A Shadow in Lantern's Glow

Chapters

Ch. 1 - A Call for Help
Ch. 2 - Investigation
Ch.3 - Truth and Consequences
Epilogue

Ch. 1 - A Call for Help

Chapter 1

– A Call for Help –

The wind was sharp and brisk. The grass fluttered in the night breeze, grazing the hoof of the pony walking through it. The crunching of leaves could be heard with each step as they approached a gate leading to a graveyard. Not exactly the most glamorous place to visit in the dead of night, but this pony was determined and fearless.

She had a mission. A mission of extreme importance, a matter of life and death. She must succeed in her mission or there would be dire consequences.

Moving past the numerous tombstones and plaques, she held a basket in her mouth, taking special care that this basket did not rock or bump against anything. This basket carried precious cargo, more important than her own life.

Standing amongst the death and gloom stood a being of radiant beauty that the moon itself paled in comparison. Her dark blue coat glistened in the moonlight, highlighting the lighter fur on her underbelly. Her long light blue mane looked like a galaxy flowing in the autumn breeze. Silver chains and small jewels decorated her mane and one larger necklace resting against her chest.

As she admired the beauty from afar, she failed to notice that the mare had turned and jumped a little at her presence. Light blue eyes that shone like sapphires looked at her in shock.

“Hazel, what are you doing out here? It’s late.” The mare shouted over the wind.

A shovel glowing in a blue light was set into the mound of dirt the blue mare had been digging at. Even with all the dirt on her legs, Hazel still couldn’t stop admiring her.

Hazel set the basket down on the ground, quickly dusting herself off, making herself presentable to the mare. Her brown coat was clean and tidy, as she had bathed before coming of course. Her triple striped mane of black, green and yellow-green was also washed and in somewhat of a well groomed manner. Compared to her usual messy mane style, she thought she had cleaned up well. Her leathery wings were flawless, being a thestral meant no time wasted on preening.

“Hi Lantern, I wanted to come by and bring you a present.” Hazel said, lifting the blanket inside the basket.

Underneath the blanket was a pecan pie, the smell was strong and delicious. Her finest work if she would say so herself.

“Made it fresh just a few hours ago. I thought maybe we’d share a few slices. We haven’t had a chance to talk in a while.” Hazel said hopefully.

Lantern looked at the pie, the fresh smell of sugary pecan goodness was so strong that it made her almost drool in anticipation. She looked back up at Hazel, the thestral giving her usual fanged smile.

“Oh Hazel, you shouldn’t have.” Lantern smiled.

“Well I did, so how about we go inside and enjoy it together?”

Hazel gave her the batted eyelashes and fanged smile combo, her secret weapon. This made the unicorn mare blush furiously.

But as Lantern opened her mouth to give her answer, she quickly closed it. A visible chill went down her spine, making her whole body shake for a moment. Her eyes closed tight as she turned away.

“You need to leave Hazel.” Lantern said shakily.

Hazel’s heart sank, but she tried not to lose her smile. Surely Lantern was just kidding right?

“Come on Lantern, you don’t mean that.”

“I do mean it, now please leave!”

Lantern started walking away from the thestral, hiding her eyes behind her bangs. Hazel was shocked and went to pursue her, only to turn back quickly and pick up the pie. Lantern had picked up her pace and went into a full trot through the graveyard. A house soon came into view, Lantern’s home that sat just outside the gate of the cemetery.

When Lantern reached her front door, she quickly threw it open. Moving inside quickly, she shut the door almost in Hazel’s face.

Hazel placed the basket down to her side, “Lantern, what’s wrong?”

“Go away!”

Hazel’s ears folded behind her head, “Lantern, come on. Talk to me, this isn’t like you.”

“There’s nothing to talk about! Now please leave!”

Lantern sounded so distressed, like she was scared. Hazel tried to knock on the door lightly, but no answer. Hazel’s eyes started to tear up, the one time she tried to wear makeup and now it was starting to smear.

She picked up the basket and placed it right in front of the door.

“I’ll just leave this for you. I hope you enjoy it.”

Hazel started to leave but felt something… off. A chill went down her spine, like a wave of cold passed through her body. She felt inclined to look into Lantern’s front window, just to the side of the house. Like she was drawn to it by some force.

Peering into the house, she saw Lantern’s silhouette against the wall, the moonlight giving it a clear form. Then something appeared next to it that made Hazel jump back in fright.

A shadowy claw came from around Lantern’s shoulder, wrapping around her shadow. Lantern started sobbing loudly as the claw wrapped around her shadow.

Hazel moved away from the house, down the steps of the porch and out of view of the window. What was that? Was somepony in the house with her?

No, that claw didn’t belong to a pony. It was something else. Something dark.

Hazel flew into the night, racing away from the house.

“Sister, give us strength…”

Princess Luna, Ruler of the Night, sat upon her throne. Night court had just ended and she was truly exhausted. How come all the more annoying nobles came during her time in court?

“Tea, Princess?” A purple unicorn with glasses levitating a tea cup approached the throne.

“Achelois, thou are a blessing.” Luna said, accepting the cup gladly.

Luna sipped the tea, sighing as she slumped back against her throne.

“A thousand years have not changed how tiring these nobles can be. How our sister managed this on her own for so long is beyond us.”

Achelois adjusted her glasses, “Yes, nobility does bring with it an air of frustration.”

“At least in our day, nobles understood the meaning of “no”. We swear, Blueblood is by far the worst. If we hear one more word about his little spat with that diplomat from Saddle Arabia, we shall banish ourselves to the moon.”

Luna finished her cup and levitated it back to her assistant.

Achelois took the cup, “As much as I understand your irritation with the young prince, please do not take such drastic measures. If you leave, I will be forced to return to the Royal Archive Collection. Despite appearances, I do not wish to have my muzzle stuck in a book for the rest of my life.”

Luna laughed.

“Have no fear our dear assistant, we shall not leave you to that most gruesome fate.”

Achelois joined in the laughter, both mares simply enjoying the moment. But of course that meant it was destined to be disrupted.

The door to the throne room opened, a member of the lunar guard moving quickly across the red carpet.

He was out of breath when he reached the base of the throne, “Princess, I have… urgent news.”

Luna raised an eyebrow, “Speak Private Nocturne.”

“We’ve received a report from the village of Pekahna Groves.”

Achelois put her hoof on her chin, “Pekahna Groves? The small village on the southwestern border of the Everfree?”

“We recall hearing about this village from our sister. She claims there is a large pecan orchard there.” Luna stated.

“Correct Your Highness. And it is actually the patron of that orchard that has asked us to investigate something.” Private Nocturne said.

“Oh? What would this patron ask us to investigate?”

“She believes another resident of the village is being… haunted Your Highness.”

Both Princess Luna’s and Achelois’ eyes widened at this statement. A haunting, in such a small quiet little village?

“Did you get a written statement, Private?” Luna asked.

“Yes Your Highness.”

Private Nocturne handed over a parchment to the Princess, who took it straight away and read its contents thoroughly. She absorbed all the details like a sponge. A haunting in this day and age was rare in Equestria. However with the village being so close to the Everfree, anything was possible.

“Achelois.” Luna spoke.

“Yes, Your Highness?” The assistant bowed.

“This is a matter for our dear friend. Please bring him here.” Princess Luna commanded.

“At once.” Achelois said, teleporting away.

“Yeah, well next time you decide to put a cragadile in your rock garden, don’t come crying to me, prick!” A stallion yelled out as he was thrown out of a rather expensive looking house in Canterlot.

“Merciful Luna, I hate this city…” He said, grumbling to himself.

As the stallion walked into the light of the street lamp, his form came into full view. A zony, half zebra and half pony. A horn adorned his forehead, signifying his pony heritage. His coat was a reverse color scheme for a zebra, more dark gray fur than white. His cutiemark was a mix of a zebra glyph and twin swords crossed over the glyph. At his side was a sword and strapped to his leg was a dagger.

His name was Shadow Strike.

His golden brown eyes closed as he took a breath to calm himself.

“Alright, I need a drink after that bullshit.”

