Mirror of the Moonby Illusive ShadowChaptersA tale lost across the sea.The beginning of a tall tale.The Castle that the Sun ForgotSeasons ChangeA tale lost across the sea.The winds of the heavy ocean pummeled the small wooden ship. Twisting and weaving, the waves harassing any chance of a peaceful voyage. The lone stallion aboard the ship doing his utter best to keep the ship afloat and heading straight. He had long since missed the icebergs of the North Luna Ocean, and the tremendous whirlpools the energy of the north wreaked upon him. Charcoal Flame leapt up onto the mast and used his hoof to shield his eyes He was still some ways from land, but the cloudy darkness only increased his heart rate. He gazed down at his compass that had guided him this far. He practically threw it into his darkened robe and held tight, if the storm was to take him it would have to take the entire ship too. “Princess Luna, guide me.” He said as he watched the horizon. A glimmer of sunlight seemed to pierce the clouds. The long awaited sight appearing before his eyes. The ocean was ending, land had come. Luna Bay stood dead ahead, virtually unchanged from the ancient records he carried with him. A large bay opened up with forests and wooden docks, vessels moored belonging to the inhabitants, whoever they turned out to be. He had come this far now, there was no turning back. He jumped down to the cold moist deck, his hooves splashing in the salty water of the ocean. The clouds began to clear. Finally safe. He reached for his silver blade and slid it into its sheath. “Celestia, your end has come.” He said as his ship slowly inched toward shore. Luna Bay was likely Equestria’s largest and most prosperous western ports. The wooden sail ships of countless colours were positioned here, alongside fishing vessels of other races that gathered from further east. The large expanse of water acted as a large natural harbour that protected most of the vessels from the rougher seas that existed this far north. His own ship was smaller than most here and had taken moderate damage from the more heavier waves. Fortunately it was no longer needed, as he slowly came to a stop close enough to the dock, his horn glowed, a plank was lifted and inserted into place. His robed form easily crossed until his hooves stomped onto the wood of the port. “You there.” A simple but gruff voice of an earth pony reached his ears. Charcoal Flame contorted his head sideways, his eyes snapping to lock with the pony that was drawing his attention. The earth pony was brown in colour with a tinge of blue on his mane, and a moustache that curled upwards. Judging by his cutie mark being an anchor, he assumed he was the harbour master. “Greetings, I am Water Froth.” The stallion said reaching out a hoof in kindness. Charcoal stood firm and defensive in the face of Celestia’s minion. “I have come from across the sea, that is all I expect you to know.” The stallion pulled back his hoof as his face changed to one of annoyance. “You’re new here, this is Equestria.” “I know where I am.” Charcoal informed him. “Yes well, mind telling me which kingdom you are from? Let me guess, Griffonstone?” Water Froth appeared to be making a joke. Charcoal sighed. “I am from a location that has not had communications with Equestria in a very long time.” Water Froth raised an eyebrow. “Well in that case, perhaps you would like me to contact Canterlot?” “Canterlot?” Charcoal asked, unfamiliar with the name. “The capital?” Water Froth’s expression was one of surprise. “Surely you’ve heard of it.” “Perhaps you could supply me with a map?” Charcoal kindly suggested. “It would be my pleasure.” Water Froth said trotting off. Charcoal Flame smirked, it seemed Equestria was going to be far more easier to infiltrate than he had ever hoped. The only difficulty, he knew, was going to be in ending the Sun Princess’s reign. He tapped the blade still tied to his body and followed after Water Froth. “Here is the map you asked for.” Water Froth said passing over a map of Equestria and other nearby lands. Charcoal examined it with the mental memory of his own map. What had once been a simple settlement known as Canterlot Mountain had now transformed into a clear and obvious new capital. “The settlement is located on the mountain?” Charcoal asked curious as to what else the pony could tell him. “More or less, perched about halfway up.” Water Froth replied. “It’s kind of a big deal to travel there.” Charcoal grumbled and rolled the parchment up in his hooves carefully. “Thank you, you have been a big help.” “If you are on your way to Canterlot, I’d suggest stopping by Tall Tale first, it will have all the supplies you might need for land travel, plus it’s pretty much the closest settlement.” Water Froth’s suggestions seemed intent on being helpful in nature. “I will be on my way.” Charcoal said turning to leave the vicinity of the port, “By the way.” Water Froth said holding up a hoof. “Your ship appears damaged, I can probably patch her up, for a price.” Charcoal looked over at his ship. “I cannot currently pay you, but if you do the job, I will see to it that you are rewarded for your services.” “I’ll hold you to that.” Water Froth said stern and serious, Charcoal’s exit from Luna Bay was an interesting one. His observations told him that most ponies journeying to the harbour did so via vessel as opposed to walking the roads. It made sense logistically, since the majority were either traders or explorers, the road was slightly more unkempt, full of holes and the few groups of travellers he did pass appeared to be likely from the more local villages. Charcoal eyed the community carefully, mostly earth ponies pulling wagons. Back at home much had been done likewise to ensure each type of pony were accomplished. The unicorns naturally formed the upper echelons, though the pegasi made for formidable warriors. He began to approach the large town referred to as Tall Tale on his map. It was a well built population centre with tall chimneys bellowing smoke into the air as the sun fell. The cobbled streets were full of most,y earth ponies who appeared to be a mixture of farmers and miners. Many ponies began pulling out oil lanterns, the glimmers of light shining under the street lights, Charcoal Flame surveyed around but it was difficult to get s good grasp of the town’s services after dark. He considered pushing onward but decided against it. He instead trotted toward a large building that appeared very old, made of thick stone and with a large wooden vacant sign outside, He moved up the steps and opened the door, the room was extravagant with damask wallpaper on the walls and a large candle chandelier hanging from the ceiling. He approached the front counter and moved his hoof to a small bell sitting atop it, A loud ding could then be heard echoing off of the red walls and then the silence returned, this time only far more noticeable. A stirring noise could then be heard as an older female earth pony with large black glasses shifted toward him. “May I assist you?” The green pony with a red mane asked. “”Am I correct in understanding that this building’s purpose is for accomodation?” Charcoal asked. “That it is, will you require a room?” The pony asked. “I will.” Charcoal spoke to the point, “That will be twenty bits for tonight.” The mare said placing a log book down and opening it up to the day’s page. Charcoal thought for a moment his options. “I do not possess bits, but tell me, is this an acceptable alternative?” Charcoal opened a pouch and pulled from it a much older silver coin with a face of Princess Luna imprinted on the back. The coin itself he was most aware would be worth quite a bit for its pure weight in precious metal. The pony’s eyes glazed over in amazement. “Which room would you like?” The aged mare carried a key and an oil lantern with her up the stairs and along a long corridor before stopping at room sixteen. The door creaked open to reveal a simple yet old fashioned room, much like downstairs except with a bed and a bathroom included. “This is for you.” The pony said handing him.a second brass key for coming and going. “I hope that you enjoy your stay.” The pony said before closing the door and leaving him in the dark. Charcoal Flame’s horn glowed as the candles on his own chandelier ignited, as well as the oil lantern on the desk. He then walked up to the window and looked out at the town below. He knew now that he was in the heart of enemy territory, he needed to get some rest from his long journey, but he wondered if he could sleep at all. The beginning of a tall tale.Charcoal Flame shot up from his bed in a sudden burst of panic and reached for his sword out of instinct. With a heavy sigh he loosened his grip as he realized that once again he had allowed his mind to get the better of him. Peering up at the window he could see that dawn was fast approaching and he had no luxury of waiting. Pulling his body out of bed with his hooves he allowed himself a moment for a quick stretch. So far his arrival seemed to have gone unnoticed, but he knew full well that it would not take long for word to reach Celestia if he dawdles too long. He slipped the black robe back on and lifted the hood to again hide his red mane. Sheathing his sword, he exited the room and ventured down the corridor towards the stairs. Tall Tale as the town was called was largely the same as he had been informed by the historical records presented to him by various historians. Even still actually being among pony kind that was not his own made him nervous, they seemed harmless enough but he knew all too well how deceiving appearances could truly be. After moving down the stairs he found himself drawn to what could only be described as a great aroma for a body that had spent weeks on mere preserved rations. The smell was of various types of foods and beverages being prepared. Inside a large room was an array of various ponies seated at wooden tables going about their early morning, most still yawning. He knew it was risky but his desires got the better of him as he found himself choosing a chair for himself in the far off corner of the room. It did not take him long to notice his attire was extremely out of place for such an establishment, most of the ponies were of the earth variety and were dressed in simple traditionalist clothing. A younger mare who worked behind the counter wore a red blouse and skirt and trotted over. He must have looked alien to her because she raised an eyebrow in a questioning pose. Despite her uncertainty she did not hesitate to lower a book onto the table before trotting off. Charcoal gazed down at the book. It was clearly the menu to the shop and as he flicked through the pages with his hooves he could only be stunned in amazement at the variety of options. Back home land was a rarer commodity and much of their nutritional needs came from the sea around them, many of the earth ponies had been driven towards learning how to work the sea rather than the land. But even so there was no shortage of ocean treats that made its way to this town either. He however was more interested in the pleasantries of land food. "What can I get you?" The mare said as she returned to the table noticing that his flicking had come to a halt. "Two hay burgers and a barley tea with milk please." Charcoal asked. "Won't be long." She smiled at him and twisted back to the kitchen. Charcoal could feel almost all the eyes of the other ponies around sneaking glances at him. He knew that it was a problem, if word of him spread. After some time passed the mare laid out a plate full of food and slid the tea across the table over to him. Charcoal steadily sipped at the tea not having had anything but water since his journey across the Luna ocean. The burger buns were fresh and only recently removed from the oven and broke apart easily in his mouth. The hay was fresh and reminded him of home. He devoured every morsel until his plate was completely empty, then getting up from the table he made his way over towards the counter where the mare stood waiting for him. "Thank you for the meal." Charcoal said ignoring her glare. "My pleasure, we don't get many ponies as shady as you here." She said clearly trying to make light of the situation she viewed as awkward. "My apologies." Charcoal responded as he moved his hoof toward his coin pouch. "My advice is you might want to change your attire if you are going to stay here, folks here don't trust those who act suspicious." The mare said seemingly trying to be helpful. Charcoal held up another of his silver coins. The mare however was not as pleased as the last. "No bits?" She asked with an annoyed expression. "My shop does not typically do barter." "It is all that I possess." Charcoal said uncertain how to react. "Oh, alright. But just this once." She said accepting the coin. "But I aint going to try to calculate your change." Charcoal was about to protest when he heard a pony mare scream from behind him. The mare at the counter looked up and gasped in shock. Charcoal turned around and in the doorway stood three rather large red Rock Lobsters. The one in the middle being the biggest. The first Rock Lobster on the left moved forward and used its large claws to tip over a table, sending the stallion in the chair tipping back and falling onto the ground before scampering away. The other ponies began to panic and leapt up from their seats, but with only the one way out could only move to the other side of the room. Charcoal turned slowly towards the lobsters as the leader turned towards him. "This building is now ours." The lead Rock Lobster declared. "We will be taking all of your food too." Charcoal placed his hoof upon his silver blade and slid it free from its sheathe, drawing it and pointing it towards the aquatic creature. "The pony wants to fight." The Rock Lobster laughed as the other two refocused their attention on Charcoal. "slash him up a bit." The leader of the Rock Lobsters pointed at him with his claw. The pair of Rock Lobsters rushed forward with their claws extended forward. Charcoal leapt forward and slashed at the left Rock Lobster and leapt on top of his back. hoping down he turned and brought the weight of his blade down upon the right Lobster. Despite the hard shells the lobster's possessed, both now had slice marks along their bodies and appeared to be frozen in shock at what had happened. As the seconds ticked by both collapsed and began weeping in agony. "You'll pay for that." The lead Rock Lobster said bringing up his claws before charging at Charcoal. A lobster claw came smashing down towards Charcoal but he managed to quickly dodge it, and then the opposite claw soon followed and he blocked it with his sword. The lobster was strong but Charcoal was able to put the strength he had just gained from his meal to work holding it up. Charcoal moved backwards breaking the lock and then pounced forward once again bringing his sword down. The lobster used its claws to block his blow but was too distracted to notice Charcoal spinning around and using his hind legs to slam into the lobster's front. "Not a bad fighter." The Rock Lobster said amused at the pain he had been caused. "We have no mercy for scum like you." Charcoal said before raising his sword again and moving forward to deliver the final blow. The Rock Lobster collapsed unconscious from the sword cutting his front. The two smaller Rock Lobsters rushed forward past Charcoal, grabbed their leader and scurried out the door. With his robe torn and damaged, Charcoal allowed it to drop to the ground. His black fur and red mane now fully exposed. "Thank you!" The mare said rushing toward him. "You