Pumpkin beverages, pumpkin-themed decoration, pumpkin food, pumpkin house.
How did he get himself there? Moon Flight wasn't very sure about the answer. He was sent there because of reports of a possible deadly sin being lodged there.
Probably another bogus report.
An onyx blue stallion walked towards the odd building. The pumpkin patch that had been taken over by magic had a nice scent. That could still be a decent harvest if the locals actually went to collect the produce. At first glance, the only thing out of place there was the oversized pumpkins.
But there were other things for those with a bit more of a critic's eye.
Underneath the big leaves of the pumpkins, small ghostly creatures were moving around collecting pieces of the plants and moving them back to the biggest pumpkin there.
The pumpkin had been modified to serve as a house. A big smiling face was carved on the front, a couple of stones were floating in front of the face's nose. When Moon approached the building, the stones floated out of their positions and began forming a stair.
At least the place seemed inviting. Moon could hear singing coming from within the house. A happy chirping voice seemed to be enjoying something. However, other noises coming from within didn't allow Moon to pick up on what was being said.
I'm so being sent to another meaningless chase.
Regardless of how he felt, his handler had sent him the request. Moon only took the job because it was close to his location at the time. And as annoying as the jobs were, someone had to do them.
On his current height, Moon could either knock on the door or try to climb over to the windows.
Too much of a hassle. He thought after analyzing the window.
He was going to need his wings if he was to go to the windows. And Moon didn't feel like flying in that place, not mention wings flapping could give away his location.
If the ghosts delivering pumpkin parts hadn't done that already.
Let's try the most stupid thing one could do in this situation.
Moon reached for the doorknob, which was made out of a pumpkin's stem, and twisted it.
You're kidding, right?
The front door was unlocked. Moon simply pushed the door and let himself in. The place was fairly well kept, which was plausible for a deadly sin of Lust. They tended to lure their prey in, then kill them while pleasing themselves. A messy house could make their prey move away.
That had to be his most hated deadly sin.
Moon placed his hands in his pockets as to not touch something. Setting up traps on objects that attracted curious ponies was a habit of these damned souls. Crafty little bastards they were. However, Moon saw something that made his ears perk up and the fur on his coat stand up straight.
A big cauldron filled with some weird green goop rested on the corner of the room. The ghosts were dumping the pumpkin bits into it. It was just like the books he had to study before joining up as a hunter.
A witch's cauldron...The reports might be true. Greaaaat. Moon sighed scratching the back of his neck.
Witches or wizards were the only known beings that could play the functions of a weapon and a wielder. That could be good or really bad. Good, the witch wasn't pushed to cross the line and become a seed of sin. Really bad, once they crossed the line, witches quickly evolved to deadly sin and then to Walkyre killer.
Whoever came up with those names had some issues.
But either way, a witch's cauldron could change sizes and while that green goop glowed like that, the witch could pull out different concoctions on a whim. In other words, a big pot of chemical weaponry was resting out in the open. Moon turned around trying to see any signs of the witch's nature.
It didn't have anything, the place was neatly kept, and quiet.
Quiet.
They stopped singing.
Moon began to spin around hoping to catch the witch/ wizard's location.
"Huh, a pegasus has never been here before. But now that you've come, no matter how much you get. You will always be wanting more," Moon turned to the source of the rhyming.
Based on the voice, Moon assumed he was dealing with a female. Moon tilted his head once he caught sight of the one speaking.
That certainly isn't what I was expecting.
The one who spoke wore a cloak big enough to hide their entire body. On top of her head, a pointy black hat with an orange ribbon rested with a slight tilt to the right. The cloak prevented Moon from seeing any weapons or what approach she would take.
But before he pulled any stunts, Moon used his eyes. A common technique any creature could learn if they worked hard enough that is. The entire world faded, Moon could only see his own body. Then small flames began to pop around him. The pale blue lights floated all around him, most of them were small, probably belonging to the ghosts. Only one flame was bigger than the rest.
A single sphere of greenish light seemed to be feeding the small blue ones. The sphere was perfect, no failures, no loss of light. The green light also lacked any signs of color mixing. In short...
"Bogus report," Moon muttered as his vision returned to normal.
"Excuse me? Bogus report. That's a weak retort." Moon ignored her remark and headed to the door.
"Never mind. I'm just going to leave."
Moon was almost out when the door slammed, nearly hitting his muzzle.
"You are turning your back to a witch. A reckless decision that can be."
"Listen, I came here to check if a bunch of reports were true. Turns out they were wrong. That means I can leave and you get to keep on living," Moon replied pulling out a card from his pockets. "If you aren't registered, get this and head into a hunter guild. They will register you and other hunters will leave you be. Provided that you don't turn into a seed of sin."
The card flew from his hand, the magic on it kicked in and gently stopped before the witch's face.
"You're not here to ask for my body or potions?"
"What?"
"I gave them potions that caused mild symptoms. Then another to cause exhaustion. Finally playing with them as they asked, but not in the way they expected. To the hospital, I believe they were sent." Moon's ear twitched at those new bits of information.
Moon flicked his wrist, an accessory began to move up his hand. The gears and cogs turned, creating a mechanical rhythm. Metal rings enveloped each one of his fingers before projecting a light. A couple of lines were projected forming a circle.
"Golden Heights, you there?" The stallion asked with concern.
"Loud and clear," The remixed voice replied making the lines move up and down. "How did the mission go?"
"Still at it. Can you do me a solid?"
"I'm your handler. Doing solids is my job," Moon grinned at the remark.
