Such Horrible Thingsby dramatic_spoonChaptersWhat's This?The Pumpkin KingThe Next SurpriseThe Same RoutineWhat's This?Stratos stared into the mirror, looking over his costume: the red cape covered his wings, while the fake helmet sat awkwardly on his head, finally, the cloth “armor” hung loosely to his body. He picked up the fake foam and plastic hammer as something landed on the floor behind him. Cumulus popped up in the mirror: her mane dyed blond as opposed to their usual white, with a small pair of pointed horns sticking out of her wild mane of hair. Both of her cheeks had little hearts painted on them as well. Stratos turned around to look at his sister in full. The red filly wore a green dress, striped knee-high socks, a star pendant and a little winged wand. “….Mom let you dye your mane?” Stratos frowned. “Yep.” Cumulus grinned. “Alright you two,” Cloudchaser and Big Macintosh trotted down the stairs. Cloudchaser’s mane held a dyed grey streak, and wore a matted black corset and dress. A tray hung around her neck, a fake pie sitting on it. Big Macintosh also had a grey streak in his mane, coupled with a long sleeved white shirt, black vest, with a fake blood splattered handkerchief and straight edge razor tucked into his belt. “…Dad, how come you’re dressed like a homeless pony?” “Told you they wouldn’t get it,” Cloudchaser nudged her husband. “Anyway, We oughta get th’ two o’ you t’ Dash’s place.” --- Stratos knocked on the door again. It opened, revealing Turner with a bowl of candy. “...Oh, it’s just you. Temp’s almost ready.” “Dash ran off already?” “She did. I told her I’d catch up after Temp left.” “What kinda costume y’got anyway?” Mac asked. “I was going to be Thunderball.” “Again?” Cloudchaser frowned. “Dash like it.” he shrugged. The door creaked open as Temporal Spectrum stepped out. Gone was her bright rainbow scarf, replacing it was a light brown suit top, red checked shirt, striped green tie, leather coat and red hat. She pushed up her glasses and joined the others. “...Who’re you supposed to be, Tempy?” Cumulus asked. “Dirk Gently.” “What’s that?” “It’s the main character of a novel I like.” “It’s a detective novel,” Turner added, “Well, Have fun, Sweetie. Look for your mother.” “What did your mom dress as anyway?” Stratos asked. “She decided to take one of the old wedding dresses, splatter red paint on it and be a zombie bride.” Stratos grew pale, “It’s not like last year’s zombie costume, is it?” “No, too many people complained to Mayor Mare, so she put Zombie Princess on the list of costumes ponies can’t use.” “There’s a list of costumes that got banned?” Cumulus interrupted Stratos. “Like what?’ “Zombie Princess, Discord, and Sumo Wrestler,” Temporal paused, “Don’t ask. “...Tempy, You’re smart. How come my dad’s dressed like a homeless pony?” Cumulus asked. Cloudchaser stifled a laugh, as Big Macintosh snorted. “...Your Dad is Sweeney Todd. Your Mom is Lovelet Pie. They’re the main characters from the story The String of Pearls, which got adapted into a musical called The Demon Barber of Trottingham.” Temporal turned to look at Big Macintosh, “Uncle Macintosh, is there a reason you always dress as characters from musicals?” “He likes them,” Cloudchaser nudged her husband, “His dream is to be in one, isn’t it?” “Eeyup.” “...That explains last year,” Temporal muttered as the reached the festivities. “Hey Mac!” Soarin waved at the farmpony. The Wonderbolt trotted over, grinning through his black cloth mask and bandana. The stallion wore a full black costume, complete with black boots and a saber at his side. “...Are you Masked Tornado, Uncle Soarin?” Cumulus asked. “No, I’m…” “He’s the Dread Pirate Sabre, from The Princess Bride,” Temporal cut him off. “There we go,” Soarin chuckled, “Rares is Princess Buttercup.” “Where’s Golden Breeze and Ribbon?” “Bobbing for apples,” Soarin jerked his head, motioning behind him, “You ought to go join them.” “Can we?” Cumulus turned to look at her parents. “Reckon so. Don’t forget ‘bout the corn maze for later.” Mac responded. Cumulus’ wings fluttered and the filly took off into the crowd. “Better go follow her ‘fore she hits somepony,” Mac chided his son. “I know, Dad.” Stratos and Temporal took off, trotting after Cumulus. The pair ducked and dodged other ponies, going over and around them. “How did Cumulus get your dad to let her dye her mane?” Temporal asked. “She probably said she’d do extra work on the farm or something,” Stratos shrugged, “I didn’t ask her.” The couple skidded to a stop in front of a large tank filled with water and apples. Other fillies and foals crowded around the tank, dunking their heads into the tank, trying to bob for apples. Applejack peeked over the side, and pulled down her black domino mask. “Well, howdy there.” Applejack chuckled, “You two gonna bob fer apples?” “Did Cumulus get here already?” “Sure did, She…” Applejack trailed off as she looked around, “That’s strange, she was just here.” Stratos and Temporal Spectrum peeked around the tank, looking for her. Temporal Spectrum frowned as she noticed a pile of clothes on the ground near the tank. “Isn’t that your sister’s costume?” “Eyup.” “So, why…” Temporal trailed off as something burst out of the tank, knocking over the other foals, and sending water and apples all over the place. A soaking wet Cumulus landed next to her brother, her mouth filled with brightly colored, rainbow patterned apples. The filly spat them onto her pile of clothing and grinned at the other two. “I found all the Zap Apples.” “...That’s cheating, Cumulus.” Stratos frowned. “I can put’m back.” “You ain’t doin’ that either, missy.” Applejack frowned, “I’m gonna have t’ refill the tank.” Cumulus quickly flew into the air and spun around, showering the others in water. The now-dry filly landed back on the ground, and slipped back into her costume. She smiled as she took a bite of one of the Zap apples. “That wasn’t very nice, Cumulus.” another female voice called out. Ribbon Lightning and Golden Breeze trotted over to the others. The stallion wore a green cape with golden decals, green and black faux-armor, and a golden helmet with a pair of massive curved horns. He also held a staff, ending with a curved point. Ribbon wore a Leipo’o atop her head, smaller Kupe’e around her hooves, a faux-grass skirt and a long, flowing faux lei around her neck. “...I wanted the Zap Apples,” She bit into another one, “Pah mahde mhe helfph him geff’thm.” She responded, spraying the ground with juice, saliva and bits of chewed up apple. “...I see.” Ribbon wrinkled her nose at her little cousin. Cumulus swallowed, “He said I hadda winn’m at the apple tank,” “I don’t think that means diving into the tank,” Breeze responded. “...How’d you sneak into the tank without anypony noticing?” Stratos asked. “I’m fast.” Cumulus responded, stuffing another apple into her mouth. “Well now what?” Stratos asked, “Dad says we have to go to the corn maze, but we can do that later.” “...Isn’t Fireburst’s Mom supposed to do a magic show?” “She got sick,” Cumulus cut in, “He told me.” “...Isn’t Miss Zecora an’ Miss Amethyst suppose to help her?” “Dunno,” Temporal Spectrum turned to Applejack, “Aunty Applejack?” “Hold on,” Applejack reached into the tank and yanked a younger colt from falling into the water, “Calm down there, Button.” She placed the colt back onto the ground and turned her attention to Temporal. “Y’got a question, Sugercube?” “Have you seen Fireburst or Uncle Spike?” “Sure did, They were goin’ t’ Sugarcube corner,” Applejack glanced back at the tub, checking to see if any other foals were struggling, “Reckon you oughta go there first. I heard Pinkie an’ Joe were doin’ a pumpkin’ carvin’ contest there.” “Thanks.” The group began to trot off in the direction of the bakery. Instead of walking, Cumulus gathered the rest of her zap apples in her hooves and flittered along with the group. “Don’t think I ain’t tellin’ Mac ‘bout what you did, Cumulus.” Applejack called out, “Have fun!” The Pumpkin King“...So is Aunty Pinkie and Uncle Joe doing the contest, or is Pumpkin and Pound Cake doing it?” Cumulus asked. “I dunno,” Stratos shrugged. “I was askin’ Tempy,” “I don’t know either.” The five reached Sugarcube Corner, only to find a crowd of other colts and fillies waiting outside, surrounded by a garden of carved pumpkins. An array of jack-o-lantern, covered in goofy grins, sinister smiles, and other faces and pictures stared back at the fillies. “...That one looks like Almond Joy carved it,” Ribbon pointed to one of the pumpkins: a Smiling face with a pair of butterflies stared back at them. “HI EVERYPONY!” A voice caused four of them to jump. Temporal, unaffected by the surprise, looked behind her. “It’s Cream Pie.” The colt beamed at the group. The fake vampire fangs barely stayed in his mouth as the others glared at him. “You scared