truly were impressive." Charcoal had no time to waste, already he could hear yelling and the sound of metallic horseshoes approaching. He quickly used his horn to pick up his tattered robe and ran out of the building. On his way out he could see blue dressed ponies with helmets, what passed as so called law enforcement in Celestia's kingdom rushing toward the hotel. He could not afford to be spotted, he had already drawn too much attention. His only saving grace was that most appeared to be chasing the fleeing lobsters back to the shoreline. He ran for a nearby alleyway and from there he would determine the quickest way out of town. The Castle that the Sun ForgotCharcoal Flame pushed himself forward, sloshing through the muddy fields as he crossed the land outside of Tall Tale. The well irrigated fields serving as the source of the town's massive food supply. He had decided to avoid the roads for a time as to avoid news of his sudden abrupt departure being noticed too soon. It was quite possible he was in the clear, but it was also quite possible rumours of his actions would begin spreading around the small town, questions that would attract the unwanted attention of Celestia's enforcers. As he gained distance from town, he could see clearly the tall mountain range in the distance. He trotted onward reassuring himself that once he was far enough ahead he would once again stick to the roads. As the town faded further and further into the distance behind him, lowering from his perception and fading into the horizon. Charcoal came to a halt as he spotted something ahead, amongst some trees was what appeared to be some large stone ruins, their appearance he noticed as he got closer was that of a rather large castle. The stone wall around the structure was clearly old and many of the trees inside were massive and ancient. Rising above them all were tall turrets and spires aiming up at the sky. Tempted by its magnificence, he trotted down the gravel path cutting through the trees. He slowed as he spotted a large statue of the moon, unmistakable as a symbol of Princess Luna, the one who had founded his home. The castle's doors were extremely large and were marked with various magical symbols that only a unicorn would be educated enough to notice. Wards mostly, meant to keep those with bad intentions away. He pressed his hoof's weight against the door and found that it shifted, revealing that it was in fact unlocked. Charcoal hesitated for a moment, and then he pushed his way inside determinedly. Charcoal's horn glowed brightly as he used it to light up the entrance room. Tattered tapestries, rugs and wallpaper appeared to melt from the walls. The candle's wax long since mostly expended. The paintings mostly torn and covered in dust, hiding the ponies of the past that once made the place a home. The one thing largely undamaged was a large silver statue of Princess Luna herself on a pedestal standing next to the far wall. Charcoal moved toward it mesmerized by its reverence. On his island precious metals were far rarer, most of it went to tools and fishing equipment, much of their metals were preserved from what Princess Luna had brought them a thousand years ago, the rest was for holding the timber that made up the hull of their ships. Charcoal bowed his head out of respect to his fallen Princess, the one who never returned after announcing that the time had come to end Celestia's rule forever. Their ancestors had been only fillies and colts at the time, ill suited for warfare, ill suited to the war that followed. It was this reason more than any other that he felt so blessed to be the first of his kind to return to the mainland. To proudly step foot on equestrian soil as an ever faithful servant of the one true princess. Charcoal's attention was then drawn away by the sound of a mechanical clang, then a repetitive whirring soon followed by yet another clang. He moved across the large once ornate room towards a far back wooden door. He nudged it with his hoof but found it to be stuck. He pushed harder and harder but the door just would not budge. Aiming his horn, he ignited it with a powerful glow and then sent forth a pulse of powerful magical energy. The door fracturing wide and allowing him entry. As he stomped over the broken pieces he could tell the door had been sealed up securely with nails and wooden boards. Charcoal with his horn glowing once again traversed down steep steps, down into what he observed to be an extremely deep basement. The door at the end of the long staircase opened, this time with ease. The basement itself was alight with candle light all around, candlesticks upon the walls illuminating what appeared to be some sort of giant machine that was even now in motion. Under the machine was a pony, a stallion earth pony. Charcoal moved forward but was hesitant to move under the machine as it appeared to spin above the stallion. The pony had white fur and a dark brown mane and appeared to be laying on his back in a comfortable pose. Charcoal looked closer to see if the stallion was in fact breathing. "What is this?" Charcoal asked as he prepared to reach for his sword. "This?" The stallion whispered calmly as he lay on a makeshift metallic bed. The stallion shot up from his support and jumped up onto his legs and quickly moved toward Charcoal, hopping up on his hind hooves he reached out his fore hooves and grasped Charcoal's snout. "This is the work of Professor Lighting Spark!" He said struggling to gasp for air. Charcoal pulled himself back but resisted giving the professor a hoof to the face, especially when he saw that the pony appeared incredibly weak and fail and his eyes looked extremely bloodshot, in short he seemed too weak to be of any threat. "Lighting Spark, so you're a scientist?" Charcoal asked with half his attention drawn to the machine. "Yes,yes." Lighting Spark turned around and stared up at the machine. "This is my beauty of an invention, the Sleep Inducement Oscillator, similar to the Multiple Wave Oscillator as created by Ponyovsky, but designed to increase the effects of lucid dreaming." Charcoal stared coldly at Lighting. "Impressive, but it is of no interest to me, I will be on my way now." Lighting Spark shot forward in an act of desperation. "Wait please, I desperately need a subject!" "Find somepony else." Charcoal shot back as he continued walking back towards the staircase. "But your Cutie Mark even has a moon on it!" Lighting stated. Charcoal Flame froze glanced down at his mark. It was a simple symbol of a full moon, a symbol that meant much to his kind, a lesser version that was held in the sky above them, forever guiding his kind's journey forward. "Yours is a golden flaming gear, clearly you are more up to the task of experimentation." He said reminding himself to find a new cover so that no pony could track him by the mark that he had been been gifted. "Please, it is the only way for my work to be finished!" Lighting had evidently turned to begging. "Please, Lighting. Find somepony else." Charcoal said expecting it to be the last time he had to incite his decision to decline. Lighting shook in clear and obvious fear even as Charcoal once again resumed his departure. As Lighting began to open his mouth in protest again, Charcoal considered perhaps needing to use his sword to make his demands more clear. Instead the words that followed were far worse than he had ever been expecting. "Please, you do not understand..." Lighting said with fear in his tone. "It was already too late when you walked into this castle." Charcoal had been patient enough with the pony. With a swift stroke, his blade was extended and pointed towards Lighting. The Professor's reactions were slow and cumbersome as it took him quite some time to notice that Charcoal had just drawn a weapon on him. "No, you do not understand, harming me will not help you." Lighting seemed to be trying to explain. "Explain." Charcoal said certainly considering leaving the questions for somepony who actually cared. "It's in here." Lighting said pointing a hoof to his head. "If any harm befalls me, it will merely pass onto you." "What will?" Charcoal asked making sure his tone of voice let the Professor know how angry he was. "I do not want to speak of its name." Lighting said continuing to plead. "Name or I am locking you down here." Charcoal threatened. "It's the Tantabus." Lighting said as he collapsed to the ground in misery and exhaustion. Charcoal's mind suddenly flashed back to when he was a young colt and had naturally been selected for lessons on magical history. Out of all the creatures that could be summoned into existence, the Tantabus was perhaps one of the most dangerous. "A true Tantabus?" Charcoal asked in shock. Lighting nodded in sheer regret. "Every legend about them is true." "You fool." Charcoal kept his blade up. "No Earth pony has the power to control such a creature!" Lighting stared down at his hooves that were on the cold stone floor. "I didn't summon it if that's what you think. It was already here when I arrived." Charcoal hesitated for a slight moment but then decided it best to sheathe his sword. He then approached Lighting and knelt down to look into his red blood stricken eyes. He saw only honesty in the Professor's gaze, no hint of attempted malice. "Tell me how you found it." Charcoal stated calmly. Lighting sighed. "I had heard rumours of this castle from colleagues in the archeological field, pony farmers had reported animals refusing to sleep anywhere near these ruins, and so I came here hoping to find something that would assist me in my research of what happens when we sleep. I had thought my luck had reached new heights when I found this basement, and discovered a sealed urn that was at least a thousand years old, oh what a fool I was." "Where is this urn?" Charcoal asked. Lighting pointed towards a small wooden table full of various archeological finds, most of it little more than junk. One of the largest objects was a cracked urn. Charcoal studied the chunks in his hooves, his eyes opening wide as he recognized the black urn had symbols carved into it, symbols that represented Princess Luna. "This urn may have been crafted by Princess Luna herself." Charcoal said with amazement. "Quite likely, she created the Tantabuses after all." Lighting agreed. Charcoal quickly redrew his sword. "What blasphemy did I just hear you speak?" "Blasphemy?" Lighting asked with extreme surprise. "During the war between Princess Luna and Celestia, the use of Tantabuses was well recorded. Nightmare Moon employed them many times against various military leaders, sometimes even against entire armies." "Propaganda." Charcoal replied. "For what reason would she have to do such a thing?" "Terror, exhaustion, general weakening of settlement's defenders." Lighting seemed to tick the uses off one at a time. "The only pony resistant to them was Celestia herself, nothing had been more frightening to her than the loss of her sister." Charcoal considered Lighting's claim. Was it truly possible that Princess Luna had created such creatures as a part of some kind of military strategy? Certainly it would have prevented deaths and avoided unnecessary violence. "Alright." He sheathed his sword and marched back over to Lighting. "So you discovered this Tantabus stored away?" Lighting nodded once again out of regret. "I released it intentionally, I had thought that I could master it, use it to advance my research forward years!" "What went wrong?" Charcoal asked. "I had failed to take into consideration its history, I had assumed it would only use my own memories." Lighting replied. "You mean it carried other memories with it?" Charcoal tried to comprehend the ramifications. "I do not yet know how it ended up in that urn, but it was used during the war. Lighting stared over at the shattered urn on the desk. "It remembers..." The day must have been coming to an end as the candles around the room burned through ever more wax. Charcoal used his magic to help rearrange furniture around the room. He had been left with no choice, he knew as much as Lighting did that the Tantabus was already aware of his presence, and that it would use the dream plane to follow him anywhere and potentially it could even find its way across the sea, something that under no condition could be allowed. "I cannot believe I am allowing this." Charcoal said having now lay down on the same bed that he had found the Professor in. "Don't worry, I've never hurt a fly, not after what happened to the last pony that did so." Lighting said with a shiver. "What happened to him?" Charcoal could not resist asking. "Teleportation experiment, went horribly wrong. Celestia dealt with the matter, personally." Lighting said reassuringly. "You really believe I will have better luck defeating it?" Charcoal said lowering his head back onto the pillow. "I have the sense it will be drawn to you." Lighting replied. "And you seem like a strong fighter." "Yes, but what does any of that have to do with dreams." Charcoal stared up at the ceiling as the oscillator began to spin. "Trust me, your physical prowess will be tested, even in your nightmares." Lighting said as the oscillator sped up more and more. Charcoal could feel himself slipping away, fading into the land of dreams. He could not imagine feeling safe enough to fall asleep in a place like this, especially being aware of what was about to happen. But the oscillator did its assigned task, as would he. Charcoal's eyes flickered open as he found himself in the basement of the castle. Glancing around he could see no light anywhere, it was entirely dark. The only sounds he could hear as he listened was the sound of his own heart beat and his slow and steady breathing. He stood upright and firm and checked to see if his sword was available, only it had disappeared along with all of his other items. Charcoal lit his horn and illuminated as much of the space around him as he could. The machine was gone and in fact the room appeared completely empty. He made his way toward the door that he knew lead to the staircase, only to find that it had been replaced with a solid stone wall. "What is the meaning of this?" Charcoal asked angrily as his short span of patience that he possessed was already wearing thin. Charcoal fired a blast of energy from his horn at the wall, then he fired again and again but somehow it caused no damage and only served to wear him out. "Is this truly the most frightening of nightmares you can conjure, Tantabus?!" Charcoal roared out. The room possessed no sound but his hooves clattering on the stone floor beneath him. The lack of any kind of ambience driving him mad. He did not want to stop walking as it was his only source of noise, so he strode around the basement in some search of an exit, but there was none to be found. "This is some cruel joke you are playing, Tantabus." Charcoal whispered under his breath. He then heard what sounded like a knocking sound and turned back and shined his light at the wall where he had started. There where he had first checked, the door had now appeared. He quickly trotted over and set his hooves on the knob of the door and pulled. For whatever reason it did not budge. So he pulled harder and harder until finally he flew back onto the floor, the knob had come off the door and was now in his hooves. "Face me you coward!" Charcoal yelled out. "Face you?" Asked a deep masculine voice that seemed to reverberate through the floor. "I was merely allowing you to face yourself, as all must do if they are going to defeat me." The voice seemed to suggest it already knew his intentions. Charcoal nodded to himself. "You're in my