"What did the report say about the victims of the supposed deadly sin?" Moon asked while pushing the witch, who had approached him and was staring at the device on his wrists, away.
"Well, the report was made by the lover of one of the victims. She claimed that the lover was found dead."
Moon felt his fur stand up. Something was off about the story. The 'sinner' didn't have the taint of murder. But the reports filed up were about murder. And based on them, the victims were already dead when they were found.
"I just found the supposed sinner. They are clean. Who filled the other reports."
"Just one mare made them all. Odd, isn't it?"
Were them being serious?
"When was the last report sent?" Moon asked forcing the front door open.
"A few hours ago, why?" Moon spread his wings.
The limbs popped out of his back, long onyx blue wings with jet black feathers. The sensation of stretching them was delightful, but he couldn't bother to savor it. Moon took flight with a powerful flap that caused a small gust to shake the leaves from the giant pumpkins.
"Get me the location of the nearest hospital! Now!" Moon shouted as he increased his altitude.
"Done!" The robotic voice replied with concern.
Moon looked at the location on the map. The place wasn't really far, which was good. Moon adjusted his route and began to flap his wings with all the force he had. Each flap propelled him forward with increasing speed.
He had to make it. The hospital was likely to become a lot bloodier than it should be, that much was certain. The question was: whose blood would stain the walls?
The white building with a red cross came into his sights.
"G.H! What's the name of the latest victim?" Moon asked skydiving toward the entrance.
"Baked Apple," That was...a rather unique name.
Moon rushed to the front desk. The reception area was empty, or so it seemed. Moon hopped over the front desk when he landed he heard a yelp.
Why did all this have to happen?!
Red Heart sunk behind the front desk. The memory of ponies screaming in the corridors made her shiver. That was her first week at the Orange Patch Villa's Hospital. No major incidents happened until that day. First, a stallion is brought in without any injuries, but with a high fever and apparently under the influence of narcotics. Something pleasure inducing, based on how much he moaned just by being touched.
The one who brought him in was a strange mare. Her figure was so delicate, she looked like the slightest breeze could send her flying. She claimed to be the stallion's mate. After giving all of her partner's information, she left in a hurry claiming that the one responsible was still at large. Red heart heard her scream something about a witch as she gave the details of the incident.
The patient's state quickly improved. He was stable in a matter of hours, even if completely unconscious. Whatever drug had been used on him, it had drained him to the point of exhaustion. Then everything went back to normal. Ponies were really careful about their health, so it was a really calm night.
However, after the hospital had finished the visiting hours, Red Heart was about to close the front door when she heard something.
"Ma'am. Visiting hours are done. We need you to go back home. Ma'am? Ma-AAAAAAAAAAARRRRGH! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! NO, PLEASE NO! MERCY!!!"
That screech made red heart drop the keys. The way the voice continued to scream and beg between the cries of pain made her legs shake. Red heart ran to the reception table and hid underneath the big furniture. Hoping that it would end and she would get out.
More screams followed. Red heart tried to muffle the sounds by covering her ears. Were those screams from the other nurses? The doctors? Security? The few patients they had? It didn't matter right now, she just wanted it to get quiet.
And so it did.
Red Heart slowly opened her eyes and let go of her ears. The room was quiet, the screams were gone.
Am I safe?
The sound of the front door bursting open made her entire body stiffen up. Heavy steps echoed across the area making Red's heart nearly stop.
More?! There are more?! Oh, sweet Celestia, please let me get out alive! Why didn't I run away?! Why did I hide here? Why-?!
"AHHHHH!" She screamed when a set of hooves fell in front of her.
Dark blue pants, white shirt, and a cyan jacket. Onyx blue coat, dark purple mane, aquamarine eyes, white horizontal stripes on his mane that went halfway through the fur. That was the short description of the pony that had just appeared before her and covered her mouth. He was a pegasus, a bit thinner than he should be given his size. His teeth looked a bit sharp, and his eyes were...offputting.
"Listen, I'm here to help. I'm a hunter. I'm looking for a patient called Baked Apples. Do you know this stallion?"
She nodded positively.
"Do you know where he is?"
She repeated the gesture.
"I need you to get me there ASAP. Can you do that?"
Her eyes widened. He wanted her to go towards the screaming? She shook her head sideways.
"Listen, he is going to die. He is your patient. Aren't you supposed to help your patients?"
She nodded positively.
"See? Listen, I just need you to show me where the door to his room is. You don't need to enter. Just get me there. I will keep you safe. Ok?"
Red Heart hesitated for a second. Those were her patients, maybe that was the reason she didn't leave? Because she felt some kind of responsibility towards them? She took a deep breath and nodded positively.
The stallion did the same before removing his hand from her mouth. He gestured her to lead the way, Red heart did as commanded with a hint of fear. After a few steps down the corridor, Red Heart caught a familiar scent. A metallic smell that was very common in her work.
Blood.
Red Heart steps became faster. Her usual reaction to that smell was to find the source and then try to treat it if it was within her capabilities. However, once she took a turn by the end of the hallway, she slipped on something and fell on her back. Still shaken by the fall, the nurse looked at the ground.
Her coat had just been stained, as well as her uniform. The white cloth was marked with crimson colors. Her hands felt cold and wet. She raised her hands, they had been covered by the red liquid too. The source of the liquid, a security guard that laid on the floor.
"Damn it. She must be here already." The stallion behind her spoke as he approached the body.
