- >All throughout your nightmares, you heard a familiar voice calling to you.
- >You couldn’t place where it was coming from until you woke up, finding Celestia resting her head on your chest.
- >Your first reaction was to jump out of bed.
- >Then you realised that she must have been here most of the time, trying to wake you up.
- >Dude, you’re not thinking what I think you’re thinking are you?
- That sentence made very little sense Brain.
- >YOU ARENT MAKING ANY SENSE.
- Alright, someone needs a time out.
- >You stop thinking and dwelling on issues.
- >This was definitely not the time.
- “Any chance I could get a glass of water?” you say
- >”Oh of course, I should go get the Doctor.” Celestia says, lifting her head, and rushing out the door.
- >You swing your legs over the side of the bed, noticing the one is in a cast.
- >IT HURTS LIKE HELL
- >Oh GOD.
- >You try and stand on your good leg, putting your good leg down first
- >It’s a bit stiff, but you manage your weight alright.
- >It feels like you lost a few pounds.
- >You wonder how long you were out.
- >You hobble over to the nearest window and take a look outside.
- >You must be somewhere in Canterlot, judging by the architecture.
- >D:”Anonymous, what are you doing out of bed?”
- “Oh hey Doc, just wanted a little fresh air.”
- >D:”Well, your leg is in no way ready for walking yet, would you please lay back down, I have some questions for you.
- “Sure, it’s not like I’ve got anywhere to go”
- An hour later...
- >D:”And these are for the pain,” the Doctor says handing you a large pill bottle “Take one a day, and you should feel right as rain.”
- “Will do Doc. Anything else?”
- >D:”No, that should be everything, I believe the Princess wants to see you again. Once you’re feeling up to it, I can send for your discharge papers.”
- “Alright thanks.”
- >He walks outside, and calls for Celestia again.
- >She walks into the room with a smile on her face.
- “I can’t believe I was out cold for a month” you say, patting the bed next to you.
- >She sits down next to you “Yes, it’s been hard on all of us. Especially Twilight.”
- >The color drains from your face.
- >”Don’t worry, she’s fine, but I’m sure she wants to see you as soon as possible.”
- “Is everyp0ny alright?”
- >”Yes, your quick thinking, along with Shining Armor’s help got all of the villagers out in time. The only casualty was the Mayor’s building, but we have since built a new one in its stead.”
- >You let out a sigh of relief.
- >”I heard you made quite the spectacle in defeating that creature.”
- “So Shining told you everything? I guess I should prepare my share of events as well.”
- >”That will not be necessary Anon, I know it’s been rough. You should rest now. You DID just wake up after all.”
- “Yeah, but I should probably get back to town and see what I can do about this mess I made of things.”
- >”Oh, alright, I can arrange transport for you.” She says, her smile fading.
- >Damn the awkward feels.
- >You did want to get back and make sure everything was fine.
- >On the other hand, here was the Princess, your guiding light that got you out of that nightmare.
- “Or we could spend the day together, and make up for lost time?”
- >”A- Are you asking me on a Date Anonymous?” she stutters, a red hue taking over her cheeks.
- “You could say I am not doing the opposite of what you said.” You say with a smirk.
- >Wait for it...
- >”Oh I see what you did there.” She says with a laugh “Great! I shall arrange for a royal tour!”
- “OR. We could take a stroll through the garden and you could tell me everything that I missed?”
- >Her face grows even redder, “That sounds wonderful. Shall I get the doctor?
- “Sure, I just need to gather a few things” you say, winking at her.
- >She chuckles again, and heads out to fetch the doctor.
- “What the FUCK am I doing?” you think to yourself.
- >You spot your pack over to the side of the room.
- >Thankfully everything is still in place.
- >Even that strange amulet is there.
- >You almost wish it wasn’t.
- >But you couldn’t care right now.
- >Today was for relaxing.
- >You open the closet, looking for a change of clothes, when you find a snazzy new 50’s style park stroller outfit.
- >You forgot you had a picture on your phone of one.
- >Rarity must have found it, and made it for you!
- >It’s fucking awesome.
- >You quickly don your new duds.
- >You feel as classy as Sinatra now.
- >”My, My, you do look dashing” you hear from the doorway
- >Celestia is standing there, with a wheelchair.
- “I do my best Princess” you say slyly, grabbing your pack, and sitting in the chair.
- >She propels you out of the room with her magic, and you head down the quiet streets of a mid-afternoon Canterlot.
- >Thankfully the hospital was not too far from the castle.
- >Everything seemed to be centrally located here, which was a plus.
- >The wheelchair you were being pushed around in was a tad small for you, but it served its purpose.