head, you know why I am here, Tantabus." "Do I?" The Tantabus asked questioningly. "How could I possibly know more about you, than you know about yourself." Charcoal stood up from the ground, he did his best to keep his horn alight but could have sworn the darkness of the room was causing it to shrink. He did his best to ignore it and focus on the situation at hoof. "I have no desire for games Tantabus, I demand that you cease whatever you are doing to Professor Lighting." Charcoal had no idea about Tantabus' personalities, only a basic understanding of their abilities. "I was only doing what it is in my nature to do, it is he that was kind enough to release me." The Tantabus explained. "Perhaps I do owe him some slack." "I have no wish of you to remain in my head either." Charcoal answered realizing where the reasoning was going. "You will return to your vessel." The Tantabus growled in annoyance. "Do you really think that fair?" "Who said anything about fair?" Charcoal asked. "It is my demands, and any attempt not to follow my demands will result in your destruction." "A thousand years, Charcoal Flame. That is how long I have endured imprisonment against my will." The Tantabus responded with rage. "You expect me to care?" Charcoal asked with a cold glare at the shadows. "I have a purpose to serve." "As did I." The Tantabus replied as the room began to morph into an open midnight field. Charcoal could feel the grass under his hooves as if it was real, he turned and could see the castle in the distance as it stood, as fully constructed as it had been in the time. He heard the sound of swords clashing in the distance, cries of pain and suffering. The sound of a determined battle. It did not take him long to guess what it was. "The war between ponies, the war between the Moon and the Sun." Charcoal said glancing up at the fully arisen moon that seemed to stare down at them. There was no mare in the moon when this battle took place. "This is what it is like, to be so close to your purpose yet unable to take part." The Tantabus pointed out. Eventually the screaming faded and after some mourning the event was merely forgotten by time, the whole purpose of my creation and all of my hard work, undone and merely forgotten by the frailty of pony minds." "Why are you trying to point this out to me?" Charcoal asked. "Because you and I are the same, different beings certainly, but no less victims of the passing of time." The Tantabus began to take a more physical looking form as that of a large drop of water rising out of the ground to reach eye Charcoal's eye level. "Between your memories and those of the Professor, there is no correlation, this land has forgotten your existence, you are a fragment of a fragment of a memory that has been swept under the rug." The black translucent form of the Tantabus hovered in the air with seemingly no ulterior motive but to talk about how forgetful ponykind is. "Lighting told me that you were created by Princess Luna." Charcoal had intended it to be a question, but he could not bring himself to ask if it was true. "From a certain point of view." The Tantabus said in agreement. "My brethren were created to fight your war." "But you failed." Charcoal shot back with the accusation of blame. "The defeat was not of our doing, victory was within our grasp, all of Equestria feared the very image of Nightmare Moon, even a thousand years later their colts and fillies shiver at the mere mention of her name. The Tantabus explained passionately. "The fault was with Nightmare Moon herself, she decided to challenge Celestia personally, and even then Celestia was only victorious in the final moments of the battle." "Then our Princess is truly dead." Charcoal said staring up at the moon that now no longer held the face of their Princess as it had done for a thousand years after her disappearance. "Dead?" The Tantabus asked as if surprised by the question. "Yes... that is your fear." "Don't try anything, Tantabus." Charcoal had been through too much to be susceptible to the Tantabus' petty visions of nightmares. "I can share with you more memories that I possess, from ponies now long dead. I could show you what happened to your Princess." The Tantabus offered. "In return?" Charcoal asked, intrigued by the offer. "Set me free, allow me to possess the mind of any pony of your choosing. Freedom for information." The Tantabus laid out his offer simply. "Princess Luna created you, to be used against her enemies. But she chose to rename herself Nightmare Moon, to strike fear into her enemies?" Charcoal asked. "Certainly that is partially true. We were not permitted to feed upon our creator's mind." The Tantabus said with disappointment. "Shame, I might have been willing to accept your offer." Charcoal said as he lit up his horn and fired a stream of blue and white energy right at the Tantabus' form. The energy seemed to burn a hole through the Tantabus but it soon sealed back up. It then began to grow and shift more into the form of an alicorn, the species that only represented the powerful beings that were the two sisters of the moon and the sun. "You dare to take on the form of Princess Luna?" Charcoal said filled with rage at this new level of sacrilege. "Why not, if only to make you more aware of what you had in your hooves before you threw it all away in return for being made a corpse." The Tantabus threatened as it seemed to fade out of existence. Charcoal looked around unable to see the creature, until he heard marching. He quickly turned to see an army of shadow pony warriors heading in his direction, each one armed with a sword or spear and the silhouette of armour that marked them as warriors of Celestia. "I have no time for this." Charcoal did his best to summon his own willpower, with it, his sword appeared on the ground beneath his hooves. He quickly picked the sword up and charged headlong into the force of shadow ponies. They were weak enough as he sliced through their bodies, shadowy hooves were removed from their bodies, even the necks proved to be almost entirely without form, it was as if he was fighting the clouds themselves. Despite his strength and his speed there appeared to be no shortage of the pony shaped beings. When they did manage to hit him it was as if a pony had slammed its hoof into his body, the pain was not that of a weapon but hurt badly enough to take its toll as they surrounded him and broke down his defences. "I had hoped you would last longer. Many that Celestia hoofpicked to lead her armies lasted longer, perhaps the saying Lighting taught me does hold true, they don't make em like they used to." The Tantabus followed his taunt with a cackle. "Enough!" Charcoal simply made the shadow ponies vanish with his mind. "I am no regular pony!" "No, you are as powerful as the bloodlines I fought with a thousand years ago, unstained by Celestia's benevolence and compassion. Not tainted by the pathetic worship of the sun that this land has fallen to. The Tantabus said as it reappeared in front of Charcoal still choosing its alicorn form. Charcoal nodded. "I would say the same to you, and you can trust me that Celestia's rule will come to an end, you know there is nothing that will stop me from achieving that goal." "I cannot say how you will react to the truth or how you will learn of it. But when the truth reaches you, I hope that the rage will only speed your progress as you accomplish the reason you were created." The Tantabus said proudly. "One last fight then, as your reward for serving your Princess, as we all must." Charcoal said pointing his sword toward the Tantabus. "One last fight." The Tantabus agreed as its form expanded, its wings growing to twice their size. The Tantabus charged forward with all its might, the majestic leap of a great beast, it moved toward Charcoal with clear intent to fulfill its purpose, to end Celestia's reign by any means necessary. Charcoal's sword found its mark behind its neck as it sliced through decapitating the shadowy head from its body. And even as its body fell to the ground, the Tantabus began to glow a bright white light. Charcoal sheathed his sword and took two steps forward the glowing white light and stretched out a hoof. The white light coalesced into a stream of pure magical energy, likely that which had been summoned and warped by Princess Luna herself, in a way the very small essence of her power and will that had created this life was now becoming one with his. Charcoal opened his eyes as Lighting looked him over and shined a candle near his eyes. "You seem okay?" "I'm fine." Charcoal pushed the pony's hoof and the candle away from his snout. "The Tantabus?" Lighting inquired. Charcoal considered for a moment how to answer that question. "It's gone, it realized that its purpose had been served." "Well that is a relief, now I will be able to sleep again." Lighting said with a quick weary smile with what energy he still had. "I must now leave this place." Charcoal said getting up from the bed. "So soon?, You're welcome to sleep in the castle, I certainly intend to before I head back to Tall Tale." Lighting said not ashamed to admit that he was so tired nothing else was going to happen until he got some shut eye. "Thanks, but." Charcoal looked around. "I sense that the ghosts of this building already wish me to stay, and I have no intention of sticking around to argue with them." Lighting stared for a few moments at Charcoal's comments but then nodded with at least a basic level of understanding. "If you don't mind me asking, where are you headed?" Charcoal pondered that question for a few moments, partly to consider if it was necessary to lie and partially to take the time to ask himself for that answer. "Ultimately, wherever Celestia is located." Charcoal answered honestly. "Well, you want to get to Canterlot." Lighting said standing proudly. "I spent time there, learning about the various sciences." "That is quite a fair way to travel." Charcoal said impressed by the pony's adventuring skill. "Not at all, I just took the train to Vanhoover." Lighting replied. "The Vanhoover settlement still exists?" Charcoal asked in excitement. "Why wouldn't it, yes and its quite a large city." Lighting added. "Great." Charcoal said grateful for the information. "One more question, what is a train?" "Uh." Lighting considered how to answer that question. "Engine, locomotive, goes choo choo." Charcoal nodded. "interesting. I will depart for Vanhoover, immediately." "Hey, what was your name?" Lighting asked as he turned to watch Charcoal attempt to exit the basement. "You can call me, Charcoal." Charcoal nodded being grateful for the Professor's help. Charcoal left the castle and made his way back north, a necessary diversion if he was to see if the rumours were true and that Vanhoover was as populated as he had been led to believe. However he could only move slowly as the stars had returned to the sky once again. Tonight there was no moon, so he empowered his horn to glow. A scroll and quill magically flew from his luggage, and hovered in the air. Quickly he used magic to write on the scroll all that he had witnessed so far, with some particular events excluded for now. With a pop and a dazzle the scroll was teleported to its intended destination. A few seconds later a scroll appeared above him and fell into his hooves. He uncurled it and quickly read through the text. Satisfied he wrapped it back up and stored it in his bag. However before he could continue on, another scroll fell from the air. He hesitantly opened it and skimmed over its words. He then slammed it shut in frustration. Seasons ChangeCharcoal Flame strode quickly as he spotted the heights of tall buildings like he had never seen before. The city of Vanhoover was large and full of ponies, and though some aspects of it matches his map, it was far larger and different than what he had been expecting. As he moved closer he observed the denizens, they were all quite well dressed and seemed well off compared to those that lived in Tall Tale. He stopped and observed the ancient Luna Light Tower that stood just outside the city by the point where the ocean flowed inward becoming a salt water river. was surprised to find such a structure still standing despite Celestia's long reign. He then turned and traveled further into the city, past all of the ponies with their carts of wares. Some of the buildings were old, but most seemed new. Buildings that reached high up into the sky with rows of glass windows reflecting the sun. The city was far more populated than he had been expecting and while most ponies here appeared to be unarmed, he knew that each one would surely cooperate in opposition against them if given the chance. That could not be allowed. Trotting past a large park he was drawn to the centre of the city, there stood a large town hall, amazingly the structure had largely unchanged from its historical appearance, a large crescent shape symbolizing the power of the moon. He gazed upon its round blue tinted windows and the statues of stars dotted around it. It was glorious, a perfect prize for his satiated curiosity. Then his ears perked up. Crying could be heard nearby. he turned his head to see a blank flanked filly sitting on the footpath crying. Her mane was blue and her coat white and her eyes were oddly green. Charcoal cautiously approached, in a strange land one always had to be prepared for a trap. He gazed down at the filly uncertainly. "What is the matter?" He asked, at first his words rough and uncaring. The filly looked up at him with tears falling down her eyes. She then looked back down at the street as if she had no interest in answering his question. "Do you wish for help?" He tried a little more compassion in his voice. "Who are you?" The filly asked as she held back her tears. Charcoal wondered just how to answer that and considered the question. "I'm just a traveler from out of town. But if you need help, I can provide it." "Like an adventurer?" She asked as a smile formed on her face. "Ive always wanted to be an adventurer." "Why were you crying?" Charcoal asked hoping to distract from the convenient misunderstanding. "I'm lost." She said looking around as if she were as confused as he was. "Your parents must be worried sick about you." Charcoal said offering her a small smile. "I'll help you find them if you like." The filly quickly bolted upward onto four legs. "Gee, thanks!" "Do you know where you live?" Charcoal hoped the filly had some idea of where her parents were. "Uh, no." She said with a worried expression crossing her face. "But you do remember which way you came?" Charcoal asked. "Uh, that way." She pointed towards the city exit that he had come from. "From outside of the city?" He asked. "No, the park." The filly answered. "Walk with me." He commanded the filly as he walked toward the park. The filly had suggested she had come from the park, which means she must have wandered off from the park. it was strange a filly would chose to stray so far from such a location as to go completely down and across the road. What was also strange was instead of looking for her parents, she instead seemed to be keeping her eyes on him. But he guessed she was just depending on him. "What do your parents look like?" He asked once in the middle of the park with his hooves on the well cut grass. "Uh..." The filly looked around. Charcoal leaned down and looked into her eyes. As he studied them he saw no sign that she was looking for anyone, no sign of the tears that had once been. "Is this some kind of a trick?" Charcoal asked trying to remain calm for the moment. "No, it's no trick." She said glancing down at the ground. "I just, I