Two strangers fall from the heavens as a mysterious dark presence begins its attack on all of Equestria. Together with their strange new allies Mych and Zavier, Twilight and her friends will learn that their world is not just the only one. Soon they come to learn of a place, a place never heard of before. A place called. . . Kingdom Hearts.
(Being a fan of the Kingdom Hearts series and MLP, I've wondered what would happened if these two lores ever collided. This would be a possible outcome. First story here, go easy on me and feedback is appreciated.)
You who understand nothing, know nothing.~Ansem, the seeker of Darkness
The world of Equestria. A land ruled and governed by the majestic Alicorn sisters who were goddesses of day and night, the lands and its inhabitants had shared centuries of peace and harmony. But it was not always so. Back in the day when the lands were young and the ponies still adjusting to their towns, a spat of jealousy and envy had risen among the sisters. Luna, Goddess of the Moon who brought the night was jealous towards Celestia, Goddess of the Sun. Over time, this envy slowly festered, corrupting the once kind Luna and eventually awakened a dark entity known as Nightmare Moon. Despite her sister's caution of controlling her emotions, it only fueled Luna's hatred towards her sister and how no one would consider admiring the work she had put in for night. When Nightmare Moon refused to lower the moon one fateful day, Celestia was forced to take action. Summoning the Elements of Harmony, sister was forced to turn on sister, defeating Nightmare Moon and banishing her to the moon for a thousand years. It pained the Alicorn's heart, but with little success on turning her sister's mind, there was no choice.
A thousand year old prophecy came to pass as the Princess's most promising student, Twilight Sparkle read that Nightmare Moon would return and once more plunge the world into darkness. Together with her five new friends, the ponies confronted Nightmare Moon in the ruins that housed the Elements of Harmony. Though the dark princess was triumphant on destroying the orbs, her victory was short lived as Twilight, along with Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy, each represented the Elements of Harmony. With the purple unicorn being the key that unlocked them all, Magic Nightmare Moon was defeated, thus releasing Princess Luna from its dark influence and saving all of Equestria. Twilight and her friends became legends to forever be told in the grand halls of Canterlot, while Luna having been away for so long, took up her role again as raising and lowering the moon (and catching up on lost time with her sister.)
Days passed, lessons were learned and the bonds of family and friendship grew. In time Twilight and her friends were called once again to aide Equestria at Celestia's beckoning. For a mischevious spirit known as Discord had escaped his stone prison and would once again cause chaos across the lands. Their victory however, was not easily gained as Discord corrupted each bearer of the Elements. Little did he know that by disrupting the balance of Harmony, he set off a chain reaction that would bring forth an even darker force. . .a force never heard of before. As Discord's chaos spread across Ponyville and the surrounding lands, its effect drew over Ever Free Forest and soon swallowed up the ruins which once held the Elements. Inside, huddling in a dark corner, was the remenants of Nightmare Moon's taint. Now just a huddled pathetic creature, it laid there in misery and hatred, idle thoughts of revenge were met with despair and lost hope. As the magical disruption started to take hold, it "sensed" Discord's effect. A strange vibration started to thrum along the hallowed walls, drawing the creature to follow its source. It paused then turned and found itself staring at a door, a door in the back where the orbs once sat. Strange. . . it was never there before, not in all its time here brooding. A loud click! sounded, its echo reverberated off the walls and stretched across the lands.
As the creature shook off the effects of the noise, a slow groaning creak, drew its attention once more. The door was open and dark, inky mists started to pour forth. It covered the floor like a thick fog, sucking any source of light it found and left nothing but shadow in its wake. The taint was puzzled as it never felt an aura like this before. It "watched" as the shadows took form, strange beings emerging from the black inky pool. They looked. .strange. Little beings with glowing yellow eyes and antennae from their heads. They moved in strange, awkward motions which stilled when footsteps sounded upon the stone. The taint turned and found itself staring at something different. This.. creature was tall. . .and its aura, dark.. powerful, fearing. . and hungry. All it could make out was that it was shrouded in a robe of some sort, its face masked and covered by the cowl. It was. . frightening. It could "feel" eyes staring down upon it, eyes unseen by the blackness of the shade the cowl created. And then. .. its spoke.
"Poor pitiful creature. Huddled to be forgotten by time once more and left to fade away into nothing. Yet within you lies a power still great and a thirst for vengeance against those who did you harm. I am in need of. . some in world help by a denizen such as yourself. Pledge yourself to me.. and I will give you this power...and a chance of retribution."
It knelt before the small taint and hissed,"What say you?"
A chance to get back at Twilight Sparkle, her friends and even the Princesses? This was something it was not going to pass up on.
The creature felt it "bowed" and grovel in silent alliegence, gracing its boot with its dark body. A limb rose and a hand plunged into the taint. The taint shrieked in shock and surprise as this dark power surged into its very core, giving it form and strength to grow. The creature soon withdrew its limb and the shadows quivered as a body now laid upon the cold stone floor. It struggled to rise, but rise it did as it took shape and visage. The coat was as black as the darkest night, the mane and tail shimmered like a starless sky, de-void of any color save for the saddest, darkest blue. Wings adorned the sides while a horn jutted from the head, covered in a helm. At its chest it wore plated armor, bearing a strange insignia. The newly re-made Nightmare Moon opened her eyes to see the world in a new way. She felt the presence behind her and slowly turned to see the hooded creature standing. Wings trembling with some unknown fear, she bowed on her front legs and whispered,"G.. great master. I am.. yours to command. . . what is it you wish to know."
Dark violet, draconian eyes looked up as the being rose and again she felt it's aura thrum with power,"Tell me everything of this world. . . and its people. . .. and its hearts. . . ."
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Another day blossomed over Ponyville, the sun sharing its warmth to the land and ponies every where. Flowers bloomed and swayed in the winds, animals all over awoke and stirred before going about their business. And in Ponyville its citizens came alive and started once more, their daily routine. On this day, a pony named Sunflower was journeying into Ever Free Forest to seek help from the only pony who would ever dream of living there, Zecora. Her daughter it seemed, had the same patience as the infamous group, The Cutie Mark Crusaders and sought to obtained her own through a potion from the Zebra's hut. The result as before was the onset of Cutie Pox and so the mother entered the forest with a sigh, hoping Zecora had more of the Truth Flower. Though part of her was going to hold off on giving the antidote, so her daughter would learn a lesson or two about the dangers of impatience and taking things without another pony's permission. The forest was for boding and unpleasant regardless of the day and time. But the pony felt it was safer to traverse during daylight where the risks was smaller compared to at night, when its more. .nocturnal residents awoke and began the prowl. She sighed and fussed as the path to the zebra's hut was always troubling. The plants and wildlife here had a strange knack for growing so quickly. Even if a herd of cattle were to charge through and tear the place apart, it would all have grown back overnight. Such was the strange power of Ever Free.
The mare sat down with a soft groan, the rough road was hard on the hooves. Thankfully the light of the sun above made the surrounding are at least a little pleasant. A sudden rustle from the bushes startled Sunflower as she jumped to all four feet,"H. ..hello?. .. is any pony there? ..Z..Zecora?" Nothing. . just the occasional breeze that swayed the huge overlaying canopy above the pony's head,"The sooner I get to her hut and get the antidote, the sooner I can leave this place." Sunflower picked up her pace and continued on, following Twilight's directions on how to get to the zebra's home. Another rustle came nearby and Sunflower started to feel panicky,"W. .who ever you are. . .back off! . .I got a bat with me. . and I'm not afraid to use it!" Again silence and the occasional groan of the trees swaying overhead. Gulping, Sunflower turned around and decided to come back later. Making quick steps she started back down the path when she came to a sudden halt. The path. . it was. . .gone! Towering trees blocked the way and the mare swore they were not there before. Or the strange mists that started to creep along the floor. The pony freaked out and turned to run in the other direction. She perhaps got about five hundred feet when vines whipped out of no where and grabbed at her legs, toppling the pony to the forest floor. The mists rushed at her as she saw with huge fearful eyes, that they began to take shape. Black creepy creatures with yellow eyes, short limbs and legs and antenna appeared and they all grabbed for the mare. She screamed and struggled, tearing the vines from her legs and tried to make a break. . .only to bump into another body. Eyes turned up to see a dark glaring Alicorn face staring right back with a malicious smile and Sunflower screamed louder. The scream cut off abruptly and then. . silence. The only sound was the breeze slowly swaying the tree branches and the groans they made over the once more vacant forest.
Worlds away from Equestria, Twilight Town was beginning its annual summer preparation of its famous event. "Struggle" its sport was called drew crowds from far and wide to central sand lot. Many were eager to see who would participate this year and who would win the belt, trophy and title of Champion. As registration began at the tables, up at Central Station, a person sat leaning against the wall, her eyes casting down to the watch on her wrist, stealing a quick glance or two. Zavier sighed and brushed the strands of hair that fell from her head, obscuring her view. She was waiting for someone and they had promised to be there around two in the afternoon. It was now reading two fifteen on her watch while the clock tower above her, chimed the fifteen minute notice. The doors to the station occasionally opened as more of the towns people arrived or departed. Half wanted to see the Struggle matches take place, while the other, more elderly were content with finishing up their chores for the afternoon. Zavier smiled as she watched a mother be tugged by her son, the boy eagerly telling her how he wanted to see the Struggle matches. Part of the girl wondered what it must be like to live in a town. A town always bathed in the afternoon colors giving it a pleasant autumn feeling.
Zavier was not of the town. She was like those who arrived at the Station. A traveler so to speak. But where she traveled and who she ran into. . . people would think she was either crazy or told fantastic fantasy tales. A hand idly slipped into the pocket of her overalls and clutched a key chain there, its soft hum of warmth spread through out the fingers. She was so involved with watching the trams go by on the tracks at the far end of the lot, that it took a sharp poke to the ribs to jostle her out of the trance,
"Hey Zavier! Wakey wakey, your dreaming again!" called the voice.
Startled she turned to her right then softened at the taller person,"Your late Mych." He chuckled and raised his hands submissively,"Yeah I'm real sorry about that. Got caught up in some little side job that took longer then expected. Master Sid kinda threw a curve ball at me. Couldn't leave until the task was done." He reached behind and pulled out two popsicles,"By means of an apology. The town's local delicacy I hear. . Sea-Salt Ice Cream." Zavier took the offered treat and bit into it. Her face was one of confusion.. both pleasant and. . a little strange,"It's. .really salty!. . .but. . at the same time. . really sweet." Mych nodded with a bite himself and grinned,"Kinda like Kettle Corn.. only more salt and sugar then we're used to."
The two chuckled softly then began taking the path towards the declining walk-way that would lead them to the sand lot,"So. . .Master Sid you say. That means. . ." Zavier started to speak before Mych nodded,"Yeah. . . more of his special training." Soft green eyes cast up to Mych's face, his smaller friend giving him a look that was mixed and hard to say,"It's tough. .. really tough. But it helps Zavier. It helps me a lot." He placed a hand on his chest, where his heart was,"I know your sick to death of hearing me say this. But thank you. For not giving up on me."
A hand found his free and he felt Zavier squeeze. He said nothing, but his palm squeezed back, earning them a few looks from some of the people. Sorta that "Awwww how cute a couple." look.
Mych coughed softly then motioned with his head as they reached the bottom,"So I hear Struggle is a pretty intense sport. From what I gathered you. . hit your opponent and collect the orbs? They drop? And the winner is the person with the most orbs?" Zavier nodded,"Yeah. . its like sparring in a way. Only with Nerf bats. Course that doesn't stop some people from getting carried away." He snickered softly,"Ever think of signing up?" She looked to him then shook her head with a casual dismissive wave of her hand,"No way! Given my experience, I would dominate the whole thing from start to finish. Bit of an unfair advantage in my eyes. Though it sounds like you sound interested." Mych snorted and shook his head,"Sorry Zavier. But as you mentioned, the experience I have. . .would be way too one sided. And unfair." Faint cheers started coming from the lot as they entered, the preliminaries getting well under way,"Nope. For me its a nice change of pace to not do any fighting and take the day off."
They found a vacant bench and took a seat, both leaning against the building wall behind them, watching as two boys with blue bats swung at each other,duking it out. The blond haired boy parried a strike by his opponent, leaving him open for a mid blow. The red hair grunted as the soft thump of foam struck him, red orbs spilling from his pockets where they were stored and knocking him back. He quickly recovered and spoiled the other boy's attempt to collect them, with a overhead strike the bonked him on the head and sent his blue orbs flying.
Mych whistled softly as the boy with the red orbs not only gathered the blue orbs but kept his opponent on defense,"Wow. . your right. Sparring.. but with more gusto." Zavier nodded in silence. As the crowd roared over the winner, she leaned closer and whispered,"So. . why are we here again?" Mych nodded as his arms folded, the popsicle stick being held in one hand,"Master Sid wanted us to check the abandoned mansion. You know the one. Far end of town, beyond the wall and forest. Behind a locked fence." She looked at him puzzled,"Why would he want us to investigate that old place? I thought it was finished, that no more reports were needed." He shrugged,"I thought so too. What with the fiasco of Ansem, the Organization and what was going on in those labs. Guess the wizard just wants to make sure nothing strange is happening. And I'm not one to question Master Sid's concerns." A gentle hum brought their attention to their pockets. Their hands slipped inside and felt the hum of power emanating from the key chains they held.
"Uh oh. Sounds like something is brewing." Zavier said rising to her feet. Mych nodded and rose as well, the two slipping among the people as the second match was to begin. In the business center of Twilight town where the shops were bustling, the pair made their way down one of the tran tracks towards a wall to the east. A triangular hole was there, one that was made probably by curious workers who wanted to discover what lay beyond the the town, opened up into a clear forest. Mych and Zavier ducked in and soon were traversing among the leaf strewn path as they made their way to the mansion,"Think they are reacting to something inside?" Zavier asked pointing to the mansion. Mych just hmmed and shrugged,"Again. . don't know how Master Sid knows. . .he just. . .does."
As they approached the gate, a sudden huge wind whipped out around them. Both withdrew their keychains and with a loud clash! their Keyblades materialized within their hands,"What is going on?! Never had a wind that done this before! A wind elemental Heartless?" Zavier shouted out over the howling gusts,"I don't know. . but I do know this isn't normal for a tornado, or twister or what ever they call these!" Mych shouted back. The winds continued to tear around them before shifting forward. It smashed open the gate, ripping it from its foundation and tossed it into the front yard. As the leaves and dust cleared, a dark creature stood before them. It wore a pointy hat whose end was crooked to one side. Its colors were blues and white while yellow eyes peered over a blazing emblem: The mark of Emblem Heartless. It shivered as it floated in air, tiny legs wiggled in frenzied delight at new prey. Mych looked to Zavier and both nodded. The Heartless attacked. Small tornadoes whipped around its body as it charged the wielders, Zavier conjouring up a barrier spell to protect the worst of the blow. The Heartless bounced off the shield and its little winds barrier fizzled with a soft pop. Mych meanwhile leaped to the side, re-bounded off the wall and caught the Heartless with a downward strike. It shuddered and teetered to one side, its aim spoiled and plan falling to ruin. Zavier never gave it a chance to recover. Aiming her Keyblade she shouted,"Aero!" And gave the heartless her own version of a twister. Caught in the mini winds, the Heartless could only spin helpless as she followed with an upwards slash, Mych who had landed after his down ward strike brought a backhand blow.
The Heartless crumpled beneath the next two, then fell to the ground. Mych and Zavier watched as it faded from sight,its body melting away into mists of glimmer and sharded lights. A heart emerged and softly rose to the sky, free to return to its owner or. . to join Kingdom Hearts.
"Well. . .that was easy." Mych's blade faded as he dusted off his hands, then jerked a thumb into the direction of the mansion,"Shall we?" Zavier blinked,"Wait. .. you serious? I thought this was what Master Sid was worried about. Voila! Heartless squashed, threat averted, problem solved." He groaned and covered his face with a palm while shaking his head,"You've. . hung around me too long. . definately not a good sign." Zavier chuckled and gave a thumbs up,"Gotcha. . .beat you to the punch this time, just to listen to yourself sound like me for once."
"Ohh haa haa.. very funny, Zavier."
She was about to rub it in, when a bright light suddenly fell upon the two,"Gaaah!!!" Mych cried out, covering his eyes with an arm,"What the hell?!" Zavier could not see either, the blinding glow was too strong for either to find out what was going on. Then they felt their bodies starting to float as the two started to climb,"W. .what?! Wait. . .the mansion! The job! The second helpings of Sea Salt Ice Cream!" Zavier cried out as the two began the climb even faster.
"Looks like we are getting an unexpected change in plans, Zavier. And it looks like we're not gonna be using a gummi ship this time!" Mych called out.
"Not faaaaaaaaaaaaaaair!" Zavier voice cried back as the two slipped higher in the clouds, the light keeping a tight hold on the pair and soon they vanished with a soft twinkle in the sky light a star's light. Destiny had summoned them and as wielders of the Keyblade, Mych and Zavier had no choice but to respond to this call. . .wiether they liked it or not.
Inside the Ponyville library, a purple unicorn paced anxiously. Her number one assistant was upstairs sleeping after a hard day's work of information gathering and many messages that were sent to, and received from the Princess. Twilight was tired, but she could not sleep for even an instance. The threat in Ever Free forest was growing hour by hour. It had been three days since the one pony Sunflower, who had traveled into Ever Free disappeared. Three days since the search party that formed to find her also vanished without a trace, their torches and ropes found at the outskirts. Three days since strange dark shadowy creatures started to appear and attack any way ward pony who got too close. Even Zecora was forced to flee her hut when the danger presented itself. She was currently staying with Applejack and her family (much to the farm pony's dismay and Apple Bloom's eagerness.) Drawing in a deep breath that came out into a slow sigh, the unicorn poured over a blank book, one she pulled out for note taking.
The characteristics of these strange creatures still alludes me. So far from what we gathered is they are no bigger then a baby dragon, around Spike's height currently. They possess no mouths or nose, only two glowing yellow eyes. A set of antenna on the top of their heads could probably mean they use a different form of communication, like scent trails or maybe even telepathy. Short limbs and even shorter arms poke from their bodies and at first glance they appear harmless. This is false. As one victim who managed to escape with his life intact, stated,'They started acting funny like they had been drinking hard cider. And then suddenly they would pounce and attack like Timber wolves.' What makes it harder to believe is that they can flatten themselves completely, making any form of attack hard. Lately new ones have been showing up and even these are just as baffling. They are like. . a pony's shadow. Except they have the same physical traits as the others minus the antenna. What's more is their cutie marks are a brand or insignia that I can not name. ~ Twilight.
A sudden belch and a groan from upstairs informed Twilight that another message had arrived. Drawing closed her note book, she headed up the stairs and floated the scroll from the sleeping dragon's basket. It bore Celestia's mark and with eagerness Twilight opened the letter,"
Dear Twilight Sparkle
I have had my librarians in all of Canterlot pour over every book and reference in hopes of providing you an answer to the mark you have sent me. Sadly to say nothing of it has shown up any where. I am also sorry to inform you that Ever Free is not the only place these creatures have emerged. Lately they have appeared in the sub basement and dungeons of the castle. All current prisoners and guards have been forced to evacuate and the security doubled. My magic has had minimal effect on them as I am sure yours has had either. Luna my dear sister has also taken ill, her sickness strange and new, something the doctors have never seen or heard of. She lays in bed and mumbles about the darkness coming. I worry for her health and safety. If we can not stem this threat soon, I will send the Elements of Harmony to you and your friends. It is our last hope.
Sincerely
Princess Celestia
A knock on the door drew the pony's attention away from her letter as a soft, timid voice muffled,"U.. um. . Twilight. . can I come in?" The unicorn opened the door with her magic, allowing a butter cream pegasus with pink flowing mane and tail to enter. She was covered in bags and satchel full of animals,"Yikes! Fluttershy what is going on?" The unicorn asked while glancing at so many critters. She landed and fidgeted softly for a moment before Angel, her bunny thumped on her head with some annoyance,"O .oh!. . .I was. . forced to evacuate from my home. . t. .the royal guards came. .t ..told me the forest was not safe. . .I. . .I had to gather all my little friends.. I'm so worried about what those awful things might do to them." Twilight looked at all the bags then to Fluttershy,"So. . .what are you gonna do with all of them?" Those soft eyes looked up and she nervously replied,"I.. I don't know...I thought Rarity could help. .you know. B. .but.. she wasn't fond about so many animals making a mess in her boutique. I tried Pinkie Pie's place next. . But Mr. and Mrs Cake didn't feel comfortable with all of them running around in the shop, gobbling up their treats. I thought.. maybe. . .you know.. they could stay here. . for a little bit."
Twilight looked at them all, her expression was between guilt of turning her friend down and worry of what they might do to all the books in her home. Fluttershy's eyes started to tear up, making the unicorn feel horrible for denying her friend, even if she didn't speak it. Before Twilight could give a clear answer, Spike woke with a yelp! and a loud groan before a rather large belch lit up the inside of the unicorn's home for a brief moment. The fire died out and a loud oof! sounded as something landed atop the baby dragon,"Twilight. . ." Spike moaned,"I think its for you. . . ."
Twilight came down stairs, carrying a wooden rectangular box. Fluttershy knew what was inside, which could only mean that things in Ponyville were getting worse. Both friends looked each other in the eye before the unicorn spoke,"Get Rainbow Dash and Applejack as fast as you can. I'll fetch Pinkie Pie and Rarity. We've got a job to do. . time to save Equestria!. . . .again. . . for the third time. . . .yeah." Fluttershy nudged her and softly spoke,"Think we might get vacation time out of this?" Twilight wondered this herself as the two started out the door,"Ooh!. . but. . my little animal friends." There really wasn't time to debate this, so the unicorn nodded and called out,"Spike I'm heading out with Fluttershy to gather the rest of the crew and then try and stop this threat. Keep an eye on Fluttershy's pets will you?" The door closed as a startled cry of,"What?!" echoed from upstairs.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
As Fluttershy headed to Cloudsdale and Sweet Apple Acres farm, Twilight traveled to Sugar Cube Corner and the Carasol Boutique. All around, she watched other ponies packing up their belongings, putting together wagons and taking the path to either Canterlot where they felt safer. Or to lands away from Ever Free Forest itself. There was tension in the air, a hint of fear and anxiety in every pony that was mixed in. Never had the unicorn felt this flood of emotions, not since Nightmare Moons' return years earlier. This was different. Back then she and her friends knew who they were up against, had the means to defeat her and save Ponyville. This new threat. . .it was. . . . different. Like it was never meant to invade Equestria let alone exist. And yet by unknown means it had found a way. Like a bad dream a pony never wanted to get but was caught by surprise.
At Sugar Cube Corner, Pinkie Pie was more then happy to wear the Element of Laughter once again,"If it chases those black meanies away and save all the cakes, candies, and especially those cupcakes that Mr. and Mrs Cake made, you can count on me!" Course the pink pony was gobbling down some cake at the time, so it sounded more like,"Mmrmgmmmmf. . .rmmgmmgrgmmmffm mmgmmmmrfmmgm. Gmmrmgmmf!" Next stop was Rarity's shop. The snow white unicorn with violet mane and tail styled in such glammer had no problem joining the crew once again to end this nuisence,"Those ugly little creatures are chasing away potential customers. Honestly, how is a mare supposed to make a living when some thing just has to show its ghastly face and make trouble for every pony."
