Post by Mal on Nov 2, 2014 1:56:35 GMT -5
Princess Night. It was finally Nightmare Night, the day all of Equestria had been looking forward to. A chance to relax, to have fun and play games, and for the foals, candy! Though the day had passed with agonizing slowness, as though Celestia herself was teasing the excited citizens.. it was time. The sun had fallen into the darkness, and the moon had risen in her place. The princess of the night herself was on her way to Ponyville, after she'd managed to usher an excited Midnight onto her trademark chariot. The little country town, though a speck before, grew larger on their approach- soon it was splayed out below them, decked in Nightmare Night decorations. The town square, with its stands of food and games set up, was the busiest. Luna stood as her bat-winged guard slowed the dark chariot to a halt above the square itself. As it descended, the princess took flight, silhouetting herself against the regal moon before she dove towards the amassed crowd. Luna landed before them with a thump! of all four hooves, her wings flared and a foreleg lifted. "We come before you, fair citizens of Ponyville, to begin a night of frivolity and frights! It is time to cast aside thy past troubles as we celebrate another Nightmare Night! Let us enjoy the festivities!" Luna's voice thundered over the excited town as she employed the Royal Canterlot Voice- a little callback to the night two years prior. It was not only for the citizens, but herself as well to bolster her spirits- and it had been too long since she'd gotten to properly use it!
Hivaan Ironwing slowly wandered down the main road of ponyville and getting all sorts of looks. Most were of curiosity, with some apprehension with a few scared ponies. He supposed it would be his fault, his 'costume' was rather unusual. The greater majority of it was magic-based after all! A mix of illusions and other spells. Of course most spellcasters would likely get mad and lecture him on using 'such magic' for something so...whimsical. However, he would likely just wave a hoof and say he wanted to use his magic to have fun! The few that remembered his normal appearance would likely be able to recognize him by the black cloak, however instead of fur and feathers his body was shadow and smoke. The smoke seemed formed in the vague shape of a pony, tendrils of smoke seeping from the edges of the cloak and dissipating into the air as the shadows seemed to stretch from where the 'ghostly' hooves touched. All was harmless though. Twin burning emerald fires replaced his eyes in the smoke, and for extra effect he even wore the respirator mask, and with every exhale there was a gentle burst of green-black smoke. All in all he looked like some sort of wraith. He eventually made it to the square, staying towards the edge of the crowd. He glanced up when he saw some movement only to watch Luna come from the sky, landing with a thump. She then seemed to make an announcement to get the festivities going! He was a little unsure about being among so large a crowd, but....he did say he'd be here. His 'ghostly' gaze drifted about the crowd, several ponies crying out when they turned to see the rather realistic 'wraith' before laughing amongst their friends at the fright. The sound of laughing made him feel a little better about things, at least!
Nyota Mwuaji had set up his cart and was dressed up in voodoo gear, glowing green fires and torches around, scary masks and odd bubbling potions. He was sitting and telling scary tales and making flashy, scary puffs of smoke to passerbys. A black and green mare sat behind him, chuckling and selling some of the masks and such, looking like she'd rather be anywhere else BUT there. Nyota gives a wave to everypony as they pass by. "Come one and come all to the witch doctor's place....but be warned it's a very cursed place!"
Princess Night, as usual, began to greet the familiar faces that had approached her now that her little speech was finished. She received a lot of 'Welcome back!'s and 'I can't wait to see what you have planned!'s in that time. Once they'd all had their say and had begun to disperse, the princess was free to check in with certain others. She'd check in with the six later too, of course, but the night was still young! She had time. Luna looked over the crowd of costumed ponies as she searched. Along the edge, she could easily spot a familiar cart, and a familiar zebra. Nyota! As her gaze returned to the rest of the town square, she had a small fright herself when she spotted the 'wraith.' Sombra's visit last night had sprang to her mind, but on a closer inspection, it wasn't him. The face mask, and green eyes- she bet it was.. Hivaan perhaps? Luna strode over, lifting a wing to gesture to the ghostly stallion as she veered towards the cart; she could talk to them both without singling out just one pony.
Hivaan Ironwing glanced around some as the crowd dispersed to go off and do whatever they wished. Some likely to go get candy, others to perhaps play the festivities. His smoky ears perked when he heard a familiar voice and glanced to a cart he'd not noticed before. Aha! Another familiar pony! His gaze switched back to the Alicorn as she moved towards the cart, gesturing with a wing. He dipped his head and made to join her. Soon enough they'd likely arrive at the cart and he smiled....although nobody would know. The form didn't really have much in the way of facial features. "Hello again, Nyota..." he'd start once he got close enough, waving a smoky hoof and then turned his head towards the Alicorn. "...and milady Luna, pleasure to see you under more... normal circumstance." he quipped happily as he stood upright. For once the voice fit the form, at least!
Nyota Mwuaji gives a nod to both. "Hello again you two." He blows some green glowing powder towards Luna. "Here this will lend you a ghostly appearance." He smirks and turns to Hivaan. "And you my friend are downright frightening in that getup." Nyota turns and waves a bit, the black and green mare retreating into the cart with a very loud and obvious, "FINALLY!" He chuckles a bit. "Pardon my....companion. She doesn't like to mingle with other ponies much." He sits. "So can I offer you two anything? Glowing punch? Poison joke tea? Maybe a mask or a dreamcatcher? Also how are you my friends? Maybe I should have asked that first!" He chuckles some more.