That was an unusual sight, the regular response for ponies was to step away from a corpse. That pegasus, however, crouched down and began to mess with the corpse. He seemed to be searching for something. And given how fast he was to check the body, he had done it before.
"She's got a knife. Or at least a small dagger. Which way?" He asked turning his gaze to her.
"Go down this way, then take a right turn. First door on the left." She finally managed to reply.
"Thanks. It would be best if you left here. Go to the guard's station. Tell them what happened and tell them to send a medical team here. Three white mages should suffice. Got that?" He asked staring at her.
"Y-yes."
"Good. Now, go!" He ordered.
Red Heart got up on her hooves and began running towards the station.
That leaves only the patients that aren't her target. And the ponies that were smart enough to stay hidden.
Moon moved as silently and as fast as he could down the hallway. A few more corpses were scattered around, a doctor, a nurse, two guards, one filly.
She already took their souls.
Moon hugged the wall that led to his destination. The door to the patient's room was slightly open, lights were off. Not that it mattered, he could see well in the dark. What he didn't like was the sound coming from within. A repeating and grotesque sound of flesh being slashed.
Moon approached the door, a small pony was moving her arms up and down. He could only see her shape, the scarce lighting of the place made it impossible to see the colors. Using his eyes once more, he analyzed the pony before she took notice of him.
The flame within her was small, but the color it had...it was sickening. Black, purple, white. Multiple colors danced at the center of the vibrant and grotesque green.
Envy. And wrath.
Moon's sight returned to normal. And he saw that the pony was looking over her shoulder. Her eyes were dull, her pupils small. Her face had splatters of what he could only assume to be blood. She was terrifying, yet caused him to feel pity.
"He cheated on me. Like all the others."
Her voice is wrong. It is forced.
Paying a bit more attention to the details, even though the frame was the same as a mare. The muscles around the neck and abdomen belonged to a male.
"It's not my fault. I'm pretty. I'm beautiful. Just like mom wanted. They're the ones at fault. They came to me. But then...they went after others. I'm mommy's doll. I'm her perfect little filly." The feeble creature said with a dead tone in his voice.
Someone has been playing dollhouse. Poor kid.
"Your mane is long. Mommy liked long manes. She made mine so pretty. 'Keep it pretty, otherwise, mommy will be mad.' She said. I didn't like when mommy was angry. Is it hard for you? To keep your mane like that?"
"...no," Moon replied with a sad voice. He knew what was coming.
"Really? THAT'S SO GOOD FOR YOU!" The stallion replied getting up, his smile distorted while his neck seemed to crook. "I HAVE TO SPEND A LOT OF TIME TO KEEP MINE." The feminine voice was getting more distorted. "I'M A GOOD FILLY! I'M A PRETTY FILLY! MOMMY TOLD ME SO! SHE SAYS THAT NO PONY CAN OR SHOULD BE PRETTIER THAN ME! IF OTHERS ARE PRETTIER SHE GETS MAD!"
The mare rushed at him with, weapon in hand and ready to strike. Moon took a slight step to the side, grabbing the blade with his right hand while he bashed the stallion's head to the floor with his left hand. Once the stallion was there, Moon placed his left leg on the stallion's right arm. His right leg pressured the left arm.
"I'm sorry. This really isn't your fault," Moon said in a low tone.
The stallion underneath him began to sob.
"Why does mommy get so mad? What did I do wrong? Why did she stop breathing after the shining dagger touched her? Why did she leave? I am a good filly. I'm a pretty filly. I'm mommy's pretty little doll. The stallions are mean. They say that I'm pretty, but when they see me they leave me for other mares. Why? I'm so pretty. I'm just like the little filly mommy said she wanted. I'm a pretty filly, aren't I? Why did he leave me then? Why did they leave me?"
Moon couldn't help but feel his heart tighten as he heard that. That child was still stuck in whatever hell he had to go through. The least he could do was try and get hi...her to rest.
"Yes, you are a pretty filly," Moon replied with a sad voice. "But I can't give you an answer as to why they left you. As far as I know, the only thing that would make me leave a pretty girl would be if her soul was messed up."
"Her soul? What do you mean, mister?"
She must have been kept away from others until he...she killed her mother.
"It's a little flame that every being has. It has a unique color for each being."
"And how can you tell when they are messed up?"
"Souls can only have one color. If they have more than one color, it means the soul has absorbed another creature's soul. And it isn't a pretty sight."
"Is my soul messed up?"
"Yes." The stallion stopped struggling.
"Is that why they left?"
"I don't know." Moon felt the tears from the stallion touch his hands.
"Can it be fixed? Can it be pretty again?" Moon felt his heart tighten up.
Why would any being do this to their child?
"I can fix it," Moon replied trying to keep his tone as serene as possible.
"Will it hurt?"
"No. It won't."
"Really?!" the happy voice of the stallion made Moon flinch. "Thank you, mister! Mommy will be so happy."
"Yes, she will."
Liar.
*CLANK*
Moon felt the body of the stallion flinch fro a brief second as the sound echoed across the empty halls. The body of the young stallion unraveled itself as if it was made out of one big ribbon. At the very center of the body, a small silver flame began to float towards the ceiling.
Moon watched the flame float and then burst like a bubble before disappearing. On the back of his head, Moon heard a voice speak up.
"Thank you, mister! I feel better now! I hope we meet again!"
Moon walked up to the window of the room and looked up to the sky.
At least the moon is still the same. The same silver light. In the same peaceful sky.
Moon gazed at the pale blue circle. The silhouette of the Mare in the Moon was still there. He looked over his shoulder at the mess behind him. Such needless bloodshed. Moon looked back up to the pale circle.
