Nightmare Night! 2024 Give us something sweet to bite. [Las Pegasus][Open]

[Skycoaster]

Nightmare Night! Give us something sweet to bite

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To say the Kandy Kaleidoscope had a busy season was crazy. She seem to be always busy anymore. Between the regular orders, limited time items, and all the special orders, Nightmare Night had to be it. If it had not been for Salty and Beans she'd still be working up till the first trick or treater hit the streets. This year she had sent Saltwater Taffy and Coco Bean to Canterlot with Princess Luna's order as a reward for their hard work. She would hold down the shop this year, thanks to the help of a few sales floor staff. This year she planned to use her shop on the Las Pegasus strip, in all its vintage glory, as a trick or treat destination...if there was anypony really into Nightmare Night that was. It seemed most anypony who was anypony went to wherever Princess Luna was for the main event as it were. Candy couldn't help by think back to her youth in the Bittsburgh and its countryside for sweets.

 

Closing the store at five in the evening on a day of a candy based holiday might have seemed a little strange, however she needed time to set up, and it allowed the few sales floor ponies the opportunity to get ready to enjoy the holiday as well. One of the first items was to get ready. When opening the Kandy Kaleidoscope she had found lots of old things in the building's basement, including a large cast iron cauldron. She'd place it beside the entrance to her shop as she continued to decorate. As the time got closer, she'd put on her costume. A true classic, and vintage to match her shop. The Wicked Witch.

 

 

 

Candy would quickly work on a fake cackle before filling the cauldron with her namesake treats. It wouldn't take long for the sun to set and for her first guest for the evening to arrive. "Greeting my pretty," she'd say in character. "And just what might you be?" she'd say to the colt with a grin. "Come to take some of my candy have you?"

[SteelEagle]

 

 

Applejack was happy that they were in Las Pegasus. Oh, she was not s party mare by nature or trade and a lot of the city still stunk to high heavens, but it was the site of the semi-annual agriculture conference and she was finally set up to attend. Usually she just sent some documents and a statement and had to be content with that. This time was different, and she had a fine few days in town. She got to meet and speak with other important families and it allowed her to create the connections that would benefit them in the future. The real winner would be Equestria, really.

 

While in town she did plan on partaking in some fun. It was made easier by the prospect of her being able to spend time with her significant other, a factor which always made her day shine brighter. Dash was always busy with the 'Bolts this time of the year and while Applejack made peace with that years ago, that didn't mean she liked it. The Wonderbolts were in town and so she made a point of ensuring they had their plans together. 

 

Enjoying the sights and sounds of Las Pegasus, she led Rainbow to a party she had elected to attend. The kids were back in Ponyville with Apple Bloom, hopefully she could handle all that and more. Tonight belonged to them. A party and more, she hoped. She was dressed as Missus Bits Shorthoof, secretary to famous spy Con Mane from the movie serials and books. It was a fairly revealing, flattering secretary outfit with a tight pencil skirt and long white stockings and heels. Her blouse was the 'famous' light pink and white unofficial uniform that hung tight and held a small S.M.I.L.E. logo. 

It hadn't been her first pick, but it didn't much for Dash to convince her once Dash made it clear how well it would go with his own costume. She was willing to do what was necessary to make it work for him, if nobody else.

 

"Mr. Mane," she said in the High Manehattan accent, doing her best impression of Ms. Bits and nailing it thanks to her well-maintained voice skills. "I do hope you remember to keep yourself safe tonight. What a tragedy if something were to sideline you and keep you away from tonight's festivities," she smiled and tossed her head back to Dash, her mane in a tight bun. 

 

As she looked back, she caught a glance of a witch giving away some treats to a colt. Pretty nice way of starting the candy season she thought and was that mare familiar to her? She wanted to check it out.

"Oh Mr. Mane, follow me. I believe I have something sweet for you," she said with nary a hint of poor taste, happy to let Dash complete the implication while she trotted in lead towards the shop.

 

 

[RainbowFoxxy]

Las Pegasus...home to all the things that made a pony want more! Dash had been feeling rather excited for this particular adventure, seeing as how it would get them out of town and hopefully able to spend some quality time together sans the kiddos. Sure he would have his responsibilities with the 'Bolts, he always did, but that didn't mean they couldn't get up to a little fun and mischief! 

 

"Something sweet eh?" Dash did a rather good impression of Con Mane if he did say so himself. "Well, that's just what the doctor ordered Miss Bitsy," He gave a sly smile as she tossed her head back, catching his full an undivided attention. Celestia, AJ could make herself look intoxicating in any situation, not the least of which was a reveling Nightmare Night costume that went along with his own.  Dash wore a slim fitting black tux, complete with a single red rose boutonniere, and monocle. He also had a holster strapped around his middle, a quite convincing looking fake gun hidden under his wing. 

 

They made their way to the shop where the party was to take place where a mare in a wicked witch costume was doling out candy corn to a colt at the door. Dash could hardly tear his eyes off the hindquarters of his wife to appreciate any of the decorations, though he did notice they looked fun.

 

"I've checked the perimeter Miss Bitsy, entry into the establishment should be safe enough." He squinted through his monocle at her for a moment before offering a another sly look. "Tell me, where you've hidden that something sweet my dear?" 

