> Quest For Equestria > by Skyguy626 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Chapter 01: Rainwalker > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- So a long ass time ago, in a galaxy far far away. There where two magic horses, together they controlled the cycle of day and night. Ruiling over the kingdom of Equestria. But the younger sister, who is way cooler than the older one but we will get to that later, gained an inferiority complex. Because nobody was ever awake during her half of the day, she was like "screw this! I'll make it night all the time!" and the other sister was like "Haha no!" and uses a bunch of MacGuffins, who will have NO relevance to the plot, to put her in time out on the moon for a thousand years. The older sister took full control and all ponies worshiped her, for fear of being locked away into something more degrading. That's my theory on it and I'm stick to it! Anyways, let's get this show on the road! In the skies above Equestria, a young man, not much older than sixteen lays face-down on a cloud. Yeah, he totally has no importance to the story. The boy slowly opens his amber colored eyes as he regains consciousness, sitting straight up as he gives out a yawn before noticing that he is sitting on a freaking cloud. "This is new." the boy said to himself as he scans his surroundings, but as he looks around he notice he's missing something. "Wait, where are my friends?" raises to his feet. "McGrath! Griffifth! Phoenix! Sutakira! Anyone!?" shouted the boy not noticing someone is flying up behind him. "Are you okay, mister?" a female voice asked. The boy turned around to see who the voice belonged to, and to his shock it was a blue winged horse with a mane including all the colors of the rainbow. The young man rubbed the back of his head, "...Now I have seen everything. A blue horse, with rainbow mane and the ability to talk... AWESOME!". The pony tilted her head a bit as she studied him. "Actually I'm a Pegasus .", she corrected him. The young man stroked his chin "Interesting... But your a talking horse!" the boy replied with some glee hiding in his voice. "Your new around here aren't you?" she said as she landed next to him. The boy crossed his arms, as he took a look around before turning back to her. "I'm not even sure were I am." "Your in Ponyville, the perfect place for Earth ponies, Pegasus and Unicorns." the pony answered. Uncrossing his arms the boy replied, "I see... Oh I haven't introduced myself. My name is Skywalker, Jason Skywalker. Whats your name?" The pony gave a cocky smirk, "I am Rainbow Dash, the one and only! Not only am I the fastest flyer in all of Equestria, but I practically sweat coolness." "Oh, have you seen any of my friends?" Skywalker asked. Rainbow Dash falls back on the cloud before replying "Can't say that I have." Skywalker dropped his head in disappointment before looking up again "That's too bad." thinking about what do to next, he jumps off the cloud, making Rainbow look shocked as she looks over the cloud and sees Skywalker standing unharmed on the ground. "Thanks anyways! I'm going to check out Ponyville! See you around, Rainbow!", Skywalker shouted to her before running off, leaving a trail of dust behind him. Rainbow Dash looked on with an open jaw, quickly regaining her composure she flies after Skywalker. No two Worlds are the same... Neither are two people. Now enjoy this odd mix. > Chapter 02: Mcity & Applenix > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Meanwhile, in Ponyville, another young man wakens on a roof, his emerald green eyes with cat pupils scan the surroundings. "What kinda of village is this? It's all colorful and fluffy and cute, just like home. I hate it already!" looks around himself and notice his friend are gone. "Great. Were are the dumbasses now?" jumps off the roof and head towards the largest building in town. As he enters the main hall, which is being decorated for an celebration of sorts. He notice a white unicorn with purple mane, putting up the decorations with some sort of magic. "Great, a Pokémon... Now to find someone I can talk to." the young man snarked as he started to look around. "Just a moment, please. I'm 'in the zone' as it were." the white unicorn answered. The young man looked with a shocked expression on his face "It can talk!?" thinking to himself. The white unicorn using her magic to move more decorations around as she mumbles to her self "Oh, yes. Sparkle always does the trick, does it not? Why, Rarity, you are a talent." places the finishing touches on the decorations, which look fabulous if I may say so myself, she turn around to greet the young man. "Now, how can I help youuuuaAARGH!" her mouth drops opens as she gazes upon the young man. "Are you okay?" the young man asked annoyed. The white unicorn ignored his question and instead started to rant "Oh my stars. Darling, what ever happened to your coiffure?" The young man stroked his hair before replying "Oh, you mean my overly spiky hair? Well, it's a long story, which involves my escape from my mothers womb. I just need to ask you something and then I'll be out of your hair." The white places an hoof over her mouth "Out of my hair? What about your hair?" runs around the young man as she start to push him into another room. The young man started to struggle "Wait, where are we going? Help!" A little later, in a dressing room. The White unicorn succeeded to push the young man into a chair and force him into a make over. As the white unicorn tried different styles on his hair, with the young man growing more annoyed by the minute. "No. No. Uh-uh. Too green. Too yellow. Too poofy. Not poofy enough. Too frilly. Too shiny. Now go on, my dear. You were telling me who you are and where you're from." asked the white unicorn as she sized up his upper spikes, with magical measuring tape. "My name is McGrath and I'm from... from Twiy Town." the young man answered annoyed as he tried to fight off another different measuring tape. The white unicorn smiled from ear to ear "Huh? Twiy Town? Oh, I am so envious. The glamour, the sophistication. I have always dreamed of going there. I can't wait to hear all about it. We are gonna be the best of friends, you and I. My name is Rarity by the way." "That's great, now to answer my other questions..." McGrath tried to ask but Rarity ignored him as she cuts him off "Rubies? What was I thinking? Let me get you some emerald, they'll fit perfectly with your eyes." as she leaves the room in a gallop. McGrath thinking to himself "Quick, before she decides to dye my hair a new color!" rips of the apron standing up and racing to the door. Meanwhile, in the outskirts of town. Another young man has crash landed into the ground. He wakes up with his face still in the dirt "It's a good thing I'm Kyle Phoenix... Or that might have hurt me." stands back up and takes a quick look at his surrounding, the first thing he notice is that everything is more colorful and cuter. "Either I'm in a World filled with talking ponies owned by a toy company or I'm in hell. And knowing my luck..." Phoenix said to himself before noticing an orange pony kicking an apple tree as she mad an loud "YEE-HAW!" Phoenix pinched the bridge of his nose "What did I say?." walks over to the orange pony putting up his most charming smile. Phoenix extended his hand as a sign of greeting "Good afternoon, I think. My name is Kyle Phoenix..." is suddenly interrupted as the orange pony wildly shakes his hand with her hoof. The orange pony cheerfully replied "Well, howdy-do, Mister Phoenix. A pleasure making your acquaintance. I'm Applejack. But everybody calls me AJ. We here at Sweet Apple Acres sure do like making new friends." lets go of his hand which still shakes. Phoenix holds his hand still as he asked confused "Friends? Actually, I..." Applejack interrupted him again "So, what can I do you for?" looks at him with a big smile. Phoenix cleared his throat before continuing "Ahem... Well, I just arrive from a other World with four others. Do you have any idea where they are?... Or where I am would also help..." Applejack picked up an apple and took a bite out of it "Well you are in Ponyville, but I have no idea where your friends might be. They might be at the Summer Sun Celebration. I'm in charge of the food." "You're in charge of the food?" Phoenix asked Applejack pets her chest proudly "We sure as sugar are. Would you care to sample some?" Phoenix shook his shoulders "Well, As long as it doesn't take too long." Applejack quickly tringled a Triangle before shouting "Soup's on, everybody! Now, why don't I introduce ya to the Apple family?" A large group of multi colored ponies arrived all holding different kinds of food. There's some apple pie, candy apple, all sorts of apple snacks... And now I'm hungry for some apples. Phoenix started to become slightly afraid "Thanks, but I really need to hurry..." tries to move towards the gate, but Applejack pushes him towards each family member as she called their names. "This here's Apple Fritter, Apple Bumpkin, Red Gala, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Caramel Apple, Apple Strudel, Apple Tart, Baked Apple, Apple Brioche, Apple Cinnamon Crisp, Big Macintosh, Apple Bloom, aaaand Granny Smith. Up and at 'em Granny Smith, we got a guest." shouts at an older pony with green coat and gray manes. Granny Smith woke up in her chair "Wha? Soup's on, I'm ah, here I come, ah coming..." very slowly walks towards them. "That's one big family..." Phoenix looked at them in shock. Applejack petted him on the back "Why, I'd say you're already part of the family." giving him another smile. Phoenix laughs nervously as he takes a step back "Okay, well, I don't want to be a burden. So I'll be on my way." tries again to leave but a small yellow pony with red manes and a big bow in her hair looks up to him with big orange eyes. Phoenix looks back at her as she ask him "Aren't you gonna stay for brunch?" Phoenix feeling a little guilty scratches the back of his head: "Sorry, but my friends can't do anything without me. They probably get them self killed... or worse." Apple family gave a collective "Awww..." Phoenix relents "Fine. I can't say no to free food anyways." crosses his arms as the entire Apple family responds with a collective cheer. > Chapter 03: Party Before The Storm > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Meanwhile, close to the forest, ANOTHER young man wakes up in a tree, in his shock he falls out of it, hitting multiple branches on the way down. The young man lands on his back, knocking the wind out of him. Rolling over to his front while muttering "I think I might have hurt something..." stands up and hears birds chirping, but not just any random chirping like you hear normally, but chirping like a chorus. It sounds lovely. The young man walks closer to the source as he sees a yellow pony with pink mane and wings directing the birds to chirp like that. "Oh my. Um, stop, please, everyone." the yellow pony interrupts before turning to one of the birds "Um, excuse me, sir. I mean no offense, but your rhythm is just a teeny tiny bit off." the bird that chirped off gave her a nod, letting her know that it understood. "Now, follow me, please. A one. A two. A one-two-three..." the yellow pony begins before being interrupted by the young man. "Hello!" the bird fly away and scary the yellow pony. The young man shakes his hand realizing his mistake "Oh my. I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to frighten your birds. I'm just here to look for my friends and then I heard the birds and it's sounding beautiful. I'm Toshiyuki Sutakira. What's your name?" The yellow mare looked at the ground before mumbling "Um... I'm Fluttershy." Sutakira tilted his head as he crossed his arms "I'm sorry, what was that?" Fluttershy became even more nervous and said with even a quieter mumble "Uh... My name is um Fluttershy." Sutakira scratches the back of his head "Didn't quite catch that." Fluttershy with a very small and squeaky voice "Fluttershy." Believe me, that was nearly impossible to hear, even for me. And I'm the narrator! Though it was super cute. Sutakira raised an eye brow before slowly replying "Well, um, I leave you to what you where doing. Keep up the good work." gives her a thumbs up. Fluttershy looks at the ground replying with a very squeaky voice "You've very welcome." got an sudden realization at what this strange creature might be "Oh wait, your a human!" Sutakira stops in his tracks as he turns around to answer her "Yes I'm a human. What did you thought I was?" Fluttershy looked at the ground before turning back at him "A hairless monkey." "What!?" Sutakira was a little stunned by her remarks. Fluttershy flies up to him, studying him. "Oh, I've never seen a Human before. Your so cute. I... I just don't even know what to say." Sutakira waved his hand "Okay, lets just start over. Hi, I'm Sutakira. Whats your name?" Fluttershy with a little smile "Hi, Sutakira. My name is Fluttershy. Wow, what do humans talk about?" "All sorts of things. What do you wanna know?" Sutakira gave her a kind smile, indicating her to keep talking. Fluttershy enthusiastically replied with "Absolutely everything!" "Well, I started out as a cute little baby human..." Sutakira started his story. A chariot is pulled across the skies by two pegasi guards. In the chariot a lavender unicorn with purple mane's is accompanied by a very big purple lizard thing... That's a dragon? No way! It doesn't have wings! It can't be a dragon! The unicorn looks grumpily over the edge of her chariot groaning, sounds like a girl you'll want to hang out with. The purple dragon looks up at her, giving her an smile "Look on the bright side, Twilight. The princess arranged for you to stay in a library. Doesn't that make you happy?" The unicorn raised in excitement "Yes! Yes it does. You know why? Because I'm right. I'll check on the preparations as fast as I can, then get to the library and find some proof of Nightmare Moon's return." "Then when will you make friends, like the Princess said?" the dragon questioned her. The unicorn gave a huff before answering "She said to check on preparations. I am her student and I'll do my royal duty, but the fate of Equestria does not rest on me making friends." I can already smell the irony. Irony smells like chicken. As the chariot landed in Ponyville, the unicorn and her dragon walk around town before the unicorn continued "If Nightmare Moon reappears the only way to stop her is using the Elements Of Harmony." The dragon looked at her questionably "The Helements of Armony? What are..." he trails off as he sees Skywalker walks past them looking around and ignoring the stare's the town's people are giving him. The purple dragon responded in shock "What in Celestia's Sun is that!?" Skywalker turns around to look directly at him "Are you talking about me?" walks up to them. The purple looks scared at him before the unicorn stands between them. "Ah, Twilight Sparkle!" Skywalker smiled at her. Twilight Sparkle gave him a suspicous look "How do you know my name? Who... What are you?" Skywalker tilted his head "Well there is this pink pony who asked me to look for a unicorn pony with violet eyes, manes with the colors dark indigo, purple and pink with a lavender coat and a baby dragon with her and bring them to the tree library thing. My name is Skywalker by the way. And as for your other question, I'm a human." Twilight Sparkle relaxed a bit "Alright, but how did you know my name. You should only know how I look." Skywalker pointed at her suit case "Your names is writing on your suite case." Twilight Sparkle quickly looked at her suit case before turning back to him "Oh right. This is Spike by the way." Spike looked nervously at him. "Nice to meet you, Spike. I have a feeling you and I are going to be great friends!" Skywalker gave him a kind smile. "Anyways, let's go to the library!" As they walk, Twilight Sparkle asked Skywalker various questions before arriving at the Library Tree. Skywalker points at the Library "Here we are, Golden Oak Library. Home, sweet... Library." Twilight Sparkle walks past him and opening the door as Skywalker and Spike follows her. "You must enjoy reading." Skywalker tried to strike up an conversation but Twilight interrupts him "Sorry, Skywalker, but I have to convince the Princess that Nightmare Moon is coming and we're running out of time. I just need to be alone so I can study. Now where's the light?" Someone flips on the light as nearly everybody in town is there and yells "SURPRISE!". Twilight groans as a pink earth pony with pink mane bounces in front of her "Surprise! Hi. I'm Pinkie Pie and I threw this party with Griff Griff just for you." Pinkie Pie said with one of the biggest smiles every on her face. Skywalker tilts his head and raises his eyebrow "Griff Griff?" A young man with a soda can apears next to him "That's what she calls me." the young man called Griffifth said taking a sip from his soda. Pinkie Pie bounces in front of Twilight continuing her questioning "Were you surprised, were you, were you? Huh huh huh?" Twilight Sparkle forcing a smile "Very surprised. Libraries are supposed to be quiet." a little annoyed by the energetic pony. "That's stupid. What kind of welcome party would this be if it were quiet?" Griffifth responded dryly taking another sip. Pinkie gave a big nod while speaking very fast "I know, duh, bo-ring. I heard you were moving to Ponyville today, and that means your new, and if you're new, then it meant you haven't met anyone yet, and if you haven't met anyone yet, you must not have any friends, and if you don't have any friends then you must be lonely, and that made me so sad, and I had an idea, and that I'll just throw a great big ginormous super-duper spectacular welcome party and invite everyone in Ponyville. See? And now you have lots and lots of friends." Skywalker's mouth droped open at the sheer speed she said that "She said all of that in one go..." Meanwhile on the moon... A dark pony with a black coat and manes that look like mist floating as if held by the wind, which is weird seeing as there is no air on the moon. "At last we will reveal ourselves. At last I will have my revenge." the dark pony stated to a being dressed in a black cloak, his hood hiding his face. "You have been well trained, my young apprentice. They will be no match for you. Now go, and deliver Equestria to me." Unknown responded, conjuring a dark blue flame, releasing the dark pony from her the binding that held her on the moon. Back on the planet, the party is still going strong in the library, but Twilight has retreated to her bed room. Skywalker tried to get her come down but to no avail. The other guys, meanwhile have introduced them self's to the other ponies and have started to mingle. Skywalker walks to the snack table, taking a soda can. As he opens it he notice Fluttershy staring at him. "Oh, We haven't been introduced yet, I'm Skywalker, Jason Skywalker. Your... Fluttershy right?" gave her a warm smile, but Fluttershy just keep staring at him, making Skywalker a little uncomfortable. Phoenix comes running up at them "Guys! There gonna raise the sun or some shit! Let's go and watch!" > Chapter 04: Nightmare Moon Rises > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- At that Summer Sun Celebration crap. The city hall is filled with excited ponies. Pinkie Pie bounces around Griffifth "Isn't this exciting? Are you excited, 'cause I'm excited." she asked him energetically. Griffith rolled his eyes "Yes I'am excited, I've never been so excited." he responded deadpan. The chatter quite down as an earth pony with gray mane and a light brownish coat entered the stage. "Fillies, gentle colts and human guests, as mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration." she declared as the crow cheered. Waiting for the crowd to calm down a little, she continued "In just a few moments our town will witness the magic of the sunrise, and celebrate this, the longest day of the year. And now, it is my great honor to introduce to you the ruler of our land, the very pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, the bringer of harmony to all of Equestria, Princess Celestia!" The spot lights shined on the curtains, the bird started to sing there chores, but as the curtains pulled away, nobody is standing there. The crowd gasps, confused by whats happening. Twilight looked up towards the moon "This can't be good." just as she finish saying that, a powerful wind blows through city hall, lightning is heard outside as purple smoke filled. The purple smoke starts to take the shape of a dark pony with both wings and a horn, her mane flowing as if held by magic... which makes sense now. Skywalker raises his eye brows "Definitely not good..." Twilight realizes who it is as she mutters under her breath "Oh no. Nightmare Moon!" Nightmare Moon took one look through the hall, taking in the terror on the ponies little faces "Oh, my beloved subjects. It's been so long since I've seen your precious little sun-loving faces." Skywalker clenches his fist as he makes his way to the front of the crowd "What did you do with the Princess?" he demanded to know, readying himself for combat. Nightmare Moon looked down at who dared to speak to her that, giving Skywalker a confused look before her expression before turning back to her smug self "You... No... It can't be... Am I not royal enough for you? Don't you know who I am!?" Skywalker looked back at her defiantly "You can be Queen Meanie for all I care! Where is the princess!" he demanded from her again. Nightmare Moons expression became even more angry as she continues "Does my crown no longer count, now that I have been imprisoned for a thousand years?" "For a over thousand years old pony, you still looks pretty good." Skywalker responded, taking Nightmare Moon aback with his comment. "Yes... Well... Thank you, human. You don't look bad yourself." She responded with a slightly less angrier voice before going right back to her monologue "Did you not recall the legend? Did you not see the signs?" Twilight stepped forwards taking a spot next to Skywalker "I did, and I know who you are. You're the Mare in the Moon. Nightmare Moon!" Nightmare Moon chuckled "Well well well, somebody who remembers me. Then you also know why I'm here." give Twilight a smug smile, as she tried to remember why Nightmare Moon would be here. Twilight Sparkle gasped at the realization "You're here to... to..." Nightmare Moon laugh manically, thunder crashing in the background "Remember this day, little ponies, for it was your last. From this moment forth, the night will last forever!" breaks down in an evil laugh. "So the late night after party will go on forever... Sweet!" McGrath responded at her statement. "Seize her! Only she knows where the Princess is!" Mayor Mare ordered the guards as they approach Nightmare Moon. "Yea! Seize the evil pony who can teleport and probably knows black magic and stuff! That's a good idea!" Griffifth rolled his eyes. Nightmare Moon hissed angrily as she surrounds her self in blue flames "Stand back, you foals!" transforms back into purple smoke as she quickly flies away. Phoenix raised an eyebrow "We're fighting Maleficent now?" notice that Skywalker has run after her. Outside, Skywalker angrily shakes his fist in the air "Come back here! Come back and fight coward!" he shouts as he gazes towards the sky "Night time? Forever?... No! There must be something I can do..." spot Twilight rushing out of the City Hall and heading towards Golden Oak Library. A little later, at the Library, Twilight rushes in with a exhausted Spike on her back. "Uh... We gotta stop Nightmare!..." Spike said exhausted as Twilight uses her magic to levitate him into a basket and pulls a blanket over him. "You've been up all night, Spike. You are a baby dragon after all." Twilight responded. As Spike fell asleep, Twilight started to search for a book about the Elements of Harmony "Elements, elements, elements... Ugh! How can I stop the Nightmare Moon without the Elements of Harmony?" doesn't seem to find it. Sucks to be her. Suddenly the door bust open, startling Twilight as Rainbow Dash barges and directly started to question Twilight "And just what are the Elements of Harmony? And how did you know about Nightmare Moon, huh? Are you a spy? Whoa!" get pulled back by Applejack. "Simmer down, Sally. She ain't no spy. But she sure knows what's going on. Don't you, Twilight?" Applejack asked with a calm tone to her voice. Griffifth placed a finger on his chin "I didn't knew her name was Sally." McGrath pinched the bridge of his nose before responding "Its a figure of speech, dumbass!" Griffith flashed him a glare "Don't call me a dumbass!" McGrath gave him a similar glare back "Don't tell me what to do... Dumbass!" he said the last word with extra volume, increasing Griffifth's anger. Pinkie Pie got between the two as she stared at McGrath "Don't yell at Griff Griff!" she said getting in McGrath's face. Before McGrath could respond Rarity got between them and gave Pinkie an odd look "Don't yell at McGrath, Pinkie Pie. Griffith started it." McGrath was taken aback by her sudden support "Thank you... Rarity." Skywalker, Rainbow and Twilight look on as they continue to bicker. Rainbow leans towards Skywalker "Do they do this often?" she asked in a whisper. "Well, there rather mild today. Normally they are already shooting fire balls around the room." Skywalker responded causally before continuing "Hey! Aren't we supposed to find a way to stop Nightmare Moon or something along those lines!" Skywalker shouted to the bickering group, making them shut up at last. Twilight looked up "Oh right, I almost forgot why where here. I read all about the prediction of Nightmare Moon. Some mysterious objects called the Elements of Harmony are the only things that can stop her, but I don't know what they are, where to find them, I don't even know what they do!" Twilight explained as the rest started to ponder. Skywalker tapped his chin, deeply in thought as he mumble to himself "Where could we possible find information..." Pinkie cuts him off as she looks up the bookshelf "The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide For Fools." Everybody turned their heads towards her "How did you find that!?" McGrath asked her before she cut him off "It was under 'E'!" she replied with a sing-song voice. Twilight takes the guide off the shelf and starts to flip through the pages "Oh. There are seven Elements of Harmony, but only five are known: Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Honesty, and Loyalty." "Skywalker!" McGrath shouted out of no where and giving him a smirk. "What!?" Skywalker responded, wondering why McGrath started to shout his name all of a sudden. "Ah come on! You are Loyalty's avatar! Heck, you'r the embodiment of the Elements! Goody Two Shoe." McGrath said, but before Skywalker could give him a retort Rainbow cut in "Don't talk to Skywalker like that! He's more pony than you will ever be!" Skywalker smiled at her remark "Thanks Rainbow!... I think." wondering if she meant that 'more pony' part as a complement. Twilight cleared her throat before continuing "Yes... Okay. The sixth and seventh are a complete mystery. It is said, the last known location of the first five elements was in the ancient castle of the royal pony sisters. It is located in what is now..." A little while later, they arrive in front of the Everfree Forest. "The Everfree Forest!" everybody exclaimed in surprised. "How did we know that name?" Phoenix asked McGrath. Giving him an anoyed look McGrath responded "How am I supposed to know!". Phoenix shook his shoulders "I don't know. Aren't you supposed to be a super-genius!" before McGrath could replay Skywalker cut in to break up their bickering "If you guys don't stop fighting, I'm going to fry you all to a crisp." this made Phoenix and McGrath shut up, as they walk towards the forest. "That's pretty dark." Rainbow responded to Skywalker's threat. "Sometimes it's needed." Skywalker answered with mild indiffrence, "Hey, Rainbow! First who makes it into the forest!" dashes to the forest. "No fair! You got a head start!" chases after him. Griffith pumps his fist "What are we waiting for?" readies himself to follow the rest. Twilight steps in front of them, stopping them in their track "Not so fast. Look, I appreciate the offer, but I'd really rather do this on my own." Everybody laughs at her remark as Applejack continued "No can do, sugar cube. We sure ain't letting any friend of ours go into that creepy place alone. We're sticking to you like caramel on a candy apple." runs after the rest as Twilight couldn't help but give a little smile at her remark. Pinkie Pie leans towards Twilight "Especially if there's candy apples in there." Twilight gave her a weird look at her remark. Griffith chipped in "Those things are good." As they start making their way towards the castle, McGrath proposes a game "Wanna play, guess the Musical?" Skywalker responded "Sure, not that we have anything better to do." > Chapter 05: Trials Part 1 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The heroes walk through the dark forest, with only the light of the moon giving them some sight on the dark path. Which is kinda ironic really. All seems quite, almost too quite one would say until a shout breaks the silence... "What do you mean Star Wars!?" McGrath shouted as the rest of the party stopped walking. "You imitated a lightsaber!" Skywalker responded, defending his weird answer. McGrath placed his hand on his face "Star Wars is not even a musical!" he shouted annoyed. Twilight looked around giving a sigh. "Something wrong, Archmage?" Phoenix asked worried. "We can take a break if you want." Twilight shook her head "No thanks. So none of you have been in here before?" Rarity responded in shock "Heavens no! Just look at it... it's dreadful!" trying her very best not to faint. "And it ain't natural. Folk say it don't work the same as Equestria." Applejack continued as she looked towards some trees. "What's that supposed to mean?" Sutakira asked curios as to why this place is different. Rainbow grew a mischievous smile: "Nobody knows. You know why?" Phoenix rolled his eyes "If we know we wouldn't be asking, Rainbro." Rainbow Dash continued as she slowly build up "Cause every pony who's ever come in, has never come OUT." tries to jump scare the others, some flinch, like Fluttershy. Skywalker looked over the group before turning to the path ahead "Well there is a first for everything." continued to walk. Rainbow flied after Skywalker "Say Jason, I have a question." keeps hoovering in front of him. "Go right ahead, Dashie." Skywalker gave her a smirk, annoying her with that little nickname as she annoyed him by calling by his first name. "Right... Anyways, I have been wondering, why are you capable of surviving a big ass fall from a cloud and run at mach-1 speed." Rainbow asked as he stared towards the sky. A few seconds go by before Skywalker starts to speak "Its because of my super powers. My cellular structure is much more dense, resilient, and biologically more effective than that of normal humans. I'm capable of absorbing solar rays to fuel my cells, which function like a super battery, to use certain abilities, like super speed for example." Rainbow digested the information as she turned to the other guys "So, do you have super powers too?" McGrath closes his eyes opening them as he begins to speak "If were gonna talk about our super powers. I'm naturally able to tap into the arcane powers and utilize Chaos Energy to empower myself and use a wide variety of energy bases abilities. For exemple, I can use my Chaos Power to warp space and time around myself to my will, such as slowing down time or teleporting various distances." he finished, as the girls take in the information. They turn to Griffifth, who looks up "What?" as Griffifth he realize what they were talking about "Oh, right. My power allow me to manipulated my biomass at will. I can absorbs the organic matter of other living creatures, converting it into more biomass. By doing so, I'm capable of absorbing said creatures knowledge, skills, and even their physical form. I can also manipulate my physical form to create weapons." he finished looking away. "What about you Phoenix?" Applejack asked him. Phoenix gave a big grin "My names says it all. I have all the powers of the mystical bird. Pyrokenisis, flight, healing factor, its difficult being sad or angry around me. I'm just that good" he concluded, as Twilight asked "So... Does your tears have healing properties?" The smug smile faded from his face for a second before it creeps back on his face "No idea. I don't cry." he said crossing his arm. "Lion King." McGrath stated. Twilight turned her head to look at him "What?" McGrath looked at her "He cries during the Lion King. It's a movie." turns his head back to look in front of him. You know which scene Phoenix has to cry about. Before McGrath and Phoenix can get into another argument, Sutakira spoke up "Well my powers are..." suddenly the earth under them starts to shake and crumble from under them. "Oh snap! Sauron has turn the mountains against us!" Skywalker said as they fall off the cliff. "Skywalker, you nerd!" McGrath shouted in anger. Phoenix using his power of flight starts to hover just as Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy, Sutakira surrounded himself with blue light and creating a gigantic blue baseball glove. Rainbow catching on to his plan "Phoenix! Fluttershy! Quick!" as the trio started fly after their friends, catching them one by one and placing them into the hard light baseball glove. Phoenix counting his friends "I think we're missing two..." notice Twilight hanging from the edge of the cliff, with Applejack trying to pull her up. Phoenix quickly lands next to her trying to help. "Ready? Pull!" Phoenix shouted to Applejack, but Twilight is too heavy too pull up. "Damn it! I should have worked out more!" Phoenix lamented to himself. "AJ? Phoenix? What do I do?" Twilight ask them desperately. Applejack started too think before coming to the only conclusion "Let go." Twilight eyes go wide "Do you think I'm an idiot?" she shouted at AJ weird plan. Phoenix looked at AJ in disbelief before getting her plan "Best not to answer that. No she ain't and neither am I! I promise you'll be safe!" "That's not true!" Twilight said desperately. Applejack shook her head "Now listen here. What I'm saying to you is the honest truth. Let go, and you'll be safe." Twilight took a deep breath and lets go. She falls for a few seconds before Phoenix catches her, placing her gently on the ground. "Wow, your heavy you know." he laughed, patting her on the head. Making sure everybody is okay, they return on their way. Not noticing that a certain purple mist observes them. The purple mist flies through the forest as it approaches a animal. Full of confidence, the heroes keeping making their way towards the castle. "And once Pinkie and Rarity were saved, Whoosh... Phoenix loop-de-loop around and WHAM! Caught you a right in the nick of time." Rainbow recounted what just happened not ten minutes ago. "Yes, Rainbow, I was there, and I'm very grateful." Twilight said with a faint smile. Phoenix turned around to face her "Not a problem, Archmage." he turns to Sutakira giving him a look. "What?" Sutakira asked, wondering what Phoenix would want. "Well... We all have told about our super powers. Except you." Phoenix stated. "Oh right. As you may have seen, I am capable of harnessing the power of hard light." Sutakira started "Though I haven't tried to make things bigger than a large boat. The hard light allows me to manipulation of anti-gravitons, thus allowing me to fly." "That sounds... pretty cool." Twilight said before turning back to the road "Let's just hope that was the worse on our way." McGrath lowerd his head before saying "Please, we are traveling with Skywalker. He seems to be in love with trouble." Skywalker turned to face him "I don't go looking for trouble." McGrath raised his head before responding "Maybe, but it always finds you." their bickering is interrupted by a loud roar, coming further down the road. The look further down the road, they see something that could best be described as a beast with a lions body, two small bat wings on his back and the tail is that of a scorpion. Everybody gave a gasp before shouting "A manticore!" Almost everybody takes a fighting stance, all but Fluttershy. "We've gotta get past him!" Twilight said. Skywalker cracks his knuckles "You don't say? This should be fun!" charges some lightning in his fists. Griffith let out three small metal claws coming out of both his hands. All of them charge towards the manticore, Rarity gets in his face, "Take this, you ruffian!" giving a kick to its jaw with her hid legs. The Manticore leads out a powerful roar, as he sweeps with his tail. Sending both Rarity and Phoenix crashing into a rock. Applejack jumps on its back and starts riding it like a rodeo bull. "YEE-HAW! Get along, little doggie." she shouted. Just after she said that, she gets violently thrown off the Manticore. Before she could it a tree, Skywalker catches her and puts her down on the ground. Applejack flexed her shoulder "All yours, partners." she said to the remaining fighters. "Where on it." Skywalker replied as he Rainbow Dash, Griffith and McGrath charge at the Manticore. "Wait!" Fluttershy shouted before a giant blue hand stops them in his track. "So she CAN talk!" Skywalker said surprised. Fluttershy walks up to the manticore, showing no fear. "What's she doing now?" McGrath wondered. Fluttershy studied the manticore for a moment before patting it on the head "Shhh... It's okay." she shushed "Oh, you poor, poor little baby." "Little?" Rainbow started, "Baby?" Skywalker finished. Sutakira pointed at his front left paw. "Fluttershy, look at his paw." Fluttershy gave it a quick look "You right Sutakira. Now this might hurt for just a second." takes out a huge thorn out the Manticores paw. The Manticore roars in pain as it grabs Sutakira and Fluttershy. Everybody responded in shock "Sutakira! Fluttershy!" but they are worried for nothing as the Manticore playfuly licks both Fluttershy and Sutakira. Fluttershy giggles as its toung lick past her face "Aw you're just a little ol' baby kitty, aren't you? Yes you are, yes you are." starts to ruff his manes. "Can we keep him?" Sutakira asked. McGrath crossed is arms "You'll have too walk him." "How did you know about the thorn?" Twilight asked, amazed at his deduction skill. "One of the many amazing things my genetic mutation allows me to do is find pain points and some minor telepathy." Sutakira answered in an matter of fact tone. "And Sometimes we all just need to be shown a little kindness." Fluttershy answered as the group continued their journey. Meanwhile the thorn that was stuck in the Manticore's pawn transform into purple smoke, before assuming the form of Nightmare moon who looks towards the direction the heroes went. "I never thought I'd be able to grow tired of tormenting a baby, but I suppose I can surprise even myself." transforms back into her smoke form and travels on, plotting her next evil trap. > Chapter 06: Trials Part 2 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Eugh. My eyes need a rest from all this icky muck." Rarity said irritated, as she stepped in some mud. Suddenly the moon stop shining, covering everything in blanket of darkness. Rarity looked to the right and left before saying "Well, I didn't mean that literally.". The voice of Skywalker pierced through the darkness "That ancient ruin castle sister thingy could be right in front of our faces and we wouldn't even know it!" . Through the darkness McGrath's sarcastic voice is heard "Great. I'm stuck in a pitch dark forest with four other guys and six talking horses." Skywalker started to channel electricity in the palms of his hands "Better?" he asked. "Not really. Still stuck in a forest with " McGrath responded. The blue light shines over the monster face's of the tree's... Wait that doesn't sound right... Holy crap! The tree's have freaking monster faces! Nearly everybody is startled, but Skywalker stands there unimpressed, staring at the monster trees. "Does anything phase you?" Twilight asks, making Skywalker turns to look at her "Huh?" he answered. They're interrupted by the sound of laughter. They look at the source of the sound, seeing Pinkie Pie and Griffifth laughing at the monster trees. Everybody looks on in surprises as Pinkie start to make funny faces "Bleh. Ooo!" "Pinkie, Griffith! what are you doing!? Run!" Twilight shouted. Griffifth turns around to face her, "Why?" looks at her with a puzzling expression. "Okay, Griffith has totally lost it." said Phoenix slowly, looking at the others from corner of his eye. Pinkie Pie bounced over to them, "Oh girls, don't you see?" "I'm a guy, thank you very much." McGrath said offended, with his arms crossed. Pinkie Pie takes a deep breath as music started to play in the background. "When I was a little filly and the sun was going down." Pinkie started signing. Meanwhile, at the river up ahead, the purple smoke cuts a sea serpents mustache. The purple smoke lands in a nearby forest, looking on as the sea serpent starts to cry, making the river's water going wild. "Try getting past this, foolish fools." Nightmare Moon said, pleased with herself. As she turns to leave, she bumps into Unknown. Nightmare Moon takes a bow "Master, is something wrong?" looking up at him, his thoughts impossible to read, as his face is an emotionless mask. His glowing blue eyes looking directly into her own light blue serpent eyes. "What is taking you so long?" Unknown said looking over to the the sea serpent. "Some foolish fools are trying to intervene. But don't worry my lord, I'll handle them." Nightmare Moon explained as Unknown gives her one last look, before putting his hood back on, concealing his face. "See to it that you do. I hope that I do not have to remind you of the consequences of failing me, do I?" Unknown questioned her before turning his back to her. "Of course not, my lord." she said as Unknown disappears into dark blue smoke. Nightmare Moon looks to the place he disappeared from, the sound of voices makes her turn around quickly. "Did you know Disney is gonna adapt the Snow Queen from Hans Christian Andersen?" the voice of Phoenix is heard. Nightmare Moon transforms into her smoke form, quickly making her way to the castle. The heroes exit the darker part of the forest, McGrath scoffs before saying "Yeah, like that will every catch on." stops as he almost falls into the river. Applejack quickly bites into the back of his hoodie, preventing him from falling. "How are we gonna cross this?" Pinkie wonders, looking at the river. "Maybe we can swim across it?" Griffifth suggested. The sound of sobbing is heard in the distance. They came across a purple Sea Serpent as they follow the source of the sobbing. Revealing to them that the sobbing comes from him. "What a world, what a world." said the Sea Serpent sobbing. "Excuse me, mister Sea Serpent. Why are you crying?" McGrath asked. Sea Serpent looked up notice the heroes standing there. "I was just sitting here, minding my own business, when this tacky little cloud of purple smoke just whisked past me and tore half of my beloved mustache clean off, and now I look simply horrid." McGrath shoos his head in frustration before speaking up "Don't you just hate it when your minding your own business and then some jerk comes and involves you into his crap?" he said with a uncharacteristic soft voice. "Oh, gimme a break." Applejack said shaking her head. "That's what all the fuss is about?" Skywalker said, face palming. The most unlikely of responses came out of McGrath's mouth "You guys disgust me! Especially you, Jason Skywalker! How can you be so insensitive?" Skywalker expression changed from annoyed to 'Did he just said that'. "Oh, just look at him. Such lovely luminescent scales." Rarity chipped in, looking over his scales. "And your expertly coiffed mane." Sea Serpent gave a small sob "Oh, I know, I know." stroking his mane. "Don't forget his fabulous manicure." McGrath said, making all the other guys dropping their mouth open, shocked at McGrath sudden niceness. "All ruined without your beautiful mustache." Rarity lamented, as the Sea serpent started have a freak out "It's true, I'm hideous!" McGrath tried to calm him "Well, your not as good looking as me. But there must be something we can do for you..." started to think as Rarity got an idea "I simply cannot let such a crime against fabulosity go uncorrected." with her teeth takes a scale from the Sea Serpent. He yelps in surprise "What did you do that for?" starts, McGrath looks at her "Rarity, what are you..." just as the words have left his mouth, she uses the scale to cut off a big part of her own tail and she uses her magic to attach the cut off hair on the missing side of the Sea Serpent. Sea Serpent gains a big goofy smile on his face as he starts to stroke his new mustache "Oh-hohohoho! My mustache. How wonderful." "But Rarity, your beautiful tail..." McGrath said sounding actually worried. I know, its weird! Rarity gave him a soft smile "Oh. It's fine, my dear. Short tails are in this season. Besides, it'll grow back." tries to reassure him. Rainbow leaned over to Skywalker whispering "So would the mustache. Why are you looking so shocked Sky?" Skywalker tries two times to say something before it comes out of his mouth "Not used to McGrath being so nice." McGrath turned around giving him an angry look "Hey, he was just some guy who minded his own business and for no reason what so ever he got into trouble! I'm not made of stone!" They look over the river, with the Sea serpent calmed down so as the river, that they can use some stones to skip over to the other side. Twilight gave a big smile "We can cross now. Let's go." they walk up to the skipping stones, but the Sea serpent used his body to make a bridge. "Allow me." After another sort track to another part of the forest they, find an exit again. In the distance, they can see the castle ruin thingy. "There it is, the ruin that holds The Elements of Harmony. We made it!" Twilight said happily, as the rest of the heroes follow, in her excitement Twilight charges off to the castle. "Twilight, wait for us." Applejack shouted, as the rest charges after her. "We're almost there. Whoa!" Twilight shouts over her shoulder, not notice that there is another cliff there and almost falling over it if not for Skywalker pulling her tail. "What is it with you and cliffs?" he asked before turning his gaze upon the cliff. "Now what?" Pinkie said as the rest started to think, trying to come up with the best solution. Griffifth shrugs his shoulders "Well, we tried. Let's go home." Skywalker looked at the distance between the cliffs before concluding "Me and Griff could easily jump over this cliff, McGrath could teleport himself, Dashie, Phoenix, Sutakira and Fluttershy could fly over it. But what about the rest?" Rainbow noticed a bridge giving her an idea "Duh!" flies into the cliff, picking up the hanging bridge, flying it up and tying it to the other end. As she starts tying up the other cable a mysterious called out to her "Rainbow... Rainbow..." Over at the other side, the rest can see dark purple fog forming, Skywalker with a hint of worry in his voice "What's happening over there?" "Who's there? I ain't scared of you! Show yourself!" Rainbow voice can be heard on the other side. Skywalker closes his eyes and shakes his head in anger "No! You won't have her!" makes a huge jump to the other side, straight into the fog. His other friends could only watch, as he disappears into the fog. Skywalker lands safely on the other side, but the fog obscures his vision "Dashie? Dashie!? Were are you!?" he shouts, trying to locate his friend. "Jason Skywalker..." A mysterious voice from the fog called to him. "I have seen what's in your heart... and it is mine!" "We've been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the best flyer in Equestria." The voice called from the fog. "Who?" Rainbow asked. The voice chuckled before answering "Why, you, of course." Rainbow gained a grin "Really!? I mean... Oh yeah, me. Hey, uh, you wouldn't mind telling the Wonderbolts that, would ya? 'cause I've been trying to get into that group for like, ever." "No, Rainbow Dash." the voice said "We want you to join us, The Shadowbolts." out from the fog, three dark pegasi appear, standing in front of her. "We're the greatest aerial team in the Everfree Forest, and soon we will be the greatest in all Equestria." the middle Shadowbolt said chuckling before continuing "But first, we need a captain. The most magnificent... Swiftest... Bravest flyer in all the land." flattering Rainbow, who responded with a big grin "Yes, it's all true." The Shadowbolt continued "We need... you." "WOOHOO! Sign me up. Just let me tie this bridge real quick and then we have a deal." Rainbow said excited, but the Shadowboltsstop her. "No! It's them or us." the Shadowbolt demanded an answer. Rainbow gave it a thought for a minute before answering "You... Thank you! For the offer, I mean, but I'm afraid I have to say no." ties the bridge. On the other side of the cliff, the others are waiting, as Rainbow comes flying triumphantly "See? I'd never leave my friends hanging..." she said as she notice that here one member sort. "Where is Sky?" Twilight "He... saw that you were in danger and went in to find you." upon hearing this Rainbow's expression went from triumphantly to worried in less then ten seconds flat. "No!" tries to take off, wanting to go back and help Skywalker but McGrath holds her back. "Take it easy. Skywalker is a though cookie. He can handle it." A few minutes go, as suddenly the fog clears and they can see the form of Skywalker kneeling on the ground. They all rush over to him. "You okay there Sky?" Rainbow said worriedly. Skywalker took a deep breath before opening his eyes and standing up. "I'm fine. Are you okay Dashie?" he said worriedly. Rainbow patted her self on the chest "Of course! Thanks for coming to my aid, by the way. Even though I wouldn't have needed it." Skywalker gave a small chuckle "Well then... Last in the castle is an Egghead!" giving them a smile before running towards the castle. "Hey no fair! You have a head start!... Again!" Rainbow said as the rest of the gang start to run after him. > Chapter 07: Because Friendship Is Magic! > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The heroes enter the old castle, they make their way through the rubble, looking for the Elements. "This castle must have seen better days..." Twilight noted as she climbed over a fallen pillar. "It kinda reminds me of my school." McGrath noted absent minded. "You go to school in an old castle? What is the name, Hogwarts?" Phoenix said looking back to him. "Yes." McGrath said with a complete straight face. Twilight looked around "Were do you think the Elements could be?". she scanned the area. Skywalker pointed at a large door "That's were I would hide them." They go through the large door and enter what appears to be the old throne room. And as luck will have it, five stone orbs on a pillar stands right in the middle. "The Elements of Harmony, we've found them." Twilight said with a big smile on her face. Sutakira uses his Hard Light to carefully take them off the pillar and lays them down at their feet/hooves in a circle. "One, two, three, four... There's only five!" Pinkie counted. "Where's the sixth? Or Seventh?" Twilight responded "The book said: when the five are present, a spark will cause the sixth Element to be revealed." Skywalker scratched the back of his head "What's that supposed to mean?" Twilight gave a shrug "I'm not sure, but I have an idea. Stand back. I don't know what will happen." starts to charge her horn. "Come on now, guys. She needs to concentrate." Sutakira said as he prepares to leave's the room. "Yeah, what is the worse than can happen while we leave her alone and unguarded?" Griffifth said as the rest left the room. "I'll be right there..." Skywalker said as he gave Twilight one last look, before noticing that a certain purple mist surrounding the Elements and starts to teleport them away. "Twilight! The Elements!" he shouted while rushing forward as both he and Twilight grab onto one of the orbs, teleporting them along with it. Skywalker and Twilight slam hard on the stone floor, knocking the wind out of them. Skywalker rises first to his feet and sees Nightmare Moon standing on a platform. Twilight slowly gets back to her feet, "Go for the Elements. I'll distract her." Skywalker whispered to her as he takes his fighting stance. Nightmare Moon gave him a smug smile before responding "You're kidding. You're kidding, right? You would risk your life away for a complete stranger." Skywalker grabs something from his belt, it seems to be the hilt of a sword. With the flick of a button, a 145 centimeters long red beam of energy appears out of it. "I'm not risking my life away for a complete stranger." Skywalker said as he took a firm hold on the hilt with both hands, "I'm risking it for a friend!" he shouted as he charged at Nightmare Moon, Twilight look on in awe as the jump shattered the floor under him "What... Is this feeling I have in my chest?" Twilight thought as she saw Nightmare Moon using her magic, creating a similar blade of energy, as she herself charges at Skywalker. Their blades clash in mid air, the shock from the clash shatters some of the rubble laying around. Skywalker unleashed a flurry of attacks pushing Nightmare Moon on the defensive. Skillfuly Nightmare Moon blocked Skywalker's attacks, before he gave a vicious kick to her side sending her into a stone pillar. In the chaos, Twilight rushes to the elements and tries to use her magic on them "Just one spark. Come on, come on!" she groaned as a piece of debris narrowly misses her head. Nightmare Moon using her magic, starts to throw piece's of the debris at Skywalker. Narrowly dodging her ranged assault, Skywalker retaliated by slicing a large pillar in two and kicking the upper part towards Nightmare Moon, who dodge's out of the way while assaulting Skywalker with a blast of magic. Skywalker blocks the attack, sending it into a wall directly behind Nightmare Moon, blowing it to smithereens. In the chaos, Skywalker closed the distance between the two but Nightmare Moon forces him into a blade lock which Skywalker attempted to break with a Lightning blast, though Nightmare Moon managed to counter with one of her own, beginning a vicious power-struggle. Sparks flying around the room, shattering the glass windows. "I have seen the darkness in your heart, Jason." Nightmare Moon said giving him an evil grin, the light from the power clash illuminates her face giving her an even more demonic look. "You don't know me! You know nothing about me!" Skywalker retorted, Nightmare Moon gave a loud chuckle "Does the name Claire rings a bell?" she asked innocently as Skywalker flinched at the mention of the name, though he kept the blade lock and the power struggle up. "How does it feel, living with the knowledge that you failed her? That you led her die!" Nightmare Moon taunted, trying to break Skywalker's will. Before any more words could be said the energy compressed by the combined lightning ruptured and exploded, flinging both Nightmare Moon and Skywalker against opposite walls. The shock wave made by the struggle flings Twilight across the room and shatters the Elements. As the combatants and Twilight recover, they look over the destroyed pieces that once were the Elements. Twilight's eyes widen in shock "But... where's the sixth Element!?" Nightmare Moon rises back to her full height casting her shadow over them "You little foals! Thinking you could defeat me? Now you will never see your princess, or your sun! You will never again see the light of day! The night will last forever! And as for you Jason, you have failed yet again. You failed the one's you care about the most once again!" breaks out into laughter as the door gets kicked open the other heroes arriving, ready for combat. "Somepony ordered a beat down?" Phoenix shouted as he conjured flames in both his hands. McGrath gazed over him before saying "Seriously, You have been here way too long." Twilight happy to see them as Skywalker notice a spark inside her eyes. "You think you can destroy the Elements of Harmony just like that?" Skywalker started standing in front of the group "Well, you're wrong! Because the spirits of The Elements of Harmony are right here!" Nightmare Moon stopped chuckling as she hissed "What?" Twilight walked up next to Skywalker, while saying "AJ and Phoenix, who reassured me when I was in doubt, represents the spirit of... honesty! Sutakira and Fluttershy, who tamed the manticore with there compassion, represents the spirit of... kindness! Pinkie Pie and Griffith, who banished fear by giggling in the face of danger, represents the spirit of... laughter! Rarity and McGrath, who calmed a sorrowful serpent with a meaningful gift represents the spirit of... generosity! And Skywalker and Rainbow Dash, who could not abandon their friends... loyalty!" The shards starts to float around the Ponies and the guys, first slowly but started to gain momentum. Nightmare Moon hissed again before continuing "You still don't have the sixth Element! The spark didn't work!" This time, it was Twilight's turn too smile smugly "But it did! A different kind of spark. I felt it the very moment I realized how happy I was to hear them, to see them, how much I cared about them. The spark ignited inside me when I realized that they all, are my friends. You see, Nightmare Moon, when those Elements are ignited by the... the spark, that resides in the heart of us all, it creates the sixth element: the element of... magic!" the gang start to be surrounded by a rainbow colored force field. As they started to float in the air, Skywalker continued "You are limited by your own abilities. We have no such limits! My friends are my power! And I'm their's! There is no force in all of the world who can defeat us, if we are together! You wanna know why?" Skywalker said as he raised his hand. For the first time, Nightmare Moon showed actual fear knowing she is doomed "NOOO! Nooo!" "Because friendship is magic!" shouted the heroes at the same time as they fire a gigantic laser beam with all the colors of the rainbow, hitting Nightmare Moon as a big flash of white light fills the room. A few seconds later, the heroes wake up looking around for injuries on them self or on others. "Ugh, my head." Rainbow said, massaging the sides of her head. "Is it... Is it Monday morning already?" McGrath said as he rises back to his feet. "Everybody okay?" Skywalker said as he dusted of his jacked. Rarity looks over her back and shouted "Oh, thank goodness!" her tail has grown back... somehow... Seriously how does that work? "Why Rarity, it's so lovely." Fluttershy said. Rarity voice beaming with delight "I know! I'll never part with it again." she has a big smile on her face. "No. I think she means your necklace. It looks just like your cutie mark." Sutakira pointed out before noticing a bracelet around his right wrist. "They got a necklaces but we got bracelets. I have a feeling some toy company is gonna make a huge profit making these." Phoenix said as he studied is own. "Your's has a little bird on it!" Pinkie said about Phoenix's bracelet. "I think its a Phoenix!" Phoenix responded but Pinkie cut him off "No, its a cute little bird!" Applejack walks over to Twilight, while saying "Gee, Twilight! I thought you were just speaking a lot of hooey, but I reckon we really do represent the Elements of Friendship." Skywalker interrupted "Not to change the subject and all but who single-handed defeated evil incarnate!" he gave fist pump as he smiled at his friends. "Yeah but, aren't there supposed to be seven Elements of Harmony? Why didn't we need the seventh?" Sutakira stated. Skywalker shrugged before saying "Maybe we're just super badass, have you thought of that?" "Indeed you are." A voice from outside is heard. As the sun rises a white horned winged pony comes flying in through one of the hole's the battle made. Her main is a combination of different colors that waves as if held by the wind... Just like Nightmare Moon. The ponies take a bow, puzzling the guys as to why or who the hell the newcomer is. "Princess Celestia!" Twilight said, happy that her mentor is save. "That's Princess Celestia? Her hair is pretty..." Skywalker said, admiring the hair. Princess Celestia gave a warm smile "Twilight Sparkle, my faithful student." he gaze travels over the gang as she notice the guys "Humans? That's strange..." her expression froze as she gazed over Skywalker. She snapped out of it Twilight asked "But... you told me it was all an old pony tale." Celestia took her gaze off Skywalker and speaking directly to Twilight "I told you that you needed to make some friends, nothing more. I saw the signs of Nightmare Moon's return. And I knew you could defeat Nightmare..." Twilight shook her head before looking back "I didn't defeat Nightmare Moon... Skywalker did all the fighting, and his words allowed the spark..." Celestia looked from Twilight to Skywalker and back, contemplating something. "So... We're not going to ask where she was the entire time?" Griffifth asked the gang who all responded with a big "No!" "Okay then." Griffifth raised his hands. "It seems more than one has found friendship in their heart. Now if only another will as well. Princess Luna." Celestia and the others turn their gaze to the corner were Nightmare Moon stood. But instead of the frightening Nightmare Moon, there was a small winged horned pony laying on the ground. Her blue mane didn't floated in the air, seeing as it was too short to do so anyways. Celestia walked over to her, saying "It has been a thousand years since I have seen you like this. Time to put our differences behind us. We were meant to rule together, little sister." "Sister!?" the gang reacted in surprise. "Super special awesome plot twist!" Phoenix said. Luna looked fearfully up at them, unsure how to react or what to say. Skywalker taking pity on her stepped forward "Your Highness, may I say something?" Celestia turned around, giving him a warm smile "Go ahead, Skywalker." Skywalker nods as he approaches Luna, while saying "I don't know why you did what you did Princess." stops in front of her. Luna closes her eyes, scared of what he might do to her. Skywalker lowered himself to her eye level before continuing "I'm an orphan with no relatives, so I can not imagine how it feels. The ponies may work and play during the day, but they relax, sleep and find companionship during the night. Tough a few might be awake during that time, those few who do, know the magic that is night." Princess Luna looked up to him "Y-Your one of them? Those who like the night?" she asked him nervously. Skywalker nodded, give her a warm smile before saying "Yes. Will you accept my friendship?" extended his hand, she flinched before realizing he's offering to help her up. Suddenly Luna jumps up, and pulling Skywalker into a tackle hug. "Yes, Lord Skywalker, I'm so sorry!" she started to tear up, Skywalker stroking her manes. Calming down a little, Luna turned to her sister "I missed you so much, big sister!" pulls Celestia into a hug. Celestia smiled returning the hug "I've missed you, too." let's a single tear drop. McGrath sniffs, as he rubs his left eye. "A-are you crying?" Twilight said, in the few hours that she knew him, she figured him for a guy who wouldn't cry. "No! There is something in my eye!" McGrath denied it. Pinkie looked at the gang "Hey, you know what this calls for?" she asked as she gained a big smile on her face. "A party! I'll get the shots ready!" Phoenix shouted excited. A few hours later, back in Ponyville. They held a celebration for Princess Luna's return. Though honestly, it's was just a excuse to use the Summer Sun Celebration stuff that they didn't use! The gang has split up, mingling among the population. Some mares seem "interested" in the guys, because their single and ready to mingle! Some ponies are doing the 'chunk' game. You know, were you have to drink a lot from a funnel while the others shout 'chunk' at you? McGrath approaches them "You! Big red one!" he points at Big Macintosh. "Eeyeah?" Big Macintosh asked, as McGrath points to the biggest barrel they have "Load it up." McGrath putted the end of the funnel in his mouth. "M'kay." Big Macintosh said as he started to pour the cider, while the crowd shouted "Chunk! Chunk!", McGrath drink it all up, till the last drop. Finishing the entire barrel, McGrath raised his fist to the air triumphantly before giving a loud burp, knocking some ponies on the front row over. Over at a table, Skywalker and Rainbow are discussing something, while enjoying a nice can of cider... Don't they have anything else to drink? "AJ?" Rainbow asked. Skywalker thinks for a second before answering "Hmm... Apple pie. Fluttershy?" he asked her in return. "Summer dew? Sunlight?" Rainbow answered. Skywalker shrugged "The world may never know." he said as Rarity walks by. "Hmm... Probably perfume." Skywalker stated, before a snickering Rainbow said "I'm not sure she's that dedicated." meanwhile Twilight walks by talking to Celestia. Skywalker gave a chuckle before saying "Books!" Rainbow snickered before saying "Pinkie Pie?" Skywalker needed to think again before saying "Do I need to say... Cake?" taking a sip from his cider. "I... hadn't thought about that..." Rainbow said as Phoenix approaches them "What are you two talking about?" he asked. Rainbow gave him a smirk "We are guessing what everybody's vajayjay would taste like!" A few hours later, Twilight's mood changed from happy to glum. Celestia said, as he walked up next to her "Why so glum, my faithful student? Are you not happy that your quest is complete and you can return to your studies in Canterlot?" Twilight looked over at the friend before looking down to the ground "That's just it. Just when I learned how wonderful it is to have friends, I have to leave them." answered. Celestia looked over at Spike, yeah he still exist "Spike, take a note, please." Celestia said as Spike grabs a piece of paper and a feather out of no where. Because magic. Celestia cleared her throat "I, Princess Celestia, hereby decree that the unicorn Twilight Sparkle shall take on a new quest for Equestria." roll credits!... Oh wait. Spike write's down everything Celestia says, who continues. "She must continue to study the magic of friendship. She must report to me her findings from her new home in Ponyville." The gang cheered, as they have been listening in. Twilight smiled from ear to ear before saying "Oh thank you, Princess Celestia! I'll study harder than ever before." looking over at her new friends who are smiling back at her. "Yea, but we are still stuck here, with no way home." Skywalker said. Celestia looked at him before addressing the guys "Rest assured, brave heroes. I'll do anything I can to find you all a way back home. But for now it seems you guys have no choice but to stay a little longer." The guys give a smile, well they have no way home for now. At least they are with friends. Pinkie started to bounce around giving each guy a hug "Isn't this exciting? Are you excited cause I'm excited I've never been so excited, well, except for the time that I went but I mean really!..." she started to motor mouth before McGrath cuts in. "All good and well but where are we going to live?" he said as Celestia give a mischievous smile "Well, I already solved that problem." she said, leading the way. The guys and pony girls started to follow her as Griffifth whisper to them "I think she is gonna rape us..." On the outskirts of Ponyville, they see a two story house. It is painted in a mint green color and seems to be in excellent condition. Celestia uses her magic to unlock the door as they entered the hall. To their right is a stair that leads to the second floor, where the bedrooms must be. On their left is a dining room, with a dining table made of oak wood and six comfortable looking chairs at it. As they walk further into the house, they find quite a spacius living room, filled with a sofa, a coffee table, two more lazy chairs and... weirdest of all, a flat screen television... I can't believe it either. To their right they can see the kitchen and next to the fridge they can see a glass door that should lead to the back garden. The guys looked awed as Celestia chuckled "I take it this would do?" McGrath looked around before asking "Does this place have a basement?" "Yes" Celestia responded, giving McGrath a grin as he said "Nobody comes into the basement until I'm done there. And after that stay out of my basement, m'kay?" the others nodded before Skywalker spoke up "What about the rent? And groceries?" Celestia gave him a smile "As a thank you from Equestria, Canterlot will pay for the rent, gas, light, food and drinks for your stay." The guys mouth dropped open, as Celestia turns around to leave "I will take my leave now. If I have any progress on a way home, I'll let you know. If you need to contact me, I'm sure Twilight would be glad to help you out." Twilight nodded at this statement. Celestia gave them one last look before taking off, flying in the direction of Canterlot. McGrath took a seat on the sofa as he looks around "This house is not too bad. Only thing we are missing is a hot tube and a swimming pool." Phoenix looks out of the window into their back garden "Hey look! A hot tube and a swimming pool!" The gang rushes outside, and indeed there is a swimming pool and a hot tub. Skywalker gave one big grin "We are living the sweet life now." Meanwhile, in a dark room, were the only light comes from the windows behind a throne made out what appears to be swords shaped like a key. Unknown sits on his throne as another clocked figure enters and kneels before him. Unknown motions her to stand up, as she raises to her feet she spoke "Nightmare Moon has fallen. Our plan has failed, my lord." Unknown shifts in his chair before calmly replying "It does not matter. We have others ways to gain Equestria, sooner or later Equestria will fall to me. Though I prefer sooner. How is the search for the entrance of Tartarus going?" the clocked figure takes a moment to contemplate her words before saying "They have uncovered some clues, though the Corrupted haven't found its exact location just yet." Unknown digested the information, falling lazily back into his throne "A day, a week, a month, a year, a millennium it does not matter. Luckily we have some... other candidates..." > Chapter 08: Harmonic Heroes > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After Celestia left, the gang settled in the garden, making some small talk, getting to know each other better and just having a good time. As the night falls and the stars decorated the skies, they made a campfire and started to roast marshmallows. "Alright, so what do humans eat?" Twilight asked as she watched he marshmallow hanging over the fire. "We're omnivores. We eat vegetable's, fruits, grains, meat. We can basically eat everything... But that is kinda what omnivore implies." Sutakira replied as he took a sip from his soda, after he said they ate meat he quickly said "B-But we would never think of eat ponies! Especially those who can talk!" tries to reassure them, as the girls laugh nervously. "So I have been thinking." Rainbow started, pausing to take a bite from her marshmallows. "I hope it didn't hurt." McGrath said with a mock worried tone in his voice, earning him a glare from Rainbow before she continued "As I was saying, what should we call our group?" The rest of the group gave her a questioning look before continuing "I have a feeling we'll get into more adventure's together, so I was thinking our group needs a name, like the Wonderbolts!" she explained as the others tarts to contemplate. After a few minutes, Skywalker opened his mouth "A group name should come in handy. People will directly know who their talking about... But what should we use?" he concluded as the others started to think of suggestions. "Oh about... The Mane Eleven? Is has a nice ring to it if I may say so myself." Rarity suggested while the others thought about it. "How about... Harmonic Heroes?" the smallest of voices said, they turn around to the source of the barely audible sound and see that it was Fluttershy saying it. "U-U-Uhm... I m-mean... We have those H-Helements Of Armony... No wait I meant Elements Of Harmony..." She continued with each word her blush became bigger, as she stops to talk out of embarrassment. After a few moments of silence Skywalker spoke up: "I think its a good name. Everyone agrees?" Everyone gave a nod of approval before Skywalker continued "That settle's it. From this day forth, let our group of friends be known as the 'Harmonic Heroes'!" he declared as he placed his hand above the fire, as the other's figured why he did that, one by one they placed there own hands over his. Eventually everybody started to become tired from the events of the last few hours, they got up to go back to the house. "Someone needs to put out the camp fire." Applejack stated, as Phoenix answered "I'm on it." walking up the the camp fire, he undoes his belt, unzipping his flyer and letting out a gold stream of water on the fire. Unfortunately McGrath was pulling up the chairs and he sees Phoenix... little guy... which isn't that little. "I didn't need to see that..." McGrath said tired as he took the chairs inside the house. Applejack gained a blush looked at him with big eyes before shouting in embarrassment "Ya didn't need to do it like that!" using one of her front hooves to cover her eyes. Phoenix looked at her raising his eye brown "How else was I supposed to do it?" he asked as if he honestly didn't know. "Ya have that fire power, right? Why didn't ya use that." Applejack responded. With the fire going out, Phoenix pulls his zipper back on and buckling his belt and turning towards her "This way was way more fun. Goodnight AJ, see you later!" gives her a mischievous smile, waving her goodbye. As AJ starts walking home she wondered if all human were like them. A little while later, Skywalker is sitting on the roof, enjoying the night skies. "So few are up and about at this hour. So few know of nights beauty." he thinks to himself as he lays down on his back. Trying to figure out some patterns, which he did quite a few. "Why does this seem so familiar?" He said to himself before his eyes shut and he drifts off. Where did I come from? What am I doing here? Who am I? WHAT am I? Those who are powerful should use there power to do good things, because there good things. Because using your power to force people to do as you say is not heroic. Its being a bully. I'm proud of you... You use your powers to help people. I'll love you, Jason Skywalker. Until the end of time... Skywalker wakes up screaming, after calming down, cold sweat making his shirt stick to his back. He notice that the sun is rising as he stands up "That damned nightmare again..." he said to himself as he jumps off the roof. He landed on the ground with a shoulders roll before starting to run. Making his way to the hill not far from the house, jumping, faulting, flipping and flopping all over any stone, tree in his way, an old conversation starts ringing in his mind. Thanks to the yellow sun, your cells have drunk in its radiation, strengthening your muscles, your skin, your senses. You've grown stronger here than I ever could've imagined. The only way to know how strong is to keep testing your limits. Standing on a hill overlooking Ponyville, Skywalker closes his eyes while crouching down. He places his fist on the ground, concentrating as small rocks and some dirt starts to float off the ground. Opening his eyes, Skywalker jumps up, blasting off into the air, a trail of dust raising from the ground. For a brief moment Skywalker soar's over Ponyville but soon he lose's momentum and altitude. "Crap, crap, crap, CRAP!" crashes into the ground, his momentum slowed but his head still knock's against a door. "Verdomme!" Skywalker shouted in frustration as the door opens and purple eyes looking down at him. "Good morning to you too, Sky." Twilight said with a chuckle. Skywalker looked back with his own amber eyes, calming down him self down, not wanting to scare his friend before replying "Do you wish me a good morning, or mean that it is a good morning whether I want it or not; or that you feel good this morning; or that it is a morning to be good on?" standing back up. Twilight look a little taken aback before replying "All of them at once, I suppose." she stepped aside, allowing him to enter. Skywalker entered the library, the smell of books entering his nose. Its not a bad scent if your into that sort of thing, he walks over to the couch and noticing a stack of books on the coffee table. "Have you been up all night?" Skywalker asked as he took a seat, as Twilight takes a seat next to him. "No, I just woke up and these are the books I want to read before noon." Twilight said before her eyes winded "Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't ask if you wanted something to drink! Unless... It isn't rude to ask a human if they want something to drink right?" get's a little blush on her lavender cheeks, which Skywalker found adorable. "No, it isn't. Don't worry I'm good." he said. Twilight let out a small sight "My apologies, Skywalker... I'm not very good with socializing, and I don't know much about humans... Well actually nopony know's much about humans... I'm babbling again." she said shaking her head. Skywalker had to laugh a little before saying "It's alright, Twilight. No doubt you have a lot of questions. If I can help answer any of them, I'd be happy to do so." Twilight beamed in delight as she fired off a bunch of question's, like 'Why do you walk on your hid legs', 'How come you speak Equestrian just like us', 'Why do you only have fur on your head', 'What are those things at the end of your hooves', 'why do you wear clothes outside of formal occasions'. "This... Is gonna be a looooooooong morning." Skywalker thought to himself as he started to answer any question he can. > Chapter 09: The Morning After > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Early in the afternoon, the guys finally get up, though it can be argued that they deserved the rest, after being transported into a strange World, battling a physical goddess, and having one hell of an after party. Currently McGrath is looking at the coffee machine, waiting for it to fill his mug. After a little while, McGrath is leaning against the kitchen counter enjoying the black liquid. A knock is heard on the door, noticing that nobody else is gonna open it, he walks to the door. As he opens it, a big pink fuzzy ball invaded his personal space "Goood afternoon! How was your first sleep in Ponyville? Good? I hoop it was good, if it wasn't I would be so sad!" "Good afternoon to you, Pinkie." McGrath interrupted her with his usual emotionless voice, but Pinkie in turn interrupted him again "You remember me! That makes me so happy! And I like being happy and making other people happy!" she said grinning ear to ear. McGrath having to interrupt her again, he wouldn't get a word through otherwise "Believe me, Pinkie. I couldn't forget you even if I wanted to." taking a look over her, noticing two basket's filled with muffins besid them. "What are all these muffins doing here?" he questioned her. "They are for you and the guys!" Pinkie said, before McGrath responded "Muffins? What are you giving me muffins for!?" he said with a slightly suspicious tone in his voice. Pinkie was slightly taken aback by his reaction, as if she offended him somehow, before her expression turns back into her usual smile "A welcoming present from Mister and Misses Cake, silly!" she said and McGrath helped her took the baskets in the house. Placing them on the kitchen counter, McGrath listened to her explaining what muffin is what. "Come on, try one! Their still warm!" she encouraged him, taking what seems to be a chocolate muffin, he took a small bite. He chewed on it, before wolfing down the rest. "I take it you liked it?" Pinkie said with a big smile. McGrath cleaned the sides of his mouth "They were good. I'll have to give Mr. and Miss Cake my thanks later." finishing his mug of coffee and places it in the sink. "Say McGrath, why did you react so surprised about the welcoming present?" Pinkie said tilting her head. McGrath looked over her "I... I never received a gift before." he got out with much hesitation. Before Pinkie could ask for more, the other guys save Skywalker entered the room. Griffifth sniffed before asking "What's smelling good?" they notice Pinkie standing there. Sutakira was the first to say "Good afternoon, Pinkie." Pinkie gave them a big smile "Goood afternoon! How was your first sleep in Ponyville? Good? I hoop it was good, if it wasn't I would be so sad!" she asked them in quick succession. Phoenix cringed as he massaged the side his head "Please, not so loud. I'm having a huge hangover!" taking a muffin. After answering questions all morning, Skywalker said goodbye to Twilight and Spike, he decided to explore the town a bit. The ponies of Ponyville took it very well that weird ape like creatures now living with them. Strolling along a pad in the woods, enjoying the quite but failed to realized that a certain yellow Pegasus was leading a line of rabbits to another area with her back turned. Skywalker is suddenly thrown to the ground. Fluttershy turning around and noticing who she knocked over "Oh, my goodness!" trying to help him up Skywalker, "I'm really sorry for bumping into you like that! I didn't know you were behind me! I was just..." "Fluttershy, Fluttershy!" Skywalker interrupted her, dusting his jacked off "It's okay. I know it was just an accident." standing back up and scratching his head. Fluttershy smiled, but she was blushing more than usual. Skywalker his head is tilted slightly with a confused look "Are you okay, Fluttershy?" Fluttershy looked away from him, her blush getting bigger, somehow "I-I-I'm fine." giving a nervous giggle. "Alright." Skywalker said slowly, looking over at the animals behind her "You, uh, need help with the animals here?" Fluttershy looking up at him with her big blue eyes, her face is almost completely red now "Oh, Yes!... If that's okay with you..." she added with a small voice. Back at the guy's house, the sounds of drills and hammer's hitting wood is heard from the basement. Rarity entered, but none of the guys seems to be around. Noticing the sounds coming from the basement, she walked over it and gave it an elegant knock. The working sounds stops as foot steps can be heard walking up the stairs. The door opens as McGrath peeks outside to see who dares to knocks. "Yes?" he said, eyeing her suspiciously. Rarity cleared her throat before speaking "Good afternoon, McGrath. I find myself in need of your assistance." McGrath kept looking at her, "With what?" he asked her directly. Rarity blinked her eyes, not used that a stallion would speak to her that way, keeping her composure she answered, "Why I have need of an assistant today. I need to get some materials for my dresses and you seems like the excellent candidate to lend me a hoof." she said with a seduction voice, and batting her eyelashes at him. That usually does the trick. "Why would I help you?" McGrath responded, his face showed no expression but his voice was dripped with irritation. Rarity was now even more surprised, no stallion had ever reacted to her this way before, not after she gave them the eyelashes "You mean your seriously turning down a request from me!?" she responded with utter surprise. McGrath stared at her sapphire blue eyes with his own emerald green, "I'm sorry? Perhaps I wasn't being clear?" his voice now dripping with sarcasm. "But... but I'm the most beautiful girl in the whole town!" she sputtered, before she could say anything else McGrath said "And that still doesn't change that I'm busy and am unable to help you." closing the door as the sound of hammers restarted. > Chapter 10: A Royal Invitation > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- A whole week past with nothing worth of note. The gang has integrated quite well into Ponyville society very well. Using their extraordinary abilities, they helped the people with their day to day problems, both big and small. Putting out fire's, stopping local crime, they have become quite the local heroes. All week long, there was no word from the Princess. The Heroes figured that, with ruling over the country and all that, she couldn't give all her attention to figuring out a way home for them. It wasn't until Sunday eve, that they heard from her. During the night, the guys are gathered in the living room, watching some TV. "Jorah's armor looks oddly familiar, doesn't it?" Phoenix noted, taking a sip from his soda. "It's Northerner armor." Sutakira said in a matter of fact tone, gaining questioning looks from the other guys. "Jorah was a knight of the North until he was exiled, and he would naturally bring along the armor he possessed before his exile." Sutakira explained. A knock is heard from the front door, "Who visits during this time of night?" Griffifth said as Skywalker got op and walked to the door to see who it is. Opening, he sees Twilight standing there "Good evening, Sky. Sorry for coming over unannounced and at this time of night." she started to apologize, but Skywalker gave her a smile "No worries. You, the other girls and Spike are always welcome. Come on in." stepping outside, allowing Twilight to enter. As they head to the living room, Twilight greeted the others taking a seat between Phoenix and Griffifth. Skywalker offered her something to drink, she was fine with just some tea. After Skywalker returned with a nice warm cup of Jasmine tea, Twilight placed a sealed envelope on the table, obviously the reason why she is here. The guys gave her a questioning look, before she spoke up "The princess sent me a letter addressed to you guys. So I thought it was best to give it to you right away." she explained. The letter was indeed addressed to the residents of to Shoveitupyourass Street 15. Sutakira opened the envelope and started to read the contents out loud. Dear residents of Shoveitupyourass Street 15. I hope everything is going well. I am unfortunate to report that I haven't found a way back home for you yet. I have theories, but nothing concrete yet. I also would like to invite Jason Skywalker to join me for a meeting in Chanterlot Castle, for tomorrow afternoon at 15:30. A royal guard will be waiting for you in front of Canterlot Station at 15:10 to escort you to the castle. Know that this is not a sign of distrust, while you have proven yourself to be a capable fighter, some of the nobility are nervous about the possibility of humans returning to Equestria. If this time or date are inconvenienced for you, please have Twilight sent a letter with the earliest possible date and time. Sincerely, Princess Celestia, co-ruler of the Kingdom of Equestria. As the Sutakira finished the latter, all of them had one question in mind, why would the Princess wanna talk to Skywalker in privet? So the next day, Skywalker took the from Ponyville station at 14:40, a half hour later, he arrived at Canterlot Station. Looking on his phone it said he was two minutes early, he walked to the front as male unicorn approached him. Even from a distance, Skywalker could tell that the unicorn was in excellent condition. His coat was white, his long blue mane was falling neatly over his shoulders. "Well, you arrived early." the guard said with a kind voice, offering his hoof as a form of greeting. Skywalker shook his hoof, "Jason Skywalker, so I assume you must be my escort." The guard gave him a nod before saluting "Shining Armor, Captain of the Royal Guard, Pleasure to make your acquaintances." motioning to follow him. "So... What did you do to get assigned to this crappy job?" Skywalker asked as they walked through Chanterlot. Shining Armor turned to him, giving him a insulted look. Skywalker catches on to his mistake quickly corrected himself "I didn't mean that your job is crappy. I meant what did you do to get stuck having to escort me?". Shining Armor's expression returned to his normal kind self "Nothing. I heard that you fought hoof-to-hoof with Nightmare Moon who, according to legends, is as powerful as Princess Celestia herself. So I was curious who this powerful warrior could be. But, no offence, you seem just like a normal kid. How old are you, if you don't mind me asking?" They pass through the Castle Garden, Skywalker responded "No worries, no offence taken. And as for my age, I'm currently sixteen, but I'm turning seventeen this June fifteen." This made Shining Armor chuckle, making Skywalker wonder what's so funny. Noticing his look, Shining Armor said "I'm sorry, but your only a month older than my little sister." he explained as they arrived at garden table with appropriate chair. "Well this is were the Princess told me to bring you." Shining Armor said as Skywalker looked around "Speaking of which, she should be here any minute now. I have too check up on a few other duties, if you need anything just give a yowler." Skywalker nodded, as Shining Armor took his leave. A few minutes pass, and Skywalker couldn't help the feeling that he is being watched, from where he didn't know. As Skywalker stood up to investigate, as Princess Celestia came walking up to him. "Good afternoon, Lord Skywalker." she said as Skywalker made a small bow, as a sign of respect. She chuckled as he motioned him to sit. "I apologize for being late, some representatives from Manehatten were unhappy about a recent decision." sitting down herself as a servant brought them a tray of tea and a variety of sandwiches. "Taxes are the leading cause of trouble. I bet that's the problem." Skywalker stated, making Celestia giggle. "You have a wonderfully simple view of politics." she said smiling at him, "It terrifies me how you're right about that statement. But I haven't invented you over to discuss politics." she said adding some sugar to her tea. Skywalker himself took a bite from a sandwich "I figure as much. What did you invite me for?" Celestia swirled her tea, taking a sip before answering "Yes, I wanted to talk about the battle you fought against Nightmare Moon." Skywalker waiting were she was going with this. "As you may have noticed, alicorn's like me and Luna are worshiped as physical goddesses. Even top tier unicorns are low tier compared to alicorn's. I'm curious as to why you could be able to fight on equal hoof with Nightmare Moon, while your holding back much of your power?" she concluded as she sipped her tea. Skywalker himself drink his own before answering "Who says I'm holding back?" he asked. Celestia stood up and turned to him "Then would you care for a little sparing match?" she said walking to a more open space of the garden. Skywalker would never back down form a challenge, stood up and walked towards her "I don't see why not?" standing in front of her. Celestia gave a small bow as her horn glowed, using her magic to create a yellow energy sword. Skywalker grabbed his own weapon, clicking it and taking his fighting stance. Skywalker decided to take the initiative and started to attack. He gave a heavy cross slash, but Celestia parried it, unbalancing Skywalker for a few seconds. Regain his footing, Skywalker resumed the offence and attacked with a flurry of quick blade swings, Celestia parrying all of his attacks. Skywalker quickly figured out what her style was. Unlike his own, which focused on strong fast strikes, with the occasional counter to create openings. Celestia style on the other hand was all about defending, she watched for attacks, countering them or side stepping accordingly creating openings or tiring her opponent out. A it when on for about fifteen minutes, with Celestia parring all of Skywalker's attacks, she called a time out. Skywalker deactivating his sword and placing it on his belt and took a seat on the stairs. Celestia herself dispelled her magic sword and walked up to him "See? If you wouldn't have hold back, my defense would have been broken in the first two minutes." she stated as Skywalker looked to the ground. Celestia started to think, before speaking up again "Sky... If you wish, I could train you." Skywalker looked up at her "Why would you do that?" he asked her as Celestia took a seat next to him. "Your currently wasting your potential. You could be so much more than you are now. I would hate to see it go to waste." she said with a motherly tone to her voice. Skywalker turning his gaze towards the horizon, taking a few minutes to think it over. Looking back up, Skywalker looked into Celestia's magenta colored eyes with his own amber, his mouth started to speak "When do we start?". > Chapter 11: How We Got Here > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After another hour of training, Skywalker and Celestia made an appointment with the Princess to train every Monday around the same time. A half hour later, Skywalker arrived back at Ponyville Station. Unbeknownst to him, Rainbow was sneaking up behind him. Waiting for the just the right moment, she struck. "Got yea!" Rainbow shouted as she poked Skywalker's sides. He jumped back as Rainbow felt over in laughter. Turning to face her, he said "Whoa! Gimme a break, Dashie!" he said embarrassed that he was caught off guard so easily. Rainbow had trouble speaking, as she found Skywalker's embarrassment face to be very funny. "Jason! Jason! You should see the look on your face! It's so adorable! Like a little puppy!" she whipped a tear out of the corner of her eyes as he spoke up. "I tough a little hedgehog. You know, with my spiky hair and stuff." he said in a mock serious tone, before both he and Rainbow had a chuckle. "So, what did the princess wanted anyways?" she said as she flew up next to him, as they made their way out of the train station. "No wait let me guess. She needed you to plow her pipes?" Rainbow said, making Skywalker blush. "W-What!?" Skywalker exclaimed in an embarrassed voice, "No, she didn't! What made you even think that!?". Rainbow gave another chuckle before responding "Well she is over a thousand years old, and your species have been extincted for who knows how long. She might wanted to taste something exotic." she concluded making Skywalker face palm. "No. She wished to talk about my fight with Nightmare Moon and offered to train me. That's pretty much it." He concluded, placing his hands in his pockets. As they walked through the Main Square, Rainbow helped Skywalker pick up some groceries. Getting everything he need, she asked the question she wanted to ask since the first time she met him. "You know." Rainbow started as Skywalker looked at her "You never told me how you guys came here in the first place." giving him a curious look. "Fell down a rainbow hole and we where pooped out here." Skywalker said in a serious tone with no traces of joking. "Your kidding? Right?" She said as Skywalker shook his head. "Let me start at the beginning." Skywalker started. "In the begginning, there was nothing..." Rainbow interrupted him "Not that far back!" "Oh, alright. Ahum." Skywalker said beginning his tale. The guys are hanging around a park. Sutakira and McGrath are playing a game of basketball, with Skywalker and Griffifth looking on. Phoenix is on the other side of the field, hitting on some girl, with relative success. Sutakira is winning the game, though it must be said that McGrath isn't really trying. "Why are we watching?" Griffifth asked as he lay down in the grass. "Cause McGrath falls over a lot." Skywalker pointed out, "I do like that part." Griffifth said as Skywalker gave him a approving nod "He is clumsy." "This is stupid!" McGrath said frustrated "What's so fun about this game anyway!?" "Nothing really, McGrath." Sutakira said passing the ball to McGrath. "It's just competitive." McGrath, in his frustration, throw the ball WAY too hard, bouncing it off the ring and making it fly in the direction of Phoenix. "Phoenix look out!" Skywalker shouted, trying to warn his friend. "And that was the last time I got hit by a ball." Phoenix concluded his story, just as luck would have it, gets the ball straight in his face. Walking back home, Phoenix is slightly irritated. "I'm sorry balls are attracted to your face." McGrath said in his deadpan voice. "If I wanted balls in my face I would have go to Mardi Gras!" Phoenix shouted, his black eye quickly healing thanks to his healing factor. A stream of lighting is send towards the guys but in a reflex, Skywalker redirects it into a nearby building. The impact of the lightning stream blasted the building to rubble. "It's a good thing Pallet Town is apparently empty!" Phoenix shouted at the sudden destruction, "Or that might have been kind of dangerous." Suddenly, the sky turns black, as some black goo starts rising from the ground. The black goo spits out multiple smaller puddles, which starts to pulse and shift into a muscular humanoid body structure but with pitch black skin and spherical, glowing blue eyes. Crooked antennae sprout from its head and fall back behind the... Thing. Each one of his two hands sporting five clawed fingers. Its feet, are long and lack digits. All over its body are several faint, blue veins. The guys take their fighting stance, but they are surrounded by the weird enemies. "Think we can take this many?" Sutakira asked as he made a blade of Hard Light. Griffith took a quick headcount before answering "Might be though if one more shows up..." let his claws come out of his hands. McGrath scoffed before responding "That will be the one I take care off." he said clocking his gun. Suddenly, a cloaked person appeared from a similar puddle, a hood covered her face, but the moment she started speaking, they knew she was female. "I am here for the one with the power to wield Harmony." the cloaked stranger began, as the monster's behind her stand ready for battle. "Look there must be some kind of mistake." Phoenix said weaving his hand which hold a fire ball "We're I'm harmless! I couldn't wield anything!" The cloaked figure observed them for a moment "One of you must be the prophesied one. My master will not suffer even an unknowing rival. You all must die!" takes a orb from her robes which starts to generate red arc's of lightning. Before she could do anything else, the guys sprung to action. Slashing, punching, shooting the enemies, Skywalker could just send a lightning bolt of his own into the orb, knocking it out of the cloaked woman's hand. The orb's aura turned from red to purple as its starts to shake violently, cracks started to appear on its surface before it shattered into a million pieces and ripped something looking like a rainbow colored tear that starts to swallow everything in. The cloaked woman noticing the destruction, fades away in crimson smoke. The guys having nothing to hold on, one by one they are sucked in. The last word any of them said on that World, was Phoenix's final word "Merde!" before it closed, leaving only its destruction. As Skywalker concluded his story, "And the rest is known." looking at some poster about an upcoming traveling magician show. "Trixie huh?" Skywalker said to himself, making Rainbow looking questioning at him "What's so funny about that name?" she asked, as Skywalker turned around. "It sounds like a stripper, that's all." He said before giving Rainbow one last look, "I'll be going home now, I really need a shower. See you tomorrow, Dashie!" he waved her goodbye as she also flew off. Skywalker on his way home, a smoke bomb goes off near Skywalker. As the smoke disappears, there is a blue unicorn with a purple wizard hat and cape. "I am..." the pony began but Skywalker interrupted her "Hi, Trixie.". Trixie gave him a confident smirk as she looked at him "Well Well, it seems someone has heard of me even before meeting me for the first time." she started again but Skywalker interrupted her again. "I'm really smashed right now, so I'll see you tomorrow at your show." Skywalker said with a deep sigh before starting to walk away. Trixie was slightly taken aback by his rude interruptions "Well... Person, The Great and Powerful Trixie hopes you will enjoy the show tomorrow." she said to his back. He waved at her without looking back "Hmm, yeah sure." > Chapter 12: It's Time To Duel! > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Hmmm, so good." McGrath said, after finishing his morning coffee, placing the dirty mug in the sink. Turning around, he sees two big blue eyes staring at him. "Goood morning!" Pinkie said, as she bounced around him. "Yeah you too." McGrath said, but she kept staring at him. "What!?" Pinkie gave him a mischievous grin "I have been wondering. What kind of mare are you into?" she asked him. He turned around "I'm not into mares." answered her as Pinkie gave him an understanding look. "Oooh! That's cool. I'm totally okay that your into stallions!" she said giving him a warm smile. McGrath turned his head to look at her, "I'm not into mares or stallions!" he shouted as Fluttershy entered. "Oh, uhm... Good morning." she said with a small voice, McGrath and Pinkie returned it. The other guys enter the kitchen, greeting everybody good morning, and starting to make breakfast. Fluttershy looked around "Uhm... Where is Skywalker? If you don't mind me asking..." she said as the guys and Pinkie look at her, making her blush. "He's at Twilight's I think." Griffifth said taking a bite out of his sandwich. "He spends a lot of time with her haven't you notice?" Phoenix said drinking a glass of milk, leaving a milkstace. It takes a laugh from Pinkie for him to notice, "Do you guys think they're in love?" Pinkie giggled, making the guys think for a minute before they give a collective "No way!". "What? Why not?" Pinkie asked as Fluttershy also gave a curios look. Sutakira was the first to respond "Well... We have never seen him give ladies much interest." "So he's gay?" Pinkie said, making McGrath face palm "What is it with you and thinking we're all gay!" he shouted. A little while later, the gang meeted up with the rest as they walk over the Main Square were the magic show will be happening. They noticed Spike who saved seats for them in the front row. Apparently some magic show show is going on, as a person... or pony one would say around these parts, voice coming from the stage is heard. "Come one, come all! Come and witness the amazing magic of the Great and Powerful Trixie!" the voice said as smoke appeared on the stage. "What is a Trixie?" Phoenix wondered. Griffifth kept looking at the stage "Sounds like a stripper." he said with his deadpan voice. Phoenix gained a big grin on his face "Wait, are we're going to see some pony strip?" he said with glee in his voice. "That would be pointless and stupid." McGrath responded as a small explosion happened on stage and out of the smoke came a blue unicorn wearing a purple wizard cape and hat adorned with stars and moons. The audience looked on in awe as the pony started to speak. "Watch in awe as the Great and Powerful Trixie performs the most spectacular feats of magic ever witnessed by pony eyes!" she struck a pose as fireworks and music started to play behind her. "My, my, my! What boasting!" Rarity said, unimpressed by Trixie. Skywalker looked at Rarity out of the corner of his eye "There's nothing wrong with being talented, is there?" he asked. "Nothing at all, except when someone goes around showing it off like a school filly with fancy new ribbons." Applejack answered, joining the conversation. "Just because one has the ability to perform lots of magic does not make one better than the rest of us." McGrath said without looking away from the stage "It kinda does." was all he could say before, before Rainbow joined in. "Especially when ya got me around being better than the rest of us!" the rest of the gang shook their head at Rainbow's remark. Trixie heard some bits from their conversation "Well, well, well, it seems we have some neigh sayers in the audience. Who is so ignorant as to challenge the magical ability of the Great and Powerful Trixie? Do they not know that they're in the presence of the most magical unicorn in all of Equestria?" she declared, looking for a moment in the direction of the group. "Just who does she think she is?" McGrath said, crossing his arms. "Yeah!" Skywalker said, pointing over his shoulder, "Since we all know that Twilight here is..." he couldn't finish the sentence because Twilight stuffed one of her front hooves in his mouth. Damn... That's kinda slutty. Twilight dragged him down as she gave him a pleading look. All Skywalker could say was a muffled "Geth yourh hoovhes aus ofh my mouth!" giving her an angry look. She quickly removed it, "Did you see the way they reacted to Trixie?" she whispered to him, he gave her a node before she continued. "I don't want anyone thinking I'm a show-off." she said looking at the ground, making Skywalker nod his head. Twilight and Skywalker stand back up, hoping none of their friends noticed what they did. "So, Great and Powerful Trixie, what makes you think you're so awesome, anyway?" Rainbow said, flying in front of Trixie. She scoffed "Heh, why, only the Great and Powerful Trixie has magic strong enough to vanquish the dreaded Ursa Major!" Trixie replied smugly as another round of music and fireworks happend behind her. "A what?" Skywalker asked Twilight, but Fluttershy responded "A very large star bear." she said before turning her gaze to the ground blushing. "Alright." Skywalker said as he took his phone, writing himself a personal note. Note: Find a Ursa Major and fight it. "No way!" a young male unicorn said. Trixie took in the attention before she continued her "Epic" tale, "When all hope was lost, the ponies of Hoofington had no one to turn to, but the Great and Powerful Trixie stepped in, and with her awesome magic vanquished the Ursa Major and sent it back to its cave deep within the Everfree Forest!" A young unicorn, by the name of Snips, said "That settles it." "Trixie truly is the most talented, the most magical, the most awsome unicorn in Ponyville." another young unicorn said by the name of Snails? Who the hell names their kid like that!? "No!" Snips said enthusiastically "In all of Equestria!", giving Trixie a look, kinda like some fan meeting his idol. "How do you know?" Spike said to them, "You didn't see it! And besides, Twi..." he gets cut off by Phoenix who has something very imported to say, "She speaks in the third person! Which makes her a bad guy!" he declared, making the other guys face palm. "It's true." Trixie said a smug smile gracing her face, "Trixie is most certainly the best in Ponyville." Suddenly, Trixie could hear someone laugh. It started out slow but soon turned into a laugh that could come straight out of the mout of a villain. "Right!" the laughing voice said. Trixie smile disapeard as she scouted the crowd for the culprit "Don't believe the Great and Powerful Trixie?" unable to find the culprit. "No!" the voice of McGrath shouted. Trixie quickly regained her smug expression "Well then, I hereby challenge you, Ponyvillians... anything you can do, I can do better." she declared. "If she's gonna sing, I'm shooting someone." McGrath said, giving Spike a weird smirk, making him feel in danger. "Any takers? Anyone?" Trixie asked the crowd, but no responses, "Or is Trixie destined to be the greatest equine who has ever lived!?!" a third round of fire work and music happened. Letting her eye glide over the stage, she notice the gang. How you cannot notice them is a mystery even to me. "Hmm, how about... you!" pointed her front hoof at Skywalker. Skywalker took a quick look to both his side before pointing at himself "Who? Me?" he asked. "Yes you, hairless monkey." Trixie said, before gaining annoyed look from the guys. "Well, how about it? Hm? Is there anything you can do that the Great and Powerful Trixie can't?" she said as Skywalker jumped on the stage. "How about a little magic duel?" Skywalker proposed, "I'm pretty good at fighting. If I say so myself." Trixie gave him an approving nod "A magic duel? Excellent chose! But, no weapons only spells. Victory is achieved when the opponent is unable to fight, forfeits or leave's the stage. Also, this won't be a duel to the death, Trixie wouldn't want to kill such a rare specie's. Is this agreeable to you?" she said taking a bow, as is customary before a duel. Skywalker took a bow himself "Of course, M'lady. Bring it on!" taking his fighting stance. Trixie gave a small chuckle before firing a purple beam of magic at Skywalker, at the last possible minute, he stepped a side using his super speed, making it look as if he teleported. She was slightly shocked at his speed, but quickly composed herself and started to fire more purple magic beams at Skywalker. All of them ended with similar result as Skywalker darted around her. Using all those stun spells in such quick succession tired her out very quickly. "Maybe you need to practice a little more." Skywalker suggested friendly, dodging another magic beam. "The Great and Powerful Trixie dislike you." Trixie said, trying to keep her aim. Skywalker crossed his arms "Tell it to the cleaning lady on Monday." he said confusing Trixie. "What?" she aksed. "Because you'll be dust by Monday." Skywalker stated, making her even more confused. "Because you'll be pulverized in two seconds. And the cleaning lady, she cleans up... dust. She dusts." mimics the hand movement one use to dust something. "...S-so." Trixie asked still confused, "What's on Monday?" this made Skywalker think for a few seconds. "Because..." He started, as he continued "It's Sunday now, so... Monday. Right?" gave a look at the guys who just shrug. Trixie scoffed "Hah! How can you claim your winning? You haven't use a single spell!" just as she said that, Skywalker launched a lightning bolt at her, missing. "You missed!" Trixie smiled smugly charging another spell, but he interrupted "I wasn't aiming at you". Skywalker crossed his arms, as the floor Trixie stood on started to crack. Looking around her, she notice that the spells she tried to use on him had burned a circle around her and Skywalker's lightning bolt destroyed the last spot needed to make it break. Trixie screamed as she fell through the stage, as Skywalker approached the hole "You left the stage! That make's me the winner by ring out, right?" he yelled into the hole. "This isn't over!" Trixie's voice is heard, "The Great and Powerful Trixie will be back!" she said climbing out from under the stage, as she saw Skywalker leaving, as his friends followed him. "Mark my words, monkey... I will have my revenge!" she shouted as everybody left. The Heroes walked to Sugarcube Corner to celebrate the victory. "Unbelievable!" Rainbow said excited. "Heavens to Betsy!" Applejack said, giving Skywalker a smile "We knew you had ability, but not that much!" before Skywalker could respond Twilight jumped to his defense, "Please, please don't hate Skywalker! He just tried to." she started but the rest of the gang interrupted. "Why, whatever do you mean, darling?" Rarity asked as they enter Sugarcube Corner and took a seat at a corner table. "Well..." Twilight started as Pinkie returned with cupcakes for everybody, "I know how much you all hated Trixie's boasting about her powers, and I just thought..." everybody looked at her for a seconded before they all burst out in laughter. "W-What's so funny?" Twilight ask, nothing getting why their laughing. "Magic's got nothing to do with it." Rainbow started taking a bite from her cupcake. "Trixie's just a loudmouth." Phoenix said as he patted Twilight on the back. "So..." Twilight said, as Pinkie returned with mugs of warm chocolate. "You don't mind my magic tricks?" blew over her cup, trying to cool the hot liquid down. "Your magic is a part of who you are, and we like the you who you are." Skywalker said giving her a kind smile, "We're proud to have such a powerful, talented unicorn as our friend." This made Twilight blush turning her eyes to the mug before looking up "And I'm proud to be your friend." she said with a smile. They stayed till Celestia's sun started to go down and Luna's moon to rise, saying their goodbye's the Heroes separated, deciding to meet up again tomorrow so Twilight could show them some magic tricks. > Chapter 13: I Know What You Did Last Slumber Party > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Come on, just answer the question!" Phoenix said to McGrath as the both of them walked through Ponyville. McGrath gave him an annoyed groan "For the last neuking time, I do not like mares or stallions! I prefer human woman." he said without giving his friend a change to respond "Were human, its weird enough that we're in a world with talking horses. Its down right crazy to want to mate with them!". Phoenix gave him a questioning look "Then why would I want to bone some of them? Also I never see you giving a girl the light of day!" he said, thinking he made a valid argument. "Because your Phoenix. And most girls aren't worth my time." McGrath responded, as he felt something wet dripping on his nose. Looking up they noticed it started to rain harder and harder by the second. They were too far from their own house for shelter, looking around they notice the Golden Oak Library. Both made a mad dash for it and knocked. "Who is it?" Twilight's voice came from the other side of the door. "Moody and Phoenix!" Phoenix said, gaining a angry glare from McGrath for calling him 'Moody', "Can we take shelter here till the storm calms down?" he said as the door opens with Twilight standing in it. "Come inside, guys, quick." she took a step aside to let them in. The guys quick entered as Twilight quickly closes the door behind them. "Is inside a tree really the best place to be in a lightning storm?" McGrath said, taking his shoes off. Twilight winked at him "It is if you have a magical lightning rod protecting your home like I do." she said leading them into the living room, "Come on in, AJ and Rarity are here too!" And indeed, as they enter the living room, they see AJ and Rarity sitting on the couch. "Hey gals!" Phoenix said waving at them, gaining a smile from them and a friendly greeting. "Anyways, thanks for letting us stay here, Arcmage!" he said turning to Twilight, "No, problem Phoenix." who gives him a nod. "If I have to spend time with Rarity, I can't be held responsible for what I'm gonna do." McGrath thought to himself as he stood in the door, shaking a little, because of his wet clothes. "McGrath are you okay?" Twilight said, giving him a worried look, "You can take a shower if your cold." she said, McGrath giving her suspicious before nodding "I guess I'll do that.", Twilight gave him a nod, leading him upstairs. "Some storm, huh?" Twilight said as she returned, taking a seat next to Phoenix. "The Pegasi sure have outdone themselves this time.". Phoenix gave her a nod, "Yeah, you can say that again!", stretches himself. "Aren't ya cold, Phoenix?" Applejack said, Phoenix smiled at her question "Cold never bothered me anyway." he said as he conjured a small fire ball in his hand and started to dry is clothes. "I hope you, McGrath, Rarity and AJ don't have any trouble getting home." Twilight said as she looked out the window. "It may indeed be a problem." Rarity responded. "Well, you're welcome to stay if need be." Twilight said, Phoenix looked around and notice someone missing. "Hey, were is Charmander?" he said, looking for any sign of Spike. "Spike is away in Canterlot on royal business. I'm home all alone tonight." Twilight answered, her eyes winded as she gained a idea "You, McGrath, Rarity and AJ should totally sleep over! We'll have a slumber party! I've always wanted one of those." she said excited, using her magic to look for a certain book. "Oh! Uh, goodness." Rarity said thinking up an excuse, "Uh, I do believe I have another engagement scheduled for this evening that completely slipped my mind until just now. I can't possibly stay here all night... with that McGrath." she said before Twilight held up a book. "Slumber 101: All You've Ever Wanted to Know About Slumber Parties But Were Afraid to Ask." Phoenix reads out loud, "That's an actual book?" Twilight beamed as she said proudly "My own personal copy. It's a fantastic reference guide. You should see the table of contents. I've been waiting for a chance to use it, and today is the day! This is gonna be so great!" she said smiling at them. "I'm not staying if he's here. Honestly, Phoenix I cannot understand why someone like you would hang out with him." Rarity said, turning her eyes from the group. "Moody is not so bad once you get to know him." Phoenix said, look at her he continued "I guess your wondering why he is that dickish to you, am I right?" Rarity looked at him for a second before looking away again but she didn't say anything. "It's because what you did the second day after we arrived." he said as Rarity gave him a questioning look. "You asked him to go shopping with you. You expected him to drop whatever he was doing and go with you. McGrath doesn't like taking order's like that." he explained as Rarity looked down in shame. "I... I didn't meant it like that... I was trying to get a connection..." she mumbled. "Tell you what." Phoenix started "If you get his clothes, I'll dry them and you can tell him you did it as some sort of peace offering." Rarity looked up, giving him a nod and headed upstairs. Rarity took a peak in the bath room "McGrath are you..." she started but her mouth fell at what she saw. Under the shower was a completely naked McGrath (Duh), his normally stiff spiky brown hair was laying alluringly down on his shoulders. His decently muscular body with its pale skin shone from the hot water, there was not a single hair to be found on his body. Rarity was helped out of her staring as McGrath opened his eyes, his emerald greens looking into her sapphire blue's. For a moment, both blushed at the situation before McGrath shouted "Get out!", Rarity quickly left the bath room and heading back downstairs. Downstairs, Phoenix, Twilight and Applejack sat around a circle telling each other ghost stories. Rarity took a seat between Applejack and Twilight, still blushing furiously. "What happened? You okay?" Phoenix said, but Rarity didn't respond, she was stuck in her own little world. "So what are we doing?" McGrath said as he came down from the stairs, snapping Rarity out of her thoughts, he took a seat next to Phoenix. "We're telling ghost story." Twilight said, looking at Rarity then back at him. "Okay. I've got one of those. This story is called 'The Licked Hand'." McGrath said as Phoenix led out a annoyed moan "Seriously? That one isn't even real!" he complained. "It is a ghost story, they're all made up! Anyways, A young girl is home alone for the first time with only her dog for company." McGrath said as the lights go out and suddenly McGrath shines on his face with a flashlight. "Listening to the radio, she hears of a serial killer on the loose, so she locks all the doors and windows and goes to bed, taking her dog to her room with her and letting it sleep under her bed." he pauzed, taking in the face's of the group, "She wakes in the night and hears a dripping sound coming from the bathroom. The dripping sound annoys her, and she actually finds it unsettling, for some reason. The bedside lamp doesn't work, and she is too scared to get out of bed to turn on the main light, and walk over to the bathroom. So she hides under the covers, but to reassure herself that the dog is still under the bed she puts her hand down and feels licking on her hand. She lies awake for some time listening to the dripping sound and periodically puts her hand down to where she can hear heavy breathing and each time feels gentle licks on her fingers. Eventually she falls asleep." he pauzed again, Twilight, Rarity and Applejack listening to his tale. "The next morning when she wakes, she goes to the bathroom for a drink of water. On the shower wall, written in blood are the words 'HUMANS CAN LICK TOO', and her slaughtered dog is hanging from the shower head, its blood, now thick and dark, still dripping into the bathtub!" McGrath concluded sending shivers down the girls spine. "G-Ghost story, check." Twilight said, giving everybody a smile, "Now, who wants s'mores?" "What the neuk is s'mores?" McGrath asked. The night continued, it was getting late so the group decided to get to bed, Twilight using her magic conjured up another bed. The guys insisted that the girls would take it, them self taking a sleeping bag. After the lights go out, Rarity looked over at the sleeping form of McGrath. What she didn't directly noticed was that he was looking back at her. "Yes?" he said, making her quickly look away. "Hey! My eyes are up here!" he shouted "Shut up!" Phoenix groaned, "Some people are trying to sleep!" rolling around to look at them. "I hope you're happy, both of you." Twilight said, angry for the first time, "You've ruined my very first slumber party. The makeovers, the s'mores, Truth or Dare, the pillow fight... I mean, is there anything else that could possibly go wrong?" McGrath gave a sigh, sitting straight up "Okay, we're all adults here so we can find a simple solution to this problem!" he stood up walking over to his pile of clothes. "Do you mean..." Phoenix asked as McGrath took a small plastic bag out of his jeans. A hour later, the gang are back in the living room, laying around the room, giggling. Rarity gave out a giggle as McGrath stroked her belly, "This is what you were making in the basement? It feels good." Rarity purred, giggling all the while. "Yeah. I know." McGrath said, completely chill. "How does it feel?" he asked the others. Applejack is trying to catch something out of the air, but there isn't anything but smoke "I.. didn't... feel anything!" broke down in laughter. Twilight laughed as she rolled over the floor "I feel funny!" she rolled up to Phoenix who is eating a cupcake. "Kind of feels good doesn't it?" he said making Twilight giggle. "Is.. is this real life?" Rarity asked McGrath, who gave her a mischievous grin. Without much of a warning, he planted a kiss on her muzzle, Rarity was surprised at first, but quickly returned the kiss. They held it on for a few minutes, before having to break apart for air but they kept cuddling. "Yeah. This is real life." Rarity said, laying her head on his chest. "So..." Twilight started, "Nightmare Night is going to be soon... What are you going to dress up as?" she said as she rolled on her stomach down on her back. "I'm not gonna dress up in a million years." McGrath said as she stroke Rarity's hair, gaining a few purrs from her. "Why not?" Applejack questioned. "Well, I never really told anyone about this..." McGrath started, finding it difficult to put to words, "But uh... I have costuphobia." he said as Rarity looked him in the eye. "You mean you're afraid of being charged money for things, darling?" she said blinking a few times. "No, I just have an irrational fear of people dressing up as fictional characters." McGrath explained, continuing to stroke her mane, "You see, when I was young my parents dressed me up as Sailor Moon. As a joke no less! Let's just say it messed me up. Sometimes I wonder if that's why I'm so evil." finished as he looked away. "But cosplaying is so much fun!" Phoenix interjected but McGrath interrupted him "Try telling that to all the Sailor Scouts I murdered." > Chapter 14: Mental Blocks > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- McGrath woke up from his peaceful slumber as the sunlight hits his face. He open his eyes for the briefest of moment but closed them directly, not yet ready to wake up just yet. He didn't remember much from last night, but what he remembered, it was magical. He heard whispers coming from the side of the room. "Do you think we should wake them up? Its already 13:00." the voice of Twilight whispered, "No, let them sleep. I'm so posting this on my wall later." the voice of Phoenix whispered. McGrath didn't know what they were talking about, all he know was that the pillow he was currently hugging was very soft. It also smelled like perfume... "Wait perfume?" McGrath thought to himself, as he opend one of his eyes. All he could see was indigo. "Oh, crap..." Meanwhile, at the training grounds of Canterlot Castle. For the last two hours, Celestia is trying to teach Skywalker to manipulate the sun light in his cells more efficiently. "Picture it. Reach out with your power and lift that rock" Celestia instructed, as Skywalker started to concentrate. He reaches out, the rock it self vibrates, but that is all it does. "Come on, you can do it." Celestia said kindly, but Skywalker in his frustration, blasted the rock to dust with a stream of lightning. Celestia watched as he let out all his frustrations, the blast exhausted him, dropping him to his knees. "Are calm now?" Celestia asked as he walked up to him. Skywalker didn't answer but simply nodded. "I don't get it. We have been practicing for a month now and still no result. It's almost like..." Celestia said as she realized something, "Skywalker, would you mind if I take a look inside your mind?" she ask, Skywalker giving her a suspicious look. "Why?" he said as he stood back up. "I think I know why your not making any progress. All I want is a quick look to verify if my theory is right, I won't look at your memories, I promise." Celestia explained. Skywalker thought about it before slowly replying "Alright...", Celestia gave him a warm smile "Alright, stay calm and open your mind." touched the tip of her horn on his forehead. Celestia felt as if she took a dive in a cold lake, indicating that she successfully entered his mind. She sank down, as if she was surrounded by water, before landing on a glass pillar. She took a quick scan of her surroundings, noticing a large stone door. She takes a walk towards it, but noticing small arch's of black lightning sealing the door shut. "It is as I thought." Celestia said to herself before she pulled back herself back. "And? What did you find?" Skywalker asked, as Celestia massaged her temples, "It is as I thought." Celestia started, "Your brain has placed a mental block on your power." she motioned him to the stairs. They both took a seat as Skywalker asked "Mental block? What is that? How did it get there?". Celestia carefully chose her words before answering "You know about how humans, earth ponies, unicorns and pegasi only use ten percent of their muscles?" Celestia asked, Skywalker gave her a nod before continuing "Unicorn's have something like that for their magic, to make sure they're magic core doesn't overload. When something very traumatic happens to an unicorn, their magic core loses its limiter, so as a fail safe, the brain puts up a mental block to keep the magic core from overclocking." she concluded as Skywalker thought about her words. "But... I'm not a unicorn, so what makes you think I have a mental block?" Skywalker asked, tilting his head a little. "I know your not an unicorn, but somehow it made sense. And what I saw in you Aria Of The Soul was exactly how the books describe the mental blocks." Celestia explained, as he gave her a questioning look. "Aria Of The Soul?" he asked her. "That's how we call the center of the mind in Equestria." she explained again, before Skywalker asked "How do we get rid of it?" Celestia gave him a sorrowful look "I... I have no idea. But I can look into it for you." she suggested. Skywalker gave her a nod "Give me a book list, I'll ask Twilight on the subject too. If anybody should know about this its her." he said as Celestia gave him a mischievous smile. "What?" Skywalker said as Celestia scooted closer to him, "Yes, Twilight should be able to help. I noticed you have become very close with her, so are you and her?" Celestia asked, chuckling at Skywalker's embarrassment, "W-What? No! She's great and all that, but were just friends!" he said, shaking his hands. A half hour later, Skywalker stood back on Ponyville Train Station. For the first time, Rainbow was not there to greet him. After asking Twilight for help on his mental block, he headed home and decided took sit on the roof for some contemplating. "What could possibly have put those mental block in my head?" Skywalker thought, "AH! Stupid power limiting brain!", felt back on his back. After calming down, he started to enjoy the serenity of quiet. "It's times like this that I just like to lay here and enjoy the peaceful serenity of a beautiful..." Skywalker couldn't finish before a voice shouted, "SKYWALKER!!!", looking up, he notice Pinkie looking over him. "What?..." Skywalker asked deadpan. It took Pinkie ten minutes to explain what is bothering her, apparently a childhood friend from Rainbow came to visit. And in Pinkie's word, pardon my language, a bitch. "So Pinkie," Skywalker said after hearing her story, "Are you sure that this friend of Rainbow Dash is really so mean?" Pinkie nodded her head "Um, yeah, she keeps stealing Rainbow Dash away, she pops my balloons, and she told me to buzz off. She's a grump, and a thief, and a bully. The meanest kind of mean meanie-pants there is!" she said as she waved her front hooves wildly, "I've never met a griffon this mean. Well, actually, I've never met a griffon at all..." she was interrupted by Griffifth's voice. "Hey!" "GriffON! Not GriffITH!" Skywalker shouted back. "Oh, okay! Sorry!" Griffifth shouted an apologize before Pinkie continued talking. "But I bet if I had, she wouldn't have been as mean and grumpy as Gilda." she concluded, as Skywalker rolled his eyes. "Fine, I will look into it." Pinkie smiled and gave him a big hug "Thank you for believing me Sky! I so owe you a Chocolate Cupcake!" Skywalker sits on the roof of Sugarcube Cornor, spying on Rainbow Dash and Gilda. "That was sweet." Gilda laughed, as she and Rainbow talked. Rainbow looked up realizing something "Ugh, I gotta take care of a few weather jobs around here. Shouldn't take long. Just, uh, hang out in town and I'll come find you." she said as she flew off. "That's cool, I guess." Gilda said indifferently, "I'm gonna go chow down." started to walk to one of the food stalls. "Okay, Gilda. Let's see what your up to." Skywalker said not letting Gilda out of his sight. Down below, Fluttershy is guiding a family of ducks cross the road. "Alright little ones, this way, this way." She said as she made a double check, "Mama duck, you're free and clear." walks backwards, and accidentally bumps into Gilda. "Hey!" Gilda said offended, startling Fluttershy. "Please excuse me." Fluttershy apologized but Gilda cut her off. "I'm walkin' here." she shouted, making Fluttershy shrink in shock "Oh, um, I'm sorry. A-a-I was just trying to..." she stutterd but Gilda interrupted her again. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry." Gilda mocked her, "Why don't you just watch where you're going, doofus?" glared down at Fluttershy. "B-b-b-but I... I..." she tried to explain, but Gilda roared at her. Fluttershy broke down and ran away sobbing. "Ugh, please, all these lame ponies and hairless monkey's are driving me buggy. I gotta bail." Gilda complained as she flew away. Back on the roof, Skywalker watched the whole thing, his rage growing by the minute. "No one treats Fluttershy like that." he said to himself, "No. One. ...Look out Gilda... Nothing will protect you from me." he jumped off the roof and dashed towards his house. Gilda is sitting in the park, enjoying the sun, but suddenly her sun is blocked. Opening one eye she sees Skywalker standing over her with a very creepy smile. Gilda stood up giving him a dirty look "Hedgehog! What the hell do you want?" she asked as Skywalker kept his creepy smile. "Gilda, baby!" Skywalker exclaimed in an overly happy tone, "How's it hanging? Get it? 