Princess Night offered both the shadowy stallion and the zebra a pleased smile, which faltered some in her surprise at the assault of glowing powder. Turning to the former, she would speak first. "Indeed, it is a pleasure that we meet in a place that is not my throne room." She replied, amused. "You sport quite an interesting appearance tonight; it gave even me a bit of a start. It works well; I would assume spellwork?" She would ask before she glanced Nyota's way when his companion retreated huffily. The alicorn leaned her head towards the zebra, as though aiming to not be overheard. "I would presume that is who I think it is?" Luna would quietly ask, though she smiled when she did so. She would draw back then, resuming a normal conversation. "Despite my.. recent troubles, I am doing quite well now. What of the two of you?"
Hivaan Ironwing flicked an ear as Nyota gave Luna the powder, and grinned under the mask, green fire-eyes brightening some with amusement. "Thank you." he happily quipped as he turned to Luna when she also commented on his 'interesting appearance'. His eyes brightened even more and he had a bit of a smug glint when he heard that it even gave her a bit of a shock! He was fixing to reply when his attention was drawn to Nyota's companion, head tilting as he chuckled some while recalling what he'd been told the last time he met the zebra. "Eh, can't blame her too much." he rumbled, turning back to Luna. "Yeah, a whole slew of spells. Shape manipulation, illusions....I'd give someone back on the isles a fit if they could see doing this." he cheerfully commented only to glance back at Nyota again. "Poison joke tea? Really?" he asked, curious as he let Luna converse with Nyota as she was. At Nyota, and then Luna's inquiry he leaned back some. "I've been alright, you know what I've been getting ready for milady."
Nyota Mwuaji chuckles and then leans in. "Yes, that's her and she's being a little pissy because I asked her to help out." He smirks a bit. "And yes poison joke tea. It's relatively harmless and is good for making an odd costume look." He chuckles and then looks over Luna. "You look good even with the glow powder all over you." He smiles and scoops up two cups of glowing fluid from one of the cauldrons. "Punch? It's good. Made it today."
Lord Sombra could see the castle of the twin sisters. Yet, unlike what Sombra knew, the mighty parapets and crenelations had a distinctly dreamlike feel, hazy and smokey. As if viewed through a frosted pane of glass. The ground appeared scorched, as if the mighty goddess Celestia herself had scorched dead the soil, arcing lines of red arcane jolting from the soil in no discernible pattern. More unusual were the foreign feelings which Sombra felt, feelings inherent to the dream he was experiencing, the mix of grief, sorrow, and unfathomable wrath. Abandonment! Stranger yet a sight was the blue alicorn princess which rapidly gained on his position. Her mane? White as untrod, and unsullied fresh snow. And then Sombra awoke! And found himself sweating quite profusely. "What in Tartarus?.." The dream had felt so very very real, and troubling. And yet so intrinsically tied to his being. Alas Nightmare Night was in full sway, little ponies frolicking with glee across all Equestria! Magic too would have its due, resonating with the primordial heartbeat of the land. Stag and doe alike dancing to the tune of that ancient heartbeat. Together weaving magic that'd last seasons aplenty. " Ugh..." Apparently Sombra had a headache though, pounding hard against his skull. But for now, while Sombra was awake he'd explore the locales. Yet one hour later, Sombra only managed to wonder errantly 'bout the lonesome tree that still so utterly baffled his sensibilities. That and upon discovering himself to be slightly corporeal this auspicious date, grooming himself and his mane to perfection. He'd finally depart though, arriving both too soon and too late to the festivities of the night. Festivities which Sombra watched from the sidelines. At least for now or until beckoned once more into the breach.
More troubling though was the darkening of Sombra's mind, the further Sombra had trot away from Canterlot, Only the promise stayed Sombra's hoof, a memory too which warred against the dark machinations of the tyrants mind. But' would fortunately abate the unfathomable wrath which welled within him. He' sure as hell wasn't the only one which watched Luna though. Surely amused! Though one brooding to secret thoughts privy only to him.
Princess Night blinked in response to this and looked down to inspect herself, lifting a leg. "I had expected that she is unused to performing for others." The princess would remark and looked up to Hivaan as he explained what he'd done to himself. "I have to say, that is very clever." The alicorn said and chuckled to Nyota's compliment. "I would greatly appreciate your offering of punch." Luna nodded to the zebra, levitating one of the cups that were offered to herself when she caught Hivaan's comment. "Oh, of course. I am looking forward to what you have planned. I will have something to do once Nightmare Night has passed us by."
Hivaan Ironwing couldn't help but smile as he moved to sit down where he was. "I would take some punch, but I'm afraid I have to pass. I'm unsure just what would happen if I were to try to drink something in an only semi-corporeal state. The drink could be wasted, or introducing it could react to the combination of spells that make the 'costume' I'm using in some. I don't really know, and don't exactly want to risk it." he'd admit with a sheepish grin as he settled down and glanced between the two a few times only to grin sheepishly. "I am hoping that I can have everything together, but there is still some enchanting yet to do before it is safe." he replied and simply leaned against the cart from his position a little, falling silent.
Nyota Mwuaji gives a little nod and hands the cup to Luna. "Here you are princess, and I'm sure its her not wanting to perform but also not wanting to be in public." He chuckles a little. "Actually tried to bite me when I pushes her out of the cart this morning." Nyota pours the undrunk punch back into the cauldron and it makes a POOF sound, a little mushroom cloud rising. Nyota smirks a bit. "So eating and drinking interfere with your costume? Aren't those what most of the festival is? Likes of good food and drinks and fun?" He refills Luna's cup when it starts to get low. "Please, be greedy. I made far too much." He turns and watches a little spark moving along the cart "Um..Hivaan be careful. I had a few thefts a few days ago and redid the security runes...I don't want you getting hit with a spell."
