Bump in the Night

Chapters

1 - Operation Failed Successfully
2 - Assignment Two, Mistress of the Night
3 - Prisoner Transport
4 - Assignment Three - The Ruins of Tartenkhamen
5 - Jungle Ambush
6 - Ancient Depths
7 - Downtime
8 - Sister
10 - This is the Song That Never Ends
11 - Breakdancing
12 - Crunching Numbers
13 - Beach Episode
14 - Give Me Twenty
15 - Assignment Five - But a Dream
16 - A Walk in the Woods
17 - In Your Dreams
18 - Boss Battle
19 - Fanged Display
20 - Assignment Six - Manehattan Lights
21 - What Lurks Beneath
22 - Delving Deep
23 - Reckoning
24 - Day and Night
25 - Reach Out and Touch Somepony
27 - Assignment Seven - Screaming Forest
28 - Awful Dim, Ain't It?
29 - Assignment Eight - Troubling Brothers
30 - Applying Science to Magical Problems
31 - Assignment Nine - Whispers in the Night
32 - Digging Deeper
33 - Leaving an Apple as Bait
34 - Mistress to Mistress(clop)
35 - End of the Night
9 - Assignment Four - They Can Dance If They Want To.
26 - A Suit Makes the Rabbit

1 - Operation Failed Successfully

Luna kicked the door open. She could have used her magic, but it felt proper to smash her metal-clad hoof through the door, splintering wood alongside her scream, "Stop what you are doing!"

Sure, such demands were not always followed, but there was a proper order. The open door allowed her to see ponies in cowls and capes, concealing their faces and some of their forms. They were gathered around a circle of runes, performing some terrible magic. "Step away from the circle," roared Luna. "You're all under arrest, but if you cooperate, that will make your punishments lighter."

She adjusted her tiara with a smirk. "Or we can do this the hard way."

The cowled ponies startled at the sudden interruption but quickly regained their composure. One stepped forward, likely the leader, and said in a low mocking voice, "Princess Luna. You're too late to stop us."

The circle of runes began glowing more intensely as the ritual progressed. Strange whispers and unnatural wind swirled around the warehouse. The leader continued, "You are powerless here at the height of the dark moon. Soon our summoning will be complete!"

Luna's eyes narrowed. These villains clearly had darkness on their side, but she was not without power. Her horn glowed as she began weaving a containment spell to block their magic. "Your ritual ends now!" Luna declared.

The ponies cried out as their spellwork collided with Luna's magic. For a moment it seemed they may overpower her, but Luna dug deep, thinking of the need to protect Equestria. With a blast of energy she disrupted their ritual, scattering the runes.

The leader howled, not with anguish, but mocking triumph. "You were too late! It worked!" The others were backing away with wide eyes. "Behold, our warrior. What will win us all of Equestria!"

Luna frowned as the magical haze faded slowly, allowing her to see what the magic had brought. They were standing tall, even in height with her, maybe a bit taller, which was an impressive task. It had two legs, two arms. Its pelt was... lacking. She could see bare skin across much of the thing. "This is your weapon? It's... scrawny."

"The... hell?" The creature, strange as it was, seemed to be getting a grip of its sorroundings. "Luna? What? Where?"

Luna inclined an ear at the creature. "That is me. You know me? Stand back then. I have justice to deliver."

"Not without me!" The creature balled up their hands into fists. "These guys bothering you?"

The cultists fled, except their leader. They ran for the door, trying to push past Luna, but she grabbed them in her magic easily, lifting each into the air. Several jumped out the window, shattering glass as they made their escape into the darkness of the city.

The leader didn't move, scowling. "I summoned you. I can control you." He raised a scepter with a brilliant purple jewel as it glowed with his horn's magic. "Obey!"

The creature winced as the scepter's magic washed over them, freezing in place a moment.

Luna worked her magic to form bonds on the ponies she had captured, freeing up her magic for other tasks. "You stopped them, but they still aren't fighting me. Are you certain you control them?"

The leader waved the floating scepter at the creature. "Obey!" He took slow steps, coming far too close to the creature. The thing then laughed. "Nice try, but your magic doesn't work on me." In a blur of speed, the creature rushed forward the one step and snatched the scepter from the lead cultist's arcane grasp, snapping it over their knee. It exploded in a shower of magical sparkles.

The lead cultist stumbled back, stunned that their control had failed. Luna seized the opening to wrap the villain in bands of magical energy, immobilizing them.

"We'll see what my sister has to say about your misdeeds," Luna said severely. She turned her attention to the strange creature. "I thank you for the assistance. But first, who and what are you?"

The creature gave an awkward smile. "It's me, Bright. I know this is really weird, but I'm actually a human from another world. I think that ritual pulled me here." They flexed their hands experimentally. "Not sure how I wound up here, but it feels good to help you kick flank!"

Luna's eyes widened. "A human...most intriguing. Perhaps the workings of fate, then, that brought you here in time. Equestria may have need of you and your unique skills. But first, we have much to discuss." She perked her ears. "Human! Yes... Twilight mentioned them."

"From the mirror world?" asked Bright as he nudged the tipped over leader of the cultist with the tip of his shoe. "That wasn't very smart."

"You... were supposed... to listen." The cultist struggled, but Luna's bands held him tightly, all hooves forced close together. "We were supposed--"

"Shut up." Bright slapped the pony with the back of a hand, a light rebuff really, not even painful, but it was enough to startle the cultist into quiet. "You messed up." Bright stood up with a bright smile. "But you did bring me to Pony Land, so thanks for that."

Luna used her magic to levitate the bound cultist leader as she gestured for Bright to follow her out of the warehouse. "Come, we should leave this place and find somewhere we can talk safely."

As they stepped outside into the cool night air, Bright looked around in wonder. The moon shone brightly over an unfamiliar skyline and old-fashioned buildings. Definitely not the city he knew. But still a city. A city filled with ponies going about their night lives.

"So I'm really in Equestria? With actual ponies?" he asked. He paused to poke curiously at Luna's flowing ethereal mane.

Luna nodded patiently. "Indeed you are. I know not how, but the ritual summoned you here from your world." Her expression grew serious. "Those cultists meant harm for Equestria. Now that their plan has failed, they may try again. I must consult with my sister on how to prevent this."

Bright nodded eagerly. "No problem, just take me to Princess Celestia and let's team up to kick more butt!" He hiked a thumb back where they had come from. "What about the other cultists, and the ones that ran away?"

Luna shook her head. "The ones I have bound are here." Her horn glowed a bit brighter as a window popped open above them, a heap of grumbling ponies popping out of the building in an ungainly pile. "We'll get them all somewhere safer."She couldn't help but smile at the human's enthusiasm. She supposed she would have to start from the beginning to explain matters properly to him. "Very well. Let us be off to Canterlot." Luna spread her wings, magic swirling around her and the captive cultists. "Hold on tight, Bright! I will fly us there swiftly."

Bright put up his hands quickly. "Woah woah woah. Hold your horses." He did not look sorry for the pun. "Canterlot is how far away?" He waved over the city. "Not near here, I know that. You want to carry all of us that far?"

Luna frowned at this new human. "You aren't... entirely wrong." She brought one of the lesser cultists before her. "You are a small fish."

"I'm a little pony," complained the dangling mare.

"You're under arrest, if we're being technical." Luna strode down the street with Bright aside her. "We will take them to the police first."

Luna led the way down the street, levitating the bound cultists behind her as they floated helplessly through the air. Bright walked alongside, looking around with interest at the unicorn police officers and pegasus guards that occupied the Equestrian city at night.

They arrived at the local police station and Luna sternly presented the cultists to the sergeant on duty. "These villains were caught engaging in illegal ritual magic," she declared. "See that they are securely imprisoned for their crimes."

The police ponies quickly took custody of the prisoners. The sergeant saluted Luna respectfully. "You've done a great service for our city, Princess. We will handle things from here."

Luna nodded in satisfaction then turned to Bright. "But this one." She brought their scowling leader forward. "This one I am keeping. I have questions for him."

Bright considered the bound pony. "What about his friends?"

"Small fish, as I had said. Their capture would be good, but far lower priority than questioning this one, I think." She prodded the floating pony. "Will you speak willingly?" The nasty glare was the only answer she got. "As I thought. Bright." She tucked the leader down flopped on the ground, glowing with her magic. "You must be confused, and possibly tired. Shall we see to your rest first?"

Bright looked ready to argue that, but wobbled. "Woah..." The adrenaline of things was wearing off. "That... did take something out of me. A break may be a good idea. Hey, idea."

"Hm?" She squeaked, spreading her windows wide as Bright climbed up onto her back and mounted her as one would a horse that was missing a saddle. "What are you doing?"

"I'm tired, carry me?" Bright gave his best smile.

Luna glared at the impertinent creature riding her. "Ask before you do that... Very well... Just this once." She lifted into the air, Bright on her back and her captive held in her magic. "To home."

Luna flew through the night sky back to Canterlot castle with Bright clinging enthusiastically to her back. She touched down gracefully in a courtyard of the castle and helped slide a tired but grinning Bright off.

Servants came to take the bound cultist leader to a secure cell. Luna instructed them to make sure he was given no chance to use magic or contact his accomplices.

She then led Bright inside the castle. "I will have a room prepared for you to rest in comfort and safety." She noticed him yawning widely again. "But first, let us find you some food. Humans require regular meals, correct?"

"Three a day," laughed out Bright as they stepped into a smaller room. "Oh, shit, wow..." He almost skipped to the table, grinning so widely. "Look at it." He grabbed a cookie from the tray and crunched it happily. "Tastier than I would have even guessed."

"Refresh yourself." Luna curled, turning around. "Ask a passing servant and a room will be provided. Sleep. Tomorrow, we can continue." She saw herself out, unsure of much Bright was paying attention.

He was not. The sweet treats and various drinks were far too distracting. "Equestria," he sighed out, chewing on some goopy cake, savoring each bite. "Here I am."

"Here you are."

Bright started, looking to a pony that was sitting across from him at the table. "Bon Bon?"

Bon Bon raised a brow. "She wasn't kidding."

"Who wasn't?" He popped the last of the cake in his mouth and got to wiping the mess clean.

"Luna." Bon Bon leaned forward, resting a chin on an upturned hoof. "You know about us, uncanny. What else do you know about me?"

"You're Secret Agent--" Bright stopped. Bon Bon's hoof shoved in his mouth. That was cute in the cartoon, but actually kind of hurt, having it pressed in there so fast and roughly. He pulled her hoof and arm away. "We're alone."

Bon Bon tucked the dangerous hoof away. "Sorry, force of habit... That's a secret..." She glanced towards the doors, but they were all closed. "I am a hunter of monster. That's what S.M.I.L.E. does, and I bet you know that... You, I should point out, technically count as a monster. You're my business."

Bright smiled at her with a slightly lecherous hint. "You married to Lyra yet?"

Bon Bon colored, ears pinning down. "Yes! Yet? What makes you think this is a 'yet' thing?" She squinted at the human suspiciously. "You can see the future?"

"Guess not." It was as if he had just checked that, instead of knowing it already. "Nice to meet you, Bon Bon."

"A pleasure." She sat up, brushing the cookies away. "You've been enlisted. You'll help Luna combat other monsters. In return, we won't treat you like one yourself. A fair trade, hm?"

Kick ass with Luna? "Sounds fun... I still want to be paid though."

Bon Bon huffed softly. "Lucky for you, not my choice. You can take that up with another pony." She inclined her head towards one of the doors leading out of that sitting room. "For now, get some rest."

Author's Note

Welcome to the team, Bright. I plan on this being a somewhat episodic monster hunting series as they engage in all kinds of problems across Equestria. There are many things that bump in the night.

Join the special community of folks who like my stories and/or get your own here at atreon!

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Join my discord to chat!

2 - Assignment Two, Mistress of the Night

Sweetie Drops threw a folder with a toss of her head. "Read up. That's our next target."

Bright reached for the folder, but only halfheartedly pawed at it, rather than give it any real reading. "Where's Luna?"

"Princess Luna is busy." Sweetie threw up a hoof. "We are her servants, so when she needs hooves on the ground and she isn't there herself, we're next in line."

"Yay." Bright flipped the folder open and his breath caught. "Rarity."

"That's her name, yes." Sweetie tapped at the open folder. "She's the target. Fashionista by day, foul predator of ponies by night. It's our job to put a stop to her."

Bright's brow furrowed as he scanned the folder, looking troubled. "Wait, Rarity? No way, she's not a monster." He turned a photo towards Sweetie Drops. "Look how nicely she's dressed! Monsters don't care about fashion."

Sweetie Drops frowned. "Appearances could be deceiving. Why else would multiple ponies have gone missing after last being seen talking to her?" She tapped the list of missing names. "The pattern was too clear."

Bright shook his head stubbornly. "There had to be some mistake. She was one of the kindest ponies in Ponyville!" He crossed his arms. "And she made awesome dresses. Couldn't ruin that."

Sweetie Drops narrowed her eyes. She hadn't expected this level resistance from their new recruit. "I understood this may be...difficult for you to accept, given your foreknowledge. But we must put aside personal feelings and investigate every lead thoroughly."

She met Bright's defiant gaze evenly. "Come now. Let us at least observe her from a discrete distance before you dismiss the possibility outright."

"Fine," he allowed petulantly, rising to his feet. "But this is fricken' Rarity!"

Still, he did follow her from the castle towards the train station. "If this turns out to be a dud, what do I get?"

"This isn't a wager." Sweetie purchased tickets to Ponyville. "You win nothing. If you're wrong, you get to do your part to keep Equestria safe."

"Yay." With a half-hearted shrug, he followed Sweetie Drops onto the train. "By the way, don't ponies know you in Ponyville?"

"Hm?" Sweetie hiked a brow. "I've been seen in a lot of places. Why would that town be special? Sit, shut up, and we'll be there soon."

Bright rolled his eyes but took a seat. As the train got moving, he peered at the folder again. "Said here the missing ponies were last seen around Rarity's boutique at night. We gonna stake it out after dark?"

Sweetie Drops nodded. "Correct. Nighttime was when this supposed monster is active." She gave Bright a sidelong look. "I trusted you'd control yourself and not give our position away if we did see your...friend."

Bright grinned. "Pshh, I knew how to be sneaky." His expression softened. "But it wasn't gonna come to that. No way Rarity hurt anybody."

The train soon rolled into Ponyville station. Sweetie Drops donned a trench coat and fedora to disguise herself as they disembarked. Bright snickered but earned a glare.

As the sun set over the village, Sweetie Drops led them to discreetly position themselves with a view of Rarity's home. She studied it intensely through binoculars, watching for any suspicious movement in the dim windows.

"Guessed we play the waiting game," Bright sighed. His gut still insisted this mission was a mistake. "She's not my friend, by the way."

"Then why are you defending her?" Sweetie scanned slowly with her binoculars. "Awful adamant for somepony who isn't even your friend."

"I know her, but I never met her." Brights tapped at his folded arms with his half-balled fists. "She's super nice! No way she's snatching ponies, unless she wanted to share some hot new fashion or something."

"That would still be illegal." Sweetie huffed softly. "Stop complaining, start watching."

"There's someone." Brights pointed at Lyra walking along past the boutique. That Sweetie Drops didn't react was something he took silent note of.

"And..." Sweetie nodded as a figure dropped down in front of Lyra. "We have our perp. Time to move."

Sweetie Drops and Bright rushed from their hiding place toward where the figure had dropped down to confront Lyra. As they got closer, Bright squinted and then gasped.

"I knew it! Rarity, what were you doing out here girl?" he called out.

Rarity looked up in surprise, wings fluttering. Wait, wings?! Fangs glinted in the moonlight as she took a step back from Lyra.

"Oh dear, I could explain!" Rarity said, wringing her hooves. "Lyra was an old friend helping me with an experiment in nocturnal fashion!"

Lyra piped up eagerly. "Yeah! Check out this glow in the dark dress she made me. Isn't it killer?"

Sweetie Drops frowned. "Why does our data show multiple disappearances related to your 'fashion experiments' then?"

Rarity looked offended. "My clients participated consensually to test 24-hour wear! I would never foalnapp anypony!"

Bright laughed and gave Sweetie Drops a playful nudge. "Saw? Told ya Rarity isn't a baddie! Though the whole vampire thing is new..."

Rarity sighed. "Yes, an unfortunate magical mishap. But I only drank the ethical way, from willing donors." She clasped her hooves pleadingly. "Please didn't report me to Princess Luna!" She backed half a step away, doing her best to hide her fangs. "You don't want to do that."

"I don't want to do that," echoed Bright. "Why would I do that?"

"Because it's our job?" Sweetie glared at Rarity. "Cut the magic out! I've trained for moons on resisting monstrous mind-control shenanigans."

"What?" Being told seemed to shake Bright free. "Again?! That's a bad habit... Rarity, c'mon! I expected better from you."

Rarity looked properly apologetic. "Darling... really... I just want to be a businessmare."

Lyra stepped in front of Rarity. "She just sold me a dress, that isn't against any law!"

Sweetie snorted at that. "Being a... whatever she is... That counts." She waved at the fanged monster of the night that was Rarity. "Surrender peacefully."

Bright reached for her. Even as she glared at him, he put his hand on her head and began stroking an ear. "Rarity, chill out."

She shivered softly. "Dear... Those fingers should be... the illegal thing here..." She kicked a hoof as Bright worked at her. "I swear, darling... You are something else..."

Sweetie recoiled a step. "I don't know what technique you're using, but keep it up! Your first bag..."

"I'm talking nicely to the nice pony." Bright brought in his other hand to work at both of Rarity's ears. "So, a potion turned you into a vampire?"

"No," admitted Rarity miserably. "Darling... Please... Mmmmf, don't stop." She shivered with obvious enjoyment of the ear attention. "But don't arrest me either! So I'm a vampony! So what! I didn't hurt anypony, darling... I'm not like that! I swear!"

Sweetie Drops watched suspiciously as Bright continued gently massaging Rarity's ears, the vampire pony sinking blissfully to her haunches with a soft moan.

"Citizen's arrest or no, Princess Luna will want a full report," Sweetie declared. She pulled out a notebook and started writing. "Tell me exactly what happened to result in your...condition."

Lyra looked between Rarity and the others. "I'm confused now..."

Rarity composed herself enough to explain haltingly between Bright's talented ear rubs. "I was, mmm, experimenting with a relic found on a dig...something about eternal beauty...next thing I knew, I had these!" She tapped her fangs.

"And the disappearances?" Sweetie pressed.

"A terrible misunderstanding! Those were scheduled overnight showcases that got moved at the last minute when I converted my sleep schedule." Rarity gave her best winning smile. "I may be undead, but I was no rogue. Truly!"

Sweetie Drops weighed Rarity's words skeptically. But combined with Bright's trusting defense, perhaps she could argue to Luna for leniency...

"Very well. We will recommend surveillance, not punishment." She snapped her notebook shut, ignoring Rarity and Bright's cheers. "But no more disappearances, and no unauthorized snacking! Or we will be back to bag you. Understood?"

Rarity stood up and gently brushed Bright back. "Darling, a moment."

She went to Lyra and hugged her with one arm. "Thank you. You will forget tonight, except the lovely dress you got."

"Everything... but the dress." Lyra wandered off, looking confused, but not arguing the new truth given to her.

Sweetie hiked a brow. "That is not acceptable... I doubt Luna's going to be happy about this."

"Darling! You just said you wouldn't arrest me." Rarity pointed at Sweetie, looking to Bright. "You heard her, dear. You heard it! Back me up."

"Yeah..." He turned to Sweetie. "Yeah!"

"Did you fall for her magic?" She scowled at her partner. "Again?"

"No, but you did say that. She didn't vanish anyone, or snack without permission." Bright counted on his fingers with each of the two. "So she shouldn't be arrested."

"Oh for the love of..." Sweetie shook her head slowly. "This is not acceptable. She isn't attacking anypony right this second, but she is a creature of the night, a danger! It's our job to do things about that."

Rarity looked offended, pressing a hoof to her chest. "A danger? Why, I never! Just because I'm a vampony doesn't make me some feral beast." She gave Sweetie a winning smile, showing just a hint of fang. "I am still the same gracious fashionista I've always been."

Bright nodded eagerly. "Yeah, if anything she is even cooler now! Right Rares?" He held up a hand for a hoof-five which Rarity delicately returned.

Sweetie Drops rubbed her temples. "You just used magic on your friend against her will. Who was to say you wouldn't do worse? We can't take that risk." Her expression hardened. "I'm calling this in."

She pulled out a small mirror and spoke a command word. Princess Luna's visage appeared floating in the glass. "Your Highness, we have a situation..."

As Sweetie described the encounter, Luna's brow furrowed thoughtfully. "A vampony, you say? Most intriguing. Is she resisting you?"

Sweetie clopped a hoof to her face. "Technically, no, she is not resisting me. Except she's still being a terrible creature of the night that has no respect for the sanctity of a pony's mind!"

Bright snatched for the mirror, but Sweetie yanked it away before he could get it.

"Bright is not helping! I think he's in love with her, or he's bewitched by her magic. I'm not sure which, but either way." Sweetie brought the mirror in close. "Please advise."

Rarity nudged Bright. "Darling, pardon me for asking..." She waved him closer, then reached up and ran a hoof over his ear. "Is it working?"

Bright burst into laughter. "Sorry, no. Rares, love ya, but you have a hoof, not fingers. You won't be able to do that."

"Pity..." Rarity shrugged, eyes turning to Sweetie, seeing clearly despite the dim light of the darkened road. "What did Luna say?"

Princess Luna's voice echoed from the mirror gripped in Sweetie's hoof. "This vampony has not caused direct harm that thou hast seen? Yet her nature makes her an inherent threat?"

Sweetie nodded firmly. "Yes, your Highness! She used mental magic on a pony against their will just moments ago."

Luna's glowing eyes narrowed. "Such trespass cannot be tolerated, creature of night though she may or may not be. We shall come assess the situation directly and pass judgment." Her gaze shifted. "Restrain her if she resists further."

The mirror went dark. Sweetie smiled smugly at a nervous Rarity while slipping it away. "You heard her. Now we await the Princess's arrival."

Rarity wrung her hooves. "Oh dear oh dear...I should have fled while I had the chance..." She looked pleadingly to Bright with big shimmering eyes. "You won't let them mistreat me, will you darling?"

Bright grinned and patted her hoof reassuringly. "Hey, Luna's pretty reasonable. Just be your awesome self and don't try any more brain-bending stuff. It'll work out Rares, you got this!"

A thought came to him. "We could save her time and get on her good side at the same time. Make sure she doesn't get angry at you."

Rarity flashed into a bright, fanged, smile. "Really? Please, tell me more, darling."

Bright waved at Rarity and Sweetie. "We go to her. If we just go, that saves her a trip and she'll be happy."

Sweetie looked ready to complain, but that Rarity looked... willing, made her hesitate. "You're alright with that?"

"Whyever not?" Rarity bumped against Bright. "I feel safe enough with this gentlecreature. What is your name, by the way?"

"Bright." He offered a hand and soon had Rarity's hand to shake gently and kiss the back off.

The kiss pleased her with a titter. "Such a gentlecreature. Yes, I feel safe with him at my side. Let's go visit Luna. I trust if this is his idea, it will work out."

"I hate that this is working..." Sweetie pulled the mirror up to call in that they were on their way.

Luna wouldn't need to visit them, but the matter hardly felt closed.

Author's Note

Oops! For the next 28 days, this fic is in TURBOCHARGE. The patron grabbed the boss horse tier, so I am now their literary servant. Prepare for words!

Join the special community of folks who like my stories and/or get your own here at atreon!

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3 - Prisoner Transport

The train rumbled beneath them with the steady chunks as it moved from one segment of the tracks to the next in a lulling pattern of iron. They could hear the engine far ahead, rumbling with the great power that propelled them foward.

Outside, the evening Equestria scrolled past them, largely quiet and still. The only light out there was the bright moon hovering overhead, offering no judgment.

Rarity leaned against her newest friend. "Darling... if you don't mind my asking...?"

Bright perked at the question and smiled eagerly. "Ask away. What's up, Rares?"

Rarity snorted softly. "You are so irreverent. Really, wherever did you come up with that nickname?"

Sweetie rolled her eyes at the two sharing a seat. "You're awfully comfortable."

"Why wouldn't I be?" Bright put an arm around Rarity, drawing her closer without objection. "Rarity's a nice pony to be around."

"Dear me, such a flatterer." Rarity batted her long lashes. "Now, as you have likely noticed... I don't have to be in vampony mode... all the time." She gestured with little tosses of her head at her lack of wings and her smile had no fangs on display. "But I'm not a changeling."

"Is it tiring?" Bright shrugged softly. "Sorry about that. We'll head to the castle where you can relax."

"Relaxing is not the goal." Sweetie Drops stomped the cushion of her chair. "Stop treating her like a best friend and start treating her like the prisoner she is."

Rarity winced at Sweetie Drops' harsh words. "Must you be so uncouth, darling? I'm still the same graceful lady I've always been, just with a...nocturnal enhancement."

She turned pleading eyes to Bright. "You understand, don't you? I never meant any real harm. And I came along cooperatively!" Her voice takes on a melodic, soothing quality. "Surely we can sort this all out peacefully with the Princess..."

Bright gently cleared his throat. "Rarity, while I understand your circumstances are kinda complicated, you must also see this from Luna and Sweetie Drops' view. Messing with minds against one's will crosses a lot of lines, some of them legal."

He met her gaze evenly. "If what you say is true and no lasting harm was done, then with honesty and taking your lumps, mercy may follow. But you need to be calm and take it as it is."

He turned to include Sweetie Drops as well. "She isn't fighting us, so taking her safely in should be the goal now. This is a good time to see how she behaves, right? She'll show what a good pony she is." He smiles encouragingly. "Let's head to Luna and show her how well we did."

Rarity looked thoughtful, then nods slowly. "Wisely said, darling. Very well, I shall explain myself to the Princess and humbly request her judgment."

Sweetie Drops snorted. "Hmph...still think she's trouble. But we'll see what Luna decrees." She went back to watching Rarity warily.

The train continued rumbling down the tracks toward Canterlot and an uncertain future for the vampire pony.

"Darling."

Sweetie squinted with suspicion.

Rarity had her bright eyes on Bright. "I had a more pressing point... The more I use... nocturnal magic, as it were, the hungier I become."

She raised a hoof to her teeth, tapping what was once a long and sharp tool. "You seem quite... affectionate really... Do you mind... when we are somewhere safer... if I give you a little kiss?"

Bright started with surprise. "Um." He looked the pony over with new eyes. "I never kissed a pony before."

Rarity suddenly tittered. "Oh my, I've given the wrong idea. No no, I don't mean our lips meeting." She reached up to brush Bright's neck with a hoof gently. "I meant my lips meeting this... I have certain... hungers... But I did swear, and meant, that I only take from the willing."

She sat back with a swaying tail. "So I'm asking, darling, if you might be willing."

Sweetie buried her face in her hooves. "That you're asking is the only reason..." She heaved a deep sigh. "No 'kissing' of any variety on the train!" She renewed her glare at the two of them, unblinking until they arrived in Canterlot.

When the train softly lurched, pulling to a stop, Rarity hopped down to her hooves and stretched. "Here we are. Now, let's have this little chat with the princess. I do have other projects to see to. I hope this will be a short affair."

Sweetie hopped down next to Rarity. "I am so not promising that'll be true."

Bright rose with no hop, just standing on his bipedal legs. "There's no way Luna'll be mad at you."

"From your lips to her ears," tittered Rarity as she advanced at Sweetie Drop's side.

They navigated through the drowsy city of Canterlot. To say it was asleep would be a misnomer. Ponies could be seen enjoying the night life in their various ways, but that it was a lower energy than the day could hardly be argued.

The guards at the castle nodded at the three of them, but stood aside to let them past.

Rarity glanced at them curiously as they walked inside. "I normally imagine one must have an invitation."

Sweetie gestured at herself. "I, and him--" She pointed to Bright. "Have a standing reason to be here. They know that."

"Very good, dear. It must be nice." Rarity became distracted, admiring the stained glass windows they were passing. "Such marvelous artistry." Her nose danced. "Do I smell lavender? This is all so lovely."

Bright sniffed. He hadn't taken notice before, but there was a floral note in the air. That was lavender? "Huh. Rares, you are full of interesting facts."

"I do try!" Rarity looked aside at Sweetie. "So, dear, where do we need to be?"

Sweetie Drops led Rarity and Bright through the elegant halls of Canterlot Castle. Moonlight filtered in through tall arched windows, mingling with the warm glow of candle sconces along the walls. Their hoofsteps and Bright's footsteps echoed softly on the polished marble floors.

As they walked, Rarity continued admiring the artistic details of the architecture and décor. She gasped softly at a particularly stunning tapestry depicting Luna and Celestia overseeing night and day.

"Such flawless stitchwork! I simply must know who crafted these pieces..." Her voice trailed off as they entered the throne room. At the far end, Princess Luna waited upon her starry throne, ethereal mane swirling.

Sweetie and Bright bowed respectfully. After a nudge from Sweetie, Rarity followed suit, dipping into a graceful curtsy despite her nervousness.

Luna's gaze settled upon Rarity, eyes glinting. "We appreciate you coming here directly, Lady Rarity. Now We would hear your full accounting of the questionable magical dealings you have engaged in of late...as well as why We should show mercy."

Rarity rose, clearing her throat delicately. "Yes, well...I assure you, Princess, my intentions were never malicious..."

"There was this relic." She pantomimed in the air with her hooves. "When I found it, it seemed of little import save perhaps historical. Why, I'd even been considering which museum to turn it into."

Luna hiked a brow. "But that didn't happen."

"Actually, it did." Rarity's horn glowed as she conjured an image of the relic. "You can check if you wish, dear. But before I turned it over, I seem to have... activated it. It spoke of 'eternal youth' and, I will confess, that made me quite curious."

Rarity turned in place, showing off her form as great bat wings erupted from her and her fangs dropped down, deadly and sharp. "This is the form it gifted me with, ever youthful, if I understand correctly, but with a variety of limitations and needs to go with it."

Luna frowned at the vampire mare before her. "You have become a monster."

"I have," sadly admitted Rarity. "But my heart remains pure!" She raised a hoof to her chest. "I only wish the best for my fellow ponies."

"She's nice," cut in Bright, stepping forward. "How can you be made at Rares?"

Luna brought both her brows low. "Agent Bright, this is your first assignment, and you bring curious results..."

Sweetie snorted into almost a laugh. "You're being generous, princess. Pretty sure he loves her enough to bare his neck for her fangs. I think he may be insane."

Luna brought her hooves together gently. "Let us not be hasty. Rarity." Rarity went rigid at her name. "You are a monster. You have not argued this. This is good, it can't be argued. Creature of the night, your sustenance is the life of others. No hay will satisfy you."

Rarity shrank back a step, ears sagging. "All true, your majesty... But that is what I am. Does not who I am also matter? What makes a pony is more than the simple nature, dear, of what they are."

Luna stood up slowly, approaching with measured steps and wafting mane and tail. "If I allowed you to continue, what would your food be?"

Rarity pointed to Bright without hesitation. "They are willing."

Bright started, but laughed a moment later. "If it keeps Rarity safe, yeah. Uh, it doesn't hurt, does it?"

Rarity batted her lashes. "The ponies who have given... willingly..." She glanced to Luna and Sweetie at that part. "--have all reported that it is actually quite enjoyable."

Luna sighed gently. "Of course. It would not do for a vampony to scare away their meal mid-feast. Rarity. You must pay. You did this. This was not done to you. You may not have realized the full meaning of what you did, but it was at your hooves that you walked down this path."

Rarity bowed her head contritely as Luna spoke.

"You are right, of course, Princess," she said softly. "I acted rashly and must face the consequences. While my becoming may have been accidental, I did proceed without full knowledge nor care for how it might impact others."

She met Luna's gaze, her bright eyes glistening. "I won't insult your wisdom by begging for freedom without recompense. But I hope you see too that my heart has ever been for generosity, not malice nor greed."

Rarity gestured to Bright with a flick of her wing. "Even now this caring soul has stepped forward, willingly offering his own life essence so I may carry on." She managed a small smile. "Does such devotion not reveal the true selves under hide or fang?"

Luna listened impassively, then looked to Bright. "You would let this creature feed from you? And for what cause other than misplaced affection?"

Bright rubbed his neck awkwardly. "I just wanna help Rarity out, that's all. She's cool, and it's not like she goes hurting ponies for food or nothing messed up like that. Right?"

He met the Princess's gaze. "Have a heart, Luna. Any pony can make a mistake."

Luna was silent for a long moment. At last she nodded. "Your words are fair. All here shall face judgment, but of justice, not wrath." Her horn glowed as she began weaving a careful spell over Rarity.

"Rarity - your actions shall bind you in accountability to this human Bright, who has pledged himself in your service." Rarity gasped softly as magical strands linked her to Bright.

"As for you, Bright," Luna continued, "By offering your lifeblood, you are now guardian to one you know carries darkness within. Lead wisely and guard vigilantly, for her actions shall reflect on you."

Luna stepped back, her spell complete. "Our judgment is passed. May harmony order your path, if not nature herself."

Sweetie raised a hoof, jaw hanging. "You're letting them both go?!"

"Hm?" Luna sat on her throne. "That is not what I said." She pointed to Rarity. "Welcome the newest member of our team." She turned the hoof to Bright. "He is in charge of keeping her fed and safe, as well as keeping her walking on the bright path she claims she wishes to trot along."

"But..."

"Do you question our order?" Luna hiked an imperious brow high.

Sweetie swallowed thickly, bowing her head. "Sorry, Your Highness. I'll see your will done."

They had gained a new member, with the complications she brought with her.

Author's Note

Day 1/28!

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4 - Assignment Three - The Ruins of Tartenkhamen

Bright leaned over the table. There was a map there, being studied intently by Rarity. The bright light above them cast harsh light down on it as Rarity mumbled and hummed.

"So, whatcha lookin' at?" Bright rocked on his feet as he asked. "That looks like a map, of Equestria."

"Because, darling, it is a map, of Equestria." Rarity slid the map closer. "That much is clear, but I see hints, clues." Her horn glowed as she pulled over a book to go with it.

"It's outlined here, in the recent dump of interesting articles." She tapped at the floating book.

Sweetie hiked a brow from her own seat on the other side of the room, where the light was gloomier. "That's... actually very responsible of you. Most would assume the researchers would take care of sorting through that. What inspired you?"

Rarity preened under the rare praise from Sweetie Drops. "Why, I was simply perusing the archives for historical fashion insights when this map caught my eye. The cartography is exquisite and I adore studying period costumes."

She traced a hoof along the ancient map's ragged edge. "But when I cross-referenced the geography, the ruins marked here don't match any known historical sites!"

Rarity's eyes shone with excitement as she levitated the book over. "Yet this newly uncovered research journal seems to reference a cave at these precise coordinates - one containing a magical artifact of some kind before it was lost generations ago."

She licked her lips unconsciously. "Something about it sings to my vampiric instincts...I can nearly taste the potent magical energies said to reside there!"

Bright's eyes widened. "Whoa, a secret magic treasure cave? That sounds awesome!" He grinned at Sweetie Drops. "We gotta go check that out! Could be super important, right?"

Sweetie Drops walked over, scrutinizing the materials dubiously. "I suppose some investigation may be merited..." She frowned. "Still, traipsing into ancient ruins all willy-nilly? Seems questionable at best, if not downright dangerous..."

She raised an eyebrow at Rarity. "And we will be taking proper precautions regarding any uncontrollable 'cravings' on certain ponies' parts before embarking, yes?"

Rarity smiled brightly, baring just a hint of fang. "Naturally, darling! I wouldn't dream of letting things get too...messily out of control." She pressed gleefully against Bright. "Not when I have my willing escort right here to keep me sated..."

She leaned against Bright straight from the front, her chest against his legs. "I don't think my hunger will go unsated, hm?"

Bright licked over his lips, quiet a moment before he recovered. "Yeah, 'course Rares." He ruffled her mane, gently, lest he upset her by getting it out of order.

Still, it meant he had petting rights on Rarity, and that was surely worth the price. "Besides, if we don't go get it, some other perp might." He rolled a hand at Sweetie. "And that'd be bad."

Sweetie sighed in defeat. "That would be unideal, at best. If it's enough to have Rarity's fangs on edge, it's not something we want wandering around."

Rarity grinned, leaning into Bright's pets. "Indeed, better it safely secured in our private collection, yes?"

Sweetie Drops rolled her eyes. "Until proven otherwise, the crown maintains rights to unknown artifacts uncovered by state-sanctioned operations." She gave Rarity a pointed look before reluctantly adding, "...possession pending any unforeseen...circumstances."

Rarity waved a dismissive hoof "Mere formalities I'm sure...everypony has their personal vice." She twirled away from Bright with a wink. "So we all agree an exploration is in order? Oh, this is delightfully exciting! When shall we depart?"

Sweetie Drops began neatly re-rolling the map. "If go we must, thorough preparations are prudent. We'll need procedures for rope descents and cave spelunking safety." She eyed Rarity and Bright critically. "Are either of you even remotely familiar with such measures?"

Rarity simply tittered while inspecting her unblemished hoof nonchalantly. Bright rubbed his neck with an awkward grin. Sweetie Drops sighed heavily once more. This would require an extensive briefing...and packing extra redundancies given her present company.

"Time for training." Sweetie stomped a hoof. "Move it!"

She urged them from the room to some emergency training. Only after beating some basic instructions into them did she allow them to head towards the train.

"Now, to be clear." Sweetie looked to the map Rarity was still hovering in her magic. "There is no train directly to here. If there was, it'd probably have been found ages ago."

"I should imagine." Rarity walked at Bright's side with a delicate smile. "The closest we can get is... here." She pressed a hoof against the hovering map. "Then, I imagine, we'll take a cart the--"

"--We'll hike," cut in Sweetie. "A cart? Really? You want to advertise to all of Equestria where we're going?"

Bright reached out, grabbing the glowing map and folding it in neat quarters. "A little walking won't hurt us."

Rarity sighed. "It won't hurt... I suppose." Her tone implied that a little walking might, indeed, hurt her. "Good thing I packed my travel necessities."

Bright looked Rarity over, but saw no backpack, saddlebag, or much of anything else but the classy pony. "Where?"

Rarity giggled. "Silly thing. Does your kind not have pockets?"

Bright patted the pockets of his pants and reached inside. "Not enough room to carry what you're implying."

Rarity reached back, somehow reaching a hoof into herself and drawing out a mane dryer that had no business fitting somehow inside of her. "Ta da. All ponies have pockets."

Sweetie hiked a brow. "You didn't know that? When we get back, you're getting a rundown of pony anatomy."

Sweetie Drops led Rarity and Bright off the train into a remote rural area dotted with forests and fields. Ancient towering mountains loomed in the distance. She scrutinized the map, drawn out and held in her hooves. She examined the pictured terrain, getting her bearings.

The trio boarded the train bound as close as possible to the cave's coordinates. As the passenger cars rumbled down the tracks, Rarity gazed out the window watching the landscapes roll by.

"I must say, it has been simply ages since I've ventured this far out into the wilderness." She delicately sipped a glass of red liquid. Catching Bright's expression, she tittered. "Merlot, darling. Vintage."

Sweetie Drops reviewed their equipment provisions yet again. Ropes, picks, flashlights, protective vests. One could never be overprepared.

Bright pressed eagerly against the glass as the train passed a meadow where a manticore was prowling. "You guys see that? This adventure is gonna be epic!" His excitement then wavered. "Uh, but it is gonna be safe right?"

The train carried them closer towards potential discovery and danger in the ancient depths. But Bright's reassurance came from Sweetie's ever-vigilant preparedness and Rarity's unflappable poise as the vampire pony gazed at the moon.

They rode until the early morning, Bright looking a bit tired, but the other two still fresh as they climbed off the train.

Sweetie turned in place to Rarity. "I hate asking this, but a question... He feeds you, which keeps you going. Can you do anything the other way around?" She pointed to the sleepy human. "He's going to get hurt."

Rarity considered with a hum. "Well... Perhaps..." Her horn glowed, softly at first, but strange runes formed circles around her as she wove magic. "I'm not a master magician, but my... condition has led it down interesting paths, dear. I'll try my best."

Those rose danced and circled around Rarity before hopping to orbit Bright. He laughed at them, reaching out to feel one.

This proved to be a mistake, or perhaps a blessing. Touching the rune caused it to immediately absorb into his body, with the other runes rushing to fill in that void, crash into him, and join the procession until there were none left.

Just a Bright with wide eyes, entirely awake. "Wow... Rares, what was that?"

Rarity reared up, looking Bright over. "That was a spell I was casting, which you interrupted, dear. Do you feel well?"

"I feel great. Like I could run a few miles." Bright ran in place as if just to show off his energy. "Nevermind coffee, I can just hit up my Rarity gal pal."

Rarity fell to all fours, tittering. "You are something else. Come, we should go before Sweetie loses all her patience."

"Thank you." Sweetie rolled her eyes as she began the journey, leading the way into the thick jungle.

"This way - no trails from here on out." She strapped on a climbing harness and packed energy bars. "We have a few hours hike ahead through rough country before we reach the approximate cave entrance site."

Rarity's horn glowed as she applied waterproof mascara and tucked away fancy bottles of purified water. Catching Sweetie's incredulous look, she remarked "One mustn't let standards slip simply because one is on the frontier, darling!"

Bright bounced eagerly on the balls of his feet. "Aw yeah, into the wilderness! Maybe we'll see a manticore or some crazy monsters on the way!" He peered at ominous dark birds circling in the distance. "Um, we are gonna be safe out here right?"

Sweetie Drops checked her tracking equipment. "I've mapped our route to avoid any large predator territories. But do stay alert - fauna is less predictable out here beyond the law." She set off at a brisk pace.

Rarity levitated a sun hat onto her mane and fanned herself while floating alongside. "I do hope we arrive before peak daylight! You know how it disagrees with my complexion..." She smiled slyly at Bright, licking a fang. "Perhaps we may pause to powder my nose en route, hm?"

Bright hmmed curiously. "Rarity, love you, but you're a vampire, right?"

"Vampony," she corrected, emphasizing the corrected part. "What of it, darling?"

"Last I knew..." He waved up at the sun ahead. "Sun and vampires are not in a good relationship, to put it mildly. You don't look like you're burning into ash or anything."

Rarity glanced up at that sun, just to turn her eyes away immediately. "I am more sensitive since my... change..." She paused as she clambered up over a log and fell on the other side with an oof. "Why don't they provide stairs, really... Hmmph. I am more sensitive. I can get sunburn far more easily than most. But it doesn't literally set me on fire."

Rarity tittered softly. "I may complain that I'm on fire, but that's just me being dramatic about it. I don't like the sun, but it isn't killing me, dear."

Bright grinned, hopping over the log easily on his two legs to catch up with Rarity. "I kinda like the dramatic complaining. But good to know direct sunbeams aren't actually fatal or anything."

He peered upwards, noting the patches of sunlight streaming down through the forest canopy. "Still seems kinda bright and intense for you. Want me to like, carry you or something so you're not stuck walking directly in the beams?"

Rarity looked touched, raising a graceful hoof to her chest. "My dear Bright, what an absolutely gentleponly offer!" She smiled coyly. "I may just take you up on that..."

Without warning, she made a delicate swaying motion as if to faint. Bright jumped forward and caught her neatly in his arms. "Whoa there! I gotcha Rares."

Rarity settled in comfortably with a smug smile. "Oh I do apologize for my sudden spell of the vapors," she said airily. "Perhaps I may convalesce here away from the light's cruel gaze for just a bit..."

Sweetie Drops paused up ahead, frowning at the delay. But then she just snorted and continued trudging onwards. Some battles weren't worth fighting.

She let the two cuddle mid-walking. At least they were headed in the right direction. "Mmmm." She frowned at some tracks on the ground. "We're not alone. Playtime is officially over." She turned back to the other two. "Put her down and get your serious faces on."

The snap of a twig made it clear that something was approaching from the underbrush.

Author's Note

A new adventure begins, and our entrepid agents will surely be tested here in the middle of nowhere. They don't even have a trusty dog, poor things. Day 2/28

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5 - Jungle Ambush

Spotted great cats lunged from the dense underbrush, silent in their motions. Bright jumped back, dropping Rarity in the way.

The cat's arc carried it in the narrow space between them as Rarity began to fall, just to be caught by Bright before she got far. "Darling! Really, give me a bit of warning."

Sweetie lashed out a hoof, catching a cat across the snout in a punishing blow. "I already gave the warning. We're on duty."

The cats perked at once, ears turned off into the jungle. They dashed off as once, summoned by some unseen force.

Bright set Rarity down carefully. "Sweetie is right, no playing."

Rarity pouted a moment, but turned to where the cats had fled. "Darling, we do need to focus." She let her wings erupt from her back, assuming her full vampony guise. "We are being hunted, and I should imagine not just by cats."

Rarity's fangs glinted as she scanned the shadowy foliage intently. More snarls and snapping twigs echoed from all around them. The big cats had them surrounded.

Bright lifted Rarity again, freeing her to focus fully on their predicament. "I don't get it, didn't you say we were avoiding predator territory?" he asked Sweetie Drops nervously.

Sweetie Drops frowned, checking her tracking equipment. "We are! Something lured them here intentionally..." She pulled a flare gun from her supplies, firing it straight up with a thunderous boom.

The stalking cats shrieked, fleeing from the momentary firework burst. But the relief was short-lived. A far more blood-chilling howl rolled across the jungle from deeper within.

Rarity's ears flattened. "That sounded like no equestrian creature..." She bared her own fangs, hissing. "We may have escaped the frying pan only to face the fire, darlings!"

The very trees around them suddenly seemed to twist, shedding their mundane appearance. The shadows writhed with forms undefined...encroaching from every side.

Sweetie Drops racked the flare gun. "Stay together and keep moving! We'll outrun whatever has us in its sights..." But her voice lacked full conviction. What had they stumbled into? She glimpsed true fear in Rarity's glowing eyes. "Onwards! Don't look back!"

But that wasn't fear in Rarity's eyes. She leaped out of Bright's grasp, her wings carrying her aloft as she raised, rapidly lost to sight.

"Rares?" Bright was still running along as quickly as he could, scrambling over and through the thick plants all around them. "Where are we even going?!"

"Would that I--" Sweetie skidded to a stop, stones falling off the cliff ahead of her into the yawning valley before them. "--Nowhere..." She whirled away from the cliff, scowling. "We fight, or we lose, and I don't like what losing sounds like right now."

Dozens on dozens of baleful glowing eyes opened in the inky darkness, each a different color but unified in their hatred. The largest of them stepped from the deep blackness into dim view, bipedal, female, with rippling muscles on her feline form. "You hurt one of them... You have to pay for that."

Sweetie Drops gulped but stood her ground, flare gun aimed unwaveringly at the feline beast. "I acted in self-defense against one of your kind's unprovoked ambush."