don't remember where I came from." "So you lied?" Charcoal's curiosity grew. "No." She replied. "This is where I remember appearing." "And before then?" Charcoal looked around for anything that looked out of place. The filly's face contorted into one of fear. "I remember only a few moments of total darkness, and then I was here." "Do you remember anything else?" A name, a location?" Charcoal found this mystery puzzling. "I remember... being cold." The filly said shivering at the memory despite the sunny day. Charcoal shook his head. "Then I have little choice, i will have to give you to the local authorities." "Authorities?" The filly seemed uncertain about that. "What does that mean?" "The ponies who live here will likely be able to take greater care of you than I." Charcoal also had to move on. "What will you do?" Her question coming seemingly from out of nowhere. Charcoal considered an answer to her question but then shook his head. "You have no need to know." The filly simply looked down at the ground with a sad expression. Charcoal regretted he had to be so cold, but it was safer for her the less she knew. He figured it was a simple enough task to hand her over to the local guards, even though he had no trust for those serving under Celestia. For some time he felt perplexed at the lack of guards in the city. Until he identified the strange blue ponies with caps as being what this city counted as guards. "Excuse me." Charcoal said getting the attention of two of them that were walking together. "Can we help you?" The officer responded with an annoyed expression. "Listen, I found this filly lost in the park, and she seems to have no idea where she is." Charcoal motioned his hoof down at the filly. "I was wondering if you could take her somewhere for help." The second officer stepped forward and looked her over. "Are you alright, dear?" "I'm okay, thank you." She said taking a step back. "Alright, we'll take her from here." The first officer said pointing his hoof down the road. We'll take her to the station and see if we can find out who she is." "I appreciate that." Charcoal then leaned down to the filly. "I apologize, but I must be going, it was nice meeting you." "You too." She responded with a tone that left a feeling of regret in his throat. He began trotting though did not go too fast. As he turned the corner a strange sight caught his eye from across the road. A white mare with a yellow mane and green eyes dressed in a black dress and a black fedora over her head walked across the road towards him. Her eyes seemed to glimmer a shade of blue. Charcoal would have ignored it had the mare not turned the corner from where he had come, quite a coincidence. He paused for a moment. Something felt off As if he had sensed a powerful field of magic. He slowly turned around, following his senses he quickly began to run back the way he had just came. The first thing he noticed was the ponies around begin to turn, their faces stricken with horror, assuring him that his instincts were correct. His hoof found his blade. The two officer ponies lay upon the ground, backed up against the wall was the unicorn filly. "Stop!" He shouted as his blade extended to face his opponent. The mare in black slowly turned toward him, her eyes looking him over to access the threat he posed. She smiled as she realized that he was worthy of her attention. "Not your standard guard?" She then tilted her fedora with her hoof. "The last thing I was expecting in a place like this was some hero." "I do not know who you are but this filly is under my protection." Charcoal stated sternly. The mare in black merely smiled at him as she turned to completely face him. She continued studying him as if he were entirely strange to her. "It's strange, I should run into one of your caliber at a time like this." She then slowly stepped closer to him. "My name is Silk, what might yours be?" "Charcoal Flame." He replied sensing that something was quite off about this pony. Silk then walked up and around him studying him from the side and even walking around his back. He stood in place and allowed her to examine him, hoping she would simply back off without a noisy fight being necessary. "A fine specimen, definitely not a local denizen." She said stopping finally in front of him and moved her face close to his. "You have very little smell of this city on you." "Be gone, or I will be forced to act." Charcoal was unsure what the mare was playing at but he did not like her lack of fear in him. "Unfortunately, the filly belongs to me. But if you like you could come home with me too." Her horn began to glow a sickly shade of green. "Fine." He knew then that a fight was unavoidable. Charcoal swung his sword at the mare as she leapt out of the way. A bolt of electricity then shot out from her horn but Charcoal was already dodging, charging toward her again with his sword raised high. Silk spun around and kicked up with her rear legs, Charcoal forced to step back, lost his momentum. The green glowing horn fired more bolts of electricity at him, his sword was able to easily absorb the shocks as he again attempted to approach her. Silk then created an aura of green glowing energy around herself, she then charged him head on, the power of the electrical field around her was the first to hit. Charcoal felt his body shake violently from the energy coursing through his muscles, his grip tightened on his sword as he lost control of his hooves. The final hit was the mare's head colliding with his own. Charcoal was thrown back against the ground, his sword sliding away from him. Silk prepared another attack with her horn but Charcoal was ready, throwing up a small purple magical barrier to stop the attack in its tracks. Her horn then faded as the same curious glint in her eyes returned. "I see your magical potential is quite high. Perhaps there truly is a place for you to join us?" "Who?" Charcoal said standing ready for another round as his horn glowed red. Silk might have answered had her attention not then been diverted by more officers appearing across the street, about eight in total now charging toward them. Instead of focusing on him, she instead projected a wall of green electrical energy across the road, a couple of the officers fell but the rest kept coming, pushing through the pain. "We will meet again." Silk then performed the strangest trick and simply ran up the wall, heading for the top of the building. Charcoal noticed the newly arrived ponies were just as intent on attacking him. He leapt over to his sword and sheathed it. He then used a spell to summon a wave of water, as to slow them down for only a moment. He then grabbed the filly and through her over her back, she seemed unharmed but the ordeal had effected her mentally, she simply closed her eyes. Charcoal then used a spell to jump past his opponents and then took off down the street. Ponies were stopping and staring in shock but he could do little to avoid attention now. He dived head first into the first large building that he could find. The large stone building he found looked ancient by comparison to those around it. As he entered he noticed it was full of ponies, but such ponies were blissfully unaware of what had just transpired outside. Quickly doing his best to control his rush of adrenaline, he slowed his hooves and tried his best to take the few moments he had to blend in with the crowd. "Where are we?" The filly said finally opening her eyes and looking at the exhibits. "I'm not sure." Charcoal looked up at the large sign on the wall. "Vanhoover Town Museum." Charcoal could read the word but he knew not what a museum was. He looked around and sure enough he recognized many of the displays were full of ancient artifacts, many of which he recognised from long before his time. Suits of armour, preserved scrolls and even artwork depicting Luna in her full majesty adorned the building. It was the most like home he had seen since coming here. "They're coming." The filly reminded him as a stream of officers began to enter the building. Charcoal considered his options diligently. Fighting his way out would only raise more attention, he preferred that he got out without a tussle, but he had no idea if the building had a back exit. Instead he made a brisk pace toward the nearest staircase that spiraled upward. The second story presented a greater view of some of the larger exhibits, especially the large tapestries that depicted Luna's rule alongside Celestia. The number of officers piling in quickly became over a dozen and more were probably on their way. "Don't worry I have a plan." Charcoal just needed the right artifact. He spotted exactly what he needed, a brass jug with artwork of Princess Luna and the moon depicted upon its surface. The perfect size and durability. "I need you to promise me something." Charcoal said pointing towards the jug. "I am going to cast a spell on that jug, promise me no matter what happens you wont look at it, keep your eyes completely closed if you have to, and be ready for a commotion." The filly nodded with a determined glance. "Understood." Charcoal's horn glowed blue as she got a spell down from the second floor and across the room, a simple yet effective spell. The want it need it spell began to work almost immediately. At first there were shouts of happiness and joy and then bouts of anger. And then ponies began to rush toward the jug. The officer ponies at first attempted to calm them but it was already too late as the jug became their only obsession, quickly they began pushing and shoving over one another to get to it, the officers now had their hooves full. "Now." Charcoal grabbed the filly and threw her over her back again. Teleporting back down to the first floor was dangerous with a rampaging crowd, but it was better and quicker than trying to run through them. A few consecutive hops and he was behind the officers and charging back out the way he had come in. He attempted a few more teleportation spells but the street was still full of ponies gazing his way, and he could not charge fast enough to get out of the city. Luckily he didn't notice anypony following him, which was a relief in of itself. He moved past the lighthouse again and continued on, knowing that if he stopped, he would risk failing his mission. The city was no place for him and so he continued, without stopping until the city was as distant as possible. The museum was a total mess, the city's healers had a lot on their plate to heal the bruises and scrapes but luckily nothing too serious had befallen the populace. Chief Red Swift was still trying to compile the eyewitness accounts of exactly what had happened. A pony had reported a missing filly, likely not from here. And then almost immediately an unidentified mare had proceeded to attack two of his officers in an attempt to kidnap her. On top of that the stallion that reported the filly missing had chosen to resist capture, and had now run off with the filly in tow. "I need to know who these ponies are!" He yelled to those following his orders. "Chief Red Swift?" Came the voice of a mare from behind him. The staunch brown stallion turned to see a pale blue mare with a grey mane approach him. The fur on his body stood up as he realised what the mare was. The mare was mostly normal, but two large bat like wings stuck upward from her sides like that of a pegasus. Her ears were pointy and raised up like that of a bat and her eyes shined like a full moon with a narrow pupil that was narrow and sharp enough to cut through his soul. "A bat pony?" He stammered in shock. The bat pony mare stopped and smiled before flopping out identification. "Special Agent Lavender Glow." "Ah yes, I was told this case might attract outside attention." Red Swift pointed to the mess the museum was now in. "I trust you already have the basics, eyewitness accounts report all suspects have fled the city, I see no reason to suspect they were working together, however their magical power was alarming." "Thank you, the Princesses will be informed." Lavender said glancing around the room. "Are you certain there are no eyewitnesses of the filly entering the city?" "None, most ponies are reporting that she simply appeared in the middle of the park." Red Swift considered the possibilities. " A simple teleportation spell perhaps, but the filly seems to have come alone." "Don't worry yourself, Chief Red Swift." Lavender said turning around. "The Princesses have instructed me that these suspects are to be found quickly and brought to justice." The old stone fort was in rough shape, worn from its great age. But Silk appreciated the darkness that it was kept in, out of the light of the hot sun and hidden by the forest. The gargoyle statues that lined the hall was also appreciated, making her feel like she was home again. She cared not for the dark robed ponies that surrounded her, each one exactly the same. It was her that stuck out and that was the way she liked it, a reminder that she would never consider any of them true kin, but there was one that she felt differently about. "I am to understand you failed." Came a voice she recognised from the side. "I have no time to quarrel with you Broth." She said already annoyed that the zebra would approach her. Broth was a messy zebra, with various tribal magical items adorning his body. He had chosen to abandon his own kind on the search for wealth and power, but had stumbled his way into their group more out of reverence for their lord's grand plan. "No time to quarrel with me perhaps, but answer you will for your failures." Broth said followed with a smirk and a deep almost silent laugh. "Silk!" Came a loud voice booming from the darkness. A purple stallion then emerged from the shadows, he wore a white robe with a blue necklace around his neck. His image was odd but that was its purpose, a pony that stuck out like none before him. He sat upon the old throne that had ancient words of the centaur language carved into its base. His long dark purple mane flowed down his body. "Silk, I have been informed that there was a set back?" The grand pony asked. "Cepheus, I regret to inform you that the rumours are true, the spell worked successfully, but the target was lost." Silk bowed her head in shame, her expression however was hidden by her hat. "Was the local population too much trouble for you?" Cepheus asked. "No, of course not." Silk considered her explanation carefully. "There was somepony else." "Who?" Cepheus asked likely already considering which adversary had discovered their plan. "I am uncertain, but I do not believe he was cooperating with our enemies, he seemed naive of both my identity and our intentions. However his power was far beyond that of an average pony, my guess is he was far from home." Silk sensed that Charcoal had been just as out of place in that city as she had been. "Silk, we cannot have random travelers foiling our plans when we are so close. The target must be reacquired and returned." Cepheus looked to Broth. "Perhaps Broth would be more suited..." "No!" Silk shot up. "Please, Cepheus, allow me to finish my work." Cepheus put his hooves together in front of his face and seemed to weigh his options for a moment. "I will grant you another chance, however I think it best you took help with you, I am willing to overlook this inconvenience as it was outside interference that none of us could have foreseen, however fail again and I will be forced to administer punishment." "Understood, thank you, Cepheus." Silk bowed before turning back around and leaving. "Lord Cepheus?" Broth knew that there were too many unanswered questions. Cepheus nodded. "Follow her, I wish to know who this mystery stallion is and why he has stumbled upon my plans."