Nightmare's silhouette is gone? How did it?
Moon shook his head sideways before taking off. He was tired. If the moon had changed, that was Princess Celestia's problem. Right now he just wanted a place to rest.
The sun took a long time to rise that day. So long, in fact, that Moon thought he hadn't managed to sleep when he first opened his eyes. It wasn't until he looked at the station's clock that he realized he was about to miss his train.
Celestia must be getting lazy. He thought as he accommodated his luggage at the compartment above his seat.
"Hey, Moon! How did it go?" The manipulated voice asked as soon as he called them.
"Got the job done. The one making the reports was the one behind the killings. It was a stallion whose mother had forced to live like a mare. He developed hatred towards those who abandoned him while also envying them for moving on. He had become a deadly sin of envy and wrath."
"That's...harsh," G.H. replied with a low voice. "How are you holding up?"
"As well as I can. I supposed," He added that last bit underneath a sigh.
"Did you get injured?"
"Just a small cut to my hand. Already cleaned it and wrapped some bandages around it. Other than that I'm ok." Moon said laying back on his seat as the sound of wheels turning and engines firing up began.
"Are you on the friendship express?"
"Yep. Thanks to last mission I'm down to my last bottle of P.E." Moon answered as he looked at the station of Orange Patch Villa stay behind him.
P.E., that was the acronym for Purifying Essence. A pink and slimy fluid Moon had to drink every once in a while. Him and every being in his condition.
"Heading back to the capital then?"
"Where else? The lowest prices are in Canterlot. Besides, I think Nana deserves a visit. Got to pay my rent after all." Moon said watching the scenery go by as the train sped along the tracks. "Speaking of which. How's my status?"
"With that mission, you are now qualified to rank up to silver star hunter. Congratulations!" Golden answered with excitement as a silver star appeared at the center of the circle with small trumpets playing a happy march. "From now on you can take long term contracts. And you'll also receive your title directly from the princess. Lucky you!"
Moon just sighed at that last remark.
"Do I really need to meet the princess?"
"Don't be such a stick in the mud! You're going to receive your star by the Sun Princess! That's a big honor! And besides, until you undergo the ceremony, no more missions." Moon let out a low growl at the information. "No growling. It's just how things go. Get your flank back to Canterlot and just get it over with."
"Aye, aye, captain," Moon replied with a mocking tone as he turned off the device.
This will be a long trip.
Red Heart finished filling up the papers requested by the guards. The papers for her transfer, the papers saying that she was not supposed to tell anypony about the incident's details. The letters to the victim's families.
I don't want to deal with any documents for the rest of my life.
Picking up her things from the locker-room, Red Heart remembered the events that had unfolded before her eyes. The pony who asked her to help him, holding down another pony she couldn't see very well. A sudden metallic sound and the pony that was pinned to the floor disappeared.
And that wasn't all that had disappeared. The stallion that had asked for her help didn't have an arm anymore. The missing limb looked like a long curved blade. A second bright flash happened, and the arm was back in its place.
He was a weapon...
In the distance, she heard the sounds of the train preparing to leave. Her tickets were for the next one anyway. She still had plenty of time.
That blasted stallion! Where in Tartarus is he?!
Shining armor rushed through the halls. The ceremony to promote Moon Flight was supposed to begin thirty minutes ago. But there was no sign of the damned hunter in the castle. Shining Armor decided to take upon himself the task of finding the hunter.
Heading towards the main entrance, Shining overheard an argument that seemed to be happening behind the front doors.
"Until your wielder arrives you will not be granted passage, sir! If you insist on causing trouble I'll have you arrested."
"How many times do I need to repeat myself you prick? I. DO. NOT. HAVE. A. WIELDER!"
I know that voice!
Shining opened the doors causing the guards behind it to yelp in surprise. Shining saw the familiar pegasus and like always, he was wearing some pretty weird clothes. A bright purple tuxedo with a yellow and green shirt, and a green bowtie poorly tied up around his neck.
"Captain!" The guards saluted.
"You're late!" Shining scolded the pegasus who let out a sigh.
"Blame your soldiers, not me! They should have read my ENTIRE dossier. My guess is that they stopped after reading weapon."
"Show some respect to the captain! You little-"
"SILENCE!" Shining commanded. "Soldier, this guest of ours is a weapon without a wielder. You've been taking the princesses' time needlessly because you tried to cut your duties short. Get back to the barracks and memorize the entire dossier of this hunter. NOW!"
The soldier seemed to shrink with every word that came out of Shining's mouth. In the end, he saluted Shining and left the post gritting his teeth.
"Thank you," Moon Flight said stepping inside as the doors closed behind him.
"Pardon the harsh words. We had some pretty stressful weeks," Shining said offering his hand to the pegasus walking beside him.
"No problem, Fairy Blue," The stallion replied with a smirk.
"I've told you to not call me that in public! If somepony hears you, they might suspect something!" Shining replied trying to squeeze the pegasus' hand.
"There is no pony around. Relax," Moon replied letting go of the handshake. "Your grip has improved. Guess they don't call you 'iron fist' for nothing."
"Another one?" Shining replied with annoyance in his voice.
He didn't need another nickname. Shining began to massage his temples thinking of how to get rid of that one as they walked down the hallways.
"So, how's the little mage?" Moon asked changing the subject as subtly as he used to, like a drunk elephant.
"Twilight moved to a library in a little town called Ponyville during the Summer Sunset Celebration," Shining replied with a hint of anger in his voice.