“I’m afraid your trip to the bar will have to be postponed, Shadow.” A mare’s voice said from behind him.

He jumped and drew his sword, swinging it around and stopping just short of Achelois’ neck. When he realized who it was, he quickly pulled the sword back a little.

“Achelois, how many times do I have to tell you not to sneak up on me like that? I could have cut your head off!”

Achelois simply moved his blade away with her hoof and adjusted her glasses with a slight grin, “If you were a bit more aware of your surroundings, you wouldn’t have that problem.”

Shadow growled and put his sword away, “What do you want, Achelois? If it’s another job, tell Luna I’m tired and to call me back in a week.”

“The Princess requires your presence now, Shadow. An urgent matter has come to her attention.”

Shadow rolled his eyes, “Yeah, and I have an urgent matter too. It’s called rest and relaxation. Whatever it is, it can wait.”

Shadow started to walk away, when Achelois teleported in front of him.

“Shadow, this is no time for your foolishness and stubborn attitude.” She scowled at him.

“Don’t give me that look, Achelois. I just got done with a job. What could possibly be so urgent that I can’t get a single night’s sleep?”

She stood her ground, “A young mare’s life may be at stake.”

Shadow’s eye quirked, “Ok. I’ll bite. What’s going on?”

“Not here. Come with me.” Achelois said while charging her horn.

Shadow’s eyes widened, “Wait no no no no!”

Too late, he was caught in the teleportation and whisked away by the unicorn.

Princess Luna finished her tea and was sitting it down on the stand near her throne when the sound of a teleport spell caught her attention. There stood her assistant and her guest.

“Ah Shadow, I’m glad Achelois could find you.”

“I simply had to follow his bellowing in the streets.” Achelois said, refilling the Princess’ teacup.

Shadow glared, “Hardy har har. And you know I hate teleporting!”

Achelois didn’t even respond, taking a seat by her Princess’ side.

“Now Shadow, we must discuss your next assignment.” Luna said, looking down at the zony.

Shadow sighed, “Alright, let’s hear it.”

Luna floated the statement from Private Nocturne, “This is the statement taken from the mare who alerted us to this incident.”

Shadow took the scroll in his magic and read the contents, “Hmm. Pekahna Groves. I haven’t been to that region. The witness is a mare named Hazel Nut, who owns a pecan farm. Hmm, how ironic.”

Luna nodded, “Correct. She believes her friend is being haunted by some foul creature.”

“Hmm, not much to go on in this statement. A shadowy figure in a house isn’t exactly compelling. I’ll need more information from her. Once I know what I’m dealing with, I can determine the severity of the situation.”

Shadow put the scroll in his saddlebags.

He turned back to the Princess, “I’m guessing I’ll be leaving right away.”

“While we would normally request you to go immediately, arriving in the middle of the night will cause a scene. We will provide you a carriage first thing in the morning. Upon arrival you will seek out this Hazel Nut at her farm.”

“Wow, I get a full night’s sleep before going on another mysterious job possibly involving a malevolent force bent on causing misery to the innocent? You getting soft on me Luna?” Shadow grinned.

“We were going to offer you a room, but after that comment we have changed our mind. Return here at dawn Shadow.” Luna said, lighting her horn.

Shadow’s eyes widened, “Not again!”

He tried to escape it, but he was not fast enough. He soon found himself above the palace fountain, landing face first into the icy cold water. Quickly pulling himself out of the fountain, he shivered and turned to glare in the direction of the throne room.

“Was just a joke.” He grumbled before walking off to find a hotel.

Crying filled the halls of the house, sounding like the echoing of a forsaken spirit filled with sadness and despair. Candle light was the only thing illuminating the room. A mare sat in the room, huddled under a blanket in terror.

“Please, leave me alone.” Lantern whimpered.

A raspy growl rang out across the room, the blanket that was her protection ripped right by her flank. She jumped and moved further in the corner of her room. The blanket wrapped into a new protective cocoon.

“Lantern…” A distant voice said softly.

She froze at the sound of the voice, her blood running cold in her veins. She looked down at the one thing that was giving her comfort. Cradled in her hooves inside the blanket was the pecan pie Hazel had brought her. Everytime she felt scared, she took a bite. The taste and warmth made her feel safe.

She wished Hazel was there to enjoy it with her. She wished Hazel could save her. But she couldn't risk Hazel’s safety. This was all her fault, and this was her punishment.

“Hazel…” Lantern whispered while she cried herself to sleep.

Author's Note

Hello everyone

So this story is a few things. One, a chance to restart my creativity. I've been stuck with all my stories for a while and haven't had the motivation to write. I figured trying something new will get me back into the groove.

Two, this story also counts as a prequel of a new project I will be starting. An anthology staring my OC Shadow Strike, and my girlfriend's OC Sketch Heart. A group of short stories to tell their life story and how they made each other's lives wonderful, just like with myself and my girlfriend.

I hope you enjoy this story and all those to come.

See ya next time,
Hades

Ch. 2 - Investigation

Chapter 2

– Investigation –

As the morning sun rose into the sky, a carriage could be seen flying over the trees of the Everfree. Pulled by two lunar guards, both dressed in the dark purple armor signifying their allegiance to Princess Luna, their destination was finally coming into sight.

“Pekahna Groves dead ahead. Should we wake our sleeping striped beauty?” One female thestral said.

“The old loopy loop?” A male pegasus grinned.

Both guards pulled up, bringing the carriage up with them before making a loop in the sky. Their passenger found himself slightly in the air before landing head first against the hard wood seat, jolting him awake from his loud snoring episode.

“Ow!” Shadow yelled.

Shadow picked himself up and looked at the front of the carriage, “What the heck!? Where’d you two learn how to fly?”

“Cloudsdale.” Both answered.

“Really? Cause I’ve seen better flying from drunken sailors shot out of a cannon.”

Both guards looked at each other and proceeded to direct the carriage downward. Shadow was confused at their actions until he saw a pecan farm. They were heading right for it but weren’t descending anymore.

“Uh hello, that’s my stop.”

“We know,” Both guards answered.

Right as the carriage was over the farm, the carriage was turned upside down by the guards, causing Shadow to fall from it and land ungracefully into one of the trees. He had barely missed hitting his head on several branches on the way down. As he hit the ground, he found himself covered in leaves.

Standing up and spitting out a few leaves, he looked to the sky, “Luna will hear about this! And what about my saddlebags you academy rejects!?”

He saw the carriage fly back around and from the sky, a small object began to fall. The morning sun blocked his vision and as he shielded his eyes, a pair of saddlebags fell on his head. Grumbling to himself, he picked up the bags and attached them to his barrel.

“Gonna glue their wings together next time I see them.”

Dusting himself off a bit more, he finally took a good look at his surroundings. Pecan trees stood in rows upon rows. So many trees that he couldn’t count them all. The leaves were all beautiful shades of yellow and orange. This farm was well cared for, all the trees seemed healthy and strong.

A path stood a few meters away, seeming to be used by workers. Shadow made his way to the path and looked in both directions. To the south was a medium sized house, one story and in relatively good condition. That must be the residence of Miss Hazel Nut.

“Alright, let’s get started.” Shadow stated, making his way towards the house.

As the front door came before him, he cleared his throat and knocked on the door. Shuffling was heard on the other side of the door, and after a few seconds, a thestral mare opened the door.

“Yeah, can I help you?” The mare spoke.

“Good morning Miss, I’m looking for a mare named Hazel Nut.”

Hazel’s eyebrow quirked, “You found her. Who are you?”

“My name is Shadow Strike. I’m here on request of Princess Luna in response to your report.”

“Princess Luna sent you!? You’re here to help Lantern!?” Hazel Nut said with gleaming eyes.

Shadow nodded, “I’m here to investigate this haunting. I need to ask you a few questions. May I come inside?”

“Oh yes please.” Hazel said, moving aside and ushering the zony into her home.

They moved into the living room and Shadow took the couch while Hazel brought some water from the kitchen. Shadow took the cup in his magic while Hazel sat down in her chair.