A tale lost across the sea.The winds of the heavy ocean pummeled the small wooden ship. Twisting and weaving, the waves harassing any chance of a peaceful voyage. The lone stallion aboard the ship doing his utter best to keep the ship afloat and heading straight. He had long since missed the icebergs of the North Luna Ocean, and the tremendous whirlpools the energy of the north wreaked upon him. Charcoal Flame leapt up onto the mast and used his hoof to shield his eyes He was still some ways from land, but the cloudy darkness only increased his heart rate. He gazed down at his compass that had guided him this far. He practically threw it into his darkened robe and held tight, if the storm was to take him it would have to take the entire ship too. “Princess Luna, guide me.” He said as he watched the horizon. A glimmer of sunlight seemed to pierce the clouds. The long awaited sight appearing before his eyes. The ocean was ending, land had come. Luna Bay stood dead ahead, virtually unchanged from the ancient records he carried with him. A large bay opened up with forests and wooden docks, vessels moored belonging to the inhabitants, whoever they turned out to be. He had come this far now, there was no turning back. He jumped down to the cold moist deck, his hooves splashing in the salty water of the ocean. The clouds began to clear. Finally safe. He reached for his silver blade and slid it into its sheath. “Celestia, your end has come.” He said as his ship slowly inched toward shore. Luna Bay was likely Equestria’s largest and most prosperous western ports. The wooden sail ships of countless colours were positioned here, alongside fishing vessels of other races that gathered from further east. The large expanse of water acted as a large natural harbour that protected most of the vessels from the rougher seas that existed this far north. His own ship was smaller than most here and had taken moderate damage from the more heavier waves. Fortunately it was no longer needed, as he slowly came to a stop close enough to the dock, his horn glowed, a plank was lifted and inserted into place. His robed form easily crossed until his hooves stomped onto the wood of the port. “You there.” A simple but gruff voice of an earth pony reached his ears. Charcoal Flame contorted his head sideways, his eyes snapping to lock with the pony that was drawing his attention. The earth pony was brown in colour with a tinge of blue on his mane, and a moustache that curled upwards. Judging by his cutie mark being an anchor, he assumed he was the harbour master. “Greetings, I am Water Froth.” The stallion said reaching out a hoof in kindness. Charcoal stood firm and defensive in the face of Celestia’s minion. “I have come from across the sea, that is all I expect you to know.” The stallion pulled back his hoof as his face changed to one of annoyance. “You’re new here, this is Equestria.” “I know where I am.” Charcoal informed him. “Yes well, mind telling me which kingdom you are from? Let me guess, Griffonstone?” Water Froth appeared to be making a joke. Charcoal sighed. “I am from a location that has not had communications with Equestria in a very long time.” Water Froth raised an eyebrow. “Well in that case, perhaps you would like me to contact Canterlot?” “Canterlot?” Charcoal asked, unfamiliar with the name. “The capital?” Water Froth’s expression was one of surprise. “Surely you’ve heard of it.” “Perhaps you could supply me with a map?” Charcoal kindly suggested. “It would be my pleasure.” Water Froth said trotting off. Charcoal Flame smirked, it seemed Equestria was going to be far more easier to infiltrate than he had ever hoped. The only difficulty, he knew, was going to be in ending the Sun Princess’s reign. He tapped the blade still tied to his body and followed after Water Froth. “Here is the map you asked for.” Water Froth said passing over a map of Equestria and other nearby lands. Charcoal examined it with the mental memory of his own map. What had once been a simple settlement known as Canterlot Mountain had now transformed into a clear and obvious new capital. “The settlement is located on the mountain?” Charcoal asked curious as to what else the pony could tell him. “More or less, perched about halfway up.” Water Froth replied. “It’s kind of a big deal to travel there.” Charcoal grumbled and rolled the parchment up in his hooves carefully. “Thank you, you have been a big help.” “If you are on your way to Canterlot, I’d suggest stopping by Tall Tale first, it will have all the supplies you might need for land travel, plus it’s pretty much the closest settlement.” Water Froth’s suggestions seemed intent on being helpful in nature. “I will be on my way.” Charcoal said turning to leave the vicinity of the port, “By the way.” Water Froth said holding up a hoof. “Your ship appears damaged, I can probably patch her up, for a price.” Charcoal looked over at his ship. “I cannot currently pay you, but if you do the job, I will see to it that you are rewarded for your services.” “I’ll hold you to that.” Water Froth said stern and serious, Charcoal’s exit from Luna Bay was an interesting one. His observations told him that most ponies journeying to the harbour did so via vessel as opposed to walking the roads. It made sense logistically, since the majority were either traders or explorers, the road was slightly more unkempt, full of holes and the few groups of travellers he did pass appeared to be likely from the more local villages. Charcoal eyed the community carefully, mostly earth ponies pulling wagons. Back at home much had been done likewise to ensure each type of pony were accomplished. The unicorns naturally formed the upper echelons, though the pegasi made for formidable warriors. He began to approach the large town referred to as Tall Tale on his map. It was a well built population centre with tall chimneys bellowing smoke into the air as the sun fell. The cobbled streets were full of most,y earth ponies who appeared to be a mixture of farmers and miners. Many ponies began pulling out oil lanterns, the glimmers of light shining under the street lights, Charcoal Flame surveyed around but it was difficult to get s good grasp of the town’s services after dark. He considered pushing onward but decided against it. He instead trotted toward a large building that appeared very old, made of thick stone and with a large wooden vacant sign outside, He moved up the steps and opened the door, the room was extravagant with damask wallpaper on the walls and a large candle chandelier hanging from the ceiling. He approached the front counter and moved his hoof to a small bell sitting atop it, A loud ding could then be heard echoing off of the red walls and then the silence returned, this time only far more noticeable. A stirring noise could then be heard as an older female earth pony with large black glasses shifted toward him. “May I assist you?” The green pony with a red mane asked. “”Am I correct in understanding that this building’s purpose is for accomodation?” Charcoal asked. “That it is, will you require a room?” The pony asked. “I will.” Charcoal spoke to the point, “That will be twenty bits for tonight.” The mare said placing a log book down and opening it up to the day’s page. Charcoal thought for a moment his options. “I do not possess bits, but tell me, is this an acceptable alternative?” Charcoal opened a pouch and pulled from it a much older silver coin with a face of Princess Luna imprinted on the back. The coin itself he was most aware would be worth quite a bit for its pure weight in precious metal. The pony’s eyes glazed over in amazement. “Which room would you like?” The aged mare carried a key and an oil lantern with her up the stairs and along a long corridor before stopping at room sixteen. The door creaked open to reveal a simple yet old fashioned room, much like downstairs except with a bed and a bathroom included. “This is for you.” The pony said handing him.a second brass key for coming and going. “I hope that you enjoy your stay.” The pony said before closing the door and leaving him in the dark. Charcoal Flame’s horn glowed as the candles on his own chandelier ignited, as well as the oil lantern on the desk. He then walked up to the window and looked out at the town below. He knew now that he was in the heart of enemy territory, he needed to get some rest from his long journey, but he wondered if he could sleep at all.
The beginning of a tall tale.Charcoal Flame shot up from his bed in a sudden burst of panic and reached for his sword out of instinct. With a heavy sigh he loosened his grip as he realized that once again he had allowed his mind to get the better of him. Peering up at the window he could see that dawn was fast approaching and he had no luxury of waiting. Pulling his body out of bed with his hooves he allowed himself a moment for a quick stretch. So far his arrival seemed to have gone unnoticed, but he knew full well that it would not take long for word to reach Celestia if he dawdles too long. He slipped the black robe back on and lifted the hood to again hide his red mane. Sheathing his sword, he exited the room and ventured down the corridor towards the stairs. Tall Tale as the town was called was largely the same as he had been informed by the historical records presented to him by various historians. Even still actually being among pony kind that was not his own made him nervous, they seemed harmless enough but he knew all too well how deceiving appearances could truly be. After moving down the stairs he found himself drawn to what could only be described as a great aroma for a body that had spent weeks on mere preserved rations. The smell was of various types of foods and beverages being prepared. Inside a large room was an array of various ponies seated at wooden tables going about their early morning, most still yawning. He knew it was risky but his desires got the better of him as he found himself choosing a chair for himself in the far off corner of the room. It did not take him long to notice his attire was extremely out of place for such an establishment, most of the ponies were of the earth variety and were dressed in simple traditionalist clothing. A younger mare who worked behind the counter wore a red blouse and skirt and trotted over. He must have looked alien to her because she raised an eyebrow in a questioning pose. Despite her uncertainty she did not hesitate to lower a book onto the table before trotting off. Charcoal gazed down at the book. It was clearly the menu to the shop and as he flicked through the pages with his hooves he could only be stunned in amazement at the variety of options. Back home land was a rarer commodity and much of their nutritional needs came from the sea around them, many of the earth ponies had been driven towards learning how to work the sea rather than the land. But even so there was no shortage of ocean treats that made its way to this town either. He however was more interested in the pleasantries of land food. "What can I get you?" The mare said as she returned to the table noticing that his flicking had come to a halt. "Two hay burgers and a barley tea with milk please." Charcoal asked. "Won't be long." She smiled at him and twisted back to the kitchen. Charcoal could feel almost all the eyes of the other ponies around sneaking glances at him. He knew that it was a problem, if word of him spread. After some time passed the mare laid out a plate full of food and slid the tea across the table over to him. Charcoal steadily sipped at the tea not having had anything but water since his journey across the Luna ocean. The burger buns were fresh and only recently removed from the oven and broke apart easily in his mouth. The hay was fresh and reminded him of home. He devoured every morsel until his plate was completely empty, then getting up from the table he made his way over towards the counter where the mare stood waiting for him. "Thank you for the meal." Charcoal said ignoring her glare. "My pleasure, we don't get many ponies as shady as you here." She said clearly trying to make light of the situation she viewed as awkward. "My apologies." Charcoal responded as he moved his hoof toward his coin pouch. "My advice is you might want to change your attire if you are going to stay here, folks here don't trust those who act suspicious." The mare said seemingly trying to be helpful. Charcoal held up another of his silver coins. The mare however was not as pleased as the last. "No bits?" She asked with an annoyed expression. "My shop does not typically do barter." "It is all that I possess." Charcoal said uncertain how to react. "Oh, alright. But just this once." She said accepting the coin. "But I aint going to try to calculate your change." Charcoal was about to protest when he heard a pony mare scream from behind him. The mare at the counter looked up and gasped in shock. Charcoal turned around and in the doorway stood three rather large red Rock Lobsters. The one in the middle being the biggest. The first Rock Lobster on the left moved forward and used its large claws to tip over a table, sending the stallion in the chair tipping back and falling onto the ground before scampering away. The other ponies began to panic and leapt up from their seats, but with only the one way out could only move to the other side of the room. Charcoal turned slowly towards the lobsters as the leader turned towards him. "This building is now ours." The lead Rock Lobster declared. "We will be taking all of your food too." Charcoal placed his hoof upon his silver blade and slid it free from its sheathe, drawing it and pointing it towards the aquatic creature. "The pony wants to fight." The Rock Lobster laughed as the other two refocused their attention on Charcoal. "slash him up a bit." The leader of the Rock Lobsters pointed at him with his claw. The pair of Rock Lobsters rushed forward with their claws extended forward. Charcoal leapt forward and slashed at the left Rock Lobster and leapt on top of his back. hoping down he turned and brought the weight of his blade down upon the right Lobster. Despite the hard shells the lobster's possessed, both now had slice marks along their bodies and appeared to be frozen in shock at what had happened. As the seconds ticked by both collapsed and began weeping in agony. "You'll pay for that." The lead Rock Lobster said bringing up his claws before charging at Charcoal. A lobster claw came smashing down towards Charcoal but he managed to quickly dodge it, and then the opposite claw soon followed and he blocked it with his sword. The lobster was strong but Charcoal was able to put the strength he had just gained from his meal to work holding it up. Charcoal moved backwards breaking the lock and then pounced forward once again bringing his sword down. The lobster used its claws to block his blow but was too distracted to notice Charcoal spinning around and using his hind legs to slam into the lobster's front. "Not a bad fighter." The Rock Lobster said amused at the pain he had been caused. "We have no mercy for scum like you." Charcoal said before raising his sword again and moving forward to deliver the final blow. The Rock Lobster collapsed unconscious from the sword cutting his front. The two smaller Rock Lobsters rushed forward past Charcoal, grabbed their leader and scurried out the door. With his robe torn and damaged, Charcoal allowed it to drop to the ground. His black fur and red mane now fully exposed. "Thank you!" The mare said rushing toward him. "You truly were impressive." Charcoal had no time to waste, already he could hear yelling and the sound of metallic horseshoes approaching. He quickly used his horn to pick up his tattered robe and ran out of the building. On his way out he could see blue dressed ponies with helmets, what passed as so called law enforcement in Celestia's kingdom rushing toward the hotel. He could not afford to be spotted, he had already drawn too much attention. His only saving grace was that most appeared to be chasing the fleeing lobsters back to the shoreline. He ran for a nearby alleyway and from there he would determine the quickest way out of town.