- >The sun shining in the sky seemed to be glowing extra bright today.
- >Fresh air assaults your senses.
- >It’s been so long since you’ve been outside; you almost forgot how much you love it.
- “So, how have things been in my absence?” you say, craning your neck to look at the Princess
- >”Surprisingly quiet actually. After we investigated the remains of the tower and making sure no more harm could come from it, things quieted down.”
- “Im glad I could be of service your Highness”
- >”You’ve been more than helpful Anon.” She says, beaming her royal smile at you.
- >You arrive in the castle gardens.
- >Seems like every time you’re with the Princess you end up here.
- >The cool summer breeze gently rustles the leaves in the trees around you.
- >Celestia wheels you down the paved paths further into the garden.
- >You talk for a little while about the things that have happened around p0nyville and Canterlot while you’ve been out.
- >Apparently an emissary from the Gryphon Kingdom was due to arrive soon to discuss political matters.
- >Also, the construction of the Mayor’s building has been coming along smoothly and is due to be completed soon.
- >Oh look it’s Princess Luna.
- >L:”Anonymous! We are glad you are finally awake!” she says, enveloping you in a winged hug.
- “It’s good to see you as well Princess Luna” you say returning the hug.
- >L:”Sister, I believe your Advisor was looking for you.”
- >”Oh, I see. Please excuse me Anon, I must attend to this.” She says, heading towards the castle.
- >Leaving you alone with Luna
- “So, how’s it hanging?”
- >L:”Hanging?” Luna asks
- “How are you doing?” you clarify
- >Remember Anon, 1000 years on the moon
- >L:”We are fine. However we are more concerned about our Sister.”
- “Is she alright? She’s not ill at all?”
- >L:”Not physically ill. But an illness of the soul.”
- “Uhh...”
- >:L”She is suffering from an imbalance of the humours.”
- “You lost me at imbalance.”
- >L:”SHE IS SMITTEN WITH YOU.”
- “Oh.”
- “OH”
- “I, uhh, well, hmm.” You stutter.
- >Shit what to say.
- >You can’t think of anything except for something you heard of in the tales of yore.
- >When you have no idea what to say...
- >You make a kitty face at Luna
- “:3”
- >L:”Anonymous, you should know understand that faces of feline nature have no effect on royalty, although I appreciate your attempt at diffusing this awkward situation. It is most difficult for us as well.”
- “Well then, I guess it worked out better than I hoped.”
- >L:”Anonymous, we are deeply concerned for our Sister and her sudden, obsession with you. You are most likely not aware, but while you were unconscious, she visited you every day.”
- “Oh.”
- >L:”It seems that she has feelings for you, and I would not want her to pursue something that would potentially harm her in the long run.”
- “So what is it exactly you are asking?”
- >L:”Do you reciprocate the feelings my sister shows for you?”
- >You rub the back of your head.
- >You don’t know exactly HOW you feel.
- >L:”I see. Well, if my Sister has trusted you this far, we should be able to as well. Do not betray that trust Anonymous.” Luna says walking away, leaving you alone in the garden.
- >Well,
- >That was interesting.
- >”Anon and Celestia sitting in a tree.”
- “Who’s there?” you say looking around.
- >”K-i-s-s-i-n-g”
- >The voice seems to be coming from nowhere and everywhere at the same time.
- >”First comes love”
- “Then comes marriage, yadda-yadda, I’ve heard this before. At least get some fresh material”
- >”Oh Anonymous, you wound me! Don’t you know how to have a good time?”
- “Sounds like someone is projecting.” You say mockingly
- >”Low blow Anon, Low blow. I’ll remember this for next time. Say hi to Shining Armor for me.”
- >SA:”Anonymous!” you hear called from behind you.
- >God, is everyone going to come visit you out here?
- >You see Shining Armor come running over.
- “Hey Hey, Shiny, how’s it going?”
- >SA:”Much better now that I know you’re alright. How was your nap?”
- “Very funny. How’s Twilight?”
- >SA:”Fine thanks to you. What in Tartaurus did you do to that thing anyway?”
- “Honestly it pretty much a blur. I know I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for you.”
- >SA:”I was just doing my job.”
- “And you did a fine one at that. Once I’m out of this bloody chair, you and I are going drinking.”
- >SA:”I’ll hold you to that Anon, I got to get back to work, but it’s good seeing you up an about.”
- “Thanks ma- HEY WAIT A SEC”
- >The two of you share a laugh.
- >The rest of the afternoon goes swimmingly.
- >Celestia came back not too long after that, and the two of you shared a pleasant evening’s dinner together in the castle.
- >You got a room on the first floor of the castle due to your leg.