Shadow took out a pen and paper in his magic, “Alright then. Tell me everything you know about this haunting. What makes you think this Lantern is being haunted?”

Hazel rubbed at her foreleg, “I was at her house the other night and I got this bad feeling. Like I wasn’t supposed to be there. It got cold, like a chill went straight through me.”

“Cold temperatures accompanied by feelings of unease. That could be a sign of a spirit. Any else stand out? Sounds, smells, any other odd feelings?”

“Well, I thought I saw something when I looked through her window.” Hazel said nervously.

“Oh? What did you see?”

“A black shadowy claw thing, it wasn’t a hoof. It made my skin crawl.” Hazel said, a shiver running through her.

“Shadow figures, yeah that’s not a good sign. What was this shadow doing?” Shadow said, flipping to the next page.

“It… wrapped around Lantern’s shadow. Around her shoulders I think.”

Shadow looked up, “Really? Hmm. Sounds like whatever is in this house is attached to her. What can you tell me about this Lantern? Is there anypony else living in the house?”

“No, it’s just her. Her name is Glowing Lantern, she maintains the town cemetery. Her family has owned it for a long time.”

“And is this house near the cemetery?” Shadow asked.

Hazel just nodded.

“Great, that makes things more complicated. Has there been any changes in Miss Lantern’s behavior lately? Patterns, habits, etc.”

“She’s been avoiding ponies for about a month now. We used to talk every day, but now I barely see her.” Hazel said sadly.

Shadow raised an eyebrow, “Oh? What’s your relationship with her?”

Hazel immediately blushed, “Relationship? No no, I’m not in a relationship with her.”

Shadow just sat there, eyebrow still raised.

Hazel’s blush intensified, “We’ve known each other for years. I bake her pies and she helps me with my bookkeeping. I’m not good with finances.”

Shadow smirked, “Wow, she must be truly something.”

Hazel’s eyes drifted off, “Oh she is. She’s smart, gorgeous, has a great smile, and her laugh is just so..”
Hazel blushed again, realizing she was rambling about Lantern to a complete stranger. She put a hoof over her mouth and slumped against her chair.

“Wow, you’ve got it bad don’t ya?” Shadow grinned.

She sighed, “I’m not very subtle am I?”

“Not really.”

Hazel looked at him, “Are you going to judge me?”

Shadow put his notebook down, “Miss Hazel, I’m a hybrid monster hunter who has never had a marefriend or even been on a date. I’ve been discriminated against my whole life. I’m the last pony who is gonna tell you who you can love and what to do with your life.”

Hazel smiled at that, “You’re a lot more open than most ponies in this town.”

Shadow smiled, “Thank you. So, back to Miss Lantern. You said she started isolating herself about a month ago?”

“Yeah. I mean she’s always been a little introverted. But this is different. It’s like she’s afraid of her own shadow.”

“Hmm. This certainly sounds like a haunting. When you last saw her, did she have any noticeable markings on her body? Bruises, scratches, burns?”

Hazel shook her head, “No. She seemed fine physically.”

“No external wounds or markings. That’s good. Rules out a few options. Any other details you can remember?”

Hazel thought for a moment, “Well, she seemed fine when we were talking at first. Then all the sudden she changed and told me to leave. She looked so terrified for a second.”

“Did you hear any kind of noise or voice?”

Hazel shook her head, “No, I don’t think so. The wind was blowing hard that night.”

“It’s possible she’s hearing voices in her head. Not uncommon with spiritual attachment.”

Shadow put his notebook away, “Alright, thank you for your time Hazel.”

“Do you know what’s wrong with Lantern?” She asked.

“I have some concerns. Your friend sounds like she could have a spirit haunting her. What kind of spirit I can’t quite tell. From your description, she’s clearly terrified of it.”

“So, can you help her?” Hazel pleaded.

“I’ll need to see her home and talk to her. Can you show me where she lives?” Shadow asked.

“Of course, but…” Hazel hesitated.

Shadow looked at her curiously, “But?”

She got a look of determination on her face, “I wanna be there for her.”

Shadow sighed, “Hazel, I understand your feelings for the mare. But this could be dangerous. Whatever this entity is, she’s scared of it. I can’t guarantee your safety.”

“I don’t care! If that thing is hurting Lantern, then I can’t just sit here and do nothing!” Hazel shouted.

Shadow closed his eyes and thought for a moment. She was determined, and she might make Lantern more comfortable.

“Alright then. You can join in on the investigation.”

Hazel jumped in the air with joy, “Yes!”

Shadow cleared his throat, “But there are three rules.”

Hazel landed and listened intently.

“One, I’m in charge. If I say run, you run. If I say to leave me, you don’t hesitate.”

Hazel nodded.

“Two, don’t take anything from the house. Whatever is in there could attach itself to it. A blanket, a teacup, anything.”

She nodded again.

“And three, you need to be prepared to see a lot of horrible things. And possibly do things that might seem distasteful or morally gray.”

Hazel hesitated for a moment, but still nodded.

“Good. Get whatever you need and lead the way.” Shadow said, getting off the couch.

Hazel ran into the kitchen and got a few snacks and bottles of water. She didn’t know what state Lantern was in, but she wanted to be prepared for anything.

“Oh, one more thing.” Shadow said, coming up behind her.

Hazel turned to face him.

“You got any salt?” He asked.

As the cemetery came into view, Hazel and Shadow moved through the gate.

“Just down this path is the house.” Hazel said, landing next to Shadow.

“Good. Not getting any bad vibes so far. That’s a good sign.”

“So, how did you end up working for Princess Luna? I thought she would send some guards to investigate.” Hazel said.

“Pfft, please. Most guards would pee themselves if they saw a ghost, or any kind of monster.”

Hazel giggled at that.

“As for how I ended up in the Princess’ employ, it’s a long story. All I’ll say is that she helped me out of a tight situation. Now she’s my main employer. She receives several reports on monsters, curses, hauntings, etc. I fix the problem, she pays me.”

Shadow’s explanation ended right as the house came into view. The outside seemed normal, no abnormal damage or visual signs. The front door was closed and the curtains were drawn.

“So, that’s her house?” Shadow pointed at the house.

“Yep, been in her family for generations. It’s as old as the town.” Hazel explained.

Shadow held his chin with a hoof, “Looks old fashioned. Could be a factor. Think she’s home?”

“Oh she’s home. She works late, so she’s probably still in bed.” Hazel said, landing on the front porch.

“Well, she’s in for a rude awakening.”

Shadow stepped on the front porch and immediately went rigid, his fur standing up on end. Something hit him hard, something not friendly. He looked around and saw nothing. But he could feel something sinister. He had just stepped into something’s territory. And it did not like him there.

“Shadow, what’s wrong?” Hazel asked.

“Something is definitely here. Stay close.”

Shadow knocked on the door. Neither of them heard movement inside the house. Shadow knocks again, a bit more forcefully. Still no answer.

“She should hear us. Where is she?” Hazel asked worriedly.

“We’re going in.” Shadow stated, levitating out some tools.

“What are you going to do? Pick the lock?” Hazel asked.

Shadow raised an eyebrow at her, “Would you rather I break the door down?”

Hazel shook her head, “No no. Lock picking is fine.”

The lock was simple and gave way to the zony, opening the door and letting a draft of cold air flow past the pair of investigators. Shadow put his tools away and moved inside the house. The air felt cold, like the chill of the night. The house felt forbidden, like it was wrong for him to be there.

Hazel stepped up next to him shivering, “Why is it so cold in here?”

“It’s the spirit. It’s affecting the air. It’s like this whole house is radiating a dark presence. How can she live in a place like this?”

Shadow walked to the fireplace and pulled out a jar of powder from his saddlebags.

“Hazel, get a log or something that’ll burn.”

Hazel nodded and flew out the door and around the back of the house. She knew Lantern kept her firewood out there. She picked up three logs and flew back into the house. Placing them next to Shadow.

“What’re you gonna do?” Hazel asked.