'Cause you gonna die!" he broke down in laughter as Gilda gave him a questioning look. He stopped laughing, giving her his creepy grin again, "I guess you had to be there..." he said calmly annoying Gilda to no end. "What do you want, hedgehog?" she asked as Skywalker kept smiling at her "You made Fluttershy cry." he started, "So I took your parents kidneys." he said this as if they were discussing the weather. Gilda was about to lung at him but Skywalker waged his finger at her "Now, how about we play a little game?" "What sort of game?" Gilda asked, getting a little scared by his constant smile and politeness. "First one to die loses!" Skywalker exclaimed in an excited voice as Gilda was getting really scared now "W-what?" she asked. In but an instant, Skywalker's smile disappeared from his face to be replaced by an expression of pure rage "You lose. Tear here apart!" The other guys jumped down from the tree they were standing under. Skywalker's expression became his pleasant face "Now, let that be a lesson to you, young lady." Skywalker said in his sweetest voice, "Bullying is not very nice. So I don't want to catch you doing it ever again. Got that?", a loud crack is heard indicating that Griffifth was done... feeding. Late that afternoon, the guys are hanging out in the back yard, laughing about absolutely nothing. "For someone who was such a bitch and stuff, she tasted great." Griffifth exclaimed, making the other guys laugh. Rainbow landed, getting greets from the guys, "Hey guys, have you seen Gilda?" she asked. "She left..." Skywalker said as the guys burst out in another round of laughter. "I don't get it." Rainbow said. > Chapter 15: Evil Zebra Reaction Squad Part 1 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Skywalker took a walk towards Twilight, he wanted to ask if she has found something about the mental block. On his way he run into Fluttershy, who was feeding a duck family. "Good morning, Fluttershy!" Skywalker said as he walked up next to her. Turning her head, she notice who called out to her, she started to blush furiously. "Oh, morning Skywalker. Where are you going this early in the morning?" she asked, as Skywalker returned the smile, "I'm off to see Twilight." Skywalker answered, Fluttershy turned from him, looking at the ground "Of course. Your always with Twilight or Rainbow..." she muttered, not loud enough for Skywalker to hear. "Um, W-Why do you hang out with Twilight so much, Skywalker? Um, I-If you don't mind me asking." she asked in her normal shy tone, still not facing him. "I apparently have this mental block in my head, she's helping my find a way to get rid of it." he answered, Fluttershy seemed somehow relieved at his answer. "Oh, he Fluttershy. About Gilda." Skywalker started, gaining a worried look from her "Don't worry your pretty little head about mean old Gilda, alright? Your big brother Skywalker took care of it. See ya!" he gave her a pat on the head before running off. "...I'm a year older than you." Fluttershy muttered, then she realized something he said "He did say I have a pretty head..." she smiled. "Sky? Skywalker?" a voice called to him, Skywalker lifted his head, "What?" he muttered, rubbing his eyes. For the last two hours, he and Twilight have been researching all the books in the library about mental blocks. "You fell asleep." Twilight said sitting across from him. "Are you alright?" she as, Skywalker quickly nodded. "Everything is fine. I just didn't get any sleep last night." he said as he picked up the next book. "I could use a spa day. Unfortunate there isn't one in Ponyville." Twilight looked up from her book "There is." she said, gaining a questing look from Skywalker, "Right on the Main Square." "How come I haven't noticed it before?" Skywalker asked as Twilight resumed her reading ""It's right next to the book store." she said as Skywalker said "Oh that would explain it." he picked up the next book and started to skim through it. A few pages in he notice a illustration depicting a earth pony, a pegasi, a unicorn, a alicorn and something that could be best described a pony as a male alicorn, but instead of a single horn on the center of the head, it had two horns similar like those on a bull on either side of its head. The inscription said 'Bicorn', thinking nothing on it he closed the book and stood up. "Ugh! Enough reading for today!" he said stretching his back and looking outside, "Come on, it's a gorgeous day!", Twilight gave it some thought, before nodding "Yeah, maybe some fresh air will help us come up with some idea's. I bet all of Ponyville is going to be out enjoying the sunshine." she said standing up to join him "And beside, Spike could use some fresh air. And so Skywalker, Twilight and Spike took a stroll through Ponyville, enjoying the sunlight on their skin. "Rainbow Dash must have gotten up early for once and cleared all the clouds away." Spike said as he sat on Twilight's back. "That's as likely as McGrath giving a genuine smile." Skywalker said as he took a look around, just now noticing that they haven't run into anybody yet. "Where is everybody?" he said looking around. Twilight and Spike looked around them self but they couldn't find anyone either. "Is it..." Spike started "Zombies?!" gaining a groan from Twilight and Skywalker. "Uh... not very likely." Twilight said, gaining a worried look from Spike. "Not likely... but possible?" he asked, Skywalker just shrug his shoulders "I'm not scared of zombies." he stated gaining a chuckle from Twilight. "There isn't much that scare's you, isn't there?" she said as they heard someone whisper to them "Psst! Skywalker! Twilight! Spike!" they turn their head to the source and see Pinkie in the door opening of Sugarcube Cornor waving them over, "Come here! Come! Here! Hurry! Before she gets you!" she whispered as Skywalker, Twilight and Spike walked inside. As they enterd the shop, Pinkie closed the door behind them, snuffing out the last light. "Pinkie, what are you doing here alone in the dark?" Skywalker asked as his eyes got use to the dark. "I'm not alone in the dark." Pinkie said as she walked to the rest of the Harmonic Heroes plus Applejacks little sister, who were sitting at their usual spot. "Okay then, what are you all doing here in the dark?" Skywalker corrected himself as he raised an eyebrow. "We're hiding from her!" Applejack said, pointing at a window covered by a curtain. Pulling it aside, Skywalker took a peek outside, noticing a pony looking around dressed in a cloak. Putting the curtain back, he turned to address the group, he felt someone pull at his jeans. "Did you see her Skyguy?" Applebloom asked him, "Did you see Zecora?" she finished as he got pulled away by Applejack who looked her straight in the eye. "Applebloom!" Applejack said, "I told you to never say that name!" as she said that Phoenix scoffed earning him an death glare from her. "What will happend then?" Phoenix said as he relaxed in his chair, "We all die? She knows where we are?" he gave a chuckled as Skywalker continued. "Well, I saw her glance this way and then a bunch of you flip out for no good reason." Skywalker said gaining a death glare from Applejack. "No good reason!?" She said, pulling Applebloom into a big hug "You call protecting your kin no good reason? Why as soon as my sister saw Zecora riding into town, she started shaking in her little horseshoes!". Applebloom groaned as she pulled herself from her sister's hug. "AJ, I'm not a baby! I can take care of myself!" she said, annoyed by her sisters over-protectiveness. "Not from that creepy Zecora." Applejack responded. "I think she's a zebra." Skywalker said looking out of the window. "I've never seen a pony like that in these parts." Applejack said, "Except... her!". "Well, she's probably not from here." Twilight explained, "And she's not a pony. My book says that zebras come from a far away land." she finished as Griffifth responded "...Africa?" he suggested gaining a questing look from the girls. "But I've never seen her in Ponyville. Where does she live?" Twilight asked. "That's just it, she lives in..." Applejack stoped, for a dramatic pauze. "The Everfree Forest!" she said but she didn't got the shock from the group she was expecting. "That weird forest where we battled Nightmare moon?" Skywalker asked, gaining a energetic nod from Pinkie. "And that wicked enchantress Zecora lives there doing her evil... stuff!" Pinkie said. "This is all just a lot of gossip and rumors." Twilight said, "Now tell me; what exactly have you actually seen Zecora do?" she asked as the girls started to think. "Well..." Rainbow began, "Once a month, she comes into Ponyville. Then, she lurks by the stores. And then, she digs at the ground." "Good gracious!" Twilight said dramatically before continuing in her normal tone, "Okay, I'm sorry. But how is any of this bad? Maybe she comes to town to visit." she said, gaining an approving nod from Skywalker. "Yeah! Maybe she's just tryin' to be neighborly." Applebloom chipped in. "And maybe she's not lurking by the stores, maybe she's going to them, lurk free, to do some shopping?" Skywalker suggested. "You know what I think?" Applebloom said, but Applejack interrupted her "Applebloom! Hush and let the big ponies talk." she said gaining an angry look from her little sister, "I am a big pony!" she said but the 'adults' continued talking. "I am sure there is an explanation for everything Zecora does." Twilight said after much discussing, "And if anypony here were actually brave enough to approach her, she would find out the truth." she finished. "Well I'm brave enough; I'm gonna find out myself." Applebloom said, exiting the store, none of the 'adults' notice it except Skywalker who goes after her. "You ponies are being ridiculous!" Phoenix said, annoyed by all the ridicules reasons the girls are scared of Zecora. "Well, I heard that Zecora eats hay." Pinkie gave as an counter argument. "You eat hay!" Phoenix stated, making Pinkie thing about her response. "Yeah..." she said slowly before saying "But she its it the evil way!" Sutakira gave a deep sigh, before noticing that they were missing someone. "Where's Applebloom?" he asked, "And Skywalker?" Snapping everyone out of the discussion, they look around and noticed the open door. "They must be outside!" Rarity said, before her voice betrayed a hint of panick "And Zecora's still out there!" They all rushed outside, but before she exited Twilight turned to Spike "Spike, you stay here in case Apple Bloom and or Skywalker comes back." she said as Spike nodded. Rushing through the Everfree Forest, further up the path, in the distance they saw Applebloom and Skywalker. "Apple Bloom?" Applejack shouted, making the younger apple sister turn in surprise, "You get back here right now!". They group caught up to them as McGrath started to shout at them and waging his finger, "Why did you run away!? You know how worried I was about you!" he suddenly realized how worried he sounded, quickly his expression returned to his usual emotionless one. "Beware!" A voice spoke to them. Turning around, they saw Zecora standing at the other side of the flower bed they were currently in. "Beware, you pony and human folk! Those leaves of blue are not a joke!" she said as she continued her walk. "Y-you keep your creepy mumbo-jumbo to yourself, ya hear?" Applejack said, trying to sound though. "Yeah, back at ya, Zecora!" Rainbow said brashly, "You and your... lame curse are the ones who better beware!" smiling as Zecora seemingly retreating. "And you!" Applejack said, turning to her sister, "Why couldn't you just listen to yer big sister?" Applebloom tried to explain but he sister cut her off. "Who knows what kind of nasty curse Zecora could have just put on you?" she said as she check Applebloom for anything that could be wrong with her. "There's no such thing as curses." Skywalker said rolling his eyes, gaining a chuckle from Rainbow "Well, that's interesting to hear coming from Mr Sunlight himself." "My power, real power, comes from within." Skywalker stated as he placed his hand on his left chest, "It's a skill I'm born with. And a genetic mutation with in my genes." Twilight nodded "Curses are artificial, fake magic." she added, "It's conjured with potions and incantations; all smoke and mirrors meant to scare. But curses have no real power." she finished as they started to head back to Ponyville. "Just you wait." Applejack said to Skywalker and Twilight, "You're gonna learn that some pony tales really are true." Skywalker gave her a cocky smile, "Like Nightmare Moon?" After saying goodbye to everyone, Skywalker headed to Sugarcube Cornor. "Hmmm, maybe chocolate?..." he discussed with himself what kind of cupcake to buy, "No, I already had on this morning. A strawberry one then?" his thought was disturbed by a loud gasp. "No! WAY!" A voice shouted from behind. "Huh?" Skywalker said as he turned around and see's a mint green unicorn with a light blue and white mane, looking at him with the expression of a fangirl meeting her favorite idol. "Hello." Skywalker started, a little uncomfortable, before he could say anything else the mint colored unicorn shouted "OMIGOSH a real live talking HUMAN!" she said excited as kept staring at Skywalker with that same unnerving expression of adoration. "Right... Do you have a name to go by?" Skywalker asked, gaining a big smile from the mint green pony. "My names Lyra." she answered. "Hi Lyra... Can I help you?..." Skywalker started again, "I just wanted to talk to you!" Lyra interrupted him again, "I've always dreamed of meeting a human! Ever since I first saw MLH: FIS on TV." she told him excited. "MLH... FIS?" Skywalker asked her slowly. "Yeah, you know." Lyra started, "My Little Human: Friendship is Science! It's an awesome show about Five humans living in a town called Humanville." she explained in a matter of fact tone, Skywalker. "I've been a broman since the very first episode! Bon Bon says it's just for foals but I don't know WHAT'S wrong with her, It's the best show EVER!" she said as Skywalker replied slowly "No... The best show ever is Heroes." "You kinda look like Air Runner." Lyra noted, gaining a confused look form Skywalker, "The coolest of coolest human in the entire show. Are you from Humanville?" she asked. Skywalker shook his head before answering "Uh, well I don't think there's a place called 'Humanville' and I've never even heard of the show." Lyra gave a loud gasp, as if she made some big mistake, "Oh no! So you didn't even know that your whole world is a work of fiction? Oh stupid, stupid Lyra! Why did I have to open my big mouth!" she said sorrowfully. "Princess Celestia knew about Earth." Skywalker said as he took all she said in, "Which probably means that humans have been here before. The ponies who made the show probably just heard about humans from some ancient history books or something and decided to make a show about it." he explained, calming Lyra down. "But how did you get to Equestria? OOH! Are there more of you?" she asked him excited. "With me there are five." Skywalker answered. "Oh, I love to talk more to you, but I have to go now." Lyra said, "See you later, Walker!" gives him a hug before running off. "Hmmm... A show called My Little Human?" Skywalker said to himself, "Sutakira load up the trailer!..." he said, but he forgot that everybody already went home. "Just becaush your not here doesn't mean you can't listen!" Skywalker said, continuing his way to Sugarcube Cornor. > Chapter 16: Evil Zebra Reaction Squad Part 2 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- She's an evil enchantress, she does evil dances! Beware! Beware! If you look deep in her eyes, she will put you in trances! Yeah, was that supposed to scare us!? Wicked, wicked zebra! ...a curse. Then what will she do? Just you wait; some pony tales really are true. Then she'll gobble you up in a big tasty stew! Soooo watch out! Skywalker woke up, sitting straight up "Ugh... what a dream..." he said to himself as he dropped out of his bed. "Curses, schmurses. Whoa!" he shouted as his face hit the ground, "Why is everything larger?" he said looking around, he saw a blue pegasi, with two horns on the side of his head similar to those of a bull. Funny enough, he had the same black spiky hair and amber colored eyes. "Oh, hallo. What are you doing in my room?" he started held out his hoof as a form of greeting. Wait hoof? "Why do I have hoves?..." Skywalker said as he realized that he was looking into the mirror in his open closet, "OMY!!!!" After finally opening the door, which isn't easy seeing as he doesn't have any fingers anymore, he knocked on the other guys door and shouting "Wake up you guys! Wake up!". The door to McGrath's room opened as he peeked outside. "What's wrong little pony?" he said with a very high pitched voice as he his open in shock. "Its me Skywalker!" he shouted, "And what did you do to your voice?" rubbing his hooves into his hair. McGrath clears his throat multiple times before saying "No idea. I just woke up and I was like oh nooo." he explained as Griffifth's door opened his door. "Whats going on here?" Griffith said with a low and calm voice that will make all the girls swoon. "What just happend?" he asked as Sutakira comes out of his room. "What happend to you?" McGrath asked, but Sutakira just shrug his shoulders. "Phoenix! Wake up!" Skywalker shouted as he kept knocking on the door. "Uhm..." a very feminine voice came out of the outside of the door, "Phoenix is not here... He is in another universe!...". Skywalker turned around and kicked the door open with his hid legs. Inside they saw Phoenix hiding under his blanket, McGrath walked up to him and pulled it off. Laying there was a young lady of seventeen, her hair came to her shoulder, she used her arms to hid her c-cup breast. Phoenix has transformed into a female version of himself. "Hallo, Kylie Phoenix." Griffifth said, as Phoenix swooned. "See?" he said looking at Skywalker. "Let's go to Twilight!" Skywalker said as he headed down the stairs, though not too fast as he needed to get use to his four legs. "she will know what to do." They rushed to the Golden Oak Library, as they entered the girls where already gathered. Twilight turned around as he horn wubbled, "McGrath, Griffith, Phoenix, Sutakira and... Who is this pony?" she asked giving him a flirtatious look. "Its me Skywalker!" Skywalker said as he heard a very high pitched voice shout "I hate to say I told ya so, Skywalker, but I told ya so!" a very minuscule Applejack shouted at him. "It's a curse, I tells ya!", The guys had to turn around to not burts out in laughter. "What do we do now?" Skywalker said fighting back his laughter. "I think we'll find a cure to this curse at Zecora's place!" Rainbow said as Applejack nodded, "I agree with Dash! We'll go to Zecora's and force her to remove this hex!" she chipped in as Skywalker placed his front hoof on his face "I don't this its a curse or a hex!" Skywalker said starting another argument among the group "This is all my fault." Applebloom said looking on, "If I hadn't followed Zecora in the first place, none of this would have happened. I just gotta fix this." exits the Library and heads towards the Everfree forest. A little while later, Applebloom made her way towards Zecora's hut, the only light seem to fall on the path. The surrounding is devoid of any sound aside from her on hoof steps. She suddenly hear twiks snap, looking at the direction of the sound, she saw two glowing blue orbs floating in the darkness. "H-Hallo?" she called out, as a muscular humanoid creature with pitch black skin and spherical, glowing blue eyes stepped out of the shadows. Startled by the creature's appearance, she quickly abandoned the path as she dashed into the wild. "Matte!" the black creature shouted after her, its voice sounding like oil like, even though it didn't have a mouth. "Eius kiken'na illic!". Not heeding the creature. What she didn't know was that instead of blue eyes, yellow eyes were following her now. A growl was heard as she felt something cut in her back leg, she gave it a powerful kick to the jaw with her free leg, freeing her. Giving it a quick look, she saw blood dripping out the tooth marks on her leg. She looked back up and saw that she was surrounded by a pack of Timberwolfs. The pack circled around their pray, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. One of the Timberwolfs in the front longed at her, Applebloom closed her eyes, waiting for the attack to come. A loud yelp was heard, a loud crack and something hitting a tree. Opening her eyes in shock, she couldn't believe what she was seeing. The Timberwolf who lounged at her was now laying dead against a tree, its neck snapped as its head was laying in a angle it isn't supposed to. Looking up, she saw a storm of black cloud swirled around her before it gathered in front of her, taking the form of a cloaked human. The hood obscured his face, the only thing noticeable under that dark hood were two faint glowing orbs were his eyes would be. Even though she only have known 5 humans, Applebloom knew that this human must be very tall even by human standards. He could easily cast his shadow over Celestia herself. The Timberwolf were momentarily startled by the arrival of the new comer who just crushed their pack mate. A Timberwolf lounged at him, making its last mistake. The cloaked man reached out and grabbed the attacking Timberwolf by the throat, making it yelp in pain as the cloaked man started to crush its throat. Two Timberwolf's lounged at him, as a third tried to strike him from behind. The stranger snapped the Timberwolf's neck with a sickening crush, throwing the remains into a tree. In that same motion, he grabbed the two wolfs attacking him from the front as two dark blue lighting bolts came out from under his hood, turning around him and disintegrating the back Timberwolf in matter of seconds. The caught Timberwolfs yelped in desperation trying to free themselves from his iron grip. Two other sickening snaps were heard as those two also dropped dead. All Applebloom could do was watch in frozen terror as the cloaked man walked over to her. She closed her eyes, waiting for him to finish her. The cloaked man stopped in front of her. "Are you alright?" the man asked in a deep and calm voice. Applebloom was too scared to answer him, she couldn't stop him as she kneel down and took a look at her wounded leg. His gloved hand emitted a blue aura, as he waved his hand over it. Applebloom could fell her wounds close, the cloaked man stood up and studied his handiwork. "That should do the trick." he said as Applebloom wiped off the left over wet blood. "What are you doing here. Don't you know it is dangerous off the path." the cloaked man asked, though it was less of a question and more of a command. "I-I was on my way to Zecora. Y-You see my friends are cursed and so I went to ask her for a cure. Then this black creature appeared, I-I was scared so I ran." She explained as the cloaked man listen to her explanation. "I see, braving a dark forest to find a way to help your friends." the cloaked man started, Applebloom braced herself for another lecture. "That's commendable." he gave her a approving nod. "Now come." he said as he started to walk gaining a questioning look from Applebloom. "I will walk you to Zecora's hut. There might be more Timberwolfs out." he said as Applebloom stood up and followed him. As he strode through the forest, Applebloom had to nearly run to keep up with him. As they made there way through the dark forest, it was some time before either of them spoke up. "So, what do you call yourself." the cloaked man asked first, though again it was more of a command than a question. "M-My name is Applebloom, sir." she said, she could have sworn she heard a small chuckle from the cloaked man. "W-What's your name?" she asked. The cloaked man gave her a studying look before answering "You may call me Morgenstern. Though I do not know if that's my true name, I prefer it." he answered cryptically. Applebloom looked around and she saw those glowing blue eyes in the darkness staring at them. She quickly hided by his leg, making him turn towards her. He followed her look and saw the same glowing eyes in the distance. "Don't worry, Applebloom." he said, trying to reassure her, "The Corrupted won't do you any harm unless I command it.". She gave him a questioning look, but before she could ask anything else a cloud of dark red mist appeared in front of them and took the form of another cloaked human, this one was obviously female. The new comer took a knee, before addressing Morgenstern. "My lord, we found some clue's to what..." She started before noticing Applebloom. "Oh, who is this little filly?" she asked with a friendly voice. "This is my new friend, Applebloom." he said motioning for her to rise up. "H-Hallo, miss." Applebloom said shyly, gaining a chuckle from the lady. "No need to be so formal, Applebloom." she said friendly, before she turned back to her lord. "My lord, we found more information about the thing we're searching for." gaining a nod from Morgernstern. "Summon the others, I will be with you shortly." he ordered as he woman bowed, disappearing into dark red smoke. Morgenstern continued to walked as Applebloom followed him, "What are you looking for?" she asked him. "None of your concern, why do you ask." he said, Applebloom gave him a big smile, "You saved my life, so I owe ya one. And we're friends, friends help each other." she said and this time definitely gaining a small chuckle from Morgenstern, though it was devoid of any joy. "What I'm looking for is very dangerous. I wouldn't want to risk a friend trying to find it." Morgenstern said shaking his head before continuing. "Allow me another question. Why is your flank blank?" he said as they'r about to enter a clearing. Applebloom explained to him about Cutiemarks and the reason she doesn't have her's yet. "And that's why... Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon always make fun of him..." she said with a sad look in her eyes. "Applebloom." the voice of Morgenstern said making her look up. "Don't listen to them, don't let them every tell you you don't belong. Your blank flank is like the number zero." Morgenstern said, his voice hiding some genuine kindness, "It's empty, yet it hold infinite possibilities." he finished as they arrived at Zecora's hut. "Here we are. When you go home, stick to the path." he said turning around. Applebloom smiled at him and hugged his leg. "Thank you Morgenstern, I will." she said as he looked down at her, "One last thing." he said looking her in the eye, "Don't trust stranger's so easily. Not everyone is such a nice guy like me." he finished as he disappeared into dark blue smoke. A little back in the forest, the Harmonic Heroes are making their way towards Zecora's hut. "C'mon. We've got to get to Zecora's. Hurry!" Twilight encouraged the group. "Easier said than done." Rarity said as she tripped over her over grown hair. After some struggle they arrived at Zecora's hut. "Plis place plooks horrible!" Pinkie exclaimed with a lot of spit. "Nice decorations." McGrath said looking through a window, "If you like creepy!" They all looked through the window as they saw Zecora talking in her native language, throwing ingredients into a large pot. "Sthe sthtole my sthong! Shthe shtole mm mm!" Pinkie stuttered, but none of the group understood what she said. "You saw those terrible things." Rarity said, looking in some random direction, "Now you believe us Skywalker?" she was standing with her back to him. "What if Zecora is just making soup?" Skywalker stated, as they heard Zecora's voice. "The perfect temperature for ponies and humans, I presume. Now, where is that little Applebloom?" "Or she's making Applebloom soup." Phoenix said dryly, making the girls storming the hut. A few loud crashes are heard, some shouting in African and a cauldron being kicked over with as its content is spilled on the floor. "Ponies! What is this you..." Zecora shouted, noticing her kicked over cauldron, "No! You know not what you've do! You've gone and spilled my precious brew!" she shouted as Twilight stood ready to battle her "We're onto you Zecora." She said giving her an angry look, :"I didn't want to believe that you cursed us, but the evidence is overwhelming!" gesturing at her destroyed decoration. "...Hi. Sorry for barging in like that." Skywalker apologized as the rest started to throw around their accusations. "You made us look ridiculous!", "You made us sound ridiculous!", "You made us speak ridiculous!". Sutakira shrugs his shoulders. "How dare you!" Zecora looked offended, "You destroy my home, destroy my work. Then rudely accuse me of being a jerk?" she said slamming her hoof on the floor. "It is unwise to venture down this road. Your actions will make my anger explode!". Skywalker looked around, turning his head back to Zecora, "Just a quick question, where's AB!?", Right on cue, Applebloom entered with two saddle bags. "Zecora! I think I found all the things ya asked for." she said before noticing the damage to the room, "What in Ponyville is goin' on here?" Applejack jumped up and down exclaiming, "Apple Bloom! You're okay!" jumped on the muzzle of her younger sister. Applebloom gave her a questioning look "Why wouldn't I be?" she asked, herself gaining a puzzling look from Twilight. "Because Zecora is an evil enchantress who cursed us and was gonna cook you up into soup!" Zecora and Apple Bloom broke out in laughter. Regaining their breath, Applebloom was the first to speak up, "Oh Twilight. Did those silly fillies finally get in yer head? You know there's no such thing as a curse." she said as Zecora explained. "If you will remember back, the words I spoke were quite exact." "It was a warning." Skywalker realized. "About that blue plant..." Zecora gave him a nod, "It's called Poison Joke. That plant is much like poison oak, but its results are like a joke." she explained. "I see..." Skywalker said "I think what she's saying is that when we ran in to save Applebloom, we ran into the poison joke. All our problems are just little jokes that played on us." he explained as Applejack scoffed. "LITTLE JOKES?! Very funny!" she said, as Skywalker caught on to it. "The pun wasen't intended." he said trying to scratch the back of his head. After apologizing to Zecora, she agreed to give them the cure to the poison joke. In return, the Harmonic Heroes offered to explain to the town that Zecora wasn't an evil enchantress. They were in need of a big enough cauldron for them all to fit in, and the closes thing they could think of was the bubble bath at the local spa. As they entered, Skywalker caught the eye of the females in their. "Lotus, we need to talk." he said as she gave him a seductive look, "Oh my, who is this handsome stallion?" she asked gaining a chuckle from the group. Dear Princess Celestia, My friends learned an important lesson this week: Never judge a video game by its cover. Someone may look unusual, or funny, or scary and or stuff. But you have to look past that and learn who they are inside. Real friends don't care what your 'cover' is; It's the contents of a pony and or human that count. And a good friend, like a good video game, is something that will last forever. Oh and say hi to Princess Luna for me. You know, the other pony with a unicorn horn and wings. Stupid Hasbro commercial! J.S. Skywalker > Chapter 17: Nightmare Night > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Another month past, still no word from the Princess for a way back. The training has also been slow, as neither Skywalker, Twilight or Celestia could find a way to remove the mental block. "Sky? Skywalker?" a voice called to him, Skywalker lifted his head, while rubbing his eyes. Twilight was looking at him with her purple eyes, "You fell asleep." Twilight said, closing the book she was reading "Having trouble sleeping again?", Skywalker nodded. Twilight gave him a curious look, "You always look so tired, when was the last time you slept well?" she asked as Skywalker started to think, "This Thursday, two months ago..." he said gaining a worried expression from Twilight. "Y-You have trouble sleeping ever since you got here?" she said surprised. "Everything is fine..." he tried to reassure her but she cut him off "No, it's not fine! What if something happens and your too tired to protect us? What if you get hurt!? What if..." she rattled on before Skywalker places his hand on her head, which calmed her down. "Twilight, I will never be too tired to protect you and the rest." he said with a smile but she wasn't entirely convinced. "So, that Nightmare Night is gonna be this weekend huh?" Skywalker said, trying to change the subject, Twilight's expression sadden by his question. "I-I'm sorry, did I say something wrong?" he asked. Twilight shook her head at his question, "Nothing, it's just... That weekend is the only weekend my big brother can have a free weekend, no trains go to Chanterlot and back during Nightmare Night. I promised Spike to go candy hunting with him, but if I take him to my family... We won't be able to go candy hunting. " she looked down, as Skywalker took in her dilemma. "Do you..." he started slowly, "Want me to look after Spike? He can stay over at my place and I'll take him trick or... I mean candy hunting." Skywalker proposed as Twilight face brighten up. "Y-You would do that?" she said as Skywalker nodded, "Of course... WHoa!". Twilight had tackled him to the ground and gave him the biggest hug she had ever give anyone "Thank you! Thank you!" she said, she lifted her head a little and started to blush, the only thing between her muzzle and his mouth was a small layer of air. "Well... This is awkward..." she said blushing, gaining a puzzling look from Skywalker, "Why?" he asked, totally oblivious to their situation. Before Twilight could answer, Spike's voice came from another room "Hey Twilight, have..." he said entering the room, but he fell silent as he saw Twilight on top of Skywalker. She got quickly off him, but Spike couldn't help but smirk at her embarrassment. "So... You two are studying hard." he said as Twilight shot him an angry glare. "Spike! Guess were you'll be staying this weekend?" she asked as he shrug his shoulders "At the guys house. Yeah, I was listening. I guess I'll go pack my stuff." he said heading upstairs. Twilight shook her head as Skywalker chuckled. Meanwhile, back at the guy's house. McGrath was sitting on the sofa reading a book, he was only a few chapters in as a voice behind him said "Soooo.". Turning around he saw Phoenix leaning against the sofa, giving him a cocky smirk. McGrath rolled his eyes before saying "What do you want now?", deciding against his better judgment to hear him out. Phoenix jumped over the sofa and took a seat next to him, "So, talked to Diva yet?" he asked, gaining him a glare from McGrath. "Now don't give me that look. Don't tell me that you haven't talked to her after the sleep over. Especially after you two..." he said as McGrath cut him off, "We all agreed to never talk about what happened!". he said. Phoenix just gave him a smirk, as he relaxed back into the sofa, "Come on, don't tell me you don't have feelings for her." he winked as McGrath returned to his book, "This discussion is over." he said, hiding his face into the book. Phoenix could have sworn he saw a blush on McGrath's pale cheeks. A big smile crept on his face, "You do! You totally do!" he said standing up, "Moody likes Diva! Moody likes Diva!" he said in a sing song voice as McGrath let out a annoyed groan. And so, Saturday came. The daytime part of the day was spend decorating the house and setting stuff up for a Nightmare Night Party, after preparations were in order, Skywalker retreated into his room to put on his costume. Coming down in a Darth Vader suite, he saw Spike, who ironically, was dressed as a dragon waiting for him. "So?" Skywalker said activating the voice changer, mimicking the voice of Darth Vader. "What do you think? I made it myself." at the bottom of the stairs, he spin around to show off the costume. "Are you that one guy with a breathing problem from Star Wars?" Spike said, gaining a face palm from Skywalker. "Guy with a breathing problem?... I'm Darth freaking Vader! The greatest enemy of the Jedi!" he ranted as he and Spike exited the house to hunt for candy. Apparently, no one recognized who Skywalker was supposed to be. Humans? Not weird at all, Darth freaking Vader? Who is that robot? Anyways, the hunting was a great success as they both had two big bags filled with all sorts of sweets. Before heading home, they decide to the festival on the Main Square. A lot of ponies had gathered, all wearing costumes from a typical princess to zombies, Skywalker though he even saw a filly dressed as McGrath. "Thank you, everybody." Mayor Mare, her self dressed as a clown with rainbow wig, big red nose and all that clown stuff, said as she addressed the crowd from the stage, and welcome to the Nightmare Night festival! Now all the little ponies who have been out collecting sweets should follow our friend Zecora to hear the legend of Nightmare Moon!" she said, trying to sound scary, but at best she sounded cheesy. "Spooky voice might work better is she wasn't dressed like that." Spike whispered to Skywalker, making him chuckle as Zecora enter the stage, dressed as... A voodoo witch I guess? "Follow me and very soon you'll hear the tale of Nightmare Moon." Zecora said, her spooky voice sounded much scarier, "Listen close my little dears, and I'll tell you where you got your fears of Nightmare Night, so dark and scary. Of Nightmare Moon, who makes you wary. Every year, we put on a disguise, to save ourselves, from her searching eyes. But Nightmare Moon wants just one thing. To gobble up ponies in one quick swing. Hungrily, she soars the sky. If she sees nobody, she passes by. So if she comes and all is clear, Equestria is safe another year!". "Uh, Miss Zecora, if we wear costumes to hide from Nightmare Moon, so she won't gobble us up, how come we still need to give her some of our candy?" A little filly, named Pipsqueak if Skywalker recalled correctly, asked, making Zecora turn to him. "A perfect question, my little friend. For Nightmare Moon you must not offend. Fill up her belly with a treat or two, so she won't return to come eat you!" she said, making some children scream in fright. "Everybody!" Pinkie shouted, she was dressed as a chicken, "Just dump some candy and get out of here!" she said dropping some candy in front of the statue. Just as the little fillies wanted to offer some candy, the sky darkened as thunder roars in the background. A chariot, being pulled by two pegasi guards, instead of the normal gold armor, these guard were wearing black armor and their wings were those of a bat, instead of the normal feathered ones. Skywalker gave a deep sigh, "What is it now?" he asked as the chariot landed. Someone wearing a dark cloak exited, as she approached the center of the group, the cloak disappeared into bats, revealing that the new comer was in fact the Princess of the night herself. Though she looked different from the last time they saw her. For instance, she was taller, her body more slim, her mane filled with stars and floating as if held by wind. The princess looked around, giving the group a good look before, "Citizens of Ponyville!" she shouted, with a lot of volume, "We have graced your tiny village with our presence, so that you might behold the real princess of the night! A creature of nightmare is no longer, but instead a pony who desires your love and admiration! Together we shall change this dreadful celebration into a bright and glorious feast!" she declared, thunder roaring in the background, startling ever one. "Did you hear that, everybody!?" Pinkie shouted, "Nightmare Moon says she's gonna feast on us all!", scaring the kids as they all fled. "What?" Princess Luna said surprised, this time with a normal voice, "No children, no! You no longer have reason to fear us! Screams of delight is what your princess desires, not screams of terror!", her please went unheard as nearly everybody fled in terror. "What is the matter with you?" the princess shouted in frustration, "Very well then. Be that way! We won't even bother with the traditional royal farewell." she said as she made her exit, towards the Everfree Forest. "Spike, you go home now." Skywalker started, handing him his candy bag, "I gonna go talk to her." standing back up and turns to the way Luna left. "You can't talk to her!" Spike said, almost falling over from the weight of four big bags filled with candy, "She's Nightmare Moon!" he said worriedly, making Skywalker glare at him from under his helmet, "No, she's not." Skywalker said, with a stern tone to his voice, "I saw the Elements of Harmony change her back to good! But it seems like she's having some trouble adjusting after being gone for a thousand years." Skywalker said as he dashed toward the Everfree Forest. He didn't have to look long for the princess, who was sitting in front of a statue of Nightmare Moon. Hearing him approach, she turned her head to look at him, giving him a distrustful look. "Princess Luna? Hi, my name is..." Skywalker started with a friendly tone, as his hands moved up to remove the helmet. But before he could do that, Luna interrupted him. "Darth Vader!" she said, surprising Skywalker, "Commendable costume! Thou even got the voice and breathing right." she complimented him, making Skywalker grin under the helmet. "Thank you." he said, fiddling with the helmet, "I just came to welcome you to our celebration! My actual name is..." he found the button at the side of his helmet, removing the hooks at kept it in check. Removing the helmet, Skywalker shook his head to get his hair back into its usual model. "Jason Skywalker!" she said, before her voice returned her loud volume, "It was thou who unleashed the powers of harmony upon us and took away our dark powers!", she shouted as thunder roared in the background. "Wow, Wow!" Skywalker said, raising his hands "Easy there. That was a good thing... right?" he asked nervously as Luna gave him a puzzling look. "But of course." she responded in her normal tone. "We could not be happier. Is that not clear?" she asked him confused. "Well..." Skywalker started slowly, trying not to offend the princess in front of him, "You kinda sound like you're yelling at me.". Luna shook her head as she took in what he said, "But this is the traditional royal Canterlot voice! It is tradition to speak, using the royal 'we', and..." she pauzed, returning to her Royal Canterlot Voice, "TO USE AS MUCH VOLUME WHEN ADDRESSING OUR SUBJECTS!". Skywalker looked awkwardly to his left and right, thinking to himself "So... Royalty spoke in caps lock in the past...", gaining a questioning look from the Princess. "That might explain why your appearance was met with... mixed results. I think if you just changed your approach a bit, you might be met with a warmer reception." he suggested as Luna shouted at him "Change our approach!?". Skywalker cover his hears, "Lower the volume?" he said gaining a sorrowful look from the princess. "Ohhh." she looked down to the ground, "We have been locked away for a thousand years. We are... not sure we can." It took some time, but with some pointers and some practice, Luna got her volume under control. Skywalker suggested to get to know some ponies. This was less successful as nearly everybody was still scared of her, every attempted resulted ended with someone running away while screaming. "What's wrong with you!" Skywalker shouted, as Pinkie ran away for the third time. Luna dropped her head in disappointment, "It is of no use, Jason." she said, giving a deep sigh, "They have never liked us and they never shall." "I like you." Skywalker said, he could have sworn that he saw a little smile on the princess muzzle for a brief moment after saying that. "Maybe their just... Intimidate. You are a princess after all." nodding, thinking that must be it, "There is a party at my house, there will be music, snacks and drinks. It will be a perfect way to show that you are just a pony! Just like everybody else!" he explained excited, though Luna had her doubts. "We... We don't know. How big will this party be?" she asked nervous. Skywalker gave her a warm smile, "Its just a small party, fifty people and or ponies max." he said, as Luna looked worried to the ground. "We... We guess. Will you be staying at our side the entire time?" she asked, he gave her an encouraging nod "Of course!". As they approach the house, they could see that the party was already in full swing. Ponies were laughing, dancing and socializing with one another. Luna seemed nervous as she walked close the Skywalker. He gave her a encouraging smile, "Don't worry, this will be fun! All you have to do is loosen up a bit, be positive, and have some fun.", he said as they entered the house. "Fun?" Luna asked him, "What is this 'fun' thou speak of? Pray tell, what purpose does it serve?", making Skywalker think for a minute. "Well..." he started slowly, "F is for friends that do stuff together, U is for you and me, and... N is for anywhere at any time at all. If I remember correctly." This time, they had much more success to get the ponies to accept Luna, a little bit of alcohol can do wonders. It took some time but eventually Luna loosened up, dragging Skywalker to the dance floor and pretty much forced him to dance. Which is especially funny, as Skywalker is a terrible dancer, though Luna didn't care, she had the time of her life. Eventually, they ended in the backyard were some games were set up. Luna waited outside, returning greetings she got from the party goers as Skywalker returned with two cans. "Well you seem to be having a good time, Princess." he said handing her one of the cans, which she levitate with her magic. She opened it, she took a sip as a bitter taste filled her mouth. With some trouble she swallowed it, looking over at Skywalker who had already finished his. "This is some... Intresting cider." she said, "What kind of cider is this, Jason?" she asked as he looked up to the roof. "That's my princess, is called a beer." he said as he kept looking at the roof. A crowd started to form around them, all looking at the roof. Luna herself looked up and saw one of Skywalker's friends standing on the roof. "I'm gonna jump! Into the pool!" said a drunken Phoenix, as the crowd started to chant "Jump!" over and over. Luna gave Skywalker a worried look, "Don't worry, he does this every Saturday.", his words had barley left his mouth as Phoenix jumped. Landing in the pool, a large splash headed to the crowd. Luna closed her eyes, waiting for the water to hit her, which never happened. Opening her eyes, she saw Skywalker standing in front of her. "I can't have a lady become dirty, now can I princess?" he said giving her a smile. "I ask that thou call us..." she slowly said, shaking her head as she continued, "Me... Luna, fair Jason. Hear me, villagers!" she shouted those last words, gaining the attention of everyone, "All of you! Call me Luna!" as she said that, the crowd cheered. As the night continued, they ran into Pinkie again, who screamed as she saw him with Princess Luna, before Luna could react Skywalker jumped to her defense, "What's wrong with you Pinkie! You used to be scared of nothing! Why are you suddenly scared of Luna!? She's changed! She's not evil or scary anymore! And she definitely doesn't want to gobble you up!" he shouted, unbeknownst to him this made Luna blush. "...Well, duh." Pinkie said, rolling her eyes. "I know that. Sheesh, Skywalker, I'm almost as big as her. How's she gonna gobble me up?". He was slightly taken a back by her answer. "Sometimes it's just really fun to be scared." Pinkie said before he could say anything. At five in the morning, Griffifth shouted, "The party is over! You don't have to go home, but you can't stay here!" he said as the guests started to leave. Everybody went home with a smile, everyone but Luna who seemed disappointed. Skywalker watched her leave, he rushed out the door and catch up with the princess who seemed to be walking home even though she lived in a different city. "You mind if I walk with you for a while?" he asked, she turned around looking at him, "Jason? Shouldn't you get to bed?" she asked as he shook his head, "I'm not tired." he said, before she could ask he answered "You seemed disappointed at the end of the night, did I do something wrong?" he asked her as they walked through Ponyville, which is empty at this time of day. "Not at all. I... Thank you, for everything tonight." She said giving him a grateful smile, "I don't usually hang out with friends." she told him, gaining a questing look from him. Noticing his look she continued, "I'm usually the only one awake during the night." looking down at her reflection in a puddle. "I don't really have many friends, just my sister." Skywalker's figure soon enters the reflection on the puddle. "I could be your friend." he said making her look up at him, as he smiled. "So why do you sleep during the day?" he asked, as they crossed a bridge. "I don't have to, I always used to argue that I could just raise the moon every night before I sleep. But that was when I was young and mother didn't allow it." she answered. Skywalker put his arms behind the back of his head, "I don't see a problem with that. It's not like the moon is going anywhere." he said making her chuckle. "I think you should tell Celestia about that." he said making Luna nod. "Yes, she is more reasonable than mother is... or should I say was." she added that last part sadly. He realized what she meant, "Oh... I'm sorry." he said. Luna shrugged of his apology "No, it's okay." she said as they arrived at the edge of Ponyville. "I'll talk to Tia and maybe we can walk together again some other day." she asked hopefully. Skywalker nodded again "That would be nice. Come by anytime, your always welcome." he said as she spreads her wings. Before taking off, she turned around and gives him a quick peck on the cheek, then flies off into the night. > Chapter 18: My Greatest Failure > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "No way!" Phoenix exclaimed with a mischievous smile, leaning over the sofa as Pinkie nodded energetically, "Yes way! I saw it myself!" she said grinning ear to ear. "I can't believe this! So who do you think..." Phoenix asked before being interrupted, "What are you two talking about?". Turning around they saw that Griffifth was leaning in the door opening. "I just saw Skywalker buy a whole bunch of ingredients!" Pinkie said as if that explained everything. Griffifth gave them a puzzling look before continuing "Sooo... Why is that so strange?", as he asked that Phoenix and Pinkie dropped their heads. "Duh!" Phoenix was the first to speak up, "It's obvious he's going to cook for a girl! A certain blue pegasi if I'm guessing correctly." he stated. Pinkie shook her head in confusion, "What? Him and Rainbow? No way! He's obviously going to cook for Twilight!" she said. The two of them got in a heated discussion as to who was the lucky mare, Skywalker was going to cook for. Griffifth pinched the bridge of his nose and closing his eyes, "You two are idiots." he said as he left the room. Meanwhile at Fluttershy's Cottage, a knock was heard on the front door. Placing a bandage around a injured bird, "Who's there?" she asked as she approached the door. "It's a me, Jason Skywalker!" Skywalker's voice came from the other side of the door, "Could you please open the door? I have something for you." he said as Fluttershy gained a blush, "He has something for me? A present? Something romantic? Oh no don't be silly Fluttershy, he probably has some missed placed mail for you." she thought to herself as she opened the door, and there stood Skywalker, holding a gray carton box. "Uhm... Hi." she said with a small voice, gaining a huge blush. "Oh great! Now he will think I don't want to talk to him!" she thought to herself as he opened the box. Inside she could see that it was filled with cookie's, shaped like a butterfly. She looked up at him, giving him a questioning look as to why he would show this to her. "These are for you, I baked them myself. " he said proudly as he placed the box on a nearby table. He looked at her before his expression became serious, "I know you don't like me very much." he said to the shock of Fluttershy. "W-What makes you think that?" she asked, the color draining from her face. "Well..." he started crossing his arms, "I noticed that you hardly talk when I'm around, when I enter the room you just stop speaking and if I say something to you, even if it's a compliment, your face turns red from anger." he explained as he headed to the door, "See it as a peace offering. Anyway I got to go, see you around." he waved at her before running off. "He..." Fluttershy said slowly to herself, "He thinks I hate him?". Walking over to the box, she picked out one of the cookies and took a bite, her eyes winded at how good they were. Over at Sugarcube Corner, McGrath was sitting at a table trying to read a book. "Here's you coffee, black no sugar." Mrs Cake said, placing the cup on his table as he closed his book. "Thank you Mrs Cake." he said as he took a sip, savoring the taste. "Hmm, this is some great coffee, thank you Mrs Cake." he said, as Mrs Cake told him that it was no problem. "I have what he is having." an elegant voice said, as the owner took a seat across from him. "Certainly Rarity." Mrs Cake said as she headed back to the kitchen. "What do you want?" McGrath said, placing his cup down, giving her an annoyed look. "I wanted to talk to you..." she started. "Your doing it now." he interrupted, taking another sip from his cup. Rarity looked at him, waiting for him to say more. "You are very quiet." she finally said as Mrs Cake placed Rarity's order on the table. "Only compared to some." McGrath responded, placing his now empty cup back on the table. "I... I wanted to talk to you... about that night..." Rarity said, and for the first time since she sat down, McGrath's expression changed from expressionless to shocked. "I'm not going to discuss that night, all five of us agreed that that night never happened." he said standing up, placing some bits on the table to cover their coffee. He was about to walk away, but Rarity next words stopped him dead in his tracks, "It was my first time!". He turned around to face her, Rarity was close to crying. He walked back to her, whipping the single tear that had escaped her beautiful sapphire blue eyes. "Listen uhm..." he said slowly, struggling to find the right words, "I... I'm sorry, I mean it. But you shouldn't get involved with a guy like me." he turned his eyes away from her, Rarity noticed for a fleeting moment that there was sorrow in McGrath's emerald green eyes, she also noticed that nearly all the harshness had disappeared from his voice. "A girl like you can do so much better than me and..." he said standing up and heading towards a door "I could never deserve someone like you." he ran out of the door before she could respond. Over at Canterlot, Skywalker headed out of the train station looking for Shining Armor, as he has done for the past two month's. Unfortunately he didn't saw the captain anywhere in the crowd, which is strange as he was always one time. Skywalker took a seat on the stairs. After another ten minutes, a orange pegasi guard with blue mane. What Skywalker could make of the guards was that he was young, probably his age. "Jason Skywalker?" he asked, yep he was Skywalker's age. "Yes, that's me." he said standing up, "Who's asking?". The young guard made a bow before answering, "Flash Sentry is the name, newest recruit of the guards stationed here in Canterlot." he said standing back up. "Ah." Skywalker said, "I was wondering what Shining Armor had done to his coat. Speaking of which where is he?" he looked around but the captain was nowhere in sight. "He requested to meet you at the Canterlot Cafe. Something about your training being delayed of something." Flash answered as Skywalked nodded, "Alright, lead the way.". Flash Sentry gave him an excited nod, leading him towards the shopping district. Flash kept glancing over Skywalker, as if wanting to ask something. "Yes?" Skywalker asked, trying to break the silence. "Uhm..." Flash started, "You don't always wear clothes, do you?" he asked. "Not when I'm naked I don't." Skywalker replied dryly, making Flash chuckle. "He's alright." Skywalker thought to himself, "Can I ask you something else?" Flash said, Skywalker nodded him to continue. "About sixteen years ago, a major battle was fought near Canterlot." Flash started, "A bunch of ape like creatures appeared and fought using laser swords and swords shaped like key's. My mother, who was pregnant with me at the time, was saved by a female human." Flash said, Skywalker didn't respond, not knowing where he was going with this, "She had the same eye color as you, so I thought... Maybe, you wouldn't know her by any chance?" he finally asked as Skywalker crossed his arms. "Hey, one time I ran across this pegasi. Brightly colored, fast. You think you may know her?" Skywalker asked him, as Flash quickly said, "I didn't mean to offend you! I was just curios if you may knew her, she save my mother's and by extension my live so..." he quickly said as Skywalker started to laugh, "At ease soldier, I was just messing with you.", Flash gained a blush of embarrassment. "And as for your question... No, I never met anyone, well not a human that is, with my eye color." Skywalker answered as they stop in front of Canterlot Cafe. Looking through the window, he could see Shining Armor sitting at a table talking to a pink unicorn, with purple and golden manes, he also noticed the look they were giving each other, so he planed some mischief as he entered the cafe. "SHINING ARMOR!" Skywalker shouted as soon as he entered, making Flash flinch by his sudden outburst. Shining Armor turned around so fast, his head almost popped off his neck, "So you stood me up for her? What does she have that I don't?" Skywalker said with mock anger. Shining Armor gave a relieved sigh as Skywalker, Flash and the pony laughed at his expense. "You must be the illustrious Skywalker." she started, extending her hoof as a form of greeting, "I'm princess Mi Amore Cadenza, Cadance for sort." she said friendly as Skywalker shook her hoof. "Wait, princess?" he thought to himself looked to her side and indeed, there were a pair of wings on her side. "Hey!" the voice of Cadance said, snapping Skywalker out of his thought, "My eyes are up here." Cadance said with a similar mock anger he himself used a few moments earlier. "I'm sorry. Anyway, why did you want to meet me here, Shining?" Skywalker asked as he took a seat. Looking over his shoulder, he saw that Flash Sentry was standing next to him, his eyes studying the crowd for potential threats. "The princess asked me to give you a message." Shining Armor whispered, giving Cadance a quick look, "She found a way to remove your... uhm, problem.". Skywalker quickly realized what he meant and asked, "She has?". Shining Armor gave him a quick nod, "It's going to be difficult and I don't know all the details..." he said before Cadance interrupted him. "Were going use magic to send someone in your Aria Of The Soul, and have them break that door open." she explained. "Inside the memory there will be... something. Once that is gone the mental block should be gone too.". Skywalker thought for a moment before asking, "Who are we gonna send in?" Skywalker asked, but before Shining Armor could answer, Cadance spoke up, "It can be just about anyone. Well, I can't do it since I will be conducting the spell. It's tricky Alicorn magic, but Celestia herself has offered to be enter herself." she said, noticing Skywalker thinking. "Actually, I have someone else in mind." Skywalker said, as he stood up, "When is the next train coming from Ponyville?" "I got your message." Phoenix said, "You sure you want me to do that?" he asked, giving a questing look. "Ya, I want you to help Big Macintosh with some shopping." Applejack said, as she gave another kick to a apple tree, making it drop apples in the basket. "Well, okay then." Phoenix said shrugging his shoulder, "Thank's Sugarcube, I think he could use some guy friends." she gave him a grateful smile. Soon after Phoenix and Big Macintosh made there way towards the market place, he tried to strike up a conversation but Big Macintosh did not say much other than "Eeyup" and "Eynope.". "Your not much of a talker are you?" Phoenix noted, which got replied with the standerd, "Eeyup.". Phoenix rolled his eyes as he placed his arms behind the back of his head, "That's okay I guess. That means I can talk for both of us." he said grinning at his large companion... No response. "You know..." Phoenix said, trying to get a reaction out of Big Mac, "Your sister has a nice flank. It looks like a big round apple, I totally wanna have a bite out of her fruit... Woah!" Phoenix was suddenly throw to the floor, he quickly rolled on his back to see a angry Big Macintosh standing over him. "You stay away from my sister!" he said, the tone of his voice, the way angry look he was giving him, all that made Phoenix burst out in laughter. Big Macintosh quickly took a few steps back, thinking Phoenix might have gone insane. Phoenix stood up, laughing all the while, "Your just the kind of guy I thought you were." he said as he dusted himself off, "You don't let anyone say shit about your family, I can respect that." patting Big Macintosh on the back. Phoenix resumed walking, but Big Mac was dumbfound by that this guy could so easily push his buttons. Meanwhile back at Canterlot castle, Skywalker, Celestia and Cadance were sitting in the garden waiting for Skywalker's chosen to arrive. "Are you really sure? I would gladly..." Celestia started but was cut short by the arrival of Rainbow Dash. Rainbow looked over at the group, "So... Why did you need my assistance?" she asked as Celestia explained the situation to her. "I see..." Rainbow said giving a confidante smile, "I'll do anything for my buddy Jason. So how are we gonna enter his... Saria Of The Oul?" he asked. "It's Aria Of The Soul and I will use my Alicorn magic to link your mind to his." Cadance answered, "You may be wondering why I specifically have to do this, well. Mental blocks are caused by extreme traumatizing emotions. As I am the princess of love, I am the most qualified to preform the spell. A high level unicorn or even any other Alicorn can also enter someones mind, but they need to ask permission first." she explained as Skywalker chuckled. "So we're going by vampire rules now?" he said gaining an angry look from Cadance, "Just trying to light the mood." he said. "I will take the role as navigator, I will try yo guide you as much as possible, Rainbow Dash." Celestia said as Cadance instructed them to sit across from each other. "But it must be you who will break the seal." Celestia added as Cadance horn starts to glow. "Thank you for doing this for me, Dashie." Skywalker said, gaining a nod from Rainbow, "Of course, I will never let any of my friends down." They both gave each other one last look in the eyes, Skywalker's amber colored in her cerise once's, as a bright flash of pink enveloped them. Rainbow felt as if she took a dive in a cold lake. Opening her eyes, she saw that she was floating towards a a glass pillar, on the glass floor she could she a sleeping Skywalker. As she landed she quickly went to the large stone door. "Hey listen! Hey listen!" Rainbow turned to the source of the sound. A small purple glowing orb with butterfly wings flowed towards her, "It seems you have arrived. Good." the voice of Celestia came from the fairy. "Princess is that you?" Rainbow asked as the fairy flew over to her. "Yes, this is the form I will take as your guide. Now on to the task at hand." Fairy Celestia said, floating towards the door. "When your ready, place your hoof on the door and we shall begin.". Rainbow nodded as she step to the door. "Once the memory starts to play, look for something like a glowing orb." fairy Celestia instructed as Rainbow touched the door, black bolts of lightning disappeared from the door, a bright light appeared from the creeks of the door, blinding them. As the light slows down, Rainbow felt herself being pulled along with a black blur. Making her way through a large city along with the blur, on closer inspection it appeared to be Skywalker, running at Mach-1 speed. "Damn it, damn it! Run faster!" the memory Skywalker shouted to himself as a voice spoke to him, "Hurry up, little hero. If you don't they all die!" the voice threated him, as Skywalker groaned in annoyed, "You don't have to remind me..." as he jumped up to the a building and run up its length. One think Rainbow noticed was that Skywalker's eyes seem to glow faintly, something they didn't do anymore. Arriving at the top of the thirteen store building, Rainbow could see six people hanging from ropes. Skywalker quickly got them down before jumping off the building, he landed with a shoulder roll and continued his mad run. "Why would he still be running? They are all saved..." Rainbow muttered to herself, but soon she could see the reason. On top of a larger building, another person was dangling over the edge by a rope. Skywalker increased his speed but a loud bang was heard and the person plummet to the ground. "CLAIRE NO!" Skywalker shouted as he rushed to the place she should have landed. "Even with all this power... I'm still powerless..." Skywalker thought echoed through the memory. Skywalker's hands glowed with some blue energy as he cradled the body. Rainbow notice that the girl he was holding had long golden blond hair, she opened her green eyes just for another moment. "Ja-Jason..." the girl named Claire said with a weak voice, giving him a faint smile. "Don't talk." Skywalker said, he tried to remain calm but his voice was betraying his panic. "I'll get you to a hospital." he started but Claire shushed him, "No... Its too late..." she said, trying to reassure him. "Please... Don't leave me..." Skywalker begged, his voice started to break. Even Rainbow shed a tear, she had never seen Skywalker so desperate. "I'm proud of you..." Claire said weakly, placing her hand on his face, "You use your powers to help people. I'll love you, Jason Skywalker. Until the end of time..." with that, she closed her eyes, never to open them again. Skywalker cradles his girlfriends body and cries softly. Suddenly, Skywalker's eyes led up, his pupils and iris gone, replaced by a all glowing light, a blue aura surrounding his body, he let out a cry of rage, his power so great the windows in the nearby building shattered to pieces, lantern poles bending over as if a invisible hand was snapping them. And so the memory melted away, leaving Rainbow standing in a white void. In the middle a small black orb floated, black lightning sparks sprang from it at regular intervals. "That's it Rainbow, destroy that orb." the voice of Celestia said. Whipping the tear from her face, Rainbow nodded. She placed her hoof on it and as hard as she could, slammed it into the white ground, shattering it into a thousand little pieces. The moment the orb shattered, she felt herself being pulled back. Rainbow felt herself falling back into her body, as if falling into a chair. "A-And? Did it work?" Rainbow asked, feeling herself a bit sick. "I believe it did." Cadance said looking towards Skywalker. His eyes were a all compassing blue for a moment before it returned back to their normal amber ones. Stream of tears fell from his as, as he himself fell forward. Celestia reacted first, ignoring her own tears as she placed her wings around him. Skywalker had no memory of ever being hugged like this, as though by a mother. > Chapter 19: Plan C > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "So, what are you having?" Phoenix asked Big Macintosh, looking into the fridge. After buying everything they needed for Applejack, Big Mac and Phoenix, well Phoenix actually, decided to take a short break at the guys house. "I'll just have some water." Big Mac answered, gaining a disappointed pout from Phoenix, as he walked over to the tap. "Ya've a nickname for everyone." Big Mac said as Phoenix walked back to him with their drinks. "That's true. Big Red." Phoenix answered as he open his own can of apple cider. "But everyone just calls ya Phoenix." Big Mac continued as he took a sip from his water, "That's hardly fair." Phoenix took a moment to think about a response, after taking a few more sips he said, "Well, I'm telling the story." he gave a shoulder shrug. This gained a puzzling look from Big Mac, "What?". Phoenix eye grow big for a few seconds, "Nothing." he said quickly as they hear the front door opening. Turning they saw a angry looking McGrath, like that's anything new, heading upstairs. "McGrath!" Phoenix said cheerful, but before he could say anything else McGrath interrupted him, "Not now." he said before continuing to head upstairs. "But..." said Phoenix, gave him a questioning. "NOT NOW!" McGrath shouted as he slammed the door to his room shut. McGrath started to walk around his room, trying to calm his sorrow. He stopped in front of a the mirror hanging from the wall, his own emerald eyes looking back at him, "You're a fool, McGrath." his reflection said with a mocking tone, "Who could ever love a weapon like you?". "That's not true..." McGrath said weakly before his reflection burst out in laughter, as if it had reminded itself of a funny joke. "You're the one who's lying to yourself! You don't wanna accept the truth!" the reflection laughed as McGrath slowly walked up to the mirror. as it continued to mock him. "Deep down, you know once your special someone is gone, your life will have to go back to the way it was before. Life is like that. Whenever you reach too high, life smacks you down!" it laughed at McGrath pained expression, before he raised his fist and shatterd the glass. "You'll never learn. Such a pity." the reflection said, as McGrath dropped on his bed. Looking down at his left fist, he saw pieces of glass sticking out of it, dark red blood dripping on the floor as he didn't feel anything. "I hate you... and..." McGrath muttered to himself, a tear dripping from his left eye, "And I hate myself the most... for not having the strength to stand up to you!". Meanwhile, Phoenix and Big Mac were making their way back to Sweet Apple Acres with the supplies they've bought. "So what do you do, Big Red?" Phoenix asked, gaining another puzzling look from Big Mac, "Ya know I'm a farmer," he answered before asking a question of his own, "Why are you asking?". Phoenix turned to him, explaining his question, "I mean in your off-work hours. For fun?" he said before quickly adding, "You've heard of it, I hope?". Big Mac's expression returned to his normal calm self, "These are my off-work hours." he answered making Phoenix's mouth drop in shock. "And the trend of you scaring the piss out of me continues." Phoenix said as Big Macintosh chuckled. Over at Canterlot Castle, Cadance had taken her leave, as she had other business to attend to. Celestia meanwhile was giving Skywalker a check up, seeing if the mental block removal had any negative side effects. "Hmm..." Celestia said, writing down her results, Skywalker was a little nervous about the results, fearing that it might not have worked. His nerves were calmed a little by the arrival of another princesses. "Sister are done yet?..." Luna started before realizing who was with her sister, "Oh, Jason! What happened?" she asked worryingly, as she walked to his side and started to check him for any damage. "Easy there Luna." Skywalker said weakly, removing once mental block was quite tiring it seemed, "I just had a mental block removed, nothing to..." he explained but Luna looked shocked, "THOU DID WHAT!?" she shouted in her royal Canterlot, startling both Skywalker and Celestia. "Do thou not know how dangerous that can be? Thou could have seriously brought harm to your gray noggin!" Luna said worriedly. "Not much to damage up there." Skywalker said deadpan, tapping the side of his head with his index finger. This made both princess chuckle but Luna still gave him a worried look. Skywalker got up from his seat, but immediately his legs gave in and he dropped to the floor. Before he could hit it though, Luna quickly caught him. Hearing the commotion, Rainbow entered from a waiting room, taking a quick look around the room before her eye fell on Skywalker, "Jason, you don't look so good." she noted but there was no response. Celestia placed her front hoof on his forehead, gaining a worried expression, "We best get him to his bed." she said as her horn glowed. And in a blink of an eye, they were teleported to Skywalker's room. Using her magic, Celestia removed his shoes, and upper body clothing before laying him down in his bed and pulling his blue blanket up to his chin. Luna and Rainbow gave her a questioningly look, both not knowing what's going on. "Removing his mental block has let out his pent up energy. Currently his body is trying to accommodate his new increase in power.", she explained as Rainbow and Luna looked worriedly at Skywalker. "How long will this take, sister?" Luna asked as Celestia shook her head, "That I do not know, it can be a few hours to even days. For now its best to let him rest." she said, giving Skywalker's sleeping form one last look as she headed to the door. "Princess Celestia? Can I ask you something?" the voice of Rainbow said, making Celestia turn her head. "I've been wondering. If I had to be send in, then why were you also there?" Rainbow asked, Celestia gave her a kind smile as she answered, "I went as your guide. Had I have gone in your role, I wouldn't have need a guide, for I would have know what to do to remove the mental block. " she explained before her expression looked seriously, "I have another quest for you, Rainbow Dash.". Rainbow gave her a curious look before as she continued, "I need you to keep an eye on Skywalker in the meantime. He should not be in any life danger, but it wouldn't hurt to have someone look over him.", Rainbow nodded accepting her quest as Celestia smiled, her horn glowed brightly as another bright flash teleported her and her sister back to the castle. "Don't worry Jason, I will be back." Rainbow said as she gave her friend one last look before exiting the door herself. Meanwhile, in a dark throne room, a cloaked figure was sitting, studying, books, maps, scrolls and other things floating in front of him. Another cloaked figure appeared from red smoke, bowing down before him. "I was beginning to worry that you had lost your way." the figure on the throne said, the books, scrolls and maps disappearing in dark blue light, turning his attention to the new comer, "Rise, you bring news I trust?" he said as the newcomer rose back to her feet. "We have sources that what we're looking might be in the Canterlot Throne room. My Lord, I'd like to volunteer for this task..." she said but her master raised his hand, "As inspiring as I find your bloodlust, I will take care of this matter personally." he said, disappearing into dark blue smoke. It was now night time, and after coming back, Rainbow had not let Skywalker's side. Skywalker groaned as he slowly opened his eyes, taking in that he was now back in his room, "Good evening, sleepyhead." Rainbow said giving him a smile. He tried to say something but all that came out of his throat was too dry too speak. Rainbow gave a chuckle handing him a bottle of water, Skywalker gratefully accepted as he drank all of the contend in one go. "Thank's Dashie." he said placing the now empty bottle on the night stand. "Wow, you were thirsty." she said as she took a seat next to him on the bed, "Actually, I have something else for you.". She showed him a small box, she looked at his questioning look before answering, "I was originally going to give you this for Hearts and..." she gained a small blush before continuing, "Uhm... for a special holiday. But seeing as you were such a big boy during your mental block removal, your getting it early." she finished placing the small box in his lap. Picking it up, Skywalker open it under the hopeful gaze of Rainbow, inside the box there was a necklace, as the end there was a lightning bolt charm in his favorite color, blue. Skywalker smiled at his present "Thanks, Dashie." his voice still a little raspy from the dryness, "I really like this.", to Rainbow's embarrassment, he pulled her into a hug as a thank you. "Okay, relax." Rainbow said patting him on the back, "It's not like I like you or anything.", she was secretly blushing, taking in the scent of his hair, it smelled just like cotton candy. At the same time, a cloaked man entered Canterlot Garden, he could feel that some very powerful magic was preformed here recently. "Who's there?" a guard said his horn glowing, ready for battle. The cloaked man walked past him, heading towards the statue garden. The guard tried to stop him, but the cloaked man gave a simple wave with his hand as the guard starts to twitch. "The moon..." the guard muttered, looking up at the sky, "Yes, yes, the moon! I have to catch the moon! I must hold her, I must hold her in my arms... I must tell her how much I adore her glow, her glow! The moon!" he shouted as he run away, trying to catch the moon. The figured entered the statue garden, all of the statues were Ponies stuck in various expressions of terror. Worse, there was laughter coming from one of the statues. The cloaked figure stride in the direction of the laughter, until he found himself in front of a huge statue. The statue depicted a serpent like creature. It's expression was not of terror, but of joy surprisingly enough. "Oh my, a visitor!" the statue said, rather happily, "And a human to boot! It's been a thousand years since I last saw one!", the visitor was annoyed at being compared to a human, though he did not show it "Discord, spirit of disharmony and chaos, am I correct?" the visitor said, studying the the statue. "That's the name! Do not wear it out." the statue said, "And what do you call your self, tall, dark and handsome?" if he could he would have giving the visitor a curious look. "You may call me Morgenstern." the visitor said, before continuing, "And I came with a proposition for you.", this got Discord's attention, what could this human possibly offer him. "It must be dreadful being a statue and all that. So how about I set you free?" Morgenstern said, now he really had Discord's attention. "And what oh dark messiah, would you want in return in exchange for setting me free?" the statue questioned as Morgenstern's left hand glowed and with a blast of dark energy, the stone keeping Discord in place was blasted off him, freeing the him. "All I want is for you to do what you do best." Morgenstern said walking up to Discord, "I want you to turn their little world upside down.", under his hood, his blue eyes flared up. Discord gave a mischievous grin as he gave a salute, "Yes, my dark king!" his voice dripping with utter glee. Morgenstern turned his back to him, "Just relax with the dark king, okay?" he said before disappearing into smoke. > Chapter 20: Discord Strikes Back > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Haha and then what?" Rainbow asked, still sitting on Skywalker's bed, she had spend the entire night with him, just talking. "Then I accidentally throw Phoenix into a wall. We all thought he had a few broken bones but he just got up and said 'That was amazing!'." they both burst out in laughter as a weird sound came from Skywalker's pocket. Rainbow looked at him curiously as Skywalker took his phone out of his pocket, "What is that?" Rainbow asked, as Skywalker raised his eyebrow. "This is my phone, you must have see me use it a few times." Skywalker answered, Rainbow shook her head and started to explain, "I have seen it a few times, but what does it do?". "You can do a lot of things on a phone." Skywalker explained as he showed each application off, "Gaming, watching video, surf on the internet, listen to music. ". Rainbow chuckled at that last thing, "You seriously want me to believe that that little plastic thing can make music?" she said obviously not believing him. "Listen for yourself." Skywalker said as he put his ear plugs in Rainbow's ears. He hit play and to Rainbow's shock, a guitar started to play, just as she was starting to get into the music the lyric's kicked in. You see me soaring through the sky, I see you below as you walk on by, I could clear the sky in 10 second flat, How about that? A male voice sang, as the song finished, Rainbow pulled out the earplugs and smiled, "Alright, I believe you now.", she said gaining a smirk from Skywalker. "You like?" he asked as she nodded her head, "I love it! Were can I buy something like that?" she asked excited. He shrug his shoulders before saying, "I don't think you'll find one in Equestria anytime soon... Wait! You can have mine!" he said, handing her his phone. "W-What? Why are you giving it to me?" she said, blushing because a boy had given her a gift. "Well you gave me that awesome necklace, so I'm giving you this in return." he said, as Rainbow studied the phone in her hooves, "To recharge it, just give it a little lightning bolt." he added pinching his thumb and index finger. "Thanks Jason." Rainbow said, looking away from him trying to hide her blush. "Now, you get some sleep. You're still not recovering..." she couldn't finish the sentence as a commotion was heard down stairs. "Guys! Something is wrong with the water!" Phoenix said, as he had a glass full of brown water. "I hope it's chocolate milk..." Griffifth said as Phoenix took a sip. "Holy crap, it is chocolate milk!" he said, gaining a look of disgust from his friends. "Uhm, guys..." Sutakira said, looking out the window. All sort of strange things are happening, clouds made of cotton candy, bunnies with stretched legs hopping past, and McGrath is having an indifferent expression on his face!... No, wait stretch that, that's normal. "Is the world ending or something?" Sutakira said as a bright light filled the room. As the light shimmered down, four of the five guys and the six girls were standing in a bright hall, the glass was nicely decorated, as if it was telling a story. "Will someone please explain what is going on!" Sutakira shouted. Moments after those words left his mouth, Celestia appeared, a concern look on her face. "Princess Celestia!" Twilight was the first to speak up, "Is this about the weather? And the animals' weird behavior? And?..." she started. "What's happening out there?" Griffifth asked bluntly. "I've called you here for a matter of great importance." Celestia started, making Griffifth roll his eyes, as it is obvious there is something important, "It seems an old foe of mine, someone I thought defeated long ago, has returned. His name... is Discord." she explained, the gang gaining a worried look them self. "Discord is the mischievous spirit of disharmony." the princess continued, but Griffifth interrupted her, "So he's a dick?" he said dryly. Celestia shook her head, trying to compose herself before pointing to one of the windows. On said window, a battle was depicted between a strange creature, which the gang assumed to be Discord, and a pegasi, a earth pony, a unicorn, two alicorn's, which they assumed were the younger versions of Celestia and Luna, a winged pony with two horns and weirdest of all, a human in heavy looking armor and a cape. "Before we had the kingdom of Equestria, the lands were ruled by separate republic's, the leaders of said republic's formed the Council, to rule fairly over the land. Humans, ponies, dragons, everybody lived side by side in peace, until he came. Discord and his army of ever growing corrupted waged war on the Council, intend to conquer the land and rule it in an eternal state of unrest and unhappiness. After discovering the Elements of Harmony, we combined our powers and rose up against him, after a long and bloody battle, were we lost many friends and... loved ones, we turning him to stone." she told them as they looked on in awe. "I thought the spell we cast would keep him contained forever, but since Luna and I are no longer connected to the Elements, the spell has been broken. I need you to wield the Elements of Harmony once again and stop Discord before he thrusts all of Equestria into eternal chaos." she finished as a held out a box. "I have total confidence that you will be able to defeat Discord with these!" Celestia said as she opened the box, everybody was stunned as were the elements were supposed to be, there was nothing! Nothing at all! "The Elements! They're gone!" Twilight exclaimed as Griffifth rolled his eyes again, "Yeah, no shit smart guy. This doesn't make sense!" he said. Suddenly, a loud laughter is heard form the walls, it became louder and louder before it spoke up, "Make sense? Oh, what fun is there in making sense?" the voice said as Celestia quickly realized who it was, "Discord... Show yourself!" she commanded. A bright flash came from one of the window's and the Discord depicted on it started to move, as if alive. "Did you miss me, Tia? I missed you." Discord said with a menacing grin, "It's quite lonely being encased in stone, but you wouldn't know that, would you, because I don't turn ponies into stone. So how are you and your sib... Oh wait, now I remember, a better question would be how are Tafeile, Rire, Arlighet and Cae..." he started but Celestia cut him off before he could say the last name, "Don't you dare to speak their names!" she said, the anger in her voice apparent, even Twilight had never heard her mentor speak in that tone, "What have you done with the Elements of Harmony!?" she commanded as Discord laughed her off, "Oh, I just borrowed them for a teensy little while." he said, for the first time overlooking the group gathered before him, "Oh my dark messiah! Humans! I haven't seen your kind around since... well yesterday actually... So you ten are the new W.O.H.? Man, did they pick a bunch of rag tag misfits this time. None of you look like you're half the hero the others were!" Discord complained, obviously he was not impressed by the heroes. We'll fix that soon. "Stop stalling, Discord! What have you done with the Elements of Harmony?" Celestia commanded, gaining a yawn from Discord, "Oh, so boring, Celestia. Really? Fine, I'll tell you, but I'll only tell you my way. To retrieve your missing Elements, just make sense of this change of events. Twists and turns are my master plan. Then find the Elements back where you began." he told them as he disappeared in a bright flash, laughing all the while. "What's that supposed to mean?" Phoenix asked confused, as the others started to think. Twilight muttered to herself, "Twists and turns... twists and turns... twists and turns! That's it! I bet Discord hid the Elements in the palace labyrinth!" she declared, but Sutakira shook his head. "When have we been to the palace labyrinth." Sutakira explained, "We began at your library Twilight. That is were the Elements must be." Twilight thought about it for a moment, "Yeah, that makes way more sense." she said as she galloped out of the room. "No, it doesn't." Phoenix said as the group rushed after her. "Good luck, my little heroes." Celestia said, "The fate of Equestria is in your hooves." turning her gaze to the stained window. Meanwhile, thousands of miles away. Skywalker woke up, he found himself laying down on a glass stained floor, his surroundings covered by complete, darkness. "Were am I now?" the moment he said those words his surrounding shattered like a mirror, suddenly he found himself standing in an open field. A loud screams were heard all around him, on closer inspection he saw a humans and ponies alike being attack by strange black creatures. They seemed similar to the creatures he had seen just before arriving in Equestria. A young woman carrying a young child as she tried to flee from the creatures, but she tripped, making her an easy prey for the monster. It lounged at her, Skywalker tried to jump in front of her but before he could react a blur of white slashed the creature in half, making both sides disappear in black goo. The woman looked up at her savior, who was a knight in bright white armor, a black cape spread from his back. He held up a zwëihander as his head, covered in a helmet turned towards her. "It's not save here, get to the castle quick!" he commanded, Skywalker noted that his armor kinda made him look like a medieval Darth Vader. The woman bowed her head in gratitude before picking up the child and ran off in the forest. "Saving another damsel, art thou not?" A white alicorn with pink manes said, as she landed next to him. A chuckle was heard from under his helmet, "What art thou doing here, beloved? I thought thou would stay with the refugees." the knight said, taking off his helmet. From his point of view, Skywalker could not see his face. He tried to move but his legs seem to be melted to the floor. "We just couldn't let thou go, my love." the alicorn said, turning her gaze to the ground, "We've already lost so much, we couldn't bare to lose thou too.", the knight placed his gloved hand on her face, lifting it up before placing his lips on her muzzle. "Be strong for me my love, I will be with you soon." the knight said placing his helmet back his head. The alicorn gave it one last thought, before listening to the knight's whishes. Before more could be said, a loud laughter could be heard, "Go! I will try to hold him off." he begged her, "I beg of you, Tia." The alicorn nodded before teleporting away in a bright flash. Not a moment later, Discord appeared before the knight, accompanied by an army of those strange black creatures. "Oh, my stomach!" Discord laughed, before gesturing at the creatures, "Caelum, you've got to see what I just did.", the knight didn't lose composure, but his stance seem to prepare himself for battle. "It's priceless!" Discord said as he made one of the black creatures dance, "Come now,Caelumaruku. You've got to get into the spirit of things! After all, you lost." he said as the knight raised his sword. "Thou hasn't won yet, Discord." he said, pointing his sword to were the creatures heart would be. "Please." Discord said in disbelieve, "All your friends are dead... or worse. So...", the knight shook his head, "Listen thou freak of nature. The first mistake thou made is messing with my comrades! Their physical form might be gone, but they are still right here." the knight place a hand on his left chest, "So listen real good Discord. Tia might wanted to seal you in stone, but I'm not as forgiving. Mark my words, I will kill thou!" he declared as he takes his battle pose. "Sounds like a empty threat." Discord responded, sounding bored. "No, it's not." the knight said, "It's a promise." the knight charged at Discord as the black creatures jumped to defend their master. "I'm sorry, Celestia... I might not make it back as soon as I promised." the knight thought as the memory dissolved. "What was that all about?" Skywalker thought to himself. His thoughts were answered by the appearance of a white pony with light blue manes. He also had a pair of horns on his head along with two large wings on his body. "Hallo," Skywalker said, "Who are you?" The bicorn didn't respond, it kept staring until it had a good look of Skywalker, "Thou art the one.", it said gaining a puzzling look from Skywalker. The bicorn continued, "Thou will give the people an ideal to strive towards. They will race behind thou, they will stumble, they will fall. But in time, they will join thou in the sun, Jason Skywalker. In time, thou will help them accomplish wonders." he said as his horns glowed in a brilliant blue light, and with a bright flash, Skywalker was back in his bed. Sitting straight up, he noticed a golden bracelet, with a strange heart shaped symbol on it. Looking closer it looked like one of the Elements Of Harmony the guys wielded. A sudden burst of pain erupted in his chest, closing his eyes he saw his friends defeated in front of the same creature he just saw in that strange dream. "Never... Again." Skywalker said, standing up, pulling his shirt over his head, he made his way towards the cliff overlooking Ponyville. Taking a few deep breaths, he closes his eyes while crouching down. He places his fist on the ground, as the old conversation replays in his head. Thanks to the yellow sun, your cells have drunk in its radiation, strengthening your muscles, your skin, your senses. You've grown stronger here than I ever could've imagined. The only way to know how strong is to keep testing your limits. Thanks to the building up energy, small rocks and some dirt starts to float off the ground. Opening his eyes, Skywalker blasts off into the air, a trail of dust raising from the ground. He kept gaining altitude, this time he knew he wouldn't crash, as he made his way towards the center of Ponyville. > Chapter 21: Versus Chaos > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Meanwhile, at the Canterlot throne room. Morgenstern is studying the the stained window behind the throne room. "I see..." he said to himself, "The answer can be found at the Crystal Empire." his train of thought interrupted as the door opened and a voice shouted, "What are you doing here?", turning around he saw Celestia standing there. "This is really beneath me," Morgenstern said before he attacked with a stream of red lightning, which Celestia barley counters with a cord of yellow magic. Both powers collide in midair producing a heating dripping magma effect. Both fighters attempts several times to over power the other, but Morgenstern slashes his hand to break the connection and with his right hand, quickly attacks with a continuous torrent of black fire towards Celestia, but she holds it back with an exceedingly powerful shield spell. In a second attack, Morgenstern gathers the black flames into a ball of incandescent light, sending the energy in all directions; this explosion of dark energy knocks over Celestia and causes all the windows to shatter. Before Celestia could recover from the blast, Morgenstern disappeared in black smoke. Back at Ponyville, Discord has been kicking the ass of the heroes. Expecting that they wouldn't fall for his Labyrinth trick, he placed a magic barrier around the Golden Oak Library, the heroes fought bravely, but without the Elements, they could hardly scratch the spirit of disharmony. "Without your precious Element's, I am victorious!" Discord laughed as the heroes looked down, for them all hope is lost. Twilight shook her head, trying to think of a way, "Is it really hopeless?" she asked herself. "Never give up, Twilight!" a voice from above answered, making everybody look up. With a loud thud, Skywalker landed between his friends and Discord, who he gave a threatening glare. "Who the devil are you?" Discord started, his eye widen as he studied the new comer, "Caelum?... No, that's not possible. Then it must be... oh Tia! You skank!" he exclaimed rolling around in laughter. Did he just call Celestia a skank? "Yes, Yes I did!" Discord exclaimed to the air, in between his laughter. Y-You can hear me? Discord stop laughed, rolling his eyes, "Of course I can... Narrator." he said mockingly, confusing the heroes. I... uhm... I'll be right back! Discord chuckled as Skywalker whispered to his friends, "Is this guy for real?", this made Discord turn his gaze to him. "Ah so you must be the so called, 'chosen one'." Discord said, rolling his eyes, "It seems Celestia has got herself a Keanu Reeves!" blast Skywalker with a sudden magic blast, sending him flying across the battle field and slamming into a wall. "That was just to soften you up. Now it's time to meet your doom!" Discord mocked, as he prepared another attack, "Chaos is a wonderful, wonderful thing." as Skywalker recovered quickly he said "Not as wonderful as friendship." , gaining a mocking laugh from Discord. Discord rolled his eyes again, "Oh, this again? It's always about your friends isn't it?" he chuckled. "At least I have some!" Skywalker shouted as he retaliated with a powerful telekinetic push that sends Discord crashing into a wall. He recovered just as quickly as he saw Skywalker advance on him, "You couldn't break apart our friendship for long.", Discord try to attack with another blast of magic, but Skywalker deflected the attack with his bare hands, sending it into a nearby building, "I'll tell you what I've learned since I got here. I've learned that friendship isn't always easy... But there's no doubt it's worth fighting for!" Both Skywalker ignited his sword as Discord summoned a Magic Sword of his own, and the two engaged in intense sword combat. Their battle raged through Ponyville, with neither opponent able to gain an advantage. Soon, the fight moved into the air, by the minute, it increased in speed and ferocity, but Discord became more and more hard-pressed, as he was hampered in his movements by, ironically, his serpent like body, while Skywalker could easily fly around him. Facing serious danger, Discord decided to change tactics. Laughing, he takes the higher air, picking up some of the debris caused by the battle, Discord attempted to overpower Skywalker with an avalanche by levitating various debris but Skywalker was able to avoid being crushed by the improvised projectiles, using his own flight and enchanted reflexes to dodge, while being unable to close in. Skywalker focused himself on an oncoming piece of wall and stopped it in the air before him. Discord's laughter died and was replaced by a frown of annoyance as he realized that he had stretched his telekinetic powers too far. Skywalker had taken control of the projectile and was hurling it right back at him, forcing Discord to fly out of the way. With this, Skywalker saw a chance to re-engage as he flew behind Discord, surrounding himself with electricity, he charged at Discord, before he could strike, Skywalker rammed Discord into the ground, shattering it as they land. In a last ditch afford to save himself, Discord lunged himself at Skywalker placing his finger tip on the center of his forhead, trying to mind control him. For a moment it seem to work, but a cocky grin came upon Skywalker face, his eyes glowing red as he said but one word, "BURN!", all Discord could do was scream in pain as two red energy beams hit him straight in the chest and drove him into the ground. As the two titans fought in the skies above, the rest of the gang broke the barrier around the library and successfully retrieved the Elements Of Harmony. They slowly walked towards the crater, floating upwards they saw a grinning Skywalker as in the middle of the crater Discord lay defeated, to everybody's awe. Seriously, how powerful is he without his mental block? "Great... He's back." Discord complained as a dark shadow shadow loomed over him. A cloud of dark red smoke gathered around Discord before taking the form of a women in a black cloak who was making the clapping sound. "My my, what a show!" she said, her hands placing her hands on her hoods removing it. Long dark red hair flowed over her shoulder, her dark purple eyes glared at Discord before turning to the group, she had a smile on her face that just screamed 'I'm better than you'. "Hey, aren't you the one lady who had that orb that exploded and teleported us here?" Phoenix asked as she giggle. "Too clever, I'm Mizuki Yougan." she said, grinning at them, "So are you guys enjoying your stay, at Equestria?". Placing her hands on her hips, she looked over at Discord. "Ah you poor thing." She cooed, "Did the big bag Draconequus got his little behind kicked?" she taunted him, obviously not feeling sorry for him. "But do now worry! Mizuki is going to make it all better!" she took something out of her pocket and showed it proudly. The guys seem to recognized what is was, Mizuki noticed their look, giving them a grin "Yes, this is a similar orb that brought you here." she said placing the orb on Discord's chest, "Its amazing what you can do with hard starlight. Things, like, this!" she finished as she phased the orb into Discords chest. Discord's eyes turned back into his head as his body started to twist sickeningly. A bright light surrounded his body becoming bigger and bigger. "Now as Dis is taking his monster form, let me explain the rules!" Mizuki said happily, "That orb is your only way home. If you defeat Discord, you can go home but you'll probably never see each other again! But on the other hand, you can also allow him to rampage. This would allow you all to stay here, we'll before Dis destroy's all of Equestria... Now, be good kids, ta-ta!" she waved as she disappeared in dark red smoke. The bright light around Discord's body faded, he was now towering over the buildings in Ponyville, his normal yellow eyes were now all blue, no pupils as to speak off. "Did Discord just turned into a Kaiju!?" Phoenix shouted in disbelieve, as the giant monster started to fire laser beams from it mouth. "I am your god now! Kneel before your master!" Kaiju Discord shouted, his voice boomed from Ponyville all the way to Canterlot. Twilight dropped to the floor, "How are we supposed to defeat him now?", she looked down to the ground, "It's useless. We can't defeat him." Skywalker petted her on the head, making her look up at him, "Snap out of it! You girls helped us out, now its our turn!" he said to her, the determination in his eyes somehow encouraging her. "We will find a way." as he said those words, his new bracelet started to shine. "Oooh, what is that shiny thing." Rarity asked, as Skywalker rolled up his sleeve. The light shine more brightly as a voice spoke to them, "Honesty, Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Loyalty, Magic... Together they form Unity." the voice said coming from the bracelet, as the color of Skywalker's clothes shattered, replacing it with silver and black, heart like symbols appeared on his jeans, similar to the symbol on his bracelet. Skywalker's hair and clothes slowly flow as if he is being held by the wind. "Will thou take on this quest?" the voice asked, "I must warn thou. Even with the power of Unity, thine chances for victory are slim. It would take a miracle." Skywalker looked between his friends and the Kaiju Discord, who was creating havoc as they spoke. "Weird bracelet thing." Skywalker started "Miracles are my specialty." he said extending his new found power to lift up his friend and creating shields around them. "Let's get ready to do this!" he said as the others agreed, "We'll show that creep the real power of team work!" they all shouted as the flew up, each having a different color of the rainbow. Kaiju Discord looked up as he saw the Harmonic Heroes flying up to him, not hesitating he blasted an energy beam at them, forcing them to separate. "A quick question." the voice of Applejack said, apparently the Unity bracelet allowed them to communicate as if they were right next to each other, "How are we going to bring that thing down?" she asked. Sutakira made a fist of hard light, it was tree times bigger than usual, apparently the power of Unity amplified their already amazing abilities. "I was thinking about, punching him real hard?" Skywalker said as he dodged another, he retaliated with another blast from his heat vision. Studying Kaiju Discord, he noticed a small pulsing spot on Discord's chest, "Just give up! This world is mine!" it shouted as it fired of another energy blast, all of them dodge instead hitting a mountain, whipping it from the face of Equestria. "Holy crap he just blew up a mountain!" Phoenix shouted as he fired a torrent of fire at the Kaiju. "Gang! At my command, aim for that pulsing spot on his chest with everything you got!" Skywalker commanded as they all charged up, as Discord took aim at them, but he was already too late, the Harmonic Heroes blasted at him with a combined energy wave, blasting the hard starlight right out of him, shattering it to pieces. As for Discord himself, he shrink down to his original size, before turning back into a stone statue. All of Equestria cheered at the victory, but the victory was short lift as the shattered starlight pieces exploded opening a similar portal that got the guys there in the first place. The McGrath, Grffifth, Phoenix and Sutakira were immediately sucked in, the vacuum to great for even two of their fliers to handle, even with the power up they received. Unfortunately, Twilight was sucked as well, "Twilight!" the remaining friends shouted, without even thinking, Skywalker flew after her, disappearing into the worm hole along side her. Inside the the worm hole, all the colors of the rainbow swirled, Skywalker quickly caught up to her, pulling her body close to him as he tried to fly her to the exit. Flying as fast as he could, the pull from the other side was to great, either one of them made it back to Equestria or neither. It was then that Skywalker made his chose. "Skywalker!" Twilight shouted, "Let me go, save yourself!" she said as Skywalker indeed did let his grip loosen. Without saying anything further, he transferred his Unity energy to Twilight, returning his clothes to their normal color in the process. She herself gained a silver aura which begins pulling her to the exit. With a flash, Twilight exited the worm hole, making him known she was save. "We may never meet again." Skywalker said to himself as he was sucked further, "But we will never forget each other." he closed his eyes as the worm hole exploded closing the portal between his earth and Equestria. Opening them, all he saw was white. A new day brings new adventure. But for now... Rest easy heroes. A storm is coming, and there is no escape. Prologue: Completed... > Arc I: Chapter 22: Knight Of The Wind > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Skywalker just lay there in the white void, it could have been minutes or hours, it was hard to tell. The silence was broken by an unexpected voice, "Oh my, what are you doing here?", turning his head in the direction of the sound, he saw a alicorn, her sun golden coat shined as bright as the sun, her purple manes ended in stars. "Hi..." Skywalker said, floating towards her, "Your stuck in limbo too huh?", this gained a giggle from her for some reason. She studied him intensely with those amber colored eyes of her, "My you do take after him." she said with a smile, as if she was looking at her favorite grandchild. "Uhm... My name is Skywalker, Jason Skywalker, " he introduced himself, becoming quite unnerved by the staring of the lady. "Do you have a name?". She gave him a soft smile, "My name is Aether, I am delighted to make your acquaintance." She answered, "Now, it's time for some exposition for you." she said gesturing for him to follow him. Floating after her, she spoke, "It seems you have an intriguing destiny, you are destined to hone your unique ability, and you will require my help to do so.", Skywalker gave her a curious look, knowing she would want something in return for her help. As if she was reading his thought, she answered, "I only ask one thing in return... that you assume responsibility for the choices you make.", as strange as he condition was, Skywalker nodded. She gave him a grandmotherly smile, "Good. When you use your ability, you channel your inner strength. Your ability evolves as you develop your emotional ties with others." she explained, and Skywalker could sworn that this sounded very similar to something he heard in a video game. "The stronger your bonds, the more powerful your Abilities." she said as a small portal opend, "Please remember that. Now, then... Time marches on in your world. When you return to Equestria, two years have passed. Equestria is currently under control of someone from your past who has done you great harm. It is your task to liberate Equestria and assume your destiny." she said as her horn glowed, a bright light enveloped Skywalker. His damaged clothes, who somehow were too small for him now, were replaced by black jeans, two belts hang around it, one holding up the jeans and one hanging loosely over his hip, giving it a punk look. On his upper body, his damaged hoodie was replaced by a black jacked, the tail coats flaring out from behind him as if the wind blew at him from the front, under it was a blue shirt and on his chest, he could feel Rainbow's necklace on his chest. "Destiny or not, I would never let Equestria be in danger." he stated, studying his new clothes, Aether smiled as her horn glowed once more, a sweet ass motorcycle, it reminded him of the X-wings from Star Wars, if it was a motorcycle that is. "One last gift." she said, giving him a motherly smile as he mounted the bike, "For all the birthdays we misted. If you ever need to travel between worlds, this is the way to do it. Just hit the big red button on the dash board." she explained as Skywalker nodded. HE suddenly thought of something, "Wait! What happened to my friends?" he asked worriedly. Aether gave him a kind smile before she answered, "They are safe, after you liberate Equestria, they will join you again. But I shouldn't keep you here any longer. Until we meet again farewell." she said as a bright light blinded Skywalker, he could feel himself fall out of the sky. Arc I: Next Chance To Move On As the light died down, Skywalker found himself in at Ponyville's Main Square, "Ponyville." he said getting of his motorcycle, "Nothing has changed at all..." he said with a tone of nostalgia before spotting a certain familiar pink pony. "This should be fun." he said as she sneaked up on her, getting as close as possible he shouted from the top of his lounges, "HI PINKIE!". Pinkie Pie turned around and her eyes winded in shock as she quickly ran away. Looking around he saw all the terrified citizens running away from him as fast as possible. "Something fishy is going on..." he said to himself, as out of the corner of his eyes he could see something fly at him, quickly jumping out of the way, he saw another familiar pony as he landed on the roof. "Who are you! What's your name!?" Rainbow Dash commanded, obviously not remembering him. Skywalker looked shocked, how could one of his best friends not remember him? "My name? I'm Skywalker, Jason Skywalker!" he declared. Jumping off the roof he grinded down a cable while Rainbow flew towards him, they both jump in the air at the same time and cross each other before the sun. Landing on the ground, Rainbow took the initiative, she attack with some swift kicks from her hind leg but none connected as Skywalker used his enchanted reflexes to side step them. Getting frustrated Rainbow charged at him again, but he used his super breath to knock her to the ground. "Stay down." Skywalker warned as he turned to leave, but suddenly he found himself unable to move, looking around he saw that he was held in place by some dark purple aura. He tried to break free but a voice ring in his head. "Wait, more fighting won't solve your problem." it said, as Skywalker gave a annoyed grunt as he thought, "Great another voice inside my head, who is this!?" he demanded from the voice. "Please, Jason. Trust me. Like I trusted you at Nightmare Night?... Wait for me, I will come save you." the voice spoke as he started to black out. Skywalker woke up a few hours later, he could feel his hands being chained to the desk, two guards were watching him. "You are lucky, scum." One of the guards said as he took a seat across from him, "Princess Celestia will only have you to the torture chamber when the Supreme Chancellor commands it." he continued as Skywalker rolled his eyes. "You can send me here, there, this, that, it doesn't matter." Skywalker said, relaxing back into his chair, had he wanted he could easily break free and tear those guards a new one, but he took his time, the owner of the voice would come any minute now, right? "Got something more to say, smart mouth?" the other guard said, gaining a cocky grin from Skywalker. "Yeah, Why don't you try sticking your head up your ass? See if it fits?", the first guard had to hold the other one back from harming Skywalker. Making sure his comrade had calmed down, the guard continued, "Okay, so what do you call yourself?" he asked, trying to sound polite. Apparently they were going for some good cop, bad cop action. "Skywalker, Jason Skywalker." he said, giving the guard a questioning look, "And you, what do you call yourself?" he asked, but both guards ignored the question. "Where did you you learn to speak Equestrian, Skywalker?" the guard asked, as Skywalker rolled his eyes again, "I used to go to a lot of movies." he answered. The next one question came from the other guard, "What about homosexuality, Skywalker? You like men, huh? You like to dress up like a woman?", this seriously creeped Skywalker out, "What the fuck is wrong with this guy? Is he kidding, or what?" he said but the first guard just commanded him, "Answer the questions, Skywalker." Then there is a knock on the door, followed by the door opening, as a hooded figure entered. "Leave both of you." the stranger commanded, both guards taking a deep bow before her. "Princess... But we have strict..." one of the guards started but they were cut off as the stranger shouted "Now!", the guards quickly made it to the door, closing it behind them. A click was heard, as Skywalker's handcuffs sprang open, the stranger quickly ran up to him, "Are you alright?" she asked in a worried voice. "I had gentler invitations." Skywalker admitted, as he stood up, giving the stranger a curios look, "But... Who are you?" he tilted his head. "Somebody who loves you." the stranger removes her hood and is revealed to be the princess of the night herself. "Princess..." Skywalker said, bowing before her. Luna chuckled as she gestured him to rise, "You don't have to be so formal, all the time. I have a name you know." she said, gaining a sheepish grin from Skywalker, "Sorry, force of habit." he said as Luna pulled him in a hug. "Thank goodness your here." she said as she let him go, a blush clearly visible on her cheeks, "We have a major problem and I believe your our only hope. Some strange human showed up six months ago, and she used this weird artifact to put all of Equastria under her mind control power." she explained as Skywalker nodded. "Then I need to find it and smash it into thousand little pieces." Skywalker declared, ready to liberate his home. "Thanks you." Luna said as she headed towards the door, "They are currently in the throne room." Skywalker nodded, allowing her to lead him the way, but she stopped him by raising her hoof, "You're gonna fight? Without your sword?" she asked as Skywalker clenched his fist, "I only need my fist to protect this World. And you." he said, making the princess of the night blush at his last remark. "That's... Sweet." she said, before her horn glowed again, revealing the hilt of his weapon. "But I believe this belongs to you." Skywalker laughed as he accepted it, "Damn Luna. You are really the coolest princess ever." and with that, they made their way out of the dungeon and towards the throne room. Using a labyrinth of secret passages, they entered the throne room undetected. Giving the room a quick scan, Skywalker noticed Princess Celestia, the six other element wielders and a strange cloaked man conversing. "I plead you, your highness." the man said, his voice sounding eerily familiar to Skywalker, "This Superi is a danger to all of Equastria. If one comes, a entire legion could be standing on our doorsteps." he warned, suddenly Skywalker remembered where he heard that voice before, that was the voice of the man that killed Claire. "What would you have us do, Supreme Chancellor Marieke?" Celestia asked, but before Marieke could answer Skywalker revealed himself. "Now I remember you!" he shouted, as he walked towards the center of the room, his rage building up inside him. Marieke turned around, surprised by the sudden interruption, "Ah, Skywalker, and Princess Luna too?" this got a shock from the brainwashed group, "Luna? How could you betray me?..." Celestia said heart broken, this must be like the Nightmare Moon incident to her. Skywalker quickly got to her defense, "Luna didn't betray you, your highness! Marieke is manipulating you! All of you." he said, pointing at the strange skull amulet he wore around his neck. "Don't listen to him, your highness." Marieke said, the amulet glowed, allowing him to control even a goddess like Celestia, "That's just how Superi work. They plant seeds of doubt." he said, gaining a annoyed groan from Skywalker. "Please your highness, allow me to put this scum in his place." Celestia nodded as Skywalker, drew his weapon, "Luna, I want to face him on my own." he said, the tone in his voice hinted that he was after blood. Marieke ignites his own weapon and jumps to Skywalker but he blocks her attack with his own sword. Skywalker and Marieke exchanged some more quick flurries of swordplay, before Skywalker pulls him into a blade lock. "Whats this Marieke? No lightning? Afraid I deflect it right back at you?" he taunted, forcing Marieke to break it off "You want lightning?" he said threateningly gave a quick look between at Rainbow Dash and back to Skywalker, "You can have lightning!" shoots a stream of lightning at Rainbow Dash but before it could hit her, Skywalker was just quick enough to jump in front of it, taking the blow for her. Rainbow looked shocked, no pun intended, why would an enemy try to save her? "Dashie..." Skywalker said, twitching on the floor, "Remember..." Rainbow felt a sharp pain in her head as her true memories started to flood back. "Jason..." she said slowly as Marieke raised his sword, preparing to finish the duel, but before he could strike Rainbow kicked her in the jaw sending her flying. He recovered quickly as he shouted angrily, "Traitor! You will die along side him!" sends another stream of lightning at her, but a human hand direct it into a wall. "I don't think so." Skywalker said rising back on his feet. "You think a little bit of lightning can harm me?" he declared as he gave a quick look to Rainbow, smiling that his best friend his back, before reengaging Marieke in a sword duel. "Your crazy." Skywalker said, as he pulled Marieke into another blade lock, "Your crazy to think someone like you could break the bonds we have, to think you could break me." he said pressing his sword closer to Marieke. "Au contraire." Marieke retorted, "I'm the only sane inmate of Asylum Earth. I'm not eager to hand tomorrow over to an interplanetary extremist with lightning hands. There's only room on this World for one leader, Skywalker. When I'm finished with you, every last gibbon out there will know you for the menace you are. And they'll realize that Marieke is their Savior!" suddenly disengage the black lock, and he launched a quick blast of lightning at him but Skywalker easily deflects it into a wall, Marieke tries it again but it end with the same result. Marieke called upon his rage, and blast Skywalker with a continues stream of energy, the impact so great that it left smoke screen, obscuring the damage he has done. Thinking he had won, Marieke starts to laugh evilly, till he sees shining blue eyes pierce the smoke and Skywalker comes out of it. "The time has come." Skywalker said, his voice had gained a similar effect to the Canterlot Royal voice, "Let us make the future, so do not be afraid and do not worry. I am the one, who will lead this world to salvation." Marieke rips a statue from its footing and throws it at Skywalker only to have him catch it and trow it back. Marieke throws it to the side only to find Skywalker already closed the gap and forces her on her back with a powerful telekinetic blast. Raising his hand Skywalker reached ot to the ceiling, ripping it apart, and lets the debris collaps on his opponent. Marieke throws it off him but he is already unable to keep on fighting. Skywalker engage him in close combat before skillfully cutting his opponents the Achilles heel, forcing Marieke to falls on his knee and as Skywalker continues his brutal assault till he knocks his weapon out of his hand and reaching out again, Skywalker lifts him in the air, before slamming him into the ground, lifting him up once more, he throws him trough a wall, sending her into a statue. Marieke mortally wounded and just inches away from death. "Do it... Finish me." he said as Skywalker reached down, grabbing the amulet and ripping it off his neck. "No." Skywalker said, satisfied that he humiliated his enemy, he crushed the amulet with his bare hand, freeing everyone from the mind control. He gave one last look at he fallen opponent before turning his back to him. "Get back here and fight, Skywalker!" Marieke shouted, "I am not through with you yet!" he said but he couldn't even stand. Skywalker didn't look back, he just kept walking as he responded, "But I am through with you. You're not worth it. You never were." and with those words, Marieke's body fell to the floor, lifeless. Turning to his friends, Skywalker noticed how much of a mess his duel has made of the throne room. "Sorry about the mess..." he said, scratching the back of his head, smiling sheepishly. "You have proven that your a legendary warrior, Skywalker." Celestia said, making Skywalker's smile even bigger, "Me? Legendary? You've gotta be kidding! You're gonna make me blush!", turning his gaze towards the ground to make sure they didn't saw him blush. "We are in debt once again." Celestia said as she approached him, "We may never be able to repay it but I like to start somewhere. I declare you Champion of Equastria. From this day forward, you will be knows as Ser Skywalker, Knight Of The Wind. You two will always be welcome to these lands. And shall be treated as a hero." she declared as the others gasped. "What does, Knight of The Wind means?" he asked, unsure what to think of it. "Champion: an honor unique to Equestria." Luna explained, "Other terms of reverence suffer the stains of their holders, the lingering baggage of office and entitlement. But champion is not an appointment that can be sought. It cannot be owned or willed, and the process by which it is bestowed is not argued through policy or guile. It is earned with blood and sweat and leadership in times of great turmoil. Always worthy, as their deeds are of true importance, a champion is greeted not by debate, but by nods of reverence." as she spoke those words, Celestia spoke up, "There is the contradiction of the honor. Champion is not itself a sign of approval. He or she can be respected or feared, their coming dreaded as much as desired. All that is common is that they have an effect and lives are changed.", then both princesses spoke at the same time, "Equestria now adds to the history of the title. Nightmare Moon defeated, Discord slayed, Marieke repelled, and it remains to be seen what follows for Skywalker, the Knight Of The Wind." they both finished at the same time, gaining a shrug from Skywalker. "Well, it sounds cool at least." he said as Luna gave him a worrying look. "Ser Skywalker, your left hand, its bleeding.". Skywalker looks at his hand and sees a small wound that drips with blood, "Just a scratch. It will heal soon." he said, as indeed he could feel it nit back together as they spoke. "But you mustn't get it let infected." the princess of the night said as she took Skywalker's hand and put her handkerchief around the wound. "Thanks, Luna." Skywalker said with a smile, but Luna kept holding his hand, "Can I have my hand back now?" he asked, snapping Luna out of whatever she was thinking. "Oh, of course." she said, turning her gaze down to the ground. "Now, let's get this party started!" Skywalker declared as his friends cheered. He didn't know what lies ahead, but whatever it is, life is going to be sweet. > Chapter 23: Love Is In Bloom > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It's been two weeks since Skywalker returned to Equestria, and became the Knight Of The Wind. Ponyville had truly not changed a bit, even the guys house was left like it was two years ago! One thing Skywalker noted was that he got a lot more stares from the female citizens, though it puzzled him why seeing as they are used to humans by now. But that mystery will have to wait, for now Skywalker is organizing a movie night for all his friends. Lucky for him, Aether did not lie when she said he could travel to his world and back with the motorcycle. Now if his other friends returned, they could have the best of both worlds. As he was plugging in the gaming consoles, a knock was heard on the door, "Come in, it's open!" he shouted as he placed the speaker on the walls. Turning around to see who it was, he saw Luna standing there, giving him a nervous smile. "Good afternoon, Luna!" he said giving her a small bow, "Same to you Ser Knight." she said, Skywalker offered her something to drink, but she politely declined. "Now, Luna. What brings you to my humble home?" he asked, as he opened a soda can, true he told her she could drop by any time she wanted, but you don't just get a visit from a princess. "Uhm... I was wondering..." Luna started, she sounded nervous, as if she was trying to ask someone out on a date. "I was wondering if you would go for a walk with me? Just... hang and chill." she said trying to sound modern. Skywalker gained a regretful look on his face, "I'm sorry, Luna. I already have prior engagement tonight." he explained, trying not to hurt the young princess. "I'm having a movie night with my friends, if you had asked any other night I would have gladly gone on a walk with you.". As he said those words, Luna's gaze turned to the ground as she said with a soft voice, "I... I see... I shall not keep you." she turned around to leave but Skywalker asked her to stop. She turned around as he was giving her a big smile, "Your one of my friends too right? And your here already, so why not join us?" he offered, and after some thinking, Luna decided to stay and watch some movies with him and his friends. "Oh, Jason. If only you knew..." Luna thought to herself as the movie played. She had taken a seat next to Skywalker on the sofa, "When I first met him two years ago. There was something about him that I found... charming. I found it hard to contain my excitement when I found out he had returned to Equestria. He has definitely grown a lot since then. Only... I find it so hard to express myself under normal circumstances, let alone someone that I have a crush on.". As she thought those words, Skywalker leaned over to her and placed a kiss on her muzzle. A few seconds later, Luna jolted up in her bed, panting heavily. "My dear sister what is wrong? I heard you tossing in your sleep." Celestia said, as she entered the room. Luna was to nervous to face her sister so she hides her face deep in the pillow, it took another minute before she spoke up "Well... you see... I'm... I'm in love.", blushing furiously in her pillow. This answer surprised Celestia, he younger sister had never shown interest in stallions, "Oh, well who is the lucky stallion?" she asked, quite curious as to who could have taker her sisters heart. "Well it's not, a stallion..." Luna muttered, putting the pillow over her face fearing what her sister will say. "...So..." Celestia said slowly, this could explain why her sister never showed interest in stallions, "It's a mare?... Like your self?" she begins to stock her sisters mane, trying to comfort her. "No, it's..." Luna said, suddenly pulling her face out of the pillow before blurring out, "It's Jason!", she was sure her sister would be furious, but all she got was a warm smile. "Well, I know no amount of magic can help that." Celestia said, pulling her little sister in a hug, "Skywalker is quite a catch. Your still my little sister and I still love you all the same." After some encouraging from her sister, Luna worked up the courage to ask Skywalker out, she was about to knock on the door as it opened, revealing Skywalker standing there. He looked surprised for a minute before his mouth transformed in a smile, "Oh hi Luna!" he said enthusiastically, happy to see his friend again. Luna tried to think of something to say, but Skywalker interrupted her train of thought, "Oh, do you wanna go for that stroll? We could walk around Ponyville. There's bound to be something interesting that we can do." he suggested as the princess nodded, "Good idea." she replied as she followed him. As they made their way to Ponyville, Luna tried to start up a conversation, with the goal to ask him out on a date. "So, Jason. How are things going for you?", she asked tilting her head a little to look up at him. "Eh, fine I guess." he answered as he placed his hands in his pocket, "I actually have no complaints. Well maybe the paparazzi turning up at my house, but that's no trouble.", they entered Ponyville Main Square, were other ponies were doing some shopping. "Ah, well, that's great to hear." Luna said, as they looked around some stall, looking over the products the shopkeepers were trying to sell. "Uh, err, Jason? May I ask you something?" Luna asked as he bought some apple's from Applejack. "Anything, my princess." he asked buying some vegetables, placing it in a bag. She ran so many ways of how to confess through her mind, but everything seemed futile especially because she's royalty. Her being deep in thought did not go noticed. "Something wrong, Luna?" Skywalker asked, tilting his head a little giving her a curios look. "Um, n-never mind." She said quickly, a blush creeped on her face, "Just a silly question to which I just remembered the answer to." tries to hide it with a slightly awkward, yet somehow adorable smile. The two of them wander aimlessly around the city, keeping each other company and having idle chatter with each other. Even though Luna didn't confess her feelings for him, she did get a chance to get to know him better, and vice versa. Eventually they pass by a flower shop, and Skywalker sees the intrigued look on princess's face, so he suggest going there, which she agreed to. Inside the flower shop, Luna has her back turned, studying the flowers, Skywalker saw a bouquet of violets that he thought would go well with the princess of the night. Without anybody noticing, Skywalker pick one of the flowers, sneak up on Princess Luna, and stick the flower in her mane. Luna turns around in surprise, "Huh? What did you put in my hair?" she asked. Luckily, the flower shop had a window, he took her to it and she gasp at his following comment, "The flower accents your mane perfectly, and that one little detail makes you all the more beautiful." he said causing a major blush on her face. "Jason." the princess said with renewed confidence, "If it does not inconvenience you... I'd like to go to somewhere more privet." she spoke with new determination to confess her feelings to him. "Sure, Luna." Skywalker said, gaining a idea, "I know this place that has the best view of Ponyville. Let's go." he said as she followed him to the hills. Skywalker took the princess to the same hill he has jumped off so many times, as it had indeed the best view of Ponyville. The princess gained a awed smile, she could see all of Ponyville, the Main Square, City Hall, Sugarcube Corner, the Apple Family Farm, all of it. "I've never noticed how amazing this view is." Luna said as they both took a seat on one of the wooden benches. "It's even better at night." Skywalker said, giving her a wink. Luna looks back at him, "Jason, There is something that I must tell you..." she took one last deep breath before shouting, "I've never felt this way about anyone before... I...I love you, Jason Sephiroth Skywalker!", as the words left her mouth, his breath catches in his chest. She smiled lightly, blushing heavily and fidgeting where she stat. After a moment Skywalker come to his own senses, "I guess I wasn't the only one who had a hidden crush." he said chuckling to himself, placing his mouth on her muzzle, she leaned over as making him lay down, his hands traveling down to her flank. He gave them a small squeeze, making her yelp as she broke the kiss. The princess laid there on top of him, her own cyan eyes locked with his amber ones. "You won’t believe how relieved I was when you said that you love me, too." she said, gaining a blush from him, she continued "And I was rather flattered when you grabbed my flank like that. It almost made me want to..." she turns her head away as she blushes. "Wait, do you..." Skywalker started, at first not knowing what she meant before it hit him, "You don’t mean... you wanted to... with me?". The princess nodded her head, "I wouldn't do it here, though. I would rather lose my virginity somewhere more intimate.", he eyes winded in shock as she realizes what she just said to him. "You're a virgin?" he asked raising a eyebrow in disbelief. Luna blushed even more as she explained, "I'm... rather inexperienced when it comes to interacting with stallions. There was a time where Tia was convinced that I was a lesbian, but of course you know that isn't true.", he chuckled as he gave her a nod, "Why don’t we get something to eat?" he suggested as she got off him. She smiled giving him a nod, "Sounds good to me." she smiled. She was looking forward to spending some time with her new boyfriend. > Chapter 24: Our First Date > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "And then Jason tore the door clean off its hinges, walked into the room and..." Rainbow told a gathered crowd at Sugarcube Corner, but before she could continue the story, she saw Skywalker walking towards her, "Uhm, I'll continue the story another time." she said as the crowed bowed before Skywalker as they took there leave. "Got a minute, Dashie?" Skywalker asked as he took a seat across form her. She gave him a grin, "For you I have all the time in the world!", she said as Mrs. Cake took his order. "Though I'm surprised your still coming to Sugarcube Corner, shouldn't you be hanging out with all the fancy smanchy nobles up in Canterlot?" Rainbow said, teasing Skywalker a bit. She new for a fact that he hated socializing with the aristocracy. "You know I only attend those formal banquets held in my honor because I have to." Skywalker said as Mrs. Cake came back with his order, "And besides, the waitresses are way cuter here." he added with a chuckle, making Mrs. Cake flinch at the compliment. "Now that were talking about you, there is this rumor going around for the past two weeks." Rainbow started, gaining an uneasy smile from her friend, "It seems that you and Princess Luna have become a couple. So what's going on, Jason?" she asked, giving him a curious look. Skywalker took a few sips from his drink before answering, "Jealous? I never took you for the type, Dashie." he responded, making her blush. Leaning closer he whisped, "I'm flattered.", he couldn't help but burst out in laughter at his best friend's face, it was almost as red as the red from her mane. "It's the manes isn't it? Guys can never resist it." she chuckled, stroking her mane as the red flushing out her face a little. "Listen, as your friend, I feel like I'm doing you a disservice if I didn't say something. The princess has been locked away on the moon for a thousand of years, she may have some... issues." she said with a worried tone. Skywalker gave her a reassuring smile, "Don't worry, Dashie. I know what I'm doing.", Rainbow nodded, though not entirely convinced. They both munched on some of the cupcakes, screw the waitresses, this is the reason he keeps going to Sugarcube Corner! Saying goodbye, Skywalker headed home. As he walked into the living room he noticed a certain Alicorn sitting on the sofa, playing on the gaming console. "Stand! On! The freaking! Point!" Luna commanded, "Do you even know how to play this game!?" shouting through the headset to her team mates. "Wait, we have a girl in this lobby!?" a surprised voice shouted from the screen. Obviously they hadn't noticed that Luna was playing with them. "Ayup! And guess who has the bigger dick!?" Luna shouted as the game ended in her team losing. Skywalker had to fight back to not break out in laughter, as Luna noticed him standing there. "So your having fun." he said taking a seat next to her as she removed the headset and powered down the console. Placing a soft kiss on her muzzle, Luna giggled as she said, "Anyways, there's a restaurant in Canterlot that is having it's grand opening tonight, and we've been invited as a VIP." she said showing him a similar invitation he had received a few days ago. "Won't there be a lot of important people there?" Skywalker asked unsure, even though it has been a Knight of a month now, he still wasn't used by all the attention he got when he left Ponyville. Sure, he still got the awed look now and again, but the citizens of Ponyville knew that behind all the rumors and legend making he was still a normal guy. Well, a normal guy who can fly and shoot laser beams from his eyes but still. Luna gave him a teasing grin, "You're not intimidated, are you?", he knew her boyfriend would never back down from a challenge. "Of course not." Skywalker said giving her a reassuring grin, "But, there's bound to be paparazzi there." he started but Luna placed a wing around him. It was moments like these that she knew that her Jason, despise of his power, he is still one of the most human of them all. "I'll make sure that we don't get harassed at the restaurant tonight, and if we do, then I'll simply tell the paparazzi that we're just friends." Luna said, placing her head on his shoulder, "And if they don't I'll just sent my boyfriend after them.". Skywalker leaned his head on hers as he gave a soft chuckle at her last remark. That evening, Skywalker and Luna both rode Luna's royal carriage to the restaurant. Skywalker was dressed in a white evening coat, over a red dress shirt and a black tie. His dress pants were the same tint of black as his tie. Princess Luna herself is wearing one of her dark blue form fitting gowns. "So... who's gonna be there?" Skywalker said trying to make some small talk. "Hmmm... Some pretty important people, I guess." Luna said, trying to think up who could be showing up, "Hoity Toity, Photo Finish, Sapphire Shores, Fancy Pants, who knows who'll be there? Though hopefully Prince Blueblood won't be.", she said that last name with a hint of irritation. All Skywalker knew about Blueblood was that he was Celestia and therefor Luna's nephew, though not much else. "How so?" he decided to ask, if even Luna didn't like him there must be a good reason. What was the worst he could have done? Releasing this worlds version of Loki? And after he was defeated using some black magic to transform him into a Kaiju? "I don't like his douchebag attitude." Luna said, surprising Skywalker at the use of her language, "Did I mentioned that Tia told him to his face she like's you more then him." she added that last part with a grin. Skywalker scratched the back of his head, "You two make me look like I'm a Mary Sue or something..." he muttered more to himself than her but before Luna could as what a Mary Sue was the guards pulling the carriage announced there arrival. After Skywalker and Princess Luna makes their way inside, they greeted by many famous ponies as well as the restaurant's owner, a lot of them want to shake hands, ask for an autograph, give him their endorsement of his ascension to Knighthood or worse giving invites to other parties the nobles were throwing later in the week, with Equestria's newest knight. After fending off the worst of the bunch, Skywalker walked over to the dinning area were his date was waiting for him. "Nice to see you mingling with the other VIPs." Luna said with a chuckle, amused at her boyfriends flabbergasted at all the attention he was getting. "I'll be honest... I'm... Not use to this. People coming up to me, asking my autograph and stuff." he said a little embarrassed, taking a seat across from her. "You need to get used to that." Luna said trying to sound supportive, "Your the Knight Of The Wind, the greatest champion of Equestria and all that.", "Yeah, Yeah. With great power comes great headaches." Skywalker said shaking his head, making Luna chuckle at his little joke, "Now that that's out of the way, we can focus on us." he said hopefully, gaining an approving smile from his girlfriend. "I like the sound of that." she said looking into his eyes, "This may be a party, but I still want to sit and eat." They both chat for awhile, waiting for there foods, when all of a sudden, a white unicorn with brownish mane with a fedora, a camera, and a notepad approaches the table. "Princess Luna? Ser Skywalker?" the unicorn said, both Skywalker and Luna looked up before he continued, "I'm Wolthuis, reporter for the Canterlot Times. Would you mind telling me about... Why the Knight Of The Wind is with you this evening?" he asked, hopeful for some juicy gossip. "Yes, I do mind." Luna responded unenthusiastic, she really wasn't in the mood for dealing with the paparazzi. But the reporter wouldn't be so dismissed that easily, "Come on. I'm sure our readers would love to know about your romantic life." Luna gave a annoyed groan, "I'm sure they would, but that's privet." gaining a approving nod from Skywalker. The reporter kept bugging them so Skywalker decided to get rid of him his way. "Is that Prince Blueblood flirting with Photo Finish?" Skywalker lied as he pointed off in a random direction. Wolthuis gave in a questioningly look, obviously doubting him, "You don't have to believe me. I'm only the Knight Of the Wind.", as the words leave his mouth, the reporter left in an instant, going off in the direction that Skywalker were pointing at. "Good job getting him away from here." Luna said, looking around before giving him a quick kiss on the cheek, "He was becoming quite bothersome." she said, as Skywalker smiled, "I know. I didn't want him to ruin our dinner.". This in turn made her smile as she whispered, "Thank you, beloved.", Skywalker looked surprised, as he himself gained a small blush, "Beloved?", giving her a questing look. For the two weeks they have been dating, she had never called him that. "Yes, that will be my 'pet name' for you. That's the term that is used nowadays, right?" she questing before she realized what he might be thinking, "Do you not like it?" she asked worriedly. Skywalker quickly shook his head, giving her a warm smile, "Oh, I like it. I'm just really flattered that you feel that way about me." They both smile at each other, and continue there dinner. "Skywalker, I have to ask..." Luna said as they rode her carriage back to the castle, "Why me out of everybody?" Skywalker gave her a puzzling look, "What do you mean?" he asked not getting what Luna was asking him. "What I mean is..." she paused, trying to find the right words, "You are a super powerful hero, on top of that The Knight Of The Wind, Equestria's greatest hero, who can get anything he wants and out of all the girls you could've been attracted to, like Rarity, or Fluttershy... why me? I don't understand...", she looked him in the eyes, wanting an honest answer. "What's there to not understand? I think you're prettier than the others. You don't give yourself enough credit, Luna. There's a lot of beautiful things about you." he answered honestly, but she was not convinced so he continued, "Well, there's your mane, for one. It's really nice and neat, and I've caught a couple whiffs of it, and it has a nice scent, plus it helps that blue is my favorite color.", this mad the princess of the night blush. "Then there's your eyes. Like I said, blue is my favorite color, and your eyes are a beautiful shade of blue. Your personality is attractive, too." he continued, as Luna gave him his undivided attention, "Sure you can lose your temper over things, but the way you do it is pretty adorable.", and if that was not convincing enough, placed a kiss on her muzzle before saying, "I love you Luna....", this made Luna blush even deeper as he strokes her mane. > Chapter 25: Can The Rumors Be True? > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Loud knocks on the front door woke Skywalker up from his sleep. After leaving the restaurant with Luna, they spend the rest of the night together doing... Well they wouldn't tell Celestia about it that's for sure. Stretching himself, he got up from his bed and quickly put on some pants, he drowsy opened the door and the first thing that happened was a newspaper in his his face. "What the hell is this!" the voice of Twilight shouted angrily. Ugh how can she be so worked up about anything this early in the... afternoon. "A loud unicorn shoving a newspaper in my face?" Skywalker answered sarcastically, removing the newspaper from his face and gave Twilight a strange look, "What's the big deal anyway?". Twilight gave him a quick angry look before gesturing to the newspaper "The big deal is that you went on a date with Princess Luna, and ended in the newspaper!" Skywalker rubbed his eye, not believe he could gather that much interest, 'Does Ser Skywalker Have a Secret Lover?' the cover of the newspaper stated. "Wait What!?" Skywalker shouted as he started to read the news paper today's headline of what happened last night at dinner. There may be some of you people wondering to why Ser Skywalker was attending with Princess Luna at the new restaurant yesterday. Questions were denied as the Princess insisted that she and Ser Skywalker were just friends. Further more questions were avoided due to the sight of Prince Blueblood, how they say, flirting with Photo Finish, which basically brought the whole press together. There may or may not be some secret to this, but rest assured that there is some sort of attraction as by seen by the gestures the Princess occasionally makes during their meal. The question just might be answered soon enough. True that no information is completely accurate, but this can somewhat prove that our young hero has a secret admirer that he may not know about." Next to the article was a picture of Luna gazing at Skywalker with loving eyes and a slight smile, impossible to see any blush since this is newspaper ink. "Wow." was all Skywalker could say, "My little lie actually turned out to be true. I don't know who to feel bad for, the press or Photo Finish!" he said obviously missing the point. Twilight shook her head, annoyed that her friend didn't get the point, "What if Princess Celestia finds out!?", she shouted, confusing him even more. "Who cares if Celestia finds out. You think she'll get mad because I went out to dinner with her sister?" Skywalker asked confused, as Twilight shook her head again, "That's not what I mean! Do you ever think things through! That party was a late-night party that ended at two in the morning! You know Princess Celestia doesn't like you going out after hours! She'll throw the book at you if she finds out you broke curfew!" she said as Skywalker became even more confused, "I have a curfew now!?" he shouted in complete shock. That afternoon, Skywalker agreed to meet Luna in the castle, it only took a few minutes of flight to the castle. As he made his way up the stairs, he ran into Celestia. "Good morning, Skywalker." she said giving him a motherly smile, "Could you follow me to my throne room for a minute?" she requested him as Skywalker shrug his shoulder, "Sure." he answered, not worried in the slightest. When they both reach the throne room, however, he sees Luna standing there waiting for him with a guilty look on her face. "This can't be good." Skywalker thought to himself as he walked to Luna's side, and Princess Celestia walks past the both of them and sits at her throne. "I'd like to ask you something, Skywalker." she said as Skywalker gave a inner sigh of relief. "A old enemy I thought defeat long ago has broken free from his prison.". Without need for anymore more words Skywalker knew what she needed him to do. A flash of gold light appeared, as a scroll floated before his face, opening it, it held the location of the prison this enemy was trapped, something called 'Draco Mountain'. Skywalker descended in front of a cafe, drawing his weapon he entered the cave. Inside the cave was only pitch black darkness, the only light coming from his sword. "A there you are." a voice from the darkness came, "I assume you must be Jason Skywalker. Celestia's new pet Champion." suddenly, light filled the cave banishing the darkness, and facing down Skywalker was a gigantic dragon. It's black scales reflecting the in the light, it's shiny green eyes glared at him, "Hmmm, I was expecting someone with your reputation to be a bit... older." he said chuckling, thinking this would be an easy victory. "You're shorter than I expected." Skywalker quipped back, the dragon led out a gigantic roar, shaking the earth below them. Without hesitation the dragons forked and spear-like tail come up from behind him and lunges at Skywalker. He duck and dodge out of the way and his tail sticks into the ground. The dragon gets up and strikes again with his tail, Skywalker dodging once again, and the dragon lets out another roar and a torrent of flames follow. Skywalker decide to take the offensive and his arms starts to glow with lightning. Skywalker fire several lighting like spears into the dragons back. The Dragon lets out a fierce cry and spins his head covering the area behind him in a wave of flames, Skywalker barely manage to dodge. Creating a few more lightning spears, using them to pierce the Force Dragon in place, Skywalker charges all his power in a huge stream of electricity. The dragon flails around, trying to get away but doesn't make it to far and fall to the ground with a thud. "That training... really helped." another voice said, Skywalker turned around and noticed Luna entering the cave. "Congratulations you killed a dragon, not many ponies can say that." she said giving him a hug, showing him that she was obviously worried. Both of them walked further into the cave where the dragon was sealed and gaze upon the great mountain of treasure that it was collecting. It was huge and was easily enough to buy all of Equestria with and then some! "You can always tell a dragons age by their mound of treasure." Luna explained as she studied the treasure, "By the sheer size, the dragon must have been ancient.", she turned her gaze towards her boyfriends. "What do we do with it." Skywalker asked, not sure what to do with the treasure. "Well, legally it doesn't belong to anybody. So it's yours." Luna said as his mouth dropped open. "Wait what?... This... is mine now? All of it?..." he asked, he couldn't believe his this. "Ayup, all of it. Your the one who killed the dragon so that makes the treasure yours to claim." she said as Skywalker face turned into a big smile. "Wow... I finally have enough money to do as I please!..." he said excitedly before his gaze turned to the ground, "Oh wait, I do that anyways." he added that last part saying it more to himself than Luna. As he studied the treasure, he spotted one of the the most beautiful diamond and sapphire necklace. The diamond heart piece was a solid diamond about the size of his hand. The gold chain was riddled with multiple sapphire heart shapes. Skywalker picked it up and undo the latch behind it, he sneaked over to Luna and wrap his hands behind her neck and fastening the hooks and step back to admire her. "I was right." he said nodding to himself, "It looks beautiful on you.", Luna looks down at it and blushes the deepest color of red. The next morning, a knock on the front door woke Skywalker up from his sleep. He tried to get up but something was keeping him down, looking to his side, he saw the sleeping form of his girlfriend laying her head on top of him. Then he remembered, after making sure his treasure was safe, the help of a magically enchanted backpack with no storage limit, they spend the night together, doing it... Yeah, you know what they did. Adult stuff. He carefully removed the sleeping beauty from him as he got up, noticing his naked form he quickly grabbed some pants before heading down again. Opening the front door, his favorite lavender colored unicorn was standing in front of him, she had an odd worried look on her face. "Hey, Twilight. Come in." Skywalker stepping aside to let her in. After letting her in, Twilight took a seat on the sofa as Skywalker brought her some thee. "So you sealed that dragon again, I assume." she asked, thanking him for her cup of jasmine thee. Skywalker couldn't be bothered to ask her how she knew he had to fight a dragon, he just assumed Celestia might have told her. "I had to kill it." Skywalker said as he munched on a sandwich, the worry on Twilight face was replaced by an expression that made her look impressed, "Congratulations, that must have been quite some battle if it lasted all night into the morning." Twilight said, as he took another sip from her cup, "Either that or you got lost.", she wouldn't rule out that her friend could be a bit... odd at times. "Uh, yeah lost." Skywalker said, scratching the back of his head. As if on cue, Luna entered the living room, herself not noticing Twilight sitting there. She walked placed a kiss on his cheek, "Jason, I..." before she could say anything else, she noticed Twilight sitting there. "I... need to... go to the toilet." she said quickly as she ran out of the room. "Please tell me you didn't do what I think you did." Twilight said, she couldn't believe the rumors were true, was Skywalker really dating the princess of the night? No, it couldn't could it? "Uhh, that depends..." he answered as he scratched the back of his head again. Meanwhile on a different Earth, four guys were walking over the street. "Guys?" the one called Sutakira asked, pointing at the sky making the others look in that direction. "Is that Rainbow Wormhole coming at us?" Indeed, a rip in the sky had opened at a rainbow colored tornado was heading there way. "Oh mother of..." was all McGrath could say before they were sucked in. > Chapter 26: Homecoming > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was a beautiful afternoon, Skywalker was currently rolling freshly cooked rice in some seaweed. As he started to cut the roll into tiny circle's, a voice broke him out of his concentration, "Well you have had a great month!" it said, looking behind him he saw Aether standing behind him in all her... glowing glory. Skywalker could only look in surprise as she looked over what he was making, "I see... Not only are you a great fighter, you can also cook! Good for you!" she said giving him a playful wink. "How long have you been living in my head?" Skywalker started, surprised that Aether was apparently real. "Long enough to know that Luna shouts very loudly during intercourse." she stated nonchalantly as if was no big deal about spying on people having, adult play time. Aether gave a faint smile as she the look in her eye turned nostalgic, "She has become a lovely lady. Be good to her." she said, making him rise a eye brow. "Do you know her or something?" he asked but Aether shook her head, "It does not matter now." she answered, Skywalker could have sworn he saw a faint hint of regret before she continued speaking, "Besides, I think you should take a walk, some friends of yours are waiting.", and with a mischievous smile she disappeared as quickly as she came. With no reason to not follow the orders of the Alicorn who was living inside his head, Skywalker placed the finished sushi rolls in the fridge for later. Meanwhile down the dirt road leading into Ponyville, four young man followed it, not sure were it would lead. "Were are we!?" Phoenix complained, gaining an annoyed groan from McGrath, "We didn't knew it two minutes ago, what makes you think we do now!?" he shouted. But before any of them could say anything else, their eyes winded in shock as if they have seen a ghost. "Hey guys!" Skywalker said, waving at them, "Good to see you again." all of them were speechless at seeing there supposed dead friend standing there, waving at them. McGrath was the first to spoke up, "Great, we're dead.", he said turning his gaze towards the ground before quickly looking back up, "Hey wait, if I'm dead then why are all you guys with me in hell!?", they all gave each other a puzzling look before bursting out in laughter. Despise not seeing each other for two years, they still had that bond between them. Skywalker walked them to the house, he explained all what happened to him over the past month. "How did you know we would arrive today?" Sutakira asked curiously as he stroke his light blue hair, strangely enough it was not dyed or anything, we was born with that hair. "The Alicorn living in my head told me." Skywalker answered honestly, gaining weird look from his guy friends indicating that they did not believe him. As tonight was movie night, the guys decided to wait till tonight to reveal that they were back. And what a surprise it was! The girls couldn't be happier to see the guys again. Everybody was running out of snacks and drinks, Luna volunteered to help Skywalker in the kitchen. "Is there a reason Luna is here?" Griffifth asked as the two entered the kitchen, he remained friendly towards Luna because he actually liked her, thought that could not be said about other people in power. "Oh Luna and him are dating." Pinkie said as she munched a bunch of Skywalker's home baked cookies, hmm, chocolate, these were totally in her top five! The guys all had similar expression on their face as all four shouted at the same time "Say what!". Skywalker gave a relief sigh, gaining a questing look from his girlfriend as she gathered a bottle of soda from the fridge. "Why the sigh, beloved?" she asked, a warm smile graced his face. This made her blush, as it was one of the reasons she found herself attracted him. "I'm just grateful for everything I have in my life, you know?" he said pulling her into a hug. Luna placed her wings over him, "I understand." she said placing her head on his shoulder, taking in his scent she had became addicted to, "I used to be that way as well. Now I have a really good reason to be doing so." Both placed their mouths on each other, Skywalker could feel her tongue poking at his teeth, asking for entrance. He parted his teeth to let it in. Unfortunately, all the other guys have taken advantage of this and started taking pictures with their phones. Skywalker didn't see the flashes, neither did Luna. That night no movie was watched, and so, the days returned to normal, The next day, Skywalker, Twilight and Phoenix helped Applejack harvest some Golden Delicious. Apparently she had a bet with Big Mac, if she could get all the Golden Delicious in the barn by lunchtime. He was gonna walk down Stirrup Street in one of Granny Smith's girdles... I'd paid to see that. "I'm glad the goal was lunchtime." Skywalker said stretching himself, "All that hard work made me hungry.". They were currently sitting in Applejack's living room, enjoying some freshly made Apple Cider. "I know, right?" Phoenix said as he, Spike and Applebloom were sitting in front of the TV, watching some cartoon. He gained an groan from the others as Twilight stated, "You've been watching TV all morning while we worked!". This statement made Phoenix shake his head as he pointed out that he was watching Applebloom, and if that involved watching cartoons with her all morning he would gladly make that sacrifice. Before anyone could say anything, Spike let out a burp of green flames indicating that Celestia had send a letter. "It's a letter from Princess Celestia." Twilight said excited as she catches the letter with her magic. "Who else sends you letters?" Phoenix said as he floated over her, curios just as everybody else why the princess would send her a letter. Her Grand Royal Highness, Princess Celestia of Equestria, is pleased to announce The Grand Galloping Gala to be held in the magnificent capital city of Canterlot, on the 21st day of, eh, yadda yadda yadda, cordially extends an invitation to Twilight Sparkle plus one guest. Yeah, I'm not gonna retell everything in that letter, all you need to know is that we're going to the Grand Galloping Gala. "The Grand Galloping Gala!" both Twilight and Applejack shouted excited, as the two guys gave each other a look that said, 'girls sometimes!'