The Castle that the Sun ForgotCharcoal Flame pushed himself forward, sloshing through the muddy fields as he crossed the land outside of Tall Tale. The well irrigated fields serving as the source of the town's massive food supply. He had decided to avoid the roads for a time as to avoid news of his sudden abrupt departure being noticed too soon. It was quite possible he was in the clear, but it was also quite possible rumours of his actions would begin spreading around the small town, questions that would attract the unwanted attention of Celestia's enforcers. As he gained distance from town, he could see clearly the tall mountain range in the distance. He trotted onward reassuring himself that once he was far enough ahead he would once again stick to the roads. As the town faded further and further into the distance behind him, lowering from his perception and fading into the horizon. Charcoal came to a halt as he spotted something ahead, amongst some trees was what appeared to be some large stone ruins, their appearance he noticed as he got closer was that of a rather large castle. The stone wall around the structure was clearly old and many of the trees inside were massive and ancient. Rising above them all were tall turrets and spires aiming up at the sky. Tempted by its magnificence, he trotted down the gravel path cutting through the trees. He slowed as he spotted a large statue of the moon, unmistakable as a symbol of Princess Luna, the one who had founded his home. The castle's doors were extremely large and were marked with various magical symbols that only a unicorn would be educated enough to notice. Wards mostly, meant to keep those with bad intentions away. He pressed his hoof's weight against the door and found that it shifted, revealing that it was in fact unlocked. Charcoal hesitated for a moment, and then he pushed his way inside determinedly. Charcoal's horn glowed brightly as he used it to light up the entrance room. Tattered tapestries, rugs and wallpaper appeared to melt from the walls. The candle's wax long since mostly expended. The paintings mostly torn and covered in dust, hiding the ponies of the past that once made the place a home. The one thing largely undamaged was a large silver statue of Princess Luna herself on a pedestal standing next to the far wall. Charcoal moved toward it mesmerized by its reverence. On his island precious metals were far rarer, most of it went to tools and fishing equipment, much of their metals were preserved from what Princess Luna had brought them a thousand years ago, the rest was for holding the timber that made up the hull of their ships. Charcoal bowed his head out of respect to his fallen Princess, the one who never returned after announcing that the time had come to end Celestia's rule forever. Their ancestors had been only fillies and colts at the time, ill suited for warfare, ill suited to the war that followed. It was this reason more than any other that he felt so blessed to be the first of his kind to return to the mainland. To proudly step foot on equestrian soil as an ever faithful servant of the one true princess. Charcoal's attention was then drawn away by the sound of a mechanical clang, then a repetitive whirring soon followed by yet another clang. He moved across the large once ornate room towards a far back wooden door. He nudged it with his hoof but found it to be stuck. He pushed harder and harder but the door just would not budge. Aiming his horn, he ignited it with a powerful glow and then sent forth a pulse of powerful magical energy. The door fracturing wide and allowing him entry. As he stomped over the broken pieces he could tell the door had been sealed up securely with nails and wooden boards. Charcoal with his horn glowing once again traversed down steep steps, down into what he observed to be an extremely deep basement. The door at the end of the long staircase opened, this time with ease. The basement itself was alight with candle light all around, candlesticks upon the walls illuminating what appeared to be some sort of giant machine that was even now in motion. Under the machine was a pony, a stallion earth pony. Charcoal moved forward but was hesitant to move under the machine as it appeared to spin above the stallion. The pony had white fur and a dark brown mane and appeared to be laying on his back in a comfortable pose. Charcoal looked closer to see if the stallion was in fact breathing. "What is this?" Charcoal asked as he prepared to reach for his sword. "This?" The stallion whispered calmly as he lay on a makeshift metallic bed. The stallion shot up from his support and jumped up onto his legs and quickly moved toward Charcoal, hopping up on his hind hooves he reached out his fore hooves and grasped Charcoal's snout. "This is the work of Professor Lighting Spark!" He said struggling to gasp for air. Charcoal pulled himself back but resisted giving the professor a hoof to the face, especially when he saw that the pony appeared incredibly weak and fail and his eyes looked extremely bloodshot, in short he seemed too weak to be of any threat. "Lighting Spark, so you're a scientist?" Charcoal asked with half his attention drawn to the machine. "Yes,yes." Lighting Spark turned around and stared up at the machine. "This is my beauty of an invention, the Sleep Inducement Oscillator, similar to the Multiple Wave Oscillator as created by Ponyovsky, but designed to increase the effects of lucid dreaming." Charcoal stared coldly at Lighting. "Impressive, but it is of no interest to me, I will be on my way now." Lighting Spark shot forward in an act of desperation. "Wait please, I desperately need a subject!" "Find somepony else." Charcoal shot back as he continued walking back towards the staircase. "But your Cutie Mark even has a moon on it!" Lighting stated. Charcoal Flame froze glanced down at his mark. It was a simple symbol of a full moon, a symbol that meant much to his kind, a lesser version that was held in the sky above them, forever guiding his kind's journey forward. "Yours is a golden flaming gear, clearly you are more up to the task of experimentation." He said reminding himself to find a new cover so that no pony could track him by the mark that he had been been gifted. "Please, it is the only way for my work to be finished!" Lighting had evidently turned to begging. "Please, Lighting. Find somepony else." Charcoal said expecting it to be the last time he had to incite his decision to decline. Lighting shook in clear and obvious fear even as Charcoal once again resumed his departure. As Lighting began to open his mouth in protest again, Charcoal considered perhaps needing to use his sword to make his demands more clear. Instead the words that followed were far worse than he had ever been expecting. "Please, you do not understand..." Lighting said with fear in his tone. "It was already too late when you walked into this castle." Charcoal had been patient enough with the pony. With a swift stroke, his blade was extended and pointed towards Lighting. The Professor's reactions were slow and cumbersome as it took him quite some time to notice that Charcoal had just drawn a weapon on him. "No, you do not understand, harming me will not help you." Lighting seemed to be trying to explain. "Explain." Charcoal said certainly considering leaving the questions for somepony who actually cared. "It's in here." Lighting said pointing a hoof to his head. "If any harm befalls me, it will merely pass onto you." "What will?" Charcoal asked making sure his tone of voice let the Professor know how angry he was. "I do not want to speak of its name." Lighting said continuing to plead. "Name or I am locking you down here." Charcoal threatened. "It's the Tantabus." Lighting said as he collapsed to the ground in misery and exhaustion. Charcoal's mind suddenly flashed back to when he was a young colt and had naturally been selected for lessons on magical history. Out of all the creatures that could be summoned into existence, the Tantabus was perhaps one of the most dangerous. "A true Tantabus?" Charcoal asked in shock. Lighting nodded in sheer regret. "Every legend about them is true." "You fool." Charcoal kept his blade up. "No Earth pony has the power to control such a creature!" Lighting stared down at his hooves that were on the cold stone floor. "I didn't summon it if that's what you think. It was already here when I arrived." Charcoal hesitated for a slight moment but then decided it best to sheathe his sword. He then approached Lighting and knelt down to look into his red blood stricken eyes. He saw only honesty in the Professor's gaze, no hint of attempted malice. "Tell me how you found it." Charcoal stated calmly. Lighting sighed. "I had heard rumours of this castle from colleagues in the archeological field, pony farmers had reported animals refusing to sleep anywhere near these ruins, and so I came here hoping to find something that would assist me in my research of what happens when we sleep. I had thought my luck had reached new heights when I found this basement, and discovered a sealed urn that was at least a thousand years old, oh what a fool I was." "Where is this urn?" Charcoal asked. Lighting pointed towards a small wooden table full of various archeological finds, most of it little more than junk. One of the largest objects was a cracked urn. Charcoal studied the chunks in his hooves, his eyes opening wide as he recognized the black urn had symbols carved into it, symbols that represented Princess Luna. "This urn may have been crafted by Princess Luna herself." Charcoal said with amazement. "Quite likely, she created the Tantabuses after all." Lighting agreed. Charcoal quickly redrew his sword. "What blasphemy did I just hear you speak?" "Blasphemy?" Lighting asked with extreme surprise. "During the war between Princess Luna and Celestia, the use of Tantabuses was well recorded. Nightmare Moon employed them many times against various military leaders, sometimes even against entire armies." "Propaganda." Charcoal replied. "For what reason would she have to do such a thing?" "Terror, exhaustion, general weakening of settlement's defenders." Lighting seemed to tick the uses off one at a time. "The only pony resistant to them was Celestia herself, nothing had been more frightening to her than the loss of her sister." Charcoal considered Lighting's claim. Was it truly possible that Princess Luna had created such creatures as a part of some kind of military strategy? Certainly it would have prevented deaths and avoided unnecessary violence. "Alright." He sheathed his sword and marched back over to Lighting. "So you discovered this Tantabus stored away?" Lighting nodded once again out of regret. "I released it intentionally, I had thought that I could master it, use it to advance my research forward years!" "What went wrong?" Charcoal asked. "I had failed to take into consideration its history, I had assumed it would only use my own memories." Lighting replied. "You mean it carried other memories with it?" Charcoal tried to comprehend the ramifications. "I do not yet know how it ended up in that urn, but it was used during the war. Lighting stared over at the shattered urn on the desk. "It remembers..." The day must have been coming to an end as the candles around the room burned through ever more wax. Charcoal used his magic to help rearrange furniture around the room. He had been left with no choice, he knew as much as Lighting did that the Tantabus was already aware of his presence, and that it would use the dream plane to follow him anywhere and potentially it could even find its way across the sea, something that under no condition could be allowed. "I cannot believe I am allowing this." Charcoal said having now lay down on the same bed that he had found the Professor in. "Don't worry, I've never hurt a fly, not after what happened to the last pony that did so." Lighting said with a shiver. "What happened to him?" Charcoal could not resist asking. "Teleportation experiment, went horribly wrong. Celestia dealt with the matter, personally." Lighting said reassuringly. "You really believe I will have better luck defeating it?" Charcoal said lowering his head back onto the pillow. "I have the sense it will be drawn to you." Lighting replied. "And you seem like a strong fighter." "Yes, but what does any of that have to do with dreams." Charcoal stared up at the ceiling as the oscillator began to spin. "Trust me, your physical prowess will be tested, even in your nightmares." Lighting said as the oscillator sped up more and more. Charcoal could feel himself slipping away, fading into the land of dreams. He could not imagine feeling safe enough to fall asleep in a place like this, especially being aware of what was about to happen. But the oscillator did its assigned task, as would he. Charcoal's eyes flickered open as he found himself in the basement of the castle. Glancing around he could see no light anywhere, it was entirely dark. The only sounds he could hear as he listened was the sound of his own heart beat and his slow and steady breathing. He stood upright and firm and checked to see if his sword was available, only it had disappeared along with all of his other items. Charcoal lit his horn and illuminated as much of the space around him as he could. The machine was gone and in fact the room appeared completely empty. He made his way toward the door that he knew lead to the staircase, only to find that it had been replaced with a solid stone wall. "What is the meaning of this?" Charcoal asked angrily as his short span of patience that he possessed was already wearing thin. Charcoal fired a blast of energy from his horn at the wall, then he fired again and again but somehow it caused no damage and only served to wear him out. "Is this truly the most frightening of nightmares you can conjure, Tantabus?!" Charcoal roared out. The room possessed no sound but his hooves clattering on the stone floor beneath him. The lack of any kind of ambience driving him mad. He did not want to stop walking as it was his only source of noise, so he strode around the basement in some search of an exit, but there was none to be found. "This is some cruel joke you are playing, Tantabus." Charcoal whispered under his breath. He then heard what sounded like a knocking sound and turned back and shined his light at the wall where he had started. There where he had first checked, the door had now appeared. He quickly trotted over and set his hooves on the knob of the door and pulled. For whatever reason it did not budge. So he pulled harder and harder until finally he flew back onto the floor, the knob had come off the door and was now in his hooves. "Face me you coward!" Charcoal yelled out. "Face you?" Asked a deep masculine voice that seemed to reverberate through the floor. "I was merely allowing you to face yourself, as all must do if they are going to defeat me." The voice seemed to suggest it already knew his intentions. Charcoal nodded to himself. "You're in my head, you know why I am here, Tantabus." "Do I?" The Tantabus asked