“Try and weaken this spirit’s grip on this house. It won’t get rid of it, but might help make it more tolerable here.”
Shadow placed the firewood in the fireplace, then used his knife and a flint in his saddlebag to light a fire. But even standing next to the fire didn’t help the chill in the air.

Shadow stood and took the powder jar in his magic, “Shield your eyes.”

Hazel pulled her wing over her eyes just in time for Shadow to throw some of the powder on the fire, making the fire turn green. Hazel looked at the fire and after a few seconds, it turned blue. The fire seemed to bend and grow for a few more seconds before settling, turning back to the usual orange color.

“That outta do it.” Shadow said, putting the powder away.

“What was that stuff you threw in there?” Hazel asked.

“Wraith Dust.”

Hazel looked confused, “Wraith Dust?”

“Spectral dust left behind after a spirit loses its form. Burning it in fire cleanses the area of the spectral energy in the air.”

After hearing his explanation, Hazel noticed that the chilling feeling she had been having ever since she stepped hoof in the house was gone.

“Wow.”

Shadow looked around the room, “Don’t let your guard down. I only weakened it a little, it won’t last long. We gotta get Miss Lantern out of this house.”

Hazel nodded and looked to the hallway, “Her room is in the back.”

Shadow and Hazel made their way down the hallway slowly. Shadow cautiously checked every room on the way. He had also gotten some kind of weird crystal out of his saddlebags.

Hazel stood next to him, “Hey Shadow, what’s that crystal for?”

Shadow held the crystal up to her. It was about as long as his hoof and somewhat larger than a bit. Every now and then it vibrated in his magical hold.

“This crystal is designed to detect electromagnetic fields. Spirits and wraiths give off these signals, so it’s kinda like a ghost tracker.”

“Cool. Where’d you get it?” Hazel asked.

“You don’t wanna know.”

Shadow left without giving Hazel a chance to question him further. They made it to the bedroom in the back. The door was closed and seemed normal enough.

Hazel went first and knocked on the door, “Lantern?”

No answer.

She knocked again, “Lantern, are you in there?”

Still no answer.

Hazel moved her hoof to the doorknob to open it, but pulled it away almost immediately.

“Ow!” Hazel held her hoof, her eyes shut tight in pain.

“What happened?” Shadow asked.

He looked at her hoof, seeing that it had a burn on it. Nothing too serious but enough to sting. He took out a bandage and some ointment.

“This should help with the pain.”

He bandaged her hoof after applying the ointment, the sting of it making Hazel wince a little.

“What was that? It was like touching a hot pan on the stove.” Hazel said.

Shadow looked at the doorknob, it didn’t look hot but he had seen plenty of spirits use this kind of trick before. He gestured for Hazel to get behind him and gave the door a powerful buck. As soon as his legs made contact, he was flung backward past Hazel and skidded across the floor.

Shadow got up quickly and had a pissed off look on his face, “You wanna play rough huh?”

He stomped back over to the door as Hazel gave him a confused look. He took out his sword that was strapped to his side, the steel shimmering and gleaming in the light. Taking a deep breath, he focused and almost too fast for Hazel to see, he slashed at the door.

The cut cleaved the door diagonally, making it fall to the ground.

Hazel gasped, “Hey!”

“You can send Princess Luna a bill for that.”

Shadow walked over the door, noticing that feeling beginning to return.

“Shit.”

Hazel followed him in and a shiver went down her spine, “Shadow, that feeling is back.”

“I know. That means one of two things. Either this thing is stronger than I thought, or this is its place of power.”

“Place of power?” Hazel asked.

“Spirits usually have a preferred spot or location, most likely somewhere they have close ties to. But sometimes it can simply be a weak spot between the realms.”

Hazel looked confused, “Weak spot between realms?”

“There are several realms and dimensions all around us. Barriers exist between our world and others to keep us separated. But things can weaken those barriers. Powerful magic, catastrophes, etc.”

“Do you think this thing is from another realm?” Hazel asked.

“Not sure. It could be a spirit from the dead, or something more malevolent. I can do some research on it after we get Lantern out of here. Now where is she?”

Hazel looked around the room, a room she had been in several times during her friendship with Lantern. Slumber parties, study sessions, the usual. As she continued to scan the room, she noticed something that was out of place. A blanket, sitting in the corner far away from the bed. The bed itself looked like a wreck. Lantern was always so clean, she would never let her bed look so disheveled.

Hazel moved closer to the blanket and could clearly see a bulge in it.

She moved a hoof to press against it, “Lantern?”

Lantern screamed from under the blanket and thrashed at whoever it was that woke her up. She kicked out her legs so violently, her eyes closed with tears streaming down them.

“Get away! Get away!”

Shadow moved to help Hazel, “Miss Lantern, please cal…”

Shadow didn’t get to finish his sentence before a blue hoof socked him right in the jaw, sending him on his back holding his jaw in pain.

Hazel knew she needed to act. She got on top of Lantern and avoided her legs, “Lantern! It’s me!”

Lantern’s eye opened suddenly. She looked at the face above her through the tears that blurred her vision. When she got her focus back, she could see Hazel above her.

“Hazel?” Lantern choked out through her sore throat.

“Yes, Lantern it’s me.” Hazel said softly.

Lantern was shocked to see the thestral, but shock soon turned to relief. She buried her face in the mare’s chest and sobbed. This in turn shocked Hazel, but only for a moment. She held the unicorn’s head and gently petted her mane.

“It’s ok Lantern, I’m here.”

When Lantern’s sobs started to fade, she pulled away from Hazel just enough to look her in the eye.

“What are you doing here?”

“I was worried about you. I couldn’t stay away.” Hazel said, smiling at her.

Lantern smiled too, but only for a moment. Her smile soon turned into a look of dread. She tried to push Hazel away.

“You need to get out of here.” Lantern said frantically.

“I’m not going anywhere.” Hazel said sternly.

“Please! You’ll get hurt. I couldn’t live with myself if he hurt you.”

Lantern struggled but Hazel had a tight grip on her, “Who is he?”

Lantern froze and put a hoof to her mouth.

“Ugh, ow. Am I ever gonna catch a break?” Shadow said, picking himself off the floor.

Lantern gasped, finally noticing the other presence in her room, “Who are you?”

“This is Shadow. Princess Luna sent him here to help you.” Hazel said reassuringly.

“Princess Luna? But why?” Lantern asked.

Hazel held her and looked her in the eye, “I know there is something in this house. I won’t let it hurt you anymore.”

“You can’t stop it, no pony can. Just leave me alone, I don’t want you to get hurt.”

“Miss Lantern, I assure you I can help.” Shadow said, moving to sit next to the mares.

“How? And why should I trust you? I don’t know you.” Lantern said.

“That’s fair. You don’t know me. But you know Hazel. You trust her don’t you?”

Lantern bit her lip and looked down. She did trust Hazel, more than anypony. But she was so scared.

“I can protect both of you. I can help free you of whatever spirit is haunting this place.” Shadow said, trying to look her in the eye.

Lantern avoided his gaze, “I want to believe you.”

Lantern suddenly went rigid, her body shivering so much that Hazel could feel it. Lantern buried her head into Hazel’s chest, screaming like she was under attack.

“What’s wrong with her?” Hazel asked frantically.

“The spirit is here. Hold still.” Shadow said, digging into his saddlebags.

He pulled out the bag of salt that he had gotten from Hazel’s house. Before Hazel could ask what he was going to do with it, he started pouring it on the floor. He went around the two mares and made a circle of salt on the floor.

“Alright, that should be good. Whatever happens, do not leave that circle until I say it’s safe.”

“What’s salt gonna do!?” Hazel asked.

“Trust me!”

A loud thump came from the hallway of the house, making Hazel jump and Lantern scream more. Another thump came, closer this time. It sounded like something huge was walking down the hallway.

Shadow got his sword ready in his telekinetic grip, while also pulling out a small bag from his saddlebag.

He stood ready, “Come on, show yourself.”
Silence fell over the room as Shadow stood his ground. His eyes darted to every side of the room and to the hallway. He looked for any kind of movement.