 

As they came up to the entrance he nodded to the mare at the door. "Good evening miss, I've heard tell of a request for the famous super spy to be at this event. I dare say you're not in league with my arch nemesis Mr. Gold Withers?" 

[Windwright]

Nightmare Night wasn't Eden's FAVORITE holiday, but it was pretty close. This year, he'd borrowed one of Foxtrot's old leotards, some grippy horseshoes, and a little chalk from his art kit and gauze from the medicine cabinet, and now he answered the spooky witch's question by prancing around and letting light leak out in a long ribbon from his horn, twirling and looping like a ribbon before fading slowly. After his little gymnastic routine, and without noticing that he'd dropped a couple pieces of candy from his bucket in his exuberance, he struck a(n awkward) pose and grinned, panting a little.

 

He'd planned this costume ever since the last Equestria Games had been broadcast on TV and he saw the performers!

[Skycoaster]

Candy would watch as the colt put on a display as to what his costume was. “I see,” Candy would say with a smirk. “A fit little gymnast. Well then, I shall have to give you extra candy corn to fatten you up for my stew. Nightmare Moon isn’t the only one who like to gobble up little ponies on Nightmare Night after all.” Candy would cackle. “Do you dare step inside to begin the trail of treats? I hope so. I put a lot of effort into tonight.” 
 

Candy would open the door and extend a hoof pointing into her shop. The lightning was dimmed as Jack-o-lanterns sat on the counter. A tray of green and red candy apples sat next to a door pointing into the alley behind the shop. A sign sat on the tray. ‘The witch’s newest creation. Eat only if you dare.’ The old player piano was playing spooky music to add to the ambience. The alley would would lead to the once abandoned storefront next to hers. What would they find inside? The headquarters for Las Pegasus’s trick or treating, complete with a map of all precipitating businesses. There would be other treats as well. A local DJ would play Nightmare Night classics with small dance floor. 
 

Candy would look to her newest arrivals. One of them was an Apple….one of the Princess of Friendship’s friends of she remembered correctly. The stallion she was with thought… she had no idea whom he was, though he was dressed as a spy. Come to think of it, it must have been a couples costume. Non the less, Candy would have fun with her new persona tonight. “Welcome. I’m afraid I haven’t heard of this Gold Withers, nor would I be in league with them. What I can offer you is some candy…as well as a few other surprised tonight" as she levitated some candy corn to them. “Ether of you haven’t see a farm pony running around with ruby horseshoes, have you?”
 

 

[SteelEagle]

 

The colt was a little cutie. What was he supposed to be, some sort of dancing mummy? A gymnast? She couldn’t quite place it, if only because she was paying a bit more attention to making sure Dash didn’t make too much of a scene while in character. Still, look at that little cutie! She had helped Zap with his costume idea before they left but now she was a bit sad she wouldn’t be there to see it. If this little colt could cute up a storm, what the hay was Zap up to?

 

She refocused on Dash. She didn’t know too much about the Con Mane series of picture shows, at least as much as Dash did. She just knew that Con had a thing for his secretary. Hence, this Nightmare Night. “Well, Mr. Mane, I do believe that something sweet is inside here,” she said, pointing to the establishment. “And...here…” she said, leaning in breathlessly against him. It was about this time in the movies that the credits would roll, usually with a pun. She kissed Dash. “Fill yer bag up or ya have ta fly home.”

 

She allowed herself to fall off him as they entered and she gave the establishment another look. It was a darn good candy shop, she figured. Sugarcube Corner did baked goods as well as anypony could and there was a number of excellent vendors in Ponyville for treats, but she didn’t think anypony had a dedicated shop as big as this one. The proprietor did a true blue bang up job. When the witch mentioned a farm filly with ruby shoes, Applejack had to look at her own back hooves. “Ah don’t think so…” she said before shaking her head, realizing it was part of her costume. “Oh, darn. Ah mean-” she cleared her throat, putting on the faux Trottingham accent befitting her role, “I will take care to keep an eye out. Don’t want to upset our fine hostess this evening, now do we?”
 

[Storyteller]

What is there to say about Las Pegasus that hasn't already been said. A city of splendours, a place where excitement can be found in every corner, a small world where ponies can escape to and forget their troubles and mundane lives. To Shadow Step it was merely another city full of ponies needing to be separated from their bits. 

 

"Hey! Watch it!" A burly earth pony shouted as Shadow Step bumped into him. 

 

"Sorry about that!" He called back. Appearing to be in a hurry to be somewhere though in truth the dark grey bat pony has been circling this street for the pass half hour. Bumping into ponies, apologizing as he rushes further down the street before taking a quick turn into an alley and enjoying the small victory at another successful robbery. He lifts one of his wings slightly as he reaches underneath it and pulls out the purse he had just stolen. He couldn't help but smile as he counted the coins within. Not only because he had managed to make quite the small fortune with this little hustle of his, but also because he was doing it while dressed in an impressive replica of a royal guard custom. 

 

There was a special sense of irony there that Shadow Step found to be immensely enjoyable. 