questioningly. "How could I possibly know more about you, than you know about yourself." Charcoal stood up from the ground, he did his best to keep his horn alight but could have sworn the darkness of the room was causing it to shrink. He did his best to ignore it and focus on the situation at hoof. "I have no desire for games Tantabus, I demand that you cease whatever you are doing to Professor Lighting." Charcoal had no idea about Tantabus' personalities, only a basic understanding of their abilities. "I was only doing what it is in my nature to do, it is he that was kind enough to release me." The Tantabus explained. "Perhaps I do owe him some slack." "I have no wish of you to remain in my head either." Charcoal answered realizing where the reasoning was going. "You will return to your vessel." The Tantabus growled in annoyance. "Do you really think that fair?" "Who said anything about fair?" Charcoal asked. "It is my demands, and any attempt not to follow my demands will result in your destruction." "A thousand years, Charcoal Flame. That is how long I have endured imprisonment against my will." The Tantabus responded with rage. "You expect me to care?" Charcoal asked with a cold glare at the shadows. "I have a purpose to serve." "As did I." The Tantabus replied as the room began to morph into an open midnight field. Charcoal could feel the grass under his hooves as if it was real, he turned and could see the castle in the distance as it stood, as fully constructed as it had been in the time. He heard the sound of swords clashing in the distance, cries of pain and suffering. The sound of a determined battle. It did not take him long to guess what it was. "The war between ponies, the war between the Moon and the Sun." Charcoal said glancing up at the fully arisen moon that seemed to stare down at them. There was no mare in the moon when this battle took place. "This is what it is like, to be so close to your purpose yet unable to take part." The Tantabus pointed out. Eventually the screaming faded and after some mourning the event was merely forgotten by time, the whole purpose of my creation and all of my hard work, undone and merely forgotten by the frailty of pony minds." "Why are you trying to point this out to me?" Charcoal asked. "Because you and I are the same, different beings certainly, but no less victims of the passing of time." The Tantabus began to take a more physical looking form as that of a large drop of water rising out of the ground to reach eye Charcoal's eye level. "Between your memories and those of the Professor, there is no correlation, this land has forgotten your existence, you are a fragment of a fragment of a memory that has been swept under the rug." The black translucent form of the Tantabus hovered in the air with seemingly no ulterior motive but to talk about how forgetful ponykind is. "Lighting told me that you were created by Princess Luna." Charcoal had intended it to be a question, but he could not bring himself to ask if it was true. "From a certain point of view." The Tantabus said in agreement. "My brethren were created to fight your war." "But you failed." Charcoal shot back with the accusation of blame. "The defeat was not of our doing, victory was within our grasp, all of Equestria feared the very image of Nightmare Moon, even a thousand years later their colts and fillies shiver at the mere mention of her name. The Tantabus explained passionately. "The fault was with Nightmare Moon herself, she decided to challenge Celestia personally, and even then Celestia was only victorious in the final moments of the battle." "Then our Princess is truly dead." Charcoal said staring up at the moon that now no longer held the face of their Princess as it had done for a thousand years after her disappearance. "Dead?" The Tantabus asked as if surprised by the question. "Yes... that is your fear." "Don't try anything, Tantabus." Charcoal had been through too much to be susceptible to the Tantabus' petty visions of nightmares. "I can share with you more memories that I possess, from ponies now long dead. I could show you what happened to your Princess." The Tantabus offered. "In return?" Charcoal asked, intrigued by the offer. "Set me free, allow me to possess the mind of any pony of your choosing. Freedom for information." The Tantabus laid out his offer simply. "Princess Luna created you, to be used against her enemies. But she chose to rename herself Nightmare Moon, to strike fear into her enemies?" Charcoal asked. "Certainly that is partially true. We were not permitted to feed upon our creator's mind." The Tantabus said with disappointment. "Shame, I might have been willing to accept your offer." Charcoal said as he lit up his horn and fired a stream of blue and white energy right at the Tantabus' form. The energy seemed to burn a hole through the Tantabus but it soon sealed back up. It then began to grow and shift more into the form of an alicorn, the species that only represented the powerful beings that were the two sisters of the moon and the sun. "You dare to take on the form of Princess Luna?" Charcoal said filled with rage at this new level of sacrilege. "Why not, if only to make you more aware of what you had in your hooves before you threw it all away in return for being made a corpse." The Tantabus threatened as it seemed to fade out of existence. Charcoal looked around unable to see the creature, until he heard marching. He quickly turned to see an army of shadow pony warriors heading in his direction, each one armed with a sword or spear and the silhouette of armour that marked them as warriors of Celestia. "I have no time for this." Charcoal did his best to summon his own willpower, with it, his sword appeared on the ground beneath his hooves. He quickly picked the sword up and charged headlong into the force of shadow ponies. They were weak enough as he sliced through their bodies, shadowy hooves were removed from their bodies, even the necks proved to be almost entirely without form, it was as if he was fighting the clouds themselves. Despite his strength and his speed there appeared to be no shortage of the pony shaped beings. When they did manage to hit him it was as if a pony had slammed its hoof into his body, the pain was not that of a weapon but hurt badly enough to take its toll as they surrounded him and broke down his defences. "I had hoped you would last longer. Many that Celestia hoofpicked to lead her armies lasted longer, perhaps the saying Lighting taught me does hold true, they don't make em like they used to." The Tantabus followed his taunt with a cackle. "Enough!" Charcoal simply made the shadow ponies vanish with his mind. "I am no regular pony!" "No, you are as powerful as the bloodlines I fought with a thousand years ago, unstained by Celestia's benevolence and compassion. Not tainted by the pathetic worship of the sun that this land has fallen to. The Tantabus said as it reappeared in front of Charcoal still choosing its alicorn form. Charcoal nodded. "I would say the same to you, and you can trust me that Celestia's rule will come to an end, you know there is nothing that will stop me from achieving that goal." "I cannot say how you will react to the truth or how you will learn of it. But when the truth reaches you, I hope that the rage will only speed your progress as you accomplish the reason you were created." The Tantabus said proudly. "One last fight then, as your reward for serving your Princess, as we all must." Charcoal said pointing his sword toward the Tantabus. "One last fight." The Tantabus agreed as its form expanded, its wings growing to twice their size. The Tantabus charged forward with all its might, the majestic leap of a great beast, it moved toward Charcoal with clear intent to fulfill its purpose, to end Celestia's reign by any means necessary. Charcoal's sword found its mark behind its neck as it sliced through decapitating the shadowy head from its body. And even as its body fell to the ground, the Tantabus began to glow a bright white light. Charcoal sheathed his sword and took two steps forward the glowing white light and stretched out a hoof. The white light coalesced into a stream of pure magical energy, likely that which had been summoned and warped by Princess Luna herself, in a way the very small essence of her power and will that had created this life was now becoming one with his. Charcoal opened his eyes as Lighting looked him over and shined a candle near his eyes. "You seem okay?" "I'm fine." Charcoal pushed the pony's hoof and the candle away from his snout. "The Tantabus?" Lighting inquired. Charcoal considered for a moment how to answer that question. "It's gone, it realized that its purpose had been served." "Well that is a relief, now I will be able to sleep again." Lighting said with a quick weary smile with what energy he still had. "I must now leave this place." Charcoal said getting up from the bed. "So soon?, You're welcome to sleep in the castle, I certainly intend to before I head back to Tall Tale." Lighting said not ashamed to admit that he was so tired nothing else was going to happen until he got some shut eye. "Thanks, but." Charcoal looked around. "I sense that the ghosts of this building already wish me to stay, and I have no intention of sticking around to argue with them." Lighting stared for a few moments at Charcoal's comments but then nodded with at least a basic level of understanding. "If you don't mind me asking, where are you headed?" Charcoal pondered that question for a few moments, partly to consider if it was necessary to lie and partially to take the time to ask himself for that answer. "Ultimately, wherever Celestia is located." Charcoal answered honestly. "Well, you want to get to Canterlot." Lighting said standing proudly. "I spent time there, learning about the various sciences." "That is quite a fair way to travel." Charcoal said impressed by the pony's adventuring skill. "Not at all, I just took the train to Vanhoover." Lighting replied. "The Vanhoover settlement still exists?" Charcoal asked in excitement. "Why wouldn't it, yes and its quite a large city." Lighting added. "Great." Charcoal said grateful for the information. "One more question, what is a train?" "Uh." Lighting considered how to answer that question. "Engine, locomotive, goes choo choo." Charcoal nodded. "interesting. I will depart for Vanhoover, immediately." "Hey, what was your name?" Lighting asked as he turned to watch Charcoal attempt to exit the basement. "You can call me, Charcoal." Charcoal nodded being grateful for the Professor's help. Charcoal left the castle and made his way back north, a necessary diversion if he was to see if the rumours were true and that Vanhoover was as populated as he had been led to believe. However he could only move slowly as the stars had returned to the sky once again. Tonight there was no moon, so he empowered his horn to glow. A scroll and quill magically flew from his luggage, and hovered in the air. Quickly he used magic to write on the scroll all that he had witnessed so far, with some particular events excluded for now. With a pop and a dazzle the scroll was teleported to its intended destination. A few seconds later a scroll appeared above him and fell into his hooves. He uncurled it and quickly read through the text. Satisfied he wrapped it back up and stored it in his bag. However before he could continue on, another scroll fell from the air. He hesitantly opened it and skimmed over its words. He then slammed it shut in frustration.
Seasons ChangeCharcoal Flame strode quickly as he spotted the heights of tall buildings like he had never seen before. The city of Vanhoover was large and full of ponies, and though some aspects of it matches his map, it was far larger and different than what he had been expecting. As he moved closer he observed the denizens, they were all quite well dressed and seemed well off compared to those that lived in Tall Tale. He stopped and observed the ancient Luna Light Tower that stood just outside the city by the point where the ocean flowed inward becoming a salt water river. was surprised to find such a structure still standing despite Celestia's long reign. He then turned and traveled further into the city, past all of the ponies with their carts of wares. Some of the buildings were old, but most seemed new. Buildings that reached high up into the sky with rows of glass windows reflecting the sun. The city was far more populated than he had been expecting and while most ponies here appeared to be unarmed, he knew that each one would surely cooperate in opposition against them if given the chance. That could not be allowed. Trotting past a large park he was drawn to the centre of the city, there stood a large town hall, amazingly the structure had largely unchanged from its historical appearance, a large crescent shape symbolizing the power of the moon. He gazed upon its round blue tinted windows and the statues of stars dotted around it. It was glorious, a perfect prize for his satiated curiosity. Then his ears perked up. Crying could be heard nearby. he turned his head to see a blank flanked filly sitting on the footpath crying. Her mane was blue and her coat white and her eyes were oddly green. Charcoal cautiously approached, in a strange land one always had to be prepared for a trap. He gazed down at the filly uncertainly. "What is the matter?" He asked, at first his words rough and uncaring. The filly looked up at him with tears falling down her eyes. She then looked back down at the street as if she had no interest in answering his question. "Do you wish for help?" He tried a little more compassion in his voice. "Who are you?" The filly asked as she held back her tears. Charcoal wondered just how to answer that and considered the question. "I'm just a traveler from out of town. But if you need help, I can provide it." "Like an adventurer?" She asked as a smile formed on her face. "Ive always wanted to be an adventurer." "Why were you crying?" Charcoal asked hoping to distract from the convenient misunderstanding. "I'm lost." She said looking around as if she were as confused as he was. "Your parents must be worried sick about you." Charcoal said offering her a small smile. "I'll help you find them if you like." The filly quickly bolted upward onto four legs. "Gee, thanks!" "Do you know where you live?" Charcoal hoped the filly had some idea of where her parents were. "Uh, no." She said with a worried expression crossing her face. "But you do remember which way you came?" Charcoal asked. "Uh, that way." She pointed towards the city exit that he had come from. "From outside of the city?" He asked. "No, the park." The filly answered. "Walk with me." He commanded the filly as he walked toward the park. The filly had suggested she had come from the park, which means she must have wandered off from the park. it was strange a filly would chose to stray so far from such a location as to go completely down and across the road. What was also strange was instead of looking for her parents, she instead seemed to be keeping her eyes on him. But he guessed she was just depending on him. "What do your parents look like?" He asked once in the middle of the park with his hooves on the well cut grass. "Uh..." The filly looked around. Charcoal leaned down and looked into her eyes. As he studied them he saw no sign that she was looking for anyone, no sign of the tears that had once been. "Is this some kind of a trick?" Charcoal asked trying to remain calm for the moment. "No, it's no trick." She said glancing down at the ground. "I just, I don't remember where I came from." "So you lied?" Charcoal's curiosity