Morning arrives and Eternal is still fast asleep on the couch. The TV turned itself off some time ago due to the settings and Inferno and his family had brought all of their luggage down and were just about to head out to the airport.
Inferno turns to the sleeping Equestrian-turned-human and walks over to the couch to wake him up, but without warning…
"RAAAAAAAAAGGGGHHH!!!!" Eternal shouted, waking up in a lot of pain before falling off the couch, gripping his chest. His pain grew worse and he continued to shout in agony. Eternal rose on all fours, panting heavily, his long hair was draped over his face.
"Inferno, what's going on?!" Fleur asked, "Is he alright, why is he screaming?"
"I-I don't know, I just was gonna wake him up and then the next minute he ended up screaming out in pain.” Inferno explained. “And I don’t know what’s causing it.”
Moments later, his pain left him, but the aftermath took its toll on him, causing him to cough up something liquid… something black.
"Wha… what's going on?" Eternal asked between breaths.
"I should be asking you that question, are you okay? You really freaked us out there," Inferno asked, going over to pat him on the back.
"Hard to say. It was pain I never felt before. It's like someone took a… a chainsaw and rammed it through my chest. Multiply that x1000," Etenral explained, struggling back on his two feet.
"Are you sure you're gonna be okay? Do we need to take you down to the hospital? We can do that if you'd like," Magnus said.
"I'll be fine. No need to trouble yourselves," Eternal insisted.
“Ok deary, but if this ever happens again, even while we’re away; you need to see someone about this.” Fleur stated.
"I understand," Eternal replied. "Anyways, thanks for allowing me to stay the night here. I'll go ahead and be on my way."
“Oh no, you need a place to stay while we’re gone. I’m going to give my friends a call and ask them if they can give you a place to stay.” Inferno replied.
"Are you sure about this? The last thing I want is to be a burden," Eternal said.
“Whoa! Who says your a burden?!” Inferno responded in protest. “It’s at least the one thing we can do before we leave.”
"Very well. I'll be sure to repay you somehow when you get back," he replied
"There's no need to worry about that. This is what friends do, you should know that as well as anybody, man," Inferno insisted. He dialed the number of one of his friends, then waited for them to reply. “C’mon pick up, it’s not even a school day; you ain’t doin’ nothing.” He whispered into the phone
"Hello?" Sunset's voice said on the other end of the phone.
"Heeeeey Sunset, how are you.” Inferno replied. “Yeah, I just wanna tell you that today is my family’s flight is today and I’m hoping that if you or the others are okay with Eternal staying at your places.”
"Sure, that shouldn't be a problem. You want me to pick him up now?" Sunset asked.
"Yeah, can you manage that?" he asked.
"Of course. Just give me a few minutes to get ready and I'll be over there. Have him wait outside for me," Sunset said.
"Alright. I'll make sure he does. Later, Sunset," Inferno soon hangs up afterwards. "Eternal, be sure to wait outside, Sunset's gonna be coming to pick you up soon."
"Uh, right, okay," Eternal said.
Meanwhile, down at Sunset's house, after finishing her phone call, decided to get dressed. Getting out of bed, she climbed down to the bottom floor and turned on her TV, putting on the news in case anything new has happened in Canterlot City.
"And there is still no sign of these 6 boys, who have been missing for almost 3 years. If they have not been found by the time the 3rd year has come, they'll officially be pronounced dead. Our recent missing boy, 17-year-old Eternal Flames, has still not yet returned, but police have stated that they're doing their best to find him." the new reporter said. "Police have got word from the boy's mother that it was because of the terrible fight he has with his father, 44-year-old Blaze Burn, the owner of two of the most popular hotels in Canterlot."
Sunset is shocked by this news. The pictures of the 6 lost boys even had their names displayed below them. From left to right, the boys were Copper Plume, Frostbite, Blazing Waters, Lightning Burn, Israel Yabuki and of course, Eternal Flames.
Copper had tan skin with amber eyes and brown hair with freckles on his cheeks. Frostbite had silver skin with black and white hair and blue eyes. Blazing Waters had bright yellow skin, red eyes and blue hair. Lightning Burn had tan skin, brown eyes and long blue hair with a white stripe running down. Lastly, Israel Yabuki has hazel green eyes, bright yellow skin just like Blazing, but had long, silver hair that seemed to cover his right eye.
"I feel so sorry for the parents of those boys. To wind up missing and at such a young age, they must be worried sick about them," Sunset said.
Minutes later after she got dressed, she rushed into the bathroom and did her usual hygiene routine before heading out of the house. As she exits out the door, she walks over to her motorcycle and then sat on in, while starting it up. She put on her biker's helmet before riding down the road.