me,” Cumulus hid behind her brother. “Well, duh, it’s Nightmare Night. You’re supposed to scare ponies.” “Can we carve pumpkins yet?” Golden Breeze cut off, Cumulus’ response. “What? Oh, yeah, whatever. Nopony’s inside,” Cream Pie motioned to the crowd, “Everypony out here finished.” With that he spun around and headed back into the bakery. The others followed him into the shop: Pumpkin Cake wearing a Wonderbolt’s uniform, smiled at the group. A hole was cut out of the uniform, allowing her horn to stick out, while fake cloth wings stuck out of her back. “Hi kids, here to carve pumpkins?” “Eeyup!” Cumulus nodded. “Well, just come this way.” “...How come you’re wearing a Wonderbolts Uniform, Miss Pumpkin?” Ribbon asked. “Pound lost a bet, so we had to switch costumes,” the mare chuckled. The mare led the group towards a large table covered in plastic sheeting, newspapers and pumpkin slop. Pound Cake spun around, grinning at the newcomers. His mane was done up, with a plastic tiara atop his head. He wore a fancy princess dress colored pink, complete with glitter and stage jewelry. “Hi kids! Get started?” “...What costume is that?” Cumulus asked. “It’s the ‘Pretty pretty princess Princess Cadance costume’.” Pound motioned to the fake plastic unicorn horn on his head, “Dunno why Pumpkin wanted to wear it in the first place. Anyway, who wants to carve pumpkins?” “Is it really safe to let us use actual knives?” Temporal asked. “Oh, don’t worry about that. They’re all enchanted so they only work on pumpkins,” Pound paused, “We learned from last time. So everyone get a pumpkin and a knife and get to work!” The five foals sat around the table, as each of them took a medium sized pumpkin and knife. Ribbon started carving hers, while Golden Breeze, Temporal and Stratos took off their hats. Cumulus poked at hers with her knife before turning to her brother. “This is hard, help me.” “I’m busy.” Stratos replied, continuing to hack away at his pumpkin. “Dad says you gotta help me when I do stuff.” “Only if I ain’t busy.” Cumulus’ response was cut off as someone else entered the shop. A large purple dragon, clad in a shiny golden cloth costume, stood there looking in. In front of him a timid looking pony stood. The colt’s coat was a soft shade of azure, while his mane was a darker green color. Instead of hooves, he had claws, and instead of a unicorn’s horn, he had a pair of smaller nubs. Atop his head he had a top hat and familiar looking cape. He blushed as Cumulus saw him. “Hi Fireburst!” the filly took off towards the newcomer, when she found herself engulfed in a magic bubble. “Whoa there, Cumulus,” Pumpkin trotted over, “You’re not flying anywhere with that in hoof,” She pointed towards the knife, still clutched in the filly’s hoof. “You said it can’t hurt anypony,” “Doesn’t mean you should be flyin’ around with it in hoof,” the older mare countered, “Now sit down.” The filly pouted as the bubble put her back at the table. Pound beamed at the newcomers. “Hi Uncle Spike. Hello there Fireburst?” he smiled at the colt, “Came here to carve a pumpkin?” The colt, Fireburst, nodded in response and looked back up at Spike. “Go ahead, I’ll be watching,” Spike chuckled, “Should I come in or wait outside?” “Come in, you can help him.” The colt trotted over to the table and sat next to Cumulus. Pumpkin placed another pumpkin and carving knife in front of the colt. The horn nubs glowed green as he picked up the knife and started to carve. Cumulus watched him, ignoring her own pumpkin. “Hi kids,” Spike belatedly greeted the others, “Just you five?” “Uh-huh.” Temporal responded. “...Uncle Spike, what are you supposed to be?” Cumulus asked. “I’m a dragon,” Spike chuckled. “...Again?” “You’re always a dragon,” Cumulus frowned. “But this time I’m a golden dragon. And look,” Spike held up both forearms: Crudely made wall-eyed dragon heads flopped over his claws. “I have three heads.” “...You need to pick better costumes, Uncle Spike.” Temporal responded before returning to her pumpkin. Spike slumped over, defeated. “...I think it’s cool.” “You’ve been a dragon every Nightmare Night,” Pumpkin Cake responded, “Heck, You’ve dressed like a dragon ever since we were foals.” “...I like dressing like a dragon,” Spike continued to sulk. “Done!” Ribbon grinned as she spun her pumpkin around. A goofy grin stared back at the others. “That’s nice,” Pumpkin smiled at the filly, “Now, let’s go stick a candle in it and put it outside with the others.” Ribbon followed Pumpkin outside while the others continued to carve. “Done!” Golden Breeze placed his carving knife down and spun it around: a dashing grin stared out at Spike. “Lookin’ good,” Spike chuckled. “I’m done too.” Stratos picked his pumpkin up and showed it off: the pumpkin’s ‘tongue’ stuck out, while its eyes squinted at whoever gazed upon it. “You two better go catch up with Pumpkin and Ribbon,” Spike replied, “I’ll stay here with the others until they finish.” “Fireburst’s done!” Cumulus called out. Pound trotted over and peered at it: the profile of a snarling dragon. “Very nice. How’s yours coming, Cumulus?” “It’s too hard,” she pouted. Fireburst turned his attention and magic towards her pumpkin. “I’ll help.” he muttered, “What do you want?” “Carve me.” Cumulus smiled, “Oh, I have this for you too.” Cumulus pulled out a Zap Apple and placed it on the table in front of the colt. “...Thank you.” --- Stratos placed his pumpkin on the ground next to Ribbon’s: a crude copy of Big Macintosh’s face stared out, illuminated by the candle within. “...How come you made it look like Uncle Mac?” “Because mom got made when I made one that looked like her last year.” Cumulus placed her Pumpkin on the ground, next to her brothers: a well-made portrait of the filly stared back at the group. “...Fireburst is really good at this,” Ribbon noted, “What did Temp ca…” The filly trailed off as they looked at another pumpkin. Cumulus and Fireburst quickly ducked away, running towards Spike. Stratos paled, while Ribbon whimpered slightly. “They said to carve something scary,” Temporal shrugged, “and I did.” “Uncle Spike, can Fireburst come with us?” Cumulus asked. “Well…” Spike scratched under his chin, “Burst, do you want to go hang out with your friends?” “...Yeah.” the colt agreed. “Alright then, you can go. Don’t light anything on fire and stay safe,” the dragon chuckled. Ribbon, Golden Breeze, Stratos, Cream Pie and Temporal trotted over to the younger ponies. “Miss Pumpkin said Cream Pie could come with us, so we’re going.” “To where?” “The Haunted House.” The Next Surprise“Do we have to?” Cumulus whined. “Yes,” Stratos replied, “Aunty Applebloom said it was going to be really scary this time.” “...I hate scary things,” Cumulus muttered, “You’ll protect me, right Tempy?” “Your brother is probably just going to hid behind me like last time,” she responded as the others snickered. “...It was only one time,” He muttered as Cumulus turned to look at Fireburst. “You’ll protect me, right Bursty?” “...I guess,” the hybrid muttered. “....Who’s in charge of it this year?” Ribbon asked, “Is it Miss Ditzy again?” “No.” The group paused in front of the town hall, looking up at the building: Cheesy paper bats, ghost with goofy grins, and smiling pumpkins stared back at them. A stallion glanced over at them and grinned. Rumble trotted over, dressed in a garish orange suit jacket, ruffled undercoat, and fluffy ascot. A Lopsided Green top hat sat perched on his ruffled, messy mane. “Hey kids,” He greeted them, “Here for the haunted house?” “Is it really scary, Uncle Rumble?” Ribbon asked. Rumble paused, “Well…” “Rumble!” Diamond Tiara suddenly appeared next to the colt. A golden crown sat perched on her head, her dress, patterned in red and blacks and in one hoof she held a scepter, decorated with Hearts. She tapped her “No spoiling it for the children.” “Sorry, DT.” “Miss Tiara?” Ribbon continued on. “Yes?” “If you’re the Queen of Hearts, why is Uncle Rumble the Mad Hatter?” “Because Applebloom and Oareb were supposed to be the Hatter and the White Rabbit, but he didn’t get the idea and did something else,” Diamond Tiara grumbled, “So Rumble had to be the Hatter.” “Anyway, enough about that,” Rumble ignored his marefriend, “Ready for the haunted house?” “Yes!” the group nodded in agreement, while Cumulus shook her head furiously. Temporal shrugged. “Then here you go!” Rumble pushed open the door. “Wait,” Diamond Tiara held out a hoof, “No weapons. Not after what happened last year.” “What happened last year?” Rumble asked. “Stratos screamed and swung his bat at Lickity Split and broke his nose.” “...Oh.” Rumble paused, “Yeah, sorry kids.” Stratos and Cumulus handed over their fake hammer and wand to Diamond Tiara. “Alright, have fun kids,” the mare smiled, sinisterly. Rumbled herded the group into the house and closed the door behind