The six were to meet near Town Hall which was at the center of Ponyville. Fluttershy was there already with Rainbow Dash and Applejack. The trio were pleased to see Rarity and Pinkie Pie along with Twilight and the group huddled up,"Alright girls. Lets show this shadowy force that we are NOT to be reckoned with nor take kindly to threats." "You said it, Twi. Lets pop these punks right in the kisser and show them whose boss!" Rainbow Dash said with a fierce grin,"Ah reckon they'll think twice before causin any trouble round here again, ah promise ya that, sugar cube." pipped in Applejack. All six joined hooves in the middle,"For friendship!"
FOR FRIENDSHIP!
A deep rumble beneath the ground cut the victory chant rather short. The unicorn and earth ponies were stumbling about while Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy were looking around frantically trying to find the source," What in tarnation?! An earthquake?!," Applejack called out as she hugged a lamp pole to keep from bouncing all over the place. A huge crack! erupted behind the six and all heads turned to see the Town Hall collapse beneath some invisible hole the opened up out of no where. Wood snapped, beams shattered and glass broke as the building all but disappeared. And then. .the shaking stopped. What followed next was something no pony ever expected. A huge black arm rose up from the ground and grabbed the edge. Fluttershy squeaked and froze up, nearly knocking herself out were it not for Rainbow Dash's quick flying. Setting her friend on the ground, they turned and watched as this huge dark figure climbed from the hole,"I. . I thought we were battling black icky bugs! No pony mentioned we were gonna go against some GIANT!" Rarity cried out.
Even Twilight was shocked and stunned as this new creature settled on the ground in front of them. This one. . was different in shape and form. It was. . .well it was big.. Its limbs were far too big and long for its body while the torso and legs looked too short to support its weight. The face. . it was all wrong as well. Two yellow eyes stared out in front while its nose stuck out beneath them. If it had a mouth there was no telling where it was, for it wore a black scarf around the lower half of the face, concealing any other features to further distinguish it from the others. Its mane was clumped and seemed to weave like little black snakes while small tiny black wings could be seen coming from the shoulders. But what truly made this creature bizarre. . and frightening, was the heart shaped hole in its chest.
It slowly looked from left to right as the six gathered. Then it peered down. . .and spotted them,"Ah guys. I don't mean to be obvious but. .I think it knows we're here!" Rainbow Dash pointed out. The rest scattered as one limb rose up and then drove down quickly to where they were just standing. As they recovered Twilight could see a dark pool forming around where its "hoof" had vanished beneath the ground.. and then. . those black shadow creatures were emerging. Ten, twenty, Twilight stopped when it reached forty. This wasn't just another snatch n grab like before. This was an all out attack on Ponyville itself.
Screams and shouts rose from all over town as those things scurried about, spreading through like locusts in a corn field. Twilight grabbed the box which held their necklaces and tiara, dumped them on the ground then called to each pony to take up their Element. Rainbow Dash wore Loyalty, Fluttershy Kindness. Rarity adorned Generosity, Applejack took up Honestly. Pinkie Pie put on Laughter while Twilight wore the tiara signifying Magic. Closing her eyes, Twilight concentrated as did the other five. The necklaces began to glow as the Elements awakened. Each pony's power flowed through them joining Twilight at the center. Eyes opened and white pure light erupted from the unicorn as she channeled all her friends and her power into Harmony itself. The dark giant paused and seem to shiver as it felt this strange presence before. Then a rainbow shot from the six, rose to sky above them and zeroed in on the monster. All six watched as the dark giant rose an arm to deflect the Elements of Harmony. When it hit, there was a great flash as the creature shuddered, no sounds of cries of agony as it was swallowed up by the magical effect. And then . .something strange happened. The Elements of Harmony suddenly shot up towards the sky, leaving the dark monster there, dazed and confused. Twilight, Applejack, Pinke Pie, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Rarity watched as their power kept climbing and climbing,"Ah...ah never seen it do that before!" Applejack uttered in shock,"It...it failed. . .the Elements failed, those things are still here!" Eyes turned as worry took hold,"W. . what do we do now? That. . was our last and only chance."
A loud boom sounded from above the vibrations of its effect knocked every pony down,"Dang!. . .that was like. .the biggest Sonic Rainboom ever.." Rainbow Dash said while looking up,"Course. .it needs to be twenty percent cooler, you know?" Fluttershy pointed,"Is.. ..is. . that a heart.. in the sky?" Every pony paused to look up at the strange wonder. In Canterlot, Celestia gazed from her balcony in awe as she had witnessed the Elements ascend to the heavens. Then. . a column of light poured from the center of the heart that materialized from nothing and she felt a hum of power. . two hums.. .start to fall,"By my horn. . . what is going on?" The Alicorn whispered. Back in Ponyville, Rarity managed to speak,"Look at them. . .its like their. . entranced by it." Twilight took a look at her surroundings and found that the unicorn was right. All of them. . all the shadow creatures were looking up at the sky. The heart in the sky seemed to have a hypnotic effect on them. They reached up with their limbs and clawed fingers, struggling in vain as though they desperately wanted it. While they watched, Twilight and Rarity soon felt the twin hums of power falling. It was resonating in the sky but from the feel of things, it or they were falling. Neither pony knew what to make of it until a voice called out from above:
AEROAGA!
A huge twister erupted from the ruins of the Town Hall. Twilight and her fellow ponies shrieked in shock and clung on to what ever was bolted to the ground and held on for dear life. The shadow creatures were sent sprawling in all directions and the huge shadow giant almost collapsed on itself. As the winds howled all around them, Twilight watched as the monster was. . shrinking, no.. being compacted as this gale force was starting to close in on it. And then. . two beings landed on its head, causing it to flatten on the ground and the figures did an impressive leap only to land a few inches from the dark entity. Twilight barely had time to consider what these things were, when the tall once pointed out,"We got a Darkside here!" the voice sounding like it belonged to a stallion pony. The smaller motioned with a small limb,"Shadows as well, closing all around!" its voice more feminine like a mare. A loud clang! was heard and Twilight felt those hums of power explode in the pairs "hooves." Soon she was staring at these strange objects the creatures were holding. What ever they were, it was the source of the humming she and Rarity had felt mere minutes ago. And then a strange high pitched noise sounded. The rest of the gang joined up, just in time to see the shadow creatures shudder in a frenzy then launched themselves at the two strangers. The ponies could not even cry out a warning as the tall one merely called out,"Here they come!"
~When a weak heart gives in to the darkness, the body is lost and a Heartless is born ~
Well. . . . that was new. Mych thought to himself as he and Zavier dusted themselves off, summoned their Keyblades and switched to defense as the swarm of Heartless started to surround them. Not only are we plucked from Twilight Town like it was an urgent calling, we get flung half way across the star paths between worlds and wind up here. And not only were the usual conventional methods ignored, we're tossed like we were kicked out of some crazy cab ride. "Hey Zavier. . " he motioned to his friend as they stood back to back,"Yeah Mych?" "Remind me to fire my travel agent when this is over." " Uuuh Mych. . . you don't have a travel agent to begin with." Zavier replied as the first wave of Shadows attacked. The two darted with ease and soon the sounds of Keyblades striking Heartless could be heard," Well that's good then! Saves me the trouble of firing somebody today!" He said with a grin.
Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy watched from cover as the two new beings engaged the shadow creatures. No pony spoke for they were enthralled with how they moved. Rarity murmured that the two moved with a grace that was also beautiful. . in some deadly way. Applejack commented on how easily they were handling themselves despite the odds stacked against them. Even Rainbow Dash was impressed by their hoof work. Course she added they could be 20% cooler with how they carried themselves.
"Its like watching a couple dance." The white unicorn spoke. All eyes turned on her as the high pitched sound repeated and more strange different shadow creatures leaped from no where and hurled themselves at the two,"Well look at them. Surprised you ladies haven't noticed by now. The stallion keeps his back to his mare friend to avoid any surprise ambushes or sneak attacks those dark bugs try on them. She responds by using magic. . defense magic to keep harm to a minimal. His feels more offensive given how hes firing off Fire and Ice. And before any of you think its odd, they're doing it with accurate precision. . .its like they've danced this dance so many times before. . . its simply. . .romantic."
Twilight just smiled with a soft snicker as Rarity fluttered her eyes. Rainbow Dash made a face that looked like she was going to be sick, while Applejack just silently laughed at the pegasus's antics,"Course their attire could use some work. . they look just awful in those garments. The stallion could use a trim too, his mane is just all over the place. Surprised he keeps it tied up like that. . and those colors. . uugh. . he reminds me of you Rainbow Dash. . with morning mane." The pegasus snorted and crossed her front legs in a huff,"I just happen to like it that way. . sides with all the flying I do, whose got time to fuss about the way their mane looks?" Rarity just hmmmphed and played with hers,"You dear, still don't understand what it means to be radiant. . .typical." Twilight was impressed with her fellow unicorn's interpetation of the two strangers.
This allowed her to make some mental notes about their appearance as well: Both stood on their hind legs, lacked tails and their front legs hung from the sides of their bodies rather in front. And instead of hooves, they looked to be more like Spike's paws. . minus the scales and claws. . and instead of four digits, they each possessed five. The tall stallion wore what looked to be a white shirt that could use a serious cleaning, what being covered in dust. He wore an outer coat, that looked like the fabric to be made of jean material, also faded and long sleeved. He kept these rolled up at the "elbows" as Spike called them allowing no hinderence as he wielded the item in paw. His face and her face were also strange: No muzzles, the eyes were in front with a nose beneath them and the mouth under that. Their ears, instead of being on top of their heads were on the side. How can any creature live like that? She shook her head, it was just a new strange thing happening on top of everything else.
Back to examination: The mare's mane was kept in short and tied, with a little tail. It was a pale blue which seem to compliment her rather intense green eyes as she moved with quick fluid motions of her item and destroyed more of the creatures. She also wore a dark blue shirt which, compared to the stallion's was clean. Over-alls. . as Applejack mentioned covered the lower portion of her body and legs while strange shoes adorned both their hooves. . or rather feet as Spike had said. The stallion's were faded black pants that looked a little too big for his frame and yet they never fell once. His eyes were the strangest of all: The left bore a soft grey that reminded the unicorn of a cloudy day. The right was more of a dark blue that matched the evening sky. Seems he was not entirely unscathed either: A scar ran over that eye and stopped just above his cheek? in the shape of an S almost. His mane was also a strange color or colors and reminded her of how Rainbow Dash mane stacked up. Fiery red with pale white atop and blackest black bringing out the rest. These creatures sure had some odd taste in colors that was for sure.
Unfortunately that was all she could gather before they felt a creepy presence behind them. All heads turned to see gangily shadow creatures dressed in armor and wiggled about like scarecrows. Rarity screamed which drew the two stranger's attention,"Locals. . . ." the "stallion" motioned. The "mare" nodded and dashed towards the six, all panicking as those creatures attacked. She was fast. . .really fast. All had their eyes closed, ready for the end. All their ears heard was the whirl of something whipping in the air above them, the loud clunk of metal against metal and a strange poomf! sound. One by one each dared to open their eyes and found themselves staring up at the mare,"Look. . I don't know if you can understand me or not." This has got to be the strangest sight I have ever seen. Ponies?!. . I mean. . who colors ponies like this? And. .are those two unicorns? And pegasus? "But this really isn't a safe place! You should take cover and hide!"
A loud oof! sounded and the "stallion" went sailing past her. . taking both pegasus with him as he tumbled across the ground, laying face first with both of them under his arms,"Heeeelp!!!" Rainbow Dash flailed,"Its got me!! It's gonna turn me into one of those things!!" Poor Fluttershy could only squeak and tremble while hiding her eyes under her front hooves as he groaned and slowly shook his head, his "mare" friend rushing up to meet him,"Mych! you ok?" He spluttered and rose a little woozily before shaking his head to clear things,"Yeah. . .I'm fine. . .damn Dark sides. . always hit like a fricken truck." He looked down at Rainbow Dash who rose to her feet, brushed her self off and started to flap those wings again,"What?! What are you looking at? Want a piece of me too?" she said with a few shadow boxing jabs with her front hooves. He merely looked at her with an arched brow,"Big talk coming from some shrimp who was squealing like a girl a minute ago." Rainbow Dash's jaw dropped before she grew angrier,"What?! What did you say?!" Before she could come at the tall "stallion", the "mare" intervened,"Mych. . . stop that." She pointed a finger at the pegasus,"And you. . .don't provoke him ok?" The pegasus grumbled and huffed before the purple unicorn spoke up,"She's right Rainbow Dash. Now is not the time to pick fights when we still have a situation here."
The one called Mych looked at the Dark side,"C'mon Zavier. . lets end this thing and then we can mingle with the natives." The mare nodded and hefted her item from one hand to the other,"Time to sent this fellow packing." Mych nodded and they tapped wrists. Twilight felt a surge of power flow through the two and then. . .they moved at a speed so great it could challenge Rainbow Dash's Sonic Rainboom. The giant deemed "Dark side" to the two, tried to smash down with those great fists and crush them. . .with no success. Mych and Zavier were simply moving too fast for it to follow through. Each missed blow was met with a strike from their items and the thing writhes in silent pain as the pair split down the center and took sides. Mych moved with a flurry of strikes bearing down on the Dark sides' one limb, while Zavier worked her way up to the neck as they literally climbed the thing. They both leaped off its shoulders and brought the items down, thus creating a cross slash over the Dark side.
It was over. . .the thing toppled back into the pit even as the two landed, its body fading beneath mists and speckles of shattered light. What drew Twilight's attention was the heart the drifted among the fading body rising into the air before it just vanished. All that was left was the hole and the ruins of Town Hall. The shadow creatures had retreated, which was odd because of their frenzied behavior earlier. Could they fear these two? And the items they held in their hands? As silence fell upon Ponyville, Twilight could only come to a conclusion that yes, it was possible.
She watched the two standing there, the "stallion" having his item draping over his neck like a rake, while the "mare" kept hers at the side,"Not bad for a crash course in landing." The two tapped their knuckles together and just admired their work. "All right. Ahm sure we're mighty thankful for the things ya done fer us but I have a couple questions." Mych and Zavier both looked over their shoulders to the tanned pony with the blond mane, wearing a Stetson hat and had a thick southern accent,"Jes who or what are yous? And what bout them thangs your carryin? Fact what did ya call those tiny varmints again? Shadows? Dun recall seein shadows behave like that before." Applejack looked to her friends,"It's clear our strangers know lot bout whats goin on. I think we all agree that some explain needs to be done before we allow them to go anywheres else." Twilight nodded as did her friends before turning to look up at the two,"I'm sorry about all this but Applejack is right. You both seem to know what is going on and yet we've never seen you or those things ever. What are they?"
The one called Zavier was the first to speak,"They are called Heartless." Puzzled looks graced all the ponies faces,"I don't know. They seem pretty hyper and bouncy and all grr grr wavy hand claw at you to have no hearts!" the pink one with poofy pink hair and tail seemed to cheerily admit. The one, Mych shook his head,"Its not that. . its just what they are called. Heartless. When a weak heart succumbs to the darkness, the body is lost and thus a Heartless is born. They prey upon living beings, stealing those who have weak or corrupted hearts and making more of themselves." He brought the object which was still drapped across his shoulder,"And these thangs. . miss pony. .are called Keyblades."
The tanned one spoke up again,"Names Applejack. . and. . whatsa Keyblade?" Zavier nodded,"Its a weapon. . a weapon the Heartless fear and loathe. Its their weakness. When a Keyblade destroy a Heartless, the heart that is trapped is released. It either returns to its owner. . or joins Kingdom Hearts." The six ponies looked puzzled once more, the white unicorn spoke up,"So your saying. . dear. Is that you. .and your stallion friend. (Mych felt his face heat up like a stove top) battle these. .Heartless and release hearts?" Twilight finished,"And these hearts. . they go back to their owners or. .return to. . . Kingdom Hearts? I. . I don't understand. Why have none of us ponies or Princess Celestia have heard of these things. I mean. .we both tore our libraries down from top to bottom, none of what you said or mention exists."
Mych rubbed the back of his head, wearing a sort of sheepish expression,"Problem is why you don't hear about stuff like this is because. . .its sorta a low profile. When there are outbreaks of Heartless in worlds, we tackle them behind the locals backs." The blue pegasus spoke up,"Why would you do that? I mean if the threat is there, wouldn't it be better if they knew about it? And what is this about "other" worlds? Only world I know of is Equestria." Mych sighed and blew loudly through his nose,"Hoooo boy. . . I was worried about this. Minute Heartless go rampant and the locals get involved, we get stuck doing history lessons." Zavier shook her head,"Comes with the territory. People.. or in this case ponies are bound to want answers sooner or later. Might as well fill them in, while we do damage control."
- - - - - - - - - - - -
As the mane six, with their two new companions, took the main path back to the library, Mych and Zavier did their best to fill them in, as they peppered them with questions. Zavier had noted that Twilight was the smart one of this group as she was nodding her head in silence as though making mental tabs for some future book. The one blue pegasus, Rainbow Dash kept quiet for the most part, only to trade glances over at Mych before quickly turning around so he would not take notice. The other one the butter creamed colored pegasus with pink mane and tail, seemed just as content walking with her friends then with her fellow winged companion. The white unicorn, the one they called Rarity was asking if it was alright with them, about making them some better outfits then the "rags" they wore currently. (Zavier noted that each time she referred to Mych as a "stallion", the poor guy's face kept lighting up like a red light and he often coughed and stared off somewhere.) And Pinkie Pie? Well she was just. .hopping down the trail while bearing a rather huge content grin.
As the library came into view, Zavier fell back to speak with Mych,"Say. . .you notice anything about this that doesn't make any sense?" He looked at her with a bizarre look on his face before whispering back,"You mean aside from falling from the sky, making aquaintences with really colorful ponies, which I made add that yellow one, the quiet shy one, is so rediculously cute? That if I were to keep looking at her, my head would explode into puppies, kittens and confetti at any moment? Not to mention that their flanks are bearing odd symbols, each one different from the other and that no two are the same? Nope. . .I'd say that's normal around here." Zavier rolled her eyes then elbowed him,"Not that!. .. why haven't we changed? You know in worlds such as these the Keyblade's power alters our appearance so we could blend in more and not stick out like this." Running a hand through his hair, Mych could only shrug,"Something is off here and we know it. Question is what? Can't be the Heartless, they don't have that kind of thinking. And given how that Dark side managed to tunnel under the town. . . Get the suspicion that some one. . is pulling strings around here."
A pink face appeared out of no where, nearly startling the two,"Saaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay!!! you know what? After this whole Heartless thing is over, lets have a party! I mean since your new here, its only natural that new comers get parties thrown for them! Cause that would totally be awesome. And then we can get our friends and you can get yours! Oh and we can have cake and ice cream, play games eat cupcakes, drink fruit punch, play more games, have some pie dip our heads into the chocolate fountain! And then there would be balloons, we'd throw streamers and blow kazoos while whirling noise makers! It would be so great! And hey the next day. . we could do it again!!" This pony, the one whose friends called Pinkie Pie. She was. . different. While the others remained collected and calm, she was just .. . dare Mych think it? Bouncing all over the place. And the way she spoke? Zavier swore that if she had recorded this conversation just now, played it back and hit the slow button, she still would not understand half of what the pony said, given she was talking at 100 miles per hour here.
A small being emerged from the door, running up to greet the group,"Twiliiiiiight! Its a letter!" the green and purple creature called out. Mych leaned over and whispered,"Is. .that a dragon?" The purple unicorn smiled and nodded,"Yep. That is Spike, my number one assistant and helper in the library." The small dragon came to a stop in front of them, out of breath and waving a scroll in his hand,"I just got this a few minutes ago. It looked urgent so I thought I would run it to you. But seeing as your here, that saves me the trou-" He stopped and looked up at the two tall beings behind his friends, eyes growing wider,"Whoa. . .who. . who are they?" Twilight looked over her shoulder,"Oh. . That there is Mych," he saluted to the dragon,"And that other person there is Zavier." She gave a nod,"Wow. . .what are they?" the dragon asked still looking up in awe as Twilight plucked the scroll from his hand and unrolled it,"Human beings. . they are called. And they helped us back in Town Hall battling those monsters." Spike felt a nudge and looked to see Fluttershy,"Umm. . Spike? H. .how was my little animal friends? Were they scared when the earthquake showed up? I'm so worried about them." While the dragon spoke to the pegasus, assuring her that her friends were ok, Mych leaned over and whispered to Zavier,"Kinda small for a dragon you know." She elbowed him, creating a soft grunt and hurt look,"Stop that. . he's probably just small for his size or is still growing."
A sudden gasp, broke everyone's silence as the scroll dropped from Twilight's magic. Rainbow Dash was instantly there at her side, shaking the stunned pony,"Twilight? What's going on? Why you shocked all of a sudden? What did it say?" She turned to look at every one with worried eyes and in a trembling voice spoke,"C.. Cantorlot is under siege. . .the Heartless are attacking as we speak. Celestia has lost half her guards already. . they holed up in the throne room. ..and. . .and she's been seriously hurt." A collective shocked gasp came from her friends as they crowded her. She continued,"There's more. . . . " The pony had trouble speaking the words until Applejack bumped her,"Well spit it out sugar cube, what is it?"
Violet eyes looked to her friends before she spoke,"Nightmare Moon is back. . .and she is leading the attack."
Outside the library, the small group stood there in silence. Not a word was spoken until Rainbow Dash started to shake her head,"That's. . .not possible. We defeated her. Celestia before that. Luna was freed from the dark affliction, there is no way Nightmare Moon could just come back like that!" The pegasus landed and shook Twilight with concern in the eyes,"Tell me that the Princess maybe bumped her head too hard and wasn't thinking clearly when she wrote that message!" Still in shock over this recent news, the unicorn could only hand the scroll over to her cyan friend while Applejack and Fluttershy did their best to console her,
Twilight
As I write this, time is growing short. After the seeing the events unfold in the sky over Ponyville the main doors to the palace were torn asunder. My faithful guards rushed to meet the oncoming assault. . .only to be overpowered by not only those shadow creatures. But by new strange ones. They over took half of them like a raging sea over sweeping a sand castle at the beach. And then they came for me. I. .. . I barely managed to escape. My condition is not good. I am currently trapped in the throne room with my sister whom, at my request was brought from her room here.. .and six guards. Even now the door shudder under some unknown force. . .and a presence I have not felt since. . . .since Luna's decent into that terrible form. Sister's mumbles have risen to shakey calls, mingled of fear and confusion. .. she keeps saying,'They are coming.' All the while a voice mocks and hounds us from the other side. Now I know its her. . .Nightmare Moon. Do not come to Canterlot..Do not attempt to rescue us. This power she wields.. its. . . evil.