 

Bless the Luna for this holiday 

 

After counting his stolen loot. Shadow Step was ready for another go of it only to stop by the alley's entrance when he notices a pair of police officers and a small crowd of very loud, and very angry ponies.  He recognises some of them as being recent marks of his and quickly fell back into the safety of the alley way. "Well, it seems the fun for the evening has come to an end." He said to himself as he walks to the other side of the alleyway. 

 

He moved quickly but kept his pace as calm and unhurried. Changing directions, blending into the crowds when he could, and acting like he was another pony out to enjoy the festivities of Nightmare Night. This led him to the Las Pegasus's strip, a long line of shops, hotels, casinos, and a horde of trick and treaters from him to disappear into. He joins them, following them as they moved like the sea down the long road. Soon the crowd has reached their destination, a large candy store, decked with cotton webbing and pumpkin lanterns. A Unicorn mare stood out the front of the store, next to her was an iron cauldron filled with candy corn. She cackles as she greeted each member of the group before handing them out some of her candy. 'She over selling this a little bit.' Shadow Step thought as he simply smiles, watching the others take the candy offered or go inside the store itself.

 

 

[Skycoaster]

Candy would continue to had our her namesake treat to all the foal and foals at heart trick or treating down her street near her storefront. She'd try to stay in character as much as possible to add to the spooky nature of the holiday. Every so often though she would glance over at the crowd of ponies whom seemed to be just watching her and the other creatures whom enjoyed the Nightmare Night traditions. "Here you go little pony. Enjoy your night of treats and maybe a few tricks along the way," she'd say as she levitated some candy corn into their bags. "The Trick or Treat trail begin through these doors if you and your parents dare." Candy would chuckle. "Be sure to grab one of my bewitched candy or caramel apples," she'd say to a father accompanying the group. As the entered the shop, a colt dressed up as an astronaut would tug on Candy's skirt and point to a pony who was watching them across the street. 

 

"It seems that not all ponies fear the wrath of Nightmare Moon," she'd call out to the onlookers. "Though they should. The Mistress of the Night dose not take kindly to those who do not embrace her holiday." Candy would try her best at an evil chuckle. "Fools! all of you!" Candy tried to hid her smirk. She'd been in Las Pegasus long enough to embrace and mimic the street entertainers the city was known for....also having a famous performer friend like Wind Dancer, she'd picked up a few things.

 

In the back of her head Candy could not help but think of all the candy corn, popcorn balls, and candy and caramel apples she had made. She had planned for a much larger turnout and feared it going to waste. "Come here and collect some free treats." She'd lock eyes with the bat pony across the way. "What's the matter? Afraid you might develop a sweet fang?" As she'd do her best fake cackle.

[Storyteller]

Shadow Step looked to his sides, wondering who it was the candy giving Witch was speaking to. When he realizes that he was the one she was addressing he merely chuckles at his own stupidity. 

 

"Sorry Sweetheart." He said as he turns to continue his way down the Strip. "I'm afraid I've got better things to do then stuff my face full of candy."

 

The bat pony walked away. Wondering what other mischief he could get himself into before the night was over. He could find another section of the city for him to start pickpocketing again, or maybe there's a mansion whose owners forgot to lock the doors, perhaps he'll even try his hoof at cheating in one of the casinos. On a night like this, where the streets were filled with ponies and other creatures dressed in masks and disguises, he could do anything he wanted and without fear of suspicion. 

 

Or so he thought.

 

Shadow Step came to a sudden stopped when he suddenly heard the most dreaded sound for a thief like him. A Police Pony. 

 

"Excuse me ma'am? Have you seen a pony wearing a royal guard custom?" 

 

Looking towards the sounds of the voices Shadow Step heart froze when he saw two of them speaking to a mare dressed like a ladybug. They were only a few steps away. The only reason they haven't spotted him was purely due to the hustle and bustle of the crowd flowing up and down the Strip. He didn't wait to hear what the mare answer was. The royal guard disguised bat pony immediately turned and walked back the way he came. Moving quickly while being careful to not make a scene Shadow Step mind race as he tries to figure out what his next move would be. First and foremost, he needed to get off the street. But where is he going to....

 

His eyes landed on the Candy store and the Witch giving out her candy corn.

 

Bingo.

 

He calmly walks towards the store's entrance, flashing his most charming smile at the mare. "On Second thought. I'll take you up on your offer. The night's still young after all."

 

He walks into the store, pleased that at least he'll have a safe haven for the time being. Hopefully it will be long enough for him to figure out what his next step should be.   

[SteelEagle]

Bon Bon was proud of Bon Bon's Bonbons, Ponyville's top spot for bonbons made by the mare herself, Bon Bon. But frankly that stand had been outgrown for years. She cut prices and pushed deals just so the avalanche of goods she made didn't go to waste. One mare, one stand, one business model. It sounded like the start of a speech but truth was it had served her splendidly for years. Now she was providing for more than herself, she was providing for a whole family and her wife had expensive tastes. Mare needed money. Luckily the product was too notch and she didn't need to expand her production tooooooooo much. She just needed a place to sell it.