- >As you lay in bed, you wonder about what you’ve gotten yourself into.
- >You’ve been here a little over a month, and more than half of that unconscious.
- >You’ve faced down an ancient evil.
- >You’ve also had a sun deity fall in love with you.
- >You haven’t even thought of a way to get back home yet.
- >You wonder about home.
- >It’s not like you left much behind.
- >Would it even be worth it?
- >You had friends here.
- >Still no job, but you're working on that.
- >It sure is weird around here.
- >But in a good way.
- A few days later...
- “OH GOD IT BURNS!” you scream rolling on the ground, trying to put out the fire on your cloak.
- >You frantically try and remove the burning piece of fabric before the rest of your outfit catches.
- >Twilight runs over to you, and quickly stomps on it.
- >Finally managing to free yourself, you toss the garment away.
- >It’s still smoking a bit, but other than that it’s out.
- >S:”IM SORRY ANONYMOUS!” Spike says, racing over to you on his little legs.
- >You peer down at the little dragon.
- >You narrow your eyes at him, as you kneel down.
- >and extend your fist towards him.
- “Well done! You’ve made quite a lot of progress for a new student.”
- “I wouldn’t expect someone still relatively new to this to be able to cast a fireball that big.”
- >It was probably the fact that he is a dragon you dunce.
- >A huge smile extends across his face.
- >He pounds your extended fist, completing the ritual of bro-hood.
- “Your next lesson will be how to repair capes.” You say laughing
- “But for now, I think we’ll call it a day early. I need to pay the mayor a visit.”
- >S:”Aww alright. Same time tomorrow?” spike says
- “You know it. As long as you finish your chores, and Twilight’s ok with it.”
- >T:”It should be fine Anon, there’s not much to do. The floors need to be scrubbed, the books need their monthly sorting, the cabinets need to be waxed...” she says
- >And keeps going and going.
- >Good god, she is like the Energizer Bunny if it had an OCD complex about cleaning.
- >You give Spike a playful jab, and head port yourself on home.
- >You were trying to keep off your leg as much as possible.
- >It wasn’t in a cast anymore, but still hurt like a bitch sometimes.
- >It felt good to be back home after that stay in the hospital.
- >Everything was mostly untouched, save for the rotten chimichangas and the layer of dust on everything.
- >You plop your stuff down on the couch by the TV.
- >You still haven’t turned it on once.
- >You were not really one for watching TV anyhow.
- >You preferred a good book, or the company of friends.
- >Back on earth, you once read War and Peace in a single evening.
- >It’s not like anyone would get the reference here, but you felt like it was an accomplishment.
- >It made you think back to the stint you did in the U.S.S.R searching for Yeti.
- >That place was SO COLD in the winter.
- >Just thinking about it gives you the shivers.
- >Checking the clock on the wall, it looks to be just before lunchtime.
- >You really haven’t bothered to stock up on any foodstuffs, and your bit count was beginning to run low.
- >You were going to have to find a job eventually.
- >But doing what’s right comes before that.
- >You change into your park-stroller outfit.
- >God this thing was SO COMFY.
- >You had one just like it back home, although if you wore it outside you’d receive more than your fair share of strange looks.
- >It’s amazing how time flies.
- >Sometimes it feels like the years went by like months or days.
- >Shake it off Anon; you’ve gone down this road before.
- >They said it would most likely be normal to think and feel this way, but you still could never get used to it.
- >You open the door and head back out into the warm sun.
- >The Doc said you should try and stretch your muscles and exercise in moderation after being out for so long to prevent atrophy, but not too push yourself.
- >Doc never said anything about magic use though.
- >Sure, a little lightweight spell helps some, but nothing works better than just getting out and about.
- >The jaunt into town is a quiet one, save for the sounds of construction you hear on the new Town Hall.
- >That was your primary reason for heading into town.
- >Not only was it the Town Hall, but also the Mayor’s home.
- >You felt devastated that she lost her residence, and offered her your place as a temporary abode.
- >She declined, saying that Celestia had heard what happened, and put her up in a bed-and-breakfast until construction was completed.
- >She appreciated the offer, but you still felt guilty as hell.
- >The reactions from the locals varied when you got back.
- >Some were extremely grateful for getting them evacuated in time.
- >Others blamed you for causing everything in the first place.
- >and they were not exactly wrong.
- >You were so relieved to find that Twilight was ok.
- >You wouldn’t know what to do with yourself if something happened to her.
- >Or anyp0ny for that matter.
- >The jaunt into town was enjoyable.
- >A few p0nies waved to you as you got closer to town.
- >A few of them also scowled in your general direction.
- >For marshmallow equines, some of them could be quite bitter.