Get out

A plate came from the doorway, flying right for Shadow’s head. He blocked it with his sword and it shattered. The shards missed him and landed harmlessly on the floor.

More plates soon followed, Shadow blocking every one of them. He made sure that no plates or shards made it past him. When the plates stopped coming, he lowered his guard.

“Throwing plates? Is that all you’ve got?”

Suddenly, a powerful force hit Shadow on his side, sending him across the side of the room and into the bedroom window. His head hit the window itself and it shattered. The glass cut him across the side of his head but nothing too deep.

Shadow stood against the window sill, dazed but slowly gaining his composure. He turned to check on the girls. A strange mist was slowly creeping towards them. He pushed himself off the window sill but stumbled a little. His vision was a little blurry.

Hazel watched as the mist came closer to them. She held the terrified Lantern tight in her forelegs. Fanning out her wings for more protection, she wrapped them around Lantern.

“You can’t have her!” She screamed.

As the mist drew closer, it reeled back with the sound of a hiss. It tried again to come closer but yet again it was forced back. Hazel heard scratching sounds and looked down to the floor. Claw marks dragged across the wooden planks. Just outside of the ring of salt around them.

“Hey!”

The claw marks stopped and the mist seemed to turn direction towards the source of the yell.

Shadow threw the small pouch across the room at the mist and for a second, it glowed with the white light of his magic before exploding into a cloud of white dust.

Hazel coughed and rubbed at her eyes, they stung from whatever that was. When her vision came back, the mist had dissipated.

She then felt a foreleg grab at her shoulder, making her turn to see Shadow.

“Get up, grab Lantern! We gotta get out now!”

Hazel nodded frantically and tried to get Lantern on her hooves. The mare screamed and fell to the ground again.

“Lantern, we have to go!” Hazel said, trying to pull her up.

“No! I can’t leave!” Lantern cried.

“Oh to Tartarus with this!” Shadow yelled.

Lantern soon found all four of her hooves off the ground as she was placed on Shadow’s back by his magic. Hazel normally would have yelled at a stallion carrying her crush like that, but she was too scared to voice her disdain.

Shadow and Hazel ran out of the bedroom and through the hall, Lantern kicking and screaming on the stallion’s back. The front door was in view and the feeling of dread and cold came back in the largest wave yet. Shadow had to push Hazel to go faster, jumping out of the front door and onto the path.

Hazel looked back at the house, seeing the mist, much larger than it had been before, pour out of the door.

“Don’t look back, keep running! It can’t reach too far from the house!” Shadow yelled.

Hazel flapped her wings and took to the air, flying above Shadow as he ran. He sure was fast, even when carrying a pony on his back.

As they reached the exit to Lantern’s family property, they could stop and take a breath.

Hazel looked to Lantern, seeing that she had passed out.

“What happened? Will she be ok?” She said, looking over the mare frantically.

“She’ll be fine. The stress must have made her pass out. We need to get her far away from his place.” Shadow said.

“We can take her back to my place.”

“Good idea. We can let her rest and I can start to piece this puzzle together. I have a feeling she knows more about this spirit.” Shadow said, looking back at the property.

Hazel nodded and started to move in the direction of her home before she heard Shadow groan a little. She looked back and saw him adjusting Lantern on his back.

“What’s wrong?” Hazel asked.

“Nothing. She’s just a little heavier than I anticipated.” Shadow said.

Hazel’s eyes flashed with rage and she ran over and slapped the stallion across the face with her wing.

“Ow! What was that for?” Shadow asked, his cheek sore.

“She is not fat. She is perfectly fit and beautiful. Hmph! Stallions!” Hazel said.

She turned to walk again, leaving Shadow dumbfounded. He looked at her as she walked away and rolled his eyes.

“I didn’t even say she was fat. I swear, I’ll never understand mares.” Shadow said, slowly walking down the path.

Author's Note

Hey guys, Hades here.

I'm slowly getting back into it. Here's another new chapter. Shadow takes a lot of abuse huh? XD

What do you think is in that house? Will Lantern be ok?

See you all next time

Ch.3 - Truth and Consequences

Chapter 3

– Truth and Consequences –

Lantern groaned, her head felt like she was looking through a thick fog. And she had a splitting headache, worse than the time Hazel took her out drinking for their 21st. But as the haze cleared, she found herself on a familiar couch in a familiar lap.

She looked up from where she laid, and immediately went red as she saw Hazel smiling down at her, “Hi Lantern.”

Lantern “eeped” and jumped upright, “Hazel, what the heck? How did I?”

She paused for a moment when she saw the stallion sitting in a chair across from them, the zony had an eyebrow raised and a neutral expression.

Lantern blushed harder, “Who are you!? What are you doing here? Were you watching us?”

“Let’s see, in order, Shadow Strike, Saving your hides, and no I just sat down while you were freaking out.” Shadow answered.

“Saving our hides? What’s going on?” Lantern asked.

“We got you out of your house. There’s something wrong in there, Lantern. Why didn’t you tell me?” Hazel asked.

Lantern looked at Hazel with worry, “I… I don’t know what you’re talking about. Everything is fine at my house.”

Hazel grabbed her by the shoulders, “I know something is wrong. You know why? Cause you never lie to me. Ever.”

Lantern’s ears drooped, “I… I can’t.”

“Can’t what? What is that thing in your house?” Hazel begged.

“Something that wants her punished. Something that has control over her life. Something that is drowning that house in hate and malice.” Shadow said.

Lantern looked at the stallion, this time with fear in her eyes.

“And I know that you know who or what it is. The quicker you tell me, the quicker I can help.” Shadow said.

Lantern shook her head, making Hazel hold her close.

“Lantern, what has you so scared? At the house, you said you couldn’t live with yourself if he hurt me. Who is he?”

Lantern shook in Hazel’s grasp, “He just won’t let me live my own life.”

Hazel’s ears pricked up at that, “Let you live your own life? Wait, it’s not…”

Shadow looked at Hazel, “What is it, Hazel?”

Hazel looked down at Lantern, “It’s your dad, isn’t it?”

Lantern cried out into the mare’s chest, looks like she hit the nail on the head.

Shadow raised an eyebrow, “Her father? Well, that would explain its hold on the house and why it’s so attached to her.”

“But why is your dad haunting you?” Hazel asked.

Lantern shook her head.

“When did he die? And how?” Shadow asked.

“Over a month ago. The doctors said he died from a heart attack. No one was home, so he couldn’t call for help.” Hazel said.

As she said that, Lantern shifted ever so slightly in Hazel’s embrace. Hazel didn’t notice, but Shadow did.

“Is that what really happened, Lantern? Did your father die in that house alone?” Shadow asked.

Lantern shuddered and looked at the stallion, “What are you implying?”

“I’m implying that something doesn’t fit with that story. Especially with how your father’s spirit seems particularly angry at you.”

Hazel looked confused, “Lantern, what is he talking about?”

Lantern looked between the two ponies back and forth, “Nothing, he doesn’t know what he’s talking about.”

“Lantern, how well did you get along with your father?” Shadow asked.

Lantern hesitated for a moment, “We got along just fine.”

Hazel raised an eyebrow, “Got along fine? The cranky old buck didn’t get along with anypony. Ran me out of her house more times than I could count.”

“Why was that?” Shadow asked.

“Cause he didn’t like me. Don’t know why, I always offered to help around the house.” Hazel said.

“He was strict, and maybe a little stubborn, but he wasn’t a bad pony.” Lantern said.

“But he didn’t approve of you two spending a lot of time together? Am I right?” Shadow asked.

Hazel and Lantern both blushed at that.

“Well, no. He might have caught us snuggling in her room, once or twice.” Hazel said, still blushing.

Lantern blushed too, “He said we weren’t fillies anymore. We should act our age.”

“And go find a stallion instead of hanging out with other mares so much?” Shadow asked.

Both mares looked at him, and then at each other.

“Bullseye. But there’s still the matter of your father’s death. Heart attack is pretty common. But if you also work around that house, I doubt you wouldn’t hear him fall or call out for help.”

Lantern looked away, not looking at either pony in the room.