In the giant castle, hidden in a world shrouded in darkness, the evil demon ram, Grogar, kept a watchful eye on Eternal through his crystal ball. Meanwhile one of his elite soldiers knocked on the door of his chambers. "Enter," said the demon ram.
The doors open slowly and in walks one of the demon soldiers, still dressed in their black and dark violet armor. "Forgive my intrusion, my liege, but I'd like to request your permission for one of us to do a recon mission. We've just sensed his inner powers beginning to awake this morning when he woke up," the soldier asked.
The demon stood quietly next to his crystal orb, and believed this to be an open opportunity; however, he then remembered the bet that he had with Death and Harmony, and knows the consequences if he were to get involved and his followers are not at their strongest yet. But he does need to know the progress of his potential heir.
“Alright. But do not engage the boy, Harmony and Death are breathing down my neck as it is. Observe him from afar. If his powers are growing stronger by the minute, then come straight back, but you'll need to blend in with the crowd or they'll have a… field day," Grogar said.
"Yes, sire. Understood," the soldier said. Grogar pointed the tip of his claw at the wall, opening up a portal to the human world. "I will not fail you, my lord."
“You better not. And remember; stay out of sight! I don’t want my enemies to know about your involvement in this. You are to stay incognito at all times” The demon said with seriousness in his voice.
The soldier nodded before using his powers to change out of his battle armor and into a black hoodie and blue jeans. The soldier walked through the portal before Grogar closed the portal up and resumed watching Eternal.
Meanwhile, back at Inferno's house, the family had just gotten all of their luggage packed up in the family van. Magnus and Fleur climbed into the car while Inferno was saying his last goodbye to Eternal.
"Alright dude, be good to my friends while I’m gone, or you’ll hear it from me.” Inferno said as he places his hand on Eternal’s shoulder.
"I hear you loud and clear. I'll try my hardest to be on my best behavior,"
“Good, now uuh… hope you don’t panic, but I called Sunset and she’s willing to let you stay at her place while my family is away.” Inferno stated.
"Uh… I see. That's very… nice of her to do that," Eternal said, scratching the back of his head. 'Don't lose your head, Eternal,' he thought to himself.
“Inferno! It’s time to go.” Fleur calls out to her son.
Inferno turns towards the family van and sees his parents in it, and the vehicle started - all set and ready to go. "Good luck man," Inferno told Eternal. The young man then rushed over to his parents' van and climbed into the backseat. Afterward getting inside, Magnus drove his family off, leaving Eternal behind to wait for his old friend.
"This world… it's all so strange to me. Yet, at the same time, it feels like home. But, why do I feel attached to this world, I've barely been here for one day?" he asked himself. "I still can't believe Sunset's been living here most of her life. I wonder if she had her reasons for staying here and not returning home to Equestria." But then, another thought hit his mind. "Of course, she has her friends here. But let's hope there's… no one else involved."
Without even thinking, Eternal stepped off the sidewalk, gathering his thoughts. Moments later, Sunset's just arriving, but despite her eyes being focused on the road, her mind was wandering off-track, thinking about Eternal.
Her mind is brought back to reality when she sees Eternal in the middle of the road. She gasps and hits the breaks last minute. She's way too close to turn and hoped he would jump out of the way in time. But the moment he saw her, he does something unexpected. Eternal grabs the hood of the motorbike, hand-stands on the thing, then springs over Sunset and lands behind her with a front flip.
Sunset stops the bike at the exact moment, with a very shocked expression on her face. She looked back at Eternal, still at a loss for words. "How did you do that?"
"I'm not sure, my body just… reacted on its own," Eternal said, looking back at her.
"Well, be careful next time. You can't just walk in the middle of the road, it's dangerous. What if you had gotten hit by a car or something? Getting hit by one of those at top speed is like getting hit by a 2-ton carriage back in Equestria," Sunset said.
"I understand, my apologies," Eternal said.
“It’s alright… just don’t do that again. I just got to meet you after several years and the last thing I need on my mind is you getting hurt.” Sunset replied.
"Right," Eternal said
"Anyways, hop on, I'll take you to my place, unless you haven't eaten," Sunset patted the seat behind her on her motorbike.
"Eaten? Well, I--" Eternal's then cut off by the sound of his stomach rumbling violently, causing him to blush. "Maybe just a small bite won't hurt," Eternal walked over to Sunset's bike and sat in the back. Eternal then wraps his arms around Sunset in order to hold on; but didn’t notice the blush on Sunset’s beautiful face when he did. She starts up the bike and then tilts her head towards Eternal. “Hold on tight.” she said.
“Wha… AHHHH!” Then Sunset drives out of the street at a speed which Eternal hadn’t felt before in his life. "Are you sure this thing is safe?" he asked loudly.