Lord Sombra wondered where the destruction had originated. His fell hand was upon it, and yet Sombra could not recall ever having had such fell power. His mind and body tingled pleasant at the very thought! Power enabled, made possible what'd normally be impossible. That'd no doubt apply to Unicorns, capable of weaving magic in such a way few but alicorns understood. At one time having had influence over the celestial cycle in fact if certain tomes were to be believed. As Sombra drank from that wellspring though, a startling thought occurred to him. One which snapped Sombra from unholy reverie. "What is this?" Sombra whispered, his deep voice carried on a brief pulse of magic to Luna's very own ears.
Princess Night peered into the cup that the zebra had given her before taking an experimental sip. Huh, it was pretty good punch; but what else did she expect from zebras? She looked to Hivaan to smile as he expressed his concern about what it could do to him in such a form. "Tis a shame! Nyota has created a good drink." The princess commented, her tone one of amusement. "That is good to hear that you are taking strides for safety, considering the nature of the magic." Luna said with a little nod and turned a curious eye upon the zebra again. "As it would figure. Perhaps one day a creature such as she might be less.. hateful towards the public." The alicorn frowned a little, but shrugged it away while Nyota warned Hivaan. She lifted her cup to her lips again, but was given pause as she heard the whisper, even despite the music and talk of the festival. Distractedly, Luna looked up and around- she truly hoped the whisper wasn't who she thought it was, and that he wasn't here of all places.
Hivaan Ironwing flicked his right ear and couldn't help but laugh when he heard what was said about Nyota's companion. "Er....well, it might or it might not. I repurposed and wove together several spells to get this result." he rumbled with amusement and dipped his head some. "I mostly came to the festival to see my friends anyways, I can do without the food and such." He cheerfully replied only to smile some and dip his head at what Luna said about safety. The null zone would make practicing the magic as safe as it could get! When he was warned about the added security he frowned. "Er....I think I should be fine." he'd say with a sigh. "Worst case, the spells fail, and I have an absolutely nasty headache due to the feedback that might knock me out for a few days."
Nyota Mwuaji gives a little nod "I guess so." He looks around and then fills a few cups and passes them out to passing ponies. "Are you ok Princess? You seem distracted. Is it because of the almost getting bit thing?" He chuckles a bit. "If so don't worry I am fine." He offers to refill her cup, asking if she'd like to try a different flavor of punch as the lazy spark slowly approaches Hivaan, able to give a nasty shock if it touched him.
Lord Sombra wondered if Luna had an answer for the query. When Luna offered none Sombra frowned. Almost angrily infact! But there'd not be drastic reckoning or fire and brimstone raining from the heavens. Now, being smart as Sombra had its unique advantages. Likewise, therein laid quite the nasty few disadvantages too! One such which had attributed to Sombra well known megalomania and desire for power. And he was cunning too. Likely why Sombra too frowned at the errant mention of beefed up security and for now minded his distance. Sombra could unspool the magic Nyota had cast. Then 'it'd just be a matter of reprogramming the rune with new directives. Something however seemed unappealing 'bout that course of action. Instead Sombra laid low, indistinct as a ghost. "Should I leave then?" Sombra again whispered. Perhaps amused by Luna as Luna tried to find him. However, the bitter taste of something entwined itself in the very same words. Bitter amusement perhaps?
Princess Night's brow furrowed in a troubled way as her attention was pulled back to the two stallions. She chose the moment to finally take a drink of her punch before she'd reply. "I am fine. It is not that.. I merely thought I heard something." The alicorn waved it off with a hoof and she fell silent again, listening to the two. "I am fine with the drink you have given me.. and Nyota, I do believe you need to keep an eye on that magic of yours." Luna spoke up then, nodding towards the little spark nearing Hivaan; it was less that she spotted and more that she'd sensed it, sensitive to magic as a creature like she was. Luna's ear flicked again, yet again as her attention on the two waned. What? Her lit horn, glowing as it already was by her hold on her cup, did not change as she bothered to reply. Her voice was soft as she turned her head away from the two. "I do not understand why you would care, but if you mean no harm, then stay. Where are you lurking, then?" Luna probably looked like she'd lost it if the two noticed she was whispering to nothing.
Hivaan Ironwing closed his eyes (signified by the light of the eyes turning almost invisible) and let himself relax. Sadly that was rather short lived as his attention was wrenched towards a little spark that seemed to be inching towards him. Sure it wasn't dark magic, which his attention was usually was drawn to easily, but the little spark was giving off enough residual magic to catch his attention. He focused his attention on the spark, even grumbling at it as he inched away from it. He turned his gaze to luna, frowning some as she seemed to be...distracted..by something. It did look rather odd, Luna whispering to nothing. But....then again, it might not be what it seems. Eh, who knows!
Nyota Mwuaji gives a little sigh and trots over to the side of the cart and whacks it with a hoof, the spark vanishing and a greenish glow appearing over the cart. With another sigh he pushes a lever in the side upward and with a CLICK CLANK. The shop folded up into a gypsy cart. Nyota clambered up onto the porch as a black head with a frazzled green mane pops out the door. "Shush! Sleeping...oh." The head pulls back in and Nyota chuckles a bit. "Yes, I should pack up as my companion is going to try to get some sleep. This was a very nice festival though." He pushes one of the cauldrons toward Luna. "Here, you can have the rest of the punch Princess. But for now I must wish you all a good evening." Nyota takes out a rather large looking dreamcatchers and hangs it on the door. "Ahhh. Perfect." He smiles and wishes his friends a good night and enters the cart, shutting the door and locking it behind him, the dreamcatcher glowing a faint blue, eliminating all nightmares and dark things that might try to enter.