The creature snarled, fangs glistening. More eyes and rumbling growls surrounded them as the pack moved in. Sweetie's mind raced - no way she and Bright could fight them all. Where was Rarity?

As if in answer, a piercing shriek suddenly split the air from above. Rarity dove swiftly, landing gracefully between Sweetie and the lead beast, wings flared dramatically.

"How dare you threaten my dear friends and try to make them your next meal!" Rarity declared. Her horn flashed, robes billowing as she manifested elegant but strong armor on Sweetie and Bright.

The alpha creature laughed coldly. "You side with these trespassers? Against your own kind?" It gestured to Rarity's fangs and bat wings. "You cannot deny your monstrous nature."

Rarity stood tall. "I side with those who show compassion and friendship - traits most 'civilized' beings sorely lack compared to my companions." She lit her horn, magical energy swirling. "I suggest you retreat respectfully before we all do something...regrettable.”

The pack leader hesitated, seeing Rarity unflinching. It growled reluctantly. "This place shall still be the death of you outsiders..." In a ripple of fur and claws, the creatures withdrew back into the darkness.

The trees around them slowly stopped writhing. Bright exhaled in relief. "Woah...Rares, you saved us! What now? Where'd you even go?!"

Rarity pointed upwards. "I could feel the real heart of things." She licked over a fang. "Hearts, darling, call to me... Call it an occupational 'thing'." She snorted as she approached the cliffside. "That kittty is menacing, but hardly the real threat. She just lives here." She pointed down into the void. "What we want is down there. I can smell it."

Sweetie closed in aside Rarity. "Why did you fly up just to point us down there? Where did you go? Be flat with me."

Rarity rolled her eyes. "Darling, I am beyond hungry. This kind of hunger, dear Bright couldn't help with. I want what this is. I could... I could smell it. Part of me wanted to leave you all behind and go after it."

Bright brought a hoof down on Rarity's withers, petting her from there down her back. "You stopped yourself and came back for us."

Rarity brightened at that. "Exactly, dear. I couldn't just leave you behind, darling thing..."

Sweetie stepped between them. "I'm glad you two are getting along, but let's keep our heads in the game, hm?"

Rarity cleared her throat, composing herself. "Quite right, we mustn't lose focus." She peered over the cliff's edge, eyes glowing faintly. "I sensed something...primal calling to me from the shadows in this valley. Whatever lured those creatures and twisted the land - it lies below."

Her horn lit up as she wove an illumination spell over the expanse. An immense ancient structure became visible, carved stones and pillars half-buried by earth and winding tree roots. The openings resembled gaping maws in a massive bestial face.

Sweetie Drops' eyes widened. "Is that what we're looking for? The map showed ruined cave tunnels, not a full temple..." She checked the prophecy text from the archives about a hidden magical relic guarded by beasts. "Perhaps the cave simply served as the lost entrance until vegetation buried it over generations..."

She secured a spike deep in the stone wall and tossed down a thick rope, lashed the other end around a tree. "This is our most direct path down. Unless you flyer feel like carrying us?"

Rarity re-manifested elegant gowns for the occasion on each of them. "While you more spelunker-ish types descend, we shall play welcoming party from on high to focus on a graceful landing." Her horn flashed, conjuring a glittering force bubble around herself and Bright. "Do take care, darling!"

Sweetie blinked as the two began descending magically. "I was... asking for myself." Grumbling, she grabbed the rope in a hug and her teeth, rappelling down the cliff side bounce by bounce.

"I swear to Celestia, she is playing favorites." But, then, it was hardly a mystery why she might do that. "We're on the same team... She could at least pretend." She landed on a small outcropping and heaved for breath. "I'd shout, but not in this place."

It was still light enough to see by so she did just that, leaning over the side. Far below, she could see ponies of stone and glowing runes, marching about for reasons unknown. "Right, great..." She slid down a bit further, continuing her descent. "We have a vampire, but she only really likes one of us. Lovely."

"Don't be like that." Rarity swooped in, curling her wings and legs around Sweetie in a fond, if uninvited, embrace. "My magic works easier on him, dear. We've shared blood, no few times. We are bound. You and I, dear, we have no such connection."

Somehow, the weight of Rarity didn't feel like it actually slow her down, so Sweetie Drop kept right on bounding down the cliff. "Where is he? You left him?"

"Somewhere safe." She pressed her cheek to Sweetie's. "We could become connected, you know. You have all that blood... All I need is a little sip... it didn't slow Bright down, you've seen it."

Sweetie Drops shuddered, shrinking from Rarity's too-close fangs. "Yeah...I'll pass hard on that kind of 'connection', thanks." She put on an extra burst of speed, hooves skidding down the rope.

Rarity kept pace easily, wisps of mist swirling around her graceful form. "Come now darling, no need to be shy," she cajoled. "Just one tiny nibble and you'll have all my magical defenses at your disposal!"

She waved a hoof idly. "Though I understand if you lack dear Bright's sense of whimsy and daring..." Rarity sighed theatrically. "Alas, not every pony can match that bold trust and thirst for excitement..."

Sweetie snorted, touching down on the gnarled roots snaking around the ancient structure's crumbling facade. "Yeah he's a real wild one - did you leave him napping in that bubble or something?"

She shook her head and clopped toward the dark entrance framed by twisting stone beasts. "Nevermind. We're on site now regardless..." She turned to Rarity, smirking. "Unless you and your human pet need more playtime first?"

Rarity huffed, landing gracefully beside her. "Such an uncouth implication! Bright knows my heart belongs first and foremost to fashion." She posed dramatically, a hoof to her brow. "But a lady vampire does have certain...appetites as well, after all."

With a wink, Rarity lit her horn to reveal the shadowy passage. "Shall we proceed at last to unearth these enticing secrets? I confess this ancient power does still...allure from below." Licking her fangs subtly, she strode fearlessly onward into the darkness.

Sweetie kept up easily. "I really do need to know where Bright is. We're a team, all three of us."

Rarity bumped sidelong into Sweetie. "Very well." Her horn glimmered as the bubbled Bright appeared. "Here he is. Bright, doing alright in there, darling?"

"That was dark." Bright looked a bit confused, but not upset. "Are we where we needed to go?"

Rarity willed the bubble away, leaving Bright to land on wobbly feet. "We're here, wherever 'here' happens to be."

"Dangerous." Sweetie tossed her head towards where she had seen the constructs roaming. "Don't go that way, guards. Rarity, can you smell which way we need to be?"

"This way," Rarity sang as she trotted forward, her wings giving a little flap as if cheerful. "We're getting closer. Whatever they're guarding, it isn't what I want."

Bright shrugged, walking between the ponies. "Might be worth checking out, you know, after this big thing?"

"Perhaps." Sweetie glanced away before refocusing on the path ahead of them. "One thing at a time. Whatever's ahead of us is setting off every alarm I know of."

The passage sloped ever downward, roots hanging through cracks overhead, stone walls carved with strange markings and gouges that spoke of beasts both mundane and magical. Their hoofsteps and footsteps echoed strangely as they descended single file down the crumbling stone steps.

Finally the passage opened up into an immense chamber, glints of treasure visible piled around the edges. But all other details faded to insignificance compared to what dominated the center.

There loomed a swirling vortex of unearthly energies, bound inside a towering ring of intricately carved obsidian. Glyphs and runes of eldritch purpose covered the surface, glowing with hungry menace. The very air thrummed with ancient power both wondrous and terrible...

Sweetie's jaw dropped in awe and alarm. She had come prepared for monsters or clashing magics, but nothing like this elder vortex now meter's away, flickering hungrily even contained. This 'relic' was no mere trinket but a still-burning ember straight from the earliest fiery forge of reality itself. Its potential stilled even Rarity's breath...

"What in Equestria is that?" Sweetie finally managed. She glanced to her companions uneasily. Would even Princess Luna or Celestia know what primordial forces slumbered in this lost abyssal prison? One wrong step could unleash literal hell...

Author's Note

Cats and golems and runes, oh my! Day 3/28

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6 - Ancient Depths

A soft hum grew into a roar, louder with each step as they emerged into the grand chamber. There, some ancient magic thrummed with the power to rip all they knew asunder. Rarity gaped at it, even her wings stilled in the moment.

"What in Equestria is that?" Sweetie finally managed. She glanced to her companions uneasily. "How do we stop it?"

"You don't." Ahouzotl stepped out from around the inferno. "This isn't yours to play with." He reared up, clapping his hands together. "Why you ponies think you can just wander in here and take what you want eludes me. It's a troubling habit."

What none of them had expected was for Bright to charge across the room. Ahouzotl was giving his sermon on how right he was, and how wrong the ponies were for even thinking of their plans. He didn't notice Bright until a balled fist slammed into his face, knocking him back. "What? Did you...?"

Bright rubbed his sore knuckles. "You had it coming. Bad! Bad!" He waved a finger with each exclamation. "You sit in the corner and think about what you did!"

Ahouzotl fell to all fours, glaring at Bright with near literal flames in his eyes. "How dare you! Just for that, I am unleashing it!"

"Please." Bright rolled his eyes. "If you could, you would have already. You're bluffing. Stop making yourself look bad."

Ahuizotl scowled, rubbing his snout where Bright's fist had struck. "You know nothing, newcomer. My reformation is precisely why I cannot let you endanger my realm."

He lifted the Truth Talisman, runes glinting. "This place exists in fragile balance - disrupt it, and untold chaos could be unleashed." He glanced uneasily at the caged Vortex, energies churning.

Rarity stepped forward, horn lit in cautious diplomacy. "Perhaps introductions are in order first. I am Lady Rarity, purveyor of fashionable enchantments." She smiled disarmingly, baring just a hint of fang. "Might we make amends and discuss matters over tea instead of magical blows?"

Ahuizotl blinked then chuckled wryly. "Still the same charm and guile, I see. Very well." The Talisman glowed as stone guardians withdrew into alcoves. "If nothing else, this encounter proves I still have much to learn about harmony."

He clapped his hands. "Come - let us take refreshment and speak sensibly." A table appeared laden with moonsweet tea and ruby mooncakes. Ahuizotl took his seat, tail-hand beckoning them over. "Now then, what truly brings you to my domain unbidden?"

Rarity took the seat opposite Ahuizotl with delighted poise. "Well, I must say I am delightfully surprised. To think we can just talk this over like civilized creatures." She folded her wings on her back. "Marvelous. Now, dear, tell us why we're in the wrong place? We just want to make sure ponies don't get hurt with such dangerous things."

Sweetie slid in next to Bright, whispering, "Rarity's keeping him distracted. So, what's the plan? You seem to know this perp. How do we get rid of him?"

"Cold." He ruffled the top of Sweetie's mane gently. "But he deserves it. Jerk." Not that he knew of their later reformation, even if it had been mentioned casually. "He's busy chatting with Rares. I say we grab it and run."

Sweetie raised a brow high. "Not sure that'll work... He seems to control the problems. He can control the golems. I bet he's in with the cats. We mess with him without taking care of him, and it's probably game over for us all."

Sweetie Drops' assessment gave Bright pause. As much as he disliked Ahuizotl, she raised fair points - his command of this domain's elemental forces made him too dangerous to simply steal from and flee. Any escape could be thwarted by the guardian beasts at his call.

Rarity kept Ahuizotl engaged, subtly angling for details between dainty sips of tea. "So this vortex was a chaotic byproduct you're harnessed to empower the basin, allowing the rainforests and temples to thrive for ages, yes? But mishandled, might it not wreak havoc?"

Ahuizotl inclined his head. "Just so. All realms hold seeds of both beauty and destruction within their genesis." His expression hardened. "Would your meddlesome princess-rulers grasp such duality?"

Meanwhile, Sweetie and Bright slipped stealthily around the chamber's shadowy perimeter toward the towering obsidian monolith at its heart - the vortex prison itself. Sweetie aimed scanning equipment at the whirling primordial chaos contained within.

"This is an insane amount of thaumic energy..." she muttered. "But it reads somehow...out of sync? Almost elastic in its volatility?" She met Bright's eyes. "If we strain its resonance envelope just enough, it might safely dissipate without blowback!"

Bright blinked slowly at the intensely technical explination. "Bons, no idea--"

She shoved a hoof over his mouth. "I don't know where you got my private identity, but do not use it while we're on duty, ever. Got it?" When he nodded, she drew her hoof back. "Good. That is a secret."

"Can you repeat that, the idea, in English?" He waved at the swirling, captive, energy. "How do we fix that?"

"I was saying." Sweetie sighed as she turned back. "If we strain what makes it stable, we might just break it apart, and then it'll be gone, and there's no problem anymore."

Sweetie Drops rubbed her chin thoughtfully as she studied the raging vortex. "The question is how to properly 'strain' these volatile forces. A surgical magical strike to stress its bindings? Or perhaps a realigned channeling to unbalance the thaumic symmetry sustaining it?"

She shook her head in frustration. "If only we understood more about this relic's origins, there may be clues on safely dissolving it."

Sweetie glanced back to where Rarity continued keeping Ahuizotl occupied with friendly chatter, though she noticed his responses becoming more guarded. Time was running short.

She turned to Bright with fresh urgency. "We need to directly access the vortex casing itself to scan its matrix for structural weaknesses. But reaching it requires distraction."

Sweetie met his eyes gravely. "I believe in your...bond with Rarity. See if you can unlock her true vampiric strengths - have her take Ahuizotl down non-lethally while I analyze the specific sequences. He may respect shows of power if not diplomacy."

Bright understood less than half of the muttering Sweetie was producing. "I have an idea." He walked right up to the portal, keeping the pillar between him and Ahuizotl. He reached up and around and shoved his hand between the gaps of the ancient apparatus designed to keep it safely contained.

It was a stupid idea, but also the best he had. He lit up with power as it surged through him, using his body as a grounding point to rush through his frail mortal form.

Ahuizotl started at the sudden loud crackle. "What's going on?" He abandoned the table he was sharing with Rarity, hopping up facing the pillar. "You fool! That will kill you! Or destroy all of us.... I couldn't say for sure. Take your hand back right now!"

Not that Bright could, caught in the power he was unleashing.

As chaotic energies poured into Bright's body, his form began to shift and transform in shocking ways. His proportions wavered, limbs and torso contorting as reality's boundaries unraveled.

Fur sprouted rapidly across Bright's skin, soft as angora but sleek like otter pelt. It flowed in lustrous waves down his altering frame as he shrank, bone and muscle reshaping. Hands fused into paws, dexterous yet furred for traction as his arms and legs morphed to suit altered needs.

Bright's torso compacted as ribs shortened. Powerful kangaroo tail erupted from above his changing rump, thick and prehensile to counterbalance massive hindleg muscles for tremendous hopping power.

His neck stretched up, face thrusting outwards into an elongated muzzle suited for nibbling. But deadly fangs curved within, wings unfurling from his shoulders. His ears grew long and turned like radar dishes attuned to dangers and interesting sounds.

The metamorphosis finished in moments, reality bending to randomness unleashed. Bright's clothing now hung loosely on the sinuous rabbit-roo frame. Crimson eyes glowed intensely, narrowed against the influx of raw power still flooding uncontrollably through paw and form.

Rarity fell back from her chair. "Bright! Darling... Are you... I hesitate to ask 'alright', but can you talk to us, please, dear?"

Ahuizotl threw his hands aside. "He destroyed it! You!" He stormed towards the small fuzzy thing that had once been Bright. "You've doomed the valley! You've ruined so much, and for what? For what?!"

Sweetie grabbed Bright, so much smaller since his sudden change, and fired a grappling hook across the room. She flew with its retracing, narrowly avoiding being grabbed on the way. "Mission accomplished, it's time to get out of here!"

Rarity galloped after Sweetie, at least in her direction. "We really should finish that chat later. It was quite engrossing."

Ahuizotl roared, no longer in any mood for idle conversations. "I will see you all destroyed. All of you!" He screamed and stomped, but the golems didn't move. They had no power, their source deactivated just moments before. "A thousand curses on you all!"

Bright blinked up at Sweetie in confusion, his shirt now slipping down his fuzzy torso. His voice was higher pitched and alien. "Woah, what happened?" Startled, he clasped tiny paws to his mouth. What had happened?!

Rarity glanced back worriedly even as she galloped. "I know that look - he's going into shock. We must get him warm and comforted posthaste!"

They raced for the exit, the chamber beginning to shake and crumble without the vortex's chaotic energies infusing it. Sweetie poured on more speed as living stone guardians rumbled to life, weakened but blocking their path.

"Rares, we could use one of your brilliant dress designs round about now!" She curled protectively around Bright as ominous shadows loomed.

Rarity skidded to a halt, eyes flashing. "But of course!" Her horn flared bright. "I have just the ticket..."

In a flash, Sweetie found herself clad neck to tail in gleaming armor that shifted hues like oil on water. An ornate jousting lance appeared strapped beside the intricate bell-shaped shield on her back.

Rarity smiled proudly through the rubble raining down around them. "I call it Midnight Chevalier! Now darling, let us make haste..." Winking slyly, she added, "We can arrange a private showing later, yes?"

Sweets was surprised for only a moment. It was time for action, and she hastened her gallop. She crashed into the first golem, the lance exploding with the force of the impact. Luckily, so did the golem, opening the way for them.

"I want to help!" Bright wriggled free of her grasp and bounded ahead. "Woah, cool." His new form of transport brought a smile to his face. "Boing!" He jumped powerfully, landing on the head of a swinging Golem and crushing it under his powerful landing.

With a firm kick, he sent the disabled construct crashing to the side. "I can get used to this."

Bright's cheerful acclimation to his new rabbit-roo hybrid form brought a smile even to serious Sweetie Drops' face. "Well aren't you just a fuzzy little dynamo now!" she laughed, shield-bashing another lumbering guardian into rubble.

"Do take care bouncing about so eagerly, dear heart!" Rarity called out, impaling one crumbling stone beast through an eye with a conjured crystal spear. "You've only just gotten the hang of those magnificent legs."

With armor, magic and fluffy overpowered bounces, they smashed their way through the weakened temple guardians until daylight shone ahead. One final coordinated charge and they burst back into sunshine and jungle freedom!

Rarity coalesced a floating umbrella above herself with a relieved sigh. "Well now, that was bracing!" She waved a hoof to dissipate Sweetie's new armor. "Welcome to the family, Sir Bright of Hopps. Shall we away back home for tea and a restoring bath?"

Brights chittered excitedly. The vortex was no more, Ahuizotl thwarted, this strange new adventure just beginning! He nodded eagerly at Rarity, chittering with glee as he experimentally ricocheted between trees ahead of his rescuers.

Author's Note

Naughty little agents today. They won... but at what price? Day 4/28

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7 - Downtime

Bright extended his fingers just to wriggle them and bring them back. "I have a paw."

Rarity watched him exploring his form. "I have a hoof." She extended one just to make that clear. "Your paw is also a hand, darling."

"Your hoof isn't." Bright looked a bit smug at that. He grabbed a mug off a nearby table in their dark little office. "But I got small..."

Rarity lifted an ear, circling around Bright. "That you did..." She reached out, measuring that Bright was about her height, but so much less mass, as all that height had no depth to it, like a pony would. He was a slender little rabbit-person. "Does it hurt?"

Sweetie rolled her eyes. "Of course it doesn't hurt. He'd be complaining. Right now, looks like he's enjoying it."

Bright stretched out in all directions, a little chittter escaping him without thought. "That sounds odd, but I don't hate it." He grabbed for his own throat, feeling the chittering noise from the other side. "Cute."

Rarity laughed at the antics. "Yes, you are even cuter than you had been before. My little..."

She trailed off, which gave Bright a chance to cut in, "Familiar."

"Familiar?" Rarity cocked a brow. "What brought that word to your fuzzy lips?"

Rarity pursed her lips curiously as Bright tested his new fangs against a fingertip. "I admit, when I pictured accepting a familiar, I imagined some sort of bat or nocturnal avian. But I must say, the lapine look rather suits you, darling!"

Bright flexed his long ears. "I have to admit, becoming a vampire's magical servant wasn't exactly top of my bucket list," he quipped, tone still more intrigued than concerned. "So what does this familiar business actually mean for me?"

"It means a symbiotic bond has formed between us," Rarity explained matter-of-factly, "Our life forces are intertwined. As I grow in power, so shall you. And you shall aid me in return."

Sweetie Drops snorted, rolling her eyes anew. "Great, so it's kinda like you're married now... Fantastic."

Rarity shot her fellow agent a wry glance as Bright's nose twitched. Still... "I rather like this idea." She grabbed Bright, hugging him close and nuzzling in against him. "Dear little familiar, a vampire and their familiar are quite, well, familiar. I hope you're ready for that."

Bright froze, pulse quickening at Rarity's sudden closeness and the implications simmering beneath her words. This was dangerous uncharted territory in their partnership. But the vampire’s cool skin and the brush of her long silken mane only heightened his burgeoning senses.

“Oh I’m ready alright...” he managed, trailing off with another helpless throb of awareness in his heightened lapine form.

Sweetie Drops rolled her eyes again at the display. “Down girl, don’t overwhelm our changed recruit five minutes in. This arrangement’s going to take some managing on all our ends.” Turning her attention back to Bright she smirked. “Here’s hoping you’re a quick study at balancing multiple areas of...talent, Agent.”

The two mares’ matching cheeky smiles made Bright suddenly grateful his fur hid any rising flush. Just what had he gotten himself into? These partners looked hungry to push all sorts of boundaries with their eager new pet project...

It felt like moments later that he was parked in front of a new unicorn in a room that was just as bright as the last one had been dim. It was made for science, so it was clean, well upkept, and so bright.

Just the thing for the pacing Twilight Sparkle. "What a fascinating specimen..." She reached out, brushing across Bright's front as he wriggled and giggled. "You say he was an extraterrestial simian of some kind? There's no hint of it left."

Sweete snorted softly. "You're not paying attention." She swatted at Bright's closer hand. "Look at that. That isn't a rabbit hand."

"Hm?" Twilight's horn glowed, as did both of Bright's hands, brought closer by her magic. "Fascinating. They do have simian qualities, now that you've brought my attention to them... Intruiging... Thank you for bringing me this specimen."

Rarity hopped between them, breaking Twilight's magic as she glared at the scientist unicorn. "He is my familiar, not anypony's specimen! You keep your distance, dear. I have my eyes on you..."

Twilight eyed Rarity curiously, horn still aglow as she blatantly scanned Bright with it. "There's no need for possessive threats, Rarity. I merely want to understand your familiar's unique physiology. This isn't natural vampire magic at play, the energy readings are off the charts!"

Bright shifted under the invasive scan, both unnerved and reluctantly fascinated himself at the cycling feedback of magical data about his altered form.

"The environment he was changed in matters too," Sweetie interjected. "Can your equipment detect residual rift particles or cross-dimensional debris? The ruin interior was coated in Alarmian gateway discharge."

"Hmm, a transformative contact event across planar boundaries? Plausible given these exotic quantum signatures." Twilight's eyes glittered. "I definitely want a hoof in studying this unprecedented phenomenon!"

Rarity bristled, curling a protective wing around Bright. "And I want assurances you won't be treating my familiar like another clinical test subject, Ms Sparkle. He will not become your personal quest for power like some ponies I could name..."

Twilight waved the complaint away. "Bright." Bright perked at his name. "Don't you want to know how you work? I feel certain you must have at least half the questions I do. We can explore, together."

"I am kinda curious..."

"Don't listen to her." Rarity curled around Bright protectively. "Darling, I have everything you need."

"Rares, chill." He kissed her cheek, but pushed her back in the same motion. "You brought me here, remember?"

"I did..." she lamely admitted, letting Bright push his way free from her surrendering grasp. "Just remember, if she hurts you, even a little, just let me know. I am not leaving you behind."

Twilight's horn shone brightly as she put Bright through a series of tests, monitoring everything from pupil dilation responses to paranormal energy absorption. For his part, Bright seemed enthralled by each glimpse at enhanced power or sensitivity within himself.

Rarity kept a wary eye nearby as machines whirled, testing touch and hearing acuity. When Twilight measured his quickening pulse next, glance lingering on his sleek furred chest, curiosity stirred.

"Altered biology translating into awakened primal responses as well?" Rarity murmured dryly, one elegant brow arched.

Bright flushed under his purple fur as Twilight traced a clinical hoof lower. But despite the professional context, each brush of contact sent his newly sensitized nerves thrumming treacherously.

Finally, the hoof reached his thigh and paused as Bright let out an involuntary chittering groan. Stepping swiftly between them, Rarity gave a knowing smile. "I think that's quite enough hands-on research for one session, don't you darling?"

Catching his breath, Bright nodded hurriedly. But his eyes lingered on Twilight's intrigued expression a tick too long before he turned away.

Twilight caught it, working around Rarity with a smile. "I disagree. He's in the throes of science."

Rarity thumped against Twilight, knocking her off balance. "He's in the throes of something, darling, but it isn't science." She fixed Bright with a look. "Dear, you already have me. You needn't be distracted."

Sweetie coughed into a hoof. "Send me the report when you're all done." She trotted from the room, fleeing that awkward moment.

Twilight cleared her throat as Sweetie beat a hasty retreat. "It seems my bedside manner could use some fine tuning. Apologies, Bright."

With the stimulated lapine out of direct contact, rational thought was quicker to return. Still, the revelations of his body's awakening responses intrigued almost as much as Rarity's territorial possessiveness.

"No need to get jealous, I already have my forever vampire," Bright managed, straightening his rumpled fur. Rarity gave a "humph" of approval, mollified.

"So could we call this an, ahem... biological breakthrough?" He smirked shyly. "I'd love to monitor these changes more, purely for scientific discovery."

Twilight nodded, nonplussed by the tension. "Indeed! We've unlocked fascinating insights into cross-species transformation impacts. Further observation could prove invaluable." She turned an inquisitive eye on Rarity. "What do you say we all work together moving forward?"

Rarity pursed her lips, but a small smile crept through. "I suppose I can restrain my caution for progress's sake..." The familiar bond thrummed comfortingly. "What's next on the agenda then?"

Twilight gestured to herself, then Rarity, then finally Bright. "There is a fact that can't be entirely ignored. You said Bright was originally a simian alien. We are not simian, at all." She reared up on her hind hooves. "Even like this, I couldn't fool an innate biped into thinking this--" She fell to all fours with a clop. "--is my natural locomotion. Yet... He showed interest. Is this a consequence of their transformation, an innate pecularity, or a natural tendency of their species?"

She smiled at Bright so wide. "Please, tell me what you can. What is the natural level of mating drive in your species, and how often does it fixate on other species?"

Bright flattened his ears, flushed at suddenly fielding such blunt inquiries into his alien biology. But scholarly fascination won out over flusterment.

"I mean, generally humans have...healthy drives," he managed. "Attraction isn't always species-specific - depends on the individual. Compatibility's complex." His tail twitched shyly under their intent gazes.

Rarity tilted her head. "We ponies lack such evolutionary impulses normally. We are civilized creatures, dear. But spend any time around in the springtime and you’ll find more than a few focused stallions chasing mares... Scandalous!" She winked playfully before turning inquisitive eyes Bright's way.

"Yet you bedded me readily enough, darling, despite the differences.” She smiled, all teeth. “Not that I’m complaining... But this rabbit shape does seem to have you doubly sensitized, no?”

Bright swallowed, very aware of their smoldering focus. He was her familiar, and he liked her to start with. He didn't want to deny her, but things had turned. There were two mares looking at him quite penetratingly.

“Shall we move our experiment somewhere more...private?" Rarity purred.

[clop]
Twilight raised a hoof. "I'm quite curious, but science first." She put a hoof between Bright's legs and examined his excited anatomy. "I had wanted to inspect this, and now..."

Bright blinked softly. All that had been a cunning plan to get at his excited parts? That he felt nothing but excited... Her hoof was quite soft as it wandered over him, trailing over his tense flesh. "Oh... Um... Go right on ahead..."

[/clop, I didn't promise it'd be much]

Twilight took notes about things Bright would never have mentioned, muttering as she walked away on her other three legs.

Rarity slipped in. "I got carried away... Darling... dear familiar, I'm so sorry."

Bright sat up and slid to his feet properly, the heat of the moment entirely fled. "What... are you sorry about?"

"Before you're a familiar, or maybe even because you are one, I shouldn't just... push like that. that was quite unladylike of me." She fanned at herself with a hoof. "Let's only... approach that when you want. You can start it, hm, somewhere more romantic." She fluttered her lashes. "I expect to be wined and dined first."

Bright took Rarity's hoof, squeezing it gratefully as his pulse settled. "Thanks - going slow sounds really nice actually. This is all still so weird and new..."

He trailed a tentative hand along one of her folded wings, making her shiver. "But I know I feel safest figuring it all out with you. However long it takes."

Rarity gifted him with a tremulous smile. "We shall unravel these mysteries side by side then. Partners in all things." She drew him close, nosing through his downy fur till his racing heart steadied against her.

They stayed curled together as the stars wheeled past the window, simply breathing each other in.

"Fascinating." Twilight turned back, waving the clipboard at the end of her hoof. "It'll take some time to go over these figures. I'll let you know if I require Bright for any further examinations."

Rarity snorted softly. "Really... Come, dear. Let's find something else to do."

Author's Note

Things got a bit steamy, but Bright and Rarity are a solid team, I say.

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8 - Sister

Ahuizotl stomped his hands. "Your Highness, this is simply unacceptable."

Celestia nodded softly. "I have heard your plea... But I have questions."

"Of course." Ahuizotl bowed towards Celestia, glancing sideline at the pristine court they were in and the silent guards. "How can I help?"

"If you had not been interfered with, what would you have done?" Celestia pointed past him. "With that artifact. It was a thing of great power, by your own words."

"Immense." Ahuizotl shook a fist up at the sky. "It was protecting and fostering the valley it was in, keeping it vibrant and healthy. It was, and is, my honrable duty to keep such things where they belong."

Celestia nodded softly. "I see... Where did this artifact end up, exactly?"

"It was destroyed," he practically hissed out. "The fool touched it, and the power flowed into the strange alien, making them another stranger alien. They fled before I could have justice!"

Celestia brought her hooves together. "I see... This leaves that natural habitat at a loss, I imagine. I can promise this... I will assign a squadron of pegasi to your direction, to see the valley is tended to with proper care."

Ahuizotl started at that, but smiled. "That is very generous, Your Highness. A dozen or two pegasi who are dedicated to the task could keep the valley safe." He raised a balled fist. "Or! They could have just left it alone! The pegasi could do whatever they wanted to do and the valley could have taken care of itself."

Celestia nodded with a humm. "That would have been... ideal. I will speak with those responsible, and see justice is done."

"That is all I ask." Ahuizotl bowed once more to Celestia. "Thank you." He turned to leave. She wasn't stopping him, so he stormed out, the door closing behind him.

Celestia sighed out slowly. "Luna..." Her horn glowed, echoing the summon a bit more magically.

Luna manifested emerging from a swirl of nocturnal mists, hovering beside her sister's throne

"We felt the weight of your solemn summons, dear Sister, and came forth directly," she intoned, ethereal mane wafting in starry currents only she could sense. Luna's brow creased with concern taking in the visible burden upon her elder sister.

"How may we offer the comfort of counsel or carry thy burdens at this hour?" Luna alighted delicately upon the dais, gazing at Celestia with compassion shining in her night-kissed eyes.

Celestia turned to meet Luna's openhearted willingness, steeling herself with quiet fortitude. She spoke evenly so no note of accusation entered her words, only law's stern regret.

"I have heard word, interesting word... A report from an aggrieved citizen of our nation." Celestia inclined her head towards the closed door of the court. "It would seem he witnessed the destruction of an important artifact."

Luna scowled at the news. "And you require me to find it? I will have mine team assemble immediately." She rubbed her metal-clad hooves together with glee in her eyes. "Have no fear, sister mine."

Celestia raised a hoof. "Still yourself... Your agents have already moved."

"Truly?" Luna turned an ear back. "Faster than I could even request it. I should perhaps commend them."

"I would not be so fast for that either..." Celestia set her hooves flat on the ground. "They destroyed the artifact, and injured its guardian, a lawful guardian of it. Assault, destruction of property, several counts by all reports..."

Luna went rigid, hearing the crimes at the hooves of her agents. "I... see..."

Luna's elation had curdled to unease as stark truth displaced fanciful assumption. Her agents were not heroes of this tale but unwitting villains in another's narrative. Such gross overreach pierced Luna more for the suffering left unjustified in supposed justice's wake.

Striving to meet Celestia’s soft yet unflinching gaze, Luna bowed her head in contrition, as much for negligence as their misdeeds. ”We failed Thee ere this regrettable trespass came to pass - culpable ignorance no sound defense for hooves We guide."

Swallowing hard, emotion strained her timeless voice. "But what redress might now salve this suffering? If Wisdom may yet temper Law's stern hand, speak thus that all may heal..."

She trailed off muted by the weight of unknown damage left by those she trusted most to spread night's sheltering embrace. They followed her errant lead...

Steeling her heart against despair's seductive pull, Luna looked up. "We shall summon the offenders hither and face fair trial beneath your balanced gaze and mine. But ere judgement rends further hurt, grant mercy first chance to mend this unjust breach.”

Her next words fell nearly soundless as moonlight's muted plea. “I could not bear more loss in my name...”

Celestia reached out, hoof on Luna's shoulder. "Sister mine... You become more antiquated in speech the more excited you are, in positive or negative. I am not withdrawing my love for you, dear sister. But this cannot be allowed to continue." She brought Luna closer with her golden magic. "They are your agents. They must hear your words, not mine."

Luna pinned her ears back, coloring faintly. "I thought I was getting... better." Each word was slow and deliberate, to avoid slipping into older ponish styling. "Sister, truly... I will see that they understand the grave errors they have committed."

"That is all that I ask." Celestia released Luna from her magic. "Learn. A mistake was made, but none were..." She trailed. "Actually... They mentioned one of your agents might have been harmed in a lasting fashion. As angry as you rightfully are, do check on them. I would not wish them to suffer."

"Of course..." Luna shrank back several hesitant steps. "I will see this done..." She glanced away furtively. "Have thee other words for me?"

"I do not. I trust you will take this in your hooves and see it is addressed." Celestia raised a hoof suddenly. "One thing... If you have agents, and they are not fully trained in such delicate matters, perhaps you should accompany them? It took quite some time before my own agents could be trusted farther than my eyes could reach."

"Yes, sister mine..." Luna vanished in a puff of midnight smoke, even that wisping away.

Celestia sighed at the sight. "Love you," she whispered gently to the mist, not that it could hear her. "Send in the next supplicant."

Luna kicked in the door to the headquarters of her agents. "Report!" she thundered, a heavy scowl on her face. "Role call!"

"Bright." Bright snapped a salute, his ears folded to the sides.

"Secret Agent, Sweetie Drops." Sweetie offered a sharp salute. "Ma'am."

"Rarity, darling." Rarity dipped her head at Luna. "You appear distresed. How can--"

"--Belay that." Luna waved Rarity's words away. "I am told your first outting without me was with..."

She trailed, noticing Bright was quite different. "What happened to you?! You've... You're shorter." She raised a hoof to the height of Bright, perfectly fine for a normal pony, shorter than her. "Your ears are large, and... It's different, all different. Do you feel well? Are you in pain?"

Bright shook his head quickly. "All good, Luna! I might have made a mistake..." He wobbled a hand with a nervous laugh. "Stopped the problem, got turned into a rabbit thing. All in the course of duty and stuff."

He began to glow, Rarity yanking him over with her magic. "He's become twice as cuddly, and he was already fairly cuddly, darling." She displayed this fact with some hugs, mashing her face into his neck for good measure. "So soft and lovely."

Luna applied a hoof to her face. "I'm gladdened that you are not in pain... Since that is aside, I must now chastise you! That artifact was endangering no ponies. It was serving a purpose before you meddled with it."

Luna's stern pronouncement had cast a heavy pall. Rarity released Bright from further cuddling as all stood to somber attention beneath Night Court’s grim gaze.

Sweetie Drops stepped forward. "Permission to speak frankly, Your Highness? We proceeded on perceived threat without fully confirming intent or purpose. Zealously misguided haste, not malice, fueled this...debacle.”

She met Luna’s gaze unflinchingly. “I take full accountability for inadequately verifying facts before acting. We wrongly ignored the caretaker's wisdom and objected status quo without basis. Failure began and ends with me.”

Bowing low, Sweetie concluded “Whatever recompense you decree for damages, I submit myself to your judgment.”

Rarity floated to Sweetie’s side, resting a supportive hoof on her shoulder. “Dear heart, do not sacrifice yourself so swiftly...I too spurred urgency, heedless of larger harmony we disturbed.”

Her ears pinned back as she addressed Luna. “Pray sentence us together, that I may share such warranted burdens.”

On Sweetie’s other flank, Bright straightened as much as his new hybrid body allowed, standing steadfast. “Hey c’mon, I started it! Jumping in without thinking things through - classic me!” He grinned anxiously. “I know that magic doohickey kept stuff balanced there. Let me fix things back up! Besides, Rares was totally trying to do this the right way.”

The three misfit agents stood united awaiting Luna’s just decree.

Luna let out a slow sigh, eyes moving to Rarity. "Our freshly fuzzy agent speaks on your behalf. I would hear it from your own lips. What were you doing?"

Rarity fanned herself with a hoof. "Me?" She flapped a few inches towards Luna. "Why, I was speaking to that interesting fellow. He was telling me all sorts of interesting things about that vortex, dear, and how it functioned. Fascinating, truly... I was just getting a hang of it when things took a turn..."

Sweetie clopped a hoof to her head. "I misunderstood Rarity's looks, thinking she was getting impatient and... I urged action, and--"

"--Enough." Luna waved a hoof aside. "Rarity, I declare thee innocent. Thank you for comporting yourself with decency. Please wait outside."

"Thank you, darling." But she landed just next to Bright.

Luna hiked a brow. "I said to leave."

Rarity brought down a wing, hugging Bright with it. "I won't go anywhere without him, dear. He's my familiar. We're a team. If he did wrong, I accept punishment for not handling him properly." She fixed Bright with a meaningful look. "If I have to discipline him, then I will."

Luna huffed. "To see that this sort of mistake does not repeat, you are all hereby banned from taking missions without full authorization and company." She curled a hoof at herself, wings flaring wide. "I will accompany you. We will see these things are done properly. That one." She pointed to Bright. "Is a bit of a wild card. I'll be keeping an extra eye on you."

Bright's rabbity ears had pinned back under Luna's pointed scrutiny, but he nodded contritely. "You got it, boss. I knew I got too amped up back there and messed things up. Shoulda listened better."

He glanced between Sweetie and Rarity, newfound comrades linked by punishment and fate. "But hey, least we're all in this together now, right?"

Sweetie Drops cleared her throat officiously. "Ahem, yes, well - marked improvement in conduct would be imperative going forth. We all represent Princess Luna's direct authority now." She cast a wry smirk in Rarity's direction. "Do restrain your familiar's impulsiveness, Lady Rarity. I support the licensed harassment if required."

Rarity gasped in faux indignation. "Such cheek, but the dear heart knows I harbor only affectionate intentions for him."

"Yeah, yeah..." Bright wriggled, ticklish under Rarity's wing-tickles. "So what'll our first real mission be with you along too, Luna? More big magic things messing up nature?"

Luna looked outward thoughtfully as the moon began its languid ascent behind her, casting lunar radiance over the pony city. "Darkness nurtures all things in balance, though that harmony bears watching..."

She turned back, eyes glinting. "Ever are there cosmic forces beyond mortal ken. But my partners of the night display uncanny promise." Her smile returned. "With care and wisdom earned, we shall seek understanding above fear. Will you walk such challenging paths with me?"

Rarity smiled boldly back through her fangs. Sweetie Drops stood stalwart. And Bright bounced eager assent. They were all ready to begin their next assignment.

Author's Note

Hopefully lessons were learned... It's time for a new assignment!

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10 - This is the Song That Never Ends

Bright bounced forward at the tired fiddler. "Hey, so... When do you get a break?"

"A break?" Lemon paused just long enough to curl a hoof to her chin and abort the motion, resuming her song. "When the song's over! When the dance is over." She huffed as if that was very obvious. "Until then, no breaks. They didn't hire me to sleep on the job."

Luna smiled thinly. "Familiar, I like the route you have found. Lemon Lime, I received word from the mayor."

Lemon blinked at that. "What, really? What'd she say?! Is she liking the music?" She curled backwards, playing her instrument in the strange angle fiercely. "I hope she does!"

Rarity tittered gently. "Of course, dear. She's been nothing but compliments about it."

Sweetie stepped in, joining the cause. "But! She wants a ten minute break. Something about some law? I didn't catch the specifics."

Lemon's fiddling intensified as she shook her head in confusion. "A law requiring breaks? Never heard of such a thing..." Her eyes narrowed, staring past the gathering to someone unseen. She nodded firmly as if listening.

"Really? Well the mayor makes the rules right?" Lemon sighed then flashed a strained smile. "Very well folks! Let me just wrap up this last repetitive verse and I can pause things briefly!"

The eerie second fiddle strains seemed to waver as Lemon prepared to cease playing at last. But just as the notes trailed off, a shudder passed through Lemon and the bow jerked back to the strings for another repetition of the endless refrain.

"I'm sorry - I tried! But I can't stop, something just won't let me rest!" Lemon cried desperately. Around her the unwilling dancers echoed her visible pain at the ongoing compulsion against their will or strength.

Rarity trotted quickly to Lemon's side, attempting to steady the shaking earth pony as her hooves threatened to give way. "This dreadful curse cares not for laws or lives my dear." With a glowing horn, she cast her senses elsehwere. "There is magic at work, but you knew that. She isn't the center."

Sweetie met Luna's gaze grimly. Both turned as once to Bright. Sweetie spoke up first, "You had a good idea. Got another hiding in there? What did you see?"

Bright nodded along with the tune of the song. "What? Oh. Well, she said she could stop anytime, but like any addict, she found out she was wrong." Bright shimmied with a thump of his thick tail. "It's not a bad song, really..."

Rarity shoved against Bright. "Darling, focus. This is certainly not the time to be dancing, all things considered."

"Yeah, right." Bright shook himself awake, resisting the urge to join the dance for the moment. "So something is controlling her." He waved at Lemon Lime. "So we have to find that if we want to stop this."

Luna looked to Rarity. "Did you detect anything?"

Rarity shook her head, grimacing in vexation. “Regrettably not at present, Princess. All signs indicate no direct hex or binding forcing our violinist virtuoso’s endless performance."

She waved a frustrated hoof at the nearby throng of ponies locked eternally mid-step or rhythmic prance. "Yet clearly some diabolical influence holds all these unfortunate souls entranced!" Her eyes narrowed, fangs briefly flashing with anger before she reined back her simmering vampiric temper.

Rarity's horn glowed as she concentrated, expanding her empathic senses to their metaphysical limits in hopes of discerning the source of such relentless turmoil and denied rest.

There! Like the faintest twisting shadow out of sync with those swaying like zombies below, a web of strange and foreboding energy seemed to leech life and choice from the gathered crowd towards some central anchor beyond immediate view.

Rarity hastened back down to the group, stumbling slightly with fatigue as the extensive sensor sweep drained precious reserves. She urgently waved a hoof back along the main village thoroughfare winding towards central square.

"The curse originates just ahead where residue darkens most intensely!" Rarity cried. "Something or someone is channeling the stolen vitality to feed vile magics - we must stop this puppeteer of wayward wills swiftly lest bodies break before their minds!"

She slumped against Bright. "Let them handle that... I am drained, and you are the cure for that, dear."

"I am?" But the smoldering look she was giving him seemed clear enough. "Oh. Um, not here though?"

"No, not here." She coiled about him, tossing him up onto her back for transport. "Be back in a jiff. Good luck!"

Luna shook her head at the departing two. "Well, that leaves us then. Come, Sweetie Drops. We can take care of this ourselves, hm?"

"At your command." Sweetie started ahead, weaving through the thronging crowd of forced dancing ponies. "At least we have a direction."

"At least that." Luna floated one pony up, still dancing, and set them off her path to march past them. "I can only hope we find what we seek."

They advanced past the lights and songs of the town, starting out into the dim light of the countryside where only the moon above cast dim light over the scene. Luna sighed as she stepped over a large rock. "The moon is normallly so comforting... But I wouldn't mind mine sister's sun right now, considering we wish to see clearly."

Sweetie grimaced slightly as they ventured beyond Trottingham's village borders, the comforting torch-lit lanes giving way to darker rural wilderness. Her eyes strained against the umbral landscape as ominous rustling echoed from the brush.

"I suppose your lunar domain offers ideal cover for deceitful miscreants to scheme unseen..." she remarked, peering warily about for signs of trouble. "Though even my training cannot see through pure darkness, and this is pretty close."

Sweetie winced as she stumbled over a half-buried root, just distinguishable as a deeper twist of gloom. She glanced over at Luna trotting gracefully ahead like dark waters parting before her. "Mind if I follow you? Your night vision should let me avoid making more of a mess for myself."

Trailing in the Princess's footsteps, Sweetie strained her senses seeking tell-tale threads of the curse residue Rarity had detected amidst this abyssal expanse. She itched to light her torch but dared not draw dangerous attention until Luna permitted.

The night seemed to press oppressively from all sides, no trace of wholesome nocturnal sounds beyond the orchestrated mania fading behind them. "No owl's hoot nor cricket chirps to reflect peaceful slumber enveloping nature's children in your domain..." Sweetie noted uneasily. "Just this unnerving silence..."

Only Luna's comforting solidity beside her kept Sweetie's imagination from spiraling towards half-remembered fears once dwelling in external darkened spaces - now given fresh substance in alien sounds restrained just beyond sight's reach.

Luna suddenly clicked her tongue against her teeth. "I have it."

"You do?" Sweetie moved up to Luna's side. "What?"

"The answer." She pointed up at her moon and casually shoved it to the left, then the right. "It's hiding... There." She released the moon back to its normal path and started in a new direction with a triumphant smile.

Sweetie followed behing, blinking with amazement. "Can you tell me what you just did? Besides scaring a lot of ponies, moving the moon like that..."

"They will recover." Luna shook her head as she hopped over an almost crumbled fence. "The moon's light was avoiding something. Moving it let me get a peek. What we seek is this way, I'm certain of it."

"Ah, clever!" Sweetie smiled with fresh admiration at Luna’s ingenious ploy, using Selene’s radiance itself to expose unnatural avoidance. She trotted briskly in the wake of Night’s sovereign mistress.

“Exploiting hostile hubris, believing darkness impenetrable to their eyes alone...” Sweetie mused aloud. “Very clever. It's nice to have you along, ma'am.” Her own confidence swelled, striding with mythic titans she had only ever read about. This must be how Rainbow Dash felt in the company of daring heroes!

Sweetie nearly crashed headlong into Luna’s abruptly halted rump. Rubbing her sore nose, she followed the Princess’s fixed gaze towards an eerie yet unremarkable meadow yawning ahead through a gash in forest trees - silent and still as held breath.