"If you know how to ride it, yes!" she replied. Sunset continued to ride down the road, entering the city and introducing Eternal to a whole new world. Eternal's eyes wandered in all directions, peeking at a city that was both foreign to him, yet so marvelous. It even rivaled that of his homeland in Equestria.
No carriages were in sight, just a bunch of cars, similar, but different from the ones Inferno and his family use. Of course, one particular thing that caught his eye was the big television attached to one of the buildings… with what looked like his picture in it.
'Odd… I don't recall ever coming here a week ago. Perhaps that's the other me that people are searching high and low for.' he thought to himself. Soon, Sunset stopped at a red light, then noticed how some of the people were recording her, or more specifically… Eternal Flames.
"Uh… Eternal, change of plans. Now you gotta go incognito," Sunset said. "Apparently, everyone in the city thinks you're back after you went missing last week. I know it sounds crazy, but in this world, there's another you. So hang on tight, we're going clothes shopping."
The moment the light turned green, "If you say so-OOOOAAAAAH!!!" Eternal said as she sped off like a rocket.
Meanwhile, in the private realm of Death's and Harmony's humble home, the two cosmic beings sat in the comfort of their lounge chairs next to the pool; resting from the exhausting years they have had. Death, even with his frightening appeal, made a few jokes and humorous words that got Harmony laughing hysterically.
As the two went on with their day; suddenly, one of Harmony’s guards approaches, breathing and wheezing heavily as if he had ran over to where they were. The two powerful entities grew curious and confused as to why he approached them.
“Guard, what’s the reason for your unexpected visit.” Harmony asked.
The guard took a few more deep breaths until he finally had the strength to speak. “Your Excellency, forgive my intrusion. I have some terrible news to report; one of our scouts spotted one of Grogar’s followers leaving his domain, and left to the human world where the mortal Eternal Flames resides in.” The guard explained.
Harmony and Death were shocked of his report. “What? Are you sure?” Harmony asked again.
“I’m afraid so, Your Excellency.” He replied.
Death growled in anger, gets up from his chair and paces around in circles in rage. “I knew that bloodthirsty, soulless, traitorous demon would never keep his word” He snarled with hate, and later took his anger on a nearby statue by slicing it in half with his scythe.
"Wait. What is his follower doing?" Harmony asked.
"He's just watching him from afar. He doesn't appear to be interacting with the mortal. What are your commands?" the guard asked.
"Then Grogar must know fully well of the consequences. However, this has brought awareness to the situation.” Harmony stated; but, then is left thinking in her mind with silence.
“What is on your mind, my love.” Death asked her.
“I’m afraid, if we are to ensure the wager is left unbalanced with the presence of Grogar’s servant; I must return back to the mortal realm and acquire Princess Celestia to send somepony to the human world to watch over Eternal.” Harmony explained.
Death is left baffled and anxious of what Harmony proposed. “You’re not saying that…”
“Yes…. I must go to Equestria.” Harmony responded to his reply before he could finish.
“But is that wise? I mean, we have never returned there since…” Death became silent after the last part before finally having the courage to say the final words. “Since the last eclipse of the “Day of Union”.” He stated.
"I'm well aware of that dreadful event. But we're left with no other options. If we send our own guards out there to stop his soldiers and find out they weren't doing anything else, we risk losing Eternal to Grogar nonetheless," Harmony said. "Our options are limited, so Celestia is our only reliable option."
"One question… who are we gonna have Celestia send out to the human world? It can't be Twilight, because she's too well-known even if she does know how the human world works." Death said.
“Your right, we can’t. But we also can’t send a random guard to the human world, especially when Grogar’s servant is on the prowl. And they won’t stand a chance against them.” Harmony stated.
"No, that won't work, either. What we need is somepony who has skills that even surpasses the greatest of warriors in our times, somepony who can blend in with the human realm without being noticed… somepony who has experience dealing with any servants of Grogar.” Death responded like he’s having an anxiety attack; which is weird since he’s… well, Death.
Harmony gasped in response to Death’s statement, as an idea… or someone that suddenly pops into her head. But it’ll be more difficult to allow Celestia to allow him to go; but desperate times calls for desperate measures.
“What is it, Harmony?” Death asked with anxiousness. Harmony turns towards him and gives him a light peck on his skull lips.
“You just gave me an idea, see you soon.” Before Death could ask of what idea he gave, Harmony teleported away without leaving a single word, leaving the Father of Reapers and a guard standing in place.
“What did I say?” He asked the guard; who simply shrugged his shoulders in reply.
In the magical land of Equestria, Celestia sat on her throne, going through her album. She looked at many photos of her son, growing up so happy and lively. One photo that caught her eye was the one where he was brought back to life in his newborn years. He was crying in Celestia's hooves, clinging onto his loving mother.
All those years, all those memories. Celestia knew this day had come and it's the one day that worried her so deeply, knowing fully well what will become of her son. She was obviously distraught from having to let her son go, which is why her friends and sister are trying their hardest to comfort her.