 

Las Pegasus had not been her first idea, but Lyra wanted to go to the city for their anniversary and Bon Bon thought it sounded swell. Now Lyra was a drunken mess recovering before another party and Bon Bon- well she was buzzed, bit SMILE agents had a higher tolerance for alcohol. You had to be able to drink minotaurs under the table, after all. So while Lyra prepared her mind and body for the real night on the town, Bon Bon donned the rightful garb of her people and made her way to the place in Las Pegasus she earmarked for a deal. 

 

It was for this reason that Bon Bon had dressed up as the top product sold at Bon Bon’s Bonbons: A heart-shaped cream colored bonbon with the head of Bon Bon. The costume was slightly oversized and so she had more of a waddle than a trot, just enough to make her look a bit silly. She didn’t help matters much. Once she realized she was waddlin’ about she couldn’t help but mutter little “boom boom boom” as she went about, playfully playing the playful fool as she waddled her way past some angry ponies, an officer, a probable thief a respectable guard costume’d stallion, the Apples, and then the queen bee her self.

 

Or witchy bee, as it were. “Hey hey hey there Candy,” she said as she tipped the top of her costume over, a few small real bonbons escaping from the in-built bowl at the top. “Killer costume! Puttin’ a spell on me, I hope,” she winked as she tried to walk through the doors. She got stuck. She pushed again, got even more stuck, her legs now off the ground. “I need a kick or for somepony to take a bit out of me. Word to the wise: the costume is only partially edible,” she waited a full second. “I’m the edible part. Some help, please?”

[Storyteller]

Shadow Step looks behind him and snorted at the sight of the poor mare that had become stuck within the door. 

 

'Well at least I don't have to worry about those Cops getting in.' He thought as he continues further within the store. Not really paying attention on any of the sweets or other guest. 

 

Focused solely on trying to come up with a plan that would allow him to leave this place without getting caught.

[Skycoaster]

"Have a change of heard deary?" She'd say as the bat pony made his way back towards her shop. "The night is still young, and you have plenty of time to catch up on your offering to Nightmare Moon. She can be a real terror if your offering is not to her liking." She would cackle as he entered. "Be sure to try the caramel apple. It's to...Die for.."

 

Candy's attention would turn as she heard a voice she hadn't heard since leaving Ponyville to start her own candy operation in Las Pegasus. "Hi Bon Bon!" as she broke character for a moment, giggling at her former mentor's waddle. She would clear her throat before going back to her witch person for the evening. "I never thought I'd see you here good pony," She'd say as she continued to build off the story her costume was based on. "You are in for a wicked night this evening. Enter my shop of treats and tricks."

 

As Bon Bon got stuck in the doorway, she had to stifle a laugh with her hoof before rolling her eyes. "But of course," she'd say as Bon Bon would be enveloped in Candy's orange aura. "All ponies are eatable. Just ask Nightmare Moon....or other witches. Perhaps you'll make a fine stew? Or maybe just a little nibble..." Candy would smile before giving Bon Bon the shove she needed. She'd giggle a bit as the thought of Bon Bon having to leave the store as well eventually set in. Thank goodness the Trick or Treat trail left through the receiving door, and that door could fit crates of coco and sugar through it.

 

Soon another pony would arrive, this time a young pegasus mare dressed as Dorthy, ruby horseshoes and all. It was one of Candy's sales associates. "Don't have all the fun you wicked witch," she'd say to Candy. "We're not in Ponyville anymore." she'd wink and Candy. Candy would nod, letting the pegasus take over as the barker for the Trick or Treat trail and handing out the candy corn.

 

Candy would enter the shop behind Bon Bon in her blind spot. "Boo!" She'd chuckle. "So what do you think? Everything in Las Pegasus has a gimmick, and it didn't take me long to find mine, especially as a Bittsburger, we really like old timey things...or is it we don't like change." She'd levitate three popcorn balls over to her, giving one to Bon Bon and the other to the bat pony whom seemed to just be taking his time in the store. "There's more through the door. Me and some of the local businesses set up a trick or treat trail you know...just through the receiving door. There one heck of a DJ next door through the back ally. Actually to night it might be the safest ally in all Equestria. We got one of Princess Luna's Lunar Guards to help out with security."

[Windwright]

Eden smiles as he trots into the shop, levitating his share of candy and one of the candied apples along with him. He was planning to enjoy tonight as much as possible, after all it only came around once a year, and this year he'd discovered his Special Talent, and was learning how to play with the light trailing from his horn in more and more creative ways. For now, it was just trailing behind him like the Aurora Borealis had been captured by a tailor and tied to his horn. He munched on the apple as he moved into the shop and stared around like, well, a colt in a candy shop.
 

The batpony was unusual, even in Las Pegasus, so once he'd entered the shop Eden's eyes followed him at least as often as they rested on sweets and treats he didn't have pocket money for tonight, since he didn't have pockets. But he'd have to remember to show Foxtrot this place some time! He was always saying he wanted something tasty to his friends, this would be a good place to get that!

[Storyteller]

Shadow Step eyes roam over the collection of sweets and sugar filled confectioneries. As a bat pony he is natural incline to sweet tastes considering the mainstays of their diet are mangoes and other sweet fruits, but even he thought that this was a little too much. 