- >You arrive in the town market, and spot Applejack selling her wares.
- >She waves over to you, and you wave back.
- >Business seemed to be going well for her today.
- >You stop by a small diner and pick up an egg-salad sandwich.
- >you were beginning to get sick of eggs, but you needed the protein.
- >You wonder if there would be any way to get some meat around here.
- >then you remember that cows were sentient here.
- >The thought makes your stomach turn.
- >Maybe you’ll just stick to eggs.
- >Wandering around town, you come across the job posting board.
- >It’s completely blank.
- >Just your luck.
- >Sighing, you continue on your way towards the town square.
- >The sounds of construction are growing louder now.
- >Soon enough, you can see the shell of the building, with many unicorns plying their trade.
- >It was coming along slowly, and would hopefully be finished soon.
- >If only there was some way you could pay back the town for all the damage you’d caused.
- >You sit down on one of the benches in the town, watching the p0nies about their day.
- >It was nice being able to just sit and relax, but the nagging thought of employment still bugged you.
- >Construction was slow and deliberate on the building.
- >It seemed like many of them were taking their sweet time getting anything done.
- >Probably trying to milk the job for all it was worth.
- >Before long, they stop working and break for lunch.
- >The show being over, you get up and continue your walk around town.
- >You spot Rarity and Fluttershy walking along together.
- “Hey girls, how are you?” you say walking over.
- >R:”Oh hello Anon, we were just heading out for our weekly Spa visit.”
- “You guys have a spa? It sounds wonderful.”
- >R:”Oh it is. We go every week, and get the works done.”
- >All this time Fluttershy simply nods in agreement.
- >She still wasn’t too comfortable around you.
- >It was understandable you guess.
- >R:”Say Anon, would you like to go with us? I’m sure Aloe and Lotus could help with that leg of yours.”
- “You know what? I think I’m going to take you up on that offer.”
- >Rarity squeals with joy and Fluttershy simply smiles, hiding her face behind her mane.
- >Soon enough, the three of you are headed towards the spa.
- >Time for some quality relaxation.
- >Soon enough, the building comes into view.
- >The doors swing open, the smell of perfume and ointments heavy in the air.
- >Two p0nies are standing by the counter.
- >Rarity trots on ahead, and speaks to them about something, leaving you and Fluttershy by the entrance.
- “So, how’s life?” you say
- >She says something, but you can’t quite make it out.
- “Sorry, what was that?”
- >F:”...fine.” is all you can hear.
- >You want to sigh, but keep your mouth shut.
- >You had to think of a way to get her to open up.
- >You knew she was quiet and timid, but this was ridiculous.
- >R:”Come on you two, the spa waits for no p0ny!” she says, absolutely giddy.
- >What have you gotten yourself into?
- >In about 5 minutes you find yourself undressed, a towel wrapped around your waist, and sitting in a sauna.
- >Oh lord does this feel good.
- >The hot steam wafts up from the ember pit, and straight into your lungs.
- >You give off a hacking cough, the warm air tingling your lungs.
- >R:”Are you alright Anonymous?”
- “Yeah, im fine, just years of smoking catching up with me is all.”
- >R:”Smoking?” she says raising an eyebrow
- “Nothing, just a cough is all.” You say lying down on the warm wood bench.
- >It almost reminds you of your time in the jungle.
- >and for once in your life, you do not fear remembering it.
- >It’s almost as if the burden of the past has finally been lifted.
- >You really feel at peace here.
- >The door opens, and one of the Spa p0nies says it is time for your mud baths.
- >You slowly get up off the bench, Rarity and Fluttershy doing the same.
- >The three of you follow the spa employees into where the mud baths are.
- >The tub is a bit small for you, but you manage to slide in comfortably.
- >R:”So Anon dear, how are you enjoying the Spa so far?
- “Oh it’s wonderful. We had these back home, and as part of my rehab, I spent quite a bit of time in them. Although none of them were as nice as this one is.”
- >F:”Rehab for what?” Fluttershy finally speaks up
- “Oh, uhh, long story, but I was pretty badly hurt one time. Needed the massages and sauna’s for a broken leg, collar bone, and my left arm.”
- >Now that you think about it, you DID spend a lot of time being hurt.
- >F:”Oh my, that sounds awful, you poor thing.”
- “Yeah, but it was many years ago.”
- >You pull one of the cucumbers off of your eyes, and munch on it.
- >You didn’t eat or drink much today.
- >You wonder...
- “Say, would you anyp0ny like something to drink?”
- >R:”I would LOVE and ice tea darling.” Rarity says
- >F:”I would as well, if that’s not a problem or anything...”
- >You remove the other cucumber from your eye and dip your finger into the mud bath.