It's only been one day, so it was still a work in progress for everyone to help Celestia get through her tough times. She's very thankful for everyone who's there for her, even if she still feels heartbroken.
But then, during her grieving, she sensed a very strong presence around her. A presence that gave off a very soothing feeling. "Is somepony there?" she asked, stepping off her throne.
“Princess Celestia, who are you talking too?” Twilight Sparkle, her former student and closest friend, asked.
“Sister, are you feeling the same presence as I have,” Luna said with curiosity, but didn’t really show it in her voice.
"Yes, I am," she replied, walk towards the strong presence. This powerful magic force lead her straight to the front gate of the castle, where a beautiful silver-colored alicorn with a violet mane and tail stood, staring straight at her. "I thought you were merely a picture in a book, but I can see I was wrong. You're… Harmony, am I right?"
“Yes, I am.” The Alicorn replied with a caring tone; which hides an even darker feeling inside of her conscience.
"To… what do I owe the pleasure of having you grace my kingdom with your presence?" Celestia asked.
"Princess Celestia, what's going on with y--" Twilight said before stopping at the sight of the legendary goddess, Harmony. Sunburst also came in and had a similar reaction to the lavender bookwork, but had to clear up his glasses to make sure he wasn't hallucinating. "Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, OH MY GOSH! Is that Harmony?" she asked, geeking out.
"Please tell me I'm not dreaming…" Sunburst said with his jaw hanging out.
“You’re not dreaming.” Starlight replied to his question, who is quite shocked herself.
"Oh my gosh!!! Okay, this is crazy-fantastic! Ooh, I have so many questions I want to ask you, so many things I want to learn about you!" Twilight said, going into Adorkable Mode, getting out her notepad and quill.
"I thought you said you wouldn't return after what had happened in the stories! What brings you here, great goddess?" Sunburst asks.
"Slow down, everyone. All will be explained in due time. Right now, I'm sure she's come here for a very good reason. Please, step inside and we'll chat over tea," Luna invited.
“I’m not here to chat or have tea.” Harmony said bluntly; which caught the ponies off-guard and turns her sight on Celestia “I’m here to speak to you about your son… and the danger he’s in.” She explained
"Eternal?! What's happened?! Did he get hurt, is he drying?!" Celestia asked, freaking out.
“No. He’s safe… For now.” Harmony replied in reassurance.
"That's a relief," Celestia said. "So, what's happening to Eternal, what kind of danger is he in and how can I resolve this?"
“To know of his fate in the situation, is none of your concern. But to help him avoid the danger he faces, that is what I need from you.” Harmony stated.
“What is it that you want from us, Your Grace.” Cadence asked the goddess with curiosity.
"Eternal Flames is being watched. Grogar sent one of his followers to keep an eye on him for some reason and we need you, Celestia, to send in somepony over to the human realm. A pony who has the skills that no greater warrior in Equestria’s history has achieved. A pony who had once face one of Grogar’s creatures of Tartarus, and survived.” Harmony explained.
"Who in their right mind would ever face Grogar's creatures? They're practically invincible!" Sunburst said.
“The one that your nation called… The Shadow Knight.” Harmony said.
The everypony in the room, except Starlight, gasped in response to what Harmony had said.
“NO! ABSOLUTELY NOT!” Shining Armor shouted in anger. “Allow Twilight, or one of her friends; heck I would gladly volunteer myself, but that pony must never be free.” he said.
“You cannot be serious! You have no knowledge of what he’s capable of.” Cadence replied as well.
"I've seen how he handled his job in the past. He's the only one who stands a remote chance against Grogar and his minions, and successfully killed one of them. Plus, you've never even been to the human world, nor how to fit into their society within a short amount of time.” Harmony stated firmly, seeing how even after a millennium, the ponies of the land still haven’t changed one bit. She turned her eyes to Celestia, who remained silent through the ordeal.
“Now hear me out Princess Celestia; if your son is to remain safe and away from Grogar’s grasp, then you must have the pony set free and let into the human world. Or otherwise you’ll lose him again; but instead, he’ll be forced into a fate far worse than death.” Harmony explained. “One, he’ll never come back from.”
"Are you sure you can trust him? What if he decides to hi-tail and run?" Luna asks.
“What is it that one pony desires most? Mmmm, and with that desire; comes dedication and great commitment.” Harmony said. “Cause if you began to look from his point-of-view; I say he’ll do anything to be set free.”
"His point-of-view… you mean like why he chose to be a vigilante? Why he chose to stop and turn himself in, is that what you're saying?" Twilight asked.
“Indeed, Twilight.” Harmony replied. “Grant him what he wants; and I assure you, he’ll obey whatever you said.”