Princess Celestia
The scroll fell from the stunned pony's eyes as Twilight's magic faded. Even as the others read the scroll, it was still hard to even imagine such a force returning. Mych and Zavier stood there, watching them shake their heads, soft whispers of "What do we do?" and comfort was what they could see. Mych opened his mouth to speak, but felt a hand on his arm, Zavier's. He looked to her as she shook her head softly,"Now is not the time to ask. We've got to help them." He nodded and approached the six,"How far is Canterlot from here?" Pinkie Pie blinked then started to nod,"Oh! Well its quite a long way from here. We usually take the train up to there. Its fun! Get to ride on the tracks, here the locomotive blow its little horn, toot! toot!" She paused as Rarity nudged her,"Pinkie Pie dear, I think this is not the time to remember fond memories of riding the train." She looked down,"Oh. . sorry Rarity..I know. . just trying to cheer poor Twilight up."
"Thank you Pinkie Pie. I know your just trying to help." Twilight looked up with a sad smile and wiped a tear from her face. Zavier knelt before her as she looked up,"I take it. . this Celestia. . is real close to you. Like a mentor?" The pony nodded and Zavier understood. Mych was by her, a hand on his friend's shoulder,"Is there any faster method of getting to there?" Applejack spoke up,"Whoa nelly. Now hold on, Princess said not to come to Canterlot. An we all jes gonna go head and go there anyway?" Mych nodded along with Zavier, then the rest of the ponies. The pony just grinned and tugged her hat down a little,"Well shoot. .count me in." Twilight smiled and hugged all her friends,"Thank you. . every pony." Pinkie Pie bounced,"Aww c'mon Twilight.We're your friends." Fluttershy nodded,"That's right. And friends help each other." The hug was broken and Twilight started to pace,"Only other means is by hot air balloon for us that don't have wings. But it would still take Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash some time to. . drag us all to Canterlot. And we might be too late. My teleporting can only cover short distances as well. . ..dang it." She stomped her hoof on the dirt ground,"If only I practiced more."
Rarity nudged her unicorn friend and smiled,"Now Twilight. We know how strong your magic is. But you can't rush things as you told me. It takes practice and concentration to know those spells by heart and then, focus on making their effect more powerful." Twilight nodded,"I know. . I just.. .feel so helpless right now." As Zavier rose to join Mych at her side, she noticed his was rubbing his chin. . . and contemplating,"I know that look. Your up to something." He hmmed? and looked to her quizzically,"There's wheels turning in your head. . .spill it." "Well. .. was thinking. Train takes too long. The hot air balloon they mentioned is just as time consuming as the first. All we have left is this teleporting spell." "Yeah. But Twilight said she is not strong enough to port us all there." The purple unicorn spoke,"That's right. . and I just can't teleport anywhere in the castle.. I have to know what the area is or risk getting trapped in a wall or find myself at the wrong area. I've got to know that place inside and out before I can do any of that." Mych rose a hand and said,"Ahh but your only thinking half the picture." "Huh?" He knelt before her,"You mentioned you and Celestia were close, that she was. . is a mentor to you. So.. .that could only mean you have spent time in her castle. And given the relationship you hold with your princess, it is suffice to say, you know the place inside and out." He tapped her forehead,"It's all there Twilight, you just need to focus on what is the safest area to teleport to." The pony stammered,"B. .but. . but even if I do know, I still am not strong enough for all of us."
He jerked a thumb at himself,"Leave that to me." He opened his palm and closed his eyes in concentration. A second later, the Keyblade appeared with that same sound before and soon he was holding it before the pony,"The Keyblade is a mysterious weapon. It frees hearts and protects those who can not protect themselves. It's power can help you." Twilight looked stunned,"Me?. . I. . I can't carry that. Its. .too big and uneven. .I'd fall flat on my muzzle if I tried to drag it around." He just chuckled,"Zavier. Grab my shoulder. The rest of you, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie and Rarity? Take hold of Zavier's arm." Spike started to panic,"W. .what about me?!" Mych looked to the baby dragon,"Sorry but. . where we are going its too dangerous. Your safer here watching after Fluttershy's friends." The dragon awwed and kicked the ground, bit put off that he was staying behind.
Looking back to Twilight, he shifted the Keyblade so the hilt and handle was facing in her direction,"Place your horn against it, focus your teleportation spell. . .and think nothing but the safest area you know of that will bring us as close as possible to your princess." The pony nodded a little nervously as she looked at the weapon in hand. Then taking a deep breath, Twilight closed her eyes and cautiously, placed her horn on the handle. A warmth spread down her horn, filling her legs chest and lungs. She was amazed at this sensation. It was like. .dipping into a warm bath after a cold day and letting that pleasant heat seep into one's body. It felt strongest around her heart, the soft thump-thumping seemed to grow louder the longer it stay there, nestled in her chest. A calm feeling fell on Twilight and with only slight concentration,teleported herself, Mych, Zavier and all her friends to Canterlot. Leaving Spike standing there, jaw hanging open in awe as a bright light flickered around them and then. . . they were gone.
Canterlot. Home and residence to Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. Its inhabitants hailed of a high society class of ponies who were wealthy and status was every thing to them. The castle itself was a testament to their ruler's power and of her benevilence. At least, that's how it had looked before the army of Heartless had broken through beneath the dungeons and now laid siege on the castle itself and the surrounding town. With them were strange beings wrapped in white an silver, more bizarre then the Heartless. They bore an insignia that was different from the emblems, and these creatures moved with far more grace and deadly speed then their dark allies. In the main halls, whose walls and drapes hung in ruin, Nightmare Moon watched as one of this large silver beings, A Thorn Armor as her master called it, hammered away at the doors to the throne room. Where Celestia lay wounded with just half a dozen guards and that weak pony sister of hers, Luna.
Capture this Princess Celestia. And your former hostess Luna. Their hearts are powerful. And will make a fine addition to the ones you have collected for me so far. . my faithful servant. While they will make powerful Nobodies to command as we see fit.
Nightmare Moon recalled his orders and she paced with growing impatience,"How much longer? The main doors fell like weak tinder. Why are these doors still standing?" A small creature, a Dusk as her master called it, crept its way over and leaned up to buzz something in her ear,"Powerful enchantments? Bah! Bring in the Sorcerers! Celestia's pathetic magic is NOTHING compared to mine! Stand aside! I'll rip these doors apart myself if I have to!" The Thorn Armor paused and then with obedience, lumbered over to the side as the dark Alicorn approached,"Vengeance is mine dear Celestia! Twilight falls on Canterlot and with it your END!"
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
In the throne room, three of the six guards stood poised and raised as they felt the dark power start to gather on the other side. Near the seat at the foot of the steps, two more guards were propping up a Alicorn. She was taller then the rest of them. Her mane and tail were of soft pastel colors, that seem to sway and shift like a wind's breeze, even though there were no currents. She bore a tiara and small plate at her chest, wearing special shoes on all four hooves. Her cutie mark bore that of the sun which she controlled by day. Her eyes they held a kind gentleness that spoke of compassion and love. While at the same time commanding authority to those she ruled over just and fair. One look at this Alicorn and one would not need to show respect to her. . .it was given freely and without question. However, since that siege began, Celestia was not looking well. Her wings were tattered, the feathers torn and bore marks from those black creatures. Her immaculate coat was marred and stained with her enemies defeat, while bearing horrid claw markings. She was favoring her right leg from when those things came up from the ground and tried to trip her as she made her retreat into the throne room and sealed it. Even her manes color was more faded and growing pale as she sat there, breathing softly,
"Your majesty. Please. . .you must consider fleeing. If you fall all of Equestria is lost." One guard begged her. Celestia looked down to her left where he was leaning against to hold her up and smiled,"Do not worry for me gentle soldier. Help shall arrive even when the darkest of night is at its peak." The other spoke,"B.. but my princess. . your letter. . .you told your student not to come." She smiled sadly and nodded,"That I did. But. . . if I know my number one student and how she thinks. . . I doubt she will take my words seriously." A soft whine drew their heads to where the last guard was watching over Luna. She was huddled in a ball, her wings trembling as she whispered,"Those eyes." The royal guard looked to his princess and shook his head,"She is getting worse.. .the closer Nightmare Moon is, the more she slips into delirium."
Celestia was about to speak when a terrible explosion rocked the throne room. The doors were hurled down the hall, the two guards covered their princess while the other shielded Luna from the debris. The remains crashed on either side of them before crumbling into heaps. As the dust cleared eyes adjusted to a dark Alicorn making her way inside, flanked by those shadow creatures and the silver ones. She held a malicious gleam in those eyes with a smile to match,"Well, well. Hello Celestia. . .its so GOOD to see you again." Dark pools rushed from her shadow just as the last of the royal guards rose to protect their princess. Dark spidery claws rose from these pools, snatching the one closest by his throat and dragging him back under. He barely managed to choke out a cry and was lost. The other two rushed theirs only to have the same things rise up and grab them,"Princess. . ." one choked out,"Run!" Nightmare Moon just glared at him and then, without even a hint of care, threw his body out one of the stained glass windows. His cries softened the further he fell and then nothing.
Celestia looked from the empty space where the window once was to see Nightmare Moon standing there, her last guard still in her grasp,"Faithful to the end, aren't they? I wonder what you'll right on his memorial. That he died valiantly defending his princess? That he served Canterlot well and shall be remembered for all time?" She cackled,"What loyal lap dogs they make." The last fell with a soft cry as he too was taken into the black pool, the look of fear and terror in those eyes was the last Celestia saw of him, before he was gone.
"Your different Nightmare Moon. You were. . lenient back then. Now.. nothing but hatred and anger in your heart. Not even afraid to take another pony's life. You truly have become the monster I dreaded you to be." Celestia gasped in surprise as those black pools came for her, the Alicorn unable to stand as they grabbed her and pinned her down. She winced and grunted as their sharp claws dug into her legs, wings and body, the pain accompanying by a cold sensation seeped through her,"And you! The great Princess Celestia and her whimpering PUP of a Luna. . defeated! beaten! Canterlot is mine and with it you as my prisoners!" Struggling against the binds, Celestia only looked up,"If you are expecting me to grovel or beg for my life, you are wasting your time. You may as well deliver me and my sister to whom ever you are working for. You'll not get any pleasure from watching me bow to the likes of you." Luna shuddered and cringed as she heard Celestia cry out softly those binds tightening around her as they started to hoist her up in the air, wicked thorns spouting from those coils do dig into her body, intensifying the pain,"My master wanted you alive as Luna. I'll bring you alive yes. But not before Canterlot hears their great Princess scream in agony as Nightmare Moon exacts her revenge."
A dark fiery ball formed in front of Nightmare Moon, its sickening dark aura grew stronger the greater it became. Hovering above her head, the dark Alicorn smiled,"I'm going to enjoy this sooooooooo much." she purred and then cast the projectile at Celestia. All she could do was watch. . .watch as this dark orb was hurled her way, Luna's screams of her name followed and her long life started to flash before her eyes. .
Then. . something sliced the orb, the ruined halves missing Celestia by mere inches as they collided with the walls, breaking them apart as dark flames erupted from where they once were. Pale moon light seeped from the huge holes as Celestia gazed down at the strange being who intervened. In its hand, it held a weapon, the hum of its power starting to vibrate within her body, as the Alicorn realizes this was the person who fell from the sky. Nightmare Moon was taken back by this stranger who ruined her aim. Snarling in anger, she narrowed her eyes,"Who the hell are you?"
Rising slowly, its weapon grasped tightly in its hand, eyes full of anger and fury met those of the dark Alicorn. A strong pressure started to build around it as the colors of its eyes changed from grey and dark blue to bright red and feral as the thing hissed in a chilling voice,"Every thing you will grow to fear. . . . . ."
Everything had gone so well as according to the plan. Thanks to Mych's thought of lending the Keyblade's power to amplify Twilight's teleportation, the group was able to travel from the library, all the way to the castle in Canterlot. The unicorn knew where to place everyone, the throne room as Celestia had mentioned where they were holed up. Everything was working out fine. That is. . until the process of emerging. Some dark strong pulse interrupted Twilight's magic. As the group appeared, the shock wave caused by the doors being torn down, split them up and knocked them all into separate corners. Zavier was on one side with Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie and Rarity. Mych was on the other, holding an unconcious Twilight while Applejack and Rainbow Dash could only watch on. All kept hidden, Mych at times, had to tug Rainbow Dash from wanting to just burst out there, as Nightmare Moon dispatched the guards. No one could intervene as she bound their Princess up and gloat about her triumph. The last line was crossed when Nightmare then sought to amuse herself by torturing Celestia.
Zavier had been feeling it ever since it started. Some power was stirring within Mych, his facial features were struggling to maintain composure. He was always calm and collected even in situations past, where the events were far more severe. This was not like him. The more Celestia was being beaten down and taunted, the more his body language was twitching, on edge, ready to burst. Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy had taken interest as had Applejack and Rainbow Dash. This was. . unbecoming of Mych's demeanor, something was pushing from inside. It didn't take her long to put it together and the realization had struck her like a boulder.
The dark energy distrupted Twilight's concentration causing the spell to end abruptly. She's out cold while Mych is acting strange. There is a conflict of auras inside him struggling for control. The keyblade's power. . . the relationship between Twilight and the Princess. . . .oooh damn. Her conciousness is inside Mych! And with what is already there. . . .Oh. shi-!
Nightmare Moon just stared at the stranger. Its physical appearance reminded the dark alicorn of her master's build. But without that cloak and cowl to mask his visage. There was also a mix of auras coursing through this one. That didn't change the fact that what it was bearing in its hand was harmless. Some faint fear stirred within her heart, a fear that her fellow dark allies could sense and know all to well. . .it was a threat. And so long as this thing stood before her with it, it was a menace.
"Ha! Me. .fear you? Fool! Have you no IDEA who you are addressing?! I am Nightmare Moon! And I will not be denied my prize!" The Heartless and Nobodies started to move forward, but a stomp of her hoof halted their advance,"No!. .this one is mine! Gather the princesses and eliminate any pony who gets in your way. .GO!"
They moved around and went to gather what their leader had instructed them to, leaving the pair to just glare at one another,"Hmph!.. .miserable wretch.. I'll take even greater pleasure watching you su-" It lunged at her with impossible speeds. Nightmare barely had time to bring up a barrier as the item in question came down hard, driving her. . her into the floor by a couple of inches, the impact creating a small crater from the blow. It snarled at her, its voice sounding like two speaking at the same time,"You harmed Celestia. . You'll PAY FOR THIS!" Another weapon appeared in the other hand (It could wield two?!) And quickly drove Nightmare Moon back, its blade shattering her defense like rock to glass. The alicorn hissed in anger and summoned her pools, the dark claws lunging at her opponent. It ported here and there, slashing through those arms like nothing, screeches of pain was all her efforts were rewarded with. And then it went on the offense again. . . .
The Heartless and Nobodies rushed a weakened Celestia, her sister still huddled nearby. They would have succeeded where it not for Zavier's intervention. She left the company of the ponies blocking their path with her Keyblade drawn,"Beat it. . .before I send you all packing." The Dusks snarled and leapt at her, the Dragoons' flew high to attempt to take her from the sky. The Soldiers rushed while the Heavy Armors brought up the flanks. Celestia watched as this other being merely brought her weapon up, hand resting upon its blade and uttered,"Release!" A quick flash of light and her clothing change: Wrapped in white and silver attire, Zavier floated by some magical means while her Keyblades spun in front of her palms. She darted among her adversaries and Celestia watched as she cut them down in an impressive display of skill. Those weapons in her hands hummed with a gentle light and each dark creature cut down was gone, leaving a heart to drift to the sky. The silver creatures fared no better as she avoided them with grace and the Keyblade struck them down.
What Nobodies and Heartless that were not part of the assault, managed to slip around in an attempt to steal the princess away. . only to find a tanned pony with a hat, a white unicorn using magic to hold a small boulder and a cyan pegasus standing there blocking their way,"Where do you think your going?" The pegasus said with a smirk. Dusks lunged at them. . only to find Applejack's hind legs knocking them off their feet and sending them across the floor. Rarity hounded the small Heartless with the small boulder she carried, smashing them when they tried to flatten themselves upon the floor. Rainbow Dash for her part, heckled and harried the Dragoon's above, who were screeching in anger as this bothersome pest was out performing them in the air and delivering kicks and blows when she could.
This left Fluttershy to tend to Twilight who was still un-responsive. The yellow pegasus was nervous and trembling, unsure of what to do. Until Celestia beckoned,"Bring her here, Fluttershy. . and my sister as well." The pony nodded,"O. .ok." she meeped. Tucked under her injured wing, the alicorn looked down as Fluttershy shivered,"I. .I don't know what happened your majesty. One minute we were coming here. .the next we were thrown on either side of your room." The pegasus squeaked as Celestia hugged the pony against her body,"It's alright Fluttershy. I am just relieved you and your new friends were able to make it."
A low groan sounded, drawing their attention as the Thorn Armor collapsed, Zavier standing there, with her weapons poised. She turned and made her way back, bowing to the pony before them,"Princess Celestia I persume?" she asked. The alicorn nodded, amazed this one knew her name already,"T. .that is me child. Tell me. . how did you. . .oooh." She started to collapse upon the ground, Fluttershy gasping in shock as the others huddled around,"Princess!"
Zavier was there, a hand upon her majestic body, tracing a few fingers along her neck, checking the pulse,"She's been poisoned. . .the thorns.. .and she's pretty hurt." Rarity spoke,"But. . we never gathered any first aide kits. . and the hospital is probably in ruin. She won't make it." Zavier nodded,"Nothing I can't handle, Rarity." Gently laying her head down, she backed up and poised her Keyblade above their ruler, the ponies watching in worry, "Purge." she whispered. A gentle wind blew around them, Fluttershy squeaking as she clung to Rainbow Dash tightly. She struggled and had her friend loosen her grip before the pegasus crushed the air from her lungs.Applejack listened as her princess's weak breathing grew stronger, but still in pain. Zavier then whirled her Keyblade around in an arc and touched the horn,"Curaga." A green circle appeared around them, and a soft hum of warmth filled their bodies.
They watched as the injuries on Celestia's body faded, the tattered wings become whole once again and her colors brighter.Even her right leg was mended and soon her eyes opened once more. Backing off to give her space, they watched as Celestia unfurled her wings to stretch and then shake herself down,"Thank you my friend." She said to Zavier who, in turn bowed,"Your welcome, your majesty."
A shudder along the walls as the castle shook drew their attention to the end of the throne room. Mych was flung back only to land on his feet while digging both Keyblades into the floor, tearing up two trenches as he halted the effects of the back lash. Nightmare Moon stumbled in, eyes burning with fury and anger, her coat and wings marked by the Keyblade's touch,"Insufferable. . bothersome. . .gnat!" The dark alicorn was breathing hard. This damn creature had been pushing her too hard. The arms failed her, the dark fires she hurled were met with that damn weapon destroying them. Even her horn was proving a mistake for each time she tried to strike him, those cursed items struck back. . and their effects burned!
Eyes darted to where Celestia and Luna were. .and widened. . She was up! And fully healed! Its not possible. Her minions had given Celestia good thrashing. And the poison she infected her body should have kept her down. This wasn't happening!
"NOOOOOO!"
She brought her front hooves up and smashed the ground in front, driving a tremor along towards them. Zavier was quick on her feet, driving the Keyblade down and unleashing her own power to counter this one. Mych rushed in with a snarl, catching the Nightmare Moon off guard. She cried out as those blades hammered her body repeatedly then gasped sharply as he crossed the blades against her neck,"Never more." it said. The slash was finished and Nightmare cried as the impact sent her tumbling along the floor, crashing into the ruined wall where the doors once stood. It hurt too much. The wounds sustained were taking too much effect on the alicorn to be able to mount another attack. Footsteps drew tire eyes up as she lay crumpled to see it approach, those infernal weapons clenched tightly in hand,"W. .wait. . . " she barely whispered.
"No.. .never again. This ends Nightmare Moon. You'll never harm Princess Celestia or ANY pony in all of Equestria."
She shook her head with weak replies of ,"Wait.. wait, wait, wait, wait." Cringing against the wall while the creature rose one blade up to drive through her, the fear of death for once was a reality for the dark alicorn.
"MYCHASI STOP!"
The hand wavered as it turned its head looking to the source of that call. Zavier stood there at the entrance to the throne room, eyes set and Keyblade in hand,"Remember your training and cease this! This is not you!" He grunted, one hand rising to clutch his face as though to dispel some lliusion that had been pulled over the eyes. Nightmare Moon saw an opening and a dark grin played across her muzzle,
Now is my chance to strike him down while he is distracted!
She started to summon another Dark Flame. . .only to find herself staring at his hand palm out, fingers poised like a dragon's claw ready to strike, as one formed in front of those shocked eyes perfectly. The impact of it range so close, hurtled her through the remains of the wall and sent her tumbling into the courtyard. Zavier rushed as Mych was pre-occupied. He felt her move and turned with a growl only to find her hands on both his arms,"Restraint!" she hissed and two marks appeared. A symbol formed under his feet as a barrier went up, his growl of surprise was met with lightning based chains that bound him. Mych roared at Zavier, shattering the remaining windows as she bound him immobile, taking his Keyblade from him. She then struck him on the head with the handle, knocking him out cold and leaving him slumped in a kneeling position.
No pony dared to move as they watched this. Zavier left him there and merely made her way over to where Twilight still was. Taking Mych's Keyblade, she touched her horn with the hilt and a transfer of power was felt. Twilight opened her eyes with a sudden gasp and bolted upright, hoof on her chest as she breathed heavily Her friends cheered as they surrounded the unicorn, thankful she was back and in good health. Celestia watched all of this before turning to see Zavier sit on the foot of the stairs and stare at the walls.
"This is gonna be one hell of a report back to Master Sid when this is all over."
In the courtyard, Nightmare Moon limped over to a dark portal, one she conjoured up with what little power she could call forth,"This. . . isn't. .over." she snarled under her breath before slipping through the gate, leaving Canterlot to return to her master. . .in defeat.
Canterlot was safe. For now. With the retreat of the Heartless and Nobodies with Nightmare Moon's defeat, those who survived the assault, now began to pick up the broken pieces. Within the fractured castle walls, Celestia and her sister Luna (whose illness had disappeared the moment the dark alicorn escaped), watched as the mane six searched the corridors and rooms for any survivors and hopefully any royal guards still alive. There was the three by the door who were in bad shape when it was torn down and now under the care of Fluttershy who was nursing them back to health. There was also the painful matter of finding the other who was thrown out the window, something the alicorn had feared the worst had happened. No pony should die, even if they bravely protected their princess. No life was worth being lost, all for the sake of her survival.
Zavier was among them, doing her best to aide in the healing and recover of the princess's soldiers. Every now and then when she returned to the throne room, she would pause to take note of her companion's status. He had awoken during the search and rescue and was now in a state of mediation. The bound chains were removed, but the barrier brought up remained. He never stirred, never moved from where he sat, merely breathed. Finally as Zavier settled to take another break, she felt the presence of the alicorn standing before her,"Child. . . why does he meditate? Is it to quell the rage within him?"