 

I can already feel my fangs rotting looking over these. He thought as he noticed a ball made of popcorn floating only a few inches from his face.

 

He reaches out and grabbed it. Looking at it confusingly until hearing the voice of the Witch Pony. She thankfully spoke with her normal voice. Explaining that the store wasn't the sole centre of festivities.     

 

"Just through the receiving door. There one heck of a DJ next door through the back ally. Actually, to night it might be the safest ally in all Equestria." She said. 

 

This piqued Shadow Step's interest. A larger venue means more space and a larger crowd to get lost in. There might even be a back entrance he could slip out of, after he gotten rid of his costume of course. As fun as petty theft was dressed as a royal guard, it also makes him quite identifiable. It was a shame in a way, he had plans to do more little crimes while wearing this false armour. The thought of the reputation of the guard suffering, even a little bit, would put a smile on any criminal's face. 

 

 "We got one of Princess Luna's Lunar Guards to help out with security." 

 

That wiped the smile right off Shadow Step's face for a brief second. He looks to the mare, hiding the sudden panic behind a mask of mild interest and a renewed smile.

 

"Is that so?" He said. 

 

This could be bad. Worse than bad even.  

 

Shadow Step didn't know how a Lunar Guard would feel if they discovered a thief was moonlighting as a member of their golden armoured counterparts, but he could imagine they would be less then pleased. They could even feel as if it was their duty to hunt down this imposter and bring them to justice and while Shadow Step was confident he could survive the heat of local police, A member of the most elite force in Equestria is a very different matter.

 

Tonight, had just got far more interesting than it ever should have. 

 

[SteelEagle]

Bon Bon gave a loud chuckle as she was helped out of the door jam she had made a one-pony show, managing to get on all fours before making a scene and crashing in the middle of the entryway. “Ha! Well, maybe somepony should take a bit outta this costume. I swear, they say measure twice and cut once when it comes to DIY projects but maybe I need to measure a third time. Or stop eating so many chocolates,” she giggled as she started to walk and talk with her former protege-slash-roommate-slash-potential business partner? “Or maybe a stew would be best. I have it on good authority from a bugbear that my mane is very, very delicious.”

 

She jumped up theatrically with a playful “Gahh!” when her blind spot was attacked. Joke was on Candy, everywhere was a blind spot when you wore this costume. “Looking pretty sweet, actually. And not just the shop or you, nice costume again, but the shop. I’ve heard some good things about it back in the ‘ville,” Bon Bon said with some serious twang to it, in her fruitless endeavor to give Ponyville some legit street cred, “so I was excited to catch it at some point. Just happened everything lined up right for this night to be the night!” She smiled. “And talk about a night. A DJ? Filly, you need to see me bust a move in this thing. Ponies will never stop talking about this night then,” she said before the batpony nearby seemed alarm by the mention- okay maybe not alarmed, but his interest certainly piqued- by the involvement of a Lunar Guard. “Yeah, Bittsburgians only hire the best. Or the cheapest. Sometimes thats the best. Hey Bon Bon, how cheap is a Guard like that now that they answer to retirees?” She chuckled. “That had to lower the price a bit,” she said before turning her head towards the batpony. 

 

“Nice costume, by the by. I hope the tail peak doesn’t dig into you too much,” she rolled her eyes. “When I was in SMILE they briefly considered having us wear more standard armor. The tail peak dug right into my big tanky flank and drove me nuts. So, hopefully you didn’t make my mistake and you measured thrice.”

----

Applejack moved into the shop for the party and found herself momentarily distracted from dealing with her husband. Dash was certainly the Mane event tonight in his own head, but she wanted to check out the digs. It was a good shop and she was excited to see the party, but what got her attention was this little colt who started trotting about. He was a real cutie, but Applejack’s maternal instincts kicked in- where were his parents? She wasn’t going to harangue him or nothing, but she soon found herself nearby nonetheless.

“Aww, look at you. That there is a pretty cool costume, little fella. A mighty fine routine you had up there! Ah’m Applejack. What’s your name, sugarcube?” She asked, leaning down closer to Eden’s height.

[Storyteller]

Shadow Step looked at the mare who's costume was far, far too big for her with a questioning look. What did she mean "When I was in SMILE"? 

 

Surely, she did not mean the secret agency that protected Equestira from all manners of dangers or evil doers. His luck hasn't become that bad in a manner of only a few minutes, has it? His orange eyes look her up and down. She didn't look like some secret agent who could probably take down a raging manticore with nothing more than a toothpick and a blow-dryer. But then again isn't that what an agent would what others to think? 

 

Perhaps that clumsy costume of hers isn't as bothersome as she what others to believe. She could be hiding anything underneath there. Gadgets, doohickies, gizmos and Princesses knows what else. 

 

And why has she taken an interest in him? Could she be after him? Had his life of robbing and thieving caught the attention of S.M.I.L.E. somehow? Could he had wandered into some kind of trap?

 

Shadow Step was so deep into his panic thoughts that he had almost not realise that he had been staring at the mare longer than what was socially acceptable. He gave a small laugh and try to play it off as simply him having a brain-dead moment.

