two churned within the image’s chest, disrupting the remainder of the image as it struggled to hold itself together.

“At last, the time came. She would take it no more. The time had come to settle the score. Cold and abandoned, rejected and cursed, her kind, gentle heart, it suddenly burst.”

The red and green powders lashed out, violently exploding the image of the Alicorn, and leaving a swirling formlessness that heaved and lashed as it floated towards Zecora’s extended hoof. The foals gasped at the spectacle.

“As blackest emotions bore fruit in the child, they altered her magic, until it went wild.”

More powders sifted in. Ugly purple, a weepy blue, a sickly mustard yellow.

“Hatred, sorrow, fear, and more drove darkest magic to the fore. No more would the kind smile grace that face. Now all would see the cold void of space. They would feel as she had, forsaken, alone. They would know her pain. They all would atone.”

The powders mixed, swirling closer and closer together, but rather than creating a rainbow, their colors drained, until all that remained was a glossy black substance that slicked together to form a taller, more imposing Alicorn. Another puff of dust, and the thick blue battle armor appeared as its dark mane billowed behind like a cloud of ink. It reared, and pantomimed a whinny of defiance. The mane stretched to consume the sun that sat behind the other Alicorn as the Ponies that had adored the figure scattered on a sudden wind, leaving only the buffeted Alicorn of the sun.

“What happened then? Well, you know the rest. The elder sealed with six elements blessed to banish the forces of chaos and dark, but on sister and land, Nightmare Moon left her mark. The fear from the children of the day gave birth to this mischievous holiday.”

The battle played out as Zecora had described it, and Twilight shuddered from her place in the back, as if recalling an unpleasant memory. Shining wrapped a reassuring hoof around his little sister, and Cadence nuzzled her gently with a kindly smile.

“This story now must come to an end, but first, a moral to help my young friends. Often, the past can prove unpleasant, but it is the road that leads us to the present. So keep the flames of remembrance lit. Forgetting the past dooms all to repeat it.”

With a sweep of her hooves, and a twirl of her dress, the dust rose to conceal the statue of Nightmare Moon, and the wise Zebra herself. “So offer your gifts, and show her you care. Her goodness lives on, so evil doers beware,” Zecora’s voice echoed as the winds picked up, swirling the dust higher still, until it formed a towering cyclone. The Zebra’s laughter slowly warped and changed as it rose in volume, until the very trees themselves shook. Then, with a final burst, the cloud dispersed to reveal a very much familiar, and towering form.

Luna smiled down as the crowd in her larger Nightmare Moon form. Rather than the false teeth she had used last time, she’d found a spell to temporarily lengthen her own fangs. Her armor had been freshly polished for the occasion, and a wicked looking scythe hung dangerously in her magic. She gave it a few swings with practiced flare. “Well don’t you all look positively–” she licked her lips “–delicious?” She laughed. “So which of you is brave enough to approach me first?”

Pipsqueek gulped as he slowly stepped forward with a small bag with the image of Nightmare Moon on it. As he moved to shake the bag’s contents onto the ground at the pedestal’s base, he shivered, and did his best to hide the smile that was threatening to creep up on his face, and ruin the fun. “I’ve got a lot better treats than last year. Pinkie made her special maple donuts!”

The scythe spun in several flashing circles, before the tip speared the donut in question, then carried the confection to the mare’s mouth. There was a tense moment before several strands of mane and fur seemed to pop free of pipsqueaks body and float away on the wind. Despite herself, a bit of drool showed as the scent wafted into her nostrils. “Your offering is accepted, but, please, I am not here to accept charity.” With that, the donut flew off the scythe’s edge, and was promptly divided in two by a skilled cut that slammed into the ground, dividing the pile in two as well. She pushed the larger share back to Pipsqueak. “From now on, foals ten and older will only be expected to give a small share of their candy to me. Foals nine and under should only offer me a piece, though I will accept these . . . donuts of yours, should you wish to substitute,” she said as she ate one half, and passed the other back to Pipsqueak.

Pipsqueak squeed in pleasure as he devoured the other half of the donut. The other children were more than a little excited at the news. Now they’d be able to keep even more candy to themselves! This Nightmare Moon was awesome!

Next came Pinkie in her neon pink uniform. “Let’s see. I’ve got more donuts, cupcakes, brownies, ooh, super duper triple dark chocolate fudge! You’ll like those. And I’ve got so much more to share! You don’t mind if I give you more than everypony else, right, Moonie? Right? Right?” the party Pony asked as she stretched her neck to cartoonish proportions to get into the princess’ face.

“Of course.” Nightmare Moon chuckled. “I would be a fool to turn those away.”

“Indeed you would. Throw away my sweets, and they shall be avenged,” Pinkie said in an emotionless voice that sent chills down everypony’s spines. Then she pulled out a kunai, and used it to cut a cupcake, before popping one half in her mouth, and the other into Nightmare Moon’s. Then she giggled, and threw down a pellet that broke into sweet-smelling bubble gum smoke. When it cleared, the ninja was nowhere to be seen.

And so it went for the next hour or so, until only one group of foals had yet to give their offering.

Moon River stood proudly at the front of her pirate crewmembers as each offered their candy in accordance with the new proclamation. As a last offering, The two lunar guards were tossed on top of the bed of candy, still gagged and bound with sour expressions on their faces. If they’d been sitting on clouds, they’d doubtless have become thunderheads.

“Oh, and you bring me these two. Are they your prisoners? Deserters?” Nightmare Moon asked in mock rage.