them. They all glanced around the room: Fake skeletons, pumpkins, plastic bats and fake spiders stared back as they trotted towards a table in the middle of the room. A single serving platter with a silver lid sat on the table. “...Someone’s under there,” Temporal whispered as she pointed at the dish. “...You sure?” “Watch.” The mare snuck over, silently. She raised a hoof and smacked it on the platter, creating a loud ringing noise. “Hey!” a voice called out. The lid flew off, revealing Snips’ head, his face painted up to look like a skeleton. Ribbon gasped, tightening her grip on Golden Breeze. “You’re not supposed to do that, kid.” Snips scolded Temporal. The filly shrugged. “How come you’re under a table, Mr. Snips?” Fireburst asked. “It’s part of the surprise, kid.” Snips sighed, “You guys come in, nervous and uncertain what’s going to happen. Then I,” he paused as his magic aura engulfed the lid, “Send this thing flying and scare you guys.” “...That would be really scary,” Stratos stated. The others nodded their heads in agreement. “Well It’s spoiled now,” the stallion sighed, bringing the lid back over his head, “So go on over to the next room.” The lid slammed shut. Stratos glanced at the others. “I guess we should go?” The group trotted through the doorway, and entered the next room. Bright lights glared and loud music blared as they looked around: Red cloth covered everything in the room, as paper skeletons stared back at them. A table sat in the middle of the room, with dinner plates and candles set up. “It’s...It’s more like a party.” Ribbon relaxed slightly. “...That’s weird.” “WELCOME!” A mare’s voice called out, startling everyone. A unicorn mare slinked out of another room: her makeup was done up giving her the appearance of a skeleton. Her mane was dyed black and hidden beneath her massive sombrero. An elegant red dress draped around her, hiding her back legs and cutie mark. “Welcome children,” the mare smiled, “Please have a seat; you’re just in time for a meal.” Stratos and Temporal Spectrum glanced at each other. “You’re not gonna eat us, are you?” Cumulus asked, “Eat Cream Pie first, he probably taste good.” “Hey.” “Eat you?” the mare paused for a moment, before throwing her head back, “Ohohohohoho, child, I have no intention of doing anything like that.” Cumulus relaxed. “Besides, none of your friends will make a good meal. Now please, be seated.” the foals nervously took their seats as the mare strutted around the table. “No hats at the table, I’m certain your mothers taught you that,” she scolded the colts. Stratos, Golden Breeze and Fireburst took their headgear off and set it down on the side. “Now then, the meal can begin.” “I ate a bunch of zap apples, so I ain’t hungry, can I be excused?” “No. No one is to be excused from the table until the meal is over.” The mare sat at the head of the table. “First, an appetizer.” She clapped her hooves together. Small plates suddenly appeared on the tables, in front of all the foals. Cumulus poked at the object on the plate: a small tightly wrapped burrito, smothered in rich brown sauce. “What is it?” “Escamol Burrito,” the mare replied, “It’s good for you.” The ponies glanced at each other as Cumulus picked up her burrito and took a bite of it. “It’sh good.” She told the others while chewing. the other ponies, save Temporal followed suit, biting into their own burritos and eating it. “What’s Escamol?” Cumulus asked through another mouthful of burrito. “Ant eggs.” Everyone paused, midchew. Nearly everyone spat their burrito back out, onto the plates. Fireburst shrugged and kept on eating his. Cumulus pushed her plate at the young hybrid. “You eat it.” Fireburst shrugged and stuffed her burrito into his mouth. The mare shook her head and tutted. “Have you no manners? But I shall forgive you as we move on to the next course.” The mare clapped her hooves again. A massive platter appeared in the middle of the table, it’s contents hidden by an equally huge cover. The mare smiled as the foals stared at it, dumbfounded. “And for your main course…” The cover vanished, revealing another pony laying on it: His feet bound together, an apple stuffed into his mouth. He appeared to be bald, and his flesh appeared to be a dark brown color as if he had been cooked. As the group stared at him in slack jawed horror, the apparently roasted pony opened his eyes. “Oh…” the mare trailed off, “Meatloaf again.” The group screamed and knocked over their chairs in their haste to get out of the room. Only Temporal stayed behind. “...Miss Zipporwhill?” Temporal looked at the mare. “What?” She reeled back in mock horror, “I am not…” she trailed off under Temporal’s glare. “Yes, Temp?” “Is this really ant eggs?” “No, it’s rice mixed with cottage cheese, a little butter and ground up peanuts for flavor,” Zipporwhill sighed, “I wanted to use real ant eggs, but the others said no. Real Escamol taste wonderful. Anyway, you better catch up to your friends. I need to get this place set up again for the next group.” Temporal got out of her chair and trotted down the hallway and into the next room. There, Ribbon, Golden Breeze, Stratos and Cream Pie clung to each other for protection, while Cumulus watched Fireburst eat another burrito. “You brought it with you?” “It’s good,” He responded as he finished it off. “What room is this now?” Temporal asked the others. “No idea.” The lights sprang to life, revealing skeletons lying around the room, all dressed in tuxedos, gowns and other wedding outfits. Ribbon’s grip tightened around Breeze. Everyone froze at the sound of beating wings within the room. “Stop that,” Ribbon scolded Breeze. “It’s not me.” “Not me.” Stratos shook his head. “Nuh-uh.” Cumulus agreed. The sound of beating wings grew louder and grew closer to the group. Cumulus rushed over to cower next to her brother, while Fireburst joined her. THUMP! Something crashed to the ground behind the group. Stratos and Breeze screamed as the group whirled around to look at what fell: a vaguely pony shaped lump, covered in an all encompassing bed sheet ghost costume. “Is that a real pony?” Cream Pie asked as he nudged Stratos, “Go check.” “Why do I have to check?” “ ‘Cause you’re the oldest one here.” the unicorn countered. “I’ll do it,” Temporal stepped over to the lump and yanked the bed sheet off: a fake pony skeleton stared back at them, it’s mouth contorted into a grin. “See?” THUMP! Something crashed to the ground behind the group again. The ponies whirled around, and found another sprawled out pony-shaped lump, clad in a wedding dress. To the horror of the group, the lump slowly stumbled onto it’s hooves, it’s face still hidden by the wedding veil. Suddenly, the veil was ripped off, revealing a blood splattered face and mouth filled with jagged teeth. The mare roared as nearly the entire group screamed in terror. Temporal sighed. “Hi mom.” Dash’s demeanor shifted from terrifying to completely annoyed as the mare frowned at her daughter. “Kid, you’re supposed to be scared, not going all Maud Pie on us.” “Mom, I saw you leave the house, I know what costume you’re wearing.” Dash slumped, disappointed. “You’re no fun. Well that’s it, kids, better head on out and get your stuff. You still got the corn maze, don’t you?” “Uh-huh,” Stratos nodded, “Bye!” He rushed out of the room, followed by Breeze, Ribbon and Cream Pie. Cumulus looked back at Rainbow Dash as she picked up the bed sheet ghost mannequin. “Aunty Rainbow? Were those really ant egg burritos?” “Can’t tell you that,” the mare grinned wickedly as she fluttered back towards the ceiling. “Let’s go,” Temporal sighed and followed the others. Cumulus and Fireburst followed after her. The Same Routine“Bye kids,” Rumble waved after them, “Come back again next year!” “That was really scary, wasn’t it Stratty?” “Not really.” the Colt responded, putting up a brave facade. “You screamed just like everypony else,” Temporal responded. “....I screamed less,” he sulked, as Cumulus moved over towards Temporal. “How come you never get scared in the Haunted House, Tempy?” “Because it’s boring. Snips always does the jump scare thing.” “Yeah, but the red skeleton mare in the sombrero was cool,” Cumulus glanced back over at Fireburst, “What does ants taste like?” “Kind of nutty and like cheese,” Fireburst responded, “I liked it.” “Does this mean you’re gonna start eating ants?” “I’m not an ant-eater.” He mumbled. “They weren’t real ants,” Temporal responded, “Miss Zipporwhill said so.” “...Where did you see her?” “She was the one in red.” The group skidded to a stop as a pair of Royal Night Guards stepped in front of them. Cream Pie peeked over. “Who’s that?” He nudged Stratos. “I think they’re real guards.” he whispered back. “Stratos Apple?” one of the guards asked. Cumulus ducked behind her brother as he nodded in confirmation. “I am Captain Morningstar, of the Royal Guard.” “If your name’s Morningstar, why are you part of Princess Luna’s guards? Cumulus asked. “They had an opening,” Captain Morningstar responded, not missing a beat, “We are here to-” Captain Morningstar was cut off as someone leapt over them and landed next to Ribbon. A tall, not-quite-filly, looked down at them: while his body structure resembled a pony’s, he was longer, taller and thinner. Instead of hooves, his forelegs ended in paws. His tail was long, serpentine and covered in scales, ending in a tuff of sapphire fur. His body was covered in dark blue fur, his mane a mess of blues with a single streak of grey. Instead of a single horn, he had a pair of twisted, gnarled horns like a goat’s. He smiled, revealing several sharp fangs. Cumulus popped out from behind her brother and hugged the newcomer. “Hi Loony!’ “...Your highness, you were supposed to stay behind us” Captain Morningstar sighed. “I got bored.” the prince shrugged. “...He’s going to hang out with us, isn’t he?” Temporal asked. “...Yes. Prince Lunatique will be spending the night with you,” Captain Morningstar nodded, “Princess Luna sent us as his bodyguards, but…He’ll make a valiant effort to lose us anyway, so we might as well skip that part and let you on your way.” “Thank you, Sir.” “Is the bakery still open?” one of the other guards asked, “I like their Pumpkin rolls.” “They’re doing pumpkin carving, but they might still have some,” Cream Pie answered. “Alright then, we’ll leave you on your own,” Captain Morningstar nodded, “But no incidents like last time.” “I promised mom,” the prince sulked as Cumulus giggled. The guards turned and trotted off. As soon as they were out of sight, Lunatique put an arm around Ribbon. “So where to next, the Haunted House?” He grinned. “We were just there.” “...Pumpkin Carving?” “Did it already.” “...What’s left?” “The corn maze.” Temporal responded, “There’s Mr. Oareb.” The group trotted over the zebra, who sat near a hay cart, cigarette in mouth. The Zebra was dressed in a flowing black cape, small domino mask and wide brimmed fedora. He quickly snubbed out the cigarette as he noticed the group. “Hello children.” he flashed them a quick smile. “Aunty Apple Bloom said you’re not supposed to smoke,” Cumulus responded. He coughed, “Well...She said I couldn’t smoke around her, but,” He waved a hoof, “She is not here, so I may smoke. But enough about that, are you ready for the corn maze?” “How come you and Mrs. Applebloom didn’t want to be part of the Haunted house?” “I do not understand Through the Looking Glass,” Oareb responded as he hooked up his haycart to the saddle. “Nor do I see the point in an entire group of ponies in coordinated costumes. The point is for ponies to do as they please with outfits, yes?” “Well, sometimes it’s fun to coordinate with other ponies,” Golden Breeze responded. “I suppose. But, due to where we are working, I believed it was more practical for myself and Apple Bloom to wear something that is not ridiculous or will matter much if we get muddy,” He paused, tightening his harness. “Now are you all ready?” The group cheered as they piled into the back of the hay cart. Oareb began walking as the group glanced around the festivities. “Look, there’s Aunty Flitter.” Cumulus pointed into the crowd: Flitter wore a yellow ballroom gown, while Thunderlane stood dressed in a blue suit, along with a large amount of fake brown fur and hair. “There’s your mom,” Ribbon pointed into the crowd as Pinkie Pie trotted past, dressed in a ridiculous clown outfit. Cream Pie ducked away. “I hate clowns.” he muttered. The group grew silent as they left the town and headed into the rural areas and the farms. the group came to a stop at one of the barnhouse, outfitted with fake paper bats, and lights. A heavily pregnant Applebloom sighed as she placed her cart down and a group of foals ran out to the start of the maze. “Beloved, I told you you should be taking it easy, not hauling extra foals around,” Oareb chided her as he parked his cart next to her. “I’m fine,” She snapped, “I ain’t a baby.” “Hi Aunty!” Cumulus waved as they left the cart. “Hey kids,” Apple Bloom smiled back, “Better hurry up. Don’t wanna miss story time with Princess Twilight after this.” “Eeyup!” Cumulus ran ahead, leaving the others to catch up. at the start of the Maze, an earth mare stood, dressed up as a scarecrow. The Yellow coated mare grinned as she saw the group. “Hi Miss. Sugar Dots!” “Well, Howdy!” she grinned at the kids, “Ready for the corn maze?” “Yep!” Cumulus nodded. “Well, let’s see…” Sugar Dots trailed off as she counted the group, “Eight? Good! We’re only letting pairs into the maze. Makes it more challenging that way.” “I’ll go with Fireburst!” Cumulus responded. Stratos and Temporal Stepped towards each other, partnering off. Lunatique and Golden Breeze glared at each other, as both began to step towards Ribbon. Cream Pie quickly bumped into Lunatique, pulling the prince closer to him. “We can be a team, right Loony?” he grinned and winked at Ribbon. “...I guess so,” the hybrid sulked. “Well, since that’s settled…” Sugar Dots trailed off as a burst of magical energy exploded in the air near the end of the maze, “Oh good, they’re done. Well off you go. the Maze has been enchanted to prevent the use of magic. Also no flying.” She paused, “Or floating or whatever it is that you do, Prince Lunatique.” The groups headed off, and entered the corn maze at different entrances. Stratos glanced around, looking at the near impenetrable walls. “So what’s the plan?” he asked. “Let me get on your back and lift off.” the mare responded, “I’ll guide you.” “They said no flying.” “You’re not flying, you’re...flittering.” Temporal made a floating motion with her hooves, “Like my mom does when she’s too lazy to walk.” --- “Can’t you just burn a path down?” Cumulus asked. “No. My fire’s not strong enough for that yet,” Fireburst responded, “Besides, I don’t think we’re allowed to do that.” “....That’s boring. What if we just run through the walls?” “What?” He turned around to have Cumulus whizz past, kicking up dirt, dust and his hat and cape. The filly crashed headfirst into the wall of corn, only to barely penetrate the plants. “...You’re stuck, aren’t you?” Fireburst sighed. “Gemme out of this,” --- “...We’re lost, aren’t we?” Ribbon asked as Golden Breeze threw his helmet at another dead end. “Yes.” “...So can I lead us now, or are you gonna keep insisting that you do it?” Ribbon snarked. “...Yes.” he admitted as he picked up his helmet and put it back on his head. Corn leaves and other parts of the stalks remained stuck to the horns. --- “This is the same dead end as before!” Lunatique snarled. “No, it’s not.” Cream Pie countered. “Yes, it is!” he pointed a claw at a fallen corn stalk and dent in the ground, “That’s your faceprint from before!” Cream Pie peered at it, “...That’s where the vampire teeth went.” He reached into the pit, brushed the dirt off and popped it back into his mouth. “Now we can go.” “This time I’m leading us.” --- “We’re done!” Cumulus beamed as she trotted out of the maze, “Hi Mrs. Alula!” “Hi kids,” the mare waved back. “Did we get out first?” She asked. “Eenope.” Stratos grinned at his little sister. “...That’s no fair.” she pouted. “Well, the others are still stuck inside.” Temporal pointed out, “So that makes you two the second fastest.” “...I guess,” the filly continued to pout as Fireburst trotted past her. “Do we get an award because of how fast we finished?” Stratos asked. “Later, we’re still tallying up how quickly everyone did,” Alula glanced down at her watch, “But I think the two of you did the best so far.” Stratos’ response was cut off as a bickering Lunatique and Cream Pie made it out of the maze, followed shortly by Ribbon Lighting and Golden Breeze. “Is that everyone?” Alula asked, “Good,” The mare lifted up a jury-rigged flare gun and fired a shot. “Well, kids, all that’s left is Story time with Princess Twilight,” She glanced back down at her watch, “Better hurry up.” “I hope it’s really sc…” Cumulus trailed off and yawned. “Sleepy, Cumulus?” Temporal smiled slightly. “N’uah.” the younger filly responded through another yawn. She teetered slightly as Stratos grabbed her. “...Maybe we should call it a night,” Stratos replied as Cumulus began to snore. “Not for me,” Lunatique responded, “You can go home, I’m staying up.” “I’m with Loony.” Cream Pie nodded. “Us too.” Ribbon and Breeze nodded. “Well, I’m gonna take her home, so if you guys see my parents let them know.” Stratos looked over at Temporal and Fireburst, “You guys don’t have to come.” “I’ll come anyway,” Temporal shrugged. “Me too.” “Well...See you guys later.” Stratos eased Cumulus onto his back and start off, with Temporal and Fireburst. The others shrugged and trotted off heading back to the town. “You’re a good brother, you know that?” Temporal informed Stratos. “I try.”