- >Drawing a small circle on the table next to you, you focus your magical prowess.
- >With a small *pop* three ice teas in large glasses appear next to you.
- >Fuck YES.
- >Conjuration still works!
- >Why didn’t you think of this before?
- >Suddenly, life just got a lot easier.
- >Sure conjured biscuits and stuff does not make a healthy food source, but it sure can help.
- >Fluttershy stares at you, with a bit of shock.
- “Don’t worry, it’s delicious. Pass this one to Rarity” you say handing her a glass.
- >She takes it (HOW DO THEY DO THAT) and passes it along
- >R:”Thank you darling.” She says, not even removing her spa mask.
- >F:”Yes, thanks Anon.”
- “No problem ladies” you say sipping your own ice tea.
- >Not bad, could use a tad more sugar.
- >You’ll work on that next time.
- >You continue your soak in the mud bath for another five minutes.
- >“Ladies, and gentlecolt, it’s time for your massages” one of the Spa p0nies says.
- >”Where did you get the drinks?” she says curiously
- “Oh, that was me. Don’t worry about it.” You say gathering up the empty glasses, and with a *pop* they disappear.
- “Ta-da” you say, doing your best jazz hands.
- >R:”He’s magic darling, don’t worry about it.” Rarity chimes in, removing her cucumbers.
- >A laugh is had by all, even Fluttershy.
- >You exit the tub, quickly wrapping a towel around yourself again.
- >You follow the Spa p0nies into the next room, where there are special massage tables waiting.
- “Uhh, if you don’t mind, I’d rather skip the full massage. Just my left leg needs work.” You say, sitting on the table.
- >Your masseuse nods, and forces you to lie down on the table.
- >You get as comfortable as possible while she works on your leg.
- >It feels...
- >Ok, you guess.
- >It certainly helps, that’s for sure.
- >But marshmallow hooves are no substitute for the dexterity of human hands.
- >The masseuse continues to work on the tight muscles in your leg.
- >She finally pipes up “My goodness your leg sure is in rough shape. Just what did you do to it?”
- “Well, this will be the third or fourth time I’ve broken it. I swear, I’ll never get used to it.”
- >You turn your head to see a look of shock on her face.
- “Yeah, I get that a lot. Don’t worry about it though, this feels wonderful.”
- >”Just what line of work were you in that was so dangerous?” she says quizzically
- “Let’s just say I was a bit of a globetrotter in my youth. I spent many a year in foreign climates, and after awhile safety and preparation only go so far.”
- >”Honey, “in your youth”? You don’t look a day over 25.”
- “Why miss, if I weren’t so professional right now, I could swear you were flirting with me.” You say slyly, lifting your head off the table, propping it up with your hand.
- >She blushes furiously as you give a sly smile.
- >You can hear Rarity laughing her head off from the other table, and Fluttershy is chuckling as well.
- “Well I’m glad my attempts at comedy are not for naught.” You say lying back down.
- >The mare continues to work away at the knots in your muscle, and after a while, it starts to feel much better.
- >”Alright, time’s up ladies.” You hear somep0ny call.
- >Looks like that was it for your spa treatment.
- >You gather up your things, and change back into your comfortable outfit.
- “So, how much do I owe for that spa-day?” you ask the receptionist.
- >”Oh, your balance has already been taken care of. We hope to see you back soon.”
- “Already taken...”
- >You spin around and see Rarity hiding a sheepish grin, and Fluttershy turning her face away.
- “Did you two pay for this?”
- >No response
- >You walk over to them, and kneel down in front of Fluttershy.
- “Well?”
- >She lets out a small eep.
- >Daw
- >You give them a huge bear hug.
- “You didn’t have to go and do that. I had more than enough funds to pay for it myself.”
- >R:”Anon, dear, we knew you were still unwell after what happened in town. We just wanted to show you our thanks. And besides, Element of Generosity? Remember?”
- “Still, one of these days I’ll pay you back. Somehow”
- >The three of you exit the spa, and head out into the cooler air.
- >You can see some of the leaves on the trees beginning to change colour.
- >R:”Well dear, if you are so intent on helping out, maybe I could use you around the boutique. Nightmare Night is coming up, and I have plenty of costumes to make. I could always use another pair of hoo- I mean hands.”
- “Nightmare Night?”
- >OH BOY
- >R:”You’ve never heard of Nightmare Night?” she says with a gasp
- “Nope. What is it?”
- >PLEASE BE WHAT YOUR THINKING IT IS.
- >R:”Well once a year, we pay tribute to Nightmare Moon, the children dress up in costumes and collect candy from other p0nies houses. There are other games and festivities as well, as it serves as the end of harvest festival as well.”