"By the Everfree? At least she will get some fresh air."
Both of them grew silent. Shining looked at the end of the corridor. Two golden doors with the symbol of the sun and moon stood between them and the throne room.
"Moon, listen up," Shining armor began with a serious tone. "I have a long term contract for you. Once the ceremony is over, I'll meet you at your place. It's very important, understand?"
"Yes, sir!" Moon Flight replied before bumping Shining's shoulder with his own. "Smile. I'm getting promoted."
Why did Tia need me for this?
Luna tried to adjust herself to the oversized silver throne. Celestia was by her side, looking a bit impatient as she tapped her fingers on the throne's arm.
Luna was grateful for the second chance she got. But things were going too fast for her. She had just returned from the imprisonment of a thousand years and Celestia had already placed Luna in the throne room to accompany and seek council with her duties.
Not to mention that as a side effect of the elements restoring her, Luna had shrunk from her original size and her powers had been reduced as well. But that wasn't the worst of it.
The usual meetings with politicians were simple enough to keep up. The problem laid in the meetings where stallions had come just to court Celestia.
Apparently, over the many years, Luna had spent on the moon, Celestia had become a muse to almost every single male in the kingdom. And once she turned them down, the first thing the stallions did was to fix their gaze on Luna. It felt as if they were aiming for her after Celestia turned them down.
That both disgusted her and terrified her.
Luna thought of bringing this up to her sister, however, she changed her mind after seeing Celestia work so hard to restore Luna's position. Celestia had been bearing the crown on her own for quite some time.
Luna had failed to fulfill her duties in the past because of her envy. She was not about to make her sister bear the burden any longer because she was afraid.
"We are certain that our captain shall return swiftly with the stallion," Luna said in an attempt to calm her sister.
"I know Lulu. I just want to get this over with to check on Twilight," Celestia replied with a warm smile.
"Thou hast grown quite attached to the young mare. She must truly be a wonderful companion," Luna replied returning the smile.
"She indeed is. However, her lack of social interactions over the years has me worried," Celestia said biting her lip. "What if she is being bullied? What if she gets attacked by a Timberwolf? There are chimeras in the Everfree. Not to mention a hydra, the cockatrices. I'm..." Luna interrupted Celestia's rant with a hug.
"Thou hast no need to worry. Thy student has shown remarkable prowess in magic. Performing teleportation with such precision at her age is quite a feat. We are sure that Twilight Sparkle can only grow with her new environment," Luna whispered at her sister's ears.
"Thanks, Lulu," Celestia replied returning the hug.
The metallic sound of the grand doors broke the moment between them. Luna quickly returned to her seat and assumed her posture.
Captain Shining Armor entered the room accompanied by an oddly dressed pegasus. And that wasn't all that was odd about him. Upon entering the room, the pegasus' coat was originally cyan and his mane was silver. Once the doors closed behind him, however, his coat turned onyx blue and his mane shifted into a dark purple.
A disguise? Why would he be wearing a disguise? And...How did the captain know who it was underneath the illusion? And what is up with his sense of fashion? I was out on the moon for quite some time, but I know that those are not a proper combination of colors!
"Princesses. I present to you Moon Flight, a five-star bronze hunter. I apologize for the disguise, due to his situation he prefers to keep a low profile."
Situation? And where is his partner? Luna thought as she scanned the room for any other spells.
"He is a scythe, correct?" Tia inquired with her cold tone.
Luna looked at her sister and then back at the pegasus. Scythes weren't exactly common weapons even in her time. And if he really was one, it was no wonder he had a civilian outfit to walk around. Scythes were seen as devious and treacherous weapons that would always turn against their wielders.
"That I am, Your Highness," The Pegasus replied getting down to his knees.
"Then there is no need to apologize. My sister and I are well aware of your and all other scythes situation. Raise your head." Tia said with her warmth returning to her voice.
"Thank you, Your Highness. But I must ask, is that the sister who disappeared 1000 years ago with the rise of Nightmare Moon?"
That question took Luna, and Celestia as well, given her reaction, by surprise. True that it was stated in books the events that led to Nightmare's birth. But ponies tried to avoid the subject when Luna was around.
"You are correct, is there a problem with that?" Tia asked with a scowl.
"Sister, there is no need to show aggression towards the stallion. We are not offended by it," Luna intervened trying to remedy the situation.
"I apologize if that is what you took from this," The Pegasus said standing up. "I merely ask because if it was the lost princess. I would be very glad to see that she had been rescued from the darkness that took hold of her. The books describe her skies as the most beautiful creations ever made. And I look forward to seeing them take the skies once more."
That was...unexpected...ponies tend to praise Tia's warm and sunny days rather than the calm nights.
"I don't mean to be rude," The hunter continued. "But I need to do something after this. And the guards that held me by the entrance have already taken a lot of my time. So if you could be so kind as to proceed with the ceremony."
"Understood, I too want to finish this as soon as possible," Tia replied with the scowl still on her face.
The rest of the ceremony was brief, Luna watched Tia perform the spell that fused the five stars on the Pegasus hand into a single silver star. He bowed put on his disguise once more and headed out. However, as soon as he stepped out the throne room, he turned to face them and shouted.
"I hope you two enjoy your second chance! I'm glad to see our ruler on high spirits for once! Watch over your big sister! Got that, little princess?" He said before bolting through the hallways as the captain gave chase screaming at the strange stallion.