What's This?Stratos stared into the mirror, looking over his costume: the red cape covered his wings, while the fake helmet sat awkwardly on his head, finally, the cloth “armor” hung loosely to his body. He picked up the fake foam and plastic hammer as something landed on the floor behind him. Cumulus popped up in the mirror: her mane dyed blond as opposed to their usual white, with a small pair of pointed horns sticking out of her wild mane of hair. Both of her cheeks had little hearts painted on them as well. Stratos turned around to look at his sister in full. The red filly wore a green dress, striped knee-high socks, a star pendant and a little winged wand. “….Mom let you dye your mane?” Stratos frowned. “Yep.” Cumulus grinned. “Alright you two,” Cloudchaser and Big Macintosh trotted down the stairs. Cloudchaser’s mane held a dyed grey streak, and wore a matted black corset and dress. A tray hung around her neck, a fake pie sitting on it. Big Macintosh also had a grey streak in his mane, coupled with a long sleeved white shirt, black vest, with a fake blood splattered handkerchief and straight edge razor tucked into his belt. “…Dad, how come you’re dressed like a homeless pony?” “Told you they wouldn’t get it,” Cloudchaser nudged her husband. “Anyway, We oughta get th’ two o’ you t’ Dash’s place.” --- Stratos knocked on the door again. It opened, revealing Turner with a bowl of candy. “...Oh, it’s just you. Temp’s almost ready.” “Dash ran off already?” “She did. I told her I’d catch up after Temp left.” “What kinda costume y’got anyway?” Mac asked. “I was going to be Thunderball.” “Again?” Cloudchaser frowned. “Dash like it.” he shrugged. The door creaked open as Temporal Spectrum stepped out. Gone was her bright rainbow scarf, replacing it was a light brown suit top, red checked shirt, striped green tie, leather coat and red hat. She pushed up her glasses and joined the others. “...Who’re you supposed to be, Tempy?” Cumulus asked. “Dirk Gently.” “What’s that?” “It’s the main character of a novel I like.” “It’s a detective novel,” Turner added, “Well, Have fun, Sweetie. Look for your mother.” “What did your mom dress as anyway?” Stratos asked. “She decided to take one of the old wedding dresses, splatter red paint on it and be a zombie bride.” Stratos grew pale, “It’s not like last year’s zombie costume, is it?” “No, too many people complained to Mayor Mare, so she put Zombie Princess on the list of costumes ponies can’t use.” “There’s a list of costumes that got banned?” Cumulus interrupted Stratos. “Like what?’ “Zombie Princess, Discord, and Sumo Wrestler,” Temporal paused, “Don’t ask. “...Tempy, You’re smart. How come my dad’s dressed like a homeless pony?” Cumulus asked. Cloudchaser stifled a laugh, as Big Macintosh snorted. “...Your Dad is Sweeney Todd. Your Mom is Lovelet Pie. They’re the main characters from the story The String of Pearls, which got adapted into a musical called The Demon Barber of Trottingham.” Temporal turned to look at Big Macintosh, “Uncle Macintosh, is there a reason you always dress as characters from musicals?” “He likes them,” Cloudchaser nudged her husband, “His dream is to be in one, isn’t it?” “Eeyup.” “...That explains last year,” Temporal muttered as the reached the festivities. “Hey Mac!” Soarin waved at the farmpony. The Wonderbolt trotted over, grinning through his black cloth mask and bandana. The stallion wore a full black costume, complete with black boots and a saber at his side. “...Are you Masked Tornado, Uncle Soarin?” Cumulus asked. “No, I’m…” “He’s the Dread Pirate Sabre, from The Princess Bride,” Temporal cut him off. “There we go,” Soarin chuckled, “Rares is Princess Buttercup.” “Where’s Golden Breeze and Ribbon?” “Bobbing for apples,” Soarin jerked his head, motioning behind him, “You ought to go join them.” “Can we?” Cumulus turned to look at her parents. “Reckon so. Don’t forget ‘bout the corn maze for later.” Mac responded. Cumulus’ wings fluttered and the filly took off into the crowd. “Better go follow her ‘fore she hits somepony,” Mac chided his son. “I know, Dad.” Stratos and Temporal took off, trotting after Cumulus. The pair ducked and dodged other ponies, going over and around them. “How did Cumulus get your dad to let her dye her mane?” Temporal asked. “She probably said she’d do extra work on the farm or something,” Stratos shrugged, “I didn’t ask her.” The couple skidded to a stop in front of a large tank filled with water and apples. Other fillies and foals crowded around the tank, dunking their heads into the tank, trying to bob for apples. Applejack peeked over the side, and pulled down her black domino mask. “Well, howdy there.” Applejack chuckled, “You two gonna bob fer apples?” “Did Cumulus get here already?” “Sure did, She…” Applejack trailed off as she looked around, “That’s strange, she was just here.” Stratos and Temporal Spectrum peeked around the tank, looking for her. Temporal Spectrum frowned as she noticed a pile of clothes on the ground near the tank. “Isn’t that your sister’s costume?” “Eyup.” “So, why…” Temporal trailed off as something burst out of the tank, knocking over the other foals, and sending water and apples all over the place. A soaking wet Cumulus landed next to her brother, her mouth filled with brightly colored, rainbow patterned apples. The filly spat them onto her pile of clothing and grinned at the other two. “I found all the Zap Apples.” “...That’s cheating, Cumulus.” Stratos frowned. “I can put’m back.” “You ain’t doin’ that either, missy.” Applejack frowned, “I’m gonna have t’ refill the tank.” Cumulus quickly flew into the air and spun around, showering the others in water. The now-dry filly landed back on the ground, and slipped back into her costume. She smiled as she took a bite of one of the Zap apples. “That wasn’t very nice, Cumulus.” another female voice called out. Ribbon Lightning and Golden Breeze trotted over to the others. The stallion wore a green cape with golden decals, green and black faux-armor, and a golden helmet with a pair of massive curved horns. He also held a staff, ending with a curved point. Ribbon wore a Leipo’o atop her head, smaller Kupe’e around her hooves, a faux-grass skirt and a long, flowing faux lei around her neck. “...I wanted the Zap Apples,” She bit into another one, “Pah mahde mhe helfph him geff’thm.” She responded, spraying the ground with juice, saliva and bits of chewed up apple. “...I see.” Ribbon wrinkled her nose at her little cousin. Cumulus swallowed, “He said I hadda winn’m at the apple tank,” “I don’t think that means diving into the tank,” Breeze responded. “...How’d you sneak into the tank without anypony noticing?” Stratos asked. “I’m fast.” Cumulus responded, stuffing another apple into her mouth. “Well now what?” Stratos asked, “Dad says we have to go to the corn maze, but we can do that later.” “...Isn’t Fireburst’s Mom supposed to do a magic show?” “She got sick,” Cumulus cut in, “He told me.” “...Isn’t Miss Zecora an’ Miss Amethyst suppose to help her?” “Dunno,” Temporal Spectrum turned to Applejack, “Aunty Applejack?” “Hold on,” Applejack reached into the tank and yanked a younger colt from falling into the water, “Calm down there, Button.” She placed the colt back onto the ground and turned her attention to Temporal. “Y’got a question, Sugercube?” “Have you seen Fireburst or Uncle Spike?” “Sure did, They were goin’ t’ Sugarcube corner,” Applejack glanced back at the tub, checking to see if any other foals were struggling, “Reckon you oughta go there first. I heard Pinkie an’ Joe were doin’ a pumpkin’ carvin’ contest there.” “Thanks.” The group began to trot off in the direction of the bakery. Instead of walking, Cumulus gathered the rest of her zap apples in her hooves and flittered along with the group. “Don’t think I ain’t tellin’ Mac ‘bout what you did, Cumulus.” Applejack called out, “Have fun!”