“But what if he runs wild in the other world? Who’s gonna keep an eye on him!?” Shining asked with paranoia.
"Having a closed mind can have its disadvantages, especially in your case. But I think it's best we hear it straight from the prisoner in question. Celestia, let's go." Harmony then proceeds to walk towards the castle’s dungeon, with everypony following behind her without hesitation.
Upon arriving, the atmosphere became ominous… tense… and very nerve-wracking. At the very center of the dungeon, is a large, steel vault door.
'I still think this is a bad idea letting that psycho out of his prison cell,' Shining thought to himself.
“There are no psycho’s in there, Captain. Only a soul who seeks redemption and liberty.” Harmony said, which surprised the stallion.
'Okay, I forgot that goddesses have the power to read minds. Next time I'm keeping my inner thoughts to myself,' Shining thought.
“You can try.” She relied again. Now Shining thought she was doing this to troll him just like how Celestia used to troll him. Back on the subject at hand, the group headed straight for the closed vault door. Celestia approached the door even closer, using a special spell that quickly unlocked the large door.
The giant door slowly opened up, revealing the confined prisoner inside. His coat is in a golden orange color and his mane has a blood scarlet red color. His hooves and neck had shackles over them, tied to the wall with long chains that are enhanced to nullify magic. Even though he had his back turned to the ponies outside of his cell, he is revealed to be a unicorn with his horn showing form his mane.
As he hears the door of his cell now finally opened, letting light into the dark room. He remains facing away from the group and finally spoke to them. “Why did you come here?” he asked with monotone voice
"Your services are deeply requested," Celestia said.
“What for?” He asked again.
"I'm sure you're aware of how much of a threat Grogar and his creatures are and the knowledge you possess in how to combat them.”
“Yeah, I do and I remember the last one I killed,” the prisoner replied again, only this time he finally turned towards the group, revealing his face which bear a scar over his left eye; but not only that, but there were plenty of scars over his body, showing the hardships that he faced in the past. “And I nearly paid the price for my eye. So either you’re here to praise me for my past victories or mock me; I suggest you hurry it up so I can finally be left in peace.”
"I'm here to grant you your freedom. In return, I'm asking you to watch over my son and keep him out of harm's way. It would seem that Grogar is at it again and he's made Eternal Flames a primary target. If you can successfully keep him away from any of Grogar's followers, I will throw in some bits as an added bonus to your freedom," Celestia explained.
The prisoner sat in his cell for several minutes, thinking over the demands he’s given. But this thinking process began to cause the group, except Harmony, Twilight, and Starlight, impatience.
“Well are you gonna accept the offer or not!?” Shining said in irritation.
“I heard her loud and clear, Captain Shit Armor.” The prisoner replied after his moments of silence was interrupted.
"WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY, YOU DISGUSTING BA--" Shining said before Harmony silenced him with a mute spell.
"Do you accept the offer or not, it’s your choice.” Luna asked the prisoner.
“I accept the offer,” the prisoner replied. “But… I have demands of my own.”
"Let's hear them," Celestia said.
“Wow… you really are desperate.” he replied. “Well first off… I want my weapons back; my rifle, my revolvers, and my knife. Also; second, keep your damn money, I don’t want it. And thirdly, I want a full pardon; I want out of this place... for good. And finally… I want to be able to see my mother again.” He stated. “To see her one last time before I leave this land; forever.”
"Very well. I agree with your demands. As of this moment, I hereby grant your freedom. I will arrange for your mother to come and see you as well as have all of your weapons ready," Celestia proclaimed. Lighting up her horn once again, she undid the shackles on the stallion. "Follow me to my throne room and I'll have my guards escort your mother there to meet you."
“What! Princess, you can’t be serious?” Shining tried to argue but to no avail.
"A deal is a deal and as princess, I cannot go back on my word," Celestia said.
Not wasting anymore time, Celestia and the others left the prison and are currently making their way back to the throne room.
Shining, who is still feeling queasy about the situation, kept his eye on the prisoner; making sure he doesn’t pull a fast one. Cadence sees his anxious behavior and tries her best to keep her husband calm.
“Shiny, try to relax. You know that Celestia is doing this on Eternal’s behalf.” Cadence reassures him softly.
“I know, but that piece of filth is nothing but trouble; setting him free is the worst idea ever.” Shining whispered to his wife.
“I have a name, you know.” The prisoner spoke to the royal couple. Which surprised them.
“What! You can read minds too?!” Shining responded.
“No. You just whisper too loud.” The stallion replied. "And with the way you pass me off as a piece of filth, I'm starting to wonder if you even have a heart, or why you're still in charge of the Crystal Empire with that lousy attitude."
"What was that?!" Shining asked, fuming.
"Honey, I said relax!" Cadence said, holding him back. "Though it was cold, you need to take into account why he killed so many lives."