"How insane do you have to be to do that?!" Shining exclaimed as they wandered through the streets. His voice with a higher pitch than before.
"Insanity isn't a bad thing. It's just a part of the world," Moon replied chuckling at the disguised captain that was tripping over his high heels.
"Still, I thought Celestia was about to blast you into oblivion."
"You should know by now that I'm more resilient than I look," Moon retorted removing the upper part of his tuxedo.
He was back in his civilian outfit, a pegasus called Sky High. He had the papers, the background, the personality. A completely different persona just for his everyday activities. It was more approachable, or so he told himself. His hunter Id made him recognizable by the guards, even under disguise.
He could probably walk around in his original colors, but ponies got fidgety with any creature that had darker tones on their coats or mane. Meaning his day would get much more annoying with every pony that walked past him wanting to run away. It was obnoxious, judging by the surface? While he was in his disguise, ponies were very happy and welcoming to him. If he wasn't...you get the picture.
Fucking ponies. Scared of small details like colors. But overlook the issue that really matters. Moon thought as he watched a bunch of ponies pick up the pace to leave the area they were entering.
They had moved beyond the aristocratic portion of the town. Every single pony knew about the big restaurants, the cafes, the race tracks, and of course, the castle. What no pony talked about was the slums area. A lively place where most of the workers in town lived. At least the ones who weren't nobles.
"Welcoming as always," Moon said looking to his companion who was still having a hard time walking in high heels. "Need some help Fairy?"
"No! I just need to get rid of these!" He replied taking off the horseshoes.
"Why put them in the first place? You're not used to wearing those."
"Ever heard about selling the character?" Shining replied with a hint of irony.
"Fair point," Moon replied with a shrug.
They wandered the back alleys towards Moon's house. Or to be more precise his rented room. The small building was in the middle of a bunch of taller buildings, however, even if it was small, it was well kept. Moon walked towards the very first door on the ground floor.
Before he could even knock on the door, the door opened. An old mare with graysh coat and a red mane walked out.
"If it isn't Moon! Is there a holiday or something? You came by without a letter!" The mare said giving him a hug.
"I was kinda forced to come to the capital. Decided to drop by and pay the rent. As well as check on how things were going here," Moon said returning the hug.
"Good, good! You're always welcome here too Fairy Blue, my dear."
"Nice to see you again too Nana," Shining replied from behind Moon. "And actually. Moon will be moving from here today."
" "Say what?" " Both of them asked at the same time.
Moon led the three of them to his room. Nana sat on the comfiest pillow Moon had while he and Shining sat on the floor.
"What do you mean I'll be moving out?" Moon asked with a frown.
"The contract I proposed you requires you to move into the town my sister is currently living in," Shining replied making a map pop out of thin air. "I arranged a house for you to stay. A cover for you. And some guards to back up your story."
"Why?" Moon asked while glaring at the disguised captain.
"Ok, because of Princess Celestia," Shining answered letting out a defeated sigh.
"What's the problem with her?" Moon asked crossing his arms.
"I...I want you to reach Walkyre rank and keep tabs on them."
Moon snorted at the confession. Walkyries were the highest ranking weapons and hunters. The only beings capable of taking down a Walkyre killer.
The one who came up with these names does not think about irony or what the names imply. Why not call them soul eaters or something?
"Me?! A Walkyre?! The fifth-grade scythe without a partner?! You got a top-notch sense of humor, pal," Moon replied falling on his back.
"I'm serious here. The princess is the most powerful being our world, as far as we know. And...she sent my sister to face Nightmare Moon on her own."
"I heard that Six ponies took her down," Nana intervened.
"That was a lucky strike. I'm afraid the princess might send Twilight to another dangerous mission if not worse," Shining said crossing his arms and scowling at both of them.
"You're afraid of the Princess turning into a Walkyre killer, aren't you?" Moon asked sitting up straight again.
"Exactly. The Walkyries have some insane network for monitoring possible threats. However, they do not share their info and are nearly impossible to contact. So..."
"You want one within arm's reach," Moon said stretching up while letting out a sigh.
"Correct. Until we can find a Fae Weapon, the Walkyries are our best resource at tracking the princesses states." Moon snickered at the captain's remark. "What? Those weapons are real!"
"Yeah, back when Starswirl the Bearded was around," Moon replied with a grin. "There are no records of those mythical weapons that can revert a Walkyre killer back into a regular being," Moon said with special emphasis in his own beliefs on the subject.
"Yeah, keep up the laughter. I will find one and shove it in your face!" Shining said slamming his hand on top of the table.
"I know Moon will be leaving this place. But would you be so kind as to not break the furniture?" Nana asked mixing a motherly tone with a killer glare that made Shining gulp.
Moon began to scratch his chin, a long term contract, a way to get out of the royal pain that was dealing with ponies at the capital. But the issue remained exactly on the positive trait. Leaving the capital meant leaving his connections with the markets in the slums. His somewhat regular visits made him able to sustain deals for cloth, food, and other supplies he needed for his job.
Can I actually do that? It took me a while to get used to the ponies around here. Country ponies tend to be superstitious.
Not to mention I'll need to fight, and once they figure out what I am...things WILL get noisy and complicate things. I could try to use Sky High's form. That should keep others from prying.
"What are the terms for the contract?" Nana asked snapping Moon out of his thoughts.
"He is to stay with the Elements of Harmony. Making sure they stay out of trouble. While also watching the town for possible threats for its inhabitants. However, the six take priority. Especially my little sister," Shining said with a serious tone.