Lord Sombra remained silent then. And silence could be a scary thing when applied at the right time. The silence though was the unintended result of Sombra''s labourious thought processes. " Stare upon a shadow, and wonder if it stares right back." With some care, Sombra could have hid in Luna's shadow and Luna may or may not have been none the wiser. In favor of her, Luna was an immensely powerful alicorn with power over the lunar cycle and dreams [and nightmares]. "I am at the edge of your perception. Even were I immediately visible, I express my sincere doubts you'd see me." But Sombra wasn't completely sure that was entirely true. He'd indulge Luna though, briefly appearing in midst of a frolicking band of ponies to Luna's left before slipping incognito yet again.
Princess Night had whispered all she'd had to say and turned back to the pair as her spell went on its way. Hivaan seemed to be the only one looking at her; did he know she'd been whispering to what only looked like thin air? Probably. The alicorn smiled apologetically, only to turn a look of surprise on the racket the cart was making, and Nyota. "What? You are leaving so soon?" Luna frowned. "The night is so young, but I am glad you have enjoyed yourself thus far. It was a pleasure seeing you again, and thank you for the punch.. Good night." Luna finished as Nyota disappeared inside- the dreamcatcher was given a quizzical look. If she didn't know the nature of zebras so well, she probably would have been a little offended; after all, it was her job to guard dreams, not an enchanted trinket! Luna shrugged and looked upon Hivaan, eyebrows raised. "So, perhaps we can have some fun this night! The citizens are certainly looking forward to a performance." Luna managed to say before one ear swiveled back, as though picking up on something again. Sombra was talking to her again and- there, briefly, she spotted him in her peripheral vision. The blue alicorn bit back a curse and hoped nopony saw him. "Very well then." Luna'd mutter as she turned away, masking it by finally draining her cup and setting it aside.
Hivaan Ironwing was rather relieved that the spark was no longer an issue, however it seemed Nyota closed up shop and everything. He blinked once, then again, and finally just shrugged with a grin at Luna. "I suppose we could have some fun. I'll differ what we should do to you though, milady. You've been to this festival before after all." he rumbled happily as he moved to stand again. He saw Luna's ear swivel back and he couldn't really help but stare a little, the green fire that served as his eyes seeming to almost narrow before the expression was wiped to his more normal expression. He knew something was up, but it seemed harmless for now so it wasn't really his business to pry. He let his gaze drift about the square, watching ponies play several of the games as the smile became something a little more natural instead of the 'mask' version.
Lord Sombra wouldn't probably appear again. Not unless Hivaan, Luna or otherwise forced Sombra. And Sombra was quite comfortable and content remaining on the sidelines for the foreseeable future and until all but Luna remained in the square. There was something to be said though of the wonderment which attracted Sombra's attention. So very unusual a feeling which it enkindled in Sombra's almost dead, withered heart. And made Sombra wonder what'd happen if he hadn't hid. Or infact stopped hiding whatsoever! On further reflection though, Sombra determined that to be unwise and contrary to his desire and or current whims. The festivities among other things [previously stated or otherwise], kept Sombra's mind from idling to dark places as well, distracting him just enough from the nagging diabolicism at the back of his mind.
Princess Night focused back upon Hivaan when she heard nothing else, and chose to keep her attention on him. She was probably already beginning to look.. off. The dark lady lifted a hoof to her chin in thought as she also looked out over the town square. It was too busy here for them to do anything, and she wasn't sure if she wanted to interrupt any of the games. What could she even do? The obvious choice was to take Nightmare Moon's guise again, but.. after Dark Vortex's possession by that old, residual darkness in the castle ruins, she almost didn't have the heart for it. There were too many reminders, but that was what the festival was made around, and what the citizens expected. Luna shrugged to herself, giving in as her horn began to glow again. She began weaving the illusion around herself, her appearance changing noticeably into that tall and menacing mare of darkness, her starry mane purple rather than blue. Luna rolled her shoulders and looked to Hivaan, grinning to purposely reveal those rows of sharp teeth. "I suggest we take ourselves to the dimly lit streets, where we may frighten the unsuspecting townfolk! Those here, I would prefer to leave to their games." Luna said as she spread bat-like wings, poised to take flight.
Hivaan Ironwing wouldn't have been able to help but blink some as he saw Luna's horn begin to glow. He was admittedly rather curious! Soon enough her appearance changed into a taller and rather menacing shape. "Huh, nice look." he'd comment with a tilt of his head and a chuckle at the sight of the sharp teeth. So that is what Nightmare Moon had looked like. Fascinating! "That sounds like a plan." he would say while grinning widely under the respirator. Oho, scaring ponies! That sounded fun! Hivaan made to follow Luna only to freeze and glance in the direction of his 'camp' with a small frown. "I...think I might have to cut things a little short, or perhaps join you later." he'd start, sighing. "A couple proximity wards near my camp on the Everfree fringe were triggered. It might be nothing, but it might be more timber wolves or something that was disturbed this night." he'd say with a grimace. He had to check, they didn't need trouble creeping into the town on this night of all nights. All the ponies wandering the dark streets. "I'll meet up with you later, milady. Scare some ponies silly for me." he 'cheerfully' said and made to start towards his camp.
Lord Sombra would soon fade from Luna's awareness. Whether that was of Sombra's own volition or a consequence of Sombra's stealthy capabilities, that would be quite hard to discern. One might presume though Sombra returned to Canterlot, returning to the silence of his own thoughts to mull those thoughts that required mulling, and silence those thoughts which required their pacification. But it was entirely possible Sombra followed Luna, following the majestic moon mare and the festivities of the night with an almost catlike curiosity and grace. All while remaining unseen of course!