The stallion ignore the couple’s conversation and continues to walk through the hallways; not paying attention to the stare and watchful eyes of royal guards and castle maids. What he didn’t expect next was Starlight walking close to him and try to start a conversation.
“Sooo… uh, you said you had a name. What is it exactly?” She asked.
"Blaze… Inferno Blaze. But everyone calls me The Shadow Knight," he said.
“Why do they call you that exactly? Were you a royal guard?” Starlight asked again.
"No. They call me that out of fear; so I used that to my advantage and made all my enemies tremble before me.” Inferno replied.
"Wow. That's… umm… interesting. Soooo, if you don't mind me asking, why did you decide to become a mercenary in the first place? Revenge, money? Or was it something else? Because the way I see it, you must've been hurting deep inside," Starlight said, noticing how his eyes looked so sad. But then he suddenly shook his head to avoid any emotions.
“I lost the ability to feel anything years ago.” He answered before increasing his pace to avoid the conversation. But it did not fool Starlight one bit; there was something about his past that made him who he is today.
Soon, they all arrived at the throne room. Celestia then approaches one of the guards. "I need you to bring in Fleur De Lis. Tell her I sent her here on behalf of her son."
"Yes, princess," the guard said before heading out. Then in his place, two guards showed up, carrying a large case with them.
"As requested, we've brought back the prisoner's weapons. Every single one he owns," One of the other guards said.
"Perfect. Now we just have to wait until his mother comes back," Celestia said.
The wait lasted a good 5 minutes and soon, the guard soon returned with Canterlot's famous unicorn, Fleur De Lis. Her eyes locked right onto her son and right away, tears flowed out of her eyes and she ran up to him. Fleur quickly wrapped her hooves around Inferno, sobbing uncontrollably, feeling relieved that he was reunited with her.
While Inferno remained emotionless as he is; he turned to the ponies in the room and said a few words. “Princess and everypony, leave the room. I wish to speak to my mother… alone.” He asked with a monotone voice.
“Oh no! We’re not letting you out of ou-Ouuuuuuuch!” Shining yells in pain as his wife grabs him by the ear with her magic and dragging him out of the throne room.
“Take all the time you need.” Cadence said right before she and Shining were out of the room. "As for you, mister. We're going to have a serious talk about your closed-minded, harsh judgemental attitude. You'd best hope this won't result in you sleeping on the couch when we head home!"
"Da-da in twouble," little Flurry said sing-songy.
“Who invited the baby?” Inferno asked, but sounded like he was confused. This fact got Starlight thinking that maybe there are emotions that he’s hiding underneath his heartless shell.
Soon the situation turned crazy when they realized what was in Flurry’s hooves… a revolver. Then turn to Inferno’s case; only to find it wide open. This just got a whole lotta crazy.
“That’s a baby with a gun,” Sunburst said in fear. “BABY!... With a gun.”
Before anyone could take it from her, Flurry flew right out of the throne room; with her new favorite playtoy. Soon the ponies and the guards ran out the room to catch Flurry and take away the pistol from her. Leaving Inferno with his mother, alone at last.
‘They do realize that the pistol wasn’t loaded. Right?’ Inferno thought to himself. Anyways, while the others were on a wild goose chase, Inferno spent some time catching up with his mother, who was brokenhearted to see him in his current state, but relieved to see him still breathing.
"You have no idea how long I've waited to see you, deary. I was so worried," Fleur weeped, still hugging her son.
"I'm… sorry mom. I know it isn't enough to mend your broken heart, but…" Inferno stopped, unable to find the right words.
"I know. But please don't ever scare me like that again. I love you too much to wind up losing you once more. It's also my fault for not having the power to save you from a lifelong career as a feared mercenary. Please forgive your mother for being so weak." Fleur said all choked up.
"No, it wasn't your fault. It’s no one’s fault; life can be cruel, it always will be. But at least it gave me a moment to finally see you again.” Inferno said deeply as tears soon began to form in his eyes. “Every day on the run and locked in chains; you’ve always been in my dreams, every single night; giving me the strength to endure more in this life. You’ll always be my strength, mother… never forget that.” he stated.
Fleur teared up even more and hugged him even tighter. "I wish your father could've heard you say those words." she wept even more.
“I wish he were here,” Inferno said, barely containing his tears.
"Inferno, you know something? In a way, I'm so proud of you. Turning yourself in while you still had your life gave me hope. You've done more good than anyone else thought you have. I'm sure your father would be proud of you, too."
“I got tired of being away from you for too long. I wanted to be close enough to you so that maybe one day I can finally see you again. I guess that day came sooner than I expected it would.” Inferno said. “I missed you, mom… more than I could think of.”