"You're not telling us everything, deary," Nana snapped with a smirk which made Shining flinch.
It's kinda hard to tell which one is the facade from time to time. Moon thought as he watched the disguised soldier fidget like a flustered girl dealing with the mother of her crush.
"Can't hide anything from you, can I Nana?" Shining replied with a half-smile. "In order for the long term contracts to take effect, the hunter can't keep an illusory spell on them. Unless some very specific conditions are met." Moon frowned at Shining after hearing that.
Shitty little bureaucracy. Of course, they would have some weird condition.
"I know you hate being out there without Sky's disguise. But unless you're entering enemy bases/territory for long term investigations, you won't be able to use the disguise. And there are a lost of areas and organizations you are allowed to enter using a disguise so..."
"I get the gist, I'm bucked," Moon snarled pressing his temples. "I hate it. But..."
If I somehow manage to make it work. Maybe...
"Are you really considering this?" A surprised voice came from the disguised soldier.
"Are you surprised? This one has been running around Equestria for quite some time now. He helped a lot of ponies. Every time I see a new report about a seed of sin or a deadly sin being found dead without any signs of hunters. I know it's our little friend here." Nana intervened proudly.
She treats me like her grandson...thanks, Nana.
"He is a bit crude with others. But he is a good stallion. Certainly better than most ponies up there in the royal streets."
"I see. I'm sorry about the surprised tone. Well, the rest of the details are as follows: the silver star rank, Moon Flight, will be rewarded by threats averted to the city, its inhabitants and the six ponies known as the Elements of Harmony. He will have access to the dossiers containing information on the six mares and all data collected about local problems within the city perimeters and its immediate vicinities."
Awesome, data mining for me. Reading documents...I rather read a good novel.
"The local guards shall show discretion to your presence. And shall serve as direct contact between the capital and the hunter in terms of supplies. Any expenses on supplies related to his work shall be covered by the contractor. Due to the distance between the contractor and hunter, the second party will be required to make reports on any threats averted. The handler known through the alias, Golden Heights, shall be the one to receive the reports and relay them to the Hunter's Guild."
At least one familiar face...voice...damned stars...I need to get more acquaintances I can tolerate. Especially now...damned temper. If I had some contacts I could make things easier.
"There are accommodations prepared to house the hunter. The contract terminates once the hunter dies or reaches the status of Walkyre," Shining finished letting out an exasperated sigh.
"That is a long contract. You spent a lot of time doing it, haven't you?" Moon finally commented after scratching his ear. "They are usually like: 'Protect this pony until the research project is over', or 'Infiltrate this organization until enough evidence to bring it down is collected'. You're about to go knee deep in this."
"I am aware of that. And I took precautions against the guild. This will be labeled as a special contract. Meaning that only the contractor, the hunter, and the handler shall be aware of the terms. Once...or rather, if you agree, I'll bring forth the contract. Once signed, it will be blank to any eyes that don't belong to the parties I mentioned." Shining explained with a proud tone.
"Well, that's fine and dandy," Moon commented scratching the top of his head. "However, you can't be completely sure this will work. The guild will still be receiving orders to pay me. In other words, some other being, pony or not, will have access to this paper. And given my fame, it will be only a matter of time before another hunter comes in trying to figure out what is happening. Another thing, they might find out about you too, Fairy. And if they figure it out, you will be interrogated. If they do that you will be probably be branded as a traitor."
As each word left Moon's mouth, Shining seemed to deflate. He claimed to have thought of everything, however, some details tend to be overlooked when you're overcautious. And those special contracts tended to be closely inspected.
I guess I just threw the contract down the drain...but I can't have him dying needlessly. Good soldiers are hard to come by. Especially strong ones.
"Did you think I would overlook that?" Shining replied, his voice slowly rising. "HA! I have a contact in the guild which will be handling our contract. More precisely, Golden Heights has a contact in the guild."
Moon deadpanned at that.
Is he even thinking about how many lives can be ruined with this? Counting the ones aside from him that is.
"And don't worry. I talked to each one of them before proceeding. They agreed to this wholeheartedly. We are going in headfirst and won't look back." The mare said valiantly hitting her chest with her fist.
Moon snickered at that. Then he began to laugh loudly as he held his stomach while falling on his back. That pony had to be insane. Risking their life for a small chance that he, a 5th-tier weapon could reach a rank high enough to watch over the most powerful ponies in Equos? That was the kind of bet ponies did when they had nothing left to lose.
Moon knew Shining Armor, he was a decent soldier. Ranking captain shortly after leaving the military academy, becoming one of the most recognizable stallions in the country. That pony had a lot to lose, his carrier, his life, his chance at getting a love life, creating a family. All of that for the sake of keeping the country safe and his little sister as well.
I can't exactly turn down a request from a pony like that, can I? The pegasus thought as he got back up with a wide smile on his face.
"Alright then. You don't need to put on a brave face to lure me in. Get me the contract and the details on my background. I'll leave on the last train scheduled for today." Moon said with a confident tone, almost daring the captain to proceed.
The captain returned the smile with as much confidence. "Let's keep this country safe, partner!"
"I have to say, it is a bit sad to see you leave, sonny," Nana said with a meek smile.
The stallion that had moved in about eight years ago gave her a strong hug that lifted her off the ground. She would miss that, the colt wasn't related to her by blood, but he had become a part of her life. In his initial years, the colt had helped a lot with the development of the slums. Clearing out seeds of sins, protecting the residents while bringing in more hunters that kept the place safe. The colt was the main reason the place had developed in the first place.