 

"Oh, it's not so bad." He said giving her his most charming and innocent smile he could muster. "I mean it's not like it's real armour. It's only a replica, not even made with real metal.  Anyway, I should go and have a look at this DJ and all the other fun stuff happening outside. See you two around!"

 

Shadow Step turned and made his way to the candy shop's back door. Trying very hard to move as quickly as possible while not trying to look like he wasn't moving as quickly as possible. He swears this night couldn't have get any worse than it already is. He has police searching for him, a Lunar Guard who will probably jump at the chance to take him down if they learn about his activities while wearing a costume of a royal guard and now a possible S.M.I.L.E. agent! 

 

He's beginning to think this holiday is curse.

[Skycoaster]

Candy would smile at BonBon's complements of her little enterprise in Las Pegasus. "It's nice to know that the Kandy Kaleidoscope is making both Bittsburgh and Ponyville proud...and making you proud as well. Who'd of though I'd go from living in your basement and refining my craft at your cart all because somepony forgot about the apprenticeship program. I've had that little bit of bad luck starting out, but so far I'm glad to say I hit the jackpot with friends in Las Pegasus."

 

When she heard the bat pony inquire about her security, Candy would nod. "Yep. If I remember correctly he's one of Luna's most loyal as well. Luna let him dress up this Nightmare Night so he could have some normal fun as well...as much as you can when your boss makes you dress up as Nightmare Moon when your a stallion. I think he really pulls the wig off quite well."Candy would chuckle, looking to BonBon.  "I think it's a fair trade for the evening. I have Midnight and Luna has my two apprentices handing out treats at Canterlot Castle."

 

Candy would get a grin as her two young pupils came up. "That's right, I have two of them. The best in all of Equestria. Saltwater Taffy is a talented pegasus from Baltimare and Coco Bean is a unicorn from Manehatten. Have you taken any more apprentices on after me? I feel like I was kinda a suprise on your doorstep," she'd giggle. "All because I chose Ponyville so I could be close to my sisters at the School of Friendship." 

 

Candy would look back out the door at the pegasus dressed as Dorthy. "She's got this for now. You really have to see the kitchen. It's what I'm most proud of....and will be paying off for quite a while."

 

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Midnight Oil sighed in between party goes going in or out of the next location. Nightmare Night was a day of work normally for the bat pony guard, though usually it was at the side of his boss, Princess Luna. Wearing the armor of his boss's alter ego was one thing....but the wig and fake horn she made him promise to where was another.  Being a smaller guard, he was afraid that somepony would confuse him for a mare...as he would look at his reflection in a window. Still, it wasn't as bad as what Luna did to that Blizzard stallion that was a member of Twilight's honor guard last year. He'd scoff and roll his eyes at his boss's sense of humor.

 

As trick or treaters left through the back door of Candy's shop, including a bat pony wearing golden guard armor, he would point a hoof to the adjoining building. "Enter Nightmare Night central and grab a map of the trail of treats or maybe just dance till your dead....on your hooves or else I might." Midnight would gulp before he'd say the next bit... "Gobble you up..."

 

Midnight would look him over, paying attention to Shadow Step's costume and particular his orange eyes. As the foals ran to their next destination, Midnight would walk up next to Shadow. "Nice costume...though your star is crocked." Midnight would smile. "I bet you love this holiday. Orange is a rare eye color in Equestria and its said that only those born under a Nightmare Night moon are so lucky to have them."

[Storyteller]

Shadow Step looked around at the small space of the alley. To his surprise it was perhaps the cleanest and most well-lit alleyway he had ever step into. Strings of lights connected the separated buildings together and a makeshift fence shaped into ghost and ghouls made it so the only entrance to the alley was through the candy store. It was actually impressive setup. Was he not currently in danger of being arrested by the local authorities he might have actually been able to enjoy himself. 

 

His eyes soon landed on a short, Nightmare Moon dressed pony who appeared to be standing guard by the opposite end of the short path. Shadow Step first thought they were a mare but as they started to speak what sounded like a half-hearted rehearsed line, he realized that it was a stallion. 

 

Shame. He thought. They really do pull that costume off.

 

Then he remembered something the Witch Pony had said about the Lunar Guard. 

 

"Dress up as Nightmare Moon when your a stallion."

 

Shadow Step came close to slapping himself upon remembering this. So much for the not bumping into the Lunar Guard plan.

 

To his shock the stallion walked over to him. Shadow Step heart almost stop as he closed in on him. Had the police already informed him about the thief wearing a replica? Was he going to try to arrest him? Should he make a break for it or try to see if he could pass it off him wearing the costume of a royal guard as merely a coincidence? 

 

He swallowed the lump forming in his throat and waited to see what happened. 

 

 "Nice costume." He said, sounding genuinely impressed by his guard costume. His body was relaxed, and his voice didn't seem to hold any hint of malice or trickery within them.

 

Shadow Step gave an internal sigh of relief. At least something is going right tonight. he thought as he gave the Nightmare clad stallion a friendly smile and answered his question. 