Suddenly, a red-eyed raven screamed forth from the void, a tattered shroud clinging to its ragged form. The wraith-like carrion bird circled the meadow thrice widdershins, stark wings occluding the moon’s stolen radiance. Sweetie shuddered as each rotation drew more frantic fiddling strains echoing spectral from the darkness beyond.

Luna held out a staying hoof as Sweetie reflexively reached for a weapon, attention rapt upon the meadow where cloth and raven alike dissolved as sinking mist. From what seemed to be a misty unmarked grave, blood-drenched roses sprouted in lurid time-lapse, thorns glinting with stolen life not their own. The flowers’ crimson contours betrayed a tell-tale pony silhouette reclining at the epicenter...one whose hoof now rasped a ghostly bow across phantom strings.

“By my fallen feathers...” Luna whispered, pupils contracting. “Dire legends walk this eve! Ready thyself, brave companion! Our quarry at last reveals its thorn-strewn face...”

Sweetie took a strong step forward. "Not the first supernatural jerk I've faced. Identify yourself. This is your first and last chance."

"Rude." The pony raised a goblet of wine, balancing against their hoof as if stuck there somehow. "I've gone through all this effort to hold a party, and you come promising violence?"

Luna waved Sweetie back. "We do no such thing. Forgive her. She is tense. I would ask your name, if thou would provide it?"

The figure chuckled darkly, like the calls of the still circling corvid. "I am the drunken dancer. I am the endless reveler. Come, mistress of the night." He sloshed the goblet towards her. "I rather enjoyed that little trick. We are kindred spirits, most powerful when the sun is away. Come! We shall dance and forget the worries of the day."

Intrigued yet troubled by this provocative new player's cryptic insinuations, Luna replies carefully...

"Kindred thou namest us, yet mine heart recoils sensing the anguish woven through thy endless revels..." She gestures back towards the village where the unrelenting music echoes. "What righteous cause empowers thee to twist free will unto breaking?"

The shadowy roan pony swirls his blood-hued wine, grinning with too many teeth. "A fine question from she who wore vengeance as a crown, o Ruler Reborn."

He leans forward conspiratorially though none draw near his briar-bound domain. "I too merely teach the fleeting folly of frivolous festivity without end. Soon even the thrill palls...as you yourself discovered."

The specter's smile widens as he offers his thorn-lined goblet in mocking toast. "To sacred wisdom learned through the suffering of fools who fancy themselves our betters." He swallows the contents in one harsh gulp.

"Now...let us dance!" The violin strains intensify cacophonously. Thorns erupt violently outward, seeking to entangle the interlopers and draw them into the swirling garden gone mad. The pony's hollow laughter rings out, goading them to embrace the cursed melody...

Luna recoiled from one thorny vine just to find another coming from the other side. The two were soon performing a dance of their own, desperately trying to avoid the ensnaring vines that came from all sides with deadly gleaming thorns glistening in the above moon's light.

The figure howled with delight, drinking deep from his goblet, despite its thorns. "Yes! Now, we can feel it. The pain, the rapture... Dance," he bade them, moving himself in a more melancholy motion. No thorns troubled him, but he seemed to harbor pain all on his own. "When joy is denied us, to dance with a forced smile is all we have left. It is all we will ever have left, dear night goddess."

Sweetie drived forward, sliding on her knees under grasping tendrils. She bounded to her hooves before the figure. "Enough! You are under arrest! Anything you say can and will be used against you, repeatedly, if I have any say in it."

Author's Note

Hey, look, our spooky star. What do you make of them?

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11 - Breakdancing

Sweetie flashed her badge dangerously at the supernatural threat. "Surrender!"

"And if I'd rather not?" He spilled some wine in the grand wave of his hoof. "Oh dear, look what you've made me do." His lower jaw dislocated into a jeering mockery of an expression. "I do hate wasting good spirits. I'll just have to get some replacements."

With a thrust of his hooves, ghostly figures rose all around him. "Good spirits for everyone," he shouted as the images surged forward, knocking Sweetie back in a wave of spectral fury. "Drink up. Drink deep. This is a night for celebration, to remember, to forget. Drink until there's no more room, and drink a little more."

As sinister spirit revenants swirled forth heeding their profane master's call, Sweetie swiftly spun out detonation vials from her bandolier. The blessed silver-nitrate mists burned swirling holes through the phantasmal ranks even as more arose to replace them.

"We'll see who drinks last when I bottle your own essence, specter!" Sweetie growled through clenched teeth. Her head rang from the earlier blow but she stood her ground. This monster had to fall tonight lest the dawn see more innocents dancing themselves direly towards death's door under his machinations.

Glancing over her shoulder through the melee, Sweetie spied Luna struggling to shield them both from the grasping briars still hungering to drag them into the thorn-laced revelry. Time for a new angle before they were both overwhelmed through attrition...

Firing another volley of anti-undead vials skyward to afford scant breathing room, Sweetie called loudly over the orchestral din, "Luna! This bog reeks of sacrificial death magic - likely his anchor binding him nightly to renew torment! We must consecrate whatever fetid relic sustains this creature come dawn!"

She could practically taste iron in the air as more ghastly poltergeists pressed the attack. But a glimpse of fierce resolution in Luna's eyes heartened Sweetie's spirit for the confrontation ahead.

Luna brought her wings down in a powerful flap, dodging the grasping vines and rising above them. The act left Sweetie to defend herself, but it gave Luna the vantage she desired. "A relic, A relic..."

Sweetie barely parried a thorny vine, hissing in pain as it cut into her, leaving fine lines. "I don't like this," she understated, pulling out a fresh vial. "Let's see how you do with some weed--Ow!" Another vine lashed her hoof, making the bottle fly and shatter. Its contents spilled out and the vines near it screamed in torment, withering rapidly away.

Sweetie winced at the stinging lacerations but defiance blazed within as Luna took swift advantage of the brief respite afforded. Scanning desperately about the perimeter of flailing vines and raucous undead, Sweetie sought some profane artifact amidst the cursed bog anchoring their adversary beyond death's liberation.

There! Half obscured within the mud rested a bleached pony skull, vines threaded through the sockets like macabre marionette strings. The bone appeared carved intricately with runes no doubt signifying vile purpose. As Sweetie watched, the pony specter gestured and another enthralled village dancer collapsed sightlessly nearby...

"The skull, Luna!" Sweetie cried, ducking a brutish ghost's wild swing. "Destroy it and his binds likely shatter!" She raced headlong between the briars, boots spraying consecrated oil to clear a smoldering path as phantom minions howled outrage.

Sweetie and Luna both zoomed for it, hooves outstretched for that grisly skull.

"No." The spectre clapped his hooves, spilling his drink as a small gazebo of crystal rose up defensively around the skull. "I think not. As if I'd surrender so easily. No, the dance will continue until we're pleased." He took a deep drink. "Which will be never. I hope you're ready."

Luna landed on top of the gazebo. "As if this can stop us." She stomped around the edge to find a bubble keeping her out. "What sorcery?!"

"Yes, sorcery." The spectre nodded with a matter-of-fact look. "No creature of the day can get through that, and you still count, little pony."

"But I don't!"

"We don't!" Rarity and Bright came flying in out of the darkness, wry smiles on their faces and body tense with readiness to battle.

The bedraggled specter hissed in outrage through jagged teeth as the bat-winged vampiric duo made their unexpected grand entrance swooping with fangs and daggers bared towards his protected fetish anchor.

"You night-kissed traitors dare defy my domain?!" He loosed a bolt of virulent violet energy towards the interlopers, fury creasing his insubstantial features. "I shall drain you hollow!"

Rarity banked sharply, the necrotic blast missing her by inches. "You'll forgive my rudeness of interrupting your little soiree, darling--" Her magic deflected a hurled rose heavy with blood. "But we simply couldn't resist joining in once the dance got interesting!"

The skeletal ritual focus lay directly below, beckoning. Rarity's horn blazed, shielding Bright as he tucked into a ball, rolling with impossible velocity towards the crystal dome. He struck it fiercely, his compact frame reinforced by eldritch energies.

The barrier shuddered but held firm. Rarity cried out as a vicious thorn snapper her past defenses, gouging deeply. Vitae trickled as she wheeled away hissing. "Plan B then!" Through their shared bond Bright felt her agony and desperate resolve.

Rarity lit up once more as Bright bounced higher, beginning a ricocheting barrage smashing relentlessly against the mystic shield while she intensified her searing magic.

Luna laughed with victory. "Yes, you are weakening it." She stomped viciously at the bubble. It wasn't a delicate solution, but when cleverness failed, brute force was a valid fall-back open. "Burst this fell bubble!"

"On... it!" Bright crashed into it, digging his claws and hissing as it crackled and sizzled under him. With a crash, it shattered like broken glass, allowing him to fall past it. "Score! Grab it!"

Sweetie jumped over a tendril, responding with a fresh vial of weed killer. "One moment..."

But as Sweetie flung wide the vial to exorcise their tormentor's tainted totem, a twisted vine lashed out suddenly, sending the flask ricocheting off-course...

Towards the bazerkly-bouncing Bright mid-pounce...

Rarity screamed in wordless warning but too late, the tumbling vial struck Bright directly, noxious goo completely blinding him. He careened wildly off balance through the narrow crystal maze concealing the focal fetish before crashing painfully into a supporting spire. The entire structure groaned as cracks splintered...

“Bright! His condition—the vision from when transformed..." Rarity gasped in dismay. "Spiritbane alchemics are lethally toxic!” Her partner lay writhing and gasping alarmingly within the dissolving shelter. Every parental instinct flared to life in Rarity's breast. That good soul who befriended a monster would not perish from her weakness!

The vampony dove heedlessly forward just as the failing spire fully collapsed...shielding Bright's seizing body with her own as lethal sharps rained down. Agony blossomed but she only curled tighter even as the specter's triumphant cackling redoubled.

"We must...destroy...relic..." Rarity grimaced against cascading rubble and leaking vitae. The carved skull peered just meters away, defiance piercing her through the pain.

Luna's hoof came down with a great thud as her magic grabbed the skull. "We are a team," she stated firmly, turning to glare at the spectre. "And you, are defeated."

With a bright silvery flash of her magic, she crushed the skull into so much powder, blowing away on the wind. The vines withered almost instantly.

The spectre fell to their knees. "It's not fair..." They scuffled at the ground, voice soft. "Not fair... I just wanted..." They blew away just like the vines. In the distance, the music stopped. The spell had been broken.

Luna whirled on Rarity. "Get your familiar to safety. That is your command."

"Gladly." Rarity took flight, hugging Bright close as she fled into the darkness, tears dotting the ground as she went.

Rarity choked back hot tears as she soared desperately under Luna’s command, the worst of injuries concealed against her breast. So swift, so sudden...yet failure stabbed all the same that her overconfidence, her impulsiveness exposed gentle Bright to such suffering. Never again could she dismiss the call to temper boldness with wisdom...

The meadow’s malevolent miasma lightened just barely enough through the specter’s banishment to navigate back westward toward Trottingham’s outskirts. Exhaustion and enervation dragged at every wingbeat but maternal fear for her charge kept leaden limbs in motion. Surely the village housed an apothecary or nurse still...

Spying the familiar torch-lit lanes at last, Rarity pushed her strained vampire physique to its limits, touching down with echoing clatter on the cobblestones bordering a modest thatch-roofed hut. Desperate pounding stirred an aging bespectacled mare who thankfully showed no fear towards midnight callers in distress.

As the matronly pony examined poor convulsing Bright, Rarity held back little whimpers of worry through her own lingering abrasions and oozing bite. Only once his condition stabilized following tense minutes of poultices, tinctures and prayer did the anxious vampony finally collapse into fitful sleep against his cot-side...

Sweetie let out a ragged breath, wiping herself clean of vine bits and her own. "That was a mess."

"But we succeeded." Luna leaned in closer. "Are you alright? Rarity is seeing to Bright. Consider me available for your pains. If you need a lift to town, I will gladly lend it."

Sweetie smiled gently at that. "Nice of you to offer, but my legs still work." She doublechecked her bottles. "Let's get back and make sure everything's alright with those ponies."

Victorious, if tired and pained, they staggered back into town. There, they found ponies that looked even more fatigued. Thankfully, they were slumped and panting instead of dancing against their wills.

Even Lemon Lime was crashed over on her side, heaving for breath and not touching her instrument. She spotted them coming down the road. "Hello there... I'd stand up, but... Can't."

Sweetie smirked at that. "Entirely understandable. You've all done your part. Get some rest."

"Don't have to tell me that twice..." Lemon forced herself to sit up properly. "Sleep sounds so good right now."

Back in the triage, when azure eyes fluttered open once more, low candle light illuminated concerned faces ringing the a broad bed where Rarity found herself now nestled alongside a softly dozing Bright.

Bright murmured softly in his sleep, but did not stir.

Luna and Sweetie entered, questions dying when they saw what was happening.

The doctor approached with a nod. "Are you with them?"

"I am." Luna nodded to the doctor. "How is he?" She pointed to the sleeping rabbit. "Methinks it poison, if that assists."

The village doctor smiled gently checking on the slumbering duo. “Fortune shines - your swift actions spared true tragedy here. The worst has safely passed.”

She drew Luna and Sweetie Drops aside as Rarity blinks fully awake. “Your friends will make full recovery given proper rest. The young buck did ingest trace spiritbane in the heroics...” She patted Luna’s shoulder. “But you recalled the curative augmentations of his new biology. His unique heritage has rendered him resilient where another would have direly suffered my own failure.”

The doctor fixed Luna with a look of profound gratitude. “Instead your subject will walk home on the morrow, a bit queasy at worst. We are all in your debt for such wisdom...and mercy.” She gazed fondly over where Rarity nestled protectively alongside the snoring Bright.

“You all weathered dire confrontation so our village might see the dawn. Please - be at ease awhile. Allow my humble home to shelter weary hearts and bodies until strength returns enough to journey back.”

She smiled wryly. “I apologize if the linens are rough but prithee make yourselves comfortable here. My hospitality is yours until you all are restored enough to rejoin Princess Celestia’s light.”

Rarity yawned delicately, carefully settling Bright’s head in her lap. Luna and Sweetie joined at bedside keeping quiet vigil as Trottingham’s now freed folk began recovering outside from their unwitting ordeal. Hidden behind quaint walls, six souls in kind took comfort against the shadows without.

Luna chuckled softly. "It was by chance that I brought the right vial..."

Sometimes, luck was enough.

Author's Note

And, end assignment. Victory!

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12 - Crunching Numbers

The spectacled stallion slid the stack of papers forward. "Here are your own reports. Your expenses as well as results."

Luna forced a smile. "Quite winning, are they not?"

Raven Inkwell arched a brow and coughed into a hoof. "Quite telling, at least."

Luna's smile faded. "There are only a hoof-ful of agents. They can't be costing Equestria too terribly much."

Raven's horn glowed, pulling out a specific paper to hold up. "Their payroll is not the issue, ma'am."

The number cruncher of a pony nodded towards the paper. "The damages they cause have to be covered by the throne. We can't discount that part of the expenses."

Luna slumped. "What of our latest venture? I was extra careful. Were we not judicious in our approach?"

Raven put the paper down and brought her hooves together. "Ma'am, I'll be honest. That one wasn't... awful. But it's only one. Having a good assignment and a terrible one is not a favorable balance."

Luna clopped. "Getting Rarity had very little expenses!"

Raven nodded slowly. "True... True. But the numbers don't lie on the total." She and the number cruncher pointed in unison to where those deadly numbers rested, clear in black and white, and mostly red. "You must bring the budget into order or your sister will begin... insisting."

Luna's ears pinned back as the fiscal facts glared unambiguously before her. How could she have let zeal for her vision obscure such pedestrian realities? The path to harmony brought costs as well as hope...wise leadership accounted for both.

"You speak truly, fair Raven." Luna inclined her head respectfully. "Mine agents have wrought harm 'neath blindness of duty's tunnel vision. Repair now falls to We who set sparse limits upon power lent."

She met the accountant's shrewd but not unkind gaze. "I shall review compensation routes for innocents impacted by overreach. And redouble effort instilling mindful restraint in forces under moon's guidance."

Raven smiled gently, sensing Luna's earnest intent to steer her experiment back on course financially and ethically. "That resolves the ledgers well enough for today. Just keep aiming to balance the budget as your team balances their approach."

Luna returned the smile with bittersweet optimism. "Ever does wisdom lag pursuit at first, yet in time may lead from ahead as compass truer than impatient pace. My thanks for applying numbers' neutral light revealing overconfidence in mine own radiance alone."

With gracious departure, Luna contemplated misadventures past and future. Costs had creeped concealed...now budgetary balance must inform their works as harmony's scale weighed all prices paid. Some hard choices loomed, but growth emerged embracing accountability. These early foal steps would steady in time.

Raven glanced across at the other partner in the room, the number cruncher. "I admit, it's amusing when she falls to old ponish. That's when you know she's become nervous."

The number cruncher shuffled the papers back together with his hooves. "I don't talk to her often, ma'am, but that was curious."

Raven waved it away. "It also tells us she's paying attention. Hopefully, things will improve from here." She shared a high-hoof with her fellow civil servant and both went about their business elsewhere in the castle.

The door to their room slammed open, Luna stepping inside. The agents rushed to salute and stand properly. "At ease," she ordered, looking them over. "I have good news, and poor."

Bright raised a hand. "Good news first!"

"As you wish." She smiled at the recently-rabbited agent. "The good news is that our expenses on the last mission are closer to where we want them to be. Being careful paid off." She pointed to each in turn. "You followed the plans and instructions and you all worked in a harmonious team. I think... Missing even a single one of you might have resulted in failure. I'm proud of you all."

Rarity tittered, hoof to her snout. "Darling, I adore your praise, but that was the good news. What's the bad?"

Luna's expression sobered, her celestial mane dimming subtly. "The bad news pertains to past precedent, not present improvements. Due in large part to earlier...exuberance, our cumulative operating expenses have attracted concern from on high."

She began slowly pacing as the agents shared uneasy glances. Luna hesitated before continuing. "Let us say Celestia grows uneasy at trophies won but costs unfurling beyond means afforded. Too many ponies had to be mobilized, too great anguish wreaked upon the blameless."

Luna halted, looking up gravely. "In simplest terms mine friends, we faced a budget hearing where I must account for damages dealt beneath my banner thus far...and propose wiser ways henceforth."

Her gaze took in their stricken faces. She offered a wan smile. "Fear not overmuch for now. I believe we shall satisfy all inquiries and in time verify this force a worthy investment once discipline steadies errant hooves."

The smile faded. "But I cannot shield you from repercussions in perpetuity. Nor should I, if we profess fighting for harmony. Know that words and wisdom must temper deeds moving forward lest this undertaking end abruptly."

Luna met each set of eyes in turn. "The way ahead may challenge comforts assumed. But together I believe we shall overcome through open hearts and minds. What say you brave agents?"

Sweetie nodded in a smooth and simple motion. "Got it. Think before acting. I apologize." She dipped low. "It is largely my fault that we're in the red, and I accept that. If I hadn't urged Bright on..."

Bright bounced in place with a scowl. "Hey! Don't do that! I'm a free agent. I could have... not... done that, but I did. That was my choice." He saluted at Luna sharply. "I'll be more careful, honest."

Rarity spread a wing she hadn't had a moment ago, curling it around Bright. "I'll keep an eye on my dearest familiar, darling. No more... mistakes like that. Is there any other news?"

Luna let out a soft sigh. "No... save that you have time off." All three of them perked at that. "You've completed three assignments almost back to back, at great personal risk. You deserve some time to yourself." She smiled gently. "I will leave it to your vote. Would you care to spend it together, or shall we go our different ways?"

She winked consiprationally. "Together, I can put this in as a team-building action..."

Bright snapped his fingers, ending with his hands together. "I'm with ya! Write off a lot of it. Clever! Best Princess. I don't hate any of you, so a vacay with good ponies sounds good to me."

Rarity's eyes shone brightly. "Why darling, a vacation together sounds simply divine! We've bonded well enough trouncing troglodytes, but I for one would relish further chances strengthening camaraderie outside life-or-death scenarios."

She clasped her hooves enthusiastically. "Oh imagine the possibilities! Lounging seaside, strolling foreign boulevards under moonlight, museum hopping through history's tapestries and regalia..."

A far-off look overtook the fancy vampony as her imagination took wing. "The wonders we'll experience, the memories we'll share untethered awhile from harsh urgency of investigations..."

Sweetie Drops cleared her throat, reining Rarity's enthusiasm back down to earth. "Yes, well, maintaining operational integrity should still factor somewhat into recreational planning..." She cast a wry grin Luna's direction nonetheless.

"But taking adventures together with lighter spirits could indeed improve instinctual coordination. And if Her Highness sees fit to approve such, far be it from me to refuse her wisdom."

Sweetie met the eager gazes of her two comrades - unlikely cohorts fate had forged into steadfast friends against the shadows. "Very well! A sojourn it shall be!"

Luna smiled affectionately as her Night Guard began hashing out exuberant vacation possibilities, their bonds evident in every enthusiastic exchange. Hard roads lay ahead, but with such spirits aligning, they would walk any path together unfazed. She could ask for no finer company. These precious seeds would grow strong roots indeed.

"I will see to the paperwork involved." She rolled her eyes at that. "I am your leader, so that falls on me." She glanced between them. "Unless one of you is good at beuracracy?" There was silence in the room. "I could hope." Luna turned, striding from the room with a sigh.

Bright hopped onto the table with a grin. "This sounds super fun. Except I have no idea where to go... I don't know the right spots in Equestria." Though a fan of the show, he lacked the specifics. He hadn't lived there, until he did. "Suggestions?"

Rarity tickled Bright, driving him to giggles with brushes of her wing. "I can think of a few places I'd prefer, close to cultural spots of interest."

With a glowing horn, she drew out a map of Equestria and slapped it down next to Bright. "Here, here... oooo, here would be lovely." The spots she selected glowed on the paper.

Sweetie leaned in to have a look at them. "That one." She pointed to one. "Right on the beach, good for working out."

"Darling..." Rarity mused the spot. "Certainly. That would work. Glad we're on the same page then, hm? Now, really, I have to get in fashion." She trailed off, looking at Bright. "Forget me. I'm at least passable. You're not wearing anything. You haven't since shortly after becoming whatever you are, dear."

Bright looked down over his furry form. The plush fur concealed most objectionable bits, and nobody had complained about it thus far.

"Huh...you know I kinda forgot about clothes entirely after becoming all furry." He grinned sheepishly, idly scratching an ear with his hind leg. "Don't really have the same modesty hangups I did before, y'know?"

Rarity nodded sagely. "Perfectly understandable, darling - your instincts now follow the same as most ponies." She tapped her chin appraisingly with one hoof. "However a degree of style still separates soulful beings from mundane beasts..."

Her horn flashed as she eagerly wrapped a taking tape around Bright's compact form. "Now then, let Auntie Rarity take some quick measurements and I shall set to designing an immaculate travel wardrobe befitting a civilized creature of your noble stature!"

Sweetie Drops chuckled under her breath. "Think you can restrain some of the fru-fru accessorizing? Don't want to weigh down our dynamic fluffball here with heavy couture..." Her teasing grin took any sting from the words.

Rarity simply huffed in mock offense. "My dear, I'll have you know fashion needn't impede function! Why properly chosen fabrics breathe freely as a second skin while still dazzling admiring eyes."

As she withdrew the tape and began eagerly skritching design ideas, Rarity cooed reassuringly to Bright. "Just you wait and see what wonders Auntie Rarity whips up, no compromise required. You'll be the most enviably outfitted whatever-you-are from Manehattan to Los Pegasus!"

Rarity turned to Sweetie with a worrying smile. "Now, about you..."

Sweetie held up both her forehooves. "Hold up! I have clothes. My fashion is filled."

"I doubt that." Rarity rolled her eyes. "Let me get a few measurements for you. A few short ones, dear, and we can get you looking your best for our little trip."

Sweetie grunted, but surrendered with a sigh. "Fine, but... I need it to be flexible, and breathing. I need to be able to run a marathon in it!"

Rarity clopped her hooves with a radiant smile. "Ooo, I like it when a client knows what they need and takes the time to express it. I'll have your suit done in no time." She glanced to the door. "And I'll keep this off the books. Poor Luna's harried enough with those numbers."

Rarity's horn shimmered as she gathered a floating coterie of various measuring implements. "Now then Sweetie, let us begin sculpting a style befitting one of Equestria's shadow guardians..."

As the tape whizzed animatedly around the obediently posing Sweetie, Rarity nodded approvingly. "Yes yes, quite the sturdy foundation we have to work with here! Toned and full-figured yet still retaining feminine mystique..."

She lit a candle with a wink, casting flickering mood lighting as her creative vision coalesced. "Sleek midnight fabrics hugging your curves juuust right in moonlight's caress... fall away panels discretely revealing a hint of flank..."

Rarity fanned herself, eyes dancing. "Understated armorweave overlain with regal billowing silks that shimmer and float ethereally as you prowl..."

Sweetie blushed at the evolving vivid portrait but held still as the measuring continued. "As, um, enchanting as all that sounds, stealth remains my, ah, primary concern..." Had the candlelight grown sultry or was it just warm in here? "So, maybe marry eye-catching with, y'know...the opposite?"

"But of course!" Rarity drew the various implements back with a triumphant flourish. "Discretion wedded to distinction defines my vision for you here!"

She floated in close, wisps of magic flowing over Sweetie's frame. "Shadow's allure beckons but never brazenly. A degree of mystique sets minds racing more than outright spectacle." Rarity smiled with a wink for just Sweetie. "Trust me darling, the finest details oft deliver the keenest thrills..."

Her new creation already took shape within imagination's forge. Sweetie's ensemble would be her most exquisite integrative masterwork yet!

Author's Note

And we start... not an assignment. How is the episodic nature of the story working for you? Like it?

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13 - Beach Episode

Bright turned with wide awkward steps, looking himself over. "Interesting..."

Rarity nodded at her glittering familiar. "Fantastic is the word you're searching for."

"Yeah!" That he wasn't entirely sincere was not well hidden. "Rares, this isn't... I love it, but it's not really the look for a secret agent." He plucked at the audacious swimming attire she had made for him, sequins shining. "Is this even ready for swimming?"

"Oh, it is." Rarity nuzzled her colored familiar. "Quite ready. And, darling, it's made for that. I expect you to hit those waves and swim like an eager dolphin. You won't be wearing this on duty. I prepared a whole different wardrobe for that."

Bright nodded. "Oh, good, wait. Wardrobe? Not just a suit?"

"Heavens, no." Rarity waved that right away. "I won't have you looking slovenly. You'll have a different suit for every day of the week, at least. Dear, how you look reflects on me. I want you to look good. I want to look good. Everycreature wins here, hm?" She batted her lashes with a broad smile. "Now, are you ready for some fun in the sun?"

Bright's ears perked up as his initial hesitation faded before Rarity's infectious enthusiasm. "Well shoot, with killer duds like these, I'd better make a big splash out there and show 'em all off right!"

He struck a dramatic pose, his sequined suit glittering radiantly in the tropical sunlight flooding through the resort suite's windows. "Check it out - Bright by Rarity bout to set this beach on fire!"

Rarity giggled indulgently. "But do try not combust anything with that brimming confidence, darling. I know you'll dazzle admiring eyes enough without resorting to actual conflagration."

She grabbed a floppy sun hat and designer sunglasses in her magic. "Now let us be off to flaunt our finery and relax awhile free of peril or pressing investigations, hm?"

The vampony paused, smiling softly at her enthusiastic fuzzy benefactor. "And Bright? However much I gift you glam and glitter, never doubt you shine brightest from within, dear heart."

Rarity nuzzled him fondly before floating towards the door. "Come along then! Drinks with tiny umbrellas and pampering pedicures await!"

Bright bounced along eagerly in her wake, his bushy tail swishing with anticipation of sunny fun and games ahead. The resort sprawled vibrantly before them, other vacationers already dotting the beach and pools.

Sweetie had arranged their spot on the beach with a large flat blanket and an umbrella hanging overhead. She was enjoying none of that, far too occupied working on a grill on something that teased the senses in a good way. She was wearing a one-piece slender number that brought her fur flat, preparing her for water. "There you are. The first round of grilled veggies will be coming up shortly. Be prepared."

Luna, on the other hoof, was beneath that umbrella, arms draped over a small pillow. "There you are. Good to see you, Rarity, Bright. I was wondering if you'd gotten cold hooves, as they say."

"Perish the thought." Rarity went to join Luna, sinking onto the blanket next to her. "I am ready to enjoy a day!"

Bright's nose twitched eagerly as Sweetie's sizzling vegetables perfumed the air most agreeably. But another alluring scent soon distracted his keen rabbit senses - the irresistible aroma of...

"Donuts!" He suddenly pivoted, tiny paws skittering frantically across the sand towards the tantalizing treat tucked under a beachgoer's foreleg just upshore.

The surprised pink mare yelped as Bright's entire head disappeared into her beach tote scrounging for the saccharine snack within. "Hey, what in Equestria?!"

She glared at the brash interloper now munching her donut inches away without a care, crumbs speckling his fur. But her harsh admonishment died seeing only an overeager oddity not malice staring back. With a resigned sigh and discreet smile, she simply produced another donut from the bag.

"Go on then - but just one more, fuzzy! I only packed two..." The rabbity creature chirped gleefully, polishing off his prize before turning to bound eagerly back towards his party.

Rarity tsked in faux reproval as a sugar-dusted Bright rejoined them. "Oh dear, we simply must refine your etiquette around sampling strangers' comestibles..." She winked slyly. "But I trust your discerning palate found her offerings delectable?"

"You bet!" Bright licked stray glaze from his fingers, unabashed. "Can't go wrong with donuts on the beach! This vacay rocks!" And he cheerfully helped himself to Sweetie's freshly-grilled snacks without waiting for an answer.

Sweetie cocked a brow at the gorging Bright. "For having lost mass, your appetite sure wasn't harmed."

"Nope." With a complete lack of self-reflection, he grabbed a glazed carrot and chomped it in half. "Mmm, good job, Sweets! These are good!"

"Glad to hear that." Sweetie shook her head, carrying a cart over to slide in front of Luna and Rarity. "Here you are, girls. Enjoy these before Bright finishes off the whole grill and comes hunting."

Rarity waved at a pony. "Sir! Please, a moment of your time."

The stallion wandered closer. "Ma'am?"

"Yes, kindly, would you fetch me a drink?" She produced a glittering bit. "Preferably a colorful number, with a little umbrella in it? You know the sort!"

The stallion chuckled and tipped his wide hat. "Sure thing, miss. Be right back." He trotted off across the sand.

Luna inclined her head. "I should have asked for one myself. You have a talent with getting help when you need it."

"Need is a strong word." Rarity sighed with a happy smile. "But I did want it. I'm feeling 'chill' and didn't want to ruin that walking over there over the hot sand."

Rarity smiled coyly as she reclined into the plush beach towel. "My secret, Your Highness, is simply understanding what certain gentleponies prioritize." She winked subtly towards the strapping enlisted server then returning with her fruit-garnished cocktail.

As Luna and Bright likewise placed drink orders, Sweetie finally joined the others beneath the colorful umbrella, stretching out with a satisfied sigh. Rarity waved the pony closer. "Take this for the trouble." She slipped a fresh bit in their grasp, along with a quick peck on the cheek.

The stallion had no complaints.

"I must say, while decisive action is my forte, even I can appreciate languid inaction's charms for a spell." She glanced sidelong at the vampony already being hoof-fed grapes by an attentive Bright. "I presume you savvy relaxation better than any, Rarity?"

Rarity giggled airily, sipping her ornate beverage. "Oh I hardly claim expertise lazing, darling...merely highly refined enthusiasm!" She sighed happily, gently batting Bright's paw away from another grape to leave him pouting.

"To answer sincerely, sweet company counts above all." She smiled softly at their little circle, so improbable yet somehow fated. "The trappings merely gild time together unhurried by harsher burdens. That we can relax as comrades now despite where paths began..."

Rarity lifted her glass in salute. "Savoring this glimpse of harmony - come what fell fortunes follow - makes every lovely libation sweeter, would you not agree?"

Bright looked around suspiciously. "So when does the beach explode, or some huge monster pops out of the ocean, ready to try devouring anything it happens to see?" Unable to feed Rarity, his mind raced onto other tracks. "This is too relaxed."

Luna grabbed Bright in her magic, petting down his head and back. "Relax... Today is a well-earned moment of respite, little one. Not every journey has to have some wicked beast in need of taming."

She snorted gently. "Besides, if one is foalish enough to appear, we're all here, ready to show them a thing or two."

Bright exhaled, settling as Luna's soothing pets worked their intimate magic. "Yeah yeah, you're right...guess beating scary stuff up so much got my head in fight mode too much..."

He smiled sheepishly. "Sorry 'bout being so twitchy...you princesses probably like, compel any old sea monsters to chill way out in the deep parts so everypony can just relax, huh?"

Luna chuckled indulgently. "In truth most myths of legendary leviathans lurking off coastlines prove fanciful yarns spun by salty mariners..." Her eyes briefly flashed with memory. "...though not ALL such tales quite stretch truth overmuch."

Rarity leaned in eagerly at the intriguing hint of hidden histories clearly awaiting tantalizing elaboration. But Luna simply resumed her languid repose, mischievous smile hinting she had long since mastered balancing vigilance with enjoying life’s gentler interludes.

Taking the cue, Rarity drew Bright into the shade beside her. "Quite so...this peace was hard-won and well-deserved. Enjoy the fruits of prior heroics!" She smiled slyly. "Now then darling, I believe you still owe Auntie a hooffull of pampering following that little unasked excursion..."

A head peeked up from the waves, gills at their neck and eyes trained on the land-dwellers, foalish in their relaxation as they were. "I see you." The creature looked around sharply at the call, just to recoil as Bright emerged like an eager dolphin, crashing into them.

Bright grabbed the mystery beast, only to stop a few swings in. "Wait, are you even a monster?"

"I am not." The pony-like thing pouted, one eye swollen from the attack. "Will you stop hitting me?"

"Um, sure..." Bright slid off her into the waters. "Sorry? You looked like a monster."

"Well so you do you." She waved her powerful dolphin-like tail beneath the waves. "--to me. And you actually attack things. That makes you way more of a monster than I am."

Bright's ears wilted, chastened by the unexpected aquatic creature's sobering rebuff.

"I...guess you got a point there..." he muttered, sinking lower towards the seabed, cowed and crestfallen. "Didn't mean nothing bad, just got overexcited I think..." His own monstrously-altered form glared accusingly back in warbled reflection.

"Not exactly normal myself..." He rubbed one arm with the other hand with a shamed laugh.

The pony paddled closer, her earlier reproval softening seeing transparent remorse. "Look, no real harm done...I think my pride got bruised more than anything." She extended an olive-branch fin. "I'm Malinda by the way, ambassador of Queen Sandy's city. Just getting some overland supplies when you cannonballed me!" She smirked good-naturedly.

Bright tentatively shook her fin, relief trickling back. "Name's Bright...I'm kinda new around here. Shouldn't have just gone and attacked and stuff though." His shoulders slumped but Malinda simply waved the matter away.

"Eh, no one's hurt so forget it. But maybe next time use those big ears and listen before leaping into the fray, yeah?" Bright flushed, properly abashed but thankful for mercy. "Now, you're not a water creature. Good swimming, by the way, but you're looking tired."

"A little." Bright was doing his best to keep float, but he was a fluffy land creature by any measure.

"Then let me help, and we can officially put this behind us." Malinda scooped Bright up in her arms and powerfully thrashed her tail, propelling her towards the land. She stopped when the ground was in reach, releasing Bright in the lapping water. "No closer for me. Me and dry don't get along."

"Darling, what friend have you made there?" Rarity, having braved the sands, was as close as one could be without getting wet. "Hello there! Thank you for fetching him, hm. Bright, you shouldn't be swimming so far away, really."

Bright splashed his way back towards shore, exhaustion readily apparent as each soggy bound grew more leaden. He managed a wan grin back in Malinda's direction nonetheless. "Thanks for the lift...and y'know, not holding a grudge over the dumb sneak attack thing..."

Malinda simply waved brightly, the very picture of easygoing forgiveness. "Hey forget it, stuff happens right? Enjoy the rest of your shore leave, lieutenant fuzzball!" With a flick of her powerful fluke she dove below the scintillating surface to resume her aquatic mission.

Rarity extended a concealing beach towel with her magic as Bright finally trudged from the lapping tideline, fur hanging in damp disarray. "Oh my dear boy, while I applaud aquatic adventuring, perhaps we ought reserve further exploits until I revise your sea-faring ensemble..."

She fussed over his bedraggled appearance before catching his wounded expression. Rarity softened, gently bumping her head to his with understanding smile. "There now, no harm nor foul. Even missteps may bloom insight yes?"

Guiding him back towards their colorful encampment, she added slyly. "Do take cheer! I'm certain our Princess guardian has already smoothed any diplomatic ruffles with yon oceanic ambassador..."

"Appreciate it, but you said I'd swim like a Dolphin." He put his hands on his hips.

"Oh, darling you did." Rarity inclined her head at the waves. "You darted away from us like a flash. It would seem speed is not the issue... But endurance..."

Author's Note

Wait, no interruptions to the beach episode? This is clearly a trap...

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14 - Give Me Twenty

"Have to fix that." Sweetie Drops put on some dark sunglasses and cleaned up her area. "I hope you're all ready, because Luna requested I keep my eyes out for something we could work on, and Bright gave it to me."

Rarity sat down. "What was that, darling? A true pity I didn't get to talk to that sea pony. They looked different from the other ones I'd seen." She rubbed at her neck where the new one had visible gills. "Fascinating, truly."

Bright hopped up on Rarity's back, hugging her, but eyes on Sweetie. "What's on your mind?"

"You." Sweetie turned from the cleaned grill, tossing the last of her mess where it belonged. "You need stamina. I say we all need stamina, considering our line of work. So we'll focus there."

Luna lifted an ear at those firm statements. "How do you propose we address that?" She lowered her hat a little. "It is quite warm today."

"Good." Sweetie clapped her hooves. "Up. All of you." She paced before them as they stood up, looking at her with some confusion. "Luna got permission for this as a training trip. Prepare for some of that training. If Equestria is footing this bill, we're giving Equestria something back for it, even if it's 'just' better prepared agents."

Bright waved a hand eagerly in the air.

Sweetie snorted. "I feel I will regret this, but, yes, Bright?"

Bright clapped his hands, balancing on his thick tail a moment. "Is this the volleyball part?! I call dibs on Rares' team."

Rarity giggled at the idea with a little blush.

Sweetie brought a hoof to her head. "It is not. A fine game, and maybe we'll get to it later. No, stamina. I want you to run to there." She pointed down the beach. "There's a water fountain down there, what luck. Get to the water fountain, hydrate, get to running back. Repeat that twenty times."

She flashed a smile at Luna. "I've been authorized by our favorite princess to offer a prize. Since this is an endurance match, and not a speed one, this won't go to the creature that does it fastest. It goes to the one that varies their speed the least, while still going faster than a walk."

Luna stretched out in grand motions. "Well, I will not be happy for a slow trot." She took off at a moderate one, sunhat bobbing on her head. "Come along."

Rarity grinned, pleased at Luna's sporting willingness to participate in Sweetie's impromptu training regimen despite princely privilege permitting otherwise. She offered a supportive hoof-bump to a nervous Bright. "Buck up darling! This exercise shan't seem so grim with thy beloved at thy side, hm?"

Without further ado she cantered gracefully off, trusting Bright to catch up alongside. Before long they matched the princess's brisk trot, though Rarity took care not to outpace her new hybrid companion. "Do set thine own comfortable stride dear - we shan't race Her Highness! Merely...keep apace lest she leave our sights, ah?"

The trio maintained disciplined pace, neither moving ahead nor falling behind. Rarity smiled privately, sensing the quiet camaraderie kindling. How far from those early misadventures blundering untested together! Though their course remained unclear, shared strides smoothened the rougher patches of doubt.

A fourth joined them, Sweetie going quickly to catch up, then slowing to match them. "If you all... keep even with each other, figuring out who to reward is going to get tricky."

Luna snorted gently at that. "Then, perhaps, if none of us falters..." She paused, reaching the fountain for the first time. A little drink was just the thing. It wasn't cold water, coming from that water fountain that was itself sunbaked, but it felt great anyway.

"Then we... share in our victories." Luna nodded to her agents and teammembers.

Bright was the one heaving the hardest, pumping his limbs as best he could. "No... fair... I'm the smallest." It was perhaps one of the first times he'd regarded his short stature as a negative. "Luna's awesome and tall... She has this."

"I have many things." She inclined an ear towards Bright. "But thou must continue. We all need to practice, if we are to rise to future challenges."

Rarity nodded encouragement even as her own legs continued pumping. "Her Highness speaks true - we each face limits unique as our gifts." Sweat glossed her coat as the tropical sun climbed its punishing arc. "But in unity...is compensation found!"

Struck by inspiration, Rarity stuck close to panting Bright's side. "Darling climb atop - let my reinforced constitution spare your shorter stride undue strain this once." A subtle shimmer rippled through her body, eldritch energies coalescing. "My sanguine vitality shall empower us both!"

Bright grinned with renewed hope clambering onto Rarity's back. His tiny fists gripped silken mane tightly as her vampiric vitality suffused through contact into his own flagging reserves - bridling the voracious fatigue steadily overtaking his smaller hybrid frame.

As one they surged forward reinvigorated, no longer struggling alone. Rarity's fangs flashed with effort but her breath flowed steadily despite puffing passenger. United thus, princess and protege alike demonstrated leadership's truth - empowering those in one's service such that all excel together.

Luna smiled softly at her subordinate's selfless initiative, having likewise looped a supportive wing beneath laboring Sweetie's barrel. "Well done Rarity...a queenly gift showing the way."

A sharp whistle made them all flinch and look over at Sweetie in surprise. She was glaring at them. "Down! You're not building stamina if you're getting free rides." She went so far as to swat Bright free from Rarity's back. "Get serious, and get running!"

"Yeah yeah..." Sullen, but not fighting, Bright struck the ground with his paws instead, running as best he could.

"Better." Sweetie stuck at his side. "You know, you don't have to set pace against Luna. Slow, if you want, but keep it smooth. This is about stamina, not speed."

"Stamina, not speed, right." Bright gulped even as he slowed a little, trying to find a comfortable rate.

Rarity slowed to match him. "I won't abandon you, darling. You know that."

"Did I mention you're best pony recently?" Bright nudged against her from the side. "Because it's true!"

Luna swelled with quiet pride as each agent took turns lifting Bright’s spirits when exhaustion mounted another circuit. Others may expect this odd group to fracture under duress. But true bonds had rooted through the happenstance that brought them together.

The barriers fading with shared effort heartened Luna. She knew hardship awaited over the horizon. But through camaraderie this makeshift family would meet each test as one.

Of that she held faith, trusting not her royal guidance but pony resilience itself to forge unity between differences. However the odds or opinion turn, these selfless souls gave Luna courage to continue the journey.

That and it had to work. It just had to. The entire team was her idea, hoof-picked by her. Her team just had to show its value... The image of Celestia, laughing at her from high on her throne...

Luna shuddered at the mental image and refocused on keeping her pace even. She was ahead of the others. Perhaps being larger had advantages at times. "Not a race," she reminded herself as she trotted. "How many times has it been?" She had long since lost track.

Sweetie glanced at her arm as if checking a watch, but she had none on. "We're thirteen in, seven to go! C'mon! You're doing great."

"Seven?!" Bright threw up his hands, coughing in a fit before he could get himself straight. "Man..."

"Dear familiar." Rarity leaned in. "I will give you a prize if you can keep going. Get to the end and you can ask any one thing of me, darling."

"Any... thing?" Bright's eyes ignited with a renewed flame. "I'm on it, Rares!"

Bright’s eyes ignited with renewed flame hearing Rarity’s enticing pledge of a personalized prize awaiting his success. "I'm on it, Rares!"

Yet determination alone couldn’t reverse creeping exhaustion dragging his much smaller body to its mortal limits. His pace slowed further, huge ears drooping wearily. He bit his lip anxiously - to fail Auntie’s challenge so close to the last lap!

Then inspiration struck! Bright’s thick tail shot out, looping itself tightly around Rarity’s hindleg as she trotted ahead before recoiling like a furry elastic cord. The improvised slingshot hurled him forward to ricochet skyward with a mighty conjured 'boing' of a sound.

"Last sprint, here I come!” Bright hurtled way out ahead propelled by makeshift bunny ballistics, forgetting fatigue for a few precious seconds of freefall elation...

...Before his flight path suddenly intersected Sweetie’s stern trajectory midair with a loud whump.

Groaning ponies collapsed in a tangled mess of sprawling limbs and spiraling stars. Luna trotted up hiding her smirk. “Ahh so the elemental power of surprise enters the physics equation! Shall we review impulse, momentum and force as well in our next rousing lecture, Sweetie?”

She winked discreetly before helping disentangle her moaning agents. No serious injuries it seemed, aside the usual bruises to egos.

Sweetie shoved Bright free. "What you get, trying to cheat. Paws, ground. Your tail can help you balance, not fling you around. Get moving!"

Bright scampered past Sweetie, lest he get yelled at more.

Sweetie went to Rarity's side. "You know, technically... He voided his right in your little wager."

Rarity smirked softly. "I'll keep that in mind if he asks for something I just don't want to give, dear. But, otherwise, I intend to reward his efforts."

Sweetie snorted in wry resignation. “Well, as ever you are in charge of your own bet...” She smirked just a bit. “But should his inevitable request for utter nonsense grow too exhausting, you have an easy out waiting for you.”

She gazed ahead where Bright happily orbited a patiently indulgent Luna, evidently fully recharged by anticipation of claiming his eagerly-awaited boon from doting Rarity. Sweetie chuckled to herself. “Whatever might he ask to merit such reckless glee...”

Rarity waved a dismissive hoof. “Oh, I’ve pampered that dear heart enough to anticipate his desires well. Like as not he’ll request being groomed in some silly luxury fashion.” She smiled softly with a knowing wink.

“But come what may, bringing such simple happiness earns all and more from me.” Her pace quickened subtly as they closed on the fountain for the final time. “Just a short gallop more and our fuzzy cadet shall savor sweet success yes?”

Rarity’s grin widened a bit more roguishly. “Do remind me later though should records show recent unexplained requisitions for, oh, bungee cords or some such adventure paraphernalia...”

Sweetie nearly tripped mid-canter, picturing the havoc an enriched Bright might lovingly unleash on headquarters! "What in Equestria would you need those for?!" But no answer was coming. She rolled her eyes with a snort of annoyed confusion.

Luna reached the finishing line first, slowing to a gentle walk as she paced around the blanket they had left behing. She got around to facing the others as they came in. Sweetie was second, slowing to a stop with a soft huffing.