However, his constant traveling and his shape as a weapon made things harder for him. Not with those who he had helped, but with the guild. If that handler hadn't replaced his original handler...the colt might have been dead for a long time now.
Too bad the bastard wasn't going to see the sun ever again.
Wondering how? Well, she was called Nana Red Mane for another reason other than the obvious mane coloration. To be short and blunt: there is a single rule in the slums. That rule basically meant everything there. The entire place knew the law and what would happen to those who broke it. That rule was:
DON'T MESS WITH NANA RED MANE.
None who broke that commandment was ever seen again.
It's good to see another one leave this wretched town. The capital is a shining beacon of hope, for those with status and money.
"Say, sonny," Nana started while watching the young pegasus move around to collect his belongings. Carefully placing the items inside a case about the size of his forearm.
Clothes, mementos from his travels, papers, his bed, his lamp.
Yep.
That kid had gotten his hands on a dimensional pocket. It was a gift for all the work he had done for the slums and Nana was happy to see it put to use.
"What is it, Nana?" He replied carefully placing his books into the case.
"You'll be headed to Ponyville, yes?" She asked feinting ignorance.
"Yup. What about it?"
"Do you think you could do an old mare a favor?" Nana inquired pretending to cough.
"You don't need to fake symptoms. What do you need? If it's within my power, I'll do it." The pegasus replied looking over his shoulder.
"My granddaughter is currently living in Ponyville. Could you be so kind as to make sure she is doing ok?" Nana asked returning to her old self.
"Rosy is in Ponyville? That's where her mother took her?" Moon asked widening his eyes.
"Thanks to you, yes. I hear she runs a flower stand. Maybe you could use that as part of your disguise?" Nana said blinking.
"Really? I could try that!" He replied with his eyes beaming. "Yes! One familiar face!"
Nailed it. Nana is sending you a gift, Lucky!
"Thank you, Moon," Nana said getting up. "You've been a gift for every pony in this part of town. Speaking of gifts. I almost forgot, a few days ago we had a visitor."
The stallion ears perked up as he tilted his head. Nana chuckled at his reaction.
Bring any being that lives here and his mood brightens like crazy. I hope he gets along with his new neighbors.
Nana got up and left the room for a moment. She entered her own little room and picked up a mint box with a blue ribbon. A gift left behind by another pony Moon had helped.
Shame he missed her. He would certainly turn red as soon as she showed new-found confidence.
"Here you go. Coloratura wanted to give you this personally. But after she heard you were out she left it with me," Nana said handing over the box to the stallion that took it and began opening it like a child on Hearts-Warming.
Nana watched Moon pick up a letter and a blue gem from within.
"Hey there, Flighty! I've been through a lot of things after you got me to enter the talent show. I'm a star now! I have a stage name, a manager, and a dance crew! I have a recorded album. I'm making decent money. That...is an understatement actually...I'm not sure what to do with the money...
Signing up autographs! Can you believe ponies are asking ME to sign their handbooks?!
I can't believe all this happened to me just because of my singing. You have no idea how much that push you gave me helped!
Therefore, as thanks, I sent you this little gem! I heard about some magic stones that can improve that communication thingie you wear. So...with a bit of golden shining 'charm'. I got a 'fan' of mine to gift me one of the stones before they hit the market in the following months. Yep. I just got you the next big upgrade in communications! Am I something else or what?
Just put the gem on your comms and it will be good to go!
Anyway, I hope we can meet again. See you around, Moon!"
Nana chuckled at the sight of a stallion being really pushed back by the words on the letter. She was in shock as well when Coloratura appeared with a new mane color, a black veil covering her face, and HUGE eyelashes. Not to mention her clothes! The mare got into town as a country-side pony and was wearing those scandalous things? If Nana hadn't seen the mark underneath Coloratura's collarbone, she would not have believed the mare.
"She certainly got a lot of confidence now, doesn't she?" Nana said snapping the stallion out of his confusion.
"I guess so. It's good to hear she is doing fine out there," Moon replied getting his present and pushing it against the wristband.
The gem fused with the accessory. Slowly making blue carvings appear on the wristband's surface.
Magic items are something else. These things only get more beautiful by the day.
"Nana," Moon said with a low voice as he sat in front of her. "Thanks for everything. Thanks for watching over my home. Thanks for having me around even after you figured out my weapon form. Thanks for helping me set my life up in this little world of ours. I would not be where I am now without you."
Nana watched the stallion let out a tear. Something he would never let any other being see. Moon was crude, he was blunt, he was grumpy, he was never happy when he wasn't around that small building. It was probably where he felt safe. Where he felt comfortable enough to let himself go for a second and just recharge before leaving again.
Dear, Faust. Please watch over this young colt. He is a weapon, but a weapon that protects more than hurts.
"Moon, I thought I said I didn't want any tears falling on the pillow!" Nana scolded as her voice cracked.
He was leaving. Her young colt was leaving the nest, though this time, he would probably not come back.
Nana opened her arms and allowed the stallion to hug her. She gently stroke his mane as both of them cried for a bit.
Thank you for everything. You are much more than a weapon to me...grandson.
Author's Note
Hello guys! After a long fight with a bunch of troubles, I managed to come up with this with the help of Metordragon and the story mentioned in the description.
Now, I am trying to improve and this writing style allowed me to make a longer chapter without wearing myself out. But, I do need an editor for this. And please, I do love when people like my stories, but I love even more when they let me know what they are thinking.
Please leave a comment if you would be so kind. And thank you for your time!!!!