"I've missed you, too. And I love you, Inferno," she said. Inferno couldn't hold back the tears any longer and let them loose on Fleur's shoulders. Fleur patted his back lightly. "It's okay, there's no need to fight it anymore. Just let it all out. I'm here for you."
After clearing away the tears in his eyes, Inferno had what little willpower he had to speak. “I love you, mom.”
"Me too, honey. Me too," Fleur replied, having calmed down a little. For the next few minutes, Fleur and Inferno onto held each other; never wishing to break apart. But they soon realize that they had so much to discuss over the years they’ve been apart.
“How is Canterlot treating you fairly, mom?” Inferno asked.
"Despite what's happened to you, Canterlot is treating me well. Though, the nobles can be quite dull, overbearing and rude, belittling any common ponies behind their backs," Fleur said.
“Eeeeyup; figures. This place hasn’t changed one bit since I left. And now I'm left to protect one of them.” Inferno said with irritation.
"One of them? What do you mean, my son?” Fleur asked as well.
“Well, the Princess is willing to grant me my freedom and to have a moment with you… If I agree to be her son’s bodyguard.” Inferno explained. “And seeing you again proves that she is really desperate.”
"Oh dear, so the young prince is in deep trouble. Well, I can certainly understand why she'd let you out now of all times I certainly hope it's nothing too serious. Well… if you have to do this, than I won't stop you. Just promise me you'll come back alive," Fleur said.
“Mom… Not even Harmony and Death themselves can keep me away from you.” Inferno stated.
"That's good to hear. Good luck, honey," Fleur said. Inferno nodded, then gave his mother one last hug before leaving to meet up with Celestia. Along the way, Inferno shook off any remaining emotions left and soon he was back in his emotionless shell.
Inferno quickly found Celestia and the others and approached the princess. "I'm ready. Where is the prince located?" he asked.
"Follow me. I'll show you where he is." After moments of walking through the castle, which provided time for Inferno to collect his gear; the ponies lead the assassin to a room that holds a mirror inside. Inferno walks into the room; now has his revolvers in their pouches on each of his side and his bolt-action rifle strapped to his back; eyeing the mirror with curiosity.
“Uhhh, Princess…” He became silent for a minute. “This is a mirror.”
"To anypony, it looks like an ordinary mirror, but it's actually a portal that leads to another world. A world ruled by bi-pedal beings known as humans. That's where Eternal is that right now and that's where you need to be," Celestia said.
“... It's a mirror.” Inferno said again.
"Maybe it's better if I showed him, if you don't mind, princess," Twilight said.
"Go right ahead," Celestia nodded. Twilight approached the mirror and placed a hoof on it, allowing it to phase right through it, just like magic. And on the other side of the mirror, Twilight's hoof turned into a hand and she wiggled her fingers.
"See? Now do you believe her?" Twilight asked.
“Well… that’s the last seconds I’m never gonna get back.” Inferno said with his usual tone.
"Hold on, princess. Allow me to tell him a few things before he goes," Harmony said. The goddess approached the young assassin. "Before you go, you must know that you have a human counterpart who's currently out on vacation with his family. So you’ll be able to fit in with the world. However, that also means you'll have to go there in disguise in case some of his friends get suspicious.”
“Well that takes care of one thing. Now I have to deal with not getting spotted… which I’m pretty much used to.” Inferno said.
"Easy, I have an outfit that'll help you keep you well-hidden," Harmony said.
“What outfit? I better not wear a goddamn tux.” Inferno said.
"Nope, too obvious. Let me show you," Harmony replied. Lighting up her horn, she enveloped Inferno in a magical veil. Then, in a flash of light, Inferno is now wearing a stetson hat, red mask over his mouth, a blue button-up shirt and matching blue jeans with gun holders as a belt. And for the cherry on top, he had a brown cape, making him look like a western bounty-hunter. He faces towards the mirror and expects his new look. Even though he didn’t show it; even with the mask on; he liked it a lot. Starlight like the look as well; if she wasn’t busy hiding her blushing cheeks.
“Hmm, I suppose it'll do," Inferno said.
“Whoa! Whoa! Hold on. We can’t just expect him to wander around in another world unnoticed and unsupervised?” Shining stated. ‘I mean who’s gonna keep him under control?” he asked.
"That's it. You're sleeping on the couch when we get home," Cadance said, annoyed.
"If it helps, I'll tag along with him," Starlight said. "I've went to the human world once before, but only one time. I'm sure Grogar doesn't know anything about me and is sure not to come after me as well."
"She does provide a sound logic to that," Harmony agreed.
“Guess I wouldn’t mind. I do need to know about the world I’m heading into.” Inferno agreed.
“Ohhhhh no! Starlight, you are not going. Harmony with all do respect, I have been to that world twice, and have full knowledge of what it’s like; I-” Before Twilight would finish, Harmony instantly interrupted her.