The Pumpkin King“...So is Aunty Pinkie and Uncle Joe doing the contest, or is Pumpkin and Pound Cake doing it?” Cumulus asked. “I dunno,” Stratos shrugged. “I was askin’ Tempy,” “I don’t know either.” The five reached Sugarcube Corner, only to find a crowd of other colts and fillies waiting outside, surrounded by a garden of carved pumpkins. An array of jack-o-lantern, covered in goofy grins, sinister smiles, and other faces and pictures stared back at the fillies. “...That one looks like Almond Joy carved it,” Ribbon pointed to one of the pumpkins: a Smiling face with a pair of butterflies stared back at them. “HI EVERYPONY!” A voice caused four of them to jump. Temporal, unaffected by the surprise, looked behind her. “It’s Cream Pie.” The colt beamed at the group. The fake vampire fangs barely stayed in his mouth as the others glared at him. “You scared me,” Cumulus hid behind her brother. “Well, duh, it’s Nightmare Night. You’re supposed to scare ponies.” “Can we carve pumpkins yet?” Golden Breeze cut off, Cumulus’ response. “What? Oh, yeah, whatever. Nopony’s inside,” Cream Pie motioned to the crowd, “Everypony out here finished.” With that he spun around and headed back into the bakery. The others followed him into the shop: Pumpkin Cake wearing a Wonderbolt’s uniform, smiled at the group. A hole was cut out of the uniform, allowing her horn to stick out, while fake cloth wings stuck out of her back. “Hi kids, here to carve pumpkins?” “Eeyup!” Cumulus nodded. “Well, just come this way.” “...How come you’re wearing a Wonderbolts Uniform, Miss Pumpkin?” Ribbon asked. “Pound lost a bet, so we had to switch costumes,” the mare chuckled. The mare led the group towards a large table covered in plastic sheeting, newspapers and pumpkin slop. Pound Cake spun around, grinning at the newcomers. His mane was done up, with a plastic tiara atop his head. He wore a fancy princess dress colored pink, complete with glitter and stage jewelry. “Hi kids! Get started?” “...What costume is that?” Cumulus asked. “It’s the ‘Pretty pretty princess Princess Cadance costume’.” Pound motioned to the fake plastic unicorn horn on his head, “Dunno why Pumpkin wanted to wear it in the first place. Anyway, who wants to carve pumpkins?” “Is it really safe to let us use actual knives?” Temporal asked. “Oh, don’t worry about that. They’re all enchanted so they only work on pumpkins,” Pound paused, “We learned from last time. So everyone get a pumpkin and a knife and get to work!” The five foals sat around the table, as each of them took a medium sized pumpkin and knife. Ribbon started carving hers, while Golden Breeze, Temporal and Stratos took off their hats. Cumulus poked at hers with her knife before turning to her brother. “This is hard, help me.” “I’m busy.” Stratos replied, continuing to hack away at his pumpkin. “Dad says you gotta help me when I do stuff.” “Only if I ain’t busy.” Cumulus’ response was cut off as someone else entered the shop. A large purple dragon, clad in a shiny golden cloth costume, stood there looking in. In front of him a timid looking pony stood. The colt’s coat was a soft shade of azure, while his mane was a darker green color. Instead of hooves, he had claws, and instead of a unicorn’s horn, he had a pair of smaller nubs. Atop his head he had a top hat and familiar looking cape. He blushed as Cumulus saw him. “Hi Fireburst!” the filly took off towards the newcomer, when she found herself engulfed in a magic bubble. “Whoa there, Cumulus,” Pumpkin trotted over, “You’re not flying anywhere with that in hoof,” She pointed towards the knife, still clutched in the filly’s hoof. “You said it can’t hurt anypony,” “Doesn’t mean you should be flyin’ around with it in hoof,” the older mare countered, “Now sit down.” The filly pouted as the bubble put her back at the table. Pound beamed at the newcomers. “Hi Uncle Spike. Hello there Fireburst?” he smiled at the colt, “Came here to carve a pumpkin?” The colt, Fireburst, nodded in response and looked back up at Spike. “Go ahead, I’ll be watching,” Spike chuckled, “Should I come in or wait outside?” “Come in, you can help him.” The colt trotted over to the table and sat next to Cumulus. Pumpkin placed another pumpkin and carving knife in front of the colt. The horn nubs glowed green as he picked up the knife and started to carve. Cumulus watched him, ignoring her own pumpkin. “Hi kids,” Spike belatedly greeted the others, “Just you five?” “Uh-huh.” Temporal responded. “...Uncle Spike, what are you supposed to be?” Cumulus asked. “I’m a dragon,” Spike chuckled. “...Again?” “You’re always a dragon,” Cumulus frowned. “But this time I’m a golden dragon. And look,” Spike held up both forearms: Crudely made wall-eyed dragon heads flopped over his claws. “I have three heads.” “...You need to pick better costumes, Uncle Spike.” Temporal responded before returning to her pumpkin. Spike slumped over, defeated. “...I think it’s cool.” “You’ve been a dragon every Nightmare Night,” Pumpkin Cake responded, “Heck, You’ve dressed like a dragon ever since we were foals.” “...I like dressing like a dragon,” Spike continued to sulk. “Done!” Ribbon grinned as she spun her pumpkin around. A goofy grin stared back at the others. “That’s nice,” Pumpkin smiled at the filly, “Now, let’s go stick a candle in it and put it outside with the others.” Ribbon followed Pumpkin outside while the others continued to carve. “Done!” Golden Breeze placed his carving knife down and spun it around: a dashing grin stared out at Spike. “Lookin’ good,” Spike chuckled. “I’m done too.” Stratos picked his pumpkin up and showed it off: the pumpkin’s ‘tongue’ stuck out, while its eyes squinted at whoever gazed upon it. “You two better go catch up with Pumpkin and Ribbon,” Spike replied, “I’ll stay here with the others until they finish.” “Fireburst’s done!” Cumulus called out. Pound trotted over and peered at it: the profile of a snarling dragon. “Very nice. How’s yours coming, Cumulus?” “It’s too hard,” she pouted. Fireburst turned his attention and magic towards her pumpkin. “I’ll help.” he muttered, “What do you want?” “Carve me.” Cumulus smiled, “Oh, I have this for you too.” Cumulus pulled out a Zap Apple and placed it on the table in front of the colt. “...Thank you.” --- Stratos placed his pumpkin on the ground next to Ribbon’s: a crude copy of Big Macintosh’s face stared out, illuminated by the candle within. “...How come you made it look like Uncle Mac?” “Because mom got made when I made one that looked like her last year.” Cumulus placed her Pumpkin on the ground, next to her brothers: a well-made portrait of the filly stared back at the group. “...Fireburst is really good at this,” Ribbon noted, “What did Temp ca…” The filly trailed off as they looked at another pumpkin. Cumulus and Fireburst quickly ducked away, running towards Spike. Stratos paled, while Ribbon whimpered slightly. “They said to carve something scary,” Temporal shrugged, “and I did.” “Uncle Spike, can Fireburst come with us?” Cumulus asked. “Well…” Spike scratched under his chin, “Burst, do you want to go hang out with your friends?” “...Yeah.” the colt agreed. “Alright then, you can go. Don’t light anything on fire and stay safe,” the dragon chuckled. Ribbon, Golden Breeze, Stratos, Cream Pie and Temporal trotted over to the younger ponies. “Miss Pumpkin said Cream Pie could come with us, so we’re going.” “To where?” “The Haunted House.”
The Next Surprise“Do we have to?” Cumulus whined. “Yes,” Stratos replied, “Aunty Applebloom said it was going to be really scary this time.” “...I hate scary things,” Cumulus muttered, “You’ll protect me, right Tempy?” “Your brother is probably just going to hid behind me like last time,” she responded as the others snickered. “...It was only one time,” He muttered as Cumulus turned to look at Fireburst. “You’ll protect me, right Bursty?” “...I guess,” the hybrid muttered. “....Who’s in charge of it this year?” Ribbon asked, “Is it Miss Ditzy again?” “No.” The group paused in front of the town hall, looking up at the building: Cheesy paper bats, ghost with goofy grins, and smiling pumpkins stared back at them. A stallion glanced over at them and grinned. Rumble trotted over, dressed in a garish orange suit jacket, ruffled undercoat, and fluffy ascot. A Lopsided Green top hat sat perched on his ruffled, messy mane. “Hey kids,” He greeted them, “Here for the haunted house?” “Is it really scary, Uncle Rumble?” Ribbon asked. Rumble paused, “Well…” “Rumble!” Diamond Tiara suddenly appeared next to the colt. A golden crown sat perched on her head, her dress, patterned in red and blacks and in one hoof she held a scepter, decorated with Hearts. She tapped her “No spoiling it for the children.” “Sorry, DT.” “Miss Tiara?” Ribbon continued on. “Yes?” “If you’re the Queen of Hearts, why is Uncle Rumble the Mad Hatter?” “Because Applebloom and Oareb were supposed to be the Hatter and the White Rabbit, but he didn’t get the idea and did something else,” Diamond Tiara grumbled, “So Rumble had to be the Hatter.” “Anyway, enough about that,” Rumble ignored his marefriend, “Ready for the haunted house?” “Yes!” the group nodded in agreement, while Cumulus shook her head furiously. Temporal shrugged. “Then here you go!” Rumble pushed open the door. “Wait,” Diamond Tiara held out a hoof, “No weapons. Not after what happened last year.” “What happened last year?” Rumble asked. “Stratos screamed and swung his bat at Lickity Split and broke his nose.” “...Oh.” Rumble paused, “Yeah, sorry kids.” Stratos and Cumulus handed over their fake hammer and wand to Diamond Tiara. “Alright, have fun kids,” the mare smiled, sinisterly. Rumbled herded the group into the house and closed the door behind them. They all glanced around the room: Fake