Princess Night fluttered her wings once to rise off of the ground, hoping to lead the wraith into a night of frights together.. ! Although it was cut short when he seemed alarmed by something- some wards? The lunar alicorn's face fell a little in disappointment, but she could understand if it was something he absolutely needed to tend to. "It is no problem at all! We may be able to meet up later to scare others as a duo, but until then I shall happily comply." Luna replied and lingered to watch as Hivaan left. Once he'd gone, she took flight to later land upon the straw-thatched roof of a building. Sombra hadn't yet bothered her again, which left her a little freer where she could start. She'd certainly have her fun, and pause to check up on other ponies, as well as a certain princess of friendship too.
Hivaan Ironwing slowly wandered down the main road of ponyville and getting all sorts of looks. Most were of curiosity, with some apprehension with a few scared ponies. He supposed it would be his fault, his 'costume' was rather unusual. The greater majority of it was magic-based after all! A mix of illusions and other spells. Of course most spellcasters would likely get mad and lecture him on using 'such magic' for something so...whimsical. However, he would likely just wave a hoof and say he wanted to use his magic to have fun! The few that remembered his normal appearance would likely be able to recognize him by the black cloak, however instead of fur and feathers his body was shadow and smoke. The smoke seemed formed in the vague shape of a pony, tendrils of smoke seeping from the edges of the cloak and dissipating into the air as the shadows seemed to stretch from where the 'ghostly' hooves touched. All was harmless though. Twin burning emerald fires replaced his eyes in the smoke, and for extra effect he even wore the respirator mask, and with every exhale there was a gentle burst of green-black smoke. All in all he looked like some sort of wraith. He eventually made it to the square, staying towards the edge of the crowd. He glanced up when he saw some movement only to watch Luna come from the sky, landing with a thump. She then seemed to make an announcement to get the festivities going! He was a little unsure about being among so large a crowd, but....he did say he'd be here. His 'ghostly' gaze drifted about the crowd, several ponies crying out when they turned to see the rather realistic 'wraith' before laughing amongst their friends at the fright. The sound of laughing made him feel a little better about things, at least!
Nyota Mwuaji had set up his cart and was dressed up in voodoo gear, glowing green fires and torches around, scary masks and odd bubbling potions. He was sitting and telling scary tales and making flashy, scary puffs of smoke to passerbys. A black and green mare sat behind him, chuckling and selling some of the masks and such, looking like she'd rather be anywhere else BUT there. Nyota gives a wave to everypony as they pass by. "Come one and come all to the witch doctor's place....but be warned it's a very cursed place!"
Princess Night, as usual, began to greet the familiar faces that had approached her now that her little speech was finished. She received a lot of 'Welcome back!'s and 'I can't wait to see what you have planned!'s in that time. Once they'd all had their say and had begun to disperse, the princess was free to check in with certain others. She'd check in with the six later too, of course, but the night was still young! She had time. Luna looked over the crowd of costumed ponies as she searched. Along the edge, she could easily spot a familiar cart, and a familiar zebra. Nyota! As her gaze returned to the rest of the town square, she had a small fright herself when she spotted the 'wraith.' Sombra's visit last night had sprang to her mind, but on a closer inspection, it wasn't him. The face mask, and green eyes- she bet it was.. Hivaan perhaps? Luna strode over, lifting a wing to gesture to the ghostly stallion as she veered towards the cart; she could talk to them both without singling out just one pony.
Hivaan Ironwing glanced around some as the crowd dispersed to go off and do whatever they wished. Some likely to go get candy, others to perhaps play the festivities. His smoky ears perked when he heard a familiar voice and glanced to a cart he'd not noticed before. Aha! Another familiar pony! His gaze switched back to the Alicorn as she moved towards the cart, gesturing with a wing. He dipped his head and made to join her. Soon enough they'd likely arrive at the cart and he smiled....although nobody would know. The form didn't really have much in the way of facial features. "Hello again, Nyota..." he'd start once he got close enough, waving a smoky hoof and then turned his head towards the Alicorn. "...and milady Luna, pleasure to see you under more... normal circumstance." he quipped happily as he stood upright. For once the voice fit the form, at least!
Nyota Mwuaji gives a nod to both. "Hello again you two." He blows some green glowing powder towards Luna. "Here this will lend you a ghostly appearance." He smirks and turns to Hivaan. "And you my friend are downright frightening in that getup." Nyota turns and waves a bit, the black and green mare retreating into the cart with a very loud and obvious, "FINALLY!" He chuckles a bit. "Pardon my....companion. She doesn't like to mingle with other ponies much." He sits. "So can I offer you two anything? Glowing punch? Poison joke tea? Maybe a mask or a dreamcatcher? Also how are you my friends? Maybe I should have asked that first!" He chuckles some more.
Princess Night offered both the shadowy stallion and the zebra a pleased smile, which faltered some in her surprise at the assault of glowing powder. Turning to the former, she would speak first. "Indeed, it is a pleasure that we meet in a place that is not my throne room." She replied, amused. "You sport quite an interesting appearance tonight; it gave even me a bit of a start. It works well; I would assume spellwork?" She would ask before she glanced Nyota's way when his companion retreated huffily. The alicorn leaned her head towards the zebra, as though aiming to not be overheard. "I would presume that is who I think it is?" Luna would quietly ask, though she smiled when she did so. She would draw back then, resuming a normal conversation. "Despite my.. recent troubles, I am doing quite well now. What of the two of you?"