“He controlled you, never let you live the life you wanted. Never let you have the one thing that made you happy. Because it’s not what he wanted.” Shadow said.

Hazel looked at Lantern, “Lantern.”

Lantern looked up, tears in her eyes, “He said mares need stallions to keep them in line. Make them mothers, house wives. That’s what I was born for, he said.”

Hazel’s expression grew sharper, more agitated.

“The day he died, I wanted to go see you. I wanted to… be with you. But he caught me, said that if he ever saw you near me again, he’d… kill you.” Lantern sobbed.

Hazel gasped.

“After he finished yelling, he started clutching at his chest. He couldn’t breathe, he fell onto the floor. He yelled at me to quit being so useless for once and go fetch a doctor. But I just stood there, glaring at him. I was so mad he would threaten you like that. I could take all his insults, put downs and rules. But I hated him so much for trying to keep me away from you. And he just… stopped moving. I ran to tell the sheriff about 20 minutes later.” Lantern confessed.

“So that’s why his spirit is so restless. His hatred in that moment filled the house, and made it his place of power. His spirit won’t rest until you are punished. And Hazel being there only made him more angry, more powerful.” Shadow said.

Hazel started shedding tears now, holding Lantern close, “All this time, I thought you were avoiding me because I did something wrong. But you were protecting me. You’ve always been protecting me, at the cost of yourself. Why? Why would you do that to yourself?”

“I couldn’t live with myself if you got hurt because of me.” Lantern said softly.

“AND HOW DO YOU THINK I FEEL ABOUT YOU GETTING HURT BECAUSE OF ME!?” Hazel shouted.

Lantern froze, not knowing how to respond. Hazel pulled her face in close, “You lived in that house for over a month with that monster torturing you like that?”

Lantern couldn’t move much with her face held like that, but she could nod.

“You. You. You!” Hazel repeated.

Hazel then pulled Lantern into a kiss, shocking the mare, as well as the stallion watching them. Hazel held her for a few seconds, “Don’t you ever do that again.”

Lantern said nothing but “Uhhhhhhh”

“I think you broke her.” Shadow said, with a slight smirk.

Hazel then remembered that the stallion was in the room, “Oh crap.”

“So, now that we’ve all got our feelings out in the open. How about we focus on fixing the problem?” Shadow said.

Lantern’s coat almost looked like it completely changed from blue to red, looking between the stallion and the mare who just kissed her. She cleared her throat and both mares sat up straight on the couch, Lantern fixing her hair.

“Yes, so how do we go about this?” Lantern asked.

“Well, there’s the easy way. And there’s the hard way.” Shadow said.

“What’s the easy way?” Both mares asked in unison.

“We find where your father is buried, dig up his body, and salt and burn it.” Shadow said.

Lantern looked appalled, “You want to dig up my father’s grave?”

“Yes. His bones are what keeps his soul tethered to this world. Burn them, and his spirit will be forced to leave.” Shadow said.

“Then what’s the hard way?” Hazel asked.

“There are times where burning bones isn’t enough. Sometimes spirits can attach themselves to an object. Or sometimes ponies keep a lock of their hair or teeth. If the bones don’t work, we might have to search the house for anything that he might be attached to.”

“But for now, let’s focus on the bones. Miss Lantern, where is your father buried?”

Lantern led us to a secluded area, away from the main graveyard. It was far from the house, which confused me. If his bones were all the way out here, how was he haunting the house still?

“There.” Lantern said, pointing to a mound of stones.

“Wow, an unmarked grave out in the woods. Surprised no pony questioned where you buried him.” Shadow said.

“I’m the grave keeper, and the undertaker here in town. They just leave the bodies to me. If I had known this would happen, I would have cremated him.” Lantern said, walking towards the grave.

“Well, like I said, even cremation doesn’t always guarantee. Here's hoping this is one of the easy cases.” Shadow said, holding a shovel in his magic.

“He’s not gonna try and attack us while we dig him up is he?” Hazel asked.

“It’s a possibility. If you feel chills or get a bad feeling, let me know.” Shadow said, starting to move the rocks off the grave.

“It’s already freezing out here and this whole thing has been giving me a bad feeling.” Hazel said, rubbing her hooves together.

“We will make quick work of this Hazel. Then you can make us your famous hot chocolate. I’ve been craving a cup all month.” Lantern said, starting to dig with her own shovel.

“Oh, so you only wanted me for my hot chocolate? I see how it is.” Hazel said jokingly.

“Hazel.” Lantern groaned.

“I’m kidding. But seriously, how can you two not be freezing out here?” Hazel said.

“Freezing? Please, I’ve hiked out in the frozen tundra outside of the Crystal Empire. I’ve hunted a Windigo on the Baaaahama Islands.” Shadow said.

“I thought Windigoes were just a Hearth's Warming Tale?” Hazel asked.

“Oh, they are very real. Darn thing nearly turned me into an ice sculpture. Who knew sheep could have so many arguments?” Shadow said.

The digging had continued while they were talking and after a few minutes, Shadow hit something solid. Both he and Lantern cleared out the dirt and Shadow busted the coffin open. There in the coffin sat the bones of a unicorn stallion.

“Good evening sir. Pardon the rude awakening, but it’s time for you to move on.” Shadow said, getting out the salt.

Lantern and Hazel watched from the side as Shadow covered the bones with salt, then pulled out a bottle of oil, pouring it all over the body.

He pulled out a match, lighting it, “Here we go, anything you two would like to say?”

“I got something, screw you old man! You won’t hurt her ever again!” Hazel said.

Lantern didn’t say anything, she just leaned against Hazel.

“Well, you heard the lady. Sayonara.” Shadow said, throwing the match into the coffin.

The oil ignited and the bones were set ablaze. The air felt heavier as the bones burned, like some kind of energy was being lifted up. As the fire burned, Lantern stared at it and trembled against Hazel. The bat mare feeling her partner’s fear held her hoof for comfort.

“Well, that’ll do it. The fire will burn out eventually. Let’s go get warm. I could use a cup of coffee.” Shadow said.

“Not a fan of hot chocolate?” Hazel asked, leading Lantern away from the grave.

“Haven’t had any since I was a colt. Though I wouldn’t dare steal any from your lady friend.” Shadow smirked.

Lantern scoffed, “I suppose you have earned the right to experience the delight of my Hazel’s hot chocolate.”

Hazel blushed hard, “Your Hazel?”

Lantern blushed as well, only now realizing what she said, “Oh, I… I mean.”

A gust of wind blew through the forest, bringing an incredibly cold chill. All three ponies shivered from the cold, stopping in their tracks. And while they stood there, the sound of splitting wood could be heard over the wind. They looked to find claw marks digging their way down the tree in front of them.

Shadow immediately got his sword out and stood in front of the two mares. The claw marks got bigger and deeper the further down the tree they went.

“Laaaantern!” A deep growly voice rang out from nowhere.

Lantern screamed and held her head, falling to her knees. Hazel saw this and held the mare. The claw marks scrapped across the ground, slowly revealing a vaguely pony shaped form. The pony looked like an older stallion, but the fancy collared shirt and jacket he wore were in tatters and some parts of his hide were covered in holes and decayed flesh.

The ghost looked straight at Lantern, “You stupid mare. Why couldn’t you just do as you’re told? Our family name is being dragged through the mud. Fraternizing with some pecan picking nopony, but a mare on top of that? I didn’t raise no fillyfooler!”

Hazel growled and stood in front of Lantern, “I love her, and she loves me! You’re so stuck in the old ways that you can’t see how you’re hurting her!”

The dead stallion jerked his head to the side, Hazel suddenly flew off her hooves and impacted a tree to her left. She screamed as she impacted the tree, her wing taking the brunt of the damage.

“I wasn’t talking to you, you’ve tainted my daughter enough.” He said darkly.

“Enough!” Shadow shouted, charging the ghost with his sword.

The stallion only smiled but as the sword slashed through him, he screamed and his form seemed to glitch like a tv losing signal before disappearing.

Lantern looked surprised, “What happened to him?”