She glanced around to see Mych there, arms folded, hands pressed palm against palm and legs in a lotus position,"Its. . .complicated your majesty." Celestia glanced to follow her gaze and then turned to look down,"We have time for now it seems. Perhaps. . you can fill me in on who you both are. And how you came to my lands." Zavier looked up to her and then nodded, rising to her feet as she dusted off her over alls.
With the mane six and Luna gathered around, Zavier gave them the full story. Of where they hailed from. What they did. What Heartless were. The power of the Keyblade. What gummi ships were made for (Pinkie Pie thought they were made of gum drops and chewing gum. It was hard to explain to the bouncy pink pony, that in fact it was more like building blocks with special properties.) and traveling between worlds. As the subject of Nobodies came up, Celestia and Twilight had trouble on this,"So. . .those silver creatures are called. .Nobodies? Sounds as strange as the Heartless." Zavier brushed some hair from her eyes,"Remember when I mentioned that as the heart succumbs to the darkness, the body is lost and a Heartless is born?"
The unicorn nodded as she had kept track of all of this. Zavier continued,"There is more to it. When a strong heart succumbs to the darkness, a Heartless is indeed born. But the body remains. That body becomes a Nobody. Its a shell of that person. And they possess the memories of their former lives. An old saying goes,'A Nobody never truly exists.' Since they lack the heart, they have no feelings, no emotions. Its why they are deemed Nobodies. What you have witnessed are weak version of Nobodies. But there are powerful ones as well."
Celestia was absorbing all this as Luna joined her side,"We ask then was that big one a strong Nobody stranger?" Zavier waved her hand with an eeh sound,"It fairly tough. . .but there are stronger ones. Years ago. . There was a Keyblade wielder named Sora. He had a couple of close friends, Kairi and Riku. Together they battled a powerful group of Nobodies, whose strength and power were far greater then the ones we've encountered. These Nobodies were known as Organization XIII. Their mission was to create Kingdom Hearts and use its power to become complete." The alicorn spoke up,"Kingdom Hearts? Is this a place where you receive your orders from, your tasks?" Zavier ummed then shook her head,"No. . .its. . .hard to explain. Kingdom Hearts. . it is a place. A strong Heartless named Ansem once sought its power, thinking it held darkness and he hungered for it. The truth is.. Kingdom Hearts is Light. The light in a person's heart."
Twilight stopped writing and then looked up,"What I felt. . .from the Keyblade. .was that.. ."Zavier gave a nod,"The warmth you felt.. .feel in your heart and from your friends. . .that is what Kingdom Hearts is like to many." The purple unicorn placed a hoof on her chest,"Its like the Elements of Harmony. The power of friendship." Zavier looked to Twilight and was about to speak when the pegasus, Fluttershy spoke,"It's. .. kinda sad really. You have these. . nobodies. . .that just want a heart of their own. . to be complete."
A voice startled them as it came from the hallway,"There is no sympathy for Nobodies, Fluttershy. You may think they deserve pity, but with no feelings comes no remorse for their actions." Eyes cast down to Mych who, up to this point was silent. He looked from afar still behind his "prison","Organization XIII used the Heartless to gather countless hearts across worlds. Then they lured Sora into releasing those hearts. They captured these hearts and then used them to help make a doorway to Kingdom Hearts. Can you imagine Fluttershy... imagine Equestria de-void of ponies everywhere? Whose hearts are freed only to be enslaved by a Nobody seeking to be whole? While their bodies wander as its soldiers?"
The pegasus squeaked and looked down, fidgeting with her hooves as Rarity came to stand by,"That was unnecessary you know. Fluttershy is innocent and pure. You can't expect her to think negatively of things from your world." Mych closed his eyes,"I'm sorry you think that Rarity, but its the truth."
Celestia turned to Zavier,"What became of this. .Organization XIII?" The "mare" dusted her hands a little before replying,"During Sora's earlier travels, he encountered half of them in a place called Castle Oblivion. The effects the castle had on any one who entered, was to strip away their memories. The Organization were using a Nobody named Namine' to slowly take Sora's memories apart and re-make them in their image." Rainbow Dash landed upon entering this conversation and shook the dust from her wings,"What were they doing that for?" Zavier tapped her head,"They were trying to manipulate Sora and the Keyblade into working for them. It never worked out. Their plan failed and the one in charge was ultimately destroyed along with the rest of them."
Applejack entered the throne room, carrying what looked to be a pegasus's body. The princess looked up as pain graced her face at the sight of the guard. Silence hung in the air as the earth pony gently laid him down before Zavier, eyes brimming with tears that never fell,"Is he. . . .?"
"Ah'live. . .. .jes barely. Found em in a rose bush by the gardens. Both wings broken.. . was ganged up after. Put up one heck ova brawl before he went down. Had to work delicately, fraid ah might make things worse." Zavier nodded and immediately began using the Cure spells to heal the wounds inflicted,"Ah heard ya'll talkin bout some castle Oblivion and a Sora. Been meanin ta ask bout his memories.. ya said he was losin them and new ones were bein made. . he ever get them back?"
Mych cleared his throat to get their attention,"He eventually got them back. But he had to remain in slumber for over a year, while Namine worked on breaking down the fake memories and restoring his old ones.. it was a hard task for her. But she got the job done once they were able to obtain his Nobody."
A collected gasp went up and Twilight was there at the edge,"His Nobody?! You mean this Sora was lost to the darkness and became a Heartless?" Mych looked up,"Yes. ..and no. During his early journeys, he was looking for his friend Kairi. This brought him to many worlds and he met their inhabitants. Helped seal the doors and make them safe. But he was never able to find her. Until he entered Hollow Bastion. There it was revealed that Riku was working with the darkness and sought to take the Keyblade from him. It worked. . .for awhile. But Sora's heart proved stronger and Riku failed. Defeated he retreated to the inner sanctum and there he met Ansem. In exchange for his body, Riku gained much power. . but in the end Ansem took control and sought to use the Princesses' hearts to open Kingdom Hearts."
Rarity whispered,"Oh my. . .that sounds dreadful." He nodded and continued,"Each world that was sealed held a Princess. Ansem sought their hearts to create a way into Kingdom Hearts. Kairi's was the the only one left. But when Sora lost his world, he lost Kairi as well. Unknown to him as a way to protect herself and deny Ansem the way, she hid her heart within Sora. He learned this from the possessed Riku who wielded a Dark Keyblade. A battle ensued and Sora won. But Kairi would not awaken. See Keyblades seal and lock doors. . and hearts. The Dark Keyblade did the opposite. Sora sacrificed himself to awaken Kairi, released her heart and was lost. He wound up becoming a Heartless. But since he had a strong and just heart, he also created a Nobody."
"Nobodies were not known and were working in secret back then. So while Sora recovered, his Nobody worked for the Organization. And since he could wield the Keyblade it was the perfect plan for them. His Nobody didn't know any better. All he wanted was to find some purpose."
"Ah ha! So. . what you said is not entirely the truth! You said Nobodies had no feelings, no emotions for their actions. And yet what you told us about Namine shows that there is falsity in them." Rarity spoke out. Mych nodded,"What makes it hard for most of us to understand is. . Nobodies carried memories of their former lives. And while many of them lacked emotion.. .a tiny percent did. So what I said is still mostly true. That a Nobody cared not for their actions, so long as they got what ever they wanted. Namine and Sora's Nobody was the exception to this. . and one other."
Their princess nodded and then asked,"What ever became of Namine.. .and Sora's Nobody?" Zavier rose upon finishing healing the guard and left him in the care of Fluttershy,"Sora's Nobody rejoined him and the last of his memories returned. Namine, as it was later learned, was Kairi's Nobody. She helped in her escape during the final moments in the Organization's headquarters. The rest of the members fell and the worlds were saved thanks to Riku and Sora." Pinkie Pie hmmed and then shook her head,"But that makes no sense. Mych said Riku was a bad person and was causing all sorts of trouble. And he an icky Keyblade to do it. How could he help him after all the bad things he did?"
"Redemption. Riku was nearly lost to the darkness. He struggled with it. Learned to control it. To use it for good. To make amends for the things he had done."
Twilight jotted this down,"So. .its possible then. That when a Heartless and its Nobody are defeated, that pony comes back completely. And those with strong hearts can survive as well. But there is also the risk that until their Nobodies are gone, the hearts will remain with Kingdom Hearts. And. . .Keyblades can be used for dark purposes, just as they are used for good."
"Twilight?" Celestia asked. The unicorn nodded,"Your majesty, Equestria has a door and it needs to be locked. So to end the threat we are facing, Mych and Zavier need to find this keyhole and seal it. Problem is, I don't even know where to look. You two mentioned they were well hidden. It could be anywhere. It could be in the dungeons of Canterlot. Or buried deep in Ever Free forest. It could very well be on the moon for all we know. Or stored safely away on the sun." She shook her head,"It also doesn't explain what happened to me and how I was trapped within Mych's mind when we teleported." Her eyes glanced over to him,"I felt. . anger.. rage. . .hatred for what Nightmare Moon was doing to Celestia. . .and. .something in you fueled it. . . like a raging fire."
The unicorn came closer and pointed,"You were lost too, wern't you Mych? Lost to the darkness as either a Heartless or Nobody. And Zavier sought to bring you back together.. and it worked. But something else came back as well didn't it?" Mych just nodded,"As Sora's Nobody wielded the Keyblade, he bestowed him with the power to wield two. Just as Riku was able to control and use the darkness for his own means, I too came back with some. . new abilities. But it was not without its dangers."
Rising to his feet, he tapped the barrier with a couple of fingers, the walls shattering like frail glass and faded. Twilight stumbled back as he stepped over the circle,"Sora and Namine' were the exception to the outcome that a person could not return completely until both the Heartless side and Nobody side was defeated. Sora managed without his as did Kairi's Nobody."
"I re-gained my heart thanks to Zavier's efforts on tracking it down all over the worlds. And while I am whole again, I am. . lacking. Without getting my Nobody back, the balance of the scales are tipped unfavorably and I pose a risk of unleashing a terrible rage within. A rage that can only be quelled by the training I've done or. .by getting what I lost back. Until then, I must remain calm and focused. For if I allow my feelings or emotions to tip over, things get way out of hand." Gesturing with his hand, between him and the unicorn Mych went on,"The power of the Keyblade temporarily trapped you within my mind. . and your emotions were the tinder that boiled the pot over. Thus unleashing that fury upon Nightmare Moon. Granting me a Keyblade that was heavily magic focused, shattering her defense like it was nothing and countering every thing she threw at me."
Zavier tossed him his Keyblade and the weapon faded as it touched his palm,"So what do we do you ask? Easy. We find the Door and seal it away." Celestia shook her head slightly,"But in the lands of Equestria, it would be difficult for you as if it is well hidden, the search would be hard." Mych just wagged a finger,"Not nessesarily. Keyblades can act like homing beacons to your door. So all me and Zavier need do is point them and be guided in the right direction." Zavier tugged his arm,"Your only thinking of half the problem. The other half is who Nightmare Moon is working for. There is no doubt that it. . or they are on to us now. She escaped and is no doubt back to where ever they are residing. Secret is out, they know we are here and will attempt to stop us from here on out." He snorted and waved a hand,"C'mon Zavier, since when has that ever stopped us before?"
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Deep in Ever Free forest, within the ruins, a pale white castle stood on high. The towers and spire were so high, that it could challenge Canterlot in terms of size and awe. It would have been easily recognized, where it not for the veils that hid it from the rest of Equestria. Here, Nightmare Moon carried her self with some difficulty up the corridors and down the vast hallways. Even she was still impressed with how quickly this place grew when her master started his work here. Still. .. he could have made it less of a pain to travel up so many inclines and ascending stairwells. Finally, a panting Alicorn paused before a huge set of doors. Few entered here, for it was the master's private sanctum. Nightmare Moon was torn between telling him the truth and facing the consequences. Or simply not reporting to him at all about her failure and face even far worse punishment for her cowardice. She chose the first. The door opened and she passed through only to emerge into a completely different setting: A huge moon hung in the sky its pale glow casted shadows off the railings. It was shaped like a heart however, and even then small floating hearts gathered at the center. Standing on the balcony the being in the black cloth was there, hands clasped behind his back as he looked on.
Limping forward, she stopped just before the small bridge and bowed out of respect of his power. A voice spoke and though it held no emotion, Nightmare Moon could feel its disappointment in her,"I trust that seeing you here in the poor state that you are in and without Princess Celestia and Princess Luna as your captive warrants an explanation?"
Shivering she stuttered,"I. . .I'm beg f. .forgiveness master."
"That you should." A dark pool rose around Nightmare Moon and a strong claw grasped her by the throat, her gasps cut off as painful sparks arced through out her body. Soft, whimpering sobs echoed over empty air,"A simple task was it not? Invade Canterlot and bring the goddess princesses back here. And yet I do not see either. Only a pitiful Alicorn whom was more then capable enough of brushing her former sisters aside like dying leaves. I ordered you not to let your vendetta get in the way did I not? So tell me why is it. . .that you return empty handed?"
"M.. master please!. . . I.. I had them both. . . She was ours as was Luna. . . .I was going to bring them back. . . but some her damned student Twilight and her meddlesome friends interfered. . .along with some new strangers, I swear that I am not lying to you. . .aagggghhhh!. . . ." The grip tightened as the arcs of power intensified, the pain growing more unbearable as she hung there. Footsteps crossed the bridge as her master lowered her so they were at eye level. He rose a hand, two fingers poised at her head, the alicorn trembling,"P. . .please. . .master." He pressed them to her temple as she cried out, her memories of what happened flashed before her in quick succession.
He hissed as she dropped suddenly, the claw fading back into the pool as it faded, leaving her choking and gasping for air as he whirled around, a deep anger bubbling in a calm voice,"So. . . . them again. Of all the chosen it had to be them to come here. And here I thought we would have seen the last of each other. Apparently not. My old friends once again are at work, trying to end all that I am seeking to make. . and undo my hard work. . this will not do."
Dawn. The sun should have risen over all of Equestria, bathing the lands, town and the ponies in its gentle warm glow, stirring those asleep to awaken, while chasing the night creatures into their slumber. Princess Celestia would be on a balcony right now, Luna lowering the moon to make way for her sister's light. Instead Ponyville, Canterlot and all the surrounding lands remained shrouded in darkness. The effects of the new threat and Nightmare Moon's curse of eternal darkness was felt through every pony and person. And instead of the moon, a strange new sight hovered mysteriously in the sky: A giant heart. Where it came from or how it got there, left some puzzled and questioning. For a small band of ponies, their princess and two humans, the answer was crystal clear:
"So, that moon represents the gathering of hearts. . to signal Kingdom Hearts?" Celestia asked as they paused on the outskirts of Ever Free forest. Mych and Zavier both nodded, while holding their Keyblades in front, letting them guide them towards the world's door. Despite the guards (and Twilight's pleas.) Celestia insisted on joining the group, even if she was a little weak from the poison's effects on her during the battle within the throne room. Luna remained at the castle, for fear of Nightmare Moon's dark influence, would once again cause her to slip into delirium once more. The alicorn gazed up at the sight and wondered, if Luna was just as awed by its presence alone as she was.
"Princess, I still say you should have stayed back in Canterlot. You've not fully recovered, the Heartless and Nobodies could come after you again, should we be attacked while searching for the door." Twilight mentioned, looking up at her mentor. The princess smiled, nuzzling her cheek instead softly,"I trust you and your friends, along with Mych and Zavier, that no harm will come to me." The purple unicorn, looked down while scraping the ground with a hoof as she blushed softly to her words.
As they stared into the dark murk of the forest before them, Mych felt a tug on his pants and looked down to see the shy pony pegasus Fluttershy look up,"Umm. . .I been meaning to ask. . . .who is Master Sid?" He blinked then snapped his fingers softly,"Oh. . Master Yen Sid. A wise and powerful wizard. Kinda like Twilight. . but ummm. . with centuries of wisdom and spells under his robes to boot. . no offense your highness." as he gestured to Celestia,"He's also was a Keyblade Master. .but retired. These days he offers wisdom and training to new Keyblade wielders who are chosen."
"Chosen? You mean like picked mayor for the day? Ooh that sounds wonderful. Can do whatever you want, eat all the sweets and when those nasty Heartless show up, you can pow! them on their heads and laugh all the while!" Pinkie Pie said with a grin. Mych and Zavier looked to one another before Zavier whispered,"You ever wonder that if she ever became a Heartless, she'd drive the others insane?" He coughed,"Probably defeat them with so many parties, they'd give up right there. . . hmmmm. . ."
The others leaned close as the two let their Keyblades give a few tugs,"Seems the door is in this forest. Deep I might add." Zavier pointed. Twilight hmmed, while pooling over her notes as Applejack spoke up,"Makes sense. All them attacks on the ponies few days ago, happened within an on the outskirts of Ever Free forest. Go fig that the door would be deep inside. . ahs if our job ain't hard nuff ahs is." Zavier looked over at the farm pony,"I don't follow." She kicked the ground with a hoof,"Well jes thought to say that Ever Free forest ain't z'actly friendly. Course wasn't friendly to ponies to begin with before the whole Heartless started comin out and causin trouble. Surprisin that Zecora was right at home in there."
Zavier turned and kneeled before the ponies,"So. . what can we expect then? What sort of. . unpleasant creatures are lurking about?" Fluttershy spoke up,"Well.. .you have Manticores. . .ooh. . and Cockatrices.. . " Applejack nodded,"Hmm. . got some Hydras.. .an some Timber wolves too for starters. That's just some of the critters in there. . also got plants as well. Should tell ya right now, ya ever come across a sea of blue flowers, ya best avoid those things like the flu. They called Poison Joke."
"Poison. . .Joke?" Mych looked at Applejack with some confusion. The white unicorn Rarity spoke up next,"Trust me dear, you get any of the pollen or touch the petals itself, you get messed up. . who ever planted it thought it would be humorous as the plant plays tricks on the pony exposed. Only there is nothing funny about having just horrible awful mane." Rainbow Dash who up to this point was quiet joined in,"Or have your wings mess up so badly, your crash into everything but the ground." Fluttershy murmured," Mess up your voice. . making you sound like a colt." The farm pony next,"Shrink you so small your little sister can dump ya on a tree branch an leave ya." Pinkie Pie,"Make your tongue inflate and you can't speak and instead sputter all over the place." Twilight was the last,"Or just mess with your horn, playing havoc on your magic." Mych and Zavier glanced to Celestia who gave a light shrug of the shoulders,"I am not aware as to its effects on me, to add to the contribution."
"A joke huh? Who ever harvested that plant sure had a twisted sense of humor." Zavier whispered to Mych,"Ditto." he replied and then drew in a breath,"Ok.. . no turning back once we enter. So. . if any per-I mean pony . . wants to back out now, I understand." None of them moved,"We're in this together. . .start what we finish and see it through to the end." Twilight said proudly. Zavier just smiled,"Well. .you heard them." He just chuckled and the group slowly entered into the dark forest and made their way deep into Ever Free forest.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Ever Free Forest was a dark secluded place. While little light ever broke through over the huge leaf canopy above, it was not much of a threat during the day. Night was when ponies avoided the area as many nocturnal creatures emerged from their sleep to go about the night, seeking food or prey. . to eat. Zecora had called this place home for it held many plants and flowers which she used in her brews back at her hut. All in all Ever Free was just a mysterious forest that held some hidden beauty. Expect now.
Some of the ponies remarked, the presence of the forest felt. .darker. . more intimidating then their earlier ventures. Fluttershy huddled by her friends and hid her face under some manes since the trees looked more foreboding and scarier then they were before. Rainbow Dash remained grounded, despite the urges to fly on ahead. all for the safety of not getting tangled among the vines that looked more threatening and could break a wing to the unwary flyer. Rarity comforted the timid Fluttershy as she glanced around the scenery,"Any other pony agrees that the forest looks a little more. . .terrifying then when we were last here?" All nodded their head, save for Celestia and the two humans, the only sounds besides nervous breathing was hooves and shoes snapping twigs or crushing fallen leaves. And then came the hisses. Mych and Zavier held up their Keyblades in defense as the shadows shuddered and stretched, revealing Heartless pooling from the ground,"Looks like the welcome wagon is here." Rainbow Dash whispered as they back into a circle, Celestia being in the middle.
"Strike hard and fast, then try to make a break for it. Longer we stay in one spot, greater chance of being overwelmed." Zavier motioned before they were attacked. Twilight with the aide of Celestia drew up a barrier that the shadows bounced off, while Applejack and Rainbow Dash bucked those who drew too close. Mych and Zavier rushed forward clearing a path as Fluttershy hid under Rarity. . until she nudged her to move. The group made a break for it when the two wielders made a gap and the rest followed, Celestia with Twilight bringing up the rear. Running, ducking low hanging branches and taking out any ambushers, the group traveled deeper and deeper as the Heartless chased and nipped at their hooves. Mych paused to let Zavier take the lead, then fell back to help the alicorn and her protege from the worst of the horde coming up behind. They were making some progress until Zavier ran into . . .something. She collided and nearly fell back, almost landing over Fluttershy and Rarity while the rest bowled into the group.
Quick on her feet, Zavier whirled around and struck down three who pounced in eager hunger for more helpless ponies with hearts, while the rest untangled themselves,"Think there is a shield somewhere. . magic created. . .need to find a way around it or in!" Mych joined in and the two began a desperate stand to hold off the seemingly endless wave of Heartless and the Nobodies that were starting to join the fray. Keyblades hummed, Heartless fell and Nobodies hissed in defeat. . but those that fell were simply replaced by more, keeping the two wielders on guard. Twilight rushed to the front and pushed against the emptiness that was there, but to no avail,"Princess. . need some help here!" Celestia joined her student and with Rarity's aide, the two unicorns and alicorn, sought to find some weakness, some gap of this invisible wall. Applejack couldn't stand around nor could Rainbow Dash and the two joined in the battle, helping Mych and Zavier, leaving Fluttershy to help her friends.
Mych took a good glance then called out,"Where's Pinkie Pie?" Applejack shouted," Ah dunno she was with us when we were runnin!" Despite going over the shield, Twilight could feel her heart racing as nothing was revealing itself, no magic from hers, Rarity or even Celestia, revealed any chunks," Too many! Can't keep this up forever!" Zavier called from the back, screeches of the Dragoons joined the fray," I am unsuccessful Twilight. . its affect is foreign. Not doubt the one responsible for all of this. . I can't find a way in!" A crack! and a groan from the right drew their attention as a door slid open into black,"Yooohoooooo! Over here!" called a familiar voice and a pink leg waving from the inside. All of them made a break for it, Mych grabbing Rainbow Dash while Zavier plucked up Applejack,then leaped through the open door before it slammed shut, the pair now lost in the dark.
Inside small light from unicorn horns dimly lit the place as they sat there, breathing hard,"Great job you three." Mych said with a thumbs up. Twilight shook her head,"As much as we want to take credit for finding that door, it wasn't us." The two humans looked at each other then to the unicorn,"Then. . who. . ."