. "Wow, great! I've never been to the gala. Have you, Skywalker?" Twilight asked him as Skywalker shook his head, he never had. Applejack went on a rant at how much advertisement she could get for Sweet Apple Acres. Just as Twilight was about to invite Applejack along, Skywalker stopped her, "What?" Twilight asked as Skywalker opened the door and took a stance as if he was about to catch something. And indeed not three seconds later, Rainbow crashed landed into Skywalker's arms, giving her a small blush as he placed her back on her hoofs. Phoenix was enthusiastically clapping his hands, "Rainbow Dash, everybody!" he shouted as he noticed his own clapping hands, "Why am I clapping?". Apparently Rainbow had overheard the conversation, somehow, "Whoa! Are we talking about The Grand Galloping Gala?" she said but Applejack interrupted her, "Rainbow Dash, you told me you were too busy to help me harvest apples. What were you busy doing, spyin'?" "No, I was busy napping." she answered dryly as she too started to rant about what she could do at the Grand Galloping Gala. So this Grand Galloping Gala was kind of a big deal for Equestria, because as soon as the other friends, the girls more specifically, heard about it they all gave some very good reason as to why they should go with Twilight. Why nobody asked if they could go with Skywalker... I don't know, I'm just the narrator, my super power is narrating! But seeing as Twilight couldn't decide on a empty stomach she, Skywalker, Phoenix and Spike went to the local restaurant for some lunch. At the food place. "What am I gonna do?" Twilight said as the guys and Spike studied the menu, "All five out of eleven of my best friends have really good reasons to go to the gala. AJ, or Rainbow? Pinkie or Fluttershy, Rarity... What do you guys think?", she gave a groan as her stomach rumbled. "I think we have to try another restaurant." Skywalker said, all the dishes on the menu sounded like they were for humans. "Yeah, I don't really like grass." Phoenix added, gaining a approving nod from Spike, "Yeah, would it hurt anybody to offer some gemstones?" he complained placing his menu on the table. They decided that they would get something to eat at the guys house, though Phoenix bought a sandwich from the restaurant, as they followed the dirt path to the house Phoenix took a bite. And not a moment after that, he spit it back out, "Gross! This burger taste like a burger made of grass! Or something!", he said burning the remains in a ball of his own fire. "Probably because it was..." Spike stated as they entered the living room. In the middle of the room was a shirtless McGrath doing push ups. And they had to admit, he looked good without a shirt, he wasn't as buff Skywalker but he had still a body a male model would be jealous of. McGrath notice them and he stops for a second, "I would stop, but I wouldn't want to take this sight from you." he said as he continued his workout. Suddenly the female friends burst and all of them start to ramble about why they should be allowed to go with Twilight to the G3, that means Grand Galloping Gala, you know three G's. Twilight tried to say something but couldn't get over them, getting annoyed by the loud noises, McGrath shouted from the top of his lounges, "Shut up!" as they all became silent, "Shut the neuk up and listen to Twilight!" he said, making them turn their attention towards Twilight. "Thanks McGrath... You have been out of character helpful today." Twilight said gratefully to him, she cleared her throat before addressing her friends, "I just can't decide. It's important to all of you and I just can't stand to disappoint any of you, and giving me gifts and doing me favors won't make any difference, because you're all my friends and I wanna make you all happy and I can't, I just can't!" The girls expression turned to disappointment as Skywalker entered the room giving a cocky grin, "Guess what I got!" he held up nine tickets, on closer inspection they were all tickets for G3, the girls took a gasp and they erupted into cheerful giggles. "We're did you get those!?" Twilight said, unsure how even Skywalker could have get those nine tickets. "I asked Celestia for extra tickets. She just gave them to me if I promised to show up." They're cheering was cut short loud rumbles, which source could be traced to Twilight's stomach. "Allow us to treat you to dinner." Rarity said, as they all agreed to go, "And make McGrath pay for everything!" Phoenix added as he quickly dashed out of the house. "What!?" shouted McGrath as he ran after him, "Get back here! So I can kick your ass!" They all let out a cheerful laugh as they followed the two out of the house, life certainly was back to normal. > Chapter 27: Dresses > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was a rainy night in the city of Canterlot, the streets were deserted save for a lone hooded unicorn who took shelter under a bridge, "May I help you, traveler?" a voiced asked from the darkness, startling the hooded pony as turns around to see two glowing purple orbs staring at her from the shadows. "Hmm, something drives you... Something powerful." the figure said as she stepped out of the shadow, "Is it Revenge? Than take this." she extends her hand as a blue flame conjures up a black amulet in the shape of a alicorn. The hooded unicorn could only stare as she held the amulet in front of her, "This is one of the most powerful of all the known magical charms. It will and can lead you to your revenge.", the pony accepted the dark gift as Mizuki smirked under his hood. Earlier that day, the girls were preparing for G3, which is something only girls would do seeing as it was not until next week. Anyhow Twilight's dress had a loose button so they decided to visit the only pony in Ponyville who could possible sew it back on, Rarity! So she, Skywalker, Griffifth and AJ decided to pay her a visit. As they entered Rarity's workshop at Carousel Boutique they saw Rarity doing what she does best, making dresses and talking to herself. "Who the hell are you talking to?" Griffifth interrupted her rudely making her flinch. She putted up a smile as she greeted her friends, "Good morning, darlings! Is there something I can help you with?" she asked as Twilight nodded her head. "Oh, so very sorry to trouble you." Twilight started as she placed the dress on a table, "I need a quick favor. Could you please fix the button for me? It's my dress for the G3.", Rarity gave a surprised look at the mention of G3. "She means the Grand Galloping Gala." Skywalker explained, "Saying Grand Galloping Gala every time is kind of a mouthful, so we came up with G3, because they're are three G's?", Rarity got what he meant by that as she nodded, she took a look over Twilight dress before letting out a distressful cry "Oh, no, no, no! You can't wear this... old thing. You need a glamorous new outfit for the Gala and I'll make it for you. No problem at all. It will be my pleasure!" Rarity stated dramatically, she couldn't believe that her friend would were this... cloth... to G3! "Oh, that's really sweet of you to offer, Rarity. But I can't let you do that. It would be so much work." Twilight started but Skywalker leaned over and whispered in her ear, "Dude, it's Rarity. She won't take no for an answer.". "I'm a girl..." Twilight said as she returned her attention to Rarity, "Well, in that case... Thank you for your generosity, Rarity. Knowing your handiwork, I'm sure it will be absolutely beautiful." And after some talk with Applejack, Rarity decided to make a new dress for her, and for all the other girls, and the guys... Yes, she's making a dress for the guys! Meanwhile over at the guys house, Phoenix and Applebloom are watching some cartoons while having a heated discussion. "Phoenix, did ya knew that the front of ya'r hair looks like a weed plant?" Applebloom asked as she studied Phoenix hair. Phoenix gave her a questioning look before saying defensively, "What? It does not!". "Oh, yes it does." she responded in a sing song voice. "It does not!" he denied again, before a more imported question came to mind, "How do you know what pot is? Did Pomme told you what we did on Archmage sleep over? You'r like ten years old! When I was your age I played with action figures! Go get a Barbie or something!". All the while, McGrath was observing the entire conversation, "Why is she here again?" he asked as he made himself a cup of coffee. "Big Mac is working at the barn and he wanted somebody to watch AB." Phoenix said as McGrath gave a indifferent shrug as he took the now filled cup up to his room. Applebloom gave him a sweet smile as she looked up to him. "Hey McGrath. What are ya doing?", McGrath looked down at her, "That's nothing of your damn business." he said trying to continue his walk to the stairs, but Applebloom held him by his leg. "Why do you always so those hateful words, McGrath?" Applebloom asked honestly, huh it seems nobody has ever asked McGrath that as he gave her a puzzling look. "I don't know!" he said angrily, "Why do you have to be so neuking adorable!?", he finally shook her off his leg as he quickly made his way back to his room. Applebloom took her seat back as she took a sip from her soda. After watching some more cartoons, one involving five guys living in a village called Humanville and they went to Canterlot High or something... Boy, I hope we never have to go there. "Phoenix?" Applebloom asked as Phoenix nodded, "How did ya found out about your powers?" she asked curiously. Phoenix had to chuckle at her question, nobody had ever asked him how he first found out about his powers. "I got shot when I was six." Phoenix said cheerfully. Applebloom asked him a few more questions, he answered all of them with similar cheerfulness, but the final question struck a nerve. "Do ya have siblings?". For the first time since he had come to Ponyville, the mischievous spark in his purple eyes disappeared as he turned his look to the ground, "I... I had an older sister." he said slowly, this was obviously a painful subject to him, "I lost her the same day I discovered my powers..." . Applebloom quickly changed the subject, "Phoenix, McGrath? Where do little fillies come from?", this question made Phoenix eyes open in shock as turned his gaze back towards her. The very next day, Twilight requested the guys help. Rarity had locked herself in her room after making some godawful dresses at the other girls request, and some big name in the fashion industry saw them and now Rarity wouldn't be able to find work or something. The gang had gathered outside Rarity's bedroom door, McGrath took the initiative and banged on the door, "Rarity! Get your fat ass out here!" he shouted but all they could hear was her cries before she responded through the door, "I'm never coming out! I use to be somebody... I used to be respected... I made dresses... beautiful, beautiful dresses... But now! Everybody is laughing at me! I'm noting but a laughingstock!" "Your not a laughing stock Rarity." Twilight tried to reassure her but that attempt was show down by Rainbow, "She kinda is..." she said as Griffifth whispered, "Smooth move smart guy!" McGrath gave a deep sigh before he started his speech, "Rarity, please listen to me.", what surprised everybody the most was that nearly all the harshness and sarcasm in his voice had disappeared, "Those first dressed you designed were perfect. But when you started to make the dresses exactly the way they wanted them. That's were you went wrong! If you try to please everybody, you end up pleasing nobody, especially yourself. You can't let this little set back destroy your dream, you have talent! Anyone who can't see that is a fool!". The sincerity in his voice made Rarity open her door, she gave him an odd look, as if to ask if he really meant it. "Wow, this is the second time McGrath was out of charachter..." Twilight started as McGrath angrily turned around quickly saying, "I didn't say it because I like you!". What a Tsundere... > Chapter 28: I Like You > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- A loud knock on the front door woke Skywalker up, he listened if one of the other guys would get the door. And as he didn't hear anyone, it had to be him to answer the front door. Getting up, he stretched himself, "...The morning is evil..." he said to himself as he floated down the stairs half asleep. Opening the door, he saw his favorite pink earth pony standing, as excited as ever. How she does that in the morning, that will for every be a mystery. "Oh! Morning, Pinkie..." he said, rubbing the sleep from his eye as Pinkie shouted in her usual excited voice, "It's soon!". Skywalker had to think about what she was talking about, but his mind was to foggy to come up with what she meant by that. Seeing as she wasn't getting a response from him, "You said we should have another party soon, and... it's soon!" Pinkie said giving him a big smile. "...Did I really said that?" Skywalker thought to himself as Pinkie handed him out a invitation, opening it on the spot it read, You're invited to Gummy's 'after-birthday' party. This afternoon at 3 o'clock. "All our bestest friends are invited, and there's gonna be dancing, and games, and cake, and ice-cream, and punch!" Pinkie said excitedly, as Skywalker remembered something, "This afternoon? As in, 'this afternoon' this afternoon?" he asked, gaining a big smile from Pinkie. "Yes, indeedy!" she responded, as Skywalker scratched the back of his head, "Sorry, can't come. I'm finding out something." he said with a sorry tone. "What?" Pinkie asked, curios why he wouldn't be able to come to Gummy's after-birthday party. "I'm finding out why I am so good looking." Skywalker replied with a completely straight face. Pinkie's expression went to disappointment but quickly went back to her usual happy one, "I understand. Your vanity comes first." she said, gaining a chuckle from him, "But don't worry, we'll be sure to save you some cake." she said turning around to bring invites to her other friends. Later that morning, McGrath was enjoying his morning coffee at Sugarcube Corner as Spike took a seat next to him. "There is an entire empty table behind me Spike." McGrath said annoyed, as Spike turned his gaze towards him, "For ten bits I'll leave."he said, gaining a big grin as McGrath throws ten bites on his plate. "Pleasure of doing business with you." Spike said as he got up and left with his muffin, McGrath gave a sigh of relief, taking a sip from his cup, Pinkie sat down across from him. "Your not busy are you?" McGrath thought as he looked up. Before he could give a response Pinkie started to rant about the problem she was having, "Something strange is definitely going on around here, McGrath. Sure, Griffifth, Rainbow Dash, Sutakira and Fluttershy had to house-sit for that vacationing bear, but what are the chances all my other friends would have plans this afternoon too? Skywalker has to find out why he looks so good? Rarity has to wash her hair? Applejack has to pick apples? Twilight is behind on her studies and has to hit the books? Phoenix is sick because he has something called 'Bieber Fever', even though he shouted directly 'God I hate Justin Bieber!' The more I think about it, the more those are starting to sound like... excuses!". As she finished her rant, she noticed that McGrath had left. At the guys house, living room, McGrath was sitting in one of the lazy chairs and reading a book, trying to enjoy some quite and his coffee. "McGrath?" A voice said in his left ear. Turning around he saw Pinkie looming over him, giving him a big smile. "Are you stalking me now?" McGrath asked as he closed his book and finishing his coffee, preparing himself to make a run for it. Pinkie gave him a puzzling look, "Not like, in a threatening way..." she said before regaining her smile, "Knock, knock!". McGrath gave an annoyed sigh, but he decided to play along with her stupid knock knock joke, "Who's there?" he asked as Pinkie replied, "Doctor!". "Doctor Who?" McGrath replied as he rolled his eyes, but Pinkie gave him a even bigger smile and poking his nose, "Got ya!". McGrath looked surprised, "Wait a minute, you know Doctor Who?" he asked gaining a cheeky grin from Pinkie, "Of course I do, silly! Everybody knows Doctor Hooves!". McGrath gave another sigh as he thought, "Well at least she can't bother me in here...". His eyes widened in shock as Pinkie's voice rang in his head, "Yeah, you got that right. Wait, who is she?". He quickly rushed out the door trying to get away from Pinkie as far as possible, this gained a puzzling look from Pinkie. "Wow, my thinking voice sounds funny." she thought as she bounced after McGrath. Down the dirty path to their house, McGrath could Pinkie hear her shout his name again. Against his better judgement, he turned around and saw Pinkie aiming a cannon at his face. Not a second later, he is hit by cake, covering him in the sweet deliciousness. "Oh, silly me!" she said, placing her hoof on his dirty clothes, "I must have put the confetti in the oven and the cake in the confetti cannons! Again!", McGrath let out a angry growl as Pinkie tasted some of the cake gaining another big smile, "Still delicious though! Try some, McGrath!" A green light flashed in front of her eyes as the cake that was first on McGrath splattered on the ground, turning around she saw a now cleaned up McGrath walking away from her. Quickly whipping the left over cake from herself, she followed him, "Wait, McGrath! Please, let me make it up to you..." she said but he shouted back a big no. "Please! Oh, please please please!" Pinkie begged but he shouted back to her, "Neuk off!". This didn't have the desired effect as she continued to beg him with, "Please! Oh, please please please!". "You don't know what 'neuk off' means, do you?", he asked and his question was answered with a "Nope! Please! Oh, please please please..." from Pinkie. After losing Pinkie, which isn't as easy as it sounds, McGrath retreated back into his room. He was currently laying down on his bed listening to some classical music on his phone. "Hi, McGrath!" Pinkie shouted, startling him as he hadn't even hear the door open when she entered, "I have a gift for you!", she held out a big box, but McGrath gave it a suspicious look, like he was afraid it would bite him or something. "It's not going to explode or anything." Pinkie said with a big smile, "Promise. Just open it!". After some hesitation, he removed the ribbon from the present and removing the top, revealing a t-shirt with him and Pinkie on it. The Pinkie on the shirt gave one of her biggest smiles yet, thought the McGrath on the shirt looked kinda... "W-Why do I look dead on this picture?" McGrath asked turning his gaze towards her, "Are you going to kill me?", he asked but all that did was make her giggle. "No! I took it when you were sleeping.", somehow he wasn't bother by that answer. "Look Pinkie..." he started slowly, turning his gaze back to her, his own emerald eyes locking into her soft blue's, "I appreciate what you are trying to do. The reason I always act this was is because... I don't think anyone likes me.", he turned his gaze down, this was very difficult for him to talk about Pinkie could she. She placed her hoof on his shoulder, making him look back up. "I like you, McGrath." she said and for the first time since she knew him, she could see a faint smile forming on his face. Suddenly, Pinkie felt her stomach make a back flip, as if she had eaten too much cupcakes. A little later, McGrath was lead Pinkie into the barn of Sweet Apple Acres, the moment Pinkie get in the voice of the rest of the gang shouted "Surprise!", Pinkie gave a puzzling look, wondering why they would throw her a surprise party. Suddenly her eyes widen in shock as she beamed, "Because it's my birthday! How could I have forgotten my own birthday?" she smiled as she gave each and everyone of the gang a hug, "And you like me so much you decided to throw me a surprise party! You boys and girls are the best friends ever!", and indeed Pinkie couldn't have wished for better friends. "All right, boys and girls! Enough of this gab. Let's party!" Griffifth shouted as music started to play. As Pinkie danced, she gave one last look at McGrath and that same feeling came back to her. > Chapter 29: Flight or Fight > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ever since her birthday, Pinkie Pie was having this weird feeling in her stomach, she couldn't sleep, she didn't have any appetite. She had been to the doctor, but he claimed she was as healthy as a... Horse... Seriously who wrote this? If the doctors couldn't find anything, maybe Twilight or Sutakira would know. After all if they wouldn't know something, then who would? Seeing as Twilight's house was closer she decided to go there first, upon entering the Golden Oak Library she saw the unicorn she was looking for. "Last one." Twilight said using her magic to place a book back on its shelf. Giving a heavy sigh she turned to her friends, "Thank you so much for helping me clean up all these books guys. It was a crazy week of studying." she said to the gathered McGrath, Rarity, Griffifth, Pinkie Pie, Phoenix, Applejack and Sutakira. "Why did I help, again?" McGrath asked, as this was certainly out of character for him. He flashed Sutakira a glare as he smugly said, "Because I kicked your ass at Vanguard.". Before McGrath could respond he noticed Pinkie standing in the door opening, his expression softening slightly as he gave her a soft smile. Then she felt it again, that weird feeling in her stomach, was McGrath the reason she was feeling sick? Was she allergic to his emerald green eyes, was she... Her thoughts were interrupted as a distend scream was heard, first it was very soft but it became louder and louder by the second. "Are you guys hearing that?" Phoenix asked as a loud bang and a hard crash was heard. As the dust settled they saw that it was Rainbow who had crashed through one of the windows and smashed up the library with her landing. "Rainbow Dash, Rainbow Dash, you alright?" Griffifth asked as he snapped his finger in front of her, "Of course she is, she rocks! Woohoo!" the voice of Fluttershy said. Turning around they saw Skywalker and Fluttershy enter through the same window Rainbow just crashed through. Fluttershy looked around and noticed the mess, "Did my cheering do that?", she wondered as McGrath dropped on his knees and let out a scream of frustration, "Why!? Why are you and Skywalker so hell bent on causing me pain!" he asked Rainbow, because now they have to start all over again. Fortunately, Rainbow was okay as she gave the cleaning crew a sheepish smile, "Hehe. Sorry about that guys. THAT was a truly feeble performance." she apologized to her friends as they all gave a accepting groan. "Actually, it wasn't all bad." Skywalker said, trying to reassure his friend. Fluttershy nodded in agreement as she added, "I particularly liked it when you made the clouds spin.". "Oh, I liked that part too." Skywalker agreed but he was interrupted by a annoyed groan from Rainbow, "Ugh. I'm not talking about my performance, I'm talking about yours!" she said as Skywalker gave her a confused look. "But I didn't do anything!" he said offended making his best friend hoof palm, "Not you. Fluttershy! And I meant her feeble cheering! I wish you guys could come to Cloudsdale to see me compete in the Best Young Flyer Competition." she said looking over her other friends. All she got was a puzzling look from her friends, none of them apparently knew what the Best Young Flyer Competition was. "You guys have no idea what I'm talking about right?" Rainbow said, as the others gave each other some quick looks, seeing if anyone of them knew at least something. "Well I do but if anybody wants to explain it, that would be great." Sutakira said as he gave a sheepish smile. Rainbow gave a sigh as she started to explain, "The Best Young Flyer Competition is where all the greatest pegasus flyers get together and show off their different flying styles! Some are fast! And some are graceful!", the gang let out a collective, "Oh", as well as agreeing that it would be great to see. "I wish you guys could be there. Fluttershy's a great support, but her cheering isn't exactly inspirational." Rainbow continued as she looked over friends. Her own eyes locked with those of Skywalker, she could see that he was disappointed. "Dashie, why didn't you tell me about this?" he asked, sounding slightly hurt, why would his best friend not tell him about this? "With your skill you would Curb Stomp everybody who thinks they are a match for you." Rainbow explained, her own face showing some sadness as Skywalker turned from her crossing his arms, "You do know I'm not allowed to enter right? Being the Knight Of The Wind, I'm not allowed to enter the junior divisions, so yeah." he said, his voice having a tone of sadness in it. "Sky... You still want to come cheer me on?" Rainbow asked, trying to make up to him for... "Well duh!" Skywalker said quickly turned around and gave her a wink as he had been faking being hurt just to mess with her. The next morning, Skywalker, Rainbow and Fluttershy flew they're way towards Cloudsdale. During the flight Skywalker was trying to give Fluttershy some last minute cheering tips, "You've got to learn to be assertive, Fluttershy. Don't be afraid to speak up." he said gaining a nod from Fluttershy. "Jason?" Rainbow asked making him turn his attention towards her, "Do you want to come over to my parents house?" she asked him with a faint blush. "...Why?" Skywalker asked slowly as Rainbow got a sheepish smile on her face, "I want you to try my mom's cooking." Rainbow explained, but Skywalker wasn't buying it. "And the real reason?" he asked. Rainbow sighed, "The thing is, I haven't been home yet since I've moved to Ponyville. I hadn't been able to make up my mind about it, but I decided that I should show my face... But going home alone is a bit uncomfortable, so I was hoping you could join me." she explained, this made him a bit jealous, at least she has a home to return to. "Of course Dashie." Skywalker said, giving her a nod, "After you've won the BYFC. By the way, what is the prize your gonna win?". Rainbow got a large smile, "The grand prize is an entire day with the Wonderbolts. A whole day of flying with my life-long heroes... It'll be a dream come true!" she said giggling at the thought. "Seriously..." Skywalker said rolling his eyes, "You should come with me to Canterlot once in a while. I had brunch with Spitfire, just last week." he said as Rainbow looked at him with awed eyes, "...I hate you so much right now." she said teasingly. Soon they landed in Cloudsdale, Skywalker couldn't believe his eyes, all the buildings were made out of clouds! And there were rainbows everywhere! They were all so beautiful, well of course the most beautiful rainbow was standing right next to him but still... oh look a double rainbow! "Skywalker?" the voice of Fluttershy broke him out of his thought as he turned his attention to her, "How come you can walk on clouds..." she asked. Indeed, even though Phoenix and Sutakira can fly neither could stand on the clouds. "I... Have no idea..." Skywalker said scratching the back of his head. They made their way to the stadium, a question Skywalker had been meaning to ask Rainbow but never got around popped in his head. "Oh, Dashie? Can I ask you a random question?" he asked gaining a nod from her, "Have you ever heard of Skittles? They're a candy on my world, and their line is, get this... 'taste the rainbow'.", both Rainbow and Fluttershy raised an eyebrow at this. "Your joking again are you?" Rainbow asked, not believing that there was a candy with that slogan. "No, I'm not." Skywalker said dead seriously, "Not this time.". Rainbow fall on the cloud, rolling in laughter at the slogan of the candy. "Well well well. What do we have here?" a voice said above them, making the three friends look up. Three male pegasi were flying above them before they started to float in front of them. "It's our old friend Rainbow Crash!" the leaded, Dumb-Bell said, "Get kicked outta any flight schools lately?" he asked mockingly. Skywalker remembered Rainbow telling him about how Dumb-Bell and his friends Hoops and... What's his face, were a gang of bullies during her time at Flight school. "I didn't get kicked out." Rainbow said as she got back up, trying to sound indifferent to them. But soon they turned to trash talking Rainbow, her skills and her mane... Wait a minute nobody insults the hair! Skywalker was about to speak up but Fluttershy had beaten him to it. "Now wait just a minute!" she said, this got everyone's attention making her blush a little, "Oh, I'm sorry. I'm trying to be more assertive. Anyhow... She is going to do a sonic rainboom! Show up at the Cloudeseum and see for yourself! ...If you're free." she added that last part with a soft voice. The idiots laughed out loud as they agreed to come before they left. "Those guys are right." Rainbow sighed to herself, "I'll never be able to do it.", she looked down as Skywalker patted her head. "But, Dashie." Skywalker said making her look back up to him, "Just because you've failed the sonic rainboom a hundred thousand times in practice doesn't mean you won't be able to do it in front of an entire stadium, full of impatient, super-critical sports fan ponies... I just made it a lot worse..." he said to himself as Rainbow had a mental breakdown. "Aaaaaah! What do I do!? Everybody's gonna see me fail! The Wonderbolts will never let a loser like me join. Princess Celestia will probably banish me to the Everfree Forest! My life is ruined!" she ranted as that last line got him to raise an eyebrow. "Why would Celestia do that?" Skywalker asked, this had been bothering him for some time, "Why does everybody think Princess Celestia would banish them if they screw something up!?". Seriously, something along the lines of 'Celestia will banish me if I fail X' up pops up a lot. "Is that Rarity? With butterfly wings?" Skywalker said pointing behind them and indeed Rarity was floating above them with her own butterfly wings. "Aren't my wings smashing!?" Rarity said as she floated down towards them, "Twilight made them for me. I just adore them! Why so shocked? We couldn't leave our favorite flyer without a big cheering section!" An next to them a balloon landed, and in the basket there was the rest of the gang, this put a smile on Rainbow's face, "This is so cool! You guys made it!" she said happily as Pinkie jumped out of the basket and landed on the cloud without falling through them... Wait what? "How'd you do that? Only Pegasus ponies and Jason can walk on clouds!" Rainbow exclaimed in surprise. It's Pinkie, nobody can explain Pinkie. So Twilight with her amazing magic found a way too give Rarity wings, though it was too difficult to do it a few more times, she decided to find a spell that allowed them to walk on the clouds. Smart girl. As they had some time before the competition Rainbow and Fluttershy decided to give them a tour through the greatest city in the sky... Seeing as it is the only city in the sky they don't really have any competition. In the weather factory, they were showed how all the weather was made for all of Equestria. "And here's where they make the rainbows!" Rainbow said pointing to a pool with all the colors of the rainbow in it, Pinkie, being the crazy one like she is, took a sip from the rainbow pool, "Spicyyyyyy!..." she shouted as the rest of the gang chuckled. "Yeah, rainbows aren't really known for their flavor." Rainbow said as Skywalker walked over to the pool, Pinkie tried to stop him but he was already drinking out of the pool and it confirmed his theory. "Hey Pinkie, you know what's ironic?" he asked getting a questing look from her, "What, what, what, what, what?... Does ironic mean?" Pinkie said as Sutakira cleared his throat. "Ironic is the opposite result of what was intended." he explained but Pinkie still didn't get it. "This rainbow tastes like Skittles, which is a candy on our world." Skywalker explained, getting Pinkie's attention, "And you, the candy lover, didn't like it.". Pinkie mouth dropped open in a comical way, "Humans eat that stuff as candy? Are you crazy?" she asked as the guys shrugged. "You don't have to be crazy to live on earth... but it helps." Phoenix said as further down they could hear people admire Rarity's wings. "Oh, where'd you get those amazing wings? I want a pair!" the voice of Dumb-Bell could be heard. "Ha! Gay!" McGrath shouted. "Rarity! What're you doing talking to these guys?" Rainbow asked, feeling betrayed that Rarity would talk to those bullies! "Oh, hey look, it's Rainbow Crash again!" Dumb-Bell said mockingly, "You should forget the sonic rainboom and just get yourself some wings like these!". Before Rainbow could answer him, Skywalker jumped to his friends defense, "Sorry, but Dashie is not girlish like that!" he said, somehow this made Dumb-Bell and his cronies laugh. "Ah, Rainbow Crash! You need The Knight to fight your battle's for you?" Dumb-Bell manege to say as they burst out in laughter. Skywalker shoot them a death glare that meant 'insult Rainbow one more time in my presence and you'll pay' and for good measure he let his eye glow red, "I find your lack of respect disturbing.", this made the three dumbasses freeze in fear. "You better watch what you say against me.", he threatened them as all three mumbled, "Y-Yes, Ser Knight." Somehow Rarity entered the competition, making Rainbow even more nervous. But as the competition was soon, there was no way to remove Rarity from it without seriously injuring her. And so the gang save Rarity and Rainbow took a seat in the stadium, just as they took their seat the crow let out a loud cheer as the announcer's voice could be heard throughout the stadium. "Fillies and gentlecolts!" her voice boomed, "Please rise and join me in welcoming our beloved ruler, Princess Celestia!" she said as the princess of the sun landed on her special stage, under the loud cheers from her loyal subjects. "Boo!" Griffifth shouted and somehow this one 'boo' was heard by Celestia. "Who said that? Who the buck said that!?" Celestia shouted making everybody turn silent, "Somebody better fess up or I'm not going to start this damn tournament!" turning her gaze over the stadium. "Competition, your highness." the announcer corrected her. "Yeah whatever!" Celestia responded. "It was me, sorry!" Griffifth said, though he didn't sound sorry at all. "Get the buck out of Cloudsdale!" Celestia commanded as he shrugged his shoulders and left. An hour passed as and a lot of good flyers came by but then it was time for the final competitor of the day, contestant number fifteen! Uhh... And apparently contestant number four. Rarity preformed some ballet like moves, but thanks that that and her own nerves Rainbow messed up her entire routine! Now all what she could fall back to was phase Three, the sonic rainboom. "Wings, by Skywalker's Lightning, don't fail me now!" Rainbow prayed as she starts to fly up. Rarity did something similar, intending to shine the light from her wings all over Equestria, "Look upon me, Equestria, for I... am... Rarity!" as she shouted that, her wings, made of mountain dew or something, burned off. And as gravity was still a thing in Equestria, Rarity started to plummet to the ground. Rarity let out screams of fright as she falls trough the clouds as the Wonderbolts directly dove after her, quickly catching up to her, but in her panic Rarity knocked all three out... I thought unicorn's were physically weak? Weird. "Hold on, Rarity! I'm coming!" Rainbow shouted as she took a nose dive after her and the Wonderbolts. The rest of the gang were frozen in terror. "Shouldn't ya dive after them?" Applejack asked Skywalker, as he simply raised his hand, "Wait for it." he said. A loud boom was heard as the sound barrier broke in all the colors of the rainbow, she did it, Rainbow preformed the sonic rainboom! "A sonic rainboom! She did it! She did it! WOOO!" Fluttershy cheered as everybody else in the stadium looked on impressed. With the boos from the sonic rainboom, Rainbow could catch Rarity and the Wonderbolts just before they hit the ground. "Yeah! That's my girl!" Skywalker shouted as as the stadium burst out in a loud round of applause. A little while later, the gang was gathered around the balloon as Rarity sat in the basket. "I can't help the feeling that Rarity with wings was one big marketing thing to sell more toys." Griffifth said before taking a sip from his rainbow drink, taste the rainbow indeed. "I want to apologize to all of you for getting so carried away with my... beautiful wings." Rarity said, trying to apologize to her friends, "I guess I just lost my head. And I'm especially sorry that I was so thoughtless as to jump into the contest at the last minute after you had worked so hard to win it. Can you ever ever forgive me?". They all pretty much agreed to forgive her, after all their friends right? "Aw, it's okay." Rainbow said, "Everything turned out alright, right? I just wish I could have met the Wonderbolts when they were awake." she added that last part with some regret. "Hey, Dashie! Look who I found!" the voice of Skywalker came from above as he landed in front of her with the three Wonderbolts behind him. Rainbow looked on in shock as all she could get out was, "OhmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohMYGOSH!". The leader of the Wonderbolts, Spitfire, was the first to speak up, "So you're the little pony who saved our lives. We really wanted to meet you, and say thanks." she said as Rainbow was now unable to make any sensible words. "I think Rainbro is now brain dead." Phoenix said as he waved his hand in front of her face not getting any response. That evening, Skywalker had to do just one more thing before they could go home that night. "My dad is gonna like you." Rainbow said as they walked towards her parents house, "You think so?" he asked gaining a cocky grin from his best friend. "Warrior of Justice? He probably cook you something on the grill and talk your ears off." she said as Skywalker slowly said "Sounds... Wonderful.". They arrived at the house as Rainbow knocked on the door. Not much later, the door was opened by a white pegasi with manes with all the colors of the rainbow. "Dashie!" she shouted as she pulled Rainbow into a motherly hug. "Hi, mom." said with a blush as he mother let go of her, she noticed Skywalker standing behind Rainbow. "Oh, and you must be..." she said realizing who he is, "Ser Skywalker! I-Its an honor." she said with a small bow. "You must be Firefly, Dashie's sister!" Skywalker said gaining a smile from Rainbow's mother. As soon they were in the living room, Firefly placed Skywalker on the couch as she and Rainbow went to get something refreshments. "So... You and him." Firefly said as soon as they entered the kitchen, knowing what her mother meant, Rainbow blushed furiously, "What!? N-No!!" she denied as her mother let out a small chuckle, "Please, your father and I gave each other the same eyes when we where that age." she said as Rainbow let out a annoyed groan. She had missed her mom. > Chapter 30: G3 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was the night of G3, nobles from Equestria arrived at Canterlot Castle for the grand celebration and Luna was nervous, very very nervous. Noticing the distress in his girlfriends face, Skywalker decided to ask her about it, "Luna?" he said as she turned her attention from to crowd to him, "Is something wrong?", he asked in a concerned tone, this was a special night and he was hell bent on making sure his girl had the best time of her very long life. "I..." the princess of the night started slowly, trying to find the right words, "I don’t feel very comfortable at social gatherings, even that restaurant opening took me a lot of courage." she explained as he gave her a thoughtful nod. "I was wondering... if you would stay by my side during this event. It would make me feel more at ease if you were with me." Luna asked shyly as he gave her an encouraging grin, "I was planning on doing that anyway." he said gaining a relieved smile from his, "And if you really don't want to be here, we can always watch some movies in your room." he added, making her smile even bigger, she wasn't thinking about the same thing he was thinking. As Skywalker and Luna made their round to meet some nobles, gotta keep the aristocrat's happy, Rarity spotted the subject of her affection prince blueblood. "He's everything I imagined! Even better than I imagined." she said to herself as she followed him hoping she would get his attention. In the garden Rarity finally got the chance to talk to him, "Well, hello. I am Prince Blueblood." he introduced himself, giving a small bow. "I am... Rarity." she introduced herself, with a faint blush on her cheeks, she then noticed a rose in one of the hedges, "Oh my, what a lovely rose." she noted as Blueblood looked at said rose she was speaking of. "You mean... this rose?" he said as he picked it and placing it on his own blazer, "Thank you. It goes with my eyes.", he walked away, knowing she would follow him. He knew her type, she had completely fallen for him. Which was good for him, now he wouldn't have to look for who he would buck tonight. Meanwhile in the upper levels of the castle, near the Celestia's bedroom a lone guard, Flash Sentry, was patrolling the hall. Fortunate for him, he didn't look to one of the upper gargoyles for he would have saw two red eyes observing him. As nothing seemed out of place, Flash continued his patrol along the hall. "It will be so easy. One strike and this guard won't ever see the sun rise again. One strike and all his skill, his powers even his memories would belong to me. No, I need to stay focused, if he doesn't intervene he should make it through he night." Griffifth thought to himself as he leaped down, he quickly he entered Celestia's bedroom. Not wasting anytime, Griffifth allowed his sense's to highten as he made a mental note to make sure he could place everythin back the way it was. It didn't took him long to find Celestia's journal, she had hid it under one of the most cliche place of them all, under her pillow. "I don't trust that princess." he thought to himself as he flipped through her journal, "Nobody, especially someone in charge is that nice, giving us all those things but not ask anything in return? Yeah right. Maybe she just wants Skywalker, probably wants to turn him into her own personal weapon. He would probably be too kind to see through her. I won't allow that you to do that to my friends, you old fossil. Not on my watch." Back at the ball room, Skywalker and Luna had decided to get something to drink as socializing with nobility and other famous people was making them both thirsty, at the table that served the drinks, Skywalker was disappointed that they didn't serve any kind of beer, so he had to settle for some mead. As he got his glass he noticed that Luna got a glass of red wine. "Your having wine?" Skywalker asked, he knew that Luna didn't drink anything alcoholic usually, even at that restaurant the only drink she had was water. "I don't normally partake in alcohol, I don’t handle it very well." she explained as he listen to her attentively, "So I avoid anything heavier than wine." Both of them just took a moment to watch each other, both losing themselves in each others eyes. Just then, Skywalker could hear a yell. "Hey!" the voice of said, as Skywalker turns his head into the direction of the voice. "Was that… Rarity?" he asked slowly as he saw what was going on. Apparently, prince Blueblood couldn't keep his hoofs to himself. Skywalker wanted to walk over, ready to defend one of his friends but McGrath had beaten him to the punch as he stood in front of Rarity, blocking Blueblood from touching her again. "What do you think you’re doing!?" he asks, as McGrath shot him a death glare with Rarity behind him sighting in relieve. "I could ask you the same thing." McGrath said, his voice dripping with venom, "You think you can get away with feeling up on one of my friends? You’re lucky that I won’t beat you down right now!" At this point, everybody’s eyes were on the three of them. "This isn’t any of your business, monkey, so sod off." Blueblood commanded, feeling cocky as he thought the guards were ready to defend him if this commoner would dare to try anything he decided to challenge him further, "I dare you to try and hit me." he said smirking. In a swift motion, McGrath spin to the left, with his left hand clenched, and deck Blueblood right in the face, making him fall backwards, with a black eye. "You, sir, are the most uncharming being I have ever seen!" McGrath shouted as Blueblood cowered in fear, he couldn't understand why no guards were trying to take this ape in!, "My neuking brother is more charming than you and he has no charm what so ever! Seems like the only thing royal about you is that you are a royal pain in the ass! A guy like you doesn't deserve a lady like Rarity! She only likes men with self-respect. Perhaps you might acquire some?" with that being said, McGrath guided Rarity out of the ball room. None of the friends wanted to stay at the party any longer, so they took the carriage back home. It wasn't much later that the gang arrived back in Ponyville, each headed to their own home but McGrath wanted to walk Rarity to her house, as a proper gentlemen would do. For the entire walk, Rarity had been been pretty quiet for the past few minutes. It wasn't that far so McGrath left her on the doorstep, bidding her goodnight. As he turned to leave, Rarity finally got out what she wanted to say to him, "I love you." this made McGrath stop right in his track. "D-Don't tease me like that!" he said but he didn't face her, he knew someone like him could never have someone like her. "You don't believe me?" Rarity asked as he walked around him, now standing in front of him, "That's... not it, but... I... I ain't a nice guy. Look, you need to watch yourself. Don't bother with someone like me." he said trying to convince her to not get involved with him. "I still love you! I loved you ever since the Nightmare Moon incident. I tried to ask you on a make shift date, but I brought it in the wrong way and..." her speech was cut short as McGrath suddenly embraces her tightly. "This is your fault, you know. I'm all confused." he accused her, Rarity could hear that his normal harsh and dripping with sarcasm voice was breaking, "You're all I can think about, day and night. I'm gonna make myself clear... If you accept me, I ain't holding back any more." he said and with this McGrath place his lips on her muzzle, as Rarity savored the moment. She opened the door using her magic as they both fell in. > Chapter 31: Dark Side Of The Horse > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rarity woke up from her peaceful slumber as the sunlight hits her face. She open her eyes for the briefest of moments but to her disappointment McGrath was no where to be found. On her nightstand there was a tray with a plate full of pancakes and a note with her name written on it. As she eat her pancakes, which tasted delicious by the way, she opened the note. Rarity, I'm sorry that I couldn't be there when you woke up, I had business to attend to. See you for lunch at the Sugarcube Corner at 13:00? McGrath. She couldn't help but smile, it seems she did found her dream prince after all. Meanwhile at the guys house, some of the gang were discussing how much G3 sucked. "So let met get this straight." Phoenix said as he took a sip from his drink, "...You tried to catch the cutest thing in the Canterlot garden in a net?", his question made Fluttershy turn her gaze down. "Yes... But I got caught in it myself." she said blushing at her failure, her blush got even bigger by what Phoenix said next, "Then I say mission accomplished then. I don't think there was something cuter in that garden than you.". As Fluttershy's blush became a even darker shade of red, Pinkie entered asking where Sutakira was. Phoenix told her he was probably in the shower and like that she headed upstairs. Sutakira was currently enjoying a hot shower, his blueish hair covered in soap. Suddenly Pinkie burst in shouting his name, in a reflex he covered his junk, though now Pinkie knew that the curtains matched the drapes. "Sutakira, I'm sick! I already have been to the doctor but he said I was fine! But I still feel like I have butterflies in my stomach and I still don't have my usual appetite! What if it's contagious and..." she ranted while Sutakira quickly grabbed a towel, wrapping it around his lower waist. Before she could continue he told her the reason he thought she was acting this way, "It seems you are in love." he said but this confused Pinkie, she loved all her friends, but none made her feel like this. Could this be a different kind of love? Like how Mr. and Mrs. Cake love each other? She wanted to ask more but a small explosion that shook the house interrupted their thoughts, "Skywalker! Come out and fight me!" a voice shouted as another loud explosion shook the house. Outside, they founded Trixie, who had traded her cute hat and cape in for a dark cloak as she wore a weird black amulet around her neck. Her magical aura which was usually purple was now blood red. "Why are you doing this Trixie?" Twilight demanded to know. Trixie herself broke down in an evil cackle, as she spoke up, "Why? Because he humiliated me! After he showed me up, I became a laughingstock! Everywhere I went I was laughed at and ostracized. I even had to take a job on a rock farm just to earn a living! A rock farm!" she shouted as she gave them a reason why she was attacking. "Hey!" Pinkie shouted as she and Sutakira arrived outside, "You're lucky a farm that rocks would take the likes of you!" she said before Trixie zapped her, deleting her mouth. "Oh yeah. You are from a farm that rocks." Sutakira noted as all Pinkie could make was groaning sounds. "Now I want revenge!" Trixie demanded as she charged up her horn, "And I'll just keep casting spells 'til you call him. Well? What do you say?" she said launching another magic blast directly at Twilight, who quickly conjured a shield but Trixie's spell was too strong and a loud gong like sound shattered the shield. Before Trixie could launch another attack, Skywalker landed in between her and Twilight, making sure she would never touch her again. "Trixie..." He said shooting her a death glare, "I could have forgive you for being a complete fraud, I could forgive you for insulting a farm that rocks, but I cannot and will not forgive you for harming my friends!" he said as Trixie gave him a arrogant chuckle. "Tell that to the cleaning lady on Monday!" Trixie taunted, but at that remark Skywalker simply rolled his eyes. "Trixie, make up your own jokes." he said as he took a fighting stance, "I may not be green, but you won't like me when I'm angry.", without further notice, Trixie shot a magic bolt at him, but using his advanced reflex he quickly side-stepped the attack, as it exploded in a tree. "Wait, Trixie now wears black and has red magic?" Skywalker said as he quickly dodged more of Trixie's barrage of spells, "You know what that means?" he asked as he deflected her latest attack into the air. "Here he comes with the Star Wars reference." Sutakira said rubbing his temples. Skywalker gave a cocky smirk himself as he said, "Trixie went to the Dark Side... Of the horse.". Suddenly, his friends burst out in laughter as Skywalker shook his head in embarrassment, "It's shameful I took that long to come up with that one!" he said as he turned his attention back to Trixie, "Anyway. Hey, Trixie, give me a heads up when your done warming up and ready to start." he said in a friendly tone but this statement only made her angry. "We already started!" she said, her face become red from anger, why won't this little monkey just lay down and die already!? "Hey, Trixie. Random question, ever seen one pony play ten instruments?" Skywalker said as he snaps his fingers and Pinkie appears playing ten different instruments. She couldn't believe this, but seeing as he was distracted she blasted him with another barrage of magic as he was thrown to the ground. "Stop it! Tha-that tickles!" he said laughing as he rolled on the ground. "Tickles!? That was supposed to make you writhe in agony!" Trixie said as she loomed over him, giving him a dirty look, why couldn't she beat this little ape!? This was the change he was looking for, he quickly reached behind her undoing the hook of the Alicorn Amulet dropping it from her neck as Trixie herself fainted from the sudden power influx. Skywalker rolled on his back as he said, "I could use a vacation.", which made Twilight scoff, "From what? Waking up at eleven?" she teased as he gave her a sheepish grin. Meanwhile in a cave overlooking the mountain were Canterlot City was based, two beings were studying the magnificent city. "Has your hive accomplished their goal?" Morgenstern asked, as an insect like pony next to him nodded, "My Changelings are implanted about 51%, my lord. Virtually every existing guard in Canterlot would be replaced in..." the queen told him proudly but she was rudely interrupted by him. "Not good enough." Morgenstern he said, "You will go yourself." he demanded as the queen got a shocked expression, "You... Want me to go invade Canterlot personally? Sir, the risk of exposure is..." she tried to state the reason why this would be a bad idea, but he interrupted her once again. "The risk if you don't go are far greater." he said, his voice never losing his cool, "And besides, wouldn't you like to go to a wedding?". If she would succeed, Equestria's army will be crushed as he could free the Crystal Empire and all it's secrets will be his, if she would fail... The same would happen except that instead of being crushed, Equestria's army will be crippled which would also be fine. He could work with either. > Chapter 32: Camp > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Early in the morning Skywalker was placing camping backs in the back of McGrath's van. It wasn't that difficult to get it to Equestria, just have his bike tow it as it drives to the rainbow wormhole. Live has certainly became easier for the guys now that they also had access to the human world at any time. "Ya know." Skywalker started as he threw another bag in the van, "It will go faster if you guys came out of your beds and helped me!" he shouted towards one of the open windows. "Sorry can't hear you over my snoring!" the voice of Phoenix said coming from his bedroom window. As he reached for the next bag, a purple aura enveloped the bags and neatly placed them in the van. Looking up, he saw Trixie standing behind him flashing him a sheepish grin. One of the things he noticed was that she had changed back to her stylish purple wizard head and matching cape. "Trixie, you seem better." Skywalker said, leaning back against the van. After their skirmish, they had brought Trixie to the hospital to see if she had sustained any damage. What he didn't know is that she would be fired from it the next day. "It's the least I could do. I treated you and your friends so horribly when I was wearing that Alicorn Amulet..." She started as she turned her eyes away from him, "I just couldn't control myself. You can forgive me, can't you, Ser Skywalker?" she added that last part, knowing he probably wouldn't. "Sure, we're cool." Skywalker said as he gave a small nod. Trixie's face brightened as she proudly declared, "Good. Don't you think the Great and Apologetic Trixie is the most magnificent humble pony you've ever seen?" at this Skywalker had to chuckle, "But I have to ask... What about the pony with the ten instruments?" she asked as Skywalker gave another chuckle, "That's not magic or superpowers, that's just Pinkie." he explained as Trixie gave a even more puzzling look as he quickly explained, "Look, it's Pinkie, alright? Nobody can explain Pinkie.". Later that morning, the gang has all taken a seat in McGrath's van, he himself driving, as they drove their way towards the camping site they we're going to stay. Currently some J-pop was boobing out of the speakers, "Say McGrath, can we change the cd? I don't really like..." Spike said as he reached out to change the cd but he quickly retreated his claw as McGrath gave it a slap. "No! I'm driving so I pick the music." McGrath said. "Do you really think it's okay to just go on a vacation?" Twilight asked worriedly, as Skywalker shrug his shoulders, placing his hands behind his head, "If something happens people either go to you, me or Zecora. They'll be okay.". "How have you guys actually met?" Rainbow asked, as Phoenix flashed her a cheeky grin, "That's a long and awesome story. And seeing as it will be a while before we get their...". We'll the moment all five of us met wasn't a very good one, I met McGrath first, he was investigating the rumors of some strange black creatures, running around town. In his opinion, this so called 'Skywalker' was the reason behind it. After taking care of some these black creatures ourselves, McGrath made his was a cross the street as I followed. I could say about him what I wanted, but he sure could fight. "Remind me to never get on your bad side." Phoenix said cheerfully as the eerily pale brunet groaned in irritation, "Believe me, you already are.". Phoenix studied his companion for a few more moments, trying to figure him out before he spoke up, "So how are you gonna find this..." he started but McGrath rudely cut him off, "I have been tracking him for a few months now. His power..." Our conversation was cut short as we saw Skywalker slamming one of those black creatures through a abandon warehouse. "He's dangerous." McGrath noted as his brain started a work on a battle plan, but Phoenix gave him a cocky grin, "Stay back. I'm gonna kick his ass!" I said as I flew into the building. McGrath shook his head as some bright flashes of blue light flashed in the ware house and not long after that, Phoenix is thrown out of the ware house and into another building. McGrath slowly walked over to him as he shook his head, "Are you okay?", he asked though he didn't sounds very sincere. "Its a good thing I'm Phoenix!... Or that might have hurt me..." Phoenix answered with his face in the ground before he lose conscious. "Oh, weed plant has a friend." a Voice behind them said, McGrath turned around to see Skywalker walking towards him, "So, what can you do?" he said smugly, as he jumps to McGrath and starts a sudden flurry of punches driving McGrath back as he can only block. McGrath stands with his back against the wall but in a flash of green light, he quickl teleports behind his opponent. He tried to attack Skywalker from behind but Skywalker does a spin kick into McGrath's stomach sending him in the air, he is able to recover and land on his feet. The duo runs over a roof, McGrath tried to take advantage of an opening in Skywalker's Combo, he grabs the left wrist and pulls him into an arm lock. McGrath tries to punch Skywalker at the back of the neck, but he used a swift reversal, breaking from from the arm lock as Skywalker renewed his attack, which McGrath must blocks again as he started to pants heavy. "Slowing down already?" Skywalker taunted him, as he gained an angry look from his opponent, "T-This can't be... Y-you can't be my better! I am the Ultimate Life Form!" McGrath shouted confused as Skywalker gave a loud chuckle. "Aren't you a little short to be the Ultimate Life Form?". Skywalker and McGrath races at each other while jumping in the air but before they could hit each other, both of them get separated by a gigantic blue wall of hard light. Both landed back on their feet looks up to see two other young mans standing on a roof. "Both of you! Stop fighting!" Sutakira commanded as he floated down from the roof and landed in front of them. "And that was the first time we met." Phoenix said as he wrapped up his story just in time as they arrived at the camping site. A half hour later, the gang most of them had successfully set up the tents, though some needed some help, like Rarity and McGrath. "Say AJ." Skywalker started as he and Applejack were helping set up the tent, "Can you do the same thing like me, only with your name?" he asked as he putt one of the pins in the ground. Applejack tilted her head as she placed the final pin in the ground "What?" she asked, as Skywalker stood back up and started to explain, "Like this, 'My name is Skywalker! And I walk off to save the day!' Now you.". She saw no reason to not try it, "Well... Okay! 'My name is Applejack and now I jack off'!" and as she said that Skywalker burst out into laughter, "Dashie! She said it!" he shouted as he walked away, gaining an angry groan from Applejack. And so the day flew by as it turned to night they, the gang made a camp fire roasting marshmallows. "Remember when we played footbal with Opal?" McGrath said taking a bite out of his marshmallow as Griffifth nodded, "Good times." he said with a smile. "Moody, if you want I can trade sleeping places with you." Phoenix offered, they didn't have enough tents so everybody got a tent mate. After picking straws, Skywalker was sharing a tent with Rainbow and Fluttershy, Griffifth with Applejack, Twilight and Sutakira, Phoenix with Pinkie and McGrath with Rarity. "No need. Thanks for offering anyway." McGrath said with a faint smile, somehow the idea of him sleeping with Rarity made Pinkie's stomach act up. "... Well. I think it's perfectly clear who has the more attra..." Rarity said as she and Applejack came back from getting more marshmallows, before she could say more, Applejack interrupted her, "Oh yeah? How about you try putting some meat on that bony butt of yours." Applejack retorted, making the rest of the gang burst out in laughter. This was a fun day. > Chapter 33: Sixth Ranger > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "AJ! You home?" Phoenix said as he entered the Sweet Apple Acres living room. "I'm here!" Applejack answered as she was placing some sleeping bags on the floor and snacks on the table. "Are we having another sleep over?" Phoenix asked excitedly as if it was his birthday, "I'll get the stash!" he turned around to bolt out of the door but what Applejack said next made him fall over, "It's gals only.". Phoenix floated in front of her face giving her a pout, "That's too bad... So were's Big Mac staying when you have all the..." his his suddenly widen, "You guys aren't gonna have an orgy without me right!?". Applejack was flustered at his suggestion, "Oh hay no! It's just us gals, doing... gal stuff. Big Mac is gonna sleep in the barn." she explained as Phoenix got a shocked look on his face, "What? No no no!... I know! Big Mac can stay at our place!" he proposed excitedly. Applejack gave it some thought before she agreed. And so a few minutes later, Phoenix and Big Macintosh were walking towards the guys house. Phoenix had hoped Big Mac would have a smile on his face, or at least his stoic expression but he looked annoyed. "Something wrong, Big Red?" Phoenix asked giving him a worried look, "If your worried about Pomme, don't she's..." he started, thinking the big guy was worried about his sister. These thoughts were wrong as Big Mac shot him a glare. "I don't like ya." Big Mac said, making Phoenix stop in his tracks, the grin on his face dropping as he looked to the side. "That's unfortunate." Phoenix said, looking up at the gentle giant, "Hating someone because they have super powers is a shameful thing.", Big Mac rolled his eyes as he continued walking, "I don't hate ya because ya have super powers." he explained, gaining a hopeful look from Phoenix, "I hate ya because you won't shut up.". Later that afternoon, the guys and after some persuading, Big Mac joined them for a game of poker. "I'll raise..." Skywalker said before looking up, "So which of the girls would you date?" he questioned the rest as they all checked their cards. Griffifth shook his head as he threw his cards on the table, "I'll pass. And as for you question...", before he could answer, Phoenix interrupted him, "I bet Celestia!". "I think I rather stick my dick in an ant hill." Grififth responded dryly taking a sip from his beer as the guys burst out in laughter. "I'm going all in and... I bet my 100% genuine Italian lamb leather jacket." McGrath said taking it off and placing it at the table, making nearly all the guys save Skywalker and Big Mac fold, "And the answer is Rarity." At this everybody let out a loud groan gaining a puzzling look from the brunette. "Everybody and their mom knows your dating Rarity, Moody." Phoenix said as McGrath looked shocked, "You guys do?", gaining an acknowledging nod from the rest. "Well you got spotted while we were walking around town and the other day at Sugarcube Corner..." Sutakira recounted as Big Macintosh nodded, "Sorry, I happened to catch a glimpse." he admitted before Griffifth gave another question, "We're you and Rarity in heat at her home too?". "So Big Mac, which girl strikes your fancy?" McGrath said, trying to change the subject. A faint blush appeared on Big Mac's cheeks before he muttered, "Fluttershy." The other guys tilted their heads, "I'm sorry, what was that?" Skywalker asked as Big Mac became even more nervous and said with a quieter mumble. "Uh... Fluttershy.". "Really? I can try to hook you two up." Phoenix said as Big Mac raised an eye brow "You can't do that! Could you? You couldn't do that..." he muttered as Phoenix shook his head. I don't think your her type." Phoenix admitted, "She's more into the anime hair, warrior of justice, shooting fire from his eyes guy." he said giving a look over to Skywalker who gave him a puzzling look. Anyways, the remaining three guys showed their hands, "Flush." Skywalker said as McGrath smirked as showing he had a full house. "I guess I win." he wants to take the pot but Big Mac stops him. "Eeynope." the big guy said as he showed his hand, a straight flush. McGrath's expression turned to utter shock, Big Mac smirked as the other guys roared it out in amazement, damn what have they been drinking? "Big Macintosh!" McGrath said standing up, "You are now our sixth member!" he stated as the rest of the guys cheered. "Like the Power Rangers?" Sutakira said excitedly as McGrath glared at him, "Exactly like that! Big Mac, do you smoke weed?". He gave him a raised eyebrow and a scoff, "Of course! Why do ya think I'm always so calm?" Later, at the girls sleep over, "Alright, Which of our guy friends would you date?" Rainbow asked, "I myself would go for Jason." she said gaining a groan from the other girls. "Sure, take the perfect guy!" Twilight complained, obviously he was also her guy of chose. "Phoenix I guess." Applejack said, as she got a laugh from the other girls. "Silly!" Pinkie laughed, "That's like dating a male version of me!". "So? What's ya point?" Applejack retorted as Pinkie gave her a puzzling look, "Who would ya do, Pinkie?". The pink party pony thought for a minute, she did this for dramatic effect as it was pretty obvious to her who she would chose, "McGrath." she said, before the girls could response a knock was heard on the door. Applejack opened to see who it was, and on the front porch stood Phoenix, with his usual smile on his face. "Hey, Pomme!" he said cheerfully, "Can you step out for a second, there is something I wanna discuss." he added that last part rather seriously, so she excused herself to the other girls and stepped outside. "What do ya wanna talk about sugarcube?" she asked as Phoenix looked deep in her eyes, his amethyst eyes locking into her own green ones. "Pomme?" he started slowly, "Has anyone told you what marvelous eyes you possess?" he asked as Applejack gave him a puzzled look, "You know, where I'm from, women are accustomed to being showered with the praise they deserve. Men should worship you at your feet... or hooves in your case, as you pass.". Applejack tilted her head, "They don't find that incredibly annoying?" she asked as Phoenix shook his head, "They are goddesses receiving their subjects, just as you should be. Whatever would be annoying about that?". She rolled her eyes before answering "I've no wish to be placed upon a pedestal.", this made Phoenix's eyes winded. "But you deserve no less!" he exclaimed with a honest tone, and as he stomped on the wooden floor with his feet, "You should be admired by painters, copied by sculptors, exalted by poets! Surely you know that yours is a beauty so exotic it...." he paused for a second trying to find the right words, "It would turn the eye of the gods themselves!" he exclaimed as Applejack blush became as red as the apple's she grew on her farm. "Well, I suppose I..." Applejack stuttered as she leaned forward, completely hypnotized by his eyes, but she was startled by loud cheering coming from behind the bushes. Looking away from his eyes, she saw the guys and her big brother cheering loudly. She gave Phoenix an odd look as he raised his fist in the air as if he had won something. "By Celestia!" Sutakira exclaimed, "You were right. You win.", this made Phoenix smirk and Applejack confused. "You are a master indeed. You win the bet fair and square." Skywalker said as Applejack started to catch on to what they were saying. "Hmph. Fine." Big Mac said, while angry still impressed that his sister fell for it so easily,"So I owe you a flagon. Bastard." "Much obliged." Phoenix said as he walked towards his guy friends, "And I think the rest of you owe me five bits." he made a small bow as Applejack said with an angry voice, "I hate ya all...". > Chapter 34: Wedding Wars Episode I - Return Of Shinning Armor > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "So Big Mac, I have a question for you." McGrath said, gaining the attention from the big red stallion. Currently the the gang was hanging around the guys pool. Phoenix was sitting all the way on the other side, trying his best to avoid Applejack. Apparently she didn't like the stunt he pulled the other night. "You wanted a adult person to watch your sister? Then why out of everybody did you chose Phoenix!?" McGrath asked, but Big Mac had no response. Suddenly, Spike let out a belch as a letter appears out of the fire... How does that work exactly? Twilight caught the letter as she reads its contents out loud, "Dear Twilight, I am sure you are as excited as I am about the upcoming wedding in Canterlot.". The mention of a wedding confused everybody, some gave a few quick glances at Skywalker but even he didn't have a clue. "Wait, wedding in Canterlot?..." Phoenix started slowly before giving Skywalker a shocked look, "Jason Sephiroth Skywalker! Don't tell me you got Luna pregnant!". The others couldn't help but laugh at Skywalker embarrassment, "No! Of course not!" he said blushing furiously. Twilight continues to read, "I will be presiding over the ceremony, but would very much like you and your friends to help with the preparations for this wonderful occasion. Fluttershy and Sutakira, I would like you and your songbird choir to provide the music. Phoenix and Pinkie Pie, I can think of no one more qualified than you to host the reception. Applejack and McGrath, you will be in charge of the catering for the reception.". McGrath's got a surprised look on his face, "Why would they put me in the catering department? I can barely bake pancakes!" he shouted, making the unicorn next to him giggle. "But you make excellent pancakes, darling. If I may say so myself." Rarity said, she had to giggle more as for a second, the side of her boyfriends mouth curled up in a smile. "Rainbow Dash, I would very much appreciate it if you could perform a sonic rainboom as the bride and groom complete their I do's." Twilight reads, gaining a big yes from Rainbow, "Rarity you will be responsible for designing the dresses for the bride and her bridesmaids." They would never know what Rarity wanted to say about this, as she broke down in complete gibberish. "And Twilight and Griffith, you two will be playing the most important role of all: Making sure that everything goes as planned. See you all very soon. Yours, Princess Celestia." "I'm not asked for a job!?" Skywalker said as he read over the letter again, and his name wasn't even mentioned. "Yeah... I'm not going to to any of that." Griffifth said laying down on the grass, looking up to the skies, "But... I don't understand. Who's getting married?" he wondered. Spike burped out another letter, "I was probably supposed to give you this one first.", he said scratching the back of his head. Twilight shook her head in annoyed as she cleared her throat, "Princess Celestia cordially invites you to the wedding of Princess Mi Amore Cadenza and... my brother!?" she exclaimed, gaining a shock look from everybody save Skywalker. "You have a brother!? Great scott!" Sutakira shouted as Twilight nodded, "I know this is heavy." Big Mac agreed as the girl congratulated Twilight with the big new. "What a great news!" Twilight shouted as she stood up, "That I just got from a wedding invitation! Not from my brother, but from a piece of paper! Thanks a lot, Shining Armor!" "Wait a minute." Skywalker said interrupting her, "Your brother is Shining Armor?". "Yes... Why?" "I met him a few years ago, nice guy." Skywalker said as Twilight got a sad frown on her face, "Sure, nice guy... I mean, really, he couldn't tell me personally? Princess Mi Amore Cadenza? Who the neuk is that!?" she exclaimed, but she was startled by a shout from McGrath. "You can't say that word!" he exclaimed, "Only I can say that word!" At the mention of Mi Amore Cadenza, something popped up in Skywalker's mind, "Shining Armor is gonna marry Cadance? How did he manage to score a hot babe like her!?" Twilight started to think where she had heard this name before, "Cadance? As in the Cadance? As in the greatest foalsitter in all the history of foalsitters!?" she exclaimed happily. "You tell me, she was your baby... foalsitter." Skywalker said as the others gave them an odd look, "Uhm... Who is Candance?" Sutakira asked, the moment the words left his mouth, Twilight got so close to his face that their noses pressed against each other, "Who is Cadance? Cadance is only the most amazing pony ever! She's beautiful, she's caring, she's kind..." Twilight started to preach but soon the happiness disappeared from her face, only to be replaced by sadness. "Um, Twilight? Are you okay?" Sutakira asked as she shook her head. "Sorry, it's just that Shining Armor and I have always been so close." She started to explain, "He's my B.B.B.F.F!", this got a puzzled look from the rest of the gang. "B.B.B.F.F.?" Skywalker started, "Is that a droid?", this made her roll her eyes as she explained that B.B.B.F.F. meant 'Big Brother Best Friend Forever?'. "You mean a B3F2!" Sutakira nodded as Applejack placed a hoof on Twilight, "As one of your PFFs...", this gained another puzzling look from the gang, "Pony Friends Forever..." she explained gaining a "Ohhh" from the rest. "Were not ponies..." Griffifth said dryly as Applejack continued, "...I wanna tell you that I think your brother sounds like a real good guy." "He is pretty special. I mean, they don't let just anypony be Captain of the Royal Guard." Twilight explain. And so later that day, the gang boarded the train towards Canterlot City, as the landscape passes by. "So you all get to help with the big fancy wedding, but I'm the one who gets to host the bachelor party!" Spike said excited but that got him a worried expression from the guys, "I have just one question. What's a bachelor party?". As McGrath started to explain it to him, Skywalker leaned over to talk to Phoenix. "Yes, Skywalker?" he asked with a smile, his expression turned to worry as he saw his friends pained expression, "I notice you don't have a nickname for me." Skywalker said, as Phoenix felt at ease, "I call you Skywalker. You've probably heard it once or twice." he stated. "But that's my family name." he explained, "It's not like Moody or Sunshine.". Phoenix crossed his legs as he gave him a cheeky smile, "Sure, Messiah. You want a nickname, I'll be happy to fix you up.". Skywalker thought about, before giving a approving nod, "Messiah? That works.". After a half hour, the train arrived at Canterlot Station and the first thing the gang noted was the increase in guards stationed through the city. "I'm sure they're just taking the necessary precautions." McGrath noted Royal weddings do bring out the strangest people." "I apologize guys, I have a big brother to congratulate. And then give him a piece of my mind." Twilight apologized as she walked away. Skywalker was about to go after her but Griffifth stopped him, asking if he could take to him for a minute. Skywalker nodded as the rest went on ahead to work on their wedding task. "Skywalker, I know this might not be my place to question but..." Griffifth started, it was so unlike him to voice his opinion on anything really... "What has Celestia done to earn your complete trust?" he asked. Skywalker thought about it for a second, "I don't know. She was kind enough to help me with my mental block." he explained but somehow this got Griffifth irritated. "Can't you see she's turning you into her dragon?" he said, trying get through to his friend, "Do you feel like you owe her? Because of the house, which she gave out of the kindness of her heart? Because she trained you, because you had potential of some crap?". Skywalker interrupted his rant, shouting "That's enough Adam!" being called by his first name shut Griffifth up, "I know you have trouble trusting people, but unlike you I try to see the best in everybody.". Griffifth looked to the ground, "Why doesn't he see it? Why does he have to be so naive? Nobody is that kind!", he thought to himself as he looked back up, feeling Skywalker place a hand on his shoulder. "Look I know what your trying to say. I'll be careful." he said giving him a encouraging smile, Griffifth could only nod as his friend left to find Twilight. Skywalker walked arrived in the courtyard where he saw Twilight talking to Shining Armor and Cadance. Noticing him walking towards them, Shining Armor got a big smile, "Ser Skywalker!" he extended his hoof which Skywalker shook, "Long time no see!" Skywalker nodded and smiled, "Indeed, Shining Armor, Cadance." for a moment, Skywalker could have sworn he saw Cadance look at him with a mix of hatred and fear before turning to indifferent, "...Lord Skywalker. Tis a honor indeed." she said formally, making Skywalker wonder why she was so formal with him all of a sudden. "Anyways, what's with all the extra guards?" Skywalker questioned as Shining Armor's expression turned grave, "Is it that bad?" Shining Armor explained that someone made a threat to Canterlot, which both agree would be stupid if your trying to take it over. Because letting your enemies know your gonna attack is smart. "I wonder who..." Skywalker said as he started to think up possible threats, "Discord? Nightmare Moon? Marieke? A bug queen? That Mizuki chick.". Shining Armor shook his head at all those suggestions, "We don't know who's responsible for it, but Princess Celestia asked that I help provide additional protection. Anyways, I've gotta get back to my station, but Cadance will be checking in with all of you to see how things are going. I think I speak for both of us when I say we couldn't be more excited to have you here. Right, dear?" he said, adding that last part with a smile to his future wife. "Absolutely." Cadance said, less than interested. "Welp if you guys need me, just give me a call." Skywalker said as e flew off. "I often wonder how he can fly without wings..." Shining Armor said, gaining a nod from his sister, "You're not the only one." she said. > Chapter 35: Wedding Wars Episode II - Phantom Princess > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Skywalker was walking up the stairs towards Luna's. Two guards stood at attention, though they managed to find time to shoot him a knowing grins as he approached. "Well well, look who it is." one of the guards said as Skywalker waved at them as a sign of greeting. "We’re almost off shift, so try to keep the royal Canterlot voice to a minimum tonight, Ser Skywalker? We could use all the sleep we can get." the other guard begged him jokingly. "Don’t worry." Skywalker said reassuring, "I’ll be sure to get her as close to your barracks tonight as possible.", the way he said it, the guards couldn't tell if he was joking or not. As he made his way towards his girlfriends office, he heard a faint chiming, making him stop in his tracks. He founded that the chiming came from the other side of a door, he didn't know why, but he felt compelled to enter. Opening the door, the room was completely empty, save for a large amount of dust, also there was a very large mirror in the back. Approaching it, he didn't saw his reflection, instead all he could see was a high school or something. Thinking nothing of it, he turned around to continue his way towards his girlfriends room. As he left the room, he didn't saw the reflection of a teenage girl with red and yellow hair and light blue eyes glaring at him. Meanwhile in the Canterlot Kitchens, Applejack, Twilight and after much persuading from Griffifth tacked along. For some reason, McGrath wasn't anywhere to be found. They were currently checking if everything had arrived for the big day tomorrow, which Griffifth couldn't help but point out was a very very short time to just now start to check up on everything. They heard the door open, turning their gaze towards it, they saw Candance entered. She had a short talk with Applejack about the catering before turning to leave, Applejack insisted that she took a few of the snack with her. As she left, she sneakingly dropped the bag of snacks in the trash can. Griffifth and Twilight were currently heading towards where Rarity, who was working on the dress. "You saw that?" Twilight asked, as Griffifth nodded. "Was she always like that?" he asked as he opened the door, Twilight shook her head at his question. As they were about to enter, they could hear Cadance complain about her dress. "I was hoping for something with more beading and a longer train." Cadance said, as Rarity nodded, she pointed at the bridesmaid dresses, "And those should be a different color." "Gee, maybe her name should be 'Princess Demandy-pants'." Griffifth whispered as Twilight shook her head in confusion, "I don't know when she changed, but she changed!" she said. At the main hall. Pinkie Pie: "Okay, let me see. We've been over the games... I think this reception is gonna be perfect! Don't you?" Princess Cadance: "Perfect! ...if we were celebrating a six-year-old's birthday party." Pinkie Pie: "*gasps* Thank you!" That afternoon, the gang had gathered at a ice cream saloon Twilight often visited when she still lift in Canterlot City. "Bet I can guess what you're all thinking! Cadance is the absolute worst bride-to-be ever." Twilight said as she took a bite from her banana split. "Twilight, whatever are you talking about?" Rarity asked, gaining her attention, "Cadance is an absolute gem!". That statement got a confused expression on both Twilight and Griffifth's face. "Rarity, she was... A bitch as they say." Griffifth said, turning his attention to his farmer friend... well the female one, "AJ, did you know that after she told you how much she just 'love-love-loved' your hors d'eouvres but she threw them in the trash?". Applejack had to laugh at this, "Aw, she was probably just trying to spare my feelin's." she explained, making Griffifth face palm, "Yeah... right. she was just being fake, and totally insincere!" he declared, why did his friends be so naive!? "She did raise her voice at one of my birds during rehearsal." Fluttershy said with a soft voice, gaining the attention from the guys. Phoenix leaned over to McGrath, whispering to him. "Do we have to beat her to death and then have Waffles eat her like we did with Gilda, now?". "But... he was singing really off-key." Fluttershy finished explaining, gaining a groan from Griffifth, "Pinkie, you had to have noticed how Cadance treated..." he started but stopped as he saw that she and Phoenix where playing with action figures who looked like Shining Armor and Princess Candance. "Nevermind." he said dryly. "The princess is about to get married." Rarity started, trying to calm Griffifth and Twilight, "I'm sure any negative behavior she might be displaying is simply the result of nerves.". Twilight rolled her eyes, before replying, "And I'm sure it's the result of being an awful pony who doesn't deserve to even know Shining Armor let alone marry him!" she exclaimed, this made even Griffifth a little worried, "That's a little extreme... The knowing part.". "Think maybe you're being just a tiny bit possessive of your brother, Archmage?" Phoenix asked, but this blew up his face as Twilight snapped at him, ""I am NOT being possessive, and I am not taking it out on Cadance!" she shouted, "You're all just too caught up in your wedding planning to notice that maybe there shouldn't even be a wedding!" she accused her friends as left the table, making Griffifth follow her. Phoenix pointed at Twilight's half eaten ice cream, "Anyone gonna finish that?" he asked, gaining a groan from his friends. Late that night, Twilight was rushing through the castle, she had to warn the others of what she had seen. She didn't got far as she bumped into Griffifth, who looked pretty distraught himself. "Griffifth! Shining Armor's in real trouble!" she exclaimed at the same time Griffifth said, "Cadance has asked the girls to be her new bridesmaids!". Twilight looked confused at this, "'New' bridesmaids? What happened to her 'old' bridesmaids?" she asked as Griffifth shrug his shoulders, "She didn't say. But she did tell that she would love love love it if they'd fill in for them. Because they worked so hard or some shit." he explained. Twilight shook her head, this made everything even more difficult, "Looks like it's just the two of us." she said, gaining a nod from him, "Ayup, and Skywalker... Where ever he is...", Griffifth said scratching as he played with his blond hair. Meanwhile... in the princess of the night's room. Skywalker and Luna were currently cuddling in her bed, both soaked in sweat laying under her silk covers. "That was a challenge indeed, my princess." he said as he placed a kiss on her horn, "Indeed, Ser Skywalker." she giggled as she placed a kiss on his neck, "You won't be finding another of it's like soon... At least not for the next 15 minutes." she added, burring her head into his chest. "I hold you to that." he chuckled. The next day, during the wedding repetition, Celestia herself was currently giving them instructions on how the wedding will be going. "Damn I look good in a suit..." McGrath said as he admired him self in a mirror, Rarity and Pinkie couldn't help but agree with him. "Hey... has anybody seen Twily?" Shining Armor said, but before anybody could answer, the unicorn herself entered, "I'm here! I'm not gonna stand next to her. And neither should you!" she said, gaining a confused look from her brother, " Shining Armor: "I'm sorry, I don't, I don't know why she's acting like this."You have to listen to me! I've got something to say! She's evil! She's been horrible to my friends, she's obviously done something to her bridesmaids, and if that wasn't enough, I saw her put a spell on my brother that made his eyes go all weird!" Twilight said accusingly, but at those accusations made Cadance breakdown, tears forming in her eyes. "Why are you doing this to me!?" Cadance asked as Twilight shouted, "Because you're evil! Evil! And if I don't stop you you're gonna ruin my brother's life!" "Doesn't mean she's evil. That's just what marriage does to you." Phoenix said, making the guys standing next to him, fighting back a laugh. Shining shook his head as he stood between his fiancee and his little sister, "You want to know why my eyes went all weird? Because ever since I started having to perform my protection spell, I've been getting terrible migraines. Cadance hasn't been casting spells on me, she's been using her magic to heal me! And she decided to replace her bridesmaids because she found out the only reason they wanted to be in the wedding was so that they could meet Canterlot royalty! And if she hasn't been on her best behavior with your friends, it's because with me being so busy, she's had to make all the decisions about the wedding!". "I was just trying to..." Twilight stuttered but her brother interrupted her, "She's been completely stressed out because it's really important to her that her big day be perfect! Something that obviously wasn't important to you. Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go and comfort my bride. And you can forget about being my best mare. In fact, if I were you, I wouldn't show up to the wedding at all." Outside in one of the many halls, Griffifth was walking down towards the kitchen, watching that Breaking Bad marathon wasn't the best idea he ever had. He came across the group, save Twilight. Noticing their sad expressions, he asked what was wrong. After hearing their explanation, he was pretty worried about Twilight. "I'm going to back to check on Twilight..." he said, trying to walk away but Celestia stood in his way, "Let her alone Grif..." the sun princess said, but he scoffed at her. "With all due respect, Celestia..." he started as he walked past her, "and I really mean kiss my ass.", this startled Celestia a bit, nobody had ever talked to her like that. "Griffifth, I told you." Celestia started but this made him stop in place and flashing her a angry glare. "You don't tell me anything, fossil." he spitted at her, his voice filled with, "I'm not really sorry, but I won't treat you like a perfect goddess, like all your little subjects do.", he turned around leaving behind a stunned Celestia who's cheeks had a red glow to them. "I don't know if that was very brave... or very foolish..." Sutakira whispered to his friends. Griffifth look through door which was already partly opened, inside he could hear Cadance and Twilight talk, he decided to wait outside to see how this would go. "I'm sorry." Twilight said, as Cadance gave her a pet on the head, "You will be." Cadance said menacingly as in a green flash of light, Twilight disappeared. "...Oh, balls..." Griffifth said to himself. > Chapter 36: Wedding Wars Episode III - Skywalker Strikes Back > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Griffifth was running like a mad man through some caves deep underneath Canterlot, using his advanced tracking skill he was currently following Twilight's scent there. He had to find her as fast as possible or the evil Cadance will have her way to do... something! Taking a few sniffs he could sense her behind a wall. Meanwhile On the other side of the wall. Twilight and the real Cadance were currently trying to find a way out of the cave, but none had found one. "Oh, we're never going to save him..." Cadance said dishearten, she was too weak to preform any magic and it was too far to the outside for Twilight to teleport. "We will." the unicorn tried to encourage her, "We just have to find... Do you hear something crumbling?...", just as she had said those words, the wall was kicked down by Griffifth preforming a karate kick, "I'm the Hero! Deal with it!" he shouted as he landed in a three-point landing. "Griffith!" Twilight she said relieved, pulling her friend in a tight hug. After she let him go, he turned his attention to Cadance, "You're the real Princess Cadance, right?" he asked, gaining a nod from her. "How do you know?" Twilight asked, she her self already knew that this worn out Cadance was the real one, but for Griffifth to trust so easily, it was strange. "She smells different from the other Cadance." he explained as he gestured for them to follow him, "And she is not looking so well..." he added, as they followed him out of the caves. "Well sorry, that I smell. I haven't had a bath in..." Cadance apologized sarcastically, but Griffifth shook his head as he interrupted her, "Don't need to know that. And with smell, I meant your natural scent.". The wedding meanwhile was in full swing, just before Celestia could pronounce Shining Armor and fake Cadance husbandu and waifu, Twilight and Griffifth burst into the hall, "Stop!" They both shouted at the same time. "Why does she have to be so possessive of her brother?" fake Cadance lamented before breaking down in a sob, "Why do they have to ruin my special day?" she complained but before she could anything else, the real Cadance appeared, "Because it's not your special day. It's mine!" she declared gaining a confused look from guests. "Super Special Awesome plot twist!" Phoenix said as the rest fake Cadance grit her teeth, "What? But how did you escape my bridesmaids?" he demanded to know. Twilight looked at her companion before answering, "Griffith... Ate them...". "It's called consuming." he corrected her but she responded with a quick, "That's what I said, ate them.". "Clever." Fake Cadance complimented, "But you're still too late!" he declared, everybody was confused how there could be two Cadance... because apparently twins have never been heard of in Equestria. That would just be silly. "She's a Changeling." the true Cadance explained, "She takes the form of somebody you love and gains power by feeding off your love for them." At this, the fake Cadance shed her disguise, transform into her real self, the leader of the Changelings, Queen Chrysalis. "It is up to me to find food for my subjects." Chrysalis explained, trying to justify her reason for attacking, "Equestria has more love than any place I've ever encountered. My fellow changelings will be able to devour so much of it that we will gain more power than we have ever dreamed of! Ever since I took your place, I've been feeding off Shining Armor's love for you. Every moment he grows weaker and so does his spell. Even now my minions are chipping away at it. He may not be my husband, but he is under my total control now. And I'm sorry to say, unable to perform his duties as captain of the royal guard.". "Ugh, I just love it when the villains do there monologue while we just stand there." Griffifth thought to himself as he rolled his eyes, but his train of thought was interrupted by the voice of Celestia. "No. You won't. You may have made it impossible for Shining Armor to perform his spell, but now that you have so foolishly revealed your true self, I can protect my subjects from you!" the sun princess declared as both she and Chrysalis blast each other with a stream of gold and green magic, respectively. As both beams clashed in mid air, McGrath couldn't help but shout, "Bitch fight!". Despise all her power, Celestia was overwhelmed by Chrysalis spell, flinging her across the room. Reacting quickly, Griffifth jumped at her catching her mid air. "Ah!" Chrysalis said surprised but she quickly regained her confidence, "Shining Armor's love for you is even stronger than I thought! Consuming him has made me even more powerful than Celestia!" she declared, breaking down in laughter. Griffifth held the defeated princess in his arms, his own ruby red eyes locking with her magenta once, "Your alright, Celestia?" he asked worriedly. "The Elements." Celestia responded weakly, "You must get to them, and use their power to defeat the queen.", with a thud Griffifth dropped her as he and the gang run out of the hall. "You can run, but you can't hide!" Chrysalis laughed. Outside the Castle, the Changeling were ravaging the city, as the guards were scattered all over the city with no commander. Before the Harmonic Heroes could set another step, a army of Changelings appeared in front of them, taking their form. "Looks like we're gonna have to do this the hard way." Rainbow said, flexing her legs, ready for battle. "You mean the fun way!" Phoenix corrected her as he conjured a large flame in his hands. "... My hair doesn't really look like that, does it?" McGrath asked as he took his own personal fighting stance. "Don't let them distract you." Griffifth instructed the rest of the gang as his claws came from his hands, "We have to get to the Elements of Harmony. They're our only hope." And with that said the gang let out a loud yell as the charged head first into the sea of Changelings, ready to fight there way through. Meanwhile, back in the throne room, where Chrysalis all but celebrating her victory, "You won't get away with this!" Cadance said as she was placed inside a green cocoon, just like her aunt, "Twilight and her friends will..." before she could finish her sentence, the Harmonic Heroes were brought back by her army of Changelings. Despise giving it them all, they were out numbered ten to one. "Wait a minute. How did this happen?" Rainbow asked, "We're smarter than this." Sutakira shrug his shoulders, "Apparently not." "It's funny, really." The queens said as she slouched in Celestia's throne, "Twilight and Griffith here where suspicious of my behavior all along. Too bad the rest of you were too caught up in your wedding planning to realize those suspicions were correct. And now I have all Harmony users. Nobody can stop me!" she broke down in a victory laugh as Phoenix quickly did a head count, "We are missing one." he said, making Chrysalis stop. "We are with eleven, and only Archmage, Rainbro, Moody, Diva, Waffles, Chuckles, Pomme, Star, Sunshine and me are here. Messiah isn't." he stated but Chrysalis scoffed at this. "Hah! It's useless anyway." she scoffed, the idea that someone could pose a threat to her, it was laughable, "Let him come, he's but one man, I have a army!" she declared, "We have a Skywalker!" Twilight retorted at the same time, a thunder claps could be heard outside, making everybody save, the queen look up. "What's wrong? Scared of a little lightning?" Chrysalis mocked, but Griffifth responded, "More afraid of what comes after it.". The glass dome above them breaks and Skywalker uses one of the Changeling to body surf and lands in a three-point landing. As he stared down Chrysalis, a shock of fear went through her spine, "Those eyes... That glare... Those hellish amber eyes!!" she thought to herself. "What in Oblivion's name are you!?" Skywalker shouted, pretending he was shocked. "I'm Chrysalis, queen of the Changelings." he answered. Skywalker scratched the back of his head, "I feel sorry for the king..." he muttered loud enough for Chrysalis to hear, "I have no husband! You little brat!" she shouted, offended by his lack of manners. "Why am I not surprised?" Skywalker said dryly, as he rolled his eyes. "You dirty little monkey!" Chrysalis said, slamming her hoof on the floor. "I rather be a monkey than what ever the hell you are." he said crossing his arms as he gave her a cocky smirk, his plan was working. "Do you even know why I am here?" the queen asked, Skywalker thought about it for a second before speaking up, "Obviously not to find a husband. So your majesty, do your legs whistle when you fly?" he asked as everybody, even her own Changelings save Chrysalis broke out in laughter. "Okay go on. Do your evil monologue. I'll be quite now." Skywalker said, trying to fight back his laughter. "That bravado!" Chrysalis spitted, "It's the same as that witch, that almost caused the genocide of my race! I am a threat unlike any other! I easily defeated Celestia! Think what I can do to you, filthy ape! Changelings too me!". As she commanded, nearly all her Changelings filled the throne room, all of them hissing at him and ready to strike. Skywalker uncrossed his arms as he shot her another cocky grin, "I like this game! Its like eight thousand of you against only one of me... and it's still a unfair fight!", the Changeling charged at him, trying to swarm and overwhelm him with their sheer numbers. Skywalker gave one last smirk before grabbing two hilts from his belt and with a click, two red energy blades came from them. Standing his ground, one by one Skywalker slew one Changeling after another. "He's like a machine!" Rainbow said, awed at how far her friend had come, "Two Lightsabers at the same time!?", the rest of the gang was just as awed, "Good thing he's on our team." Griffifth said dryly. Seeing as their plan of attack was failing against the Knight, the Changelings swarmed him as they tried to bury him. "So much for your Champion." Chrysalis said with a smirk, but her victory was short lived as Skywalker let out a loud roar as he unleashed a powerful telekinetic repulse, sending the Changelings into a wall, those unlucky enough to be to close to him were disintegrated. I... I am the ruler of the changelings, you must fall simple cretin!" Chrysalis shouted as she try to blast him with the same spell she used to defeat Celestia. His friends tried to tell him to get out of the way, but Skywalker smirked unleashing his heat vision to counter the oncoming attack, forcing it into a beam war. "Sorry, I never do what I'm told to do." Skywalker said, as Chrysalis struggled to overpower him, "Awww, isn't that cute? She thinks she can beat me!" he laughed, this last insult made Chrysalis lose her temper as she directed all her magic into her struggle, forcing her to release Shining Armor from her control. "Wha... whe... huh? Is...is the wedding over?" He asked, still dizzy from the spell. "Your spell! Perform your spell!" Skywalker commanded, he hadn't planed that Chrysalis would put this much power into her spell. "What good would that do?" Chrysalis taunted, trying to give him a taste of his own medicine, "My changelings already roam free!", her laughter became louder as Shining Armor failed to use his repel spell, his strength drained. "Just use the Power Of Love, or something!" Skywalker said as he was forced to one knee, losing the beam war. "Ser Skywalker is right!" Cadance said as she walked towards Shining Armor, placin her head on his shoulder, "My love will give you strength." McGrath chocked a little, "Sorry, throw up a little in my mouth..." he said. As Cadance and Shining touched horns, a loud thunder clap was heard as one giant repulse send Chrysalis and her army flying out of Equestria. Skywalker closed his eyes as he dropped to his knees, panting heavily as this battle drained him of most of his solar energy. "This isn't coming back to bite us in the ass right?" Rainbow asked as she helped her best friend back to his feet, providing him support. "I mean we sent them all over Equestria...". Griffifth cut her off as he said dryly, "Whatever nobody cares.". "Yeah but..." Rainbow try to say but everybody shouted at the same time, "Nobody cares, Rainbow Dash!" Griffifth checked if the princess of the sun was alright, she tried to thank him but he told her he didn't do it for her. She then turned her attention to her star Champion, thanking him but he scoffed and turned away. "What's wrong?" Celestia asked, this behavior was strange for him, "Why did the others got a extra job and I didn't?" Skywalker asked, so that's what's this was about, "I though I was the greatest champion Equestria had ever seen?". Celestia chuckled before reassuring him, "Well as Knight Of The Wind, I thought you would like to relax for a change.". "Oh... Okay then..." Skywalker said, "Well we have a real wedding to put together." As so the true wedding came, the gang was currently waiting for Cadance to enter and be married to the captain of the royal guard. "Question, Shining." Skywalker asked, after all he, Twilight and Griffifth had done Shining Armor would allow him to ask him anything. "I get why the queen of the Changelings wanted to be with you, but how did you get someone as amazing as Cadance to marry you?", thinking he asked him as sort of advice, Shining told him "I told her she wouldn't just be gaining a husband, she'd be getting a pretty great sister, too.", this made said sister smile. "You have a sister other than Twily?" McGrath asked, gaining a irritated groan from Twilight. Skywalker thought about it, before smiling at him, "Good one. I thought because you have blue mane.", that last thing made Shining give him a questioning look, "Blue hair is a chick magnet! But I guess getting Tia as a mother in law sounds like a pretty good deal.". "Celestia is not our mother." Twilight explained, but all she got was a confused look from her guy friends, she pointed to her mother in the front row, Skywalker let out a low whistle, "That's a milf.", the other guys had to agree with him. After a successful wedding, both Shining Armor and Cadance said the yes word to each other and they were now Mr and Mrs... Wait how do last names work in Equestria? Anyways, they had a great celebration after that, Unfortunately, some took a few drinks and weren't thinking right. And so... "Sky... Sky... Skywalker!" A drunken Shining Armor said as he took a place at the same table Skywalker was sitting. "I just want to go on record by saying that th... this is the greatest day o... of my life...", he shouted placing one of his front legs around Skywalker's shoulder. "Um, Shining Armor, I think you should calm down and ease up on the booze..." Skywalker said slowly, smelling the alcohol on his breath. "No, I-I-I'm fine, little bro." the newly wedded man said, this was the first time he would refer to Skywalker as his little brother, "Don't worry 'bout me; I'm... just dandy... A-And I wanna thank ya, Skywalker, for being the savior of our wedding. None of this would've been possible without you. I really appreciate it, little bro." Skywalker took a sip from his beer before responding dryly, "No problem, man.", his drunken companion suddenly got serious, as serious as a drunken pony can be, "Hey, Skywalker, I'm gonna make you a promise... Look, I promise, n-no matter what happens, in return for today, I-I-I-I'll be your Best Man at your wedding..." he declared, tightening the hug he was giving Skywalker. "What?" Skywalker said confused, "Nah, man. It's alright. Uh, you don't really need to do that..." he said shyly, he had never thought about his own wedding, hell he hardly thought about what he would be eating for dinner. "It's fine, Skywalker." Shining Armor declared, raising his glass, "I make this promise in the name of Celestia. You won't be disappointed..." and after saying that, he fainted for drinking more than what he can handle. Meanwhile, thousands of miles away in a far away land. Chrysalis woke up, she had lost consciousness after being hit by the love repulse, her commander quickly walked up to her and made a bow, "My queen, we're much too weak to launch another attack on Canterlot right away." the commander reported, "What do we do? We need to regain our strength! Regroup! Form another plan..." he advised her but they noticed that they had landed in a country filled with fluffy creatures filled with love, "These creatures are very loving..." The queen said as she picked one up, "And we do feed on love... I guess we could eat." she said with an evil smirk. It didn't took the army of Changelings long to conquer this land as the creatures had no means of defending themselves. "We'll have the rest of this place converted over to our needs within the month." The commander said, gaining a approving nod from his queen, "It may still be a while before we can attack Celestia again. She'll be expecting us." he told her but Chrysalis turned around, "Feh to Celestia. She isn't my target anymore.". The Changeling Commander was confused by this, they had strict orders to take out Celestia, "Wha... What? My queen, but what about his plan?" he commander asked, "Feh to his plans! I want that Skywalker guy! Perfect little Skywalker. Clever little Skywalker. Brilliant little Skywalker. It's his fault that we aren't rebuilding Canterlot into our newest conquest!" Chrysalis shouted, she could not believe that one of them could have defeated her, especially someone with the same hellish eyes. "But my queen..." The commander pleaded, he was forced to obey his liege orders but he wouldn't want to see her hurt, "Isn't he more powerful than even you when empowered by Shining Armors love." Chrysalis thought about this for a moment, before she came up with a plan, "Well, I'll get him... and his little human and pony friends too." she said looking up towards the darkened skies, "I'm going to lure that spiked menace here... Put him and his friends through trials that will band them together. Then, when their emotions are peaked, I'm going to drain Skywalker. I'm not going to drain his love... I'm going to drain his powers. And I know exactly when I'm going to do it." she said that last part more to herself than her commander. He hoped that his queen knew what she was doing. > Chapter 37: Mushroom > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Morgenstern sits on his throne lost in thought, he was brought out of it as Mizuki entered and kneels before him. Morgenstern was annoyed by this, though his face didn't show any emotions, he had told her many times she wouldn't need to kneel before him anymore, but he guessed old habits die hard. He gestured for her to stand up, which she did, "My master... Chrysalis has failed. Shall I command the soldiers to abandon...", she told but felt silent as her master raised his hand. "Tell him to bring down the seals who hides the Chrystal Empire from the Worlds. Celestia will think that idiot Sombra has returned all on his own." he commanded slouching back in his throne, Mizuki giving a nod showing she understood. Back over at Equestria, specificly the guys house, Skywalker was currently reading a book while Phoenix was observing himself in a mirror. "I don't know..." the pyromancer said to himself as he placed his hands on his stomach. Skywalker looked up from his book, noticing his friends odd behavior, "What are you doing?" he asked but Phoenix told him it was nothing. "Alright then." he resumes his reading, but not for long as Phoenix shouted dramatically, "I'm fat, okay? I'm a fatty! This isn't normal anymore!" he gestured over his body, sure he wasn't ripped but he did had some nice tones to it. "Sorry, I asked." Skywalker said, wondering why his friend was being so dramatic, "But your not fat." he added, trying to cheer him up. "Do you think I'm attractive?" a pouting Phoenix asked, crossing his arms. Skywalker quickly looked through the room, to see if maybe he was being recorded, "Uhm... no." he said slowly. This statement made Phoenix shout, "Precisely! I'm fat!", he shouted this with such drama that even Rarity would be impressed. "No, that's not it." Skywalker explained, placing his book on the table, having the feeling he isn't going to read much more of it today, "I'm straight so it would be weird to say I find you attractive. What's wrong with you?", he asked gaining a shrug from Phoenix, "I don't know. I'm straight too." he said. At that moment, Rainbow entered having heard the last part of their conversation, "Who is straight?" she asked with a smirk on her face. Skywalker pointed at the red head as his best friend took a seat on the sofa, "Phoenix is straight according to himself.", his answer made the blue pegasi laugh. "Okay." she said under her chuckling, gaining a offended look from Phoenix, "What do you mean? 'okay'?" he said offended, "Don't you believe I'm straight? Do I have to prove it, Rainbro?" "Straight guys don't have to prove anything if they are straight." Skywalker said bored, placing his hand under his chin. "How did we got to this topic? I'm insecure about my weight, not my sexual orientation." Phoenix said with a raised eyebrow as Rainbow gave him a puzzling look, "Why are you guys doing so weird? There is nothing wrong with people with a different sexual preference." she said as Phoenix agreed. About a half hour later, Skywalker came out of the toilet room, noticing his best friend wasn't there anymore, "I just saw a gigantic spider." Skywalker said, taking a seat back in his chair. "I hate spiders." Phoenix said while laying down on the sofa, "I have nothing against ants, although they look like spiders. Anyways you saw a gigantic spider?". "Yeah. I killed it." Skywalker said causally, the reaction he got wasn't what he was expecting, "What!?" Phoenix shouted, sitting straight up and looking at him in complete shock. "Did you just killed it in cold blood? Your an murderer!" he shouted. Skywalker had to take a second look around the room to be sure he was truly not sure if he was being filmed, "I'm a murderer because I killed a little spider?" he asked slowly. "Oh you just said it was a gigantic spider!" Phoenix shouted, making the other face palm at the complete idiocy of the situation, "What's the big deal!?" Skywalker shouted, "It's not the end of the world!". Just as he said that Rainbow re entered the room with Fluttershy flying right behind them. "There he is Fluttershy!" she declared, pointing at Skywalker. "The hell? All this for just a spider?" Skywalker thought to himself as Fluttershy teared him a new one, "You just took a live of a innocent spider! Who the hell do you think you are!?" she shouted, which startled Skywalker a bit, Fluttershy never raised her voice against him, matter of fact she rarely talked at all if he was around. "It was only a little spider!" Skywalker said with a small voice but Fluttershy interrupted him, "Oh a little while ago it was a gigantic spider! Who are you to decided who lives and who dies!? This is not how it works!" she shouted. "Dashie, why did you call Fluttershy for something this small?" Skywalker asked as Rainbow gave him a worried look, "I'm sorry, but I heard your conversation and I had too! You need to change! Look at yourself! You've become a monster! You'r tottaly out of control! There is foam on your mouth!" Skywalker for the moment had no response, slowly placing his tumb to the corner of his mouth to check for foam, just in case. Seeing as there was none he only had one solution as to why they were acting this way, "...Are you guys on drugs or what?" Rainbow and Phoenix look to the side, confirming his theory as Fluttershy said, "...I ask the questions!". Earlier that day, at Fluttershy's cottage, Phoenix, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash are sitting in a circle in the living room. "Alright, we all eat one portions of Magic Mushroom, alright?" Phoenix said, with the others agreeing. "I find this kinda scary." the yellow pegasi admitted, gaining a blush on her cheeks, "I never done this." she admitted. "Me neither." Rainbow said, as McGrath chuckled, "Don't worry about it. I sometimes ate them while I was working." he declared as he took one. "Twilight, you home?" Skywalker asked as he entered the Golden Oak library. After ditching his drug crazed friends, boy where they being weird, he rushed to the last place they would look for him. Upon entrance, he saw Spike sorting out the shelves. "You need help with that?" Skywalker asked, but Spike declined, "She's in her room." the dragon said, as he placed a book in the right row. Skywalker thanked him before walking up to Twilight's room and knock on her door. "Twilight." Skywalker said in a sing song voice, "It's me, your favorite Skywalker. Can I come in?" No, answer came. Instead, she opens the door using her magic. He saw Twilight sitting on her bed, staring out the window. "Something wrong?" he asked worriedly, she surprised him when she suddenly quickly looked at him. "Skywalker, I have a favor to ask of you." Twilight said determent, "I want you to teach me how to fight! After the wedding, I noticed how I was great with the theory of magic but not in it's practical use. So teach me how to fight!". This request was sudden but Skywalker nodded, "Alright, but just so you know. I am a harsh teacher." > Chapter 38: Every Bad Zombie Movie > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "That was pathetic!" Skywalker said as he crossed his arms, Twilight dropped to her rear panting heavily, "Had I used 20% of my power, you would be a pile of ash!". It had been a month since Skywalker and Twilight started to train, she had thus far learned quickly. The only thing she had trouble the first two weeks was he reaction time, but even that she picked up quickly. Conjuring a shield was easy for her, heck it was one of the first spells she learned, but for one reason or another, Twilight had difficulties keeping her shield up. After another four hours of training, the duo decided to call it a day, Skywalker noted that his friend had come a long way, he could see it by just looking at her. When she used a spell, the area around her started to crackle with magic, if she kept it up at this rate she could be some real competition. "Look, Twilight. I'm not your enemy." Skywalker explained, as they walked over the Main Square, "Fear is your enemy. Fear leads to anger, anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering." Twilight nodded her head, "I know. I'm just having difficulties keeping it up. You make it look so easy. I mean your telekinetic control is really amazing.", she said complimenting him. "Oh? Is that not normal?" Skywalker asked in his usual calm voice, which made it very difficult to know if he was joking or serious. "Like it ever would be!" Twilight said half laughing. "Ponies are acting strange." the voice of Rainbow said behind them, turning around they saw her approach them. "So you notice too, huh?" Big Macintosh asked as he, Phoenix and McGrath walked up from the other side. Looking around they did noticed that everybody around town was acting... weird. Most seem to be looking off into space, or not noticing their surroundings. "Everypony is acting so strange today." Twilight noted, suddenly Griffifth dropped out of a nearby tree startling the unicorn. "Why do you keep saying, everPONY?" he asked Twilight, gaining a puzzling look from her, "We would know what you have meant if you said anyBODY. You see that's the thing everybody is doing just because everybody else is doing it." he said leaning against a tree, she didn't really has an answer for that. "As I was saying... I've been trying to plan a viewing celebration for the secretariat comet this week and I can't get anyone to listen to me at all!" Twilight explained but before anybody could responded, "Skywalker!" Applejack shouted as she came rushing to the group, "My sister and her crew are being as peculiar as everybody else. Something ain't right." she explained, this was food for thought, but soon the rest of the gang arrived, and they had also noted that everybody in the village acted strange. "Guys!" Sutakira broke them out of their train of thought, they saw what got him so scared the citizens are currently approaching them not unlike typical zombie. "Uh... I think we should move this conversation to somewhere more... Private?" Fluttershy suggested as everybody agreed and made a mad dash for the Golden Oak library. As soon as everybody got inside, Griffifth and Big Macintosh quickly barricaded the door. "What is wrong with everybody!?" Big Macintosh shouted, surprising the rest, this must be the first time that he raised his voice. "Wait..." Twilight said, "This is too familiar. This reminds me of every bad zombie movie I have ever seen." she said, it also reminded her of something else, but at the moment she couldn't say what. "Well, it was nice knowing you McGrath." Phoenix said sadly, making everybody look at him, "If this is a horror movie the pretty boy dies first... Unless there is a black guy, then they die first.", his friend gave a heavy sigh as Rarity did a heavy intake. "Of course!" the white unicorn said, "The royal wedding! The one were Princess Cadance was replaced by a Changeling!". Big Mac raised an eyebrow, he didn't quite get what they were talking about. Skywalker showed him a picture of a Changeling on his phone. looks it up on his phone, "See this is a Changeling.". "Spike!" Twilight commanded, getting the attention from the small purple dragon, "Take a letter!" Dear, Princess Celestia. Changelings are invading Ponyville. Please send help! Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle As fast as she had send it, they got a letter back, "Wow, that was fast." Sutakira said as Twilight reads the content out loud, Dear correspondent: I am unavailable due to a royal emergency. Please try sending your letter again at a later time. "Looks like we're on our own... again!" Skywalker said, rubbing the side of his head, "Oh come on Jason, it's fun time!" his blue pegasi friend said, but the yellow one wasn't has ready to fight their way out, "Uhm... I would be okay with waiting until the princess is available." she said with her soft voice, but Applejack interrupted her, "My sister is missin and if those things are responsible, we need to find out what is going on!" she said, gaining a nod from the guys. "We can't just go out there! We need a plan." Twilight said, this was true. Before anyone could give a suggestion, "Okay boys and girls! And Dragon..." Pinkie started, gaining the attention of everybody in the room, "We are going to blend in!", she said. "That's..." McGrath said slowly, making the pink one think she had said something stupid, "Ingenious! Sneak in behind the enemy lines!". And so the gang strolled through the now brainwashed Ponyville, all of them had blank looks on their face. "I would love to be McGrath right now." Rainbow said, making him look at her, as if demanding an explanation, "Because you always stand around with a blank look on your face and you never smile." she explained, Pinkie couldn't help put involve herself in this conversation, "I know why McGrath never smiles.", this made him turn his attention to her, "Because he doesn't know how to!". "That's stupid Pinkie, even for you..." he said with his sarcastic tone. Turning around, they saw two Changelings place a gray pegasi inside some kind of pod, before one takes on one of her appearance. "Have you seen The Skywalker yet?" the shape shifted one asked his fellow soldier, we would never know the answer as he was suddenly slammed into the ground by a big blue fist. "That was fast!" was all he could shout before he too was slammed into the ground by something very large and red. "Listen you two. I destroy armies by the dozen, what hope do you two have?" Skywalker said crossing his arms, he and his friend had the two completely at their mercy, "Since I feel nice today, I'll give you two options, you tell us where everybody is and we'll let you go. Option 2, my friend Griffifth will skull fuck you and drain the same information out of the hole. Your chose.". For the Changelings, the chose was easy, "They'r in city Hall!" both shouted at the same time, Skywalker gave them a smirk before saying, "Good, thank you for your co-operation.", he made a small bow, but the Changelings just stood there, "...This is the part you two flee for your lives." he explained as they both quickly fled. Moments later at the door to City Hall got kicked in as the Harmonic Heroes entered with their powers activated, ready for battle, "Bring it on!" Skywalker shouted his favorite battle cry. "Give me back my sister, you ruffians!" Rarity demanded, and nearly eight thousand Changeling where staring them down, hissing and baring their fangs. "Okay gang, we've fought them before!" Twilight said, encouraging the rest, but this made McGrath scoff, "I don't remember fighting them. I remember getting our ass kicked and Skywalker saving the day." he said, charging a golden energy spear in his palm. "We can handle this!" Twilight shouted as she left out a stream of magic at the Changelings, blasting them across the room as the other joined in. One Changeling launched right at Big Mac, but he quickly side stepped and slamming him into the ground. As they continue the fight more Changeling appear and launch green energy cubes at the gang. Twilight redirect them using her magic, while Phoenix uses a stream of fire to subdue the energy users. "Careful! Don't hit the pods. They may hurt whoever is inside!" Skywalker said, as he slammed two Changelings against each other. "I'll try. Can't guarantee." Phoenix said as he launched three quick fire balls at a horde of Changelings. More Changelings come and McGrath uses his golden energy spears to nail them to the wall, which traps the guards. Skywalker keeps punching a Changeling, as with each punch he said, "Does this bug you? Does this bug you? Does this bug you?", he said it a third time before punching said Changeling with enough force to send him crashing trough a wall. "Uh, I guess it does bug you." "Skywalker! Be nice!" Fluttershy said to him, making his eyes roll, "Fluttershy. When are you going to learn that you're nice until it's time not to be nice?" he asked her while punch another Changeling into the walls. "Okay... I get it." she said, making Skywalker smile, "Good, cause I didn't understand a word I just said.", looking behind her, he saw a a Changeling trying to sneak up on Fluttershy, thinking fast, he pushed her out of the way, taking the blow for her. The Changeling winched as it had broken it front hoof, but what made it nearly piss itself was a now angry yellow pegasi looming over it. "HOW DARE YOU HIT MY FRIEND YOU... YOU... MEANIE!" She shouted, making everybody stop fighting for a moment, "YOU AND YOUR FRIENDS SHOULD GO HOME RIGHT NOW!". With the combined strength of Equestria's twelve mightiest heroes, it didn't took too long as the Changelings either fled, or were capture, "Well... That escalated quickly..." Rarity said as she observed the damage, "Then ended abruptly.". > Chapter 39: Through The Mountain > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- An hour after liberating Ponyville and freeing the citizens, but there wasn't a sign of Applebloom or her friends. "Where... Where could they possibly be? Why aren't they here?" a panicking Applejack asked, this could only mean one thing, who ever had ordered the invasion also had taken the CMC. All of a sudden, Spike let out a huge flame as apparently someone had send them a glass orb the size of basketball. "Well, that's never happened before." Twilight said curiously as Skywalker added, "Yeah, that's a new one. Maybe it's from Tia?" he suggested. Suddenly a green flame rose up inside the orb as it spoke up, "A princess? No, but a queen? Yesssss.", The voice sounded familiar, though they couldn't really place it. As the green flames died down a image of Chrysalis appeared laughing like a maniac. "Oh, look a random loser who's ass I kicked." Skywalker said, "Hey loser how is it going?" he asked noticing the irritated twitch in her eye, boy did she hate not being taken seriously. "My, my... You didn't have any trouble seeing trough my minions at all, did you, Ser Skywalker?" The image of the Changeling queen said, mockingly complimenting him, "Clever boy. I'm sure you're clever enough to see who's missing from your little... village." "Where's my sister you... Ill groomed... Swiss cheese... Mule!" Rarity and Applejack demanded to know at the same time, "Temper, Temper, ladies! Tsk, Tsk." the orb told them as the image switch from Chrysalis to the CMC being held hostage inside a pod. "I believe this is what you're looking for?" Chrysalis asked sweetly, but the gang wasn't buying it just yet, "How do we know these are the real ones were looking for?" Big Mac asked. The moment he asked that the CMC started to discuss how they could get there Cutiemarks from being 'fillynapped'. "That's them..." Big Mac said as the others nodded in agreement. "I have them here... In my kingdom. You may want to come collect them quickly..." Chrysalis told him, making them wonder why. "How about three days? Otherwise something bad might happen to your little friends, Ser Skywalker.", she tried to play to his need of being a hero, good people are so easy to manipulate. "I don't know what you want, Chrysalis." Skywalker started, his normal calm voice dropped a few tones, showing he was serious, "If you are looking for love, I can tell you I don't have any to spare. But what I do have are a very particular set of skills; skills I have acquired over a very long career. Skills that make me a nightmare for things like you. If you let the Cutie Mark Crusaders go and never threaten Equestria again, that will be the end of it. I will not look for you, I will not pursue you. But if you don't, I will look for you, I will find you, and I will kill you." he told her as the image of Chrysalis faded and the orb now shows a map to where the Cutie Mark Crusaders are being held. "This is obviously a trap." Skywalker said studying the map, the others couldn't help but agree. "Why three days?..." Sutakira wondered, suddenly the answer struck Twilight like a meteor, "I know!" she said, gaining the attention of the rest of the gang, "The secretariat Comet! In three days the Secretariat Comet is oassing through the Horse Head Nebula and it's all passing over Equestria. It's the single biggest conjunction in celestial events in over 3,000 years!", she explained. "Huh? You got what in your what now?" Pinkie asked, making Twilight hoofpalm. "Anyways, anyone up for a trip to the Changeling Kingdom?" Skywalker asked, gaining a approving nod from most of his friend, "An adventure with you Sky? How can I say no?" Rainbow said, ready to back up her best friend. Of course Rarity, Applejack and Big Mac agreed as well. "I don't know... I've got a lot of animals to feed." Fluttershy said unsure, "Things to do... A bonsai to water...". "Of course I'm coming..." Pinkie said before turning to the yellow pegasi, "And don't worry, Fluttershy, we can leave gummy in charge of your plant. Or else McGrath can buy you a new one!", McGRath looked offended at this but Fluttershy finely agreed to go with them. "But we should wait..." Twilight said, trying to be the voice of reason, "We need to do some investigation into what the queen is up to! How is she going to use that magical surge? Why do we need to be there!? We should try and write to the Princess again." she said gaining a groans from the rest of the gang. "Twily, there are kids kidnapped by what is essentially a succubus! We don't time to ask Celestia what to do!" Skywalker said, trying to make her see thing their way, "We can't just go off without a plan!" Twilight said back as the both started to debate what to do. "Jason, Twilight?" Fluttershy said, trying to break up their arguing, but Skywalker and Twilight both turned their head towards her and shouted at the same time, "Shut up! Mommy and daddy are talking!". After a while it was decided that they would be leaving now, trap or no. But it was agreed upon that Spike would stay back to try and get a hold of the princess and tell her where they were. And so we found our heroes at the edge of the town, looking determent to get those filly's back. "Alright, everybody." Skywalker said, studying the orb which still displayed the map, "This magic orb thing isn't a GPS but it should do the trick. It will take almost three days to get there so we need to get moving.", looking over it one more time, he puts the map in his pocked... Wait how does he do that!? "Ah yeah! We're off on a quest!" Rainbow did an arm thrust as she said excitedly. "We're always on a quest." McGrath said rolling his eyes and uncrossing his arms. "Yeah, we're the Harmonic Heroes on a quest for Equestria!" Phoenix shouted with a smirk... Roll credits... oh wait. "Raise your hooves and or hands if you're ready for three exciting days of peril!" Pinkie shouted gaining a puzzling look from ten of her friends, while Skywalker slowly raised his hand. "Maybe if we're lucky we'll see a ninja... or some monkeys... or monkey ninjas." Pinkie continued but she got a groan from her friends, this time all of them. McGrath rolled his eyes before explaining, "No, Pinkie. If that monkey ninja was worth his bananas, we wouldn't see him!". She nodded at this in agreement, "Oh right. Your so smart McGrath." And so the gang made their way through the forest, a few hours later they found themselves in an area that according to the orb was called, 'the Macintosh hills'. I'm not even joking about that one. "Big Mac, so cool he has hills named after him." Griffifth declared as Skywalker was studying the map. "Why is it called the Macintosh hills?" Skywalker asked as his other friends shrug, "No idea. Maybe something with the wind?" Twilight suggested. "Anyways, we need to go south trough the Appaloosan Mountain range and then on trough the forest of Leota and that should bring up to the gates of the Changeling Kingdom." Skywalker said as trailing the path with his finger, "There's a path carved into the mountains, some old mine system. We'll go in there and we'll be through the mountains in no time!" Twilight added, gaining a approving nod from Skywalker. "That sounds... dark." Fluttershy complained as Pinkie added, "...And spooky." Rainbow rolled her eyes, "Through the mountain? Let's just go over it.", she suggested, but Skywalker debunked it, "We can't all fly, Dashie. The fastest way is through the mountain and we've only got three days. So I say we take the fastest route.". After that, McGrath and Sutakira came out of the bushes, both done taking care of their bladders. "You guys aren't done yet?" Griffifth shouted to Phoenix and Big Mac, who both were still taking a leak. "Shut up! I can't pee if everybody is watching!" the voice of Phoenix shouted from a distance, "Also I found out why they call him BIG Macintosh." After a while they found themselves at the mine entrance, "Alright, let's get this party started!" Pinkie said excitedly as they entered the mine, "This isn't a party, it's a rescue mission." Griffifth said dryly. Pinkie flashed him a smile as she said, "You know what I mean." As they made their way further and further down, the gang couldn't help but feel like they were being watched, "I have a bad feeling about this." Big Mac said, and the others couldn't help but agree. "I wonder how long it's been since anyone mined these caves?" Sutakira wondered, Rarity's horn lighted up in a bright blue light before dying down. "The gems look to be long gone... Disappointing, really." she informed them with a sad tone to her voice. "Well, hopefully that means no one is here and we can just walk on through with no issues." Twilight said, making Phoenix groan, "Saying things like that is just begging for something to happen!". Suddenly the cave shook by a loud voice shouting, "PO-NAYS!". The gang looked around for the source of the sound, but they didn't notice that the creature was sneaking up behind them. "What in the name of Crush 40 is that thing!?" McGrath shouted as a giant gray ogre like creature loomed over them. "A cave troll! How exciting!" Twilight said gaining yet another groan from the guys, "Exciting?" Sutakira said with a twitching eye, "A rollercoaster ride is exciting, being named a Knight is exciting, trolls are not exciting. Nanda ittai ga anata to machigatte iru, Twilight!?", he snapped, shouting his last line in Japanese while the Cave Troll reached out and grabbed Fluttershy, "PWETAH PONAY!" it shouted as his started to brush Fluttershy's beautiful pink manes, "PWETAH HAR ON DAH PWETAH PONAY!". "What the neuk is he doing!?" McGrath shouted, "Oh god, its not just a troll... It's a Brony!" Griffifth shouted. "Hey! Put her down ya'big lug!" Applejack demanded, "Or Skywalker will kicks ya ass!". Skywalker gave her an awed look, "Why do I always have to kick the persons ass?" he asked as the troll noticed him, "YAY! SUPAHMAN!" before he could react, the troll grabbed him and placing both him and Fluttershy at a stone diner table. "YAY! SUPAHMAN AND PWETAH PONAY AWE ON AW DWATE." the troll said happily, even though they were used as toy in this scenario, Fluttershy couldn't help but blush at the 'date' part. "Well I don't mind this but..." Skywalker said slowly, "I'm not Clark Kent." "AWIGHT SHORA." The troll said gaining a loud 'fuck you' from Skywalker. "I got an idea, Rarity, Pinkie follow me!" McGrath said as he dashed to the side. Meanwhile at Chrysalis Evil Castle of Doom, the queen was observing the heroes through another orb that was linked to the one with the heroes. Using some rocks and robes, McGath, Rarity and Pinkie made some make shift action figures, distracting the troll long enough for then to escape. She had to admit it, they came up with some creative idea's to solve problems. "Well, that wasn't very exciting, was it Ser Skywalker?" Chrysalis thought to herself, contemplating, "Trolls really are the most idiotic creatures...". I have to agree with that. "Have we ever tried to get out cutie marks in toy making?" Applebloom asked but Scootaloo scoffed, "That's what you'r getting from that!? We could get our Cutie Marks in troll hunting!", the young pegasi declared, making Chrysalis sigh. "...Or maybe the second most idiotic creatures..." she thought, before turning her attention back to her orb, "It's time to have fun with you and your friends, little Skywalker. I may just send a few of my minions to join you for a little party." Back at the heroes, who have made great progress through the caves. "Moonlight, moonlight, fireflies awake! Make a wish and do a little shake!" Skywalker and Pinkie sang, trying to keep up everybody spirits. "He wasn't really a bad lumbering beast, was he?" Big Mac said in his kind voice, Fluttershy and Skywalker had to agree with him but Rarity scoffed at this, "He did get bits of stick stuck in your mane and hair. That's beastly thing, if you ask me." she noted, gaining a chuckle from her friends. "I can't wait to add that cave trolls love toys to my reference books. A personal encounter story always adds to the excitement of a research paper." Twilight said excitedly. Rainbow shook her head at this, "Did she just use the words 'excitement' and 'research' in the same sentence?". Suddenly, the cave gave another shake, at first it wasn't anything noticeable but it became worse by the second. "Oh no! Do you think there's another troll?" Fluttershy wonders, quickly looking around for one. "I don't think it's a troll..." Skywalker shouted, indeed, it was a cave in. Before they could react the ceiling above them collapsed, sending large boulders into the ground as a large dust cloud filled the gave, obscuring their view, so no one knew if the others were okay. > Chapter 40: Fellowship In Ruin > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The cave calmed down and the dust settled, Fluttershy had closed her eyes, frozen in fear. She had expected for a boulder to crush her but that never came, though she felt like something or someone had held her in a tight embrace. She opened her eyes for a brief moment, to see that it was Skywalker holding her, using his own body as a shield to protect her. "You alright?" he asked her, giving her a quick check up, as side from some lost feathers she seemed fine. After giving him a nod, Skywalker turned around as his eyes gave of a pale blue light. This indicated that he used his X-ray vision to look for his other friends, noticing that none were crushed under a boulder. "Fluttershy and I are okay." he shouted, loud enough for them to hear but just quite enough to not cause another cave in. "Is everybody alright?". The voice of Twilight spoke up from behind one of the caved in tunnels, "Sutakira and I are here!". "Pomme, Moody, Diva and me are fine." Phoenix voice came from another wall, followed by Griffifth's, "I'm here with Big Mac, the Pink Weirdo and the Rainbow Jerk!". Before any of them could respond to his response, Pinkie shouted, "How dare you call Rainbow Dash a Pink Weirdo!", the gang let out a collective sigh. "Anyway..." Skywalker said looking at the orb, "Move deeper into the caves! It looks like there's an opening near the exit where all the tunnels meet. We'll meet there and get out of here. Be careful, I have a bad feeling about it!", he shouted placing the orb back into his pocket... Still don't know how he does it. What none of them knew was that the true cause of the cave in was observing them. "Yes, now its time to have some fun." The Changeling chuckled, as each took the form of one of the heroes. Making there way to the meet up point, Skywalker and Fluttershy could hear the voices of Sutakira and Twilight from the other side of the wall. "Man, I can't stand that Skywalker. He's so full of himself!" the voice of Twilight said, making his face freeze in shock. "And what about Fluttershy?" Sutakira asked mockingly, making Fluttershy freeze in her place, "She's scared of her own shadow! She was useless to bring along.". Skywalker was baffled by this, "W-why would they say things like that?", he turned to his companion, but he could feel his heart shattered as he saw the tears forming in the yellow pegasi's eyes. "...They are so dead..." Skywalker whispered in anger, as his eyes flashed red for a brief moment. Meanwhile elsewhere in the caves, Twilight and Sutakira could hear the voices of Skywalker and Fluttershy just a little up a head. "I can't stand Sutakira. He's such a know-it-all egghead!" Fluttershy taunted cruely, making Skywalker chuckles in amusement, "What about Twilight?" Skywalker asked, making the other companions stop in their track, "She's acting like she's in charge of this whole thing? Ha! Like she has the power to defeat anything. She's kidding herself!". A few minutes and a whole lot of taunts later, everybody made it to the meeting point, each and everyone giving each other death glares. "Finally! The exit!" Skywalker shouted happily. Twilight scoffed, making him turn his attention to her, "Oh look! We all found the exit without your 'power'!", she said tauntingly, but he could only smirk at her, "Have you come back from the dead?... Didn't think so!". "Maybe you're really are full of yourself!" Rainbow shouted, before he could retort Sutakira interrupted them, "Stay out of this, Rainbow Dash! Oh, I'm sorry! Am I too much of an egghead for you? Should I use smaller words?" he asked sarcastically, making Rainbow shoot another death glare at him. "Well I'm just going to keep my mouth shut..." Pinkie said, flashing a glare of her own at Rarity, "I wouldn't want to annoy anyone.". "And another thing." Rarity said, making everybody roll there eyes, "I am NOT afraid to get my hooves dirty... I just don't like it.", she informed them, making Big Mac scoff. "Well, I'm glad to hear that... Because they're dirty now." he said pointing to the floor and indeed Rarity was standing in a pool of goo. "Uh... Guys?..." Twilight asked, as she looked up at the ceiling, "What has 8 legs, weaves web and is looming over us right now?". The gang thought about it for a minute but Phoenix was the first to response, "Man-Spider?" he asked. Close enough... As the gang look up they saw five gigantic spiders looking over them! "Actually, they'r giant tarantula's! I've heard about they're very even tempered for being a monstrous arachnid..." Fluttershy explained to the rest of the gang, as the gang of spiders climbed down from their web. Are you the egghead now? "He's probably a big sweetie, just like the troll!" Fluttershy told them, but as she tried to pat them, the spiders let out an angry hiss and they leaped forward trying to bite her but Skywalker could pull her out of the way just in time. "Yep... Totally a big sweetie..." Skywalker said sarcastically, making the yellow pegasi blush in his arms, "...Or maybe not." she said weakly as the rest of the gang got ready in a fighting stance. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Pinkie run back into the cave, but he had no time to follow her as his other friends were in danger. The leader spider turn his attention towards him, "You wanna get crazy!?" Skywalker asked, standing in between the leader and Fluttershy, "Lets get crazy!" he shouted blast the spider leader with a blast from his heat vision, sending it into a wall but it quickly got back on its feet. Skywalker was ready to charge at the spider before the cave shook again, "PO-NAYS!" a voice shouted. Turning around they saw Pinkie riding back on the Troll from earlier. "PINKIE PONAY SAY FUZZY TEDDY BER IN 'ER!" it shouted, as it saw the spider leader, "FUZZY! I WIW' NAME HIM F'WUFFY!" it shouted as it dragged the spider leader back to his part of the cave. "Bye, Jim! Thank you!" Pinkie thanked it, but that first part made McGrath raise his eyebrow, "You... Named the troll... Jim?". Pinkie had to giggle at his question before telling him that Jim was his name. Wondering how she knew that, she explained that she just asked. And so the heroes found themselves back at the outside, all of them took a breath of fresh air. "Wow, Chuckles." Phoenix said taking deep breathes, "that was some quick thinking!" he complimented her, but his face turn sour as he turned to a scoffing Rainbow, "Of course, we'd never had to go through any of this if we'd gone over the mountain...", she said rolling her eyes. "I told you, over the mountain would have taken too long for most." Skywalker told her but his was interrupted by the scoff of Applejack, "I think you've just proven we can't trust you to make the decisions around here!", she said, gaining the young knight's attention. "What did you say, AJ?" he said, turning his gaze towards her. "Well, mister 'let's go through the mountain,' I think someone else should be in charge of the map for a while. I vote me." she said, but this made Skywalker scoff, "I'm the one with the pockets to... somehow... store it. What are you going to do? Carry it around by your teeth?" he asked mockingly, as he stared her down. "It's gotta be better than following YOUR directions." she said not standing down, staring right back at him. "You wanna have it? Come and TRY to take it!" Skywalker said challenging her,. "Everybody just needs to take a deep breath and calm down... "I'm sure we can work this out...", Fluttershy spoke up, trying to dissolve the tense situation. "Work it out? Why? When some of you seem to think we wouldn't even get our hooves dirty to save our own sister? Hmpf!", Rarity said offended. "Listen all of you, I know how you must be feeling, Rarity, AJ and Big Mac." Skywalker spoke to the rest as Fluttershy stood behind him. Applejack responded angrily, having enough of it, "No, you don't know how this feels!", she corrected him, gaining a surprised look from her friends, "Your parents are dead! You have no family!". Skywalker clenched his fist, his eyes flashing red showing how much that last comment had hurt him, "I'm going." he said turning around, "Let's go Fluttershy.". She gave one last look at her friends before turning around and quickly following the young knight. "Go and leave then!" Applejack shouted after them, "Rarity, McGrath, Phoenix and I can do this without you guys. Go home. We can save our sisters without your help OR your super powers.", she said as those she named followed her in the other direction. "Well, I have news for you! Sutakira and I don't need you!" Twilight said before teleporting both her and Sutakira away. "Well, I guess it's just Dashie, Big Mac, Griff Griff and me!" Pinkie said with her normal smile, "Three ponies and a guy on an adventure!". Griffifth looked at the place were Skywalker and Fluttershy had disappeared in, "Skywalker just left us with no map..." he said in disbelieve but Pinkie scoffed at this, "Pfft. Where we're going we don't need no stinking map!" she said bouncing along as they walked. "We do need a map." Big Mac said in a serious tone. "We have no idea where we are.". This got another scoff from Pinkie, what is it with everybody scoffing today? "I know where we are." she said, gaining a puzzling look from her companions, "We're in the woods, silly." she exclaimed with a big smile. "I hate Mondays." Griffifth said as they continued their journey. > Chapter 41: Maybe I Feel A Little Sorry > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Ah... Little Skywalker.", the queen of Changelings thought to herself as she observed the young knight through her orb as she slouched on her sofa, "You're almost all alone... The fellowship is broken. The suspense is terrible... I hope it lasts.". She took a sip from her wine before regrettable saying, "A pity I can't see the pink weirdo anymore, she was amusing.". "That's Pinkie Pie!" the youngest Apple sister said gaining the attention from the queen, "Aww... We'll miss if she bursts into song!" Sweetie Belle complained. Chrysalis rolled her eyes, the fillies working on her nerves, "But, for now, I can see you... Little Skywalker." she said turning her attention back to the orb. The night had fallen, knowing that they wouldn't make much progress today, Skywalker and Fluttershy made a camp fire eating some of the snacks the gang had packed. All this time, Skywalker hadn't said a word, he kept staring at the fire. His face didn't show it but Fluttershy knew what Applejack said to him had touched a nerve. This was one of the problems he had, he will hide it when he is hurt as best as he is able, making it harder for his friends to notice or help him. "So..." Fluttershy said, breaking the silence, "No parents huh?". She didn't got an answer, but she knew he was listening. "I think you may have been too harsh.". This got his attention, he ripped his gaze from the fire, "What do you mean?", he asked sending her a glare. "Think about it." Fluttershy said, standing up and sitting down next to him, "Rainbow, McGrath, Pinkie, Griffifth, Rarity, Sutakira, Applejack, Phoenix, Twilight and Big Mac are out there all alone... With no map! They could be lost!", she explained and much to her surprised, she saw his calm mask break, she saw some regret in those amber orbs. "Well... Maybe... I feel a little sorry... " he said slowly, turning his gaze back to he fire, "For Dashie and Griffifth... and Pinkie!" he added quickly. "The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few." Fluttershy told him, "Even if the few were being big jerks?" he asked her not turning his gaze away from the fire. "Even then. We need to look past this and work together to save those fillies!" she said, as Skywalker let out a deep sigh. "I guess your right. I can't believe we all got so angry..." Skywalker said closing his eyes, suddenly he smelled fresh flowers and something hairy rubbing his face. Opening his eyes he saw that it was his yellow friend, nuzzling her head against him, he thought it was weird but not unpleasant. "Me neither..." she said, not noticing the blush that had appeared on his cheeks, "Well except for McGrath, he's always angry. You ever wonder why?", she asked, she was surprised by his chuckle. "Well, he himself doesn't even know. But he once thought of being happy." Skywalker told her, gaining a puzzling look from her, "What happend?", she asked tilting her head curiously. "It made him angry..." Skywalker said, both of them broke out in laughter. She hoped that moments like this would prove to him that even though he had to look like a god to Equestria, he could still be himself when he is with friends. After their laughing died down, he pulled the glass orb out of his pocket and studied the map for any possible meeting points. "Were are you keeping that orb?" Fluttershy asked curiously while looking over his shoulder at the map. "Hammer space, or in other words, my ass." Skywalker said, his tone back to his usual calm tone, making it difficult for her to determine if he was serious or not. "It looks like there are only a few path trough the forest. If none of them turn around to go home, we should meet them in the valley just outside the gates of the Changeling Kingdom." Skywalker informed her, before placing the orb back into his pocket and stretching his back, "Anyways, lets get some z's.", his companion agreed as they lay down on the floor. "I bet everyone is just so upset about being separated. I bet right now, they're all wondering how we'll get back together and be friends again. You'll see." Fluttershy said to him before trying to fall to sleep. But she found this difficult, it wasn't really cold, but it wasn't warm either. Fluttershy started to shutter because of the cold, suddenly she heard someone walking towards her. Next thing she knew, she felt like a blanket was placed over her. Turning around she saw that Skywalker had taken off his jacket and placed it over her. She looked over at him trying to thank him but found that he was fast asleep. "He's cute when he sleeps." she noted but let out a small squeak at what he said next in his sleep, "Your... Cute when... You do... anything...". Her face became as red as a tomato, she took one big whiff, his scent filling her nose before falling asleep. Meanwhile at camp McGrath, Rarity, Phoenix and Applejack. The guys were returning from finding some fire wood for the camp fire. "And then I said... wow." Phoenix didn't finish his story, the girls would find a place to sleep tonight, they meant a cave or something but instead they found themselves at a medium size tent. "So what do ya guys think." A smirking Applejack asked as she peeked out of the tent. Entering the tent, they found three beds, a sofa, a kitchen table and a small hot tube. "This is kinda cool." McGrath admitted as he place the firewood next to the stove, before walking over to the hot tube, touching the surface with his finger tips he found its temperature quite pleasant. "McGrath, Phoenix, be a dear and wipe your feet before you enter the tent." Rarity said as she levitated their dinner to the table, "We wouldn't want dirt all over our nice clean floor.", she said as surprising to Phoenix and Applejack, McGrath took his sneakers off. Phoenix rolled his eyes sitting down at the table, "Diva, We're outside. In the forest. The floor is dirt." he told her pointing at the floor. Rarity scoffed taking a seat of her own, and turning her gaze away from him, "Just because we're 'roughing it' doesn't me we need to live like a bunch of ruffians!" she said before turning her gaze back to the group, "Now wash your hooves or hands and come! We dress for dinner around here.". Applejack leaned over, "How do ya survive her, McGrath?" she whispered to him, quickly looking between him and Rarity. "A lot of aspirin, AJ." he answered in a whisper. Meanwhile at camp Griffifth, Big Macintosh, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie. Griffifth use his claws to chop down trees as Big Mac load them on his back to carry back to camp. "That should be enough." Griffifth said shifting his biomass back into his normal hands. Big Mac nods as they make their way back to the camp. "Does it hurt?" Big Mac said, gaining his companions attention, "When those claws come out, does it hurt?". Griffifth placed his hands in his pockets, "Not really. You see these claws don't come out of my hands like a cat. I simply reshape my biomass into claws, completely painless." Griffifth explained, gaining a nod from his big red companion. "Is that normal in your family? I mean almost everybody in my family has something with apples." Big Mac asked, gaining a puzzling look from Griffifth. "Everybody?". "Well almost everybody. I believe I have a distance uncle who works on a rock farm but we don't really talk about him." Big Mac told him, gaining a nod from Griffifth. "I see. As for your question, no." he explained. "Don't you have sibling with your abilities?" Big Mac continued, making Griffifth look to the stars before turning his gaze back, "I have a little brother. We don't talk much." They arrived back at camp and to their annoyance they saw that the girls were still trying to start a fire with some tweaks. "How are you supposed to even hold on to the sticks to make the fire when you don't have... Um... Those things the guys have?" Rainbow asked her pink friend. "Fingers?" Griffifth said taking the fire wood from Big Mac's back and placing it in the burning pit. "No... That doesn't sound right." Rainbow told him, making Griffifth pinch the bridge of his nose, "I bet Jason, started fires with his Heat Vision." she said as Big Mac took over trying to make fire. Not a few second later, a small fire sprang up thanks to Big Mac, stallion wonder. "Yay! We have fire! Want me to sing a song about fire? I can!" Pinkie told them before taking a deep breath but Rainbow quickly placed her hoof on her mouth. "No! No more songs! You've already sung three today!" the blue pegasi begged. After Pinkie calmed down, the group sat around the fire eating their dinner. "You know what bugs me?" Griffifth said as he took a bite from his protein bar, "The more I think about it, I think those Changelings are behind our fights with each other." he said gaining a contemplating look from his companions. "Yeah!" Rainbow said after a while, "None of them would ever say anything bad about ME!", this resulted in another bridge pinch from Griffifth. "Those Changelings really are going to get harder to beat as we get closer." Pinkie noted before getting an idea. "So here's the plan." she explained, gaining the attention from the group, "Next time we face the Changelings we all wear costumes of ourselves! See?" and out of nowhere she pulled a mascot size costume of herself out of nowhere! He, it's Pinkie, nobody can explain Pinkie. "Where did you even get that!?" Rainbow asked as her mouth dropped open out of amazement. The group was even more surprised by her answer, she had it with her the whole time. "What about physics!?" Griffifth said in confusion. Pinkie smirked at him, petting his head, "Physics? Bitch, I'm a pony.". This made him roll his eyes, "It's going to be a very long night." Meanwhile at Chrysalis evil doom lair of doom, her spies are reporting what they saw the heroes do. "Ah, the Fussy, the Grump, the Country and the Verbal Tic make the oddest pairing. Ha!" Chrysalis said in a chuckle. "If I hadn't been watching the pink weirdo for hours, I would think you were making that all up..." she admitted to her guard who could only shrug, "Yep... Me too." he admitted. > Chapter 42: Next Chance To Move On > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "So, you and McGrath." Applejack asked. It was now the early morning as all groups made their way towards the Changeling Kingdom to save the CMC. Applejack and Rarity were walking a little behind McGrath and Phoenix, just out of ear shot. "Yes?" Rarity asked her southern friend, "You and McGrath. Together, looking contented." she continued, making her wonder were she as going with this, "You have a... Glow about ya. So shameless." This made Rarity sputter at her remark, "I'm not glowing!" the unicorn protested, making the cowpony chuckle. "Of course ya aren't! AJ's just seeing stuff again, ain't she? So, how is he?". Rarity gave him a quick look over before returning her gaze to Applejack, "He looks fine to me." she answered but this made Applejack shake her head. "Ya know what I mean." the orange earth pony started, "McGrath and ya. Those long night. He must be quite good... you wouldn't be so happy otherwise... I think. He's athletic, that's always nice.". Rarity finally caught on to what her friend was talking about. "I'm very happy with his performance." she replied a blush gracing her white cheeks. "Ah, interesting." the cowpony said with a chuckle, "It seems that he does play well with others.". They both giggled, gaining the attention from the guys. "What are you two giggling about?" McGrath asked, making Rarity blush even more but their giggling increased. "We're just talking about your performance.", she replied making her boyfriend confused. "My performance? What performance? And why does it warrant giggling?" McGrath wondered, making his red headed friend sigh. "They are talking about how you treat Rarity in bed." Phoenix told him, had McGrath been drinking something, he would have taken a spit take. "Nothing you should concern yourself with." Applejack added cheerful, making him stutter and blush. "How I... What is wrong with you mares!?" he shouted. Out of the corner of her eye, Rarity could see something move. Turning her gaze towards it she notice that the flowers themselves started to move, yet none of her companions had noticed. "The flowers!" Rarity tried to warn them but her friends did not listen. "Rarity stop looking at pretty things and start looking at this pretty thing." McGrath said not turning around to see what his girl was looking at, "And with that I mean my face." he added, "But the flowers!" she replied. McGrath gave a deep sigh, "If you want them so bad I'll buy you some flowers when we get home!". As he said that a vine wrapped his ankle lifting him in the air. In a reflex, McGrath cut the vine with a energy spear, landing softly back on his feet. Looking up, is was as if the flower bed had just come to life, taking the form of a gigantic worm. "Run." he said as his three companions and him rushed down the path, trying to out run the flower monster. Out of the corner of his eye, McGrath could she Rarity falling behind. Reacting on instinct, he leaped backwards throwing some energy spears at the monster causing some small explosions distracting it long enough to pull his girlfriend on his back and make a run for it. Gathering the energy in his feet, he started to skate along the ground, making him reach his top speed at a much faster rate. But despise the best of their efforts, they are unable to outrun the creature and soon they found themselves at a cross road, bumping into the rest of the gang. "Everypony there you are!" Twilight shouted happy but she was cut short by the growl of multiple monsters as each group was chased by another one. Knowing that must likely they would be unable to out run any of them, they each gave each other a look before nodding. "We'll make our stand here." Skywalker said taking his fighting stance as the rest followed. "Like hell I'm gonna die before I meet Idina Menzel!" Phoenix shouted as he channeled flames in the palms of his hands, ready to blast away. "Who?" Applejack asked, but it was McGrath who answered, "His celeb crush." and much to his surprise Phoenix pulled out a photo of her out of his pocket, "This is her!". "H-Have you been caring that with you all this time!?" his friends shouted in disbelieve, "Yeah, you never know when it would come up in a conversation! Then who is prepared!" he responded with a big smile, which he soon dropped as the roar of the monsters got their attention. Turning to face the creatures, they had lost their attention to them and had started to fight among themselves. "Oh, the vampiric Jackalope, the Flos Monstrum and the Chupacabra are natural enemies. They'll fight for dominance over the rights to eat us." Fluttershy explained to her friends but none of them were paying attention as they were horrified by the fight... oh god, its gory... I'm not gonna describe what is going on, I don't wanna lose our T rating... "Nature is so fascinating." Flutershy said to herself as the Harmonic Heroes quickly made their escape. As soon as they were a safe distance from the monsters, the gang caught their breath before having a stare off at each other. Skywalker was the first to speak up, "Guys and gals... I'm sorry. I should never have gotten so angry at you and leave you all without a map to find your way. That was a huge jerk move on my part." He got a nod from his friends "I think we all said some things we didn't mean. I'm sorry too." Applejack said, more to him than to the others. As everyone made their apologize, Skywalker couldn't help but smile. Sure he may not have any biological family left, but family isn't something your just by blood. His family was standing right in front of him. "Alright, let go and kick Chrysalis ass." he spoke up, determination in his companions eyes. A half hour later, the Harmonic Heroes found themselves at the gates of the Changeling Kingdom, as the night started to fall. Up a hill a castle was standing, overlooking a small village which seemed to be made out of similar green goo the Changeling pods were made off. "Well we're here. This just screams bad guy lair." Skywalker noted, as Twilight looked up at the sky, "We need to hurry. The secretariat comet will be flying overhead soon... And then the magic surge happens and Chrysalis becomes to powerful to stop." she said as they made their way through the abandoned village. "We need to stop a bad guy before a comet comes... Where have I heard that before?" Phoenix said scratching the back of his head, trying to remember. He got a questing look from his friends but he just couldn't think of it, "It just seems familiar. I think a bald kid who could bend the four elements was involved ." "Anyways, what's the plan?" McGrath asked Skywalker and Twilight. "Here's the plan." Rainbow said flying in front of the group, "We go in, storm the castle, grab Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle, then we win the day and go home." she said with Pinkie agreeing that sounded easy. "So what if they fight back at us?" Sutakira objected but Rainbow interrupted him, "Stop bringing logic into this conversation! Just throw Jason at them!". "Rainbow Dash! This isn't going to be that easy..." Twilight said, gaining a nod from Skywalker, "She's right, I only make it look easy." he agreed with a cheeky grin, "But I think we need to be prepared for anything." he added seriously. "But we have you, Skywalker. With your powers we can get trough anything." Fluttershy said, gaining his attention as she blushed. "Come on, Fluttershy. You'll make me blush." he said rubbing the back of his neck. "Your cute when you blush." she said with a soft voice, making his cheeks turn pink. "Your cute when you do anything." he said making her blush even harder. "Jeez, get a room you too!" Griffifth shouted. The gang was not standing infront of the large oaken doors that led to Chrysalis evil castle of doom. Rarity gave a worried sigh, making her boyfriend turn his gaze on her, "I really do hope those little fillies are all right... I'm so worried. Sweetie Belle is such a fragile little thing." she said worriedly but she looked up as she saw McGrath smiling at her, "Don't worry. Sweetie Belle is thougher than you'd think. She takes after her big sister after all.", this made her blush a deep shade of pink as the both of them stared deep in the others eyes. "...She has a sister other than Rarity?" Big Mac asked gaining a angry groan from the two lovers, "He meant me." Rarity noted. Meanwhile in the upper floors of the castle, Chrysalis was still observing the heroes trough her glass orb. "Woo! Skywalker is here! Your going down!" Applebloom shouted, Scootaloo was about to say something but Sweetie Belle interrupted her "Yeah! Skywalker and his bitches are here.". "I may just banish you three to the ends of Equestria instead of feeding you to my minions. The thought of any part of your essence still around me after today is... terrifying." Chrysalis groaned turning her attention back to the glass orb. "Little Skywalker... You're almost here. Your friends emotions will make a fine feast for my subjects... But you, you're for me." Back at the entrance hall, the heroes break open the door with a mighty telekinetic strike and to their surprise, no Changelings were waiting for them. Instead they found a hall filled with stairs that lead to all different directions. "Open the doors, little heroes. Behind one you will find me! The others all have a vast array of surprises for you!" a voice boomed out of the walls, Skywalker turned around to address his companions, "Split up and start opening doors! If you find the right one, call out and we'll meet you there! Let's go!" he said as each went a separate way. After fifteen minutes of searching Skywalker came across Rainbow who quickly closed a door that was roaring at her, "Found the door yet?" he asked but she shook her head before asking if he did, "Wouldn't I have told you guys?" he noted. Suddenly Griffifth voice was heared in the distance, "SON OF A BIEBER!" and not two seconds later, the blond came walking around the corner looking pissed off. Why he was so angry became clear as he saw the two standing there, "That damned door Rick Roll'ed me!" he explained, gaining an understanding nod from his friends. After another few minutes of searching the gang had gathered as Skywalker opened a door which leads only to darkness. "You found me, little Skywalker." the booming voice from the walls spoke up, "I will unlock for you if you answer me this riddle... How is a pegasus like a writing desk... Can you answer this riddle? Do you know the answer?". "Uhm... How is a pegasus like a writing desk? They can both... er..." Skywalker contemplated as his friends also tried to think of an answer. "We're both awesome? Are writing desks awesome?" Rainbow suggested. Big Mac took a step forward gaining the attention from the group, clearing his throat before speaking up. "Eeynope! I cannot answer it!" he said, this made the darkness fade allowing the gang save passage. The gang charged through the door, ready for battle with Skywalker and Twilight leading the charge. But the moment they stepped through, a green wall of energy erected in the door way blocking access from the others. "What the..." Skywalker said looking around, this was not what he was expecting. He was standing in a pink mist filled room, wearing nothing but his birthday suit. "What the hell happened to my clothes?" he asked, looking around for any sight of the Changeling Queen. "Jason... Skywalker..." turning around to the speaker he saw a humanized version of Princess Luna walking in front of him completely nude. "Luna? Why the hell am I... Wait, We're is Chrysalis!?" he spoke as the princess of the night stood in front of him, placing a slender finger on his lips. "It’s okay. It doesn't matter. I'll make you feel more comfortable." she said pushing on a bed that popped out from under Skywalker as the princess crawled on top of him. "This... This is not right." Skywalker said weakly but Luna placed her lips on his. Parting for a moment she told him, "You're wrong. Because... It's beating so fast." she took his hand and placed it on her breast, making him feel her fast beating heart. Claire: "Since you seemed so troubled, we... decided together." "I've had enough..." Skywalker said, starting to resist, "You're not... You're not Luna!" shouted gaining a shocked look from the princess on top of him, "Now get out of my head!!". "Skywalker!" Twilight shouted as she rushed to his side. He was rubbing the side of his head, noticing he was laying shirtless on a bed. He nodded to his friend, showing he was okay as he stood up. "Skywalker." the voice of Chrysalis said, gaining their attention, "You'r raw power, you're quite smart, young, and your will is much stronger than Shining Armor's." she said half complimenting him,. "I already know that, so save it!" Skywalker shouted, not appreciative of the compliment she was giving him. "Hmph, such a lack of manners. That explains why you had the nerve to push me off the bed." she said turning her gaze towards the window, "You should have just made love to me. It would have been a great experience for the both of us.", she said giving him a alluring smirk. "I'm. Gonna. Throw. Up.", Ironically both Skywalker and Twilight were thinking at the same time as Chrysalis continued, "Then again, it's not too late. You are quite handsome after all, and I'm MUCH better in bed when I'm not casting illusions. So, would you like to become my king?". Skywalker shudders in disgust before shouting, "No god! No god please no! No, no, noooooooooo!", this made Chrysalis very angry, "You've insulted me for the last time!" Chrysalis conjuring a magic sword of her own, which had a sickeningly dark green glow, immediately engaged Skywalker and Twilight in battle, who both just could draw their weapon of there own. Thanks to her training with Skywalker, Twilight is able to defended herself well due to her mastery of a more defensive style. Driving her against the wall, Chrysalis pulled them into a bladelock. A sudden burst of magic from Chrysalis fling both her opponents back into a wall. "Twilight stand back." Skywalker said, recovering first, "I don't want you to get hurt.", at his question, Twilight shook her head, "No! You don't have to do everything on your own. I'm with you till the end!" she declared, gaining a warm smile from Skywalker as both of them charge Chrysalis again, she rebutted their charge by casting multiple spells, skilfully controlling his energy spheres and directs them at the heroes, forcing them to the side. Twilight was almost hit by a barrage of them from behind but Skywalker pushed her out of the way, making it apear as if he had taken a full blow and in the smoke he is nowhere to be seen. Chrysalis smirked but dropped it as suddenly Skywalker breaks himself free from her magic. A magic spell comes out Twilight's horn and blast Chrysalis who is being lifted into the air by the cyclone of magic. In the air it forms a barrier around her, then explodes as Skywalker watches. Seeing an opening he flies flies toward Chrysalis and grabs her. He took a moment to see the terror in her face, before he gave her an uppercuts, punching her through the roof and his adversary high into the sky, flying after her, he sends her back down to earth with a hammer punch. Unfortunately his fist struck her horn, forcing Chrysalis worst memory into his mind. "So... do we have a deal?" Chrysalis mother, Queen Caladrius asked a human woman. She was clad in a light gray long sleeved hooded shirt with a sleeveless dark brown leather wrapping, trousers, leather calf braces, leather wrap arm bracers, a white sleeveless surcoat, and leather foot wear. Her long very dark almost black reddish hair fell over her shoulders, and what struck Skywalker the most was her faintly glowing amber eyes, they looked similar to his own, "Even you must admit it's much better than resorting to barbarism, yes?" the queen purposed. "I have a counter-offer." the woman said, gaining the queens attention, she mad her flinch as with a click a purple energy blade came from her hilt. "My offer is this: I kill you and all your people.". A bright flash appeared and the throne room was now surrounded by dead Changelings, the former proud queen kneeling before the unknown assailant. "Please don't kill me. I'll give you everything. Anything you want." the queen begged but the eyes of her assailant showed no signs of mercy. "I want my mom back." she demanded, "Can you do that!?" she shouted as small sparks of lightning came from her hands. "N-No. But killing me won't bring her back." the queen explained, this seemed to calm her opponent down. "No, it won't..." she admitted, the queen sighting in relieve, she maybe would survive this attack after all, "But it will make me feel better." , the queen looked in shock as the assailing coldly slashes Queen Caladrius head off with one swift strike. Back on the ground Skywalker and Chrysalis were panting heavily, the Changeling queen laying defeated in a crater at Skywalker and Twilight's feet and hooves. That memory stirred something inside of Skywalker, who was this woman who killed Chrysalis mother and why did she look so familiar? Before he could ask her those things, Chrysalis gathered her remaining magical energy and with the boost from the comet, she unleashed her most powerful spell, 'World Render'. She had no idea what it did, but it was the last spell her mother teaches her before she was taken from her. Skywalker was too slow to dodge, Phoenix tried to push him down but both were hit by the spell, sending both to other worlds. Skywalker could feel himself slamming down into the snow Skywalker had trouble standing, his battle with Chrysalis had drained his solar reserves and snow storm wasn't making it any easier for him to recharge his reserves. With no signs of civilization in sight, it all seems hopeless and to make matters worse, his legs gave out, tumbling down in the thick snow. "Someone better not make a Star Wars joke." he thought to himself, trying his best not to fall to sleep. "Jason," a familiar voice said, gathering his strength Skywalker looked up seeing the spirit of Aether standing before him, "You will go to the Dagobah system. There you will learn from Yoda...". Skywalker gathered the last of his strength raising back to his feet, "Piss off Aether!", after shouting at her in frustration he dropped back in the snow, losing his conscious. He suddenly felt something soft and warm lick his face, looking up he saw that the tong belonged to a... Something that could best be described as something of a polar bear dog. "Are you alright?" a tanned girl with dark brown hair and deep sky blue eyes asked him as she dismounted the polar bear dog. "Did I die and has a angel came for me?", was the last he could ask before passing out. Somewhere else, Phoenix flies trough the air, before crash landing into a pile of snow. "It's a good thing I'm Kyle Phoenix!..." he said still with his face in the snow, "Or that might have hurt me.". Pulling himself out, he looked for signs of his friend but he couldn't find any. What he did saw was that he was on the top of a mountain, overlooking a large lake that flowed into the ocean. Lucky for him, his internal fire kept him warm so the cold never bothered him. Looking around of life, to his surprise he saw a young tall, slender woman, with long, platinum-blonde hair woven in a French braided crown twist bun, blue eyes, a very pale skin with a light dusting of freckles. She was wearing a teal dress with a sweetheart bodice with bronze trim, black long-sleeved turtleneck blouse with red and teal crystals, magenta cape, dark brown flats with gold outlines and teal stockings underneath. "Hallo! Lady? Can you help me!?" Phoenix shouted startling the young woman, who started to back away from him, "Who are you? Please, just stay away from me!", she shouted, not noticing that she was backing towards the edge of a cliff, her eyes winded as she fell backwards, she closed her eyes but she felt something grabbing her bare hand. Opening her eyes, she could see two kind purple orb looking at her, "No worries. I got you." Meanwhile back at Equestria Mizuki hated these kind of missions, she was never like cold places. But she couldn't show weakness, not in front of her master. Morgenstern turned to her, noticing her shivering from the cold. "I'm sorry for bringing you here." he said sounding sincere, "As a reward, I'll warm you up personally later.", this made her smile, she knew what he meant by that. "How long will it take for the walls to be taken down?" Morgenstern asked his commanding mage when they arrived at where the Chrystal Empire would be. He could feel the air crackling with powerful magic. "About a month, my lord." the mage told him nervous, if there was one thing evil overlords hated was having to wait, but if they would tear down the walls now, there was no way for them to know what would happen. "Then I suggest you get on it then." Morgenstern commanded as he turned around gesturing, Mizuki to follow him. We can see your strength inside And if you fall, if you may falter We'll be with you, that will not alter They say there are many Worlds out there But they share one sky, one destiny Arc I: Next Chance To Move On: Completed... > Arc II: Chapter 43: Big Bro > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "What do you know about me? You know nothing..." the girl said but she was cut off as Phoenix conjured a ball of fire in his hand. "I understand. Because I am you." Phoenix said softly making the girl's eyes widen in shock. "Hey, room for one more?" Skywalker asked as he sat down next to the girl who saved him. "What do you want?" she asked, not looking at him, but staring in the distance. "Well, I'm leaving tonight." Skywalker said, finally getting the girl to look at him, "I'm leaving for Republic City tonight. You're welcome to come along." he added with a smile. "But they said..." she tried to protest but he stood up. "You need to find your own way." Skywalker explained as he turned around, "I never do what I'm told to do. The offer stands, but you have till tonight." and with that he starts to walk away. The girl gave one last looks toward the horizon, her expression suddenly becomes serious and determined. "Alright. I'm going to the city." Phoenix said preparing himself to head off. The girl gave him a questioning look, which he responded with a warm smile, "I'm gonna see if my friend is there. If he is, great! If not... Well though luck." Phoenix said before gaining an idea, "After I'm done looking, why don't you come with me? You will be surrounded by people like us!". The girl was startled by the idea, "That... Sounds appealing. Let me think about it." she said gaining a nod from him. "So, 'Knight Of The Wind', fancy title." the girl said sitting next to Skywalker against the large sleeping polar dog. "The 'Only One in Canterlot Not Completely Insane' was considered..." Skywalker remarked dryly, gaining a chuckle from her, "Your lucky you know." he added, gaining a puzzling look from the girl as she place a sushi roll in her mouth. "You're lucky with your loving parents. I had no such luck.", he said sadly. "What happened to them?" the girl asked him, giving him a compassionate look, "Well, my parents are... dead. I grow up alone." he said his voice cracking a little."I'm sorry, That must have been hard for you." the girl said sadly but Skywalker shook his head, "That's nice of you to say, but I had my friends. So it wasn't so bad.". "Are you alright?" Phoenix asked an elderly man, after fighting off some Corrupted with a blast of fire. "He's a witch too!" the man said crawling away from him. "... Your welcome." Phoenix responded dryly. "I'll help you on your quest to find your sister." Phoenix offered a girl with turquoise blue eyes, long strawberry-blonde hair tied into two braided pigtails, bangs down her forehead and a dusting of freckles. "Thank you.", the strawberry-blond girl said gratefully. "But I have to warn you, reuniting siblings is more Messiah's shtick." Phoenix warned, gaining a chuckle from the girl. The girl woke up, glances around, and rubs her eyes. "Skywalker! Naga, we're here!" she said excitedly trying to wake Skywalker up from his sleep. Skywalker turned to his other said while saying, "No Luna, I don't want to go to school. The teachers are stupid!". "Where could we possible look?" she pondered, as Phoenix looked up, "Maybe that nice girl who lives up in the mountain in that created that ice castle has seen your sister.", he suggested. Arc II: Maze Of Life It had been two days since the second battle against Chrysalis, and aside from losing two of their members to an unknown spell everyone returned to their normal lives. Currently, we're in Rarity's room, her head resting peacefully on McGrath's chest, his face nuzzled in her purple manes. Suddenly the smell of pancakes filled the room, making the couple stir in their sleep. "Oh... Are those sweet... pancakes I smell? Mmm, how divine, num num num num. The aroma... spiced warm apple cider." Rarity muttered in her sleep, digging her head deeper into her boyfriends chest. "Smell more like smoke..." McGrath muttered before his eyes open in shock, throwing Rarity of him, quickly charging down the stairs not bothering to put on any pants, grabbing a fire extinguisher along the way. McGrath charges into the kitchen noticing that the smoke came from the stove, quickly he blasted it with the fire extinguisher. "McGrath!" a voice came from below him. Looking down he could see a angry Sweetie Belle looking at him, "You ruined the surprise! I was gonna serve you and Rarity breakfast in bed!", she said offended, turning a sad gaze over her even more ruined breakfast. "Sweetie Belle. If you decide to burn down the house, please do it when we're not in it." McGrath told her placing down the fire extinguisher on the ground before realizing something, "Wait a minute... How did you get in?", he asked turning his gaze back to the little filly. "Who might you be?" a female voice spoke up from the diner table, turning his head he saw two unicorns sitting there, both gave him a studying look before he noticed that the female's gaze was trailing down to his junk. "Rarity! Your little sister, your older sister and her boyfriend are here!", McGrath shouted moments before his girlfriend entered the kitchen. "Oh, who ever he is I like him." the female unicorn said with a grin. "Well! G'mornin', Rarity!" the male one said with a happy grin to Rarity, who turned her gaze towards her boyfriend. "Darling, she is not my sister and her boyfriend." Rarity corrected him, "They are my mother, Pearl and my father, Magnum." she introduced them them before her cheeks turned red, "Mother, father this is McGrath. My... coltfriend.", she said blushing, but it's true, he is her boyfriend. "Nice to meet you, McGrath." Magnum said with a big grin, shaking the hand of McGrath with his hoof. "Like wise." McGrath responded, giving the kitchen a good look over, "What happened exactly?" "Sweetie Belle here cooked this yummy lookin' breakfast all on her own." Magnum explain, giving a proud smile at his youngest daughter accomplishment and for the record everything looks and is burned. "I... figured." Rarity said in dry tone which wouldn't seem out of place coming from her boyfriend. "...I didn't know you could burn juice." McGrath added with a similar dry tone. "I've been giving her lessons." Pearl explained proudly, giving a pet on her youngest daughters head, "I wouldn't be surprised if she's got a Cutiemark in fancy cooking by the time we get back from our vacation.". McGrath was pouring himself a coup of coffee, he had no idea how other people managed to be so energetic in the morning without it. "Wouldn't count on it.", he noted, taking a sip from it. Aaah, Moca. Rarity raised her head up at what her mother said last, "Vacation? Is that this week? As in 'starting this very instant' this week!?", she asked in a slight panicked voice while Sweetie Belle places an bowl on the table. "Apple sauce?" McGrath asked but Sweetie Belle shook her head, "Nope. Toast!", she then turned her sister pulling her into a big hug, "We're gonna have the bestest time two sisters could ever have! I'm gonna go grab my stuff from Dad's wagon." and with that said, she left the kitchen to get her stuff. "Well. I'm going to be sleeping at my place for the next week." McGrath said, finishing his drink and standing up to get dressed. A few hours later at the guys house, McGrath was getting some shut eye while laying on the sofa. He could hear the front door open, figuring it was Sutakira or Grffifth he didn't bother to open his eyes. To his surprise he heard a feminine giggle followed by a beautiful singing voice, "Hush Now, quit now!! It's time to lay your sleepy head!". This made him open his eyes and he saw Sweetie Belle looking at him. "SB for Celestia's sake I was half-asleep!" McGrath shouted sitting straight up, "Your seriously cutting into my nap time. So how's the sleepover at Rarity's going?" he asked, rubbing his eye. "Why, it's smashing!" Sweetie Belle said with a bad imitation of her sisters voice before returning to normal, "I just wish we could do something special together that didn't include me goofing anything up." she explained, gaining an uninterested look from him "Wanna grab some grub?" McGrath asked, looking on his phone for the time. Sweetie Belle look at him in surprise, "Really?... Your not afraid that I would goof it up?" she asked as she followed him outside. "How would you goof up eating?" he asked. At the local diner, he could see that Rainbow, Spike and to his great surprise Phoenix was sitting at the table. "Finally! What took you so long!?" Phoenix shouted not noticing the surprised look on his friends face. "P-Phoenix!? What are you doing here!? Weren't you dead!?" McGrath shouted, gaining a chuckle form his red headed friend. "No, you see. Messiah and I were transported to another world. I just got back an hour ago." Phoenix explained, before he could be asked how he got back he continued, "How I got back? Well apparently the EoH, that's Elements Of Harmony for short, have the power to make small rips in the walls that keep the Worlds apart from each other.". McGrath nodded, this could be useful in the future he thought, "Does that mean, Skywalker is back to?", at this the pyromancer dropped his head, "I couldn't find him. I think he must be in another World.", Phoenix explained, gaining a nod from his emerald eyed friend, before noticing Sweetie Belle standing there. "Yes. We have another guest." McGrath said, as he took a seat and studied the menu. "Hi, Sweetie Belle." Spike said waving at her, "You brought Rarity's little sister?", he asked McGrath gaining a nod from the brunette. "That's nice of you, Big Bro!" Rainbow teased him, making him flinch at those words, turning to his side, he could see Sweetie Belle looking up at him with big eyes, "Big... Bro?", she said slowly, liking the sound of those two words. "Don't call me that." he told her as the waiter took his order, "Anyways, you looked for something to do with Rarity?" he continued while placing a pamphlet on the table, advertising the Siblinghooves Social. "You and Rarity can compete against other sibling teams in all these events." Spike explained, as Sweetie Belle got a bright smile at the thought, "That sounds like the perfect way for us to hang out! Rarity will think it's an excellent idea." she said. An hour later found McGrath sitting in the garden with Sweetie Belle, according to her, the excellent idea was not so excellent. Sweetie Belle explained what happened after she left for Rarity's and how she found the contest 'uncouth' and how they aren't sister anymore while McGrath was smoking... something. "'Uncouth'? She said the Siblinghooves Social was 'uncouth'?" McGrath asked after she was done explaining. "Yeah! Uncouth?... Wait. What's uncouth?" Sweetie Belle asked but the answer came from the swimming pool. Sutakira who was laying on an air bed, "Awkward, clumsy, or unmannerly. An uncouth relative who embarrasses the family." explained as he didn't look up from his book. "It's not just the Social. She thinks I'm uncouth." Sweetie Belle continued but she flashed McGrath a glare as he scoffed, "Rarity thinks everything's uncouth." he said dryly standing up, "Now come on, let's stop this depressing discussion and have some fun." "You sure? I just mess everything up." the filly said sadly before she felt herself being picked up in McGrath strong arms. And so McGrath and Sweetie Belle found themselves in front of the TV, playing some video games and filling themselves with junk food. McGrath was currently on his third bowl of ice cream. "Your a big eater." Sweetie Belle told him, looking in his emerald eyes with her own, she noticed that his eye white had become a slight shade of red. "Sure, lets keep it at that... SB left flank!" he shouted suddenly as Sweetie Belle quickly pushed a few buttons and thanks to her quick assist, they won the match. McGrath stood up from the couch, throwing his controller down in excitement, "Neuk yeah! High five!" raises his hand, which Sweetie Belle accepted with a big grin. "Rarity never high-hoofs me." she said as they both sat down back on the sofa. "I don't understand why. Your an amazing Smash player." McGrath told her and to her big shock, she could see his the sides of his mouth rise a little in a half smile. "I don't get why Rarity would date someone like you." She noted, "Your pretty uncouth by her standards." McGrath took a sip from his beer before responding dryly, "Like I said; Rarity things everything is uncouth. But I'm charming.", he added with a chuckle, which somehow, she didn't found scary. They heard the front door open, both turning around to see Rarity walking into the living room. Before she could say anything, her sister cut her off. "Oh hello, un-sister. What are you doing here? Better be careful, you might get some dust on you." Sweetie Belle said, turning her head back to the screen. Just so you know its not that dusty in there... It should be more messy seeing as five guys are living there. "Oh, Sweetie Belle, I want to apologize. I am not better off without a sister." Rarity said, standing in front of her. "I'm not better off without a sibling either. Spending the day with McGrath made me realize that.", Sweetie Belle admitted before pulling McGrath in a hug, "And that's why I'm adopting McGrath as my big brother!". McGrath's eyes got big looking uncomfortable, "Its touching me!", he thought to himself as Rarity couldn't believe what she just heard. "A sibling is someone who loves and takes care of another sibling. McGrath's a real brother." Sweetie Belle said letting go of him and looking her un-sister in the eyes. "Or maybe he should be your brother, so he could teach you what a good sibling is supposed to be!", and with that the filly runs upstairs and locks herself in McGrath's room. "Well, that apology went swimmingly." McGrath noted dryly as his girlfriend took a seat next to him. "Darling, why do you have to be so good and make me look so bad?" she asked placing her head on his shoulder. Her coltfriend gave a deep sigh, he found it really depressing that he of all people was asked advice about sibling related problems. The next day at that Siblinghoove social thing. McGrath, Applejack, Applebloom and Sweetie Belle are walking around, looking at all the different games that could be played. "Well, I guess it's a good thing Rarity isn't here. Do I see 'uncouth' written all over this contest?" Sweetie Belle noted sadly looking back up as Applejack said, "It's almost time!" said as she and her sister headed to the starting line. "Well, you two have fun." Sweetie Belle wished them, before turning her gaze back to the ground, "Sure wish I had a sibling to run the race with." she muttered to herself but she was surprised when she felt a sash being put around her. Looking back at is she saw that it was a participant sash and a similar sash was tied around McGrath bicep. "No way!" the filly said excitedly, looking up at McGrath, "Yes way. Now lets go win this thing." McGrath said heading for the staring line with her. As soon as the race started McGrath and Sweetie Belle got a good head starts thanks to his powerful legs and energy skating. The first mud pool came up, which Sweetie Belle vaulted with some difficulty but he wasn't so lucky, tripping and being fully covered. "You okay, McGrath?" Sweetie Belle asked, but McGrath was already back to his feet, covered completely in mud but that didn't stop him from continuing the race. With no problem at all and helping on another over the difficult courses they rushed over the finishing line, ending in first place. "We did it! Thank you, McGrath! You were amazing! This was so much fun!" Sweetie Belle thanked him excitedly pulling him into another hug. But something felt odd, normally his chest region was flat and hard but now it was round a soft. Seeing at Sweetie Belle knows something is up, 'McGrath' removes the wig and uses a cleaning spell to remove the mud, revealing another human, this one had purple hair and sapphire blue eyes. In a flash of sky blue light, the human transforms back into Rarity. "Rarity!?" the filly exclaimed but then she looked around, "Wait, where's McGrath?" looking at the first mud pool, she could see two emerald eyes looking at her. "We switched places over at the very first mud pool." McGrath explained as he stood up and walked over to them. "You did this for me?" Sweetie Belle asked but Rarity shook her head, "Us. I did it for us." Rarity corrected her, gaining a smile from her sister as she was pulled in a hug. > Chapter 44: The Dark Knight > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Night time, light, happy music plays from the radio as the girl practices stances while Skywalker lays down in a patch of grass. The music becomes static and soon after, a voice is heard. "Good evening, my fellow Equalists.", the girl stops her practicing and sharply looks at the radio as Skywalker sits up right. "This is your leader, Amon. As you have heard, the Republic Council has voted to make me public enemy number one, proving once again that the bending oppressors of this city will stop at nothing to quash our revolution. But we cannot be stopped. Our numbers grow stronger by the day. You no longer have to live in fear. The time has come for benders to experience fear." after saying that, the radio returns to static. The girl looks at the radio with an fearful expression on her face, Skywalker looks worried as he places a hand on her shoulder. "W-What?" she asked him as she turned to look at him. "Don't be afraid, Korra... I won't ever let him harm you." Skywalker told her, looking her straight in the eyes. He could see that she was reassured by this, if even a little. "Jason..." She started slowly, "You can be such a girl sometimes.", she told him with a little chuckle before giving him a playful punch to the shoulder. "What's that supposed to mean!?" he asked her as both broke down in laughter. Meanwhile back at Equestria, the gang are in a train. "Thank you all for helping me get the cake safely on the dessert car." Pinkie thanked her friends. "Thank you for inviting us all to go with you to Canterlot for the National Dessert Competition." Twilight said, as they all agreed. "Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness." Pinkie said as she looked up at the MMMM, "All that rich creamy goodness of the marzipan, combined with the tart tanginess of the mascarpone, blended perfectly with the smooth, silky sweetness of the meringue. That's why I call the Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness the 'MMMM'. It's sure to win first prize." Soon they were joined by four other competitors, A griffon named Gustave le Grand with Exquisite Éclairs, Donut Joe with his Donutopia and Mulia Mild with her Chocolate Mousse Moose. "Well, it sure looks like we're in for a delicious competition tomorrow." Phoenix noted as the other competitors retired to their rooms. "Maybe we should all settle in for a good night's sleep." Twilight suggested, as most of the girls agreed. "I gotta admit I'm pretty beat." Rainbow said gaining a confused look from Sutakira, "It's two in the afternoon!" he shouted as they made their way they made their way to the sleeping cabin. "Yeah, I'm gonna hit the hay myself than I'm going to bed." Applejack said as she went into her room. "Wait! Didn't you hear those chefs? We have to protect 'MMMM'. I know for super sure that 'MMMM' is the best dessert in all of Equestria, and I know that they know it too. So one of them is going to sabotage the Cakes' cake tonight! You have to help me stand guard!" Pinkie explained but her friends wouldn't listen as they all went to their cabin. "I'll show them. I'll stay up all night and protect you. Nothing and nobody will stop me from keeping you safe." Pinkie said as she kept staring at the MMMM without blinking. "Say, Twilight. I have a question." Sutakira asked gaining Twilight's attention, "I have this theory, but I want your opinion on it. You seem those letters you send through Spike's fire can reach anyone anywhere right?" he explained, gaining a nod from the unicorn, "So I was thinking. Maybe we could send Skywalker a letter to tell him how to get back home." he said, gaining another nod from her. Back at the desert wagon where Pinkie was still looking at the cake with out blinking. "Hey Pinkie." McGrath said as he entered the wagon. "How is everything going?". "One of those bakers is mixing up something bad." Pinkie said, not turning her gaze from the MMMM, "I'm not leaving it no matter what.", as she said that the blinds shut, covering the wagon in darkness. "Huh? Who turned out the moon?" Pinkie asked, looking around, "Don't go near that cake, thief!" McGrath shouted as he charged an energy spear in his hand. The light of the energy illuminated the room, but there was nobody in the wagon except for McGrath and Pinkie. "Overreacting, my ass!" Pinkie scoffed, gaining a surprised look from her friend, "Did you said, 'my ass'?" he asked, making her nod, "I like it." he said with a half smile. "I know. I knew I was going to have to keep a close eye on you, and that's just what I'm gonna do." she said moments before she fell asleep. McGrath gave a deep sigh, "Dumb ass.". "Archmage! Are you awake?" Phoenix asked as he entered Twilight, cabin. Twilight gave a soft grunt, as she poke her head from under her pillow, "I was." she says slightly irritated as the red head took a seat at the edge of her bed. "Okay good. I have this problem." he started to explain his problem, totally ignoring the irritated look Twilight was giving him. "You see now when I have sex with random mares it just doesn't feel the same anymore. It feels empty". Twilight couldn't help but roll her eyes at his statement, "Jeez, who thought that meaningless sex with random mares could feel so empty?", she remarked. "All I can think about when I have sex is... blond hair." he said gaining a chuckle from the unicorn. "So you have a crush on AJ? You two would never work." She said gaining a questioning from her friend, "Well she is an honest hard working mare and you..." she started to explain but she was interrupted by her cabin door open, revealings Griffifth, "Your an annoying man child.", he said gaining a chuckle from the unicorn and a angry glare from his red headed friend. "That question wasn't directed to you!", Phoenix shouted but his friend merely shrug his shoulders. "Was it a question?" he said as he closed the door. The next morning, Pinkie was the first to wake up, but she noticed something heavy leaning against her. Looking up she was the sleeping form of McGrath leaning against her. This got a blush on her face, her crush had stayed with her all night. "So cute... I guess it wouldn't hurt." she said to herself as she leaned in. But before she could plant her muzzle on his lips, the pale brunette woke up. "What are you doing?" he asked gaining a nervous chuckle from his pink friend. "N-Nothing!" she said still with a blush on her face, "I think some congratulations are in order for a job well done.", she told him rubbing the back of her head. McGrath studied the MMMM before his his widened, "Um, you better hold off on giving yourself an award just yet, Pinkie. Look.", he told her as he pointed to the other side of the MMMM seems eaten. "It's the Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness, it's been mutilated!" Pinkie shouted before calming down, "Now we just need to find out who done it.". "You mean, who did it." he corrected her gaining a nod from her, "Exactly. Who did-done-do it. But how..." she wondered. "Well, having read many Batman comic's, I know that the only way to discover the culprit is to investigate." Pinkie Pie nodded as she put on a sherlock homes hat, "Exactly. And as chief detective, that's exactly what I'm gonna do, and you McGrath shall be my lowly assistant who asks silly questions with obvious answers." puts an bowl hat on McGrath's head. Unfortunately, Pinkie couldn't find any clues to the mystery, even after the rest of the gang woke up and helped them out. "I still have no idea who do-doned it!" Pinkie exclaimed as Sutakira nodded, "This mystery gets more mysterious every minute." he said as McGrath cleared his throat gaining the attention from the rest. "Well, you have to stop the wild accusations and get to the truth... Its time." he said as he got a devilish smile on his face. "That can't be good." Sutakira remarked about the smile. "Wait who is he, McGrath?" Pinkie said but to everyone's surprise, McGrath had disappeared from the same spot he just stood without a trace. "You called?" a deep raspy voice came from the window, turning their gaze to see a man in a black spandex suit, with a bat shaped mask and a cape. "Batman?" the guys asked as Batman dropped from the window and started to study the deserts. "Everybody go back to your cars while Pinkie Pie and I do a little investigating." Batman told them as everybody left for him to investigate the crime scene. "Now you were here at the scene of the crime all night." Batman asked her as he studied the crime scene. Pinkie looked at him in shock, "Huh! You're not accusing me, are you?" she asked him, but he shook his head before continuing. "No. But maybe you saw something that will help us. Let's retrace your steps." It didn't took long for Batman to find all sort of clues but Pinkie couldn't see what he was finding was he put all the evidence in his utility belt, and after retracing all the steps, Batman had enough to catch the cake culprit. "Am I the only one who thinks its weird that Batman is suddenly here?" Big Macintosh said gaining a deep sight from Sutakira, "Weird? Okay, you are a talking pony, okay? We live in a world with physical god and goddesses! We are in no position to sit in judgement about what's weird!" Sutakira remarked dryly. Batman cleared his throat gaining the attention from everyone in the room, "I bet you're wondering why you're all here again.", he said gaining a nod from the other competitors "He's good." Donut Joe whisperer as Batman continued "We have discovered the true culprit. You see, when committing a crime, it's crucial that one never leaves behind clues, especially an obvious clue like... this.", he declared as he pulled out a blue feather from his utility belt. "A-ha! A blue feather! I knew it was you, Gustave le Grand!" Pinkie said accusingly but Batman held her back, "Pinkie, Gustave doesn't have blue feathers." he corrected her but she shook her head, "No, 'cause he's been dyeing them!" she said but Batman shook his head. "No, Pinkie. Remember how when you chased the suspect to the caboose, they suddenly disappeared? That's because they flew away. But the thief did leave a little something behind, didn't you, Rainbow Dash?" he pointed a gloved finger at the blue pegasi making the rest gasp in shock. "I-I don't even like cake!" Rainbow said trying to defend herself but this made her friends laugh, the only one who was a bigger sweet tooth than her was McGrath, if you don't count Pinkie that is. "So Rainbow Dash did it! Case solved!" Pinkie said proudly but Batman cleared his throat again, making everyone turn their attention back to him. Case not solved, because when we went to the engine, I saw the conductor's hat. And inside the hat was... this." he showed them a strain of pink hair, making everyone gasp yet again, "You chased a pony to the engine, where you thought you saw the conductor shoveling coal, but that wasn't the conductor at all. It was... Fluttershy!" he said again, pointing his gloved finger at the yellow pegasi, who let out gasp. "So the cake thieves are two pegasi... How unsurprising." Big Macintosh said gaining a surprised look from his guy friends, "Dude, that sounded kind of racist.", Phoenix remarked but they soon turned their attention to the investigation by what Pinkie shouted. "You're goin' down, Fluttershy!", she prepared herself to leap at her but she was stopped by the guys quickly standing between them, "You really want Skywalker going after you?", he asked and at this she backed off. "But another clue confounded my suspicions." Batman continued as he let his gaze over the assembled group, "Pinkie and McGrath were guarding the cake when the curtains mysteriously closed. But that's no mystery, that's super powers. But when the thief tried to make their great escape, they left a little addition to the portrait. Like strains of blue hair." he said showing them a whitish blue hair, making the group turn their attention to Sutakira. "Fine! I took a bite of the cake.", he admitted looking at the ground, "Why is Batman so good at finding clues." he muttered as the two pegasi apologized themselves. "That's okay. At least this mystery is finally solved." Pinkie remarked with a big smile, she couldn't stay mad at anyone, especially not her best's of best friends. With still a half hour to arrive, the gang worked quickly to fill the holes left the prove tasting from Sutakira, Rainbow and Fluttershy. It all ended well as Pinkie relayed what had happened and what she had learned to Celestia, "I learned that it is not good to jump to conclusions. You have to find out all the facts before saying somebody did something. If you don't, you could end up blaming somebody for something they never did. This could hurt their feelings, and it can make you look really foolish. So from now on, I will always make sure to get all the facts." Pinkie explained gaining a approving nod from the solar princess, "So, yeah it was a pretty average Thursday.". The princess gave another nod before tasting the cake, "Indeed. Now where is this Batman who solved this mystery? I would like to meet him." she asked but nobody had seen him after they arrived at Canterlot. Meanwhile on one of the taller buildings of Canterlot City, Batman was kneeling down on a gargoyle looking over the city. "This city needs a protector. She calls out for a help, and I will answer her call." he declared as he jumped of the building using his cape to glide off into the day. At a race track and two cars were racing as Skywalker, Korra, two young mans named Mako and Bolin and another girl named Asami were spectating from the stands. "Pretty cool, huh?" Asami asked as Korra nodded in agreement, "Way cooler than a makeover!" she said, turning her gaze to her alien friend who was looking disinterested and with his head in his hand, "You apparently never had a Rarity makeover..." he said making his friends wonder what a Rarity was. "Ever been behind the wheel?" Asami asked him but Skywalker responded that he was more of a motorcycle guy. Suddenly a purple flash appeared in his hand as a roll of parchment fell into his hand. "This is new" Skywalker remarked dryly before opening the scroll and started to read it contends with his friends looking over his shoulder. > Chapter 45: He Is Home > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "NOATAK!" Skywalker shouted from the top of his lounges as he chased Amon over the roof, "NOTHING IS GOING TO PROTECT YOU FROM ME! NOT YOUR EQUELISTS! NOT BENDING! NOT CHI BLOCKING!". Meanwhile back at Equestria, Shoveitupyourass Street 15, living room. "So, with Twilight's blessing, I'm free to follow my code and serve you until... Well, until forever!" Spike explained to Applejack as she was sitting in the living room with Griffifth. For so far he understand, AJ saved Spike's life or something and now thanks to a code of his race Spike has to serve her for ever, or something. "Please, AJ, my dragon code is a part of me!" he bagged, though Applejack still wasn't keen on the idea of owning a slave. "I have to be true to myself! If you don't let me do this, I won't be a noble dragon anymore!" Spike explained gaining a surprised look from the male blonde. "Your a dragon?" Griffifth asked surprised gaining a glare from the cowpony. And so the mare of apples agreed for Spike to be her slave, though she wasn't too keen on using that word. And after a few sarcastic remarks from her blonde human friend, Griffifth the Dickish, she asked Spike to bake a pie or something. And that went as well as you could guess, Spike might be good at a lot of things, but cooking isn't one of them. "I helped bake it." Spike told them proudly as he placed a piece of the pie in front of McGrath and Rarity, it was supposed to be a, what else, a apple pie but he made the oven too hot, then he placed it in too long, it is a black mess. Though not as bad as Sweetie Belle's cooking. Against her better judgement, Rarity decided to be brave and took a small bite of the over baked pie, her expression turned sour as she chewed slowly. "This is disgusting." she thought to herself as Spike looked at her lovingly. "You even look good when you're chewing..." Spike said dreamily, gaining a death glare from the eerily paled brunette. "Who looks good when they're chewing?" Phoenix asked as he entered the living room, gaining the attention from the purple dragon who offered him some of his "Fresh" Baked place. "How can I say no to free pie?" he said but he felt two sapphire eyes looking in his direction, "Don't do it! Its awful!" Rarity tried to warn him in a whisper, but Phoenix just shrug his shoulders before taking a bit. After a few moments of chewing the black substance he came to a verdict, "Wow!... It IS awful!", Phoenix exclaimed in a cheerful tone. Applejack loud out a nervous chuckle before telling Spike to go wash the dishes. "What was that all about?" Rarity asked as the purple dragon went to the kitchen, gaining a curios nod from her coltfriend. "...I saved Spike from some timberwolves in the Everfree Forest, and now he thinks he has to serve me forever." Applejack explained gaining a understanding smile from her friend. "Oh, what I wouldn't give to have somebody forever in my debt! I'd get them to organize my closets, and give me pedicures, and help me with my sewing." Rarity started to ramble before being interrupted by her coltfriend, "Okay, we get it, having a slave would be a dream come true for you.". As Spike is cleaning the kitchen. "AJ, Rarity, McGrath what's happening?" Rainbow said as she flew into the living room while the rest observed the cleaning dragon. "AJ saved Spike's life and now he's her bitch forever." McGrath explained not taking his eyes from the dragon. "Sweet!" Rainbow exclaimed before turning her gaze towards Applejack, "What are you having him do? Wash your laundry? Clean your room? Help you with your unfinished novel?", she asked her orange friend but that last one gained a questioning look from the others. "A novel? Your writing a novel too? What's it about?", McGrath asked curiously, he hadn't sought a writer behind his athletic friend. "Mine's about this awesome Pegasus who's the best flyer ever and becomes the captain of the Wonderbolts!" Rainbow explained as McGrath rolled his eyes at her story. "Whats yours about?", she was taken a back a little when she saw the eerily pale brunette's expression darken as he spoke up, "My novel is about a guy who gains super powers, goes crazy, loses his memories, goes even crazier, regains his memories... and then kill his bastard of a father in one of the most painful ways possible!", as he shouted that the air around him crackled and his hair seemed to flow upwards before he calmed down. "...That's disturbing." Rainbow noted and McGrath couldn't help but agree. "Thing is, I don't really want him to serve me forever, but I don't know how to get him to stop." Applejack complained but McGrath claimed it would be easy to get Spike to stop helping her. "I don't want him to get hurt... or worse!" the cowpony warned him gaining a irritated groan from him. "Spoil sport..." he complained before explaining his idea, "Just tell him! Cause I don't see him saving your life anytime soon!". "And you want us to shoot AJ out of a cannon towards a hornet's nest and give Spike a butterfly net so he can catch her mere seconds before AJ hit the nest and are stung by a thousand angry hornets! I'll wear this mustache." Pinkie came out of nowhere and started to tell them her idea how Spike could save AJ startling everyone. "Well my idea was her being attack by Timberwolfs but let's go with your idea." McGrath said nodding, gaining a smile from his pink friend. "No!" Applejack exclaimed, gaining the attention from her friends, "I am gonna be attacked by a Timberwolfs!", she told them, gaining another groan from her friend who agreed. "Can I still wear the mustache?", Pinkie asked gaining an annoyed groan from her orange friend. A little while later, at the edges of the Everfree Forest, Spike was searching for Applejack until he could hear her call him over. "You said you had something else you needed me to do?", he said as he run up to her, gaining a nod from the earth pony. "Oh, yes, I, I was just hoping ya could maybe, uh, sweep up all those leaves for a compost pile, and...", she started to explain but was interrupted by a loud roar as McGrath, Rarity, Pinkie and Rainbow came running out of the woods. "Hydra! We are doomed!" Rarity exclaimed as indeed the beast broke through the forest letting out another roar. "Why does this shit keep happening!?" McGrath exclaimed as he looked around, he could see that his female friends were running just along side him, unfortunately Spike was frozen in fear. Turning around to go grab the little guy, they were blinded as a sudden flash of white light obstructed their vision. "At ease, Spike.", a voice came from behind him, and as she light died down, he could see Skywalker standing in front of him, "Consider yourself reinforced.", Skywalker said as he made the first strike. Punching the ground sending rocks flying towards the great beast, piercing its body. The Hydra roars in pain and anger, trying to swipe a claw at Skywalker, which he manage to dodge. Skywalker kept charging towards the beast standing up and bring his fist into the air, letting out a wave of telekinetic energy at the gigantic beast. It let out a painful howl before being blown away, back into the Everfree Forest, where I'm sure it will never bother us again. Skywalker looked over his purple friend and couldn't help but crack a smile, the young dragon was startled but unharmed. His smile got bigger as a small portion of his friends rushed towards him, Rainbow arriving first of course. He could never forget the friends he made this past month in the other world, but for now... He was home. "So are those walls down yet?" Morgenstern asked his mages, they shook their heads, even thought the protective seals were broken, they explained that they would need a massive power blast to break the final wall down. Morgenstern nodded before turning his gaze towards the horizon, "It's a good thing that manipulating power is one of my specialties...", he told them as he stepped forward and in a flash of light, he called his weapon of choice, his keyblade to his left hand. The weapons handle bears two white angel wings, the teeth are fashioned in the shape of a "M", colored in the same blue as the blade. Its Keychain token is a silver heart shaped symbol. Pointing the weapon where the Crystal Empire once was, he send out a wave of blueish white energy sending it clashing with the invisible shield. For a moment the beam of energy struggled but then is broke through the shield shattering it like a mirror. The mages and Mizuki were looking on to their master in awe, but a loud roar send chills down their spines. Turning around a cloud of dark mist and glowing red eyes headed towards them, King Sombra had been released. Mizuki looked at her master for guidance but he simply raised his unarmed hand up, stopping the Smoke form of Sombra right infront of him. "Quod imo majikku kuro est hoc?" the shadow roared in a language Mizuki knew was Ancient Sithis, only those emerged into the dark side could speak the words and command the Corrupted. She could understand what the words meant but she could not speak it. Sure, but one could just say the words but it would not be the same as speaking it. She was surprised that there was another who spoke the ancient tongue, the only other she knew was her... "Odayakana Sombra.", the voice of her master commanded, surprising the monster in front of them. "You speak the language?", she heard Sombra asked her master who nodded, "Yes, and as you can see I am far more powerful than you.", and as if to prove a point, he twisted his wrist to force what seemed to be Sombra's head to the ground, as making him kneel before him. "Now, Mizu. I have a special mission for you." Morgenstern said, turning towards his apprentice, "I want you to go and find me Libernomundi and when you do...". > Chapter 46: Off On Another Quest. > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- He could feel it burn, all the anger and hate coursing through his veins. His rage flared at the mere thought of the one thing he hated the most... humans, normal's, muggles whatever you wanted to call them, those unworthy to be blessed with special powers. "Human's are worthless. Worse than worthless... Humans are vermin. How could I have associated with them? How could I have tried to be one of them? It only angers me further that the realization took this long.", Skywalker could hear the thoughts who were not his own. He could feel the body move without thought, as if he was a passenger and not the driver in a car. As it walked through a darkened hall way, the voice thought again, "Ever since my childhood I could feel it. I was different than other people. I always thought I had some kind of special purpose. But, I didn't think it would be something like this. The age of humans has passed. And the task of ushering in a new world... A better world... falls to me.", the voice thought in an emotionless baritone finally arriving at its destination. Before him was a alter made of white marble, the top formed into a hand and in the palm of the marble hand was the object of his desire, that which had been stolen from him, a small blue orb of light. As he reached out for the orb, foot steps could be heard behind him, as he turns around he sees his old his old suit of armor walking towards him. The helmet is mostly white, except for the visor, which is black, it sports two blue horns, one on either side of the helmet, that curve up. The arms, legs, and ribs of the armor are the same shade of white and have blue patterns decorating them. Its knee guards, gauntlets, breast plate, and armored boots are blue, it also wears a white cape. He felt puzzled by the sudden appearance of his old armor, wondering how it got here or better yet how was it moving without someone in it. As he studied the mysterious animated armor, it reached for the helmet and with a few click, it was removed and throw to the side. Skywalker He was at a lost of words, looking at him was his own fair-skinned with soft features face, though there were some difference. For one, the black flowing hair was falling in bangs to the side of his face, his eyebrows were thicker and most of all, instead of his shiny amber eyes the reflection had shiny blue eyes. "Your eyes do not deceive you.", the reflection explained with a similar emotionless baritone voice but the other one he spoke to merely scoff at the reflection. "You are a fool." he spoke up in his usual emotionless baritone voice, unfazed by the sudden appearance of this apparent twin. "Your trickery is no match for my power." he said arrogantly gaining a sorrowful look from the reflection. "That is irrelevant in this moment." the reflection noted as he gazed into the others eye, "Your Aseity Eyes are even more powerful than you. To regain this power is to destroy any good left inside of you. Can you do that? Marci?", it said as both the reflection and the invader summoned their keyblade's and took their fighting stance, mirroring each other. "What's Jason doing?" Rainbow asked Big Macintosh who was sitting across from Skywalker. The young knight himself was sitting crossed legs with his hands bald into fists as he placed his knuckles against the other and with his eyes closed, he had taken this position ever since they boarded the train heading towards the North Pole. "He's meditating. He told me he's letting his mind relax and his spirit free, so he can see into the memories of an ancestor." Big Mac explained gaining a puzzling look from the blue pegasi. "That's what he told me any way." the big red one quickly added, before continuing to observe his human friend. Rainbow watched him for a few moments before saying, "Actually, I think he's asleep.". This surprised the apple farmer who took a closer look, "Well, at least he has the relaxing part down." he noted. Behind them Pinkie was assaulting McGrath verbally by repeating, "Are we there yet?" over and over again, but the answer was always no. "No, Pinkie! We're not!", he shouted finally snapping but this made Pinkie wonder, "How do you know?". "The train has left the station fifteen minutes ago!" he shouted before falling back in his seat. "So were going to the place that is bucked, and hope to unbuck it? Is that what where doing?" Big Mac asked gaining a nod from his friends "If that's the case, why would she need me and Spike? We don't have Elements of Harmony like you guys.", the big red one asked worriedly Skywalker took a deep breath not breaking his meditation, "True, but that doesn't make you two useless," he suddenly said without opening his eyes. His thoughts drifted back to earlier that day. It had been a few hours since he had returned and... that went as well as expected. Pinkie true to herself insisted that they throw a party, which the guys being the guys, totally agreed to. And this being a Pinkie Pie Party it all went great until our favorite purple dragon burbs out a letter. Twilight quickly caught it with magic, "A letter from the Princess!" exclaiming excitedly with a big smile as she unfolded the letter. "Oh! I can't wait to hear what it says." Griffifth said in a mocking excited tone imitating his purple friends earlier excitement. "Dear Twilight Sparkle, Please give this letter to Ser Skywalker." After reading those words out loud she dropped her head before handing the letter Skywalker, who gave out a small chuckle before continuing reading the rest of the letter. "Skywalker. I need you to come to Canterlot at once. Also bring your bitches with you. - Princess Celestia." "Wait... Who are your..." Phoenix asked him curiously but before he could get an answer, Skywalker interrupted him by quickly saying, "Come on guys and girls! We need to go!" he told them before quickly taking to the air and flying towards Canterlot Castle. "I have a good idea who his bitches are..." Rainbow noted as she and the rest of the gang followed them. A few minutes later, Canterlot Castle, more specificly in the Hall Of Stories, the two royal sisters have gathered while looking on the stained mirror telling of the defeat of Discord by the Harmonic Heroes. "Are you sure you don't want me to go as well?" the princess of the night asked her older sister worriedly, she had not yet seen her coltfriend after he had returned and he was already being send off on another quest. The solar princess nodded, "Yes. Cadance and Shining Armor are already there. The others will be joining them soon. The empire's magic is powerful. It cannot fall again, my sister. They will succeed. They must. And when they do, we'll know that their much closer to being ready." Celestia explained but she was interrupted by a small cough. Turning around they saw the Knight of The Wind and his purple unicorn companion, "You wanted to see me?" was all he could say before he was tackled to the ground by a blur of dark blue. "H-Hey Lulu." Skywalker said as a red blush creeps on his cheeks, "Not in front of the kids." he said as he rubbed the back of his girlfriends gaining a blush from her as she stood up, using her magic to place him back on his feet. Celestia flashed her sister a small smile as she took her place back next to her, before turning back towards the two heroes standing before them. "The Crystal Empire has returned." she explained, but neither Skywalker nor Twilight had ever heard of it, greatly surprising the human that there was something his purple friend had never heard of. "Few remember it ever existed. Even our knowledge of the empire is limited. But what I do know is that it contains a powerful magic. One thousand years ago, King Sombra, a unicorn whose heart was black as night, took over the Crystal Empire. He was ultimately overthrown, turned to shadow and banished to the ice of the arctic north." the princess of the night explained, gaining a nod from the heroes, showing they understood. "But not before he was able to put a curse upon the empire?", Skywalker guested, gaining a nod from the two princesses. "Indeed. If the empire is filled with hope and love, those things are reflected across all of Equestria. If hatred and fear take hold... Well, you don't want to know." Celestia explained gaining another nod from her student and her most powerful champion. "Which is why we have a quest for each of you. Twilight, your task is to help finding a way to protect it. And Skywalker, I need you to retrieve a very old and powerful tome, the Libernomundi.". Both of the heroes nodded, before Twilight spoke up, "How do we begin?" she asked, gaining a nod from her human friend, she knew if they worked together not even the a super buffed up Changeling queen could stand up to them. Celestia explained to them that they along with their friends, will be joining Cadance and Shining Armor at the Chrystal Empire. The prospect of seeing her older brother again after one and a half month got her excited. "So will you and Celestia join us there?" Skywalker asked his girlfriend who turned her gaze towards the ground before sorrowfully responding "Not exactly. Celestia and I think it's time to see how you will handle it.". This made her coltfriend confused, surely protecting the empire was important, so why wouldn't two of the most powerful beings on the planet help them? Sensing his confusion, Luna placed a hoof on her coltfriend shoulder, making him look back up, meeting her blue gaze with his own amber. "I have every confidence you two will succeed." she said giving him a reassuring smile and before he could responded she cut him off, "You won't, Jason. Do you understand?", she asked him, gaining a determent nod from him, she knew he would succeed, her beloved would never fail her. "Do try to have fun... No pressure or anything.", she added before planting a soft kiss on his lips. > Chapter 47: Smoke Monster From Lost > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "FINAL TURN!" McGrath declared as he drew the top card of his deck. He was currently in a heated cardfight with Sutakira, the goal of the game is to get your opponent to six or more cards in their Damage Zone. Sutakira had currently 5 cards in his Damage Zone, a full field with with his ace, "Star-vader, "Omega" Glendios", on the Vanguard circle. McGrath himself had currently 4 cards in his Damage Zone and just rode his avatar, "Dragonic Overlord "The Яe-birth'" on top of his "Dragonic Overlord". Because he has 4 and he rode a unit of the same clan as "Dragonic Overlord", it granted his new Vanguard a additional 10000 power. "The conditions have been met! Limit Break! Eternal Flame!" McGrath hammed it up, locking his own rearguard, allowing him three attacks with his Vanguard. McGrath first attack the rear-guard, his twin drive revealing two Critical Triggers, thus if his next attack hits his opponent Vanguard he would inflict 3 Damage. McGrath attacked again but Sutakira guarded with a Perfect Shield, thus nullifying the attack but McGrath was still allowed to twin-drive, revealing another Critical Trigger. McGrath went for his third and final attack but unfortunately for him Sutakira planed this and used a second Perfect Shield to nullify the attack. As McGrath can't do anything else, he ended his turn but thanks to Sutakira's "Star-vader, "Omega" Glendios" Skill, his units wouldn't be unlocked until the next end of turn and thanks to its Ultimate Break, as McGrath has 5 Locked Units at the start of Sutakira's turn, wins the game by default. "Good game, McGrath." Sutakira complimented as McGrath dropped his head on the table in disappointment. "Why can't I ever beat you!" McGrath asked as he looked his friend straight in the eye. "Just bad luck I think. If I didn't had those two Perfect Shields you would have ended me then and there." Sutakira explained but their attention was soon draw to Rainbow who informed them that the train had currently entered the North Pole. "Are we there yet?" a bored Pinkie asked McGrath, she was only bored because she had to sit this game out, she loved to play Vanguard with her friend, with emphasis on PLAY, not watch. Though she had to admit it was a good match between them. "Almost." McGrath said as he placed his deck in his deck box. "You know, it's pretty weird to think we're riding on a ice cap right now." Sutakira noted as he looked out the window. "What?" Pinkie asked, turning her head towards him, as the steel blueish haired guy continued, "Yeah, there is no more land below us. It's all just ice. Technically we're riding on the ocean.", he said but he was surprised by what happened next. "Oh Skywalker's Lightning..." Pinkie shouted as she quickly opened one of the windows, letting some snowflakes in with a cold gust of wind as she was evidently throwing up. When she came back in, she noticed the surprised look from her friends and as she closed the window she answered "You know I get sea sick!" "Oh yes he does!" the voice of Phoenix interrupted them turning their attention towards the discussion he was having with Twilight, from what they could make up from it they were having a discussion on who would win in a fight, though they couldn't make out who was fighting who. "Sutakira, your smart right?" Twilight asked, turning her gaze towards him. "I do not like to brag but I am the smartest of our group." he said confidently, but Twilight scoffed at this, "I'm sorry, but I believe I am the smartest of our group." she responded. Sutakira let out a soft chuckle before responding, "Anything you can do, I can do better!", this made Twilight return a chuckle before responding, "I can do anything better than you!". He shook his head while saying, "No, you can't." gaining another scoff from the purple unicorn, "Yes, I can!" she responded. Sutakira opened his mouth to respond but McGrath cut him off, "Please, can we have one adventure without someone bursting out into song!?" he shouted snapping the two back to the original topic. "Anyway, who would win in a one-V-one fight?" Phoenix started gaining a shocked look from McGrath, it wouldn't matter who Phoenix will name for the fight, he knew a flame war was imminent. "Messiah or Celestia?", everybody turned their attention to the blueish haired guy, no matter what he will say, shit would hit the fan. So McGrath braced himself. "Well, even though Celestia has way more experience than Skywalker, he has done similar feats as her or surpassed her." he started, oh crap, "Celestia fought Nightmare Moon to a stand still, like Skywalker did. Celestia on her own couldn't defeat Discord without the help from Luna and the EoH, while Skywalker not only fought toe-to-toe with the Spirit of Chaos, he did defeated him in the end. Same with a Love Buffed Chrysalis. Celestia lost in a single beam-o-war, while Skywalker not only defeated her and her army of Changelings, he was openly mocking her. So I have to say, if he is smart about it, Skywalker COULD win. Then again... he is not always smart.", he finished and as McGrath predicted the train cabin was filled with shouting. Speaking of Skywalker, where is he? Meanwhile over at the food wagon, Skywalker was enjoying a coup of his favorite ice cream, strawberry cheese cake, while contemplating what the visions were telling him. Soon he heard hoof steps walking up to his table, looking up he saw Fluttershy up to him. "Uhm... Hi, Jason." she said in her soft voice not sure if she should take a seat across from him or not. Noticing the puzzling look from his yellow friend, he reached out with his mind, moving the chair across from back and gesturing for her to sit down. This made the yellow mare smile as she sat down she notice a book next to the nearly empty coup. "What were you reading?" she asked him curiously as he wiped his mouth with a napkin before answering, "Great Expectations.". Fluttershy looked at the back cover before turning her light blue eyes back to him, "Is it any good?" she asked him. Skywalker placed his spoon in his coup, "It's not what I'd hoped for.", he said gaining a soft giggle from the mare across from him, "Anyways, is there something you wanted to talk about?". Fluttershy gained a small blush on her cheeks as she shook her head, "Not really, they're having a big argument about who would win in a fight.", she explained gaining a soft chuckle from him. "Sounds like our friends. Anyways who's fighting who?". His question made her look to the ground. "Uhm... Celestia vs... you. Their opinion is split down in the middle." she told him, she was startled by by the sudden burst of laughter from her friend. At that time, she couldn't understand what's so funny about what she told him. After calming down, he turning his amber eyes back to her, "And? Who do you think would win?" he asked her, what surprised him was her sudden outburst, "I THINK YOU WOULD WIN!" she said so fast that it was a wonder that he could understand it, even with his super-hearing. "Well, I'm glad at least you believe me in." he said with a soft smile. Skywalker was happy, at first Fluttershy hardly talked to him, at first he thought she might have been mute but he had heard he speak before he entered rooms, but she went silent the moment she saw him. He had no idea what he had done to her, but he was happy they could talk like friends now. Taking his gaze off the yellow mare, he checked the time on his phone, they should be arriving with in a minute or five. "We should be there soon. I better go change." he told Fluttershy as he stood up heading to his cabin, gaining a nod from her. With his back turned to her, he couldn't see the blush on Fluttershy's face, at this moment she was glad that telepathy wasn't one of his super powers. And as predicted, five minutes later the train arrived at their destination. A cold gush of wind swept over the party, but being smart the guys had changed from their relative light clothes to some more fitting for this kind of weather. Skywalker had exchanged his usual open black jacked for a white winter coat, as a light blue scarf was tied around his neck, giving him a mature look. McGrath was wearing a similar coat, though his was very dark gray and its coat tails were a bit longer, around his neck was a gray scarf tucked in, unlike Skywalker's who's scarf and was blowing freely, he also added a pair of leather gloves. Griffifth was wearing a winter version of his usual black leather jacked, his hood was outlined with fur and on his head was a red beanie. Sutakira, being the most logical was dressed in a cyan winter survival suit, which made him look like a certain Pegasi they know. And Phoenix... was dressed in his usual clothes as how he usual explained and I quote "The cold never bothers me anyway.". "Jeez, its cold!" Big Mac exclaimed, gaining a nod from the mare's who, unlike the other guys did not thought of packing some winter clothes. Griffifth was rubbing his hands, even though he could survive pretty much everything, cold was one of his only weaknesses. As the cold prevents his biomass from replicating, "Who are we waiting for?" he asked blowing his hands. As if on cue, Shining Armor came trotting towards them in a similar coat as Sutakira, though his was a nice shade of dark gray. "Skywalker! And friends!" he shouted as his little sister ran towards them pulling him in a hug. "Twily! I'm so glad your here." her older brother said, giving her a smile before turning serious, "We better get moving. There are things out here we really don't want to run into after dark." he told them as he turned around, leading them towards the Chrystal Empire. "What kind of things?" Fluttershy asked nervously, but she felt a hand on her shoulder. Looking up she saw Skywalker smiling at her, this assured her, if Skywalker wasn't scared there was no reason too. "Let's just say the empire... isn't the only thing that's returned. Something keeps trying to get in! We think it's the unicorn king who originally cursed the place.", Shining explained to them, gaining a deep sigh from the gang. Skywalker rolled his "And here I though thinks would be easy...", he thought to himself. His thoughts were soon interrupted as a blood curling roar was heard behind them. The party stood still for a moment, turning around to see what made that noise. Sutakira was the first to speak up, "That doesn't sound good." he noted. Yeah, no shit. "Th-That's one of the things, isn't it?", Fluttershy said, taking a step closer to Skywalker. "We have to get to the Crystal Empire. Now!" Shining Armor shouted, the panic in his voice clear to them, making them know that something was very, very wrong. But before they could turn around a giant cloud of black smoke rose in front of them, two dark red eyes glaring at them as it flashed it razor sharp teeth. Not wasting a moment, the party turned around and made a mad dash for the shield that was right in front of them. "What the neuk is the Smoke Monster from Lost doing here!?" McGrath shouted, as King Sombra gained ground on them, not a moment too soon they crossed the shield. A second later and Sombra would have devoured them. The gang was panting on a lush green grass, some of them were hunched over, others where laying down, Pinkie was one of them "Save!", she shouted as if this was a game. Twilight looked over her friends, none of them seemed to have been injured, "Everypony okay?", but she asked just in case. "I'm ran so hard I could poop blood...", Griffifth responded as he regained his breath, the others in general agreed that they were okay, as they regained their breath. "Where is Shining Armor?" Skywalker noted that the white stallion wasn't there, and if on cue a wounded form of the Royal Captain being throw through the shield. Skywalker and Twilight were the first at his side, from what they could see, he was physically drained, which could be from the running or worse... but on his horn were some small dark rocks, emitting a occasionally dark purple sparks . Shining Armor tried to get back up to his hooves but he was too drained, his attempted to use magic was met with similar success as the stones somehow prevented the magic from being released from his horn. Skywalker lifted Shining Armor on his back, placing his hands on his cutiemarks, making sure he had enough grip, "Come on we can fix you back at the Crystal Empire. No where is it?" Skywalker asked as he turned around, noticing the large Chrystal castle. "I thought we were going to the Chrystal Empire." Phoenix complained before suddenly turning happy, "But I don't mind if were going to Disney Land instead.". > Chapter 48: The Crystal Faire > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- And so the heroes made there way towards the Crystal Capital, most of them were still in shock by the attack from Sombra, which had left Shining Armor unable to preform magic. Kinda like what happened to Twilight during Evil Zebra Reaction Squad, only not nearly as funny. "Messiah, There is something I wanted to tell you." Phoenix said, gaining the attention from Skywalker, who was still carrying Shining Armor on his back. "Ever since I met you I wanted to say... You kinda look like Vanitas from Kingdom Hearts.", this came completely out of nowhere. It was sometimes difficult to understand Phoenix thought progress, sometimes he's a evil genius equal to the likes of Sutakira or Twilight and sometimes he's even more childish than Pinkie Pie. So anyway, the heroes arrived at the Crystal Castle, which as the name suggested was made out of crystal, they I still stand by my opinion that it looks like the castle from Cinderella... the cartoon version, I haven't seen the live-action version yet. "It's gorgeous! Absolutely gorgeous! There are no words!" Rarity said, appreciating her surroundings. "Eh, I don't see what the big deal is. Just looks like another old castle to me. And it's not like we have seen those before.", McGrath said dismissively making his girlfriend speechless. Rarity started to sputter a counter argument but both McGrath and Rainbow started to snicker, as she was the but of a joke. "Very funny." she said as her snark knight whispered a soft, "I love you too.". After a short walk up the stair, the gang and Shining Armor arrived in the throne room where the found the princess of love slouching on her throne, though she wasn't looking so hot. "Hi, Cadance. Man, you look horrible!" Skywalker said bluntly, not noticing the unamused look the stallion on his back was giving him, as he placed him back on his hooves. "I know. One of these days we need to get together when the fate of Equestria isn't hanging in the balance." Cadance admitted with a weak smile which turned into a tired sigh, making Twilight worried. Shining Armor walked over to his hot wife, giving her some support, "Cadance has been able to use her magic to spread love and light. That seems to be what is protecting it. But she hasn't slept, barely eats. I want to help her, but my protection spell has been countered by King Sombra.", he started to explain gaining different reactions from the gang. Most of the guys where impressed at Cadance constitution, not getting any sleep or nourishment while holding of the Smoke monster is impressive to say the least. "It's alright Shining Armor, I'm fine." she tried to reassure her significant other but nobody was buying it. "No, your not!" Shining said giving her a worried expression, "You can't go on like this forever, and if her magic were to fade...", he didn't need to finish that sentence. They already had seen what is waiting for them if Cadance's magic fails. "That's why we're here." Skywalker declared as his friends nodded, "Cadance keep putting all your strength into keeping your spell going, Shining try to keep an eye on signs of trouble in the arctic, we'll find a way to protect the Empire without having to use Cadance's magic." he commanded as everybody nodded, following him back into the city. The gang decided to split up and interrogate the Crystal ponies, trying to gather as much information within the hour before meeting back up to discuss the case. And that goes as well as you would expect... "Hi, Skywalker." Twilight said as she walked up to her friend, she hoped he had more success than her but noticing his look, she figured he hadn't much luck either. "None of them can remember anything before Sombra came to power." Skywalker said as they observed the town folk. "King Sombra's spell must be why their coats aren't... crystally.", she added and Skywalker couldn't help but agree. "Maybe the others are having better luck.", she said trying to rise his spirit but Skywalker gave her a deep sigh, "Do you really think so yourself?". Meanwhile, over at Pinkie's who was dressed in either a spy suit or her S&M suit... Its hard to tell which one. "It just feels like something is missing." she overheard a crystal pony say to another who agreed, "I know. It looks the same, but it doesn't feel the same.". "Because it isn't!" Pinkie interrupted them startling the two, as they fled they shouted something about a spy. "A spy? How did they know? Ah! Must have noticed my night vision goggles." Pinkie noted to herself before noticing her favorite brunette human interrogating a crystal pony, okay she only knows one brunette human. "Where are you from?" McGrath asked the crystal pony, he had no idea why he would ask him that so he replied with a "What?". "That's not an country I ever heard of! Do they speak English in what?" McGrath said, suddenly becoming angry, startling the poor pony even more who replied with another what. "English motherneuker! Do you speak it!?" McGrath shouted as he slammed his fist on the table, making a large dent in it. "Yes, I speak English!" the crystal pony admitted, terrified of this with hairless ape with the crazy look in his eyes. "Tell me the history of the Crystal Empire!" McGrath demanded, gaining another startled "what" from the crystal pony. McGrath lost his patience as he pulled out a hand gun pointing it to the Crystal Ponies head... wait what? "Say what one more time! I dare you motherneuker, I dubble dare you! Say what one more time!" McGrath shouted, but before he could do anything else, a upside down Pinkie got in his face, at this the crystal pony decided to make his escape. "Hi, McGrath!" Pinkie said in her cheerful tone, though she always sounded more cheerful when she looked into those emerald eyes. "Oh, hi Pinkie. How's your investigation going?" McGrath asked completely calm, as if he didn't just put a freaking gun on another living beings head! "Oh, pretty good." she admitted before she got a dreamy expression on her face, gaining a questioning look from McGrath. "You look cute from this angle." she admitted, forcing a blush on his cheeks, she liked doing this because no matter how much he would deny it, his pale complexion made it obvious when he was blushing. So a hour past and the gang had gathered at the entrance of the Crystal Castle, and as Skywalker suspected none of them had much success. "These crystal ponies seem to have some kinda collective amnesia or something." Phoenix said as he leaned against a wall. "Only thing I was able to get out of 'em was somethin' about a library." Applejack added. As she said that they heard a loud gasp from mom and dad. "A library? Well, why didn't you say so!?" Twilight said as Skywalker declared, "To the library!" as they charged, the others quickly following them. "So... Sunshine." Phoenix said as he floated next to Fluttershy, gaining her attention. "This thing you and Skywalker have going?" he asked but this confused. "What? What kind of question is that?" she asked him, honestly confused by his sudden question. "Yeah, I'm THAT blind." Phoenix said sarcastically as he rolled his purple eyes, "I so totally did not see you ogling him." he replied with the same sarcasm. "I... just mind your own business. How inappropriate!" Fluttershy said as Phoenix let out a small chuckle. A few minutes later they arrived at the Crystal Library, does everything here needs to have 'crystal' in its name!? Sweet Celestia, I think the only Pokemon game you can get here is 'Pokemon Crystal'... Anyways, its seems its time for more Disney rip off as apparently Sombra was a fan of Beauty and The Beast's library. "I just... I don't even know what to..." Twilight said trying to find the right words, but she was interrupted by the local librarian and to the disappointment of the guys, she wasn't a hot librarian... not like Twilight unfortunately. They explained to her that they were looking for a book... well technically two books but they doubted that Sombra would have hidden the Libernomundi in the public library... Though that would be the last place they would look for an ancient artifact. "We have plenty of those." the librarian told them and Twilight couldn't help but agree. "I think she's cute when she is so adorkable." Skywalkr admitted snapping the lavender unicorn right out of her trance, "Wait, what?", she asked confused. "We're looking for a history book. Something that might tell us how the Empire might have protected itself from danger back in the day." Skywalker explained, the librarian nodded before shooting their hopes right into the ground, "I... I can't seem to remember. I'm not sure I actually work here." she said as she left. "We'll just take a look around. I'm sure we can find it on our own." Twilight said hopefully as the others prepared for some hard work. A little while later, after searching through hundreds, hundreds and hundreds of books, they still hadn't a single clue as to how to protect the crystal empire. "Uh, anyone else startin' to think this is a lost cause?" Big Mac asked as some of the rest of the gang groaned, "No, no, no, no, no..." Twilight said frantically before shouting in triumph, "Yes! 'History of the Crystal Empire'.", she held up a thick book as the rest of the gang rushed over to her. "Good job, Twily! I could kiss you!" Skywalker shouted making the lavender unicorn blush. "T-Thank you. Just doing my job. I just hope it has the answers we need." she admitted as she started to read out loud. "The Crystal Faire. Was established by the first queen and became the most important tradition. The Faire is held every year to 'renew the spirit of love and unity in the empire so they could protect it from harm'." she read, seeing as they had no other options they took the book to Cadance and Shining Armor and explained their idea. And so the Crystal Faire was on its way, the Crystal ponies seem to be having fun. So it shouldn't be long now before there is enough power to protect the Crystal Empire from Sombra. "We totally nailed it, right? Must be feeling a lot of love and unity about now!" Phoenix asked a crystal pony who nodded happily as another walked up to Rainbow. "The Crystal Heart! Do you think they really have it?" he asked as Rainbow nodded confidently. "Of course we have it! Can't have a Crystal Faire without the Crystal Heart, right?" Rainbow said, they didn't had the real thing of course, but Twilight made one from a large chunk of, you guessed it Crystal. "Of course you can't. The whole purpose of the Crystal Faire is to lift the spirits of the Crystal Ponies, so the light within them can power the Crystal Heart, so that the Empire can be protected!" the librarian pony explained gaining a 'oh crap' face from Rainbow and Phoenix. And so Skywalker and Twilight found them selves back in the throne room sharing this new bad news with Cadance and Shining Armor. "I didn't know it was an actual relic! The book didn't mention anything about the Crystal Ponies powering the Heart! There was a page missing... How did I not notice!?" Twilight explained but Cadance reassured her that it was alright. As Skywalker started to ponder what their next step should be, the stress finally got to Cadance as she lost conscious. Shining quickly caught her before she hit the ground as Twilight noted, "That isn't good..." and indeed a familiar roar was heard in the background as the barriers broke down and the form of Sombra started to advance. Skywalker took a deep breath before letting out a loud, "Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu...". > Chapter 49: Light The Fire Up In The Night > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuck!" Skywalker shouted at the top of his longs as Shining Armor made the obvious statement that the Empire is under attack. Yeah, no shit Sherlock! Skywalker flies out of one of the windows overlooking Sombra's gigantic shadow form, launching a few bolts of heat vision at the shadow to draw its attention. As Sombra turned his ugly head towards the source of the attack, all he could see before a hellish pain erupted from his horn. Looking down it had seem that Skywalker had headbutted him against the horn, breaking it in two as the tip disappeared into black smoke. "Ah! My bucking horn!", Sombra roared in pain as he moved back, and with another heat blast from Skywalker he was out of bounds, allowing Cadance to summon back the barrier, baring the evil king access from the empire. Back in the throne room, none of them could believe Skywalker just headbutted King Sombra! He was either very brave or very foolish, maybe a bit of both. "I have to find the Crystal Heart!" Shining Armor declared, giving his wife a worried luck, he was about to turn around but Skywalker landed in front of him with a thud. "We're kinda running out of time it seems." Skywalker told them as he rubbed his forehead, "New orders! Shining Armor, you stay here with Cadance. Twily, you'll retrieve the Heart, and I'll go look for the Libernomundi. Maybe that stupid book has something that will help us.". After receiving their new orders, Skywalker and Twilight charged down the stairs where Rainbow flew up to them. "Did you just headbutt, Frowning Smoke Monster Face!?" Rainbow asked her best friend, sure she saw him doing it but it still felt surreal. He gave her a nod as he kept waling, "Yes, I did and...", he stopped in his tracks, turning to face his blue friend, "Frowning Smoke Monster Face?", he asked confused. She then admitted that that's what Pinkie called him. He gave a quick nod as he started to walk again, "Sounds like her. Anyways, there is something else you can do." he started to explain as Rainbow nodded, "You and the rest of our friends have to keep the Faire going.". She gave a quick nod, showing she understood as she flew off. At the bottom of the stairs Skywalker and Twilight decided to part ways as each of them had to search for something else, he wished her good look before turning around. "Skywalker, be careful." Twilight said with a small voice. Skywalker looked over his shoulder giving her a soft smile, "Am I not always?", after saying that he charged off as his lavender friend rolled her eyes. A few minutes later, Skywalker was searching through Sombra's old study looking for clue's. Most of Sombra's note's didn't make much to him, all of them were written in some strange langues. As this wasn't getting him anywhere, Skywalker eyes glowed blue for a few seconds indicating he was using his X-ray vision and much to his surprise, he could see stairs under the floor. With one punch, he punched a hole in the floor ripping it from its hinges, revealing a spiraling stair case. Just as he's about to descend, he heard the door opening revealing Phoenix and Big Macintosh who quickly entered. "Skywalker, wait! we're coming with ya!" Big Macintosh said, as Skywalker gave them a quick nod, "Alright let's go.". As they walk down the stairs, the tree friends descended into the dark in silence until the red head broke it. "So, Spike's birthday is coming up. What are you guys gonna get him?" Phoenix asked. Big Mac hadn't bought him anything he admitted, but Skywalker told them he brought him a Nintendo 3DS with Pokemon Alpha Sapphire. "What did you got him?" Big Mac asked as Phoenix answered with a mischievous grin, "Fluffy pink handcuffs.". Big Mac and Skywalker gave each other a 'Can you believe this' look, before the black haired spoke up, "That's what you get everybody for their birthday, and Christmas, and Hanukkah, and...", Phoenix interrupted him by shouting, "Shut up! It's thoughtful!". "Okay, who wants to bet Sombra's cutiemark was stairs?" Big Mac asked when they finally got to the bottom, but none of them were willing to take that bet. Suddenly a loud explosion was heard in the distance followed by a quake. "What just happened?" Phoenix asked but before the other two could answer, Twilight's voice echoed inside their hair. "Skywalker, they need you back upstairs! Cadance's magic has failed! Sombra has invaded the Empire and brought those weird black monsters with them." Skywalker nodded turning to his two companions, "Alright. Phoenix, Big Mac... I hate to ask but could you guys get the Libernomundi?" he asked them, he gained a nod from them before they told him to hurry. And in a flash of light, Skywalker ran back up, leaving the two alone as they entered Sombra's underground library. Bookcase's almost as tall as the ceiling as far as the eye could see. The duo slowly walked forward, the one thing that was bothering them both was how easy it seemed to get here. No traps or anything, but their attention was draw towards a large book with a black leather cover on a pedestal. The both of them quickly ran towards it, though Big Mac was a little faster. As soon as Big Mac had crossed a certain line, Phoenix could feel himself smack into a invisible wall, the force knocking him on his ass. Looking back up, he could see a book case to have barring him from reaching his friend. "That can't be good...", Phoenix said to himself as he looked for a way in. Big Mac look back at the bookcase that had erupted behind him, seeing as he had no other way out, he left that to Phoenix as he turned around to grab the Libernomundi but he suddenly felt something or someone grab him by his throat as he felt himself being lifted from the ground. Looking down he could see two purple eyes glaring at him, his first thought was that Phoenix was attacking him, but a feminine voice dismissed that theory. "So troublesome... I have orders to take out one of the Helements Of Armony wielders, and yet Celestia send you to retrieve the Libernomundi?" Mizuki asked him, she wasn't expecting a response as when someone is crushing your wind pipes doesn't allow for much speech. "Though I'm curious. For the guys, the black haired is obviously the leader, eerie pale brunette is the bad boy with a heart of gold, blond guy is the brooding loner, that red head is the comic relief and bluish hair is the smart one. So, who are you supposed to be?", but Big Mac couldn't answer as he was struggling to breath. Suddenly a hot blue fire ball was launched at them freeing Big Mac from her grip. As he catches his breath, he could see that Mizuki had taken the full hit, setting her cloak on fire, strangely it appeared he didn't received any damage from the fire. "He's the badass normal!" Phoenix shouted from above as he landed between Big Mac and Mizuki, showing her that he was her opponent. "Big Mac, take that stupid book and get out of here! I'll hold her off.", he said the exit opened. Not wanting to get in between them, Big Mac grabbed the Libernomundi between his teeth as he made a run for it. To Phoenix surprise Mizuki seemed unconcerned as she took a fighting stance herself. "Then I'll guess I'll kill you, Honesty. My name is Mizuki by the way, I think its only proper to tell my name to those who will die soon." she told him as she conjured two balls of fire in each hand, shocking Phoenix. Skywalker woke up on a stone floor. He quickly stood up looking at his surroundings, as he recalled what happened. The remaining Harmonic Heroes were defending the crystal ponies against those black creatures as he himself was fighting Sombra himself. At one point Sombra had used his tendrils to grab him and throw him inside himself. He remembered shouting to Sutakira to contain him using his super powers. That was as far as his memory got him, but it didn't explain why he was at Avatar Aang Memorial Island. Unbeknownst to him, a bola is thrown at his feet and Skywalker is dragged into the base of the statue. As soon as he reaches the center, he finds himself surrounded by a circle of twenty-one humans dressed in black. Skywalker quickly spins back to his feet taking his fighting stance. "You have arrived.", a calm voice told him, turning around he saw their leader, Amon standing there. Without thinking, Skywalker tried to blast him with his heat vision but to his shock, nothing happened. Amon's minions attacked, as Skywalker is quickly overwhelmed as two whips entangle his hands from both sides, preventing him to move away, Skywalker tried to use his legs to land a telekinetic kick, but nothing happened, as he is ultimately hit in the back by several punches from multiple chi blockers. Two Equalists take him by the arms and force him to sit on his knees. Skywalker tried to break free as Amon reaches out his hand and grabs Skywalker by his chin and forces him to look at him. "Skywalker... How does it feel to once again, let your friends down?" the masked man asked him menacingly, as he allowed Skywalker too look over his shoulder, showing him that he had captured his friends from Team Avatar. "This can't be! We defeated Amon! I have his mask as a trophy!" Skywalker though as Amon continued to monologue, "You seem to have quite a history of failing your friends and loved ones. Dear, sweet Claire, your deceased girlfriend who died so young. Your beloved mentor Celestia, who asked for so little of you and received exactly that. Korra, you claimed to be her friend, her confidant, and when she needed you most, you failed her as you do everyone else who gets close to you.". Skywalker had enough of this, he knew the man before him couldn't be Amon, he just couldn't. Sombra was somehow using his doubts and fears against him. Summoning all of his willpower Skywalker attacked using the only body part that wasn't restrained, his head as he smashed his forehead against Amon's mask. He felt himself break free as the illusions disappeared into fog and indeed Amon was truly the King himself. Now he could inflict some real damage to this royal bastard. Mizuki was crouching with her arms outward, blue and orange flames swirling around her. Phoenix is flying toward her as he swerves to the right to dodge Mizuki's last blast. Phoenix shoots fire at her and circles her, a trail of blue fire coming from his feet. Mizuki quickly defends herself by creating a shield of fire. She tries to attack Phoenix, who is still circling her, but he is too fast. She stops firing at Phoenix, crouches, and begins spinning and kicking immense and powerful flames from her feet. Phoenix is flying forward; when he sees the attack, he tries to stop, but it is too late. Phoenix falls and rolls forward onto the ground. "She is good... but can I win this?" Phoenix thought to himself, doubt filling his thoughts for the first time in his life. "Will I ever see you again?", a female voice asked in his head. Suddenly the promise he made came back floating in his mind. He found himself standing on a dock, overlooking the see, the girl he had helped two days ago was looking at him, her blue eyes piercing into his own purple ones. What was this feeling she was giving him? Phoenix nodded, "Of course, we're friends right?" he asked and for a moment he could see some disappointment in her eyes, though he couldn't understand why. "I have one last request, if you don't mind." she asked as he nodded, "I do not. What is it?", he asked. "Close your eyes." That's right, he had a promise to keep, he had to meet her again. Raising back to his feet he received a mocking laugh from Mizuki, "You cannot win against me. I am the Dark Messiah's most loyal servant. I learned to wield my gifts from him, and I have such power that you, little chick, can never hope to compete!" she declares as she raises her arms, as she fires a massive fire blast that Phoenix quickly counters with a blast of equal power. As the bolts of fire explode on impact, Phoenix jumps forward and stomps the ground. Three pillar's of fire rose from the ground as he sends them to his opponent. But Mizuki quickly deflected the attacks. "I think you got the wrong impression. Why don't I remind you how tough the crowd you're dealing with really is?" he said as he glared at Mizuki, who for some reason flinched for a moment before letting out a soft chuckle, "He used to give me that same exact look.", she muttered nostalgic to herself before composing herself. In retaliation, Mizuki sends a giant wave of fire over the bookcases and down toward Phoenix. Thinking quickly, Phoenix launched himself into the air using his pyrokenisis to create fire jets beneath his feet, gaining air much quicker. Mizuki sends another blast of fire at him, but he blocks the attacks with a giant wall of fire of his own and thrusts the wall forward, forcing her to seek higher ground. "My it seems you do have some skill, little chick." Mizuki complimented him, she had mixed feelings about this boy. On one hand, she hated there was someone equal to her, on the other she was excited to finally have someone other than her master where she didn't have to hold back against. Phoenix was a little ticked off by the apparent nickname she had given him, "Your not bad yourself. Though I'm just getting warmed up." he admitted with a grin, before quickly adding, "No pun intended.". "Yeah, you don't seem the type to make lame puns." Mizuki admitted before she spins and sends a sudden blast of fire toward Phoenix. Both of them became unbalanced as another quake hit the cave, a black raven came flying in making Mizuki pout, "It seems that fool has been defeated." she said, sounding disappointed, "It seems my play time is up, so I'll let you live. Be a good boy and say 'thanks'. Ta-ta!" and with that she disappeared into red smoke, leaving a confused Phoenix behind among the burning library. Back on the surface, with a combination of Skywalker weakening Sombra from within, Sutakira holding him of with the larges shield he had ever conjured and Spike, who had brought the true Crystal Heart to Cadance who used it as a focus point to banish Sombra back to where shadows belonged. "I think we just killed that guy...", Pinkie said as McGrath replied dryly, "If anybody asks, Griffifth did it.". Not fully listening to their conversation Griffifth shouted, "Yeah!... Wait what?". > Chapter 50: Play Time > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mizuki was not having a good day, as she walked through the castle. Because that fool Sombra wasn't able to hold out long enough she wasn't able to complete her second mission. And now this red head was stuck on her mind, she could have sworn she knew him from somewhere but she couldn't quite place him. He wasn't a student, someone with his raw talent would have been made a inner circle member years ago! Her train of thought was interrupted as she heard a soft chuckle coming from up ahead. "Well, well, did Mizu just failed a mission? Lord Marc is not going to be please.", the voice belonged to a young man with black spiky hair and dark purple eyes. He was dressed in white dress shirt under a moderately dark blue long coat. A black tie was neatly hanging from his neck, a similar black colored dress pants were hugging his lower body and on his feet were brown dress shoes. "Hallo to you too, Byron.", Mizuki said with a hint of distaste in her voice, she did not like Byron at all. Not because she outranked him in the hierarchy, but for his sociopathic behavior, his disregard of any life but his own and because he was always trying to replace her as her masters most trusted inner circle member. She couldn't stand him, the only reason she hadn't burned him to ashes was because her master had need of him. "Why are you here? Don't you have your own mission? Or have you forgotten?". Byron leaned back against a pillar crossing his arms before letting out a low scoff, "I'm doing my job. I'll have you know I have been working hard.", he replied smugly, even though he would love to destroy her he couldn't make that move as long as she was in the supreme master's good graces. "Is that so?" Mizuki said, willing to end the conversation, the less she spoke to Byron, the better, "Well then, I will leave you to it. Good day.", she tells him as she waves him off and starts walking. "If your looking for our Lord, he is in his private study. He holds himself up in that room when he can, and he talks to someone. But who? For all I know, he's the only one in that room." Byron told her making his female colleague turn to face him. "Our lord wouldn't like it that your eavesdropping on his privet conversations. And neither do I!" Mizuki warned him, she didn't took kindly to who ever insulted her master, the one she owed her life to. Unfortunately she couldn't kill him, master's orders, doesn't mean she couldn't punish him a little. "I'm not eavesdropping!" Byron told her mockingly, "I could hardly hear what they were saying anyway. Dying to find out what it was though. You wouldn't know anything about it, would you?", he tilted his head, he just couldn't understand why she of all people was his favorite. He was a master of the arcane, she was nothing but a glorified fire bender. Mizuki gave him one more look before turning around, before she left him standing there. Not even she knew what her master was doing in his study. The princess of the night was excited, not only had her powerful and handsome knight accomplished his mission, but he also had helped her niece fend off Sombra, before the little dragon delivered the Crystal Heart to finally end him. She was currently waiting with her sister and all of Ponyville for the heroes to return. And she hoped she could finally spend some time with her 'beloved'." Her thoughts were interrupted as the train rolled into the station, as the train came the a stop, the door to their wagon opened expecting the heroes to came out and receiving their welcome but none of them came. After another minute, Luna took charged and entered the cart, followed closely by her older sister. Both were surprised at what they found, Celestia had to fight back to hold her laughter in. Inside the wagon, the Harmonic Heroes, all of them had fallen asleep, while they were watching a movie. Celestia shook her head, amused by the situation. As she looked over her sister, she saw her glaring with jealousy, following her sisters gaze, she could see why. Skywalker was sleeping with Fluttershy's head on his shoulder as he had his head on hers. Celestia thought it was harmless but before she could voice this, Luna quickly used her magic to separate the two before waking gently trying to wake him up. Celestia gave the others one more look before going to wake them up, someone catches her eyes. A certain blond human who for some reason was always rude to her, he looked so peaceful with his eyes closed, his mouth open with his head leaning against the window. She gave a small smile before charging her horn with magic, releasing a loud explosive sound. "Why did she had to wake us up like that!?" Griffifth complained as the group was having a quick lunch at Sugarcube Corner. Sutakira let out a small chuckle, gaining a death glare from his blond friend. "You talk a awfully lot about the princess of the sun, Griffifth. It almost sounds like..." Sutakira explained but before he could finish his sentence, Griffifth smacked the back of his head. "Don't even joke about that!", the blond shouted, making the other friends burst out in laughter. Phoenix turned to Twilight, having a question about the last wedding they went to. "There was this one hot mare at Cadance's and Shinings wedding. Do you know her? She was grayish with purple mane and I believe her name was something Velvet." he explained gaining a irritated look from Twilight. "Her name is Twilight Velvet and she is my mother.", Twilight explained, confusing the red head. "I thought Celestia was your mother." Phoenix stated, making her hoofpalm. Much to their surprise, the Libernomundi Skywalker had recovered was a fake, all it contained was a recipe for Potato Salad. Despise his failure to complete his test, Celestia passed him anyways, which Skywalker thought he didn't deserve. But Celestia gave him one final test, she told him to meet his final test at the highest mountain around Ponyville. She gave him a week to prepare himself before allowing him join his friends. Two days later, Phoenix was asked by Mayor Mare to direct a play and he somehow got all his friends to play a part in it, know one know how he did it, though he can assume he used trickery, manipulation and blackmail. "If anyone would play me in a movie it would be Michael Fassbender." McGrath said gaining a chuckle from his friends. "I thought you would want to be played by Ben Affleck." Phoenix teased him, his eyes winded as McGrath threw a golden energy spear at him, which barley missed his head, "Don't even joke about that!", McGrath shouted as he smacked Phoenix with the script. "I think that guy who played Superman in Man of Steel would play a good you, Jason." Fluttershy said, this made Skywalker look up from his scrip as he thought for a moment "Henry Cavil? He's not a bad looking guy." Skywalker admitted before Phoenix cleared his throat gaining everyone's attention. "Alright boys and girls. This play is based on a fim fic I wrote." Phoenix said proudly but Sutakira corrected him, "You mean fan fic.". Phoenix looked confused before asking, "What did I say?". "Fim fic." Sutakira told him. That evening, the gang was all set to preform as all of Ponyville had gathered in City Hall. A few minutes later, the lights dimmed as the curtains rose. A long time ago, in a Galaxy far, far away. Pony Wars Episode XV: The Return Revenge Attack Of The Phantom Hope Strikes Back It's a dark time for the entire Galaxy. Darth Skykiller has started his plans for conquest to take over the galaxy. Though he hadn't told his daughter about it... On the Not So Death Star, Darth Skykiller was looking over the stars as his soldiers brought his daughter, Princess Charity to him. "Daddy!" Princess Charity nagged to her father, making him sigh, "Why can't I go outside! All my friends are allowed to go outside! I find that rather silly daddy!". Her father gave another deep sigh, turning towards his daughter, "Ugh... honey, I as dark lord can't be bothered with things like that. I have to conquer the galaxy! And we're in a place were you can't exactly go outside." But his little girl didn't take no to that as she started her counter argument, "But daddy! You have to understand that their are a lot of fun things out there, like fresh air!". Darth Skykiller finally snapped as he shouted, "Yea, but not in space! Take her to her room! NOW!" he commanded as his soldiers started to lead her away. One of his officers walked up to him as his daughter is being led away, "With all due respect sir, but you started a mission to take over the Galaxy and you haven't even told your own daughter?" officer Pie asked him as her boss turned to him, "With all due respect... what's your name again?" Darth Skykiller asked but he didn't wait for an answer, "Doesn't matter, I haven't even told my own mother!" he said gleefully. The officer remembered why she wanted to talk to her boss, "Oh right, your mother called, she asked when you will return with the coffee." the officer said, Darth Skykiller was wearing a mask so she couldn't see the 'O crap" face he was making. "I couldn't think of a better excuse." Darth Skykiller explained before turning to face his officer again, "Tell her I'm taking over the galaxy. My name is Darth Skykiller and not Poopsikuns like she always used to call me.". Deep inside the space ship, two droids, one small cyan one and one tall light blue one, have gathered before the escape pods. "Whats wrong?" the small blue one, D4sh asked. The tall light blue one, S-kir4, "D4 I think we shouldn't stay here any longer." S-kir4 answered. "May I ask why?" D4sh asked annoyed and S-Kir4 explained that Darth Skykiller is kind of a douche. "Escape pods this way." D4sh said as she lead him to the it. "Thank you D4, how can I thank you?" he asked but D4sh told him she rather not. A little while later on a farm on the desert planet called Titooine, a young farm mare named Applesack was woken up as her mother shouted her to come down. "What's wrong ma?" she asked as she got down, her mother explaining she had to milk the cows. "But I did that yesterday!" she complained but her mother insisted she should milk the cows. "Pa, can't you milk the cows?" Applesack asked her dad who was busy buying a washing machine. "No, I can't milk the cows, ask your mother." he told her as he as he looked over the model they had in stock. "But she was the one who asked!" she nagged but her dad wasn't listening anymore, he instead was talking about the light blue model and if all that light blue model was needed. "But sir, I'm not a washing machine. I'm a personal service droid." S-kir4 tried to explain but he got interrupted as Applesacks dad claimed he had his wife for that. "I... I can milk a cow." S-kir4 quickly added. A few hours later, Applesack had placed S-kir4 inside a cleaning tube as she was checking on D4sh. "Sir, D4 has a special message for you." S-kir4 told her as he emerged from the tube. D4sh displayed video image for Applesack who couldn't get her gaze of it. "To whoever hears this. Please help me! My daddy doesn't allow me to go outside! My daddy is Darth Skykiller! Please come and save me! Your my only hope!", the hologram of princess Charity pleaded desperately as the video ended. "That's a pretty gal." Applesack said, as she kept her gaze on the place were the hologram just stood minutes ago. "The daughter of Darth Skykiller is locked up and you, Applesack Skypony have to save her! I hope your ready sir." S-kir4 explained but Applesack wasn't paying attention as she was trying to have D4sh replay the message. "We're screwed..." D4sh said dryly. The next morning at the farm, Applesacks dad is looking for her, but unfortunately he couldn't find her, "Have you seen Applesack dear?" he asked his wife who told him she had run away to save the princess. "She's really gone huh?" he said before turning around, "Then I will see you in the bedroom soon.". Meanwhile, after picking up her grandma, Applesack and her droid had found the Kantina they were looking for and found Grath Solo. "Good day gentlemen, old guy." Grath greeted them before introducing himself, "My name is Grath Solo. How can me and my hairy brother, Macbacca help you?" he asked. Sparklz was the first to speak up, "We're looking for a professional and not carpets." she explained gaining a puzzling look from the Solo brothers. "How did you came up with carpets? But anyhow, I can help you. I know your looking for a lady and I like ladies." Grath Solo said with a pervy smirk. As they fly through space on the Many Aged Swan, they came under attack by imperial starfighters. "Whats happening!?" Applesack shouted as she, her grandma and droids entered the cockpit. Grath Solo was doing his best to dodge all the lasers attack the enemy was throwing at them, "Hi everybody... What are you all doing in my cockpit!? Anyhow, its nice that your all here, because were under attack by the empire. That's not nice at all." he quickly said as grandma Sparklz gave him a skeptical look. "Maybe you need to use the Hyper Drive." Sparklz suggested but both Solo brothers scoffed at this, "Dude! This doesn't even have a Hyper Drive!" Grath Solo said laughing. Applesack pointed to a small blue button, "Why does that button say Hyper Drive?" he asked but Grath Solo quickly cut her off. "Don't question me, Applesack! I know how to fly this thing!" Grath Solo shouted as Macbacca pushed the blue button allowing them to jump to Hyper Space. "Huh so we do have a Hyper Drive." Grath Solo noted as they escaped at the speed of light. As the Many Aged Swan got out of Hyper Space, they suddenly felt a pull of gravity as they were pulled towards a moon. "Do we have a problem?", Sparklz asked as the Solo brothers tried to act causally, "No everything is going fine! The sun is shining, the flowers are whistling." Grath Solo said but Applesack cut him off. "But flowers can't whistle." Applesack corrected him but Grath Solo scoffed that off, "Shut up Applesack! I have better thing to do than listen to you.", he told her. A little later the Many Aged Swan has been captured and docked on the Not So Death Star but Darth Skykiller's lieutenants are regretful to inform him that nobody was on board. "I don't know much about that but a ship without people isn't possible.", he said. "I don't want to interrupted lord Skykiller but maybe they're Ninja's and they are invisible!" one of his lieutenants Griff suggested, this was something to ponder. "That doesn't sound that strange at all." Darth Skykiller said before snapping, "No wait, that does sound strange! This isn't Naruto! Shut up!". Meanwhile deep inside the Not So Death Star, the heroes are crawling through the air ducts. "Where is my grandma?" Applesack asked, the air ducts where too small to allow her too look back. "We have lost her in battle." Grath Solo said but a voice ahead of Macbecca shouted, "No I'm here!" Sparklz shouted. "Oh, Sorry Grandma Sparklz. Please don't write me out of your will." Grath quickly said. "You really are a bastard, Solo." D4sh said making Grath Solo laugh as they arrived at their destination Cellblock 626. Grath Solo quickly started to use his hacking skills he gained from watching old Star Trek episode's, so he's pretty much pushing random buttons. Over his shoulder he could see Applesack looking at a door. "What are you doing?" he asked as Applesack explained she was on the look out for the enemy. "Go save that pretty girl!" Grath Solo ordered as suddenly the com link opened and the guy on the other side asked, "Cell block 626, is something wrong?" he asked as Grath Solo had to think of something quickly. "Well you see, it all happened at my birth in 1960. I bought a ice cream from a baker... uhm ice cream shop! But then the ice melted in my hands! And there was a penguin who said 'Ueh!'