- “You serious?” you say deadpan
- >R:”Why yes. Don’t they have any sort of holidays where you’re from?”
- >An evil grin spreads across your face.
- >THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT YOU WERE HOPING FOR.
- >R:”Anon, is something the matter?” she asks
- “Tell me, do this holiday involve pranking and or scary each other for fun?
- >R:”Yes it does! How’d you guess?”
- >OH YES. TODAY IS A GLORIOUS DAY.
- >You let a dark chuckle.
- “How long until this holiday rolls around?”
- >R:”It’s at the end of this month, so about 2 weeks.”
- “Perfect. Rarity, I’m going to need a couple of favours, and I will do whatever it takes to fulfill the orders.”
- >Rarity looks at you warily “What do you have in mind?”
- “Wouldn’t you like to know my little white friend...”
- >You walk away whistling a old Halloween tune.
- >You have four p0nies in particular to visit.
- >A pink one, whose party spirit will lend itself to your fiendish desires.
- >A white mare whose skills at fabrication are not to be scoffed at.
- >A mare whose coat is black as night, who will be the star of the evening.
- >And finally the current mayor of town, whom you owe a large debt.
- >It was going to be a night to remember.
- >One in which you introduce the Majesty of Halloween to p0nyville.
- >It was going to be glorious.
- >You bid farewell to your two friends, chuckling to yourself like a lunatic.
- >You rush down the road, headed towards Sugercube Corner.
- >You open the door, and find Pinkie washing up a table.
- >You still silently laughing to yourself.
- >You feel as giddy as a school girl.
- >Pinkie spots you and notices your expression.
- >”Say Anon, what’s so funny? Is there a Carnival outside? I love Carnivals!”
- “Not quite Pinkie, but I need your help.”
- >”Help with what?” she says, bouncing over to you.
- >You bend down and whisper to her your fiendish ideas.
- >A massive grins spreads across your face, as well as hers.
- >You start cackling maniacally, and she joins in.
- >”Are you two all right?” asks Mrs.Cake coming to see what all the racket was about.
- “Fine Mrs. Cake,” you say, straightening up “I’m going to be placing some big orders soon, and needed Pinkie’s help with something. Gotta run, say hi to the foals for me.” You say dashing out the door, the sound of Pinkie hiccupping from all the laughter behind you.
- >That was one down, and two more to go.
- >You sprint back up the street, headed towards Carousel Boutique.
- >The sun was beginning to set now.
- >You arrive just was Rarity appears to be closing up shop.
- >”Anon, what was that all about earlier? We thought something was wrong.”
- >You put your hands on your knees trying to catch your breath.
- “Rarity...commission...costumes...”
- >”You want costumes for Nightmare Night?”
- “Yeah, but I will get the designs to you shortly. The only thing I need though in particular is to keep quiet about this. NO p0ny else must know about these costumes!”
- >”Just what are you planning Anon?” she says raising a judgemental eyebrow
- “Just the greatest Nightmare Night ever seen. I’ll get back to you asap. In the mean time, secure plenty of white, green, purple, navy blue, and TONS of black fabric. I’ll have more than enough bits to cover everything, plus if I owe you anymore, I’ll work it off.”
- >”Anon, I’ve already got TONS of orders in, I don’t know if I can handle many more.” She says
- “What about if you were making costumes for Royalty?”
- >Her eyes light up like the fourth of july.
- >”YOU GET ME THOSE DESIGNS TOMORROW. I’LL HAVE THEM DONE IN A HEARTBEAT!” she says, running back into her shop.
- >You can hear her rustling around, pulling out tons of cloth.
- >Two down, two to go.
- >You head back home, grabbing your mp3 and phone.
- >You would need the pictures and music if you were going to convince the two royal sisters to play along in your little charade.
- >Please say you didn’t get rid of them...
- Song?
- >Check
- Pictures?
- >Double Check
- Magic to make your wildest dreams come true?
- >TRIPLE CHECK
- >You got voodoo, you got hoodoo, you’ve got things you haven’t even TRIED.
- >And you got friends on the other side.
- >Of town.
- >The other side of town.
- >Now you need a third costume.
- >Perfect.
- >You grab your pack of chalk, and get ready for the performance of a life time.
- >You quickly port up to the castle, and head to the garden.
- >The sun was setting now, and the moon rising.
- >If you were to catch them together, now is the perfect time.
- >GOTTA GO FAST
- >You dash into the courtyard and find the two princesses talking.
- >You straighten up, and check your phone.
- >You pull up the appropriate picture for reference.
- >Now, you would have to play this JUST Right.
- “Your majesties,” you say, bowing down.