Pinkie Pie bounced up and down cheerily,"It was me!" Zavier pointed to her, then back to the barrier then back to the pink pony,"But how?. . . there was no way inside. And the unicorns along with Celestia couldn't find a way in with their magic. . how. . " The pony grinned,"Oh just one of my many talents that's always gotten us through in a pinch! Now whose hungry? I made all these cupcakes while waiting for you slow pokes and I'd hate to see them go to waste!" They just stared at her while her fellow friends just shrugged and accepted the sweet treats as she handed them around,"That's. . .not possible Zavier.. I mean. . ." he never finished as one pastry was shoved down his mouth silencing him, Pinkie Pie offering Zavier one. She just shrugged and accepted it, enjoying the sweet frosting and soft cake,"In times like these, its best never to ask how one reveals their secrets. You just be thankful it comes in handy. Sides. . she got us inside. . .where ever inside is."
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
Up in the castle's main hall, in the seating chambers, Nightmare Moon entered. Her Master was sitting atop the highest one, deep in thought as his fingers drummed on the arm rest,"Master... we have company." The dark alicorn whispered. He stirred then vanished among dark wisps, only to re-appear in front,"So. . . they got through the veil. Impressive. . for one who knows not the way in." Hands clasping behind his back, he left the chamber with the dark alicorn following,"How many?" he whispered. Nightmare nodded a bit nervous before replying,"The main six. . along with Celestia herself. . and the two Keyblade holders." He paused and then a soft chuckle bubbled from his form."Ahh so Celestia willingly comes to us. . .hmmm. . . I wonder if its a bold move. . or foolish act on her part. No matter, no matter. . . What truly makes this worthwhile. . .is the the Bearers of Harmony are here. . .along with the sun goddess. I shall truly enjoy myself this night. . ."
He beckoned and Nightmare Moon followed, down the bare hallway, with but the sounds of his footsteps and her hooves set upon the metallic floor. She could tell he was planning something for her hated rivals as well as his. . old friends as he called them. The question was, what did he have in store. .for the intruders?
The group found themselves descending down what appeared to be some old, crumbling staircase. After taking a breather from passing through the barrier and getting a sugar rush from Pinkie Pie's cupcakes, they had re-formed. Now, letting Rarity, Twilight and Celestia take the lead with their magical glow to cast dim light on their surroundings, the group followed the only path that was available to them. Wide, crumbling stairs that dipped below the stone floor they stood upon. The deeper they went, the colder and thicker the shadows felt as it hugged around both pony and human alike,"I'm not sure how much longer we can keep putting out light. . .this darkness is drawing what little we have up, its making it hard to concentrate." Twilight mentioned from in front. In the back, Mych and Zavier were pouring over what they had on them, in hopes of making some torch or alternate method of lighting the way. Alas they turned up with nothing and unfortunately for the unicorns and Celestia, they had to rely on their light for just a little longer.
Just when it felt like night itself would swallow them up, an old door, outfitted with rusted iron emerged at the bottom of the steps. The design showed of some civilization past, but no pony could make out the details as to who built it. . .that is until Twilight had the oddest feeling she had seen these doors before,"Girls. . .come take a look at this. Doesn't these doors look familiar to anyone?" Rainbow Dash pressed her head against it and knocked on the wooden part, hearing a hallow echo respond,"Come to think of it, they do look like those doors in the ruins. The ruins that held the orbs which the Elements were stored in before we released them." Applejack wore a puzzled expression,"Wait a moment? Whats the ruins doin hidin behind some barrier, we never knew of? Thought them ruins were easy to pick out as they were sittin in a clear space." Twilight could only shrug as Mych and Zavier joined them up front,"Whatever these ruins are your speaking of, its also the place where our Keyblades are reacting the strongest. Something tells us the Door to your world is here."
A low, creaking groan fell upon the empty hallway, the broken columns casting sharp silouettes as they group emerged through the doors. The fractured windows were covered by some strange material, while the ruins themselves looked as though they had been transported to some basement of an even greater structure. Celestia frowned as she moved ahead of the group then paused, allowing the ponies and humans to join up,"Is that what your seeking?" she asked, shining her light towards the back. It cast over a set of silver doors opened wide, while a dark mist seethed and twisted within the opening,"Yup. . .that there is the Door of Equestria. . . "
Twilight joined Celestia and together all the ponies looked in wonder. Truly this object was new and never seen before, thus confirming the tales Mych and Zavier had been telling them since they first arrived. Which made it harder for Twilight to ignore that indeed, their world was but one of many. . . .which made it all the more difficult to accept in the long run,"Soooooooooo what now?" Pinkie Pie asked. Zavier looked over and then looked back,"Well.. .we just point and click! the Keyblade should shut the doors and seal it once again." She raised her Keyblade when Mych lowered her arm,"Something is off here. . . . doesn't feel right." Looking around, he stooped and picked up a small chunk of rock, took aim and then gave a good toss. The results were. . .unpleasant. The moment the stone passed the first steps that lead to the door, dark claws slashed down like bars to a cage as they covered the door, shattering the rock and a dark barrier formed around it.
"Huh. . . . someone doesn't want us to close the Door. That someone built their home over the ruins and prepped this place. Which means we have no choice but to go upstairs, confront them.. and end this once and for all." A dark laugh echoed along the walls, Fluttershy eeking and taking shelter beneath Applejack," My my. . .what is this? Rodents in the basement. . .guess I'll just have to get rid of the pests!!" Nightmare Moon's voice purred in dark delight,"While I applaud your efforts on making it this far, you've become a thorn in my master's side. . which I will remove. . permanently!"
Shadow twisted and stretched before Heartless started to emerge. What caught the ponies by surprise was their appearance: They looked like a pony's shadow. Mych and Zavier said nothing but held the Keyblades up as more and more rose from the stone floor. There were quite a few.. .along with Dusks and some Dancers. With a hiss from the Nobodies, they attacked, the two Keyblade wielders surging forward to stop the incoming rush. Rainbow Dash and Applejack once again joined the two, the ponies . . err pony and pegasi seemed to be the heaviest hitters of their group.
Twilight and Rarity, meanwhile searched for some means of escaping this trap of a basement. Eyes scanned and searched the walls and ceiling, occasionally hearing the occasional snarl of some Nobody that drew too close and got a double helping of hooves to the torso. With each pony Heartless taken down, two Nobodies or Heartless seemed to take its place. Zavier whipped her Keyblade around and called out,"Thundaga!" just as Dragoons emerged. The results were.. shocking, but it gave the four some breathing room as lightning struck from the top and came down upon the weaker ones.
Celestia scanned towards the corner and then called out,"There! A trap door. Which may lead us upwards!" The cyan pegasus turned and nodded,"I'm on it!" with a burst of speed, Rainbow Dash dodged and avoided the remaining Dragoons before clamping onto some ring that dangled. She grunted and tugged and pulled before shaking her head,"No use! Darn thing is stuck or jammed or just being stubborn!" Applejack growled under her breath as she toppled a few Dancers zipping in to catch Zavier's right side,"Of all the times ta not be openin!" She left the humans and galloped on over, while pulling rope they had brought along,"Rainbow Dash, git down here an tie the end round that ring! Resta ya girls when she's tied it good, pull with all yer might!"
Getting down to the rope would have proven difficult. . were it not for their Princess's intervening. She lunged and jabbed the few Dragoons circling, as they attempted to halt the pegasi's progress. She stood her ground, head lowered, horn brimming with magic and nodded,"Do what you must! I'll keep them off you!" Twilight would have spoken, but the unicorn knew the princess would not make time for argument. Instead all she could do was wait until Rainbow Dash had made a tough knot and then with the rest of the ponies, try to pull the door open. Grunts and shouts of "heave!" were heard over the sounds of the battle clashing behind them. Things were getting pretty tight in here and they wondered just how much longer Mych and Zavier could hold them off. Oh sure, they fought countless battles before this. But when facing with an endless sea of Heartless and Nobodies, the body will tire. . and that was all the chance their foes needed to overwhelm the group.
Zavier slapped Mych's arm,"Go help them, your the stronger of the two of us!" He grunted and looked to the left sweeping the Keyblade low to catch a few Dusk's trying to trip them,"Can't handle all this by yourself you know!" She glared at him,"Either you haul your ass over there and help pull that inferno trapdoor down, or wait until we are COMPLETELY swamped in Heartless. Your pick!" He exhaled noisily then nodded and left Zavier to join the ponies as they struggled,"Rackum, fracken, sonova. . ." he muttered under his breath before taking the rope in both hands,"Open damn you!" And yanked downward With a protesting complaint, the door finally gave way. . . and stone steps started to drop like well. . falling stones. Celestis,the mane six and Mych leaped back as a stair well started to build, showing them the way.
"Door is open so haul your cutie butts on up, less any pony wants to stay behind and attempt to offer tea to the Heartless!" Mych called out. Obviously Twilight or the others were not considering the second option as they all raced up the path,"Zavier, door is open, lets make like a sold out concert duo getting mobbed and get the fudge outta here!" Zavier didn't need to hear that twice. Drawing her Keyblade high, she brought it down and hissed,"Icega!". The stone floor cracked loudly as a layer of ice sheeted over the surface, sending the swarm tumbling on itself, while Dusks and Dancers crashed into one another. She turned and bolted up the stairs, smacking aside any flyers attempting to halt the escape.
Running, while hearing the screeches of the Nobodies fading, she didn't stop in time, bowling into Mych who, in turn bowled into every pony and Celestia, knocking the group past another set of doors and into a completely different room. For a minute or two, only soft groans came from the pile before Zavier meekly said,"Sorry. . ..don't tend to look when angry Heartless mob is chasing." A timid voice replied,"Umm.. that's ok.. .but.. um..if its not too much trouble. ..c. .can you ponies get off?.. .if. . you don't mind that is." Slowly pony untangled from pony as they dusted themselves off, Mych and Zavier the last to rise while Rainbow Dash and Twilight took a look around,"Big, empty corridor. . not much to go on. . and doors at the end. . ." Zavier was glancing around and found, to some chilling surprise, that the designs and displays reminded her too much of the Castle the Organization once resided in.
"Yeah.. I know it too, Zavier. I can see it on your face. Place looks too much like it, not to be a copy or imitation." They huddled together, in case more surprised awaited them. Emptiness echoed across the hall, the only sound were of hooves upon the rug beneath feet and muffled shoes. The closer they were reaching the doors, the more Rarity was noticing that murals were depicted on either side of the walls,"Your majesty. . . come take a look at these. . .do they.. look familiar?" the white unicorn asked the alicorn. Celestia drew closer and upon examination, the alicorn was .. surprised,"Its. . . Luna and I."
Pinkie Pie was hopping across from them,"Lookie at this one!" Together, the group drew closer. Twilight shivered as this mural depicted a white alicorn against a dark alicorn, with the moon in the background,"Luna's decent into Nightmare Moon.. and her banishment." The unicorn whispered. And so it followed. . .one mural after the next, was revealing the history of Equestria. From its founding, to Celestia and Luna's quarrel/banishment. Twilight's arrival, the return. . it went on.
As they drew near the end, these murals however were. . different. One depicted Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash and Applejack surrounding, what looked to be a fallen Celestia. The next showed a dark cloaked figure. . .stealing their Elements. . . and the next.. the mane six becoming Nobodies. . . Mych and Zavier were getting a sickening feel, that they were being lured into something more darker and sinister then first imagined. That Celestia along with Twilight and her friends were in danger. Before they could glance at the last mural, a dark portal appeared by the doors at the end of the hallway. Instantly Twlight and the others ducked behind Celestia, while Mych and Zavier took up the front, Keyblades in hand. A dark, strong aura was felt as a dark cloaked figure emerged, Nightmare Moon by its side. For a moment no one spoke. . .
"Ahh, welcome welcome to my humble abode." The figure spoke. It glanced from Mych and Zavier over to the six ponies and their ruler,"The great Sun goddess herself, Celestia. I am humbled that your presence has graced my halls with such magnificence. And your most gifted student, Twilight Sparkle I see has joined as well and her close friends. My my. . this is a wonderful indeed." Princess Celestia spoke up,"Stranger!.. .while I admire your. . hospitality, I am thoroughly upset with the harm and damage that you have caused to my lands and my beloved subjects! By order of Canterlot, I demand you cease your efforts and return from whence you came!" The echo of her voice died within the corners of the halls.
Soon a soft giggle started to bubble, its source hailing from the dark alicorn at the figure's side. Nightmare's giggle turned into a full out laugh which rang along the edges and corners rebounding and gathering at the center before it died slowly,"Listen to her master! Barking orders, commanding you. . you! To return from where you came from.. in your castle no less! Its so amusing really . . .amusing and. . .wasted." the last word was hissed in furious anger as she lowered her horn, dark energy forming. The figure raised a hand and she stopped then drew a few steps back,"Now, now Nightmare Moon. . . we're being rude to our guests."
It cleared its throat before speaking,"I'm afraid I must deny your request Celestia. My work is nearly finished and I can not simply just stop by your saying so. However. . .do allow me to provide some. . entertainment for you and your wonderful group. I do look forward to meeting you all again. . soon." It turned and started to leave through the same portal that remained opened. Rainbow Dash gawked and then unfurled her wings,"Why you little. . " she snorted before bolting down the path to try to tackle them both. The pegasus perhaps flew within 500 feet before she slammed into some invisible wall with a loud oof!
The figure turned as Nightmare Moon disappeared, then simply walked over to where the cyan pegasus was. . plastered against the barrier,"Mmmmmm.. temper, temper Rainbow Dash. . such a short fuse will surely only cause you.. misfortune." It snapped its fingers, and a dark rumbling started to take place. He waved a hand idly as Twilight plucked her friend back to the group, while the figure called out,"I hope this one brings back most. . wonderful memories for you all. . ." a small laugh was heard before it vanished into the void. The rumblings increased as the shaking grew more intense,"A. .another. . earthquake?" Applejack asked as they tried to balance themselves.
The doors were flung open by some unknown force as long serpentine creature, bathed in silver and white, wearing armor along the limbs and chest. Twisted barbs wrapped around the body and ended at the tail, making for a cruel looking club emerged. There were no eyes or nose on the face, only a Nobody insignia on the forehead. It opened its jaws and a terrible roar sent tremors along every person and pony's bones.
It was then that Twilight started to notice its traits: The head looked like a pony's. .only more like Celestia or Luna's features.The horns were off too as were the limbs, body and tail it was like this Nobody was a mash of body parts. A sinking feeling started in the pit of her stomach as the large Nobody started to descend upon the party, Mych and Zavier poised to strike,"P.. princess Celestia. . . .I think things just got a lot worse." The alicorn turned to give her student a puzzled expression.
If Light and Darkness are eternal, then surely we nothings must be the same. . . .~Xemnas
Discord. The spirit of disharmony and chaos. Whose troublesome antics had plagued Equestria not once but twice. Whose defeat were at the hooves of Celestia and Luna, later to be followed by Twilight and her friends, forever sealed in stone until time ended. Converged into a dangerous Nobody that now wrecked havoc on the group with the hallowed halls of the castle they traversed. The battle was proving both fierce and too tight for comfort. The effects of the Nobody's ability to alter gravity made for an attack difficult.
Mych hid behind one pillar, Zavier across behind another. Celestia, Twilight and Rarity were one column back, taking shelter as the beast hurled dark spheres of energy at their hiding spot, the pillar shuddering with each blow. Rainbow Dash and Applejack huddled up against Mych's leg, while poor Fluttershy, who was too scared to move at the start, forcing Mych to grab her and carry along for this rough ride, huddled against his back as she clung for dear life. Both Keyblade wielders were breathing hard, their strength waning against this tough opponent. Compared to their earlier fights, the cloaked figure had thrown a wild card into play and it was gaining in his favor.
Stone shattered as the column which the alicorn and unicorns hid crumbled in ruin, forcing Twilight to teleport her mentor and friend to hide behind another one farther back. The Nobody then focused on the one Zavier hid behind and the attack was renewed,"So, any ideas on how to beat this thing? Suggestions? Strategies? Thoughts maybe?" The cyan pegasus asked, a little nervous,"Honestly . . never encountered a Nobody this persistent before. And. . can't really think when your friend here. . is practically crushing my ribs." Mych remarked. The pegasus whimpered a sorry then eeked! as the Nobody bellowed another nerve wracking roar,"Ya know. . .ah liked him better when he was playin tricks and causin mischief. That ah could handle. . this? Like someone dun took all that outta him an replaced it with plain anger." Applejack mentioned.
Mych snorted,"That's always a thing with most Nobodies.. anger and rage fuel their motives to attack...and since you graciously mentioned having known this. . Discord. . .his Nobody is itching for a little payback." He grunted and finally plucked the pegasus from his back and sat her down, the winged pony hiding under her hooves,"Can't take much more of this. . only so many pillars and way it keeps tearing them down, we're stuck in the open."
A sense of pressure was felt on everyone, before they started to float. Mych cursed and grabbed the pillar while every other pony on his side grabbed him,"Damn gravity magic its using is not helping either. . . " Zavier, on the other side, merely cursed under her breath, swung around to take aim at the beast's head and hissed,"Firaga!" A bolt of fire launched from her Keyblade, striking the head and earning the group a screech of pain and furious snarls. It "turned" on Zavier, hurling more of those spheres, while she used the lack of gravity as a means to dodge and parry. Knocking them aside, she merely raspberried the Nobody, then clung on as the effects of the spell wore off and gravity returned. After an uncerimonious drop, every one and pony grunted and dusted their bruised rears off. As much as Zavier was providing a means of distraction, it just wasn't enough for one Keyblade to end this thing.
"Rainbow Dash. . .that is your name isn't it?" Mych asked the cyan pegasus. She looked at him eyes narrowed,"Yeah it is! What?" He chuckled,"You a pretty fast flyer?" She smirked and puffed out her chest,"I'm the fastest flyer in all of Equestria and the best there is!" Eyes glanced back in her direction as he grinned,"Think you be fast enough to give that Nobody a good thrashing while distracting it as well?" The pegasus gave her wings a good flap,"Watch me!" and zipped off. Zavier had tumbled and dove for another cover spot, barely missing a dark sphere that shattered one of the murals. Discord's Nobody would have taken her. . were it not for a rainbow blur flying from above then dive bombed and knocked the creature senseless. Despite being able to float, the hit knocked it temporarily senseless and it came crashing to the ground dazed.
This gave Twilight enough time to port over, grab Zavier by her pants cuff and port her back to Mych and the others,"So what now? Its gravity effect is making it hard to fight decently and we don't have much time before it recovers from that pegasus's surprise blow." Zavier panted out as she gathered her breath. Mych was on it, looking over to Celestia,"You.. have an idea?" the alicorn asked. He nodded,"Trinity. . ." His fellow Keyblade wielder looked at him,"Trinity? Mych there is only two of us at the moment. . you need three for that ability to work." He glanced over to Celestia and nodded,"She can help." Rarity who, was quiet up to this point managed to balk before Twilight could get a word in,"Are you daft? Her highness is still recovering from the poison, in case you have forgotten! She is in no condition to be putting her life at risk!"
Mych nodded with a soft sigh,"Listen Ms. Rarity is it? No offense to any of you or your friends, but despite Applejack and Rainbow Dash being helpers in all along with your magical assistance, you just don't have the juice to knock this Nobody down. Your. . ruler on the other hand, weak as she may be, is like a goddess? And as far as I remember, goddesses still pack quite a punch." Twilight was shaking her head,"No there has to be another way, we don't know what your Keyblades will do to Celestia!" The cyan pegasus landed,"Umm fellas, I don't want to be blunt, but he is starting to wake!" A slow hiss could be heard at the far end as the Nobody was starting to recover. Mych and Zavier looked to Princess Celestia, while Twilight and the others looked to her. The alicorn closed her eyes, drew in a deep breath, then nodded,"What must I do?"
The Nobody was shaking its head, gathering its senses, when it felt three presences close by. Rising to its feet, it casted down to find Zavier, Mych and Celestia standing before it. As it growled in anger, both raise their keyblades up just as Celestia lowered her horn, the three touching together at point as the trio uttered one word:
Trinity
The mane six watched as their Princess and the two Keyblader's unleash their attack upon Discord's Nobody. The surge of their powers course through all three, as they struck head on. Mych hammered down upon the head of the beast, his duel Keyblades struck repeatedly before knocking the beast into the air. Zavier appeared after Mych vanished and unleashed an elemental flurry upon the Nobody, consisting of Fire, Ice, Lightning, and Earth. As it recoiled from the magical assault, Zavier vanished and Celestia appeared, wings spread out before it. Orbs of light circled around the alicorn before beams were cast down, piercing the creature's armor, shattering it completely as the screams of pain could be heard bellowing from the Nobody before it came crashing down. The three appeared all together, raising both weapons and horn high as a light burst from the center and enveloped all three, along with the beast. It was so bright Twilight and her friends had to cover their eyes, lest they be blinded.
When it faded, they opened their eyes to find the three standing there, the Nobody defeated and fading into fractured light and wisps of smoke. It was done. They had destroyed Discord's Nobody. Now all that would be left would be the heart. .and then he would return completely.
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
"So, a Trinity draws on the individual's abilities and combines it with the other two, joining it together into one super offense?" Twilight asked as the group made their way past the doors. Zavier nodded,"Yes. It draws upon what we are most gifted in. Mych focuses on strength, so his attacks are more physical. Mine has been more magic based, thus the increased usage of the elements. And your Princess Celestia being a sun goddess, her powers draws from Light. I do say that combination is amazing." The unicorn jotted this down as her mentor glanced over her shoulder. Even when Equestria was facing peril, Twilight never let a chance to slip by to take notes, gather information and make future preparations in case any similar incidents like this ever occurred again. "Is there any other combinations?" she asked. Zavier smiled and nodded,"When it comes to three. . its. .almost endless.. if you were to join in, the magical output would be much higher and harder. Some pony like say Applejack joins in, your looking at harder physical hits." The unicorn hmmmed tapping her chin,"Its like the Elements of Harmony, only not as powerful."
"Elements of Harmony?" Zavier asked. Twilight paused then oohed softly, rubbing her forehead,"We never filled you in. All this time, you've been able to give us answers to what has been plaguing Equestria, we've never really explained the possibility of how you wound up here." The group paused with Mych spinning around,"Come again?" Zavier looked at every pony,"Do we have the time though?" The alicorn glanced around and found the area looked empty enough,"I guess we can spare a little time and explain what the Elements are." Every pony and human took a breather, most were still tired after that battle. Twilight laid it out as best she could to Mych and Zavier of how they wound up in Equestria.
"So.. your saying when the six of you join together with these Elements.. Harmony is obtained and a great power is released, thus defeating any dangerous foe that might be a threat?" Mych asked. Twilight gave a nod,"All my friends here. .each one is a Bearer of the Elements. There is Applejack whose element is Honesty. Rarity's is Generousity. Fluttershy's is that of Kindness. Rainbow Dash's is Loyalty. And Pinkie Pie rounds the last with Laughter. The sixth Element that ties them all together is Magic.. which is what I represent." Mych whistled softly while Zavier absorbed all of this,"Strong Elements. . .and.. how many times have they been used." The unicorn glanced over to Celestia, then back to the two humans,"About. . .four times. . total."