skeletons, pumpkins, plastic bats and fake spiders stared back as they trotted towards a table in the middle of the room. A single serving platter with a silver lid sat on the table. “...Someone’s under there,” Temporal whispered as she pointed at the dish. “...You sure?” “Watch.” The mare snuck over, silently. She raised a hoof and smacked it on the platter, creating a loud ringing noise. “Hey!” a voice called out. The lid flew off, revealing Snips’ head, his face painted up to look like a skeleton. Ribbon gasped, tightening her grip on Golden Breeze. “You’re not supposed to do that, kid.” Snips scolded Temporal. The filly shrugged. “How come you’re under a table, Mr. Snips?” Fireburst asked. “It’s part of the surprise, kid.” Snips sighed, “You guys come in, nervous and uncertain what’s going to happen. Then I,” he paused as his magic aura engulfed the lid, “Send this thing flying and scare you guys.” “...That would be really scary,” Stratos stated. The others nodded their heads in agreement. “Well It’s spoiled now,” the stallion sighed, bringing the lid back over his head, “So go on over to the next room.” The lid slammed shut. Stratos glanced at the others. “I guess we should go?” The group trotted through the doorway, and entered the next room. Bright lights glared and loud music blared as they looked around: Red cloth covered everything in the room, as paper skeletons stared back at them. A table sat in the middle of the room, with dinner plates and candles set up. “It’s...It’s more like a party.” Ribbon relaxed slightly. “...That’s weird.” “WELCOME!” A mare’s voice called out, startling everyone. A unicorn mare slinked out of another room: her makeup was done up giving her the appearance of a skeleton. Her mane was dyed black and hidden beneath her massive sombrero. An elegant red dress draped around her, hiding her back legs and cutie mark. “Welcome children,” the mare smiled, “Please have a seat; you’re just in time for a meal.” Stratos and Temporal Spectrum glanced at each other. “You’re not gonna eat us, are you?” Cumulus asked, “Eat Cream Pie first, he probably taste good.” “Hey.” “Eat you?” the mare paused for a moment, before throwing her head back, “Ohohohohoho, child, I have no intention of doing anything like that.” Cumulus relaxed. “Besides, none of your friends will make a good meal. Now please, be seated.” the foals nervously took their seats as the mare strutted around the table. “No hats at the table, I’m certain your mothers taught you that,” she scolded the colts. Stratos, Golden Breeze and Fireburst took their headgear off and set it down on the side. “Now then, the meal can begin.” “I ate a bunch of zap apples, so I ain’t hungry, can I be excused?” “No. No one is to be excused from the table until the meal is over.” The mare sat at the head of the table. “First, an appetizer.” She clapped her hooves together. Small plates suddenly appeared on the tables, in front of all the foals. Cumulus poked at the object on the plate: a small tightly wrapped burrito, smothered in rich brown sauce. “What is it?” “Escamol Burrito,” the mare replied, “It’s good for you.” The ponies glanced at each other as Cumulus picked up her burrito and took a bite of it. “It’sh good.” She told the others while chewing. the other ponies, save Temporal followed suit, biting into their own burritos and eating it. “What’s Escamol?” Cumulus asked through another mouthful of burrito. “Ant eggs.” Everyone paused, midchew. Nearly everyone spat their burrito back out, onto the plates. Fireburst shrugged and kept on eating his. Cumulus pushed her plate at the young hybrid. “You eat it.” Fireburst shrugged and stuffed her burrito into his mouth. The mare shook her head and tutted. “Have you no manners? But I shall forgive you as we move on to the next course.” The mare clapped her hooves again. A massive platter appeared in the middle of the table, it’s contents hidden by an equally huge cover. The mare smiled as the foals stared at it, dumbfounded. “And for your main course…” The cover vanished, revealing another pony laying on it: His feet bound together, an apple stuffed into his mouth. He appeared to be bald, and his flesh appeared to be a dark brown color as if he had been cooked. As the group stared at him in slack jawed horror, the apparently roasted pony opened his eyes. “Oh…” the mare trailed off, “Meatloaf again.” The group screamed and knocked over their chairs in their haste to get out of the room. Only Temporal stayed behind. “...Miss Zipporwhill?” Temporal looked at the mare. “What?” She reeled back in mock horror, “I am not…” she trailed off under Temporal’s glare. “Yes, Temp?” “Is this really ant eggs?” “No, it’s rice mixed with cottage cheese, a little butter and ground up peanuts for flavor,” Zipporwhill sighed, “I wanted to use real ant eggs, but the others said no. Real Escamol taste wonderful. Anyway, you better catch up to your friends. I need to get this place set up again for the next group.” Temporal got out of her chair and trotted down the hallway and into the next room. There, Ribbon, Golden Breeze, Stratos and Cream Pie clung to each other for protection, while Cumulus watched Fireburst eat another burrito. “You brought it with you?” “It’s good,” He responded as he finished it off. “What room is this now?” Temporal asked the others. “No idea.” The lights sprang to life, revealing skeletons lying around the room, all dressed in tuxedos, gowns and other wedding outfits. Ribbon’s grip tightened around Breeze. Everyone froze at the sound of beating wings within the room. “Stop that,” Ribbon scolded Breeze. “It’s not me.” “Not me.” Stratos shook his head. “Nuh-uh.” Cumulus agreed. The sound of beating wings grew louder and grew closer to the group. Cumulus rushed over to cower next to her brother, while Fireburst joined her. THUMP! Something crashed to the ground behind the group. Stratos and Breeze screamed as the group whirled around to look at what fell: a vaguely pony shaped lump, covered in an all encompassing bed sheet ghost costume. “Is that a real pony?” Cream Pie asked as he nudged Stratos, “Go check.” “Why do I have to check?” “ ‘Cause you’re the oldest one here.” the unicorn countered. “I’ll do it,” Temporal stepped over to the lump and yanked the bed sheet off: a fake pony skeleton stared back at them, it’s mouth contorted into a grin. “See?” THUMP! Something crashed to the ground behind the group again. The ponies whirled around, and found another sprawled out pony-shaped lump, clad in a wedding dress. To the horror of the group, the lump slowly stumbled onto it’s hooves, it’s face still hidden by the wedding veil. Suddenly, the veil was ripped off, revealing a blood splattered face and mouth filled with jagged teeth. The mare roared as nearly the entire group screamed in terror. Temporal sighed. “Hi mom.” Dash’s demeanor shifted from terrifying to completely annoyed as the mare frowned at her daughter. “Kid, you’re supposed to be scared, not going all Maud Pie on us.” “Mom, I saw you leave the house, I know what costume you’re wearing.” Dash slumped, disappointed. “You’re no fun. Well that’s it, kids, better head on out and get your stuff. You still got the corn maze, don’t you?” “Uh-huh,” Stratos nodded, “Bye!” He rushed out of the room, followed by Breeze, Ribbon and Cream Pie. Cumulus looked back at Rainbow Dash as she picked up the bed sheet ghost mannequin. “Aunty Rainbow? Were those really ant egg burritos?” “Can’t tell you that,” the mare grinned wickedly as she fluttered back towards the ceiling. “Let’s go,” Temporal sighed and followed the others. Cumulus and Fireburst followed after her.