Hivaan Ironwing flicked an ear as Nyota gave Luna the powder, and grinned under the mask, green fire-eyes brightening some with amusement. "Thank you." he happily quipped as he turned to Luna when she also commented on his 'interesting appearance'. His eyes brightened even more and he had a bit of a smug glint when he heard that it even gave her a bit of a shock! He was fixing to reply when his attention was drawn to Nyota's companion, head tilting as he chuckled some while recalling what he'd been told the last time he met the zebra. "Eh, can't blame her too much." he rumbled, turning back to Luna. "Yeah, a whole slew of spells. Shape manipulation, illusions....I'd give someone back on the isles a fit if they could see doing this." he cheerfully commented only to glance back at Nyota again. "Poison joke tea? Really?" he asked, curious as he let Luna converse with Nyota as she was. At Nyota, and then Luna's inquiry he leaned back some. "I've been alright, you know what I've been getting ready for milady."
Nyota Mwuaji chuckles and then leans in. "Yes, that's her and she's being a little pissy because I asked her to help out." He smirks a bit. "And yes poison joke tea. It's relatively harmless and is good for making an odd costume look." He chuckles and then looks over Luna. "You look good even with the glow powder all over you." He smiles and scoops up two cups of glowing fluid from one of the cauldrons. "Punch? It's good. Made it today."
Lord Sombra could see the castle of the twin sisters. Yet, unlike what Sombra knew, the mighty parapets and crenelations had a distinctly dreamlike feel, hazy and smokey. As if viewed through a frosted pane of glass. The ground appeared scorched, as if the mighty goddess Celestia herself had scorched dead the soil, arcing lines of red arcane jolting from the soil in no discernible pattern. More unusual were the foreign feelings which Sombra felt, feelings inherent to the dream he was experiencing, the mix of grief, sorrow, and unfathomable wrath. Abandonment! Stranger yet a sight was the blue alicorn princess which rapidly gained on his position. Her mane? White as untrod, and unsullied fresh snow. And then Sombra awoke! And found himself sweating quite profusely. "What in Tartarus?.." The dream had felt so very very real, and troubling. And yet so intrinsically tied to his being. Alas Nightmare Night was in full sway, little ponies frolicking with glee across all Equestria! Magic too would have its due, resonating with the primordial heartbeat of the land. Stag and doe alike dancing to the tune of that ancient heartbeat. Together weaving magic that'd last seasons aplenty. " Ugh..." Apparently Sombra had a headache though, pounding hard against his skull. But for now, while Sombra was awake he'd explore the locales. Yet one hour later, Sombra only managed to wonder errantly 'bout the lonesome tree that still so utterly baffled his sensibilities. That and upon discovering himself to be slightly corporeal this auspicious date, grooming himself and his mane to perfection. He'd finally depart though, arriving both too soon and too late to the festivities of the night. Festivities which Sombra watched from the sidelines. At least for now or until beckoned once more into the breach.
More troubling though was the darkening of Sombra's mind, the further Sombra had trot away from Canterlot, Only the promise stayed Sombra's hoof, a memory too which warred against the dark machinations of the tyrants mind. But' would fortunately abate the unfathomable wrath which welled within him. He' sure as hell wasn't the only one which watched Luna though. Surely amused! Though one brooding to secret thoughts privy only to him.
Princess Night blinked in response to this and looked down to inspect herself, lifting a leg. "I had expected that she is unused to performing for others." The princess would remark and looked up to Hivaan as he explained what he'd done to himself. "I have to say, that is very clever." The alicorn said and chuckled to Nyota's compliment. "I would greatly appreciate your offering of punch." Luna nodded to the zebra, levitating one of the cups that were offered to herself when she caught Hivaan's comment. "Oh, of course. I am looking forward to what you have planned. I will have something to do once Nightmare Night has passed us by."
Hivaan Ironwing couldn't help but smile as he moved to sit down where he was. "I would take some punch, but I'm afraid I have to pass. I'm unsure just what would happen if I were to try to drink something in an only semi-corporeal state. The drink could be wasted, or introducing it could react to the combination of spells that make the 'costume' I'm using in some. I don't really know, and don't exactly want to risk it." he'd admit with a sheepish grin as he settled down and glanced between the two a few times only to grin sheepishly. "I am hoping that I can have everything together, but there is still some enchanting yet to do before it is safe." he replied and simply leaned against the cart from his position a little, falling silent.
Nyota Mwuaji gives a little nod and hands the cup to Luna. "Here you are princess, and I'm sure its her not wanting to perform but also not wanting to be in public." He chuckles a little. "Actually tried to bite me when I pushes her out of the cart this morning." Nyota pours the undrunk punch back into the cauldron and it makes a POOF sound, a little mushroom cloud rising. Nyota smirks a bit. "So eating and drinking interfere with your costume? Aren't those what most of the festival is? Likes of good food and drinks and fun?" He refills Luna's cup when it starts to get low. "Please, be greedy. I made far too much." He turns and watches a little spark moving along the cart "Um..Hivaan be careful. I had a few thefts a few days ago and redid the security runes...I don't want you getting hit with a spell."
Lord Sombra wondered where the destruction had originated. His fell hand was upon it, and yet Sombra could not recall ever having had such fell power. His mind and body tingled pleasant at the very thought! Power enabled, made possible what'd normally be impossible. That'd no doubt apply to Unicorns, capable of weaving magic in such a way few but alicorns understood. At one time having had influence over the celestial cycle in fact if certain tomes were to be believed. As Sombra drank from that wellspring though, a startling thought occurred to him. One which snapped Sombra from unholy reverie. "What is this?" Sombra whispered, his deep voice carried on a brief pulse of magic to Luna's very own ears.