"Four times.. total? Does it require much magic to. . .unleash it?" Mych asked. Twilight shook her head,"No, its not like that. You two remember the mural depicting the white alicorn battling the black alicorn?" Both nodded,"Well.. .Celestia's sister Luna. . . she. ..well, umm." she cast a glance over to Celestia who nodded somberly,"It's alright. . " she looked back at the two humans,"A thousand years ago, Luna was corrupted by anger and jealously. It transformed her into Nightmare Moon. Eventually one fateful night she refused to lower the moon, wanting to cast all of Equestria into darkness. Celestia used the Elements to defeat her and banish her to the moon. That was the first time they were used. Later.. .a thousand years later exactly, I read in a book at Canterlot, that on the one thousandths Summer sun festival, the bindings that held Nightmare Moon in place would weaken and she would use the stars to escape. Back then I didn't know every pony here. Celestia sent me on a task to over see the preparations.. instead of well.. taking what was happening seriously."
The alicorn spoke,"I had faith in you Twilight..with your potential and gifts. I had no doubt that some how you making friends would be the key to using the Elements." Zavier glanced,"So. . .she didn't know it at first, but. . you were having her gather those worthy of the elements correct? Why couldn't you use them again?" Celestia smiled sadly,"A thousand years had past. I had lost the attunement to the Elements, thus rendering them useless to me.. I had to find another way." She nodded,"So. .what happened?" Twilight inhaled softly,"True to the prophecy, Nightmare Moon came back.. and once more Equestria was facing the threat of eternal night. With my new friend's help, we discovered to location of where the Elements rested.. within Ever Free forest in some castle ruins."
Mych rubbed his brow,"Castle ruins. .the same ruins that the Door of Equestria is in and is being heavily protected?" The unicorn nodded,"The very same. The path was difficult.. but thanks to each pony, we overcame the obstacles before us. Nightmare Moon confronted us.. .and sought to win by destroying the orbs the Elements were housed in.. . she was successful, but it was brief. Thanks to Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash, they all became the new Bearers and I unlocked their power. Thanks to all six of us, Nightmare Moon was defeated and Luna was freed from that dark power." Celestia spoke,"Thanks to Twilight and her friends, my sister was saved along with Equestria. Since that time, I have done all I can to make amends for the mistakes we both made. Luna has recovered well. She is. . still a little behind on the times, but as being the goddess of the moon, her duty remains unchanged." Zavier counted,"Ok. .so that is twice. .you said three times."
Twilight drew in another breath,"The fourth time was when Discord escaped from his prison. Before Luna's transformation, she and Celestia had used the Elements to defeat him. He represents chaos and disharmony. Ponies back then were miserable under his rule and our Princessess helped to free them. So that would technically be the first time they were used." Both humans nodded,"With Discord..it was not as easily. His power. . .is to draw out the negatives in a pony. . .jaded and fragmented. He stole the Elements and we were forced to play a game in hopes to find them.. .one by one, he corrupted my friends, made them give in to their dark secrets. . .even I was subjected to that control." Zavier nodded with a slight role of her shoulders,"What kind of chaos and disharmony were we looking at?" Rainbow Dash called out,"Screwy weather. Applejack's crops were acting strange. . .all the animals grew long legs. . all sorts of. .troublesome chaos..pony, animal, plant, weather. . all of Ponyville was under its effects and even beyond." This had both humans eyebrows raise,"Everything?" Twilight nodded,"Everything."
Mych rose and dusted off his pants,"Well.. .think we can guess now, what caused the Door to open. If Discord's power disrupted Harmony itself, the hidden effects would have been felt as well.. soo. . . once his influence reached the ruins, the Door to your world was unlocked and opened.. .enter Heartless and our mystery guest and pretty much all the events that lead up to now." Applejack shook her head,"But we stopped Discord. . after Twilight used a memory spell ta free us of his effects, we came back and whooped him, thus restorin Harmony to all of Equestria. Shouldn't that have sealed the Door once more as well?" Zavier shook her head,"Depending on the time frame we are looking at, it was probably enough time for Nightmare Moon to recover her strength and the effects of the unwanted guest to dispel the Elements of Harmony's intended purpose."
Zavier rose as well,"Its all the more reason to find that Nobody and Nightmare Moon and defeat them. The barriers will fall and we can seal the Door to your world." The alicorn spoke,"Why is it that important to close the door with much haste my friends?" Zavier glanced over,"Because the Door to your world is the door to its heart. . the very life force of any world. If not closed soon enough, the Heartless will devour it and ever pony in all of Equestria will be gone. . .along with Equestria itself. . .it will cease to exist.. and you with it." The look of shock was seen on every pony's face, even Celestia's. Mych kept silent but nodded,"I think its best if we continued on. I think enough time has been. . spent on filling us in on all the details we have to offer." The group of ponies along with the alicorn and the humans once more started to move, after Zavier casted a healing spell to renew everyone's strength.
As they walked down the last hallway and started to climb the many inclined paths, the timid pegasus Fluttershy tugged on Zavier's cuff,"Hmmm?" she asked looking down as the pony nervously pawed at the floor,"S..so. . if. . Equestria disappears. ..does that mean..we'll vanish too? All my animal friends? My close friends? All the places I know?" Zavier rubbed the back of her head, feeling bad by how saddened this pegasus felt of the thought of her world disappearing all together,"Well. ..maybe. You and your friends have strong hearts and minds. . .worse comes to worse. . .you may find yourself on a different world. . a neutral safe world."
The pegasus shook her head,"Ooh, I don't think I could live like that.. .I'd miss my friends. ..and.. it be lonely. . .and.. if we're the only ponies and. . there are a lot of humans.. .I... I don't think I could take that." Zavier reached out and brushed the pink mane, earning a soft squeak! from the timid pegasus,"That won't happen, Fluttershy. Me and Mych.. we've been doing this for a couple of years now. . we've saved plenty of worlds from being devoured by the Heartless. Equestria will as well.. I promise." The pony looked up with those gentle eyes and murmured,"Pinkie Pie promise?"
Zavier looked at her puzzled,"Pinkie Pie promise?" As if on que, the pink pony popped out of the sky and held Zavier by her cheeks with her hooves,"Pinkie Pie promise! You don't ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, EVER break a Pinkie Pie promise!" The human felt a tad uncomfortable when Pinkie Pie pressed her face against her own staring with those eyes,"Cause breaking a Pinkie Pie promise causes your friends to lose their trust in you .Foreeeeeveeeeeeeeeeeeer." Zavier ulped softly,"Umm. . I Pinkie Pie promise." The pink pony continued,"Cross your heart, hope to cry, stick a cupcake in your eye?"
The human glanced down at Fluttershy who nodded,"Y. .yeah.. cross my heart, hope to cry, stick a cupcake in my eye, Pinkie Pie promise." Pinkie Pie released Zavier and clapped (clopped?) her hooves together,"Goody!! Its settled!!" And then zipped up again, only to emerge next to her friends once more. Fluttershy followed and left Zavier standing there. She was starting to wonder what was more creepier. The fact the pink pie dropped from the ceiling even though nothing was holding her up, or the distinct sense of. . .disturbance behind those eyes of hers, that made her not want to even consider. .breaking a Pinkie Pie promise.
- - - - - - - - - - - -
The deeper they pushed into the castle, the thicker the resistance was becoming. There was no more sightings of the cloaked figure. But that did not stop Nightmare Moon from appearing on different levels and sending small mobs of Heartless and Nobodies to stall their climb up the tower. Time and time again, they vanquished ever thing the dark alicorn threw in their way. Yet each time was draining their strength and reserves forcing them to take more and more breaks. It was clear she was tiring the group down on purpose, that purpose was unclear.
A grunt, a slash and another Nobody toppled. Mych stumbled back into Zavier's arms, both breathing heavily,"Why .. is it. ." he gasped for some air,"That villians. . have to. . .bloody make. . their homes. . .so. . .fricken high.. ?" Zavier just sighed and sat him down,"Same reason humans had a bad habit of building castles back in the Middle Ages? Defense and intimidation?" He groaned as she dug in her pack and pulled out a green jar. Looking over her shoulder, she saw the other ponies exhausted. She was running low on being able to heal everyone.. and only had three Ethers left to restore that power. Handing Mych the potion, she shambled on over, and passed a larger version,"Drink up girls." she said tired but cheerfully." Eyes looked up with wonder,"Whats the green stuff?" Rainbow Dash asked,"Mega Potion.. will put the pep back in your step.. .there is plenty to share." The ponies and Celestia gathered around, each taking a sniff,"Smells funny." Rarity said. Zavier gave a light shrug,"Not supposed to smell great. .you just drink it and enjoy the flow it gives you. . taste isn't too bad. .could use some improvements though."
The container was passed and the typical reactions were not surprising. From yecks! to some blehs! and some ewws! they drank the concoction regardless. Once emptied Celestia joined them with a peculiar expression on her face, smacking her lips together,"Are they all like this?" she asked the human. Zavier popped the cap off the Ether and drained it, shivering as its effects coursed through her body,"Some taste just awful, others require some getting used to. . .none are ever any good." The alicorn shivered slightly, her wings rustling,"All for the sake of progress I guess." Zavier nodded,"Indeed your majesty, indeed."
They stood before the hallway, the imposing doors stood at the end. No pillars or columns, no hidden corridors for which enemies would leap out as a final means to defend. The last few levels where harrowing pushing everyone to the brink. And yet, they managed to make it to the end. Now as pony and human crossed the dull red carpet that was the only color in this area, eyes fixated on Nightmare Moon who stood by idly at the far end, not moving a hoof, wing or even a tail. Mych and Zavier stood in front, while the ponies and Celestia stood behind the two.
"Welcome dear sister, welcome. I am truly amazed you made it all the way up here. I would have suspected you to be too worn and tired to continue. And yet, here you are standing before me. You certainly haven't lost your touch. I guess that's why your still ruler of all Equestria." The dark alicorn murred with a dark smirk. Princess Celestia took a few steps, eyes narrowing as her horn started to glow,"No more tricks, Nightmare. No more games, no more stalling. This ends now."
Nightmare sighed as though bored with her speeches and idly waved a hoof,"Certainly. . .course I'm not the pony you should be talking to. . ." Those violet draconian eyes narrowed at the two humans in front,"My master awaits you. . . " A dark void opened behind her, the dark alicorn turning around and started to proceed,"Course you can go back. No pony would think wrong of their ruler if she fled in shame.. .as a coward." Celestia would have lunged for her, were it not for two arms blocking her path,"Don't let her taunt you. They all play games, goading us into doing something foolish. . . " Mych whispered.
It took her perhaps a few minutes to calm herself and compose her stature. It was.. an odd. . unpleasant feeling. Celestia had never felt like this before not in all her time as ruler. . .the sensation still flickered in her heart. . that emotion. . anger? they called it? It had been centuries since she had last felt it. So why now all of a sudden? "Princess?" came a voice to her left. Eyes looked down to find Twilight gazing up, concern in those lavender eyes of hers,"I'm. . I'm alright." she murmured. The unicorn was not so sure, but she trusted her mentor. Together with Mych and Zavier, they followed Nightmare Moon through the void and into what ever room or place her master waited.
The traveling process was cold. Chilling to the bone, like ice prickling along their very nerves. It was what Darkness felt when it slowly devoured the weak. Cold and hungry with no warmth to stave off the bitter chill. The group stood on a platform. A small bridge connected the balcony, the cloaked figure standing at the opposite end. In the sky above them, casting its pale glow, was the giant heart shaped moon. It was grand, beautiful in its own right. And made with the hearts of many, many ponies and creature alike. What happened next surprised everyone.
Zavier, who had been calm and collected, the most level headed person in the group, brought her Keyblade forward, rushed to the start of the bridge, even as Nightmare Moon prepared to defend the figure and shouted:
Symxachi!
Nightmare Moon paused as the figure straightened up from his hunched over posture and spoke,"I have not been called that in so many years." Turning he looked upon Zavier as his hands rested at his side,"Zavier. . . my how time does fly. It's been so long has it not? When was the last our paths crossed? When did we last look upon each others eyes and saw the swirling emotions that carried our actions?"
She snarled and said through gritted teeth,"Last we met was at the End of the World. Last I saw of your wretched self was when you were hurled into that dark vortex of your own creation, laughing at me as it tore you apart after I rescued Mych!!" She looked down at her hand balled into a fist and watch it shook with uncontrolled anger,"I hoped with your demise, he would be whole once again. . .I guess I should have double checked to see if the job was done right!"
A hallow chuckle left the cowl of the figure,"I am. . sorry to disappoint you. That all your efforts, all your hard work to save him and restore what was lost. . in vain and for naught. As I said before. . I will not allow it to end. . .not like this." The glove hand reached up and pulled back the hood and together Celestia, Twilight and her friends caught a glimpse of the being responsible for everything:
His stature was as tall as Mych, his build almost the same. The eyes were a cold steel grey, his hair shoulder length and pale orange. The face bore the resemblance to Mych's yet it lacked the scar over the eye. And the pressure of his aura. . .was as intense as ever when they met at the bottom of the castle,"I must applause you.. .all of you. You have made my expectations and surpassed them with ease. . .Were it not for Nightmare Moon tempting you to follow deeper, I would have had to hunt you down myself."
A cold smile spread across his face,"Now. . the Bearer of the Elements. . and the sun goddess herself. . are mine at last."
It was one of those moments, when instinct buried deep in the pit of the stomach, warned you that something was wrong. That this whole scheme had been planned out since the very beginning. From the attack on Ponyville, to the assault on Celestia's Castle. That sinking suspicion of being drawn into a carefully laid trap. No one felt this harder then Mych.
Time seemed to slow to a snail's pace. Nightmare Moon, who had lured them all the way up the corridors and platforms of the castle struck first. Her speed. . .it was un natural. Zavier barely had enough time to draw her Keyblade up as the horn came bearing down upon her. Both were locked in a stalemate as sparks and snaps of dark magic flickered about them. As Mych took a few steps foward, Symxachi reached out with one hand and made a wrenching motion with the wrist. Agonizing pain flared up in his chest, causing him to stumble and fall to his knees, hand clutching at the source of this burning sensation.
A snap of the fingers from his other hand created a dark swirling vortex beneath pony and alicorn alike. Screams of shock and fear escaped their lips as the mane six along with Celestia, were ensnarled by dark tentacles. Zavier could not move to help them, as Nightmare was bearing down upon her, trapping the human beneath her and her weapon the only means of defending. Mych couldn't even move. It was as though his heart was ripped from his chest, leaving him to groan through gritted teeth and glare up at his Nobody.
"Remarkable isn't it? Though severed at the source, being able to manipulate has its benefits." The Nobody turned and cast his eyes on the moon,"I care not for being whole again. I care not for desiring a heart. I've never been more free then when we separated so long ago." Eyes glanced over as he watched the ponies struggle, seeing the anger flare up in the alicorn out of all of them,"Do you hate me your majesty? Do you despise me for all the harm I have done to your subjects?" A smile of malice spread across his face,"Good. The negative emotions in your heart will make for a fine addition." Twilight, struggling as they started to sink into the pool, managed to ask,"What do you want with us?"
Symxachi inhaled deeply then waved a gloved hand,"I suppose you deserve a reason as to why I wanted you and your. . friends. Are you not the Bearers of Harmony? Are you not the ones whom legend has made and your tales known far and wide across these lands?"
Honesty Kindness Loyalty Generousity Laughter
"Positive feelings, emotions of the heart. Your five friends represent them well. But. . .did they not also represent the opposite?"
Lies Cruelty Dishonor Greed Anger
The lavender unicorn struggled with this as her eyes watched in panic as her friends were being sucked down. That same, cold empty feeling that they experienced when they first entered the void on the other side, now crawled its way up her legs. They were paralyzed. It was like some force had frozen their bodies, their minds helpless to watch. Not even Princess Celestia could escape these bonds. Twilight looked on,"Yes!. ..there was the good and bad in my friends! What are you trying to say?"
Symxachi heard a clang!, a sudden gasp of shock, and looked to see Nightmare Moon knocked back. Zavier, still furious rushed forward, Keyblade shimmering as she attempted to rescue them,"Fool." the Nobody hissed, a drawing up a gloved hand to send a dark force of energy. Zavier barely had time to deflect it before the dark alicorn rushed in again, catching her off guard. The body check sent her hurling against the wall, the loud thud of impact followed before she fell to the floor unconscious. Satsified he turned to the remaining eight, seeing the rage burning in Mych's eyes as he laid there helpless.
"Equestria is by far the purest world of them all. Not a hint of taint or darkness mars her surface. What tarnish there once was, had been cleansed long ago. Thus its heart is strong and without stain. As Bearers of Harmony you too are strong and pure. I intend to change all of that." Eyes glanced up to the giant heart shaped moon and he shuddered slightly,"My former, fellow Nobodies only wanted Kingdom Hearts to be complete. They were weak! They did not realize the power given unto them to do even greater things. . . a waste. I have no desire to acquire a heart of my own. Only to shroud this world and many after it. . in utter Darkness." Cold steel eyes cast on Celestia,"I will take your dark emotions, your negative feelings, the very taint inside you.. and I will imbue it, grow it. And when it is complete.. .I will corrupt Kingdom Hearts itself!"
"With the corruption of Kingdom Hearts your world will fall! And it will spread! Every world's heart will be consumed by the Heartless, all of the inhabitants will fall. And while they suffer in anguish, those dark negative emotions will grow, feeding me, granting me power beyond Darkness itself! When Kingdom Hearts finally succumbs, the Keyblade will be no more! The Light will die and Night Eternal will forever reign with me as it Dark King!"
A soft gasp and a repressed voice replied,"Monster. . .you have no regard for the countless lives you are about so snuff out do you?" Symxachi left a soft laugh rock his body as the Nobody glided over to Celestia,"How bold of you Princess.. to call me a monster. If there is any monster in here it is you. What kind of sister would attack her own flesh and blood and then cast her to the moon as banishment? Truly cold and. . heartless of you."
Another snap of his fingers and Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Applejack, Rarity and Pinkie Pie disappeared beneath those dark waves. Their screams were brief and it made Twilight shudder when the last thing she saw in her friends eyes. . .was fear. As that sickening feeling rose to her chin, the unicorn could only watch as her teacher, mentor, and friend stare in defeat,"Be strong my faithful student." Celestia whispered, a tear running down her cheek. Twilight nodded, feeling her eyes well up,"I will Princess Celestia." And then she was gone. The alicorn couldn't look away from that spot where her protege was once,"Awwwww. . .how touching.. .the teacher mourns the loss of her student. Oh fret not dear sister. . you'll be joining her quite soon. .. it the dark abyssal void. . . " Nightmare Moon sneered,"And then you'll be all alone, miserable with no one to comfort you in that dark prison.. .just as you did to me."
"Nightmare Moon!. . Leave her. When her Nobody emerges, you can torment it all you want. . .her fate is sealed." The dark alicorn huffed but withdrew, leaving Celestia to ponder what precious little seconds she had left. Eyes cast over to Zavier. The human was still out, no sign of movement coming from her limbs. They glanced over to Mych who was struggling to stand,"You must not allow him to do this. Surely you have power of him as he has over your heart. Is he not your missing half? Does he not feel the same as you? Do something!" Mych rose with a pained look in the eyes,"I'll never let it take me. I refuse to allow my anger and rage be the end of your world, majesty. No sacrifice is worth the loss of your home." Rising, using the Keyblade to lean on, he glared at Symxachi who merely regarded him as. . nothing.
"Admirable. . . yet lost. Give in. . .strike me down, save your friends and risk ending this precious world in your fury. Or simply yield and accept your end like every other pony." The castle began to vibrate, Celestia's last sight were of feeling a dark sensation spreading all over Equestria. . the Elements. . .the Nobody was corrupting them. . .the alicorn faded as well beneath the murk, gone to join her fellow ponies in what dark prison Heartless had for her. Mych was having trouble keeping stable as Symxachi rose both hands high above,"Kingdom Hearts! I offer unto you seven strong hearts, purest in all this world! Accept their power, their feelings, their emotions.. .be complete and whole!"
Nightmare Moon watched as six beams of light rose from the darkened ground below. She smirked at knowing one of them was Celestia's, the others her meddling followers and Bearers of the Elements. Soon their Heartless and Nobodies would show up. They would make most excellent body guards. And Symxachi would use their dark power to fuel the Dark Keyblade he had made the first day he arrived. Channel those negative feelings. And when the doors opened. . he would plunge that blade and create ruin every where. Ahh how she tasted victory. It was a shame she couldn't torment the sun goddess before he ended her. Oh well, there was her Nobody still.
As the six lights faded into the moon, Symxachi rose his hand towards the sky, a dark cloud brewing around his grasping fingers. A Keyblade emerged, dark and onyx in its creation while seven chains dangled from its hilt, each one symbolizing the Elements as well as the sun goddess. Each color faded and darkened till they were dull grays and blacks. . .all save for one. The Nobody looked in puzzlement as one refused to give in. Getting a closer inspection, he noted it was that of. . Laughter.
Though struggling to stand, Mych took note of this. . and smiled. Hearing Zavier starting to awaken, this emboldened him to move a few steps forward,"You look surprised there. What's wrong? I thought you had things figured out from the start? Why then the long face?" A murderous glance was placed upon him, before he hissed,"Deal with him, Nightmare. . .and end his partner as well." She grinned and turned on the two Keyblades,"You've caused me much pain colt!. . . I shall return that favor!" The human just narrowed his eyes and snarled,"I look forward to kicking your pompous ass all over the castle again wretch.. bring it!" Rearing up, Nightmare called her challenge and lunged for him, Mych ignoring the fierce pain in his chest drove his Keyblade up to meet her horn, as the two clashed.
While his second in command dealt with the. .leftovers, Symxachi turned to head back towards his balcony. There standing at the other side of the bridge was a pink pony, who was trembling, her head lowered. The once puffy mane and tail he recalled she had was now limp and straight. The head rose and eyes stared back with a silent anger,"My. . .friends." she said,"Give them back to me!"
The Nobody exhaled noisily and pointed the Keyblade at her,"And what will you do if I choose not to? Toss a cupcake in my eye? Never throw me a party? Foolish little filly. You can not comprehend the gravity of your error by trying to defy me. . ." He rose a hand and snapped his fingers. Five gray shapes appeared, surrounding Pinkie Pie. Nobodies bearing similiarities to her friends,"Your. .allies. . .as you wished. . .do play nice now."
Zavier groaned as she shook the dizziness from her mind. Last thing she recalled was getting thrown against the wall by Nightmare Moon. Looking around while coping with a headache, she realized none of the ponies where there. Loud clangs! and swooshes came from her left, the dark alicorn and Mych locked in heated combat. Across the bridge, stood Symxachi and he just stood there. Stood there as one lone pony was ganged up by five Nobodies. The human rose up and grasped her Keyblade, shaking the disorientation from her mind,"Got to help. . Pinkie Pie. . "
Pinkie Pie was slammed back into the railing of the balcony. The Nobody that kicked her, there was no lie it was Applejack's. Ignoring the pain in her neck and back, she rolled out of the way, just in the nick of time as the flying Nobody tried to bring its hooves down upon her like Rainbow Dash did when she performed a flying dive. Scrambling to the side, eyes watched as the other two Nobodies, conjoured strange faint squares. She gasped and dodged as they came hurling at her, the tinge of strange magic emanating. . Rarity's and Twilight's Nobodies.