- >C:”Anonymous! It is good to see you again, what brings you to Canterlot?” Celestia asks, a happy tone to her voice.
- “Well, I was hoping the two of you would be so kind as to help me with something.”
- >L:”Oh, and that would be?”
- “Well, after what happened back in p0nyville, I thought I would try and make amends somehow.”
- >C:”And that would be?”
- “Why, I want to organize a grand event. In celebration of a certain event that is coming up.”
- >L:”Care to explain further?” Luna says
- >You grab your phone, and check the photo, a burst of magic, and your clothes shift around you.
- >You hope this is convincing.
- >You play the song on your mp3 aloud, its music amplified by your magic.
- >The world shifts around you as the illusion takes effect
- >C:”What is this sorcery?” Celestia says, as the illusion takes hold, shifting the world around you into an old parlour filled with voodoo trinkets.
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4pStVNQc4M
- “Don’t second guess me little madam, don’t you derogate or deride. You’re in my world now, not your world; I’ve got plans for Nightmare Night.”
- >An echo repeats the sound of your voice.
- >Both Princesses eyes grow wide, as you continue.
- >You grab their hooves and lead them into the store.
- “That’s an echo ladies, just a little parlour trick I’ve got here from Louisiana, don’t you worry.”
- “Sit down at my table, put your minds at ease, if you relax it will enable me, to show you everything I please.”
- >You pull out two pillows for them to sit on, as you drop your hat onto the table.
- “I can read the future, I can change it round some too. I look deep into this well of souls; you like it in there don’t you Lawrence? (Your hat bubbles up a green liquid) and make the wildest dreams come true.”
- >They look on at your spectacle, fascinated.
- “Now I know you do, and she do, I’ve got things p0nies want to try!”
- “Cause I’ve got plans for Nightmare Night!”
- >You pull out a deck of cards.
- “The cards, the cards, the cards will tell, the past, the present and the future as well.”
- “The cards, The cards just take three, take them and we’ll take a trip into future, you’ll see.
- >You spread them out, and Luna picks three.
- “Now you young mam are from the starry sea. You come from two long lines of royalty. (I’m a royal myself on my mother’s side.) Your life style’s high! But your fun times are low. You need to find a time to be merry and honey, I know.”
- “Being royalty slows you down, huh princess? Now yall wanna have some fun, but your job ties you down. You just wanna be free, enjoy your time from place to place, but this freedom, means me. It’s a me, It’s a me, I’m the one you need. And when I look into the future, it’s your dream that I see.
- >Luna blushes behind the table.
- >you look over to Celestia.
- “On you royal mam I won’t waste much time, you been a leader all your life. You’ve led through the summ-ah and the wintah and the spring-ah, and if you weren’t wary, you’d lead for the rest of time! But in your future, the you I SEE, is on job that you’ve always wanted this position to be.”
- >You stick out your hand to them.
- “Shake my hand. Come on now ladies, won’t you join in on a poor human’s fun?
- >they look wary at first, then nod to each other and shake your hand.
- “YES.”
- >The drum beat behind you picks up.
- “Are you ready?”
- >Colors and images from you mind whirl around you, of all the things you have planned for that night
- “Are you, READY?”
- >The sounds of laughter and playful freight fill the room.
- “Transformation Central!”
- >Two slabs of granite appear before you.
- “Reformation Central”
- >the granite slabs begin to carve
- “Transmogrification Central!”
- >The slabs care into the two princesses wearing costumes
- “Can you FEEL IT?”
- “Your minds are changing, their changing, changing alright, I hope your satisfied.”
- “And if you ain’t, don’t blame me! You can blame my friend on the other side!”
- >you let out a bellowing laugh as the illusion before you dissipates.
- “Well, what do you say?”
- >Both Princesses are dumbfounded.
- >and you?
- >You are WAY out of breath.
- >L:”Well, Nightmare Night IS supposed to be scary. And the citizens of p0nyville DID ask me to come back this year.”
- >C:”Oh sister, don’t even try to ACT like you didn’t like the idea in the least.”
- >L:”Alright, it’s true. We shall go along with your plan Anonymous. We shall release a set of funds to you to make sure preparations for Nightmare Night go smoothly. Please report any progress to us.”
- “So, you’re both fine with all the ideas I showed you?”
- >C:”I am, as long as Luna is.”
- >L:”I am still a bit wary of these costumes you are preparing. I do not wish to frighten the children so.”
- “Don’t you worry Princess Luna. You leave all that to me. If there will be anyone taking the blame, it’ll be me. Besides, who doesn’t like a good scare every once and a while?”
- >L:”Fair enough. We shall leave you to the planning. For now, good night Anonymous.” Luna says, taking flight.