Princess Night peered into the cup that the zebra had given her before taking an experimental sip. Huh, it was pretty good punch; but what else did she expect from zebras? She looked to Hivaan to smile as he expressed his concern about what it could do to him in such a form. "Tis a shame! Nyota has created a good drink." The princess commented, her tone one of amusement. "That is good to hear that you are taking strides for safety, considering the nature of the magic." Luna said with a little nod and turned a curious eye upon the zebra again. "As it would figure. Perhaps one day a creature such as she might be less.. hateful towards the public." The alicorn frowned a little, but shrugged it away while Nyota warned Hivaan. She lifted her cup to her lips again, but was given pause as she heard the whisper, even despite the music and talk of the festival. Distractedly, Luna looked up and around- she truly hoped the whisper wasn't who she thought it was, and that he wasn't here of all places.
Hivaan Ironwing flicked his right ear and couldn't help but laugh when he heard what was said about Nyota's companion. "Er....well, it might or it might not. I repurposed and wove together several spells to get this result." he rumbled with amusement and dipped his head some. "I mostly came to the festival to see my friends anyways, I can do without the food and such." He cheerfully replied only to smile some and dip his head at what Luna said about safety. The null zone would make practicing the magic as safe as it could get! When he was warned about the added security he frowned. "Er....I think I should be fine." he'd say with a sigh. "Worst case, the spells fail, and I have an absolutely nasty headache due to the feedback that might knock me out for a few days."
Nyota Mwuaji gives a little nod "I guess so." He looks around and then fills a few cups and passes them out to passing ponies. "Are you ok Princess? You seem distracted. Is it because of the almost getting bit thing?" He chuckles a bit. "If so don't worry I am fine." He offers to refill her cup, asking if she'd like to try a different flavor of punch as the lazy spark slowly approaches Hivaan, able to give a nasty shock if it touched him.
Lord Sombra wondered if Luna had an answer for the query. When Luna offered none Sombra frowned. Almost angrily infact! But there'd not be drastic reckoning or fire and brimstone raining from the heavens. Now, being smart as Sombra had its unique advantages. Likewise, therein laid quite the nasty few disadvantages too! One such which had attributed to Sombra well known megalomania and desire for power. And he was cunning too. Likely why Sombra too frowned at the errant mention of beefed up security and for now minded his distance. Sombra could unspool the magic Nyota had cast. Then 'it'd just be a matter of reprogramming the rune with new directives. Something however seemed unappealing 'bout that course of action. Instead Sombra laid low, indistinct as a ghost. "Should I leave then?" Sombra again whispered. Perhaps amused by Luna as Luna tried to find him. However, the bitter taste of something entwined itself in the very same words. Bitter amusement perhaps?
Princess Night's brow furrowed in a troubled way as her attention was pulled back to the two stallions. She chose the moment to finally take a drink of her punch before she'd reply. "I am fine. It is not that.. I merely thought I heard something." The alicorn waved it off with a hoof and she fell silent again, listening to the two. "I am fine with the drink you have given me.. and Nyota, I do believe you need to keep an eye on that magic of yours." Luna spoke up then, nodding towards the little spark nearing Hivaan; it was less that she spotted and more that she'd sensed it, sensitive to magic as a creature like she was. Luna's ear flicked again, yet again as her attention on the two waned. What? Her lit horn, glowing as it already was by her hold on her cup, did not change as she bothered to reply. Her voice was soft as she turned her head away from the two. "I do not understand why you would care, but if you mean no harm, then stay. Where are you lurking, then?" Luna probably looked like she'd lost it if the two noticed she was whispering to nothing.
Hivaan Ironwing closed his eyes (signified by the light of the eyes turning almost invisible) and let himself relax. Sadly that was rather short lived as his attention was wrenched towards a little spark that seemed to be inching towards him. Sure it wasn't dark magic, which his attention was usually was drawn to easily, but the little spark was giving off enough residual magic to catch his attention. He focused his attention on the spark, even grumbling at it as he inched away from it. He turned his gaze to luna, frowning some as she seemed to be...distracted..by something. It did look rather odd, Luna whispering to nothing. But....then again, it might not be what it seems. Eh, who knows!
Nyota Mwuaji gives a little sigh and trots over to the side of the cart and whacks it with a hoof, the spark vanishing and a greenish glow appearing over the cart. With another sigh he pushes a lever in the side upward and with a CLICK CLANK. The shop folded up into a gypsy cart. Nyota clambered up onto the porch as a black head with a frazzled green mane pops out the door. "Shush! Sleeping...oh." The head pulls back in and Nyota chuckles a bit. "Yes, I should pack up as my companion is going to try to get some sleep. This was a very nice festival though." He pushes one of the cauldrons toward Luna. "Here, you can have the rest of the punch Princess. But for now I must wish you all a good evening." Nyota takes out a rather large looking dreamcatchers and hangs it on the door. "Ahhh. Perfect." He smiles and wishes his friends a good night and enters the cart, shutting the door and locking it behind him, the dreamcatcher glowing a faint blue, eliminating all nightmares and dark things that might try to enter.
Lord Sombra remained silent then. And silence could be a scary thing when applied at the right time. The silence though was the unintended result of Sombra''s labourious thought processes. " Stare upon a shadow, and wonder if it stares right back." With some care, Sombra could have hid in Luna's shadow and Luna may or may not have been none the wiser. In favor of her, Luna was an immensely powerful alicorn with power over the lunar cycle and dreams [and nightmares]. "I am at the edge of your perception. Even were I immediately visible, I express my sincere doubts you'd see me." But Sombra wasn't completely sure that was entirely true. He'd indulge Luna though, briefly appearing in midst of a frolicking band of ponies to Luna's left before slipping incognito yet again.