The Same Routine“Bye kids,” Rumble waved after them, “Come back again next year!” “That was really scary, wasn’t it Stratty?” “Not really.” the Colt responded, putting up a brave facade. “You screamed just like everypony else,” Temporal responded. “....I screamed less,” he sulked, as Cumulus moved over towards Temporal. “How come you never get scared in the Haunted House, Tempy?” “Because it’s boring. Snips always does the jump scare thing.” “Yeah, but the red skeleton mare in the sombrero was cool,” Cumulus glanced back over at Fireburst, “What does ants taste like?” “Kind of nutty and like cheese,” Fireburst responded, “I liked it.” “Does this mean you’re gonna start eating ants?” “I’m not an ant-eater.” He mumbled. “They weren’t real ants,” Temporal responded, “Miss Zipporwhill said so.” “...Where did you see her?” “She was the one in red.” The group skidded to a stop as a pair of Royal Night Guards stepped in front of them. Cream Pie peeked over. “Who’s that?” He nudged Stratos. “I think they’re real guards.” he whispered back. “Stratos Apple?” one of the guards asked. Cumulus ducked behind her brother as he nodded in confirmation. “I am Captain Morningstar, of the Royal Guard.” “If your name’s Morningstar, why are you part of Princess Luna’s guards? Cumulus asked. “They had an opening,” Captain Morningstar responded, not missing a beat, “We are here to-” Captain Morningstar was cut off as someone leapt over them and landed next to Ribbon. A tall, not-quite-filly, looked down at them: while his body structure resembled a pony’s, he was longer, taller and thinner. Instead of hooves, his forelegs ended in paws. His tail was long, serpentine and covered in scales, ending in a tuff of sapphire fur. His body was covered in dark blue fur, his mane a mess of blues with a single streak of grey. Instead of a single horn, he had a pair of twisted, gnarled horns like a goat’s. He smiled, revealing several sharp fangs. Cumulus popped out from behind her brother and hugged the newcomer. “Hi Loony!’ “...Your highness, you were supposed to stay behind us” Captain Morningstar sighed. “I got bored.” the prince shrugged. “...He’s going to hang out with us, isn’t he?” Temporal asked. “...Yes. Prince Lunatique will be spending the night with you,” Captain Morningstar nodded, “Princess Luna sent us as his bodyguards, but…He’ll make a valiant effort to lose us anyway, so we might as well skip that part and let you on your way.” “Thank you, Sir.” “Is the bakery still open?” one of the other guards asked, “I like their Pumpkin rolls.” “They’re doing pumpkin carving, but they might still have some,” Cream Pie answered. “Alright then, we’ll leave you on your own,” Captain Morningstar nodded, “But no incidents like last time.” “I promised mom,” the prince sulked as Cumulus giggled. The guards turned and trotted off. As soon as they were out of sight, Lunatique put an arm around Ribbon. “So where to next, the Haunted House?” He grinned. “We were just there.” “...Pumpkin Carving?” “Did it already.” “...What’s left?” “The corn maze.” Temporal responded, “There’s Mr. Oareb.” The group trotted over the zebra, who sat near a hay cart, cigarette in mouth. The Zebra was dressed in a flowing black cape, small domino mask and wide brimmed fedora. He quickly snubbed out the cigarette as he noticed the group. “Hello children.” he flashed them a quick smile. “Aunty Apple Bloom said you’re not supposed to smoke,” Cumulus responded. He coughed, “Well...She said I couldn’t smoke around her, but,” He waved a hoof, “She is not here, so I may smoke. But enough about that, are you ready for the corn maze?” “How come you and Mrs. Applebloom didn’t want to be part of the Haunted house?” “I do not understand Through the Looking Glass,” Oareb responded as he hooked up his haycart to the saddle. “Nor do I see the point in an entire group of ponies in coordinated costumes. The point is for ponies to do as they please with outfits, yes?” “Well, sometimes it’s fun to coordinate with other ponies,” Golden Breeze responded. “I suppose. But, due to where we are working, I believed it was more practical for myself and Apple Bloom to wear something that is not ridiculous or will matter much if we get muddy,” He paused, tightening his harness. “Now are you all ready?” The group cheered as they piled into the back of the hay cart. Oareb began walking as the group glanced around the festivities. “Look, there’s Aunty Flitter.” Cumulus pointed into the crowd: Flitter wore a yellow ballroom gown, while Thunderlane stood dressed in a blue suit, along with a large amount of fake brown fur and hair. “There’s your mom,” Ribbon pointed into the crowd as Pinkie Pie trotted past, dressed in a ridiculous clown outfit. Cream Pie ducked away. “I hate clowns.” he muttered. The group grew silent as they left the town and headed into the rural areas and the farms. the group came to a stop at one of the barnhouse, outfitted with fake paper bats, and lights. A heavily pregnant Applebloom sighed as she placed her cart down and a group of foals ran out to the start of the maze. “Beloved, I told you you should be taking it easy, not hauling extra foals around,” Oareb chided her as he parked his cart next to her. “I’m fine,” She snapped, “I ain’t a baby.” “Hi Aunty!” Cumulus waved as they left the cart. “Hey kids,” Apple Bloom smiled back, “Better hurry up. Don’t wanna miss story time with Princess Twilight after this.” “Eeyup!” Cumulus ran ahead, leaving the others to catch up. at the start of the Maze, an earth mare stood, dressed up as a scarecrow. The Yellow coated mare grinned as she saw the group. “Hi Miss. Sugar Dots!” “Well, Howdy!” she grinned at the kids, “Ready for the corn maze?” “Yep!” Cumulus nodded. “Well, let’s see…” Sugar Dots trailed off as she counted the group, “Eight? Good! We’re only letting pairs into the maze. Makes it more challenging that way.” “I’ll go with Fireburst!” Cumulus responded. Stratos and Temporal Stepped towards each other, partnering off. Lunatique and Golden Breeze glared at each other, as both began to step towards Ribbon. Cream Pie quickly bumped into Lunatique, pulling the prince closer to him. “We can be a team, right Loony?” he grinned and winked at Ribbon. “...I guess so,” the hybrid sulked. “Well, since that’s settled…” Sugar Dots trailed off as a burst of magical energy exploded in the air near the end of the maze, “Oh good, they’re done. Well off you go. the Maze has been enchanted to prevent the use of magic. Also no flying.” She paused, “Or floating or whatever it is that you do, Prince Lunatique.” The groups headed off, and entered the corn maze at different entrances. Stratos glanced around, looking at the near impenetrable walls. “So what’s the plan?” he asked. “Let me get on your back and lift off.” the mare responded, “I’ll guide you.” “They said no flying.” “You’re not flying, you’re...flittering.” Temporal made a floating motion with her hooves, “Like my mom does when she’s too lazy to walk.” --- “Can’t you just burn a path down?” Cumulus asked. “No. My fire’s not strong enough for that yet,” Fireburst responded, “Besides, I don’t think we’re allowed to do that.” “....That’s boring. What if we just run through the walls?” “What?” He turned around to have Cumulus whizz past, kicking up dirt, dust and his hat and cape. The filly crashed headfirst into the wall of corn, only to barely penetrate the plants. “...You’re stuck, aren’t you?” Fireburst sighed. “Gemme out of this,” --- “...We’re lost, aren’t we?” Ribbon asked as Golden Breeze threw his helmet at another dead end. “Yes.” “...So can I lead us now, or are you gonna keep insisting that you do it?” Ribbon snarked. “...Yes.” he admitted as he picked up his helmet and put it back on his head. Corn leaves and other parts of the stalks remained stuck to the horns. --- “This is the same dead end as before!” Lunatique snarled. “No, it’s not.” Cream Pie countered. “Yes, it is!” he pointed a claw at a fallen corn stalk and dent in the ground, “That’s your faceprint from before!” Cream Pie peered at it, “...That’s where the vampire teeth went.” He reached into the pit, brushed the dirt off and popped it back into his mouth. “Now we can go.” “This time I’m leading us.” --- “We’re done!” Cumulus beamed as she trotted out of the maze, “Hi Mrs. Alula!” “Hi kids,” the mare waved back. “Did we get out first?” She asked. “Eenope.” Stratos grinned at his little sister. “...That’s no fair.” she pouted. “Well, the others are still stuck inside.” Temporal pointed out, “So that makes you two the second fastest.” “...I guess,” the filly continued to pout as Fireburst trotted past her. “Do we get an award because of how fast we finished?” Stratos asked. “Later, we’re still tallying up how quickly everyone did,” Alula glanced down at her watch, “But I think the two of you did the best so far.” Stratos’ response was cut off as a bickering Lunatique and Cream Pie made it out of the maze, followed shortly by Ribbon Lighting and Golden Breeze. “Is that everyone?” Alula asked, “Good,” The mare lifted up a jury-rigged flare gun and fired a shot. “Well, kids, all that’s left is Story time with Princess Twilight,” She glanced back down at her watch, “Better hurry up.” “I hope it’s really sc…” Cumulus trailed off and yawned. “Sleepy, Cumulus?” Temporal smiled slightly. “N’uah.” the younger filly responded through another yawn. She teetered slightly as Stratos grabbed her. “...Maybe we should call it a night,” Stratos replied as Cumulus began to snore. “Not for me,” Lunatique responded, “You can go home, I’m staying up.” “I’m with Loony.” Cream Pie nodded. “Us too.” Ribbon and Breeze nodded. “Well, I’m gonna take her home, so if you guys see my parents let them know.” Stratos looked over at Temporal and Fireburst, “You guys don’t have to come.” “I’ll come anyway,” Temporal shrugged. “Me too.” “Well...See you guys later.” Stratos eased Cumulus onto his back and start off, with Temporal and Fireburst. The others shrugged and trotted off heading back to the town. “You’re a good brother, you know that?” Temporal informed Stratos. “I try.”