“NO YOU WILL NOT!!!” Harmony said with the Canterlot Voice; frightening everyone in the room; well except Inferno… cause he doesn’t show it. “Grogar will sense your presence and will send more of his followers to uncover why you arrived in the human world. And besides, with your counterpart now known, it’ll make him realize you’re Equestrian. It would be best that Mrs. Glimmer here is to join Inferno.” she explained.
"I'm going to have to agree with her, Twilight. Grogar also knows that your human counterpart has also dealt with magic forces before. And seeing two of you would not only put my son in more danger, but everyone else in the human world as well. As far as Starlight goes, her human counterpart hasn't been found yet," Celestia said.
“So my counterpart is away; hers is non-existent yet… sounds like the perfect scheme," Inferno said, smirking.
"A-Alright. Just be careful you two," Twilight said.
"I'll be fine, Twilight," Starlight said.
“Don’t worry princess, I’ll bring her back in one piece… probably only missing one part at that.” Inferno mumbled the last part of his sentence.
'I heard that, but I won't tell a soul if you promise to only spout it in your mind,' Harmony said to him telepathically.
'Noted,' Inferno replied in his mind.
"Now then, if we're all settled in agreement, I believe it's finally time to put our plan into motion, so it's all up to you now, Inferno," Celestia said. "Protect my son as best you can."
"You have my word. As long as I have yours.” And soon after that, Inferno walk towards the mirror and then slowly steps into the portal, and disappeared. Starlight stayed a bit longer and hugged her friend and mentor, Twilight, goodbye. After that, she left through the portal, soon joining up with her new partner.
Meanwhile, Sunset and Eternal had finished their clothes shopping, especially getting some clothes hand-sewn by her good friend, Rarity. Now, Eternal had on a black shirt with burgundy red sleeves and brown pants with black and grey shoes. On the front of Eternal's shirt was a picture of his cutie mark, which was a golden star inside a burning orange and red flame.
But she also got him a grey sweater that would hide his face from the public eye. And now, they were on their way to get Eternal something to eat after making his new clothes.
"So is there any particular restaurant you like to eat?" Sunset asked.
"Anywhere is fine. I'm not picky when it comes to meals," Eternal replied.
"Then I might know of a nice place where we can get some food. Just make sure not to take the hood off, or people will start getting the wrong idea," Sunset said. She quickly put the pedal to the metal, riding down the road, then made a left turn and stopped at a fast food restaurant called Brick's Big Burgers.
Sunset parked her bike near the entrance, then took off her helmet and got off her bike, guiding Eternal inside the establishment.
From afar, one of Grogar's followers, Frostbite, stayed hidden, watching the target, but had his fists clenched, not liking what he's seeing. "If that girl wins him over and falls for him at the same time, we're done for!" he mumbled to himself. "If only I could--" But before he could rant on, he notices another young man walking by the restaurant. A young man with blue hair, wearing a black hoodie, cream yellow skin and blue eyes. "Hmm… looks like I don't need to interfere."
Frostbite watches with a cocky smirk as the young blue-haired man entered the restaurant as the other two did. Frostbite chuckled menacingly, unknowingly drawing attention from other people around him.
"Okay, major creep alert," a woman said.
“Bet he’s high on something.” a man added.
Back at the statue outside of Canterlot High, the wall of the statue begins to ripple like it’s made of magical energy. Soon a young man; wearing a stetson hat and a mask, walks right out of the portal; though he stumbled a bit before finding his stance; and stop at 4 feet from the base of the statue and begins to observe his surroundings.
“So this is the human world… I expected less.” He said.
But while he didn’t notice, the portal begins to ripple again and then out of nowhere; a young girl shoot right out of the portal and right into the boy’s back sending the two tumbling to the ground. The two Equestrians now turned humans rolled on the ground in pain, while Starlight sat herself up from the ground, gripping her head where she hit it.
"Okay, note to self, never leap through the portal at full speed," Starlight said. "Inferno, did I break anything or are you doing okay?"
"I'm fine, but can you please get off my back?" Inferno replied. Starlight blushed and quickly moved off of Inferno before offering to help him up. Though hesitant, Inferno then accepted it and grabbed her hand, standing him back on his feet. "Okay, what do we do first?"
"First, we need to get you familiar with the customs here in the human world," she replied. Starlight really had her work cut out today. The journey down this dangerous road was going to put their skills to the test. They can only hope it doesn't end in disaster.
“So this world has more excitement than Equestria does… This is certainly my kind of place.” Inferno said.
“I wouldn’t call wars and violence… excitement?” Starlight replied her opinion.
“Well that’s your opinion, not mine.” Inferno responded. “So my dear…” He turns to face Starlight who was anxious and yet; in her mind, entranced by his eyes.
“Where do I find the prince?”