Rarity and Bright came in together. Bright flopped face-first into the sand just an inch past the line. "Ha.... ha...." He flopped over onto his side in a pained roll. "I did it! You saw it!"

Rarity sank onto her belly next to him. "I certainly did. A heroic effort by my heroic familiar." She smooched him on the forehead. "I trust we are done for now?"

She was looking at Sweetie. Sweetie nodded. "Yep. Stamina, done. But don't think that'll be the only thing we're doing this weekend." She clapped her hooves with a firm clop. "But that's all for now. Catch your breaths."

Luna sank down on the blanket, reclaiming her lost spot. "That was... invigorating. We really should make it a habit of that."

Sweetie moved to Luna's side. "I can let you know when I do my morning trot, if you like? I do one every day."

Rarity came over, a tired Bright on her back. "I'll pass... But I do know a lovely place to fetch some proper dinner. Such a labor has worked up quite a hunger in me."

Author's Note

So, do you like running?

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15 - Assignment Five - But a Dream

Luna entered with a delicate frown. "I hope you all enjoyed your vacation... It's time to get serious."

Rarity perked her ears at that. "Darling, really? We barely got back."

Luna held up a hoof. "Danger waits for no pony. This one is... personal."

Sweetie hopped to her hooves. "Just point us in the direction and we're on the case."

"It's not that easy." Luna sighed gently, rubbing near the base of her snout with a hoof. "The perp, whoever they are, they do meddle with my dreams. Um, not my dreams, specifically, but the dreams of ponies. That is my realm!" She clopped a hoof down firmly. "I will not stand for it!"

Rarity gasped, a hoof to her chest. "Why...how dreadful! To trespass on the sovereign domain of Equestria's very avatar of nightly repose?"

Her brows drew together severely as fangs glinted. "Such an intrusion wounds more than harmony - it violates the innermost sanctity of self! Dreams cradle ponykind's most vulnerable essence."

Bright looked puzzled, scratching behind a furry ear. "So some creep's messing with ponies' sleepy times? Are they just having freaky dreams or are folks somehow in danger?"

"An astute question." Luna began pacing, shadows deepening in her wake. "The reports remain unclear if malice or mischief drives this faceless oneiric invader. All victims describe unsettling visions - identities altered, worlds askew, the nonsensical made flesh..."

She halted, brow furrowed as she framed safeguards between herself and invasive memories. "None have awakened worse for wear, yet each tells of an oppressive dread sprawling in dreamscape's marrow."

Luna skewered her companions with sharp eyes that had witnessed nightmare's bloody birthing untold epochs ago. "Make no mistake - to flood the realm of ideals and impulse with alien terror? This reeks of targeted torment and bounds overbroken."

Sable-clad wings flared dangerously. "We shall teach this rogue the risk accosting those I swore to ever shelter. Now hop to it and fetch me clues!”

Sweetie Drops nodded, already turning even as she gave a salute. “We won’t fail you again Your Highness! I'll put this to rest or my name isn't Secret Agent Sweetie Drops!”

She hastily rounded up Bright and Rarity towards the intelligence division. “I have contacts versed in dream-talk and reaching between worlds. We’ll have leads or I'll eat our horseshoes!”

Rarity swept along in her wake beside groggy Bright, fury smoldering behind genteel facade. “Ah yes, a dear zebra friend who plumbed the mystic depths of isiphambano...lending mumblings of a mentor traversing landscapes oneiric.”

She smoothed elegant robes already regal enough to greet such an esteemed ally. “Come darling! our first visit may open portals revealing this night terror’s face...”

"Isi-whatnow?" Bright shook his head. "You're just making up words, Rares. Kinda like that but, but no idea what you just said."

Rarity pat her minion on the back. "A zebra who digs into dreams and helps others understand what's going on in them."

"Oh!" Bright clapped his hands together with a soft paff. "A dream doctor. Shoulda just said that."

"Darling..." Rarity rolled her eyes with annoyance as she willed the door open.

Inside was a zebra stallion. "Luna said you'd be coming."

"Luna is here." She arrived last, but not far behind. "Have you found anything of note?"

The zebra twirled on his seat, gesturing at a swirling panel. "The dream surface of Equestria ripples and changes before us. Something is hard at work, but to only foul ends, I think."

Bright's eyes widened taking in the chaotic maelstrom of colors and forms phasing across the massive vision orb the zebra mystically manipulated. He whistled low. "Woah trippy light show... So all that wildness is ponies dreaming right now huh?"

The zebra nodded. "Indeed. Oneironauts tread carefully lest visions ventured veer too far from waking sanity's anchor..." His eyes narrowed studying subtle shadows sweeping through the luminous currents.

"Yet bindings fray from strain not mortal - see there!" He pointed to smoky coils marring vibrant hues like oil through water. "Intentions uninvited imposition bringing...the dreamer's choice erasing!"

Rarity examined the ominous corruption with a delicate sniff. "So some brute blunders blindly past mental wards to churn imagination's sea...but to what end?" Her brows drew together severely. "Has this violation yielded more tangible marks than terror alone?"

Luna's ethereal mane flared as understanding lit her eyes. "You divine the design of this dark disruption so - speak!"

The zebra waved the view to a village they knew, Ponyville. "Here my vision showed when the violations started... Spreading out from there."

Luna nodded firmly. "Then we begin our investigation there! We will root out this foul being and show it what becoming an enemy of the dream world means." She stomped a hoof, eyes alight with fury. "Make ready, my friends. Sleep eternal may become the fate of our foe if they do not see reason."

Bright inclined an ear back at the orb they were leaving. "Ponyville, sleeping... What sleepy ponies do we know there... Can't be Rares, she's right here."

"I would have told you if bad dreams were haunting me, dear." She nudged against his side mid-trot. "But keep thinking."

"I am. We got Snails, he's slow enough he could be dreaming awake?" Bright counted on fingers as he went. "Twilight's the biggest magic anything in the area. Mmm... Most of them aren't known for just being asleep."

Sweetie inclined her head. "They don't need to be sleeping themselves."

"It can help." Luna sighed. "But it is far from required. The pony, or creature, involved may be quite awake as they work their dread magic over the land. Let's put a stop to it."

Rarity pursed her lips thoughtfully as their investigation drew nearer. "Working while awake yet remotely manipulating others’ vulnerable dreamscapes...such an esoteric approach suggests particular personal priorities, not mere random malice."

She tapped her chin. "Perhaps this knowledge-hungry spell-spinner simply prizes uncovering obscure insights over ethics in their obsessive questing?"

Bright snapped his fingers. "I got it - maybe it's that one weird pony who was always trying wild experiments and junk on her friends! Um, whatshername..."

He glanced between the mares questioningly. "Y'know, goes kinda crazy-eyed when she gets all science-happy? Pretty sure she lives in Ponyville."

Luna scowled. "We know of whom you speak. And have corrected her...enthusiasm before, when it grew overly hazardous." Her eyes hooded in solemn recollection. "She does not lightly dismiss the suffering of friends, whatever abstract aspirations drive her."

Approaching Ponyville's familiar homes and halls now, Luna addressed the group gravely. "I shall make inquiries directly of my sister's pupil - subtly, of course. But rule none out yet as a source of this oneric malady..."

She turned to Rarity and Sweetie Drops with grave intensity. "Search quietly for any ponies acting peculiar since the dreams darkened. And Bright..." Her intense gaze warmed slightly towards the eager hybrid. "Stick close and keep watch over Rarity, impulsive one."

Rarity beamed with gratitude, mouthing 'thank you!’ to Luna once Bright had bounced over to eagerly cling to her side like an anxious burr. Rarity let out a happy giggle at having Bright snuggled so close.

"Where to first then?" Bright looked around curiously as Rarity gently steered Bright towards Ponyville square as Luna slipped off stealthily to intercept Twilight Sparkle. "I don't suppose your little pony friends mentioned any peculiar town gossip lately regarding bad dreams?"

Rarity tapped at her chin. "Lyra mentioned having a poor one, but just in passing."

Sweetie snorted. "Lyra, she knows you're a vampire, one of the few."

"Lyra's awesome." Bright hopped up onto Rarity's back, assuming a proper mounted position. "But if she's just having bad dreams, that won't get us closer."

"Let's wander the town." Sweetie turned for the square. "Look for interesting things, and interesting ponies."

Ponyville had many things. Interesting ponies was one it had in ample supply. "Howdy." There was Apple Bloom, spotting the three wandering about. "Ya look lost. Can ah help ya any?"

Rarity brightened, waving a gracious hoof towards the earnest young farm filly. "Why hello there Apple Bloom! We're simply about and enjoying the fresh air today."

She leaned down conspiratorially with a playful wink. "But I don't suppose your savvy self happens to have caught wind of any curious rumors ahoof lately? New faces about perhaps?"

Apple Bloom rubbed her chin. "Well now, lessee here..." Her face lit up. "Oh, I nearly plum forgot! There was a mighty peculiar feller came into town coupla' days back. Real skinny, mane all messy, kept mumbling to hisself bout crystals or some such."

She nodded firmly. "I remember on account o' he was haulin' these big bulgin' saddlebags that near dwarfed him, but he still refused Big Mac's offer to lend a hoof tote'n em!"

Bloom screwed up her face trying to recall more as the agents shared intrigued looks. "Lemee think...Oh yeah! Last I seen he was headed off towards the Everfree forest. Heard he set himself up in the ol abandoned castle or somesuch."

She perked up proudly. "So was that the kinda funny bizness you was lookin for?"

Rarity smiled indulgently, patting Apple Bloom. "Indeed darling, you've been positively invaluable! Here -" A glittering apple-shaped brooch manifested on Bloom's lapel. "A shiny token for a helpful heart."

Rarity refined her posture as Apple Bloom scampered off proudly to show her new bauble off to the town. The vampony leaned in beside Sweetie and Bright to whisper confidentially. "An unknown hermit trespassing in forbidden realms...how very suspicious!"

Bright snorted at that. "That sounded like a hint with a capital H right there. I say we get over there and kick that guy until he cuts it out."

"We should check that out, at the least." Sweetie, pivoted towards the Everfree. "Be careful. Things can get wild between here and there. The Everfree is undomesticated."

Rarity winkled her nose. "You're being modest about that..."

Luna threw open the door to Twilight's tree abode. "I would like to check out a book."

"Really?" Spike dashed into view. "What kinda book?" He craned his head back to take in all of the large Luna. "Also, wow..."

Luna snorted with a little smile. "Good day, Spike. I admit, mine eyes are more eager to find Twilight. Where is she hiding on this fine day?"

Spike pointed off to a trapdoor leading downstairs. "She's bottle up in her lab, as usual." He rolled his eyes. "I swear, she just has me take care of the library. I thought she likes books!"

Luna nodded as if earnestly listening. "I will speak with her. Perhaps we can get her back at your side?"

"Would you?" He clapped his hands together firmly. "Please!"

Luna walked past him with a gentle smile. "I will see what she says." Even if her aims were not quite on what Spike had asked.

Descending into the subterranean lab, Luna's senses strained for clues confirming or denying the prodigious protégé's involvement with the dream epidemic. Glittering gadgets and gizmos stuffed the expansive chamber but all seemed inert for now as Twilight pored studiously over some towering tome.

Luna cleared her throat gently so as not to startle the engrossed unicorn. "Apologies for interrupting unannounced my dear wizard, but are you perchance hip-deep in researching remedies for strange nocturnal imaginings of late?"

Twilight blinked up owlishly as if resurfacing to reality through deep academic waters. "Oh! Evening , Princess Luna! Please excuse the clutter, I was just cross-referencing some fascinating minutiae on thaumic resonance states and their psychosensorial..."

Noticing Luna's subtly bemused smile, Twilight caught herself with a self-conscious chuckle. "Which is all just a fancy way of saying even I don't talk shop enough down here to avoid feeling cooped up." She rolled her shoulders wearily. "You're just in time to give me a great reason for a study break actually!"

Twilight tilted her head curiously. "What exactly brings you by though? Anything I can help sort out?" She fidgeted slightly. "No more dark magical influences causing havoc I hope?"

Luna shook her head with a gentle smile. "Nothing so grave as past troubles. Simply catching up on a concerned teacher's responsibilities." She waved dismissively. "I will leave you be. Just try to remember meals and blinks, yes?"

Upstairs, Spike was waiting. "Well? How'd it go?"

Luna's smile faded a little as she regarded Twilight's home. "She seemed... genuine. Engrossed in her studies, but not haunted." That left the mystery open wide as ever.

"But about the library?" Spike pointed to the door, then around the books that only he was tending to.

Author's Note

And we begin the new plot hook. Did you think there'd be a monster on that vacation?

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16 - A Walk in the Woods

"This'll be easy." Bright hopped up on a thick log, his broad tail swaying behind him. "All we have to do is-- Rares?"

Rarity had crept up on him with a smile. In her magic, she wielded a bangle, and she slid it right over Bright's tail to rest there, wedged into firm place. "How's that, dear?"

Bright considered his new accessory. "It's... pretty cool. What inspired it, Rares?"

Rarity fanned at herself. "Inspiration comes where it will, little familiar. I saw that and immediately thought of you. I couldn't not obtain it for you." She ran a hoof over metal and jewels. "The mention of jewelry reminded me I still had to get it on you, dear."

Sweetie swatted Bright's bejeweled tail on the way past. "Is this really the time we should be minding our fashion?" Not that she was wearing much of anything, but that was the pony default.

Rarity hopped up and over the log, grabbing Bright in her magic as she went. "I prefer to get things done fabulously, darling. We can look good and save Equestria at the same time. Really, they're not exclusive."

Bright adjusted his position to properly assume a riding position on Rarity. "Yeah, relax. We got this. So we head to the Castle of the Twin Sisters, find this crystal guy, make sure he's the baddy, and punch him in the face if he is, right? Easy."

Rarity giggled indulgently as she carried Bright through the winding forest paths towards the ancient castle ruins. "I admire your enthusiasm, darling, but let's not get ahead of ourselves, yes?"

She carefully ducked beneath a low-hanging vine, pacing in Sweetie's wake. "If this mysterious hermit proves benign, punching becomes a touch uncouth. And I'd just as soon avoid sullying my hooves unnecessarily!"

Rarity smiled back at the eagerness shining in her familiar's eyes. "Besides, investigation before altercation remains the lady's way, mm? We must gather facts before casting judgment or fists, however satisfying the latter might feel in the moment!"

She winked playfully even as her tone turned serious. "Dear, there are many ponies out there that become a touch... focused, and we don't want to cast too hasty a blame if they're just one of those." Rarity's own non-standard fangs flashed self-consciously under the green gloom. "This crystal conjurer may simply be another square peg, driven to solitude by the same fear that once shadowed my boutique."

Up ahead, crumbling spires poked through the thick canopy. "So come - let us meet this stranger with empathy alongside vigilance." A sly grin teased her elegantly coiffed mane as she added airily, "Plenty of time still to punch later should they prove problematic!"

"That's what I said," sullenly noted Bright. "Still a good pony." He hugged from from above, arms wrapped around her neck as he cuddled Rarity. "Let's go and use our eyes and ears first."

Sweetie sighed at that. "Right. We don't want Luna angry at us again... Now, I hate to ask halfway into the Everfree, but what happened to Luna?"

Rarity turned an ear. "Off to investigate Twilight Sparkle, isn't she?"

Bright shrugged. "She would have let us know if something came up."

Sweetie rolled her eyes. "Like we told her we're in here." A low hiss drove her to stop her advance. Ahead of them was a cockatrice, hissing at them angrily.

The thing lashed its tail, eyes bright red, promising a calcified death.

Rarity's horn glowed as she donned an outrageously overmuch set of sunglasses that obscured her vision quite nicely. She couldn't see the cockatrice. Advancing blindly, she circled around the beast, confident as one could be.

"Rares?" Bright just closed his eyes. "I hope you know what you're doing."

Sweetie brought up a leg, covering her vision with it as she tried to stick to Rarity's back end. "This is... I don't know if this is genius or madness. If I become a statue, I'm falling on you."

Rarity smirked beneath her dazzling shades as she deftly avoided the hissing cockatrice, her keen vampiric senses more than compensating for obscured normal vision. Her ears pricked back towards Sweetie's grumbling.

"Madness and genius skip hoof-in-hoof, darling! But fear not - Auntie Rarity shall see us steered safely clear." She gave her rump an affronted swish. "And kindly watch what you threaten to topple upon in such uncouth eventuality!"

The sunglasses began softly glowing as Rarity traced an illusion spell into their bejeweled frames. "There now...even if our scaly friend glimpses you, all he shall perceive is Rarity swaying by." A sly wink back at Sweetie. "Though do try not to actually touch him dear - even miracles have limits!"

The beguiled cockatrice tilted his crested head in confusion as the three strange creatures seamlessly assumed the handsome vampony's appearance to his eyes. He clacked his beak indignantly but the perceived rival male's elaborate headgear marked territory unambiguously.

With grudging respect for such flashy dominance, the cockatrice merely hissed weakly in annoyance rather than risk direct confrontation. He reluctantly slunk off in search of less contentious creatures to petrify.

Rarity smirked as she dispersed the disguising spell once clear of danger. "There now! On we trot unruffled and on schedule." She scooped up momentarily abandoned Bright in a fond embrace. "Apologies for the abrupt magical makeover darling - but needs must when self-respecting couture fails, mm?"

Bright scrambled back to his appointed spot. "I didn't feel a thing. You cast the spell on the angry chicken. I'm only annoyed you dropped me."

No apologies were coming for that.

Sweetie directed a hoof forward. "We're more than halfway there. If that cockatrice is the worst we face, we're doing good."

Luna gently ran her hoof over Spike's fins. "Has it truly been that bad?"

"Worse." Spike narrowed his eyes at the closed door leading down to Twilight's basement. "She's bottled herself up tight. She never takes time to talk to anypony else, or anydragon, half the time. Can you help? She's gonna hurt herself." He ringed his hands together. "I don't want that..."

"Nor I. Ever has she been a faithful servant of the crown." Luna considered the door. "We just have to think of something to lure her free of her studies... Surely she appreciates them, but to all things... balance, yes? Balance." She nodded to herself, musing the options.

Luna's ethereal mane swirled thoughtfully as she considered avenues to entice the academically enthralled princess into more balanced habits. Twilight's tireless pursuit of knowledge, however admirable, clearly came at the cost of connecting meaningfully with those around her if left unchecked.

"Balance indeed." Luna turned back to anxious Spike with fresh resolve glowing gently in her moonlit gaze. "Wisdom recognizes no truth reached in isolation, divorced from the greater web of life that grants such truths context and consequence."

She smiled softly, an idea kindling. "Go to her, my draconic friend. Tell her an intriguing astronomical anomaly has appeared and eagerly await her collaboration analyzing the phenomenon." Luna tapped her chin slyly. "Then leave the actual diversion to me..."

Spike saluted sharply. "On the case!" As Spike scrambled eagerly downstairs, Luna focused her magic heavensward. A subtle ripple in the starry river; a beguiling bend in familiar constellations. To most eyes only beautiful mystery but for her scientifically-inclined sister's prize pupil? Rapturous enigma begging exploration!

From below she soon heard an intrigued gasp then the urgent clopping of hooves on steps. The door burst open to frame an intently glowing Twilight. "Spike said you observed inexplicable celestial activity?" Her horn flashed. "Show me!"

Luna smiled with hidden knowledge. "Hm? Spike is the one that saw them, up there." Luna pointed towards the roof of the library they were in. "Bring him up there and ask him to point it out."

Spike was just getting there, not as fast as the excited Twilight. It didn't help that Twilight almost tackled him back down the ladder. "Woah! Easy there, Twi."

Twilight grabbed Spike in her magic, plopping him down on her back. "We're wasting time. To the telescope!" She charged off with him in tow, an excited giggle escaping from her with thoughts of new things in the sky. "Which way is it?" she asked, lost to view as she darted out onto the balcony.

Luna nodded to herself, confident Spike and Twilight would have a good time, together. But that whole trip had her no closer to the solution. Twilight was not the dream invader...

So who was? She frowned, stepping out of the library. Her eyes strayed up to the modified stars above and the distant sounds of excited marvel coming from Twilight. At least that had worked well... "Perhaps the others?" But how did she find them? Equestria didn't have easy communication devices. She lifted into the air, looking out over the town.

There were no darting forms of Bright or fashionable sauntering unicorns. That she didn't see Sweetie wasn't a surprise. Blending into the background was her specialty. "Hm..." She had to find them...

Inspiration dawned suddenly as Luna recalled her ethereal enhancement of Sweetie’s stealth suit upon their last adventure! Attuning to the subtle thaumic tracer woven amidst the shimmering garb, Luna felt the lingering magical echo pulling like a glittering guiding star...leading unerringly towards the Everfree Forest.

“Well met, my clever enchantment!” Luna crowed, turning to follow the mystical beacon. “Thy enduring gift grants means to herald companions true when daring duties drive teams asunder!” She smiled softly despite renewed urgency. “Ever may little kindnesses reap unknown rewards...”

The signal strengthened as ancient castle spires crested the horizon, and Luna felt subtle psychic brush of beloved bat wings in shadowed contours nearby - Rarity without doubt!

With fresh relief Luna poured on greater speed, trusting the covert beacons to soon mean reunion with all three wayward agents. And perhaps too the mysterious hermit’s true mischief once joined perspectives revealed whatever occult obstruction lurked amidst the perplexing dreams!

She came in for a landing just ahead of her ancient, abandoned, castle. She beat the three agents, just arriving at that clearing. "There you are. Have you found anything?" Luna advanced on them with a happy smile.

Sweetie recoiled a moment. "What? How..." She looked around. "How did you find us?" She narrowed her eyes. "Being not found is half of my specialty..."

Luna considered speaking the truth, but that would mean Sweetie would divest herself of the suit, likely quickly. "Bright is a unique creature. There is but one of him, so..."

Sweetie sighed. "Figures. You're literally the opposite of a good background agent."

Bright only puffed up. "There's no hiding me! Welcome back, Lulu!" He pointed past her, to the castle. "There's some strange person in there, loves crystals. They might be involved in the whole dream case, or not. We're going to find out."

Rarity lifted a hoof flat with Luna. "And we mean to investigate first, before we leap into action."

"I am gladdened to hear that." Luna swelled a moment with a breath. "You have learned your lesson. Let's keep costs low, and results high." She turned to the castle. "I hope this is it, but if it is not, let's not cause problems."

Rarity smiled proudly as her team fell in behind resolute Luna now increasing their number - and with it their wisdom to avoid previous over-zealous misadventures.

Rarity shook herself from fanciful reveries, focusing instead on the crumbling castle walls now looming ahead past the guardian forest. She rallied her senses, magically probing for auras arcane or ambient energies askew.

Her horn glimmered softly as vampiric perception permeated the gloom-wrapped halls. Scattered spiders spun in creaking rafters, shy field mice nesting undisturbed in shadowed crevices whispered of years uninhabited...

Then past the restless rodents’ tiny territories, the subtle magnetic shimmer of crystal fragments call to kindred earth from fractured shards strewn across an otherwise sparse rear chamber.

Rarity gasped in realization. “I sense it now, the subtle harmonic that resonates within my own changed essence...kindred crystals surround a strange figure just ahead whose properties eerily echo my vampiric signature!”

Bracing for potential unpleasantries, the group cautiously peered inside the dust-cloaked room. There amidst gently glowing gemstone fragments and tattered scrolls slumped a disheveled brown unicorn, mane unkempt and sides heaving with obvious fatigue.

An engraved silver torque marked him once a scholar of significance though those days had clearly faded if the surroundings stood evidence. Despite intruders on the threshold he did not stir, locked deep in fitful slumber where darker things doubtless walked than bats...

Sweetie tensed, readying restraints until Rarity raised a staying hoof. Her expression held profound empathy rather than judgment as her own fangs briefly glinted.

"Here crouches no monster but one of misfortune’s making...” Luna whispered. “Come, sisters - we shall provide this dreamer solace, not chains.”

Bright raised a hand. "Brother here, got your back!"

Author's Note

But who is this stranger in the castle?

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17 - In Your Dreams

Luna glanced sidelong at her agents. "I am quite accustomed--" She extended a wing at the slumbering target. "--to investigating the mindscape of ponies. I will proceed. You wait here."

Bright crossed his arms, emitting a buzzer-like noise. "Yeah, not happening. We're a team, Lulu."

Luna leveled a hoof at Bright. "Then do your part and guard the area."

Sweetie saluted crisply. "Yes, ma'am!"

Rarity took a step forward with a raised brow. "Now now, let's not be hasty, darling. An extra set of eyes and perspective may be just what is required, hm?"

"Besides." Bright slapped his hands together. "There might be some big evil thing in there. You want some backup!"

Luna hesitated, weighing her agents' protests. Such creatures plagued dreams precisely by confronting dreamers isolated from communal context and care. Hadn't she just endured such chilling aloneness during endless imprisonment?

She sighed, tension ebbing from star-kissed wings. "Your wisdom humbles prideful presumption, dear friends. None need carry darkness unaided while kin stand ready."

Rarity gave a gracious tilt in acknowledgment before stepping beside Bright, magic interlacing as one. "Two minds may figure out what one alone would can not - my own brush with ancient enchantments has reminded me of that."

Luna smiled softly, heart gladdened. "Then we proceed united by bonds beyond blood or oaths sworn." Her midnight-maned form began transitioning to glowing mist. "Still thy breath and hearts now, beloved companions - the way into dreams lies within..."

Motes of shimmering silver enveloped the group in gossamer cocoon-like filaments. Hushed stillness reigned as living starfields swirled where walls once stood unmoving. Then all at once consciousness plunged unified into fathomless varied dark. Only Luna and Rarity could even see through it to guide Bright along.

Down they delved through glowing layers of mortal mental architecture - Bright's thoughts bouncing wildly between donuts, destiny, and dear Rarity beside him shining here silver as the subtle streamers steering their shared voyage through a stranger's troubled psyche.

Deeper still through coils of cascading dreams and sparking memory fragments quite unlike ethereal landscapes familiar... Until at last four frames stood firmly before cowering quarry in a vista that chilled even Luna's blood long ago.

Bright counted ponies. "One, two... Where's Sweetie?"

Luna smirked at that. "She, being a loyal agent, already agreed to stand watch. She is doing precisely that. " She took a firm step forward. "Now... this looks familiar."

Around them was the castle, but it was free of the rigors of time. It was brilliantly new. It even had ponies moving with purpose, as if the castle were still in use, instead of abandoned. "This brings back memories..."

Rarity's eyes twinkled. "This antiquated fashion has my head spinning with ideas! Darlings, I've only seen pictures, and they hardly did justice..."

Bright patted his mistress gently. "Take it in as we go, Rares. We have a mission to do."

Rarity composed herself with an effort, tearing her dazzled gaze from the elegant era ensemble adorning spectral castle staff bustling past on arcane errands. "Quite right darling - we mustn't lose sight of purpose however beguiling the backdrop..."

Yet the vampony couldn't entirely silence her designer instincts itching to chronicle such rich visual inspiration! As they pressed deeper into the regal ruins' interactive memory, Rarity discreetly sketched dress designs using a ghostly manifested pencil, parchment floating alongside.

"Do pardon the divided attention, my dears..." She smiled sheepishly to patient Luna and indulgent Bright loping loyally nearby. "But beholding such exquisite equine couture striding centuries slipped by? Simply scandalous to let pass unpreserved!"

Rarity winked impishly even as her phantom pencil continued furiously racing to capture flowing robes and sweeping trains in intricate detail. "Never know when such ageless aesthetics may manifest modern renaissance reviving yesterday's glamour today!"

She nudged the curious Bright eagerly as an opulent oval sedan chair carried by a quartet of prancing unicorns clip-clopped into being nearby. "Ooo imagine translating that graceful style rising phoenix-like from eye-catching ashes!"

Rarity clasped her hooves in rapture though the fantastical coach rumbled heedlessly onward, outlines already dissolving to swirling mist. Her pencil etched feverishly to preserve the final fleeting details...

"We all cope in our own ways," Luna said in gentle admonishment focused more on keeping Bright from getting distracted than Rarity's flowing sketchwork.. "Now is hardly the time for dresses or chairs. We seek a pony, and perhaps the thing plaguing his sleep..."

She pointed ahead where she could see two ponies talking, their features hazy, but their shapes somewhat recognizable. "There is our target, I believe..."

With quiet steps, they pressed through an unseen haze, bringing the scene into suddenly sharp focus.

A pony was on a knee, bowing before another. The kneeling one was a male. "Princess, you can't." The one being called a princess had a horn, but no wings. She was not an alicorn. "Think of the family's name."

The mare turned up her nose. "I am thinking of it. The Platinum name has been dragged through the mud." She scowled at the stallion. "And you know it! Those... celstial twits have taken it all."

"Don't speak of them that way." The stallion looked around as if afraid of spies, not noticing the new ponies watching them. "Ma'am, please..."

Luna sunk her head towards her agents. "Bitter memories these. The nobility did not look favorably on our taking of their power. Equestria would be ruled by nobles no longer... and not all of them were pleased with the idea."

Rarity tore her astonished gaze from the tense personal drama unfolding before royalty deposed to study Luna's somber features instead. How many painful personal chapters lay buried beneath the mythic mare's serene composure?

"None should be made outcast simply for circumstances of birth..." she murmured almost soundlessly, heart aching for the despairing scion beside them. Rarity knew such sting all too well before her own life tookflight anew...

She floated subtly closer to Luna in wordless solidarity even as the stoic princess maintained regal poise under memory's old wounds reopened raw. But healing surely began acknowledging past and present pain together...

The scenario shivered strangely before reforming: now Celestia blazed wrathfully down upon the cowering stallion as lilting laughter echoed from his tattered regalia. Familiar crystal fragments glimmered...and a once-wise face stared back savaged by vengeance and pride.

Aghast, Rarity tore her eyes away from the distressing vision to meet stricken Luna's. So this lay beneath their mysterious quarry's cryptic torments...How to transmute such toxic memories into... How did she turn it around?

"Luna...we cannot mend if he will not give up old pains. But empathy may forge where facts fail." She squeezed their visitor turned reluctant victim's shoulder in solidarity. "Help me reach out?"

Luna let out a sigh. "Yes... Yes." She circled in front of the stallion, cutting off his view of the angry spectre of Celestia. "I will hear you."

The stallion blinked, stunned a moment. "Y-you will?" He inclined his head. "I thought the royal sisters were quite done with her words, and mind... I..."

Luna reached for his shoulder. "I will hear you."

A tear ran down the stallion's face. "Do you speak truly?"

Luna sat before the stallion. "You have my complete attention. Speak your words, that I may hear them."

"Your majesty." He lowered himself prostrate. "I thought I had... Princess, she did not know what she was doing! Please, show clemency. The Platinum name doesn't deserve to be cast aside."

Luna gave a haunted smile. What that stallion spoke of, she knew. "I will speak on her behalf... But her crimes are severe."

"I know... I know." The stallion curled on himself. "But to harm even more than her? Do others need to feel the flames she encouraged?"

Luna slid a hoof under his chin, raising his view towards herself. "The Platinum family will survive this day... their name will not, spoken only in tales of the past... But their blood will remain, I promise this."

Luna glanced at Rarity, to the vampony's faint startled motion. "They will go on to perform great deeds in the future, and be celebrated. Just... without that name."

The stallion let out a choked laugh. "Truly? Truly?! Ma'am.... You are too..." He threw himself at Luna's hooves. "You can take my wretched life! A fair price for the mercy you are showing."

Startled by the stallion's rash offer, Rarity darted forward to gently intercept his desperate lunge. "There now dear heart, let's everypony retain their lives and limbs intact, yes?"

She cradled his crumbling facade of composure, taking a moment to just hold him. Rarity felt his rigid defensiveness soften slowly with her gentle presence.

Keeping the tentative connection held by her supportive presence, Rarity inclined her head respectfully towards Luna. “Your Highness spoke true regarding mercy tempering memory’s bitter sting. Might you trust sharing further of the past ”

She smiled gently down at the anxiously watching pony whose crisis of identity they had accidentally unlocked alongside dreams disturbed. “One lesson learned on my reborn road sings that no mistake measures worth beyond redemption’s reach - or names us through eternity.”

Her own hoof interlaced symbolically with his. “So may old titles fade but not the hearts still yearning connection behind them in one Living land we all yet share.” Rarity turns compassionately to Luna. “Would you help unfold more of this wounded healer’s hidden story?”

Luna flipped an ear back at that. "Some of that... should wait. Dear pony." Her eyes were on the stallion. "You have done all you can, more than can reasonably be demanded of any single pony... I commend you."

"You..." He slumped tonelessly. "Thank you..."

The dream faded around them.

They awoke with a start even as Bright thrust a fist forward. "What? Dang it! I had such a good line worked out..."

The sleeping stallion sat up, blinking. "What? Princess!" He colored brightly. "I was just dreaming of you..."

Luna smirked at the stallion. "A common refrain, I assure. But we have not found the meddler of dreams..."

"Pretty sure..." Bright was pointing past everyone to the balcony above them.

There, a swirling form took the shape of a razor-toothed laughing figure. Sombra recomposed themself with a dark flash of power. "Finally. Pathetic ponies. At least your nightmares can serve as fuel."

Sweetie Drop's dagger flashed into her hoof from hidden bands as she silently assessed potential angles of attack on their exposed position. Before she or Luna could strategize response to the nightmare apparition, Rarity stepped forward with head high.

"Begone bitter phantom - your vice no longer vexes waking souls." Defiant sparks kindled in her narrowed eyes though fangs briefly betrayed Rarity's own anxious nerves facing the vile specter unvanquished.

Sneering shadows swirled lazily around Sombra's jagged corona as he focuses intently upon Rarity alone. "Such courage from one already touching immortality's dark doctrine...why oppose perfection of the power you woke within?"

Before she could retort, inky tendrils erupted - engulfing Rarity in isolating opaque cocoon shutting out all else. Rarity’s scream was cut short, as were all cries for aid.

Bright launched at the prison. "You let Rares go, jerk!" He pounded with battering hands and powerful feet, making the tendrils quiver in pain under the spirited onslaught. "Let go!"

Luna's horn glowered with power. "Your first mistake was to reform where we could see you, foul thing." She took off on powerful wings. "We will crush you."

"I think not." Sombra tossed his head, crystals erupting near Luna, forcing her to dodge and zip as they exploded in a cascade, always reaching for her. "As if you could avoid me for long. Foal! You'll make a fine slave when I have my hooves on you."

It was easy to forget Sweetie was there, at least until she did something. She lunged for Sombra from the shadows. He dodged, but a moment late. She cut a fine line along his side as she came to the ground, dropping the shadow-sizzling dagger.

"Was that your best?" He made a motion of throwing Sweetie away, sending her flying off the balcony. "Trivial."

Author's Note

And now things get... tense... battle music here!

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18 - Boss Battle

"Why do I even bother?" Sombra stepped towards the edge of the balcony, a victorious smirk on his face. "As if you had even a faint prayer." He leaned over the side, looking for the broken form of Sweetie, and ideally the other pathetic--

Bright landed on his back with a powerful double-kick, knocking Sombra free into the embrace of gravity. "Sucker! Freakin' jerk."

Sombra didn't hit the ground, Luna's powerful bolt of energy cutting the space he had been a moment ago.

Rarity hissed with fury, diving at where he'd dodged towards. "Uncouth creature! I'll show you..."

Sombra waved a wall of crystals in Rarity's path, cutting off her charge. "Enough," he roared, raising his other hoof to conjure darkness in Luna's projectile's path. "Impertinent creatures. I will tear you all apart."

But that meant his attention wasn't above him. Bright landed on his head, stomping downwards with his thick feet. "No! Bad pony! Bad!"

Sombra howled furiously as the impudent lapine-creature pummeled his horned skull from above, crystal magics disrupted and tendrilled mane recoiling defensively. Shackled shadows flaked away further revealing the fiery wrath burning underneath the usurper king's dark facade.

He thrashed violently, erupting spikes of razor-edged onyx lashing from all sides seeking to dislodge the vexing pest clinging like a burr behind his curved horn. But Bright's unique gifts lent acrobatic finesse letting him ricochet nimbly overhead even as wounds opened from glancing dark shards.

"Vermin!" Sombra snarled, redoubling efforts to disentangle himself. Before another savage spire could fully form however a gossamer prismatic net dropped abruptly from above - teeming with radiant vines that swiftly entangled his four legs, blooming mystic flowers clinging inescapably everyplace they touched shadow-sheathed obsidian.

"What mockery..." his outrage trailed off in strangled coughing as golden glitter-laced fumes wafted skyward with each blossom's unfurling. The searing illumination scoured exposed patches between writhing umbral plates like divine salt in a demon's wounds, seeping burns beneath armor of the damned.

Crimson eyes blazed hatred up at grinning Bright still clinging cockily atop despite his own freely weeping injuries. But the lapine agent merely snickered louder as hateful eyes located the artistic architect of this flamboyantly humiliating bondage.

"Rarity, you traitorous wretch!" Sombra raised a crystalline hoof to shatter the smug designer responsible for such galling effrontery but gasped instead as violet flames roared to life before him, scorching aged air and casting hellish highlights across Night Eternal's ruined king.

Silhouetted amidst the raging violet pyre stood Luna, terrible and beautiful as the merciless dark between stars.

"Touch her, cur...and embrace darkness eternal."

"Hmm." He said as if considering the next move of a good game of chess instead of a life and death bout. He melted into the shadows beneath him, and those were gone in a moment, leaving them all standing in the empty inner courtyard with nothing but agitated dust to accompany them.

Bright shook a fist in the air. "Yeah, run! Get out of here!"

Sweetie popped up from where she had been thrown. "That's not good. This mission isn't complete until Sombra is defeated and can no longer harass pony's dreams. Luna, ma'am, course of action?"

Luna looked from agent to agent. Two of them looked considerably injured, with Bright and Sweetie bravely ignoring their wounds. "You two go back to town. Me and Rarity will finish this task."

Bright crossed his arms. "Yeah, no. Not even you, Lulu, is getting me away from Rares."

Luna huffed. "My name is Luna, and I am you boss. I say leave."

"Rather quit than that." He scrambled up onto Rarity's surprised, but not displeased, back. "We got a baddie to punch!"

Luna buried her face in a hoof before looking to Sweetie. "Go."

"Ma'am." Having far more discipline, Sweetie clambered down off the rubble she had been buried in and trotted away.

Rarity stifled a proud smile seeing staunch Bright's stubborn devotion matched only by the moonlit alicorn whose ancient authority and mythic might moved mortal lives like tide-tugged seas. Few would dare defy Princess Luna's commands so flatly!

Yet Rarity understood Bright’s deeper motive in this impulsive act. Their shared life force forged a bond breaching etiquette’s bounds. To abandon each other proved abandonment of self - no rule retained reason to the familiar heart’s relentless compass.

Luna clearly grasped this too in the flicker of wistful warmth ere it vanished behind dutiful discipline narrowing night-sky eyes. She pronounced next words like nails closing a subject's coffin.

"Deem not your brand of bravery unique, lapine knight who'd discard my creed for your heart's singing whims." Luna loomed larger, scepter striking cold stone. "Many beyond counting would dare death gladly to stand thus by my side."

Even Rarity felt instinctive awe ...At least untill a rabbit paw gently covered her hoof in wordless reminder.

She squeezed Bright's paw in subtle solidarity with her magic, a small smile on her face.

Thus Rarity cleared diplomatic throat; “Princess mine we acknowledge your decree: three stand as one. Come; night remains our arena - let triumph herald daybreak!”

Luna rolled her eyes. "If you two are bound." She pointed at Rarity, then up at Bright. "And you are a creature of unnatural abilities, can you heal him?"

Rarity brought up a hoof to clop on her head. "Yes," she admitted, blushing with shame for having forgotten such a thing. "But it will stir the hunger in me."

Luna flashed a deadly smile. "Good thing we know someone here who is willing to surrender some."

"Darling!" Rarity glowed with red hues, focusing her vampiric powers on her familiar, mending them slowly. Quite fast, compared to waiting... "I only drink from the willing, and from him? That cad... My teeth ache at the thought. I have taste, dear."

Luna waved off Rarity's flustered excuses with an indulgent snort, starry mane wafting knowingly. "Think not to convince me thy fangs fail to crave a certain bold buck's bounteous sanguine sublime sustenance..." She winked slyly. "Nor that one so tightly twined as thy familiar yearns not to provide thy pythonic palate paramount provender!"

Rarity huffed delicately as Bright snickered atop her back, nibbling a tempting ear. Luna smothered her own smirk observing the fanged fashionista struggling against her own burgeoning appetite and mischievous mount's mutual thirst, though of a different sort.

"Stay vexed then, for now..." Luna relented, alighting gently skyward. "Just know that no law will find you for a supper on a creature so deserving of punishment." Wings beat towards the vanished villain’s lingering aural trail. "Onward swiftly now lest the shadows swallow safety's scent!"

Rarity shivered, licking over a long and sharp fang. She glanced over her shoulder, but she could feel it. Bright was back in a fighting order. "Let's go." She spread her wings and took flight after Luna. "We have a pony to hunt before they get their own affairs in order."

They all took flight through the narrow confines of the castle, following what could be felt but not seen. But they could hear it, dark laughter that felt like it came from all around them.

Luna pointed as she banked around a corner sharply. "Of course." There, on what was once the throne, sat Sombra as they merged into the throne room. "Ever the prideful one, aren't you?"

"You failed to defeat me before." Sombra raised a hoof, bringing with it a rough shape of a pony in crystal, eyes glowing with simple purpose. "You will again." With a wave, he sent the great creature lumbering towards Luna and her little agents."

Luna flared her wings defiantly as the crystalline juggernaut stamped forward, thunderous footfalls promising merciless impacts should the implacable thing connect. She spared the briefest glance towards her bold companions, fresh confidence kindling in her breast. She didn't face him alone, or even with just her sister. She had a team.

"The past ever prologues yet the present pages remain ours to pen, vile shade!" Luna lit her horn with brilliant intensity. "Your summoned minion knows but fury's drive - while we wake war's wisdom earned leading towards dawns you dismiss!"

Rarity and Bright arced into flanking attack trajectories heeding their princess’ rousing call against seemingly impossible odds. Rarity whispered an arcane phrase, horns and hoof shining in sync as ripples of reality warped around zooming Bright...

Suddenly a dozen duplicates ricocheted through the air, confounding perspectives and turn order tactics! The pony crystal juggernaut stomped forward unthinking as always...only to meet empty space as the lead bouncing bunny winked out of expected existence!

It whirled, plodding programmed protocols straining to strike elusive lightning-fast targets while processing their improbable evasion physics...A glittering spell crashed abruptly as a chittering cream puff crashed down horn-first out of nowhere, directly through its back plating!

The improvised bunker-buster burrowed deep as magical explosives followed his piercing entry wound...until at last the light left its lifeless eyes and the hulking automaton toppled. Luna nodded approvingly as her flanking team regathered with fierce smiles.

"Let us dispatch yon dead-eyed dredges and bring living harmony home!" Their determined eyes locked with Sombra's across the dividing distance. The snickering specter stood slowly as hellish flames ignited his gaze...and arrayed behind him stood rank upon rank of glowering glassy warriors and worse - risen now to enforce their grim lord's ghastly ambitions against those who dared dream of better days beyond his bitter rule.

The odds were insurmountable. But together, they were ready to face whatever nightmares awoke to test valeur and virtuous vision undimmed. Luna raised a defiant hoof as bat wings and bouncing fighter flanked faithfully. "Charge!"

Bright chuckled at that, teeth set. "I was losing you, Lulu, but I understood that one!" He pointed forward as Luna sailed beneath him, the two in easy sync.

Sombra had made a mistake. That great behemoth of a golem had taken much of his power and with it, his fatigue was ramping quickly. "Damn you all." He caught Rarity as she thumped against him.

But that left Bright open to leap over her head and come down fist first into the pony's cheek, driving his head back to the side. "What you deserve." Not that he was staying still, hitting the ground and bouncing around Sombra as if daring a counter attack.

Rarity was on him, mouth at his neck, biting, drinking. Sombra gasped in shock. Bright gasped in jealousy.

Luna did neither, smirking. "You are defeated." She landed beside Sombra, wings wide. "You have no power left."

Sombra sank as Rarity pushed him down, feeding greedily on him. "How... the mighty... have fallen. Relying on... this..."

Luna creased her face in a frown. "I am not mine sister. She will guard the day. I, the night. No more piteous sobs that a creature of my domain has bested you."

Bright walked around, snickering as he stood just over Sombra. "Rares can get things done... But it's time for you to sleep." He brought up both hands, knit together, and slammed them down together, knocking Sombra out, and them free of Rarity's fanged hold.

Rarity blinked, the blood no longer flowing. "Oh dear... Darling, I didn't... I swear!" She covered her messy snout. "I didn't mean to! I'm a good pony, I swear!"

Luna set a hoof on Rarity's back. "You are more than a good pony. This night, you are a hero. While we cannot suggest this as a habit... You did nothing wrong this evening."

Bright hiked a thumb at himself. "If you need a drink, you have a willing source right here. I bet I taste better than that jerk anyway."

"Darling, yes." She nuzzled Bright warmly, getting blood on him in the process. "A million times more. His blood is potent, but foul... But it did slake my thirst..."

Luna's horn glowed as she conjured a floating napkin to offer to Rarity. "Clean up. I'll gather this one." She hefted Sombra's sleeping form in her magic. "Another one taken care of. A victory for us all."

Author's Note

And... assignment completed. Victory!

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19 - Fanged Display

"Oh my..." Rarity let the meticulously crafted card fall from her magic grip. It fizzled into little bats that flew away. "Darling..."

Bright was at her aside in a bouncing rush from where he had been relaxing elsewhere in their dim headquarters. "What's up, Rares?"

"Curious phrasing." She wrapped one arm around Bright, drawing them closer. "I've received an invitation."

Sweetie glanced up. "Is this our business?"

"I'm afraid not." Rarity touched her hooves together. "They'd be quite upset if I went and invited you all... But you." She pushed Bright away, turning him to face her. "You, wonderful thing, are my familiar. They can't forbid me from bringing you along."

Sweetie cocked up a brow. "Yeah..." She slid to her hooves. "Now you're going to tell us what this is and why we should give you time off to deal with it."

Bright inclined his head towards Sweetie Drops. "She's not wrong. Fill us in. Why are we running off suddenly, and for how long, and...?" He rolled a hand dramatically with that trailing question.

"You see." Rarity's horn glowed as she unfolded the map of Equestria, just to wave over it in no specific place. "I'm not the only master or mistress of the night." She let her fangs show with that. "There are a few others... And we've formed a, shall we say, society of sorts. It's a good thing, really, I assure."

Sweetie wrinkled her nose doubtfully. "Yeah... Why are we just hearing about that?"