. But were taking over your ship." Grath Solo told them as a silent static followed. "That's a very stupid story, you know that?" the guy on the other side said but in a fit of anger Grath Solo shot the com panel with his blaster, "Nobody calls my stories stupid!". Applesack entered prison 15 where she found princess Charity laying. She woke up to find Applesack drooling at her, "What are you looking at?" the princess asked as Applesack quickly got back to her senses. "I'm ex-farmer Applesack and I have come to rescue you! I got the message from D4sh, ya know that small robot?" she explained as Princess Charity nodded as they quickly fled back to the Many Aged Swan with the rest of the gang. After a long and hard fought space battle, the Many Aged Swan managed to escape the imperial starfighters as they jumped to Hyper Space. "Where is my grandma?" Applesack asked, grandma Sparklz couldn't been seen anywhere. "We lost her in battle... This time for real." Grath Solo said as he stepped over S-kir4 who was caught in some lose wiring. "Can somebody help me? I'm stuck, help me D4!" he begged but D4sh complained that she didn't have any arms. Meanwhile back at the Not So Death Star control post, lieutenant Pinkie came him to inform Darth Skykiller of their escape. "They destroyed out starfighters and kidnapped your daughter." she explained as Darth Skykiller shouted in anger. "That's terrible! Those ships weren't cheap! Now it's war!" Darth Skykiller declared as he slammed his fist in a table. "What about your daughter?" lieutenant Pie asked, but she never got an answer. Stage Play: Completed... Meanwhile at an unknown location, the door in front of Morgenstern opens with a flash and he enters a white hallway. He enters a white room with black chains lining the walls and floor. The door closes behind him and he places his hand on the chair in the center of the room before sitting down. "Everything is going according to plan... dearly beloved.". > Chapter 51: Neville > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Twas a beautiful morning at Sweet Apple Achers as McGrath entered the premise, his hands tucked in his pocked. He passed two unfamiliar unicorns who by appearance he assumed to be brothers and Mayor Mare as he saw a distressful Applejack staring in the distance. "Something wrong, AJ?", he asked looking back over his shoulder at the trio before turning back to Applejack. The farm mare shook her head to try and clear it, "This is bad. Ah’m gonna go have another look fer the deed." she said heading back upstairs. The youngest apple sister wallked towards him as Big Mac and Granny Smith heading upstairs to help Applejack look. "AB, what's going on?" McGrath asked as Applebloom explained to him that those two brothers that their names are Flim and Flam and they are trying to buy up Sweet Apple Acres. This confused the young human, according to Equestrian law a land couldn't be bought up unless it was unowned or the owner of the deed decided to sell. Applebloom sighed, as she continued to explain to him, "The deed is gone. If AJ can’t find the deed before tomorrow morning, we’re gonna lose the farm.". At this McGrath started to walk around the porch, deeply in discussion with himself. He suddenly stopped in his tracks and turned to the youngest apple sister, "I have a feeling that she won’t find the deed here. You don’t think so either, do you?", she gave him a nod, McGrath tapped one finger against his chin, thinking about what they had said. "Hey AB, Do you mind helping me investigate those two?", McGrath asked gaining an excited nod from the young filly. "Of course! I'm gonna get Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo to help out as well!" she said making the young man nod, together they should be able to come up with a plan that’ll get the deed back. "No way!" Skywalker said in disbelieve as he was laying down by the pool, his girlfriend coddling at his side. "Yes way! It seems some ponies have started a cult with you as their chief deity. I believe they call themselves 'Children Of The Skywalker'." his significant other informed him. He shook his head in disbelieve, he couldn't believe anyone would want to worship him, much to the amusement of Luna. She always found it cute when her super powerful knight felt embarrassed. "You know what, I have a sudden craving for some ice cream." he said gaining an excited nod from the princess. "Huzzah! We were hoping thou would say that, beloved!" Luna shouted before blushing furiously, she had just slipped back to royal Canterlot voice, usually she could keep it under control but why did she had to slip up in front of her beloved. "So you still sometime slip back into your royal Canterlot voice?" he asked as he stood up, his girlfriend nodding embarrassed. "I think it sounds cute." he added as he opened the front door, seeing Mayor Mare standing there about to knock. She had headed straight for the Shoveitupyourass street 15 as soon as the unicorn brothers had taken their leave, desperate to find a way to prevent them from getting the farm and forcing the Apple family to leave Ponyville. "Miss Mare, what can I do for you?", Skywalker asked, it wasn't every day he talked to the mayor. She never complained about the damage he causes to Ponyville in his fights. "The deed to Sweet Apple Acres has gone missing, and Flim and Flam are trying to buy out the land.", Mayor Mare explained gaining a shocked look from the couple. "The worst part is, if she can’t present the deed by tomorrow morning then I have no choice but to sell it to them. Please Lord Skywalker, Knight Of The Wind, isn't there something you can do to help out?", the mayor bagged but to her despair, his own face mirroring the despair that the mayor felt. "As much as I might want to, there’s nothing I can do." he explained as he looked towards the direction of the farm. "We just have to hope that AJ can find the deed in time.", Luna said sadly. Meanwhile, McGrath and the CMC were sitting in a cafe opposite of the hotel were the two brothers were staying. "We won’t be able to do anything about it until tonight, right Big Bro?", Sweetie Belle asked taking a quick sip from her soda. "Don't call me that." McGrath told her as he looked to the hotel through his sunglasses, "We should wait until nightfall, when nobody is around to watch. I'm gonna make a distraction to get them outta there so my friend can search the room.", he explained to the three young fillies. Scootaloo nodded energetically, placing both her front hooves onto the table they were sitting at, "Yeah, and then we can get back the deed they stole!". Applebloom shushing her to try and keep their discussion private, "We can’t let anybody know what we’re doing Scoot!" the orange pegasus sitting back down and glancing nervously around. The last thing she wanted to do was spoil their plans and get them in trouble. "AB is right, we can’t get ahead of ourselves." McGrath said as he himself took a sip from his coffee, "I don’t think they’ll have it in their room, if they even kept it in tact at all. So when the distraction happens you search their machine, while my friend search their room." McGrath told them, but his self appointed sister figure proclaimed, "This was going to be... interesting.". Late that night, a thunderous crashing woke Flam from his sleep, the unicorn groaning at the sudden racket coming from just outside the hotel. The sudden realization of just what was in that area cut through the foggy cloud still hanging around his mind, his bloodshot eyes going wide as he ran toward the window, his jaw dropping as he saw a dark shape messing around with their Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000. "Wake up brother!" he shouted as he dashing over to his brother's bed and shaking the unicorn awake. "Somebody’s messing around with our machine!", Flim woke up at his words, bolting out of bed nearly as quickly as Flam had. Both of them ran out of the room, heading down the stairs and outside as fast as their hooves could take them. "Stop!" they both cried as they ran outside. The shade that had been burrowing around in their machine grabbing something from inside and running away through the roofs. A cursory glance told them that the stranger had taken something vital to the workings of the machine, they didn’t spare a word, running after the retreating shadow as fast as possible. Once they were out of sight, three other shadows crept out from across the street towards the machine. "Cutie Mark Crusaders, go!" Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo whispered in union as each of them moving to a separate part of the machine and checking it over. A few minutes passed, with little luck finding what they were after, a loud was heard on the hood making them look up, showing Batman standing over them. "They burned it." Batman said with his raspy voice filled with sympathy. "What do we do now?" Applebloom wondered turning her gaze to the ground, nearly in tears over the lost of her home. She felt a gloved hand on her head, as she looked up she saw Batman look at her, "Don't worry, AB. Batman knew the change was big they burned it, but Batman always has a plan. And if Batman doesn't have a plan, his friend McGrath has. But he's more ruthless and that's coming from Batman!" he told her to reassure her before declaring that they needed to get out of their so they headed for the Batmobile. Yeah... Lesson kids don't get into a car with someone dressed as a bat. Best case scenario, he trains you to be Robin. A half hour later, after taking the other two home, Batman climbed through Sweetie Belle's room window with the young filly on his back. Tucking her into her bed, he was about to leave through the window but Sweetie Belle asked him a question, "Big Bro, during stealth mission why are you always dressing up like a bat?" she asked, making Batman turn his gaze towards her. "It makes me feel pretty.", he declared before jumping out of the window, into the night. The next morning, Applejack trudged slowly into City Hall, trying her hardest not to cry. She had torn the house and the barn apart in her search for the deed, only to come up empty hoofed. A strange spluttering noise coming from up ahead stirred the earth pony’s curiosity, Applejack increasing her pace as she got closer. "Here’s the deed for Sweet Apple Acres, Mister..." Mayor Mare asked questioningly to another human, but he was clearly not one of the Harmonic Heroes. The young man was relatively well build, his brownish blond hair is swept back, with a strand hanging down his face, his sharp emerald green eyes would make even the most hardened mare blush. He was dresses in a black business suit with a matching tie, white dress shirt and brown leather shoes. "Please call me Neville, Miss Mayor Mare." he said with a kind voice as he unfurled the roll of paper to examine the deed. Everything seemed to be in order as she rolled up the scroll before casting a smug grin at Flim and Flam. The two unicorn brothers were the ones who had been making the spluttering noises. Mayor Mare turned around to see Applejack,"AJ... I'm so sorry." she said, this got the attention of Neville. "AJ? Ah, I believe this is yours then." he said handing over the scroll the the astonishment of the of everybody else in the room. "It is yours right? It must have fallen out of your pocket or something." he told her as she accepted the deed, she couldn't believe someone would just buy the deed back and return it to her. "Mr. Neville, I can't accept this..."she tried to protest but he wasn't having any of that. "Of course you can. This is proof that Sweet Apple Acres belongs to the Apple family, and any request for sale has to go through them. Now I have other important business to attend to. Good day to you Miss AJ, Miss Mayor Mare.", he gave a small bow with his head and sending a soft smile Applejack's way, making her blush before he took his leave, leaving everybody speechless. She had no idea who this Neville was or were he came from but she couldn't help this feeling that she knew him from somewhere. "He out bit us... How much money does this hairless ape have!?" the unicorn brothers wondered as they dripped of in bitter defeat. Outside of City Hall, Neville quickly ran into a dark ally way, from there he could see the two unicorn brothers walk off and the young apple farmer leave in joy. "I assume everything went well?" A voice asked from behind him, Neville didn't need to turn around to know who it was. He was the one who asked to make this deal for him in the first place. "Yeah, the deed is back to were it belongs. I have to say, it seems these guys and ponies had a positive effect on you." He said teasingly, he didn't turn back in favor of observing the citizens. His companion didn't answer but he could hear a soft scoff. "When are coming home for a visit? Emma misses you as do I little brother.", Neville asked, this time he received an answer. "I'll come home when you have found him." his little brother answered, his voice dripping with venom. "I see. We're still looking for him... So I heard this rumor that you have a girl. When are we gonna meet this elusive R..." before he could finish that sentence, he could feel himself being pushed through a white door, sending him back home. > Chapter 52: Sniffing Around > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was a a sunny day, the sun was shining brightly on Shoveitupyourass Street 15, Skywalker and Twilight were currently training their abilities, Skywalker for his up coming test and Twilight because he had promised to help her train. Twilight was currently trying to use her magic to lift a train wagon, though she wasn't having much success. "Come on! Move that train wagon already." Skywalker told her as he was practicing his hand to hand combat stance. "Can't you see I'm trying!?" Twilight shouted back irritated as she released her magic, she had been on this for an hour now but she hadn't made any progress. Skywalker scoffed as he walked up to her, "Do or do not. There is no try!", he said and to prove a point he simply raised his hand and the train wagon started to float several feet from the ground. "Your magic is like a muscle, Twily. The more you use it, the easier it will become." Skywalker explained before instructing her to start using her telekinesis in more mundane activities. "Maybe I'm not as powerful as I though I was." She said letting her head drop. She suddenly felt Skywalker's hand cup her face, making her look into his amber eyes. "Don't say that! Don't even think that!" he told her as he let go of her face, "Celestia told me about what happened during your entrance exam. Assuming E=mc^2, you making Spike grow to that size means you were unleashing power roughly equivalent to a 750 kt nuclear bomb.". After a few more minutes of training, Skywalker and Twilight had to stop for both had other errands to run. Both of them walked to the front door as Skywalker was heading for the market place. As they walked past the living room they could hear the voices of McGrath and Rarity arguing about something. "Is it so difficult for you to understand my grief? How would you react if your father died?" Rarity asked him, neither of them could see the two but they knew McGrath was rolling his eyes. "Before or after I stopped laughing?" he responded and much to the shock of everybody, they could hear a hint of amusement in his voice as if the thought of his father death was funny. Suddenly, they could hear the voice of Phoenix shouting from his room, "Why does this crap keep happening!? Yesterday Sweet Apple Achers almost got stolen, today Skywalker is wasting his time with Fluttershy, tomorrow it's Messiah Vs Celestia!". Both Skywalker and Twilight decided that it was time to leave and come back when there was less weird shit going on. As they entered the market place, the two friends said goodbye to one another before each went their separate way. Not fifteen step later, Skywalker ran into another of of his friends, his favorite blue Pegasus. The two friends decided to get something to drink at Sugarcube Corner, the both of them hadn't talked to each other in awhile. "You're giving me that look again. If you've got something to say, just spit it out." Skywalker said as he downed another beer, making his best friend chuckle. "Are you sure you want to encourage me? I might be about to confess my undying love." Rainbow said tipsy, the points of her ears a little red. "It would never work between us, Dashie. Your to much maintenance for me." Skywalker said in jest as both friends chuckle. "So, you and princess Luna... I need some details. Did you go down on one knee? Did she jump you? Did you swear eternal vows of love, or is this just a physical thing?" Rainbow teased making it his turn to blush. "I-I don't see how that's any of your business." Skywalker stammered out making his slightly tipsy friend burst out in laughter. "Fine, but if you don't tell me, I'm just going to have to make it up.", she told him in between her laughing. Apparently it was true what Sutakira had theorized, Pegasi couldn't hold their alcohol. After flying Rainbow back to her house, Skywalker decided to head back to the Market Place to do what he was intending to do, buying groceries. It didn't took him long to find everything he needed as he thought, "It'd be better if Griffifth ate out more. That guy isn't getting a balanced intake of nutrients... Come to think of it, all my guy friends ever eat are instant noodles and stuff like that. Except maybe Big Mac but he doesn't live with us.", his thought were interrupted as he saw his favorite yellow Pegasus walking to the Asparagus Stall but a lot of other ponies cut in line and I mean A LOT. Much to his anger, none of them showed any remorse as Fluttershy dripped off. "Fluttershy, you mustn't let them treat you that way!" Skywalker said to her as she muttered about it not being a big deal, "It's bigger than big. You are a pony with a problem." to prove a point he cut in front of her. "Oh, go right ahead, Jason. You first.", she muttered shyly. This made him shake his head in irritation, "Right there! That's the problem. You've got to stop being such a doormat, a pushover, a Sutakira. You've got to stand up for yourself. Please for me?" he asked her as he looked her in the eyes. Fluttershy nodded slowly as she gave a deep inner sigh, "I can never say no to those amber orbs.", she thought to herself as she got back into the Asparagus Stall but another earth pony, by the name of Gizmo if Skywalker remembered correctly, cut in front of her buying up the last asparagus. Skywalker couldn't understand why the ponies like them so much, it was one of the few foods he couldn't stand himself. Fluttershy was about to walk off but Skywalker stopped her and told her to watch how to handle this. "Hold it right there, Mister!" Skywalker said making Gizmo stop in his tracks. Turning around he could see Skywalker standing over him with his arms crossed. "Uh, who, me?" he asked a little intimidated by the Knight Of The Wind standing over him. "Of course you! Do you think its cool to cut in line?" Skywalker asked gaining a confused look from Gizmo as Skywalked placed an arm around him. "You see cool guys like you and me can't do that. I know you wanna do the right thing because you're cool and strong, and cool and strong guys are always nice to everybody to set a example, am I right?" he told him making Gizmo somehow even more confused. "You think I'm cool?" he asked in disbelief as Skywalker gave him a big nod. Gizmo had to admitted that none ever called him 'cool'. Now it was Skywalker's turn to look be confused, or so he showed, "You are cool! And just between cool guys, could you give my friend the last asparagus?" as he said that he puts a Bit in his saddlebag for the trouble. "Uhm... Alright then!" Gizmo said as he gave Skywalker the asparagus. Skywalker gave him a hoof bump as he thanked him. Skywalker walked back, tossing her the asparagus which she barley caught, "See, that's not so hard, is it?". She nodded before Skywalker asked whats next on her list, which were tomatoes. "Alright! Lets get tomatoes.", he said as they walked towards the Tomatoes Stand. Fluttershy grabbed the amount of tomatoes she needed, she place one bit on the counter but before she could leave the stallholder informed her that the tomatoes were two bits now. "Oh, okay. I don't wanna argue about it." Fluttershy said as she dig through her saddlebag looking for her bag of coins but Skywalker walked up as he shouted angrily, "What do you think you're doing?", giving the stallholder a death glare. "Minding my own business, maybe you should try it.", she suggested rudely but Skywalker wasn't backing down, not when a friend of his was taking advantage of. "Two bits for tomatoes is outrageous. One bit is the right price." Skywalker said before adding threateningly, "Or it will get ugly.", folding his arms as he leaned back. Tomato stallholder looked a bit nervous before treating to call the guards, but all this did was made him laugh. "Really? You think the guards are gonna take down the Knight of The Wind?" he said as the Tomato stallholder's face paled as she realized who she was talking to. "Knight of... Oh crap! Ser Skywalker!? "A-Alright, take it easy. Here's your tomato's, on the house.", she said trying to appease the knight who accepted before giving her a genuine, "Thank you.". After helping Fluttershy with her grocery list, Skywalker was helping her carry everything back to his place. Skywalker was curious how Fluttershy earned her cutiemark, for her special talent would fit more with a Earth Pony. After she told him what happened at Flight Camp, Skywalker could only feel disguised. "You fell to the ground in full view of a large crowd and no one tried to save you? Does Cloudsdale have some kind of Sparta-like eugenics policy for Pegasi who are weak fliers!?", he shouted taking her aback. Fluttershy always saw him as a cool, calm, collected and handsome guy... if a bit odd at times. But she felt kinda happy that something that happened so long ago would make him worry about little old her. Soon they arrived at Fluttershy's Little Cottage, after entering the house Skywalker placed the groceries in her kitchen when Fluttershy suddenly gave him an sorrowful look. "Hey, what's up?" he asked as she explained that because he had spend nearly his entire day with her, he lost an entire day to train for his upcoming test which was the next day, Skywalker tried to reassure her that it was nothing to worry about, seeing as it was most likely a combat orientated test. "But what if its not! What if its a Geography test!" she said making him chuckle in laughter. "Geography? What do I care about geography? All the bad guys attack Canterlot or Ponyville anyway, it's not like I'm going anywhere." Skywalker said in a matter of fact tone before waving her goodbye. "Jason, I don't know how to thank you." She told him, making him stop in his tracks. "That's a weird skill to be lacking." Skywalker noted, this was one of his odd quirks Fluttershy noted. "I mean... You do so much, but no one ever thanks you. The least you deserve is to be appreciated.", she told him as her gave her a soft smile. "Thanks, Fluttershy." he said before flying off and suddenly realizing that he hadn't got any groceries for himself! Meanwhile, in another world. Mizuki was sitting on a sofa as she looked out the window, she couldn't find her master for the past week. She knew he took his reading seriously but this was kinda ridicules. She was brought out of her train of thought as she felt someone sit down next to her, "Hiya, Mizu!" a male voice said cheerfully. Turning to her side, she saw a handsome young man, he had lightly taned sking, his platinum blond hair was reaching the back of his neck, two hair spike gave the impression he had cat ears but she knew it was just his hair. His yellow cat eyes looked at her with mischief, seeing as he was dressed in some jeans and a simple orange t-shirt she assumed he wasn't on a mission. "Jayden are you slaking off again?", she told him sternly, she had at least a working relationship with her Inner Circle colleagues, aside from Byron of course, but Jayden or Jay as she usually called him, was one of the few she had a actual friendship with. "Slacking off? My Mizu, you wound me!" he said as he gave her a cat like grin, "I have you know that I completed my mission with success! The Los Angeles citizens were left shocked today following a vicious gun battle between the LAPD...and me! They were all like, 'BANG! BANG! Ya filthy mutant!', and I was all like 'Oooh, you wascaly wabbit! You got me!'." he said standing up, as Mizuki couldn't help but chuckle. Sure, Jayden was not all there, but she couldn't deny he got results. Then again, she had to admit none of them were all there, but that was what made them so close. Seeing as she had nothing better to do, they spend some time discussing various topics before they got about who would play their Inner Circle colleagues in a movie. "Alright, who would play Lord Morgenstern?" Jayden asked, but before she could response a deep voice spoke up from behind them. "Sorry to interrupt your discussion you are having, but could I borrow Mizuki for a few moments." the voice asked as they turned around to see Morgenstern standing behind them. Knowing him, he could have overheard everything they had said. Giving a quick nod, Mizuki stood up to follow her master as he walked away. Suddenly, he stopped walking, almost making her bump into him, "Oh and as for your question. Either Michael Fassbender or Sir Ian McKellen.", Morgenstern said, he couldn't help but give an inner chuckle at his follower's nervous reaction. Both master and student walked through the dark halls, as he decided to speak up, "So you failed to take down one of the EoH users. This failure is going on your permanent record.", Morgenstern said not bothering to look at her, but Mizuki quickly shook her head, "But master, I have this feeling about this guy. He's like me, I though maybe we could convince him to join our cause or all of them." she said trying to defend he reason for not finishing that little Chick. He seemed to ponder this for a while, "Their powers could be a great asset. Do you believe they could be turned to see our way." he asked her. Mizuki felt a warm fire burn inside of her, she felt it every time her master asked her opinion. "We all stumble through the dark before we find the light, don't we? And shouldn't we help our kind, shouldn't we?" she said, gaining a amused chuckle from her master, she felt her heart skip a beat. "Indeed. You have become wise, my young Mizu." he compliment her, making her blush, she was happy for the compliment but all she was doing was following his example. "You might be happy to know that I have been sniffing around a little and found the entrance to Tartarus." he informed her making her look at him in awe, "You found it by sniffing around?" she asked. He gave a bemused chuckle before adding, "Actually, there were two high ranking guards who were positively delighted to tell me everything they knew... provided I stop dangling them headfirst over the side of the building.". > Chapter 53: Messiah Vs The Ruler Of The Sun > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Big Macintosh rushed through the never ending darkness, trying to outrun a bird made entirely out of flames. Not looking were he was going, Big Mac suddenly felt himself being strangled and lifted into the air. Looking down he saw two purple eyes looking menacingly at him from under her red hair. "The black haired is the leader, eerie pale brunette is the bad boy with a heart of gold, blond guy is the brooding loner, that red head is the comic relief and bluish hair is the smart one. So, who are you supposed to be?", she taunted him. He hated feeling like that, all his friends had those amazing abilities, but what did he have? He didn't even had an Element Of Harmony, all he was was dead weight to them. "Big Mac! Big Mac! Big Mac!" With a jerk, Big Mac woke up in his bed from the nightmare, relieved to not have those purple eyes taunting him, he found himself staring at another set of purple eyes. "How did ya get into my room?" Big Mac asked Phoenix who was jumping on his bed. "AB let me in. We always watch TV on Saturday morning. Say what you want about Equestrian TV, but you guys make some good TV shows." Phoenix explained not stopping his jumping on Big Mac's bed. "Why do I find it very creepy that ya hang out with my lil sister?", the stallion asked as he was about to prepare to kick his friend off his bed. "Which one? I'm friends with both of them... WHOA!" was all he could say before Big Mac gave him a kick, sending him towards the floor. "So anyway what's ya reason for waking me up this early?", Big Mac asked as he got up and walked over to his friend, he hoped Phoenix didn't hurt himself too much. "Don't you remember! It's the day of Messiah's test! We should go and support him with friendship... and stuff! I woke up early and was so excited that I couldn't sleep anymore! So I came here knowing either you or AB was awake. I have never been so excited! Well except that one time..." his dialogue was interrupted as the voice of Applebloom shouted that "It" was beginning. He quickly rushed downstairs leaving a confused Big Mac standing there. "He's like the annoying younger brother that I never wanted..." Big Mac said to himself while he headed towards the bathroom. Downstairs, Phoenix and Applebloom were seated in front of the box that slowly devours their soul day by day, I mean the television, with a big bowl of cereal as McGrath was sitting at the diner table drinking coffee with Granny Smith. Applebloom and Phoenix were absorbed by their favorite TV show, Might Rangers Feathermane Victory. It all happened during one of the times Phoenix babysit her as a favor to AJ or Granny Smith, and then he watched one episode with her, which became ten. Now he is a fan of it, weird how those things work. "Say, AB. Can I ask you something?" he asked, gaining a nod from his young friend, who gave him a nod, "Do you really like watching TV with me? I know I can sometimes overly edgy jokes and...". A loud scoff was heard from her before it turned into full blown laughter. "Edgy!? How are you overly edgy!? Your as edgy as a round table!" McGrath had to do his very best not to laugh at Phoenix reaction, as Granny Smith asked if they wanted some Apple family pie. "What kind of question is that? There must be something very wrong with me if I say no to freshly baked Apple family apple pie!", McGrath said as Applebloom and Phoenix agreed. As they were munching on the delicious treat, a cleaned up Big Macintosh entered the living room. Looking around he was missing his other sister, "Were's AJ?" he asked as Phoenix explained that she was probably still asleep. "Wait, you wake me up but not AJ!?" the stallion said offended as he got a surprised look from his two human friends. "Dude, as though as she is, your sister is still a girl. You can't just go inside a girls room unless she invites you in first." Phoenix explained. Big Mac shook his head as he poured himself a cup of coffee, "So your going by vampire rules now?". A few minutes later, the entire gang save Skywalker were walking to where Skywalker's test would take place. "I'm certain I have seen him somewhere before!" Applejack said to a listening Rarity and Sutakira, ever since this Neville had saved Sweet Apple Acres she couldn't get him out of her head. She had asked Phoenix about it, according to him it sounded like she had a crush on her mysterious savior. For some reason, Phoenix ended being hit in the back of his head by McGrath after he said that. As they arrived on the mountain spire were the test would take place, they couldn't see anyone. No living soul around, though they did notice the damage the field had sustained and the magic was still fresh in the air. After waiting a half hour, they started to get worried as they headed back into town. They first arrived back at Shoveitupyourass Street 15, where they could hear chatter coming from the living room. Rushing in, they saw Skywalker and Luna cuddling on the sofa. "Were have you guys been? Did you guys have an adventure without me!?" he said offended. Griffifth was the first to speak up, "Don't you have a test or something!?", the blond said as Skywalker gave them a puzzling look, "I already did and yes I passed." he said as he was bombarded with even more questions, like what he had to do, who did he had to fight, was he considered a princess now. "A princess?" Skywalker asked, giving a puzzling look to his girlfriend who just shrugged. "Yeah, like how Luna is the princess of the moon, Cadance is the princess of love and the fossil is the princess of the sun." Griffifth explained for Phoenix who was the one who asked the question. Luna gave a half insulted, half amused look at Griffifth referring to her sister as a 'fossil'. "He would probably be the princess of circle jerking." Phoenix said, gaining a confused look from the rest. "Circle jerking? What is this 'circle jerking' thou speakest of?" Luna asked. Sutakira was the first to speak up, "'Circle Jerk' is a pejorative slang term referring to a positive feedback loop which occurs when an idea, belief or meme that is already customary within an online community becomes re-iterated and rewarded in a perpetual cycle, giving rise to redundancy, clichés and karma whoring." Sutakira explained, gaining a puzzling look from the rest. "Did anyone understood that last part?" Griffifth asked and to nobodies surprise, Twilight did. Pinkie bounced up and down, "But were forgetting the most important part here! Skywalker has passed his test! You know what that means!" she exclaimed as everybody shouted at the same time, "A party!". Later that night as everyone is dancing, Skywalker walked out to the backyard, somewhat glad to get away from the loud music. When he's happy, he liked to be alone every now and then and tend to enjoy a nice view. Apparently, the silence is short lived since Aether comes out with him a few minutes later. "Strange." Aether said turning away from Skywalker, gaining a puzzling look from him, "Each one's power is limited... Yet, they all reach out to you... What you have in your hands is the power of the Universe... Nothing is outside the realm of possibility for you now." she said as she turned back to a confused looking Skywalker as she continued, "You must accept your destiny, Knight Of The Wind. For if you fail, we leave the fate of all Worlds to chance. You cannot lose, you must not fail.". Skywalker had enough of this as he shouted, "Hey, I'm nineteen years old! How much pressure are you gonna put on me!?". Aether was taken aback by this as she muttered something about him being 'the chosen one'. "Yeah, so was Anakin Skywalker and look how well that turned out!". Aether gave a soft sigh before giving him a warm smile, "There is nothing left for me to teach you. We will meet again someday, Ser Skywalker." she said as she stepped forward, he was a little sad about her leaving, he can't have some weird Alicorn live inside your head for a year and not build a bond with her, "Though, parting words aren't what I have for you... For us goddesses I'm sure this is a sin. Close your eyes, why you ask? So that you don't witness my sinfulness." she requested of him. Against his better judgement, he complied, shutting his eyes. Moments later he could feel warm lips on his own. As he opened his eyes, Aether was staring at him, a blush gracing her golden skin. "Why did I steal a kiss? Is that what you were going to ask? But it's you who was the thief." she said teasingly, confusing the crap out of him. Aether turned around, trying to hide her blush or sinfulness as she would call it from him, "After I leave, please tell Celestia and Luna that their parents are proud of them.", she said, gaining a nod from the young knight, "Now, go forth! The time has come. Let us make the future, so do not be afraid and do not worry. You are the one, who will lead the Worlds to salvation." and with these final words, Aether disappeared in shimmering stardust. "What are you doing out here when everyone else is inside?" a female voice said. Turning around, he saw Celestia walk towards him. "I like to simmer down a bit and just be grateful for everything I have in my life, you know?" he told her as she stopped at his side. The princess of the sun nodded before saying, "I understand. I used to be that way as well." . Skywalker remembered what he promised to Aether a few moments ago, he turned to his mentor, "Celestia, I have to tell you... Your parents are proud of you and Luna." he told her gaining a questioning look from the princess. "Well, who told you that?" she asked amused as Skywalker explained an Alicorn who used to live in head called Aether. Celestia chuckled at this, "Jason, the only pony who had that name was my mother. And the only way you could have talked to her is if you were related to her somehow", she said as she turned her back to him as she headed back to the party, leaving a shocked Skywalker standing there. > Chapter 54: A Not So Hearts And Hooves Day > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The early hours of the day, more specificly the early hours of Hearts And Hooves Day. From what Sutakira could find out, it was similar to Valentine's Day on their World. Sutakira was currently walking Applejack back to Sweet Apple Acres. Though she insisted she didn't need someone to look out for her, he did it because it was the right thing to do. "Well if ya insist on walking me home, can I ask ya something?" the cowpony asked gaining a nod. "Have you noticed anything different about Big Mac? He seems kinda quiet.". Sutakira had to go over that statement again, "Big Mac and quiet? Like that is anything new!" he said jokingly, gaining a chuckle from his friend. She had to admit she could have phrased that better, "I mean, more quieter than usual. He seems... unsure of himself. Could ya and the other guys talk to him about it?", she asked him. He promised to talk with the others about it, gaining a grateful smile from his orange friend, "Thanks, partner! I think he's had more fun hanging out with you guys lately... The same is true for me.", she admitted with a small blush, though Sutakira didn't notice it. "Your birthday is coming up soon, right?" Sutakira asked, gaining a nod from his friend. "I was just wondering if you had anything planned for that day.". Applejack thought about it for a minute before shaking her head, "Not really. I'm probably just gonna stay home with the family. I'm fine with keeping it low-key. I don't want a big old party just for become a year older." she said much to Sutakira's surprise. "Better hope Pinkie doesn't have anything planned. But Knowing her, she probably already does." he said with a chuckle as his orange friend had to chuckle herself. Meanwhile over at Canterlot Castle, Skywalker was standing on one of the towers, looking over the city while thinking about what he had found out a few weeks ago. It was true what Celestia had said about only being able to talk to someones ghost or spirit if your related to them. He was certain that Aether wasn't some fabric of his very messed up brain, but that only left one other option. He had to tell Luna about him possibly being related to Celestia, but he was scared to do so. He just felt so happy being with her, he wanted it to continue for as long as possible. "Is something wrong, beloved?" the voice of his girlfriend brought him out of his train of thought, as he saw the blue eyes of his significant other looking worriedly at him as she landed next to him. "It's nothing Lulu. I have just been wondering... Did Celestia ever had a child or anything?", he asked her with a reassuring smile. Now she knew he was hiding something, though he had that annoying thought that he had to be some sort of Superman that doesn't have any weakness or flaws. "You didn't heard this from me... but yes." Luna told him as she explained what happened. A thousand years ago, Celestia was... intimate with a knight named Caelumaruku. Even though Luna was still young at the time, she knew Celestia had given birth to his child but not what had happened to it. "I see... Lulu, there is something I must tell you." he said as he started to explain. Celestia was sitting in her personal study as she looked out of the window. It had been a eventful few years, thanks to the Harmonic Heroes, she had her sister back, Discord got sealed back into stone, Chrysalis was now imprisoned in her castle along with her Changelings. They even had managed to defeat Sombra and free the Crystal Empire from his dark grasp. Though all those victories were because of their friendship, she couldn't help but think of the one behind it all, Jason Sephiroth Skywalker. As soon as he arrived in Equestria, he stood up to Nightmare Moon, became their leader, gathered people. Equestria has come to revere him as their greatest hero and a icon, someone they could look up to and be inspired to be like. And yet, she couldn't shake the feeling she knew him, as her thought drifted back to twenty years ago. Canterlot Castle, Throne Room, Twenty years ago. It been an average day for the ruler of Equestria, some nobles asking her to solve their problems, trade discussion with foreign diplomats, the usual. But all that changed when a guard came rushing in, shouting something about two two-legged creatures asking for an audience. Excited that something different was happening, they're request was approved. Much her surprise, two ape like creatures entered the throne room, a man and a woman. The man was tall with a muscular build. He wore a black long coat with a single white pauldron on his right shoulder, white armored boots and black trousers. The top of his coat is open to reveal his chest. His hair is spiky in the back, and he has chin-length bangs that parted down to frame both sides of his face. His companion was obviously a woman, she was dressed in a light gray long sleeved hooded shirt with a sleeveless dark brown leather wrapping, trousers, leather calf braces, leather wrap arm bracers, a white sleeveless surcoat, and leather foot wear. Her long very dark almost black reddish hair fell over her shoulders. What struck Celestia the most was her faintly glowing amber eyes, they looked similar to her deceased coltfriend. Both the figures have a small bow before her as a sign of respect. The male was the first to speak up unfazed by the unicorn guards who had him under aim, watching his every move. "Good afternoon your highness. My name is Marc Morgenstern, Keyblade Knight First Class and this is Superius Knight, Lily Skywalker.", Marc introduced both of them as the woman gave Celestia a respectful nod. "A pleasure to meet you. Though I assume that you did not request an audience with me just to say hallo." Celestia said, gaining a nod from the duo. "Indeed, time is of the essence so I shall speak plainly. We came to you with a warning.", Marc explained to her, making the guards even more nervous than they already were. "We are at war with The Outsiders, rebels who have turned away from The Council and are waging war on all Worlds. The Superius Order and The Council have joined forces to protect the Worlds and put a stop to them. Our side is currently winning the war, The Outsiders are on the run and we have it on good Intel that they are planning to take their final stand right here in Equestria. We're not asking you to fight at our side, all we ask is that you do everything in your power to protect the lives of your subjects.". Celestia was intrigued by this, not only had humans survived Discord's onslaught of them, but they survived the separation of the Worlds. She had no reason to trust the two in front of her, but she had sworn to protect the citizens of Equestria. For some reason, the sincerity in the voice of this Marc Morgenstern convinced her that helping them was the right thing to do. This also gave her an excuse to talk to this, Lily Skywalker. "Alright, Morgenstern, Skywalker. I will not only protect my citizens, but my army will fight along side yours. Together we will make sure the threat of The Outsiders ends here.", she declared as the two humans in front of her nodded respectfully. Celestia was brought out of her reminiscing by a knock on the door, feeling a certain aura creeping through the door, she already knew who it was. "Come in Jason, the door is open." she said with a smile as the young man who she had come to see as the son she never had walked in to the room. Much to her surprise, his usual calm and relaxed expression was replaced by one of worry and nervouse. "Something wrong, Jason?" she asked as she gestured him to take a seat. "Yeah, there is something..." he said taking a seat in the chair on the other side of her desk. A few hours later, Phoenix woke up in his bed. It was this day of the year again, the day it all changed for him. After taking a long shower and dressing himself in a simple dark blue jeans and a red t-shirt. Walking downstairs he could see Big Macintosh waiting for him, much to the others surprise. "Phoenix, I need your help. According to the other guys you have been with a lot of women.", the red stallion started, he wanted this day to confess his crush on Fluttershy, though he had no idea how to go about it. Sure Phoenix annoyed him sometimes, but their was no denying he knew his way with the ladies. "...So your saying I'm a man whore?", Phoenix responded emotionless, this surprised Big Mac. The response he got was in character for him but what happened to his usual energetic and excited tone he used to say it, as if you were talking to a male Pinkie Pie. "I didn't mean it like that!" Big Mac quickly said but he was cut off by Phoenix. "Big Red, I would love to help you get rejected by Sunshine any day of the week. But not today.", Phoenix said as he headed out of the door, the way he said it, as if he was dead inside left Big Mac completely shocked. "What just happened?" Big Mac said to himself as Sutakira came down stairs, seeing the surprised look on his friends face. "Ah, its that day again..." Sutakira said sadly after Big Mac explained what happened. Noticing the confused look on his friends face, Sutakira explained what was getting the normally genki-boy Phoenix down. "This is the day Phoenix lost both his sister and father.", he said gaining a a shocked gasp from Big Mac. After his short conversation with Big Mac, Phoenix landed on one of the higher hills surrounding Ponyville. Taking a seat on one of the benches he stared down to the village he had come to love. The people and ponies he cared about the most lived here, except two girls, a guy, a moose and a snowman but they are a different story. Some of them he had come to see as family, though the scar this day had left would never truly heal. He couldn't help but think back at that faithful day. Fourteen years ago, United Federations. A seven year old Phoenix was sitting outside his dad's office with his ten year old sister. Their father was some higher upper councilman or something he didn't understood yet. Their mother died seven years ago, when she gave birth to Phoenix. Sometimes he felt he killed her but both his sister and especially his dad assured him that was not true. But seeing as their dad had to work all the time, this left the two sibling to spend most of their time together. Today was the start of their dad's vacation, he had asked what they wanted to do but all they wanted was spend time with him. After a few minutes later, Charles Phoenix came out his office. Appearance wise, he looked like Phoenix when he would be forty years old, the only difference was that his hair was brown as opposed to both his kids who had inherited their mother's red hair but he was happy that both his children had inherited his purple colored eyes. Taking both his kids hands, they prepared to leave when suddenly one of his colleagues came running up to him, he seemed panicked. "Charles! We have a big problem! The UF Council have called for a vote for 'Plan Sentinel' and they placed ships around New Genesis.", the colleague, gaining a shocked look from Charles. Before either of his kids could ask anything, their dad rushed off to the conference room as they quickly followed him. As they neared it they could hear a heated debate raging. "A attack with so much force on such a small country will only generate more hate from the Supremehumans and garner more support from their cause.", one congress woman said. "Please, force is the only thing a man like Marc Morgenstern understands! Have we forgotten how he sacked Los Angeles?" another congress man asked as they entered the room. "We can't support a weapon that targets our own citizens. If these Supremehumans as you describe are living here, they are living here peacefully!" another one argued as a loud crack was heard above them. Their debate was interrupted as the roof was ripped off the building, they could see that it was the Dark Messiah, Marc Morgenstern, himself levitating the roof with his mind as he slowly floated inside, softly landing on the ground. With a wave of his hand, five mirrors with obsidian markings appeared above him, broadcasting what he is about to say across the entire planet and showing the UF Council that he knew about 'Plan Sentinel', weapons meant to hunt down those with special powers. He gave one last look at the plans before addressing the UF. "You plan to built these weapons to destroy us. Why? Because you are afraid of our gifts? Because we are different? Humanity has always feared that which is different. Well, I'm here to tell you, to tell the world, you're right to fear us.", he told them, his voice was calm but behind it they could feel his rage, "This morning, in a small country city in the USA, a young Supremehuman was killed. He was but a child, he had done nothing to deserve that. And I have sworn that if any Supremehuman would be killed, I will be their avenging angel. Anyone who stands in our way will suffer the same fate. Today you wanted to display your power. Instead, I give you a glimpse of the devastation my race can unleash upon yours. Let this be a warning to the world." he declared before turning his attention to one of the mirrors, "And to my brothers and sisters out there, I say this: no more hiding. No more suffering. You have lived in the shadows in shame and fear for too long. Come out. Join me.", he declared turning his attention back to congress. Much to his surprise Charles had walked up to him. After telling his kids to stay behind, Charles rushed down to the stage, while Charles himself wasn't a short man by any means, even he had Morgenstern tower over him. "Please, Lord Morgenstern, don't do this. You'd be giving Anti-SH supporters exactly what they want, a reason for humanity to fear and hate us..." he argued with the Dark Messiah, and much to his surprise, Charles wasn't blasted to bits the second he spoke up. "You think they need a reason? How long will it be before they turn on you, Charles Phoenix? Or forbid, they would go after your little Ashley or Kyle when they suspect they might be one of us?", Morgenstern argued back, gaining a shocked look from Charles, how did he knew his secret. Unbeknownst to either man, snipers had slowly taking up shot, taking aim at the Dark Messiah but one of his rival congressmen had ordered a shot to be taken at Charles as well. Noticing a small red dot on Morgenstern chest, Charles didn't think as he pushed him quickly out of the way as shot were fired, Charles taking the full blunt of the attack. In a fit of rage, Morgenstern fired at the snipers with his Azure Beams, destroying the balcony. The room was throw into chaos as soldiers entered the room taking shots at the Dark Messiah and congress members trying to get to safety. Morgenstern didn't even bother to dodge their bullets as all of them simply bounced off him. Ashley Phoenix was trying her very best to protect her little brother but a shot was fired and something warm leaked from his stomach. The last thing Phoenix remembered was the screams of his sister slowly fading away as a cold blackness swallowed him. Back in the present, Phoenix was brought back from his reminiscing as he heard heavy hoofsteps walking towards them, turning around he saw a nervous looking Big Mac standing behind him. "Uhm... Hi. This seat taken?" he asked nervously. Phoenix gestured for him to sit down, which he did as a awkward silence followed. "I... Uhm... I heard about your dad and sister... And I'm sorry to hear what happened. If there is anything I could do to help you...", Big Mac said, not getting a reaction from his friend. Phoenix took a deep sigh before turning his gaze towards his friend, "There isn't, but thanks anyway Big Red." he said with a sad smile before turning serious again, "Say, why are you so sad looking the past few weeks and don't say there is nothing, we all noticed it." he asked. Big Mac tried to deny it before caving in and explain that he feels like the load to the rest of the Harmonic Heroes. And for the first time in years, Phoenix broke out in laughter on this day of the year. Big Mac gave him an offended look as Phoenix tried to speak, "I-I'm sorry! But you are not the load just because you don't have any super powers! First off, you are one of the most loyal guys I have ever met! Secondly, you are an Earth Pony! If you just realized it, you would know that out of all three races, Earth Pony's have incredible defense but aren't lacking in attack either. Pegasi have a incredible offense but weak defense, and Unicorn's most powerful attacks take time to charge up, and the rest of their spells merely weaken an opponent instead of killing them. Though the three races theoretically counter each other due to something similar like Rock-Paper-Scissors, Sutakira mathematically broke down the 7000+ ways a fight between the three races can play out. Earth Ponies wins 48% of the time, Pegasi 35%, and Unicorns 17%. Also with your strength, I believe you could take three out of five of the guys in a straight up fist fight." Phoenix explained, putting Big Mac's greatest fear at ease. After few more minutes, Phoenix and Big Mac were walking back to Shoveitupyourass Street 15, both feeling lighter after their talk. "Oh and I promise, I will do everything in my power to help you win Sunshine over." Phoenix declared but Big Mac told him it was alright. "No, no. I will help you, besides I got McGrath and Rarity together didn't I? What? You thought me and him were outside when I knew it was gonna storm that night?", Phoenix said with a smirk, making his friend shake his head. If it was true what he said, then Big Mac needed to make a mental note to never piss Phoenix off. "I'm curious, Phoenix. Do you have a special somepony?" Big Mac asked, at those words Phoenix closed his eyes as he saw before him a young tall, slender woman, with long, platinum-blonde hair woven in a French braided, blue eyes, a very pale skin with a light dusting of freckles. "I... Don't know. Don't think she likes me that way.", Phoenix admitted. He had seen beautiful woman in his live but for some reason, she stuck in his mind. Maybe he should visit her again, he was always welcome she had said. > Chapter 55: Never Turn Back > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mizuki woke up with a shock, yesterday was not a good day for her, the event that destroyed her whole world happened fourteen years ago. Though she had to admit while it had been the worse day of her entire life, if it hadn't happened she would never have met him. Suddenly, she felt two muscular arms coil around her naked waist, as his soft voice whispered in her ear, "Are you alright, Mizu?". Turning around, she saw the two beautiful shining blue eyes. "Is there something you want to talk about? There is nothing outside this room just you and me.", Morgenstern said as he placed a kiss on the side of her neck. She giggled softly before planting a soft kiss on his lips, "It's nothing. Though I have been a naughty girl, master." she said as she rubbed her chest on his chest. "Your into some kinky things, my faithful apprentice.", Morgenstern told her as she climbed on top of him. Meanwhile in Manehatten at the Southern branch of the National Bank of Equestria, a group of thieves were holding it up. Wow, and here I thought stuff like that didn't happen in Equestria, then again we only have seen Ponyville, Canterlot and the Crystal Empire. Anyways, back to the situation at hand. "I got all the bits I could. There's still some in there though.", the earth ponies said to his colleague while they loaded the loot in a get-away carriage while the unicorn kept the guards occupied. "We ain't got time to go back in. Let's move out, boys.", the leader a pegasus said as they prepared to leave, but all of them froze in fear as the sound of a sonic boom was heard and moments later a black blur landed between them and the guards. Standing up to his full length, Skywalker glared at them, he was not having a good day. Firstly, after a simple test, it appeared that Skywalker was indeed a descendant of Celestia. After hearing the uhm... news, they told Luna. She did not take it well... And now she wasn't even speaking to him. Secondly, because Skywalker is related to Celestia, somehow, that also meant he was related to Blueblood of all people! "I give you one chance to surrender." Skywalker told them but apparently they were quite arrogant as they stood ready to fight him, "I was hoping for that.", he told them as he uncrossed his arms. One of the unicorn suddenly sends a magic bullet at him, but the spell didn't have enough power to even cause a slight discomfort on Skywalker. Taking a deep breath, Skywalker exhaled a freezing air, encasing the attacking unicorn around his head. His balance lost, the unicorn stumbles forward towards Skywalker, who hits him against the head with a back spinning kick, due to which he slams head first against stairs, the ice around his head shatters as he stays down. The Earth Pony enraged by what happened to his friend, charges Skywalker by jumping up. However, before he could land Skywalker sends out a telekinetic blast, catapulting the attacking him high into the air, falling on a wire suspended from one building to the other. From the wire, the Earth Pony is catapulted against a wooden advertising board, falls down on the pentice of a shop, is thrown off of there into a tapestry, which rips under his weight, before flopping on the ground where he lies still. Seeing two of his allies defeated, the Pegasus turned towards Skywalker ready to attack but was surprised as Skywalker took the offence. He jumps forward, he reaches the Pegasus, he grabs him by the front hooves, turns him around one time to build up momentum, as Skywalker throws the Pegasus up while kicking him through the window of a shop at the opposite side of the street. With the threat neutralized, Skywalker did a quick scan to see if anyone got hurt. Much to his discomfort, instead of cheering they were kneeling before him, as if he was some sort of god. Taking quickly to the air, Skywalker made his way back to Ponyville. "First Lulu doesn't talk to me anymore, I have this cult on my hands, an assassin who is after me and my friends and now the ponies are starting to worship me... This is really not a good day... Wow, my thinking voice sounds funny.", he thought to himself, Ponyville soon coming into few. Meanwhile at Shoveitupyourass Street, McGrath was watching the news about the attempted bank robbery in Manehatten and he was not having a good day, normally Rarity's presence was enough to break him out of it, but today not even the presence of his girlfriend could cheer him up, on top of that he had this irritating itch right above his butt. "Watching the news again?", Rarity asked him, making her coltfriend rolled his eyes. "Well, it changes every day, you see." he snarked at her. Moments later a letter appeared in his hand in a bright flash. Recognized the handwriting, McGrath quickly opened it and took in the context, a determent look creeping into his eyes. "So what was that assassin's name again?" Pinkie asked Phoenix as both walked around the Market place. "Mizuki or something. Why do you ask?" he answered. He suspected that Pinkie might have been worried about being attack by the red headed assassin, as she was ordered to take out one of the EoH wielders. But much to his surprised Pinkie casually stated, "Oh. Her. I see her at the Sugarcube Corner sometimes. Threatens to turn you into a toad and eat you if you beat her at cards.". "You're... joking." Phoenix said slowly as his pink friend replied with a "Perhaps.". Before she could say anything else, she saw McGrath hastily walking towards the Everfree Forest, leaving Phoenix behind she quickly followed him. "McGrath, were are you going!?" she asked as she walked up next to him. "They found him. I'm going to finish it." McGrath said as he opened a portal to the human world. Before he could enter it, Pinkie got in his way, "McGrath, you can't do this alone. I'm coming with you whatever you like it or not." she said as she expected resistance but all she got was a, "Alright, lets go.", as he walked through the portal. Earth, Twiy Town, Train station. McGrath landed softly on his feet, using the portals was similar to his teleportation ability, so it wasn't that difficult for him. Looking over his shoulder to see if Pinkie was okay, and much so his surprise she wasn't the mare he was used too. Before him sat a young lady, about his age with puff pink hair that was unmistakably that of his pink friend. Much to his embarrassed (and possibly delight if his little friend was to believed) she was completely naked. "We made it, McGrath! Whoa, why is everything so wobbily?" she said as she tried to walk on two legs but not used to it, she fell over. Acting on instinct, McGrath reached forward, quickly grabbing her. His face became a soft shade of red as he realized her breast were rubbing against him. "Why am I one of you guys?", she asked as she tried to stand again. McGrath took off his hoodie placing it on his naked friend as he spoke, "I assume its because the magic that exist between the Worlds. Maybe its so their would be no panic or something, shit I don't know." he said, his explanation being as good as any for now. Though it didn't explain why he and his friends didn't turn into ponies when they entered Equestria. "I think we should get you some clothes before we head out..." McGrath noted as he took her hand, making her blush. As they made their way to the shopping district, Pinkie looked around. This place looked nothing like Ponyville, it looked more like Manehatten if everybody spoke with an accent similar to Rarity's. Come to think of it, McGrath himself spoke with a light hint of that same accent. Soon, the two of them arrived at the store where they could find some clothes for Pinkie. Much to Pinkie's surprise all the clothes were really, really, really expensive. Informing McGrath of this, he ensured her that he would take care of it as he walked towards one of the sales woman, who after a few words from him made a slight bow before him. "Thanks for waiting, Pinkie.", McGrath said to an awed Pinkie as he walked over to the clothing line, looking for fitting clothes for her. "At the very least, I need to be able to choose some clothes for her. Maybe I should go with pink.", McGrath thought to himself as Pinkie watched him and felt very touched. After a few minutes, Pinkie had picked out a short sleeved shirt in a similar pink to her usual coat, a light blue hot pants, knee high socks and a pair of pink sneakers. "I think you'll look great in these clothes.", McGrath said as she nodded, giving him a serious look and pulled him inside the dressing room with her. "What are you doing?" McGrath said in an angry whisper, as Pinkie got his back against the wall. "W-what are you doing Pinkie Pie?", he asked her again, his face turning a soft shade of red. "McGrath, I've never worn anything like this. I don't know how to put on these human clothes. Will you dress me?", she asked him, making him flinch. "I couldn't do something as embarrassing as that." he told her as he scratched the back of his brown hair. "I don't mind being seen by you." Pinkie told him as she trailed a finger over his muscular chest. "You should mind.". Meanwhile over at Sugarcube Corner, Rainbow had dragged Skywalker out of his room to get some drinks with her, both were sitting at a table, though Skywalker wasn't that talkative. He had tried to talk to Luna again but she wasn't around according to Celestia. "Hey Jason buddy?", Rainbow said, as Skywalker looked up painfully at her, "How is it going? Did something happen this morning.", he had told her about him being Celestia's descendant, he was taking that just fine (save for being related to Blueblood), but Luna not talking to him was eating away at him. "I just drew the blinds, opened the liquor and crank the tunes...", he told her, making her ask if it was "Castello?" he was listening too, but Skywalker admitted that is was "Phil Collins...", stunning her. "...Wow...", she said slowly as Skywalker said, "Yeah...". Back at Pinkie and McGrath, the two friends had were walking through Twiy town after getting Pinkie her clothes. The one thing she did noticed that some people gave her green eyed friend a look of awe. Not long after, they found themselves in front a large building, on top of it, Pinkie could see a see a big MC like logo with under it, 'MC Enterprises'. She turned back to McGrath, but she saw him simply walk towards the front door. She quickly followed him as the front door slipped open, they found themselves in the front lobby, the floor and walls were made of black marble, humans in business suits coming in and out of this weird door. Pinkie assumed they had to talk to the lady at the front desk, but again McGrath simply walked to one of the weird doors, which was something called an 'elevator'. After a short elevator ride, the both of them got at the fifteen floor, nobody stopped them as they came to a stop at a large oak wooden door. "Shall we knock? No, let's surprised them.", McGrath said more to himself as he kicked the door in, before walking inside. The gathered people looked up as McGrath strode past, as if he owned the place as he came to a stop at the head of the table. Placing his hand on it, he took a seat before addressing those who gathered. "Anyone not related to me, GTFO.", he commanded as all but two got up and quickly made to the door. After they closed the door, the young man and lady walked to them, both with soft smiles on their face. The male one was relatively well build, his brownish blond hair swept back, with a strand hanging down his face, his sharp emerald green eyes would make even the most hardened mare blush. He was dresses in a black business suit with a matching tie, white dress shirt and brown leather shoes. The female one was also relatively well build, her body wouldn't be out of place for a model, her brown hair reached down to her lower back, the front of her hair cut in a typical hime cut, her sharp emerald green eyes would make even the most hardened guy blush. She was dresses in a white business suit with a black tie, white dress shirt and brown leather shoes. "Hallo Neville." McGrath said with a hint of distaste in his voice towards the man called Neville. "Hallo, little brother.", he replied as Pinkie looked on in shock. Before more could be said, the girl got between them, "Easy there you two. I am sure my favorite little brother didn't got all the way back home just to bicker with you." she said calming the two down a little. "I am your only little brother, Emma!", McGrath said as he rolled his eyes, which made Pinkie gasp in surprise, drawing the attention from Neville and Emma. Emma was the first to speak up, "Oh hallo, didn't see you there. My name is Emma McGrath and this is Neville McGrath.", she explained as the two girls shook hands, the girls accent and the way she carried herself made her remind Pinkie of Rarity. Getting a good look at the other young man, Pinkie gasped in shock, "Wait a minute, I know you! Your that guy who saved AJ's farm." Pinkie said to Neville who gave out a little chuckle. "Actually it would be more accurate to say that my little brother over here saved Miss AJ's farm. After all the money came out of his personal bank account." Neville explained, all three chuckled as they could see McGrath giving them an annoying look. "Anyways, who are you exactly? My darling little brother doesn't bring any friend home with her. Wait, are you perhaps this Rarity we have him talk so much about?". At this a tomato red McGrath stood up, saying that he wants the information they had. "Of course." Neville said as he handed McGrath a file, which he quickly studied. Giving them a nod, McGrath turned around gesturing Pinkie to follow him, "Do you want me to get your limo?" Neville asked but McGrath kept walking, "We'll take the Murcielago.", McGrath told him as his siblings shook his head. "Much more subtle." Emma noted as Pinkie turned around, "My name is Pinkie Pie by the way." Back over at Ponyville, Skywalker and Rainbow Dash were still at Sugarcube Corner as they drowned a few more beers. "W-Wait a minute... Does Sugarcube Corner have a permit to serve alcohol?" Skywalker thought to himself not noticing that Fluttershy was walking up behind them. With a devilish grin Rainbow asked, "So Jason. What's your type of girl?", she couldn't help but chuckle at Skywalker's surprised face and as Fluttershy's ears peak up. Skywalker thought about it for a moment before speaking up, "I never stopped to think about it. I guess she doesn't need to have super powers. Sure, it would be great if she had, its a great way to reach a level of understanding that takes much longer otherwise. As long we support each other and be there for each other, to go through everything it's good enough for me. I'm a magnet for trouble, so she would be put through some very weird and dangerous situations.", he explained as his best friend nodded, while their yellow friend was listening intensely. "I like girls who I can talk to and make me laugh, but I also like a girl who can appreciate the moment and be silent, just hanging out together. She doesn't needs to be smoking hot. I'm a realistic guy. But being cute helps." he continued as Rainbow chuckled, "I see.", she said as she gave him a mocking grin. "Come on! Don't look at me like that! I bet all you girls would like a cute guy too, right?... right? I am going to die single." Skywalker said depressed as he bumped his head on the table. Back at McGrath and Pinkie, who were currently driving over a quite rode. Pinkie didn't knew much about these things humans called 'cars' other that it was also a movie, but she remembered Sutakira once telling her that 'Lamborghini's' were expensive cars. During the ride, McGrath explained to her where they were going and what they would be doing there. "Well, this is the big moment. I hope you will not be disappointed." Pinkie said to him. "Disappointment is not a option. That man destroyed everything that was good and innocent about me. This is all that is left of me. What am I good at, Pinkie?", McGrath replied, surprising her with the amount of bitterness in his voice. "I will tell you what you are good at, McGrath.", she said trying to reassure him, "You are a good friend and no matter what you say there is still humanity in you. You still have the power to be good. It's important that you believe that.". McGrath contemplated what she said before saying slowly, "Maybe I will start to believe that when father is dead. That might give me some perspective.". Not much later, McGrath parked the car in front of a small cottage deep inside the forest. Pinkie noted that the building looked abandoned and hadn't been lived in for ages. McGrath was about to step out of the car but Pinkie stopped him by placing her hand on his, "Once this is done, then you must begin to forgive. Think about your future instead of the horrible things that have happened to you in the past." she said as her best friend turned his emerald green eyes to the cottage. "After this is done, then we can talk about forgiveness and redemption. Now is not the time for such conversation. This is where it all ends.", McGrath said as he stepped out of the car. McGrath was at the front door within a few steps, he didn't bother to knock as with a swift kick he broke open the door, making it left hanging from its hinges as he stepped in side with Pinkie quickly following him. Despise being right behind him, McGrath had already disappeared from the hall way, thought she found him quickly as his voice came out of one of the rooms upstairs. "You remember me!?" the voice of McGrath shouted as Pinkie quickly made her way upstairs as another voice was heard, "Leave me alone. I don't know you. I don't know you." the voice replied weakly as it let out a heavy cough before a heavy slam was heard. "Yes, you do. Just tell me why.", the coldness in McGrath's voice shocking Pinkie. As she entered the study room, she saw what the slam was, McGrath was a man by the color of his dress shirt against a wall, shockingly to her the man McGrath was holding looked exactly like a older version of him. "Tell me, what made it okay for you to experiment on your own son!", he asked him coldly, a look in his eyes that made even Pinkie scared of McGrath. "Supremehumans, since the discovery of their existence they have been regarded with fear, suspicion, often hatred. Are they the next link in the evolutionary chain or simply a new species of humanity fighting for their share of the world? Never before, in all of human history, has there been a cause which could unite us as a species... but the most frustrating thing I've learned is that nobody really knows how many even exist." McGrath's father explained, as his son looked at him in anger, "We were trying to build weapons who could stand up to them, sentinels for humanity. It was your mothers idea to infect her with the M-Genes, passing her powers on to her unborn son, and we succeeded. Those test we put you through, they were harsh but you were the Ultimate Life Form. A fortunate side effect of your abilities was that your blood had became a cure. A cure for nearly all known disease, unfortunately your mother didn't allow me to drain you for...". He was interrupted by a loud gasp from Pinkie, as both man turned their attention to her, "He is your son! How could you have...", Pinkie shouted completely shocked, she couldn't understand how someone could do something like that to their own flesh and blood. "My son is dead! Just like the rest of you.", McGrath's father shouted in anger but he looked shocked as McGrath let out a loud roar, throwing his father across the room sending him into another wall. "So that makes it okay? You ruined me, you neuk!", McGrath shouted as he slowly walked towards the coughing form of his father, "Kill me, then! Trust me, you'll be doing me a favor." he shouted while getting to his knees as his son conjured a golden energy spear inside the palm of his hand."Pinkie... Go wait in the car...", McGrath ordered, the coldness of his voice scaring even Pinkie. Much to his surprise he could feel a small hand pulling at his sleeve. "McGrath... come on, let's go. Let him suffer... he knows what he did. He doesn't look like he enjoys life too much. Come on.", Pinkie begged him, she didn't know why but she felt that if McGrath would do this things would only get worse for him. McGrath launched the speak into the wall behind his father as he took a swing at his father with his left hand, his fist connecting with his father's jaw, sending him to the ground as he lost contentious, "That was for everyone. That was for me.", McGrath stated with heavy breathing as he turned around to leave. On the way out, he spotted a flipped over leather briefcase, its files spilling out, one file was named 'Project D. McGrath'. On the drive back home, McGrath had placed the leather briefcase and its content in his drunk. After they left the house, neither Pinkie or McGrath himself had said a word. Pulling up a red light, Pinkie finally decided to speak up, "You did the right thing, McGrath. It is not often that someone can be sure of that but you definitely did the right thing. Be proud of yourself.", she told him trying to cheer her up, but all he could respond with was a cold laughter. "Let's have a neuking party, break out the champagne. I let a diseased, asshole live after hunting him for over a decade. Bloody hell, someone hand me the keys to the neuking city!", McGrath shouted angrily as the light turn green. Pinkie looked to the side before slowly saying, "There's no need to take that tone, McGrath.". McGrath shook his head before saying, "I'm sorry if my tone offends you, Pinkie Pie." much to her surprise he sounded sincere, "But this has been a very difficult moment for me. It took every fiber of my being to not kill my father, to not get revenge for all he has done to me.", he said as he pulled up at parking garage of MC Enterprises. "What made you spare him?", Pinkie asked curiously as he turned down the engine. It took him some minutes before finding the answer, "I don't know. I wanted it for so long. He would just be dead, but then, when I looked at him, I realized that nothing would change if I killed him, revenge would not somehow shut the book on what he had done to me.", McGrath said, his vision becoming fogging, he could his eyes become wet with tears. He felt a small hand wipe away the tear that had managed to escape his left eye before two arms enveloped him in a hug . "So, keep living and try to have a happy life. Try to move on, and me and the rest of our friend will be right behind you.", Pinkie told him as she stared into his emerald green eyes. McGrath gave a small nod before taking out his phone, dialing up his sister, to tell her what had happened. A few hours later, Pinkie and McGrath arrived back at Ponyville. McGrath walked her back to Sugarcube Corner, neither of them talking much. Though Pinkie was happy to be back on for legs, she still wasn't happy that her best buddy was still having that sad scowl on his face. "We're back home, do you want to come in and play with the twins?", Pinkie asked, she didn't like it when her friends were sad, especially McGrath, he was way cuter when he was happy. "No, I need to be alone." McGrath told her and much to her surprise, he gave her that smile which she found so attractive, "Thank you for coming with me, Pinkie. If there is anything you need help with, anything at all, don't be afraid to ask me for help". Pinkie nodded, "Do not mention it, McGrath.", much to her surprise his smile disappeared and he looked serious again. "Stop that, I want you to stop calling me McGrath. I want you to call me by my first name.", he told her much to her surprise, even Rarity didn't call him by his first name. Then again nobody knows McGrath's first name. "I don't know your first name...", she informed him. McGrath closed his eyes as he let out a soft chuckle, "My first name? My first name is...". > Chapter 56: Vacation Times > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Early in the morning, Sweet Apple Acres. Big Mac woke up with his bed shaking, looking up he saw Phoenix dressed in a red t-shirt and beige jeans jumping on his bed, now he knew something important was happening today. "Wake up, Big Red! Today is the day we're going on that vacation Celestia paid for us as a thank you for saving Equestria a bunch of times!", Phoenix shouted excitedly before levitating mid air to dodge Big Mac's kick. "I know, just give me a minute...", Big Mac said as he got out of bed. "Ya know, I have been thinking." Phoenix said through the bath room door while Big Mac was doing his morning routine. "Ah, I hope it didn't hurt to much." Big Mac replied sarcastically. "Haha, very funny. Anyways, So when we are on this vacation I thought we put plan 'HBRUWS' into action!" Phoenix informed him as Big Mac came out of the bath room with a odd look. "Hook Big Red Up With Sunshine, him not good at naming missions. But, I promised that I would help you out with that." Phoenix told him as he helped Big Mac carry his suitcase down the stairs. "Really? I thought you were joking about that.", Big Mac admitted as he, Phoenix and Applejack made their way to the Train Station. Phoenix gave him a pout as if he felt insulted, "I promised didn't I? And a Phoenix always helps out his friends!", he said as Big Mac gave a nod. "I see. Ya know, you look adorable when you pout.", Big Mac noted making his sister and friend chuckle. When they arrived at the train station, they could see that everybody, save Skywalker already had arrived. After greeting them, Phoenix noticed that both McGrath and Rarity were having a scowl on their faces, for one it was normal, for the other not so much. "What's up with them?", Applejack asked. "Well you see AJ, when your significant other takes a long time in the bath room and the other says they don't know why the other bothers, they tend to get mad.", Sutakira explained making Applejack nod. She had thought McGrath would be more sensitive to his girlfriends feelings, especially her appearance. "Do you even know how much time goes into my hair? It doesn't get this shiny, healthy looking and having this nice scent of coconut by itself!" McGrath shouted defensively, making the other friends broke down in laughter. "Do you know how I do my hair in the morning? I wake up, remove my head from my pillow, done." Griffifth told them. Meanwhile over at Canterlot Castle, Skywalker and Shining Armor had returned after a challenging mission, at the coast of Canterlot they was some trouble with three sirens or something, who used their voice to enslave ponies to do their bidding. But between Skywalker and Shining Armor, they warn't much trouble, unfortunately they had escaped through a portal to an unknown destination. "Thanks for the help, Skywalker. Really appreciate it.", Shining Armor said as they walked through the hall. Skywalker told him it was no problem before his expression turned to sadness. Looking in his direction, he saw the princess of the night with a similar expression before walking the other way. "So I take it..." Shining Armor started slowly but decided not to finish it as he saw his friends saddened expression, "If there is anything I can do for you...". Skywalker shook his head trying to reassure him he was gonna be alright. "You sure?", Shinning Armor asked giving him a worried look. The young knight gave him a nod, "Yeah, I think this vacation is just what I need.", he flashed him a reassuring smile before it turned into his 'Oh, crap' face. Quickly bidding goodbye to his friend, Skywalker flew off back to his house to pack his stuff. Meanwhile on the train who had just left the train station, Celestia herself was accompanying them to the beach resort much to the chagrin of a certain blond. "We're going on a vacation to one of the best beaches in Equestria, I don't care what you guys say I'm getting wasted." McGrath said as he downed another beer. "But with the fossile around, it's like one of our parents is going to watch us during the vacation!", Griffifth complained to Rainbow who had to giggle. "Or Jason's great-great-great-great-grandma.", she pointed out before looking around, "Speaking off... Were is the guy?". Out of the corner of her eye, Rainbow could see Skywalker dressed in a blue polo shirt with a popped collar, black jeans, his usual sneakers and a duffelbag of his shoulder running along side them. "Someone open the window!", he shouted as AJ who was closed to his window opened it to let him in. A little while later, after he explained why he was so late. "I see..." McGrath said before declaring Skywalker needed something to get over his heart break. "Guys, I don't need anything to get over it.", Skywalker said but McGrath, Rainbow and Pinkie pulled him into one of the compartment, saying they had a present for him. A few hours later, the cabin was now filled with smoke as everyone was in a good mood. Skywalker gave a soft chuckle, "You know... This present... I like.", he said slowly trying to suppress an all out giggle, "I especially liked how it was wrapped in white paper.". Pinkie nodded as she patted McGrath on the head, "You really are a good friend, David.", she said, her other friends giving her a puzzling look. "What's a David?", Rainbow asked as McGrath replied that 'David' is his first name. "I thought your name was McGrath." Rainbow said dryly gaining a scoff from her brown haired friend, "I don't think even my parents would have been that cruel.". As they came out of the compartment, "I don't mind being single, after all now I have more time to hang out with my best buddy", Skywalker said with a reassuring smile as he locked Rainbow in a head lock and messing up her rainbow mane. Suddenly they heard a load bang as if someone was hit in the head, followed by a loud yell from Phoenix, "Where was that for!?" Phoenix shouted as he patted the back of his head. "Thanks to your shenanigans, I have to share a room with the fossil!", Griffifth shouted obviously not pleased as he grabbed Phoenix by the front of his shirt. "I have no idea what you mean." Phoenix lied badly, it was true he had change the sleeping arrangement for plan 'HBRUWS', if Griffifth had to share a room with a person he absolutely disliked so he can keep a promise to his other friend so be it. "You owe me big time for this, Kyle!", Griffifth said as the train arrived at the station. After dumping their bags in their hotel rooms and after a short walk to the beach, they saw two changing rooms, one for males, one for females. "Alright, first part of my plan, stand right here and don't move.", Phoenix said when he and Big Mac were the only one on the guys side. "Now what are ya doing?", Big Mac asked as his red headed friend climbed up on his back. "Nothing, just taking a peek.", Phoenix replied with a pervy smile. Big Mac looked up and saw a grate in the wall separating the two changing room, "Dude!" Big Mac said in surprise making Phoenix look down at him. "What? This is an opportunity that will never pass me by again! I get to see a bunch of cute mares change!". Before responding Big Mac galloped out of the dressing room before they were caught and had to endure the wrath of their female friends. "You can't do that!" Big Mac said as Phoenix get off him. Phoenix rolled his eyes as he crossed his arms, "Because it's not the right thing to do?". Big Mac shook his head as the two arrived on the beach, "No, because it's too risky! There were seven mares in there. Odds were, one of them was bound to notice you. Not to mention that one of those mares is Princess Celestia!". Phoenix opened his mouth to respond but after giving it some thought, "Good point.", he had to admit. Skywalker was dressing in his blue swimming short, laying down on a towel, close to dozing off when a shadow fell over him. Opening one eye he could see that it was Fluttershy standing over him, "Oh uhm... Hi Jason. Do you mind if I sit with you... uhm if its okay with you." she asked shyly rubbing her front hoof with the other. After letting out a small chuckle, gesturing for her to sit down. With a blush she placed her yellow towel next to him as Skywalker laid back down on his own towel. She knew Skywalker and Luna had broken up, sure she had a crush on him but she wasn't trying to replace Luna, she just wanted to be there for him. And if he was wearing nothing but his swimming short, allowing her to admire his toned body, that just a bonus for her. Over at the water, Griffifth dressed in a black swimming shorts with a white sun pattern on it as Twilight swam up to him, "I just want to know, Griffifth. Who is your dream mare?", Twilight asked. Her blond friend gave her an annoyed groan, "I'm not gonna tell you, and it's gonna stay that way." he told her. Unbeknownst to either of them, Celestia was listening in on them from under the water as she had cast a invisibility. She gave an inward sigh, "If only I were Luna, then I wouldn't have to go through all this trouble to get the answer out of him. I could just go in his dreams and find the answer." "Okay, how about if I guess this girl's name? If I guess right, will you tell me then?" Twilight asked making the princess of the suns ears peek up. Griffifth crossed his arms, "Maybe.". "Alright... Pinkie Pie!", Twilight said, Griffifth responded almost directly with, "Give me a break!" After several minutes of guessing, Twilight finally relents. Luckily, she didn't guess the mare Griffifth was crushing on. "You sure it isn't Celestia? It's okay if it was. I'm sure she won't get mad or anything." Twilight suggested, she had to hold in her laughter with all her might at the face Griffifth was making, "Ugh! You wish!". Back over at Skywalker and Fluttershy, both were in a conversation, "Say Flutters? Why aren't you swimming?", Skywalker asked, making his yellow friend blush, she really liked it when he called her Flutters. "Uhm... I don't want to disturb the cute fish.", she admitted as Phoenix, wearing his red swimming shorts with a white flower pattern, approach the two. "Say, Messiah and Sunshine, Big Mac and I need a two players for our two on two volleyball game. You up for it?" Phoenix asked the two, Skywalker didn't mind but Fluttershy had her doubts, she wasn't the most athletic mare in the world, but she didn't see the harm in a friendly volleyball game, especially if she could team with with Jason. "Sure, Phoenix," she said with a smile, much to the surprise of the young knight. "Perfect.", the excited red heard said as he placed an arm around Skywalker. "You’ll be on my team. Sunshine your on Big Red's. Let’s go and give those two what for.", he told them as they made their way to the volleyball field. Before they know it, Skywalker was about to serve. "Me and Fluttershy can take ya and Phoenix!", Big Mac declared as Skywalker gave him a cocky grin, "Bring it on!", Skywalker retorted as he served. Over at the side lines Sutakira wearing a purple swimming short and Applejack looked on but she noticed that the blueish haired guy wasn't paying attention to the game. "Are ya looking at my flank?", Applejack asked him, she was slightly annoyed by his staring, though she didn't mind it that much. To her big surprise he replied with a blunt, "Yes.". Applejack's freckles filled cheeks turned red as she shouted, "Stop looking at it!". Sutakira nodded before responding, "Alright, I stop looking if you stop being so sexy.". Back over at the game, it had basically come down to a stalemate. Sure, there were odds and ends, but Skywalker made a comeback as he started to do roundhouse kicks and wushu butterfly kicks that made it very difficult for the other side to counter. Tired as hell, Big Mac gather up all his remaining strength to beat the tie, "Next point wins!", Big Mac shouted putting all his strength in this final smash. Unfortunately though, because Skywalker miscalculated his reaction time and distance to knock the ball back, it hit him square in the face, still somehow getting him the point since Phoenix had collapsed. Everybody saw what happened, but Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash were the most concerned. "Oh my Celestia!" They fly over to him and see Skywalker with a confused expression looking up at the sky. "Did someone got the licence plate of that truck?". Big Mac picks him up, brushing the sand off him, "Oh, sweet applesauce. Skywalker, I'm really sorry for doing that. I don't know what happened.", he tried to apologize but Skywalker brushed it off. "Hey, it's just a game right? No harm done.", he told him patting Big Mac on the back. Big Mac let out a relieved laugh, but his expression turned to shock as suddenly Fluttershy gave him a death glare, "You should have been more careful, Big Macintosh!" she yelled, much to the surprise of everyone, "You could have hurt him! Why do you have to be so reckless!?". Big Mac turned his head down in shame, he was sure he had blew his chance of impressing Fluttershy. Skywalker's voice brought him out of his train of thought as he told her, "He wasn't being reckless Flutters," Skywalker told her, somehow calming her down, "It's not like he spiked the ball down on me. He bumped it over the net, and I messed up trying to bump it back. In all honesty, it wasn't even his fault. If he meant for the ball to hit me, I'd be out cold right now.", he told her with a small chuckle at the end. "Fine, I'll let it slide... this time." she then turns around and walks back to her towel. "What the hell was that all about?", McGrath whispered Pinkie's ear as the two came back from the food stall. "I have no idea, David." Pinkie answer as she took a bite from her ice cream. "What did Pinkie just call you darling?", Rarity asked as her coltfriend sat down next to her, heading her her refreshment. " She called me by my first name.", he answered, Rarity was about to respond angrily, but he raised his hand. What had Pinkie done to deserve to call McGrath by his first name. "Rarity, I know your probably angry and a little jealous about Pinkie calling me David. But you should now, as my girlfriend your also allowed to call me that. As a matter of fact... Would you mind calling me... David? Come on, let me hear how it sounds." he added that last part with a blush on his pale face, making the white mares heart flutter. She knew McGrath had taken Pinkie to the human world and what ever happened it had been good for McGrath. "Alright... David.", she whispered in his ear, the sides of his mouth turning into a smile. " Thanks... You're the only one I can act this way around. I'll be sure to make you happy.", he said as he moved closer to her as he place his head on her head. Pinkie looked on from the water, she felt sad yet happy at the same time. Sad that she would never be that close to him, but if he was happy for him. She'd rather that he was happy with another mare than unhappy with her. Later, Skywalker was eating some strawberry cheesecake flavored ice cream as Phoenix approached him. "What do you think your doing?", he red headed friend asked. He stopped his liking for a moment, "Eating ice cream?". "... Don’t play dumb. I know all about your little fetish, Messiah.", Phoenix said accusingly, making Skywalker's eyes widen. "I don't have a thing for feet!", he shouted defensively as he stood up, taking Phoenix aback. After collecting himself, Phoenix asked slowly, "You have a thing for feet?". He got a very awkward reply, "... Uhm... No... What fetish are we talking about?", Skywalker slowly said quickly looking to the side. "You have a thing for Sunshine.", Phoenix said accusingly. "Does that count as a fetish? Why are all my friend so weird? Though I can't really be one to judge...", Skywalker thought. > Chapter 57: Vacation Continues > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- A sunny afternoon at Canterlot Castle gardens, Celestia was happy, she was out in the garden, lying on the lush grass with a certain someone. That someone was cuddled against Celestia's side. Without warning the princess of the sun gave him a lick on his cheek. "Tia, stop it, that tickles.", he complained making the sun princess give him a devilish smirk. "Oh, does it?" she said as she continued to lick him across the face. Making the cute blond laugh as slowly the licks became less playful and more sensual, the laughs starts to slowly turn into moans. "Oh Tia," as the blond moaned as Celestia moved further down, her tongue slowly traveled further down his body. Suddenly Celestia shot up in her bed, drenched in sweat, "It was this blasted dream again! A few weeks after the wedding. I started to have those disgusting dreams of ravaging him...", she thought to herself as she got up and walked towards the bathroom. "Why do I keep having these dreams? I can't possibly want to do that with...". Her train of thought was broken as the bathroom door opened to reveal Griffifth coming out. Both their hearts jumps up into their throat when the other saw the other. Griffifth immediately hid a plastic bag behind his back. "What are you doing up, Griffifth?" she asks, the fact that he try to hide something behind his back didn't went unnoticed. Griffifth tried to calmed his breath, "Using the bathroom, sorry if I woke you up." he responded. Celestia gave him an unbelieving look, "Nice try, What's with the plastic bag?" she asked unconvinced. She knew that he was laying when his eyes went wide for a moment. "This bag has my dirty clothes in it," he said unconvincingly but after the unbelieving look the princess was giving he knew it was useless to continue lying. "Fine, you got me. These are the pants I was wearing earlier tonight.". "Oh... You had a little wet dream?" Celestia asked with a smirk. Griffifth started to sweat, and look away from her, "You did, didn't you!" she said. "Who were you thinking about?" "I'm not telling you that!", Griffifth said as he marched back to his bed, but he froze in his step by the princess next words, "You weren't thinking about me, were you?" she said, making him turn around, showing him her smirk. "Ugh! Not even!" Griffifth shouted as he placed the bag in his suitcase, "Why would you even ask that?", he said as he jumped back into his bed, pulling the covers over his head. "Because the face you make when you get uncomfortable is just adorable!". That morning at the breakfast table, the gang was all there save for some late sleeper as the rest talked about the day excitedly. They were planning a trip into the city, just doing something that would interest them. Sutakira was enjoying his pancakes as Rarity with a big grin on her face took a seat next to him. "Morning, Rarity. What are you so happy about?", he asked as his white friend used her magic to pour herself a cup of coffee. "Oh no reason...", she said dreamily as she took a sip. Looking around, Sutakira couldn't see a certain brunette anywere. Which was unusual as he was an early riser and he shared a room with Rarity. "Where is McGrath?". "After the night we had, properly still asleep.", Rarity admitted her cheeks turning red as she realized what she just had said, "Oh uhm... Sutakira can I ask you something?". He gave her a nod so she continued, "Uhm... Is it normal for a human male to have a hole on his backside?". "Guys have those too, Rarity." Sutakira replied dryly but before Rarity could ask anything else, McGrath himself teleported into the room in a flash of green light. Placing a kiss on her cheek he took a seat and started a discussion with Phoenix and Pinkie about what they should do in the city. "Hey David! I know a good joke!", Pinkie said, clearing her throat she continued, "Knock, knock." she said but McGrath interrupted her. "No. I am the one who knocks!", he said. "...Okay..." Pinkie said slowly. A hour later, the gang arrived in the city close to the Beach resort they were staying in. Much to the shock of McGrath and Pinkie the city's name was Twiy Town. "This place looks nothing like my Twiy Town.", McGrath complained as they entered a clothing store, his complaining was cut short as he spotted some very nice shoes. Rainbow was bored out of her mind, she didn't care for fashion. Her eyes fell on a small bracelet with a flower symbol on it. "It's so cute! The flower! It's so teeny!", Rainbow squeed as she admired the bracelet. ""So you buying that?", a voice said close to her ear making the blue pegasus jump back in shock. The one who spoke was Skywalker who was standing behind her with his hands in his pockets. Rainbow gave a quick look between her human friend and the bracelet, "Who!? Me? No way! Honest! There's no reason! Maybe if I was girlier then it'd make sense, but hell no!", she said with a awkward chuckle. "You know, that wasn't what I was thinking.", Skywalker said with a shrug of his shoulders as he petted her head, messing up her rainbow colored manes a little. Rainbow couldn't help but blush and pout as Skywalker gave her a soft chuckle, "Dashie, you really are... too cute.". Rainbow became red as a tomato, "You! You moron!" she shouted completely embarrassed. This made Skywalker chuckle again as he gave his best friend a warm smile, "Think nothing of it. Though I want you to know that I wasn't joking.", he said as he left the store and headed for a comic book shop across the street. Rainbow watched him leave, her blush disappearing from her face, "Why does being close to you, feels so good?", she thought to herself as she followed Applejack, Phoenix and Sutakira who were going to visit some store more her style. Meanwhile over at the Comic Shop, Skywalker was browsing its content with Griffifth. Unfortunately for him, none of the comic they had caught his interest, though he hadn't search the entire store. "You are too willing to involve yourself in the affairs of others, Skywalker. Each time you put yourself at risk. One day you will not be so lucky." Griffifth said to his friend as he browsed through some comics, the new issue of 'Mare Of Steel' or 'Batmane' hadn't been released yet. "You have a better idea?", Skywalker asked as he studied a particular comic closely, it featured a six of pretty boys wielding what appeared to be key shaped swords, the comic's title appeared to be 'Quest For Equestria'. "Keep your head low." Griffifth suggest as Skywalker spotted some Vanguard booster packs which peeked his interest, "That sounds like a way to go through life without ever knowing anyone. How well has that worked for you, Griffifth?", he said as he studied which booster packs they were selling. "All I'm saying is, guard what you have.", the blond told him as the both of them brought a large amount of booster packs. Skywalker couldn't help but chuckle as they left the store, "Like a dragon! Guarding my treasure hoard. Shall I eat passersby? Maybe I can demand virgin sacrifices.", he said as held his right arm over his chest while propping his left elbow up on it and placing a hand on his chin. Griffifth shook his head, "Even dragons are eventually slain, Skywalker. One day you may simply end up being rewarded with a blade in the back.". Skywalker unfolded his arms turning to his friend, "Not your blade, however.", he said with a confident smile, showing his friend that he had his full trust. "Not my blade, no.", Griffifth said softly with a smile of his own. He could never do that to Skywalker, he was the first true friend he ever had. "I have nowhere else...", Griffifth said turning his eyes to the ground. Suddenly he felt a hand on his shoulder, looking up he saw Skywalker's amber eyes looking into his own ruby red ones. "Well, you can stay with me.", a soft smile graced Skywalker's lips as he said that, and Griffifth couldn't help but feel a faint blush creep on his cheeks. Later that night, for dinner they had somehow persuaded Skywalker to cook knowing he would make something delicious. "Wow, that smells so good! It's making me all hungry...", Fluttershy admitted as she and Phoenix watched the young knight work his magic in the kitchen, she had to admit, he looked cute in that apron. "That's Messiah's cooking... Will there be any leftovers?", Phoenix asked with glee, he had become very fond of his friend cooking over the years. "Can't you tell?", Skywalker asked dryly as he chopped up some vegetables which nearly all of his friends forget to eat most of the time. "...You're supposed to be a good friend and make larger servings!", the red head wined as he dropped his head on the table as Skywalker pointed his kitchen knife at him. "You're supposed to not be an idiot. Look, there's obviously more than twelve servings here.", the dark haired pretty boy said as he threw his freshly cut vegetables in pan. After diner they had all gathered around a camp fire which wasn't difficult to start, seeing as we have for magic users, a guy who can shoot heat beams out of his eyes and a guy who has fire as his super power. "I think I have a good game for us to play. AJ, you brought some of your 'hard brand' cider, right?" Celestia said suddenly as she turned to the apple sister who nodded, "Then how about we play 'Never Have I Ever'?". The gang agreed thought Twilight had never heard of it, "I've never heard of that game.", she admitted. "Oh, it's such a fun game, Twily.", Sutakira was the first to explain, "Everybody gets a small glass, and we all take turns saying something that we've never done. If somebody else here has done it, then they have to fill their glass with booze, cider in this case, and gulp it down!". The sun princess nodded, glad to see that this game was pretty much the same in every world. "For example, never have I ever made out with somebody on a beach with other people watching me.", Skywalker gulp down his glass, remembering the time he and Luna did it. "Okay, I think I get the gist of this game. Let me try... Never have I ever... kissed another person of the same gender on the lips.", Twilight said. The group remains quiet for a second, then a few took a glass of cider: Pinkie Pie and Celestia. "Okay I remember that one time where Pinkie kissed another mare at a party a few months ago, but Celestia!?", Big Mac said as the princess noted the look on everyone's faces. "Sure, I've had a few girlfriends, but I'm over two thousand years old, and when you been around as long as I have, you become open to experimenting.", she admitted as if it was no big deal. "Let's see...", Rarity said as it was her turn, "Never have I ever... had more than one partner at the same time!". Both Phoenix and Celestia take another glassful of cider, then high-five each other once they finish their glasses. "I'm beginning to wonder just how much we don't know about the sun princess.", Griffifth thought to himself, his train of thought interrupted by the voice of Fluttershy. "Um... can I go next?", the shy mare said. "Go on Fluttershy!", Skywalker shouted, filling the shy mare with confidence. "Never have I ever... drank so much at a party that I fainted afterwards." Of course, Skywalker, McGrath, Phoenix, Celestia, and to everybody's surprise, so did Rarity. Noticing the looks, Rarity blushes, "Pinkie Pie's last party was very... interesting..." she admitted. Skywalker held his right arm over his chest while propping his left elbow up on it and placing a hand on his chin, "Hmm... Never have I ever... kept a crush hidden for a long time.", he said as he, Fluttershy, McGrath, Big Mac, Phoenix, Pinkie, Griffifth and Celestia took their drinks. This went on for half an hour, some of those less used to the effects of alcohol started to become a little tipsy, except Phoenix who can't handle his alcohol at all, a simple beer would be enough to make him very tipsy. "Uh... oh... Never have I ever had any dirty thoughts about somebody else.", Celestia said, nobody drink, that was until Celestia herself turned around and secretly drank. "Fossil, I think you should take it easy now...", Griffifth said but the princess of the sun placed a hoof around him, "N-No, n, Griff... Griffifth I'll be... I'll be fine...", she said a little disoriented before passing out. "I told her to lighten up. Luckily, no one went overboard like fossil...", the young blond thought to himself as he looked over his other friends. Pinkie and a very drunken Phoenix were dancing over the beach while singing, "Heineken das ist meine bier! Heineken dast ist viel plezier!", over and over and over. Shaking his head, Griffifth lifted Celestia up and on his back, making his way back to their hotel room. McGrath meanwhile was sitting at the shore, watching the stars. The last few days he had read everything his father had left in that suit case, while some thing about what he could do sounded promising, there was this name that kept popping up. "Who is this Marc Morgenstern?", he thought to himself, not noticing Pinkie taking a seat next to him. "So... How are you doing David?", she asked him, breaking him out of his thoughts. "I'm getting better, but it might be some time before I can get out of my old mind set...", McGrath admitted as his pink friend nodded, "To tell you the truth, Pinkie... I'm jealous of you.", not facing his friend who gave him a surprised look. "I wish I could live life the way you do. Just following my heart.", he turned to face his friend who gave him a soft smile. "Yeah, well, I've got my share of problems, too. Like... wanting to be like you.", she said turning her gaze towards the sky. McGrath scoffed, shaking his head as he tried his hardest to suppressed a grin, "Well, there is one advantage to being me... Something you could never imitate.", he said gaining a questioning look from his friend, "Having you for a friend.". Pinkie beamed when she heard that, "Then I guess... I'm okay the way I am. I've got something you could never imitate too.". They look up at the star filled sky and close their eyes, feeling the breeze on their skin and hearing the sound of the waves. "I owe you a debt Griffifth! And a Celestia always repays her debt!", Celestia declared as Griffifth carried her into their hotel room. Griffifth said, "Fossil, you aren't a Lanister." as he placed her in her bed. "I'm not!?", was the last Celestia shouted before falling into the sweet embrace of sleep. Griffifth gave her one lest look before pulling her covers up. In a dark cell, deep beneath the earth a dark red figure was chained to the wall. He had been here ever since his defeat at the hands or rather... hooves of the princesses. It felt like aeons since he had last seen another living thing that wasn't one of those guardians. A sudden click was heard as the wall that functioned as the door to his prison cell slid open, revealing a tall figure in dark robes. "Lord Tirek, I presume?", Marc Morgenstern asked as his eyes flashed blue menacingly under his hood. > Chapter 58: Vacation Ends > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Earlier at the entrance of Tartarus, Mizuki, Byron and Jay had gathered on the orders of their leader, they weren't allowed to enter and had to wait until he arrived. "Where is that guy? What is taking him so long!?", Byron complained gaining a death glare from Mizuki. "Show some respect, without him you would be here.", she scolded him. "Indeed, I would have been in my study doing something useful. I bet our Dark Lord is in his study, talking to... whatever it is he's talking too.", Byron said as he got in another argument with Mizuki. Jay couldn't help but sigh, why couldn't those two just get along? "Stop it both of you!", he shouted moving between them, "Just fuck each other already!". Before either of them could respond, a dark blue cloud rushed from the sky, coming together on the ground before them as it took the form of their boss. "I see you three are being lively.", Marc said as the three stood straight. With a flick of his wrist two scrolls appeared, one floated to Byron and the other to Jay. "These are your mission for today. You might be wondering why I called you here. Well for one it's convenient for me. Unfortunately the weapon I'm looking for isn't in the bowls of Tartarus. But fortunately, the key to unlocking its location can be found at the bottom of this dungeon.", he explained gaining a nod from the members of his inner circle. Mizuki smirked, know she knew why he didn't gave her a mission, he wanted her to go and, "That's why I will personally go and retrieve it. Mizu, I want you to accompany Jayden over here to Arendell. If our information is correct, Arendell is ruled by a very powerful Cyromancer.". Before Mizuki could protest, "You know your missions, now go.", he commanded as the three disappeared into dark smoke. Turning his attention to the unremarkable rock formation, with a burst of telekinesis, the rock split open, revealing a spiral staircase. Meanwhile in a ally not far from Ponyville's Main Square, a white portal opens. Soon a young woman with a tanned skin, light blue eyes, a lithe muscular build. Her dark brown hair was tied in a high pony tail. "It seems I'm not in Republic City anymore...", she said as she walked out of the ally and into the Main Square. "That's new.", she noted to her self as she saw the ponies walking around. Scootaloo accidentally ran into her. "Oh, sorry. I should have been looking where I walked.", Scootaloo explained, surprising the human girl. "Aren't you afraid?", she asked, surprised that the young filly wasn't scared of a strange being. "Should I be?" she tilted her head, "A friend of Ser Skywalker can't be that bad.". "Ser Skywalker? You know Jason?", she said gaining a nod from the filly. "Everybody knows Ser Skywalker! That's him.", the filly said pointing towards a large statue of Skywalker holding the planet in on hand high above his head. "Well, at least I have one friend in this strange new world.", the girl commented. After traveling down the staircase, Marc found himself staring into six eyes, three sets of razor sharp teeth and three noses. "Cerberus? Perhaps I should make you Mizu's pet.", Marc said sarcastically as the beast charged at him. Conjuring his Keyblade to his hand, "Will this be challenging?", he question himself as Cerberus attacks with its teeth from the middle. While Marc easily deflects the attack making the guardian recoil, the force of the blow knocks Cerberus through a large rock in the area. As Cerberus recovers, Marc begins to unleash a fierce barrage against it, makes a particularly powerful swing and sends Cerberus reeling through the air. Marc opens a dark portal, sending Cerberus somewhere else. "An empty victory," Marc said to himself, as he made his way through the gates. Marc had made his way into the central chamber of Tartarus, from here he could get anywhere into this hell prison. "This is what they call security? I presume they only care about prisoners leaving this hell hole.", he noted as he took another spiral stairs further down. "How long has it been since we saved Equestria? To think we failed after we fought so hard. They should have looked up to us as heroes, be inspired to be like us. Instead they treated us like monster, a danger to the human race. Someone had to take a stand, someone had to protect us.", Marc said to himself as he found himself flashing back to those days. At the war room, Marc, Celestia, Lily and Celestia's Royal Guard Captain were standing over a war table discussing which strategy would best work at defending against The Outsiders. "We will draw them into this valley here, and on your signal both our armies will charge and trapping them. This strategy will be our path to victory.", the Royal Guard Captain said. Celestia trusted her commanders judgement but to her surprise, the young Keyblade Knight had a objection, "The key to strategy... is not to choose a path to victory, but to choose so that all paths lead to a victory.", he said as he proposed multiple ways to ensure their victory with minimal lost of life for their side. As he relayed the orders to the commanders, Marc noticed Lily talking with Celestia to the side. Using his advanced hearing, he picked up at what the two ladies were discussing. "You think we have a chance of winning, Lady Skywalker?", the sun ruler asked as the young woman nodded. "Yes, your highness. With the combined strength of our armies and with Marc leading us, the outsiders are finished.", Lily said with the utmost confidence. Celestia gave her a warm smile as the two talking about earth. It seem princess of the sun had taken a liking to the young Superius. "Is something the matter?" the ruler of the sun asked her, seeing the worry in her eyes. "I'll be honest with you, your highness. I had another reason to come to Equestria. The Outsiders have made an alliance with these weird, bug things. They have taken my mother..." she explained but Celestia interrupted her. "Then what are you doing here? Go safe her!", The sun princess commanded making the young woman in front of her confused. "Indeed, go find your mother. We'll make sure she has a victory party to come home to.", Marc told her as he approach the two. Lily gave the two a grateful smile before running off, following in the direction her Sense was pulling her to. "She is special isn't she.", Celestia said as the young knight couldn't help but agree, there wasn't a woman he could possible love more. "I hope they will be okay.". Upon the puzzling look from her new ally she explained, "Don't you know? Lily is with child.". Marc was brought out of trip down memory lane as he stood in front of a large stone door, four chains were held together by a lock, they had hopped that who ever was locked here would never be set free again. Stretching out his hand, in a flash of light his keyblade, the Morning Star, a small beam of light shot out of the tip into the lock. After a metal click, the lock disappeared, the chains dropping on the floor with a loud thud. Inside the vault like prison, he saw a very frail, with muted colors and roughly at the height of a normal pony, chained to the wall. "Lord Tirek, I presume?", Marc asked as his eyes flashed blue menacingly under his hood. The frail centaur turning his head as he let out a raspy chuckle, "Its been some time since I have seen another face around here.", Tirek said as he studied his visitor. "I have come to relieve you from your torment.", with another flash, and Tirek's chains disappeared setting the centaur free. "We do not have much time before the guardians arrive, now lets go.", Marc commanded, he didn't need to tell that the centaur twice as Tirek quickly followed him. The exit of his prison was unfortunately blocked by a small army of the Guardians, shadows given life. All those years in Tartarus had left Tirek weakened, forcing him to rely on this mysterious stranger to fight them for him. "Could this be challenging?", Marc muttered to himself, he kept asking this question though he knew there was only one who had ever fought him to a draw, and that was only because she had given birth moments before their final battle. Meanwhile over back over at the Beach Resort, Celestia woke up with a pounding headache. "Ow... Damn, what did I do last night?", the princess asked herself suddenly remembering the 'Never Have I Ever' game they played. She tried to stand up to get a shower but gravity seemed to feel a hundred times stronger than normal, what didn't help was that her legs felt like jello as she crashed down to the ground with a loud thud. Suddenly, she could hear loud foot steps coming up. "Ah, sleeping beauty has woken up!", the sarcastic voice of Griffifth made his way into her ears as she felt two strong arms lifting her up easily. "Ease up, you over did it with the cider yesterday.", Griffifth told her as he gently sits her down on the edge of the bed. Celestia nod weakly, rub her face, looking over her room mate, who himself seemed like he didn't have much sleep. "Griffifth... You look... Look a little pale...", she said as the blond rolled his eyes. "Well, that's what happens when you spend up all night holding back your room mates hair when she throws up.", he informed her with a annoyed tone to his voice. "Anyways, the rest as left to go to that amusement park. Didn't want to leave you alone so...". He quickly stood up, making his way to the bathroom. If Celestia didn't knew better, she could have sworn that Griffifth had a faint blush on his face. The rest of the Harmonic Heroes meanwhile had arrived at the amusement park, where there were tons of rides and other attractions to keep them occupied for the rest of the day. This was their last day before they would head back to Ponyville, so they had vowed to have as much fun as possible. Phoenix suggested to split up in groups but none was having that. A certain yellow Pegasus was slightly disappointed at this, "Aw... I was hoping to be alone with Skywalker. We would go on the Ferris Wheel and get stuck on the top, or some other romantic thing that happens at an amusement parks.", she thought to herself not noticing that they were now standing in line for the biggest, fastest roller coaster in the entire park. Snapping out of her thought, Fluttershy realized where they were standing, she was deathly afraid of roller coasters. "The Goliath?" she said nervously. "You're not scared, are you?", Skywalker asked, turning his head to the shy mare. He had no problem with going on the ride, but Fluttershy obviously did. Knowing it would do no good to lie to him, "Maybe a little…", she admitted. "You don't have to go if...", he started but Fluttershy shook her head. "It's just a ride. But I would feel better if you sat next to me.", she added with a blush, making Skywalker nod. She was hoping there was a long waiting line, but she momentarily forgot about Skywalker status as Knight Of The Wind and everybody moved out of the way for his. "So there are some perks of being friends with Skywalker.", McGrath said as the group walked to the front of the line, where the roller coaster was waiting for them. Skywalker guided Fluttershy to sit in the front car. At first, she was ready to object, but Skywalker told her that riding in the front car is actually a smoother ride than riding in the back. "If it makes you feel any better," Skywalker said to her as the group all got strapped in, "you can hold my hand.". Fluttershy's hoof delicately gripping his hand as the ride operator pulls the lever and lets the coaster go. Unlike most roller coasters, which go up a large hill, then make a steep fall, this one made a steep fall right off the bat, sending the gang rushing down at an incredibly high speed. It's at this point where Fluttershy's grip on his hand increases one hundredfold. Back at Tartarus, Marc and Tirek were making their way back to the surface. Marc had indeed been right, even after the Guardians had summoned reinforcement, they still didn't stood a chance as one by one they fell to Morning Star. "That's an... interesting sword your carrying." Tirek noted, looking at mysterious weapon his companion wielded against the guardians. Marc looked at him from under his hood, "Its a keyblade.", he informed him as the duo made their way towards the exit. "I see, so that's a keyblade... And I suppose he must be its chosen wielder. I wonder if it will change its mind, once I'm back at full power.", Tirek thought to himself as the duo stepped into the daylight, darkness soon took Tirek as he teleported himself and Tirek to his island. > Chapter 59: Nice To Meet You > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "And then there is you. How do we even begin to account for the turns your life has taken since you first arrived at the Academy?" The Grand Keyblade Master, Nuelo Dolros said to Marc. True to Lily's word, The Outsiders could not stand against the might of their combined forces and where swiftly defeated. They were now standing in the Canterlot Throne room where they were celebrating their victory, and thanks to their services everyone involved in this final battle received the Mark Of Honor, the highest honor the Council could give to outsiders. From what Celestia understood from the hierarchy of the Keyblade Council, Marc was one rank away from being a Keyblade Master, only those on the Council itself and within that the Grand Master ranked higher. One think Celestia did notice was that Lily had disappeared after they had claimed victory and hadn't been seen since. "I sense your ambition growing. I can no longer ignore it. We wanted so much for you to become a Keyblade Master, but you are not ready.", the Grand Master concluded much to Celestia's surprise. "That's a lie, I've done more for the Worlds than the whole Keyblade Council combined.", Marc stated in his usual stoic voice. From what Celestia had heard from the few soldiers she had spoken to from Marc's Legion, they had been losing against the Outsiders till Marc had taken charge and made a alliance with the Superius Order and only then had they began winning. "Please, do not make this any harder than it is. There will be other opportunities to prove your worth.", Nuelo ordered, from what Celestia had heard was they Nuelo Dolros and Marc Morgenstern didn't see eye to eye much. Before Marc could say anything, Celestia herself spoke up for him, "Master Dolros, Marc is one of the greatest heroes we've ever had. He deserves recognition for his victories and efforts.". The Grand Master eyed the sun princess for a moment before reluctantly saying, "Fine. By the authority of the Council, I hereby grant you the honorary rank of Keyblade General.". Celestia didn't know how high said rank was but much to her surprise Marc spoke up and for the first time some form of anger sipped through his stoic voice, "What a worthless title. No one salutes an 'honorary' officer.", he sounded offended even, even during fights his had shown nothing but calmed. "We will speak of this another time, Morgenstern. For now, let us mourn what we have lost and celebrate all we have gained. For this one moment, the Worlds are save.", Master Dolros said, but Marc had already stormed out of the room. A few minutes later Celestia had ran into Lily, she had been looking for Marc but couldn't find him anywhere. Noticing the inner turmoil in the young Superius Lady. It didn't took long before Lily softly asked. "Why did she have to die? Why couldn't I save her? I know I could have!". Lily explained what had happened to her mother, she had died shortly after Lily had arrived, apparently they had drained her from all her life-force. "Sometimes there are things no one can fix.", Celestia said trying to comfort her young friend but she shook his head. Lily's amber eyes started to water but she tried to keep them at bay, "Well, I should! Someday, I will be powerful enough to stop people from dying!". Celestia saw that there was something more to her grief and rage than her mother dying, but before she could ask about it, Lily suddenly became enraged, the air around her started to crack with power, "I killed them. I killed them all. They're dead, every single one of them. And not just the men... but the women and the children, too. They took my last living relative from me and in return I slaughtered them like animals!", suddenly, the young woman dropped to her knees as she started to sob, while Celestia placed a wing around her. "I'm a Superius. I need to rule my emotions, not let my emotions rule me. I know I'm better than this." Back in the present, the gang are riding the train back to Ponyville, currently Celestia had fallen asleep against a sleeping Griffifth. Before rolling her head against him, Celestia had sown to have a bad dream but after she had rolled against him, she had calmed down. She had even smiled for a while. "This is so going on my Wall.", Skywalker said as he took a picture with his phone. Suddenly Phoenix comes running in, "Look what I bought back at the Beach Resort!" show four bandanna mask in the colors blue, red, purple and orange. "Dude no way!", Skywalker, McGrath and Sutakira exclaimed as Phoenix handed the red one to McGrath. "Raphael? The hot head? Sounds like me.", McGrath said smugly. Phoenix nodded as he handed the blue one to Skywalker, "Leonardo for Skywalker, the trusty leader.". Skywalker took the bandanna in his hand, "Ah thanks.", he gave Phoenix a smile while the other dropped the purple one in Sutakira's lap. "I'm obviously Michelangelo. The funny one.", he said tying the orange over his eyes before letting out a laugh. Seeing no reason not two, Skywalker and McGrath also tied their bandanna mask over their eyes. "B-But why am I Donatello!?", Sutakira protested as he waved his bandanna mask in front of Phoenix. "Because your kinda the party pooper.", McGrath said as the other two agreed. "You four are dorks.". Rainbow said as the others let out another laugh. Skywalker stopped laughing as his advanced hearing picked up panicked screams, coming from Ponyville. "Something wrong?", Twilight asked as Skywalker gave a dismissive nod as he removed his eye mask, "It's nothing. If I'm not back when the train arrive's, please take my bag with you.", he muttered as he climbed out of the window and started to run towards Ponyville, quickly leaving their line of sign. A few seconds later, Skywalker arrived in Ponyville and the first thing he noticed was the collateral damage that wasn't his fault. The perpetrator wasn't difficult to find, a large black dog with three heads was rampaging about as a tanned young lady was trying to hold him back with a combination of the four elements, earth, fire, air and water. "What's a minute... I know her", Skywalker thought to himself as the girl failed to dodge a swing from Cerberus pawn, sending her flying through the air. Reacting quickly, Skywalker caught her bridal style mid-air as he landed back on the ground. "Man, you really are completely lost without me, Avatar Korra.", he said teasingly as the girl surprised expression turned into a smug grin. Skywalker placed her back on his feet, as he raised his fist, "Now lets kick this dog back to Tarturus!", his friend gave a nod as the two charged Cerberus. The guardian dog attacked first, using it's three heads it tried to bite into its opponent's, but Skywalker used his natural agility to not only dodge the attack, but as a leaf in the wind flowed on top of Cerberus head. As he was about to drop out of his flow, Skywalker landed a powerful kick on Cerberus left most head as Korra with a swift kick sending a boulder against the right most head scored a hit. With two of the three heads in a dizzied state, Cerberus reared up and slammed the ground, sending a shock wave towards the heroes, which Skywalker dodge by taking to the air as Korra used the very earth to launch herself in the air. The middle head's mouth opened as it spewed black fire balls from its mouth. Quickly flying down, Skywalker grabbed Korra before taking to the air. "Let's do this!", Korra said as he nodded at this. Charging down, Korra started to bend the air around them in as Skywalker added his own lightning to it. Their combined abilities created some sort of typhoon, the dark fire was parted away as they landed square on the middle head, knocking the mighty guardian of Tartarus out. Landing back on the ground with a thud, Skywalker gave one last look over the defeated guard dog before turning to look at his friend. The two stared at each other for a few seconds before they rushed at each other, Korra hopped into his arms wrapped her arms around his neck and her legs around his hips as he wrapped one of his arms around her her back and the other under her legs to steady her as he twirled around, happy to see his friend. "Oh yeah, the dream team is back together!", they both shouted, before gazing deeply in the others eye. Their moment was broken when a loud voice was heard, "Ya just couldn't wait to destroy some building, couldn't ya!". Turning around it was Skywalker's other friends who had arrived safe Griffifth and Celestia, and it was Big Mac who said that. "It wasn't my fault! It was already like this when I arrived!", Skywalker said defensively, forgetting he hadn't put Korra down yet. "Say who is that girl your holding, Jason?", Rainbow asked before breaking down into laughter at the blush on her best friends face. Quickly putting her down, Skywalker introduced his friends to Korra and vise versa. "Anyways, how did you get here, Korra?" Skywalker asked as his friend explained what happened. After their battle against Vaatu and keeping the Spirit World open, she had been investigating the rumor's of a strange white door that had appeared and let strange creatures through. It didn't took long for the gang to figure out what kind of door that was. "Korra, can you show me where this door is? Its very important we close it before any spirits or more of our creatures make it to the other side.". His tanned friend gave a nod, before leading them the way. A few seconds later they arrived at where the door should be and there it was. Twilight gave it a look over before confirming it was indeed similar to the doors she and the other EOH's could open and close. "Korra, if you want to go back now, I suggest you go now.", Skywalker said, but he was surprised at his friends chuckle, after confirming her question that they could create a portal back to her home at any time, she said she wanted to stick around and see how Skywalker's World worked. Skywalker nodded, as with a wave of his hand, Sutakira closed the door. "Well, if your gonna stick around for a while. You can stay in my room, Korra.", Skywalker said, making the rest chuckle at what he suggested. A blush creeped on his face as he realized what he said, "Uhm I mean... You can sleep in my room Korra and I'll sleep on the sofa!", he quickly corrected himself as he scratched the back of his head. And so their live's returned to normal, most of the time when Skywalker was off to save the day, Korra accompanied him. But their normal days soon ended when Celestia requested the Harmonic Heroes to gather in the Openfields, just outside of Ponyville. "Why would she wants all of us? Why did she wanted all the Element Users in one place?", Sutakira said as sat down in the grass, they had agreed to meet her at 14:00 hour, but she hadn't arrived yet and it already was 14:15. "I'm surprised she's not here