grew. "No." She replied. "This is where I remember appearing." "And before then?" Charcoal looked around for anything that looked out of place. The filly's face contorted into one of fear. "I remember only a few moments of total darkness, and then I was here." "Do you remember anything else?" A name, a location?" Charcoal found this mystery puzzling. "I remember... being cold." The filly said shivering at the memory despite the sunny day. Charcoal shook his head. "Then I have little choice, i will have to give you to the local authorities." "Authorities?" The filly seemed uncertain about that. "What does that mean?" "The ponies who live here will likely be able to take greater care of you than I." Charcoal also had to move on. "What will you do?" Her question coming seemingly from out of nowhere. Charcoal considered an answer to her question but then shook his head. "You have no need to know." The filly simply looked down at the ground with a sad expression. Charcoal regretted he had to be so cold, but it was safer for her the less she knew. He figured it was a simple enough task to hand her over to the local guards, even though he had no trust for those serving under Celestia. For some time he felt perplexed at the lack of guards in the city. Until he identified the strange blue ponies with caps as being what this city counted as guards. "Excuse me." Charcoal said getting the attention of two of them that were walking together. "Can we help you?" The officer responded with an annoyed expression. "Listen, I found this filly lost in the park, and she seems to have no idea where she is." Charcoal motioned his hoof down at the filly. "I was wondering if you could take her somewhere for help." The second officer stepped forward and looked her over. "Are you alright, dear?" "I'm okay, thank you." She said taking a step back. "Alright, we'll take her from here." The first officer said pointing his hoof down the road. We'll take her to the station and see if we can find out who she is." "I appreciate that." Charcoal then leaned down to the filly. "I apologize, but I must be going, it was nice meeting you." "You too." She responded with a tone that left a feeling of regret in his throat. He began trotting though did not go too fast. As he turned the corner a strange sight caught his eye from across the road. A white mare with a yellow mane and green eyes dressed in a black dress and a black fedora over her head walked across the road towards him. Her eyes seemed to glimmer a shade of blue. Charcoal would have ignored it had the mare not turned the corner from where he had come, quite a coincidence. He paused for a moment. Something felt off As if he had sensed a powerful field of magic. He slowly turned around, following his senses he quickly began to run back the way he had just came. The first thing he noticed was the ponies around begin to turn, their faces stricken with horror, assuring him that his instincts were correct. His hoof found his blade. The two officer ponies lay upon the ground, backed up against the wall was the unicorn filly. "Stop!" He shouted as his blade extended to face his opponent. The mare in black slowly turned toward him, her eyes looking him over to access the threat he posed. She smiled as she realized that he was worthy of her attention. "Not your standard guard?" She then tilted her fedora with her hoof. "The last thing I was expecting in a place like this was some hero." "I do not know who you are but this filly is under my protection." Charcoal stated sternly. The mare in black merely smiled at him as she turned to completely face him. She continued studying him as if he were entirely strange to her. "It's strange, I should run into one of your caliber at a time like this." She then slowly stepped closer to him. "My name is Silk, what might yours be?" "Charcoal Flame." He replied sensing that something was quite off about this pony. Silk then walked up and around him studying him from the side and even walking around his back. He stood in place and allowed her to examine him, hoping she would simply back off without a noisy fight being necessary. "A fine specimen, definitely not a local denizen." She said stopping finally in front of him and moved her face close to his. "You have very little smell of this city on you." "Be gone, or I will be forced to act." Charcoal was unsure what the mare was playing at but he did not like her lack of fear in him. "Unfortunately, the filly belongs to me. But if you like you could come home with me too." Her horn began to glow a sickly shade of green. "Fine." He knew then that a fight was unavoidable. Charcoal swung his sword at the mare as she leapt out of the way. A bolt of electricity then shot out from her horn but Charcoal was already dodging, charging toward her again with his sword raised high. Silk spun around and kicked up with her rear legs, Charcoal forced to step back, lost his momentum. The green glowing horn fired more bolts of electricity at him, his sword was able to easily absorb the shocks as he again attempted to approach her. Silk then created an aura of green glowing energy around herself, she then charged him head on, the power of the electrical field around her was the first to hit. Charcoal felt his body shake violently from the energy coursing through his muscles, his grip tightened on his sword as he lost control of his hooves. The final hit was the mare's head colliding with his own. Charcoal was thrown back against the ground, his sword sliding away from him. Silk prepared another attack with her horn but Charcoal was ready, throwing up a small purple magical barrier to stop the attack in its tracks. Her horn then faded as the same curious glint in her eyes returned. "I see your magical potential is quite high. Perhaps there truly is a place for you to join us?" "Who?" Charcoal said standing ready for another round as his horn glowed red. Silk might have answered had her attention not then been diverted by more officers appearing across the street, about eight in total now charging toward them. Instead of focusing on him, she instead projected a wall of green electrical energy across the road, a couple of the officers fell but the rest kept coming, pushing through the pain. "We will meet again." Silk then performed the strangest trick and simply ran up the wall, heading for the top of the building. Charcoal noticed the newly arrived ponies were just as intent on attacking him. He leapt over to his sword and sheathed it. He then used a spell to summon a wave of water, as to slow them down for only a moment. He then grabbed the filly and through her over her back, she seemed unharmed but the ordeal had effected her mentally, she simply closed her eyes. Charcoal then used a spell to jump past his opponents and then took off down the street. Ponies were stopping and staring in shock but he could do little to avoid attention now. He dived head first into the first large building that he could find. The large stone building he found looked ancient by comparison to those around it. As he entered he noticed it was full of ponies, but such ponies were blissfully unaware of what had just transpired outside. Quickly doing his best to control his rush of adrenaline, he slowed his hooves and tried his best to take the few moments he had to blend in with the crowd. "Where are we?" The filly said finally opening her eyes and looking at the exhibits. "I'm not sure." Charcoal looked up at the large sign on the wall. "Vanhoover Town Museum." Charcoal could read the word but he knew not what a museum was. He looked around and sure enough he recognized many of the displays were full of ancient artifacts, many of which he recognised from long before his time. Suits of armour, preserved scrolls and even artwork depicting Luna in her full majesty adorned the building. It was the most like home he had seen since coming here. "They're coming." The filly reminded him as a stream of officers began to enter the building. Charcoal considered his options diligently. Fighting his way out would only raise more attention, he preferred that he got out without a tussle, but he had no idea if the building had a back exit. Instead he made a brisk pace toward the nearest staircase that spiraled upward. The second story presented a greater view of some of the larger exhibits, especially the large tapestries that depicted Luna's rule alongside Celestia. The number of officers piling in quickly became over a dozen and more were probably on their way. "Don't worry I have a plan." Charcoal just needed the right artifact. He spotted exactly what he needed, a brass jug with artwork of Princess Luna and the moon depicted upon its surface. The perfect size and durability. "I need you to promise me something." Charcoal said pointing towards the jug. "I am going to cast a spell on that jug, promise me no matter what happens you wont look at it, keep your eyes completely closed if you have to, and be ready for a commotion." The filly nodded with a determined glance. "Understood." Charcoal's horn glowed blue as she got a spell down from the second floor and across the room, a simple yet effective spell. The want it need it spell began to work almost immediately. At first there were shouts of happiness and joy and then bouts of anger. And then ponies began to rush toward the jug. The officer ponies at first attempted to calm them but it was already too late as the jug became their only obsession, quickly they began pushing and shoving over one another to get to it, the officers now had their hooves full. "Now." Charcoal grabbed the filly and threw her over her back again. Teleporting back down to the first floor was dangerous with a rampaging crowd, but it was better and quicker than trying to run through them. A few consecutive hops and he was behind the officers and charging back out the way he had come in. He attempted a few more teleportation spells but the street was still full of ponies gazing his way, and he could not charge fast enough to get out of the city. Luckily he didn't notice anypony following him, which was a relief in of itself. He moved past the lighthouse again and continued on, knowing that if he stopped, he would risk failing his mission. The city was no place for him and so he continued, without stopping until the city was as distant as possible. The museum was a total mess, the city's healers had a lot on their plate to heal the bruises and scrapes but luckily nothing too serious had befallen the populace. Chief Red Swift was still trying to compile the eyewitness accounts of exactly what had happened. A pony had reported a missing filly, likely not from here. And then almost immediately an unidentified mare had proceeded to attack two of his officers in an attempt to kidnap her. On top of that the stallion that reported the filly missing had chosen to resist capture, and had now run off with the filly in tow. "I need to know who these ponies are!" He yelled to those following his orders. "Chief Red Swift?" Came the voice of a mare from behind him. The staunch brown stallion turned to see a pale blue mare with a grey mane approach him. The fur on his body stood up as he realised what the mare was. The mare was mostly normal, but two large bat like wings stuck upward from her sides like that of a pegasus. Her ears were pointy and raised up like that of a bat and her eyes shined like a full moon with a narrow pupil that was narrow and sharp enough to cut through his soul. "A bat pony?" He stammered in shock. The bat pony mare stopped and smiled before flopping out identification. "Special Agent Lavender Glow." "Ah yes, I was told this case might attract outside attention." Red Swift pointed to the mess the museum was now in. "I trust you already have the basics, eyewitness accounts report all suspects have fled the city, I see no reason to suspect they were working together, however their magical power was alarming." "Thank you, the Princesses will be informed." Lavender said glancing around the room. "Are you certain there are no eyewitnesses of the filly entering the city?" "None, most ponies are reporting that she simply appeared in the middle of the park." Red Swift considered the possibilities. " A simple teleportation spell perhaps, but the filly seems to have come alone." "Don't worry yourself, Chief Red Swift." Lavender said turning around. "The Princesses have instructed me that these suspects are to be found quickly and brought to justice." The old stone fort was in rough shape, worn from its great age. But Silk appreciated the darkness that it was kept in, out of the light of the hot sun and hidden by the forest. The gargoyle statues that lined the hall was also appreciated, making her feel like she was home again. She cared not for the dark robed ponies that surrounded her, each one exactly the same. It was her that stuck out and that was the way she liked it, a reminder that she would never consider any of them true kin, but there was one that she felt differently about. "I am to understand you failed." Came a voice she recognised from the side. "I have no time to quarrel with you Broth." She said already annoyed that the zebra would approach her. Broth was a messy zebra, with various tribal magical items adorning his body. He had chosen to abandon his own kind on the search for wealth and power, but had stumbled his way into their group more out of reverence for their lord's grand plan. "No time to quarrel with me perhaps, but answer you will for your failures." Broth said followed with a smirk and a deep almost silent laugh. "Silk!" Came a loud voice booming from the darkness. A purple stallion then emerged from the shadows, he wore a white robe with a blue necklace around his neck. His image was odd but that was its purpose, a pony that stuck out like none before him. He sat upon the old throne that had ancient words of the centaur language carved into its base. His long dark purple mane flowed down his body. "Silk, I have been informed that there was a set back?" The grand pony asked. "Cepheus, I regret to inform you that the rumours are true, the spell worked successfully, but the target was lost." Silk bowed her head in shame, her expression however was hidden by her hat. "Was the local population too much trouble for you?" Cepheus asked. "No, of course not." Silk considered her explanation carefully. "There was somepony else." "Who?" Cepheus asked likely already considering which adversary had discovered their plan. "I am uncertain, but I do not believe he was cooperating with our enemies, he seemed naive of both my identity and our intentions. However his power was far beyond that of an average pony, my guess is he was far from home." Silk sensed that Charcoal had been just as out of place in that city as she had been. "Silk, we cannot have random travelers foiling our plans when we are so close. The target must be reacquired and returned." Cepheus looked to Broth. "Perhaps Broth would be more suited..." "No!" Silk shot up. "Please, Cepheus, allow me to finish my work." Cepheus put his hooves together in front of his face and seemed to weigh his options for a moment. "I will grant you another chance, however I think it best you took help with you, I am willing to overlook this inconvenience as it was outside interference that none of us could have foreseen, however fail again and I will be forced to administer punishment." "Understood, thank you, Cepheus." Silk bowed before turning back around and leaving. "Lord Cepheus?" Broth knew that there were too many unanswered questions. Cepheus nodded. "Follow her, I wish to know who this mystery stallion is and why he has stumbled upon my plans."