"Because they aren't causing problems, dear." Rarity folded her arms and tossed her mane. "They're just ponies... who happen to have a little extra. They aren't breaking laws. So, why would we be involved, hm?"

Bright shrugged. "I can't argue those facts. If they're nice vampires, I say we let 'em keep being nice."

Sweetie Drops nodded slowly, though her eyes remained narrowed. As head of Equestria's supernatural affairs division, the idea of an entire cabal of vampires operating secretly didn't sit easily with her.

"And this mysterious 'society' just happens to be gathering now while all those weird magical incidents keep happening lately?" She fixed Rarity with a stern look, one hoof tapping. "I don't like coincidence, Rarity."

Rarity's eyes flicked away guiltily before Bright nudged his mistress encouragingly. "Hey now, no need to give Rarity the evil eye just 'cause she's got cool secret friends," he chided Sweetie gently. "I'm sure if they were up to anything shady, she woulda told us."

He fluttered his long eyelashes up at Rarity beseechingly. "You just wanna go hang and have some fancy blood punch or whatever, right?"

Rarity tittered, leaning down to nuzzle her familiar gratefully. "Quite so! Merely social visit among like-minded gentleponies." Her bright red lips curled into a sly little smile. "Well, gentle-pony might be debatable for some attendees... But I can personally vouch for their character!"

Sweetie Drops was still clearly uneasy, but she waved a hoof resignedly. "Yeah yeah, you two go have your weird double date or whatever. But first sign of anything fishy, you call us for backup!" She leaned in close, glaring from beneath the brim of her hat. "Capisce?"

Rarity mimed zipping her lips, locking them and tossing the imaginary key over her shoulder. Then she and Bright vanished into the night to join their mysterious gathering.

Sweetie sighed softly and pulled out a paper. "And, as usual, paperwork goes to me. I swear..." The others hadn't filed for the time off, so it fell on Sweetie to do it.

Rarity appeared in a cloud of bats, allowing both to step free into a gilded entry hall, stairs extending upwards from there. "Welcome," bade Rarity. "I'd tell you where we are, but that's something of a secret, dear. This is where we gather each meeting."

Rarity and Bright gazed around the opulent entry hall, hoofsteps and light taps of claws echoing on polished marble floors. Gilded columns lined the walls, winding upwards to an ornately carved ceiling lit by a glittering chandelier. Heavy velvet curtains framed arched windows overlooking moonlit gardens.

Towards the back of the hall, a grand staircase swept upwards, the rich red carpet continuing along a balcony corridor overlooking the space. Intricate tapestries woven with silver thread depicted elegant ponies in various aristocratic pursuits - sipping blood-red wine, admiring jewels, dancing under the stars.

The finery spoke of generations of noble lineage, the very walls seeming to resonate with an ancient power and privilege. But any stuffiness was offset by a subtle gothic edge in the design and decor choices. Beauty and danger mingled artfully.

"Goodness, the old money certainly shows itself here," Rarity murmured appreciatively to Bright. "I suppose when one has a few centuries to accumulate wealth, one may get creative about where to spend it!"

She stifled a delicate laugh behind one hoof. "Though I dare say some spaces are a touch...overdone, if you ask me. Restraint can speak volumes too!" Still, being surrounded by such luxury suited her essence well enough for an evening's amusement.

"Shall we mingle then?" She extended a hoof to Bright elegantly. These nights were always more entertaining with one's familiar close by.

An offer Bright was swift to take, wrapping Rarity's hoof with his paw. "Gladly. Now, where are--"

Landing before them was a dragon. A dragon with very sharp fangs. "Rarity... I was wondering if you'd bother to show up."

Rarity gestured to the new vampire. "Dear, this is Crackle. Quite an esteemed holder of the circle, she was here long before me."

"And I'll be here long after you." The green dragon leaned in closer to Bright. "Who's this? I smell some of our blood on him... Convert?"

Rarity drew Bright closer. "Familiar, dear."

Bright showed no fear of the looming dragon vampire. "'Sup, Crackle. I thought you... looked a lot different." He gestured in the air, trying to capture the big dopey presence he remembered Crackle being. "Good glam up!"

"Thank you." Crackle batted her lashes. "The most effective place to hide, is where one can be seen. The dragons think little of me." She flashed her deadly fangs. "And that suits me well. They speak freely around who they think is less than a moron, and their secrets tumble into my reach."

Rarity tittered with a smile. "Oh, darling. Don't ever change." She pushed Bright forward. "Now, I do insist. Get along."

Bright laughed tenesly. "Nice to meet you." He offered a hand forward at the great bulk of Crackle.

"Charmed." Crackle placed a hand in Bright's, resting on the small paw. "Most familiars behave differently... I like it..."

Rarity fluttered her lashes. "Isn't he a treat? How, where can we find the rest of our little meeting? I imagine they won't tolerate us keeping them waiting, dear."

Crackle gave Bright's paw a genteel squeeze, sending a tiny spark hopping between their palms before releasing him. "Do take care, little morsel," she purred before turning on an elegant heel.

"This way to the west salon," she called airily back, waving for Rarity and Bright to follow her wide swaying tail deeper into the manor.

Soon signs of other nocturnal activity made themselves known - the drone of conversation behind closed doors, a scrap of dark classical music, the skitter and flap of distant bat wings. Other pale faces turned to glance their way curiously before vanishing back into shadow.

At last they reached an archway curtained in black and purple velvet. Crackle strode through without ceremony, the fabric seeming to part for her of its own volition. "I have returned with our darling Lady Posh," she announced to the guests beyond.

All within the dimly lit salon turned as one to face the new arrivals. An eclectic collection of elegant vampires lounged in high-backed chairs or stood conversing near crackling hearths. Expressions ranged from detached boredom to faint curiosity.

In the center sat a broad stallion with a neatly pointed beard, his half-lidded gaze authoritative despite indolent posture. "Welcome, Lady Rarity," he intoned in a honeyed baritone. "We were just discussing the troubling incidents of late..."

Another, a mare, huffed. "Inexusable, and impossible to ignore." She scowled at Rarity. "Have you heard of it, or have you been too busy playing kis... Who is that?" She directed a hoof at Bright directly.

All eyes were upon him. He took a step forward with a bright smile. "Hey! I'm Bright, Rarity's familiar." He wagged his tail, causing the bangle Rarity had given him to glimmer in the dim light even as he spread his wings. "Touched inside and out. I am her loyal servant forever and a few days."

Rarity leaned against him. "I know I said I was wary of such things, but Bright has been nothing but a charming and wonderful creature to have around. Please treat him well."

The stallion huffed softly, an equine snort. "Enough. We have business." All the vampires present looked far more serious suddenly. "Lights."

Rarity inclined her head. "Lights?"

"Lights." That vampire lord of a stallion leaned forward. "It was bad enough when they were a city problem." Some vampires sighed, perhaps familiar with that issue. "But they're spreading. Quickly, by our measures. Within a century or two, even the most backwards country ponies will have them. Night, as we know it, will be abolished."

Rarity inclined her head. "Darling, dear... You're being a bit hasty, aren't you? Electricity has scarcely spread. What makes you think it'll--"

The stallion held up a hoof for quiet. "Lady Posh." A name agreed upon for Rarity in that parts, it seemed. "You are barely a mewling infant among us." That got her to scowl. "When you become this old, you begin to think in centuries, millenia... For some of us, it seemed yesterday that Celestia banished her sister away. The coming of the light? Far faster... We must begin action now, not later."

Bright felt Rarity tense against him as the other vampires rumbled in solemn agreement. These electric lights did sound concerning if one preferred to operate under cover of darkness. But were measures as extreme as this coven seemed to desire truly wise?

He raised a tentative paw, clearing his throat. "Hey uh, I know I'm pretty new to all...this." He gestured around the ornate salon. "But maybe we're getting a teeny bit ahead of ourselves about some lights?"

The stallion fixed Bright with an imperious glare. "You overstep yourself offering opinions to your betters, familiar..."

But Rarity stepped forward, wings flaring. "Dear Bright merely voices what I myself worry - that we might act rashly without fully assessing the situation." Her ice-blue eyes swept the gathering. "What proof have we beyond base fears that these lights shall drive us into extinction?"

The assembly shuffled and glanced between themselves uncertainly. Their misgivings were clearly deeply rooted, but evidence seemed lacking still...

At last the grand stallion sighed. "Very well. We shall discuss more before deciding anything firmly." He lifted a hoof as conversations immediately revved up. "But a delegation must travel to Manehattan to observe conditions personally. Volunteers?"

Rarity stepped forward without hesitation, as did several others. If trouble was brewing, hiding in Ponyville wouldn't help. And she preferred knowing exactly what they faced over whisperings and panic...

She turned to Bright questioningly. Would her dear familiar join her on this vital mission?

Bright nudged her. "As if you even have to ask, really Rares!" He hugged her, quickly returned as they embraced in shared fondness.

The lord vampire snorted darkly. "You are very close to your familiar... Most use blood oaths and threat of violence... Yours would kiss your hooves if it'd make you smile, from the look of them. You found a sycophant and turned them to your ends." He smiled, bright fangs displayed. "Perhaps this will turn to your ends, or be your unmaking. I look forward to seeing it unfurl in either direction."

He looked to the others. "The mission is given. This meeting is concluded, to be re-adjourned when we have their reports at hoof for review."

Author's Note

Did you think Rarity a one time event? 16/29

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20 - Assignment Six - Manehattan Lights

Rarity pinned down Bright beneath her, a smile on her face in the dim hotel room. The air was laced with a gentle bouquet of floral notes. The bed was clean, and things were quiet, save her at least. "Darling, we're alone, at night..."

Bright laughed nervously. "My, um... My dear, Rarity... Did you have something in mind?"

"Dear." She put a hoof under his chin. "I do, several things... Limited only by what you desire and allow, hm? Now, we need something cleared first." She sat up, resting her weight on Bright's hips quite on purpose. "I ask you this as a friend, confidant, and perhaps more... Not as a mistress. If you turn me down, I may pout, but our relationship will not sour."

"Gotcha." Bright inclined his head. "Though I'm not sure what I'd say no to."

"What we started before." She rubbed over his chest with her hooves, gazing into his eyes. "Without Twilight, or anypony else, here to bother us. Just you, and me."

Bright ran his hands up over her generous hips, feeling over them gently. "Rares... You serious?"

"I am not known for my jests, dear." She leaned in, blinking her long lashes in a bat. "Bright, shall we take advantage of this privacy, hm?"

Bright pinched her, trailing fingers along her diamond cutie mark. "I would love to... Just one thing."

"Yes?" She adjusted herself, putting more weight on her legs and less on Bright. "I figured you would be less patient, truth told."

"For you." Bright sat up to kiss her chest. "I would wait forever."

Rarity burst into joyful titters. "You scandalous thing... Please, continue..."

There was an enthusiastic pounding at their door. "Open up in the name of Equestrian fashion!"

Rarity startled with surprise, quickly floating off Bright as the door was kicked open by an over-eager pink pony.

"Rarity! I just had the best idea for a new line of nighttime lingerie and I really really need your help getting it just right!" Pinkie exclaimed, oblivious to the scene she had just burst in on.

Bright dove under the sheets as Rarity tried unsuccessfully to usher the babbling Pinkie Pie back out into the hallway.

"Darling please, your ideas sound simply divine but now is really not the time-" Rarity protested before getting bowled over by an onslaught of frilly unmentionables being pulled eagerly out of Pinkie's mane by the exuberant pony.

"We just need to pick perfect fabrics and patterns for maximum coziness and gorgeousness!" Pinkie continued enthusiastically, leaving Rarity flustered and flushed at the sudden intrusion into their private evening. "Maybe your blushy friend here can offer a stallion's perspective too?"

Rarity cringed in flustered embarrassment but the shock left her momentarily speechless. Trust Pinkie's timing to be utterly inconceivable yet perfectly unpredictable! She met Bright's own stunned eyes peeking from the rumbled sheets. Rarity gave a resigned shrug and wink - they had eternity ahead still to explore continue their intimate conversation once Pinkie was placated!

Bright slipped free to his feet, tail wagging. "Pinks, Pink mare, the party canon made flesh!"

Pinkie inclined her head. "Wow, you know me?" She went right around Rarity to get closer to Bright. "Howdy! Ooo, you're like a bunny, and..." She casually began exploring Bright's general shape. "Loving it! You are a stallion, right?"

"Technially no?" Bright flopped one ear down. "Not being a pony, but I am a male, so close enough?"

"Close enough!" joyfully agreed Pinkie with a bouncing. "Rarity, why haven't you introduced us?"

Rarity climbed through the pile Pinkie had made, closing the door with her magic. "Pinkie, seriously..." She let out a tired sigh. "Well, since you're here... Pinkie, this is Bright, a lovely and dear friend of mine."

"Her..." Bright trailed off, catching Rarity's pointed glare. "Boyfriend."

Pinkie gasped with amazement. "Boyfriend?! Why didn't you tell me?! Oooo, this is so great." she danced from hoof to hoof. "I hope you two are getting along super duper well! Gonna get married? Invite me! No, wait, don't. Let me plan it! Then invite me."

Rarity sighed indulgently as irrepressible Pinkie Pie continued peppering starry-eyed Bright with enthusiastic questions about their supposed nuptial plans and potential foals. Trust the ever effervescent party pony to erupt unannounced at the most intimate moments!

Still, despite flustered protests Bright appeared more entertained than offended by the interrogation on his romantic intentions towards "rare and wonderful Rarity" as Pinkie effused. The vampony felt her own fierce blush slowly subsiding to amusement as her erstwhile suitor flexed theatrically to showcase physique apparently meeting Pinkie's earnest standards for siring eventual vampire-hybrid heirs.

Finally waving off further speculation about hypothetical offspring, Rarity delicately interjected "We all appreciate your...boundless investment in our deepening relationship, darling Pinkie." She guided the poofy pink pony gently back towards the door, floating a satchel overflowing with frothy intimates along.

"But thought most becoming creations clearly crave further refinement before debuting, we simply mustn't monopolize Sir Bright's keen perspective on short notice yes?" Another subtle step closer to the hall as Pinkie hesitated, considering. "Perhaps we reconvene tomorrow eve to continue collaborating on charming unmentionables combining comfort and allure?"

"Ohmygosh you're absolutely-positively right!" Pinkie exclaimed, cotton-candy curls bouncing at the prospect. "I'll go whip up some cupcakes to fuel our all-night brainstorm session!" She zipped out the door with one last gleeful wave. "Toodles loveponies! Don't start the honeymoon without me!"

As the door swung softly shut, Rarity slumped against it with a rueful yet affectionate laugh. "What perfectly darling chaos! However do I stay vexed at such guileless glee?" She smiled tenderly at gently snickering Bright from across the dim room. "My apologies for our...interruption, darling. Fancy continuing prior conversation in case of further surprises popping by?"

Bright colored faintly. "Did she just... ask to be at our honeymoon with us?"

Rarity joined in the blush. "Oh my... She did, dear, and I imagine she'd take the offer if we extended it." She coughed into a hoof. "That's Pinkie for you, life of the party. Even if it's a party you didn't plan. Especially then, at times..." She plucked up an abandoned unmentionable and tucked it away. "The mood is thoroughly shattered, I admit."

Bright hugged her gently. "Mine isn't, because my mood is hanging out with lady Rarity, and she's still here, so I get to do that."

Rarity tittered gently. "You are too kind, but my decadance has shifted... I say we order a scrumptious meal in, snuggle, and get some sleep."

"Nice ideas... Nice ideas..." He fired a double finger gun at Rarity. "But we're here for a job, Rares. And it's night. We really should go out and check out all the lights they're scared of."

Rarity rolled her eyes. "I agreed to that to shut them up. Really, lights? Lights don't hurt vampires. Watch." She walked over and clicked on the room lamp, spilling light across the room. "Oh no, I'm burning, oh no..." She was not burning. She wasn't so much as getting a tan. "Really, dear."

Bright chuckled, paws raised placatingly. "Alright alright, no need to sass! I know better than buy into all those silly superstitions about you bursting into flames and stuff." He hip-bumped Rarity playfully. "But we did promise to at least patrol the town and keep an eye out while they put up all those lights and decorations and noisy stuff."

Bright faux-pouted forlornly, velvety ears drooping. "I'll get soooo lonely out there allll night without my best vampony to snuggle though..." He perked up, snapping his paw fingers. "Ooh I know! How 'bout I grab us some yummy takeout while you get dazzlingly dolled up for a night out together?"

Bright mimed holding an umbrella. "That way everypony sees the gorgeous Lady Rarity gracing their quaint city festivities...and nopony tries recruiting poor lonely me for anything while you're gone!" He winked roguishly. "Then we meet to cozy constitutional under the stars away from the crowds, see if your vamp-senses pick up traces of whatever's supposedly lurking in darkness."

The lapine showman flourished a bow. "So whaddya say, my Rare and Radiant Lady fair? Shall your Humble Hare escort you on a magic moonlight promenade après din-din?"

Rarity fanned herself gently with a hoof. "I say you have more charm in that thick tail of yours than in half the high society parties I've been to." She reached out to take his fuzzy hand with her hoof. "Let's do it. I can hardly say no now." Her blush had faded, but remained pleased with the night's rough course.

"Shall I do you up, too, dear? I still feel the least I can offer is a little style to go with an evening in my company." Her eyes brightened with fresh inspiration. "What say we deck ourselves to the nines in formal finery and painted beauty before hitting the town's most posh and happening scenes?"

Striking a dramatic pose, Rarity waved a glittering hoof across the skyline's sultry silhouette. "Dinner and dancing at that new rooftop lounge, then drinks amidst the exclusive elite at the Midnight Martini? I'll have you the toast of the town, darling!"

She nudged the suddenly wide-eyed hybrid playfully. "Come now, with Auntie Rarity's style sorcery on your side they'll be clawing for a chance to beg an audience! What better ego balm after recent harrowing trials than an avalanche of admirers fawning over her foxily fearless fighter, hm?"

Rarity smiled alluringly, already levitating an array of grooming implements and cosmetic tools. "Now then Sir Bright, shall we set out to scandalize and scintillate in equal measure before the sun dares rise to ruin our fashionable fun?"

With the two firmly in agreement, they left the hotel room behind and made their way out, arms entwined, into the glittering light of the city.

"A thought." Bright waved a hand through those lights. "Does this get in the way of your tricks at all? It isn't hurting you, I can see that."

"Not even a little." Rarity dusted herself to be clear on that front. She was unharmed by the glitz of the city. "Hm... Let's get off the side of the street before I go doing things like that, dear."

She pulled Bright along into an alleyway. "This is more like it. I don't... favor it, but it has privacy. Bats!" A bat popped out of each ear and flopped to the ground. "That... I meant to become a cloud of bats, not... that." She reached out to nudge one of the slumbering critters. "I never had that happen before."

Bright bit back a snicker at the pair of abruptly ejected bats snoozing obliviously amidst the refuse lining their impromptu side-alley retreat. Rare indeed for the ever fabulous Lady Rarity to suffer effects failing to align with flawless self-presentation!

Yet perceptive familiar eyes glimpsed fleeting frustration crinkling the fashionista's brow beneath artfully coiffed curls. New environments exposed fresh frustrations for his vampony benefactor's emerging abilities still more grasp than mastery...

Crouching solicitously beside his mistress, Bright gently captured one softly furred chiropteran refugee, cupping protective paws around its quiescent form. "Aw, cut the little guys some slack - probably gets stuffy stuffed in such elegant ear canals!" He winked up at Rarity, smile radiating support not judgement at her spell's slight misfire.

"Growing into awesome new gifts takes time, Rares. But hey - " Bright extended the snoozing bat towards her like a living plush offering. "At least now you'll have snazzy wingmates for those lonely nights I'm off bouncing around saving the day!"

Rarity smirked softly at that, nudging Bright with an elbow. "You tease... But thank you, dear. Practice it shall be... On the move. Come now." She started them back away from the alley. "Away from there, before they wake up properly. I don't know what they'll do then. Home is that way, little ones."

The pair of bats took wing a moment later, darting off deeper into Manehatten's backstreets. "Practice while having fun sounds ideal... Keep your bits, though. You've no need to buy me anything, especially if it's replacing what I've made." She pointed towards the broader street ahead with buildings towering high all around them. "Let's see what trouble we can find, hm?"

Rarity frowned at where the bats had gone. "This does mean, darling, perhaps those old stodges had a point..."

Author's Note

Oh no, there's actually something to look at! Also, hi Pinkie! 17/29

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21 - What Lurks Beneath

"Now, I know this is uncharacteristic of me, dear... but let's remain calm." Rarity gently stroked over Bright's head. "We need to know more first. Why... If this affects all creatures of the night, well..." She narrowed her eyes. "I hate it, but it may be good for ponykind. Ah, the sweet conflicting needs as both a vampony, and an agent sworn to combat evils of the night..."

Bright took a brief pause as a chance to scuttle up onto Rarity's back, squeezing her with his legs. "Well... How do we test that? I don't want to see you pouting, so I'm all in on fixing it."

"Precious thing." She turned to nuzzle his belly before trotting free of that stinky alleyway. "I'm already feeling better. Ah, Manehattan..." She circled slowly, just taking in the dazzling lights. "A marvelous city... A part of me always wanted to have a store here, among the glamour and glitz."

Bright took one of Rarity's ears in his grip, rubbing the way they had met, calming and soothing her with gentle applications of his fingers. "Could still happen, Rares. I bet it'd be great."

"From your lips to Harmony's ears..." Rarity sighed with enjoyment at the rubs. "But we're getting no closer. Now... I propose, we see if it is the lights, first. Even the alley there had some light in it. You can't avoid it in the big city, dear..."

Bright scrunched his fuzzy face thoughtfully as Rarity waited expectantly for suggestions on experimentally verifying the strange phenomenon's actual relationship with ambient light levels.

"Hmm...if it really is tied to brightness, maybe we try finding the darkest spot around and seeing if your bat-shift works better?" He glanced consideringly between soaring skyscrapers and dazzling marquees blazing neon glory against the night.

"Though that might not be so easy in the big unresting city... Maybe duck inside somewhere without windows and turn off overhead bulbs?" Even pragmatic Bright sounded dubiously anticipating their reception trying to deliberately plunge some posh patron parlor into darkness.

Ears perking up, Bright pawed excitedly at a promising idea. "Ooh I know! C'mon!" He pointed towards an unassuming storefront cater-corner from their alley perch. "Let's dip into the cinema, find a nice horror flick, and you do your thing once they kill the lights for the previews! We can test the darkness hypothesis and still look like we're just there to take in a show!"

The fact their supposed critical mission now revolved around finding optimum conditions for Rarity to shapeshift with minimal embarrassment failed to diminish Bright's visible enthusiasm for this improvisational experiment.

Rarity considered the cinema a moment before clapping her hooves together. "Marvelous! We can be normal patrons until the moment is right... Come along then!" She set off in long purposeful strides towards the theatre. "You'll be buying the tickets then?"

"What kind of gentlestallion would I be if I didn't treat a lovely lady fair?" Bright grinned and pulled a tiny top hat seemingly from nowhere to doff with courtly flair.

"Two for the latest fright feature if you'd be so kind, my good sir!" Bright adopted a theatrically posh accent to the bored teen working the box office. "Premium seating for maximum immersive adrenaline of course -" he fired finger guns towards giant posters for something called Blood Moon Rising 3: Hybrid's Revenge.

Rejoining a gently smirking Rarity inside, he leaned to whisper "What luck finding such a...festively thematic film hmm?" Bright waggled his eyebrows towards suggestively alluring movie posters featuring the eponymous vampiric antagonist pursuing the protagonist with unspoken yet evident desire. "At least we'll have proper atmosphere for experiment's conditions!"

Rarity tittered softly as she eased into the plush seat of the theater. "Indeed. Make yourself comfortable." She looked around at the other patrons shuffling about for their own seats. "And try to behave. We're being watched."

Bright was the one being watched, ponies glancing at him curiously on the way towards their seats. One filly broke away from their caretaker to investigate personally. "Are you a creature?" she asked with a big smile that likely made those who knew her melt.

Bright blinked softly. "Um?"

Rarity put a hoof ahead of Bright. "Creature, any critter that can speak. He is one of those, little dear."

"I talk all the time." Bright flashed a silly grin. "What's up?"

The filly squealed in a giggle, dancing in place. "Neat! What's your name... mister?"

"Bright, nice to meet you." He offered a hand.

But the shake never happened, the filly's mother drawing her away. "Sorry about that." She led her child off and away.

Rarity tittered quietly. "You get along with foals just fine... Might be useful for the future, hm?"

Bright nodded before the implications settled on him and he blushed. "Rares..."

The lights dimmed around them. Rarity gasped. "Time." But her shapeshifting proved just as muddled. Instead of becoming a sleek and refined night hound, she had a small night puppy at either side of her, and she was still a pony. "Hmm... oh dear..."

Bright bit his lip trying and failing to restrain a hopeless "Aww!" at the sight of elegant Rarity now flanked by a pair of boofy bat-winged puppies squirming and yipping softly in the cinema darkness. Even his vampony's slight miffed embarrassment at her lingering magical mishaps couldn't eclipse the preciousness of mini monstrous canines now clambering eagerly into her lap.

"No no, down this instant, you scamps!" Rarity hissed under her breath, torn between not drawing further attention and preventing Dark Fangs and Crimson from tussling loudly over positioning. She shot a pleading look Bright's direction. "Don't just moon there looking darling, give an auntie a hoof here!"

"Oops, you got it!" Bright helped gently disentangle the two playfully nipping pups from Rarity's immaculate coiffe and onto the seat between them. Tiny tails wagged with hypnotic swiftness creating subtle drafts.

Bright couldn't tear his enchanted gaze from teeny glinting fangs and little lolling tongues as the pups settled. "Um right, strictly professional scientific observation going on now..." he managed faintly, willpower fast crumbling before their puppy pile's preciousness.

Rarity just managed to withhold further undignified squeaks herself at overflowing fluffy cuteness now smothering her familiar's last defenses. She discreetly peppered both pups' furry heads with adoring kisses between surveying the theater for reactions.

"Well, at least every eye remains aimed at the screen not our menagerie..." She winked sideways at entranced Bright. "Now then darling, shall you help gather data on our unplanned fluffy variables, or are they too distracting for duty's stern call?"

"I have just the thing!" He pulled out a leash with a glint in his eyes. Soon he had them both attached to it and hopped down to the floor, drawing them along. "Be right back." He gently pulled the puppies along, grateful that they were just puppies. He had a good idea that full grown dogs would have been pulling him instead.

The moment he emerged into the light of the foyer, a pony was on him, dressed in the colors of the theatre. "Excuse me. No pets allowed." He pointed to a sign that showed the outline of a dog on a leash with a big slash through it.

"Sorry, heading out, promise." Bright gave his best smile as he hurried past the stallion for the door. "We'll be right out of your mane."

Back in the theatre, Rarity blinked in surprise as Bright's hasty retreat left her alone amidst engrossed patrons enraptured by cinematic spectacle. For an indulgent moment she let vision and sound alike recede, musing on margins crossed by her erstwhile familiar's brash show now doubtlessly dazzling some hapless attendant guarding mundane propriety against perceived interlopers.

Ah, but to live wrapped securely by convention's soothing bounds denying darker dreams' encroachment! Rarity sighed, rising to glide silently after her enthusiastically ejected entourage. She spared the screen but a single lingering glance as scream's echoed chasing manipulated pulses racing for distraction's fleeting refuge. What rich irony now stood revealed - out there perched promise, in here yawned abyss.

The theater doors had scarcely shut, shutting out Bright's protest, before Rarity emerged under garish lights finding Bright and a crossly looming manager demanding dogged departure of unlicensed pets posthaste.

"Do forgive the innocent misunderstanding, dear sir!" Rarity smoothly interposed her graceful form, smiling disarmingly up at the bristling fellow built like an overstuffed bulldog himself. "We are visiting from distant lands where cinema houses host all manner of exotic companions."

She indicated the politely wagging pups sitting to attention under hopelessly smitten Bright's adoring gaze as the manager peered critically downward. "I daresay once the cultural context became apparent, none here would hesitate welcoming such darling well-bred creatures merely longing like yourselves to enjoy a taste of Harmony's artistry, yes?"

Rarity subtly leaned forward, voice lilting hypnotically. "Surely exceptions exist for preserving goodwill across borders however unforeseen?" She held the skeptical stallion's glare a breath longer before his expression reluctantly softened a degree. Rarity flowed smoothly from persuasion to departure.

"But come - let us not further disrupt local custom!" She swept towards the doors, bright-furred parade trailing obediently behind so unlike her prior cinema departure. "Another time then!" Rarity called lightly over one shoulder, gemstones glinting. "Do enjoy the rest of a frightfully magical evening, sir!"

Bright pulled at his new puppers. "So... Do we, what, keep them forever now?"

Rarity squinted at the problem even as she welcomed the dogs into her arms, petting both. "Well... Hm." But before she could finish that thought, both began to pull towards a new alley. "What's gotten into them, dear?"

"No idea." But Bright let them lead the way for a change, down into the dimmer stretch of the alley. This one smelled better than the last. It was a darker place, relatively speaking.

And the dogs vanished, evaporating into the night energy that had formed them.

Rarity inclined her head at the vanishing pooches. "Is that what happened to the bats? Hm... Part of me is sad for them, another is... dreadfully confused, darling. In both cases that should have been me, transformed, not... making other things." she glanced to be sure they were as alone as they could be. "But this proves it isn't the light."

"Well, then what is it..." Bright noticed a glimmer. "Hey." The faint trail of what was left of the dogs. "Check that out." He could see it was moving, seeping into the ground. "I think we have a hint right here..."

Rarity's nostrils flared as she inhaled sharply, keen vampiric senses igniting as she spotted the ephemeral trail only Bright's hybrid sight apparently shared evidence of. "A leyline?" she breathed, horn instinctively tracing runic analysis sigils through the air over the delicate glow.

"A channel for magical potencies, akin to meridian flows in a living subject." Her focus remained locked intently on untangling the shimmering streamers' shifting hues and oscillating harmonies as reality's underlying energies coursed inches below unaware hooves. "But what subtle alteration here in Manehattan might distort the conduits so?"

Ethereal diagrams swirled reflecting the subtle clues gleaned regarding the unseen network tying Equestria's arcane anatomy together, mapping power's paths just out of mortal perceptions. "How intriguing...this city's ambitious developers must have damaged or improperly gridded this region's conduits with their monolithic architecture!" Rarity declared. "All these imposing towers and flashy stages leak wild magic askew!"

She extinguished her arcane display with a satisfied toss of her head. "Well now! Isn't that a tidy revelation from this evening's sleuthing?" Rarity smirked at her familiar in renewed confidence. "Come the morn we'll report the bureaucrats bungled subterranean flows and leaching excess now plays havoc on those attuned to its waves...like local nightfolk finding shifts awry!"

The vampony mimed inspecting her hoof smugly. "You'd swear they never consulted appropriate mystics vetting disturbance of the land's ancient channels... Fancy a midnight restore project shall soon see all neatly realigned?" Rarity winked coyly at Bright. "Chaos contained and Rarity's vampiric cachet intact once more!"

"I'm with ya!" Bright snapped a dynamic pose before starting ahead. "One thing... What if this isn't an accident?"

Author's Note

Time to head... down? 18/29

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22 - Delving Deep

Rarity pointed to a sewer cap. "We won't know until we find out, will we dear?" With a glowing horn she... discovered sewer caps were far heavier than they looked, and they already looked fairly substantial. "Darling, a... hand if you would..."

Bright scurried over, grabbing the glowing cap and heaving with all his might. The two of them working together slowly got it just a bit up, enough to shove it aside, allowing a sliver of light to penetrate those dark and gloomy depths.

Bright slapped his hands together, wiping off the dust. "Well, um... Now we go into the stink-hole?"

Rarity rolled her eyes. "Yes, unless another idea has come to you, dear?"

"Sadly not." Resigning himself to his fate, Bright jumped down, vanishing from sight instantly.

A muffled splash echoed up from the shadows below. "Woah didn't expect it to get deep so fast!" Bright's voice wavered slightly. "Um, floaty bat mode activate! Now would be an awesome time!"

Rarity sighed humorously. These subterranean excursions were clearly a bit outside her erstwhile familiar's comfort zone...though perhaps hers as well if she admitted regal sensibilities skeptical of sloshing through sewers. Still, such discovery required flexibility from even the most glamorous divas...

"Worry not, brave scout, Rarity never sends heroes unprepared into unsavory straits!" Her horn flashed elegantly crafting a gossamer platform of glittering gemstone gilding spiral stair-stepping into the obscure depths. She gingerly alighted upon the glowing platform. "I'll make sure we don't have to get ourselves too messy pursuing this little problem."

The chic glowing walkway manifested out from under Rarity's hooves, resources or pride no barrier to pursuing this strange magical disruption threatening chaos across her adopted nocturnal family. Dainty fashionista facade or no, fierce devotion to protecting Equestria's vulnerable creatures coursed Rarity's veins ever deeper than vampire might alone...

"Onward we venture then!" Horn glowing brightly with manifesting her walkway, Rarity cantered carefully downwards, calling gently to submerged shape thrashing ahead. "Take courage as night takes wing."

Bright looked up at his mistress walking over the mare. He spread his own vampiric wings and quickly darted up to join her. "I forgot I even had those."

Rarity shook her head as her familiar joined her. "You are new yet." She snorted with thought. "In the eyes of many of the other vampires, I am barely turned. An infant, in their words."

"Jerks." Bright crossed his arms, walking along with Rarity. "You're no baby, except maybe mine?"

Rarity tittered joyfully, leaning against Bright. "I'll accept that and only that use of the word, dear. Now, let's focus ourselves. We have a mystery before us!"

The sewers seemed unremarkable as sanitation devices went. They wound their way further and further into the maze of tunnels and passages, until Bright reached at his back, scratching at his wings. "That feels... funny." He spread them, but they felt limp. "I think we're getting closer."

Rarity frowned at the report. "On one hoof, good, on the other... I don't like it. Fortunately." She tapped the platform beneath them. "This is unicorn magic, which seems to be spared? For now at least."

Rarity frowned, perturbed at Bright's mention of discomfort and potential further destabilization of their hybrid enhancements amidst the oppressive gloom. What sinister forces flowed and festered beneath Equestria's gleaming facade preying so insidiously on the arcane?

Glancing warily about at the claustrophobic pipelines surrounding them, Rarity redoubled mystical luminosity from her spiraling crystal bridge stretching security into the abyssal unknown. "Seems only proper unicorn magic still works even this close..." She trailed off uncertainly, aged fears stirring.

"Yet delving deeper risks greater unravelling if this confounding effect increases!" Rarity turned suddenly to study anxious Bright, memory sparked by his eerie symptoms. "You said your wings faltered, yes?" She waited as Bright patted experimentally down his leather wings. Rarity exhaled in relief as all digits remained accounted following self-inspection.

"You appear to be intact... for now. Let's hurry before that changes, dear."

Magic and will fueling urgent steps, vampony and familiar pressed on through perilous drainage corridors. They slowed as the gloom gave way to glowing lines trailing every available surface.

"Neat." Bright reached out, only for Rarity to slap his hand. "Hey! It's neat though."

Rarity raised a brow. "Touching mysterious things is how you became what you are, dear. I happen to fancy your current build. But let's not tempt fate, shall we?"

She circled, examining the strange runes. "This certainly wasn't in the sewer plans. We've found part of the problem, at least."

Rarity traced delicate detection spells around the luminous symbols, analyzing resonances and fungal growths suggestive of their antiquity.

"These read like archival energy formulae..." Rarity's eyes widened in dawning realization. "Of course! Leylines weren't damaged but successfully tapped as new thaumic feeds!"

She gestured excitedly to the glyphs. "Some ambitious unicorns must be splicing modern spells into the city's natural currents for more casting capacity!"

Bright rubbed at his head. "Yep, lost me... I think I picked up 'some bad guy's stealing the magic.'"

Rarity cocked a brow at that. "Isn't that what I said, dear? Somepony's taking the magic, and using it for their own nefarious ends."

Bright slammed his fists together. "Okay, cool. So we smash these fancy runes and that'll end this case."

"Darling." She turned to him. "Don't be so hasty. These sewers are in use, to start. Luna really didn't want us assuming more debt in her name... So let's not... destroy wantonly."

Bright slumped. "Aw... So what's your plan? I don't see a jerk to punch here."

Rarity pursed her lips thoughtfully. Much as letting Bright gleefully smash strange infrastructural runes held a certain primal appeal, Luna had quite unambiguously advocated against wanton destruction unless absolutely required. And the glyphs themselves appeared more the ambitious end product than underlying cause...

Rarity paced further alongside the expansive luminous codex, searching for clues informing context and purpose. Perhaps a business endeavor seeking merely elevation through amplified arcana? Not all spellcrafters harbored crueler motives than convenience or acclaim...

Her ruminations scattered at a muffled clink behind them. Rarity whirled, magic flaring alongside predatory reflexes as she glimpsed faint shadows wavering beyond the reach of her light bridge’s anchoring illumination. Padding steps echoed softly off cold stone then silence...pregnant with potential menace.

Rarity addressed their hidden observer coolly, fangs glinting. “Our exploration unintentionally encroached upon your domain, good visitor, but no laws nor properties stand trespassed here.“ She extended polite tone like a duelist’s blade. “Might we converse cordially regarding yon runic conduits now fueling brave new world's up top?"

No response but shifting weight followed guarded offer of parley. Rarity sighed inwardly, whispering Bright to brace himself as magic gathered in her horn. Negotiation sadly ceded ground before self-defense again...thus stood their saturated lives of late! "Would that wisdom prevail where suspicion yet reigns...”

"You talk funny." Emerging into the light of the runes came a pony, or what one might assume might have once have been. Bent and bloated, their body looked like somepony had casually inflated some of their physique, but only bits at a time, leaving them deformed, and dreadful. "Back away."

Bright squinted at the new arrival. "You're not a unicorn."

"Smart." An earth pony, with no wings and no horn. They had to stand even with the muck of the sewer, not that it seemed to bother them. "Leave and I won't pound you into dust."

Rarity cocked a brow. "Darling, dear... seriously..." She gestured to the platform she and Bright stood on. "How do you even plan to make good those empty threats of yours? We're here to talk."

Bright laughed down at the aggressive thing below them. "We're way up here, you're way down there, sucker. So yeah, no fighting."

The stranger lashed out an arm, smashing into the wall with such force that the bricks splintered and the mighty tremble ran through the structure. A single brick landed atop Bright's head. "Ow!" He rubbed at the swelling lump. "Fine, sheesh... So you can fight from there."

Rarity waved her hooves placatingly. "Apologies for startling you, sir! I am Lady Rarity of Ponyville, this is my friend Bright." She gestured at the glowing glyphs. "We came to learn if your work here causes issues for citizens topside."

The bulky earth pony snorted. "My name's Brick. I tunnel expanding the city's magic veins. Your fancy towers don't build themselves." He cracked the wall with one stomp. "Yet my work's what muddles your nights? Ha!"

Rarity maintained her smile despite the outburst. "We intend no accusation, good Brick. Only seek understanding between surface and subterranean. Harmony requires open ears so all might thrive in shared lands yes? Perhaps together we soothe surprising symptoms."

She descends to floor level, smiling encouragingly as wary Brick rubs his chin. "Might we start by you elaborating your important role down here?"

Brick harrumphed but seemed to reconsider the strange diplomatic unicorn and her grinning companion. "Well it's like this see..." He clomped over to the intricate runes. "I craft the channels..."

Rarity nodded with a mhmm. "And what lovely channels they are, dear."

"Thanks." He squinted at her suspiciously. "You're not just saying that, are you?"

"Perish the thought! Why, I must admit, I'm wholly impressed." She gestured with a toss of her head at the runes. "I thought for certain this was the work of another unicorn. You have me at a loss."

"Pointheads..." Brick went to pick up the brick that had fallen on Bright. Without a word, he put it in the wall where his mighty punch had created an opening. "They don't know half as much as they think they do."

Bright advanced, arms crossed. "That's nice and all... But what you're doing is really sucking hard for us critters of the night." He spread his wings, or tried. It was like each was tired. "No fun, man!"

Brick stifled a derisive snort at Bright's pathetic attempt at intimidating posturing given his obviously flagging vampiric flourishes beneath the runes' unseen influence. Still, the freakish floppy-winged fellow's complaint gave the tunneler pause on principle alone.

"Sucking is it?" The earth pony builder swiveled a suspicious glare between the odd duo and glowing sigils hewn by generations of proud rear hoof heritage. "Well if nightcritters can't take what I dish out, guess I can throttle things back..."

He clomped over to examine Bright, curiosity eclipsing customary curtness. "Can't be laying out lop-eared tourists I reckon, bad for the ol' civic reputation. So what gives with the lightshow anyway?" He poked one dimmed wing membrane experimentally.

"City sent me to expand magic capacity for all them big steel towers upstairs, not put bites on the fangy fragiles here for Founder's Feast!" Brick tilted his head, tone softening further. "But if it's between you lot's lunacy and new loadstones, I'll manage either way."

He extended a hoof gruffly. "No reason to be enemies though. Ol' Brick's always fair to those find him first. You need zones to do your bat-business, I'll section off channels. We all give a little, everypony wins."

Rarity took the offered hoof gently. "That sounds perfectly reasonable to me. Though, regulations may make that tricky... But if problems continue, we can revisit this conversation."

Bright laughed nervously. "Rares, I love happy endings and all, but are your vampire buddies really going to be happy with this idea?"

Author's Note

Being nice wins the day, but is it really won? Will the vampires accept this compromise? It's a big ask... 19/29

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23 - Reckoning

"Rares. Rares!" Bright tapped at her from above, riding her down the Manehattan street. "This is... progress? But there's no way your friends are gonna be happy about this."

Rarity turned an ear back at Bright. "What are you talking about, darling? This is a perfect compromise."

"They didn't strike me as the compromising kinda people..." Bright cringed, thinking of that dark room of moody vampires. "And you're telling them they have to stick to specific parts of the city? Will that fly?"

Rarity snorted softly. "They hardly have much of a choice... Besides, this helps protect Manehattan."

"Yeah... not so much." Bright flared out his wings. "They could send some folks less nice than we are to wreck the hell out of the sewers and turn it all off. Buildings collapse, vampires gets to do what they want. Problem solved, for them."

Rarity paused in her walking. "They wouldn't... They would." She slumped, realizing just how likely such a thing could be. "We haven't fixed anything..."

"That's what I'm saying." But he did rub gently at her ear. "Points for the effort!"

Rarity leaned into Bright's calming ear rubs. She realized cheerfully confirming the magic conduit issue overlooked political tensions with the wider vampire community now facing the magically drawing effects from below.

Would the regional vampire authorities take aggressive destructive actions in response? She fretted anxiously. Had her efforts somehow worsened relations by validating factions' worst assumptions?

Rarity bit her lip, uncertain how to reconcile groups without risks escalating from fear and dismissal between diurnal and nocturnal cultures.

She met Bright's eyes with fresh determination. "We must change prejudiced perspectives before this standoff sparks real harm. Help me shift ignorant hearts above through nonviolent activism?"

"If it helps." Bright clung to her as she hastened. "We did prove the lights aren't the problem. That means any pony town that isn't huge and tall, not the problem. Ponyville will be safe for ages."

"Small consolations." Rarity paused at a corner, waiting for her turn to cross the street. "But will that be enough to placate my erstwhile peers?"

"Won't know until we try." Bright shrugged with a chuckle. "Technically, we were sent to deal with the lights. Dealt with! Not a threat. And what is a problem isn't spreading like a plague across the lands... Maybe... Maybe they'll just write the cities off?"

Rarity sighed wistfully at Bright's naive yet endearing optimism. "If only such pragmatic acceptance endured eternally..." She shook her head, morosely watching the bustling crowds sweep past near their isolated corner island. "Regrettably for all the vaunted pony 'friendliness' of our realms, tribal instincts oft override our empathetic angels."

Glittering skyscrapers loomed above them, ambition's monuments obscuring more stars by the season. Rarity traced constellations nearly faded from familiar fillyhood skies and wondered - did stoic Luna weep alone viewing night's timeless sentinels blink out one by one? Or did numbness eventually eclipse even immortal grief?

"So many affronts dismissible until their sum no longer suffers silence..." Rarity whispered almost inaudibly. "When darkness' creeping feels more threat than comfort, ponies perish seeking false security from harsh illumination." She glanced sidelong at earnest Bright, hybrid hope against dour predictions.

"But you speak rightly, dear heart. This puzzle's solution needn't imperil peace in smaller blissful boroughs." Resolve firmed her delicate jawline as she raised a hoof skyward towards waiting spires ballot stuffing the moon's ancient hegemony. "We shall simply school supercilious unicorn capitalists on sustainable growth mindful of larger costs!"

A terse honking snapped Rarity's attention back to the crosswalk signal finally permitting passage. Wheeling towards their towering tribunal, freshly inspired vampire and familiar marched forth to credential night's heritage once more against the gleaming threat of progress ever encroaching.

"Woah, Rares." Bright laughed as they charged through the city. "Fighting capitalism, as a thing, is a mighty tall order."

An idea hit him. "Wait..." They slowed, Rarity peeking over her shoulder. "This is just not our problem."

Rarity frowned at that. "Darling! I didn't expect you to just... give up."

"I'm not giving up." He put a hand on a hip. "I'm just admitting this isn't our problem. This is Celestia's problem. She could do something about this. That, or whoever's mayor of this whole city, but they don't know us. We have a link with Celestia. I say reach for that!"

Rarity considered Bright's idea thoughtfully. Appealing to Princess Celestia's authority rather than tackling private crusades against unchecked industrialization made strategic sense. Powerful allies could accomplish wider goals if egos stepped back from the spotlight.

"You speak wisely as ever, dear heart." Rarity smiled, checking her grandstanding instincts. "I concede my independent streak chafes a bit yielding this round's struggles to heavier hooves."

She nuzzled Bright gratefully. "But harmony has larger weavings than we two can mend overnight. To Canterlot's solar steward we defer dilemmas surpassing fresh agents overmatched."

Rarity winked playfully. "We'll rout residual unrest after Celestia's stellar settlements. But first, stern corrections for those shortsighted city council stuff shirts! Then to plead our fascinating case before Equestria's radiant figurehead!"

"To Canterlot!" Bright looked around, towering skyscrapers all around them. "I have no idea which way that is. Are we taking a train?"

Rarity sighed, some of her steam robbed. "Yes... Come now."

So they made their way to the train station and hopped aboard a ride towards Canterlot.

Though they expected a long and uneventful trip, it was not to be. A pony sat beside them. "You're returning with a report?" Their face was masked by an unfolded newspaper.

Rarity's ears twitched before returning to careful neutrality. "Yes, darling, and we're taking action to see it's resolved in the long term."

"Long term?" They flipped to the next page. "Long term on what timeline?"