Pensword spoke up, while Moon River glared with slitted and narrowed eyes at the two guards. “They scared Moon River to the point of tears.”

“Oh, really?” Nightmare Moon’s face turned to the guards. “Is this true?”

The two guards mumbled through their gags, and tried to move, but to no avail. They had been tied too well. It was likely they would need to be cut free, before they could move again.

Nightmare Moon’s horn flared, and her shadow loomed up from the ground with turquoise eyes blazing in anger as it pounced the two. For a moment, they where gone from sight. Then it was as though nothing had been there in the first place as the discarded ropes fell to the ground.

Moon River and the children all stared wide-eyed. Some of the other children shuddered or trembled. They had never seen such an act performed in their rather short lives before. Moon River, however, uttered no sounds of fear, nor did she tremble. Instead, she cooed in excitement, and her eyes shone with desire. It was a look Pensword knew only too well, along with his spouses. The three parents tried their best to quietly dissuade their child from seeking the knowledge to perform such feats of magic. Such things were not within the scope of a Thestral, or at least they hadn’t for many generations.

“Best to leave it for now, my loyal buccaneer,” Nightmare Moon purred out. “The shadows are my domain, just as the sea is yours.”

Moon River pouted hard, and folded her forelegs in a manner that, thankfully, Grif got a picture of to give to the parents later for their photo album. Still, she finally relented her pout as Inigo gave her one of the donuts that Luna liked. She nibbled on it, and then her mouth widened into a playful grin as she let out a giggle. “Moon,” she replied, pointing to Nightmare Moon. She couldn’t say Nightmare yet, but at least she was progressing.

For the first time that night, Luna’s mask almost broke as the lunar princess took a minute to regain her composure. “I suppose everyone's tribute tonight was . . . adequate,” she said, doing her best to sound nonchalant. “Sadly, the time has come for me to go, and barter with the creatures of the night. Until next year, I’ll see you in your nightmares,” she said, before breaking into her trademark evil laugh. The pile of tribute candy and the scythe all dissipated into a fine blue mist that rose to consume the entire statue and the mare in the moon. A stray breeze blew the mist away to reveal the statue of Nightmare Moon, looking exactly as it had before.

Moon River clapped, and cheered at the display, while Pipsqueak laughed at her giggling, only to find himself top heavy as Moon River barreled into him, knocking him on his side to hiss in his ear, before nipping it for good measure. Then she jumped into the air, and glided to land on Cosy’s back, where she began to nom his ear, instead.

Pensword looked incredulously at his daughter. “Okay. . .. I guess she didn’t like Pip’s laugh?”

Moon River just stuck out her tongue in response as everypony returned to town for the last festivities of the night, before preparing for bed.

Comments

[Dravkwn]

Nightmare Night stuff is always a hit with me. Then again...maybe all the people who write it just do a really good job?

[_CheckMate_]

Pensword looked incredulously at his daughter. “Okay. . .. I guess she didn’t like Pip’s laugh?”

Nah, she's jealous of Luna's other favorite foal.

[Night_Striker]

waht HERECY IS THIS AN CLIFF HANGER!!!!??? UUUGGGGHHHHH well good work there guys props and i can't wait to se what othere michef they may have this night for the fright

[Booster Spice]

A nice quiet, so far, chapter where the only slicing has been of life?

Pity Hammerstrike and co missed out at this time one of the worst in jokes possible, but it depends on how English any of them are, and age and history. I mean, Hammerstrike having to take down an enourmous wheatsheaf golem? After all, what better way to finish a celebration, but with the beatdown by a Big Daddy, of the strawman, Giant Haystacks.

I missed understanding really what happened with Moon and the guards, but I suspect theres going to be some rather intresting screams coming from the interrogation room tonight. :Luna:

Vital, at least it was a Stone Mask. Would you have prefered it to be The Mask?

With the timing, I suspect it was a bit too late for Vinyl to go dressed as Olivia from Jack Vs The Rave. and Octavias electric cello wouldv been great as a Combat version. I suspect Hammerstrike would like working on it if onlyhe wasnt so busy with all the rest of the ideas already. Maybe later? Then again, wouldnt an Acoustic Wave Cannon cello be a Bit over the top? Especially when powered by Earth Pony magic? Talk about Death Note.

After all that production though, does Zecora get to have her candy and eat it tonight as well?

[Mortefleur]

Am dissapoint, no Changeling "costumes"

[Jake Shadow Wings]

Awesome story. This is my third or fourth read through, maybe fifth. I loved the take on nightmare night and Zecora's tale. It was different from the show but that's why it was so great. I think Moon River is just the most adorable thing out there. Ah Hammerstrike, terrifying the two bullies for the rest of the night and go Alto for having the courage to strike the strike. The story is awesome and I can't wait for the next chapter. Probably going to go read the previous chapters through to this again over the next two weeks because it's just too good to pass up reading again. Thanks for the awesome story guys and keep up the great work.

[Knight of Mind]

Nice foreshadowing!

[EnderHooves]

Awesome nightmare night chapter! Thouhgh I'm a little dissapointed Vital didn't do the KONO DIO DA!!! Line. But he has a good pick and power lineup with dio, well, season 1 dio anyway. Ice powers are awesome, keeps him from getting hit by Hufel.
I also have a sneaking suspicion that Clover has actually met the joestars, wouldn't that be interesting.

[DoctorWhooves23]

The title of this chapter gave me flashbacks to a horror story I read called Something Sweet To Bite Warning: Mature Rating