yet. It's not like her to be late.", Twilight noted. Skywalker took another look over his friends, noticing they weren't complete yet, apparently Fluttershy was still detained helping Applejack with a mishap at Sweet Apple Acres. "But, I still don't get why the Princess would be so late.", Sutakira wondered as he turned his head towards Canterlot Castle. "Maybe she's bringing an important visitor, maybe it's somebody so terribly important, she still had many more terribly important things to do before she got here." Rarity suggested as she laid her head in McGrath's lap while he stroked her manes. Sutakira took a loud gasp before raising to his feet, "Maybe the visitor has a deer antler, a goat leg, a bat wing, and a snake tail!", he shouted as everyone save him and Korroa burst out in laughter. "Funny story, Star! That's Discord!", Phoenix said whipping a tear from his eye. From what Skywalker had told her about this Discord, Korra knew he was bad news. "Why in the wide-wide world of Equestria would Princess Celestia bring along someone like that?", Rarity asked as the princess herself landed along with two guards who guarded the stone statue of Discord. "Maybe you should ask her." Sutakira suggested dryly as Skywalker leaned over towards his best friend. "Dashie, get AJ and Flutters... Dubble time...", he whispered as Rainbow flew off towards Sweet Apple Acres. Meanwhile, the young knight turned to his mentor as he shouted, "Tia!? Why in blue fuck would you bring Discord here!?". It was enough that he had to contend with the usual dangers that threatened Equestria, but he didn't want some god of chaos added to that list as well. "I'm fully aware that the last time Discord was here, he created serious havoc.", Celestia tried to explain her story but she was interrupted by Sutakira. "If by 'serious havoc' you mean turning Ponyville into the chaos capital of the Worlds and going Godzilla while destroying most of Ponyville!", Sutakira recounted. "And making yummy delicious chocolate milk rain all over the place without a single dollop of whipped cream to go with it anywhere in sight! Not a single dollop!", Pinkie added dramatically. "Yeah, that's some 'serious havoc'.", Griffifth replied dryly as Pinkie nodded. "Yes, I understand. But I have use for Discord's...", Celestia started as Phoenix scoffed, "So you want him to clean your pipes? Roll your oats, Polishing the foot stones? Tapping the midnight still, if you will Forging the moaning statue? Bucking the forbidden horse? Donning the velvet hat?", Phoenix said as everybody gave him a puzzled look. "Are you just making these up right now?", Korra asked as the red head shook his head. "Nope. Been saving them.", he answered as the sun princess continued. "I have use for Discord's magic if it can be reformed to serve good instead of evil. This is why I've brought Discord here, because I believe that you are the ponies and humans who can help him do just that.", Celestia explained. The gang thought if over for a while before Twilight answered, "...I suppose we can just use the Elements of Harmony against him again if it gets out of hand.". "...Or we can just kill him?", Griffifth suggested but the others found that idea too complicated, "Too fun more like it.", he snarked as he placed his hands in his pockets. But this raised the question what to do if Discord got his hands on the EoH. Celestia had already thought about this, "I've cast a spell so Discord can't take them and hide them again. Now where is Fluttershy? I believe she may know best how to begin reforming Discord.". "Fluttershy? Really?" , Big Mac said dryly, "Eeyup, Celestia is going senile." A little later after Applejack and Fluttershy arrived back with Rainbow, Celestia explained her intention to her. Fluttershy was unsure about this, "I realize that this is a tall order, but I wouldn't ask if I weren't confident you could get him to use magic obediently of his own free will.", Celestia said encouragingly. "Now, I must return to Canterlot for Equestria's royal summit. You may release Discord when ready.", the sun princess said as she and her guards took to the skies. "What do Dumbledore, Zordon and Celestia all have in common?", Phoenix asked, his pink friend was the first to shot an answer. "All three are wizards!", Pinkie said, Phoenix was about to say that wasn't true but in hindsight it kinda was. "All three send a bunch of teenagers to fight their battles for them.", Skywalker said as he place his EoH around his wrist as he looked over at the statue. "I can't believe we're about to do this... Keep your element on at all times till further notice.", Skywalker ordered as his element started to glow and soon the others followed. A large rainbow energy beam shot at the Discord statue as the stone shattered revealing the god of chaos himself. "Well, it's about time somebody got me out of that prison block. What a relief!", he said as he stretched his back, "When you're a creature of chaos, stone bodysuits aren't your typical go-to fashion choice." "Shut up Discord, this is whats gonna happen.", Twilight ordered as he explained what was gonna happen. "Well, I guess I could let you boys and girls try to reform me. I guess I shall be crashing at Buttershy then? Of course if your fearless leader allows it." Discord said as Skywalker shot him a death glare and for a moment and Discord actually felt fear. Skywalker wasn't sure if Discord wouldn't harm Fluttershy during his stay, he had sworn nothing bad would ever happened to his friends again, not after not Claire was taken away from him. "I'll go along with whatever you think is right, Fluttershy.", Skywalker said reluctantly before adding, "But I like to have a word with Discord, alone. If that's okay with you.". Giving a nod, the others left for Fluttershy's Cottage to prepare for the guest. When they were out of hearing distance, Skywalker turned to the god of chaos, glaring at him once again, "Let me tell you something, right now. You make one wrong move, one slip-up, give me one reason to think you might hurt Fluttershy, and you won't have to worry about being locked up in stone anymore. Because I'll make sure to end you... right then and there.", Skywalker threatened him, and for a moment even the god of chaos was scared of the young knight, as he gestured him to follow him to Fluttershy's Cottage. > Chapter 60: Don't You Dare Harm My Friend! > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It had been a day since they had set Discord free and suprising to them, Discord hadn't turned Ponyville into 4chan yet. At the moment, McGrath, Big Mac and Sutakira were sitting in the living room of the guys. The three were discussing different topic's but soon they got to the topic of Applejack's birthday. "You know my sis birthday is next week, right?", Big Mac asked as he downed his beer. The other two nodded, "Yeah. When I asked her if she wanted to do anything, she said she didn't really have anything planned." Sutakira answered, "I'm sure there must be something she'd want to have for her special day.", the young man said as he leaned back into the sofa. "Oh, there is. But she probably doesn't want to be a bother to anybody.", McGrath replied as he downed his own beer, before opening another one. McGrath and Big Mac were both startled by Sutakira's sudden outburst. "That's ridiculous. Your birthday is one of those days where you're entitled to be a bother!" Sutakira said as he stood up. "There must be something she wants!". "Well..." Big Mac started gaining the attention from the blue haired one, "AJ's been wanting a motorbike for a while now, but money's been mighty tight lately and she couldn't put any bits aside." "How many bits are we talking here?", Sutakira asked, as the red stallion informed him that a motorbike in Equestria cost around five hundred bits. "Damn, that is a lot," Sutakira laments as in his head he went over different scenario's to try to think of a way to help Applejack out. "Excuse me for a second. I have to go to the bathroom.", he said as he left the two. On the way to the bathroom, Sutakira peeked into the kitchen to see a troubled Skywalker baking cookies. Suddenly Sutakira got an idea on how to solve the Applejack's bike issue. "Skywalker! Just the guy I was looking for!", Sutakira said walking into the kitchen as his friend looked up. "Oh hi, Sutakira.", the young knight as he cut out different shapes from the cookie dough. "What's cooking, good looking?", Sutakira started gaining a suspicious look from his friend. "What do you want?", Skywalker said as Sutakira let out a nervous chuckle. "I was wondering if you could do me a favor.", he started before taking a deep breath and give it to him straight, "I'm gonna need five hundred bits in a week.", Sutakira was not expecting the response he got. "Oh no. I was hoping this wouldn't happen. I know you're worried, Toshiyuki, but have you and the mare considered putting the kid up for adoption? I know abortion seems like the only way out, but...", Skywalker started. A blushing Sutakira interrupted him, "Skywalker, what are you talking about? I didn't get anybody pregnant! It's for AJ's birthday!". Skywalker let a sigh of relief, "Oh, thank Yoda! Toshiyuki Sutakira, you scared me half to death!", he said as he placed his cookies in the oven. "Anyway, I want to get AJ a motorbike for her birthday.", Sutakira explained as Skywalker folds his right arm over his chest while propping his left elbow up on it and placing a hand on his chin. "Alright, I'll pay, but only half. You'll have to pay for the other half yourself.", Skywalker said as he uncross his arms. "I will pay the first 250 bits but you need to get the rest on your own deal?". "Okay deal.", Sutakira said as he left to go for the bathroom. Just as one of his friends left the kitchen, another one entered. Though she was easier on the eye than the other one, tomorrow would be the day Korra would be returning home. "Hey Korra.", he said as his friend greeted him before bending over and looking what Skywalker was cooking. "So Korra, tomorrow your leaving. So wanna go get something to drink?", he suggested as his friend got a blush for no reason. "You... and me? Alone? Like a date? I don't know...", she said as he blush got worse. Skywalker gave her an odd look, "If it makes you feel better don't see it as a date. See it as... Two friends who are getting a drink together.". Suddenly Pinkie Pie peeks her head through the door, giving a quick look around the room, "Have you guys seen Phoenix anywhere? We were supposed to play pranks.", the pink pony asked. "Hey, yeah where is that crazy red head? I haven't seen him all day.", Skywalker said. Meanwhile over at Arendell, huge torrents of fire and ice were razing across the mountain. The fight had been raging for an hours now and just now the queen was feeling the strain on her muscles. Jayden charged an lightning blast towards her, Elsa using her ice could just narrowly dodge the lightning arcs. Mizuki sended another torrent of fire, which Elsa dodges with difficulty. They had been fighting for so long now and neither showed any sign of slowing down. Elsa jumps behind Mizuki to avoid an attack and counters by arching her back to throw a ice blast, knocking down Mizu. Elsa charges toward Mizuki, but is knocked off by a lightning blast. She cushions her fall with ice sloop , preparing for another attack, but was struck by Mizuki on her right and Jayden on his left. She dodges barrages of attacks by Mizu and Jayden, though she was knocked down. As the Marc's Followers surrounds her, she braces herself up, having difficulties to stand from all the damage she had caught and the exhaustion was finally catching up to her. She protects herself in an ice sphere, but is blasted against a wall by a fire blast from Mizuki. She props himself up, her dress badly tattered and his face bruised. "Give up. It's over.", Mizuki mocked at the defeated queen. She had no idea why her master wanted control of this insignificant World, but if her master wanted it, she was damn sure he would get it. "As long as I'm breathing, it's not over.", the queen stated as she strikes out with another ice blast, but misses. Mizuki charged up and send a large torrent of fire at the queen. Elsa thought about how when your about to die, you see your entire life flash before your eyes. She didn't see that. All she saw was her loved once, her sister and her boyfriend, Olaf. Last but not least, her crush, the red headed young man who helped her understand her powers and saved her Kingdom. She regretted that she hadn't got to know him better, never admitted her crush to him. She closed her eyes waiting for the fires to swallow her, but they never did. Opening them, she saw the one who had saved her kingdom once before, bending the torrents around the two of them. As the fires died down, Phoenix gave her a ensuring wink before giving the duo a death glare. "Don't you dare harm my friend, Bellatrix!", Phoenix shouted as he conjured a flame in his palm, ready to fight. "Bellatrix?", Mizuki asked not knowing what he meant by that, turning her head to her companion who shrug his shoulders. "You know, Bellatrix Lestrange? From the Harry Potter novels? You make your master sound like he is Voldemort and your is most faithful follower.", Phoenix explained as his opponent still didn't get it. "She was played by Helena Bonham Carter in the movies!". Mizuki finally got it, "Oh her...", suddenly she became offended, "My teeth look nothing like that!". "Oh my god, she is almost as big as an Cloudcuckoolander as I am!", Phoenix thought to himself before Mizuki snapped him out of his train of thoughts. "How did you know your friend was in danger, Phoenix?", Jay asked as he charged yellow arcs of lighting around his arms. "Simple! I... Wait a minute how did I know?", Phoenix responded as he scratched the back of his head. "It doesn't matter, Its good your here.", Mizuki said as she took a step forward, "Our master has taken notice of you Element Wielders, Little Chick. Join us and we can find a place for you and your friends.", Mizuki said smugly, she was utterly convinced that anyone would be glad to join them. So his reaction was a total surprise to her. "I will never join you! And I will protect Arendell for as long as I draw breath! This I swear for as long as my name is Kyle Yveltal Phoenix!", Phoenix declared as he pointed towards Mizuki with his index finger. Mizuki's eyes widen for a moment, how did he knew that name? Her surprised expression turned to rage as she launched herself at Phoenix, tackling him to the ground. Unlike what he had expected, she didn't use her pyrokinisis, she balded her hands into fists and started to punch his face in. "Don't. You. Dare. Utter. That. Name!", she said with every word, she connected a punch. "How do you know that name! Is there a spy in our Order! What more do you know!", she demanded to know. Mizuki was kicked of Phoenix as he gave a swift kick into her guts. Mizuki was about to send a fire blast at him, but she felt the air being knocked out of her as a ice bolt struck her right in the stomach. Looking up, Phoenix saw that Elsa had regained her composure. Suppressing his grin he stood up, ready to fight for her. "Don't worry, I've got your back.", the queen said, a slight hint of happiness in her voice. Enraged for the attack of his friend, Jay used his advanced speed to close in on the two, and tried to strike them with his fist charged with lighting. The duo dodge the attacks by jumping in the air, as he landed back on the ground, Phoenix send his own torrent of fire against the lightning bruiser as Elsa joined in as send a torrent of ice. Quickly gathering electricity in his legs, Jay launched himself up in the air, just as the fire and ice clashed and caused a large explosion. A large torrent of fire was launched by a recovered Mizuki as Phoenix stood his ground redirecting the torrent back at its sender. "You take that lightning guy, I'll take care of Bellatrix!", Phoenix said as his friend gave a quick nod before creating a wall of ice, just in time as Jay came crashing down with a lightning kick. Regaining his footing, Jay shot another lighting blast at Elsa, who block it with another wall of ice. As the lightning impacted on the wall, a loud crack was heard before the ice wall shattered into a thousand pieces. With a quick hand gesture, the queen stopped the ice shards in mid air and with another gesture, sends them at towards Jay, who had to do his very best to dodge them. Mizuki leaps forward, sending a large blast of fire towards Phoenix, holding out his hand, the fire spreads across the battlefield. It was then that Phoenix noted the difference in fighting style's between the two pyrokinatic's. Phoenix's style was much like himself, calm, cunning and go with the flow. While Mizuki was like a wild fire, trying to do as much damage as possible while overwhelming her opponent with brute force. Mizuki was furious at her opponent, not only was he capable of keeping up with her but show how he knew about her greatest secret. Giving a quick look over her partner, who was more than a match for the young queen. If these two ever reached their level of experience, they could be worthy followers for her master. But Mizuki saw no point in fighting anymore, they had more pressing matters now, Like a spy in their organization. Jay bombards the queen with quick lightning strikes, force her to guard each of his attacks. Elsa kicked the ground, sending a trail of ice spikes to Jay while he himself whips her with a lightning bolt. Elsa dodge his assault and creates a icy gust to her opponent. He dodges, and was about to reveal his true power, something only those in the inner circle of Marc knew, but before he could unleash it the voice of his partner rang in his ear. "Jay! We got to go!", Mizuki ordered, as Jay gave her a annoyed look, he was just having fun. She sends one last fire blast at Phoenix before both she and Jay disappeared into black smoke. "And stay away!", Phoenix shouted before dropping to his knees exhausted. Panting heavily, he looked over his companion, giving her a warm smile before rising to his feet and walking over to her. "You have become strong, queen Elsa Targaryen.", he said as he held out his hand, which the queen accepted. "I think we're past the whole 'queen' and 'your majesty' thing.", the queen said as she looked him deep in his purple eyes. "I know. Let's get you back to the castle, I think your army is done fighting those black creatures." Meanwhile back over at Equestria, more specificly Canterlot City. Skywalker and Korra had walked into a bar... Why does that sound like a stupid joke? Anyways, the two had been there since opening and it was now close to closing time. "How... How did you resist Amon's Blood bending?...", a drunken Korra asked a even drunken Skywalker. Letting out a giggle, "Blood bending doesn't work, when your veins are filled with swag!", he declared proudly even standing up. Letting out a loud laughter, he plopped down back into his seat. "Okay, I'm interested.", his friend said, gaining a questioning look from the young knight. "In sex. With you. Perhaps I'm not being clear? There is a party. Your penis is invited. The party is in my vagina.", she explained. Skywalker tumbled the thought in his head for a minuted, "You know that sounds really... But I'm going with no. Not that your not attractive or anything, your in my top five. But your drunk and I'm drunk. Also I'm 20 and your 17ish.", he told her but he was interrupted by Korra's deep stair. "Are you sulking?", Skywalker asked but Korra shook her head. "Jason Sephiroth Skywalker, I find you positively fascinating. You don't hang out with me out of pity or that I'm the Avatar. You'r not after me for sex. I think you are probably rocking a massive hero complex. Also you have beautiful amber colored eyes. That Fluttershy is a lucky gal.". Skywalker thought about why all those points would make Fluttershy a lucky gal, "She's special to you, isn't she?" Korra added as Skywalker shot a confused look at his friend. "Of course! She's a irreplaceable friend....", Skywalker protested but Korra interrupted him. "You know what I mean.", Korra interrupted him. A little while later, a drunken Skywalker and Korra arrive back at Shoveitupyourass Street 15. In front of Skywalker's bedroom door, the two stopped as Skywalker gave a short bow. "Well... Here we are princess!", he said as the two let out a chuckle. "Oh thank you, my almighty knight.", she responded. The two agreed that they needed to do this more often, as the two gave each other a hug. "You smell nice.", he noted as his friend took a big whiff from his air. "Your hair smells like cotton candy." she said before slowly bringing her lips to Skywalker's, kissing softly and passionately. They enjoy every second of the kiss, as Korra opens the door and they fall back into it and unto the bed. Skywalker uses his force to close it as Korra laughs like a maniac. "Are you the Joker now?" Skywalker's voice said from behind the door. > Chapter 61: AJ's Birthday > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Skywalker runs through a burning Ponyville, all around him ponies where being attacked by those black creatures. Suddenly, Skywalker's feet came to a halt as he saw his closes friend broken and defeated at the feet of a tall humanoid dressed in a black cloak, two blue orbs shining from under his hood. "Don't you turn your back on me, Skywalker. I want you to look at me when I kill you. I want to see the light leave your eyes.". A loud thud woke Skywalker up from his nightmare, a cool breeze from the open window stroke over his naked chest, only the blue sheets of his bed covering his naked lower half. Rubbing his eyes, he saw the naked form of Korra sitting on the side of his bed. "Could you keep it quite down there?", Skywalker asked as a baffled Korra looked up to him. Standing up, Skywalker easily picks Korra up by her arm and makes her stand. Korra nearly falls over, but he wraps a arm around her torso to keep her up. "Ease up, you kind over did it with the beer yesterday..." he told her as he gently sits her down on the edge of the bed. Korra bobs her head bit as she nod weakly, "I thought beer didn't have much alcohol....", rubbing her face, the headache feeling a lot worse. Skywalker pats her back, "Eh, was this your first time?", but Korra apply her palms to her face. "Hey Jason, did we?...", the young avatar began, as Skywalker shook his head. "We made out but we just fell asleep.", he admitted scratching the back of his head. Meanwhile in Ponyville Park, Sutakira was sitting on one of the benches deep in thought. "How am I going to make 250 bits before next week?", Sutakira muttered to himself. "Maybe I can be of assistance(your name)" a sudden voice said making the young man jump in surprise. Turning around, he saw Lyra grinning at him. "Oh morning Lyra. You can help me?", Sutakira asked as he stood up. Lyra nodded excitedly, having overheard what Sutakira was pondering about. "250 bits, I can hook you up.". Sutakira did a back flip out of sheer joy, "Really? Are you serious?.... Wait a minute. What's the catch? Your not going to give me 250 bits just like that.", he asked suspiciously as Lyra giggled. "Smart as ever, Sutakira! All you have to do is help me study the human body.", she unicorn explained as the young man pondered he request. "I've always been interested in learning about humans, and while I've read a lot of books on human anatomy, I think it'd be great to do a hooves-on study.", she explained as Sutakira studied her body language. Her intentions seem genuine enough, but Sutakira can't help but ask, "What's the catch?". "No catch at all. In fact I'm willing to make things as comfortable as possible for you. If you ever feel uncomfortable, just say the word.", Lyra assured him. After thinking it over a few more seconds, Sutakira agreed to do it. "Alright! We'll do it at my place. It's across the street from the Carousel Boutique. And don't worry, I'll pay you every bit once you show up. How does tomorrow at noon sound?", Lyra asked excitedly as Sutakira thought about it for a moment. "I don't have anything to do tomorrow, as far as I know. Sure, sounds good.". Lyra's face brightens up. "Great! See you tomorrow, Sutakira.", she said as she waves at him. A few hours later, after giving Korra a ride back to Republic City and after spending some time with his friends there, he received a letter from Cadance and Shining Armor, inviting him to the Crystal Empire to help train some new recruits. After saying goodbye, Skywalker was riding his motorcycle towards the Crystal Palace. As he arrived, the voice of Shining Armor called out to him, "Ser Skywalker! Come and join us!", his voice echoed throughout the crowded courtyard. Turning off the engine, and placing the helmet on the steering wheel, Skywalker walked up to them, "Good morning Shining, everyone.", he greeted them as he arrived. The recruits smiled, stared, and gazed in awe at Skywalker, making him feel a little uncomfortable. Looking over the recruits, the one thing Skywalker noticed was that most of them where female, "Leave it to Shining Armor to pick a class made up mostly of novice girls... Who did I piss off in a past life?", Skywalker thought to himself as the recruits greeted him. "Are there any questions for Ser Skywalker?", Shining Armor addressed his recruits, looking down the line. "Please call me Skywalker.", Skywalker said to the recruits with a warm smile. A caramel brown unicorn with blond manes raised his hoof, Shining Armor nodded allowing the recruit to ask his question. "Can I fight him?", the unicorn named Bright Shield asked. Shining Armor looked over at Skywalker, who nodded. "I guess so. He is the Knight Of The Wind, so are you sure?", Shining Armor asked Bright Shield. The unicorn recruit nodded arrogantly, "He doesn't look like much. I'm sure all the tales of his prowess are the result of him putting his tongue to the Princess's hoof." Before anyone could blink, Skywalker crossed the distance between him and Bright Shield in an instant and glared at him. Shining Armor began to sweat as he felt his friends power grow. A quick look behind him saw the novices come close to falling to their flanks, some near fainting. Bright Shield quickly backed up a pace, nearly tripping over himself in his haste to put some distance between him and the Skywalker. "Perhaps you can put my tales to rest. Come.", Skywalker told him and leaped into the ring and walks to the center. Bright Shield looked at Shining Armor, silently pleading for him to get him out of this, but his commander gestured with his head to the ring, a grin on his face. Bright Shield entered the ring and stood a distance away, nervously shifting from hoof to hoof. Skywalker respectfully bowed his head, though Bright Shield clearly did not deserve it. Bright Shield charged, conjuring his yellow magic blade to preform an overhand slice. He smirked as he began the slice, his blade arcing towards Skywalker's unprotected head. As the mares gasped, Shining Armor hurried forward, conjuring his own blue magic blade, intending to stop Bright Shield's blade. They all froze at the new sight in front of them. Skywalker hadn't even drawn his lightsaber, he side stepped the attack and threw a punch, knocking Bright Shield back several steps. Dazed from the blow, Bright Shield momentarily forgot about his attack, Skywalker not allowing Bright Shield a second to recover, used the same arm to snap an elbow strike into his opponent's jaw and then punched him with his left, leaving him to fall flat on his flank, knocked unconscious. Shining Armor shook his head at his friend as Skywalker turned to address the rest of the recruits, "Your body, when used correctly, can be one of the most effective weapons. Any questions?". Ten minutes later, the novices were practicing simple disarming techniques. Shining Armor was circulating, pointing out flaws, adjusting stances and movements, and giving guidance on proper technique. Skywalker had paired himself with on of the recruits, since Bright Shield was still unconscious and there were an odd number of newbies left. "When I attack, step forward, throw a punch at the jaw, grab the wrist with your left hoof and use your right to break his elbow. From there, pull the weapon out of his hand.", Skywalker instructed while he demonstrated the action against an imaginary opponent. The young light blue with blue mane Pegasus, named Spear Strike nodded, "May I try? I think I understand it now.". Skywalker nodded, "Let's see." taking his fighting stance. The novice dropped into a standard attack stance, waiting for Skywalker's next move. Skywalker stepped forward, swinging a practice sword down and across, as if to slice the female novice shoulder to opposite hip. She stepped into the attack, throwing a punch to his jaw as she blocked the sword arm with her fore hoof. Her hoof stopped a millimeter from his face, close enough to feel the power behind the blow. Grabbing his wrist, she pulled her arm back and slammed into the underside of his arm. If Skywalker hadn't moved at the last second, she would have made his elbow exceed one hundred and eighty degrees. From there she pulled the sword out of his grasp and quickly stepped out of arms reach, returning to her attacking stance. Skywalker clapped slowly, "Good. Very good.", he complimented making Spear Strike blush as she tossed the sword back. "Again?", She asked shyly making her remind him of a certain other Pegasus. Snatching the practice sword out of the air, Skywalker replied with a, "Sure.". Two hours later, the drill was over. Despite the two hours of exercise, Skywalker and Shining Armor stood side by side at the center of the arena, as if they hadn't done anything. "What do you think, Skywalker?", Shining asked at the man who he had come to see as a younger brother of sorts. Skywalker shrug his shoulders as he said, "Adequate.". "That's all? Adequate?", Shining asked as his friend turned away from him. "They've only trained for one year. I've trained my entire life.", Skywalker explained as the two walked towards the castle. Meanwhile over at Sweet Apple Acres, the Apple siblings were doing their jobs around the farm as a voice called to them, "Hallo, everybody!", turning around they saw that it was Neville who greeted them. "Mister Neville! Good to see ya again!", Applejack shouted as she trotted towards the human who was leaning on the fence, happy to see the man who had saved the farm. "I hope everything is going well?", the young man asked, gaining a nod from Big Mac and Applejack. "Good, if there is any problem, anything at all, my contact information is on the deed I gave you.", he added with a smile, which send a warm blush over Applejack's face. "Would you like to come inside and have something to drink?", Big Mac offered, but Neville was forced to decline. "I'm sorry, but my boss, who happens to be my little brother, ordered me to check up on you and then report back to him at the office.", Neville explained as Big Mac understood. "I'm sure your brother is a perfectly reasonable guy.", Applejack tried to convince him, but the young man shook his head. "Actually he is kind of a douche. A little moody douche.", Neville said a hint of amusement and obviously affection in his voice, "But only I'm allowed to call him that.", after saying his goodbyes to the Apple siblings, Neville took his leave but unbeknownst to him, Applejack was following him closely behind. Not ten minutes later, Applejack had successfully followed Neville to the Main Square, where the young man walked into a recently build building. As fast she could without being detected, the young mare followed him into the building. Fortunately for her, the building wasn't in business yet as the lobby was abandon, behind the front desk, the words 'MC Enterprises', could be seen. She could see Neville walk up the stairs, slowly sneaking after him she saw him enter a large oak wooden door, written on it were the words 'Boss's Office'. "Hallo, Neville.", a familiar voice said from the other side of the door. "What's the status at Sweet Apple Acres?", the voice asked with Neville replied that everything was fine, thought they were a bit tight on money. "I see... transfer some of my funds to the Apple family, AJ and Big Mac have enough to worry about. I...", the voice suddenly stopped, a annoyed groan was heard before the voice said, "You can come in, AJ." as the door opened revealing Neville standing in the door opening. Behind him, she saw McGrath sitting behind a large desk in a big leather chair and a pretty older girl laying down on a sofa. After explaining what had happened, Applejacks confused look turned into a big smile as she rushed forward to grab McGrath in a big hug, "Oh McGrath, ya saved the farm! I'm just so thankful to ya!", she said as McGrath patted her back. After a minute Applejack let him go, the orange mare standing up and wiping away her joyful tears. "You’re welcome, AJ.", McGrath said as Applejack leaned in and gave him a kiss on the cheek, making a blush appear on McGrath cheeks. "If ya'll weren't dating Rarity I'd give ya more than just that little kiss.", she whispered into his ear, making his blush intensify at her words, one hand rubbing the back of his head, "I, uh, it’s my pleasure-ah, I mean..." he trailed off. Neville, Emma and Applejack giggling at his sudden embarrassment. Over the skies of Arendelle, Phoenix was soaring through the clouds with princess Anna on his back. After clearing out the Corrupted from the city, Phoenix had decided to stay a while and catch up with his friends there. "You know, I think Elsa wants to make a snow angel with you Phoenix!", the strawberry blond princess shouted as he took a sharp turn downwards. "What does that mean?", Phoenix asked her as the two of them landed back in the castle gardens. He had to surpass a chuckle at his friends messy her, which was a total mess. "She wants to have your chicks.", she explained as she straighten out her hair. Phoenix thought about what she had said but he still didn't get it, "What does THAT mean!? Stop confusing me, Anna!". Anna burst out in laughter at how clueless her tall red headed friend was, Anna hoped her brotherly figure to ask her sister out soon. Elsa watched jealously as Anna laughed with Phoenix, she sighed and leaned against a pillar. Elsa fidgeted as she heard her sister laugh again. Her sister was always so lucky. "Elsa?" Phoenix voice asked, making the blond jump a little. "Do you mind if we talk for a moment?". She smiled shyly as she gave him a nod, "Alright, Elsa, pull yourself together. He's just another guy. A handsome... muscular... attractive... smart... man, with beautiful purple eyes that could melt my magic all on its own.". A little while later, the two were seated at the coast overlooking the sea, just talking, well Elsa mostly talking and Phoenix listening. "I envy you, Kyle. You'll always be free to do as you please.", the queen said. Phoenix let out a soft chuckle before laying down in the warm grass, "Freedom is overrated. I'd rather buy a nice house some were, retire with the woman of my dreams.", he informed her as it was the queens turn to laugh. "Dream woman, huh? Good thing you've got a vivid imagination. Its weird...". Phoenix rolled his eyes, "Yes I know the front of my hair looks like a weed plant!", he said in a mock hurt tone, getting another laugh out of the queen. "I meant, I do all the talking, while you listen. So what's under that charming exterior?", she explained. "Maybe I just didn't want to bore you with personal details. You want to know more about me, ask away.", Phoenix said as he placed his arms behind his head. Three days later, it was Applejack's birthday and despise not wanting a party her friends sure did. So Skywalker, Twilight, McGrath, Rarity, Big Mac and Fluttershy where decorating the barn at Sweet Apple Acres, they had send the hard working mare on a few errands around Ponyville so they should have plenty of time to prepare. "My room is not that messy.", Skywalker said to Twilight as the two were inflating some balloons. "It is for my tastes.", Twilight said as she used her magic to levitate some decoration on the ceiling. "That's because you have OCD.", McGrath told her as he was standing on Big Mac's back hanging up a large B. When they are done with that, it will spell out 'Happy Birthday AJ' in bright orange light. At his responses Twilight gave a questioning look, "Obsessive Cleaning Disorder.", Skywalker, McGrath and Big Mac explained, then they burst out in laughter. "Wow. That was unexpected.", McGrath notted as Big Mac added, "Yeah, we didn't planed that at all.". "They have a point, darling." Rarity said as she used her magic to lift the next letter into her coltfriends hand before turning to Skywalker, "I can totally relate to you, Skywalker. There’s nothing wrong with a little organized chaos." Suddenly a loud booming voice was heard, "Did somebody say ‘chaos’?". A puff of smoke suddenly appears out of nowhere, and when it dissipates, they see a draconequus. "Discord!?" the friends shouted as the spirit of chaos greeted them."Hello, everybody! Fluttershy invited me over to AJ's birthday. I thought you might needed some help!". "Oh yes, We're glad you're here, Discord.", Fluttershy said as she approached her friend, happy to see him again but the same couldn't be said for the others. "Speak for yourself, Fluttershy.", McGrath said as he returned haning up the letters. "Why do you still think I'm evil?", Discord asked as he floated in front of the pale brunette. "I never thought you where evil, per se, I just think that you're a major troll.", McGrath explained as his girlfriend handed him the next letter, "Which, in my opinion, is way worse. Hopefully, you won't neuk up this party.". Discord rolled his eyes at this, "Then I'll try my best to not neuk up this party.", he replied in a terrible impression of McGrath's voice. A few hours later, Applejack had arrived back at Sweet Apple Acres after running her errands, she was currently pulling a cart with a huge cake towards the barn. She was surprised when she found McGrath and Rarity snugging with each other in front of the barn. Upon seeing her, the couple blushed as she got out of his arms. "AJ! You got the cake for Phoenix's Bar Mitzvah?", McGrath said as Applejack went inside the barn while muttering, "Yeah... Yeah...". Applejack arrived in barn and was startled by the sudden loud shouts of "Surprise!!!", from all her friend, plus Discord and some blond haired human she had never seen before. "WHa! I didn't do anything!", Applejack shouted as the gang broke down in laughter. "No, this is your birthday party!", Twilight explained, making Applejack confused. "This isn't Phoenix's Bar Mitzvah?", Applejack asked as the gang let out another laugh. "No! Phoenix is not Jewish!", McGrath said. "Let's get this party STARTED!", Pinkie chimes in as she turns on the music. A hour later, the party was in full swing. Skywalker had been standing over at the wall, observing his friends dancing. Fluttershy walked up to him. "Hello Jason, would you like to...", Fluttershy said with a soft voice, but suddenly, Griffifth informed him that they were nearly out of beer so Skywalker went out to buy some more with Discord tagging along for no reason. After a quick visit to the Night Store, the knight and the spirit of chaos were on their way back to the party, neither had said a word to the other. "Say Skywalker... Hummm...", Discord started gaining the attention from the young knight. "Is he hesitating? This isn't like Discord at all.". Skywalker thought to himself, "Yes?" "Well. I wanted to say that I'm so-, sor-..." Discord tried to say but after taking a deep breath he finally got it out, "I'm sorry, Skywalker.". This made Skywalker stop in his tracks, as he gave Discord a surprised look, "Are my ears playing tricks on me? Discord sincerly saying that he's sorry? I can't believe it.", the young knight thought to himself before asking Discord to repeat himself. "I said I'm sorry. I know I have done things that I can never make up for... I understand if you need time or if you don't want to forgive me. I just wanted you to know that I was sorry and that maybe, one day we could be friends.", he explained as he lowered his head. "Well that is new. Discord, I forgive you and I would like to be your friend.", Skywalker said with a warm smile making Discord look back up at him. "Really!? You would!? Why!?", he exclaimed in complete surprise, he would never imagine that a human would forgive him after all he has done to them. "Because I'm impressed by your actions today. Everyone deserves a second chance and besides Flutters thinks your okay so you can't be that bad.", Skywalker explained with a chuckle and when he finished saying that, Discord burst out in cartoon like tears. "Thank you, Ser Skywalker. Thank you! You have no idea how those words made me happy!". Skywalker let out another chuckle as the two shook hands. As the two continued their walk, Discord finally worked up to nerve to ask him another question, "Ser Skywalker... Did you know you were related to Luna when you and her...". Skywalker let out a groan of frustration, "How was I supposed to know we were both related? Believe me, if I knew she was family we never would have dated! Should I've gone ahead and propose and get hitched and have kids with eleven toes and move to Alabama where that kind of thing is tolerated? Don't think so.". After the party, Phoenix and Elsa was leading her back to her castle, moonlight showering down on their faces and glinting off the large body of water that surrounded the city. The romantic pressure was suffocating, "Kiss her... KISS HER ALREADY! DO IT DO IT DO IT", he shouted in his thought. Elsa was waving her hand in front of his face, trying to get his attention. "Phoenix? Are you okay- mmph!", maybe it was the alcohol or maybe he just finally got the nerve, but Phoenix slammed his mouth onto hers, surprising the both of them. Realizing she wasn’t kissing back, he panicked and began to pull away. "S-sorry-", he muttered at her shocked expression which melted into a wide smile and she grabbed his collar, pulling him back so she could reconnect their lips. Their mouths moved in sync and taking advantage of this to explore the inside of her mouth, they found themselves french kissing in the moonlight. "How cliche is this?" Phoenix muttered softly, to which she broke away to laugh. > Chapter 62: Nightmares > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "So how did you get the other 250 bits?", Skywalker asked as the guys minus Big Mac and Phoenix were walking home after Applejack's birthday party. "Oh, Lyra offered to pay me that exact amount if I helped her with some research.", the Sutakira explained as he started to flashback. Sutakira had arrived at Lyra's house, after a single knock the door flew open and Lyra ushered him in. Taking a seat in one of the chairs, Lyra spoke up, "Well, I'd like to start by just asking you a few questions. Is that alright?". Sutakira nodded, "By all means.", he said gesturing for her to go ahead. "The first thing I'd like to know is why humans don't have cutiemark and how you figure out what your special talent is without it?". "I'm not sure why we humans don't have cutie marks.", Sutakira answered. "My best theory is that it's because we aren't magical creatures like ponies. In reference to your other question, it is really hard to figure out what your purpose in life is without something telling you what it is. Some humans pursue what their passionate about, while others pursue what will make them the most money, and while all ponies are talented at something, some humans just don't have a certain talent or niche to fill.", he explained to the best of his abilities. The unicorn nodded, "Wow, interesting. Well, the next question I want to ask is why are humans so fascinated with the advancement of technology?", she asked. Sutakira thought about it for a moment, "Most humans are curious creatures by nature. Since the beginning, we always wanted to know two things: how the world works, and how we can make it better.", he added with a chuckle. "I see... there's one more question I want to ask you before we move on..." Lyra saids, as he nodded. "Are human males good at sex?". Sutakira wasn't quite sure how to answer this at all, "Um uh, I'm not quite sure. Why? Do you plan on doing a human someday?". Lyra let out a giggle, "Well maybe. So are they?". He gave a shrug at this, "No idea. Why don't you just watch some human porn or something?". He jumped back startled at Lyra sudden outburst, "THERE'S PORN OF HUMANS MATING??!!". "Y-Yes! In fact, the internet probably has more porn than anything else!", he added with a chuckle. Sutakira was brought out of his flashback by Skywalker next line, "Well AJ seemed happy with her motorbike.", black haired young man said as he looked up at the sky, "I hope it will work out between you two.", he added with a smile gaining a confused look from the bluenette. "What's that suppose to mean?". "Yeah, I'm that blind to love.", Skywalker snarked gaining a scoff from all the other guys. "What?". Skywalker runs through a burning Ponyville, all around him ponies where being attacked by those black creatures. Suddenly, Skywalker's feet came to a halt as he saw his closes friend broken and defeated at the feet of a tall humanoid dressed in a black cloak, two blue orbs shining from under his hood. "Don't you turn your back on me, Skywalker. I want you to look at me when I kill you. I want to see the light leave your eyes.". Skywalker woke up with a start, after coming home last night it had seem that he had fallen asleep on the couch. Needing to clear his head he decided to go for a walk. As he made his way across Main Square he started to think about what was happening. "There has to be some meaning to these nightmares, or could they just be dreams? I never have just dreams. If I dream, its always of things to come. Unless I get a PTSD, I don't see any other way...", he was brought out of his train of thought when a half asleep Big Mac crashed into him, sending the both of them to the ground. "Oh... Sorry, Skywalker...", the big stallion said as the two got back on their feet. "It's okay, Big Mac... I should've been paying attention.", he said scratching the back of his head. Big Mac nodded, "I'm a little off course today, too. I haven't been sleeping that great.", he admitted. "Me neither...", Skywalker admitted as the both of them said at the same time, "All week, I've had nightmares!" , the two gave each other a surprised look. Before more could be said, McGrath, Rarity, Applejack and Fluttershy walked up to them, none of them seemed to be well rested. "Not to be a pest, but would ya mind keeping it down a bit, Phoenix, er, Griffifth, Rainbow Dash? I mean Skywalker.", Applejack asked as she closed her eyes. "Yes, some of us haven't had our beauty rest.", Rarity added. "Have you had nightmares, too?", Skywalker asked. "What gave it away!? Whenever I close my eyes, I'm struck with those ghastly images!". a even more irritated, if that was possible, McGrath shouted. "Though I had plenty of time to read my fathers research!", McGrath admitted. "The baddest dreams ever!", Fluttershy shouted gaining the attention from the others. "Sorry! I didn't mean to be so negative! I think I'm a bit grounchy.", she admitted. In an instance Skywalker was at her side, "Its okay Flutters, no harm done.", he told her petting her on the head. "How come we all have nightmares all week?", Skywalker pondered as he fold his right arm over his chest while propping his left elbow up on it and placing a hand on his chin. Later that night, the gang had all gathered at Sugarcube Corner per invite of Pinkie, who had organized a sleep over to help them over their nightmares. "If anything can chase away those heebie-jeebie dreams it's a girly night of fun! Right, Skywalker?", Pinkie asked as the guest placed their sleeping bags on the ground. Skywalker was not paying attention as he was busy playing on his 3DS while floating in the air. HE was brought out of his concentration by a pillow thrown at him by Pinkie. "That's it. I declare war on you Pinkie Pie!", he declared with a smirk as he grabbed his own pillow and charged at the pink mare. "Say are the Cakes okay with you having guys sleep over?", Sutakira asked while he and Twilight we're playing a game of Vanguard, with Twilight in the lead. "Of course not! But they are out of town to visit family and McGrath said its okay to rebel against your parents.", Pinkie explained before being hit in the face by one of Skywalker's pillows. "Yeah... I don't think McGrath is the right person to ask advice about parents to.", the bluenette said as he placed his cards on the field before declaring an attack. "So which movie are we watching?", Big Mac asked McGrath and Phoenix who were busy setting up the TV and connecting the later's laptop to the screen. "The first movie in a great franchise, 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone'.", Phoenix told him gaining an angry glare from McGrath, as if that is anything new. "Excuse me? 'Sorcerers Stone'? You mean the 'Philosophers Stone'!", McGrath said as the red head rolled his eyes at his friends comment. "Please don't start with this discussion again! Just say 'Sorcerers Stone' like the rest of the world.", Phoenix said with a smirk as his green eyed friend let out a cold scoff. "Rest of the world? I don't remember America owning the entire world!", McGrath shouted as the two stood against each other. "Fine! I declare a thumb war! Winner gets to decided if its 'Sorcerers Stone' or 'Philosophers Stone!", Phoenix declared. He and McGrath intertwined their hands as Phoenix said, "One, two, three, four! I declare a thumb war!" and as soon as the words left his mouth, Phoenix let out a painful groan as McGrath pinned down his thumb declaring, "One, two, three, four! You lose!". And so after 159 minutes of movie, the need for sleep was catching up to them so the gang decided to hit the sack. "Let's get some good Z's.", Skywalker said as he felt Fluttershy laying close to him, the scent of flowers entering his nose trills. "Let's hope so. Good night.", Twilight said as the others each said something along the lines of "Sleep tight!", "Nighty Night." and "See you in the morning.". "See you guys in the morning.", Phoenix said cheerfully before letting out a big yawn. "That's what I said.", Fluttershy said offended as the smell of cotton candy filler her nose, the smell of Skywalker's hair. "No, you said 'see you in the morning', I said 'see you GUYS in the morning'. That's a whole world of diffrence.", the red head explained but he was interrupted by an angry McGrath shouting, "All of you shut up and go to sleep!". A few hours later, dark purple smoke peers trough the window, taking the form of a very tall and thin humanoid with unnaturally long, tentacle-like arms, like the rest of its body, its face is purple and featureless. Out of the palms of its hands, it let out a vapor similar colored of itself. Its attention was soon caught by Rarity, crawling over to her he looked inside her mind to see her nightmare. "My... She'll make the perfect host.", the intruder said to itself. Twilight stirred in her sleep, opening her eyes, "W-who's there? Skywalker?". The creature turned it's featureless face towards the lavender unicorn startling her, "No... I'm not Skywalker, Miss Sparkle.", using its vapor, it blasted a large hole in the wall behind it before grabbing Rarity in the same kind of vapor. But the large explosion had waken up the other heroes, who directly stood at alert. "Oh, I'm sorry. Did I wake you up? I must be more quite when I blow up walls... I'll be taking her now.", it said before turning into vapor and taking Rarity with it, escaping into the night. "No, Rarity!", McGrath shouted as Skywalker and Rainbow quickly flew after them. High above the skies of Equestria, Rarity was trying her best to get out of the vapor, but somehow its grip was solid as stone as the vapor was dragging her towards the moon. "Let me go, you...", Rarity demanded to the creature as it's upper body appeared from the vapor. "I think not, we Nightmares need a queen.", it said but its attention was caught by the voice of Rainbow shouting, "Hang on Rarity! We're coming for you!". Turning its head around it saw Skywalker and Rainbow catching up quickly. "My... It seems we have a hero...", it hissed annoyed before sending a magic blast at the heroes, which they managed to dodge, if just barely. "That was too close! Don't worry Rarity, we'll be right there!", Skywalker said, he wasn't ready to attack back at the creature for fear of hitting Rarity. "Jason! Don't wait up!", Rainbow said to her best friend as he gave her a quick nod before blasting off. Skywalker was gaining air by the minute, Rarity just out of his reach. The tips of his fingers were inches away from Rarity's hoof when in a puff of smoke, she and the creature had disappeared, shocking the two friends. "Where did they go?", Rainbow asked just as surprised as Skywalker. "I don't know, lets go back and talk this over with the others". Back at Sugarcube Corner, the gang was debating over what happened, as Twilight was writing a letter to Celestia. "The princess must know what to do I hope...", she said. Surprisingly to them, McGrath hadn't said a word ever since Skywalker and Rainbow had come back. "This is all my fault... She shouldn't have become involved with me... This is all my fault, I wasn't strong enough.". "There must be a link between our nightmares and that Slenderman rip off. Who could help us with that?" Sutakira said as he paced around the room. "Luna.", Skywalker said, gaining the attention from his friends, "She is the protector of dreams and she was taken over by Nightmare Moon. She could help us find Rarity.", the explained as the rest of the gang nodded. "She is our only hope! Anyone have a scroll!?", Twilight said but she was interrupted by a sudden voice. "You can ask her in person.", turning their heads towards the speaker, they saw Celestia and Luna standing there. "I believe a dark energy has been infiltrating your dreams. My sister may be able to help.", the sun princess explained. "Celestia, Luna, good to see you. What's going on? And more importantly, how do we get Rarity back?", Skywalker asked, glad that his mother figure and his ex-girlfriend had arrived. "I prefer if you would call me Princess Luna, Ser Skywalker.", the princess of the moon informed him coldly, not looking him in the eyes. Skywalker felt a sharp stab in his heart at the cold way his former girlfriend was speaking to him, turning his gaze towards the floor, the younger princess started to speak. "Honestly, I have no clear answer for you. Only that evil, dark forces have taken your friend to the Nightmare Dreamscape.", the princess of the night explained, as the others nodded. "Let's blast our way up there and get Rarity back! We're wasting time!", Big Mac said but Luna interrupted him. "You can't do that, you don't know what they are planning.". In turn she was interrupted by Skywalker, "Then you don't know anything about us. They have one of us, and we're not going to rest until we have her back. I'm not asking you to accompany us, just point us in the right direction and get the hell out of the way.", Skywalker said in an uncharacteristically cold voice, "Princess.", he added that last word with such coldness that the temperature of the room could have dropped a few degrees. "Alright, I'll help you get to the moon.", the princess said. "I hope your friend is brave, the Nightmare Dreamscape is not for the faint of heart.". "Rarity is strong... Unlike someone else...", McGrath suddenly said, turning his gaze to the side. "We must move fast. We don't know how long Rarity's bravery will protect her. I must warn you, the Nightmare Dreamscape is filled with your worst fears. It's denizens will not hesitate to use them against you.", the night princess said. The gang merely shrugged at this, they were ready of another adventure and to save one of their own. They hadn't failed yet, and they were surely not going to fail now. > Chapter 63: This Is Who I Am > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- As the Harmonic Heroes made their way to the clearing, Sutakira voiced something he has been wondering for the past half hour, "So I have been wondering, why would the Nightmare Forces try and take one of us?". Luna cleared her throat gaining the attention of the rest, "Together you possess the Elements Of Harmony, which have defeated the Nightmare Forces before. Now they will come after all of you, the heroes who can defeat them... and destroy your home...", the princess explained. Skywalker scoffed at this, "I would like to see them try.", the young knight said while thinking, "I finally have a home and people I care about... I will not let anyone take that away from me.". "I sure hope Rarity is okay. I can't imagine anything scarier than being kidnapped and taken to a Nightmare Dreamscape.", Fluttershy voiced her worry. "Well... being locked in a Asylum, with the patients freely roaming the grounds and a supernatural entity who can attack at anytime.", Phoenix said causally gaining a fearful look from Fluttershy. In a flash of light a small rope appeared in front of their feet and hooves. "Oh what are you gonna do with that? Tie down the moon so we can walk towards it?", Griffifth said sarcastically as Luna charged the rope with her magic before sending it towards the moon, and with a mighty pull from her magic she brought the moon closer to the planet Griffifth's mouth dropped open. "The flightless will have to use sure footing... As we try to save Rarity, my sister will begin to prepare Ponyville.", the night princess informed them before turning to face the group again, "This is your last chance to change your minds...". Skywalker started to levitate slightly above the ground before interrupting the princess, "Please princess. When we're together, the Harmonic Heroes can overcome anything.". The others nodded as those with the ability of flight took to the air as the others got on the rope. "As long as we get Rarity back it'll all turn out just dandy!", Big Mac said before charging towards the moon. "Well, that's one small step for ponies, one giant leap for ponykind!", Twilight said as the heroes made their way towards the moon. "In space no one can hear you scream!", Pinkie said as she danced over the rope. "That will come in handy when I'm chocking the life out of the Nightmare Forces.", McGrath thought to himself, trying to keep his cool. "Say Rainbow, why did you thought Twily was a spy during the Nightmare Moons invasion?", Sutakira asked a he flew up next to the cyan Pegasus. "I don't know. She knew stuff.", Rainbow tried to excuse her behavior. "Yeah but, wouldn't you think that creatures who haven't been seen for a thousand years in Equestria, would possibly be more likely spies than Twily was?", the bluenette pointed out as Rainbow rubbed her manes, "You guys were cool..." Not much later, the Harmonic Heroes plus Luna arrived on the moon. Turning around they saw a beautiful view of the planet below. "Hey guys, have you noticed this is the second time we're in space?", Griffifth said gaining a nod from the guys minus Big Mac. "I fly through it all the time.", Skywalker told them. "Wait a minute, how come we can breath on the moon!?", Sutakira shouted, realizing he could take in air. Before anyone could explain, Luna informed them that they must hurry because they will know they had arrived. "Who is 'they' exactly?", Rainbow asked "When the Nightmare Energy came back to life it needed a form to take. Unfortunately, the peaceful inhabitants of the moon became its victims. Every being has some darkness in it, the Nightmare Energy exploited that natural darkness, twisting, turning it, growing. In the end, they became creatures of darkness like those from the Dark World, known as the Corrupted. They are now abominations, beyond the hope of salvation.", the princess added with a regretful look. Meanwhile over at the Nightmare Castle, the Nightmare was observing the arrival of the Harmonic Heroes through a mirror. "It seems the Harmonic Heroes have arrived.", the Nightmare said before turning towards Morgenstern who was looking over the sleeping form of Rarity, "I see. Then I guess it's time to welcome our guests.", Morgenstern said as he conjured his Keyblade, the Morning Star, in his left hand, touching the tip against the unicorn's horn. Rarity's eyes opened in shock as Morgenstern send a blue flame like energy into her horn into the rest of her body. Rarity screamed from the top of her longs as her nerves felt like they were set on fire. Turning around as the Nightmare entered Rarity's body, Morgenstern folded his right arm over his chest while propping his left elbow up on it and placing a hand on his chin. "It seems Charles son and Lily's little sprout have become friends and become part of a group who are the only ones who could stop me... Is it fate, or destiny? I can never decide...", he pondered before disappearing in a cloud of dark mist. Back over at the heroes they made their way towards the Nightmare Castle, full intend on saving their friend. Suddenly, Luna raised her hoof making the others stand still. "Wait, there is something coming...", and as if on cue, a storm of black mist came rushing towards them, "Run! I have no power of this Nightmare Mist!", Luna said as they started to run away from the mist. "Ugh, Nightmare Forces, Nightmare Dreamscape, Nightmare Energy and now Nightmare Mist! What is this Bloodborne!?", Griffifth shouted as the gang tried to get to safety. "I have a feeling we have done this before!", Big Mac shouted. "Indeed." a cold voice came from the shadows as the Nightmare Mist swirled around them conjuring up a army of Corrupted. "You want some? We aren't afraid of you!", Rainbow boasted but was cut off by a cold laughter. One corrupted stepped forward as it shaped into a cloaked figure, even thought this couldn't be the real thing, the heroes could feel the power and authority the real thing would command. "Some of you are afraid. Isn't that true... Luna? Is that what you're going by now?", it added with a cold chuckle. "That is my name, my past as Nightmare Moon is long gone.", Luna told him bravely but the cloaked figure let out another cold laughter, sending shivers down the heroes spines. "But there is something you fear. Come back as Nightmare Moon and I will spare your friends and Equestria...", the cloaked figure was interrupted by Skywalker as he got between him and the princess. "You won't lay a finger on Princess Luna!", Skywalker declared as he activated his lightsaber. "You still stand up for her, even though she broke your heart?", the figure said with a slight chuckle. "I don't care if she broke my heart or not! I will not let some wannabe Square Enix villain take another of my friends!", Skywalker said taking his fighting stance. "Darn tooting!", Applejack added she and the rest of the gang took their fighting stance. "Despise how I treated him... he still stands up for me...", Luna thought to herself as the figure lets out another cold laughter. "I see. Then I hope this will be challenging.", the figure said before releasing his form. "That voice... Why did that sound... familiar?", where the thoughts of both Skywalker and Phoenix. Both of them get ripped out of their pondering by a large magic eruption, blinding them for a second. As the light died down, a tall dark unicorn with flowing purple manes was standing before them. "And now the Harmonic Heroes will be destroyed by one of their own. By the new Nightmare Queen, Nightmarity.", the figures voice came at them from all directions as the creature called Nightmarity opened her eyes and flashed them a psychotic smirk. A stunted silence followed before the Harmonic Heroes burst out in laughter, "We have to fight Diva?", Phoenix shouted over his laughter. "Yea, please. Don't give us a make over!", Big Mac added. All of the heroes laugh except one, McGrath had retreated into his head upon seeing what had happened to his girlfriend. McGrath had founded himself in a black void, on his hands and knees. "Told ya, you destroy everything you touch. You had a taste of being happy for a little while, but that ended up with her paying the price. How selfish could you be?", a dark reflection of himself mocked him. "Its true... You are right... I'm hopeless... I'm just an experiment... gone horrible wrong. I should have never been created...", McGrath muttered to himself. The dark reflection grinning like a maniac, but his smirk turning into a nasty frown as a small light appeared before McGrath. "That's not true, you idiot! You have come such a long way, you have gained friend who you care for and who care for you in return. True, there is a lot of anger and hatred in you, but there is so much good in you. A light that none have ever managed to step out. Now its time to tap into your anger, your hate and your love and unleash the true power within you. You can save me, my darling David.", Rarity said, making McGrath look up. "Your right...", he said as he stood up, "My name is David McGrath, I'm putting the past behind me... And save the one I love most. This is who I am!", McGrath said as he stood up, the dark reflection turning into stardust only to be absorbed by McGrath. "It's true your powers defeated me before, little heroes, but what will you do now that I've taken one of you? Without all of you, your Elements of Harmony are powerless. Bit of a pickle isn't it?" Nightmarity gloated as the other heroes tried to get through to Rarity. "Rarity? Can you hear us? You have to fight it!", Skywalker said trying to make his friend see reason. "You humans are dense aren't you? Remeber that Nightmare Force you all 'destroyed'with your little Elements of Harmony? Well You didn't do such a super job after all! Rarity is gone! Do I need to make a diagram or something with pictures so you can understand?", the nightmare queen spat to the heroes who all looked desperate. Before anyone could respond, McGrath stepped forward, a fire burning behind those emerald eyes. "Leave this one to me.", he declared as he stood between his friends and Nightmarity. "Tell me, can Nightmare Forces feel fear?", at this Nightmarity burst out in laughter before blasting him with a spell. "No, we are fear incarnate!", Nightmarity chuckled thinking she has destroyed one of her enemies. Much to everyone's surprise the smoke caused by the impact of the spell was blown away, taking ever emotion he had, McGrath pushed and broke the limits his infected genes could give him, transforming him. McGrath's normal brown hair had turned into gold, flowing as if it was a flame. He had gained a tail and his upper body is covered in green fur, his shirt and hoodie having disappeared. A powerful aura surrounded him with sparks of pure fire around him. "Nothing harms me, but I know pain. I know pain and sometimes I share it with people like you.", the transformed McGrath said before charging at Nightmarity and with a single energy charged punch to her jaw, separated Rarity and the Nightmare from each other. In a flash of green light, McGrath caught, Rarity bridle style, she slowly opened her eyes to see a smiling McGrath look at her. "I knew you would come...", Rarity gave him an tired smile. "I would never let anyone harm the mare I love.", McGrath said her placing a kiss on her horn. "D-Did he just punch the Nightmare out of her?", Twilight said as the friend group rushed towards the couple. "Screw that! Did anyone of you knew McGrath is a Super Saiyan!?", Sutakira shouted. Noticing that the Nightmare was recovering, McGrath handed Rarity to Skywalker, "You guys go on ahead and take Rarity to the Equestria, I have a score to settle.", McGrath said turning around to face the monster. "Alright, be careful.", Skywalker said as the gang made their way back to the rope. Luna was reluctant to leave one of her friends behind, be she knew this was something he had to do alone. The Nightmare flew at McGrath and punches him in the face, McGrath made no effort to dodge or counter and just took the punch, the Nightmare quickly following up with a barrage of punched, ending in a headbutt. The Nightmare starts laughing like a maniac, thinking his enemy was in pain. After a bit of waiting McGrath launched a kick so hard into the Nightmare's stomach that a lump in the same shape as his feet foot appears on the other side of the Nightmare. "Oh look, it seems I am a size 9." McGrath said sarcastically before elbowing the Nightmare away, sending him across the surface of the moon, and in a flash of green light, appearing above him, delivering a kick in the chin sending the Nightmare to the ground, much to the other Nightmare Forces amazement. The Nightmare stood up and tried to retaliate with a headbutt, but McGrath simply countered with a swift kick to the head sending him back to the ground, with enough force to create a massive crater in the ground. McGrath looked down into the hole to see if the Nightmare was still alive and to his surprise the Nightmare jumped up, grabbed both of McGrath arms. "Now all I have to do is suck you dry till you agree to be the new host for the Nightmare Forces!", the Nightmare declared as some of the familiar vapor started to circle around McGrath's arms. "Ayup... Seems I'm not going anywhere. Tell you what. Corrupt me as much as you want, in return I'll take your hands." he replied as he jumped up and smashed the Nightmare's face in the with his feet. McGrath kept on pushes his feet so hard that both of the Nightmare's hands come off, and the creature was send flying into a wall. "So to rephrase the question, do you Nightmare Forces feel fear?", McGrath said crossing his arms. The Nightmare seemed so scared that it tried to scurry up the pit and starts running away. "All the answer I needed.", McGrath said with a smirk as he levitated himself up. Locking his eyes on the target, McGrath charged energy into the palms of his hands before thrusting them forward. The Nightmare never stood a chance as he was obliterated in seconds, leaving another new crate on the surface of the moon. "This one is for Rarity..." McGrath declared as he landed back on the moon. The other Nightmare Force looked to him in complete and utter fear and with a single glare, they flew back to where their kind belonged, in the Dark World. "Now do you understand why so many people love me even though I'm the biggest dick in all of Equestria? It's because I'm David fucking McGrath. Accept no substitutes!", McGrath shouted from the top of his longs before disappearing in another flash of green light. Back in Ponyville, Celestia was busy preparing her guards and the little town for the invasion of the Nightmare Forces. "Cutiemark Crusaders reporting for duty!", Applebloom said as she and Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle arrive. "How can I help my Big Bro rescue my sister?", Sweetie Belle asked sadly. "Even the smallest ponies can make the biggest difference. We must hurry before...", Celestia started but she was cut off as the Harmonic Heroes arrived back with an worn out Rarity on Skywalker's back. "You manged to save, Rarity? What happened?", Celestia asked looking over the friends. "Wait, where is my Big Bro?", Sweetie Belle asked. Before anyone could respond a large explosion illuminated a spot on the moon. "Do you think, David is okay?", Rarity asked weakly lifting her head up. "I'm sure he's fine, Rarity! After all he is David McGrath.", Pinkie said trying to reassure her friend. In a flesh of green light, McGrath still in his transformed form appeared, "It seems this form pushes my power beyond the limit. I can feel it surging through me...", he thought to himself as he walked towards his friends. "Big Bro? Is that you?", Sweetie Belle barley got out, as he turned his gaze towards her. She closed her eyes as he ruffled his head, "Indeed I am, Belle. Better than ever.", he said with a smile. "But now you won't be my big brother anymore...", Sweetie Belle said sadly, making the others wonder why. "Do you mind explaining this, Sweetie Belle?", the princess of the sun asked, gaining the attention from the little filly. "Well you see, my sister is only into natural blonds.", Sweetie Belle explained as everyone burst out into laughter. "But what about the Nightmare Forces?", Luna asked, McGrath explained what happened after the friends left. Closing his eyes, as McGrath transformed back into his normal self, except that their was no a tail sticking out of the back of his jeans. "Huh, I guess that is staying...", McGrath muttered to himself. "I could think of a thing or two were it would come in handing.", Rarity added with a smile before closing her eyes, falling asleep, something the other heroes could use as well. > Chapter 64: We're A Family > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Discord let out a loud laughter as Skywalker told him a story about one of the guys earlier adventures while hanging out in front of the guys house. "I can't believe you guys did that! I had totally pegged you for a teacher's pet!", Discord said trying to get his laughter under control. "If you think that was bad, I should tell you about that one time we went to the Darkmarsh.", Skywalker said, gaining a chuckle from the spirit of chaos. "When you say things like that, Skywalker, it makes me glad I wasn't your friend sooner. Who goes to a place named Darkmarsh willingly!?", Discord said with a grin, "Now if they called it Beermarsh... no, still doesn't work.", he added with a shake of his head. "You got a point there. The marsh part does cancel out anything else. Flowermarsh? Candymarsh? Nope, no good.", Skywalker said with a chuckle. Meanwhile over at Carousel Boutique, in the backyard, McGrath placed some dummies to test out his new transformation and skills on. Feeling his power surging through him, one by one McGrath blasted the dummies with golden energy spears. "This is it! This power will allow me to finally surpass him!", McGrath shouted as he blasted the last dummy to bits while picturing the face of Skywalker on it. Powering down, McGrath clenched his fist letting his power rush shimmer down, "I did it, I'm a genius, I'm a huge brain in a ripped-up body, I am Jesus D. McGrath!", he let out a low chuckle not noticing that Rarity and Phoenix were standing right behind him, fighting back the urge to laugh. Turning around, the eerily pale brunette's emerald green eyes went wide as he realized that his friend and girlfriend were listening in. "Say Jesus D. McGrath, why are you so obsessed with becoming stronger?", Rarity asked, giving him a soft smile as she rubbed her nuzzle against his hand. She knew her coltfriend never talked about his feelings or what's troubling him, though she was always willing to listen. The words coming out of McGrath's mouth surprised her greatly, "During our first fight, I throw literally everything I had at Skywalker and it didn't do squat. And now... Skywalker has taking such leaps in power... I was designed to be perfect, and yet there is this 'normal' human who manages to do everything I can do and more, and often he achieves better results than I could.", McGrath explained. "Did you know what you just did?", Rarity asked softly as she looked up into his green puzzling eyes, "You shared your feelings with me.", she said if a soft smile on her face, gaining another surprise as McGrath returned the smile, "Yeah... I guess I did.". "Well even with your new super form, Messiah still outclasses you.", Phoenix said, gaining an angry glare from the couple, "Well sorry to be a buzz kill but at the end of the day, Messiah is simply stronger, faster, and tougher by many orders of magnitude. Even when your in your super form, Messiah is at least 4.125 X 10^13 times stronger, 3 times faster, and 288 times tougher than you, Moody.", the red head explained as the angry look on the couple grew. Before McGrath could say anything in response, Rarity asked him, "Shall we get him, my dark knight?". McGrath grinned at the evil grin Rarity was giving him, "Yes, lets." and after saying that, the couple started to send energy blast's at the red head. Late that afternoon Skywalker and Rainbow were flying towards the local restaurant after Skywalker took Rainbow on a surprise training day with the Wonderbolts. After recovering from the shock, Rainbow had a great training session with her personal heroes. At the end of the training Spitfire had asked Skywalker for some special one-on one training, though the way she had asked it bothered him. "What did you think Spitfire meant with some one-on-one training?", Skywalker asked as the two friends landed a short distance away fro, the restaurant. "Duh! She was asking you on a date!", Rainbow told him as if it was that obvious, which it was. "Oh!", Skywalker said turning his gaze towards the ground, "I guess Phoenix is right. If a girl shows that kind of interest in me it goes way over my head.", he said rubbing the back of his head. On their walk their, they came across a arguing Scootaloo and Applebloom. "I guess we won't know who would win a fight between Ser Skywalker and Rainbow Dash.", Applebloom said as her pegesus friend nodded in agreement. "Yeah, their friends. Why would they fight?". "Those kids..." Rainbow nodded as the two continued their way. "Yeah. Say... Who do you think would win between the two of us?", he asked. But he never got a response as the two came across Big Mac who, like them, was heading to the local restaurant for some grub. The three of them were about to head inside when out of the corner of his eye, Skywalker saw a blur of blue hair and a cowboy head disappear behind the window. Inside the restaurant, Sutakira and Applejack were kneeling down, just high enough to be able to peek out of the window. "Are ya sure?", Applejack asked as the bluenette nodded his head, "I swear! I saw Big Mac! And Skywalker and Rainbow were with him!", Sutakira told her nervously as the southern belle sigh. "Their gonna find out sooner or later, and are ya really that afraid of my big brother?", Applejack said looking into his pale blue eyes with her own green ones. "Well Our friend will tease us to no end, and one of those friend is Big Mac... Also he is a building on hooves...", the bluenette explained gaining a thoughtful nod from his girlfriend. The two jumped in surprise when they suddenly heard, "Why are we hiding from?", looking behind them, they saw that Skywalker had silently sneaked up behind them, with Rainbow and Big Mac behind him. Before more could have been said, darkness swept over Ponyville, looking outside, they could see that the moon had moved in front of the sun, causing a full solar eclipse. As the friends arrived outside, panicked screams filled the air. Turning their heads towards the screams, they saw thorns coming out of the Everfree Forest, destroying building in their wake. Lucky for them, the rest of the Harmonic Heroes arrived. Twilight explained that she tried to contact the princesses but neither of them had responded. "I know someone who possible has answers.", Skywalker said gaining a puzzling look from his friends as he quickly said 'Discord' three times. And in a poof, the spirit of chaos appeared, wrapped in a towel and shower foam all over his serpent like body and head. "Now, Skywalker, you know I told you that you were to give me a heads up before you summoned me with that little trick I learned you. In case you haven't noticed, I was in the middle of a particularly invigorating shower.", Discord said in a playful manner before noticing the thorns coming from the Everfree Forest. "When did that happened?". "Don't you play dumb with us, Discord! We know you're the one behind all of this!", Applejack shouted accusingly at the spirit of chaos, who looked slightly insulted. "I speak the truth, I have nothing to do with this. I'm reformed, don't you remember?", Discord pleaded, looking at Skywalker and Fluttershy for support. But before either could speak up, Rainbow spoke up first, "Yeah, right! This has got your cloven hand prints all over it!", she said accusingly. Discord let out a offended scoff, "I'll have you know that I have only one cloven hand! Such accusations. And here I thought we were friends. I'm innocent. Would I lie to you?" "Enough.", Skywalker said as he stepped forward, "I'm willing to give Discord the benefit of the doubt.", he told them. Fluttershy nodded as she stepped next to him, "Jason is right, what if he really is telling the truth?", she told them. "If you're not the one responsible, then help us figure out who is!", Twilight demanded. The spirit of chaos took a similar thinking pose to what Skywalker usually does before snapping his finger, "Idea! Why don't you ask your zebra friend if she knows anything?", he suggested. Skywalker nodded, "Good idea, Harmonic Heroes, let's find Zecora!", he ordered as he turned around, bumping into the zebra herself. "Well that's convenient.", Griffifth said dryly. "Why do you always sound so sarcastic?", Big Mac asked gaining the attention from the blond. "Oh, my voice sound sarcastic by nature.". "Zecora? What are you doing here?", Twilight asked, as the young knight helped the zebra back up. "Yeah, we haven't seen you like in... forever!", Griffifth added. "From my home, I have had to flee! The forest has grown too wild, even for me!", Zecora explained. After a quick explained what's happening to the zebra, Zecora gave a nod before explaining, "I'm afraid it is a mystery to me as well, but I may have something that, I do not dare to use it myself, the results would be tragic. Ser Skywalker, after a sip, you might see why the sky is day and night.", said told him as she reached into her bag, pulling out a bottle with a blue liquid. Removing the cork from the bottle, Skywalker took a quick sip, a bitter taste filling his mouth as he quickly swallowed. "Well, it's no Applejack Daniels. And it doesn't seem to be worki... I'm fainting now.", he said as his eyes turned milky white as he dropped to the side. Skywalker could feel his mind transcendence time and space before appearing in the past, in front of him, he could see a younger version of Celestia and Luna standing in front of a crystal like tree, holding what seemed to be the Element of Unity. "The Tree of Harmony? Are you sure?", younger Luna asked as Skywalker floated closer. The memory Celestia nodded before turning her gaze to the tree, "Caelum has managed to break Discord's power but at the cost of shattering the World. Our brother gave his life to create this key from the Tree itself, it will allow us to wield the Elements Of Harmony even without the others with us.", Celestia explained as she looked over the Element Of Unity. "Even without these Elements Of Harmony, the Tree of Harmony will possess a powerful magic. As long as that magic remains, it will continue to control and contain all that grows here." Back in the present, Skywalker woke up with a yell, startling his friends. "I'm awake!", he shouted, surprised at the worried look he gained from his friends, "Why are you all looking at me like that?". "You were mumbling to yourself...", Applejack explained with a faint blush on her face. "That and... You undressed yourself and started to run around naked...", Big Mac added. The young knight looks down and notice that indeed, he had lost his clothing, "... Oh great... My nipples are hard.", he muttered to himself as he started to recollect his clothes. Turning to his left, Phoenix saw a wide eyed, heavily blushing Fluttershy with a little drool on the side of her mouth, "Welp, I think Sunshine might be brain dead." "Did you find out whose rump we need to kick and where we can find them?", Rainbow asked her friend as he started to get dressed. Pulling his shirt over his head Skywalker explained that he saw something from a long ass time ago, "I still don't know what's happened to Princess Luna and Princess Celestia, but I think I know why the Everfree Forest is acting this way. Something's happened to the Tree of Harmony.", he finished explaining as he slipped on his underwear and his jeans. "The tree of what now?", Pinkie asked. "It's where the original Harmony Wielders found the EoH, the tree were their brother created the Element of Unity.", Skywalker explained as he put on his jacked, "Anyways, I think it's in danger.", he finished as he popped up his collar. "Discord, try to find the princesses, we'll try to find a way to stop the thorns from destroying Ponyville.". Discord gave him a salute and with a poof he disappeared into smoke. "Well, all right then! Let's go save a... tree. Uh... where is it exactly?", Applejack asked as McGrath scoffed, "Where do you think?". A few minutes later the gang is making their way towards the Castle of the Two Sisters, because... yeah why are they doing that. "It seems logical that the Castle Of the Two Sisters would be close to the Tree Of Harmony as we did found them in said castle.", Sutakira explained to Phoenix, gaining a nod from the red head. "Seems like only yesterday we were heading into these woods to find the Elements of Harmony.", Rarity said nostalgic as the castle came into few. "Seems like only yesterday I was foolish enough to think I should go after them on my own.", Twilight added with a soft laugh. "I wasn't even there, the first time.", Big Mac said as they stood before the castle. "I don't know what we're going to face in there. But whatever it is, I know we need to face it together.", Skywalker said as he led the charge inside the castle. Meanwhile over New Genesis, Morgenstern had gathered members of his inner circle in the throne room, "Is the plan working?", Morgenstern asked his followers as he looked down on them from his throne. "Yes, my lord. The Harmonic Heroes have entered the castle as we speak.", Byron said, gaining an nod from his master. "Good, you know your missions, now go.", he commanded as each of his inner circle disappeared into smoke. After they left, he stood up and headed for his study. As he entered the room, Morgenstern pushed a few button on his keyboard on his desk, a book case slip open, revealing a spiral staircase. As he headed down, the book case closing behind him, something his old master told him resounded in his head, "Thanks to your cells, you have drunk in other peoples power, strengthening your muscles, your skin, your senses. You've grown stronger here than I ever could've imagined. The only way to know how strong is to keep testing your limits. So do not be afraid and do not worry. You are the one, who will lead the Worlds to salvation.". Meanwhile in the castle the gang were searching through the castle. "Hey do you guys think we should split up?", Pinkie asked, gaining the attention from the rest of the Harmonic Heroes. For a moment everybody was silent before everyone shouted to Pinkie, "HELL NO!!!", startling Pinkie. "Damn it Pinkie! Haven't you ever watched a horror movie!?", McGrath scold her, making Pinkie's jaw drop. "We're in a horror movie!? Aw man, I'm screwed! Funny one always goes first!", she complained as she rubbed her hooves through her hair. "Don't act so paranoid. As long as we stay together, we'll be...", Phoenix started, trying to reassure his pink friend before realizing something, "Hey wait a second I'm the funny one!". As Phoenix and Pinkie exploded into a discussion, Big Mac leaned towards Skywalker and Fluttershy, "Guess that rules out you two from making out.", he whispered gaining a shocked blush from the two. "The hell does that mean?", Skywalker asked as Fluttershy added, "Big Macintosh! I-I-It's n-not l-like t-that!", turning her eyes towards the ground, trying to hide her blush. "Sure it isn't.", Big Mac said with a roll of his eyes. "So does that rule out us too, Toshiyuki?", Applejack whispered toward Sutakira, making the bluenette blush. "... Dumb Ass.". Not much later, they found themselves in the throne room where they first found the Element Of Harmony, but out of nowhere they were surrounded by Corrupted as someone let out a slow clap. "That was almost too easy.", a sophisticated voice said from the throne, gaining the attention from the heroes. Upon the throne sat, Byron looking down at them with a bored expression. "Can't see why Lord Morgenstern would bother trying to recruit you lot, then again its not my call to make.", he said more to himself than to them as he rose from the throne. "Who the hell are you!", Rainbow demanded to know. "Oh, where are my manners, my name is Byron, a pleasure to meet you." Byron said with a slight bow, "The Dark Messiah has taken notice of you all, Harmonic Heroes. He's giving you this one chance, join him in the New World and live like kings and queens, you will be gods among insects.", Byron said with a smile. The Harmonic Heroes each gave a look to one another before collectively shouting, "No!", as each took their fighting stance. Byron's smiled dropped, transforming into an angry grimace, "Then so be it.", and with a snap of his fingers, the Corrupted launched their attack. Phoenix quickly threw a fire punch and fire kick, taking out three Corrupted at once. Whipping out his claws, Griffifth sliced an on coming Corrupted in two, before grabbing two others and slamming them into the ground. McGrath and Rarity send out two energy blast knocking down the Corrupted allowing Big Mac and Applejack to finished them off. Skywalker and Twilight were currently trading blows with Byron, who dodges Twilight's magic blast with acrobatic grace, but Skywalker follows with a stream of electricity which he tries to block, but it is too powerful, causing him to be blown against the wall, shattering it. As the dust settle's, the wall revealed the tree Skywalker had seen in the vision. Byron stands back up, raising his hands as suddenly, Skywalker and Twilight writhes in pain as Byron lifts them into the air. This sensation felt familiar to Skywalker, it felt the same as when Amon tried to bloodbend him, though this felt much more forceful. Skywalker started to break free from the control but Byron slams the both of them on the ground, sending cracks all over the ancient stone floor. Twilight tries to resist Byron's magic, but is too weak to do it and instead, she manages to electrocute Byron with lightning spell strong enough to throw him away. Skywalker stands back up as he sends two telekinetic pulses at Byron. Being send to the ground again, Byron lashed out by sending a dark energy blast at them, which the duo jumped into the air, barely managed to dodge the on coming attack. As the two landed back on their feet and hoof, Byron grips them with his blood magic, causing the two to slide along the floor. He tosses the two around like a ragdoll, first into the walls and then the ceiling. "I'm impressed. No one has ever gotten the better of me like that.", Byron said as he dusted off his coat, "It is almost a shame to kill a fellow mage of such potential. Almost.", he added with a sadistic grin as he charged up a magic blast in his hand, to finish off Twilight. As he was about to launch the life ending spell, Skywalker felt his rage reach its peak as he broke free from Byron's grip and deflected the spell with his lightsaber. "I-Impossible.", Byron said shocked before regaining in composure, for a moment Byron could have sworn he saw Morgenstern in Skywalker's place but he dismissed those thoughts as Skywalker attacked with a flurry of punches, despite his attempts to block, Skywalker's strength was too much for the fragile mage as he was slammed into the ground, Byron raised his hand, slowing Skywalker's progress. With a loud scream that shattered the windows, Skywalker was released from his grip and send Byron into another wall. Byron tried to get back up, though it would seem he was no match for their combined effort. The last Twilight saw was Skywalker rushing to her side as she lost consciousnesses. Suddenly a cold voice was heard from inside his head that wasn't his own, "Assuming direct control.". Byron's eyes widened as he felt a pain unlike anything he had ever felt surged through his body. Skywalker and Twilight stood ready for what ever it was that was happening to Byron as the mad mage withered on the ground in pain. Suddenly, Byron stood back on his feet, his purple eyes now being replaced by all blue with several concentric circles and nine comma's surrounding them. "Lily's little sprout all grown up standing before me. I heard a lot about you Ser Jason Skywalker.", Byron said with an calm and cold voice. "You know me? And who's this Lily?", Skywalker asked as the being that possessed Byron chuckled. "I know a lot about you, I have been searching for you all my life. Now show me your strength.", the Byron said as he summoned a Keyblade, the Morning Star, before attacking. Skywalker took the blow and riposted, speeding up his timing, forcing Byron to retreat. Byron twirled and blocked a slash, weaving a defensive pattern with his blade. Skywalker lunged, but Byron was ready, bringing them into a momentary bladelock. Byron shoved hard, breaking the lock and forced Skywalker to pull back. In backing away, Skywalker drew the duel into the open, Byron attacked once more and began to chivvy him into the wall. Just as Byron was about to deliver a finishing strike, Skywalker unleashed a sudden flurry of attacks that forced a surprised Byron to pull back. Byron released a sudden bombardment of quick blade slashed, one that scratched Skywalker's cheek before sending him to the floor. Quickly regaining his footing, Skywalker could barely fend off Byron's onslaught. With a final hard strike, Skywalker lightsaber was knocked out of his hand. Byron twirled the keyblade in a angular position, ready to finish Skywalker off when the most unlikely thing happened. Fluttershy had taken Skywalker's lightsaber and sneaks behind Byron, stabbing him in the back. who is preparing to finish Skywalker off and stabs him in the back. Dropping his keyblade on the ground, which disappeared into shimmering light as Byron dropped to his knees, "I see. That is your strength... We will meet again and next time, you won't be so lucky.", the thing possessing Byron said as he started to fade into black smoke, "Releasing direct control." and with that, Byron and the corrupted had disappeared. After checking up on injuries, the most the gang had were some bruises and some broken ribs, standing in front of the Tree of Harmony, they could feel something being pulled out of them, after another pull, twelve wisp like lights, even from Big Macintosh, were absorbed back into the tree. Unbeknownst to them yet, the Elements Of Harmony had withered turned gray, having lost their power. Suddenly the Tree branch revealed a small chest, resonating with the now powerless Unity. Upon further inspection of the box, the following inscription could be read on the side "I'll open when everyone is like they were, when the skies open wide and shadows invade.". "So... Without the Elements you think were still friends?", Twilight said a little doubtful as the Harmonic Heroes made their track back to Ponyville. "No. We're not.", Skywalker said after a long silence, startling everybody, "We're not friends, we're family. Though there is nothing stopping us from sleeping with each other.", he added with his calm tone, making everyone chuckle. Taking the box with them, the Harmonic left the castle, worried but with renewed hope, arriving back at Ponyville, they found a worried Celestia waiting for them. It appeared she never had received their calls, and after hearing their explanation what happened, Celestia turned her gaze to the ground, "A keyblade?... Could it be...", she thought to herself before looking back up at her Harmonic Heroes, "It appears the attacks we have endured the last few years were not random. Someone with a lot of power is trying to take Equestria and eliminate the Elements Of Harmony. Its time we build our own army, its time for an Alliance." Celestia said as the heroes agreed as Skywalker and Phoenix prepared to ask for aid form Republic City and Arendelle. If this unknown entity wanted to have Equestria, they wouldn't give it without a fight. > Chapter 65: Maze Of Life > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It had been two days since the battle against Byron, with the last ounces of power left in Unity, Skywalker, McGrath and Phoenix had assured that ambassadors would meet them at the Crystal Empire. In spite of being needed back in Equestria, Phoenix decided to spend a few hours with the girl he loves. So Elsa and him founded themselves in the Royal Garden of Arendelle Castle, sitting under a three, with her on his lap. "Kyle, can I talk with you about something?", the queens asked making the young man laugh. "You can tell me anything, Mon Cheri.", he said making her blush at her little nickname. "There are some interesting rumors out of the Western Shore. Turns out the aristocracy is unhappy with the king. Some nobles are secretly rebelling.", Elsa explained as her boyfriend listened intensely. "Taxes are the leading cause of rebellions. I bet that's the problem.", the redhead quipped gaining a soft chuckle from the queen. "You have such a wonderfully simple view of politics.", she said placing a kiss on his forehead, "It terrifies me how often you're right. Count Merritt Reginald has requested my presence at a discreet location, the Tower of Fire in Yveltal Bay, at a time of my choosing.", she finished. "Yveltal Bay?... Why not the Western Shore?", Phoenix asked, giving her a worried look. "Yveltal Bay is neutral ground. Meeting at the Tower Of Fire? That's a gesture of respect. Count Reginald is one of the most popular nobles on the Western Shore. He's also secretly organizing the rebellion against the king. His invitation is addressed to 'Elsa Targaryen, Royal Queen to the Targaryen Dynasty'. He's taking me very seriously.", she finished, a little surprised at her boyfriends jealous look. "Your not thinking about replacing me right? He might be a count, and have lots of munny, but I'm... I'm me!", he said with a pout. The beautiful girl on his lap let out chuckle before placing a kiss on his lips, a warm sensation filling them both. "How can I argue with that logic?", she said as their lips parted, the young couple continuing to cuddle, enjoying the warm sun. Unbeknownst to either of them, up on the castle gargoyles, Mizuki was watching the young couple, "It seems it's true, there is another Phoenix.", she muttered to herself as she disappeared into smoke. Meanwhile back over at Ponyville, more specifically Fluttershy's Cottage. The yellow mare was busy packing her suite case for the trip to the Crystal Empire, while also taking care of her pets. Just as she was about to feed Angel Bunny, a knock was heard on the front door. Quickly placing the food down, she opened the front door, showing Skywalker standing there holding a paperback. "Good afternoon, Flutters. I hope I'm not interrupting you.", Skywalker asked, taking a quick look inside. "Oh no, your never interrupting me. So why are you here? I thought you were going to Republic City to get help from Korra.", Fluttershy asked as she invited him in. Skywalker nodded, explaining he had convinced the president of Republic City to send a ambassador to the meeting, though when pressed why he didn't come himself, Skywalker became very secretive. "Anyways, I wanted to give you this.", he said handing her the paper back, inside were a bunch of his own freshly baked cookies in the shapes of butterfly's. "I wanted to thank you for saving my life the other day. If it hadn't been for you, that Byron guy would have stabbed me with that key sword of his.", he said as Fluttershy munched on one of the delicious baked sweets. "Oh, its no problem! I-I mean you do stuff like that all the time and nobody gives you any cookies.", Fluttershy said with a blush on her cheeks. Skywalker chuckled as he gave a light pat on Fluttershy's head. "You are so sweet, Flutters. Whoever your boyfriend is, he's very lucky.", he said making the shy mare blush even more. "Actually, I don't have one.", Fluttershy told him, gaining a disbelieving look from the young knight, "I haven't even had my first kiss yet.", her eyes widen when she realized what she just said. "Why would I tell Jason that I haven't had my first kiss yet? Was I hoping that he would kiss me in response?", she thought to herself. "Would you like your first kiss right now?", Skywalker asked, breaking Fluttershy out of her thinking as her eyes widen even further. "Wait What!? Jason, how could... th... I mean, what!", the yellow mare managed to sputter out, he face almost completely red. "Exactly as I said, Flutters, my offer stands firm.", Skywalker said as he cupped the side of her face, sensing her nervousness. She forced herself to look into his shiny amber eyes as he said, "So again, would you like your first kiss right now?". "O-Okay, I guess...", Fluttershy said, not believing something she has been dreaming about for so long was about to come true. "Alright then. Close your eyes, then slowly lean forward.", Fluttershy did as he's told, and shut her eyes, then she slowly leaned forward, and he does the same. There lips soon meet in the middle, and surprisingly, Skywalker pours so much passion into the kiss, obviously wants her to make this kiss something to remember. As his lips break away from hers, she slowly open her eyes to see him smiling warmly at him. "You're a great kisser, Flutters.", Skywalker said with a faint blush of his own. A strange feeling beating in his chest, something he had only had ever felt two times before. Meanwhile over at Canterlot Castle, Celestia woke up from her afternoon nap, as she shot up in her bed, drenched in sweat. "It was that blasted dream again!", the sun princess shouted as she laid her back down and hit her head against the pillow. "A few weeks after the wedding. I started to have those disgusting dreams of ravaging him. Why do I keep having these dreams? I can't possibly want to do that with him!" she thought to herself as she started to drift back to sleep, but her door opened as Luna entered holding a turtle, "Hey sister look! I found this nasty creature in the garden and immediately I thought of you.", the moon princess said in a teasing manner, but to her surprise her older sister was holding her face under her pillow. "I was just kidding. Sister what's wrong?", Luna asked as she sat down at the edge of her sister bed. After a few minutes of silence, Celestia finally cracked, she had to get this of her chest, one way or another, "Well... you see... Im... I'm in love.". Luna got a big smile on her face as she pulled her sister into a hug, "Marvelous! Who is the lucky stallion?", she asked excitedly. Much to her surprise, her sister pulled herself from the hug as she casts her face down, "Well, it's not, a stallion...", she said pulling her pillow over her face. Connecting the dots in her mind, Luna asked slowly, "So... Its a mare? Like yourself?". Fearing her sister's reaction, Celestia kept her head under the pillow as she muttered, "No... It's... It's Griffifth.", the sun princess could feel the pillow being removed from her head as her sister started to stock her mane, "Well, you didn't laugh when I admitted that I was in love with Skywalker. And Griffifth has a nice ass, and I know someone who can help you.", the younger sister said, gaining a puzzling look from the younger sister. A few minutes later inside Celestia's study, Celestia was waiting for the one who her sister said could help her. Someone who could according to Luna, could see, hear and smell everything, even Celestia was puzzled by the smell part. Another minute past before a knock was heard on the door as Skywalker came in. "You wished to see me, Tia? The preparations for the meeting are going smoothly.", Skywalker started but the sun princess interrupted him. "Jason, I need... a favor that I can only trust to you.". "Oh, this should be good.", Skywalker said crossing his arms, giving a amused grin. "It should be a small matter, but I worry. I need you to give something to Griffith. No questions, and he is not to know it's from me.", Celestia ordered him as she levitated a small package into his hands. "Griffith? Why?", he wanted to ask but Celestia interrupted him again, "You're doing very badly at the 'no questions' part. This is... strangely difficult. Please, hurry back with his reaction. I appreciate this, Jason. I really do.", the princess said before Skywalker flew off towards Ponyville. About five seconds later, Skywalker found Griffifth sitting in their shared living room watching some TV, with a bag of chips on his lap. After greeting each other Skywalker handed him the package. "I have it on good authority that you are going to like this.", he said as his blond friend opened the package, revealing a small copper statue of marigolds. "Well... How crafty. Is there a meaning to this that I should know?", Griffifth asked his friend. "Possibly 'here you throw this away'?", Skywalker suggested which Griffifth agreed to. Again five seconds later, Skywalker arrived back at Celestia study who looked up stunned, "You're back? Of course you are. You're efficient. Get things done. Good or ill. So, how did Griffith react?", Celestia asked nervously. After a brief explanation which pretty much came down to that he found it garbage. The princess sighed deeply, "I thought it was clear. Metal is strong. Copper ages well. Flowers are soft.", she muttered to herself as Skywalker looked on confused, "I've clearly gone about this the wrong way. Don't talk to him again.", she ordered making him shake his head. "That's going to be difficult. As we are house mates.", he said as the princess started to pace around the room, lost in her own thought. "All right, I can fix this. I need... I need three goats and a sheaf of wheat. You'll take them to his mother.", she said, gaining another puzzling look from the knight. "It's a dowry tradition. Maybe it will smooth the process.", she explained. "Hold a moment. You're having a crush on Adam Griffith!?", Skywalker exclaimed, finally figuring out what she was getting at. His suspicion was confirmed by a red faced Celestia muttering, "W-What? M-Me and G-Griffifth?". Skywalker walked over to her and as he placed his hand on her shoulder, "Celestia. You know you can talk to me.", he said with a kind smile. The princess let out a deep sigh as she sat down in a chair, "What am I to say? That a grown mare can't speak her mind? It's been so long since Caelum and I've been focused on being ruler for so long, that's all I know.", she said with a sad tone to her voice. "So you've been by yourself since you became co-ruler of Equestria?", Skywalker asked gaining a nod from the princess, "I can't imagine you having trouble speaking your mind. This doesn't make sense.", he continued gaining a angry glare from the ruler of the sun. "If it made sense, I wouldn't need you. I want Griffith know the way I feel...", she told him as he was thinking how to solve this little problem. Skywalker started to pace around the room in his thinking pose before suddenly snapping his finger, a idea popping in his head, "I got it! Your a princess and he is just a citizen, we can't get past that. So we go out. and get him drunk. Shame is a great equalizer!", Skywalker exclaimed, gaining a doubtful look from the princess, "What, just go out somewhere? Like it's that easy?", she asked gaining a nod from the grinning Skywalker. "Yes, it can be. Meet me at Sugarcube Corner at around seven.", Skywalker said as he took off, determent to hook up two of his best friends. At seven in the evening, Skywalker and Griffifth were sitting at their favorite boot as they gulped down one beer after another. "There were supposed to be others coming, right?", Griffifth asked downing another beer, gaining a nod from Skywalker. "I hope so.", Skywalker thought to himself as he ordered another round. A few hours and 30 beers each later, Celestia still hadn't arrived. "No, Luna's a Pancake. Scrats and Twilight are eggs, Soaring and Derpy are muffins, and Octavia and Trixie are oranges.", Skywalker explained to Griffifth gaining a nod from the blond. "What is Celestia then?", the blond asked gaining a chuckle from the black haired. "Grapefruit.", he stated as the two burst out in laughter. "We are going to hell are we?", Griffifth asked while still laughing. Skywalker suddenly stopped laughing, making his friend stop as well. "Yes. Yes we are... To pony hell!", at that they both started to laugh again. The next morning, Celestia woke up in her bed, she had been to afraid to meet Skywalker at Sugarcube Corner. And speaking of which, she saw two angry glowing amber orbs glaring at her. "Where the fuck where you?", Skywalker asked sternly, a tone only her parents had ever had taken when they addressed her. "I... I couldn't do it. I'm an idiot.", Celestia said as she looked down at her blankets. "I won't argue with that...", Skywalker thought to himself as Celestia started to state reasons why she couldn't date Griffifth in the first place. "I will not risk...", Celestia said, but she was cut off as Skywalker suddenly started to shout. "That's the problem! Risk, or so help me, I will do Griffith myself. Arrange a diner party thing or what ever the hell you nobles do for fun. I'll keep the noble's at bay and you'll talk to Griffith.", Skywalker said as he turned around to leave. "This isn't your problem. And you're making my problems worse!", the princess told him, but all he did was scoff at this. "You made it my problem, now I'm fixing it.", Skywalker said as he opened a window and started to clime out of it. "Are you drunk?", the princess asked slowly. Skywalker quickly turned his head around, looking at her, "No! I'm super drunk!", he said before flying out of the room. That afternoon, Celestia had send an invite to Griffifth for lunch at Canterlot Cafe. Much to hers and Skywalker surprise, he had accepted. So Celestia and Griffifth were now seated at a boot in the corner with Skywalker looking over them from a nearby table. "Thanks for the food.", Griffifth said as their lunch arrived. "No problem.", the princess said as an awkward silence followed. "So... this is pretty quiet.", Griffifth said after a while. "Yes, and it's... a real nice day for an afternoon.", Celestia said as the awkward silence continued. From his own table, he could see and hear everything that was happening, "Yoda, their bad at this.", he muttered as he munched on his sandwich. As the lunch was about to come to a close, Skywalker had gone to take a quick trip to the restroom, after washing his hand he bumped into Griffifth. "Skywalker?", his friend asked surprised as Celestia's eyes widened. "Ser Skywalker? What a surprise. What are you doing here?", she pretended to be surprised, but Skywalker had enough of it. "Celestia.", Skywalker said sternly gaining a panicked look from the princess, "You'll thank me later. I think you'll come around once it's all out in the open.", he continued confusing the blond. "Would someone please tell me what's going on?", Griffifth asked, not getting what is happening. Skywalker shook his head in irritation as he exclaimed, "Your a couple of... Should I have Sutakira draw a picture of where she wants too touch you?". This made Griffifth realize what was happening, a faint pink blush appearing on his cheeks. "Uhm... I should go back home...", he said as he quickly dashed off, using his amazing speed and jumping abilities to making his escape. Celestia watched as, he heart skipping a beat, thinking her chance of happiness was gone. She turned around to look at Skywalker, "I thought we were friends.", she said, her voice filled with the feelings of anger and betrayal. "Friends sometimes push.", Skywalker said calmly as he dragged, her out of the restaurant. 16 minutes later, Skywalker and Celestia were waiting in Griffifth room at Shoveitupyourass Street 15. They were hoping to find him there, but they had no such luck as he wasn't there. "Where is he? I need to make a formal apology.", Celestia said in a panicked voice as Skywalker was looking over Griffifth's comic collection. "Try the marigolds again. In hindsight, they weren't the worst option.", Skywalker said absentmindedly. "It's not funny!", the princess said angrily. "I beg to differ.", he said back, turning around to face her. "You'll beg for more than that if you keep this up!", Celestia told him angrily as Griffifth entered his room. "How did you two get into my room?", the blond asked, as his friend raised his eyebrow. "It wasn't locked.", the young knight admitted, making the blond remember that he indeed, hadn't locked it. "Oh, right. Jason, I need a moment with the princess.", he said, gaining a surprised look from Celestia. Skywalker nodded as he left the room, "Have fun you two.", he thought to himself with a satisfied grin. A few minutes later, McGrath was heading upstairs to his room. The meeting at the Crystal Empire was in a few days and between spending time with his girlfriend, his friends, setting up the MC Enterprises branch in Ponyville, teaching Sweetie Belle self-defense and training his new super form, he hadn't had a chance to pack at all. Though what surprised him was that he hadn't just hired an assistant to do that for him. As he arrived on the top of the stairs, a could hear Celestia's giggle coming out of Griffifth's room. "The neuk?", McGrath said in surprise. Arc II: Maze Of Life: Completed... Next time on, Quest For Equestria... In an effort to regain the stolen Unity, Skywalker steps through a magical mirror, into a completely new World where some things have changed, but true friendships remains! Did that rhyme?... Anyways enjoy your crappy trailer. "Retrieve the Element of Unity. Without it, we won't be able to open the chest and Equestria is left defenseless.", Cadance said, gaining a surprised look from the gang. "How do YOU know that!?", Griffifth exclaimed. Celestia looked over at Skywalker before saying, "You understand the importance of your task?". Skywalker rolled his eyes before saying, "Yeah, yeah, balance of the universe, yada, yada, yada. The usual junk.". The scene changes showing Skywalker standing in front of a statue, "Where am I? But more importantly... Spike?", Skywalker said turning his attention to his dragon friend, "Why are you a dog?", and indeed Spike had changed from a dragon to a dog. The scene changes again showing Skywalker and Spike on the school roof, looking over the town, "They do remind me of our Ponyville friends.", Spike said as Skywalker was deep in thought. "You're right, Spike. Looks like if I want Unity back, I'll have to become Ruler of the Fall Formal.", Skywalker said determent, as he clenched his fist. "How do you exactly plan on doing that?", Spike asked, gaining a shoulder shrug from the young man. "I have no idea. It will come... Sooner or later.", he answered, as he looked back to the town. The power of friendship doesn't just exist in Equestria. It's everywhere. "I think I won't leave with my sanity intact...", Skywalker muttered. Arc III: Soul Phrase > Arc III: Chapter 66: Alliance Between Worlds > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- At the Crystal Empire, present time. A cloaked unicorn is watching a crystal statue of the Harmonic Heroes battling the smoke form of King Sombra, more specificly at the crystal form of Skywalker preparing to strike Sombra with his lightsaber. "Look at him. So sleek. So powerful. So... beautiful, like some great golden god made flesh. Of course, any sensible god would demand absolute obedience in return for his favor.", the unicorn thought to herself as he glared at the passing crystal ponies from under her hood. "But, no, the Knight Of The Wind protects us, with no strings attached. The people? Hmph. They practically worship him anyway. Enjoy your reign while you may, Ser Skywalker. For surely as night follows day, there comes a time when even gods must fall.". Meanwhile on board the Equestria Express, heading towards the Crystal Empire. "No, she would look more like Emma Watson, and she would look more like Scarlett Johansson or Yvonne Strahovski....", Phoenix said to Sutakira as the two look at his laptop screen. "What are you two doing?", Twilight asked, standing behind them. Looking on the screen, she saw pictures of the girls along with a lot of different human's. "We're theorizing how you gals and Big Mac would look if you were human.", Sutakira said as he showed her the list. On the screen she saw the following list along with pictures: Twilight Sparkle - Idina Menzel/Tara Strong/Emma Watson Rainbow Dash - Natalie Portman/Kristen Bell Fluttershy - Ariana Grande/Emilia Clarke/Hayden Panettiere Applejack - Idina Menzel/Taylor Swift Rarity - Yvonne Strahovski/Scarlett Johansson Pinkie Pie - Idina Menzel/Katy Perry Big Mac - Fabio/Michael Fassbender/Henry Cavill "Yeah, I have a thing for Indina Menzel.", Phoenix muttered, before Twilight launched a bunch of questions, "Okay, why are some names crossed off?", Twilight asked. "Well those were options who didn't make the cut." Phoenix explained. "Who is Tara Strong?", Twilight asked, not noticing that McGrath and Pinkie standing behind them. "A very great voice actress... and a total milf. Huh, I really have a thing for older women...", Phoenix said, gaining a questioning look from Twilight, "A Mother I Like To F...", before Phoenix could finish, McGrath interrupted him. "Rarity as Scarlett Johansson or Yvonne Strahovski!... Sure, I could tap that.", he said with a shoulder shrug. "Yeah, you would make a funny couple with either of them.", Sutakira said, gaining a raised eyebrow from McGrath. "Oh come on, your very, very short! Your just a few cm away from being a hobbit!", Phoenix added, gaining a death glare from the brunette. Meanwhile over at another cabin, Skywalker was sitting in a meditative state, trying to fall into the memories of another, he could feel himself slip out of his body and into a distant past. Opening his eyes, he found himself standing in a throne room standing before seven thrones each filled by mid to elderly man and women. To his left a young tall and slender woman, with blue eyes and medium-length blue hair, was standing. She was dressed in a black and navy blue, high-collared halter top, a black corset with two pairs of white laces and black shorts. She has two pink straps intersecting over her chest. On her arms are white bell-sleeves and tan, fingerless gloves. She also wears a small, segmented piece of armor on each of her upper arms. She wears black stockings reaching about halfway up her thighs, leaving a small area of bare skin. To his right a tall young man with brown hair that reaches to the base of his neck in the back and is styled into rather messy, vertical spikes and bangs that frame his face, his eyes were also blue along with slightly tanned skin. He was dressed in a skintight, black, high-collared shirt, showing that he is rather muscular. His pants bear a distinct feudal Japanese style; his belt is tied like an obi-sash and he wears a dark grey hakama, with several loops for his belt and two buttons, both of which are undone. The rest of the pants are tan with a small, lighter stripe of tan on the bottom hem. Skywalker turned his gaze towards the throne, noticing a elderly man sitting in the rightmost throne staring at him. He could feel his body straighten up as the man who was seated in the middle throne rising up. "Today you will be examined for the Mark of Knighthood. Not one but three of the Keyblade's chosen stand here as candidates... but this is neither a competition nor a battle for supremacy... not a test of wills, but a test of heart. All of you may prevail, or none. But I am sure the council did not travel all this way to see our youngest prospects in years fall short of the Mark. I trust you are ready?", the master asked, as the three gave a 'yes'. With that response, the master lifts his Keyblade and summons a thousand orbs of light. The three Keyblade students conjured their Keyblade's as each took their fighting stance. Unbeknownst to anyone, the elderly master who was staring earlier, moved his hand, infecting the orbs with darkness. The master smiles as the three charged in to take care of them. The orbs used its seismic burst, this would mean either being crushing or sending being send flying from the shockwave. Unlike his two fellow students, who were forced to jump to avoid the seismic burst, the one Skywalker was viewing, just get charging the orbs, slicing them in two with a single slash from his weapon. During the fight, releasing energy from his right hand, he obliterated the orbs with a blast so powerful it incapacitated orbs within a 50-meter radius. With the help of his friends, the orbs were defeated even with the added power, they never stood a chance. After everything calmed down, the three students walked back to their starting position as the head master spoke up again. "That was unexpected... but one must keep a still heart even in the most trying of circumstances. It was an excellent test, one I chose to let unfold. Which brings us to your next trial.", as he gesture for Skywalker's viewer to stand at the other side of the area. "Now, Terra and Aqua, the two of you will face Marc in combat. Remember, there are no winners... only truths, for when equal powers clash, their nature is revealed. Begin!" At the sound of that, Marc immediately engaged Terra and Aqua in battle. Terra goes after Marc with heavy hits, but he dodges every one, while Aqua attacks and nearly hits Marc, but it misses. Aqua defended herself well for a limited time due to her mastery of a more defensive style of combat, but left an opening which Marc exploited. Driving them to the air, where Marc pulled Terra and Aqua into a bladelock, before sending them back to the ground with a sudden burst of energy. Aqua quickly conjured up a shield around her self and Terra, softening the land. With Marc still in the air, Terra and Aqua started casting multiple spells, skilfully controlling their energy projectile's and directs them at Marc. It appears Marc has taken a full blow as in the smoke Marc is nowhere to be seen. Terra and Aqua had moments to react as suddenly Marc breaks himself free from their magic, and was on the attack and with many quick swings of his Keyblade, he forced the two to their knees. Before anything else could happen, the master called them to a stop, declaring that this part of the test was over, and now they had to wait here while they would discuses the results. Marc turned his gaze towards his two friends, "Is that the best you guys can do?", he asked with a cocky smirk, making the other two shake their. "All hail Marc, hu?", the girl, Aqua said as she left out a soft chuckle. Fifteen minutes later, the masters returned as the three friends stood at attention, "We have deliberated and reached a decision. Marc, Terra, Aqua, all three of you performed commendably. And it seems we have three new Knights in our Academy.", the head master said, making Marc smile a little. "Information on your new duties will be given within a week. That is all.", the head master said before their personal mentor added, "Now go celebrate.". They waited for the council to leave the room before the other two exploded in cheers, Marc also showing a deep happiness. "We did it!", Aqua said, as she hugged Terra. "I told you, easy as pie!", he said as she let go. "No, baking a pie is more difficult.", Marc said as he gave Terra a brotherly hug. "Especially for you, mister Prodigy!", he said petting his black haired friend on the head. "I can't help it, I'm just that good.", Marc said Aqua pulled him into a hug, though she took a little longer than she did with Terra. "You smell nice.", Marc muttered, a faint blush appearing on the young woman's face. "Thanks, you too.", she said softly, as Terra shook his head. A few minutes later, Marc, Terra and Aqua were walking across the Main Hall, they wanted to go to the Overlook to take in the sun when they saw a young unfamiliar boy staring blandly in the distance. "That boy... is he okay?", Aqua asked her two friends, as Marc approached the boy. "Greetings, I'm Marc Morgenstern. Call me Marc, what's your name?", he asked in a friendly manner. The boy responded slowly, revealing his name to be "Ventus". Seeing that the boy can talk, Marc called his two friends over, who introduced themselves. "Marc... Terra... Aqua...", the boy slowly said. Being curious as ever, Marc asked a bunch of question, "So, are you here to train? Where are you from? Your good with a Keyblade?", when suddenly, the boy fell to his knees holding his head and screaming. "Whoa, what's the matter?", Terra asked. Marc banded down to one knee trying to comfort Ventus when suddenly Nuelo Dolros and the elderly master from before walked up to them. "What did you do?" Nuelo Dolros asked as he looked over the scene, Marc explained that he just asked some questions, "Ventus cannot tell you anything... because he cannot remember anything.". Skywalker felt himself being pulled back into his body, seeing Twilight standing in front of him, informing that they had arrived at the Crystal Empire. A few minutes later, the gang arrived at the Crystal Castle Grand Hall. "The Harmonic Heroes have arrived!", a orange pegasus guard announced, he seemed familiar to Skywalker. "Huh, he looks unique compared to the other guards. He mustn't be important at all.", Sutakira noted as Celestia, Cadance, Luna, and Shining Armor where already there, they informed them that none of the other invited had arrived yet. Deciding to wait for them, Skywalker took up a conversation with the guard. "Good afternoon, Ser Skywalker. I'm pretty sure you don't remember me, but we have met before.", he said as Skywalker folded his right arm over his chest while propping his left elbow up on it and placing a hand on his chin, his eyes slowly moving from the left to the right. "Your... Flash Sentry right?", he said uncrossing his arms, gaining a awed look from Flash. "Last we met you were just a recruit, right?", he thought it wasn't possible but Flash smile became even bigger. "Yes! It seems we both moved up in the world, huh?", Flash said as Skywalker nodded. "Phoenix, your a guy right?", Fluttershy asked gaining a look of complete shock on the guys face, "I am!? Oh yeah, so what's your question?", he said with mock shock as a faint blush started to appear on Fluttershy's face. "So, what would you do if someone told you that they loved you?", she asked with her soft voice. Gaining a raised eye brow from the red head, "Is this someone I should know about?", he asked. "No. I mean, pretend you're a man...", the yellow one said, her blush getting bigger. "I am a man, Sunshine. That shouldn't be too hard, but I'll give it a try.", he informed her with a cheeky grin, making the young mare stutter. "Ahhh, that's... not what I meant. Just... pretend you're another man. And someone told you that they loved you. How would you react?", she managed to get out as he started to ponder. "Well, that depends. Does this someone just blurt it out? Do I love them back? Come on, Sunshine! I need context!", he said, not noticing that Unity had opened a portal. "Perhaps you need to wait for the right moment? You could get him alone at his house, give Messiah a gift perhaps?", Phoenix advised. Fluttershy had to think again who had the nickname 'Messiah', the moment she realized who he meant her blush became bigger than ever. "Oh, I wasn't talking about me... just... forget I said anything.", she said shyly, making the red head chuckle. Voice's could be heard from the portal, the voices themselves giving away who they were to Skywalker. "Are we there yet? Are we there yet? Are we there yet? It looks like we're there. Are we here yet? Are we here yet? Ooh, please tell me we're here!". Skywalker had to laugh as Korra, the airbending master Tenzin, and his three children, and much to his surprise, Bolin, Mako and Asami arriving. "It's so good to see all of you.", Skywalker said as he approached his friends, he held his right arm in fron of his chest as a way of greeting. "H-Hey, Skywalker." Tenzin's oldest daughter, Jinora said with a faint blush. "Hey, Jinora. When are you gonna earn your airbending tattoos?", he asked but Tenzin's youngest daughter, Ikki, interrupted her sister. "I wanna get tattoos! But instead of arrows, I want lightning bolts!", she said excitedly. "Oh, I like her.", Pinkie said as Skywalker gave her a fist bump. "I knew you would understand Sky.", she said with a smirk, "You can't get lightning bolts. That doesn't make any sense.", Jinora said as she got in an argument with her sister. "Tenzin, I heard president Raiko wouldn't be coming himself, but I had never expected they would send my favorite airbending master.", Skywalker said after introducing everybody. The bald airbending master nodded, "Its very nice to meet you all. And yes, after what you did to Raiko, he agreed to pretty much everything you asked if you didn't have to be in the same room with you.", Tenzin said, as Team Avatar let out a chuckle with Skywalker rubbing the back of his head embarrassed. "What did you do?", Twilight asked with a stern look. Skywalker gave a uncomfortable smile, "President Raiko didn't want to send troops to help liberate the South Pole, so I threw his Sato Mobile upside down and inside out into his office. Okay?" "Yes, it was awesome.", Korra said with a smirk, one she shared with Rainbow Dash, who couldn't believe her best friend had ever lost his cool. Skywalker looked down, a look of regret in his eyes. He looked up in surprise as Bolin put him in an head lock, rubbing his hair, "Not need to be so down, Skywalker! Its human to sometimes lose your cool.", the young earthbender said as his twin brother nodded. "Are you and Jason related?", Rainbow asked the firebending brother who shared the same hair and eye color with Skywalker, aside from the glow in the eyes. Mako gave her an odd look, "A blue horse, with rainbow mane and the ability to talk...", he said slowly. "Actually I'm a pegasus .", she corrected him. "You know from what I heard it wasn't the first time you lost your temper." Asami said, giving Skywalker a playful jab to his side. "This got to hear!", Rainbow said, staring at Skywalker. His other friend agreed, Asami telling him which incident she meant. Letting out a deep sigh, Skywalker started to spin his tale. He explained that Korra had been kidnapped by the Equelist, a organization who wanted to remove bending from their World. Two Equelist soldiers are standing on the roof, looking over the city. "That was a pretty good imitations of a Polorbear dog, right?", one said as the other shook his head. "Do you wanna hear a really great imitation of a Polorbear dog?", the other asked as he prepared to do it, but suddenly Skywalker dropped on him from a higher building, knocking him out. The other Equelist charged his Lightning Glove, but before he could do anything else, Skywalker appeared right in front of him crushing the glove and the bones in his hand. Lifting the the Equelist up by the front of his uniform, removing the mask with his other hand, "Avatar Korra. Where are you keeping her?", he demanded to know as he held him over the ledge of the building. The Equelist looked down before he looked back at him, "Haha, do you think this will make me talk? Your one of those guys right? You don't kill...", he taunted but he gained a 'Oh, crap' face when Skywalker let him go. He let out a scream as he fell to the ground, just as he was about to became a spot on the ground, a blur of black grabbed him and he found himself back in the same position as a few seconds ago. "I can keep this up all day long. Now, I'll ask you one more time; Where. Is. She?", he asked, his eyes glowing red. "We don't have the Avatar, and the Equelist didn't attack City Hall. Tarrlok's lying.", the Equelist said weakly as Skywalker knocked him out with a heavy punch to the gut. "Who is Tarrlok?", Pinkie asked, as she scarfed down popcorn. "A sleazy councilman who really had kidnapped Korra.", Skywalker said as another portal opened, revealing Queen Elsa Targaryen, her sister, Princess Anna Targaryen and a five soldiers to act as bodyguards. "Hey you.", Phoenix said cutting off his conversation with Mako and walking over to the queen. "Hey, handsome.", his girlfriend replied placing a soft kiss on his lips, getting a adorable sequel from Rarity, Fluttershy and Anna. "I missed you, you know.", he said gaining a chuckle from the blond. "We have seen each other two days ago,", she informed him. "I know! It's been that long!", he said dramatically,as he started to introduce everyone. And so the negotiations were underway, it didn't took long to come to an agreement to form an alliance. Much to the other Worlds surprise, they too had to deal with the Corrupted and humans dressed in similar black cloaks. "It seems we are to an agreement, when the time comes we will stand together against the coming darkness.", Celestia said as the others agreed, "Then from this day forward, let us know as the Alliance Between Worlds. That leave one more thing to consider, who shall lead us?", the ruler of the sun added. The queen of Arendelle looked over at her boyfriend who gave her a nod before speaking up, "Might I suggest Ser Skywalker.", she suggested, gaining a surprised look from the Skywalker himself. "I have it on good authority you are a leader as well as a great 'Jedi'.", she said as Phoenix let out a chuckle, not believing his girlfriend actually thought Skywalker was a Jedi. "I... I don't know. Is everyone okay with his?", he asked and much to his shock, they all agreed. So Skywalker accepted, "I will accept, together we will bring the enemies of the Worlds to justice.", he declared. Later that night, Skywalker was standing on the balcony overlooking the courtyard, he let out a deep sigh. "Something wrong Jason?", a voiced asked him. Looking behind him he saw Rainbow flying behind him. "I don't know, Dashie. I'm just... worried, I guess.", he admitted making the blue pegasus laugh. "You? The Skywalker? Worried!? About what?", she asked. "I know I have agreed to lead this Alliance but I worry. Just because I'm good at fighting, but that doesn't mean I'm a good leader.", he said. Rainbow shook her head as she petted his head, "Aw, your a good leader, scratch that. Your a great leader! Only now your decisions affect an entire Alliance.", she said gaining a chuckle from her friend. "Not helping!", he said with a chuckle before messing up Rainbow's manes. Meanwhile somewhere Phoenix and Elsa arrived back from their stroll through the gardens, arriving back at her room. "Well, here we are. Goodnight, Mon Cheri.", he said, placing a kiss on her lips before turning around. "Kyle wait!", she said, making the red haired prankster stopped in his tracks. "I... I'm not emotionally ready for... sex... But if you don't mind... Do you want to sleep with me tonight?", Elsa asked, a blush gracing her pale cheeks. He walked back towards his girlfriend, placing his hand on her cheek. "Elsa, I already told you. We'll go as fast as you are comfortable. I don't wanna rush you, even if we'll never get to that stage, I'm just happy to spend time with you.", he said, pressing another kiss on her lips before the two retreated to her chamber. Unbeknownst to everyone, a cloaked unicorn sneaked into, Skywalker's room. As fast as she arrived, she replaced the Element Of Unity with a fake before trying to make her escape. > Chapter 67: Other World > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Skywalker could not sleep that night, so he took a stroll through the castle. Much to his surprise he came across Big Mac playing with Sutakira. Big Mac smirked as he used a card to intercept, Sutakira's attack, "Gloat all you like. I have this one.". Sutakira checked for a trigger but it wasn't there, "Are you sassing me? I didn't know you had it in you.", Sutakira asked as he checked for a Trigger, which wasn't there. "Are you two playing nice?", Skywalker asked as he leaned against a pillar, crossing his arms. "Skywalker, you know me! I always play nice.", Sutakira answered as he passed the turn to Big Mac, "Big Mac just need to come to terms with my inevitable victory. You'll feel much better.", he continued, feeling cocky he decided not to guard. That was a big mistake as Big Mac pulled a double Critical Trigger. "Really? Because I just won. And I feel fine.", Big Mac said with a satisfied smirk. "Please, don't get smug. There will be no living with you.", Sutakira said as he collected his cards, after saying goodnight to the two, he left to turn in for the night. "I should turn in for the night as well...", Big Mac said as he collected his cards, "Unless you would care for a game?". Skywalker uncrossed his arms, pulling a deck box from his pocket, "Bring it on." Shuffling their decks, the two friends looked at each others clan, Skywalker was surprised at which deck Big Mac was playing. His red friend was not. "I never figured you for a Royal Paladin player, Big Mac.", Skywalker said as he started his turn. "I know. Neo Nectar would fit me more, huh? I just like this playing style better. Is that the same reason you play them, Skywalker?", Big Mac asked, as he made his turn before passing it back to Skywalker. "Why yes. Though it seems the two of us play different variations of the same clan.". Big Mac gave a nod as he decided to guard the attack. A few turns later, Skywalker and Big Mac were both equally matched, neither one gaining much advantage over the other. "You know, if the rumors about Sutakira and AJ are true...", Skywalker started as he called a unit to the Rear-Guard. "They are true.", Big Mac said as he gave a bemused smile at his friend surprised expression. "... I really am blind to any kind of love...", the black haired guy muttered, "Anyway, that means you and me are the only two single guys in our friend group.", Skywalker said, passing the turn back to Big Mac. "What about Griffifth?", Big Mac asked bemused as his friend answered that Griffifth had just entered into a relationship with a certain someone. After the two friends finished their game, they decided to call it a night. As they neared their sleeping quarters, the two saw someone slipping out of Skywalker's room. One thing they noted was that in the intruders saddlebag, the Element Of Unity was stored. "Hey you! Stop right there!", Big Mac said, making the thief flinch before she tried to make her escape. The two friends chased after her, dodging her magic blast she send after the two, or leaping over obstacles she moved in their ways. Unbeknownst to him, Griffifth came out a door which led to Celestia's room, before being knocked over by the thief. "The hell.", was all he could say before he saw Skywalker and Big Mac storm after the person who knocked him over. "What's going on, guys?", Griffifth asked as he joined the chase. "Griffifth! She's got the EoU!", Big Mac explained as he leaped over another obstacle. "How do you know the thief is a she?", Griffifth asked as he sliced an incoming cabinet in two with his claws. "I don't know!", Skywalker exclaimed as they chased the thief into a room. As they cornered the thief, all that was behind her was a mirror, with out hesitation, she threw her saddle bag into mirror, which passed with a ripple effect. "What did you do!?", Skywalker demanded to know as the thief looked smugly at him. "Sorry it had to be this way! ... Ser Knight.", was all she said before entering the mirror herself, before anyone could stop her. Upon hearing the commotion the others arrived. "Who was that?", Fluttershy asked as she looked bewildered at the mirror. Skywalker rolled his eyes before speaking up, "Thanks for the help guys! And yes who was that anyways?". Not unexpected for any of them, it was Celestia who answered the question. "Sunset Shimmer. A former student of mine. She began her studies with me not long before Twilight. But when she did not get what she wanted as quickly as she liked, she turned cruel and dishonest.", the princess of the sun explained, surprising the others at the news that Celestia had an other apprentice. "So she is kinda like McGrath?", Spike said teasingly before being slapped on the back of his head by McGrath's tail. "I tried to help her... But she eventually decided to abandon her studies and pursue her own path, one that has sadly led to her stealing the EoH.", Celestia continued. "Alright, let's follow her and take Unity back.", Skywalker declared as the others nodded, as the portals to the other Worlds were still open he told his friends to get the ambassadors back to their World the next day. "You'll soon know more about this place than even I do.", Celestia told him. "This is no ordinary mirror. It is a gateway to another World. A gateway that opens once every thirty moons." , Luna informed them, "It has always been kept in the throne room of Canterlot Castle. But when Princess Cadence took over the Crystal Empire, we sent it here for her to watch over.", the princess of the moon explained, gaining a puzzled look from Phoenix. "Why would they do that!?", he shouted before Cadence spoke up. "Jason, you must use the mirror to go into this other World and retrieve your the EoU. Without it, we cannot open that chest and Equestria is left without one of its most important means of defense.". Phoenix shook his head before shouting, "How do YOU know that!?". "Unity does not belong in the place Sunset Shimmer now calls home. And in her possession it will no doubt be used to bring harm to the inhabitants of this other realm. They will not have the power to defend themselves. You understand the importance of your task?", Celestia explained as Skywalker shrug his shoulders. "Yeah, Yeah, balance of the universe, yada, yada, yada. The usual junk.", Skywalker responded as he flexed his arms. "Lets go.", Skywalker said to his friends as they prepared to follow him. "I'm afraid I can't let you go.", Celestia said gaining a shocked look from the Harmonic Heroes. "Sending all of you could upset the balance of this alternate World. Creating havoc that would make it impossible for Skywalker to get Unity back from Sunset Shimmer. This is something Skywalker must do alone.", the ruler of the sun explained. The others were too busy protesting to notice Skywalker having an small break down at the thought of not having his friends with him. "We're here and how much havoc did happened after that?", McGrath protested. Everybody had a few flashbacks of all the havoc that had happened ever since they had became friends. "... Never mind...", the brunette muttered as the others relented. "Time is of the essence. On the third month, when the moon reaches its peak in the night sky, the gateway will close, and once it does, it will be another thirty moons before you will be able to use it to return.", Luna explained, a hint of worry in her voice. "Don't worry. Sutakira, is the app ready?", Skywalker asked, his bluenette friend informing him it should. Before anyone could ask what he was talking about, Skywalker had whipped out his phone and pressed a button. A few seconds later, a portal opened and the Skybike came through it, stopping right in front of him. With one leap, Skywalker jumped on as he placed his helmet on his head. "Don't worry, I'll be back.", Skywalker said as he made his motorcycle let out a rev before riding towards the mirror, but unfortunately, Spike was admiring the bike, as one of his scales was now stuck on the seat, forcing Spike to go with him to the other World. A few seconds later, the Skybike came to a halt. Taking off his helmet, Skywalker looked at the backseat but Spike wasn't there anymore. "Spike? You there buddy?", he asked as he stood up and saw a purple dog looking at him. "Spike?... Why are you a dog?". The former dragon, now dog looked himself over before answering, "No idea." "Hm, maybe you made too much fun of Twily looking like that pet from LPS.", Skywalker suggested. The two wondered where they were, "Don't really know, but I don't think were in Kansas anymore, Toto... Where the fuck are we Toto?", Skywalker said as he approached the school like building, Spike following him. "My name is Spike! And what the buck is Kansas?", the purple dog said as the two entered the building. Arriving in a large hall, Skywalker couldn't help but notice that it looked exactly like how a high school hall would look like, "This brings back memories...", Skywalker muttered when suddenly, a bell rings in the background. The hall was suddenly filled by what, Skywalker assumed to be students , but what surprised him most was that all of them had techni colored skins. "Whats wrong with there skin color?", Skywalker whispered to Spike, who gave him an odd look. "How it that different from yours?", the dog asked as Skywalker explained he had a peach color skin. "Why is it called peach?", the dog asked but Skywalker merely shrugged. As the students made their way to the cafeteria, Skywalker started to explore the rest of the building, "I have a feeling I won't leave with my sanity intact...". Skywalker thought to himself, but a commotion brought him out of his pondering. A little further in the hallway, Skywalker saw two girl arguing, well the red headed one was shouting, while the pink haired one was barley talking back. "...I'm really sorry. I just found it, and I thought I should give it to her. I didn't know you had dropped it.", the pink haired girl got out with difficulty but the red head just scoffed. "Well, I did! and I was about to get it before you swooped in and ruined everything! You shouldn't pick up things that don't belong to you.", the red head told her angrily. The pink haired muttered something enraging the red head even more. "You really are pathetic. It's no wonder your best friends are all stray animals.", the red head talked down on the pink haired, nearly bringing her to tears. "That's enough.", Skywalker declared angrily, he hated bullies with a passion. The two girls looked surprised as he stood between the two girls, looking down on the red head, he was a head taller than her. He had to admit, if the red head wasn't such a bitch, he might have found her attractive. "How dare you speak to her that way!", Skywalker demanded to know, the girl was surprised that someone dared to speak to her like that. "What did you say?", the red headed girl recovered quickly. "I'm sorry, did I stutter or something? How dare you speak to her that way!", he repeated himself, making the red head scoff. "You must be new here, pretty boy. I can speak to anyone any way I want.", she replied with an evil smirk. "I think you should leave before I lose my temper and you won't like me when I lose my temper.", Skywalker warned her as his eyes flashed red. The red headed girl let out a laugh, "Very scary those contact lenses. Also, the 80's called and even they don't want there stupid trend back.", she mockingly said as she walked away. Skywalker looked baffled before regaining his composure, "My popped collar is fabulous, don't make fun of it!", he shouted. "I can't believe you did that!", a small voice said behind him, turning around he saw the pink haired girl looking up to him. Skywalker schooled his expression back into his usual calm as he gave her a warm smile. "I couldn't just stand there and do nothing, could I?". The girl looked surprised, as a faint blush creeped on her cheeks, "Well, it's just that nobody ever stands up to Sunset Shimmer!", she told him. "So that was Sunset Shimmer?", Skywalker thought to himself. "I don't think I've seen you around before. Did you just transfer to Canterlot High from another school?", the girl asked. He thought about it for a minute, "You could say that. My name's Skywalker, Jason Skywalker.", he introduced himself, the girl gained a large blush as she muttered, "I'm... My name is... Fluttershy.", she muttered flinching at her name. "Sorry, your named Flutter...Shy?", Skywalker said slowly. "That's right, Fluttershy... My parents are kinda weird.", she said, making him nod, thought he wouldn't know about parents being weird. "Oh my goodness! Who's this sweet little guy?", she said noticing, Spike. She reached down and started to scratch behind his ear. "That's Spike, my... dog.", he answered slowly. She handed him some dog snacks from her backpack. "Oh, wouldn't you just give anything to know what they're really thinking?", she asked him while Spike enjoyed his snacks. "He usually just tells me.", Skywalker muttered gaining a puzzling look from the girl, "Never mind. Sunset Shimmer said you picked something up. Something that belonged to her. It wasn't a bracelet, was it?", he asked as Fluttershy started to explain, "This morning, I was passing out flyers for the animal shelter like I do every Wednesday. Canterlot's animal shelter needs more volunteers, you see. Then this bracelet just bumped on my head, I had no idea how it go there. But I didn't want anything to happen to it, so I decided to give it to Principal Celestia.". Skywalker was taken aback for a moment, "Principal Celestia?... Where is she now?", he asked slowly. "Probably in her office.", she explained as he nodded. "Thank you Fluttershy. Let's go Spike!", he said as the two were about to dash off. "Oh wait!", Fluttershy said, stopping in his tracks. "You're not really supposed to have pets on school grounds. Might wanna tuck him into your backpack. That's what I do!", she said showing a bunch of squirrels and rabbits in there, much to Skywalker's surprise. "They just get so lonely when I'm in school all day.", she said lovingly as he nodded. "Oh, okay! Thank you!", he said as he dashed off, wondering how he was going to get a backpack. Not noticing the stare this Worlds Fluttershy was giving him. Skywalker was walking through the school, feeling pretty stupid not asking for directions to the principle's office. Just in time, he saw someone who looked very familiar, a familiar blond guy with ruby red eyes, except of his normal pale skin, he now had a red skin. "Excuse me.", he said gaining the attention from the blond. "I'm new here, so can you tell me were the principle's office is?", he asked the boy nodding. "Sure thing, Skywalker. Third door on your left, the same door I just came out off.", he explained. Skywalker thanked him before walking off. A knock on the door, a voice on the other side told him to come in. As he walked in, there she was, a human version of his mentor/mother figure. "How may I help you?", the principle asked in a kind tone, snapping Skywalker out of his amazement. "My name's Skywalker, Jason Skywalker. I'm new here, and well, I understand that Fluttershy found a bracelet this morning and gave it to you.", he explained gaining a nod from the hot teacher. She explained that she had vice-principal Luna put it somewhere for safekeeping. "Were you interested in running for Ruler of the Fall Formal this year?", she asked. "Uh, no. Not exactly. The truth is... Wait, Ruler of the Fall Formal?", Skywalker asked as the principal explained what the Fall Formal was, the Ruler of Fall Formal and the like. "You just need to let the head of the fall formal planning committee know you'd like to be on the ballot. Was there anything else?", she asked but he shrug his head. "Um, nope! That was it! Well, I start classes tomorrow so I best get home and start to unpack, have a nice day.", Skywalker said as he stood up. "Well, if you do need anything else, my door is always open.", she informed him, making him nod. "Thank you, principal. Your a lot nicer than my previous one, she was insane.", he said as he left the office. As the door closed all principal Celestia could think about the new kid was, "...Weird guy.". > Chapter 68: My First School Day > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After a few quick stops in town, Skywalker had brought a backpack, with Spike safely in the blue and black pack, they were making their way towards the cafeteria. "Did you smell that?", Skywalker whispered to Spike who responded with a muffled 'why?'