Shadow looked at her and showed off his sword, “Venta here is a perfect mixture of iron and silver. The perfect weapon to use against any supernatural entity.”

Lantern nodded and then gasped, “Oh no Hazel!”

She got up on her hooves, moving over to where Hazel lay against the tree. The mare hadn’t moved, and looked like she was in a lot of pain. Shadow moved next to both mares, checking on Hazel.

“Hazel, are you ok?” Lantern asked.

“No, my wing really hurts. I think that bastard broke it.” Hazel said, teeth clenching.

Shadow looked at the wing in question, all the bends in it confirmed it, “Yeah, it’s broken. Crap.”

“Oh Hazel…” Lantern said, tears forming in her eyes.

The wind picked up again, making Shadow take a defensive stance.

“You said burning the bones would get rid of him!” Lantern yelled at him over the wind.

“I said it should. Something else must be tethering him to this plane. You didn’t keep a lock of his hair or anything did you?” He asked.

“No! Of course not!” Lantern yelled.

“Then something else must be his anchor. An item he always carried with him, anything like that?” Shadow said.

Lantern thought for a moment before realization hit her, “His pocket watch, it’s a family heirloom he always carried with him. He never let me touch it.”

“That must be it. Where is the watch now?” Shadow asked.

“I don’t know really, it must be in the house somewhere.” Lantern said.

“Take Hazel and go find it!” Shadow shouted.

The ghost stallion reappeared again and tried to charge at the group, Shadow intercepted it with his sword but then the stallion vanished again. Shadow then found himself thrown against a tree, making him groan.

“Dang it, this guy has so much malice. I haven’t seen a ghost this powerful since that time in the Manehatten Theater District.” Shadow mumbled to himself.

Lantern shook Hazel just enough to get her attention, “Hazel, come on. We have to get to the house.”

Hazel groaned and got back onto her hooves, her wing really hurt but she could tough it out. “Ok come on, let’s go find that stupid watch.”

Lantern and Hazel began to move in the direction of the house, but were quickly stopped as a large tree branch landed in front of them. Her father’s ghost appeared in front of them and blocked their way.

“Running off with mares again? How much more shame will you bring to the family?” The ghost said.

Shadow jumped over the mares and slashed at the ghost, making him dissipate again, “GO!”

Both mares quickly ran around the fallen tree branch and towards the house, leaving the zony with a very angry ghost.

“You know old timer, things have changed over the years. Two of my best friends are an all mare couple, they’re very happy. Why not just let this go? Come on, you’re dead, what’s it gonna hurt now?” Shadow said.

That earned Shadow another shove, but he was prepared this time and bounced off the tree, “Shoving, what are we on a foal’s playground?”

“You have a very smart mouth for a zebra. Why don’t you go back to Zebrica and leave well enough alone?” The ghost said.

“Now you see, that’s racist. I was born in Equestria thank you. And sorry, but by the order of Princess Luna, Ruler of the Night and Dreams, I am here to free Glowing Lantern from the entity haunting her home.” Shadow said snarkily.

Shadow blocked the claws of the ghost that appeared to his right, pushing them back and slashing the spirit again, making it disappear.

“Come on girls, hurry up and find that watch.”

“Come on, Lantern. You’re always telling me to keep better track of my things. Where is this stupid pocket watch?” Hazel asked.

“I don’t know, I didn’t exactly want to keep it. Just didn’t feel right getting rid of a family heirloom. Just keeping looking!” Lantern said, frantically looking through her attic.

Hazel looked through the next box, finding an old photo album. She opened it and found the most adorable pictures, “Aww Lantern, you looked so cute as a baby.”

Lantern blushed and immediately jumped to try and pry the book away from the bat mare, “No! You can’t look at that.”

“Aww, why not? Look, it's your first birthday. You have cake all over yourself. So cute.” Hazel said, playing keep away with the book.

“Hazel!” Lantern said, trying to grab the book.

She then remembered she had magic, so she lit up her horn and tried to pull the book out of her grasp. But all that accomplished was pulling Hazel toward her and causing both to tumble over a bunch of boxes. When the dust settled, Hazel found herself on top of Lantern, looking right into her eyes.

The bat mare grinned and leaned down, bumping snouts with the mare, “You know, this reminds me of our first kiss. Remember coming up here and hiding behind the boxes. You were so nervous, took you almost five minutes to just lean in.”

Hazel started leaning in, Lantern blushed so hot it almost looked like steam came out her ears. Her eyes lost focus and she just started to lean up, getting closer to Hazel. Both mares lips almost touched.

“Are you two serious!?” A male voice interrupted their moment.

Both mares blushed violently and looked to the attic ladder, seeing Shadow’s head poking up, “I’m fighting for all our lives out in the woods and you two are making out!”

Both mares quickly separated and spoke in unison, “No we’re not!”

“Did you happen to find that watch while you were staring into each other’s eyes?” Shadow asked sarcastically.

Both mares puffed their cheeks at the stallion, but when Lantern turned her head to give a “hmph”, she saw a tiny flash of silver. She quickly moved a mound of junk out of the way, revealing a silver pocket watch with a crescent moon symbol on it.

“Got it!” Lantern said, holding up the watch.

“Wonderful, now we just have to-” Shadow said, before being violently pulled down the ladder.

Both mares screamed and ran over to the ladder, seeing Shadow knocked away from the ladder by an invisible force. Lantern pushed Hazel back away from the ladder, just in time to dodge claw marks.

“I told you to stay out of the attic, you stupid girl. Why don’t you ever do as you're told!?” Her father said.

“Lantern, stay behind me!” Hazel said, getting in front of Lantern.

Her father’s spirit appeared in front of them, his form looking more disheveled than it did earlier.

“Shadow’s been putting you through the ringer, huh old man?” Hazel said, trying to sound tough.

“That stupid zebra won’t save you two. I will not be shown such disrespect in my own home!” He bellowed.

“This isn’t your home anymore Father. You do not belong on this plane anymore.” Lantern said.

“How dare you speak to me in such a manner. I am your father, I will teach you some discipline.” He said, pushing boxes out of the way.

Lantern grabbed Hazel’s leg and charged up her horn, the light of her horn grew so bright that Hazel had to shut her eyes. When she opened them again, she and Lantern were by the fireplace in the living room.

“Lantern, you can teleport?” Hazel asked, shocked.

“Kinda, was my first time actually trying it. I feel really dizzy.” Lantern said, her legs shaking.

A crash came through the wall of the living room, Shadow emerged from the dust, “I am really getting sick of being thrown around.”

He then noticed the two mares, “Oh, when did you two get down here? Better question is how? That old man just shot me down the ladder again.”

“Lantern apparently learned how to teleport. But she needs more practice.” Hazel said, holding her mare upright.

“Hush Hazel. We have the watch, what now?” Lantern said, holding up the watch in her magic.

“Excellent.” Shadow said, walking by and snatching the watch.

He went and grabbed a wooden chair that was leaning against a wall, dragging it over to the fireplace and smashing it.

“Hey! That was my grandmother’s chair!” Lantern shouted.

“Need firewood.” Shadow said, throwing the chair into the hearth.

He pulled out a flint and lit the fire, holding the watch in front of him, “So long old man. Hope Tartarus is hot this time of year.”

Just as he was about to throw it into the fire, Shadow was thrown again, dropping the pocket watch in front of the hearth. As the zony picked himself off the floor, the ghostly stallion stood in front of him. His form radiated a heat, the malice inside of him had grown even stronger.

“You have caused enough trouble in this house. You’ll be the one going to Tartarus tonight.” The spirit sneered.

“Father!” Lantern shouted from behind the ghost.

The stallion turned to see Lantern holding the pocket watch above the fireplace, Hazel stood next to her protectively.

“You were a vile, bitter old cretin. Even before Mother died, you were this way. But I stayed in this house because you were my flesh and blood. But no more. This ends now. I am leaving to be with Hazel Nut, my true love.” Lantern declared.

Hazel blushed but stood proud next to her marefriend.

“You bring shame to our family name! You stupid, stupid filly!”