 

"I was actually born two weeks after Nightmare Night." He said, being truthful for the first time that night. "But I always did have a certain love for this holiday." This was only half true as the only love he had of this night was being able to wear a disguise without being so obvious about it.

 

Still, he did not know about the colour of his eyes being so rare. Thinking back on it, the few times he had interacted with his fellow bat ponies he never did notice any of them sharing the same eye colour as him. It was something he should make a note of. Especially now that the Lunar Guard had pointed it out.

 

"So, do I have to come back this way to get out?" He said in a curious manner. "Or is there another exit? Just want to know in case there's an emergency or something?"     

[Windwright]

Eden was distracted from the bat guard by a mare in a dress. Eden guessed it was from a movie he wasn't allowed to see yet, but he didn't know which one, there were so many! He grinned and carefully slid his treats to the side so he could pose again as he proudly proclaimed "Eden Glow!" in a chipper voice that was surprisingly loud and smooth for how little he said. The light from his horn even made a little ! for a second before shifting back to its multicolored ribbon. He wasn't quite bouncing in place, but it was clear that he was looking forward to the fun tonight.

[Skycoaster]

Midnight would chuckle half heartedly. “Still, it is possible. Nightmare Night’s date is based off the cycle of moon after all.” He’s tilt his head as he continued to look over his fellow batpony’s costume. “You know, it’s funny. Most of our kinds greatest goal is to join the Lunar Guard. I’m sure if you wore that replica armor long enough though you’d see the downsides of it. At least you don’t make a clanking as you walk.” He’d laugh. “As for me.” He extend one of his front hoofs, “I wonder how the princesses spend all day with these shoes on.”
 

When he was asked about exits, Midnight raised an eyebrow. “Exit? There is no exit,” he’d say as he tried his Nightmare Moon voice. “You could go back, but that would be like trying to get out of line for the Wild Blue Yonder. I’d just follow the trail. It will be a lot easier, plus there are all kinds of stops. Some even have fun family games and of course sweets.” He’s smile, showing his larger than normal fangs. “If you do decide to leave early however, the next building has an exit back to the strip through that’s building old front door.”

[Storyteller]

So, the only exit here leads straight back onto the Strip. Shadow Step thought. Well, that's useless. I'll would end up back into the crosshairs of those cops that are searching for me. Guess I'm stuck here.

 

Shadow Step smiled. "Thanks for the info. And for what it's worth I think you pull of those shoes off well."

 

He then walks off, grateful to be away from the potential threat and entered into the building his fellow bat pony had been guarding. A wall of sound hit him as he entered as whatever this building had been has now changed into what could only be describe as a Spooky Disco. Ponies of different ages and costume danced in the centre of the large room as lights of different shades of colours flash and strode across the crowd. On a small platform at the very back was a pony banging their head to the music while working at a disc board. Ponies cheers as the song beat became lounder with some even screaming to the words.

 

Shadow Step watches the chaos before him for a few moments as he adjusts to the volume before walking over to a nearby table where food and drinks were laid out. It became a challenge as he had to squeeze his way past dancing ponies and avoid stepping on a few foals who took to zigzagging beneath the adult legs. After that little difficulty he took a cup of something that was orange in colour but smelt too sweet and minty to be from any fruit he was aware of. With a drink in hoof Shadow Step found a place where he had perfect view over the entire crowd. 

 

Now if and when the cops decide to come searching for him in this little party he will be able to see them coming. 

 

Shame this wasn't a costume shop. He thought as he took a sip of his drink. I could have changed out of this and make a quick get away without anypony being the wiser.

 

He supposed he could try and convinced one of these party ponies to swap their costume with his, but knowing how his luck was going so far, he may end up speaking to one of the princesses themselves and get into even deeper, hotter water then he already is. At the thought of the princesses, he thought of what that Nightmare Moon stallion had said. 

 

"Most of our kinds greatest goal is to join the Lunar Guard."

 

He chuckled at those words. Imagine him, a thief from Manehatten becoming something as respectable as Lunar Guard. Or any guard for that matter. Sometimes the goody too shoes say the funniest things at times.

[SteelEagle]

He sure was a cute little colt. Applejack couldn't help but smile as she saw his magic used so easily and precisely, helping form punctuation after he said his name. That took some serious talent or skill, but she couldn't help herself but play with him a trite longer. "Oh, watch out there little fella. Looks like yer magic is gettin' loose! Yer horn hasn't sprung a leak or somesuch, has it?" She asked with faux, playful concern as she started walking alongside him. Somepony had to watch him as he went out and had fun, right? "Are ya out here tonight with anypony? Where's yer ma and pa?" She asked, making sure he felt comfortable.

 

Bon Bon was happy that he hadn't spent too much time on trying to make his armor look too authentic, so authentic that it had that damn tail peak. She wanted to be there next time somepony tried to make an accurate tail peak for no reason just so she could use that opportunity to argue for revolution because of how unnaturally uncomfortable it was. Bon Bon didn't like something digging into her tail bone. "Well, have fun buddy. I'll keep an eye on you!" She waved him off before turning to Candy. "He's got a cute butt. And that Lunar Guard you have, his legs are so slender. No wonder he pulls that costume off so well!"