. "There was this strange smell in principal Celestia's office... It smelled like sex.", Skywalker explained. Now it was Spike's turn to ask for a question. "Say, Jason. Why not just tell her the EoU is yours and ask for it back?", the dog asked muffled. It didn't took long for Spike to understand that if Skywalker would explain what was really going on, Skywalker would be sitting in a white room in a straight jacked. "So? Just use your superpowers! That's why you have them!", Spike protested, as they arrived in the Cafeteria. "Too easy.", Skywalker responded as he spotted the girl he was looking for. "Hey, Fluttershy!", he said walking over the the shy girl. With a faint blush, she greeted him. "I know we've just met, but I was wondering if you might be able to help me with something.", Skywalker requested, gaining a nod from her. "I've decided to run for Ruler of the Fall Formal.", he said excitedly. Much to his surprise, her expression turned into a mix of shock, fear and worry. "It's a really bad idea to run for Fall Formal Ruler.", Fluttershy explained, worried for the guy who so bravely stood up for her. He raised an eyebrow at what she said, requiring a further explanation. "Sunset Shimmer wants to be Fall Formal Ruler, and when she wants something, she gets it! She'll make life awful for anyone that stands in her way. Just ask the girl that ran against her for Ruler of the Spring Fling.". Skywalker gave shrug declaring he was going to give it a show anyway. "Oh, I don't think you understand.", the shy girl muttered, gaining a questioning look from the black haired guy. "You'd have to convince everyone here to vote for you instead of her: the athletes, the fashionistas, the dramas, the eco kids, the techies, the rockers.", she explained. "Why is everybody separated this way?", Skywalker asked with a sad tone in his voice. "Maybe it was different at your old school, but at C.H.S., everybody sticks to their own kind. One thing that they do have in common, is that they know Sunset Shimmer is going to rule the school until we graduate.". "Not if I can help it.", Skywalker thought to himself, before speaking up again, "So, where would I find the head of the party planning committee?". After receiving the information needed, Skywalker made his way towards the school gym as Spike munched on the muffins he picked up in town. As he entered the gym, he was almost hit in the face by a inflating balloon. "Sorry about that!", a girl with pink hair and pink skin said as she walked up to him. "Pinkie Pie!?", Skywalker exclaimed surprised, gaining an equally surprised look from the girl. "Huh, are you psychic?", she asked with a tilted head, as Skywalker shook his head. "Fluttershy said this is where I'd find the head of the Fall Formal planning committee.". Even more to his surprise, Pinkie's expression darkened at hearing that name, "Fluttershy, huh? Don't let her Moe behavior fool you, she can be a real meanie.", the pink girl warned him, before giving him a quick look over as her expression turned back to cheerful, "Oh!, Your brand new here. I thought you didn't look familiar. Though, now that I'm really looking at you, do you have a twin brother who lives in the Cloudsdale city?", this statement made him shrug his shoulders, gaining a nod from her, "Thought so. Anywho, just need to fill this out and you are officially up for the coveted Ruler of the Fall Formal crown.", she handed him a clip board and a pen. As Skywalker writes his name on the list, another familiar voice was heard, "Somebody order a dozen cases of fizzy apple cider?". Turning around he saw a blond girl with orange skin, a tall boy with blond hair and dark red skin and a blue haired boy with a light blue skin. As Skywalker took in their appearance, all he could think was, "Okay, I'm scared now...". He was brought out of his shock by this Worlds Applejack claiming she knew him. "No, you don't.", Skywalker quickly as her boyfriend gave her an questioning look. "He's the new guy who gave Sunset Shimmer the what for today.", she explained as broke open a bottle of cider and proceeded to drink it down in one gulp. "Skywalker here is going to run against Sunset Shimmer for the Ruler of the Fall Formal.", Pinkie exclaimed making Applejack do a spit take. Both her and this Worlds Sutakira tried to convince him why it would be a bad idea, what he noticed most was that the two finished each other sentence's. Skywalker knew only two sort of people did that, twins and couples. "Question? Are you two dating?", Skywalker asked, he didn't need an answer as their shared blush said enough. "A-Anyway. About the only person in this school you can trust less than Sunset Shimmer is Rainbow Dash.", Applejack said, making the young knight look up in surprise, "Blue girl, has rainbow hair, small chest. She's the captain of, like, every team at Canterlot High.". Skywalker waved it off as he gave all of them a warm smile, "Thanks for the advice AJ and Phoenix, but this is something I really need to do.", he explained. He was about to walk away, but Applejack stopped him in his tracks, "How do you know everybody calls me AJ and my boyfriends name?", she asked. Skywalker quickly muttered something along the lines of 'you told me?'. "Yeah... Well, it sure was nice meeting you all. I'm sure I'll be seeing you around.", Skywalker excused himself as he made his way out of there. Pinkie tapped her chin, "That one's trying to hide a secret, but I am totally on to him. He's psychic!". Before the other three could respond, Sunset Shimmer and her two henchman, Snips and Snails... Seriously?... Okay, then, Entered, and the alpha bitch started to order how she wanted the gym to be during the Fall Formal. "There should be more streamers near the stage and fewer balloons. This is gonna be MY coronation. I'm running unopposed.", she said smugly to herself. Pinkie unformed her that, that was not true as the new guy had signed up. If looks could kill, everybody in that room would have dropped dead as Sunset Shimmer let out a, "What." as she took the clipboard from the pink haired girl. She didn't listen to Pinkie's remarks about his hand writing as she was focused on the name itself. "Jason Skywalker?... Where is this Skywalker?", she said as she putted up a fake smile, "I'm look forward to meeting the competition!". Skywalker was making his way down the hallway, intending to go to the library before heading home, to kill some time, Skywalker and Spike took up a discussion. "No, no. The red Kryptonite makes Superman go crazy, the gold Kryptonite takes away his powers.", Skywalker explained as Spike wondered what he should be using, "I'm just trying to give you options.". Spike shook his head before saying, "I would stick with the green one. Seems easiest.". Before he could response, a voice behind him took the two out of their discussion. "Can't believe I didn't recognize you earlier, pretty boy.", turning around they saw Sunset Shimmer leaning against a wall of lockers, she pushed herself off it as she turned to face him, "Should've known princess Celestia would send her prized champion here after me... and his little dog, too.", she added with a smug smile, her demeanor felt familiar to Skywalker. "He isn't my dog.", Skywalker protested, not taking a step away from his opponent, "He's just a friend!". Spike was taken aback by his response, "... This is the happiest day of my life...", the dragon dog muttered, his eyes filled with admiration. "Whatever.", Sunset said as she rolled her eyes, "This is just a minor setback for me. You don’t know the first thing about this place and I already rule it.", she boasted. Skywalker let out an inner chuckle at this, apparently Sunset didn't know he once went to a human high school. Taking his silence as ignorant, she turned around as she let out a laugh, "And you're supposed to be sun butts star champ? Then again, what were the chances she'd find somebody as good as me to take under her wing after I decided to leave Equestria. Bit embarrassing that you were the best she could do.", she turned back to him, "You want to be a king here? Please.", much to her shock, Skywalker was already walking away, Spike at his side. "Don't worry. I'll crush you like your made of... something soft...", he said not bothering to look back at the enraged girl as her two henchman walked up to their leader. "I want you to follow him. Bring me something I can use just like I did with that last girl who thought she could challenge me.", she ordered as the two tried to sneakingly follow him. "When the power of Unity is mine, Skywalker will be sorry he ever set foot into this World. Not that he would have been much safer if he stayed in Equestria.", she said to herself as she made her way towards her next class. Skywalker arrived in the library, Spike quickly jumped into the backpack as he questioned why they were heading towards the library. "Research?", Skywalker muttered as he picked up his backpack. "Your going to read books!? Who are you, Twilight!?". Skywalker took a seat behind a school computer, one of the teacher's, which he recognized as this Worlds version of Cheerilee warned him to only use the computer for school work. "What else am I gonna do on a school computer? Watch My Little Human? Play Smite? Watch porn?", he said half jokingly, back in his old high school he had done two of those three. "You would be surprised at what your fellow students look up.", Cheerilee replied before walking away. After starting up the internet browser Skywalker declared, "Deduction time!", and started to type away. As he searched up what had happened the past few years, Snips and Snails were watching him from behind the glass door, waiting for him to do something embarrassing. "Even without my powers I know their standing there.", Skywalker whispered to his friend. Spike gave a nod as he remarked, "Well, every villain need some dumb henchman.". Skywalker continued his research as he secretly hooked his phone on the PC, secretly adding him to the student list, giving him a history in this World. He was brought out of his research by a sudden loud music coming from the opposite side. Looking over he saw Cheerilee talking with much to his surprise this Worlds version of the CMC. "The hell are they doing here? Aren't they like eleven years old?", Skywalker said, gaining the attention from Applebloom. "We're fourteen... handsome older year.", she added with a slight blush, making Skywalker raise his eyebrow. A few hours later, Skywalker and Spike arrived at their new house, it had a garden, a small swimming pool, and three bad rooms upstairs. The movers had already furnished it with the basic furniture decorating the living room. "It's not much, but I think we can make it.", Skywalker said as he moved some of the boxes of the couch and sat down as he pulled out, two Bento boxes out of his backpack. "Were did you get this? Its delicious!", Spike said as he scarfed his food down. He was completely surprised by Skywalker's claim that he made this himself, "You can cook!? Man you really are good with your hands... Forget I said that...", Spike added that last part quickly, realizing how out of context that could have been taken. During diner, Skywalker showed the results of his research, he showed him a book he took with him from the library, "This is a yearbook. Its something they use to keep a record of things that have happened at the school last year.", Skywalker explained as he flipped to a certain page, showing a picture of this Worlds version of his friends, "Look. That's Griffifth, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Phoenix, AJ, Sutakira, Fluttershy, McGrath, Rarity, Big Mac and I'm gonna bet the girl on the far right is Twily.", he said as Spike fawned over this Worlds Rarity, making the young knight chuckle. "It's interesting because they look like my friends. But it doesn't seem like they're friends now and I just can't help but get the feeling that Shimmer's had something to do with it.", Skywalker explained, making a silent promise to fix what his enemy had broken before he went back home. The next day is Skywalker's first school day, so he was up bright and early, making his way towards the school. Luckily for him, his new house wasn't that far from the school, just close enough to walk towards. "I wonder what awaits me today.", Skywalker thought to himself as he walked towards school, noticing a trash can rolling around with two legs sticking out, a yellow bike was laying next to a wall. "Fine! Leave me in here like the trash I am!", from the voice coming out of the trash can. "Don't tell me what to do!", Skywalker declared as he grabbed him by the legs and with a single pull, freed the boy. "Thank you so much! I own you one.", the blue haired boy said, rubbing the back of his head. "Don't mention it.", Skywalker said with a smile as he walked with the boy to his bicycle. "You don't get it, everybody else would have stood there and taken pictures with their phone's. Not you, you got straight in there and saved my ass!", the boy said cheerfully. "Oh, I'm Flash Sentry by the way and your... Wait your the new kid right? The infamous Skywalker?", Flash Sentry said as Skywalker nodded, "That's me. Don't know about the infamous part.", he admitted. Flash chuckled before speaking up, "Believe me, if you have the balls to stand up to Sunset Shimmer, you get a name around here fast... Until you turn up dead.", he said with a chuckle before adding, "Do you want a ride? It's a little damaged but I think it can handle us two.", he offered. As the two arrived at Canterlot High, Skywalker bid his goodbye to Flash Sentry before making his way to the Faculty Office to receive his schedule. Knocking on the door, a familiar female voice called him in, walking in he saw what he only could be this Worlds version of Luna. "Oh, are you the new student? Skywalker, correct?", Luna asked. Skywalker nodded, "Yes ma'm.", he answered with a smile. Luna took a file from a pile of papers, starting to mutters as she flipped through the pages, "Wow, you've lived in a lot of different places... Let's see... In 1999... That was what, eleven years ago? Your parents...", the vice principle took a loud gasp at what had happened to his parents. "I'm sorry... I've been so busy, I didn't have time to read this beforehand.", the vice principle apologize, showing genuine his regret. Skywalker waved it off showing her it was okay, "It's alright ma'am.", he said with another charming smile, if he didn't know better, the woman in front of him had blushed at his smile. "I'm Vice Principle Luna, I'm filling in for your English class. Welcome to our school.", the vice principle introduced herself, as she and Skywalker shook hands, "Nice to meet you, Ma'am!". Luna felt relieved at this new student didn't felt insulted, "Such enthusiasm! We could use more go-getters like you. Have you seen the classroom assignments? You're in 2-F; that's my class. The classes will be starting soon, so follow me.", she said smiling as he opened the door for her. Meanwhile in Class Room 2-F, the students were talking loudly as their teacher had not arrived yet, "Talk about luck... the teacher for this class is vice-principal Luna, isn't it?", Sutakira asked as Big Mac nodded. "Ayup, it's the vice-principal alright. We get to enjoy her sermons every day for a whole year.", the dark red boy remarked. "Hey you guys, I heard the transfer student from the city is going to be in this class.", the two overheard another student talking to his friend. "A transfer student from the city...", a green skinned boy with brown hair, this Worlds version of McGrath noted to himself, the cyan girl in front of him nodding, " Just like you, huh, Flash?", this Worlds version of Rainbow said to the boy next to McGrath, who nodded. "I already met him this morning. Guess what? Its the same guy who gave Sunset a what for.", Flash Sentry whispered. Their were cut off by the class room door opening as Luna and Skywalker walked in. "Alright, class, I'm your homeroom and English teacher Miss Luna from today forward. First things first, just cause it's summer doesn't mean you can swoon over each other like love-struck doves. I'd better introduce this transfer student, Skywalker. Go ahead and introduce yourself.", Luna said with a kind voice, as the young man took a step forward. "Very well where shall I begin?", Skywalker started as he addressed class, "My name is Skywalker, Jason Skywalker. My father was a relentlessly self-improving boulangerie owner from Belgium with low-grade narcolepsy and a penchant for buggery. My mother was a 15-year-old French prostitute named Chloe, with webbed feet. My father would womanize, he would drink. He would make outrageous claims like he invented the question mark. Sometimes he would accuse chestnuts of being lazy. The sort of general malaise that only the genius possess and the insane lament. My childhood was typical. Summers in Rangoon, luge lessons. In the spring, we'd make meat helmets. When I was insolent, I was placed in a burlap bag and beaten with reeds. Pretty standard really...", Skywalker stopped, taking in the face's of his classmates and his teacher, before bursting out in laughter. Seeing as he was joking, the rest of the class soon followed. "Excuse me! Is it okay if Skywalker sits here?", Rainbow asked as she raised her hand. Luna nodded as she gestured for him to sit down. After sitting down, Luna started the lesson. Rainbow leaned close to him as she whispered, "Luck for you to get stuck in this class. I like you, new kid. I think you and I are gonna be great friends.". Skywalker nodded at this while thinking, "And so my new Life at school begins. Will I able to fit in? Challenge accepted!" A few classes later, Skywalker had called this Worlds version of his friends to the school roof. They were surprised when their 'former' friends were also there. "You all must be surprised why I had invited you guys and girls here?", Skywalker started, he wanted to clear this up quickly, as he knew he was nothing without his friends. "I know you guys used to be friends during Freshmen Year, remember?". The rest nodded still not getting what he was getting at. "Yeah... AJ was pretty ugly back then.", Sutakira said, earning a glare from his girlfriend. "What did ya say?", she asked threatening, making Sutakira quickly mutter, "...Nothing ma'am.". "But something happened. I think that something was Sunset Shimmer.", Skywalker continued, they all looked doubtful at his accusations, "Look at it this way. She's a straight up Alpha Bitch. She humiliates anyone who stands in her way to become Fall Formal Ruler? Check. Segregates the entire school into smaller social groups to ensure they don't rise against her? Check. Destroys long-lasting friendships just for kicks? Check.", he said, giving them a moment to let it sink in before continuing. "Fluttershy, your silent auction for the animal shelter was ruined by Pinkie because she brought fireworks and noisemakers? And according to Pinkie, she got a text from you saying you didn't want a silent auction, you wanted a big party. Yet she claims, she never sent you a text, Pinkie.", Skywalker explained as he showed the blogs on his phone. As Skywalker pointed out more contradictions and flaws in the stories, they started to get around the idea, coming closer to the truth. "And finally, did any of you ever asked the other why they did what they did?", he didn't need an answer to that as they all had guilt written all over their face. Skywalker smiled as all of them started to apologize to each other, after they all made up with each other, Rainbow was the first to speak up, "So you're looking to dethrone Shimmer's and become Ruler of the Fall Formal, huh? Gotta say, I'd really love to see that happen.", all of them agreeing with her and with that this Worlds version of the Harmonic Heroes were born. After the end of the day, his new old friends had other things to do, but they agreed to sit with him for lunch the next day to discuss their plan. As Skywalker was placing his books in his locker, Flash Sentry walked up to him. "Hey, Skywalker.", he greeted him, "You getting used to this place?", he asked as Skywalker nodded, "Wow, that was fast.", Flash replied impressed. "There isn't much to do here compared to the big city, but there is that certain something you can't get anywhere else. The air's clean, and I like the quite.", Skywalker said as he closed his locker. "Oh, you know about the local delicacy?", Flash asked, gaining Skywalker's attention, "It's grilled steak, man! Like that's anything special, huh? I know a place where you can get it cheap. Wanna come? You helped me out this morning, so it's on me.", Flash offered. Skywalker thought about it. He had nothing to do for the rest of the day, except maybe homework, but needing only a hour of sleep, he had enough time to do that. "Sure, why not?", he replied, accepting Flash Sentry's offer. "Alright! I see you in five minutes at the entrance.", Flash Sentry replied before walking away. Four minutes later, Skywalker found himself waiting patiently behind this World's version of Discord, who much to his amusement was the janitor at Canterlot High. Discord was trying to fix the front door, glaring over his shoulder to Skywalker. "I'm waiting for someone.", Skywalker explained as the janitor turned back to the door. "The door is broke. Maybe the fifth time or so. It don't open.", Discord muttered. Skywalker trying to make small talk, "Maybe there's a penny stuck in there?", he suggested. Discord turned back at him, giving him a questioning glare. "Why a penny?", he asked, looking more suspiciously as Skywalker shrug his shoulders, "Did you stick a penny in there?", Discord accused. Seeing were this was going, Skywalker quickly said, "No. I was just making small talk.", but he was cut off when Discord placed the end of one of his tools against Skywalker's chest. "If I find a penny in there, I'm taking you down.", Discord warned him. Luckily for Skywalker, Flash arrived so he could finally leave and put an end to this awkward discussion. > Chapter 69: Cafeteria Fighter > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Late in the evening, at Cloudsdale docks, A group of thugs are moving crates into vans, "I'm hungry, let's order a pizza.", one of them says as he puts one of the crates into a van. One of his buddies gave him puzzled look, "Order a pizza? ORDER A PIZZA? Where they gonna deliver it, numbnuts? Thirteen abandoned warehouse full of kill on sight hot heads way?", he shouted as two others arrived with the last of the crates. "...You know what they say? They say it can't be killed. They say it drinks blood. They say...", the third one said, making the fourth one shake his head in disbelieve. "I say... you're full of shit, Knox. Oh, uh, you can quote me on that.", he responded. Suddenly, something was shot from the shadows pulling one of the thugs in. A loud crash was heard and seconds later he was throw back at them, crashing into two of the others, his arm in a weird angle. This happened two more times, each from a different direction and soon only one was left standing. "WHERE ARE YOU!?", the last one screamed in fright. His heart stopped a beat as words were whispered into his ear right beside him, "Behind you.", turning around he saw himself staring into a faintly glowing silver helmet covered with dark glass, hiding his face from view. On the side of it stood wear two ear like spikes resembling a bat, looking down the vigilante was dressed in what seemed to be dark blue high tech battle armor, not unlike the heroes you see in the movies. A black cape was floating down from his shoulders, swishing around as he reacted out and grabbed the thug with his armored hand. "Don't kill me! Don't kill me, man!", the thug begged as the attacker lifted him into the air. "I'm not going to kill you.", the vigilante replied, his voice being distorted, making his voice sound down right demonic but unmistakable male. "I want you to do me a favor. When they put you in jail, tell them Batmane send you.". Before the thug could reply, Batmane smashed him into the ground, knocking him out cold. The next morning, Skywalker was making his way towards school when he heard a voice behind him. "Skywalker, wait up!". Turning around he saw that it was Rarity who spoke up, to her side he saw Twilight walking up with her. "Good morning, ladies.", Skywalker replied as the three of them started to walk together. They spoke about various things, the subject at the moment was the reason why Skywalker was attending school here. After giving them his made up story, Rarity gave him a nod. "Ah... So that's why you came here. I thought it was something way more serious. There really is nothing here, huh? That is what makes it nice, but there's not much we can show to people from outside." "That's okay, it's not that different from the big city and besides, I like the quite.", Skywalker said. Suddenly, Rarity flashed him a mischievous smile, "So, tell me. You think Twilight's cute, huh?", this sudden remark gave Twilight a shocked expression but Skywalker only raised an eyebrow, before looking away. "Are you blushing? No, need to be embarrassed darling.", Rarity said while Twilight muttered something under her breath. "She's really popular at school, but she's never had a boyfriend. Kinda weird, huh?", Rarity continued. Twilight interrupted her, looking at Skywalker who was still looking towards something in the distance. "Y-You shouldn't believe that, okay?", Twilight said, a faint blush on her cheeks. "That your not popular or that you never had a boyfriend?", he asked, still not looking in their direction. "Wait! No! I meant to that I don't need a boyfriend!", Twilight corrected herself. Suddenly Skywalker pulled the two ladies to the side as Flash Sentry rushed by on his bike, losing control and landing in a trash can. "Oh no, not again!", Flash shouted muffled as Skywalker moved in to help him once again. With little difficulty, Skywalker managed to get Flash of the the trash can, Flash thanking him once again. "Next time, I'm not helping you. Or else your not learning anything.", Skywalker said with a mock stern voice, knowing full well he couldn't help but help others out. "Is your bike okay?", Rarity asked, gaining a surprised look from Flash. "My bike? What about me!?", he asked slightly offended. "Are you alright?", Twilight asked, apparently the only one who was truly worried about Flash well being. "Oh, Twilight. Are you worried about me?", he asked with a faint blush. "He's fine, let go to school.", Skywalker said as the group continued their walk. "Hey have you guys heard the news?" Flash asked as they arrived at the school parking lot. "You know, about that vigilante, Batmane?". Skywalker, Twilight and Rarity nodded. "Well, a guy who dresses up like that clearly has issues.", Skywalker said dismissive as Flash parked his bike in the bike storage. "I think Batmane deserves a medal.", Rarity said. Skywalker rolled his eyes, "And a straight-jacket to pin it on.", he responded with a dry tone to his voice as the four entered the school. Walking towards their lockers, he spotted Discord glaring at him, holding up a gold coin, his lips spelled the words, "I'm watching you.". Upon closer inspection, Skywalker saw that the coin was an Equestrian Bit. "Must have slipped out of my pocket or something. I better apologize when I have the chance.", he thought to himself as he waved goodbye to his friends as he went to his first class of the day, cooking. He didn't want to brag but with his cooking skill, this sounded like an easy A. Upon entering the cooking class, Skywalker spotted a certain shy pink haired girl sitting by herself in the back of the class. Walking over to her, he greeted her and sat down. She gave him a worried look and tried to warn him about something but the rest of the class arrived and the class was just about to start. Apparently, who ever shared a table with you was your cooking partner for the rest of the year. Seeing as it was the first lesson of the year, the teacher, this Worlds version of Mrs cake, told them they could make whatever they wanted. "Sorry that you got stuck with me in this class.", Fluttershy said as he gathered ingredients and preparing his tools. Skywalker gave her a questioning look, making her explain that cooking class was her worst class along with gym. She explained that she just wasn't that good at cooking and she always messed it up somehow. "Don't worry, Flutters. I think you and me will be just fine.", he responded as he started on his dish, not noticing the blush on her cheeks when he called her 'Flutters'. While Skywalker worked on his own dish, he gave a periodic look over Fluttershy's work, whispering advice and pointers when ever she needed them. "What should I do? There's still more ingredients that I couldn't fit inside the lunch box...", Fluttershy muttered. She had tried to make a lunch box but to no avail, looking over the remnants of all the ingredients left that she hadn't prepared, Skywalker quickly helped her out, cooking them all together. After all that was said and done, the two had produced two plates fine plates of spicy stew. "Wow... That's amazing! You made that without even looking at a recipe.", Fluttershy said, staring in amazement at the dish before her. "No, Fluttershy. You made that, I just cheered you on.", Skywalker corrected him as Mrs. Cake rated their dish. Much to Fluttershy's surprise and a little to Mrs. Cake herself, she gave Fluttershy's dish an A, while Skywalker received an A+, something that Mrs. Cake hadn't done since Pinkie had bake her famed cupcakes. At around 12:30, Skywalker found himself sitting at a table in the cafeteria, chatting with his friends who where already there. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Flash entering the cafeteria alone. Skywalker was about to wave him over but Griffifth pulled him down. Skywalker shot him an surprised look, as Griffifth stated to explain, "Don't even think about it! You are already opposing, Sunset Shimmer! Who knows what she would do if you ended up becoming buddies with her ex-boyfriend too?", Griffifth scolded him, but his friend was more surprised by this sudden news. "Ex-boyfriend?", Skywalker asked, Big Mac was the first to speak up. "Flash Sentry broke up with her a few weeks ago. I can't believe she hasn't done something awful to him yet, that he is still alive is beyond me.". "Maybe she's just waiting until she has the power to do something really awful." , Skywalker thought to himself, "Well, I already consider him a friend, we had steak together yesterday.", he informed them. "I need something to drink. Anybody wants some?", Fluttershy asked and naturally everybody wanted some. Being the nice guy that he is, Skywalker offered to help. As the two walked to the vending machine, Skywalker suddenly got pushed by a random group of bullies, cause every high school has them. "Watch where you going new kid, I am not in a good mood.", Garble said glaring at the young knight. "Why don't you look where you going?", Skywalker responded, not afraid to stand his ground. Garble's eyes flashed between him and the shy girl next him before letting out a chuckle, "Oh, I see trying to play brave in front of your girlfriend! Well, lets how well you can take a beating.", he said as his two friends stood on stand-by ready to fight with Garble. "Bring it...", Skywalker shouted before stopping mid sentence, "Wait, who is my girlfriend?". Garble was quite for a moment before answering, "The animal lover, jerk off.", he pointed out. As Skywalker was about to take his fighting stance, he felt someone pulling at the sleeve of his jacket. Turning his head to the side, he saw Fluttershy giving him a worried look, "Skywalker, please don't stoop to their level, it's not worth it.", she asked no, practically bagged him. She didn't want him to fight three of the strongest bullies in Canterlot High. "Better listen to her loser, before you regret it.", Garble spit, but Skywalker wasn't even paying attention to him anymore. "Your right. These guy are not worth my time, they are just lonely and desperate.", Skywalker said to Fluttershy, enraging the three bullies. One of them took a swing at him, Skywalker quickly pushed Fluttershy to the side while he dodge the fist, aiming at his jaw. The attacking bully, this World version of Hoops, tried to hit Skywalker again and again, but Skywalker dodged him every time. Getting bored by the repetitive swings of the bully, he looked over to the side, and he saw Fluttershy whining in fear. Skywalker wanted to reassure her, but suddenly he felt his left jaw itching, apparently he had taken a hit from Hoops. Fluttershy began crying as she thought that he was hurt, although in truth, it was Hoops who was hurt, as he had broken his hand in 8 different places. Skywalker felt terrible seeing her like this, but he's still not taking any shit from this guy. "M-My hand!... What is that guy made of!?", Hoops winched in pain as he clenched his broken fist to his chest. "I'm going to tear you apart for that new kid!", Garble roared, charge at Skywalker, ready to avenge his friend. Skywalker waited for the perfect moment and with one swift kick to the head, the charging Garble was smacked down on the floor. Everyone else just stared in amazement, besides poor little Fluttershy, who had her hands covering her face. Garble tried to get up, Skywalker stood ready to give him another kick when suddenly, the Garble fainted. He quickly looked around at where the other two bullies were, discovering they weren't there anymore. "Wait a minute... Where are the teachers!?", Skywalker thought to himself as he friends rushed over to him, shouting cheers and congratulations, "Holy shit, Skywalker! That was awesome!", McGrath said petting him on the back. "Where have you learned to fight like that!?", Rainbow asked, anything even remotely related to athletics's interested her. Skywalker thought about it for a moment, "Street Fighter, Tekken, Mortal Kombat, the Arkham series. I play a lot of fighting games.", he responded before Fluttershy, still in tears, ran over and hugged him tightly, "Oh Skywalker, thank goodness your alright!". Skywalker hugged her back, trying to calm her down "Come on, Flutters. It's alright.", he whispered to her while stroking her hair. A few minutes later, found Skywalker and Fluttershy roaming the halls. "I'm sorry if I was overreacting earlier...", Fluttershy said with a faint blush on her cheeks. Skywalker told her it was no big deal, making the cute pink haired girl sigh in relieve. "It's just that, even though I have known you for a short time... But yet, I care for you so much... and when you got punched I... I think I'm starting too...", she said, having trouble getting out those last words, looking down towards the ground. Skywalker tilted his head, but she shook her head, "N-Nothing. Oh, your shirt is covered in blood.", she said spotting the dark red spots, left after Hoops broke his hand and dripped it on in. "Oh come on!", Skywalker complained as he looked down, "First they want to fight me and now they mess up my favorite shirt? They are so uninvited for my birthday party!", he muttered. "Let me help you with that!", Fluttershy said as she took his hand and lead him to the school girls restroom. A few seconds later, they found themselves in said girls restroom, "Why am I here? I'm not allowed to be here!", he thought to himself as he took of his jacked, laying it on one of the wash tables, as Fluttershy helped him take off his shirt. As soon as Skywalker's shirt was off, Fluttershy blushed and stood nervously still. He looked at her, and couldn't help but see that she was sweating beads. "I... I didn't know... you were so well-built, Skywalker...", she said grasping his arm, making it Skywalker's turn to blush. "Well... I just like keeping in shape.", he muttered but gets interrupted as Fluttershy leans against him, letting her hands go around his chest, leaning closer and closer to him. Suddenly a loud crack was heard before a voice spoke up from the intercom, "Jason Skywalker, please report to the vice-principle's office. I repeat, Jason Skywalker, please report to the vice-principle's office." and with another loud crack, the voice died down. "Well, I guess... I should go then! I'll see you later!", he said grabbing his jacked and quickly made his way out of the restroom, hoping she hadn't seen the blush on his face. Another few seconds later, we find Skywalker with a closed jacket, entering the vice-principle's office after knocking. "Sit.", Luna commanded, making him sit down on a chair in front of her desk. "Sunset Shimmer told me what happened at the cafeteria.", Luna informed him, "I don't know what possessed you to get in a fight, but you should know that in this school, we don't condone that kind of behavior. So, what do you have to say for yourself?", the vice-principle asked. Skywalker cleared his throat ready to tell his side of the story, "I was only defending myself, ma'am. Those guys came up to me first, and I tried to turn the other cheek, but then one of them tried to punched me. I wasn't fighting for no reason. I was standing up to a gang of bullies, I didn't even throw the first punch... Or any punch at all!", Skywalker explained, but the hot teacher in front of him gave him a disbelieving look. "I find that hard to believe, as we have two students with broken hands.", she explained. Suddenly, the door shot open, revealing Rainbow and a panting Flash Sentry. "It's true, vice-principle!", the two said, Flash slightly out of breath. "Care to explain?", the vice-principle said, slightly annoyed that they didn't bother to knock. "He didn't want to get into it with those guys.", Rainbow said as the two of them started to explain what had truly happened, though even they were surprised by Hoops broken hand. The vice-principle ponders their story for a moment, "I see why you did what you did, Skywalker. You can go, but try and stay out of trouble.", Skywalker gave her a small bow, before leaving with his two friends. "Thanks.", Skywalker said, grateful that the two had stood up for him, "What was I gonna do? Not prove your innocence? Wouldn't be much of a friend, now would I? We... are friends right?", Flash said as Skywalker nodded and shook his hand. Skywalker sense a faint stirring of friendship between him and Flash Sentry... Thou art I... And I am thou... Thou hast established a new bond... It brings thee closer to the Unity... Thou shalt be blessed when creating Personas of the Magician Arcana... "Are the voices in my head back?", Skywalker thought to himself as the three of them made their way to their next class. > Chapter 70: Training > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Skywalker was strolling through the school when he heard quite gasp from some students in the hall looking in his direction. Before he could speak up they fled as if they had seen a ghost. "Why is everybody looking at me funny?", Skywalker wondered out loud as his friends from this World came running up to him. "There you are, Jason!", Applejack said as they came to a stop, "We've been looking all over for you!". "Why were you all looking for me? What's going on?", Skywalker asked the the rest of the super friends gave each other a concerned look. "Oh, he hasn't seen it yet.", Fluttershy muttered as Twilight whipped out her phone. "Oh, it's really not that bad.", Sutakira muttered as a video started to play on Twilight's phone. On the screen appeared Sunset Shimmer in front of a large background with a psychotic looking Skywalker, his eyes glowing red and shooting lighting from his finger tips. "Jason Skywalker wants to be your Fall Formal Ruler. He's a reckless young man riding a motorcycle, disturbing the peace of our quiet rural town. He eats puppies, steps on bunnies and kills baby seals with only the power of his mind. Also his middle name is the same as the villain from Final Fantasy VII. What does it say about our school if we give someone like that such an important honor?", Sunset Shimmer said sincere in the video before a voice quickly said "Vote Sunset Shimmer for Fall Formal Ruler." before cutting off. "I take that back. It's pretty bad.", Sutakira stated dryly as Skywalker replayed the video a few times. "Has everyone in the school seen this? Is that why they were all looking at me that way?", Skywalker asked, his friends giving him a nod, "...This must be an important day for Sunset Shimmer.", he muttered completely calm. With a worried tone to his voice, Big Mac asked, "Why is that?". Skywalker suddenly became enraged as his eyes flashed red for a few seconds, "Because this will be her last day alive!", Skywalker was about to run off to find and kill Sunset but a certain pink haired girl stopped him. "Am I the only one who saw that?", Phoenix muttered to his friends, but none seem to have noticed Skywalker's eyes flashing red. Turning his head towards her, he saw two sympathetic blue eyes looking up at him, "Uhm Jason... Not that it'll make any difference, but I'll still vote for you. You were so nice to stand up for me when Sunset Shimmer was picking on me yesterday.", Fluttershy said, making the taller boy chuckle. He patted her on the head, smiling as he said, "It's okay. I will still win the F2. If not, I just scare everyone with my psychic baby seals killing power." And so the Friday came to a close, after saying goodbye to his friends, picking up some groceries, he was not enjoying dinner with his faithful dog companion, Spike, in the living room, as the TV showed the Weather Forecast, saying that after the rain tonight, a thick fog was expected to set in later that night. "Its Friday evening. I have no school tomorrow, what should I do?", Skywalker thought out loud. Spike suggested playing video games. Much to their shock, suddenly the Imperial March started to play, the music coming from Skywalker's pocket. Reaching in his pocket, he saw that it was his Bluecherry Volt, "Oh, yeah. I forgot you can make calls with this thing.", he muttered as he swiped his thumb over the screen. Before he could say anything, he heard Rainbow from this World was the one who called him, "Hey, Jason!". "How did you get my number?", Skywalker asked, he was sure he hadn't give anyone his contact information yet. "From Flash Sentry.", Rainbow stated as a matter of fact. Though this raised even more questions, "How did HE get my number!?", Skywalker wondered as Spike started to laugh. "Never mind that. Wanna hang out tomorrow afternoon? Say 14:15?", Rainbow asked. Seeing as he hadn't anything planed, he agreed to meet her. "Great!", Rainbow respond, "I'll see you at SCC!", she said before hanging up. The next morning, at 13:31, Skywalker woke up, a bowl of cereal on his desk as he started the MMO Spike had suggested on his laptop. The words "Lost Story: Online" appeared on the screen. Starting a new character, the game started to load while text filled his screen. "Reality is just a series of events and players acting out what they believe is real. When we accept that fact, our world becomes 'reality.' Reality is but a reflection of our thoughts and expectations. ...But, what if we were merely reflections in another's mirror? Are you prepared to look through that mirror to discover the truth?". A few seconds later, Skywalker's was done generating his player avatar. He spawned inside Lazulis City, the place seemed to be deserted. On Game Population displayed "There are 1 player(s) in the area.". Skywalker's avatar started to walk around when suddenly another message appeared on the screen, "A -PRINCESS- approaches...". A female avatar dressed in White walked up to him, waving at him as she opened a privet chat box. "Sup? oh wait, your a noob? are, huh?", the female avatar dressed in White tilted her head. Skywalker's avatar nodded, "Well you can say that...". The avatar preformed a laughing animation, before a typing, "Oh wow. you haven't even finished generating your char yet... Any ways! Welcome to the game! Good thing I'm using my low level alt. I think its just you and me, this is kind of a dead MMO these days... Sorry. I got kinda ooc there. We'r supposed to be our 'alternate selves' right? uhhhh... sooo... what are you gonna call your char? We can meet up later.", those words appeared on the message box. Skywalker contemplated it for a few moments, funny enough, they had an animation that looked exactly like his own thinking pose, "What name should I use?". Girl in White scratched her head, "That's the difficult part right? Hey, I got a good name for you! ...How about Zael? kyahahaha! That's good.", a laughing animation started to play as Skywalker typed in 'Zael" as his character. "I'll change mine to Calista, k?", and in a flash, the girls name changed to Calista. "Have a little deja vu?". Skywalker initiated the thinking pose, he really needed to hot-key that one, before typing back, "Zael... Calista... Ha, that's clever.". Calista shook her head, "Oh really? I'm impressed. I didn't think many people played that! Well, if you see any Arganan's, be sure to rescue me. Any way, I'm usually idling here on my days off... So if your bored, maybe we can level together. It sucks to be lonely.". Skywalker's avatar nodded as a friend request popped up in his mail box. "Sorry, got to go. Remember, let's think positive!" was the last Calista typed before she signed off. Looking on his phone, Skywalker saw that it was 14:00, he had fifteen minutes to go to SCC. Saying goodbye to Spike, Skywalker rushed out of the door. SCC wasn't that far from his home, just a small walk through the Shopping District. SCC was a small cafe that was popular with the local youth. As Skywalker entered the small establishment, he couldn't help but notice it looked similar to Sugarcube Corner at home, though it was a little more modern. He saw Rainbow sitting next to the window drinking a sports drink. She noticed him too as she said, "Hai, Jason! You made it!". As she said that he walked over to her and sat down. A waitress came over to get his order, after ordering a cup of coffee, he turned back to his friend. "So why me?", Skywalker asked. "Well... Fluttershy is at the animal shelter, McGrath is busy and AJ is no fun...", the rainbow haired girl started. "And I'm just a bundle of joy!", Skywalker said sarcastically as the waitress came back with his coffee. As she walked away, Rainbow couldn't help but notice her and some of the other females in the establishment were checking Skywalker out. "Now, what is the real reason?", Skywalker asked as he took a sip from his drink, "After I saw how easily you stood up to those bullies, I realized that I need to better myself.", she started, making the young knight wonder were this was going. "So I want you to train me!", she finished and in response, Skywalker playfully tapped Rainbow on the head with his fist. "What was that for!?", Rainbow shouted, as Skywalker smiled while taking a sip. "Training.", said making the girl across from his lighten up. "Does that mean you'll do it!?", the blue girl shouted excitedly, hoping she finally had an exercise partner. "When I feel like it.", Skywalker said with a smile, it seemed this worlds wasn't so different from his own after all. After a quick jog, Skywalker found himself at the Hero Riverbank, doing push-ups with Rainbow. The athletic girl was keeping up with him, though Skywalker was pushing himself up with only two fingers. "How do you do that? I thought that was something from the movies!", Rainbow said as she took a small break. "Lots of practice.", Skywalker said, before taking a break himself. Out of the corner of his eye, Skywalker could see Scootaloo approach. "Good afternoon Scootaloo!", he greeted. The brownish girl greeted back before asking what the two were doing. Skywalker explained they were training. "Training? Who are you fighting with, Skywalker?", Scootaloo asked. Skywalker took his thinking pose before answering, "Hmmm... Myself I guess?". "Wow, cool!", the younger girl said before pointing at Rainbow, "A grasshopper!". Much to his surprise, Rainbow become pale as she jolted on her feet. "Huh!? N-No way! Wh-Where!?", the blue skinned girl said, looking all around her. "It just landed on your back.", Skywalker informed her, but this made the young girl just panic, nearly begging for someone to get it off her. Scootaloo walked over and took the grasshopper off Rainbow's back. "...You don't like grasshoppers?", Scootaloo asked as she let the little green bug go. Rainbow calmed down, scratching the back of her head, "I'm no good with anything with thin, jointed legs or anything creepy or squirmy.", she admitted. "But they're cute...", the younger girl responded, making the older girl shake her head. "...You're like Fluttershy.", Rainbow muttered to herself. "Because of her love for all animals?", Skywalker asked. The blue girl nodded, "Ayup, Fluttershy is fine around bugs. But me, I totally lose it... Kinda funny, huh?". Skywalker shook his head, giving her a kind look, "It's very feminine.". For a moment he thought Rainbow had spotted another grasshopper on her, because she had a similar freak out, "Th-That's not true! It's not..." she shouted embarrassed, though she seemed happy, for some reason. "Now come on, training time. Scootaloo, wanna train too?", Skywalker said turning his attention to the younger girl. "Okay!", she replied, as the three started to do sit-ups. "I'm gonna get over my fear of bugs. I don't wanna look like a sissy next to Jason or Scootaloo! All I have to do is think of them as Sunset Shimmer! Then I'll be able to grab a whole fistful!... I just gave myself goosebumps... G-Getting used to bugs might take a while, but I won't lose to Sunset Shimmer!", Rainbow thought as they resumed their training. > Chapter 71: School Days Continue > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- That Sunday afternoon, Skywalker was making his way through the shopping district, the sun shining down on him. "How did I went from superhero to high school student?",he wondered as he walked towards Mizu's Japanese dinner, where he had agreed to meet Flash Sentry. He arrived a little earlier, so he took seat and ordered some appetizer while he waited. A crash was heard outside before the door slid open, revealing Flash Sentry. "Sorry for being late." Flash said as he took a seat across from Skywalker. "Did you take your bike?", Skywalker asked, making his blue haired friend chuckle in embarrassment. "Seriously, why do you always crash that thing?". After ordering their drinks Flash spoke up, "I used to live in Cloudsdale before moving here six months ago. The roads are so wide and empty I keep speeding, and my car is at the shop so...", Flash explained. The two made small talk over the course of their lunch. "Well, it is good... though it's tough. Dashie called this stuff 'tender and juicy'...", Skywalker said putting a piece of the meat in his mouth, not noticing the impressed look Flash was giving him for already having dinner with Rainbow Dash. "What kinda teeth does she have!?...", Flash joked, making the other chuckle. "Still, this sweet and sour pork is damn good, huh?", Skywalker said as he finished his, "I'm gonna have another. You want one too, right?". And so Monday morning came. On his way to school, Skywalker came across Rainbow and Griffifth, so they decide to join him. As the three of them walked up the stairs to enter Canterlot High School, Rainbow started to lecture Griffifth about the sports team or something. "You better perform just as well when the soccer try outs are on.". Skywalker tries not to sigh in exasperation, sports never interested him much, except maybe fencing, but soccer was the second most boring sport of them all, the first one was tennis. "Relax Dash, it's all good. You’re not gonna be the only one on the team.", Griffifth snarked with a roll of his ruby red eyes. Rainbow snorted in response, grabbing Griffifth by his backpack and yanking him back."I am serious, don't get cocky.", she scolded while she let go as Skywalker separate them. "If you don't make the team this year you're gonna be sorry!". Griffifth glared at her, giving her a smug smirk, "Is that so? What are you gonna do about it?". Rainbow growled, trying to grab at him again but Skywalker managed to keep her away by lifting her from the ground by the back of her shirt, while holding Griffifth off with his other arm. "Knock it off, both of you. You are friends. How can you even be so energetic in the morning?", Skywalker complained as a shadow fell over the group, all three looking up to see principal Celestia looking down at them disapprovingly. "I want to see all three of you in my office. Now." The trio walked to her office in silence, Griffifth and Rainbow shooting each other dirty looks every so often. A short while later, Skywalker explained the situation, allowing them to get off with a warning. "I'm glad to see that you're all over this little episode." ,principal Celestia clasped hand at the trio, "That should be all for today. Griffifth, may I speak to you for a minute?". The blond nodded as Skywalker and Rainbow Dash got up and left, the blue skinned girl shooting him a grimace. After another short walk, the two arrived in their classroom, which they shared with Twilight. "Why did I have to go to? I didnt even do anything... This time.", Skywalker muttered as he took his seat, Rainbow taking the seat next to him. Before Rainbow could respond, Twilight entered and walked up to the two. "Morning.", she said as she took the vacant desk next to Skywalker. "Morning, did you sleep well?", Skywalker asked, getting a nod from the purple girl. "Yep. I was out cold until this morning.", Twilight said. Skywalker nodded, before turning his attention back to Rainbow. "Jason, Um... Thanks for the help.", Rainbow said. He nodded telling her it was no problem. "Did something happen?", Twilight asked, trying to get into the conversation. Its strange... There's a funny air about you. I dunno, I guess that's what draws people to you, or something like that.", Rainbow said, ignoring Twilight's puzzled look. "Was that a compliment?", Skywalker asked with a chuckle. Rainbow let out a soft laugh before confirming it was a compliment. "Or maybe your falling for me?", he followed up, making the blue skinned girl's cheeks turn pink for a moment. "Whoa... Maybe you are my type.", she admitted, making Twilight even more confused. "There really is something different about you. I feel like you won't let me down...". During lunch break, Skywalker was taking a nap in a tree overlooking the school grounds, when a soft voice woke him up. Opening one eye, he saw Fluttershy standing there waving at him. "I want you to try this for me. I hope you're hungry...", she said as she showed him a boxed lunch. Rolling over his shoulder, falling out of the tree and with a soft tud he landed on his feet. "I'm always hungry.", he informed her not noticing the impressed look on her face as he took the box. As the two sat down on a patch of grass, before he even open the box, he could smells an unsavory odor coming from the lunch. "I can smell it even without my super smell!", he thought to himself, while he mustered up his courage and opened it, the content looked pretty unappetizing. "Please eat up!", Fluttershy said as she watched him expectantly. Skywalker let out an inner sigh as against his better judgement he took a bite. After a few chews, Skywalker had to do his best not to spew it all out, "I can't swallow it... I can't even chew it anymore!... The food tastes as bad as it looks...", he thought to himself. "...H-How is it?", Fluttershy asked hopefully, slightly worried because the boy next to her was slowly starting to turn green. "...Not bad for a first attempt.", Skywalker said slowly. The shy pink haired girl looked surprised, "R-Really? But, please let me know if there's anything I can improve on.", she asked, gaining a nod from him, "Sorry that I asked you to try this all of a sudden. To tell you the truth... I'm going to keep trying my best, so would you mind stopping by and trying my new creations sometime?". Skywalker thought about it for a moment, it seems she could use a guiding hand in her cooking. "Want me to teach you?", Skywalker offered, her face lightning up. "Really? That's great! Cookbooks don't make much sense to me, and cooking for you would inspire me to try harder. I-I mean if its not too much trouble...". Skywalker assured her that it was no trouble at all. "Thank you! Oh and uhm... Sorry about last time. What happened In the bath room... I mean...", she said. Skywalker thought back at what she was talking about, suddenly remembering how she had stroked his abs and almost kissed him. "It's okay, Fluttershy. My midrif does have that effect on girls... And some boys.", he responded, not taking offence at all, in fact he felt something in his chest, something that made him regret that the kiss didn't get through. "Alright then.", Fluttershy said, a tone of relieve in her voice, "Oh, sorry. I went on and on without realizing... I-I guess I'm a little nervous.". He gave her a puzzled look. She explained how, aside from the other guys in the group, never chatted with a boy her own age like that before. "Rainbow, of course, has no problem getting along with guys because of her personality...", she told him, as he listened, "I think she's had more fun hanging out with you lately... The same is true for me.", she finished with a blush, he could sense her gratitude and affection. The rest of the day went by normally without incident, on his way out of school, he asked what Twilight doing later that afternoon. She told him she was going to swing by the Used Books store in the Shopping District, she shyly asked if he wanted to come along. Seeing as the Shopping District was on his way home anyway, he decided to go along for the ride. And so we found the two at the Used Books store, the two browsing through the used books, Skywalker looking around every where but Twilight only looked in the newly arrived books, having already read most of the books there. "Sorry to subject you to this...", Twilight said, as Skywalker was overlooking their collection of classic literature. "I'm having fun, so don't worry about it.", he said, but she wasn't fully convinced. "If you say so. But, um... thank you. I was so busy searching through the books... I'm sorry if I ignored you, Skywalker.". Skywalker waved it off as he walked up to her, "Don't worry about it. This place has so many interesting books, huh?", he said, honestly. He was surprised by the large collection of books here, he even noticed some rare collectors books. "...Do you read much, Skywalker?", she asked as she picked out some books she wanted to buy. "I read a lot of comic's and a lot of the classic's.", Skywalker admitted making the purple girl turn her head in surprise. "Really!? I didn't think you would be into that. Most people don't find the classics very entertaining, but I can respect what the authors were trying to accomplish.", she said as she paid for her books. "Yeah, I can see your point. Do you read any comic's?", he asked, deciding not to buy any books himself. As the two headed out of the store, Twilight shyly admitted that she had an entire bookshelf full of girls manga. "Say what? I didn't picked you for a gal who liked manga.", Skywalker said surprised as he held open the door for her. Twilight nodded as the two made their way out of the Shopping District, "I love them. But I tend to get frustrated when the main character can't ask out the guy she likes, because I can relate to her.". The two made some more small talk about what kind of reading material the other one liked. "Do you read any magazines? Like fashion?", Skywalker asked. Twilight shook her head, "I'm not really interesting in that type of stuff, I'm clueless when it comes to fashion. Not like you, Skywalker. You, um, look fine no matter what you wear.", she added that last part with a slight blush. They soon found themselves in front of Skywalker's house, "You live here, Skywalker?", she asked, when he suddenly realized something. "Wait, isn't your house in the other direction... How rude of me not to ask.", he said as he scratched the back off his head. "D-Don't apologize! Please! It's my fault...", Twilight said quickly, not wanting to make him feel bad. "I-I knew we were going the wrong direction, but I didn't say anything... Thank you very very much for making time for me, Skywalker.". As it was soon going to be dark outside, Skywalker insisted that he walked Twilight home. It didn't took long for the two to arrive in front of Twilight's house, which was located in the richer district of the town. "Um... Skywalker? Is it boring to hang around with, um, a nerd like me?", she asked, much to her relieve he assured her that was not the case. "I-I'm glad to hear that. I've been worried about it for a while. Today, I was able to be myself with you, Skywalker... Thank you." Skywalker nodded, turning around as he waved, "I'll see you in school. Goodbye.", he said as she waved at him, "Bye Bye.". Arriving back home, Spike launched into multiple questions like "How was your day?", "Why were you gone for so long?" and "What's for dinner?". After preparing a quick meal and quickly finishing his homework, Skywalker booted up the Lost Story. His avatar arriving in some location called the "Haunted Mansion". He didn't saw any other players until he saw a girl in white signing on. She quickly walked up to him, opening a private chat box, "Welcome back, Zael! Good to see you again! You remember me right?". "Of course I remember you Calista. You named me!", his avatar nodded. Calista did a fist pump while spinning around, "You really DO remember!! This is exactly like when Calista and Zael met. Hmm... what kinda people are we, playing inside on such a beautiful day?". Skywalker's avatar nodded, "It's okay to enjoy a game and sunshine is overrated anyways.", he informed her, making Calista do another fist pump. "Haha!! Damn straight! Its not like we're otaku or anything in real life any way. Games are cool, but like... God this sounds so pathetic... There isn't much else that interests me, ya know? We're supposed to be leveling, but we just keep on chatting.". Skywalker shook his head, before tilting his head, "I don't mind, grinding gets old fast.", which was something he truly agreed with. "I know. Its fun talking to you, Zael.", Calista said before realizing something, "I'll be Offline for a while, so I'm logging off. Sorry! I forgot the big sale ends today." and with that Calista signed off. > Chapter 72: Teacher's Pet > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Skywalker was making his way towards school, "I wonder if Sutakira as already wrote back...", he was brought out of his contemplating, when Rarity walked up to him. After some small talk, Rarity asked him, "Why don't we ditch class later. Have some fun?". This made Skywalker stop in his tracks, making the purple haired girl look at him nervously. "You had me at ditch class.", Skywalker said with a smirk, making Rarity look at him in surprise. "It's okay once in a while.", he said as the two continued their way to school. "You think so? I'm surprised you're so open-minded. I had you totally pegged for a teacher's pet.", Rarity said with a smile. When they arrived at school, the two deciding to meet after lunch break to skip class. Skywalker waved her goodbye as she left to do something at the Fashion Club. Looking around, he saw his favorite yellow skinned, pink haired girl trying to hand out flyers. Sneaking up behind her as she said, "Canterlot's Animal Shelter needs more volunteers. Won't you help an animal that can't help itself?", but she said that at such a distance that no other student could hear her. "Hey, Flutters. What are you doing?", Skywalker whispered in her ear, making the shy girl jump up. Blushing faintly because he stood so close to her, "Oh, hi Jason. I'm handing out flyers for the animal shelter.", she said shyly, showing him the stack of flyers. "Oh, the thing you do every Wednesday? Any luck yet?", Skywalker asked as he studied one of the flyers, as the shy pretty girl shook her head, "Where do I sing up?". he asked making her look even more surprised. "You need another volunteer, I want to help out.", he said with a genuine smile. "Oh, alright... Uhm. I meet you after school... If your serious.", she said with a blush on her cheeks, as the two made their way into school. During lunch break, Applebloom, Sweetiebelle and Scootaloo were sitting at a table playing a game. "I attack you with double crit. Ending it.", Applebloom said with a satisfied smile on her face, as Scootaloo complained about losing again. "Nobody can beat me! I'm the best Vanguard fighter in the school.", the youngest apple sister said, unbeknownst to her, she dropped one of her cards on the ground. Skywalker was talking by as he saw what happened and somebody picks it up. "Is this yours?", he asked as he handed the card back. "Thank's Skywalker. Do you play too?", Applebloom asked as she accepted the card back. "At my old school, my friends and I played all the time.", Skywalker told her, making the young country girl ask him to play a game with her. Seeing no reason not to, Skywalker whipped out his deck, "Prepare the board.", he said as he started to shuffle his deck. After a few turns, with Applebloom mostly in the lead, Skywalker eventually managed to come out on top with one final attack with triple crit. "That was so cool!", Applebloom said, making him promise to come play again with them some time. After agreeing to play again, Skywalker made his way outside to the school gates, were he saw Rarity waiting for him. One bus trip later, Skywalker and Rarity found themselves walking around Canterlot City. "Mmmm! Feels so good. Just knowing everyone else is still stuck at school studying makes it feel great to be out here.", Rarity said stretching her arms, "It's not like I do this all the time. Well, enough small talk. Let's go.", she said as the two passed some stores. "Where are we going?", Skywalker asked. "We'll start with clothes, then we'll hit jewelry and shoes, and maybe some cell phone stuff if there's enough time.", Rarity answered as they walked into a clothing store. A half hour later, Rarity still hadn't bought anything and they were still in the same store. "So when does the fun start?", Skywalker asked as he checked his phone, seeing they should have enough time to get back to school. "Silly, it started hours ago!", Rarity said, clearly enjoying herself. "Huh... Must have missed that train.", he said dryly, making his friend chuckle. "Your a funny guy, you know what, though? I had more fun today than usual. You're different from the others. Next time, let's go after school.", she said as he nodded. "We'd better get going, though, or we won't make it back before class ends.", Skywalker informed her, making Rarity nod. "Say, Skywalker. How come the coattails of your coat always flare out from behind you, even when there is no wind?", she asked making him shrug his shoulders. The two sneaked back into class unnoticed, making it to the end of the school day without any problem. Skywalker was walking around, until he saw Rainbow and Griffifth arguing about something. "Can't today, I've got detention.", the blond said, rubbing the back of his head, the rainbow haired girl glaring at him. "Yeah, well don't make a habit of it. If you spend too much time in detention you get barred from playing sports, and I don't wanna see one of the best players benched because he's having issues.", she said before turning around, she was about to storm off but accidentally bumped into Skywalker. After muttering a quick apologize, she asked, "Jason! Why don't you join one of the sports team?", she asked. He thought about it for a few seconds, "Sounds like a lot of hard work... I don't like hard work.", he added making his friend tilt her head. "I'll buy you all the Meat Lovers Combo's at Mizu's you want.", she said hoping to bribe him with their favorite dish after training. Skywalker chuckled for a moment, "I don't think you'll ever have enough money for that.". After promising to think about it, Rainbow gave Griffifth one last glare before storming off. Turning to his friend, he saw a guilty look on his face. "You know what she's like. Dashie just wants the team to be at full strength.", he tried to console his friend, Griffifth nodded, his spikey blond hair shaking with the motion. "Hey Griff, why did you even get detention anyway? It's not like drawing some pictures hurt anybody.", Skywalker asked, he had told him why he had gotten detention. Apparently, Griffifth had drew something in class and that it had gotten him the detention, but he found that reason kinda fishy. "The principal says I need to work on my concentration. See ya later.", he said running off. Skywalker shrugged his shoulders as he left to find Fluttershy. A few hours later found Skywalker sitting behind the front desk of the Animal Shelter, trying to finish up some of his homework. The owner of the Shelter came over to ask why the places were the animals took care of their needs smelled like burned... you know. "I used my heat vision to clean up.", Skywalker said honestly. "Haha, well if you can make them that clean, keep using it.", she said with a chuckle, thinking he made a joke as she walks away. After helping out even more, Fluttershy asked if they could go to his house to practice cooking. And so the two found themselves at his house, preparing the ingredients for what they are about to make. "Shouldn't you go back home? Aren't your parents waiting?", he asked, as he showed her how to make sure you have the right measurements. "My parents are... working today.", she said looking down sadly to the ground. Trying to change the subject, she asked what they were going to make today. Skywalker opened one of the cook book, flipping through it until he was on a certain page, "Chocolate truffles! Don't they look good?", Skywalker asked, making the girl nod her head. "Um, one teaspoon of liqueur... That doesn't seem like enough.", Fluttershy muttered to herself, "Dissolve 200 grams of milk chocolate in hot water... Am I supposed to put hot water in it, or it into the water?". Skywalker stopped his own work for a few moments to ask her if she needed any help. "Oh, no, it's okay. I should be able to do this... Thanks, though.", she added with a smile as the two continued. A little while later, their truffles were done, Skywalker's own batch came out pretty well, those of Fluttershy... Well... "This is much more fun when there's two people here. Thanks, Jason", Fluttershy said with smile. He told her to stop thanking him all the time, making her nod with a blush. "Alright... How does this look? It's a little odd-shaped...", Fluttershy said as she showed what she had made, on her plate there's an apple-sized dark substance. "This is big...", he muttered as he gave it a poke with a fork, "Why... Do I smell a sour wafts from the... Truffle?", he asked, looking puzzled at his friend. "I thought that a teaspoon of liqueur wasn't enough, so I used a cup of it. See?", she said proudly holding up a bottle labeled 'vinegar'. Because this recipe is so obviously inedible, Skywalker decide to point that out. "Huh? Oh, you are right. It says 'rice vinegar'... I didn't notice at all.", she said looking down to the ground. He placed a hand on her shoulder making her look up. "Mistakes happen, don't worry about it. You just need to practice more.", he said, gaining a hopeful look from her. "Alright. But I want to try harder so that I can get better at this. Plus, now that you're helping me out, I want to succeed even more... I'll try harder next time.", she said with renewed confidence. "That's the spirit.", he said. After cleaning up, it was getting dark outside, so Skywalker insisted to walk Fluttershy home. After walking to her door, the two said goodbye, deciding to meet up at school tomorrow. On his way home, Skywalker was whistling down the street when he heard somebody saying, "Stop it! Please!". He then heard another voice as the first voice started to sound muffled. Quickly walking towards the source of the sound, Skywalker looked into an alley way, and saw five guys, who seemed to be of his age, surrounding a girl. With a moderate raspberry eyes, light arctic blue with moderate persian blue stripes hair and Arctic bluish white skin. Her eyes started to swell up with tears as the five brutish men pushed her against a wall. "You are quite a sight. Maybe I could take you to our place and have some fun with you, bitch. What do you think, boys?", the apparent leader asked his friends who stood there grinning and nodding. The girl braced herself and closed her eyes, waiting for the pain. But it never came. Opening her eyes, she looked to see what had stopped the leader of the brutes from harming her. And she was surprised to find Skywalker, holding single handed the brute's fist. "You know, it's not nice to take advantage of others. Especially a lady. So you better leave her alone, right now!", Skywalker. They were momentarily stunned before the leader started to laugh, his friends soon following. "Hmph! Lookie here boys. A Pewdiepie wants to teach us how to behave!", the leader started to mock him, but all Skywalker was thinking was, "Did he just call me a Pewdiepie?". He was brought out of his train of thought as the leader continued, "Ha, ha, ha! Listen, kid. You better leave and go home to your mommy right now if you don't want to get hurt!". Skywalker let out a chuckle of his own as he slowly started to begin crushing the leader's fist, "I believe I told you to leave her alone, didn't I?". The leader was slowly brought to his knees, "What the? Hey! Let go, you bastard!", he winched. "Not until you apologize and make amends for your misdeeds.", Skywalker ordered. "Apologize? You're not my boss! Make me!". "With pleasure.", Skywalker whispered as he let go of his fist and gave him a hook right on his left cheek, causing him to fly against the wall, the spot where punched him bleeding a little. Needless to say that his strength shocked everybody. "What are you doing you idiots!? Get him!", the leader ordered his friends, who immediately charged at him at the same time. The girl had managed to wrestle her hands loose and removing her gag. "Look out!", She tried to warn her savior as he easily deflected their punches. "Don't worry, I can easily take care of four foolish fools.", he said as he catches one of the punches, "Was that your best punch? Now its my turn", he told him as he spin him around and threw him against two of the other three. Launching them them all against the wall, like their leader, who had gotten up and was charging at Skywalker along with his remaining friends. The leader tried to kick Skywalker from his left side and the other tried to hook punch his in the face. Skywalker merely jumped in the sky and dodged. Predictably, the leader's kick hit his friends stomach and his friends punch hit the leader's face, knocking both of them to the floor. The leader was to tired and harmed to do anything else than sitting straight and looking at Skywalker. "If I ever find out you have been harassing girls again, I swear I will hunt you and your friends down.", Skywalker said before walking over to the girl. Extending his hand, she accepted with a faint blush as he helped her up. "Are you alright?", Skywalker asked as he led her back to her house, the girl told him that she was just a little shaken by what happened. The two soon found themselves at her house, he was about to leave until the girl made himstop, "Oh, by the way, my name is Sonata Dusk. May I know your name?". Skywalker gave her a warm smile as he introduced himself, "Skywalker, Jason Skywalker.", he said before taking his leave. > Chapter 73: The Dreaded Test Week > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "This is going to be the toughest fight of our lives.", Flash Sentry said as he, Skywalker, Rainbow, McGrath and Griffifth were sitting at a table in SCC, notes and books were scattered all over said table. "We need to be in complete sync. McGrath I want you on attack. Rainbow, your on recovery, Skywalker, your in the lead, be ready to shout commands at a moments notice. And Griff...". Griffifth cut him off as he gave him an annoyed look, "Screw you, it's only a test week.", he said taking a sip from his soda. "I know!", Flash said as he sat back down in his chair, looking over his notes. "Alright, the only class I really struggle with is math. What's your most difficult Skywalker?", Griffifth asked. His black haired friend muttered something as he was drawing something on a piece of paper. McGrath looked over his shoulder to see what Skywalker was drawing. "That is a drawing of Twilight. Naked, riding a polar bear... dog?", he said making Flash eyes widen. "What!? Let me see!", he said taking the drawing from Skywalker. "Hey!", Skywalker said slightly annoyed, as Flash started to study the drawing. Flash got startled as someone behind him shouted, "What the hell!". Turning around, they saw Twilight and Fluttershy standing behind them, and yes she had seen the drawing. "Ladies!...", Flash started awkwardly, "Now remember it's only awkward if we let it be...". A few minutes, a few apologizes and some Flash brought soda's, Twilight and Fluttershy joined them in their study session. "Say Flash, why did you invite us to your study session? I thought the only one you really hanged out with was Skywalker.", McGrath asked referring to himself, Rainbow and Griffifth. "Well I had invited Skywalker first... But I didn't want to make it look like we we're dating.", he muttered. At those words, Twilight 's purple eyes zoned out for a bit, the rest could easily guess what she was thinking about. The rest of the group decided not to comment on that last part. "It's more fun this way to study with everyone.", Fluttershy said as she looked to her side, seeing one of Rainbow answers is wrong, she tried to point it out, but Rainbow wasn't listening. "So X is that and... Gah, not like this.", Rainbow muttered, not noticing the others looking at her. "Hasn't she gone nuts yet?", Twilight asked, as Skywalker shook his head. After saying goodbye to their friends, Skywalker and Rainbow were making their way home as the sun started to set. "Now I'm beat.", Rainbow said as she stretched her back. "Dashie, the things you protect are very important to you aren't they?", Skywalker asked as he looked up to the sky, gaining an odd look from his friend. "Yeah, Fluttershy means a lot to me. She's frail and yet, despite that gives everything her all. That makes me wonder if I really can protect her. Honestly though, she's better at studying than I am with training. I need to get stronger, but even then...". The two turned around a corner as Skywalker looked back at her, "But if you don't study, you'll fail and have to retake tests, which lessens training time. After that, you'll wind up being a worse girl.", he said, making his rainbow haired friend look at him offended. "You don't have to put it so blunt!", she shouted making him slightly chuckle. "Why is it you want to get strong so badly? Why is it that you've become so desperate about it?", he asked, making her ponder that question. They arrived at Rainbow's house before she could answer, Skywalker was about to say goodbye when she spoke up. "For my friend's sake. Not just Fluttershy. There's Griffifth, he's nice enough I guess. Twilight, McGrath, Rarity, Pinkie, Phoenix, AJ, Sutakira and Big Mac. Everybody is really important and I want to protect them all.", she explained making him smile, it seems that this Rainbow was just like his Dashie at home. "And you too you know.", he turned his head in surprise when she said, showing a rare sight, a Rainbow Dash with red cheeks. "But your strong. It'd be a real honor to protect you but... It's thanks to you all that I can be here. So it's because of that I want to protect everyone who's so dear to me. So that may be why I've gotten so desperate lately. Is it weird of me to say that?", she said as she looked him into his faintly glowing amber eyes, "No, It isn't.", he said slowly as turned around. The next day found Skywalker studying in the Canterlot High School Library with Twilight, though he picked up the subjects pretty easily, there were some genuinely new things for him. Though that could be because he never finished his own high school because... well he was dead for two years. Anywho, having a one-on-one study session with Twilight was going just as he was used too... relaxing but you still learned something. "So weird that I'm no good at math... Every other subject is so easy for me.", Twilight said with a slight chuckle. She had come a long way from being the insecure nerd. As Skywalker started to explain how to easily remember the formulas for the math test, they heard two students a table over from them talk about something. "...I'm bored." Lyra whined as she leaned over her study partner Bon Bon, "My hand hurts from holding the pencil... But if you give me a kiss, I'll be able to study another 30 minutes.", Lyra said with a cheeky grin. Bon Bon told her to not speak so loud as they were still in the library. "Come on, give me a kiss! Please!", Lyra mockingly begged, annoying the other two. "Shut up, You're distracting us!", Skywalker said, slightly startling her, Bon Bon and Twilight, "If you're gonna flirt with each other, do it outside!", the other two muttered a quick apology before quickly leaving the library. Skywalker sat down, trying to concentrate on his study questions, but his concentration was broken again by the whispers of his study partner, "...They're gonna kiss!?", finally understanding what Lyra wanted to get from Bon Bon. "This is supposed to be a place of learning... and they're still just kids! That kind of behavior shouldn't be tolerated at school!", Twilight said, gaining a surprised look from him. "Let them, it no big whoop...", Skywalker started but before he could finish, Twilight looked at him shocked. "Wh-What are you trying to say!? Y-You don't think it's a big deal!?", she said surprised, she was sure he was against publicly kissing on school ground, with his sudden outburst and all. "That's what I implied with, no 'big whoop'. I just found them distracting and obnoxiously loud for the library.", Skywalker explained, gaining a nod from Twilight, "Anyways you don't like kissing?", he added. Twilight's cheeks became a bright red color, "That's not what I meant! I'm just trying to say that there's a time and a place for everything!", she managed to get out, diverting her eyes from his gaze. That evening, Skywalker had another study session with Flash, this time at his house. After two hours of studying, Flash asked if he could see his room. So the two man were in his room, Flash pretty much barged in. "It's pretty clean. So?... You keep the goods under your mattress?", Flash asked, a mischievous grin on his face. Skywalker gave him a confused look, not getting what he was talking about. "Come on... No need to play dumb. Don't worry. I'll still be your friend even if you're into the freaky stuff.", Flash said with a kind tone to his voice. Skywalker still didn't get what he was about. He suddenly felt Spike looking at him, gesturing him to kneel down. Pretending to kneel down and scratch Spike behind his ears, the dragon dog whispered to him, "He's asking you were you keep your porn.", luckily for them, Flash didn't hear him. Standing back up, Skywalker gave him an awkward smile, "Oh, your talking about that. Of course.", suddenly Flash broke down in laughter, confusing him even further. "What, don't you?". Flash stopped laughing, shaking his head, "Haha! Like I would hide mine in such an obvious spot! One time, my mom found it and read the title out loud to the whole family...", now it was Skywalker turn to laugh. "Sounds embarrassing!". Flash let out a soft chuckle. "Alright, I will check them out when you go take a piss or something. I'll expose your embarrassing tastes!!", Flash added that last part as a joke but Skywalker suddenly turned his gaze towards him, squinting his eyes as he did. "Do that and you will die.". The calm and serious tone he said it made it difficult for Flash to know if it was a joke or if he was deadly serious. "Just kidding bro!", he said shaking his hands, "So, on a different subject. You ever invited a girl in your room?". Skywalker gave him a cocky grin, he had invited girls to his room back in Pallet Town and of course had had invited Luna to his room back in Equestria, Flash just never specificly asked if he had invited a girl into this room. "Seriously!?", Flash asked, not waiting for a response, "Who did you... I'll stop there. I think it's better I don't know.". And so Monday, the start of the dreaded test week came. For the next five days, the students of Canterlot High were subjected to test which Skywalker found too easy. Maybe because he could pick information up faster than normal humans, he didn't know for sure. Though Skywalker thought he may have over study for this test. His friends had agreed to meet each other at SCC after finishing the tests, Skywalker and Twilight were the first to arrive. The two were sipping away at their drinks, while discussing the tests. Suddenly, Twilight looked around her, "...Is it just me, or is the air conditioning in here too strong?", she asked. Skywalker didn't feel anything, though that could be because he was a guy. "I'm not noticing anything. Are you okay?", he asked, giving her a concerned look. "Too be honest, I haven't been feeling well lately.", she said as he took his thinking pose. "I feel light-headed... I couldn't even finish my lunch today.". Skywalker placed his hand back on the table, "Might be a cold... Maybe we should stop by the drug store later,", he suggested, but Sutakira and McGrath had just arrived. After ordering their drinks, they started to talk about the test. "What did answer did you guys pick on "What is the largest man-made structure on Earth'?", McGrath asked taking a sip from his coffee. "I seriously considered the Netherlands, but I didn't think that was the answer.". They were soon joined by Phoenix who apparently didn't put any effort in studying, he was just happy having the test week over with. "Hey Phoenix, where do Dutch people come from?", Sutakira asked, making the other guy tilt his head. "Uh... Well, the Pennsylvania Dutch come from Pennsylvania...", he muttered slowly. "And the other Dutch? They come from somewhere near the Netherlands, right?" Twilight asked, gaining a smug look from Phoenix. "Nice try. See, the Netherlands is this make-believe place where Peter Pan and Tinkerbell come from.", he answered gaining a 'you serious' look from his friends. Fifteen minutes later, the rest of the gang arrived and they were ready to celebrate their freedom... for a week before they would get the result, for better or worse. "Whoa! Test week is finally over!", Flash said a he raised his bottle, gulping it contents nearly down in one go. "Oh, uh, I just remembered.", Applejack said, putting down her own drink, looking at her other friends, "There was a question on the exam that I didn't get. I think it was, 'The chemical formula HCHO, used for silver mirror reactions. Its 40% solution is known as formalin.' And the question was, 'What is HCHO'?". Skywalker drawing something on a piece of paper, unsurprisingly Flash tried not to look at what, "...Formaldehyde.", he said absentmindedly, but out of the corner of his eyes he could see Applejack nod. "Oh, I see. I chose acetic acid... Duh, of course it couldn't have been vinegar.", she said. "AJ, why don't you ask Twilight to help you study?", Fluttershy suggested, gaining a thoughtful nod from the cowgirl. "But wouldn't you rather ask someone of the opposite sex?", Rarity added her own though to it, before turning her gaze to Skywalker. "Jason... I'm not a nuisance to you, am I?". He had not paid attention to their conversation, "Huh? What?" he said before spotting two guys looking at a girl who was sitting by herself, he couldn't help but overhear what they where whispering about. "Do you think its her?", one whispered to the other, who shrugged. The girl, suddenly place money on her table and quickly walked away. As she walks through the streets, she notice that someone was following her. She walked through at various speeds and crossing the streets a few times, but her stalker kept up. As she reach the bus, she quickly got in hoping the one bus would drive away, but he got on the bus just in time. She looked nervous as the young man held out his hand, inside was her Bluecherry Curve. "You forgot this.", Skywalker said, he had noticed the girl dropping her phone. "Why didn't you say so a whole lot sooner!", the girl said slightly offended as she grabbed her ice blue phone out of his hands. Realizing what it looked like what he was doing, he scratched the back of his head, "My bad, I'm sorry about that.", he said. "Well... You returned it instead of keeping it. So thank you.", the girl said with a faint smile. Skywalker waved it off before getting out at the next stop. As promised, Skywalker took Twilight to the drug store to buy some medicine, she insisted that he should wait right outside as he shouldn't be long. He was waiting just across the street, when she came out and was approached by some creepy guy. "What's your hurry, girlie? Going to your boyfriend's?", he asked, making Twilight confused, "You just came out of the drug store, right? What'd ya buy? Hm? Hmm!?". Before anything else could happen, Skywalker stepped in between them in a second, him glaring at the man. "You got about ten seconds to get out of here before I hand your ass to you. Ten.", he informed him. "Wh-Who are you?", the man said, but he was cut off by Skywalker saying, "Nine." threateningly. The guy looked slightly scared, "I-I was just... making sure she was okay...", he tried to explain but Skywalker was having none of it, as he said "Five.". This got him to quickly run away, as Skywalker shouted, "Yeah, run away!". Turning his attention back to his friend, he saw that she was slightly shaking, "I-I thought you were going to hit him, Skywalker. I-I wouldn't want you to... to fight... because of me... but just now, you were...", he placed his hand on her shoulder, this somehow made her calm down. "Y-You're usually so kind, but... I guess you can be tough when you need to be. I-I don't mean that in a bad way.", she added with a faint blush, he was immediately thought her cold was coming back. He asked her if she was feeling okay, "I'm not scared anymore... b-but why am I still shaking?", she muttered to herself. Skywalker reached out and holds her hand. Twilight let out a slight gasp as he walked her home. Luckily it was a short walk to her house, Skywalker walked her to the door, his lavender friend somehow had an even darker blush than before. "Why all of a sudden... do I feel short of breath? I really must be sick... I feel like my face is all flush.", she said as she looked for he keys in her bag. "Directly hit the shag after a hot shower, that should help you.", Skywalker advised her, a slight hint of worry about his friends health. "I guess...Um, b-by the way! Th-Thank you for saving me today!", she said before she quickly ran into her house blushing. That evening as Skywalker and Spike were eating dinner while flipping through the channels. They came across the evening news, were Skywalker saw a face he had seen earlier that day. "Doesn't your grandmother run a ice cream shop in Ponyville?", the journalist asked on the television. The girl nodded, "Yes, she does.". Another journalist was allowed to ask a question, "And when do you think you'll return to work.", he asked but the girl informed her that she was not sure. After a few more questions, the interview was over. "Ya think we'll run into Elsa in town?", Spike asked, knowing the famous pop-star was moving back to this town. "I think I already did.", Skywalker muttered, wanting to kick himself for not recognizing her, though to be fair, he had only seen his Phoenix's girlfriend one time. Spike looked at him in surprise as he shouted, "You saw Elsa!? Is she as pretty in real life as she is on TV?", he asked, making Skywalker think back to the angry face she showed him when he returned her phone. > Chapter 74: The Test Results > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- A sunny afternoon, at the local mall, groceries department. Flash was helping out, seeing as his dad is the manager of the entire mall. "Welcome, one and all!", Flash said with practice showmanship, "Choice salmon, two bucks a slice, just as advertised! And while you're at it, how about some cheese? Direct from Italy and just 13 bucks for today only...", he turned his head to the one who was helping him. "Restock this shelf, too!", he ordered, the young man raised to his feet, an irritated expression on his face. "Don't push your luck!", Skywalker said as he started to restock the shelf. "Okay, I'm sorry!", Flash said quickly with a sheepish smile. After their shift ended, the two decided went to the food court to grab some grub. As the two were eating, the two started to talk about work. "Phew, I'm dead tired...", Flash said as he stretched himself, "They decided on the sale at the last minute, and Dad was bugging me to find helpers. I told him I didn't have time for that, but he wasn't listening. But hey, I'm glad you were there! Thanks.", he said truly grateful to his friend. Skywalker waved it off as he took a sip from his soda, "No problem, just tell me next time.", Skywalker said with a faint chuckle. "Sorry about that. I thought if I told you, you wouldn't come... You really are a good guy.", he said with a sheepish smile while is scratching the back of his head. "Oh, Sentry.", a whiny voice said, gaining the attention of the two. "There goes the quite...", Flash muttered as two girls walked up to them and started to complain to Flash. "What's with the crowd today? It's way busy. If I'd known, I would a skipped out.". Flash had told Skywalker that since he was the son of the manager, the employers always came to him to complain. Annoying, but what can you do about it? After a few more complains the two girls stormed off, "What a pain...", Flash muttered annoyed, before looking back up at Skywalker, "Oh, uh, not you... I wonder what it is. I dunno...", he said rubbing the back of his head. "Say Flash, can I ask you something?", the black haired asked, gaining a smile from his friend, "How come such a nice guy like you ended up being the ex of someone like Shimmers?". Flash thought about it for a moment before slowly looking up, "I don't know... I was just the new kid at the time, and when the most popular girl ask you on a date... I don't know.", he muttered. Skywalker shook his head, "I understand. Shimmers isn't bad looking if you ask me.", he added with a smile. "Yeah, you two would make a great couple! A guy and a girl who hate each other!", Flash said with a laugh. Skywalker joined in himself, "Think about all the crazy sex Shimmers and me would have!". Skywalker woke up the next day, he decided to boot up the Lost Story: MMO, trying to see if Calista was online. His avatar arrived in Lazulis City, but unfortunately Calista was not signed on. Instead he got a PM from his gaming partner, "I'm running a little late! I'll be right there, k?" And indeed a few minutes later, Calista entered the area. Skywalker made his avatar stand up as Calista walked over to him, "I have been waiting for you. What happend?", Zael said as Calista dropped her head. "I had a talk with my older sister. Whenever we talk, its always the same... Ugh, its like all she cares about is marrying me to some dude.", Calista said slightly offended. The two avatars started to walk around Lazulis city, as Calista talked about her problems. "Well, to get married you need a boyfriend for that first.", he remarked but Calista started to angrily jump up and down. "I'm taking my time! There's no rush. Half the population is male, right? I'll be fine. I don't wanna get married, just yet. Eventually! Maybe! But not until I'm like 40. I mean, WTF! Everyone acts like a girl has to get married to be happy.". He nodded his head at what Calista had said, "It's sexist to think women can only be happy when they're tied down.". This made Calista jump again, but this time of joy. "I knew you would understand Zael!", she said, her avatar smiling. "But if your looking for mate, why don't we get married?", Skywalker said as a joke, making the Calista avatar laugh. "Even with out meeting me in rl? Take me, Zael! And don't worry... I still have some spunk left at my age.", her avatar was smiling, giving Skywalker a warm feeling. "The weathers nice today huh? Let's go outside!", Calista said as she started to make her way towards an Area Exit. "You want to go outside?", Skywalker asked, making her reply with a "In game, duh!". He quickly ran after her as he replied, "Oh yeah. That makes way more sense." The two found themselves in a area called the Mysterious Forest, the two soon engaged a horde of monsters, who they made quick work off by combining their efforts. "I'm so lazy in rl Zael...", Calista said as she struck down a monster with one of her abilities, "I haven't even gotten dressed or put on makeup.". Skywalker destroyed some demons with Heat Vision, an ability he picked up from he previous level up, before he could respond, Calista unleashed her Ult as she typed, "AAARGH!! I'm so pissed off right now! Mr. S is such a stupid eh so bee!!". Skywalker totally forgot what she had said previously, so he asked about Mr.S. "... Zael, you know too much.", Calista started as the two began to loot the corpses of their fallen enemies, "I shouldn't have mentioned his name, huh? Don't get me busted, k?", she asked, making him nod. "I won't. But don't you mean that this Mr. S is a S.O.B.?", he remarked, making her smile for another time. "See!? You understand! wooooo! Zael and Calista for the win! We must be soulmates! High five!", she said, making her put up her hand. Skywalker's avatar didn't respond, making this scene a little awkward, "...Which hotkey is that?", he asked as Calista quickly told him. The two give each other a high five, Calista is looking around, "You see, Mr. S is a teacher with seniority over me but... Oh no! You can't figure out what my job is can you?", she asked with a titled head. "Are you a teacher?", he remarked sarcastically, making her nod smiling, "Yeah, your smart. I knew you'd figure it out! You get an A+ for reading comprehension today!", she complimented in before realizing something, "Hey! I just figured something out! When I complain to you, I feel better afterwards! From now on we HAVE to group together promise!". Skywalker nodded, "I promise!", with that their game session ended. A few hours later, found Skywalker and Rainbow after their training standing in front of a food stand called Daigusto. "Have you had the steak skewer? The meat is tender and delicious, and they hardly cost anything!", she asked as the two looked over what they wanted to buy. "I think I went here once or twice before.", Skywalker admitted, Rainbow asked what he thought of the meat, "To be honest, it might not even be cow meat.", he replied dryly, making his friend look shocked. "Just kidding... Whoa, thinking about it, that's kinda gross.", he admitted as he noticed a police man. "The police are here...", Rainbow muttered, "Then is this place really serving fake meat!?". The police officer came over to them to asked them something, but before he could open his mouth, Rainbow shouted "We haven't eaten any of the meat today, I swear!". The police officer was quite for a moment before speaking up, "Lately, there's been several incidents with a group of teenagers bullying people around here.", he started, at the mentioning of bullying, Skywalker's eyes narrowed. "Extortion, if you will. Have you seen anyone suspicious?". Neither of them had seen anything, so the officer advised them to be careful before taking his leave. "I'm glad it wasn't the meat...", Rainbow said before turning her gaze towards Skywalker, who had baled his hand into a fist. "Bullying... Bullying!? What cowards, ganging up on the weak like that!", Skywalker suddenly shouted, his friend taken slightly aback by his sudden outburst, "It's stupid! And cruel! And stupid! But I already said that!". She couldn't help but agree as she looked him in the eye, "We'll grab 'em and make them apologize! Right, Skywalker?". He nodded, gaining a grin from her. "Mowing down villains and saving the weak, to protect the peace. That's why I have this power.", he thought to himself, "Alright then... But first, let's eat!", he said, his tone back to his usual calm tone. The next day on his way to school, Skywalker came across Flash Sentry who for a change was not rolling around in a trash can, the two walked towards the school together, discussing how they should receive test result today and how they post the results in the hall for everybody to see. "On a whole different subject... What do you think about Twilight?", he asked a slight blush on his face, gaining a questioning look from his friend, "I mean as girlfriend material?". Skywalker thought about said question for a few moments, "Alright, I guess. If your into girls who are smarter and prettier than you.", he answered as they entered the school. It wasn't until their lunch break that the test result were posted. "The moment of truth.", Griffifth said as the gang left the cafeteria and walked to the message board. Looking over the top of the list of Class 2-15 read as followed, Test Results of Class 2-15, #1 - Jason Skywalker/Twilight Sparkle #2 - Toshiyuki Sutakira/Pinkie Pie #3 - Fluttershy Flowers/David McGrath #4 - Sunset Shimmer/Macintosh Apple #5 - Rarity Shine/Kyle Phoenix #6 - Applejack Apple/Adam Griffifth And somewhere near the middle was Rainbow with Flash. Everybody looked at Skywalker in awe, nobody in the history of Canterlot High had ever tied with Twilight for the top spot. Their lunch break soon ended and Rainbow and Skywalker had gym class for the next hour. "...But still, you've got brains. I mean your results were really amazing.", she complimented him. "Oh? Is that not normal?", he asked in his usual calm tone, making it hard for her to figure out if he was serious or not. "Like it ever would be! So why bother to study? Hell, when did you study? Your always helping us or other people out and that one time we studied together, all you did was drawing pictures of Twilight.", she responded. He gave a smile raising his index finger as he winked at her, "Well, you see...", he started, gaining a hopeful look from her, "It's a secret!". The two arrived at gym class but before each went to a different locker room, she said "Figures. You really are horrible...". For some reason Skywalker broke down in laughter before making his way into the boys locker room. A few minutes later found the class running laps, Skywalker and Rainbow were leading the pack, neither having difficulty keeping up with the other, "Oh yeah, I think I've seen you laugh that way before.", she said, her condition good enough that they could have a casual conversation. "I wanna show that face of yours to everyone and be like 'His cover's blown! The cool city boy isn't who he says he is!'.", she added with a smirk. "You're going to tell them how I laugh all the time?", he said, making her shake her head. "Maybe not. It does sound a bit creepy.", she admitted. After gym class, Skywalker over heard some first years talk about how near the shopping district were a bunch of bullies stealing peoples money and that McGrath was one of them. Not willing to believe the rumors, he asked him to meet on the school roof. And so we found the two there, "Why did you drag me out here? Oh, you here to tell me off or something?", the brunette asked, as he leaned against a wall. "I'm just here to talk.", Skywalker said but McGrath eyed him suspiciously, "How come you are sounding like a cop?". Skywalker looked him in the eyes, "There have been a lot of bulling around here. And the rumor goes that your part of it.", McGrath looked shock at this, but in Skywalker's amber eyes there we nothing but sympathy, "I'm don't think you'll do it. That's why I asked you for the truth.". McGrath stood up straight, "Skywalker, I didn't do it. I mean... Maybe it isn't that easy to trust me. But you gotta believe me.". Skywalker couldn't hear his heartbeat rise and in his green eyes there was no lying in them. Skywalker nodded, indicating he believed him, the brunette let out a relieved sigh, "It's my own fault rumors like that go around, huh? At this rate, I'll be causing trouble for you guys.", he said turning his head towards the horizon. Skywalker told him to not worry about it, "Hey, Skywalker. When ever you got time. Could you maybe hear what I have to say? I feel all cramped inside... And I'm too dumb to know what it's about.". Skywalker nodded at this, this McGrath was not as closed off as his McGrath, probably because this one hadn't been through as much as his McGrath. > Chapter 75: Come Shopping With Me > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- As Skywalker and Spike were watching TV that evening when suddenly, Skywalker's phone rang. On the screen was a picture of Flash Sentry eating a bowl of ramen, indicating that it was him calling. "Go for Skywalker.", he said as he picket up his phone. "Hey, Skywalker. I hope I'm not interrupting something important?", Flash voice came from the other side. Skywalker told him it was okay, so Flash continued, "This is kind of random, but I like to hear your opinion on something.", he said before taking a deep breath, "What do you think about Twilight and me? I mean... Do you think I have a chance with her?", he asked, his voice indicating that Skywalker was the only one he could talk about this. "I don't know, man. She's kind of the Champion and you don't even have your first gym badge yet.", Skywalker started, hearing a confused sound coming from the other end. "But still, if you really like her go for it bro.", "Okay, thanks for the support.", Flash responded before speaking up again, "This is kinda unrelated but it has been bugging me for a while... Rainbow, Rarity, Pinkie, or Fluttershy. Which one is your type?". Skywalker had to think about this question for a moment, before a flash of pink mane flashed before his mind eye, "Don't tell anyone this but... Flutters.", Skywalker admitted, surprised at what he himself just said. "Yeah, I see where your coming from. Don't worry, your secret is save with me.", he assured him before saying goodbye and hanging up. After school, we find Skywalker waiting at the entrance. He had somehow agreed to go shopping with Rarity, he couldn't not remember why he would agree to it but somehow he did. As he was waiting for her, he saw Discord the janitor walking past, remembering what had happened on his second school day, he decided to try and make amends. "Mister Discord, sir?", he said walking up to him, gaining a glare, "About that coin that got stuck in the door. Yes, it was mine...", this admission made the janitor look up in surprise, "It must have rolled out of my pocket or something. It was my second day and I was nervous, and I am sorry.". Before he could say more he was interrupted by Discord. "Ya know. Its good for you to admit it, now I won't have to prank you.", he said with a smile before walking off. Skywalker was left there unfazed, as McGrath and Griffifth, along with members of the basketball team walking right up to him. "What's up, Skywalker?", Griffifth said, as the two fist bummed. "Nothing much. Oh yeah, you guys are both on the basketball team, huh?", Skywalker said as he crossed his arms and leaned back against the locker, suddenly one of their team members, Thunderlane, spoke up. "Don't you three hang out with Rarity Shine?", all three of them raised their eyebrows, before nodding. "Seriously!? Damn, now I'm jealous!", Thunderlane said, gaining an odd look from the three. "Yeah, I heard she's pretty loose. And doesn't she look like she's got a sugar daddy or two?", another team member, named Noteworthy added. "Yeah, she's stacking the paper. I wonder how much she gets paid?", Noteworthy pondered, turning the look from the three friends from odd to angry by nearly everything they said. "You think it's a cheaper market out here?". Thunderlane shook his head, "I don't know man, this is premium grade high school tail we're talking about and with a body like that. Seriously, just look at her hips...", as the two continued their discussion, it became more and more vulgar. "Don't talk about Rarity like that!", Skywalker ordered, their discussion stopped abruptly. From the three of them, McGrath looked most offended. "Knock it off, guys. Maybe someone should spread some rumors about you, and we'll see how you like it.", McGrath said, aided by his death glare which send shivers down the spines of the two. The two quickly muttered something about being late for something before quickly running off. "Sounds like they've got the hots for our Rarity.", McGrath said, his glare following the direction the two fled to. "They were talking like that at practice too... But don't worry, I'll yell at them later, man.", Griffifth added, gaining a grateful nod from the brunette. After saying goodbye to the two, Skywalker turned around, he saw a sad looking Rarity with her gaze to the ground. He didn't know how long she had been standing there, but from the look of it, she had heard everything. "...Did you hear them?", he asked placing a hand on her shoulder, giving her a worried look. Rarity didn't look up, "They were practically yelling. Not that... stuff like that really bothers me. They don't even know me. Why should I care what they think?... I expect it after last Spring Fling.", she said, trying to sound indifferent but her sad expression betrays her. She finally looked up at him, a tear trying to escape from her blue eyes, "I'm fine... But... thanks.", the two left the school and headed for bus. Fifteen minutes later found the two walking through Canterlot City trying to find something to do. "I don't really feel like buying stuff today anymore.", Rarity muttered, her gaze to the ground. She suddenly felt his finger tap her nose, making her look up. "Come shopping with me.", he said with a grin. "What? You mean YOU want to go shopping?", she asked disbelievingly before having to smile at his grin, "Well, I guess that could be interesting once or twice...", she added with a chuckle before the two set off to shop for some clothes. As they were browsing, Rarity picked out some clothes for him. Mainly blue and white polo-shirts, black pants and blue, white or black jackets. Skywalker tried each of them on, and with different combinations. "I like what you picked for me, but why all the blue, white and black colors?", Skywalker asked as Rarity, handed him more shirts. "Those colors look good on you. They just fit your calm and friendly nature.", she said as he stepped out of the dressing room, showing off his outfit. Rarity gave him a good look over before popping his collar, "There. Now Fluttershy will not be able to keep her hands off you.", she said, gaining a surprised look from him, "Come on, you like her don't you?". Skywalker shook his head, before heading back into the dressing room. He hadn't notice the blush on his face, but Rarity sure had. "I saw that blush! You do like here, darling!", she said, adding a chuckle when she heard him groan. "You know, it's pretty funny... If I didn't show up when you called us all together the first time, you wouldn't be here with me now.", she said with a satisfied smirk, "Looking at it from your perspective, I'd say you got pretty lucky.". "Not exactly...", Skywalker muttered as he came out of the dressing room, back in the outfit he had on when the two entered the store. "Are you still all butthurt that I made you skip class? You should be thanking me! You're a real rebel now...", she said with a mischievous smirk, knowing he was teasing her as the two went to the counter to pay for his new outfits. Arriving back home, Skywalker put his new clothes away in his closet before booting his laptop on, to see if Calista was online. And indeed he saw her online, quickly login in, he arrived in Lazulis City and saw Calista walking nearby. "I hope Zael gets here soon. I'm not even complaining today or any thing... So rare. But I have to tell Zael cause he's my MMO partner! I'll be brave... I'm so lame! I'm blushing for real! Oh no... Now I'm starting to get sweaty.", she muttered to herself. Feeling mischievous, he slowly sneaked up to her before shouting, "Hurry up and tell me!". Calista jumped in surprise turning around shocked. He was giving her a smirk, "ZOMG! How long have you been there!?", she said with a blush as she turned her gaze to the ground. "So, what is this thing you wanted to tell me?", he said as the two sat down on the floor, she began to fidget with her hands. "I'm kinda... 'interested' in someone from school. He's kinda... a teenager though... OMG I said it!", she admitted with a blush, turning her gaze down. Skywalker had to take a moment to take it in, "Wow... Are there no good looking male teacher at your school?", he asked. At his question she shook he head, "None. All the male teachers aren't even in my league, so I gave up looking for boyfriend material at work.", her avatar looked up at the sky, "I never thought I'd fall for a student! Going for younger guys is kinda new for me.", she added with a blush. Skywalker's avatar leaned back. "So... What's he like? Come on I want details!", he told with a cheerful expression on his face. "Hmm... he's laid back, calm, but real mature, he's also very smart, intense looking and hot. I love watching his expressions in class. Is that bad?", she admitted her avatar blushing all the while. "I don't think so. Are you gonna ask him out?", he asked somehow her blush became even bigger. "Errmmm... I know there's an age diff, and he doesn't have a job or anything... but what if reality is a let down after all my fantasies? Maybe I shouldn't.", she started again and on his insistent, she continued to tell more about this mysterious student. "He's one of my students! He just transferred in this year after his parents died, I will comfort him! Maybe I can abuse my power and convince him I'm a guidance counselor.", she told him, her head a little tilted. "Now I'm starting to become jealous.", he added with his avatar making a chuckle. "You don't need to be jealous he's just someone I like, alright? Zael is the only game partner for Calista! No worries!", she shouted, their avatar breaking out in laughter. "I haven't made my attempts yet, but I'm going to go to a salon. Skywalker will fall in love with me before the weekend! Alrighty Zael, I got to go!", after waving goodbye, they both logged off. The next day, Skywalker and Twilight had a free period before their next class. She surprised him by not dragging him to the library but just sitting on the school roof, eating some sweets, just having a good time together. Though from the look on her face, something was bothering her, Skywalker decided to ask her about it. "N-No, nothing's wrong... Why, does it seem like something's wrong?". "You haven't said a word since we arrived on the roof. You warn't reading a book so... What's on your mind?", Skywalker asked, concerned for his friend. "Remember when you saved me from that creep, Skywalker?", she started making nod his head as she continued, "From that day on... my health hasn't been so great... The doctor said I'm fine, but... I guess I'll tell you, Skywalker, since you've been so nice to me. B-But, don't think I'm weird, okay!?", she nearly bagged him, a faint blush on her face. Without a moment of hesitation he said, "I promise. Cross my heart, hope to die, stick a cupcake in my eye.", he added that last part with a smile. Twilight took a few deep breathes before continuing, "L-Last night, um... I-I... You see, I had this...", she tried to get out but it was difficult, her blush became bigger with every word, "I-I-I have dreams about you every single night, Jason Skywalker!". This surprised the young black hair, "I think its just a coincidence.". "I-I thought it was probably just a coincidence, too, but...", she said turning her head away from him, "I dream about you every night... This has never happened to me before.". Skywalker took his thinking pose, "I wonder what that means...", he muttered before looking back at her, seeing her purple eyes looking back at him. "I appreciate how nice you've been to me, Skywalker... But...one of these days, I... might want to be more than just your friend.", she said, turning her eyes towards the ground. He was slightly confused by this statement, "More than friends?... Like best friends?", he said slightly confused. "Sorry! I've just been babbling like an idiot... I-I get so nervous when I'm around you, Skywalker... Especially when you look at me that way. Sorry...", she said looking up at him before quickly looking away again. She looked back up as she felt his hand ruffle her hair, "There is no need to apologize. Don't be hard on yourself, Twily.", he said with his warm smile. She returned the smile, though hers was slightly more shy, "I-I'm always talking about my problems... you're just too nice.", she thought to herself as it was time to head for their next class. After lunch break, Phoenix and Skywalker were walking towards their next class as the two discussed different things. Phoenix let out a groan before saying, "Great, sex ad next hour. Wanna bet the teachers are gonna show us how to put on a condom with a banana?", the red head said with a smirk, making the black haired shake his head, "While were on the topic... Have you ever done... it?". Skywalker felt a turmoil of emotions boil inside himself as he was reminded of the last time he and Luna did it, turning his gaze towards the ground. Thinking he had hit a nerve, Phoenix quickly tried to apologize, "Hey, no need to be embarrassed. Lot's of guys haven't done it yet...", he said quickly. Their attention was required elsewhere when the two saw two new girls standing there, they tried to ask the other students something, but they all ignored them. Making their way through the crowd, the two manage to break through the crowd, and reach them. "Where are you two heading to?", Skywalker asked. He recognized the two girls standing in front of him, they were this Worlds version of Elsa and Anna. It seemed that the two were heading to the same class as they were. "Okay, follow us!", Phoenix said, giving the blond a small bow, before leading them their way. "We haven't introduced ourselves.", Skywalker started, "My name is Jason Skywalker, but everybody calls me Skywalker.", he introduced himself. Phoenix gave them a welcoming smile, "My name is Kyle Phoenix, but like my spiky friend over here, everybody calls me Phoenix.", he said before the other two introduced themselves. "Elsa Targaryen.", the blond sister said, her eyes not leaving Phoenix, "But why do people address you by your last names?". Phoenix let out a laugh at this, before giving her a 'are you serious' look, "If you had an badass last name like, Phoenix or Skywalker, would you like to be addressed by anything else?", he as they arrived at the class room. As Mister Sombra, started the lesson, Anna leaned over to Skywalker. "Hey, Skywalker?", she whispered, making him nod, indicating that he was listening. "I want to go out more and see the sights. But Elsa tend to get recognized everywhere we go, so I'm a little nervous about going out on my own...", she explained. Seeing were this was going he whispered back, "Sure, I'll show you around.". This made her smile, "If you ever have some time to kill, think of me, okay?", she whispered before turning her attention back to the lesson. > Chapter 76: I Love You > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Skywalker was enjoying a day off, just relaxing by the pool he didn't use. It had rained the night before and the thick fog was is lifting. "Small town? Lot's of rain, followed by mist..." Skywalker said to himself, "If people start turning up dead hanging from TV antenna's, I'm getting the fuck out of here. Unity or no.". Suddenly the door bell rings, walking carefully towards it, ready to defend himself, he opens it revealing Flash Sentry standing there. Before Skywalker could even say so much as a 'hallo', Flash slapped his hands together and giving him a bow, "Please Skywalker, I have a favor to ask of you!", he begged. Skywalker asked what the favor was, and so Flash Sentry started to explain. Late afternoon, the previous day at school. Flash saw his crush standing by her locker, all alone. Gathering up all his courage and following Skywalker's example, he walked up to her and started to talk to her. After greeting each other, "So, Twilight. Random question... Would you... ever consider going on a date with me? I mean just as friends.", he said rubbing his neck. Twilight, thinking he was just messing around told her in her driest voice, "Not in a million years. Why?". Inside, Flash could hear his heart shatter, "Damn it! I have to fall back on plan B.", he thought before speaking up again, "H-Hey, Twilight. Skywalker wants to hang out with you. He's a little shy about it, so he wanted me to ask you for him.". She looked surprised, Skywalker never showed her much interest beyond that of just friends, "That's so sweet. I never knew he could be so romantic...". Flash cut her off, wondering how his friend could be so good at attracting mates, "Yeah, he is a regular Casanova. Now do you wanna hang out with us or not?", he asked, Twilight agreeing with her. She told him she would bring Fluttershy with her, so it wouldn't look like they were dating or something. Back in present, Skywalker and Flash were now sitting at the pool, drinking a soda as the blue haired boy finished his story. "I see. Griffifth has canceled our hang out, and I have nothing better to do so...", Skywalker started, gaining a hopeful smile of his friend, "Sure, I help you. But just so you know, your paying for my popcorn.", Skywalker said as Flash started to thank him profoundly. An hour later, the two were standing in front of the theater waiting for their friends. "Skywalker, I can't thank you enough. You are a Saint.", Flash said again, making his friend tell him to stop thanking him. Moments before they were arrived, he could have sworn he saw Griffifth entering the theater with someone. "Do you think god is a woman?", Flash asked trying to change the subject of him owning his friend for the rest of his life. "No.", Skywalker said flatly, "God is not a woman. How do I know? Well...", he started having to think about Aether, though she had informed him that she was just an very ancient and powerful being, not a god. "I think if god was a woman, that Moses hadn't held out for 40 days on that mountain top. He would have come down after 3 days saying, 'if that woman opens her mouth ONE more time!'. Also I don't think he would have come back with only ten rules." Fluttershy was completely nervous, she was going on a date with Skywalker. She knew Flash had a crush on Twilight, this was obvious to everyone save, Twilight herself. She just hoped that she wouldn't mess up. He had been so kind to her, when he didn't have to. The two girls arrived in Twilight's car, after parking it, they could see the two waiting for them. Greeting them, the four of them started to discuss to which movie they should be going. "Already seen that one, bad one, bad one, I will kill everyone if we go to that one.", Skywalker said as they looked through the movies they were currently showing, before they settle on an action-comedy. After buying their snack, they headed for cinema, trying to get good seats. It was dark inside, though only a scarce few other people seemed to be watching the movie as well. Sliding down the row until they were in the last two seats in the corner, who were occupied by two familiar looking faces. "Griffifth and... Principal Celestia?", Skywalker asked gaining the attention of the two. Griffifth managed to compose himself as the four of them sat down in the seats next to them, "What are you two doing here? I thought you said you were going to be doing yard work all day.", he continued to ask. "We managed to finish the work early.", Skywalker looked over to acknowledge Celestia, who had been the one to speak up. He raised an eyebrow at the principal's casual clothing. "I felt bad for making Griffifth miss out on meeting his friends that I offered to take him to a movie." Skywalker shrug his shoulders, sitting next to Griffifth while Fluttershy plopped herself down next Skywalker on one side and Twilight on the other. Out of the corner of his eye, Skywalker saw Celestia placing a hand on Griffifth's shoulder, giving him a soft smile. "I guess, but you could have texted me anyway Grif." Skywalker said, his tone not particularly happy. "I didn't even know you were here until I saw you head into the theater." Griffifth quickly shot him an apologetic look, prevented from saying anything by the movie starting. Despise the darkened room, Skywalker could spot his blond friends hand sliding over to grasp Celestia's own. Two hours later, the six left the theater, all in good spirits thanks to the movie. "That. Was. So. Awesome!" Flash said, his fists raised in excitement. "Yeah, it was super funny.", Fluttershy agreed, her smile only widening as Skywalker offered to walk her home. Flash was just about to offer Twilight the same thing, but before he could make the offer, she said, "Oh, my dad's here.", thanking her friends, and saying goodbye to them and principal Celestia, she walked off to join her dad, a little disappointed that Skywalker hadn't offered to walk her home. After saying goodbye, Skywalker and Fluttershy left one way, while Flash headed of in the other direction. Disappointed that he couldn't walk his crush home. Just before the two could turn around a corner, he overheard Griffifth saying, "Let's see if we can still get some time alone on this date.". Skywalker and Fluttershy walked through the park, enjoying the warm evening after their night out. "I come here every so often. It's nice and quiet...", she said shivering a little, though it was nice outside, the wind was a little cold. Suddenly, she felt a coat being placed on her shoulders. Looking to her side, she saw that Skywalker had taken off his coat and placed it on her shoulders. A deep blush cropped on her face, but she was suddenly snapped out of it as she heard a voice call out to her. It was one of her neighbors living close to her house, after talking a little, Mrs. Cake told her she was taking a little break after a long day at the bakery. After that she turned to Skywalker, studying him before realizing who he possible was, "Oh! Is that the rumored boyfriend? I see... That hard work in the kitchen paid off, huh?", Mrs. Cake teased, making the pink haired girl blush deeply, sputtering that it was not like that. "Wow, your face is burning red. Well, I'll let you two be alone!", Mrs. Cake said before walking off. Fluttershy looked down to the ground, trying to mutter an apologize, saying that she had the wrong idea. He noticed that his friend had seemed to have broken out in a cold sweat. "It's alright.", Skywalker said before asking how they come to the idea about them dating. "She is teaching me tips on how to cook. I said I would try to learn on my own, but I kept messing up. I burnt myself a couple of times...". After that, they made some more small talk before spotting a shooting star. "What are you gonna wish for?", she asked as Skywalker closed his eyes. "For everyone...", he started, not saying out loud the next part of his wish, or else it wouldn't come true. She looked happy, that was so like him. "Are you going to wish for something?", he asked after he was done doing his wish. She nodded closing her eyes, "I'm wishing for everyone's health. For Rainbow, for Skywalker, for the others, too. And...", she muttered, him trying not to listen in to her wish. "I'm wishing to become a woman worthy of Jason...", she said, the last words hitting him like a truck. "Wait what?", he exclaimed, while she claimed it was nothing. They walked a little while longer, the two crossing a bridge, Fluttershy stopped in her tracks. "U-Umm, I wanted to ask you this before.", she said, turning her gaze to the ground before, waiting for him to answer. He gave her a nod, turning around to face her, "Wh-Why... Why are you always with me?". A silence followed, looking back up, she saw that Skywalker was standing closer to her. "Why I am always with you? I just... really like you.", he said, a faint blush on his own cheeks. She was completely taken aback by this, "Y-You like?... M-Me?...", she managed to get out after a few minutes, her face becoming red, "Uh, ummm... I-I feel the same way... so...". He let out a sigh of relieve, "I thought my heart was going to stop.", he said as she pulled her arms around his neck, resting her head on his shoulder, having to stand on the tips of her toes to do it. "Umm... Stay here with me... just a little longer.", she whispered in his ear. The two of them spend a long while on that bridge together. Seeing that it was almost her curfew, Skywalker walked her to the front door of her house before heading home himself. The next day, which was a Friday, they had the afternoon off. Fluttershy told Skywalker that her parents would be out of town that weekend and she asked if she could stay at his place. So after a quick trip to her house, gathering a with a bag of supplies and a change of clothes, they now found themselves at his house. After petting Spike, she asked shyly if she could see his room. Seeing no reason not to, she followed him upstairs. After entering, he noticed that she was looking around nervously, so he asked her what's wrong. "Oh, s-sorry! I didn't mean to look around so much, it's just that this is the first time I've been in a boys room.", he ensured her it was alright. "Oh, you sleep on a bed, I see. I use a bed, too... Umm, sorry... I don't know what to talk about.", she said turning his eyes to the ground. Again, Skywalker ensure her it was alright, before asking her if the bed was good for her. She looked at him stunned for a moment before realizing what she meant. "Oh, y-y-you mean where I would sleep tonight? Anywhere's fine... I'm... fine with anything... You don't need to worry about me.", she was happy he would allow her to have the bed. A few hours later found the two sitting at his pool, Fluttershy gave him a package telling him that she had wanted to give it to him a while ago. Unwrapping it, he saw that is was a similar coat he usually wears, but instead of black, it was clean white. "I asked Rarity's help to make this. It's to protect you.", she said as he tried it on. It was a perfect fit. "Thank you. But, you'll protect me.", he said, placing his hand on hers. "Yes but... You will be leaving at the end of the year. So that coat will protect you in my place... even if we're apart, we're together.", she explained, turning her gaze towards him. Tears of happiness filled in her eyes, "Um... I love you...", she whispered in a trembling tone. He was looking deeply in her eyes, his amber's into her light blues, using his thumb to wipe away one of the tears that had escaped her eyes. "Don't stare so much at me. Can I say it again?", she asked as he touched her forehead with his, whispering, "Yes." "...I love you.", he wrapped his arms around her, holding her body against his own. "I love you too.", he whispered back, feeling a little guilty that he would soon be leaving. > Chapter 77: Reactions > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The following Monday, Skywalker and Fluttershy were walking hand in hand to school, sad that the weekend had ended so soon. The two had decided to let their relationship known to their friend. As they walked into Canterlot High, they immediately attracted looks from the other students in the school. The looks on their faces ranged from either "I knew it," to "Them? Together? Who knew?". Though neither of them really cared what others were thinking about them. As the two walked down the hallway to their lockers, they noticed some very familiar people talking to each other not that far from Skywalker and Fluttershy. "I wonder how they will take the news." Fluttershy wondered, more curiosity than nervousness, but before Skywalker could respond to his girl, he was interrupted by a loud familiar voice, loud enough to be heard from the other side of the school. "Hey, look guys! It's Skywalker and Fluttershy!". Of course it was Pinkie Pie. Almost as soon as she says it, the rest of the gang had walked over to say good morning, but were surprised to see Skywalker and Fluttershy were holding hands and that Fluttershy was practically nuzzling him, unusual that she showed so much open affection. "Well what do we have here?" Rainbow asked with cheeky grin, looking at their locked hands, some of the guys also looked interested. "I am curious as to what is going on as well...", Twilight said, a slight tone of jealousy to her voice, as she crossed her arms. Phoenix and Rarity let out a excited squeal, "Skywalker! Fluttershy! Darlings! Which one of you finally did it!?", Rarity exclaimed excited, before Phoenix added, "Yeah! Give us details! Did you do it, Messiah? Did you went on one knee and asked her?". The new couple looked at each other for a moment before turning back to their friends, "Did what exactly?", they asked. "Well, confess of course!", Phoenix and Rarity said at the same time, this left the others speechless for a few moments. Skywalker and Fluttershy look at each other, smiling at how Rarity and Phoenix were taking the news. "I knew it!", Sutakira said giving a fist pump. "McGrath owes me money now!" The young couple gave them a puzzling look, making the brunette started to explain, "Sutakira and I had this bet going." McGrath explains. "I bet that you guys would get together after the Fall Formal, and Sutakira bet that you get together before Fall Formal. Just a little more, and I would have won.", he said with a slight pout, crossing his arms. "Took you guys long enough, though. My wallet has been dehydrated for who knows how long.", Sutakira said as McGrath handed him a undisclosed amount of money. "Frankly, it was pretty obvious that you two would end up together.", Applejack said, giving Fluttershy a pet on the back as everyone else let out a hearty laugh, while Skywalker and Fluttershy give each other embarrassed looks. After their classes, Skywalker and Fluttershy were waiting outside the cafeteria, snuggling a little around the corner. Looking into her eyes, he could see that she was thinking about something. "What's wrong?", he asked. "Nothing," she responded, "Just thinking about what the others said. I had no idea that it was so obvious that we liked each other.", she was taken off guard by a sudden kiss he placed on his forehead. "Well, it doesn't really matter now." He said, now it was his turn to be taken off guard by her next question. "So, you wanna try kiss again?". Skywalker blushed at this, looking around, they didn't had much privacy here, "Uhm, sure. We can go somewhere more secluded where nobody can watch us.", he suggested, but Fluttershy got a devilish smirk on her face, "Let them watch. I don't care," she stated. The two wrapped their arms around each other, leaned in closer and finally touched each others' lips. Unbeknownst to them, the entire gang had heard them and for the next five minutes, they were all admiring and snickering to what was going on. Once they let go, their foreheads were touching as they got lost into each others' eyes. "I kept playing that scene through my mind so many times," Fluttershy said with a blush on her cheeks, "but I never imagined that it would be this perfect.". Skywalker and a passive looking Flash Sentry were on the school roof, overlooking the town, "...I hated this place when I first came to Ponyville. You can tell how small the town is from up here.", Flash started, looking at the distance, "But looking at it now... It's a nice town. I wonder what'd be going through my mind if I was more like you.". Skywalker didn't respond but he sure was thinking something, "You would be annoyed that everybody thinks your a psychiatrist.". Flash then pulled something from his pocket, it depicted a smiling Twilight and Flash. "I took this with Twilight. When I first got here, she insisted on taking it, back then... somewhere inside me, I thought I was above this place. Nobody liked me because my dad owned the mega mall. But... when I met her, she told me, 'Parents are parents. You're you...'