She could hear the amused sound Symxachi made, just watching as the pony struggled against her former friends. His focus however shifted towards Zavier, the sound of her Keyblade scraping along the ground, sending sparks up as she attempted to strike him from behind. He parried the blow with his own and the two engaged,"You've lost foolish wielder. . . once the last falls, her heart is mine and my work complete. And this time you will not interfere!" Shoving her back, he brought forth a second Dark Keyblade and rushed Zavier, who threw up Barrier just in time. She winced as they fell upon the shield, their dark taint already sending cracks along the surface. The auras they emanated. . it was dark and sickening, making her stomach churn almost.
Eyes cast over to Pinkie Pie, watching that brave pony fight. But it was desperate and almost vain. They kept cornering her, one lassoing her by the hind legs and dragging her towards them. This wasn't a fight, it was a beat down,"Pinkie Pie listen!. . talk to them! They may be Nobodies but remember what we said! They carry the emotions and feelings, the shells of who they were! Deep down they are still your friends! Try and reach out to them!" A hmph sounded as she struggled against another double blow from Symxachi,"Try as she might, her calls will fall on deaf ears. . .they are mine.. as is their taint. Nothing can save her. Not even you two." Zavier gritted her teeth, broke her barrier and then went on the offensive, driving him back,"Don't listen to him! Not every Nobody is like him! They still remember! Reach out to them!"
The pink pony let out a soft cry as she was sent tumbling across the platform. Her body hurt, her head hurt, even her legs ached. Sniffling, she rose her head to the five as they closed in, her lips trembling,"T. .twilight. . .remember. ..remember the party I threw you when you first came to Ponyville? Y. .you were really surprised. . .and even though you paid no attention to me as I rambled on, you still stayed." The Nobody paused and tilted its head in puzzlement. Pinkie Pie's gaze shifted to Rainbow Dash's,"Dashie. . .remember all the fun jokes we played on all our friends?. . about how surprised you were that I was as much a prankster as you?. . .and despite Gilda being your friend and a big feather brained meanie. . .you chose us over her? Or how silly you were Applejack when we were all acting scared of Zecora that one time she came into town. . .before Twilight showed us how wrong we were?"
Another sniffle followed while Pinkie Pie hoisted herself up on her haunches,"Or when I thought every pony didn't want to come to Gummy's party. . .because they were throwing me a secret surprise one. And. . .even though I was being a dummy. . .none of you gave up on me. . not even you, Dashie.. .I'll never forget that day. I treasure it always along with all our memories together."
Dark pools of shadow surrounded her, sending shivers down Pinkie Pie's spine. Yet she didn't budge. Even as the Heartless ponies rose from them and created a circle, those yellow blank eyes just staring at her,"I.. I'm saying this because. . we're the bestest best friends ever. And that's what friends do. . .we have good times together, we help each other when a pony is feeling down. We share everything together." Their black hooves brushed against her body, the pink mare shivering at the tingling cold touch. They all leaned in as Pinkie Pie closed her eyes, waiting to join them in the darkness. . . .
Nightmare Moon was pushed back, her hooves scraping grooves into the paneled floor, Eyes narrowed as the human rushed her again, her horn catching the Keyblade in a swipe. Only to dodge as a dark pulse was case close again, the dark alicorn barely missing the attack. Zavier meanwhile, was battling fiercely against Symxachi. The Nobody fell silent, but the Keyblades he used were just as deadly and potent as his words. As all four clashed a bright light erupted where Pinkie Pie lay. Symxachi hissed in anger as its brightness stung his sight and made his skin burn in agony. Zavier and Mych watched in awe as did Nightmare Moon as the light grew brighter, covering the balcony.
It vanished as quickly as it appeared. When sight cleared, Pinkie Pie was still there, being hugged by her friends. She sniffled and was smiling even as tears ran down her cheeks, the very presence of their return, couldn't have made her any happier,"I missed you girls." she whispered to them,"Thank you Pinkie Pie." a shaking unicorn murmured,"For saving us."
Symxachi was speechless. Silver eyes in utter shock as the Bearers of Elements were once again whole, their hearts returned. Already the keychains on his weapon had brightened and shattered, the Nobody hissing in anger as it faded from his grasp,"This. . .can not be!" he snarled. Zavier just smiled and pointed,"You've forgotten the one thing that ended the Organization. It's power was felt as far back as when Sora, Riku and Kairi wanted to escape their island. Its that power that made two Nobodies Roxas and Axel. . who though, did not have a heart, never stopped them from coming together. And its the one thing that continues to thrive in this world, no matter how dark you make it sound." Raising a hand she placed it on her chest,"Friendship triumphs even in the darkest of nights. Its power is second only to the heart itself, Symxachi. For the heart is the source of all Light. And that is something you can NEVER end."
"NO!"
Zavier rose to strike him down. The Nobody quickly ported from the side of the balcony to near the doors, Nightmare Moon coming to his side,"Master. .what do we do?" Mych was heading in their direction, Zavier coming across the bridge. Behind her came Twilight and her friends, each wearing an item the Nobody did not notice until now. But the alicorn knew them,"The Elements of Harmony!" she hissed with a soft whimper. Symxachi clenched his hands in frustration, as they were being backed into the doors that let out, the two Keyblades along with the Bearers of Harmony surrounding them,"Master we must flee!" He was furious. He refused to retreat! But as those ponies drew closer, the power emanating from those necklaces and from the tiara. .its pulse was almost akin to a Keyblade. .and that was not good news in either sense. Whirling around, he willed the huge doors to open before them. With a groan and a creak they parted, revealing the main room that would lead to their escape. Only it was blocked off by three figures.
"Well would you look at that, Sora. Looks like we found him."
"Huh, saves us the trouble of looking for him, eh Riku. Say. . uuh. . Celestia was it? This the Nobody giving you problems?
"Indeed you two. This one has been causing my subjects and your fellow wielders trouble."
To Symxachi's amazement and anger, there stood Princess Celestia,"H. .how?!" was all the Nobody could muster. Sora and Riku looked at one another then back to him,"You know. .for some big honcho wanna-be, this guy is dense. Kinda feel sorry for him, Riku." The taller human chuckled,"Ahh don't feel bad, Sora. . look who he hails from." Mych grumbled and snorted,"I heard that!" Sora just sighed and shook his head,"In a nut shell. We found her half way up here. Don't know what you were trying to pass her off as, but c'mon! Xemnas put up more of a fight then her Heartless and Nobody did."
Symxachi and Nightmare Moon were trapped. Sora, Riku and Celestia covered their escape while Mych, Zavier and the Bearers were making any other means of escape impossible. The dark alicorn was on the verge of panicing. She had no desire to be defeated once again and it showed,"There's no way out! We're trapped! What do we do?" The Nobody's anger once boiling over, soon ebbed and died down,"Modify. . ." Quick as a blink, he grabbed the alicorn by her neck, Nightmare Moon screeching in shock. Eyes narrowed at his enemies he quickly vanished before any one or pony could move,"W. .where did he go?" Rarity asked. Sora looked ahead beyond them, pointing,"There!"
They all rushed to see him floating before the Heart shaped moon, Nightmare Moon struggling in his grasp,"Master?! What are you doing?!" she gasped. Those eyes widened as the Keyblade appeared in his hand,"Improvising. . " came his cold reply,"B.. but. . why?" Symxachi never responded. Instead he thrusted the weapon into the dark alicorn, her screams echoed into the empty air around them. Twisting the blade within her, she faded in a dark flurry of mists and broken specks of shadow, the dark energy she once held was coursing up the Keyblade. As the power surged through him, Symxachi turned and faced the moon, arms outstretched. . . and then vanished.
Eyes looked everywhere. . there was no trace. Even his aura had faded,"Where did he go? There was no way out for him." Sora said. "Kingdom Hearts. He's gone there. . to corrupt it and finish what he was trying to start." Mych said. He felt a hand on his shoulder and looked over to see Riku standing there,"What do you mean?" Before he could answer a soft glow appeared at the end of the balcony before twin doors appeared out of no where,"Look..I can't give you the full story right now but I will say this. If we don't stop him within, Kingdom Hearts is finished along with this world." Both nodded as Twilight and her friends joined them,"We're coming too." Sora looked puzzled and opened his mouth, but Zavier shook her head,"Its a long story but frankly, they would be a big help as well." Riku and Sora looked at one another but said nothing.
The four Keyblade wielders and the Bearers of Elements approached the doors. Celestia watched on and she simply asked,"What is on the other side?" The four humans looked at her then all nodded, Sora replying,"Kingdom Hearts. As guardians, its our duty to protect it." She nodded as the doors slowly opened, awaiting them and the ponies to enter,"Good luck my friends." Celestia said before they all vanished.
The small band consisting of humans and ponies traversed down the path before them. It was flat and devoid of any obstructions such as hills or mountains, the horizons obscured by the sky above and around them. Twilight and her friends had to take a few minutes to adjust to the swirling colors of blues, greens and reds, shifting around them. At times they felt as though they were making no progress and yet. . deep in their hearts they knew distance was being eaten.
Sora and Riku were in the lead, Mych behind them with Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Twilight, Rarity and Fluttershy stayed with Zavier, who carried a rather tired looking Pinkie Pie. The fight with her friend's Nobodies had left her rather drained, the human opting to carry her for her fellow friends, rather then have her dragged along. Mych couldn't help but notice every now an then, Sora and Riku casting glances at their four legged companions. He let this go on for a few more minutes before deciding to break the silence with a cough.
"So.. .Riku, Sora. What brings you two legends to the very pleasant world of Equestria? And how for that matter?" The two glanced at one another as though debating on who should inform their fellow wielders, before Sora opted to speak,"Funny you should ask. It all started back home. We received a letter from Yen Sid, instructing us to meet him at the tower. Since as coincidence would have it, me and Riku here just happened to be free. So we traveled via Gummi ship to Twilight Town and took the tram from there."
He glanced over at Riku, who after a minute or two, shrugged and picked up,"When we arrived, Master Sid filled us in that he was getting some weird vibes. He mentioned that the source of these strange feelings were surrounding Kingdom Hearts, that some un forseen threat was attempting to bring it harm. He had also added that you, and Zavier were currently on a job over by the old mansion, that you two never reported back."
Mych frowned,"How long?" Riku nodded,"Bout three days." he grunted softly then shook his head,"Three days? We've been here almost. . just one day so to speak." Riku just gave a light shrug,"What ever magic or enchantments this world may have, could also effect time flow. Just a guess. Anyhow before we departed, Sid handed us both a small gem and some words of caution."
Zavier, who up to this point was quiet asked,"What were they?" Sora finished,"He mentioned that you two would some how be involved and that an old nemesis would be re-surfacing." She looked down silent then nodded,"So. . you two received the gems. Then what?" Sora grinned,"Well. . it was like flying. .really fast. .traveling faster then the Gummi ship actually. Course. . the landing could have been better." Riku winced and rubbed his lower back,"Sid is powerful, but. . his magic could use just a little refinement. We wound up in the basement of this castle after the trip. Already after gathering our senses, we saw the evidence of a fight that occured and simply followed your two's bread crumbs."
Mych gave a mild gesture,"How did you know it would be us? Sure it wasn't just some random scuffle?" Riku turned around, leaned against him, then smiled and thwaped his forehead,"Don't act dumb. We know you tend to. . cut loose every once in awhile." Mych grunted and rubbed the spot while Sora took this opportunity to raise another question,"You don't mind me asking but. .what's with all these ponies?" Zavier gave a gentle nod,"These are the citizens of this world. You've met their ruler back at the doors." Sora just paused and looked a bit lost,"Colorful, four legged ponies that can talk and have. . marks on their rears." Mych pffft! and had to cover his mouth lest he burst out laughing as he earned glares from the mane six.
Twilight, however just sighed and remarked,"They're cutie marks Mr. Sora. They represent our special talent. Every pony in Equestria earns one during their youth." He looked down and rubbed the back of his head,"Umm sorry about that. . Miss?" Mych groaned and shook his head,"Ooof. . .sorry guys. All of us caught up in this mess and we never introduced you two." He motioned to each pony,"The lavender unicorn is named Twilight Sparkle." She gave a light nod,"The other unicorn, the while one with the stylish mane, her name is Rarity." who nodded,"Charmed to meet you both Mr. Sora and Mr. Riku."
Mych continued,"The tanned pony with the Stetson hat is Applejack." she nodded,"Howdy." He then gestured,"The cyan pegasus with the rainbow mane is Rainbow Dash." who smirked and nodded with a light wave,"The timid shy pegasus by Rarity and Twilight, her name is Fluttershy." whom softly squeaked a "hello." "And the tired pink pony in Zavier's arms, her name is Pinkie Pie." The pink pony mumbled as she turned in Zavier's arms, though surprisingly managed to murmur a "Hi."
"Ya know. . gotta admit, even though this may sound bad comin from me. That's be the first time ah seen Pinkie Pie actually not jump round and mention parties." Applejack grinned softly. Her friends shhhhhhed! her before Rainbow Dash poked,"Jeez don't tempt fate here Applejack." The pony just adjusted her hat,"Ahm just sayin, it feels mighty strange without her bubbly personality roundin up the greetins." Riku approached Zavier who held the pony,"She alright? Looks a little banged up there." She nodded gently,"Pinkie had to battle her friends Nobodies. With some of my encouragement, she managed to get through to them. Wasn't easy Riku, but. . .I'm glad she pulled through."
Rarity tugged on his pants cuff,"Oh Mr. Riku..." "Riku is just fine, Rarity." She nodded,"Ah, well Riku. I've been meaning to ask. Are you the Riku and you,the Sora that Mych and Zavier here had spoken so much about?" The both looked to Mych who just smiled,"They needed some history and filling in on what was going on. So naturally you two came up during the conversation." Riku waved a hand,"So you told them everything." Mych idly waved a hand in return,"Look not to be blunt, but our appearance wasn't exactly by the rules that was deemed for the wielders. We came falling from the sky. Plucked up from the courtyard in front of the mansion and whisked over here. And since their ruler wanted to know, the damage was done."
Zavier motioned with a free hand,"The dark aura Symxachi and Nightmare Moon had also effected our ability to blend in. Case niether of you two boys noticed, your not ponies yourself when you came." Sora shook his head,"Pony Riku and pony Sora? So glad Kairi isn't here. For one she'd enjoy this place a little too much and second." He looked to Riku,"She'd have a fit of giggles at our appearance. Now, don't get me wrong I don't mind blending in with the locals, but. . bright colorful ponies with. . cutie marks. . its. . .its a little. . " "Girly?" Zavier remarked, earning a nod. "Comes with the job guys." Mych replied cheerily as he slapped them both on the back.
"I don't understand." All heads turned to Twilight who just stood there,"Don't. . understand what? Riku and Sora's means of travel, how they got here, Master Sid's means of getting them here?" Mych asked. The unicorn just shook her head,"Not those. . what he did to Nightmare Moon. We had them trapped, no escape, surrounded. Then he just grabs Nightmare Moon, vanishes from that spot only to reappear before the moon and then. . . . " she fell silent, unsure of what to say next,"Sacrificed her?" Zavier asked. As Pinkie Pie stirred again, the human looked down at the pink bundle,"Nobodies, while strong are not known for fair group play. He's desperate, Twilight. Determined to finish what he started and is not afraid to take even his most trusted followers and use them for his own means."
"That may sound true. As much as a problem Nightmare Moon had become. . .she. . .she didn't deserve that kind of fate."
"Her Fate shall be yours, one way or the other." The voice echoed around them, deep and foreboding. The pressure of the aura was felt by every pony and person, even waking Pinkie from her nap. As they steadied themselves, the ground shook beneath them as the sky began to change color and hue. Soon they found themselves standing before a wall of black mists, swirling, twisting pulling at itself. hungry and ravenous eager to consume all who held life and warmth within themselves. At the center, Symxachi appeared his back to them, both arms stretched on either side, palms out,"Nightmare was an admirable ally. . .but in the end, she was nothing more then an offering to the Darkness. A fail safe, should. . complications arise."
The shadow wall shuddered and convulsed, arms and limbs sticking out. The wall was not a wall, it was a writhing mass of Heartless, all hungry, all held in check from lunging at the group by the Nobody's presence,"Remarkable. . .the world's heart has begun to falter. Soon all shall be lost. . .and with it Kingdom Hearts itself." He turned finally, eyes narrowed on Sora and Riku,"The Traitor and Betrayer. . .you show your faces here?" Neither were amused with his comment as the two drew their Keyblades,"Can it, Symxachi. And spare us your little speech. You hear one Nobody's rambling, you hear them all." Sora remarked.
The Nobody gave the barest of nod,"As you wish." He vanished in a blink of an eye, Sora and Riku grunting as Symxachi re-appeared, driving his own dark Keyblades down upon them. The strikes shook the air around them and he vanished yet again. Mychi brought forth his and Zavier who barely managed to set Pinkie Pie down, drew hers just in time as he attacked them next. The Mane 6 scattered as Symxachi again, vanished and re-appeared in different locations, taking aim at each pony, their shocks and gasps of surprise were followed by missed swipes and metal striking the floor. All to quickly, he appeared in the center, head bowed, weapons out,"Reconsidering?" he asked in an amused tone.
Sora and Riku just gritted their teeth, Mych and Zavier copying their same facial expression and all four lunged. The Nobody barely drew a sigh and split into. . three. One intercepted the first, pair, the second aimed for the ponies, while the third kept Riku and Sora on their feet. None of them were letting, the first two hammering away at the Keybladers, while the third chased Twilight and her friends. It was only when they grouped up and she created a sort of barrier with Rarity's help, where the others able to catch a breather. They were helpless as they had no means of offense against the Nobody, the loud thrums of his weapons echoed off the shield while Twilight and Rarity struggled and strained against the blows raining down.
A grunt was heard, the copy Symxachi casting a glance over. Xavier and Mych had managed to strike one down, though it vanished in a poof of mist and smoke. Cold eyes stared down at the ponies, Fluttershy hiding behind an angry Pinkie Pie who glared right back before it vanished. Riku and Sora were having the hardest. Though the two copies faded, Symxachi was pressing on with his offense, the sounds of Keyblades rang in the air around them, along with the shimmering feel of the dark ones as they collided. Mych and Zavier gathered breath into their lungs, then rushed to join the fray, giving the mane six some breathing room.
The Nobody felt them coming from behind, shoving both his opponents back, the vanished once more. While Riku and Sora recovered, Symxachi appeared in the middle yet again,"Regretting I not boast and brag about a plan that has already revealed itself? Surely this can't be the limit of the great Sora and Riku? Truly you can do better then this." Sora just groaned and shook his head,"Great. First he mocks us, he taunts. uuugh. . .typical villain behavior. I swear these guys must follow some cheesy handbook for stuff like this." Riku just rubbed the bridge of his nose for a moment before pointing "Way of the Dawn" at the Nobody,"Your playing a dangerous game here, provoking your enemies when your clearly out numbered. Give yourself a break and make it easy. Give up on your feeble ideas and surrender."
"No more feeble then your attempts to grind the Darkness beneath your heels." Came the remark before he lunged at all four with speed and strength woven in his attacks. Four against one and yet when he struck, it felt like an army of Nobodies bore down upon them. The ground cracked beneath their feet as Sora, Riku, Mych and Zavier struggled under the blows once more, Symxachi's face showing little or no emotions at all as his copies once more surged for the two groups.
"Feeble attempts, Darkness shall conquer all, the Light is weak, you never change!" Zavier snarled and shoved back. Symkxachi grunted as she went on the offensive this time, whirling her Keyblade around before aiming the point,"Firaga!" He dodged and the spell cast struck the copy heckling the mane six. It burst into a plume of fire then vanished, leaving both Twilight and Rarity tired. The copies were hitting hard, draining their reserves with constantly focusing magic through the shield they had cast. Neither unicorn was sure just how much longer they could keep this up. While Applejack and Rainbow Dash helped them to their feet, they heard the loud clangs and looked over.
Zavier was fighting with renewed vigor, anger burning in her heart. Rage and fury guided her motions, constantly hammering the Nobody as he started to be driven back. She had thought him long defeated and Mych freed. Not to see this bastard still alive and once more again setting his dark plans into effort to wipe the world's of their hearts and cast every one in shadow. It was enough to make her blood boil that this. . creature still drew breath,"Come back a hundred times and I swear I'll just try even harder to wipe your dark smear off the face of ANY planet!" she screamed at him, orbs of frozen ice starting to circle around her. Gifted in the arts of magic, she had pushed herself beyond the usual knowledge all Keybladers learned when casting. This enabled her to tap into the arcanes more deeply and bring out more powerful spells. It was evident as she unleashed an Aero upon him, enveloping Symxachi in a wall of howling winds. The ice orbs shattered and stretched into frozen spears before being hurled into the center.
Ice shattered and broke like glass, howling gusts snatched up the broken pieces and continued to batter who ever was unfortunate to be caught in the middle of this. Panting, Zavier watches as the winds started to fade, seeing Symxachi crouch under a barrier. The wretch managed to throw one up. She clenched a fist and watches as he rose, brushing a thin red line on his cheek. He surveyed his own wound but remained silent. The shield faded, his stance changed and he merely eyes the human,"Come end me then. Save this world by attempting to snuff out my. . non existence." Before anyone or pony could react a barrier went up around the two, cutting them off from outside help. At the same time, that Heartless wall shuddered as many jumped out and leaped at both pony and Keyblader alike. Sora and Riku turned to face the incoming army, Mych leaped to defend Twilight and her friends from being over taken.
Zavier watched as her friends fought to stay whole, a soft low chuckle drew her attention to Symxachi,"Worry more of your own safety then theirs, child." She narrowed her eyes before shifting her stance. Then she struck again. Spinning her Keyblade in hand, she created three fiery orbs of fire then launched them at the Nobody. He parried and knocked them aside before deflecting her strike, forcing him back a few steps. There was no more talk, no more boasting. Only the determination of one human to finish what she started and end the Nobody before her, freeing her friend completely.
Outside the shielded dome, as the wave of Heartless attacked, it was split into two. Riku and Sora handled themselves well, countering every possible Heartless to emerge from that wall, using their abilities to the highest of their knowledge and held their ground. Watching the duo move with their Keyblades was enough to catch everyone's eye if they had the time tp spare to glance. Mych, with the assistance of Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Twilight and Rarity, helped beat back the tide aiming to swallow the mane six. It was strange that during the skirmish, Rarity along with the other ponies, struck up a conversation,"Your Zavier is certainly one tough mare. ." The unicorn tore apart two chunks of the floor beneath them, then with the aide of her magic, smashed a Soldier to a paper thin crease. She then showed off just how skilled she was with scissors as she 'sliced' the Heartless into ribbons.