 

Back to her friend. "Yep! Well, truth be told that might be partially because of me. I bought the Central Equestrian Candymaker's Press Guide since, ya know, I'm pretty great and all that. My opinion is news, and I have a very high opinion of you. So yeah, that's cool," she said with a light giggle as she waddled through a door. She needed to work on this damn costume next year. "Two apprentices? Nice. You know, you were such a great student I think you'll be an awesome teacher. I'm not a great teacher. I'm not good at giving direction or really dispensing with knowledge. Besides, my basement is being filled with Lyra's projects. That's pretty cool, especially when she puts out the fires," she said as she followed the evil witch into her very evil kitchen. What did it cook? Debt! And chocolate. Chocolate debt? She'd have to remember that for an album name.

[RainbowFoxxy]

Con Mane blushed as he received a kiss from his secretary. Good thing he had hired her back in the day, she had a way of always making him smile. As they proceeded into the party and mingled with the guests, Rainbow couldn't help but be engrossed in the scene around him. If there was ever a night that was a good time for him to begin to get used to his new self, it was tonight. No pony was really bring totally themselves, everypony was in costume looking different than usual. He could blend in and not worry about not being completely sure of himself yet. Plus, with AJ by his side he was sure he's be alright!

 

AJ had quickly become busy with making sure a young colt was safe and taken care of. That was just like AJ, making sure everyone had what they needed. He really was lucky to have her by his side. After the colt was seen to, Rainbow nudged AJ. 

 

"Well Miss Bitsy, perhaps your friend here would like to take a turn with us around the dance floor?" He bent down and spoke softly to Eden Glow. "So young sir, would you like to help us keep an eye out for Mr. Gold Withers tonight?" He winked and gave a mischievous smile to the colt. 

[Skycoaster]

Candy would giggle at the mention of the bat ponies. To be honest, she was wrapped up too much into Nightmare Night to notice till BonBon drew attention to her guests flank. Tilting her head, She'd chuckle. "7.8 out of 10." As the conversation turned to MidNightmare Moon...She'd have to remember that, She'd nod. "Princess Luna doesn't mess around when it comes to costumes. Look," as she nudged the giant candy coated pony. "He may act like he's not enjoying himself, but look." as she pointed a hoof at Midnight trying out different Nightmare Moon poses in a reflection in the window.

 

"Wow," Candy would say, as her mouth hung open for just a moment. "I heard there was an articular about the Kaleidoscope but I didn't have time to read it with all the work I've put into this store." Candy would chuckle. "To be honest, I haven't really even unpacked my living quarters on the third floor. I've just been crashing on the couch at night...the one that used to be in your basement. Still good and comfortable." Tapping her chin, the unicorn would try to remember just where her copy of the Press Guide was. It would take her a few moments to remember Salty took it to be framed. 

 

Candy was proud of her shop's kitchen. She had designed it herself after all, all in stainless steel. "Notice anything," as she pointed to the two different cook tops, as she giggled. "That's because of the first lesson I learned from you on day one, Personal space. Remember the shiner I got from your elbow when we where both trying to use the stove...and I think Lyra was trying to cook ramen on the back burner at the same time?" As Candy took a few more steps into the kitchen, she'd smile. "If your staying a few days, you can always try it out. I'm always looking for new recipes. As for my basement...I wouldn't go down there at night. With how old this building is, it might be haunted."

 

If Midnight was to be honest with himself, He could have drawn a much worse posting for this holiday...or a worse assignment. He shivered at the thought of the posting the other Lunar Guard drew. Fillidelphia. Las Pegasus was a fun city where as Filly...sometimes it got a stray snowflake or two this time of year. His attention was quickly shifted to the new group of ponies entering from Candy's shop. "Greeting my little ponies," he'd say trying his best 'evil' voice. "I hope your offering will not disappoint." As he lowered his head to Eden's level and give a fanged smile. "Even the great Con Mane will not be able to protect you from my wrath." as he gave an evil laugh, winking to Applejack, whom he recognized from passing in Canterlot Castle. He'd have to do a doubletake at the pony dressed as the main spy from the award winning spy book series...and movie now. He had the same color mane of Rainbow Dash but well, wasn't. "Enter Nightmare Night Central and earn all the candy you can. There's even bobbing for apples...Fritter Fields apples," as he looked to Applejack. "The Wicked Witch spared no expense to fatten you all up."

[Storyteller]

Shadow Step sat with his head resting on his hoof as he looks out at the sea of ponies. So far, he seems to be safe. The Nightmare Moon dressed stallion had yet to barge into the small disco with a legion of police officers to arrest him. That was good, but now he was suffering from a new problem. Boredom. 

 

None of the ponies here were wearing any jewelleries that was worth stealing and even if they were Shadow couldn't afford starting a new crisis after escaping from the one before. There was also that guard to consider as well. His career has been successful because they were local and too small for any of the princesses to care, but if that stallion outside catches wind to what he is that could very well change. 

 

He sighs and leans against his seat, taking a sip of the sweet orange drink he had been resting on for the past several minutes. At least here ponies were ignoring him. Too caught up with dancing and socializing to care about the lone bat pony in a guard uniform. Hopefully it remains that way.