Bright thrust a finger at their new 'guest'. "Long term on Celestia's timeline. How's that?"

Things went quiet for a moment save for the gentle trundle of the train beneath them.

The stranger's hoof falls quietly on the headline photograph of recently renovated skyscrapers ribbon-cut beneath Celestia's beaming grin. Rarity glimpses a flash of fangs behind a skeptical half-smirk. "Ah yes, Luna's elder sister..."

"Well placed to resolve irregularities given limitless access and influence one might imagine..." The mare's sarcasm sharpens slightly as Bright and Rarity share an uneasy glance. Abruptly the paper lowers, revealing features matronly yet severe surveying them shrewdly.

"...Save for one intangible yet priceless possession lost amid prestige and privilege - a nocturnal perspective." She taps her curved horn meaningfully while arching a manicured brow Rarity feels prickling defensiveness. "Might that oversight factor in your forthcoming counsels for the crisis threatening your own kind's habitat and ways?"

Bright bristles while Rarity lays a calming hoof subtly restraining impulsiveness. Skilled orator meets veiled hostility in polite cadence, feeling her opponent's pulse.

"Indeed, lack of darkness dwellers in daylight debates doubtless fosters this blindspot presently bruising delicate balances." Gesturing to the bustling metropolis scrolling outside, she continues carefully. "But in teaching tolerance for all tribes under harmony, we nurture seeds of wisdom blooming empathy from ignorance until coexistence comes naturally."

A tiny smile cracks the stranger's stony expression. "Perhaps so. Luna certainly clings to hope's ideals..." The train slows into Canterlot station as their confronter rises abruptly, trappings falling away to reveal much grander than ordinary passenger. "We all do in our youth I suppose."

The lights of the carriage blink to darkness, ponies yelping in surprise. When they return, the stranger is gone, off into the night.

Bright snapped fingers of both hands. "That feels like a win."

Rarity slid to her hooves and grabbed Bright with her magic. "I do hope so... Come, let's see if we can catch Princess Celestia as she stirs."

Bright grabbed Rarity the moment he was over her, taking his riding position. "Lead the way, my fabulous steed!"

Rarity snorted at the title. "I hate most that you are, technically, correct, dear." She fought it no further, trotting through Canterlot with purpose.

Rarity hastened towards resplendent spires piercing pink-stained clouds as dawn encroached. Trotting beneath glittering towers, Bright and Rarity soon stood in gem-inlaid antechambers scenting faintly of sunflowers.

Princess Celestia turned with a gracious smile that flickered noticing Rarity's vampiric condition before recovering cordial composure. "Greetings visitors - to what do I owe this unexpected early pleasure?" Mild amusement lilted subtly.

Rarity touched snout to floor deferentially despite the friendly informality. "Forgive intruding unannounced Your Highness. But a night-cloaked crisis creeps requiring your wisdom balancing scales barely tilting unity's way still..."

Celestia inclined her head solemnly. "Please rise friends and share what's requiring such urgency." Piercing yet patient gaze settled knowingly upon Rarity.

Bright reached out, poking one of Rarity's wings with a soft hiss. He'd already hidden his own, looking like 'just' a rabbit/kangaroo combination. Even his fangs were tucked away. Nothing to see there!

Rarity started with confusion. "Dear?" She looked back at him, then at her wing, and it dawned on her. "Oh!" With a puff, she dismissed her vampiric attributes. "Terribly sorry, darling..."

Celestia smiled patiently even as she moved for one of her sitting rooms. "Luna has told me of you, Rarity. She mentioned she had... interesting... agents. And one that wasn't. I can safely assume you two are the interesting ones."

She sat beside a low table, burdened with sweets and teas, teasing scents wafting. She took a cup of tea and sipped gently. "Sit, relax, and tell me all that's on your minds."

Rarity and Bright settled onto plush cushions across from calmly regal Celestia. Steam curled gently from ornate porcelain cups as the matriarch examined them patiently.

"First, what brings such urgent distress into these halls this dawn?" Gentle yet unswaying gaze lingered upon the two emissaries.

Rarity took a steadying breath, choosing words with care. "Forgive the abrupt visit, Your Highness, but anxieties amplify among Equestria's nocturnal citizens regarding rapid expansions in major cities."

Bright hopped up, standing on Rarity. "The ponies in Manehattan are using crazy magic to keep their tallest buildings from collapsing as they build higher and higher." He squinted. "Not a pro, but they really should just build the buildings better! The magic's making vampires cranky, and other creatures too, I bet."

"Oh dear." Celestia inclined her head. "I would never have guessed two very different things could collide like that... Or that the ponies would use magic like that." She tapped at her chin. "Not very sustainable."

Rarity perked at that, sitting up, which tossed Bright to the ground. "Sustainable, dear?"

Celestia nodded with a hum. "Sustainable, yes. If their work requires draining night creatures, and they either leave or rebel, eventually, they'll stop working, one way or the other."

Rarity nodded eagerly at Celestia's diplomatic segue, grasping the wise framing. "Well said, Highness! Draining realms risks backlash unless dialogue increases." She showed survey data on infrastructure threatening older communities.

Bright popped up indignantly. "Yeah shiny new towers wrecking night vibes? Super uncool!" He wilted under gazes. "...respectfully."

Rarity smiled affectionately. "Dear Bright conveys the anxieties vividly. We come respectfully seeking your assistance brokering cooperation before tensions worsen..."

Celestia closed contemplative eyes. Flickers glowed beneath translucent lids as the solar ruler turned proposals over silently. Rarity watched hopefully... wisdom informed by centuries of experience might achieve what their two hearts alone could not swiftly reconcile.

"I will have to speak with them." Celestia gestured over the table. "Eat and refresh yourself. You look like you've had quite the day."

Bright grabbed a long biscuit to crunch into. "Mmm... But who are you talking to, your royal sun-butt'ness?"

Celestia started. "Royal sun-butt?" She glanced towards her posterior and its sun mark. "Technically correct... But I'd ask you to not use that title again." She snorted, but her smile revealed she didn't take too much ire in it. "The mayor of Manehattan, of course. I set laws for Equestria, but it is they that do so for their city."

Rarity gently swatted at Bright. "Of course, dear. It's how Princess Celestia keeps things, how they say, Dextrous. If Equestria had to wait for a royal decree from Celestia with every move, we'd be in trouble whenever something came up requiring immediate action, hm?"

Bright fired a double thumbs up, chewing the last of that biscuit. "Awesome. Thanks for handling it, Sunny."

That term got less of a confused response.

Author's Note

That is a far improved resolution, I think. 19/29

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24 - Day and Night

Luna loomed tall over Rarity and Bright. Sweetie was off to the side, spared her glare. "I'm told you two have been quite... busy." She brought her hooves together. "A fact I only learned after the fact... Care to explain why this is?"

Rarity laughed tensely, fanning herself. "Well, you see, darling... It was a matter of urgent request."

Bright nodded quickly. "The vamps were really pissed off! We had to do something or they'd have caused all kinds of problems."

Luna raised a brow at that. "Would they now?" She fixed her gaze on the mildly trembling Rarity. "Would they?"

"I'm afraid so, ma'am, Your Highness." Rarity dipped as low as she could get, practically kow towing. "I am proud to report, dear, that we accomplished our mission with essentially no collateral damage! We were quite mindful of your instructions."

Luna crossed her arms, though sank into a seat, looming less than her full height. "I am gladdened to hear that... Now, tell me how you ended up in discussions with mine sister of all ponies! What could she have given that I could not have just as easily?!"

Rarity swallowed nervously under Luna's stern gaze before Bright's bracing paw steadied her shaking knees. They owed their mentor honesty about deciding to act alone.

Bright met Luna's eyes firmly. "We just didn't wanna stress you handling everything solo all the time..." He scuffed a paw, pressing on. "Guess we better learn trusting allies to help instead of grabbing big problems ourselves and messing up, huh?"

Rarity offered the peace proposal draft. "As new agents overeager responding fast, we wrongly rushed in alone..." She gathered courage to continue. "But following your example about fostering inner strength, did we totally mess up asking Princess Celestia's guidance for sustaining future peace?"

Luna glanced from the scrolls to fix both with eyes ancient and unreadable before forcibly relaxing tensed shoulders.

"Have seats. I should hear this whole tale before judging too harshly..."

Rarity slid up into a seat. "Besides, dear, it wasn't... practical." She waved an ornate fan at Luna. "The vampires had quite made up their mind. It was only through quick action that we got named as the first wave of their... trouble-solving."

Bright hopped up next to Rarity. "Yeah! They would have sent someone else... And you guys don't have phones."

Luna pointed to a dusty phone resting in the corner.

"No, I mean phones." He mimed a phone against his head. "The kind you carry with you."

That got all the ponies staring at him. "Right, not a thing, sorry..."

Luna coughed into a hoof. "That sounds like a marvelous device, but, as you discerned, it does not exist. I would dearly like for us all to be in constant touch..." She swelled large with a draw of breath. "Which is why I know your next assignment, a small one, but quite important."

Sweetie Drops saluted sharply. "We're on the case, ma'am! What do you have in mind?"

Luna's horn glowed as she pulled a tab, revealing a paper with Twilight's unhinged face on it, captured during one of her more manic periods. "Return to Ponyville and share this need with Twilight Sparkle. I feel certain she could work around it, if we ask."

Rarity peered curiously at Luna's portrait of a studious Twilight mid-research frenzy.

"You propose having Twilight catalyze more advanced magical engineering?" Rarity smiled wide, mind already imagining wire-free wardrobes. "Imagine charm bracelets relaying gossip among Canterlot's upper crust!"

Sweetie Drops pinched her brow as Rarity speculated on accessories. "Amplifying gossip is clearly not the objective here..."

Meanwhile Bright bounced waving for attention. "I call first phone buddy when Twilight whips those up! We can prank cross-dimensional!" His grin faded. "Er, if Luna thinks going trans-reality is cool?"

Luna weighed their eager outbursts with practiced patience, smiling subtly. "Pranks are not the goal. I want you all in contact, with each other, and with me." She rose decisively. "Come - first Ponyville, then beyond!"

They all let a unified cheer as they poured out of the office. With a unified purpose, they marched purposefully to the train.

They did not reach it.

A frazzled and distressed Twilight found them first. "There you are!" She glanced between Bright and Rarity. "I assume you two have not engaged in any reproductive acts." That wasn't a question. "Good. Good good." She laughed hysterically. "Thank Cel..." She trailed off, noticing a glaring Luna. "Thank Harmony," she revised.

Rarity inclined her head at the frazzled pony. "Twilight, darling... Why are you even thinking about that? I dare say it's just not your business, dear."

"That's what you think!" Twilight prodded Rarity in the center of her chest. "You almost exploded."

Rarity blinked at the news, sinking to her haunches. "Did I now?"

Bright burst into laughter. "Hey now, I'm not that good, jeesh, Twi. What makes you think Rarity would go kaboom?"

Luna put a hoof over her face. "Can we focus? Miss Twilight Sparkle, we were just coming to enlist your aid, if you've a moment?"

Luna's prompt question cut through spiraling hysterics as Twilight blinked hard then shook herself, puffy locks bouncing. She glanced around in growing befuddlement at her unfamiliar public outburst.

"Oh wow, sorry everypony..." Twilight grinned sheepishly as the group relaxed wariness seeing returning reason re-emerge behind violet eyes. "Guess those all-nighters finally caught up on old bookworm Twilight, huh?"

Twilight put a hoof to her chest, inhaling and exhaling slowly as Cadance had shown her, regaining her lost thoughts.

"S-sorry, I just needed a reminder... I'm alright now. Oh, thank you." Twilight sipped the proffered cup of Luna's Lullaby tea brew restoring cognitive clarity to overtaxed thoughts. "Now then, since Rarity is not exploding, what was this you were coming to me about?"

Luna turned a hoof at Bright. "He was speaking of a device."

Sweetie took that chance. "He mentioned something about something like a phone that you could carry with you, and still make and receive calls despite not being attached to a wall. Is that possible?"

"Wow." Twilight rubbed her hooves with building glee. "Piggybacking on the existing telephone network... With proper aetheric connections bridging gaps... Need to stabalize." She muttered on and on little bits of arcane tidbits that meant little to any save her.

"Darling." Rarity leaned in. "Sounds like you're on the case, good... But what was that about exploding?"

Twilight blushed, ears pinning back in chagrin. "Oh yes, that...ahem, sorry again everypony!" She shook her head ruefully. "Let's just say nosy bookworms poking snouts too deep into unfamiliar paranoia often get silly theories stuck in their heads..."

The scholarly mare glanced aside at the gently frowning Rarity. "In your case, I may have...wildly over-extrapolated certain energy readings during recent exams seeking insights on Bright's unique hybrid nature into utterly fantastical notions about vampiric..." Twilight coughed, skipping hastily onwards. "...reproductive implications."

She waved a hoof, banishing the embarrassing mental meanderings. "Which are positively absurd and my own sleep-deprived imagination getting wayyy ahead of available evidence." Twilight smiled contritely. "Please excuse my presumptuous ramblings and let's focus on this brilliant mobile magic exchange concept!"

Her horn flashed, sweeping the group into her cozy library. "Now, I have some theories on modularizing existing telescroll enchantments for portable pan-Equestrian coverage..." Books, components, and a very relieved baby dragon assistant materialized in midair before she caught herself, grinning sheepishly.

"That is uh, if Princess Luna doesn't mind us relocating here to delve directly into the design work? The tools of my trade are so much handier to hoof on home turf!" She fidgeted eagerly, already levitating various devices with an inquisitive eye. "So if you're still amenable...where shall we start brainstorming our protype?"

Spike dusted himself off from where he had appeared. "Twilight, you just got back. Where are you hopping to now?"

Twilight took a moment, train of thought lost in her hurry. "You are... correct." She pat Spike gently. "There's a reason you are my #1 assistant."

"I try." He puffed his chest and stuffed his thumbs in an imagined vest. "Seriously, what are you doing?"

Twilight began eagerly describing her project.

Luna turned away from it. "They're engrossed in the task. We are only in the way now."

Sweetie shook her head. "Very well. I should check in."

Luna frowned. "Check in? Who or what with?"

Sweetie pointed to herself. "I am an agent of S.M.I.L.E. on top of your agent, ma'am. I should check in with them. My local office isn't far from here." She saluted sharply. "Ma'am." But she didn't wait, trotting off with a purpose.

Rarity rubbed at her cheek. "Well... If we're taking a break, permission to take my little Bright-lamp to my boutique? I'd love to show the scamp around, and maybe update his wardrobe while we're there. Ooo, this will be quite a delight."

So Luna was left alone. "This was exactly what I wanted to avoid." She glanced back at the closed door that led to Twilight working her magic. "I wish you well, strange one." She emerged from the tree library into the light of day. "Now what shall I do with myself..."

"Worry not, we shant squander this gracious furlough!" She walked on light hooves, imagining the fresh fineries awaiting Bright's adornment. "I shall see Sir Bright conveys only the utmost sophistication abroad!"

The vampiric fashionista eagerly headed for familiar spires of her old Carousel Boutique on the other side Ponyville. Nopony occupied its elegant environs just now with customers grown scarce since her undead self's reveal.

Still Rarity breathed deep of fabrics and comforts of her first bold dream - one declaring icons need not kneel before prejudice. Within these walls she once concealed, now throwing open doors to outcasts redefining assumptions of beauty and privilege.

She drew bedazzled Bright into the empty showroom. "Well darling, shall we peruse my stylistic sanctum while destinies unfold without?"

Bright looked left and right over the many ponyquins adorning the space. "A fresh suit, done by the Rarity? Can't wait!" He curled his thick tail into view. "I'm still loving this."

Rarity batted at the ornate bauble on his tail, serving as a guard over the end of it. "I do fancy it myself, dear. It's why I selected it." She smooched his cheek. "But what about the rest of you? My fine gentlecreature deserves to look as fantastic as he is!"

She floated over tapes to begin measuring Bright rapidly. "I just need you to stand still... a moment."

Sweetie stepped off the elevator beneath her sweets shop. Approaching a panel, she leaned in, allowing a laser to flash right in her eye. "I hate that..." She rubbed the tearing eye as soft beeps and buzzes played.

With a final chime, a panel swung into view. "Agent Sweetie Drops," greeted a dour stallion. "You've been out of contact."

"I've been on assignment, and you know which one." Sweetie saluted despite her terse words. "Reporting in. Mission asset: Night Wings, is under control."

"Very good." The stallion touched his hooves together. "Have you identified the source--"

"--I have," cut in Sweetie. "Harmless. They've only grown more harmless. Creature, far under the sway of harmony, and Miss Rarity's swaying plot."

The stallion coughed into a hoof. "I see... Continue monitoring. Equestria is only safe thanks to your efforts."

"Sir!" Sweetie crisply saluted with a serious expression. "For Equestria."

The stern stallion returned Sweetie Drop's staunch salute before terminating transmission, secured screens sliding to conceal SMILE's covert subterranean nerve center teeming with precisely polished professionals bent on shielding Equestria from existential threats no sunny civilian brochure ever mentioned...

Sweetie sighed wearily in the sudden ringing silence. How she had thrilled learning selected to this elite sentinel Sisterhood guarding the good life from sinister secrets!

Bitterness bobbed briefly before her discipline dutifully drowned its familiar tang. "The work never ends," she sighed to herself, taking hold of the elevator. It pushed her back up into the candy shop. She arrived with her usual smile on, ready to greet the day as a nice, happy, background pony.

Author's Note

Communication is key, they say. Let's get a cellphone! 20/29

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25 - Reach Out and Touch Somepony

"Finally!" Twilight slammed open the door to the library, looking more frazzled then usual. "At last!" She laughed with the wild abandon of a scientist finding their target. "Oh, Luna. You're still here, excellent."

Luna perked at the bang, turning towards Twilight as she spoke. "I had little else to do... They left me behind."

Spike shook his head with a sympathetic look. "Rough."

Twilight rushed on Luna, putting some small glittering object onto one of Luna's ears with her magic. "And... there!" She put another on her own ear, even if it twitched at the strange new thing. "Shall we try it out?"

Luna reached up to hoof at her ear and the new adornment. "This looks like a very ornate earring."

"Good! Good. That means ponies won't think it's out of place." She bounced, eager for her new experiment. "Now let's try it." She vanished into the library, her magic slamming the book shut behind her.

Spike hiked at where Twilight had vanished. "She's been working hard on this. When she calls you, it'll ring. You just gotta press that." He pointed at a small gem on the earring, far above him. Luna was tall. "And you can talk to her, if it works."

"Marvelous." Luna swished her tail. "If it works. I do hope it does."

The ring game, but only Luna could hear it, like a chiming in her mind. "That is... very curious." She used her magic to press the gem. "Is this working?"

"Yes!" came Twilight's voice excitedly. "Can you hear me?"

"I can." Luna inclined her head. "How do I use this? I understand how to accept your call. How do I make one?"

Luna's brow furrowed pensively hearing Twilight's slightly tinny voice resound solely within her psychic environment, the quiet Ponyville road undisturbed by the revolutionary magical marvel transmitting from its studious proprietor's lab.

She inclined an ear experimentally as Twilight eagerly elaborated nuances of the prototypal power-infused accessories ingeniously empowering instantaneous cross-Equestria communication unbeholden by wires or anachronistic relay stations.

"So I simply trace this rune to channel my personal imprint energy rather than passive reception?" Luna focused anew on the elegant jewelry interfacing ancient arts with cutting-edge artifice as directed.

Her dark sapphire aura manifested sensing arcane circuits woven aglow with nascent networks. Questing delicately as one might handle a baby bird, Luna aligned inner harmonics seeking to mimic Twilight's prior crystalline chime announcing her successful signal sync.

Through trial and incremental error Luna steadily tuned finer faculty balancing and modulating mystical inputs until finally-- "Twilight? Have I aligned the working as thou described?" Pride and wonder alike suffused Luna's starry timbre marveling their joined voices bridging subjective isolation into intimate proximity though physically separated by stone walls and more...

Spike's small cheer further confirmed proof positive of his tireless partner's breakthrough birthing wonders rivaling lost high magicks of golden eras when immortal alicorns alone commanded cosmic forces ponies now manipulated like mundane levers.

"With practice this tool promises potent means maintaining our motley alliance's coordination confronting sinister shadows assigned..." Luna murmured low for now lest praise unsettle serious research. "Might we surprise dear Rarity next demonstrating thy diligent devotion bears such timely fruit?"

"Certainly." Twilight tapped at her chin. "Oh! I forgot. Just touch that gem again to end the--"

Luna hung up on her. She pressed it again and focused on the feeling of Rarity. Rarity had a loud personality, that was a boon. It was so very easy to focus on the fashionista.

"You call cannot be completed." spoke some artificial device. "The pony you are calling does not have one of my devices."

Luna blinked. "Right." She turned in place before coming right back on the library. "I need more of them..." She headed inside. "Twilight?" She stepped over a few books that had ended up on the floor. "I require more of them, to pass out to the others. Your invention is quite marvelous, but will do nothing if only we two have one."

A frazzled lavender head poked up from behind a teetering tower of tomes and humming thaumic instruments. "Princess! Back already?"

Twilight grinned sheepishly. "Sorry for the messy clutter..." She hastily tidied away the hazardous piles submerging her lab. "I got carried away designing the emergency network and forgot boring stuff like cleaning!"

She displayed a box of ornate earrings akin to Luna's transmitter. "But you're right - a network needs ponies to connect with!"

She extended the generalized earring sets, nearly bouncing with enthusiasm. "Will these suffice spreading connectivity, Highness?"

Luna popped open the box to see half a dozen other ear adornments, each one of a different design. "Hm! How thoughtful of you."

"It... was?" Twilight brushed back her mane as if to tame the mess. "What did I... do?"

Luna waved over the box. "You've given them a choice. Me as well. We get to select from a few styles. Very good." She tucked the box away. "I will show it to them and let them take their selection. We will be quite a bit more effective with communication lines thrown open."

"Y-yes..."

Spike shook his head. "She had no idea which you wanted, and a lot of those used to have the dud versions in them. It was a coincedence."

"Spike." Twilight colored, called out like that. "I hope you enjoy, Princess."

Luna's horn glowed as she gently set Twilight's mane at least closer to reasonable. "You've done hard work this day. Get some rest." She turned to Spike. "See to it she actually does that."

Spike laughed at that, a short noise. "I'm on the case. She'd probably get back to work if I didn't stop her."

"But..."

"See?" Spike began nudging Twilight towards the stairs leading upwards. "See you later, Luna."

Luna smiled as young Spike playfully pressed protesting protege upstairs for some long overdue rest. She knew that restless manic light in researchers all too well. How readily intellectual curiosity careened into chaos once locked onto the next alluring avenue.

Her own mentors oft chastised such single-minded pursuit absent concrete costs. But revelation's siren song forever flirted just beyond the next equation. Isolation's temptations turned creativity to cinders without a counterbalance.

Luna sighed softly considering Twilight's glittering key to connection. She envied the studious mare still such sheltered innocence exploring progress purely for magic’s own sake.

No, not envy - duty. One ruled justly when supporting subjects surpassing thrones through unfettered exploration. What glories already from this wonderfully weird work in progress!

"Sleep well bright minds..." Luna whispered careful cantrips bolstering bedtime's spell as sunset spires silhouetted the window. "Dream deeply while still only beauty awaits you both..."

Satisfied, she trotted out onto the roads of Ponyville. "Now where..." If she hadn't been looking for her specifically, she would have missed her. There was Sweetie Drops, on a bench, faded into the background.

She had company, a green pony that had joined her in pony watching. The green one was seated oddly, a far more bipedal stance instead of on her belly. She swung her legs idly beneath her.

Luna approached the two. "There you are."

Sweetie sqeaked, sitting up quickly. "Luna, hello... You are very perceptive. Many ponies just pass me by when I'm in background mode."

"But not Lulu," sang out the other one. "Hey, Luna. Remember me? I was there when you recruited Rarity."

Sweetie buried her face in both hooves. "She was not. I and Bright was, and he had a lot less fur. To be clear, I am Bon Bon right now. Ponies may be listening."

Luna glanced between the two. "You have me at a disadvantage. I am Princess Luna. You are?"

"Lyra! Lyra Heartstrings." With a twinkle of her horn, she conjured her lyre, plucking at it. "Besides being an awesome musician, I also work with Bonnie here."

Bon Bon winced as Lyra openly named them both as covert operatives. So much for discreet covers with bonds overriding filters! She sighed softly. "She isn't lying, but we aren't working together right now, as I'm assigned to you, ma'am."

She hastily redirected from classified matters. "I run a candy shop in town. Lyra, as she mentioned, is a talented musician."

Bon Bon saluted sharply, hoping the haughty habit signaled closing off personal history discussions, however harmless. Operational security protocols limited follow-up. She smiled at Luna anxiously. "Apologies if we delayed important quests, Highness...?"

She turned hopeful eyes between Luna and Lyra, praying her cues communicated avoiding classified topics that could endanger critical operations... Speaking to friends was always such a chancy thing, at best.

"No." Luna inclined her head, just to hesitate. "Ah, yes." She pulled out the box she had gained a moment. "Select the one you prefer and put it on your ear. This is how we'll stay in contact."

"Oooo." Pinkie bounced in from nowhere. "Those look fancy! I bet Rarity would love one."

Luna smiled easily at the party pony. "How prescient of you. I plan to deliver one to her. Do you know where she is, by chance?"

Pinkie stroked her chin. "She's been out of town a lot, but I have a feeling she's back in her shop, which is good! I need a new party outfit."

Lyra burst into snickers. "Pinkie, you're already wearing your party suit, and your birthday suit, and..."

Pinkie blinked, lost a moment. "Oh yeah. Good point." Just like that, she tossed out the need for a fancy dress. "Can I have one?" She reached for the earrings.

Luna hovered the box away from that grasping hoof. "I'm afraid not. You do not work for me, Pinkie."

"No fair!" Pinkie harrumphed dramatically before bouncing back with a sunshine smile. "Ah well, I'll just have to frequent the secret agent hot spots so I can celebrate successful missions!"

All three stared blankly as Pinkie somehow manifested then dismissed party favors faster than eyes could track. "Or yeah I can just wear a silly hat and crash the after-parties instead! Ooo, can I try one real quick for funsies?"

Without waiting for permission she managed to clip an earring on briefly before Luna's magic swiftly retrieved the delicate device.

Faster still came Applejack's rope, snaring wandering Pinkie back from pestering further. "Whoa now! Mebbe let the Princess' business stay her own without further shenanigans eh?"

She touched her hat brim respectfully to startled Luna. "Apologies for the interruption, Highness! Reckon I best occupy this eager pony before further antics pop up!"

Luna nodded, uncertain. "I appreciate it, Lady Applejack."

"Lady?!" Applejack laughed with colored cheeks. "Ah rather like the sounda that, but ah ain't nothin' special. Just a farmer keepin' her friend from causin' trouble." She tugged the pouting Pinkie back a few paces. "Come on! Ah'm sure the princess' got important things to take care of."

Luna lifted one of the rings and floated it quickly into Pinkie's grasp. "For later."

Pinkie's pout vanished, bouncing instead with Applejack.

Bon Bon shook her head. "Was that wise?" She picked a ring for herself and slipped it onto her ear, a no-nonsense band that faded against her fur. "You may regret that later. Also... How does this function? You never told me, or her. Will she even know how to use it?"

"Perhaps not." Luna smirked at the thought. "That will be her first test, when I attempt to call her. Bon Bon, let's move. I'll tell you how to work the earring on the way."

"Ma'am." Bon Bon hopped to the ground. "See you later, Lyra. Be good."

"Absolutely no promises." Lyra giggled, though she seemed to radiate no actual troublemaking. "Good look, Bonnie!" She leaned in and smooched Bon Bon's cheek. "Miss ya."

With brightened cheeks, Bon Bon strode away with Luna. "So..."

"So, to use these." Luna gave the run down on how to make and receive calls with the device Twilight had gifted them with.

Bon Bon shook herself out, her gait changing subtly as she ceased being Bonnie, and resumed being Secret Agent Sweetie Drops. "There's the target."

They approached Rarity's boutique.

Author's Note

Phone get, with so many sweet looks. Which will Rarity and Bright select? And is this gonna loop around, giving Pinkie one? 21/29

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27 - Assignment Seven - Screaming Forest

The misty form of a timberwolf crackled into being, forming from that psychic noise. Though it looked like a wolf of wood, it was made of no wood, simply borrowing the form. "You dare," it growled, voice only heard in the new rings the team wore. "I will devour you, then your very souls."

Sweetie reached back, drawing a grappling hook gun free. "Class 13 monster, traces of Petra. No time for recon." She glanced towards Luna. "Deploy 'The Girls?'"

Luna took a firm step forward, flanked as she did so by the rest of her team, Bright on one side and Rarity on the other. "We caused this, we shall deal with it." She snorted softly. "Calling in somepony else to deal with our messes? I would hope not."

Rarity fanned at herself. "Darling, you've already called one of 'the girls'."

Bright scrambled up onto her back. "About that, why--"

Rarity vanished, the spot she had been in being crushed under a great paw. She positioned herself just far enough away to avoid getting squished. "Not the time for a chat, little dear. That creature lacks in patience."

Bright jumped off her back and onto the already raising paw of the beast. He scrambled up along its legs, ascending like the leg was more of a mountain side, sheer and dangerous.

The timberwolf bellowed furiously as the impudent creature scurried up its misty leg, swiping massive paws to dislodge the pesky passenger. But Bright nimbly ricocheted further from each previous perch, slowly gaining altitude towards the shaggy specter's snarling muzzle.

"'Ware claws like scythes, brave Sir Bright!" Luna swooped into distracting aerial combat with the enraged wolf. Her midnight aura manifested barriers shielding town buildings from wild thrashing. "One fell stroke could shear courage from thy very bones!"

Even as she called out caution however Luna felt fierce pride seeing no hesitation in her unconventional champion's eyes - only resolute determination scaling the beast bodily while she drew wrathful focus skyward. But being distracted had its own issues.

Sure enough, a wayward claw suddenly lashed through her shielding spell in a shower of sparks sending Luna wheeling as wicked talons grazed one wing. She recovered but became occupied solely dodging lethal blow after blow as the limber beast turned fully to face this elusive winged morsel.

From the corner of her eye Luna spotted Bright nearing the snapping maw. "Have a care! Those fangs are not just for show!" she managed to cry in warning before twisting desperately to evade gnashing jaws nearly claiming her own cry of pain now likely served only to drive the beast berserk!

Rarity cringed seeing Luna and Bright both imperiled on opposite ends of the fury-maddened beast. Plus Sweetie looked on the verge of unleashing an entire ordnance depot's worth of explosives in their residential thoroughfare!

Her gem horn flared casting a concealing glamour disguising herself as simply another colorful Ponyville background pony. Thus magically masked from malevolent notice, Rarity slipped stealthily beneath the titanic battle towards the timberwolf's exposed underside. Rarity summoned crackling ruby energy to the tip of her horn and took aim at a precise hidden joint.

"Right at the shoulder dear where limb meets torso..." murmured Rarity to herself, waiting for an instant's clear shot. Her strike must halt the beast without harming her embattled teammates, or so she hoped.

Her blast drew out a howl they could hear twice, both out loud and echoing through their communication rings. It distracted the beast, but its leg didn't go flying, as was the actual goal.

Bright was almost thrown right off the beast's snout, clinging as hard as he could to whispy fur. "Alright... You earned this..." He got to the critter's massive nose. "Right in the schnoz!" He hopped up and came down, punching with two wild swings of his arms and kicks of his powerful feet. "Take that!"

His reward was the timberwolf shaking their head violently. Their snout crashed into Bright mid-air, knocking them flying with a cry of, "Worth it," fading as they flew away, sailing with the impact.

Rarity squeaked in dismay as Bright was sent flying away. "My familiar..." But she had a battle on top of her. "Ruffian! You'll pay for that." She lanced over the thing's underbelly with an angry scorching. The battle continued.

Elsewhere, the scream of Bright came to an end as he crashed into the ground with a dull thud. "Ow..."

Applejack perked an ear at something crashing not too far away. She trotted over curiously to find the woozy Bright struggling to their feet. "Ya alright?" She offered a hoof of assistance.

Applejack helped the dazed Bright back to his fuzzy feet. "Easy there, partner! That big wolf sure did a number on ya, but yer safe here." She grabbed an apple from a basket and passed it over. "Here, get yer strength back."

Bright bit into it gratefully as AJ peered toward the ongoing sounds of the struggle. "Though from the ruckus, I reckon yer pals could still use an extra set o' hooves! Or paws."

She swung her lasso meaningfully. "Whaddya say we mosey on over and I hogtie that bully so y'all can finish the job?" She started towards the wolf, only to crash into a suddenly appearing unicorn. "What the?"

"No time to explain, darling!" Rarity cried before blinking past Applejack. "Suffice it that things have grown rather complicated!"

Applejack stared dumbfounded then noticed the distant battle indeed looked badly turned - Luna evidently grounded and a strange blast radius encircling the whole town square. "Well slap me silly n' call it cider season! Yer wolf went and caused all that?!" She swung to gaping Bright. "Right, enough rubberneckin' - let's getcha back so's we can wrangle this mess up! Ain't the first timberwolf ah wrestled wit'"

Bright scrambled onto Applejack's back as the farm pony charged towards the chaotic scene. He anxiously activated his earring, but only got static - the network was down.

Part of him wanted to throw the dang thing in frustration, but he held that back. "AJ, you know how to fight huge ghost timbers?"

"Ghost?" AJ took a proper look at the thing and its misty outlines. "Huh, that's odd... Still, it's a timberwolf. Ah bet timberwolf things'll work on it jus' fine!"

She rushed up with Bright on her back to join the battle. "They all got a basic weakness. She tossed her lasso, latching it onto a swinging paw. She didn't pull, instead doing a wide circle around the beast. "No matter how... strong they are, they really don't like hittin' the ground."

Applejack lassoed the misty timberwolf, looping around its limbs before yanking it off balance to crash hard on the cobblestones. The spectral beast thrashed, halted by the expert ropes as AJ kept it bound.

Sweetie Drops descended on the prone monster, driving electrified daggers into its writhing form. Sparks flew as she directed devastating volts towards vital areas, the wolf howling in agony.

With a final sizzling blast, the creature dissolved into wisping smoke. Sweetie blinked at the empty space occupied just moments before by their formidable foe.

"We...got him?" She turned bewildered towards Applejack and Bright as their earpieces erupted with Luna's relieved laughter. The alicorn welcomed her warriors back from intense battle.

Luna flapped her wings as she rejoined them. "That was... quite a battle." She turned her eyes to Applejack. "And we have a pony to thank for this victory."

Bright hiked a thumb at Sweetie. "Hey, she helped. Gotta give credit."

Sweetie did her best to look neutral. "Yes, well, that strike to its nose was well-placed, Bright."

Applejack threw a leg over either of their necks, drawing them close. "C'mon! That was a team effort. Ain't 'fraid to admit that."

Luna nodded softly. "You seem skilled with such battles."

Applejack slid down to her hooves. "'Course. Livin' this close to the Everfree--" She angled her head at the ominous forest. "Ya gotta be ready for a monster er three, ya know?"

Luna studied Applejack with new respect. Humble farm raiment belied battle-tested mettle meeting monsters often as moonrise thanks to the Everfree's encroachment. Perhaps providence guided this destined meeting.

"Thine courage and skill much impresses me." Luna's expression turned solemn. "Yet still greater trials loom eclipsing today's skirmish..."

She raised midnight wings towards the menacing forest. "Dark forces stir yon haunted woods hatred towards harmony's light. Mine own powers pall removed from umbral origins..."

Luna met Applejack's gaze evenly. "Shoulder-to-shoulder we stand stouter. Will you join our crusade against the night?"

AJ weighed her wariness of cryptic questing against gnawing dread of blackness spreading bit by bit if left unchecked. Glancing to smiling Bright and Sweetie accepting Luna's warning despite recent victory, resolute green gave gruff nod.

"Ah dought an overgrown's pup would be the last of it." She spat on an outstretched hoof before offering it boldly. "Point me at what needs apple-buckin' and by my parents' pies Ah'll give 'er what for!"

Luna clasped Applejack's hoof firmly. "You've the spirit needed. Let's away to equip you properly." She strode towards the train station, new ally in tow. She cleared her throat as she went. "And, um, apologies..."

Bright nudged Applejack from the side. "She gets old-timey when she's excited."

"Yes... that." She glanced over her shoulder. "Know that we are instructed..."

She trailed off, gazing at the mess of Ponyville. She emitted a curse that had been long forgotten by modern ponies.

Sweetie raised a brow. "That didn't sound pleasant. What's wrong, ma'am?"

Luna waved over the disaster. "Look! There is no way sister will forgive me this trespass... The--" She paused, Applejack's hoof on her. "Yes?"

"This ain't nothin'." Applejack stood tall. "Look." She inclined her head at ponies already working to clean things up. "Ponyville faces worse than this on the regular, y'see. We'll get this place straightened in no time. This ain't gonna cost yer sister nothin'. Shoot, we ain't even gonna tell her. Why bother? Just be wastin' her time."

Luna hesitated as Applejack's confidence countered her rising panic over possible costs from such damages. But she stared as scattered citizens swiftly mobilized recovery efforts with cheerful camaraderie facing calamity as neighbors not mere subjects.

"You speak truth - here dwell hearts harvesting solidarity's strength." Luna managed a smile feeling tension ebb watching vibrant volunteers restore and renew. "Mine immortality blinded me to strengths only community comprehends..."

She inclined her horn towards stalwart Applejack representing roots still binding flagstones beneath hurried modern hooves. "Accept mine apology presuming frailty, noble Applejack. Harsh experience authored doubts, yet proof stands strong as old oak before me."

Luna swept one great wing over shops reopening doors. "Small wonder Twilight Sparkle found home behind such staunch ramparts raised."

Applejack scuffed a hoof self-consciously under lavish praise. "Aww shucks, t'weren't nothin' really! Just ponies helpin' out is all." She grinned crookedly at lingering wreckage. "Still got some home fixin' and such later, but crisis kicked I reckon!"

Applejack bumped Luna playfully. "Nothin' to fear from ol' Celestia. Pinkie Promise I'll explain any leftover snags so's you needn't worry none! Only thing ah regret is I ain't in there helpin'! But when a princess calls, ya answer."

Sweetie nodded at Applejack. "Correct. You are now a member of a very elite squadron." She pointed at the others. "This is your last opportunity. We charge towards danger where others would run away. Are you prepared?"

Applejack clucked her tongue against her teeth. "'Course ah am! Somepony's gotta keep this place safe, and it ain't no showboating pegasi. Really... Jus' show the way."

Luna strode with regained calmness. "Then let us be off. Oh..." She floated out her box. "I had wondered what destiny had meant, providing me so many." She offered Applejack an ear adornment. "This will allow you to speak with us regardless of distance. Ask the others how it works."

"Matches mah apple." The jewel on it was a bright red, like her cutie mark. She turned her head to Rarity. "So how's this thing work?"

Rarity explained on the way to the station. New adventures awaited them all.

Author's Note

Phone get, with so many sweet looks. Which will Rarity and Bright select? And is this gonna loop around, giving Pinkie one? 24/29

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28 - Awful Dim, Ain't It?

Applejack whistled as she gawked at the colorful windows and art pieces that filled Canterlot Castle. "Always blows me away, every time!"

"This way, darling." Rarity was leading the way to their office, willing a door open ahead of them. "This is where we do our work."

"Can't wait ta see it!" Applejack mosied on through just to stop at the door frame. "What the?" She craned her head left and right slowly. "This... ain't the same."

Bright scurried under Applejack into the room, hopping and landing facing her. "What? Everything looks where we left it. All good!"

"All... good." Applejack hiked a brow at Rarity. "Sugarcube, ah expect more outta ya."

Rarity colored, fanning herself. "Whatever do you mean?!"

Applejack waved broadly. "Let's start with it bein' dark in here!" She coiled around and stormed out into the hallway.

Bright laughed nervously. "Is it that dark? I really didn't notice."

Sweetie rolled her eyes at Bright. "It is 'dim'. I suppose creatures of the night may find that harder to notice."

Rarity pawed at the ground. "I... see. Where is Applejack off to, the dear? I should hope that wasn't enough to quit already."

"Ain't quittin'." Applejack entered with a collection of lanterns dangling from her jaws, casting bright light across the room. "Give a hoof gettin' these hung up, would ya?."

"Oh but of course!" Rarity sprang into decorating action, levitating lanterns from Applejack's mouth to hang artistically across gloomy walls while giving helpful critiques. "Hmm, perhaps over there to accentuate that tapestry...Ooo yes, lovely ambiance highlighting Luna's portrait!"

Sweetie Drops winced from deeper shadows as illumination encroached. "Is increased visibility truly necessary? Most missions dispatch after dusk, regardless. And keeping light levels low safeguards sensitive documents against exposure..."

Her weak protests went unheeded though as Applejack and Rarity busily transformed dreary quarters into downright homey space. Soon warm lantern-glow suffused the entire area with cozy luminescence the humble farm pony nodded approvingly over.

"There now, ain't that more hospitable-like?" Applejack surveyed their brightly transformed base with satisfied smile. "A little elbow grease n' lantern oil goes a long way makin' any space fit fer company!"

She noted scrunched Sweetie squinting painfully. "Oops, 'scuse me there..." AJ trotted over and plopped her hat atop the wincing mare, shading sensitive eyes. "I'll rustle up some dark lenses fer ya sharpshooter. But fer now, my trusty Stetson oughta help ya see, heh!"

Sweetie blinked gratefully up at the considerate farm mare above her makeshift visor. "That's...very thoughtful, Applejack. Thank you." She coughed diffidently. "And I suppose increased morale merits moderately increased visibility risks..."

"Atta girl!" Applejack slapped Sweetie's back, eliciting uncharacteristic giggle from the normally stoic agent. "Team'll work better feelin' better t'gether!" She nodded firmly over their now brightly welcoming workspace. "Mark my words, big diff'rence havin' a little light on things!"

Bright elbowed Sweetie. "You work with us night creatures so long you just like it better in the dark now?"

Sweetie swatted back at Bright with a hoof. "You became one only recently, and you're lecturing me?"

"I'm not the one complaining." Bright hopped to Rarity's side. "Don't see us vampony and vampony-adjacents doing that."

Rarity fanned herself as she was brought into that conversation. "Vampony eyes seem very flexible. Consider the ancient, feral ways about it." She chortled, thinking on the myths. "Creature of the night, stalking in purest of dark, but they stalked homes. What happens if the pony they're creeping upon lights a torch or shines a lantern on them suddenly? Are we to assume the vampony is suddenly blinded?"

Applejack tilted her hat back, considering Rarity's historical analysis on vampony visual flexibility. "Huh, never reckoned those scary stories 'bout nightstalkin' bloodsuckers from lurid legends and such - " She nodded politely towards prim Rarity, "- uh, present company excluded a'course!"

AJ laughed, rubbing the back of her neck self-consciously. "Aw shoot, pardon my rude country bluntness. Yer one sophist-icated and sweet-fang'd lady so them tales certainly don't apply!" Her green eyes glinted with curiosity not criticism. "Gotta wonder though iffen those old mares' tales had even a drop o' truth?"

She turned towards stately Luna entering, likewise wincing subtly adjusting to lantern-lit headquarters bearing scant resemblance to the discreetly dim ambiance left. "Evenin' yer highness! We were just debatin' whether vamponies can see inna dark as well as you alicorns. So whaddya reckon - fact or fiction?"

Luna blinked pensively, sweeping the brightly lit space with midnight gaze before settling upon shadowy Sweetie sighing resignedly beneath wide hat brim. "Mine friends, radiance crafts visibility yet obscures insight in equal measure..."

Her horn glimmered gently removing Applejack's gifted stetson. "Does this deeper dimness now better suit our shrouded sister, brave Applejack? Vision borne not solely through vulgar eyes sees truer treasures left overlooked in light overabundant." Luna smiled softly towards unshadowed Sweetie Drops. "Is it not so, loyal guardian?"

Sweetie peered up hesitantly then broke into relieved grin feeling welcome gloom restored as Luna worked magic of the night that worked like a fine pair of sunglasses. "Far better, Your Highness! Forgive my ingratitude earlier..." She turned to Applejack earnestly. "I truly appreciate you ensuring we feel... included and, well, part of the home team."

Applejack blushed beet red at such earnest praise from normally stoic Sweetie and enigmatic Luna alike. She scuffed a hoof self-consciously, unaccustomed to alphorns applauding her efforts however humble. "Aw shucks, t'weren't nothin' much...jus' wanted the place feelin' friendly as the farm fer everypony is all."

Bright leaned forward with a smile towards their newest member. "Well, we got the lights. Ta da!" He threw his arms out to either side. "The base. Now that you can see it properly, check it out!"

"Checkin'..." She turned slowly in place, considering. "A bit... messy." She reached for a stack of papers, hesitating when it looked ready to fall over with so much as a tap. "Bright or not, what's yer excuse?"

Sweetie darkened rapidly. "I accept blame for that." She hopped to her feet with a clop. "Keeping the documents in order should be my responsibility." Without another word on the topic, she got to work cleaning up.

Applejack huffed. "Makes sense. If the one in charge ain't got night eyes, and ya kept it dark in here..." She rolled a hoof. "Follows she might miss somethin', even if she gets used to it."

Luna settled in her chair. "It would seem recruiting you is having small side benefits, Applejack. Rarity, Bright, can you assist Sweetie Drops with organizing?"

Rarity saluted fancifully. "Of course, darling." She slid down to her hooves and trotted over, horn glowing as she picked through the papers and began floating them towards a filing cabinet, humming a little song along the way.

Bright leaned back in his chair. "They got this handled. I'd just get in the way."

Applejack snorted at that. "Well, 'least yer honest about it." She cocked a brow, spotting Bright reaching for his earring. "Who ya callin'? We're all here."

"Not everyone." He whistled innocently, just to perk up. "Did you know your cart's extended warranty is running out?"

"It is?!" gasped Pinkie on the other end of the line. "Oh no! What do I--"

Bright hung up on her. "First prank call of Equestria, completed."

Luna raised a brow. "Was that Pinkie? That was most unkind of you, Agent Bright. These are for vital communications only."

"And you gave one to Pinkie?" Bright smirked at the very idea. "Strange idea of 'vital' there. She's not even part of the team."

Applejack swatted Bright with her regained hat. "That ain't neighborly, ya long-eared trickster."

"Guilty as charged." He hopped up onto the back of his chair, threatening to topple it. "Oh, Rares, I had a question for you."

"Hm?" Rarity looked over from where she was reclaiming a clean spot on the table. "What is it, darling?"

Bright grinned with a clap. "Show me how to do vampire magic! I'm part vampire, right? Show me, sensei."