"Mare? . .ooh, girl. . .uuuh yeah, she's tougher then most people give her credit for. . me included." Mych replied as he allowed Rainbow Dash to crouch, then used his arm as a launcher hurled her into a flurry of Red Sontas like a blue rainbow colored projectile. The cyan pony was more then content to bust a few flying Heartless in the process,"Ya mind answerin a question?" Applejack asked, as she delivered a harsh kick to a Large Armor and watched it bowl into a small group of Shadows sending them sprawling all over. "And what question would that be, Applejack?" he asked ducking a few lightning strikes from the Yellow Melodies,"Ya two coltfriend and girlfriend?" the country pony asked before Rarity could pop the question. That. . stunned Mych to the point were Rainbow Dash bounced off a Big Belly and caroomed into him, sending the two tumbling into a heap before stopping in front of Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy, the former of the two ponies who helped her friend up,"Applejack! Can't you see we're a little pre-occupied here?" Twilight called out as she created a shield and then countered with a magical blast of her own.
Mych mmfed and was being slapped into senses again by Rainbow Dash as she shook him,"You still with us? Applejack just asked if you two were coltfriend and marefriend." Senses cleared, the cheeks turned a soft pink before he quickly stammered,"Abda. . ..no!, no we're not dating or anything! just. .good buddy buddies." The cyan pegasus grinned and elbowed him,"Someone's got a cruuuuuush." Twilight groaned while the others just giggled, forcing Mych back on his feet,"It.. . its not like that! I mean sure, yeah I like her, but not LIKE her, like her. Sides don't think she's big on short tempers and when I get irritated it shows!" A pink hoof ruffled his hair as Pinkie Pie managed to somehow find a way to cling to his back,"Dawwwwwwwwwww we should totally throw a 'I like Zavier' party just for you!" He sighed then covered his face with a palm, before quickly throwing himself into another wave of Heartless just to distract his thoughts. Girls. . of all the times to start asking stuff like that. . .
While one battle was being raged outside the dome, inside Zavier stumbled a few steps back. Breathing hard as she caught her breath, angry eyes glanced over to Symxachi. The Nobody was showing some signs of weariness, but it was not showing on that stone mask of a face he bore. The ground they stood on was torn, broken, riveted with long rend, burned, caked in melting ice, and scorched from strike of lightning. Those cold steel eyes of his hardly shifted as they glanced around them,"They fight valiantly. Just like he did. But in the end, he was lost. I will correct what the Organization had failed to do and wipe out you mistakes once and for all."
"SHUT UP!"
Using Haste, Zavier lunged and brought her Keyblade down in an overhead strike, Symxachi blocking. He then side stepped and brought up his barrier, just as a Firaga ricochet off the shield, dispersing after it struck the dome. His low laugh was enough to send fresh anger burning in her chest as he idly regarded her,"Temper now. You should join Mych on those training lessons he learns.. you might learn a thing or two about. .control." He ducked a clean swipe, hearing the blade strike the dome. Before he could counter, her foot met his chest and he doubled back with a grunt. Zavier turned to face him again, eyes narrowed as she wiped the sweat from her brow,"Sora is right. . you damn Nobodies ramble on too much."
The Nobody merely cracked a smile. He reached out with one arm up, palm out towards her as though readying a Dark Flare. Instead he moved the arm to its left, fingers stretched. She watched as they were pointed beyond the dome, their target Mych. He was busy helping Pinkie Pie fight off a few Dusks that had snuck in during the fray as Fluttershy remained huddled beneath them. Symxachi eyes narrows as that smile evolved into a malice grin. Fingers grasping, Mych doubled over in pain and collapsed. There was no sound, but the ponies whirled to see him on his hands and knees, clutching his chest. The Dusk moved in and hammered him, sending the human to barrel into the pink pony and the cowering pegasus. They tumbled before a couple of Dragoons that phased into presence, Twilight shouting something before a barrier went up around her friends, just as the spears came thrusting downward their weapons scraping off the shield. Twilight strained as Rainbow Dash struggled to keep the Heartless off her, Rarity and Applejack backing up as well.
Fear mixed with fury showed on Zavier's face as she watched him, her hatred of the Nobody grew. Blinded, she threw herself at him once again, her scream was the only sound heard within the dome. He avoided her easily before rising his other hand up and clocked her on the back with the hilt of his Keyblade. She dropped to the ground, her own clattering before Symxachi swooped down and collared her. She struck at him with her fists which thumped softly against his cloaked arm before he unleashed a spell on her. Lightning arched through out her body, her cry of pain echoed before the Nobody flung her against the dome wall. Zavier collapsed hunched over as her limbs spazmed in pain from the attack. Tired eyes glanced over as Sora and Riku saw the situation on the other side, their eyes casting over to what was occurring inside.
Taking out the last of the Heartless that hounded them, the two hammered repeatedly at the barrier cast up, but to no avail. Even shouting at Zavier, trying to get her to arise proved futile. Symxachi merely regarded them as nothing before he snapped his fingers, two Twilight Thorns appeared behind the two. Their weight shook the ground, drawing their attention away from inside and on the threat. Riku cursed under his breath while Sora readied himself and the two quickly launched themselves at their attackers once more. A soft groan drew Symxachi's attention towards Zavier as she struggled to rise,"If your expecting me to feel remorse, pity, regret, or guilt. I lack a heart to portray these. Nor do I fill joy, pride, happiness. All I see are nuisences constantly getting in my way. Nothing more. You have all lost. The Elements will be mine again and you constant thorns will cease to trouble me."
A laugh. A weak laugh that sounded like it was insanity more then mocking, came from Zavier. Drawing out her Keyblade, she shambled towards him, ignoring the dull aches wracking her body. He shook his head with a sound of distain,"Persistent but effortless. Why continue? Your only drawing away what little time you have left on this planet." The human looked at him as she straightened herself,"Because. . . . " A puzzled expression gazed back at her,"I fight for my friends. And they fight for me. We fight as one, we fight our separate ways. But no matter how great the odds. No matter how dark the night will be. There is always a Light shining in the bleakest of skies. And that is something you can never smother."
Outside a great light filled the ponies. Twilight, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie and Applejack felt its warmth surround them, basking them in is presence,"The Elements!" The lavender unicorn gasped in amazement. The Nobodies screeched as the power blinded them, driving them back. The wall of Heartless quivered and groaned in terror as its warm caused it to shy away. Their necklaces appeared as did the Tiara upon Twilight's head, their power surging together. Then in a blink of an eye, the items vanished, the Light piercing the barrier which housed Symxachi and Zavier. The Nobody turned to feel the power surge by him, a hiss of anger and pain left his lips as he shielded his eyes. Zavier held out an arm, palm up as the Elements gathered. She could feel its power, its warmth, its radiance. It hummed like that of a Keyblade. . .
A Keyblade. . . .
Focusing, Zavier concentrated, gave this Light form and purpose, wrapped her fingers around a hilt as it took on a familiar shape. The light slowly faded, leaving Zavier standing there, wielding an entirely new Keyblade. Soundless groans, drew every ones attention as the two Twilight Thorns fell, Sora and Riku emerging. Both turned and were amazed to see Zavier holding a strange Keyblade. Glancing at this power, her eyes cast over to Symxachi, who stood there in a mixture of shock and. .dread. Grasping the new weapon, Zavier merely spoke,"The Elements of Harmony will not allow this. Kingdom Hearts will not allow you to corrupt it. As guardians, we will protect it at all costs from all threats!" She moved and was gone. With grace and the Elements humming in her hand, she struck Symxachi. He snarled and raised his own Keyblades in protection. Only to watch them shatter as the Element Keyblade broke them. She followed with a back hand slice and cut through him. His eyes widened as the Light speared his body with that one blow, the dome covering them shattered, its power fading. Stunned he stumbled back, his expression only that of pain and. .the realization, his own time had run out.
Zavier didn't give him a chance to react,"Twilight!" She called and the mane six appeared beside her. The human then turned over the Keyblade to them,"No!" came the Nobody's chocked reply.
"SORA!"
"RIKU" "MYCH"
"TWILIGHT" "APPLEJACK"
"RARITY" "FLUTTERSHY"
"PINKIE PIE" "RAINBOW DASH"
In unison they cried out,
"GIVE US STRENGTH!"
A symbol appeared beneath Symxachi and he found himself stuck to the floor. The Nobody struggled against this invisible binding but to no avail. Eyes watched as blinding Light enveloped the Keyblade wielders and the Bearers of Harmony. Then they struck. Symxachi arched as Mych hammered away at him with two blades, finishing him off with the cross strike. As he fell back, he met the fury of Sora and Riku's combination attack, the ending resulting in their Keyblades unleashing a blinding attack that shattered whatever defense he had. Zavier struck with her Elemental Fury leaving the Nobody collapsing on his hands and knees. Beaten eyes looked up as Twilight stood there with her friends, all giving a smile of triumph as the Element of Harmony Keyblade started to glow. He grunted but still could not move. Zavier rested her hand on the hilt, Mych covering hers, followed by Sora and Riku's. They added their Light to the Elements of Harmony and watched as a beam was cast from the Keyblade, striking Symxachi through the chest, his body free falling through the air.
"C. ..Cursed. . ..Keyblades. . ."
The wall of Heartless howled and then broke apart, the darkness retreating back from what ever corners it had crawled from. The Nobodies too had fled, the sight of their master lay beaten and broken on the ground before them. The mane six along with Sora, Riku, Zavier and Mych just looked at him. Zavier teetered and would have fallen, were it not for Mych holding her up concern on his face,"You alright there?" She smiled faintly with a slightest of nods,"I. . I'm fine. Just. . .bit worn out from all that juice we squeezed into the Elements." Sora and Riku both just grinned,"I'll say. . that's some pretty heavy stuff these ponies are packing there." There were a few laughs as well as Pinkie Pie leaping in the air,"Whohooo! Bad guys beaten, Equestria is saved! This totally calls for a party!!!!" Bouncing around, she went at one hundred words a second, babbling on about how this party was sure to top all the others they had, her friends just laughing at her usual antics. A soft tug on Mych's leg cuff drew his attention to the shy one, Fluttershy,"Umm excuse me. .but. . .umm.. I think that Nobody is gone. . "
They all looked up and found the body of Symxachi to be no more. Zavier looked up and to Mych,"You. . .feel any different?" He laid a hand upon his chest, then shook his head,"No.. nothing. . ." The look of sadness started to show, but he just shook his head,"Don't worry. . . he won't get far." Zavier just looked into those eyes,"How can you tell?"
"I can feel it."
- - - - - - - - - - - -
At the castle, on the highest tower, a lone alicorn stood vigilant, her eyes gazing up at Kingdom Hearts. Celestia felt the tide of battle the took place, felt the change within and knew Twilight along with her friends had saved Equestria. Already she could feel the ponies lost to the Darkness return, feel the heart of the world surge anew. She turned to leave and greet the heroes, when her eyes fell upon a prone figure laying on the ground before her. It gasped and shuddered, then started to crawl. . Symxachi. He struggled, using his arms to drag himself across the floor. His body was fading, small wisps of mists were drifting from his limbs. Eyes cast towards the door, the Nobody painfully crawled towards them. Until a regal hoof, bound in a shoe stepped in line of sight. Fading silver eyes looked up to find Celestia looking down.
"H. .how. . . .I. . had. .you. . .you were mine. . ." he croaked,"Because I am the Light of this world, of these ponies. I will not allow darkness to flood my heart, no matter how bad the choices I made back then effect my judgement. The one Sora and his friend Riku freed me with ease. A poor attempt on your part in trying to snuff me out completely..and my sister." He snarled at her, but all that came out was a wheezing breath. His hands tried to grasp her legs only to slip away as she pulled back,"I. .. am not. .beaten. . . I. . .will persist!" Celestia shook her head,"Pitiful creature. You lack a heart and thus lack the sense to realize the truth that blinded you, that you refused to accept." Symxachi looked up confused before she continued,"The heart is the source of all power, of all. . Light."
"No!. . I refuse to accept a miserable. . .thing that beats behind. . .a person chest!" he sneered through gritted teeth. He rose to his feet through pained effort and glared daggers at the alicorn. He tried to attack but his body was fading so fast, all he could muster was a feeble swipe of the hand. Celestia avoided this with ease, reared back and then lunged. Symxachi's eyes widened as a solid object was felt through his body. Looking down he could see her eyes glancing up as a base of a horn was noticed. He vaguely felt the tip jutting from his back before he drew in one last breath that came out in a ragged whisper.
Celestia released and watched him burn among the flames of mists and shards of light. And then Symxachi was no more.
Mych eyes widen and he drew a deep breath only to let it out in a loud exhale, drawing everyone's attention. Zavier, whom he had been helping walk with, glanced over as he stood there. His eyes. . they looked different. He felt different. .more alive. . lighter, as though a heavy burden was suddenly gone,"Mych?" she asked. He looked to her and then smiled,"I'm fine. . .I feel better. . .I feel. . . whole again."
Equestria had been saved. The heroes emerged from the path to Kingdom Hearts and found themselves on the balcony of the castle once more. Princess Celestia was waiting for them and not a moment too soon. With Symxachi's defeat, the place was starting to crumble, fading back into what ever dark abyss he had pulled the building materials from. With Twilight's help, the Keyblade wielders, along with the Mane six were teleported safetly away from the crumbling castle. They re-emerged on the other side of the chasm and once more, the ruins that housed the Elements stood proud once more. The once Eternal Night that covered the lands had also vanished, and the moon itself was whole once more. Ever cautious the party searched high and low for any presence of Nightmare Moon, but found none. All that was there was the Door to their world, closed and the keyhole awaiting to be sealed. Rather then close it themselves, Sora, Riku, Mych, and Zavier allowed Twilight and her friends to use the Element of Harmony Keyblade. With a beam of light, the hole was struck and a loud click! was heard. The door then vanished and a sense of calm and tranquility settled upon the lands once more. When the task was done the Keyblade vanished, splitting into six fragments. These pieces returned to their Bearers and the Elements were complete once more.
The coming days saw the rebuilding of Ponyville along with any of the major cities involved in the near disaster that took place. With the end of the Heartless and Nobodies, the ponies that vanished had started to re-appear. After hours of questioning, a conclusion had been reached that neither colt or filly had any re-collection in the events following up to their disappearances. This was marked and bookmarked in the files that were ever increasing as Princess Celestia kept tabs on any and all the events surrounding Kingdom Hearts. As for the gang, they spent the next few days up in Canterlot, recuperating from their adventure and battle. The time spent there was either relaxing, spent with Celestia and Luna as they gathered more information from the four wielders, or just taking daily strolls around the castle. Of course Pinkie Pie wanted to throw a huge party for their victory which everyone agreed to partake in. The night was spent with loud music, wild fun games and even a few pranks from Rainbow Dash. All in all, Sora and Riku enjoyed their stay, no matter how brief it was.
A private ceremony was held on the day of their departure. Due to the sensitivity of ponies learning about other "worlds", Celestia felt it best that it was kept hush hush as per agreement to the rules the Keybladers followed about interfering with the affairs of other worlds. In the throne room, Celestia congradulated Sora, Riku, Mych, Zavier for their brave deeds and their help in battling this rising threat. Twilight and her friends were also awarded for their help and part in assisting the wielders in defeating the darkness and saving their world. A final token of appreciation was shown in the form of a glass stained window, found in the hallway that led to where the Elements were locked away for safety. There Sora, Riku, Mych, and Zavier gazed upon the scene within the window: Four humans bearing resemblance to the four, with Keyblades raised to the sky, the mane six beneath them and the Elements of Harmony in the center. At the top was the huge moon shape of Kingdom Hearts itself, with the shadows of Symxachi being vanquished by the light that rose from all of them. Mych and Zavier felt humbled as did Sora and Riku to join the growing legends of their valor. Alas the time to depart came all too soon and it was hard for the mane six to see their friends leave.
Twilight had grown close to Zavier as the two enjoyed the talk of magic and its purposes over the days. Mych enjoyed the company of Rainbow Dash and Applejack due to their enjoyment of hard work and competitiveness. Sora seemed to enjoy Pinkie Pie and Rarity while Riku, surprisingly admired Fluttershy, knowing that despite her timid nature, she held great courage beneath.
"Will we ever see any of you again?" Twilight asked while everyone made their hugs and farewells,"I don't know. With your world sealed, traveling here may prove.. a little harder then the first time." Zavier replied. The unicorn sighed and the human smiled, knowing they were getting along so well,"Don't worry. We'll think of something, have faith in us, Twilight Sparkle." Mych was giving his good byes after a hearty hoof shake from Applejack (how he managed to keep his arm after that was beyond him.) And bumped knuckles to hoof with Rainbow Dash,"Its a shame you can't fly. I would have loved to show you Cloudsdale." the cyan pegasus said. He chuckled and rubbed the back of his head,"I doubt your fellow pegasi would be thrilled about some.. lumbering two legged creature running amuk all over." She gave a light shrug,"It was worth a try." Applejack tilted her head,"Ya'll come back now, ye hear? Got some great apples and sweet cider for ya to try back at the farm." Mych gave her a light salute,"We'll try Applejack, Pinkie Pie promise."
Sora was doing his best to stave off the constant questions Rarity kept peppering him about his attire, to which all he could tell her was three fairies had done his wardrobe,"But dear, surely you have other clothes then what your wearing just now? I mean you can't just wear the same thing over and over, every day?" He meekly smiled,"Miss Rarity I do change clothes, so there really is nothing to worry about, really." The unicorn sighed,"Well if you insist. .just know my boutique is always open to you all and that I would LOVE to make some wonderful designs for you." Pinkie Pie bounced softly,"Its a shame I didn't get to see your friend Kairi." she said a little saddened,"Oh don't worry Pinkie Pie. I'm sure she would have loved you. So bubbly and bouncy and constantly uplifting." She grinned,"Dawwwwwww your too nice mister spikey wikey haired Sora."
"So. .umm, this is good bye huh. It's a shame you. .couldn't stay longer. . it would have been nice to show you my animal friends. . that is if you wanted to, I don't mind." Riku just smiled as he gently patted Fluttershy's head, earning a soft eek from the winged pony,"Listen I promise, when I can make time, that with Sora and the others, we'll try to make a day and spend it with you and you friends ok?" She nodded and softly mumbled,"Ok."
Riku rose and joined up with the others. Princess Celestia and Luna were there to see them off,"Travel safe my friends and know you are welcomed here in Equestria. You have done so much for us that we are forever indebted to your deeds." The four bowed to the alicorns and then to the mane six. Sora and Riku produced two small gems, then motioned to Mych and Zavier,"Just clasp our shoulders and let the gems to the rest. We'll be back in Twilight town in no time." They nodded and laid their hands upon the two, Twilight and her friends giving their final farewells. They stepped back as the gems started to glow, bathing the four in a bright light. With a great flash and gentle hum, the magic swirled around the four and with a soft swoosh! they disappeared. .
- - - - - - - - - -
A week had passed since the four wielders had departed Equestria for home. Twilight and her friends were at the library, discussing their day. It mostly surrounded some friendly competition between Rainbow Dash and Applejack, over who could carry the most hay bales. Of course as usual despite the many rematches from the cyan pony, Applejack continued to come out on top,"How about best nine out of ten? C'mon Applejack, I can take ya again!" The pony just laughed and shook her head,"Ya never gonna give up are ya Rainbow Dash, not till ya beat me once." She smirked,"Don't you know it!" A knock at the door drew every pony's attention, Spike rushing to answer the door. A second of two later, he backed up,"Umm Twilight. . I think its for you." The lavender pony sighed and wondered what it could be as she approached. What she saw standing there pretty much left her stunned. There standing on the door mat was a white furred creature. It was no bigger then a bunny at most. It had strange tiny bat wings, a large round face with pointed ears like cat, whiskers and even a red nose. What was peculiar about this creature was this strange thin strand coming up from the center of its head and a furry orb at the end.
"Greetings kupo! Is this the residence of one Twilight Sparkle, kupo?" the little being asked,"U..umm yes, yes it is." The little creature flapped its wings and then entered, carrying a large brown package behind it. The rest of the ponies looked with odd faces as the being floated up to the table with ease and deposited the package,"Ahh your friends are here as well kupo. That makes my job all the more easier, kupopo." Fluttershy was the first to reach the small furred creature, her eyes large with awe,"Awwww arn't you a cute one. Umm. . may I ask what you are please?" she said. The creature looked to her and gave a light bob,"I'm a Moogle, kupo. We Moogles run shops and deliver packages between worlds, kupopo." The moogle drew out a clipboard and quill,"Please sign here." Twilight signed her name, then watched as the . .moogle head towards the door once more,"Thank you for your business! We look forward to serving you in the future. Good day, kupo!"
After it flew away, the mane six turned their gaze on the brown package it left,"Whose it from?" Rarity asked. Twilight levitated the item and drew it closer:
Deliver to:Twilight Sparkle and friends Ponyville Library, Equestria.
From:Mych and company Shopping District Twilight Town
"Its from Mych and his friends!" the unicorn exclaimed, drawing every pony around her,"Well don't just stand there silly! open it!" Pinkie Pie said, waving her front legs frantically. The brown paper was torn, revealing a dark oak box, that felt very cold to the touch. The unicorn opened it, soft white mists poured from the inside. A small note was attached to the lid:
Greetings from your fellow Keybladers
I know we didn't get to spend as much time as you had hoped as our duties had called us away. It was a shame too, cause Applejack kept going on about all the goodies she makes with her apples and, of course Pinkie Pie rambling on about all the sweets she wanted to try out. Enclosed is a little gift from us here at Twilight Town to you. A local delicacy that we've grown to love. We hope you enjoy it as well.
Sincerely
Mych and Zavier
P.S. Hope to see you all again soon.
They peered inside the box and found six blue ice cream bars lined up, surrounded by ice to keep it cold. They each took once and just peered at it till Pinkie Pie, of course took the first bite,"EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!" She startled every pony,"What in tarnation?!" Applejack uttered, nearly having a heart attack. The pink pony made a face,"Its really salty!!" The others got the same reaction save for Rarity,"Its salty indeed. . but my goodness its sweet as well like sweet cream." Each pony agreed that it was very salty, but very sweet combined together,"Say Twilight, did he say what this ice cream is?" the lavender pony peered in the box and found the words scratched in the bottom:
Sea Salt Ice Cream
To her majesty of Equestria, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna
I bid you greetings from my tower, hidden far away from Twilight Town. Allow me to make introductions. I am Master Yen Sid. My pupils simply refer to me as 'Master Sid.' I am writing in response to my pupils reports on what has transpired on your world. I am pleased to hear that your world has been saved and that a grave threat has been narrowly averted. I am surprised that these Elements of Harmony Mych and Zavier spoke of, held such great power and that your student along with her friends were nearly lost to the Darkness. I am also thankful that through Zavier's hard efforts, she was able to aide a Miss Pinkie Pie on freeing her friends. While it is still entirely unclear about what emotions remain in a Nobody, the valiant effort she had made in calling to her friends was most fortuitous. I understand that friendship plays a vital role in your subjects lives and that you, as their ruler encourage it. I believe that friendship indeed was a great aide as Zavier who considers herself a great friend to Mych, never gave up on him, even when he was lost to the Darkness. The steps she took to go above and beyond her duties, shows that even in the darkest of hours, a single Light burns bright. I hope we can work together to continue to preserve what is precious to us. Our friends.