- >C:”That was quite the performance Anonymous. I am most impressed.”
- “Thank you Princess. I just hope you’ll be prepared for Nightmare Night as well.”
- >C:”Oh, I think my role as the “Saviour of p0nies everywhere” will be most easy to fufill.” She says with a laugh
- “Yeah, it was a bit corny, but it’s the best I could do on such short notice.”
- >C:”It was fine, I assure you. This will be the first Nightmare Night I attend as well, so I am looking quite forward to it.”
- “I will report in, in a few days with the costumes and their progress. I myself will have the most out of all of us, and will be wearing three costumes. You will simply have one, and Luna as well will have one.”
- >You outline a few more details about your dastardly plot with the princess for about another hour before returning to town.
- >One last stop for the night.
- >It was getting late, you hope the Mayor is still up.
- >Sure enough, she’s just walking in to the B&B she’s been staying at.
- “Mrs. Mayor!” you call out.
- >She turns to see you, her face expressionless.
- >”Yes Anonymous, what can I do for you?”
- “Listen I know it’s late and you probably want some time to yourself, but I have a proposition for you.”
- >”And that would be?” she says eying you curiously.
- “Well, since you won’t allow me to help fix up the town hall, I thought I would do something else to help out around here. If I am not mistaken, Nightmare Night is coming up soon, is it not?”
- >”It is, there are many preparations to make, and my schedule is jam packed.”
- >You pull a note you received out of your satchel with the royal seal on it.
- “Well, If you don’t mind, I’ve got a little something special planned for this year, as a sort of apology.”
- >You hand her the note, and she reads it over.
- >”I see, well this DOES make things much easier for me now. But what is this “Halloween” mentioned in the letter?”
- >Your evil grin returns
- “Well Madam Mayor, let me tell you about Halloween...”
- >A brief discussion later, and she looks just as excited as you are.
- “And the best part is, I will be paying for all of it.”
- >”Are you sure Anonymous? It’s quite the undertaking.”
- “I am 100% sure, as long as you are willing to go along with these shenanigans.”
- >”Most certainly! Nightmare Night is one of p0nyville’s grandest celebrations. I look forward to, as you say, “scaring the pants off” of everyone.”
- >The two of you laugh.
- “Well then, now that everything is settled, I’ll be on my way.”
- >”Thank you Anonymous, and please, do not worry about the town hall so much. We know what you have done for us, and we are all grateful.”
- “I wish I could mam.” You say, porting on home.
- >Once you’re inside, you notice a large sack filled with bits and a note next to it.
- “Anonymous, these are for the Nightmare Night festival. This should be more than enough to cover all the costs. We leave the planning to you, and await further information in the coming days.”
- >The sack must contain at least a thousand bits.
- >Rarity had better take them this time.
- >That and Pinkie will need some for all the cakes and etc you are having made special.
- >Plus all the decorations.
- >And the costumes and planning.
- >and the large magic expenditure.
- >You were going to be so drained after this.
- >It’s going to be a busy week, but damn you were looking forward to it.
- >Suddenly there is a knock on your door.
- >You open it up, and Spike is standing there.
- “Hey my little apprentice, what are you doing out here so late?”
- >S:”Hey Anon, Twilight sent me to drop off that book you wanted.”
- >He hands you a book called “The Collectors Definitive Guide to Equestrian Holidays and Festivities”
- “Perfect, this is exactly what I need.”
- >S:”What do you need it for anyway? Doing some research?”
- “In a sense.”
- >Hmm
- >Maybe your new apprentice could help with the festivities.
- “Come on in Spike, there is something I want to show you.”
- >He nods, and enters your home.
- >He marvels at how big everything seems.
- >He also notices the piano still sitting in the corner of the room.
- >You explicitly asked for it, being one of the instruments you could actually play.
- >Thanks mom.
- “Now, this is a Secret between you and me and a few others. Play along, and we’ll have a grand old time in a few weeks.”
- >He looks a bit nervous.
- “Now, If I’m not mistaken, Nightmare Night is for children right?”
- >”Yeah! I had a great time last year! There was SOOOO much candy.”
- “What if I could promise you even MORE this year?”
- >His eyes light up.
- “Now, listen close. I’m going to need you to replicate this song for me.”
- “Think of it as part of your training.”
- >You sit down and open the cover.
- >You send a few balls of dark green light around the room.
- >The cast eerie shadows along all the furniture.
- >Spike sits down on the couch in the living room.
- “This,” you say “is how I celebrate Nightmare Night.”
- ==> “[s] Anon: Play a haunting refrain on the piano,”
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ap_BRZ6BgWo