Rarity blinked pensively. "Well 'vampire magic' proves a misnomer actually dear... Our talents manifest from the same arcane forces fueling any caster's spells." She waved towards regal Luna nearby. "Her Highness wields the innate gift where only study lends sophistication to my modest mystic mastery."

Rarity smiled indulgently, beckoning eager Bright. "But your unique condition may unlock latent talents! Let us explore your awakening powers, my captivating champion!"

Blue aura enfolded red as mentor and protégé communed magically. "Relax and focus inward for your inner magical spark..." Rarity skillfully soothed Bright's scattering thoughts until subtle supernormal energies stirred.

"There, you feel it?" She murmured encouragingly. "Gently coax it outward through will!" Their frames shone as mystic patterns swirled patiently produced by Rarity until suddenly separate scarlet sigils manifested - crude but conjured by unfamiliar foxy force!

Rarity squealed delightedly. "Marvelous first manifestation! With practice, magic becomes second nature." She floated celebratory cider from her pocket. "To tapping your emerging talents alongside Equestria's most exceptional!"

As glasses clinked, Luna lifted her gaze approvingly. "Another worthy wizard walks among us, Sir Bright! Here adventures spawned on midnight wings - foretelling future feats fusing myth and magic to wonders beautiful birthing under starlit skies!"

Applejack shook her head. "Don't mean to be rainin' on no parades or nothin', but ah don't think that qualifies fer 'wizard' just yet."

Sweetie snorted. "They're just being happy he managed anything. Let them have their celebration."

"Hey." Bright glared at Sweetie before raising his chin. "I'm going to be an awesome vampire, or at least a familiar of a vampire. Oh!" He hopped up on Rarity, a privilege only he had without permission. "What can you do? I bet I could copy some of that."

Rarity tapped at her chin. "Well, do you remember what I was trying to do, a few assignments back? To become a bat, or a night-stalking wolf, yes, those are both very vampiric talents." She clopped her hooves. "I don't know if a familiar can also do them, but it shouldn't hurt to try, dear."

Rarity turned consideringly towards Bright. "I suppose the simplest first step would be emulating my innate transformative talents, presuming a familiar shares their vampire’s more...esoteric abilities."

She gestured expansively, gem horn glinting. "As you know I can manifest eldritch essence as wolven or chiropteran aspects. The deepest magics tap archetypal energies woven through reality’s fabric." Rarity winked playfully. "Or perhaps merely legends leave literal prints thus!"

Pacing around eager Bright she continued lecturing. "The vital vortex anchors one’s sense of 'self' beyond transient frames - to touch its depths allows...renegotiating corporeal contracts shall we say?" Her horn flashed as leathery wings unfurled emphasizing metamorphic mystique.

"There - now focus your identity’s locus through our link! Feel bat-bones wishing to awaken within while keeping firmest focus on fundamental 'Brightness' lest selves scatter improperly." She smiled reassuringly. "I shall guide the process - trust thy Rarity to avoid unprettily permanent predicaments!"

She leaned closer, voice dropping intimately. "Imagine then mine own heartbeat echoing within thy breast Bright...what flitters just beyond familiar fur that shares my sanguine symphony's singing summons?" Her magic cradled him comfortingly seeking secrets slumbering inside. "I am here darling, always here..." shimmering sigils swirled as mentor and apprentice embraced empathic communion kindling untold wonders!

"Your heart." He put both hands to his own. "Yeah. That feels more important." He closed his eyes, tail swaying faster and faster behind him. "I can feel that. Just reach out..." With a great explosion of smoke, Bright was gone. A rabbit with especially long fangs landed where he had been. The new critter squeaked in... surprise?

Rarity pinned her ears back. "Oh dear..."

Applejack burst into laughter. "Wow... Jus' wow..." She patted the new rabbit. "Look at you, cute as a button." That got a glare, not that this stopped her in her petting of the transformed Bright. "Were ya aimin' fer a bat, or a wolf? Shoot, either way, ya missed..."

The Bright Bunny bounced away from Applejack to the protection of their mistress.

Rarity brought a wing down over him. "We all make mistakes, dear. This will take some practice..."

Author's Note

Mistakes may have been made. Let's just move on. 28/29 The lovely patron demanded I take x-mas eve, xmas, and new year's year off, at least for this story.

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29 - Assignment Eight - Troubling Brothers

"Come one, come all," called a dapper salespony.

"We've discovered the cure for whatever ails you," completes the second, quite similar looking one.

Applejack scowled at the two. "While ah don't like the Flim Flam brothers fer a few reasons, why are we here?" She looked to her fellow agents. "They're sellin' snake oil, as usual. That ain't 'xactly what we're supposed to be handlin', is it?"

Rarity waved Applejack down. "Calm yourself, dear. It's not snake oil. Would that it was." She smiled, eyes on the brothers as they enthusiastically sang about their miracle potion that could do much anything. "This time, they aren't lying. And there are side effects to go with it."

Luna snorted softly. "Well, then... I am loathe to suggest it, but why are we waiting? We could arrest them and seize their product and be done with it."

Bright squeezed Rarity, easy to do while being mounted stop her. "If we didn't do that, Rares knows why, and I bet it's a good reason."

"Oh, it is. We need to know how they are doing it, dears, or we're just kicking a can down the road instead of fixing anything at all." Rarity smiled up at Luna. "We do want to cure the problem, don't we?"

Luna hummed in quiet thought a moment, eyes on the song and dance, quite literally, being performed. "That would... be ideal, yes. You are thinking clearly, Rarity. First, I would see the issue. Are they--"

"I hope you're ready for--"

"--a demonstration!" The two salesbrothers were in perfect harmony, finishing one another's sentences. "We just need a volunteer from the audience."

They both raised their arms to shield their eyes, scanning dutifully for their happy volunteer, or unwitting victim, depending on how it went.

Bright waved a fuzzy paw eagerly. "Ooh, ooh, pick me!" Before the others could react, he had bounced up onto the stage beside the startled Flim Flam brothers.

"We have our volunteer!" proclaimed Flim smoothly, recovering first.

"Excellent, excellent!" Flam swept a top hat onto Bright's head with his magic. "Now sir, please tell us what ails you on this fine day?"

"Uh..." Bright screwed up his face exaggeratedly. "I'm feeling kinda...itchy all over?" He waved at the crowd. "My vampony GF says your stuff legit works wonders!"

The brothers both laughed uproariously. "A vampire's beloved no less!" chortled Flim. "Well, we aim to impress regardless of affiliation!"

Flam levitated a vial of glittering silver elixir. "One spoonful of our patented Panacea Potable will surely soothe that bothersome irritation posthaste!"

Before Luna or the others could voice caution, he popped the spoon into the grinning hybrid's mouth. "Now take a moment while the healing herbs harmonize with your unique essence!"

Both brothers and the crowd watched Bright expectantly...until he abruptly split into two identical Brights! "Ta da!" both exclaimed, ears wriggling in unison. "Double the value!"

The audience erupted into astonished applause as the brothers gawked speechlessly. Rarity dropped her face into both hooves while Luna and Applejack groaned. "That can't be right..." Sweetie muttered.

The two Brights looked at each other, just to doubletake and hop away from one another. "Hey, you!" They leveled their fingers at one another in perfect sync. "I was here first!"

The brothers casually slid in front of the two arguing rabbit-roos. "No more itching--"

"--No more irritation!" They bowed as if they had fixed the problem entirely.

"As promised. Now who'll be the first to step up and grab a potion while they last?" Flim gestured to a collection of six bottles with the same label. "We only have so many for the day. This is special stuff, and it takes time."

"--Dear, sweet time," cut in Flam gracefully. "Before we can offer a single drop more. So who'll be the first?"

Sweetie stepped forward, hastily grabbing one of the potion bottles and swapping it for a vial of similar liquid from her cloak while the brother's eyes scanned the interested crowd. "Allow me then kind stallions!"

The stoic mare hid her covert sample retrieval behind a saccharine smile. "And let me affirm your tonic's transformative testimonial with further demonstration!" She downed the Glamor Gleam potion in one long gulp, primly wiping her mouth. "My word! Aged joints already ease and I swear wrinkles recede by the second!"

Flim and Flam beamed, puffing up proudly at more resounding endorsement from such a discerning customer. "You don't look a day over fifteen, madam!" Flim gushed.

"I'd wager your actual age closer to forty." Flam nodded to himself. "Yes yes, another life renewed by the splendid Panacea Potable!" He turned jovially to the two bickering Brights beside him then back to Sweetie inquisitively. "Now then, shall I simply pour another dose to fuse our unexpected duo back into one happy hybrid?"

The brothers froze, only now recognizing the twin vampiric bunnies implied something had gone quite amiss with their usual infallible formula! "Unless that is, you prefer this...enchanting two-for-one state of being?" Flam offered weakly, dread dawning that their special case volunteer may actually be in dire straits!

Sweetie's eyes flashed in alarm as the still-arguing doppelgangers suddenly smacked into each other...and fused in a burst of crimson smoke into one very dazed, giant Bright almost twice normal size! "That's not right either!" she hissed.

Luna face-hooved again while Rarity hurried up onto the stage. "Guys? What's going on?" the giant hybrid mumbled woozily. "Whoa...why's everything lookin' kinda little all a sudden?"

Rarity grabbed her familiar in her magic, and discovered twice the size meant four times the weight. She still lifted him with some effort, huffing. "Darling, come along. These nice ponies have cured you of your itching, do you not recall?"

"Itching... right." Bright made the motions as if walking along with Rarity, even if that was impossible, floating as he was. "You still look kinda small, Rares. Everything okay?"

"Everything's fine, dear." Rarity kept a serene smile as she hurried out of sight to put Bright down. "Everything is not alright. Did you forget what happened?" She waved up at his bulk. "Also, dear, you've grown... larger. I don't hate it, but I didn't ask for it either... Shrink down this instant."

Bright crouched down closer to her level. "Is that something I can do?"

Rarity waved outside of their alley at the crowd of ponies pushing in towards Flim and Flam. "If you were a normal pony, I'd lean towards no, but you aren't, are you dear." She fluttered her lashes at her embiggened familiar. "You are my talented little muffin. Dear, channel your power. Channel your love for me. Become the little rabbit I already miss so dearly."

Bright scrunched his face intently, floppy ears twitching. Closing his eyes firmly, the giant hybrid focused on mentally grasping the slippery nebulous vortex of eldritch power permeating his altered being. Love for beloved Rarity and longing to be once more her precious pampered familiar provided emotive channels towards that mutable core stabilizing his sense of "Bright".

Like plunging through deepening layers of scarlet mist, his consciousness dove guided by Rarity's soothing lilt coaxing crisp clarity of self-perception amidst the titanic welter of conflicting currents comprising his magical mutant physiology.

There! Floating silent and serene as moonlight on still waters waited the luminous seed that ever remained unblemished "Brightness" within despite drastic transformations without.

"Take that pure light and revivify its glow..." Rarity gently intoned. "Rekindling core radiance resplendent restores rightful reality..."

The brilliant spark intensified, its searing flash engulfing him within and without. As mystic fire receded, panting Bright found himself blinking up at relieved Rarity back to normal cotton-candy bunny-roo size.

He enveloped the smiling vampony with fuzzy hugs. "I did it Rares! And you were right - weird stuff kinda blurs my sense of me. But together we got through!"

Bright sighed happily. "With you by my side, nothing stays scary or strange for long!" He batted his eyes up at her playfully. "Because nopony centers me to shine brighter than my Rare and Radiant Lady fair!"

Rarity swept him up into a cuddle with a little squeak of delight.

"My dearest darling, ever do you flatter." She gave his cheek a smooch. "I have every faith you'll master your newer mystic might through such practice." She paused a moment, swaying, pressed against him, just gently swaying in a cuddle. "But for now... Let's get to work, hm? We must address those two Flim Flams."

Bright hopped to an alert readiness. "Right! We're still on the job." He peeked out at the ponies thronging the showboating brothers. "So how we taking them down for messing me up temporarily? Secret agent sneak attack? Magical duel at high noon? Hard-hitting hoof-icuffs?"

He grinned up roguishly at his gorgeous vampiric partner. "Or maybe just let AJ hogtie 'em while we sip cider and watch the fireworks?"

Sweetie slapped Bright over the back of the head as she passed him. "We'll do none of those things. I have one of their bottles." She swept her cloak just enough to let them see a hint of it. "Time for examinations, hm?"

Luna clapped in applause. "Sweetie! Excellent work. I didn't even see you move."

Applejack snorted softly. "That there's her specialty. Alright. We got what we wanted. If we ain't stoppin' the brothers right now, we should get goin' to do it, right?"

Luna frowned at the crowd. "It pains me... They won't be able to recover as easily as Bright did." She cocked an ear. "Excellent work. Did you truly chance a bottle?"

Sweetie snorted, looking self-satisfied. "I drank one of my own bottles. It just prettied me up for a little while." She patted her curls gently. "As you can see, there wasn't too much more for it to do."

Rarity slid up aside Sweetie. "Darling, dear... wonderful friend..."

"I'm not sharing." Sweetie stepped back. "That's a state secret, and not for sale."

"Hmmph." Rarity turned her nose up. "Why on Equestria would they keep such a marvelous thing hidden? Foalish, if you ask me. We should all look fabulous."

Luna nudged Rarity. "If we are all fabulous, how would we know? Fabulous would become average."

Rarity went still, processing that. "Oh... Oh dear... Perhaps... it is best that remain a secret, on further consideration. Let's be off to see what lurks in the brothers' brew."

They retreated from the scene, hurrying back to Canterlot Castle and their, recently brightened, base. Luna tapped at her earring with her magic. "Twilight? We have a matter for you."

"Hm?" came over the line. "Luna? Oh. Where are you?"

"We are in Canterlot Castle." Luna turned in place. "You know the room, where my agents gather."

"On the way!" The call ended.

Bright hopped up on the table. "Pity I can't go big like that whenever. It was kinda cool... I was just a little out of it the first time. Can there be a second time?"

Rarity patted at her familiar with her magic. "I'd prefer not. You are the right size right now. Still, it's your body, dear. Far be it from me to hold a creature back from expressing themselves how they want, but you are not drinking their potion. It could do something even worse, dear."

With a loud pop, Twilight appeared with Spike beside her. Both were trailing smoke and looking quite singed on the edges. "Teleporting from Ponyville is... difficult." Twilight let out a smokey sigh and flopped over.

Spike stroked over Twilight's recovering side. "She teleported six times as far as she could. It took a lot out of her, and me... Um, but we're here. How can we help?"

Luna nodded to Sweetie. Sweetie pulled out the mystery bottle and set it on the table. "This. This can do things it shouldn't be able to do. We need to know what's powering it. Is it laced with Poison Joke? Is it an ancient curse? Maybe some unicorn devised a mad spell. We need to know."

Author's Note

This is worthy of investigation, I should think. Hm? 29/29 The month long Ruuuuush is complete.

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30 - Applying Science to Magical Problems

"Look." Bright wagged his tail eagerly. "The potion did it, but it was magic, with me?"

Rarity inclined her head. "With you?"

"Alright, so... I have magic. So..." He rolled his hands over one another. "If I can work out the right magic, I should be able to do it again whenever I want."

Rarity pointed to her horn. "Darling, beloved little dear, every unicorn spell fits what you've said to every other unicorn, but guessing how to cast it just from seeing it used once? Only a one in a million unicorn could manage such a feat!"

Bright flashed his most winning smile. "Are you implying I'm not one in a million?"

"Point." She patted Bright's head gently, rubbing one long ear. "You shouldn't be able to harm yourself, so if you wish to try, go ahead. You have little but time and effort to spend."

Twilight groaned as she opened her eyes. "Where? Oh! Yes. What is it you--"

Spike put a finger to her lips, silencing her. "You just knocked yourself out getting here, maybe it's break time before you rush headlong into more stuff?"

Twilight blinked slowly, processing Spike's words through the fog still filling her head from the overtaxing teleportation. As cognition gradually started re-engaging, she offered her loyal assistant a wan smile.

"You make a fair point as always, Spike." She gently shifted to a sitting position, taking in the expectant faces of Luna, Rarity and the others patiently awaiting revelation of their mystery potion's obscure workings. Regret pulled at Twilight realizing her positioning hardly projected studious competence at present.

"But I rushed all this way specifically to help analyze whatever agent Sweetie managed to retrieve." Twilight nodded respectfully towards the stern mare who simply arched a brow in response. "I can rally enough focus for initial assessment before we all take a breather."

Her horn sputtered, fizzling faintly as magic reserves ran on fumes. Grimacing, Twilight poured effort into reigniting even a glimmering to get started. This bottle held unknown properties potentially endangering ponies while the trail still blazed hot. She refused to fail Luna or the team counting on her knowledge and skills!

Spike watched worriedly as Twilight visibly strained. "You always gotta be the helpful one, I get it." He pressed a tiny clawed hand comfortingly to her back, lending supportive contact. "But you can't spread yourself so thin your own health suffers!" His tone softened. "What good's that brilliant brain running yourself ragged?"

Twilight leaned subtly into the soothing contact as her technical tracing slowly kindled coherent scans of the deceptively innocuous vial Sweetie had cunningly copied. She offered a tired yet grateful smile Spike's way.

"You're absolutely right - as my trusted Number One Assistant, your advice warrants heeding!" She pulled Spike into a quick hug. "So let's just have a peek into this formula's secrets, then go home and put research on hiatus until we've recharged our personal batteries a bit, deal?"

The scaly face poking from her foreleg grinned up at Twilight fondly if anxiously. "Deal! Just uh, maybe have Luna or Rarity handle the actual casting so you don't overdo things anymore huh?"

Twilight chuckled, shakily putting the bottle down. "That's actually a good idea. Princess? If you would?"

Luna plucked the bottle up firmly in her magic. "Where do you need me to hold it?"

"Just right there, perfect... I need a good view of it, without it touching anything." She let out a happy little noise. "Wow... Holding that was taking more out of me than I wanted to admit... Just one more spell, just one more, promise." She put a hoof to her chest and extended it slowly, calming herself. "Let's get a hint."

With some stamina returned, Twilight lit her horn, focusing entirely on the bottle, and not holding the bottle. "What's hiding in... you... Mmm... Sugar, coloring... I think I see some preservatives..." She began to frown, swimming with motions of her hooves not touching the bottle. "I... Princess? I don't... See.... This is just a sugary drink! It's not healthy, but it's not magic, either."

Luna frowned thoughtfully at the bottle. "Well this is just sugary juice, nothing magical at all! I don't like how those Flim Flam fellers are misleading everypony with their show."

Applejack nodded "I agree it ain't right your Highness. But maybe we can expose their fraud peacefully before taking harsher steps?"

"You may be right, Applejack." Luna sighed. "No need to overreact and force them to drink this stuff. But we need to reveal the truth about their false promises."

Sweetie Drops coughed into a hoof. "You're all forgetting something."

Applejack tilter her hat forward. "Yup. If it ain't got magic, we gotta 'xplain how it already did what it did. We got reports of it doin' other things too, right, or why'd we even go there in the first place?"

"Yes!" roared Bright as he found the right set of magic tumblers, clicking into the key of his own strange form. He grew several feet, crashing his head into the bottle. "Ow..." The bottle shattered, spilling the sugar water and flicks of glass all over him. "That's... Not how I wanted to show off..."

The gathered ponies gasped in surprise as Luna hastily caught falling and regular-sized Bright in a cushioning levitation field, gently lowering the dazed hybrid to the floor amidst shattered sugary drink and bottle fragments.

"Careful dear warrior!" Luna admonished as Twilight hurried to check for cuts from the broken container. "Let this stand as lesson impatience courts catastrophe when meddling medley of might and magic."

Rarity floated over with clucking sounds of motherly concern, buzzing around Bright like anxious hummingbird. "Oh, do say you aren't harmed my poor muffin!"

Twilight carefully plucked slippery container shards clinging to Bright's wet fur with her telekinetic grip. "Just minor abrasions near as I can tell, no need to worry!" Her horn shone softly sealing each oozing scratch.

Applejack clopped over to help mop up spill puddle with a spare towel, shaking her head wryly. "Shoot partner, what was ya tryin' to go provin' makin' a mess o' yerself like that?"

Bright's long ears drooped under gently teasing inspection from all sides. "Just thought I finally got that spell right to get temporarily big again..." He kicked at a stray piece of broken bottle neck self-consciously. "Wanted to be all heroic 'protecting everypony from dangerous things like Luna said."

He blinked up at the hovering lunar princess, grin finding way back through embarrassment. "But I got too revved up too fast I guess without thinking things through."

Luna smiled indulgently down at the damp champion looking abruptly far younger despite his towering albeit temporary size. "A flame too fiercely fans itself out ere targets properly lit, as many avatars of ambition oft learn."

Her steady gaze took in both Bright's contrition and the tower marks of messy growth spurt still visible on walls and ceiling. "Yet the will proves worthy - now We must temper the unwieldy spell."

Rarity gathered up Bright into her grasp. "Now, little dear, I did see you get bigger, if briefly. Did you find the spell or not? You have me beside myself with curiosity."

Bright hopped to his feet and out of Rarity's reach. "I think so! And without the double-vision part. Wow, not looking forward to that part." He frowned with the memory of facing his own worst enemy, himself. "He knows what he did," he promise bitterly to nocreature specifically. "Jerk."

Rarity tittered at the theatrics. "Darling, stop teasing us! Show us if you have this spell. Ooo, it'll be one of your first, will it not?"

Bright spread his wings wide, where they hadn't been a moment before. "Do these counts?"

Rarity shook her head. "Afraid not, dear. That is, entirely, a vampony trick. Not a spell. Subtle, but present."

"Hm. Either way." His vision went distant as he grappled with strange occult matters.

Twilight pulled her eyes away. "I promised I wouldn't be distracted, again... Luna, should I--"

"You are not going home." Luna pointed to the door heading out. "You are to go to the guest quarters, find a bed, and collapse on it. You can return home after you awaken and not before then."

Twilight blushed, scuffing a hoof embarrassed as Luna issued firm instructions to get some rest. "You're absolutely right, I need recharge my batteries a bit." Twilight nodded, already edging reluctantly towards the doorway even as scientific curiosity kept trying to draw her gaze back to the experiment in progress.

Spike took her hoof gently. "C'mon Twilight, let's get you to bed before you fall asleep standing up here!" He shot Luna a grateful wink. "I'll tuck her in safe and sound, Princess. We'll be back bright eyed after some quality hibernation!"

Luna returned a subtle smile and nod, appreciating Spike's doting assistance ensuring the scholarly Sparkle heeded healthful advice. As dragon led pony down decorated halls, Luna turned focus fully back to her remaining agents and Bright still scrunched in magical exertion attempting to recreate his previous giant's growth.

Rarity watched anxiously, gently restraining Applejack from interrupting with an urgent "Ssh!" The farm mare rolled her eyes but settled in beside the tense vampony and princess awaiting their fluffy sorcerer's next trick.

Bright was polite enough to not keep the ladies awaiting. With an audible click, his form shuddered, then shot up in height, almost doubling, and without a bottle in the way that time. "Behold! It is the bright that towers!" He flexed his newly embiggened arms. "Mua ha ha ha ha."

"Oh dear." Rarity didn't look very scared. "You wouldn't hurt a proper lady, not would you?"

"Of course not. These big arms are only for petting and holding proper ladies"

Applejack slid away from Rarity with a snort. "That sounded like an invitation ah don't need to be part of. Alright, good job, Bright. Seriously, mighty useful trick. But we're gettin' distracted." She pointed to where the bottle once was. "If that's a great big bottle ah nothin', what did make Bright grow, the first time that is. To say nothin' ah when he split in two like that! That sure looked like some kinda magic ta me!"

Rarity disentangled herself delicately from Bright's eager affectionate pets now amplified by his looming stature. "While basking in my embiggened champion's flashes holds boundless appeal..." She winked up coyly before prim propriety returned. "Our steadfast Applejack speaks sound sense as ever! This growth brew remains a confounding conundrum..."

The vampony frowned, glancing between empty floor space that had held their mysterious vessel and turned her eyes skywards in consideration. What cryptic catalyst created crowded copies or conjured titanic transformations out of sheer sugar and food dye? Rarity refused assuming coincidence's happenstance answered everything!

Her keen gaze turned sharply back scrutinizing their giant test subject swishing showy fluffy tail seemingly oblivious to deeper doubts shadowing his beaming audience. Rarity pursed her lips. "We know now that what was done to you is a spell. You cast it! Not the first time, clearly. But this time. It was a spell." She clapped her hooves with each syllable of that. "And that's quite important."

Sweetie's eyes grow. "Genius. If it was a spell, any unicorn could, in theory, have been helping perform that show." She clopped a hoof to her forehead. "I feel like a foal! No wonder they didn't always get the magic they wanted. They were relying on a third party, and it's clearly one they don't have full control over. Worse." She scowled even more than her default. "It means they were selling nothing, for something. The poor ponies who bought any got home and it didn't work, at all, ever. On... the bright side... It meant nopony was harmed, but..."

Luna sank to her haunches suddenly with a crash. "That means this case is over." All the others looked to her. "This isn't a cast of the supernatural. This isn't something that bumps in the night, dear agents. These are shysters, quite in the day. We... should report them, surely, and see justice is brought... But... This case is over." She slammer a hoof down with the final loud report of a gavel's clap.

Author's Note

End assignment?

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31 - Assignment Nine - Whispers in the Night

"How tawdry." Rarity wrinkled her nose. "Really..."

Luna smirked at the disgusted expression. "Unlike the last, this is thoroughly in our house, as they say. Some horned creature is seducing and draining creatures, leaving them smiling, but lessened. We must act against this."

Applejack inclined her head with a huh. "Horned creature? We know they ain't a unicorn?"

Luna turned to Sweetie, who cleared her throat. "They have two horns. Unicorns are not in that habit. They are also bipedal, with a naked tail. This is not a unicorn." She reached up and pulled down a tab, revealing a picture of their target.

Bright whistled at the image. "Hot damn..." He leered at the image of the sultry demoness. "That's a succubus. I'd know them from a mile away."

Rarity swatted her familiar gently. "You'll make your mistress jealous, salivating over some strange lady like that."

"I can appreciate art even if I'm not reaching." Bright hugged Rarity firmly from the side, nuzzling into her fur. "You're my mare."

"You're my familiar." She hugged him with one arm around him. "Now, I need your head in the game, hm? I don't want my precious being drained by some occult hussy."

Luna raised a hoof. "The mares of the party should not assume they are safe by nature of their gender. Reports indicate that won't protect you."

Sweetie nodded firmly. "This fiend can alter their apperance, not unlike a changeling." She curled a hoof to her chin. "They may be related to a changeling, considering both are shapeshifters, and both can feed on an emotion. It's just a different emotion."

Bright waggled his brows. "Changelings want love. Succubi want lust," He clicked his tongue against his teeth. "Similar, but different."

Luna turned her gaze on Bright. "You seem to know much of our quarry. I won't ask how, but I will ask that you share this information with us."

Bright flushed under suddenly intent gazes of all three mares and alicorn fixing him for details on their mysterious succubus target. He rubbed the back of his neck, looking off-balance a moment before Rarity gently took his paw supportively.

"No need for discomfort darling - 'tis only natural such...arcane avenues would attract an adolescent boy's avid curiosity during those lonely nights." Her tone held no judgment, only kindness glancing his way.

"Suppose we regard whatever you gleaned as simply...research lending us advantage, hm?" Rarity smiled indulgently as Bright nodded, steadying himself to deliver debriefing.

Applejack frowned pensively. "Only thing that rightly concerns me - exactly what's yer definition o' 'research' regardin' these stuff huh?" She arched one brow skeptically. "'Specially what with all this magical monster mayhem jumpin' lately?"

Bright waved his paws placatingly. "Hey hey it's not whatever you're thinking - I just know lots of crazy mythology and junk from back in my world!" He put hands on hips with playful pride. "So I can totally serve as an occult consultant for anything weird we run into probably!"

Luna nodded thoughtfully. "Very well Sir Bright, We shall provisionally accept your proposal..." Her tone cooled subtly. "But tread transparently lest Our trust find itself misplaced." Dark ears tilted back towards the corkboard displaying their alluring assailant. "Now then, divulge details on what drives demons to deprive through deception!"

Sweetie's quill hovered expectantly over parchment ready to transcribe whatever insight Bright offered into handling their latest bewitching burden before irreparable intimate injury occurred.

"Well..." Bright rocked forward and back. "That depends on which kind of succubi we're dealing with. Is this the demonic variety, the dream type, or--"

Luna scowled. "It is not a dream monster. I'd know that."

Bright snapped his fingers. "That narrows it down a little. It could still be a demon, or just a monster. Are demons a thing?"

Sweetie arched a brow at that. "That depends on your definition? Demon is a word often used by ponies to refer to any creature of unnatural origin and foul intention. It's a catch-all term. The way you're using it implies a far more... specific... use. Color me curious, how do you define a demon?"

Bright tapped his fingers. "Okay... To start, is H-E-Double Hockey Sticks a thing around here?" The ponies all gazed at him with wonder. "Hell?" The staring continued. "That's a resounding no. Is there a place, another world, full of fire and malice? Maybe it's not called that?"

Luna nodded faintly. "There are countless other worlds. One like you describe surely exists. It is our job, in part, to keep such interlopers away from our ponies. Let's worry less of the world of origin and more of how to stop them from causing harm."

Bright nodded, taking a deep breath to carefully sort relevant details about their shape-shifting seducer from broader interdimensional mythology. He began sketching a rough diagram separating key succubus traits by subtype.

"Okay, so putting aside exactly where they're from, main thing is some types magically metabolize lust energy, right?" He tapped the crude drawing. "Like psychic vampires almost. Or kinda like Rares except spicier snacks."

He winked up at gently smirking Rarity before continuing. "Now the ones actually from H-E-Double-Hockey-Sticks use that to tempt mortals into literally damning decisions dragging souls down into darker dimensions." Bright shivered dramatically before moving down the chart.

"But other varieties just cause general chaos for kicks without the contracts. Either way, they siphon off the, uh, peak energy from their, let's say, 'donors', leaving them drained." Bright flushed slightly under Applejack's continued stern gaze. "Not that I'd know firsthoof or anything!"

He cleared his throat self-consciously. "Anyway, that's why we gotta stop this one fast before ponies get hurt." Bright tapped the alluring image Luna had revealed. "So, uh, what exactly makes you guys certain she's in town already somehow?"

Luna levitated a report over. "Because the royal guard already detained someone matching the image you see there. She is being held below Canterlot as we speak."

Rarity and Bright shared a concerned look.

"Beg pardon, Your Highness." Rarity drifted the folder closer. "But if this creature...feeds on lust, keeping her confined below virile young stallions seems rather perilous for their discipline and safety..."

She noted locations on the detention level diagram with growing dismay. "Why, most quarters shown here seem outright designed for discrete indiscretions!"

Elsewhere, a stallion woke from their slumber. He didn't sleep with his armor on, leaving him undressed, and pinned beneath the form of a mare gently sliding against him. "Good evening," she whispered in the dark. "You looked so lonely..."

"Um..." The stallion wrestled with the twin urges to shove the mare away and draw her closer. "Who are you and why are you in my bed?"

"I'm Sasha." She fluttered her lashes. "And I'm here to make your night a lot better." She slid up against him, grinding her groin against his in a wanton invitation. "Want to play? I won't tell a soul. Just you... and me..."

He grabbed her by the hips with a sharp inhale. "Y-yeah... That sounds fun."

He was another victim, quite willingly. He gave his vital essence to that mysterious mare, flopping back, heaving for breath. He fell limply from her delightful grasp. "Can... we play again." He huffed for air. "Maybe... tomorrow?"

"Poor thing." She kissed his cheek. "You can only go once and you're done? Work on that stamina." But she nuzzled at him anyway, her curiously naked tail flicking with satisfaction. "I'll let you rest."

She vanished away from the tired stallion.

Applejack tilted her hat back. "Well, they're barely a few steps away. We'd best get movin'!"

The rest of the crew cheered in unison and they moved from their HQ to descend the stairs towards the basement and the jails hiding down there. Bright snorted as they went. "They shoulda just brought the monster to us in the first place. Don't the royal guards know we're here?"

Luna turned an ear. "As ideal as that'd be, most of them are not aware of what we do, exactly. We are a secret orginization."

Sweetie sighed dramatically. "I've had to wrestle with royal guards before. One arm has no idea what the other arm is doing. Now I'm part of two secret orginizations, and am forbidden from bringing either up to speed on what the other is doing. It's a mess, but for security..."

The group hurried down shadowy stairwells towards underground holding cells, hoofsteps echoing urgently against cold stone. Torches guttered in iron sconces barely alleviating creeping claustrophobia.

Applejack shivered as dank castle depths swallowed fading traces of wholesome sunlight above. She sidled subtly closer to stolid Sweetie's sturdy earth pony presence amidst unnerving alien architecture.

"Right unsettlin' digs fer any decent creature..." Applejack murmured under her breath. "You city folks actually lock ponies down this fer below?" She glanced back uneasily half expecting to glimpse leering wraiths trailing their tightening formation.

Sweetie's mouth quirked wryly. "I forget you've seen little beyond Ponyville's cheerful bounds." She nodded discreetly towards light-furled Luna and midnight-maned Rarity scanning shadows ahead without concern. "For those attuned to umbral energies, dungeons pose little dread - 'tis but stone and torchfire's dancing..."

Applejack nodded pensively towards their vampiric vanguard striding confidently onwards even as Bright visibly shivered scurrying closer against familiar mistress.

Sweetie leaned in gently. "Some need brighter bolsters braving alien turf - no shame there." She smiled softly. "Luna's lean but not cruel - We all adapt in time." Hooffalls echoed answered by Applejack's sigh through stout heart. however stifling the strange became, together they’d manage meeting whatever came next waiting below.

At the final gate stood two guards, clapping hooves to chestplates seeing Luna approach. "Your Majesty! Apologies no escort attended your descent given sensitive contraband contained below currently..."

Luna nodded curtly through the barred archway towards stairs visible descending further still. "Indeed such potentially perilous prizes demand utmost vigilance at every post." Her piercing gaze lingered on each stallion in turn. "Have either of you stood direct watch over the entity held below?"

Both armored unicorns exchanged tight glances before the senior captain responded. "Ah, not as such Princess... Procedure prescribes containment via layered wards and round the clock rotating patrols." His eyes narrowed warily. "Has something happened?"

Bright raised a lone finger. "Hopefully not. Let's find out!"

The band advanced past the guards, to the small cell designed to keep all spells in check, strong enough for the strongest earth pony around. A pity it had no creatures inside. Luna scowled at the empty chamber. "Well..."

Sweetie sighed, making a new note. "If only it could have been that easy. Our succubus has broken free. We're going to have to hunt..." She paused. "Are they a she? They can be whatever they want."

Rarity snorted at that. "Is this really the time to be pondering their gender, darling? We can ask them as we slap hoofcuffs on them. Whatever gender they prefer, they need to be captured, again."

Applejack turned from the empty cell. "Reckon Rarity's on the money here. Shoot, how far away could she have gotten?"

Bright went to the guards. "Hey! Any of you suddenly call out, feeling super tired?" The guards looked at him with confusion and suspicion. "This is official business, really!"

Luna rose from behind Bright, looming over everypony there. "He is not incorrect. Tell him."

The guard rubbed at his cheek. "Apologies, ma'am! Um. I'm just a guard, ma'am. You'll want to talk to the shift captain, ma'am!"

"Very good." Luna narrowed her eyes as she marched past. "We have a target then, a place to begin our quest."

Applejack nodded as she followed. "Right better than nothin'. If that varmint's toyin' wit' the guards, at least that's a place to start."

Together, they closed in on the captain's office. The mare saluted sharply at Luna's appearance. "Your Highness! Abscences have increased." She brought out a clipboard. "It feels... random." She offered it towards Luna.

Luna took it in her magic, looking it over. "It appears our monster doesn't care if you're a mare or a stallion... I think they're still close, or at least operating close at hoof..."

They just had to catch it.

Author's Note

And right into a new one. Hi, Sasha. We're gonna catch ya! Or so is the plan? She may eagerly try to catch our agents instead.

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32 - Digging Deeper

"I don't know what you're talking about!" The captain shook her head. "I haven't seen anything out of the ordinary."

Sweetie Drops frowned. "I don't like this. It's too convenient." She turned to Luna. "Your Highness, I recommend we take the captain into custody."

Luna nodded slowly with thought. "We don't have time for a full interrogation. We can ask more questions here." She turned to the door that slapped shut under her magical influence. "Captain, it's time to begin speaking earnestly."

The captain swallowed nervously. "Why are you--Ma'am! I'm ever a faithful servant of you and your sister."

Luna loomed over the confused captain. "I'm not raising doubts of that, but we need sensitive information." She gestured at the firmly closed door. "Even your guards don't need to hear this. There is a monster both jailed, and yet, somehow, preying on your workforce. We need your help to find them."

Sweetie Drops nodded gravely along with this. "They attack in the night, and leave their victim drained, but pleased, which is why we feel we aren't getting more reports." She put a hoof to her chin. "But if they're attacking the guards, then they might be able to get out. We need to know where they might go."

The captain sat down. "I... I don't know. I don't know what you're talking about. I don't know what's happening." She rubbed her face. "I'm just trying to do my job."

Luna's ears drooped. "I understand. I'm sorry to put you through this." She put a hoof atop the captain. "But you can see why we're concerned, do you not?"

"Yes, ma'am!" The captain saluted sharply. "I'll keep an extra keen eye out from here forward, promise."

Neither Luna nor Sweetie Drops looked entirely convinced, but it would have to do to start.

Elsewhere, a sultry invader sniffed the air gently, her tail lashing behind her. "What a special little creature..." She vanished, only to appear in a dark hallway, looking out as Bright sauntered past. "You've been changed." She examined his bright aetherial network, taking note of how his many changes had altered the parts she cared about.

He was thick enough with virile male energies, waiting to be harvested. "You're going to be delicious." She licked her lips, and vanished again.

Bright stopped, looking around. "Did you hear something?" He turned to Applejack. "I could swear I heard something."

"Nope." Applejack shook her head. "Just the sound of yer own paranoia." She grinned. "I'm sure we'll catch this critter soon enough. Then we can all go home and get some shuteye."

"Yeah..." Bright shivered softly. "First time we had to hunt something this slippery."

Applejack nudged Bright with a hoof. "Hey now, ya got friends. Ah'll protect ya!"

"Right, but they said gender doesn't matter." He crossed his fuzzy arms, thick kangaroo tail swaying behind him. "They may attack you."

Applejack colored faintly. "But ah don't gotta boyfriend to try to imitate."

Bright laughed at that. "They're not a changeling. They'd go for a stallion that fits you and go for a shot." He paused. "Actually, yeah, that is kinda changeling-like. But back to the point, if you got a 'type', they'll go for that, not a specific one, I don't think? Can succubi do that?"

Applejack snorted into a frown. "Yer the one that knows as much as ya know 'bout 'em! Ah ain't gotta clue."

"I know what I've read." Bright shrugged. "I'm not an expert on this stuff."

Applejack rolled her eyes. "Fine, fine. Let's just get back to the others."

"Yeah." Bright nodded. "I don't like being alone right now."

They returned to the others, finding Sweetie Drops and Rarity conferring quietly while Luna stood guard.

Sweetie Drops turned to them. "Anything?"

Bright shook his head. "Empty hallways, the occasional guard standing there looking bored. No demons."

Luna stretched herself languidly. "We've been searching all day, to little avail. Whenever we check on her in her cell, she's there, smiling, feigning innocence. But we know she's also, somehow, outside of it."

Rarity softly stroked Luna's side. "Poor thing, you've been up quite a long time when you'd normally be getting your sleep. Perhaps it's time for a break? We'll think of new things after we're refreshed, dear."

Luna was quiet a moment before she nodded. "Perhaps for the best. Alright, everycreature, get some rest, and let's try this once we've taken our eyes off it."

Sweetie Drops raised a hoof. "Of course, if she does visit one of us, we should defend ourselves."

Applejack inclined her head. "That goes without sayin'."

"I'm just making sure. Dismissed." Sweetie gave a sharp salute and marched off towards her quarters.

Rarity smiled at Luna. "Come, dear, let's get you to bed."

Luna nodded, following Rarity. "Yes, that sounds like a good idea."

Bright watched them go, and then turned to Applejack. "So, uh, where are you staying?"

Applejack jerked a hoof over her shoulder. "Ah got a room set aside fer me. You can bunk with me, if ya want."

Bright clapped, which turned into a snapping of his fingers. "Appreciate the offer, but if I don't get to Rarity's side, she will be mad, at least. I'll get to our room. Sleep well, okay?"

Applejack saluted with her hat. "You too."

They went their seperate ways. Bright arrived at his shared room long before Rarity got there. "Tucking in a princess," he snickered to himself, imagining Rarity and Luna. "Cute." He got to cleaning up the room idly and dressing down for a nap, not knowing that the succubus was drawing closer.

She appeared in the room with an alarming casualness, looking around. "Oh, so you're here alone." She smirked. "That's perfect."

Bright spun around, dropping the pillow he had been holding. "Wh-what? Who are you?"

The succubus smiled. "I'm Sasha. And you're my next meal." She sauntered towards him. "Don't worry, it won't hurt."

Bright backed away from her. "That's a likely story, you stay away from my 'vital essence.'"

"But you have so much of it." She approached on two legs, her cloven hooves tapping with each step on the stone floor. "So fortified, thick, mmm." She met his eyes, her own burning with desires. "You have plenty to share, and the donating is so very pleasant." Her breasts, completely off-putting to ponies, was doing its job on Bright, swaying seductively along with the rest of her form.

Bright gulped, backing away from the approaching demoness, his gaze drawn against his will to her hypnotic bosom bouncing with each step closer to him, heart pounding faster in his chest as she drew nearer and nearer, tail flicking behind her in a mesmerizing rhythmic dance.

"I'm not falling for your tricks!" Bright snapped, shaking his head sharply to clear it of her enchanting aura, falling back a step with a squeak. "I'll punch you, see if I don't!"

Sasha laughed gently, even that noise full of seduction as she reached out and gently stroked over his ears in just the right way to send tingles through his body, rousing him in very specific ways. "Silly boy, Relax. I'm not here to hurt you, just the opposite. I'm here to give you exactly what you want." Even her scent, a soft musky hint, was helping to drive him further. Despite his best intentions, he could feel his control weakening.

Bright's breath caught as she leaned in close, her hot breath tickling his ear, sending a shiver down his spine as she whispered, "I know you want me, Bright, I can feel it." Her voice was low and husky, filled with desire as she pressed her body against his, her breasts pushing against his chest, her hips grinding against his own, her tail wrapping around his leg, pulling him closer, trapping him in her embrace as she continued to whisper in his ear, "I can give you everything you've ever wanted, Bright, all you have to do is let go and let me take care of you."

Bright's resolve was crumbling under the onslaught of her seductive words and sensual touch, his body responding to her advances despite his best efforts to resist, his heart racing and his breathing quickening as she continued to press herself against him, her hands roaming over his body, her lips brushing against his neck, her tail tightening around his leg, pulling him even closer, until he could feel her heat against his own, her arousal evident as she ground herself against him, her voice low and sultry.

[clop]

Defeated, his body began to react in earnest, emerging from its furry home, his pole slid free with pulsing twitches. It was large for a short fuzzball, dripping eagerly with the promises of what Sasha had made clear lay in wait for him. "Be gentle?" Some tiny part of him wanted to resist, but he'd fallen too far under her spell. That her fingers curled around his furry balls and began stroking in just the right way didn't help, making him gasp with the pleasure of every touch.

"Oh, Bright, you're so big." She purred, her voice heavy with lust as she continued to stroke his length, her fingers tracing over every inch of his shaft, teasing him with her touch, her tail tightening around his leg, pulling him closer, her hips grinding against his own, her arousal evident as she rubbed herself against him, her body pressed against his, her breasts pushing against his chest, her nipples hard and erect, her breath hot against his neck as she whispered in his ear, "I can't wait to feel you inside me, Bright, I'm going to make you feel so good."

Bright's resistance was fading fast under the relentless assault of her seduction, his body responding to her touch, his heart racing and his breathing quickening as she continued to tease and taunt him, her fingers stroking over his shaft, her tail tightening around his leg, pulling him closer, her hips grinding against his own, her arousal evident as she rubbed herself against him, her voice low and sultry as she whispered in his ear, "Just relax, Bright, let me take care of you."

"So good," he mumbled, grabbing for her. It was only then that he noticed she was about as large as he was, dwindled down to match him, which only made him want her more. He squeezed at her hips, admiring their firmness, but they were soft too, clashing, yet somehow perfect as he drew her closer, grinding his excited pole along her belly as if he'd just lost all track of where he ultimately wanted to put that. His tail thumped the ground with his building excitement. "Let's do this."

She giggled gently, her voice low and sultry as she nuzzled against him, her lips brushing against his neck, her hands roaming over his body, her tail tightening around his leg, pulling him into position. "You're so eager, Bright, I love it."

Her fingers traced along his length, teasing him with her touch, sending shivers of pleasure through his body as she moved in over him, hovering her heated nethers just over his excited shaft. "Sweet little creature, it's time." With a strange pulse of energy, she sank down on him fully, impaling herself even as she attached herself to his energy, starting the powerful draw even as she started to rock against him, staring at him in the eyes.

He looked back with a shudder, the feeling of being locked together exquisitely delicious after just how quickly his animal nature took over, bucking eagerly up into the strangely matched demoness as he could already feel the strength slowly start to drain from him even as his most basic drives drove him wild with pleasure in needful satisfaction, moving faster and harder within her clutches that soon grew stronger still by Sasha latching onto his collar and dragging him in against her mouth for a hungry kiss, ravenously drinking in his surprised moans in conjunction with their passionate bodily collisions rocking Bright's pleasure mounting higher with every second of entanglement as tension between the two became thick as molasses to be swallowed by the pursuing succubus as their pleasurable union began to ascend beyond purely physical acts together--his senses strained and stretched by Sasha tugging tighter with paws wrapped hard around Bright's frame whilst arched higher in pursuit of wicked fun both bringing Bright's groaning escalation toward forbidden bliss by increasingly determined demonic exertions savoring stronger seizure of their dual delights shaking their furry frames.

With a howl, climax found him, and he lost everything in that moment and forever of pleasure.

[/clop]

The next thing he knew was Rarity returning. She was swatting his shoulder with a hoof. "Dear? Why are you reclined in the middle of the room? That's hardly the normal place for you, really."

Author's Note

This was a steamy chapter. Bright got to finish what he started for a change.

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33 - Leaving an Apple as Bait

Rarity prodded at the weakened Bright. "To think, you fell for that hussy. I thought better of you."

Bright's ears pinned flat against his head. "Don't be like that, Rares. She has everything going for her. I didn't have a chance! I tried to say no, but every part of her says 'yes!'"