Princess Night had whispered all she'd had to say and turned back to the pair as her spell went on its way. Hivaan seemed to be the only one looking at her; did he know she'd been whispering to what only looked like thin air? Probably. The alicorn smiled apologetically, only to turn a look of surprise on the racket the cart was making, and Nyota. "What? You are leaving so soon?" Luna frowned. "The night is so young, but I am glad you have enjoyed yourself thus far. It was a pleasure seeing you again, and thank you for the punch.. Good night." Luna finished as Nyota disappeared inside- the dreamcatcher was given a quizzical look. If she didn't know the nature of zebras so well, she probably would have been a little offended; after all, it was her job to guard dreams, not an enchanted trinket! Luna shrugged and looked upon Hivaan, eyebrows raised. "So, perhaps we can have some fun this night! The citizens are certainly looking forward to a performance." Luna managed to say before one ear swiveled back, as though picking up on something again. Sombra was talking to her again and- there, briefly, she spotted him in her peripheral vision. The blue alicorn bit back a curse and hoped nopony saw him. "Very well then." Luna'd mutter as she turned away, masking it by finally draining her cup and setting it aside.
Hivaan Ironwing was rather relieved that the spark was no longer an issue, however it seemed Nyota closed up shop and everything. He blinked once, then again, and finally just shrugged with a grin at Luna. "I suppose we could have some fun. I'll differ what we should do to you though, milady. You've been to this festival before after all." he rumbled happily as he moved to stand again. He saw Luna's ear swivel back and he couldn't really help but stare a little, the green fire that served as his eyes seeming to almost narrow before the expression was wiped to his more normal expression. He knew something was up, but it seemed harmless for now so it wasn't really his business to pry. He let his gaze drift about the square, watching ponies play several of the games as the smile became something a little more natural instead of the 'mask' version.
Lord Sombra wouldn't probably appear again. Not unless Hivaan, Luna or otherwise forced Sombra. And Sombra was quite comfortable and content remaining on the sidelines for the foreseeable future and until all but Luna remained in the square. There was something to be said though of the wonderment which attracted Sombra's attention. So very unusual a feeling which it enkindled in Sombra's almost dead, withered heart. And made Sombra wonder what'd happen if he hadn't hid. Or infact stopped hiding whatsoever! On further reflection though, Sombra determined that to be unwise and contrary to his desire and or current whims. The festivities among other things [previously stated or otherwise], kept Sombra's mind from idling to dark places as well, distracting him just enough from the nagging diabolicism at the back of his mind.
Princess Night focused back upon Hivaan when she heard nothing else, and chose to keep her attention on him. She was probably already beginning to look.. off. The dark lady lifted a hoof to her chin in thought as she also looked out over the town square. It was too busy here for them to do anything, and she wasn't sure if she wanted to interrupt any of the games. What could she even do? The obvious choice was to take Nightmare Moon's guise again, but.. after Dark Vortex's possession by that old, residual darkness in the castle ruins, she almost didn't have the heart for it. There were too many reminders, but that was what the festival was made around, and what the citizens expected. Luna shrugged to herself, giving in as her horn began to glow again. She began weaving the illusion around herself, her appearance changing noticeably into that tall and menacing mare of darkness, her starry mane purple rather than blue. Luna rolled her shoulders and looked to Hivaan, grinning to purposely reveal those rows of sharp teeth. "I suggest we take ourselves to the dimly lit streets, where we may frighten the unsuspecting townfolk! Those here, I would prefer to leave to their games." Luna said as she spread bat-like wings, poised to take flight.
Hivaan Ironwing wouldn't have been able to help but blink some as he saw Luna's horn begin to glow. He was admittedly rather curious! Soon enough her appearance changed into a taller and rather menacing shape. "Huh, nice look." he'd comment with a tilt of his head and a chuckle at the sight of the sharp teeth. So that is what Nightmare Moon had looked like. Fascinating! "That sounds like a plan." he would say while grinning widely under the respirator. Oho, scaring ponies! That sounded fun! Hivaan made to follow Luna only to freeze and glance in the direction of his 'camp' with a small frown. "I...think I might have to cut things a little short, or perhaps join you later." he'd start, sighing. "A couple proximity wards near my camp on the Everfree fringe were triggered. It might be nothing, but it might be more timber wolves or something that was disturbed this night." he'd say with a grimace. He had to check, they didn't need trouble creeping into the town on this night of all nights. All the ponies wandering the dark streets. "I'll meet up with you later, milady. Scare some ponies silly for me." he 'cheerfully' said and made to start towards his camp.
Lord Sombra would soon fade from Luna's awareness. Whether that was of Sombra's own volition or a consequence of Sombra's stealthy capabilities, that would be quite hard to discern. One might presume though Sombra returned to Canterlot, returning to the silence of his own thoughts to mull those thoughts that required mulling, and silence those thoughts which required their pacification. But it was entirely possible Sombra followed Luna, following the majestic moon mare and the festivities of the night with an almost catlike curiosity and grace. All while remaining unseen of course!
Princess Night fluttered her wings once to rise off of the ground, hoping to lead the wraith into a night of frights together.. ! Although it was cut short when he seemed alarmed by something- some wards? The lunar alicorn's face fell a little in disappointment, but she could understand if it was something he absolutely needed to tend to. "It is no problem at all! We may be able to meet up later to scare others as a duo, but until then I shall happily comply." Luna replied and lingered to watch as Hivaan left. Once he'd gone, she took flight to later land upon the straw-thatched roof of a building. Sombra hadn't yet bothered her again, which left her a little freer where she could start. She'd certainly have her fun, and pause to check up on other ponies, as well as a certain princess of friendship too.
End.