“I am no longer a filly! I am Glowing Lantern, and you have overstayed your welcome!” Lantern shouted.

She then threw the watch into the fireplace, the flames consuming the metal. The ghostly stallion lunged forward at the mares but stopped as the fire began to travel up his body. The tattered clothes burned and the flames soon consumed him. He let out a last piercing shriek into the night as he finally disappeared.

Hazel took a tentative step forward, “Is he gone? For real this time?”

Shadow groaned and got off the floor, “Yes, his spirit is gone. Wherever he is now, I hope it’s boiling hot and terrible.”

“Agreed. Are you ok, Shadow?” Lantern asked, walking over to the stallion.

“Eh, a few bruises. Nothing serious.” Shadow said, rubbing at his shoulder.

Hazel then suddenly hugged him, catching him and Lantern off guard. Shadow did not know how to respond, so he just stood there.

“Thank you, you kept your promise. You saved her.” Hazel said softly.

“I always keep my promises. Just doing my job Miss Hazel.” Shadow said, trying to sound professional.

“Oh shut up with all that Miss stuff. It’s always Hazel to you. And you’re always welcome in our home.” Hazel said.

“Our home?” Lantern asked.

“Oh yeah, I’m never letting you out of my sight again. I’ll drag you and all your stuff to my house if I have to.” Hazel said, turning her head to her mare.

Lantern blushed and stepped closer, “Yes well. I would also like to thank you, Shadow Strike. You have done so much for us in just one night.”

“Like I said, just doing my duty.” Shadow said, gently pushing Hazel off him.

“Truly, I hope you two can find happiness now. Let your father’s influence and malice not affect your lives from now on.”

“We shall. Now come on, let’s get out of here. This house is so dreary now.” Lantern said, walking out the door.

“Yes! I’ll brew up the best hot chocolate in all of Equestria.” Hazel said, taking off into the air.

Shadow just smiled and shook his head, another job well done.

Two days later.

“So, that’s your report? The spirit of the father has passed into the veil, and nothing else haunts Miss Glowing Lantern?” Princess Luna asked.

“That about sums it up. He was a bitter old prick. Now those two can live in peace.” Shadow said.

“I must say Shadow, you performed quite well. Other than a broken wing on Miss Hazel Nut, no long term injuries or permanent psychological damage this time.” Achelois praised.

“You know Achelois, there are times I feel that even when you are praising me, you’re still scolding me.” Shadow said, glowing at the mare.

“I have no idea what you mean.” Achelois said, merely adjusting her glasses, with a slight smirk.

Shadow rolled his eyes, “So, can I have my pay please? I got bills to pay, and could really use a good meal.”

“Well since you asked so nicely, here you are. 1500 bits, I trust this will be efficient for a reward.” Luna said, levitating a bag of bits.

Shadow whistled, “Now that’s a payday. I can buy that new coffee maker I’ve been eyeing.”

“A coffee maker? 1500 bits and that’s the first time that comes to mind?” Achelois chuckled.

“Eh, go choke on the dust in your library. I’m out. Later Luna, see ya on the next job. Hopefully it’ll be some really cool rare beast.” Shadow said, walking out of the throne.

“That’s Princess Luna, Shadow. Really, do try and be professional.” Achelois scolded him.

“Ok, here’s my professionalism” Shadow blew her a raspberry and disappeared out the door.

As the door closed, Luna sighed, “If only his skills portrayed his maturity.”

Author's Note

Hey guys, Hades here.

Decided to take a break from Trails and finish this story. A little taste of a new project I'll be starting after Trails is done.

Epilogue

Four years later

“Wow, the place looks the same as before.” Shadow said, walking up to the door of the farmhouse.

He knocked on the door, and after a few seconds, a brown bat mare opened it and smiled at him.

“Shadow, you made it!” Hazel said.

“I did. Nice not to get dropped from the sky this time.”

Hazel gestured with her wing to come inside. He did just that, and the inside of the house was definitely different than before. So much cleaner than he remembered, that had to be Lantern’s doing. The decor was a mixture of the old and new. The mares had turned the home into a perfect blend of their respective styles.

“So, how have you two been? I’m sorry I missed your wedding. Worst possible timing to be sent to Mount Aris to hunt a kraken.” Shadow said apologetically.

“Nah, don’t worry about that. Lantern and I understood. Besides, you’re making it up to us today.” Hazel said cheerfully.

“Oh? How so? And where’s Lantern?” Shadow asked.

“She’s waiting for us in the living room.” Hazel said, pushing him along.

“Ok ok, what’s the deal?” Shadow said, stepping into the room.

But as he did, he saw something that made him freeze in place. His eyes went wide at what he saw.

There, sitting on the couch, was Glowing Lantern. She was holding a small bundle in her forelegs, smiling at it before she noticed Shadow had arrived.

“Hello Shadow.” She said softly.

Hazel pushed past the stallion and stood next to Lantern, smiling from ear to ear in excitement. She gestured him over with her wing. Shadow walked up to the two mares and as he got closer, he looked down at the bundle in Lantern’s hooves.

Lantern opened the bundle and revealed a little filly. More of the bundle was removed, revealing a little pair of bat wings on the baby’s back. Her coat was the same color as Lanterns, her mane was a mix of Lantern’s colors and Hazel’s. Her eyes were purple, a perfect mix of color from her mothers.

“Who is this?” Shadow asked.

“This is our daughter. Our little miracle. Cakewalk.” Lantern said, brushing the filly’s cheek.

“Yep, cause that’s what her life will be. A cakewalk, nothing will keep her down.” Hazel said proudly.

Shadow chuckled, “She’s a cute little filly. I guess those rumors of experimental magics were true. She looks too much like both of you to come from a donor.”

“Nope, that’s only us in there. She’s perfect.” Hazel said, nuzzling the filly.

“Would you like to hold her?” Lantern asked.

“Oh no, I’m not much for babies.” Shadow said.

“Come on, hold her. How can you say no to this cute little face?” Hazel said, rubbing her nose against the filly to make her giggle.

Shadow sighed, “Alright. Just for a moment.”

Lantern levitated the baby over to him, he held her for a moment, looking down at her. She was pretty cute.

“I have a feeling you will be quite the little adventurer.” Shadow said.

“Shadow, there is something we wanted to ask of you.” Lantern said.

Shadow looked at her with a raised eyebrow.

“This baby wouldn’t have been born without you. You saved us all those years ago. We would never have found happiness if not for your bravery.” Lantern said.

“I think you give me too much credit.” Shadow said.

“Nope, you totally saved us and brought us together.” Hazel said.

“So, because of all you’ve done for us, we would like you to be Cakewalk’s godfather.” Lantern said.
Shadow’s eyes widened, looking down at the filly, who was now currently sleeping against him. Godfather?

“I don’t know what to say. I don’t really think I deserve that honor.” Shadow said.

“Sure you do. I bet you’ll be the coolest godfather ever. She’ll adore you, I know it.” Hazel said.

Shadow smiled and looked down at the filly, “I don’t know about that. But I guess it wouldn’t hurt to come visit every now and then. See what trouble this little one gets up to.”

“She will get up to no trouble!” Lantern said sternly.

Shadow smirked, “Not if I have a say.”

Hazel just laughed as Lantern glared daggers at the stallion, taking her baby back from him and holding her protectively.

Shadow burst out laughing, feeling a warmth in his chest.

Back in the streets on Canterlot, a lone figure walked down the bustling streets. No pony seemed to notice her as she weaved around to avoid ponies. As she stepped towards a modest little house near the suburbs, she paused.

“Another beautiful day in the city of greed and bureaucracy. Such a lovely place brimming with despair and deceit. Our kind of town, don’t you agree?”

“Leave me alone.” The mare said.

“Aww, don’t be like that. We both know how much you hate being alone. But don’t worry, I’ll always be with you.”

The mare’s body shuttered and she quickly went inside her home, slamming the door behind her.

Author's Note

Hey guys, Hades here.

And that's all she wrote for Hazel and Lantern. But don't worry, they might return another day. Hope you guys enjoyed this little short story. Hope to have more for you soon.

Hades