Sweetie Drops shook her head softly. "It's a good lesson." She softly sighed, looking around the ready room at the others. "None of us are safe, and thoughts of simply being able to turn her away are premature. We should stay together."

Rarity hummed gently at that. "You have a point, Sweetie, but it's going to be difficult, isn't it? She's smart, and capable, and seems to know quite a bit about us."

Bright chuckled weakly, still drained from his time with the succubus. "At least, she knows what gets us going."

Applejack rolled her eyes. "As if it's that much a mystery for any of us." She colored sharply, realizing what she had just said. "Not that ah mean what ah want is-- nevermind."

Luna arched a brow in amusement at Applejack's sudden shyness, but it didn't seem like the right time to poke fun. "We will remain, at all times, coupled up, even during times we'd rather be alone." She arched a brow. "Even those times. At least two of us, so we have somepony there to help us when she makes a move on us."

Sweetie Drops nodded briskly along. "Then we should pair off. Rarity and I make a good team."

Rarity pouted at that. "I already have a plus one." She curled an arm around Bright protectively. "Which makes me feel guilty. I was the one that left him alone, and look what happened to him."

Bright patted at her arm lightly with a weak smile. "If I had my choice, I would have replaced her with you in a moment."

Rarity blushed across her face as she burst into titters. "Dear! I love where your heart is, truly, but that's quite the suggestion to toss casually."

Applejack blinked at that. "Replace?"

Sweetie raised a hoof. "Bright is suggesting he would have preferred to have rutted wildly against Rarity instead of our lust-fueled monster."

Luna clopped a hoof to her face. "Let's not discuss that while we're on duty. We are here to protect Equestria from this demon."

Applejack waved that aside, still clearly embarrassed by their earlier talk but pressing forward regardless. "Alright, so how do we catch her? Playin' defense ain't workin' not one tiny bit and y'all know it."

Luna tapped a hoof gently against her muzzle in thought. "True enough. Our best option may be to play bait instead, then use her interest in Bright to bring her to a more defensible location."

Sweetie raised a hoof. "I like the idea, but I think Bright is a poor bait."

Bright huffed as he forced himself to sit up. "Hey! I resent that."

Sweetie rolled that hoof with a smirk. "You're drained. She won't want to drain you while you're already drained. She wants a pony brimming with energy." She pointed then at Applejack, Luna, and lastly herself. "We are more likely next targets."

Bright slouched down with a sigh. "I suppose I can see that..."

Applejack scrunched a brow in doubt. "How exactly? Ah mean, who wouldn't pick a stallion when they can?"

Rarity laughed abruptly. "Applejack, dear. You're making plain your preferences, but as for this demon, we know they'll go after either and any gender at all. They aren't picky, and they can shapeshift. They will come for us mares."

Sweetie Drops nodded emphatically at that. "So it behooves us to keep that in mind. I don't exactly understand what form of energy this demon is getting, exactly. I know, once taken, the pony, or creature, is left lethargic." She nodded at the weakened Bright. "But that's it. Which of us have the most of this unspecified energy?"

Bright sat upright again. "Ponies get tired! So you get some energy from sleep, but you get most of it from sex! This creature eats sexual energy, and I've been the one that has a lot of that."

Luna rose to her hooves. "We're going in circles. Sexual energy means nothing." She paused. "Unless, you mean libido? I have only a small amount of that." She looked to Sweetie, Rarity, then Applejack. "Unless one of you wishes to admit to having a higher amount of it? There is no shame in it. It's a natural thing to have."

Sweetie Drops smirked and gestured towards Luna. "For example. Libido, lust, those are vague terms used to describe the drive towards carnal acts, and as such, can be different for every pony."

Luna's ears danced. "I'm unsure why you pointed at me while you said that, but Sweetie Drops is correct. Now, do any of you have a high libido we might use to lure this demon?"

Sweetie looked around at the others slowly, but stayed quiet and watched the other ponies carefully as they all fidgeted uncomfortably before finally mumbling out an answer. "Ah, alright, maybe."

Applejack stepped forward, tail flicking. "Part ah me always wanted to, you know, bring the next generation of Apple. Ah didn't want it to go away wit' me, uh, you know? Am ah makin' any sense?"

Luna smiled softly and nodded at Applejack then gestured for her to take a seat. "Good. Now that we're all honest with each other, let's put a plan in place." With a glowing horn, she pulled over a map of the castle and laid it out on the large table in the center of the room. "We have a pony with a drive that may lure our target. Let's place her where she seems vulnerable, but be ready to pounce the very moment our demon shows herself."

The team nodded in solidarity, even if Applejack was a bit pink in the cheeks.

Later, Applejack sat in one room. "Is this entirely necessary?" Before her rested a slender magazine for her reading. It had a picture of a muscular stallion at the front, giving a suggestive wink at the reader. Applejack was a dark red just glancing at it. "Really now."

The door creaked open and the succubus slid in, taking a deep breath of the air before smiling at Applejack in a warmly friendly way that would put anyone at ease. "There you are!" She was not a she, at least at that moment. They were a stallion looking ready to grace the cover of that magazine, with sculpted muscles and a charming smile. "My lovely darling, why have you been hiding from me?"

"Well, ah, I, um..." Applejack floundered, her blush growing as she took in the vision of virility before her, her heart beating faster, her breath quickening as the succubus slowly stalked closer, their gaze locked together, Applejack unable to tear her eyes away, a pit forming in her stomach as she realized her trap had worked.

Her eyes wandered lower, verifying quickly that the demon could imitate either gender completely. She looked away just as quickly, heart pounding in her ears. "Applesauce!" It was the code word they had agreed on. She knew in her heart of hearts, if she was left alone, that demon would overpower her. No, they would have her, willingly. She trembled with every step he took towards her. The worst part, she figured, was that a large part of her wanted it to happen.

Sasha sighed dramatically, pouting just enough to get under her skin and make her squirm more, her cock just starting to stiffen from the power trip that came from getting this country bumpkin all flustered under her attentions, and it seemed the easy mark wasn't going to be as easy to subdue as she thought at first sight, but Sasha liked a challenge.

What she didn't like was too large a party. It was hard to be intimate with too many ponies. And with the other agents pouring out from vents and popping up from tiles, there were far too many of them. "Do you mind?" she demanded in her husky male voice. "Me and the lady are about to be in the middle of something, and none of you were invited."

Sweetie Drops fired a tranq dart right into their chest, where a heart might be on a normal pony. The demon looked down at it with surprise. "As weapons go, this one was a bit puny." They flicked their tail as she raised a hoof to brush the dart away. "I will fight them away, my lady, then we can dance properly."

Applejack gulped loudly, frozen in place with paralyzing lust coursing through her.

Sweetie Drops spoke in her trained neutral tone of voice, "I'm not going to do that. You have three seconds to surrender before we attack again."

"Three whole seconds?" Sasha advanced on Applejack and smooched her without a pause, the two immediately lost in an intense bout of a kiss that both seemed to be enjoying more than any pony should enjoy a kiss.

Rarity slammed into the demon, leading with a rear hoof in a kick that'd make Applejack proud, were she in her right state of mind. "Get away from my friend, you demonic hussy."

The succubus bounced off Applejack, landing in a sprawling heap across the floor, cursing in some alien language.

Luna charged the demon with a full charge of her lunar powers in her hoof, striking at full force before recoiling in pain from the magical backlash, throwing her across the room and slamming her into a wall.

Sasha rose to her hooves. "Silly little moon god. I am a creature of the night, just as you are. You won't turn the night against me that easily."

Applejack flopped against Sasha, hooves wandering over the succubus. "Nevermind them!"

Sasha smirked at her victim. "You're so ready for me, I love it, but let me finish taking care of these rude guests first, then we can play all night long."

Rarity sighed and shot a tranquilizer dart into Applejack's haunches. The Apple mare flopped over and took a nap far more quickly than it had worked, or failed to, on the demon. "At least she's out of the way." Rarity spread her wings, letting her vampiric nature rise to the front with a fanged smile. "Now, about you. Your muscular abs don't impress me, charlatan. You promise nothing but lies. Surrender."

"You have a strong personality, vampire." Sasha backed away from Rarity, smiling right back at her, as Sweetie advanced on her from another side with a new tranquilizer dart leveled at the demon.

"You've ruined the night." Sasha took a step back. "It could have been fun." They evaporated into smoke and was gone, but so was Rarity an instant later.

Luna inclined her head. "Is Rarity chasing her?"

Sweetie shrugged softly. "I would imagine so, but I didn't know she could do that." She tucked away her tranq gun, nothing left to shoot with it.

Luna clopped a hoof. "Then she is alone! She's putting herself in more danger than I think she realizes."

Sweetie grabbed Luna, pulling her close. "We need to regroup with her, and we need to go fast."

The two nodded in agreement and charged out of the room, even if they weren't exactly sure where it was they were charging towards.

Applejack kicked gently in her sleep. "Didn't think ah'd run into such a nice stallion here," she mumbled in her sleep, still faintly colored, but relatively safe, for the moment.

Author's Note

We return to some action! Quick, get that demon!

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34 - Mistress to Mistress(clop)

Smoke gathered in a small space, dark and cold, only lit by a few dim torches that were doing a bad job of lighting the area up. Stepping from that fading Smoke, Rarity looked around with a scowl. "I know you're here." Her fangs were out, her eyes glowed, and she was in full vamp mode as she sniffed the air, trying to catch the scent of the demoness that had escaped from Applejack's room.

Sasha appeared in the flickering light. "You're here to stop me, aren't you? You're here to take my prize from me." Sasha giggled with a lack of fear. "Or, we could have some fun, mistress of the night. You have me right where you want me, don't you? There's no way you're leaving without a nibble."

Rarity eyed the demon with suspicion as she cautiously approached. "So you're not a 'she,' but a 'they.' Any allure you present is what you choose it to be, dear." Rarity's steps were slow and deliberate, her ears flicking alertly as she listened for the slightest change in her opponent's stance or expression. "A taste would be delicious, but you're not tempting to me right now, oh no, you're prey."

"Of course, prey." Sasha reached a hoof up over her neck, tracing the line where blood could be gotten so easily. "Your prey." She suddenly changed, not the stallion form that had attempted to seduce Applejack, but Bright. She seemed surprised at being a small kangaroo creature, but that was what had claimed Rarity's heart. "Come on and have a nip."

Rarity's nostrils flared with desire at the sultry offer, her gaze fixed intently on that inviting neck, the temping pulse of Bright's lifeblood just beneath his fluffy fur, her ears perking up, her own pulse quickening at the idea of sinking her teeth into his supple flesh, just like they had many times before, tasting his sweet nectar and feeling his warmth flow over her tongue and down her throat, filling her with the warmth of his vitality as her hunger was sated, his grip tightened and she leaned in, lips brushing over the spot just below his jaw, her nose filled with his intoxicating scent, her body throbbing with a strange mix of arousal and thirst as she parted her jaws to sink her fangs into him--and froze, the faintest glimmer of reason breaking through the haze of instinctual hungers.

Sasha wrapped her arms around Rarity, drawing her into that embrace and knowing her magic was helping to draw Rarity in by the moment. "Go on, Dark Mistress. I yield to you. Drink me dry, and leave me smiling. Savor the hunt, and enjoy the kill."

Rarity shivered, torn between her dark instincts and her inherent goodness, her mind reeling with confusion and desire, her body responding instinctively to the subtle cues being given by her quarry, her eyes fluttering as she fought to focus on the face of the creature before her, seeking to resist the seductive pull of her own inner monster, but with Sasha's warm body pressed against hers, the tantalizing scent of her prey's sweat, her racing heartbeat hammering in her ears, and the hypnotic sway of her pulse calling out to take a drink. Just a little one, yes, just a little one wouldn't hurt anything.

Sasha allowed Rarity to sink her sharp fangs into her as she began to play over the sensitive points she knew of the pony body, teasing across the ears, down across Rarity's teats with little purrs. "Oh no," she moaned out with far more lust than terror. "You have me. It's time to dance, mistress of the night."

Rarity gasped, her body trembling from the combined assault of both the sensual touches and the ecstatic rush of drinking her fill of the demon's potent essence, her ears twitching in response to their every playful caress, her eyes fluttering, a strangled moan escaping her throat as she suckled at her prey's tender throat, her entire being focused on that divine sensation of draining the very life from the succubus and the accompanying euphoria, her heart racing, her lungs heaving with each desperate gasp, her hooves clutching at Sasha's body, her own writhing and undulating in a primal mating display, the darkness of her vampiric side rising to the surface with a vengeful lust and the power of it filled her. She was invincible. Nothing could stand before her. No foe could best her. She was the hunter, and all the world was her prey.

As the dark mist rolled off her and billowed in the shadows around the two of them, Sasha slipped from the hold and stepped back, letting her male form fall away like a mask to reveal the more 'correct' form of the demon, the same as the one she had used when first meeting Bright. She had never actually fallen prey, the true predator in the room with a grin as she rolled over the increasingly helpless Rarity and slid atop them, facing their bottom while offering their own to Rarity. "It's time we fed each other, my dear."

"So this is how it ends?" Rarity panted, her voice husky and rich, her breath ragged with exertion. "Drained and violated in a filthy dungeon, reduced to a quivering pile of passion?"

"There are so many worse ways to end an evening," purred out Sasha as she nuzzled at Rarity's nethers with a gentle affection, her long tongue reaching out to taste that excitement and dive deeper into the trembling flesh. "Enjoy yourself, you deserve this as much as I do. Give your body and soul to me and I will give you the night of your dreams."

"The night of my nightmares," Rarity countered with a shiver, even as her hips thrust out and her legs splayed out, giving the demon easier access. "The nightmare that keeps me awake in a cold sweat, gasping for breath, a scream dying in my throat as I struggle to wake..."

Sasha chuckled quietly to herself, knowing Rarity had succumbed. Her struggling words were feeble and hollow. Sasha ground against Rarity as she teased higher levels of pleasure from the unicorn, feeding from that lust, which itself felt better and better, sending ripples of purest ecstasy through Rarity. The pair shuddered together, the demon and the unicorn, the creature and the beast, united in a singular moment of transcendent bliss.

"It's too much," Rarity gasped, her body rigid, her eyes wide, her limbs spasming. "I can't take it."

"You can take it," Sasha murmured, her lips pressed against the wet flesh before her, the words vibrating through both. "And you will, again and again and again. I will have you begging for more."

"No." Rarity's eyes closed, her head turned away. "Please, no."

Sasha laughed, low and wicked. "Oh, yes." She could feel Rarity's sexual energy spiking. She was being thrilled and excited with each dark promise, so Sashe pressed on. "You are my little doll, to play with as long as I wish, until you collapse into a satisfied puddle. Then I will start all over, and make you scream for me."

"I won't," Rarity protested, though her voice was shaky and unconvincing. "I won't let you."

But Sasha knew those were the weakest of lies, mouth to Rarity's trembling portal as she drew the sexual energy she so desired straight from the source. "Still yourself and do your turn, doll." She pressed her own groin against Rarity's objecting snout. "Go on, debase yourself, little whore."

"Never!" Rarity cried, her voice muffled by the fur and flesh being ground against her lips. "I will never give in to you!"

"Oh, you will, and you will beg me to continue. To let you experience those incredible feelings again, to allow you the honor of satisfying your needy body in a way only I can." Sasha rubbed herself against Rarity with an ever increasing intensity, driving the unicorn into a frenzy of lust, their bodies slick with sweat and desire, their hearts racing, their breaths coming in short, panting gasps, their eyes locked, their mouths filled, their minds swimming in a sea of pleasure and depravity. "Just give in and let it happen."

Rarity's will to resist faded, the last thread breaking with a soft whimper. She nuzzled at the demon's groin and her horn lit, drawing Sasha's hips closer as she began to lick at her demonic lover. The more she touched, the more her body thrummed with pleasure and delight. Sasha's was the same. The more she received, the more she craved. It was a cycle of desire and satisfaction that threatened to consume them both.

"Are you in here?!" demanded Luna in a stern call as she kicked open a door leading to their room. "Rarity!" She had spotted the two, collapsed on the floor in a heaving pile. "Back away, demon. Keep your limbs where I can see them."

Sasha stood up, flush with all the power Rarity lacked, drained from their dance. "A lady shouldn't eat when she's full, so I think I'm done for the evening, hm?" With a puff of smoke, she was gone, vanished off to somewhere else entirely.

Rarity looked up at Luna. "I... I'm sorry." She was in her base form again, her legs splayed out.

Luna scowled at the position and nudged her leg, giving Rarity a more dignified position. "Stand up when you feel ready, but not before then. Sweetie! Are you there?"

"Ma'am?" Sweetie trotted into the room from the same hallway, looking around. "Looks like she got you, Rarity. Our plan was to remain in pairs, at least. You shouldn't have chased her, alone."

"I know. I wasn't thinking." Rarity pressed a hoof to the side of her head weekly. "What a foal I was."

"Which was clearly the problem. Not the action, the cause." Sweetie Drops shook her head. "You thought you could claim a quick victory. Our enemy is a bit stronger than that."

"Yes, well, I couldn't control myself, but it's alright, Luna came for me." Rarity smiled up at Luna. "Thank you, dear. I made a mess of things, but you still came." She flopped to the ground. "I'm not at my best, dears."

Luna scooped up Rarity and set her on her back. "Hang on tight, Rarity. You're a wreck. We'll take you to the infirmary, then you can have some rest, okay?" She set off at a careful walk. "Tonight's hunt is done. Unless you think we can finish it with just the two of us?"

Sweetie inclined her head. "Actually, I think we might be able to, ma'am. Provided we stay together. We may be the best two for the task. Both of us have a low libido, especially while on the clock."

Luna hummed with thought, walking with Sweetie to the infirmary to drop off Rarity in caring hooves. "But where do we begin our search, Sweetie?"

"I'm not sure. I can only say that I have a hunch she'll return to the jail cell. It's the only place she has a foothold, so to speak." Sweetie clopped her hooves together. "Likely ready to feign innocence as she digests her foul meal of carnal appetites. We have enough evidence to not feel guilty pressing the case, right?"

"We have Applejack's testimony, the presence of her and Bright's sexual energy, and our own testimony of events, of her flight." Luna nodded at this. "That is plenty, indeed." She incined her head towards the room that held Rarity. "Not to mention Rarity's attack, which I saw the tail end of."

Sweetie rolled her eyes. "We all saw Rarity's tail end, yes."

Luna huffed in reply to that awful joke. "Let's go question our demonic guest and put this to an end."

Author's Note

Time to put this to an end, hm? We can't let the ponies of the castle keep having a good, and tiring, time.

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35 - End of the Night

Sasha was seated in their cell, having been returned in an unceremonious manner, waiting with a smile as the two mares approached. "I was wondering when you two would show up." She beckoned her supposed judge and executioners. "Show me your best, or worst." She licked over her pouting lips. "I'm up for either."

Luna and Sweetie exchanged glances, silently communicating. Sweetie's ear flicked in acknowledgement and she turned back to the demon. "You can read our thoughts, correct?"

"Indeed." She brought her hands together, wearing her 'default' form of a demonic biped of some sort. That so much of her flesh was exposed, furless and smooth, felt like an intentional decision. "And you're busy reciting something over and over. A mantra to stay focused? Classic."

Sweetie smirked. "If I was doing that, it would hardly work. Instead, I have been speaking directly to Luna, and this is a conversation you are not privy to, Sasha." She stepped closer. "Also, I'm not interested, just so we're clear."

Sasha cringed. "You're just saying that. Everything is interested, just a matter of figuring it out, what really gets them going." She reached for Sweetie. "Are you a top mare, or a bottom mare?"

Sweetie side-stepped the grabbing hand. "None of the above. I'm a pony, and you're a demon, and this is a conversation I don't want to have, because it doesn't affect me."

Luna closed from the other side. "Bright mentioned demons like you come from 'hell'. Is this accurate?"

Sasha hissed at the word. "Wrong hot place. Hell is for stuffed up jerks with sticks shoved so far up their ass they can barely walk."

Luna smiled at that. "I see. Let me be blunt. This world had no room for a creature like you. But, we'd much rather just put you where you do belong, rather than anything violent. Would you like that, going home?"

Sasha looked past Sweetie to the wall. "If it's all the same, no. It's not a fun place, and I'd much rather stay in this world, please." She made a kissing face at Luna with soft smacks. "We can have fun. You strike me as a big mare that hasn't had good company in way too long."

Luna chuckled at that. "I have had some companions, but I'll agree. It's not been what I'd like, not of late." She ran a hoof through her mane, smiling. "But I doubt it will be you. You have hurt too many ponies to remotely interest me. I struggle to even imagine how we can release you in peace, and not in a body bag."

Sasha snapped her fingers, vanishing with a small clap of thunder. "In the ether, as promised."

Luna let out a knowing smile. She shared a nod with Sweetie as they both pulled out a crystal and set it on the bench Sasha had been seated on. With a powerful jump of magic from Luna, the two crystals sparked into life, both sides flashing and the air turning to crackle and pop as a wave of energy was projected.

The air split with a shriek, the rip widening and revealing a dark landscape with red skies.

Sweetie drew out a strange electronic device, blinking and strobing with many colors. "Heighten the power, Luna. Time to send this little demon home."

Luna sent more power through the crystals. "Fulfill the bargain, Sasha. You've been let free. Go home and leave this place."

"That's the plan." Sasha gave a little bow to the pair. She was back, standing in the center of the room. "I didn't think you had that magic." Edges of her form blurred, drawn towards the hole they'd created in the air. "Damn it all." Her gaze flicked over the devices in the hooves of her captors. "What are you doing?"

"We have been looking for ways to keep you from escaping. This was a lucky guess, but we've had confirmation it works, at least." Sweetie pressed a small button with a hoof, twisting it with several clicks. "Now, it's time for you to go home. You've bothered everypony in here quite enough, hm?"

Luna grinned with a knowing look. "I know, Sweetie." She waggled her brow. "You'll never have the opportunity to bother us again." She tapped her chin with a hoof. "I wonder how you'll enjoy the alternative, not going home, and just remaining here, trapped in a tiny cell forever and ever, and ever, and ever..."

Sasha shuddered at the very notion. "Forever means a different thing to my kind than most of yours. Ugh, fine! If eternity in a small room is the alternative, I'd rather go 'home', such as it is." She sagged with defeat. "You sure you don't want a fun friend?"

"Quite." The pair said together, with the air of an old married couple.

The sullen demon sulked towards the gateway, her body shimmering as she was dragged to her realm. Sweetie yanked her crystal away, sealing the portal with a clap. "And let that, be that." She offered the crystal towards Luna. "It was a pleasure resolving this with you, ma'am. We should have just started here instead of letting the others get hurt."

Luna accepted the crystal with a smile. "Better to find the weaknesses before we deal with any bigger threats, I say." She nodded and set the crystal aside. "You've proven to me that my faith in you was not misplaced." With a glowing horn, she took the other crystal off the bench, floating it over to herself. "Besides, we didn't know that'd work. Let us be honest with ourselves, we each tried something, until it worked."

Sweetie blushed softly. "Ah, yes. We should go check on the others and tell them the good news."

"Let's." Luna walked from the empty prison cell, nodding to the guard there. "It's safe. She's gone."

Sweetie followed closely behind Luna, smiling in a relieved way. "Let's hope nothing else goes wrong anytime soon."

Luna lifted a brow. "Don't be silly, we'll just fix it." She rolled her eyes at the thought. "If things stopped going wrong, our little group would have no reason to exist. I doubt that is happening anytime soon."

Applejack sat up in bed with a yawn. "So, we captured the demon?" She rubbed her head with the flat of a hoof. "Ow."

"You might say that." Sweetie smiled and reached over to gently help in rubbing Applejack's sore head. "Sorry about that. The tranquilizer really has a kick to it, doesn't it? It was that or let you get yourself into trouble."

"I..." Applejack winced and groaned, even with the gentle massage. "Well, ah guess I would have. Ah mean, she's a temptress, that's what she does." She colored, thinking back on that. "Ah really dropped the ball, didn't ah?"

"You were far from the only one." Sweetie set a bowl of apples on the small table near Applejack's bed. "Rest and recover. You'll get chances to shine against other creatures of the night."

Luna poked her head in with a smile. "How's our patient, Sweetie?"

"Alive and kicking, so to speak, ma'am." Sweetie winked.

Applejack sat up, saluting towards Luna. "Sorry!"

Luna shook her head. "Focus on your recovery. You did nothing wrong."

Sweetie frowned. "If you don't count, you know, running headfirst into danger, you falling for the succubus, and other minor errors." She sat up proudly. "Otherwise, you did great."

Applejack swatted at Sweetie. "Thanks fer rubbin' it in. Everypony else alright?"

Sweetie snickered softly, turning away. "All accounted for and alright."

Author's Note

End assignment. The next will surely be cleaner, right? While the topic is up, would you, dear reader, do share the sorts of shenanigans you want our folks running into?

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9 - Assignment Four - They Can Dance If They Want To.

Luna nodded to each of her agents. "The report." With a flash of her horn, a folder appeared, floating aside her. "It says that a small town is plagued with... dancing."

Bright skewed his ears out. "Dancing? Dancing isn't... bad, is it? I mean... If they want to?"

"They do not." Luna leaned in. "They continue to dance until they pass out, then awaken, and resume dancing. We are to take care of this. This time, without causing issues."

Sweetie saluted sharply. "Of course. Any clues as to the source of this enduring disco dilemma?"

Rarity smirked at that. "I imagine if we did, they wouldn't ask for us, dear."

Luna sighed gently. "Rarity is not incorrect." She turned, wings extending. "Since I am here, and we are in a rush, I will teleport us to the affected town and begin our investigation. You will do nothing without my permission save use your senses."

Luna's horn flared as she wrapped the team in her transcendent night magic. Starlight and shadows swirled, the world blurring into streaks of inky black and purple.

Then all at once the kaleidoscopic vortex halted, depositing the group on a modest main street beneath the rays of the setting sun. A lopsided banner reading "Trottingham Days Dance Competition" hung above.

Shrill violin strains echoed from deeper in the village, accompanied by approaching hoofbeats. Luna gestured wordlessly as ponies conga-lined into view, locked in formation with exhausted yet fixated faces, compelled by the unrelenting rhythm.

More distant cries hinted the epidemic had spread further through town. "Sweetie, analyze crowd movement seeking patterns and musical undercurrent," instructed Luna. "Rarity, scan for magical signatures. Sweetie, fade into the background and see what you can find out from them, no actions."

Luna turned to Bright, considering the rabbit a moment. "Bright... stay with me."

Rarity pouted at that. "He's my familiar. He should be at my side."

Bright looked between Rarity and Luna as if both were equally compelling options. "Hm..."

"Darling!"

That got him to jump. "Sorry! Yeah, can't I be with Rares?"

Luna snorted softly. "No. We are a team, all of us. That means none of us can remain glued to any single other one of us. Bright, you're with me. I will hear no more arguments!"

Rarity huffed indignantly as she flitted away to scan the spelled serenaders on Luna's orders, leaving Bright alone with the Moon Princess. "Darling, be on your very best behavior for Her Highness while we're parted!" she called out over her shoulder.

Bright's rabbity ears drooped under Rarity's admonition. He glanced anxiously up at Luna's appraising gaze. "So uh, what now boss?" His foot thumped a nervous rhythm against the cobblestones.

Luna's keen eyes never leaving Bright, she addressed the invisible Sweetie's assigned reconnaissance. "Report anything substantial back swiftly, then we shall strategize next steps." Her focus remained assessing the fidgety creature who was now her ward's familiar and her responsibility alongside.

"As for us, we shall walk a bit, Bright." Luna tilted her head towards a less frenetic side avenue where overwrought violin strains softened subtly, though no less incessant. She led Bright gently along using the barest tug of magical light tethered to his bracelet.

"How fare thee since...thy unexpected transformation?" Luna began delicately. "It seems you bear no physical burdens - does the same hold true within?" She studied the emotions playing across Bright's animalistic yet still expressive face. There was much yet to understand between them. "I should imagine such a change could be quite... disorienting."

"I'm fine," dismissed Bright, perhaps too quickly. "There are plusses and minuses." He spread his bat-like wings wide. "I like the flying thing. I like the familiar thing. That's way more wins right there. So, what do we do next?"

Lune reached for Bright, petting him gently between the ears. "We wait. We, both of us, are far too jarring to the eyes. We would bring suspicion and concern if they saw either of us wandering the town."

Away from them, Rarity soared in over the night sky, the growing gloom doing well to make her harder to see by the moment. Below her, the dance party continued without pause. "Dear me... How long has this been going?"

The ponies she could see looked tired and thirsty. That they were going long past their endurance seemed clear. "Let's see what magic is about..." Her horn glowed dimly as she sent out a pulse.

She got back a thousand little things. There, a pony picking something up. There, a door closing. There, a pony brushing their mane. A thousand useless things.

Not a single one felt relevant. "Hm..."

Rarity huffed in vexation, furrowing her brow. Clearly there were no obvious curses or hexes overtly fueling this relentless revelry run amok. Which left infinitely more subtle influences potentially at play.

Gliding lower beneath the cloaking night, Rarity reached out with newly attuned vampiric senses, the heady thrum of life all around fading behind those hapless souls still trapped in unwavering rhythm. Seeking anything...there!

The faintest yet unmistakable magical residue seemed to cling to the dancers alone, its unique vibratory signature plucking at Rarity’s mystical instincts like a half-remembered melody. As if it echoed alluringly in the spaces between hearing and memory...

Touching down behind a convulsing conga line, Rarity focused wholly on that tenuous essence teasing her perception, magically analyzing the intricate aura’s contours. There was a subtle yet profound emotional dissonance underpinning the forced festivity and endless motion. An almost...aetheric anguish?

Rarity startled, nearly losing her scrying focus. Could somecreature be sustaining all this through deliberately harvesting suffering? But why?!

Shaken yet now certain of the sinister empathic undercurrent permeating each enthralled citizen, Rarity hastily retreated back skyward. This demanded immediate sharing lest the innocent continue being drained past survival...

She swiftly sailed back towards Luna and Bright’s waiting vantage, straining magically to convey her discovery over distance through their linked shards attuned to her unique energy. Whatever evil had woven this web of concealed cruelty, the night would expose its secrets and end its feast!

Elsewhere, Sweetie slid in beside a pony that was not dancing. The pony turned to Sweetie with a little smile, regarding them as a neighbor they'd had forever. "Hey. They're still dancing." The pony, a mare, turned back to the crowd. "I bring them drinks sometimes, but getting them to actually... drink is hard."

"I imagine." Sweetie crossed her arms. "What have you been doing, wrestling them?"

The mare gasped. "Oh, Celestia no! I got a funnel and poured it in. I can get some in that way if I try really hard."

Sweetie laughed tensely, imagining that awkward display. "Is it working?"

"They haven't fallen over... 'cept when they're too tired." The mare heaved a great sigh. "And, before you ask, don't turn the music off. You turn the music off, they all get upset."

Sweetie's brow furrowed thoughtfully as this new eyewitness context added fresh pieces to the puzzle. Removing the relentless music clearly distressed the enthralled ponies, implying some emotional dependency binding them. Yet the strains showed no sign of stopping...

"How long has this village tradition gone on?" Sweetie inquired. "Days of dancing seem quite the test of endurance. Have there been any changes to the event this year?"

The mare glanced over confused. "Tradition? Oh no, this just started this morning out of nowhere! We almost didn't have a music festival at all because the orchestra canceled last minute!"

She gestured to the ongoing impromptu concert of a lone scraggly fiddle player sawing tirelessly away. "Poor Lemon Lime there volunteered to fiddle solo so we wouldn't be left with dead silence. Then all the sudden everypony started dancing and couldn't stop! For half a day now without rest..."

The mare shook her head, distressed. "I should never have asked Lemon to play unaccompanied for so long...this is all my fault!" Sweetie followed the mare's gaze to the swaying earth pony sawing fiercely despite the lateness of the hour and obvious fatigue.

There at last was concrete connection - the inception of the music preceded the dancing! But had exhaustion freed something malicious through the bard's instrument? Sweetie needed to get closer.

But first, report. Fearing the lash of Luna should she get ahead of herself again, she dashed back to the others. "I have news."

"I have news first, dear." Rarity landed among them. "Did you find anything, Luna dear?"

"I did not." Luna pointed to Rarity and Sweetie. "We awaited you."

"Spill the deets." Bright bounced in place, powerful legs lending to big bounces for a small creature. "Tell us everything!"

Rarity cleared her throat self-importantly. "It seems some sinister emotional essence has infected the populace, leeching sustained anguish while masking the suffering beneath a facade of feverish merriment."

She vividly described the strange dissonant magical signature clinging only to the enthralled and how analyzing its vibrations had filled her with profound unease.

"It was akin to a siphoning of very life energy itself through pure distress..." She trailed off with a delicate shudder then looked to Sweetie expectantly. "But you discovered something pivotal about this accursed music onset yes? Pray tell!"

Sweetie quickly summarized the mare's eyewitness testimony on the timeline revealing this morning's last minute soloist as the anomaly coinciding with the unrelenting dances and depleted stamina since.

Luna tapped her chin thoughtfully through their reports then met their eyes gravely. "Then our course seems clear - we must investigate this fiddling Lemon Lime and whether her role proves benign performance or sinister occult influence..."

Bright raised a finger. "Hold up. Sweets, you said it was only yesterday?"

"That's what the mare said?"

Bright turned in an expansive wave over the dancers. "They look way more beat up than a single day."

Rarity hummed. "Darling, combine the physical move of dancing--" She shook herself in an imitation of the act. "With having their essence drawn... Of course they'll look a bit peckish, at best."

Luna nodded slowly. "Yes, this makes sense. But we must know for certain this time. Let's approach this Lemon and see what she knows, or perhaps, what she is doing. We are not arresting anypony yet. Do not act." She strode towards the town. "But stealth is done. Now we move in public."

"Woo!" Bright started after Luna, but hesitated. "Sorry." He hopped up on Rarity's back. "Got confused a moment, happy to have ya, Rares."

"And I am pleased to have you back." Rarity withdrew her wings and shortened her fangs, entering the town as just a normal unicorn, if a bit fabulous. "Now where is this Lemon pony?"

Sweetie was happy to lead the way. "She should be... there." She pointed as she crested a small hill. "Not in the center of this mess, strangely enough."

"Strange," agreed Luna with a considering tone. "That might mean something. We will approach and speak with her. Assume nothing. Do nothing." She advanced to the head of their formation with business in her eyes. "This mare may be the cause, or simply another cog caught in this nefarious scheme."

The group approached the lone fiddler swaying and sawing fiercely despite clear fatigue as an unwavering spell seemed to sustain the relentless solo performance. Nearby dancers mirrored the crazed commitment, stumbling occasionally yet never stopping.

Luna addressed the dazed musician gently. "Pardon the intrusion generous artist, but we come regarding a strange affliction overtaking your peers from whence the music first began. What might you share of its onset?"

Lemon Lime started, missing a sour note that made nearby ponies cringe briefly. "Wha- oh! Apologies, didn't see you folk approach. Been playing so long the hours rather blurred..." She nodded to the dancers. "Quite the mystery right? But the show must go on, as they say!"

Despite her cheery tone, Luna spotted her strained smile and the tremor of exhaustion in her limbs. Dark circles framed the bard's eyes. Yet still the music rallied without pause.

"We only wish to help," Rarity added kindly. "Might you enlighten us on just when and how the compulsion commenced? Any prior rituals perhaps?"

Lemon looked confused. "Rituals? No, nothing like that!" She laughed weakly. "I just started fiddling when the scheduled orchestra couldn't make it. Wanted to keep spirits up." Her breath hitched as the bow sawed on. "Though now they can't...can't seem to stop. I don't know why!"

Her voice rose frantically over the shrill strings before she composed herself with visible effort. "Apologies friends, the long hours left me frazzled. Happy to assist your aid!" The hollow cheer returned as the endless concert continued.

Author's Note

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26 - A Suit Makes the Rabbit

Luna opened the door to the shop without knocking. "Rarity, are you here?"

"I certainly am," sang out Rarity, approaching with a big smile. "Come, your timing is impeccable. See what I've brought into the world."

Luna and Sweetie shared an arched brow as they came inside to find what Rarity was waving at. Rarity was in her non-vampiric mode, no wings or fangs displayed and her natural eye color displayed in their glitter.

Her target was Bright, examining himself in the mirror. He was dressed entirely with a flowing overcoat over a sharp jacket with a little red tie going down the front, buried in that jacket. He turned for a better angle and spotted the newcomers.

"Luna, Bonnie!" He turned fully towards them. "I'm feeling sharp as heck!"

Sweetie Drops considered him a moment. "I feel like something is missing."

"I felt the same." Rariy brought over a cane and pushed it against one of Bright's paws. "Try this, dear."

Bright grabbed the cane and twirled it in place before thunking it into the ground, leaning against it as he swayed left and right. "Oh man, this is kinda great." Counterpointing where he swayed at the front, his jeweled tailtip danced behind him. "I love it!"

Luna smiled indulgently at the dapper lapine gentleman happily preening before appreciative eyes. Even prim Secret Agent Sweetie Drops' mouth quirked subtly seeing their fluffy teammate looking so debonair.

"Thy raiment suits thee splendidly Sir Bright!" Luna inclined her horn his direction. "Verily Rarity's talents manifest magnifying inner light outward."

Her smile faded slightly into pensiveness. "Yet garb may guard but one flank - Other things may attack from the other." Luna studied their worry-free expressions soberly. "Beware lest bravado blind thee to--" She shook her head, rephrasing the words she had. "Blind you to a changing battlefield. Adapt or fall."

She shook off solemnity, recovering regal poise with an apologetic tilt towards puzzled Rarity and Sweetie. "Forgive my abrupt gravity, dear friends. Your refreshing rapport brought back to mind certain...counsels lately come to Our attention ..."

Sweetie shook her head. "I like it. It's... respectable. It's good to see you at least pretending the idea."

"Hey." Bright stuck out his tongue at Sweetie. "That's mean."

"So it using my civilian name." She huffed gently. "Kindly cut that right out."

"Okay okay..." He turned to point the metal tip of the walking stick at Rarity. "Rares! You did a bang up job on this suit. I am so loving it."

Rarity grabbed her familiar in a warm hug. "And I'm loving the way you're looking right now, so we all win, don't we? You are a true gentlecreature."

Luna coughed into a hoof. "Now, if I may have your attention." She drew out the box of earrings. "You must each select one and put it on. This is how we'll keep in contact in the future. If you look, you can see I'm already wearing one."

Rarity's eyes lit up seeing the elegant accessories as she eagerly peered into the opened box. "Oh my! Such glamorous gadgets - however do they work?"

She delicately lifted a jewel-encrusted crescent moon piece with her magic. "Some variety of transmitting enchantment interfacing with ambient aether I presume?"

Sweetie Drops gestured at the ring she already had in place. "Amazing craftsmanship regardless of the precise magic circuitry involved. I look forward to increased coordination capability."

She glanced over as Bright eagerly modelled several pieces with his dapper suit before deciding on a gold hoop befitting refined style. "So what's the effective communication range on these, Highness?" Sweetie asked Luna. "Are we limited to Ponyville or can we call Canterlot? Manehatten?"

Luna allowed each her agents to select their accessory and get it in place before continuing. "The range should cover most of Equestria. If you leave the nation, it will likely fail." She smiled at the collection before her. "Twilight crafted these herself. A boon from that brilliant mare."

She put a hoof to her own earring. "To use it, you need only supply a little magic, as you would to many a detection spell, focusing that desire to communicate on the intended target. A polite request is all that should be required."

Rarity and Bright shared a grin. "So if I wished to whisper sweet nothings into your ear over a moonlit meal..." Rarity trailed off, a hoof moving to cover her mouth. "That is... good to know the range they have, in case of an emergency."

Luna cleared her throat, having caught the implication. "Quite..."

Sweetie arched a brow. "What about those of us without magic?" She turned a hoof at herself, then at Bright hesitantly. "Do you have magic? You are a familiar, and a vampire... That may count?"

Bright tapped his chin. "Huh, never really thought about it." He twirled on Rarity. "I never did any awesome magic, but you'd know, right?"

"Right..." Rarity laughed nervously. "Darling... I must confessed, you are the first familiar I created. My 'mentor' was quite... lacking. I don't know, truth told." She picked one of the last rings left, a simple silver stud she slipped into her ear, almost hidden. "Try calling me?"

Bright scrunched his fuzzy face, concentrating intensely. After a long moment one of his ears gave a faint sparkle but no magical voice sounded for Rarity.

He rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly as Luna smiled in gentle reassurance. "Worry not, Sir Bright. Magic oft awakens gradually even for talented unicorns born so gifted."

Her horn flashed, enveloping Bright in soft cerulean flames that tickled pleasantly. "All living beings house inner reservoirs for weaving wonder - some merely tap deeper than others. Or differently."

The mystical fire dissipated leaving only a subtle starry shimmer clinging to Bright's fur. Luna gestured encouragingly. "There - a bit of alicorn enhancement stirring ambient ether through thy unique essence. Try focusing once more, visualizing speaking unto Rarity's heart."

Eager to aid her familiar, Rarity added her own sparking spellstream, wreathing the scrunched lapine in scintillating ruby radiance. "Go on darling! Reach out through our bond - my magic sings here to help span any divide!"

She held Bright's paws encouragingly as he refocused on mentally projecting to her through their link. After a few false starts, suddenly Rarity gasped in delight!

"Oh wonderful!" She laughed, magic pressing the button, then pulling blushing Bright into a fierce hug. "Our very first mind-to-mind chat success! We'll make a proper wizard's familiar out of you yet, my lovely!"

Behind her Sweetie Drops leaned subtly towards bemused Luna observing the celebratory snuggles. "Something tells me most mentor-disciple pairs don't get quite so...cuddly, Highness. Is this really typical for vamponies?"

Luna could only shrug helplessly. "I've observed stranger things between ponies. But let them have their moment." She watched the pair a moment longer before turning to leave. "I should check in on dear Applejack. She may need a listening ear after Pinkie."

Sweetie Drops watched Luna leave, then sighed. "I've trained in many body and mind techniques. This shouldn't be too different. You two whisper silently at each other. I'll focus on Luna." She frowned, thoughts locked on their leader. "Come in, Princess Luna. Princess Luna... come on..."

Bright hummed. "I didn't have to say her name..."

"You have your way, I have mine," Sweetie barked. "Now, as I was, Luna, hear me... Come on. Oh, it rang. That's good, right?"

"Hello?" came Luna's voice after a click. "Who is this?"

"Secret Agent Sweetie Drops." She saluted despite their being no line of sight between them. "Reporting success. The communication system is operational."

"I'm gladdened to hear that. Call me if anything changes. I'll be checking in with Applejack." With a click, that call ended.

Sweetie Drops nodded towards Bright and Rarity. "This is miraculous. If Twilight could make... a lot of these, this could change society as we know it. Even a hoof-ful of these." She glanced at Rarity's, then Bright's. "I suppose that's happening right now."

Rarity's eyes shone envisioning utopian vistas enabled by Twilight's gadget spreading serendipitous connection coast-to-coast.

"Imagine posh ponies planning parties from miles distant, no need relying only on cumbersome correspondence!" She clasped her hooves in delight as Bright nodded along. "Oooh, all my clients calling at once to relay simply scandalous stories heard through the grapevine about who did what to whom!"

Sweetie Drops smiled wryly. "As much as I enjoy imagining wave after wave of Canterlot gossip crashing over us all, I suspect Princess Luna intends these devices supporting more productive priorities than fueling equine intrigue mills."

She tapped her device thoughtfully. "Though I concede increased coordination capacity could benefit Ponyville operations as well... I may have underestimated the tactical potential."

Sweetie's stern focus suddenly gave way to anxiety realizing Luna had mentioned visiting a certain farm pony next. She hastily called the princess, nearly forgetting how the magic device worked in her haste.

"Ah, Your Highness? Apologies if I interrupted, but might I strongly advise against mentioning anything regarding, ahem, shadowy business to apple farmers at present?" Sweetie's mind raced with possibilities of exactly how awkwardly that could unfold given...mutual friends.

"Oh pff, as if Applejack wants to hear about our nocturnal adventures!" Rarity fanned dramatically. "Though I must visit her farm soon regardless and see if she found where Apple Bloom misplaced my jeweled brooch during last week's Crusader campout..."

Luna huffed gently on the line. "I had no intention. Now, she's looking at me oddly." There was a click of her hanging up.

Sweetie colored. "And I'm the first one to mess up using them, figures." She sighed gently. "Let's use them when we need them." She glanced between Rarity and Bright. "You two can call each other all you want. I doubt either of you will be upset to hear the other."

"Never!" Bright waved a fist towards the sky, daring the universe. "I'll always be happy to hear Rarity. Oh, do they have busy signals?" Both ponies looked at him oddly. "What happens if two ponies are talking and someone tries calling one of them?"

Rarity arched a brow at that. "I would not have thought of that, but that is a valid concern. Only one way to be sure." She pointed at Sweetie. "Attempt to call me."

"Hm? Are..." She looked at Rarity, then Bright. There was no outward sign of them being in communication. "Right... Okay! Calling. Rarity, come in... Rarity..."

Rarity's ear twitched. "That's interesting. I just heard that another pony is trying to reach me. And if I press the button now." She did so with her magic. "What happens?"

"I start hearing you," finishes Sweetie with a nod. "Are you still talking to Bright?"

Bright shook his head. "You hung up when you anwered Sweetie, but cool. So being in a call doesn't cut us off from everyone else."

Rarity clapped with building joy. "Twilight really thought of everything! She's a little frizzy, but such a genius. We really must get her a gift for these."

Rarity hummed thoughtfully considering appropriate appreciation tokens for pony prodigy Twilight. "Perhaps an exquisite yet unobtrusive choker? Oh! With subtle matching earrings and horn adornments augmenting sensory reception!"

She waved a hoof airily noticing Sweetie's skeptical expression. "Oh pish posh it's perfectly tasteful dear, you'll see! Why, with the slightest magical infusion, think how signals from these remarkable relays might interlace enhancing natural abilities! And fashion besides!" Rarity continued eagerly elaborating potential ensembles but paused as a shrill sound pierced the elegant boutique's refined tranquility.

All four, including the distant Luna, winced reflexively at the painfully shrill signal blaring directly into their minds via the very devices so recently praised! Sweetie reacted quickest, traced the alert beacon trajectory before others could move.

"Nearby magical disturbance pattern Crimson class threat level!" She shoved open the shop door, tense gaze sweeping the cheerful Ponyville scene until training spotted the signs - hurried shuttering of shops, nervous glances skyward...

The harsh psychic sound cut off, leaving an ominous vacuum dread swiftly seeped in filling like swirling fogbanks. All eyes turned towards the Everfree looming at town's edge, heartbeats counting seconds...until the unnatural cloud crested distant trees heralding the promised peril emerging behind.

"Positions everypony!" Luna swiftly assumed command, landing beside Sweetie Drops as the ominous form coalesced.