.". He nodded, agreeing that does sound like something Twily would say. "It made me happy. Because of her, I started to think maybe this town wasn't all that bad. But then... I was living a boring life in the middle of nowhere. When you arrived and decided to dethrone Sunset Shimmer I got excited. I thought there was finally a point to me being in Ponyville. I thought I could forget and the fact that I was such a loser. I jumped at the chance to help you and never once thought about what I was doing. I... didn't even take the first step... I'm sorry... Jason.". Skywalker patted him on the back, making his friend look up at him, "I understand, there is no reason to apologize.", but this only got Flash confused. "But... I got involved with you, and all I did was run away from myself. This morning, I went to tell Twilight something. 'That what's important... isn't where you are.' This town I hated so much? Now, I love it.". Skywalker was actually surprised at what Flash had said, "That's... actually a good one.", he admitted earning a smile from him. "There's still nothing here, but I have family and friends... and you.", Flash said. The amber eyed boy nodded, "The important things are never far off. They're all around you.", he said looking up at the sky. "Yeah, I always wanted to be 'special'. I thought my life would finally have meaning if I was 'special' to someone. But I really didn't need it.", Flash continued as his friend listened, "It's not what you have or what you can do... Just being born, living your life. Before you know it, you're already special to someone.". Suddenly Flash became quite he started to rub his nose to hide his blush, "Yeah... Like you... You're special to me, you know?". He couldn't help but smile at the statement his friend just made about him, "Thanks." During free period, Rarity asked we she could talk to him privately. Seeing no reason to decline, the two now stood in the dark janitor's closet. "H-Hey. Umm... Th-Thank you for that, last time...", Rarity said after a while. Remembering the event when Noteworthy and Thunderlane talked about her, he told her it was no big deal. "I was, you know, happy. I'm in a weird mood...", Rarity explained, "Every time I think about what happened, I can feel my heart beat faster, and I hardly sleep at night." This made Skywalker remember what Twilight had told her, maybe there was a virus making its round that causes sleeplessness. "I think I'm... in love. D-Do you know if McGrath has a girlfriend?", she asked. He confirmed that he had not, making the girl in front of him perk up, "Really? Do you think maybe I'm his type? O-Or do you think he hates... people like me?". "What? You think he hates beautiful people?", Skywalker said sarcastically, "Come on Rarity, have a little confidence.". Rarity swallowed before nodding seriously, "I-I'm not used to things like this. You're the only one I can turn to...", she said, looking at him with pleading eyes. "Leave it to me.", he said giving her a smile, though she couldn't see it in the dark closet. "But we should get out of the closet now. Wouldn't want McGrath to think we're making out in here right?", he said giving a playful pat on the head. "Or Fluttershy.", she added, giving him a playful tap on his arm him right back. On their way home from school, McGrath decided to tag along with Skywalker and Fluttershy as they stopped for a snack. "Rainbow says the steak bowl here is great.", the green eyed teen noted. "And hey, she's the expert.", Fluttershy added. Before they could enter,two police officers stopped them, "You're McGrath, right? I'd like to have a word with you.", the officer told him. McGrath gave him a suspicious look, informing him that he wouldn't. The officer tried to make McGrath come along with him, but Skywalker asked, "You got a warrant?", turning the attention from his friend to him. "Ah... You're one of the kids that McGrath has been hanging out with lately. I see. So you're in cahoots.", the officer said. His words annoyed Skywalker, what was so bad that he would hang out with McGrath? "You know there's been a group of teenage bullies lurking around here, don't you?", the officer mentioned, Skywalker remembered the other day when another officer had mentioned it to him and Dashie. "We got a tip saying he's been threatening a young girl at the hill and the flood plain.", the other officer mentioned. Upon hearing that, McGrath realized who they were talking about. "Hmph, so you admit it. Not a shred of remorse, either.", the first officer said. This made Skywalker snap a little, sure his friend was no saint, but they had no idea what he was doing with Sweetie Belle. "What was that? You wanna say that again!? You wanna repeat that!? You wanna starts something? You fucking prick!", Skywalker shouted, actually managing to scare the police officers. One of them tried to calm him down but Skywalker merely snapped at him, "Shut the fuck up! Two on two! Teenagers verses adults! No camp kills! I'll fuck you up!". The two officers started to become genuinely frightened as one managed to get out, "Y-You two are going to have to come with us down to the station!". Skywalker took off his jacked, "We are all pumped! We're ready to go! Let's fucking go! Let's do this! Come at me bro!", he spread his arms but McGrath quickly stood between him and the officers. "Now wait a sec! Jason has nothing to do with this!", McGrath told them and at that moment Sweetie Belle walks by. "Oh, McGrath. What are you doing?", she said before noticing the Police Officers. "You know these boys, girl? Can you tell me how you know them? I don't think they're being straight with me. And I think one of them is on drugs.", one of the officers said, at that last part he eyed Skywalker. "McGrath isn't on drugs!", Skywalker shouted while Fluttershy tried to calm him down. "Did this boy ask you for anything? For instance, did he claim he lost his money?", the other officer asked. Sweetie Belle looked shocked, turning to McGrath looking worried. "You lost your money, McGrath? You can have some of mine!", she offered. At this the officers came at the wrong conclusion. "Oh, but I came today to give you the cookies Mom baked as thanks. I was going to sneak in and leave them at your house, but here you are.", she said handing him a bag, confusing the officers even more. Sweetie Belle explained that McGrath as been tutoring her with Math and other school work she had trouble with. "What a load of... There's no way you're getting me to believe that.", the first officer said. All Fluttershy's work to get Skywalker to calm down was for nothing as he started to shout again, "Believe it! Tell him, McGrath.". McGrath looked at his two friends then at Sweetie Belle, "Jason... I get it now. What I need to do. Yeah, Skywalker. I got it!", McGrath said, pumping his fist. "Go for it. We got your back!", Fluttershy shouted suddenly, earning a chuckle from her boyfriend. "Alright, listen up, punks... There ain't any lying about it. I helped Sweetie Belle and her friend with their homework. I am a straight A student as well as one of the schools best athletes . So what, you want me to teach you?", the two officers looked stunned as McGrath continued. "Your about to say that ain't like me, right? Go ahead and laugh! Like I care. I'm used to being pointed at. And what's most important is, I ain't gonna make Sweetie Belle or Skywalker a liar!". Then someone Skywalker had never seen, the woman McGrath addressed as 'mom', walked by. "Officer?... What are you doing with my David?". The officers started to explain about the several cases of bullying around the area but she cut him off. "David had nothing to do with them.", she said taking everyone a back, "He would never do such a thing. He may be stupid and short-tempered, but he's a strong and gentle child.". The two officers quickly apologize before walking off. McGrath turned to his mom, he couldn't believe that she would believe him over the police. She confirmed that she believed that he would never do such a thing, that a mother knows, before telling him not to go stuff himself because she was making dinner. After she said that, McGrath started to cry a little. "McGrath... Are you crying?", Fluttershy asked in shock, in all the years she had know him, she had never seen him cry. "N-N-No! I ain't crying! This is... snot! I got a cold!", McGrath said trying to wipe his tears away. After waiting for McGrath to calm down, the two walked him to his house before the young couple walked to Fluttershy's house. "Sorry I lost my temper back there.", Skywalker muttered as he walked her up to the door. "Don't worry. It's fun watching you shout.", she assured him as she planted a kiss on his lips. "Hey, your coming right?", he asked, she smiled. "Well, my boyfriend is giving a party at his house. Of course I will come.", she placed one more kiss on his lips before entering her house. > Chapter 78: Party > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Skywalker finally reach SCC, walking up a set of stairs to the apartment above. He knocks on the door, hoping Pinkie will be there. He waits for the door to open for at least a minute, tapping his foot on the floor. After knocking again and the same results happen. Skywalker sigh in disappointment. "Pinkie must not be here then." he said out loud as he made turn around. Suddenly a playful voice from a familiar friend says aloud behind him, "I'm not here for what, you silly??" Skywalker jump up and turn around to see Pinkie staring at him with her signature smile and big blue-eyes, she wears a simple yellow loose shirt with short sleeves. Her legs wear a big striped socks that reach up to her frilly skirt. "Hey Pinkie! I was hoping to talk to you.", he started, his friends face beams with happiness, she bounces up and down which make her skirt & shirt show off some of her skin "REALLY!? GREATCAUSEWEHAVEN'TTALKEDINREALLYLONGTIMESINCEYOULIKEALWAYSHANGAROUND WITHOTHERPEOPLEUPGRADINGYOURSOCIALLINKSORRUNNINGAROUNDTOFIGHTCRIMEANDSTUFFAN..." Skywalker quickly cover Pinkie's mouth with his hand, she blinks and tilts her head as she looks at him. He had forgotten how she can go on and on. "Sorry." he said as he moved his hand from her mouth. Started to explain that he was planing a party at his house and that he could use her help. "Oh, that will be easy-peasy, and today's a perfect day since the shop's closed.", she said as Skywalker handed her his spare key of his house. "Thanks, I have a few things to take care off. When I am done picking up some stuff I will meet back at my place to help you set up." Pinkie gave him a salute, "Okey-dokey-lokey leader!". Skywalker arrived at the Hero River Bank, at the same time as Flash, who had requested him to come here. Flash was giving him a solemn look. "Jason, There's something I wanted to tell you.", he started turning his gaze towards the ground. "Somewhere deep down... I didn't trust you. No, it is more that I am jealous of you.", the blue haired teen started, as Skywalker listened carefully to him, like he always does, "I thought you were like me... Coming from the city to the countryside, I thought you'd be bored out of your mind here. But as soon as you got here, you stood up to Sunset Shimmer... Became our leader, gathered people... You're a hero. I like you for that, and I'm proud of you... But I guess I was jealous at the same time.". Skywalker rubbed the back of his head, admitting that it can't be helped and that it was human. "You get jealous of people, too? I can't picture it... When I called you 'special,' I thought some more about it. So... Hit me with everything you have!", Flash suddenly shouted, taking the other teen by surprise. "Give me a good one. Knock out all this crap inside of me. I want to be equal with you. I want us to stand shoulder-to-shoulder.", he spread his arms. Skywalker flexed his shoulders, "Then let's get equal!", he shouted as he takes a fighting stance. Now it was Flash turn to be surprised, "Huh?... But I have no reason to... I get it now. If we're 'equal,' then... I guess you're right." takes a fighting stance. The two charged at each other, both aiming to punch the other in the face. Meanwhile, in front of Mizu's Japanese dinner, Sutakira and Big Mac walk past it until the blue haired teen notice a sign, "The Meat Lover's Combo... Just like it says in the name, you really have to love meat to order it.", Sutakira said. "I wanna try it, but it's always sold out... Just when Skywalker leave with two bags.", Big Mac noted. Sutakira was taken a back by this, "Don't tell me, did Skywalker... D-Don't answer that. I'm not sure I want to know for sure that a friend of mine has the appetite of a starved wolf...", and the two continued to walk. Back over at the Hero River banks, Skywalker has it brawled out with Flash Sentry and the two were laying down in the grass, there arms spread wide. "Ugh... Your punches are brutal... I was seeing stars there for a second...", Flash noted, as his friend merely nodded. "But thanks, man... I don't know how to say it, but... That sure beat words.", he hands his friend a Buddy's Bandage, telling him if he starts bleeding to put that on. "You know, we should fight more often." Skywalker jumped back to his feet, ready for another round. "Not now!", Flash said alarmed, his friend having a pout on his face. He sits back down as the two looked up at the sky, "The sky is so high up. Jason, I'm going to live. Without lying to myself, without deceiving myself. Days like today, days like before when I did nothing. They're all important days. Let's keep at it, so we can live every day with a smile... Leader." Central shopping district, in front of Mizu's Japanese dinner. Skywalker and Rainbow finished today's training and decided to stop. "Steak bowl or a combo plate...", Rainbow muttered, "The ultimate decision..." he added. "I-I don't have any more...", they heard a little kid say. "It can't be.", Skywalker muttered as he run towards the voices, his friend following him. In a small ally way, they saw Garble, Dumb-Bell and Hoops surrounding a little kid. "Hey, someone's here.", Dumb-Bell said. Garble shouted that they would just take their money while they were at it. "What are you up to!?", Skywalker shouted, seeing the scared child crying made his blood boil. Hoops seemed to recognized Skywalker, muttering afraid, "It's him!". Garble got a nasty smile on his face, letting out a chuckle. "You look like you have something planned!", Dumb-Bell said, gaining an equally nasty smile. Skywalker could feel his heart break a little as the kid looked at him pleadingly, begging him for help. Skywalker quickly strode forward, and stood still between the kid and the three bullies. Rainbow stood by his side, ready to jump into action to help her friend. "Hear that, Jason Skywalker. He wants help.", Garble said, surprising Skywalker a little that he knew his full name. "We had a friendly chat with Sunset Shimmer. She told us all kinds of stuff. Like where you live, and about that precious 'Fluttershy' of yours.", Skywalker clenched his fist seeing what Garble was trying to get at, the only reason he wasn't beaten to a bloody pulp was that Skywalker didn't want to give the child a trauma. "So, we are just gonna have a little chat with this kid. Stay put, okay? Cause who knows what'll happen to 'Fluttershy' if you get in our way?", Garble said with a satisfied smirk, thinking he had Skywalker. Garble's two friends laughter filled Skywalker's ears, his eyes flashed red. "Cowards! Ganging up on a kid! You should be ashamed!", Skywalker said as he approach Garble, "Kid, close your eyes. Rainbow keep the kid save.", Skywalker told her. The kid covered his eyes with his small hands as Skywalker became a blur of motion. Delivering swift kicks and punches to the three bullies, who couldn't react in time. Skywalker gave Garble a sweep and started to punch his face in. Hoops, who had a broken nose and a black eye tried to attack Skywalker from behind, but was knocked to the ground by a fast half-moon kick. Looking over his work, Skywalker stood up, whipped some blood from his fists. Grabbing Garble by his arm, Skywalker forced him to look at him, "If I EVER hear you have been bullying again OR when I hear you try to do ANYTHING to Fluttershy, I will come back to break the other one.", before Garble could ask "What other one?", Skywalker broke Garble's arm. Skywalker spotted Dumb-Bell and Hoops trying to get away, so Skywalker picked up a random brick and threw it at them, hitting Dumb-Bell square in the back of the head. "Good arm.", Rainbow said as she and Skywalker guided the kid back to the main street. After making sure the kid was fine, he gave them a tearful 'thank you'. "Oh, no, don't worry about it.", Skywalker said as he guided the child back home, "You've been trough enough, go home." A few minutes later we found the two sitting on a bench in the park, Skywalker's heart still pounding. "...Was that stupid of me?", he asked his Rainbow haired friend. "You protected that kid and it all turned out okay.", she reassured her friend that he did the right thing. "I'll keep watch on Fluttershy for awhile, so don't worry about that." "I'll help too, she my girlfriend after all.", he said, making Rainbow nod, those guys would be crazy to try anything to Fluttershy is Skywalker was with her after that kind of trashing. "It might have been stupid, but I wanted to save them... That kid, Fluttershy. How I feel about this isn't fake. I really want to protect them.", Skywalker is smiling gently. And so the evening arrived, after Skywalker arrive back at his house, he and Pinkie quickly finish setting up, the other guests soon arrive to the party. Once everyone was present, Pinkie shouted, "Let's get this party STARTED!" chimes as she turns on the music. The party was great and about an hour into the party, McGrath was walking around enjoying a few beers, until he felt someone tap his shoulder. Turning around he saw Rarity, the beautiful violet haired girl looking at him with a smile and a hopeful look in her azure blue eyes as she grasps his hands gently. "Rarity? Hey." McGrath say as he turns to face her. Rarity blushes slightly and glances back at where Pinkie, Phoenix, Flash Sentry and Twilight are showing off their crazy dance moves. "Hello McGrath..." Rarity said in a soft voice, she let's go of his arm, he can tell by her body language, the fiddling of her fingers, the little tap of her feet kicking the floor, the little blush on her face. McGrath knows she wants to ask him something. "Something wrong?" he asked her bluntly. Rarity opens her mouth to say something, but shuts it and pouts with her arms crossed. "I just wanted to ask... if you... do the honors of dancing with me." Rarity asked, her expression shows a fear of rejection. McGrath shrug his shoulders, before giving a little bow of respect to Rarity. "Of course Milady.". Rarity's eyes flutter, a big smile arouses from her lips. She returns his gesture with a little courtesy, the girl is dressed in a sexy looking red-velvet top with tight skinny jeans. "T-thank you, McGrath." Rarity says with a little hitch in her tone. The song ends, the next song changes into something more slow. Suddenly, Skywalker's house gets a bit dark, a disco ball pops out from the ceiling where the fan was. The room illuminates with shinning little lights sparkling around the whole room as the disco ball spins, McGrath covers his face as it spins and hits some of the glare into his eyes. Skywalker suddenly appears right behind the two. "Waaa!! Skywalker! What is the meaning of this!" Rarity asked, McGrath was about to ask the same thing but their friend simply said, "You can thank me later!" then pushes the two into the center of the dance floor. As they both stumble back on their feet and try to understand what the heck has happened. McGrath quickly notice the pairs of eyes staring at him and Rarity. Rarity's hand grips against to get his attention. McGrath looks at Rarity with a weak grin, "I wasn't, you know expecting this.", he tells her truthfully. Rarity smiles sadly, "You don't have to, darling if you...". He quickly silence her by taking her hand and kissing it, causing Rarity to blush with a look of astonishment. "May I have this dance?" he ask her. The girl looks up into his eyes, she nods her head fast and quickly, not evening saying any words. Smiling at her reaction, McGrath pulls her closer, her body pressing against his. Holding her right arm up while his left hand rest against the beautiful girl's waist. Taking a deep breath, they both look into each others eyes and begin to slow dance along with the romantic melody. It felt amazing to say the least, every step he took with Rarity, every breath he felt from her as they both mimicked each other movement, to when they both press their foreheads together as they both look into each others eyes. Its felt magical, felt like nobody was there, only the spotlight that shined on McGrath and Rarity. Just the two of them. Then the music finally ends, McGrath and Rarity stop, their eyes looking deep into each other. The heat of the moment hasn't died out in him, his face leans in closer to Rarity's. The Fashion girl seems not to mind as she twist her head, readying to except your kiss. It is cut short by the sounds of clapping and the stamping of shoes. McGrath's eyes widen and he pulls back to look around the room to Rarity's disappointment. Skywalker and Fluttershy slowly clapping their hands with a smile while both Phoenix and Rainbow Dash give a wolf whistle and stamps on their feet. Twilight seem's to take everything she saw as a lesson, since she's writing something down in her portable notebook. Sutakira and Flash seemed to be taking mental notes. Applejack, Big Mac, and Griffifth were just clapping Pinkie's being Pinkie by hoping up and down while clapping like a giddy school filly. Early in the morning, when the party shimmered down, most of his core friend had decided to sleep over and had fallen asleep on the couch. The only ones still awake were Skywalker, Twilight, Rainbow, McGrath, Griffifth and Flash. The six of them started to play a mock group date, but there was one problem. "How are we going to do that? With four dudes and only two chicks?", McGrath asked, the guys were suddenly surprised to see Skywalker sit on the girls side. "Damn that was fast!", Flash muttered as Skywalker spoke in his most girly voice, "Take a seat please.", which sounds a lot like Twilight by the way. The other sat down as an awkward silent follows. "So do you have hobbies?", McGrath said, trying to break the ice. Rainbow started to talk, naming sports. Then it was Twilight's turn, "I have a hobby. You see, this one time, at band camp...", before she could finish, Rainbow cut her off saying THAT was not a hobby. "So Sky... la? What are your hobbies.", Flash asked the friend who sat across from him. "Fighting monsters, demons, and full grown dragons.", Skywalker responded, still speaking in his girl voice. "Those are not hobbies either!", Flash shouted. It was then decided it was time for a new question, "What type of girls do you like.", Twilight asked. Flash smiled at this, "Straight to the point? I do like that. I'll tell you what I'm into...", but Rainbow cut him off telling him it was McGrath's turn. "I'm into the cute type. Who love fun, but also has some hidden depth.", he explained, everyone at the table knew who he was talking about. When it was Griffifth's turn he simple said, "I'm out of here.", he stood up but Flash hung around his waist. "No please! Don't go! I don't want to imagine what it'll be like if this thing gets anymore awkward.", he bagged, making Griffifth sit back down. "Challenge Accepted!", Skywalker thought as the next question was, who of the guys the girls would chose as their boyfriend. "W-What!? What kind of lame ass question is that!", Rainbow shouted, quickly glances at Skywalker for a few seconds. "That's a little personal." Twilight muttered as she too glances at Skywalker for a few seconds. Flash was about to ask Skywalker who but he found himself staring deeply into a pair of amber eyes, slowly moving forward. "H-h-hell no!", Flash shouted as he quickly stood up. "Something wrong Flash?", Skywalker asked innocently, still in his girly voices. "Something very wrong! I don't know what happened! I think I just went to a place I never want to go back to.", he said totally freaking out. "Is it my voice?", Skywalker asked still with his girly voice, leaning over the table. "Knock it off!", Flash said as he headed into the back garden. Apparently Flash wasn't looking were he was going as a loud splash was heard, indicating he had fallen into the pool. "I guess this game is a epic fail.", Skwalker said with a smirk. > Chapter 79: Soul Phrase > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Skywalker was making his way towards the cafeteria, further down he saw vice-principal Luna and miss Cheerilee talking with each other. "You have been different lately, Luna. You're looking more and more like a professional!", Cheerilee complimented her. "Thank you. I have been I have been studying more than just making preparations. The thing is... I have decided top stop wasting my time, always living only in the present.", the vice-principal said with a smile. Miss Cheerilee was impressed, she wondered what brought this on. "Well, when I was just goofing off one weekend... I met someone. So I took a close look at my life. Its all thanks to that person.", just as the two wanted to walk away, the vice-principal bumped into Skywalker. "Oh, Skywalker. I-is everything okay?", she started as she dusted herself off. She noticed that he had dropped his phone, so she picked it up for him, it seemed vice-principal Luna noticed the save-screen on it. It depicted Zael and Calista standing on a beach, with on the background, 'I love you'. The vice-principal looked to be frozen in horror, "Th-This...", was all she could get out. miss Cheerilee looked over her shoulder, "What a charming confession of love! Did you make this Skywalker?", the younger teacher asked. "It's from my online girlfriend.", Skywalker explained this seemed to snap the vice-principal out of her shock. "O-Online... girlfriend!?!", she shouted, her blue eyes still wide in shock. The other two looked at her, "Never mind that! Wh-What's going on!? Why would Skywalker have this screenshot!? D-Don't tell me you got it online!? But the only people who were on that server were...", she muttered, then it hit her, the most logical explanation. "N-No... No way... Is this a joke!?", the vice-principal broke down in a big no, while her face become red. Skywalker and miss Cheerilee looked concerned while the younger teacher tried to calm her down. "Skywalker, please stay with her. I will get Nurse Redheart.", the younger teacher said, as the student nodded. When miss Cheerilee was out of ear shot, Luna looked up to him, "Skywalker... Don't tell me, your Zael?", the vice-principal asked. "I... I said that all... to you?", she asked and he nodded, "Hello, Calista.", Skywalker said, confirming that he was Zael. "Oh. My. God. I wish I was dead! Just kill me now!", she started to break down, tears streaming down her face. Skywalker rubbing her shoulder. "Calm down.", he said trying to calm them down. "I am... Calista. I am Calista, dammit! You got a problem with that!?", she suddenly shouted, her cheeks still red. "This is so embarassing! But... There was one thing I wanted to say, if we ever met face to face... It was thanks to you that I was able to turn my life around.", her expression turned to anger at the smile on Skywalker's face. "Wipe that smile off your face! Or I will wipe it off for you with my fists!!", the vice-principal shouted, she then tried to ask him something but she couldn't spit it out, "Oh to hell with this!", she then ran away, leaving Skywalker in an empty hallway. A little while later, a shocked looking Twilight came running towards her friends on the parking lot. "The Fall Formal isn't happening tonight!", Twily shouted, gaining a "what" from the rest. "It had to be postponed because Sunset Shimmer had Snips and Snails ruin all of Pinkie Pie's decorations." Skywalker became awfully quite. Rarity asked him if he was okay, but he assured them that he was fine. "If I don't get Unity back tonight, I won't be able to go back to Equestria for another thirty moons! That's like... two years and six month's? Wait that's not so bad... I am pretty much a superhero here... Well I'm also a superhero back home but...", he thought as suddenly Spike popped out of his backpack. "Let them know what's really at stake if you don't get the Element tonight. They'll help us figure something out. And beside, these guys and girls rallied around you because they saw what was in your heart! They aren't going to feel any differently about you when they find out you're a Supremehuman from a different World.", the purple dragon turned dog said to him. Skywalker smiled at him, "I'm glad you followed me here, Spike.", he barked as Skywalker approached his friends. He was about to explain everything to them but Pinkie cut him off. "You're from an alternate World and you're a Supremehuman knight there and the crown actually has a magical element embedded in it that helps power up other magical elements and without it they don't work anymore, and you need them all to help protect your World, and if you don't get the crown tonight, you'll be stuck in this world and you won't be able to get back for like a really, really long time!", she said quickly, earning a 'are you serious' look from her friends, save Skywalker. "Yeah, I'm pretty sure that isn't the reason.", Rainbow muttered, turning to Skywalker who had a surprised expression on his face, "That's pretty much spot-on...", he admitted slowly. Big Mac leans towards Phoenix, "He, Phoenix! Let's find a Bane for Jason to beat up!", the tall teen said, his friend adding a "I know right!", as everybody started to laugh. Skywalker, slightly irritated, moved to one of the parked cars and lifted it above his head. The laughter stopped dead. "How did you do that!?", Rainbow shouted, her friend replaying that he eats a lot of protein. "Yea but... How did you do THAT!?", they all looked surprised, Phoenix exclaiming that he really is Superman. Suddenly, Spike comes out of the backpack, and started to talk as well, "Nope, he's just an ordinary guy... Who can crush meteors with his bare hand, can fly so fast the speed of light is jealous... Shoots lasers out of his eyes...", now the teens were even more shocked. "He can talk!? Why can he talk!?", Twilight shouted. Spike grinned before he continued to explain, "Yeah, and back where I come from, I'm not even a dog! I'm a ferocious, fire-breathing dragon!". "Your a baby dragon who has really weird dreams about Rarity who is dating McGrath in our world.", Skywalker corrected him making this World version of McGrath and Rarity blush. "How did you know all that?", he asked his pink haired friend. "Just a hunch.", she said shrugging. I guess Pinkie is the same in every reality. "Wait a minute! Let me get this straight. You're a Supremehuman, from another World?", Applejack asked as he nodded. The others gave each other a look, before claiming "That... is... awesome!". Spike gave him a 'See? Told you.' look, making the young knight snicker, "You guys take it very well. Even though it was pretty fast and ridicules what Pinkie said." With the help of the super friends, they had managed to clean up the mess Snips and Snails made and the Fall Formal could still continue. We now find ourselves at the big night. Skywalker, dresses in his usual formal ware, was getting some drinks but the drink he had ordered wasn't available. "What do you mean, you don't have beer!?", Skywalker shouted, the guy behind the counter informed him that they weren't allowed to serve alcoholic drinks. "I find your lack of alcohol disturbing!", Skywalker shouted as he and Griffifth walked away. "Anybody see Sunset Shimmer?", he black haired knight asked his friends, but none had seen her. "Maybe she was too embarrassed to show! She's gotta know you won by a landslide!", Rainbow complimented, as he and Fluttershy looked at each other. Both knew their short relationship will end after tonight. "So if you really have X-ray vision, what kind of underwear is principal Celestia wearing?", Griffifth asked with a smirk, Skywalker looked away, making his friend think he is blushing. "Oh, I'm embarrassing you... So do you have an alien name?", the blond asked. "Like what? Kal-El?", Skywalker asked still not facing his friend, but before Griffith could respond, he turned his gaze back and said, "Pink.". The blond looked confused, "principal Celestia's underwear is pink." The music died down and under loud cheers, the principal walked up the stage, "First off, I wanna say how wonderful everything looks tonight. You all did a magnificent job pulling things together after the unfortunate events of earlier. And now, without further ado, I would like to announce the winner of this year's Fall Formal crown. The Ruler of this year's Fall Formal is... Jason Skywalker!", the gym exploded in cheers as the hero walked up the stage receiving the Element of Unity, which had transformed into a crown. The principal was about to congratulate him, but his super hearing picked something up. "Skywalker! Help!", Spike shouted, making him looked worried. "What's wrong?", Big Mac asked when the hero jumped off the stage, rushing towards the source of the sound. "They've got Spike!", he explained. They arrived outside to see Snails holding Spike while, Shimmer was holding a large hammer above the statue that led back to Equestria. "Hurt him and I'll hurt you!", Skywalker warned threateningly, loosing up his tie. Shimmer chuckled, ordering them to let Spike go. "I wouldn't dream of it... I’m not a monster, Ser Skywalker. You don't belong here.", she said while Spike hurried behind Skywalker. "Neither do you.", Skywalker shot back dryly. Shimmer looked angrily, "Shut up! Give me the Element Of Unity, and you can go back to Equestria tonight. Or keep it, and never go home.", she said, ready to swing the hammer. "Uhm... Won't the hammer go through the portal like everything else?", Skywalker pointed out, making Shimmer looked surprised. "Doesn't matter! The portal will be closing on its own in less than an hour.". "No.", he told her, taking everyone by surprise. "What!? Equestria. Your friends. Lost to you forever! Don’t you see what I’m about to do to the portal?", she shouted in surprise, she couldn't believe someone could be this selfless, he must be playing at something. "Yes, but I have also seen what you have been able to do here without your magic. Equestria will find a way to survive without me and my Element.", Skywalker started, standing up tall. "No, they won't.", Pinkie muttered before Skywalker placed his hand on his left chest, closing his eyes. "Dashie, Twily, McGrath, Rarity, Griff, Pinkie, Phoenix, AJ, Sutakira, Flutters, Big Mac, they can handle selves.", he opened his eyes, glaring at her, "This place might not, if I allow it to fall into your hands. So go ahead, destroy the portal. You are not getting this crown!", he shouted determent, taking his opponent a back. "I can't believe you were going to do that for us!", Big Mac said, as his other friend approach him. "It's no wonder you are a real live knight!", Rarity added. "Oh, yes, he is so very special. Knight of The Wind...", Sunset Shimmer muttered darkly before ordering her minions to grab him. Snips and Snails charge at Skywalker but he countered with two fast punches to their chest, sending them into the ground. Struggling to breath, Snips knocked the crown out of his hand, and unfortunately, it landed close to Sunset Shimmer. "I'll take that!", she said as she grabbed the crown, "At last, more power than I have ever imagined.", she chuckled as she puts on the crown and a black darkness starts to surrounded her. "Power! Unlimited power!!", Shimmer's voice came from the darkness as frightened screams from other students filled the air. When the darkness was finished being absorbed by her, Sunset Shimmer had transformed into demonic creature, let's just call her Sunset Satan, was left standing in the crater. "Great. She's a succubus now.", McGrath muttered as he and his other friend took cover. "She is adorable.", Skywalker squealed, gaining a odd look from the rest. "I've had to jump through so many hoops tonight just to get my hands on this damned crown and it really should have been mine all along. But let’s let bygones be bygones. I am your ruler now, and you will be loyal to me!", she shouted spreading her wings and took flight, before sending streams of magic to the fellow students, brainwashing them into obedience. More frightened screams as Sunset Satan clearly enjoyed her new powers. "Well, that, Eco Kid looks fine.", Pinkie noted when she studied one of the brainwashed students. Sunset Satan ordered her two minions Snips and Snails to round all the students up and bring them to the portal. "Spoiler alert: I was bluffing when I said I was going to destroy the portal. I don't want to rule this pathetic little high school; I want Equestria! And with my own little teenage army behind me I am going to get it!", She cackled as she floated above the students, she scanned the crowd for the one who had been a pain in her ass, when she spotted him, standing determent to protect everyone. "What exactly do you think you’re going to do to stop me? I have the most powerful magic in all the Worlds, and you have nothing! You are nothing! You must be the most argent prick ever to think your still winning!", Sunset Satan taunted as she smirked at him, but the smirk disappeared when his friends from this World appeared behind him, declaring their support to him. "Gee, the band really is all back together again. Now step aside!", She demanded as she landed, charging a fire ball in her hand, "Skywalker has tried to interfere with my plans one too many times already and he needs to be dealt with.". She was taken a back by his sudden laughter, surely he must have lost his mind. "Oh, you think Unity is your ally? But you merely adopted Unity; I was born with it, molded by it. Unity is made by the people you meet and how you feel about them, they're what ties us together even when we're apart! My friends are what make me strong!", he shouted, taken a few steps forward, ready to shield his friends. "Duh, you're strong because of the ties you have with other people!", Sunset Satan shot back, he nodded at this. "The magic contained in my Element was able to unite with those that helped create it. Honesty. Kindness. Laughter. Generosity. Loyalty. Magic. Amplified by Unity they create a power beyond anything you could imagine and it is a power you don't have the ability to control. Unity betrays you, because it belong to me and my friends! My friends are my power!", with that statement, a strong wind picked up, Skywalker demonstrating that he still had all his powers all along, as he stepped forward, ready for battle. "T-Those are just words.", Sunset Satan said, a little scared because of the intensity of his eyes, "You've lost. We all know how this battle is gonna end, with one more Superman who's never gonna walk again!", she shouted as the two aliens charged at each other. Their two fist connected, creating a shock wave that forced everybody else unto the ground. Skywalker and Sunset Satan were forced back, both landing on their feet, but sliding into it. "You have become a monster, Shimmer's and I'm going to stop you.", Skywalker said as he started to float of the ground. She hissed as she flapped her wings, charging towards him at an amazing speed, just as he did. The following clash of energy send the two into the parking lot, just as Skywalker stood back on his feet, Shimmer's grabbed a random car and smashed it on Skywalker, unfortunately, it was Flash Sentry's car. The teen screamed out in agony when Skywalker blasted the car off him, "Didn't she suffer enough!", he shouted as the steering wheel landed in his hands. The two charged forward once again, but this time, their clash took them high into the skies above. Not reacting fast enough, Skywalker managed to deliver, one powerful uppercut on Sunset's jaw, sending her flying into the stratosphere. Sunset crashed through a satellite, managing to get a hold of it. Seeing that her opponent was following her, she gave it a swift kick, sending it towards Skywalker, who managed to destroy it with his Heat Vision. Using this opportunity, Sunset Shimmer gave a hammer fist straight to the side of his head, sending him crashing back to earth. He felt a hand at his throat and a fist pounding into his face. Grabbing Sunset by her own throat, he started to beat her face in with equal force. "Peace is a lie, there is only passion. Through Passion, I gain strength. Through strength, power. Through power, victory!", she shouted and with each word, she gave him a powerful punch. "Don't forget the rest. Through victory, my chains are broken. The Force shall free me.", at that last word, Skywalker had managed to flip her over, giving a powerful punch to her jaw, before the two crashed, through the school and into the earth. The two moaned, but Skywalker was the first to recover, reacting quickly, he grabbed Sunset by her head, pulling her into a head-lock. She tried to break free but his grip was too strong, thinking of a plan, she spotted his friends standing a few feet away. "If you love these people so much, you can mourn them!", Sunset declared as her eyes glowed a crimson red, before firing a stream of Heat Vision at her targets, but thanks to the head lock, she missed but the stream was creeping closer to them. "No! Don't do this! Stop!", Skywalker shouted out in horror, nearly begging her to stop. She let out a sadistic cackle declaring that she would never stop. Quickly moving his hand, Skywalker poked her eyes, causing Sunset to close them and roar in pain. "What the hell! Who does that!", She shouted, just able to recover before Skywalker delivers a powerful and quick barrage of punches in her stomach, sending her flying. He flies past his stunned opponent and turns around to knee her twice in the back of her head before back flip kicking her away. Skywalker lands on the ground and raises his hand, gathering all the energies Sunset had set lose, to charge a rainbow energy sphere. He turns around and throws the energy sphere, which has a delayed effect, but finally disintegrates the dark energies from Sunset from the inside. "Welcome to Equestria... Bitch!", Skywalker shouted as the Element Of Unity landed in his hand. When the smoke cleared, Sunset had turned back to her normal self, but was still very weak. She sat up to the Skywalker standing over her. "You will never rule in Equestria. Any power you may have had in this World is gone. Tonight, you have shown everyone who you really are. You have shown them what is in your heart.", he declared, crossing his arms. Sunset lowered her head, small sobs started to be heard from her as tears fell on the ground. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. I didn't know there was another way.", she sobbed. "...Wow. Shimmer sets a new record for enemy to friend. Princess Luna a 1000 years, Discord less than a season, Sunset Shimmer mere seconds.", Skywalker thought as he walked up to her. "The magic of Friendship doesn't just exist in Equestria, it is everywhere. You can seek it out. Or you can be forever alone. The choice is yours.", he said sternly. "But... but all I have ever done since being here is drive everyone apart. I don't know the first thing about friendship.", Sunset sobbed, she saw Skywalker raise his hand, she closed her eyes prepared to be hit but the punch never came. Opening them, she saw that Skywalker was holding out his hand, giving her a friendly smile. "It's never too late to start over.", he said as she gingerly took his hand, helping her back to his feet. "That's my Skywalker! Woohoo!", Spike shouted, turning the attention of the student to the dog, surprising them. "Did that dog just talk? Woah. Weird.", one of them said, earning a raised eyebrow from both Skywalker and Spike. "Seriously? You just witnessed a superman fight a demon, he destroyed her inner darkness with an rainbow orb, but the talking dog is the weird thing about all this?", Skywalker said with a smirk. Rarity told them that she found Spike adorable. "Like the Sparity shipping isn't weird enough.", Skywalker thought but his attention was turned to the principal, who started to speak. "A true knight in any world leads, not by forcing others to bow before him, but by inspiring others to stand with him. We have all seen that you are capable of just that. I hope you see it, too, Ser Skywalker.", she said and he nodded. "Now, let's make...", Skywalker started before Pinkie joined in, "Party!", the crowed cheered as they followed him into the gym. When the party was going, Skywalker had slipped out with his friends, wanting to say goodbye before he had to go. "You’ll look out for her, won’t you?", he asked them as he leaned against his motorcycle. They nodded, assuring him that they would. "Of course, we will. Although I do expect some sort of apology for last spring's debacle.", Griffifth said while his other friend admired the motorcycle. "I have a feeling she'll be handing out a lot of apologies.", Skywalker said as he looked to his motor screen, before looking back at them. "I know we have only been friends for a short time, but I am going to miss you all.", he muttered but they all pulled him into a group hug. He then turned to Fluttershy, both knew that this was coming but neither thought it would be so soon. She pulled him into a hug, "Just take care of your Worlds Fluttershy.", she whispered into his ear, making him nod. Both wiped away a tear. "We will meet again. I promise.", he said before turning on the engine of his motorcycle. "You guys want to take a step aside.", Skywalker said as he put on his helmet before raving the engine, they take a few steps back and the Skybike blast off before, using the World Engine to create a portal back to Equestria. Looking on Sunset Shimmer couldn't help but smile, "What are you smiling about, Shimmer?", Rainbow asked, starteling the red and yellow haired girl. "I just realized... I think he's kinda hot.", she added with a blush. Every one was silent for a moment before McGrath shouted, "What kind of crazy voodoo did he do to be such a chick magnet!?". Arriving back at Equestria, Skywalker had arrived just outside Ponyville and much to his horror, he saw destruction everywhere, some buildings were on fire, if not completely destroyed. "Oh, crap...", was all he could mutter before his super hearing picked something up. Arc III: Soul Phrase: Completed... When your eyes take hold, Tarot cards are folded, These doors stay locked, with the key we hold When ships set sails, and your wings fail You can find your balance, in Ponyville You cannot hide from me, because we're a family Just let the power inside, take over, don't you cry If you stay close to me, you will be freed When the Dark Messiah calls, Equestria will fall Arc IV: Worlds Nemesis... Epilogue Over at the Other World, a white man dressed in a suit with blue hair stood on a roof, looking over Cloudsdale. This was that Worlds version of Shining Armor. "Well?", a voice spoke from the darkness. Turning around, he saw Batmane standing a few feet behind him. "You really started something. Bent cops running scared, hope on the streets...", he began before handing Batmane a file. "After the incident at Canterlot High, they have ordered the T.A.M.H. initiative.", Shining Armor explained while Batmane flipped through the file. It had seemed that the battle between the mysterious alien and a student called Sunset Shimmer had released some energy that granted certain individuals superpowers. "Don't worry. I will protect your little sister.", Batmane said as he walks to edge of roof. "I never said thank you.", Shining Armor said, the costumed vigilante turns around to look at him, "And you'll never have to.", Batmane spreads his cape, leaps off roof. > Arc IV: Chapter 80: Heroes > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12 hours earlier, the Harmonic Heroes, save Skywalker who was still in the other World, were summoned to Canterlot Castle by Celestia herself, as she had a emergency. Arriving at the Castle, the princess started to explain immediately. She told them that she had a terrible vision, and that they haven't much time. "A long time ago, Tirek and his brother Scorpan came here from a distant land, intent on stealing Equestrian magic. But Scorpan soon came to appreciate the ways of Equestria, even befriending a young unicorn.", The ruler of the sun explained, Griffifth correctly guessed that Star Swirl was said unicorn. "Scorpan urged his brother to abandon their plans. When Tirek refused, Scorpan alerted us to Tirek's intentions. Scorpan returned to his own land, and Tirek was sent to Tartarus for his crimes. But it appears he has found a way to escape." Celestia theorized that when Cerberus left his post at the gates was the moment Tirek had escaped. "But that was a long time ago. Why is he just now starting to steal magic?", Twilight wondered but neither of the three princesses knew the answer. It could be that his time in Tartarus left him very weak, or that he was part of something far bigger and dangerous. "But with each passing moment, he grows stronger still. And I know just the person who can stop him.", Cadance said, her aunts nodded. "Discord.", the three said. That everybody was shocked, was an understatement. Back at Ponyville, the gang had gathered at the Guy's House to discussed the princesses plan. "Welp... Celestia has gone crazy.", McGrath muttered as he sipped his coffee, with Rarity resting her head on his lap. Griffifth looked slightly offended by that comment, but he had to agree on that. "I don't think it's that big of a surprise. He can be very helpful.", Fluttershy said, the only one willing to defend the spirit of Chaos, "He can sense when there's a magical imbalance. The next time Tirek steals magic, Discord will be able to track him down!", she continued to explain, they had to admit that skill would be useful to track Tirek down. "I still can't believe we had to give back the Elements.", Rainbow said, taking a sip from her own drink. "It was either that or let the Tree of Harmony die.", Sutakira commented, sitting a little too close to AJ for Big Mac's liking. "But Jason was right. Even without the Elements, our friendship is as strong as ever.", Fluttershy added. McGrath just hoped another of their 'friend' never makes them sorry they had to give them up. "Oh, you're talking about me, I presume?", they heard the voice of Discord, making the brunette groan, as the owner of the voice appeared in a poof. "What are you even doing here, Discord?", Rainbow asked. "Oh, just grabbing a little snack before I head off on my extremely important mission. I suppose you all know that I've been tasked to capture a certain escapee.", Discord said cheerfully, as he munched on some cookies. "Don't you have a creepy magic-stealin' villain to track down?", AJ asked annoyed, the spirit of chaos nodded before commenting that they hadn't managed to opened the little chest yet. "It got me thinking, what if what's locked inside is something that could help you guys recover your Elements? I only bring it up because...", but the spirit was cut off, none of them save Fluttershy wanted to hear his reasoning. "... Well in any case, I suppose now is as good a time as any to make my exit.", Discord said disappointed, as he floated to the door, not bothering to teleport. Outside, he couldn't help but think back on his decision to reform. He really tried, but he hadn't gained the trust of anyone. He was suddenly brought out of his train of thought by Fluttershy calling his name. "Discord wait!", the shy mare said, as he held out a small box. "Jason wanted to give you to have this. He is going to make one for all of us, but your's was the first he finished.", she explained as the spirit opened the box. Inside was a red and green star-shaped charm, Discord removed it from the box holding it in his claw. "Jason told me, somewhere out there, there's this tree with star-shaped fruit and the fruit represents an unbreakable connection. So as long as you and your friends carry good luck charms shaped like it, nothing can ever drive you apart. You'll always find your way back to each other.", Fluttershy explained, he didn't say it, but she knew Discord was happy with the present Skywalker had given him. "We're still on for tea later, right, Fluttershy?", Discord asked, not taking his eyes of the charm. The shy mare told him she wouldn't miss it. "Well, I'll bring the cucumber sandwiches!...", he said with a smile before he disappears in a puff of smoke. Back inside, the gang was discussing how 'reformed' Discord is more obnoxious than the 'before-he-was-reformed' Discord. "But he could be right, couldn't he? What if there is something important in that chest?", Fluttershy said, entering the room as they drew there eyes back to the box. Meanwhile a thousand miles away, Tirek was quite busy draining the population of a small town of their powers. But he was suddenly trapped by chains, forcing him to the ground. "Tirek, I presume?", Discord asked, Tirek was shocked that Discord was free. "Discord. You're free? I must commend you on your escape.", Tirek said smoothly, but Discord wasn't having any of it. "Oh, I should have known you would want to have Equestria all to yourself.", he muttered as the chains pulled him back up. "Oh, I'm not doing this for me." Discord said, striking a pose similar as Skywalker usual does when he gives a speech, "I'm doing it for my friends. Though just between the two of us, it's mostly for Jason and Fluttershy.", he added with a wink. Tirek was shocked, asking if he had become friends with ponies, which Discord gleefully confirmed. But suddenly red arcs of lighting struck Discord from behind, slamming him into the ground. The chains disappears from Tirek as the one who attacked slams his boot down on Discord's head. "I am disappointed in you, Discord.", a familiar man said from under his hood. Discord remembered the voice, it was Marc Morgenstern. "That someone with your intellect does not see this 'friendship' is but a new form of imprisonment. Clearly you've had to abandon your true nature to stay in their good graces.", the Dark Messiah said, but Discord denied this, "Oh, please, I've seen this before.", Morgenstern removed his boot from Discord's head. "You are Discord, you are legend, you cannot fall into the same trap.", Morgenstern extended his hand, offering the spirit of chaos a hand to get back on his feet. "Join me Discord, help Tirek to grow strong, and be rewarded with something far greater than friendship. Freedom. Once Tirek has stripped these... creatures of their power, nothing would give me greater pleasure than to see their World turned upside down. Who better to do so than the master of chaos himself? Join us, Discord, and reclaim your greatness." Discord was tempted for a moment, before he noticed the charm in his hand. He shook his head, no matter what this Dark Lord offered him, Discord had something far greater than freedom. "No, thank you!", Discord declared, Tirek looked shocked while Morgenstern's expression was hidden under his hood, "No matter how much the others dislike me, Jason and Fluttershy are counting on me. They would give their life for me, and I will do the same for them!", he said. "So be it.", Morgenstern simply said as he launched a stream of red lightning from his finger tips at the spirit, who absorbed the blast momentarily, but was overwhelmed as pain surged through his body. Late that night, at Ponyville, Twilight exits the train, she walks towards her house as she hears a voice, "You weren't gone very long." Twilight turns around and sees Sutakira walking out of the direction of Sweet Apple Acres, "Does that mean everything's okay?", he asked, she confirming that everything was okay with a nervous chuckle. "You should be going to bed. Sun's not up yet.", the blue haired guys said as he gave her a wave before walking away. Later that day, Griffifth and Fluttershy were walking around. The shy mare said that she was worried about Skywalker, and the blond agreed. Suddenly Twilight crashes into Griffifth, knocking him down. "Sorry! I must have caught a particularly strong breeze... or something.", she muttered as Fluttershy helped the blond guy up. Rainbow floated over to them, noting that it must have been a 'or something', because there wasn't any breeze up there. Twilight told them that she didn't know what happened, but she don't really have time to figure it out right now. "Tirek may still be a threat. We need to tell everypony to remain inside.", the lavender mare said. After warning everyone to stay inside, the gang had meet up on the Main Square which was now completely deserted. "I'm sure Discord will catch Tirek soon.", Fluttershy said worriedly, but the others warn't worried at all, Rainbow notted that she bet he takes his sweet time.Suddenly a puff of smoke appeared, as a very wounded Discord fell to the ground, scorch marks adorned his entire body and some smoke still even came out of them. A thunder crash strikes the ground and Tirek appeared, standing over Discord. Putting two and two together,they correctly guessed that this must be Tirek. "We will make you pay for this!", Fluttershy said as all eleven of them stood ready for battle. "Come and try.", Tirek said as he tried to take their powers but they managed to dodge. Knowing about his power absorption, the melee fighters stayed in the back as those with projectiles took the fight to Tirek. Twilight, McGrath, Rarity, Phoenix and Sutakire each launched as many of their own energy based attacks, trying to keep a distance from him, Which make a massive explosion. They couldn't see it, but Tirek sneaks up and drains the power of a few of the melee fighters of the Harmonic Heroes. Keeping their distance, they tried to drive him back, but the increased power allowed him to doge them easily. One by on he picked them of and just when he was about to strip McGrath but Rarity pushed him out of the way, becoming his next victim. "How dare you...", McGrath said in complete shock as his girlfriend fall down to the floor, with only him and Twilight left standing, "That's my RARITY!!", he shouted as he transformed into his super form, launching a swift punch in Tirek's gut. Super McGrath upper fist Tirek into the air, teleporting above him, delivering a heavy hammer punch, sending Tirek into the ground. Super McGrath continues his anger fuel beatdown on Tirek. Despite powering up and landing a solid punch to McGrath's face, Tirek is outclassed in every way. Super McGrath laughs as an enraged Tirek jumps at him in anger as he charged his attack, launching a concentrated beam of magic at McGrath who counters with an energy blast of his own. The two beams clash in mid air, creating a large explosion, in the confusion Tirek charged at him, able to drain McGrath's power, forcing him to transform back into his base self. Now only Twilight was left standing, as the enemy walked over to her, he tried to take Twilight Sparkle's magic, but she managed to cast a teleporting spell in quick succession, dodging all his attempts to steal her magic. "Now I understand what your fellow princesses have done!" Tirek attacks Twilight with a jet of green light, which she counters with a cord of red light. As both spells collide producing a heating dripping magma effect. Tirek attempts several times to direct his curse, with lightning-like tendrils popping off from the main beam. Tirek slashes his hand to break the connection and with his right hand, quickly breathes fire. The fire transfigures into the form of a serpent immediately and realizes the presence of Twilight, rearing and striking down with exposed fangs and a completely opened jaw in an attempt to devour her. Twilight backs up and slashes at the creature with her hand in a flick like movement, dispelling the flames, she then gathers the flames for herself whirling them into a fiery ring like mass, and sends them hurtling towards Tirek. Tirek likewise defends himself by pushing the fire passed and around him causing the flames to disappear. Taking this opportunity then casts a hydro-kinetic spell, where she draws the waters of the mountains so that it erupts and flows out surrounding and encasing Tirek inside an enchanted sphere of water in an attempt to drown him and finish the duel. Twilight maintains the shape of the complex water sphere by continually sculpting and spinning it. With Tirek slashing through the water, breaking her concentration, allowing Tirek to escape from his watery prison. Tirek then casts a large, continuous torrent of darkness towards Twilight, but she holds it back with an exceedingly powerful shield spell. In a second attack, Tirek gathers the black energy into a ball of incandescent light, which he releases with roar, sending the energy in all directions; this explosion of Dark energy knocks over Twilight and causes all the windows to shatter. The millions of tiny shards of glass start to rain down upon Tirek and with a flick of his wrist he magically diverts their path, causing them to home in on Twilight mid-way through their descent, to which she responds by transfiguring the shards into sand en route by means of a transparent, purple-white shield. "It appears we are at an impasse. How about a trade, Twilight? Their lifes for all the Alicorn magic in Equestria.", Tirek offered, while all her friends told her not to do it. Twilight agreed, Tirek giving a victorious smirk as he absorbed the Alicorn magic as a shock wave is felt all cross the planet and a hole is ripped open in the sky. Thousands upon, thousand of those black creatures rained down from the skies, stage one was completed. Tirek was about to finished them off, but they heard the roar of a engine as Skywalker appeared from the skies, using the Skybike to slam into Tirek, himself jumping off it with Spike. "GG, Tirek, GG.", Rainbow said weakly, as Tirek used the stolen power of Phoenix to recover the damage he had sustained, asking who the newcomer was. "My name is Skywalker, Jason Skywalker. The guy who's going to kick your ass. Now return the power you have stolen.", Skywalker declared as he took his fighting stance. "Ah, so your the infamous Ser Skywalker? Your a lot smaller than I expected.", Tirek said but his opponent had no intention of standing down. "Do that and I will let you go. And hope we never meet again.", Skywalker warned. Tirek burst out in laughter, "What's this? The great Ser Skywalker pleading for his life?", he laughed but with one move, the smirk was whipped off his face. "I am pleading for yours!", Skywalker shouted as with a blur, he appeared in front of Tirek, delivering a punch to the guts so hard it sends him flying into a mountain. Suddenly he felt the Element of Unity transform from a crown to a key, they wondered if this could open the chest, but their attention was draw towards the mountain, where Tirek's roar was heard, in the distance they could see an army of Corrupted heading their way. "Go. I'll hold them off.", Skywalker said, handing Twilight the key as his friends got back on their feet. Fluttershy was about to protest, but she knew there was no other way. If anyone could buy them some time, it was Skywalker. "Alright were counting on you, Jason!", Twilight said before the team rushed to the Guy's House, where the chest would still be. Staring down the army of near endless horde, Skywalker charged up, his aura capable of taking a few out by itself. They charged at him, but he stood his ground, drawing out his lightsabers, delivering slash after slash, decapitating each of them who dared to come in close range to him. Suddenly, Skywalker was grabbed by the throat by a gigantic red hand, before being slammed into the ground repeatedly, before he was throw into a wall. In mid air, he had lost his weapons, he quickly recovered as he saw Tirek approach him. "I hope you appreciate, Ser Skywalker, that everything that happens from this point is on your head. The skies will rain fire, the oceans will boil, the streets will run red with the blood of billions.", Tirek said as he slapped Skywalker back into the ground. "Only then, after your last pitiful friend is extinguished, will I end your life.", he said, standing over the young knight. He was about to deliver another punch but Skywalker caught it mid air. "That friend won't quit so long as he or she can draw breath. None of them will.", Skywalker said as he got back on his feet, regaining ground as Tirek tried to free his fist, "Me? I've got a different problem.", he released Tirek's fist, before delivering a swift punch to the jaw, sending him once again through a mountain. Skywalker flies after them him as he continued to talk, "I feel like I live in a World made of cardboard. Always taking care not to break something, to break someone. Never allowing myself to lose control, even for a moment, or someone could die.", he blocked another punch of Tirek, delivering a few swift once to his gust once again, "But you can take it, can't you, big man? What we have here is a rare opportunity for me to cut loose, and show you just how powerful I really am!", Skywalker said and with a single punch, sends Tirek across multiple mountains. Tirek recovers delivering a massive punch, but Skywalker intercepts it, causing a huge shockwave. Skywalker delivers a heavy punch to Tirek's abdomen and follows up with a ferocious kick, one that sends him flying through Canterlot. Tirek stops himself mid-air, but before he can counter-attack, Skywalker attacks from behind, proceeding to kick Tirek off into a nearby forest, and then gives chase. Tirek sends Skywalker soaring with a energy blast straight to the face. He gives chase once again and the two end up in a mountainous desert area, surrounded by large rock formations. Skywalker and Tirek charge at each other and their punches collide, sending out an Earth-shattering shock wave. Over at the Guy's house, they had managed to outrun the Corrupted, throwing open the front door, Sutakira grabbed the box, Twilight jammed the key into it, but it would go down all the way. "I think we have to do this together!", she said, but they had no idea were Skywalker currently was. At that time, Skywalker crashed landed into the earth, with a shoulder roll, he stared Tirek down, who was floating above them. He started to charge a green magic blast, looking back, Skywalker saw that he had only one option. He couldn't dodge this one, or his friends would be caught in this monsters attack. Channeling his power, Skywalker demonstrated his greatest display of Heat Vision yet, the two beams colliding in mid-air, struggling for dominance. "How is this possible!? You have no magic! I have all the magic in Equestria!", Tirek shouted, unable to comprehend that this human could match all the power in Equestria. "You're wrong, Tirek! Thanks to my friends I carry within me the most powerful magic of all!", the young knight declared, as the key shattered into dust, before entering the chest. With a flash of blue light it burst open, all colors of the rainbow entered the Harmonic Heroes, restoring the powers they had lost and granting them a more powerful version of the Elements Of Harmony, they now possessed the Elements Of The Worlds. Big Mac was now the Wielder of Loyalty as Skywalker became the other Wielder of Magic. All of them joined their power with Skywalker allowing him to over power Tirek, a large explosion destroyed the remaining Corrupted and healing the wound in the sky. Tirek was now laying defeated at their feet. Skywalker was panting heavy as he dropped to his knees, having expand nearly all of his stored Solar Power. The princesses teleported to their location, but the threat wasn't over yet. A slow sarcastic clap was heard, looking up they saw seven figures standing on the roof. Four of them had their hoods on, obscuring their identity. The other three were, Jayden, Mizuki and Byron, who seemed to have recovered quite well. "A truly marvelous display.", the middle one said, who was apparently their leader. That voice seemed to ring something in Phoenix memories, but he couldn't quite place it. Though he wasn't the only one. "Careful, that is the one they call Dark Messiah.", Discord warned, they nodded before they declared that they could settle this. "What a shame... and here I thought we could be friends.", the leader mocked as the other six burst out into laughter. "It seems you and your friends have defeated Tirek, son of Lily.", the leader said, looking over Skywalker, who was being held up by Rainbow. Tirek begged for help, but none of them made a move. "You were just another pawn, Tirek. I was using you from the beginning, like you were planning on doing with us. And now you are completely at their mercy. A fitting end of such a fool.", the leader declared. Suddenly Celestia spoke up, "Wait, now I remember. That voice... Is that you, Marc Morgenstern?", the sun ruler asked, a hint of fear in her voice. "Who the hell is Marc Morgenstern?", Sutakira whispered to Pinkie, but she tilted her head. "I think that's the guy who floats menacing behind us on the cover picture.", the pink pony replied. The leader removed his hood, revealing that indeed he was Marc Morgenstern, who according to Celestia's memory hadn't aged in all those years, nothing had changed about him, except for one thing. His normal blue eyes had gained four ripple-like pattern, with nine tomoe in the three circles closest to the pupil over the eyeballs, with a blue iris and sclera. "Good to see you again, old friend.", Morgenstern greeted, giving a small smile to the princess, now Phoenix remembered, this was the same guy who was there when his father and sister died. Sutakira seemed to remember him too, though he couldn't place him. "Marc! Why are you doing this!? Had you not sworn to protect the Worlds? What happened to you?", Celestia asked desperately "I have had my eyes opened, Celestia.", Morgenstern started as he looked up to the skies. "I have seen the cruelty humans inflict to others and their Worlds. I have come to the conclusion that human's are worthless. Worse than worthless, humans are vermin. How could I have associated with them? How could I have tried to be one of them? It only angered me further that the realization took this long. The age of humans has passed. And the task of ushering in a new World, a better World, falls to me.", he explained. "Tell me... What happened to her?", Celestia asked, she couldn't believe it, another of her friends had fallen to the darkness. She could only hope that she hadn't. "You will have your answer soon. But for now, rest easy Harmonic Heroes. For there is a storm coming, and there is no escape." Celestia was about to attack him, but the seven of them disappeared in smoke, leaving the heroes puzzled and shocked. They knew they had won the battle, but the war was just beginning. > Chapter 81: Are You Dating? > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Two hours earlier, as the wound appeared in the sky, Morgenstern looked up, "The time is come.", he said to his inner circle, disappearing into blue smoke, making his way towards it. And his theory had been proved true, having Tirek absorb all the magic in Equestria, this World couldn't keep together and showed him the way towards the place where the Worlds were split. Floating through darkness, he saw many smaller platform as he made his way towards the main one. Taking his form, he found what he had been looking for, the weapon he had been searching for all those years. Kneeling with the weapon was an armored humanoid, dressed in bright white armor, a black cape sprout from his back. "It's been eons, since I have seen a face around here.", the armored humanoid, spoke, "Turn away, there is nothing for you here." But Morgenstern summoned his Keyblade, taking his fighting stance, "I don't think so, now give me that sword.", Morgenstern said as the armored humanoid stood up, removing the sword from the ground, taking his own fighting stance. In the presents, the Harmonic Heroes, the royal sisters, Cadance and Discord were sitting in the guys living room, recovering from the battle with Tirek. "Tia, I think you have some explaining to do.", Luna said, turning to her older sister, "Who is Marc Morgenstern and what is going on?". "Marc Morgenstern is a Keyblade Knight First Class, he was my friend, a hero, he once fought together to save Equestria and ended a war. From his speech, he is after a weapon. A weapon so powerful that it can reshape the Worlds, a phenomenon that only happened once before.", Celestia continued to explain, both Luna and Discord knew where this story was going. "At the height of my reign of terror, as I am empowered by Chaos in the World I am on, I was far more powerful than anyone else, I was nearly invincible.", Discord explained slowly. " I don't know how but Caelum, one of the original Harmonic Wielders, used the only weapon that could, Force Calibur, to break my power. But even that came with a cost, he shattered the World into many different ones, he himself and Force Calibur was lost.", the spirit of chaos explained, ashamed at what he had done in the past. "Sorry, but what is this Force Calbur?", Sutakira asked, he still couldn't remember where he had seen or heard about Marc Morgenstern before, but he was sure he heard of him. "For that answer we have to get back to the time before the World existed.", Celestia said as she began to explain the legend of how the World were created. Before the Multiverse existed there was Anu, the unchanging World. Into this stasis came the Primordial's, formless spiritual beings to help populate The World. The first of the Primordial's to form an identity was Omniadeus. Its existence aided other Primordial's in forming their own identities, and soon there were fifteen separate, individual beings. After some indeterminate amount of time, Caelumrai approached his peers with a plan to create a new plane of existence, and to create and populate it with lesser beings of their own design. Caelumrai's plan was executed, resulting in the creation of the World. During this process, it became clear to the Primordial's that their own divine energy was being drained to help infuse life into the World. Some of the Primordial's managed to escape the World, a few Primordial's continued to sacrifice most of their power to finish the creation of The Planet. The last of these was Caelumrai himself, his body becoming the physical mass of The Planet, his heart became the Force Calibur, while his soul spliced into the concepts of Hope and Despair. "It is said that the Force Calibur, is able to bring out a person's full potential, and in the hands of someone like Morgenstern... well he could able to reshape the Worlds in his image.", Celestia finished explaining. Now they weren't only fighting for Equestria, they were now fighting for all the Worlds. As they all took it in, the ruler of the sun turned to the half asleep Skywalker. "Sunset Shimmer, is she alright?". Turning his head slightly towards her, he took a deep breath before he began to speak, "I think she's going to be fine. I left her in good hands. I want to tell you all everything, I do, but I'm just so exhausted from all the fighting.", Skywalker said with a tired smile before standing up, while their guest stood up to go home themselves. As Skywalker was about to move up the stairs, he overheard Phoenix and Fluttershy talk. "So, you and Discord?", the red head asked, the shy mare looked surprised at him. "I notice that you two have been spending a lot of time together... so come on, you can tell your big bro Phoenix anything!", he said with a smile, Fluttershy muttering she was older than him. "Leave her alone, Phoenix.", Skywalker said, standing between the two, the red head smirked, throwing his arms up in the air like he just don't care and walks up the stairs. Turning to the shy mare, Skywalker offered to walk her home. "You don't have to do that, Jason. You must be exhausted and should get to bed.", she started not wanting to further add to his burden. "I can sleep later, I am not letting you walk home alone." And so the two made their way towards Fluttershy's Cottage, neither saying much. On the inside, she was happy that her long time crush was walking her home. He was always such a gentlecolt or gentleman, depending who you asked. "So... I have heard something you might find funny.", she began, him turning his attention to her, "You'll never guess who all the kids want to be when they grow up." "Batman?", Skywalker answered but Fluttershy told they all wanted to become him. "I blame the parents.", he replied dryly, making her look confused. "Its not my fault they want to be orphans. Blame bad parenting.", he added with a straight face, making it hard for her to know if he was joking or not. "No, not that. They know a hero when they see one. Too few characters out there, flying around like you, saving people. People need a hero. Courageous, self-sacrificing people. Setting examples for all of us. Everybody loves a hero. I believe you're the one who brings out the hero in all of us." The two arrived at her Cottage, Fluttershy thanked him for walking her home as she walked up to the door. "Flutters, about what Phoenix said...", he began, getting her attention. "Look, if you don't want to tell me, then you don't have to. It's just...", he started. "You can ask me, Jason.", she said, trying to assure him. "Is it true that your going out with Discord... I don't think I would like that...", he muttered before quickly realizing what he said, quickly apologizing, "Sorry, Fluttershy. That was out of line...", Fluttershy looked up at him, surprised at what he had sad, "Don't get the wrong idea, Jason. Discord and I are just friends.", she added with a shy smile, noticing a slight blush on his cheeks. "I-I see.", Skywalker said, rubbing the back of his head, "Anyway, I'm sorry. It's bad enough that I listened to a rumor, but then I confronted you about it... It was incredibly rude of me.", he said before taking his leave. Meanwhile over a thousand of miles away, Morgenstern's inner circle had gathered in the throne room, each sitting on their own smaller throne, while waiting for their leader, who hadn't arrived yet. "A child like that is too young to wield a power like Hope.", Byron said, as he was seated on the outer left most throne. "That's good for us. He'll just be a good boy in the long run.", Mizuki said as she was seated on the throne right throne, only one away from Morgenstern's bigger throne. "If he doesn't, then he is of no use to us.", Byron shot back, but Jayden sitting on the throne across from his said back, "Then he may be worth the entertainment. Give me a good one!", he said with a smile. "Well, aren't you the cocky one. So whatever happens, you'll handle it?", the female one, sitting on the throne right next to Morgenstern's throne. Her name was Lilium, and Mizuki did not like the old three, there as something off about them. "Huh? Me?! You know heavy labor ain't my thing...", Jayden said as he relaxed in his throne, he was always easy going with his fellow inner circle members. The inner circle member on his left side was smaller than them, around the same height as a fifteen year old, and the other one next to him, none of them had ever seen him. Before more could be said their leader appeared out of smoke, carrying the weapon he had been searching for for so long. Taking a seat on his throe while holding his sword on the ground. "My comrades... It's time. All pions are in there place. Let us show the Harmonic Heroes, the way to their destination. Now go.", he ordered as they all departed. > Chapter 82: Mare Fight > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- A sunny afternoon, on a hill with a great view over Ponyville, Skywalker is laying on his back in the grass, relaxing in the shadow of a tree. "It's times like this that I just like to lay here and enjoy the peaceful serenity of a beautiful...", he muttered to himself, before being interrupted by Rainbow Dash, who loudly shouts his name. "What?...", he asked annoyed, opening one of his eyes. "I need you to come with me!", Rainbow said as she grabbed him by the arm and lifted him up, dragging him to his feet. "What's going on?", Skywalker asked, thinking Morgenstern was attacking or something. "No time to explain! Follow me!", she said taking off to the sky towards Ponyville, her friend quickly following. "...You know, there is no reason you can't fly and explain at the same time...", he muttered. Meanwhile over at the Carousal Boutique, Fluttershy just entered, the two friend took a seat in her living room. "Rarity, can I get your advice on something?", Fluttershy asked after she entered Rarity's living room. "Of course! What's the problem?", the white unicorn asked as she served them tea. "Well... uhm...", Fluttershy started, a bright red color on her cheeks, "I want to confess my feelings for Jason, but I have no idea how, and with you being so romantic and all, I thought you could give me some advice?" Rarity's eyes widen and a big smile appeared on her face, "You like, Jason!? How romantic!", she nearly squealed. Over at the Sugercube Cornor, Skywalker and Rainbow entered the shop, though the young knight didn't think Morgenstern would attack Sugercube Cornor... or would he? "So what's going on?", Skywalker asked. Rainbow looked nervous at him, rubbing the back of her head. "My mom has been bugging me about meeting you.", she started to explain. He raised his eyebrow and he spotted her mother, Firefly, sitting at a table, behind him. Dragging him to her mother, Rainbow started to blush, "Here he is mom, my boyfriend." "What's with that introduction!?", Skywalker whispered to Rainbow, a frown on his face. "Oh yeah, can you pretend to be my boyfriend for a time? She kept asking me if you and I were together. And I said yes... accidentally!" Skywalker was about to tell Rainbow off for this but Firefly spoke up first. "Nice to see you again, ser Skywalker.", he nodded his head at her, telling her the feeling was mutual, "Though just Skywalker would suffice...", Skywalker was about to explain the confusion, but Twilight cam out of nowhere and hugged him, "Jason, I've been looking for you!", she said, starting to drag him away. "He's over here! Jason, this is my mom, Twilight Velvet.", Twilight began to introduce him to her mother. "Oh hi! I believe we met at Shining Armours and Cadance wedding.", he said and the older unicorn nodded. "Its nice to meet you again. Back then I didn't know you would be Twily's fiance.", Velvet said with a smile. His face froze in a smile, his eyes widended, "Say what now?", he asked dryly, turning to his friend. "Sorry, Jason! She kept asking me if you and I were together. And I said yes... accidentally!", Twilight whispered, before he could explode in anger, Twilight Velvet spoke up again. My daughter, has no experience. What I mean is, until now, she has never had any experience with colts, which is unacceptable.", she said, making Twily blush, shouting her mothers name, "Let's have dinner sometime huh? I can teach you how a colt and a mare make love to each other.", Skywalker eyes widened in shock, did Twilight's mother just offered to have dinner with him!? Wasn't she married. The situation only got worse from there, Firefly and Twilight Velvet had gotten into a fight over which of their daughters was allowed to marry Skywalker. The young man in question was sitting at a nearby table with Twilight, Rainbow and Phoenix as the two mothers began to fight each other and trashing most of Ponyville. "So... Milf's are fighting over you now?", Phoenix said taking a sip from his soda, his friend shook his shoulders, "He's a god! A god I tell you!", the red head exclaimed loudly as he pointed his finger at his black haired friend. "That's it, I'm going to put an end to this.", Skywalker said as he stood up, the two mothers began to charged towards each other, but before any of their attacks could connect Skywalker appeared in front of them in an instant, blocking Twilight Velvet's attack with his right arm and Firefly's attack with his left. "Calm down now!", he ordered and after a few heavy breaths they did. "Look, I have no control over you decide to do, but you both need to quit fighting each other. Your daughters may have lied to you, but they were just trying to impress you.", behind him Twilight Sparkle and Rainbow Dash looked at the ground in shame. "Despite what you may or may not think, I am not some prize to be won. I am a freaking person! Your daughter's realize that, why cant you?" The two mother reflected on this and agreed to stop the fight. Over at the Carousal Boutique, Applebloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were in the living room, discussing an earlier incident where Rarity had tried to use McGrath as a mannequin to try and design some human clothes. With the portals to the others Worlds back open, she thought about selling human clothes. "Think she might actually be trying to turn him into a girl?", Scootaloo asked, the other two girls snickers. "Could be. He's practically one already by the way he were screaming like a little filly back there; 'Wha-, Rarity! Aah! Aaah! Aaaah! What are you doing?! Stop it! Stop it!'.", Applebloom said and the three of them burst out in laughter. What they didn't know was that McGrath was standing right behind them, "I do not scream like a little filly!", McGrath said angrily, startling the three young mares, "I will have you know that I scream like a full grown mare!", crossing his arms and plaster a smug smile on his face. Out of the kitchen suddenly came the voice of Rarity nearly begging, "Please, please, PLEEEASE!", Skywalker was having some tea with her before, "Alright then. I'll go to Fancypants party.", he said, knowing that if she could bring the Knight Of The Wind to the party, it would open a lot of doors for her, "But you owe me.", he added with a smile. "Oh, thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou! You are the best friend a girl could ever have!" Rarity exclaimed as she hugs him. That evening when they arrived at Fancypants mansion, they all get a warm welcome from him and his wife, Fleur de Lis. Fancypants walks up to Skywalker with a smile on his face. "Good to see you again, Ser Skywalker.", he said and the two shook hooves. "Well, the food and drinks are out back, everyone, I hope you all find the accommodations to your liking.", Fancypants said and after thanking him for the invitation, each went their own way. Skywalker felt a little thirsty, so he heads out back to get something to drink, when he got outside, he looks for where the drinks are set up, and while he's looking, he feels somebody nudge his lower arm. Turning around, he saw that it was Fluttershy, "Hello, Jason. I was wondering... if you would stay by my side during this event. I don't feel very comfortable at social gatherings, and it would make me feel more at ease if you were with me.", she asked with a faint blush on her cheeks. He nodded, making the shy mare feel much better. "You want something to drink? I was gonna get something, myself.", he asked and the two of them find where the drinks are, and Fluttershy gets a glass of red wine. "Am I seeing this right? Fluttershy is having wine?", he asked with a amused smile, taking a Malibu Coke for himself. "I don't normally partake in alcohol, I don't handle it very well.", she added with a slight chuckle, "So I avoid anything heavier than wine." "You're not letting Ser Skywalker have too much alcohol, are you, Fluttershy?" said a certain Alicorn behind them. Looking around they saw that it was the princess of the night, Luna herself who was speaking to them. With the look on her face, if looks could kill, Fluttershy would be ten feet under by now. "That's enough princess. Don't you need to go mingle or something?", Skywalker asked his ex-girlfriend as he stepped in between her and Fluttershy. "Shouldn't you be doing some mingling, too? Ser Skywalker?", the princess asked back, before turning to speak to Fluttershy. "You don't plan on staying attached to Skywalker's hip all day, do you?". "He doesn't seem to mind," Fluttershy said, barely audible and slightly embarrassed. "If that's what you want," Luna said, and with a huff she walks off to enjoy the party. When Luna had started to speak to her, Fluttershy had grabbed Skywalker's hand out of instinct. When she realized what she did, she quickly pulled away. "Sorry. I didn't mean to...", she slowly started, but he told her it was okay, "You're just nervous, is all." > Chapter 83: I Thought You Liked Me > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Early in the morning in Ponyville, Twilight, McGrath, Griffifth, Phoenix, Applejack, and Sutakira were walking to Sugarcube Corner. "Has anybody heard from Pinkie since yesterday?", Applejack asked but none of them had, all they know was that Pinkie had said to meet her early in the morning. "I don't see what's so important we had to meet her here this early. The sun isn't even up yet!", McGrath complained as they arrived at Sugercube Corner. After knocking on the door, they heard a muffled crash and Pinkie quickly opened it, pushing them inside, saying there was no time to lose. In the kitchen, the entire room was filled with diamonds of all colors. "What the hell is this about, Pinkie?", Griffifth said as he looked at his pink friend. "My sister Maud's gonna be here in a few days, and I need your help taste-testing my rock candy recipes!", Pinkie explained. "No offence, Chuckles. But I'm not looking forward to seeing a second you.", Phoenix said, making the others wonder why, "Because there is only one real Chuckles! And the last time there were more of you... McGrath became victim of attempted rape." The other thing they noted was that there was a whole lot of candy, even for someone like Pinkie, and even with all of them, they couldn't make a dent in the mountain of candy rocks. When Pinkie asked if they were ready for more, the others gave a collective groan. "I think we have had plenty. And shouldn't you be on your way to pick up Maud from the train station?", Sutakira said, rubbing his stomach. Meanwhile over at the guys house, Skywalker was sitting alone in the living room watching some television and eating his cereal before Rainbow came flying in. "Hey Jason, have you seen anybody?", she asked but he showed her a note. Looking it over as she began to read the curved handwriting. Dear Skywalker and/or Rainbow Dash, which of the two find this first. We're all... Uhm... Doing stuff at that one place... Shut up, Kyle! Of course they believe this! We all know Rainbow Dash is not all that smart and Skywalker is thick as... Well, this is brilliant!... Don't argue when I'm holding a gun to your head! Oh, right. Anyways, we won't be back until late tonight... So have fun! - McGrath. PS: Condoms are in the top drawer. "Guess we're alone for today...", Rainbow said, her friend agreeing with her, "So what do you want to do?". Skywalker suggested that they could watch a movie or some TV, she agreed and they decided to watch some Game Of Thrones. When Skywalker gets up to go with Rainbow Dash to the kitchen to pop some popcorn, she hears a jingling sound. "Oh, it's just this.", he said showing her a charm necklace. Rainbow immediately recognized it, it was the charm she gave him so long ago. "Wait, you still have that charm I gave you?", she asked, he explained that he really liked it and Rainbow's mind goes back to when she gave him that necklace all those years ago. Skywalker just had his mental block removed, Rainbow had stayed with him the entire time, watching over him. He tried to say something but all that came out of his mouth were some dried sounds, his throat to dry too speak. Rainbow gave a chuckle handing him a bottle of water, which he gratefully accepted, drinking all of its contend in one go. "Thank's Dashie.", he said placing the now empty bottle on the night stand. "Wow, you were thirsty." she said as she took a seat next to him on the bed, "Actually, I have something else for you.". She showed him a small box, she looked at his questioning look before answering, "I was originally going to give you this for Hearts and...", she gained a small blush before continuing, "Uhm... for a special holiday. But seeing as you were such a big boy during your mental block removal, your getting it early." she finished placing the small box in his lap. Picking it up, Skywalker open it under the hopeful gaze of Rainbow, inside the box there was a necklace, as the end there was a lightning bolt charm in his favorite color, blue. Skywalker smiled at his present, "Thanks, Dashie." his voice still a little raspy from the dryness, "I really like this.", to her embarrassment, he pulled her into a hug as a thank you. "Okay, relax." Rainbow said patting him on the back, "It's not like I like you or anything.", she was secretly blushing, taking in the scent of his hair, it smelled just like cotton candy. Back in the present day, Rainbow didn't say anything, but she felt touched that he kept it after all that time. She expected him to lose it after a few weeks, but instead he held on to it. "Thanks...", she said quietly. "You okay, Dashie?", he asked snapping her out of her thoughts. Rainbow quickly said she was, wondering why she wouldn't be. "Well, no offense, but you seem a bit off.", Skywalker said as he tilts his head sideways, but Rainbow quickly dived into the kitchen to make some popcorn, leaving Skywalker confused. "Dashie never acts this funny. Must be something bothering her.", Skywalker pondered, Rainbow was listening to him and was about to go back to say something, but only goes back inside the kitchen, press herself against the wall, and breathe heavily to the mistake that she nearly made. "You idiot! You nearly blew it! All because of some charm that Jason kept for so long, you nearly ruined your friendship!", she takes a peek at him and sees that Skywalker is looking through his television show collections for Game Of Thrones. Rainbow Dash retired to the kitchen, where she was safely out of earshot. After setting the microwave to pop the popcorn, she waits for about two and a half minutes, then she takes the popped snack out of the microwave, pours it into a bowl, and returns to the living room to serve the snack. "Popcorn's ready!", she said holding up the bowl, "You know. I still have the phone you gave me...", He gave her a slight smirk, as if he was not believing her, but Rainbow showed it to him, apparently keeping it in her hammer-space. Skywalker were surprised to see that it was in perfect condition, not even yellowed at all. It seems that she takes this special as much as he does with her charm. "Aw, it's nothing, really. Alright, let's go watch some Game Of Thrones. Besides, the popcorn must be getting cold." A little while later, the two best buds were sitting on the couch watching Game Of Thrones, and much to his shock he saw something he wasn't expecting. "Wait, what? Is that the Night's King? He's real?", Skywalker said and Rainbow gave a low 'yes', "How does the TV version of Game of Thrones manage to spoil the books!?", at this his friend started to let out an evil laugh, which in his opinion sounded completely adorable. "You no longer have any power here, your foreknowledge can't protect you any more. Now you'll know what it's like to be powerless, to live in fear of the spoiler. I am the master now!", Rainbow exclaimed dramatically, but Skywalker didn't looked phased. "... Tyrion dies in book five.", he replied giving his friend a light heart attack. "Seriously though, do you think I have a shot with Fluttershy?", Skywalker asked, but his friend didn't took it seriously at all. She burst out into laughter before saying, "Fluttershy is so far out of your league, you would need eight gym badges just to challenge her to a Pokemon Battle.", he crossed his arms and pouted at this, which she had to admit look completely adorable. "Whatever. I like my women like I like my games: Chal...", he started but Rainbow interrupted him, "Priced at sixty dollars? Voiced by Troy Baker? Imported from Japan? Pre-owned? Sold in bundles?", after finally stopping with her laughter, she turned seriously, "Well, I don't know. I think you should just go for it, I just have faith in you. You always seem to pull through anything, no matter how hard it is. And besides, I think she has a crush on you since the beginning." "What? And you didn't bother to inform me?", Skywalker exclaimed, she responded with with a smile, saying that everyone knew that Fluttershy had a crush on him since day one, well, everyone but him. "Thank's Dashie. Your the best friend a guy could ask for.", he replied sarcastically, though she is his best friend. "I know, I know. I am amazing.", she waved it off, but thanks to her waving, she nearly fell to the ground, but Skywalker caught her. His face only a few inches away from her. Suddenly the door opened, showing a shocked looking Fluttershy standing there. She had finally called upon all her courage to confess her feelings to Skywalker, but she wasn't expecting the scene before her. Skywalker seeing Fluttershy's face, he realize that a tear was forming in her eyes. "I thought you liked me...", Fluttershy said, barely audible, before the two could say anything, she spoke once again, "I thought you liked me...", she said more clearly this time. Skywalker and Rainbow realized how much this affected her, but before they could explain, Fluttershy rushed outside and started to fly away, leaving Skywalker and Rainbow dumbfounded. "we should look for her. I think she's taking this more personal than anybody would.", he said and his friend nodded, following him outside. > Chapter 84: I Love You > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- McGrath, Phoenix and Sutakira were walking around town, just trying to kill the time, even though they could be attacked by a omnicidal maniac at any time. "So were are you taking Elsa on your first date?", Sutakira asked Phoenix, even though he was smarter than the red head, the bluenette had to admit he knew a lot more about romantic stuff. "I'm taking her to a musical.", Phoenix said, surprising the other two, also earning a snicker from McGrath. "Which one?", the bluenette continued to to ask, much to the surprise of Phoenix, who cheerfully told him "I am going to take her to Wicked!" For some reason this made McGrath burst out in laughter, earning a surprised look from from the other two, "What's so funny about that?", Sutakira asked still weren't used to his laugh. They then spotted Skywalker and Rainbow flying overhead in a hurry, "What are those two doing?", McGrath wondered. The duo arrived at Fluttershy's cottage, he quickly knocked on the door, but there was no answer, he knocked again. The door just opened and no one was inside, Angel Bunny though was. Skywalker always thought he was an uptight prick, but he seems nice only to him and to the point where he could actually understand him, the bunny was trying to get hit attention. "What is it, Angel Bunny? You've seen Fluttershy?", Skywalker asked as the bunny was giving off hand signals that was very confusing to Rainbow. "She what!? Why!?", he said after getting what Angel Bunny was trying to say. "What did he said?", Rainbow asked, not understanding anything Angel Bunny was trying to tell them. "Angel Bunny explained that his owner went to the Everfree Forest due to a tragic mishap.". Angel Bunny then handed Skywalker a note, "I can tell it is recent; the ink is slightly damp.", he said as he studied the note. "Wow, Jason Skywalker ace detective.", Rainbow said. Skywalker eyes widen as he read the note before reading it again out loud My dear friends, I leave this as my last message to you now that I see that Jason's heart belongs to Rainbow Dash. My only regret is that I couldn't confess to him sooner. Why I've done a few things for him to find out about my liking to him, and when anybody asks me about who I like is always no one. But, Jason, if you're the one reading this, then I'd like you to know that ever since I met you, I always liked you and hoped that we could have a bond together. Tell everybody that I'll miss them and that I'll never forget them. The way she wrote that broke Skywalker's heart, "Fluttershy is in love with me too.", but the worst part was where she was running away to, his face become determent, he wasn't going to lose someone as special to him as Fluttershy ever again. "We have to hurry! The forest can be dangerous at night.", Rainbow said relieved that he know where she is, but more worried that it was going to be dark soon. "Dashie, warn the others. I am heading into the forest myself.", Skywalker said, his tone showed that it was best not to argue with him right now, as he stood up and made his way to the forest. After about two hours of searching, night had just fallen and Skywalker hears a very familiar voice in his head, "Jason, can you hear me?". "I hear you, Twily. What's up?", Skywalker asked, he was happy to hear that Twilight, through the use of magic had found Fluttershy's location. "She's not far from you now but she looks hurt, and... something else his heading that way.", this made Skywalker look worried, "Start heading west. I've already told everybody else to meet you there." "No, stay where you are. It's getting too dark, if they look for us now they'll get lost too. I'll get Fluttershy and meet up with you guys soon.". Twilight remained silent for a few moments, "...Alright, but be careful.", she said. "Like I said, I'll be back soon, Twily.", Skywalker said, before speeding up, running as fast as they can towards Fluttershy, almost tripping more than once because of not paying attention. He then hear a faint voice not far from where he is. Much to his shock, he saw twenty of those black creatures who followed Morgenstern, surrounding her. Skywalker not sure whether it was just a protective instinct, or something else, but as soon as he heard Fluttershy's desperate voice, he hurried to her rescue. The pack circled around their pray, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. One of the creatures, longed at her, Fluttershy closed her eyes, waiting for the attack to come. A loud slash was heard, a foot making contact with a skull, and something hitting a tree. Opening her eyes, Fluttershy looked in shock, in front of her was Skywalker standing with his lightsaber out, already having taken out three of them. The black creatures were momentarily startled by the arrival of the new comer who just crushed their mates. The creatures decided for an all-out attack, making their last mistake. Skywalker became a blur of motion, slashing at the creatures, two Heat Vision blast came out of his eyes, and disintegrating the creatures in a matter of seconds. Deactivating his weapon, Skywalker allowed himself to calm down, but it wasn't helping much as he saw a very teary Fluttershy, whose hair was stuck in a few thorn bushes and who was lifting her leg. Skywalker rushed over and hugged her, "Fluttershy, you're so damn stupid! Why would you do this to us, especially me!?", he shouted, for the first time ever, sounding angry to her. "I can't stand the thought of not being able to be with you the way that I wanted. I was looking for Dashie's for emotional support to confess to you today but... all I saw was you hugging her!", Fluttershy said her voice cracking. "We'll talk about this later when we get back to Ponyville. Right now, I have to get. These thorns off.", Skywalker said, much to his shock, Fluttershy had broken her ankle, "Hold on, Flutters. I'm gonna get you out of this.", he start to remove some of the thorns that were stuck to her hair. Eventually Skywalker is able to remove enough of the thorns that Fluttershy is able to move out of the rest. She noticed the irritated look on Skywalker's face. "Are you alright?", she asked. "I am fine, Flutters. It's you I am worried about. We need to get you back to Ponyville.", he said as he pick her up and cradle her, "You might not think so, Fluttershy, but I do care deeply about you. And you running off like that wasn't doing me a favor, it scared me, it made me sad that you wanted to leave and I was worried about you and so was everybody else.", she looks at him as he's carrying her. "Promise me that you won't do anything like this again.", he asked, a teary eyed mare promised him. A hour has passed since then and everybody was waiting outside of the guy's house. "They should have been back by now.", Big Mac said, "Where could they be?", all of them where worried but Rainbow seemed to have the worst of it, she was pacing back and forth for over 20 minutes. Finally she decides to go looking for the two of them. "Don't, Rainbow. It's too dark, you would get lost in there too.", Twilight said but Rainbow argued furiously with her, "I can't just sit here and do nothing when my friends are in trouble!", she starts to spread her wings for take-off. "Look! It's Jason!" Everybody then stops to look as, sure enough, Skywalker came walking out of the wood, carrying an injured Fluttershy into town. "Hey, guys! Twily, could you look over Fluttershy's leg for me please?", he asked. Twilight nodded using her magic to carry the injured Fluttershy inside. Rainbow then runs up to him and hugs him as hard as she could. "I'm fine, Dashie...", Skywalker muttered as he rubbed her manes. "If you guys don't mind... I am going to take a shower... Need to clear my head.", he said as he walked into the house. An hour later, Skywalker was letting the water pour down upon him, thinking about everything that had happened in the last few hours. He heard a knock on the door, hearing the voice of Twilight asking if he was okay. "I am fine.", he said dismissively, before turning to a more important question, "Is Fluttershy okay?" "She's resting in Sutakira's room now. Her ankle was broken but it could have been much worse. She just needs to keep off of it until I can heal it fully.", Twilight's voice came from the other side. "That's good to hear... Can I go over to Sutakira's room to see her?", he asked washing the conditioner out of his hair, while Twilight told him it should be alright. Meanwhile, in Sutakira's room, Fluttershy was sitting up talking with McGrath, Rarity, Pinkie, Phoenix, Applejack and Sutakira, or more like they were with each other. Fluttershy was looking over at her cuts, very minor of course, her bandaged leg, and uneven strands of hair. But deeper than that, she saw how badly it affected Skywalker, risking his life just to save her. Now, there are two things haunting Fluttershy, her jealousy of Rainbow and the burden of Skywalker saving her. Just rethinking that over again is making a few tears appear. "You alright there, Fluttershy?", McGrath asked, giving her a worried look. Fluttershy looks down, "I know, I know, he says he forgives me, but I can't forgive myself... Having him go through all that because of me...", she muttered. "Now, look, Fluttershy. Sure, he did all that, but he did it to prove to you that he does care about you.", Rarity said with a smile, as she was sitting next to McGrath. "Maybe even more. I mean, he even went and looked for you alone.", the red head said with a raised finger. "It's possible he likes you too!", Sutakira said, with Applejack adding, "We've all known that ya had at least a slight crush on Jason, sugarcube.", Fluttershy looked slightly shocked. "Well you aren't exactly stealthy with hiding hints from anybody.", McGrath added dryly Their attention was turned to the door when someone knocked on the door, and then Skywalker walked in, dressed in his usual blue polo shirt and black pants. "Hey guys...", Skywalker started but his friends already knew what he wanted to talk about. "We get it, you need to talk to her.", Phoenix winked but Pinkie wasn't getting it. "Why does he needs to talk to her? Why are you pushing me in a way that suggests giving them privacy?", the pink mare asked as McGrath dragged her out of the room before closing the door behind them. There was an awkward silence between them, neither of them knew where to start. "How long?", Skywalker asked with a shy look as he sat down at the edge of the bed. "I think it started when I met you at Twilight's Welcoming party.", she explained, "And through the years it only grew. I enjoy when you help me with my pets, talking to pass the time... well, I talk and you listen, mostly... Sometimes I succumb and fall asleep, and wake to find you still watchful and I know you're watching out for me." "I would be a poor leader if one of you got hurt.", Skywalker said with a slight blush. Fluttershy's face slowly started to become more red as she continued to talk, "W-What I'm trying to say is... is that I trust you. Your the only male I feel so comfortable around. I know you'll be there when I need you... You are our... Leader, and my best friend and... sometimes I think that m-maybe we could be more than that...", she was surprised that Skywalker himself was having a blush on his face. "Fluttershy... I-I had no idea you felt that way...", he slowly said, he could be so blind to someone's emotions like that. "What could possibly happen? I mean, a young mare gets rescued by a dashing super hero who lets her join his team and then they go off to save the Worlds? How could she possibly develop any kind of interest in him?", she replied dryly, making him chuckle. All the feelings welling up in Fluttershy makes her do what she thought would've been impossible until now. Grabbing Skywalker's face with both her front hooves, she pulls his head close to hers. "I love you.", she said. No time was left for any reaction as Skywalker puts his lips to hers. The sudden effect left Fluttershy shocked but only temporarily. The soothing feeling of Skywalker's kissing her though was slowly creeping throughout her body. The sheer force of will also went to her arms as he hugged back. This causes for the Pegasus to wrap her wings around him, and let go, hugging him tightly and burying her face into his shoulder. "For so long now, Jason, I finally managed to work up my mind to finally confess. I'm just glad you like me back." Skywalker looks at Fluttershy and see that she's in tears, but with a smile, a sight he never thought he would see, but it looks so cute and adorable. Skywalker wiping the tears of her eyes, while shading one himself, "I love you too, Fluttershy." > Chapter 85: Fall Of The Crystal Empire > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- On a hill overlooking the Crystal Empire, Mizuki and Morgenstern's army of Corrupted where overlooking the crystal city. This was the day the war will officially began, the final stretch before judgement day. Mizuki was alerted by the arrival of her master by the Corrupted parting to the side and kneeling before him. Morgenstern came strolling towards her, not quite a strut, but a subtle, confident gait, as he was flanked by Lillium and the teen looking Inner Circle Member. "My lord, the city is on high alert but we are ready to claim the city in your name at your command.", Mizuki said, bowing herself. "The fall of Equastria... begins.", Morgenstern said, his eyes glowing at his statement and his Corrupted began to charge. Back over at Ponyville, for the past 10 minutes, Sutakira had been flying towards Sweet Apple Acres and finally reach the front gate of Sweet Apple Acre's. Landing at the front door of their home and knock 3 times and wait. After a minute, or so, the door opens, revealing Applejack. "Toshi! You're here, I thought you'd wouldn't be showing up.", she said, happy to see her boyfriend. Sutakira feels himself blush, whipping his nose with his finger to hide the blush, "Sorry... was busy for a bit..." "That's all fine and dandy Sugarcube.", Applejack seems to have realized that she's been letting him stand in the heat, she gets off the door way and takes a step inside her house. Sutakira walk inside the Apple House, walking past the kitchen and slumping his butt on the living room couch, where McGrath, Rarity, Pinkie and Spike where already seated, McGrath shuffling the deck of cards. Applejack giggles at him as she walks to where he is, taking a seat next to him. Over at Shoveitupyourass street, Fluttershy was making a phone call but she had forgotten to remove it from speaker. "Before you go. I heard your hanging out a lot with Ser Skywalker. I saw him on the news the other day. He's cute. Later, sis.", and after the two say goodbye, Fluttershy hangs up, turning around to see Skywalker leaning against the door frame. "Tell me you didn't hear that...", she asked a red glow coming off her cheeks. "Afraid I did.", Skywalker said with a soft smile, walking into the kitchen. "Shoot me now...", Fluttershy said mortified. "Your sister, I presume?", he asked and his girlfriend nodded. Placing her into a hug, "Tell me about your family.", he asked, feeling her soft manes against his face. "We're pretty close. Have to be with dad serving all the time. Being an admiral in the Royal Pegasus Air Force does that.", she explained. He looked surprised at her, "Your dad is an admiral in the R.P.A.F.? Now I feel intimidated to meet your family.", he said with a smile. Back over at the living room of Sweet Apple Acres, the friends have played a bunch of round. "Why do you always win at cards?", Pinkie asked Sutakira, who had won every single hand until now. "It's because I cheat. I can count cards", the bluenette dryly said, a slight smirk on his face, "You owe me 20 bits by the way." "You were cheating!", Pinkie exclaimed, her mouth dropping to the table. "So, Skywalker and Fluttershy.", McGrath said as he looked on how Sutakira and Pinkie got into a discussion. "I think they're darling together.", Rarity added, taking a sip from her tea. "It's almost too adorable. Well, except for Fluttershy's Yander thing and Skywalker's Chronic Hero Syndrome.", McGrath snarked. "The most evil thing Fluttershy does most days is pick the flowers out of other people's gardens.", Applejack added, slightly smiling at her boyfriend, who was confusing Pinkie with his intellect. "I know, I have to bribe most of the gardeners in Canterlot to keep it quiet.", McGrath added, he had a slight twitch thanks to becoming more irritated by his two arguing friends. "Pinkie, can you help me block out people's voices I find extremely annoying?", he asked. Pinkie stopped her arguing and discreetly pointing at Spike who was sitting next to him, "David, he's right there..." Shining Armor had started to tire as he entered the Crystal Throne room, Morgenstern's massive army had caught them off guard. They had no hope for reinforcement, the enemy had cut off all forms of communication with Canterlot. The Corrupted were vicious, for everyone they took down, three more seemed to appear. Cadance had begun a ritual, which would allow everyone in the castle to be teleported to Canterlot, unfortunately even with all her and Shining Armor's magic, only those in the castle could be teleported, forcing them to leave everyone else behind. "Even after all this time... After all the preparations we have made, we were still caught off guard... We still weren't ready...", Cadance said sadly, having failed her subjects. Shining Armor was about to comfort his wife but one of his commanders, informed them that the enemy had broken into the castle. "Who is leading them?", Cadance asked, her eyes flaring in anger when she heard it was Morgenstern himself. "Shining, continue the ritual... I will try to hold him off.", not waiting for her husband to respond, Cadance made her way to the Entrance Hall. On her way there, Cadance blasted every single Corrupted with magic, she came across, as her castle started to fall apart around her. Arriving at the Entrance Hall, she saw him standing there, Morgenstern, flanked by two of his followers, his unnatural glowing blue eyes looking up at her. Cadance walked down the stairs as the sea of Corrupted formed a circle around and Morgenstern ordered his two followers to stand back, telling them to not let anyone intervene with this battle. In a flash of light, Morgenstern called the Force Calibur to his left hand, taking his fighting stance. Cadance took the insensitive, sending a stream of pink magic at Morgenstern, but he brought up his sword, deflecting it right back at her. Cadance quickly threw up a shielding charm, absorbing the reflected attack into her shield. Morgenstern raised his free right hand, pinching his fingers together. Cadance began to choke, but she send a powerful magic blast at him. The projectile was too slow, Morgenstern easily side stepped it, but it does freed Cadance from his telekinetic hold. Once free, Cadance flapped her wings, quickly taking to the air, but this strategy doesn't last very long. Morgenstern grabbed her telekineticlly, slamming Cadance back to the ground hard. The princess of love coughs up blood, her face bruised. Now knowing flight was not an option, she began to teleport, appearing at Morgenstern's back. She cast multiple powerful spells at him, but Morgenstern once again easily side steps them. This happened a few more times, Cadance teleporting, casting her spells and Morgenstern side stepping. But this chain was broken, Morgenstern lunged at Cadance. In a moment of distraction, Cadance was hit by Morgenstern in the stomach. She tried to regain herself, but was kicked into a wall by the wind created when Morgenstern swung Force Calibur around. Quickly casting a healing spell on herself, Cadance conjured her Magic Sword and immediately engaged her enemy in battle. Cadance managed to defend herself well against Morgenstern's onslaught, but she had a feeling the Dark Messiah was still holding back. Cadance rallied and pulled Morgenstern into a bladelock. Breaking the lock by a powerful telekinetic push, sensing a opening in Cadance fight style, allowing Morgenstern to end the duel with a swift kick to Cadance jaw. She was thrown off balance, staggering back. Then Force Calibur emits a bright light, as he preformed a few powerful flips and leaps on Cadance's shattering her Magic Sword, before doing a back somersault, planting his weapon into the ground, summoning a large energy wave crushing Cadance, a bright light enveloping the castle. That night, at Shoveitupyourass Street, Phoenix and Elsa walked back to his room arm and arm, having returned from their date. Elsa hugged his arm and sighed happily. "Kyle, that was one of the best days I've ever had.", the ice queen said with a content smile. "Glad you liked it.", he said with a smile of his own. Elsa looked at him and he looked at her, they both touched foreheads and giggle. "I love you Kyle Yveltal Phoenix." "I love you too Elsa Targaryen.", they both lean in and were just about to kiss when Phoenix heard a moan. "What was that?", he asked, Elsa didn't know either, but the two agreed that it sounded creepy and yet somewhat familiar. "We can worry about that later. Let's get to my room and get some sleep.", he said and his girlfriend agreed, but as the two approached the door to Phoenix's room, the moans got louder and louder and they didn't sound like ghost moans. They sounded like a girl's moans like when she's feeling good. "Sorry if I sound unladylike, darling. But... HARDER! FASTER!", a voice moaned, they seemed to becoming from McGrath's room. They both tip toe to McGrath's door and Phoenix notice that the door was slightly open, the moans were very loud at this point. "So it was coming from Moody's room and the moans sound like...", Phoenix started before realizing who the female moans belonged to, "Diva..." Elsa sneaked to the crack of the door when she looked in she gasped and blushed bright red. "Elsa, what is it?", but she didn't say anything, she just motioned him to come closer and look. Phoenix did and there on McGrath's bed was McGrath and Rarity in her human form, the two were completely naked and doing it. When they saw them Phoenix began to get a hard on and he looked at Elsa she was getting turned on too. They looked at each other and they both began to kiss. In the heat of the moment Phoenix grab Elsa's butt which makes Elsa yelp in surprise and pleasure. Unfortunately McGrath and Rarity heard her. "Darling... I think someone's there.", Rarity said. "Then I think I have to kill someone.", McGrath said, irritated that his play time was interrupted. Hearing this Phoenix and Elsa race back to his room. They both make it to his room and they breathe a sigh of relief. "Whew. That was too close.", Phoenix said, "Good thing we didn't get caught eh Elsa?", then he notice Elsa was breathing heavily and her face was redder than before. "Elsa, are you okay? I'm sorry if I grabbed you. It was on the spur of the moment I..." "I'm fine, but... I think watching McGrath and Rarity made me really horny.", she said, turning her eyes to the ground, making her boyfriend blush at this. "Are you sure? Maybe you have a fever or...", he tried to explain it, but he was cut off by her beautiful eyes staring at him. "Please Kyle. Give it to me. My body's gonna go nuts if we don't do it. It's okay. You can do whatever you want.", she said, staring into his purple eyes. "O-Okay.", Phoenix said nervously as he starts to kiss her. The two slowly made their way to his bed, where they continued to make out. "Kyle... I am really nervous...", she admitted when the two started to undress, leaving them only in their underwear. "Yeah, me too.", he admitted. "Is it your first time?...", she asked hopeful, but he shook his head, placing his index finger on his chin. "No, I've been nervous before.", he said before turning serious, "So many things have gone wrong in my life... This is the one thing I want to get right.", and with that, the two continued to make out. > Chapter 86: Sky Temple Divium > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Early in the morning, the Harmonic Heroes were summoned to Canterlot Castle. On the way there, McGrath gave Phoenix a punch to the shoulder, "Hey! Why was that good for?", the red head asked as he rubbed his shoulder. "That was for interrupting me and Rarity last night!" As they arrived, they immediately noticed a large amount of Crystal Ponies having gathered there. "What happened?", Griffifth muttered as they were approached by Celestia. "Something terible my dear Adam.", the princess said, leading them to the hospital wing, "Morgenstern has started his invasion in earnest. The Crystal Empire has fallen." The group gasped, and they were horrified by what they saw in the hospital wing, a badly wounded Shining Armor sat next to a badly wounded Cadance, who looked as if she was beaten nearly to death. Twilight quickly walked towards her brother and sister-in-law, fussing over them. "I am fine, Twily.", he said, though he was clearly barley being able to keep it together. "I am more worried about Cadance, she fought Morgenstern one-on-one, I had help from my guards.", he said, but the princess of Love wasn't responding, it looked broken, crushed by her failure to protect her kingdom. "Cadance, don't blame yourself.", Skywalker started but Cadance shook her head, "But it is my fault. It's my fault I couldn't save everyone or defeat Morgenstern.", she said, a tear escaping her eye. "Jason is right, Cadance.", Celestia said, "You saved as many as you could with what little time you had, and not many can claim they have fought Morgenstern one-on-one and life to tell the tale." But none of this seemed to work on her, Morgenstern hadn't just merely beaten her, but he managed to break her. "We need to find Morgenstern and put an end to him.", Skywalker said, determent to defeat this monster, and the others agreed. Celestia was deep in thought for a moment, "I think it's time we take a look at the place where this all began.", she muttered before turning to group, "Jason, I want you to accompany me and Luna to Sky Temple Divium. There must be something there that will help us against Morgenstern". The moment they exited the portal, Skywalker felt himself being filled with a feeling of dread. The temple itself was a grand architecture, the floor seemed to be made of white marble, while the archways and walls had a futuristic touch to them. It would have been a sight to see in its prime, but it seemed that a major battle had taken place and none but the three of them had set a foot in here ever since. To his right, both Celestia and Luna arrived, both wearing dressed in a similar shade to their coats. "This is horrible.", Celestia said as she walked up a flight of stairs, followed closely by Skywalker and Luna as they looked over the ruins. Suddenly, he saw movement in the corner of his eye, and without thinking, Skywalker walked through a door, as if his body was on autopilot. He could hear Celestia's and Luna's voices behind him as the door closed, leaving him in complete darkness before scene's started to play before him. He was standing in a circular room, a glass floor gave a magnificent views of the clouds below, two people were standing in the center of the room, a man and a woman. The man was Morgenstern, he wore a black long coat, white armored boots and black trousers. The top of his coat is open to reveal his chest. His hair is spiky in the back, and he has chin-length bangs that parted down to frame both sides of his face. The woman was dressed in a light gray long sleeved hooded shirt with a sleeveless dark brown leather wrapping, trousers, leather calf braces, leather wrap arm bracers, a white sleeveless surcoat, and leather foot wear. Her long very dark almost black reddish hair which fell over her shoulders. What struck Skywalker the most was her faintly glowing amber eyes, the same as his own. "Join me, Lily. Together we can recreate the Worlds as they should be, everyone will bend to our will.", Morgenstern said, holding out his hand. "What happens to those that don't bend?", Lily asked, holding her weapon on stand-by, ready to defend herself in a moments notice. "They can live in my new world, or they can die in their old one.", Morgenstern said, irritated that she didn't had taken him up on his offer, "I am sorry, but I cannot. I won't allow you to harm my son.", Lily said, activating her lightsaber and revealing a purple blade. "I don't care if I kill a baby, I don't care if its a God-baby, I'm gonna kill it.", Morgenstern declared as he and Lily engaged each other in battle. He wielded his Keyblade with vicious efficiency and despite Lily's usual dominance on the battlefield, however, she continually gave ground over the entire battle. Eventually, Morgenstern slammed the wide handle of his Keyblade into Lily's face, stunning the young woman, and the merciless Dark Messiah quickly took the moment to unleash a flurry of blade strikes, which ended with him stabbing Lily through the chest, as he lifted her into the air. "Where is it?", Morgenstern demanded to know, but Lily smiled at him, coughing up some blood, "He's not an it. His name is Skywalker, Jason Sephiroth Skywalker. And he's beyond your reach.", she said before being thrown to the ground in a swift move. "I will find him. And atop his corpse, I will build the new World." Suddenly the scene disappeared and words flashed in front of Skywalker's eyes... When the Wielders of the Key are shrouded by darkness and the light is taken... When the blessed ones fail, the graveyard trembles... When the Rulers loses their throne, and the Air Tower abandon... When the Corrupted arrive and make the Worlds bleed... The Aesity of Destruction rises, and fate turns its gaze upon the last of the Caelumaruku. Meanwhile outside the room, Celestia and Luna tried to break open the door, but neither pushing nor with magic did it butch, but to no avail. "That door won't open, it is reprogrammed it to be keyed to my master's DNA.", a deep voice said behind them. Turning around, they saw one of the cloaked man who had been with Morgenstern. He was wielding a sword that looked very familiar to Celestia, it looked exactly like her ex-husbands weapon of chose, except this one was different shades of black and red. "Where is the son of Lily?", he said, taking his fighting stance ready to fight them. "He just went through this door, but the moment we approached it closed.", Celestia said summoning her weapon just as her sister. Celestia attempted to attack the cloaked man by telekinetically ripping debris out of wall and hurling them at him. He merely destroyed the platforms by the force of his will, which Celestia countered by unleashed a barrage of magic arcs. The man effortlessly caught the energy and deflected it back at Celestia, who deflected it into the ceiling above. Celestia looked stunned but proceeded to unleash a second blast, but as a show of his power, the cloaked man absorbed the bolt completely, with no need for deflection, showing them the clear futility of this assault. As Celestia did this, Luna leaps into action, unleashing her full power against the cloaked. However, the cloaked man own mastery of his power allowed him to hold off Luna's relentless attacks, and seize the offensive. As the duel continued, Morgenstern entered in a cloud of dark smoke, along side a hooded Lilium. He had heard everything Celestia had told his follower, and this worried him. "Do what you do best.", Morgenstern ordered as he himself went into the chamber. Joining the duel against the sister's, the cloaked man ended up dueling with Luna while Lilium ended up in a battle with Celestia. Celestia attacked with a lightning fast sweep across the torso, but Lilium summoned her Keyblade, taking the blow and riposted, speeding up her timing, forcing Celestia to retreat. Lilium twirled and blocked a slash, weaving a defensive pattern with her blade. Celestia lunged again, but Lilium was ready, bringing them into a momentary blade-lock. Lilium shoved hard, breaking the lock and forced Celestia to pull back. In backing away, Lilium attacked once more and unleashing a sudden flurry of attacks that forced a surprised Celestia to pull back. Lilium reached out and started to throw debris at her opponent, throwing it at a much faster speed than anybody had ever done to Celestia. Trying to get a hit on her opponent, Celestia shot energy out of her finger tips, but to her shock, Lilium not only caught it with her bare hands, but redirected it. Luna disengaged and blocks the redirected lightning with his magic sword. Lilium and the cloaked man launched their own barrage of lightning from their finger tips, but instead of the usual blue lightning, their's was black with a red hue. Unable to deflect or dodge the attack in time, the two sisters joined forces and retorted with a combined magic arcs of their own, facing the opponents with the full brunt of their might. Celestia and Luna commanded their power to overpower the others, but it wasn't enough, a bright flash enveloped them. Smoke, debris and fire decorated the massive hallway, as the smoke cleared Celestia and Luna were laying on the ground, burned and smoking, but breathing. Slowly opening her eyes, Celestia saw that her opponents had sustained no damaged. But most shocking was that their hoods had come off. Staring her down, with the same eyes as Morgenstern, were her friend Lily Skywalker and her husband, Caelum. Entering the chamber, Morgenstern found Skywalker standing at the bottom of the stairs, his eyes blank and a small glowing cube was resting in his hands. Suddenly, Skywalker snapped out of it and saw the Dark Messiah looming over him. "Morgenstern.", Skywalker said, activating his lightsaber and taking his fighting stance. "Thanks to Celestia, I meet the last person I ever thought to meet.", Morgenstern said who summoned his Keyblade. Skywalker initiating two brief, unsuccessful strikes at Morgenstern's torso before regrouping. He then attempted to use an overhand power attack to overwhelm Morgenstern, but he blocked the attack, maintaining a one-handed grip on his weapon. Skywalker's attack resulted in a blade-lock which Morgenstern broke by casually throwing Skywalker to the ground, but he quickly recovered and advanced. Skywalker then engaged in an aggressive series of attacks and managed to drive Morgenstern back, surprising him. However, Morgenstern soon counter-attacked, forcing Skywalker back. "Impressive. Most impressive. Celestia has taught you well.", Morgenstern complimented him. "I will make you pay for what you did to Shining Armor, Cadance and everybody else. I am not afraid of you.", Skywalker said, retaking his fighting stance. A half smile appeared on Morgenstern's face, "You will be.". Skywalker struck at Morgenstern again, but Morgenstern deprived him of his weapon with a quick flourish, he then lazily slashed at Skywalker, but he dove out of the way of the attack and rolled next to his weapon. Morgenstern performed another casual swing of his weapon, Skywalker quickly retrieved his lightsaber and managed to block the attack inches above his head. Complimenting Skywalker's agility, taking this moment, he broke the blade lock and quickly slashed at Morgenstern, only for him to block the blow. As the pair's blades locked, Morgenstern taunted Skywalker, complimenting him on his ability to control his fear, but advising him that releasing his anger was the only path to victory. Morgenstern promptly broke the blade-lock and attacked but Skywalker managed to fend him off, leaping over an attack at his legs and flipping above Morgenstern. Suddenly, pieces of the wall broke off the wall at a amazing speed, being hurled at Skywalker. He whipped around and, as he cut the debris apart, Morgenstern quickly lunged, engaging the knight in a brief bout of swordplay. As the two of them blade-locked once more, Morgenstern telekinetically threw more improvised debris at his opponent, which smashed into the back of Skywalker's head and broke the blade-lock. Morgenstern then pulled away and began telekinetically pummeling Skywalker with various objects in the room, slowly sapping away at Skywalker's morale. As Skywalker tried and failed to hold off the onslaught of propelled equipment, a misguided piece of piping smashed him through a wall, onto a path way below them. Skywalker managed to recover but so far, Morgenstern had held back, only testing Skywalker's abilities, but now the time had come to put an end to this. In a brutal demonstration of his personal fighting style, Morgenstern began hacking and slashing at Skywalker with a series of heavy fast overhand power blows. Skywalker, overwhelmed by Morgenstern's strength and speed, was forced onto the defensive and driven back. Engaging Skywalker in a blade-lock, Morgenstern threw him against a wall and pressed his attack. Skywalker managed to recover in time to dodge Morgenstern's slash, which struck the wall where he had been seconds before and caused an eruption of sparks. After avoiding another such attack, Skywalker attempted to escape along the way he had entered the walkway, but Morgenstern quickly cut him off. Thrown off balance by a powerful telekinetic push from Morgenstern, Skywalker was forced to keep enduring Morgenstern's relentless offense, while he easily blocked and shunting aside all of Skywalker's counters, eventually blade-locking with the Knight Of The Wind again and throwing him into the ground. Bringing his blade to Skywalker's throat, "You are beaten. It is useless to resist. Don't let yourself be destroyed as your mother did.", Morgenstern taunted him. In response, Skywalker defiantly drove Morgenstern's blade aside and regained his feet before attacking again. As their bout continued, Skywalker tried to attack him with his Heat Vision, but much to his own shock and horror, Morgenstern managed to block his attack with a laser eye attack of his own. Then he continued to press his assault, his barrage driving Skywalker back and with one swift motion, he disarmed him from him weapon once again and with his free hand he grabbed Skywalker by his throat, lifting him off the ground. "Don't make me destroy you. Jason Skywalker, you have only begun to discover your power. You have anger, you have hate, but you don't use it. Join me, and I will complete your training. Add your strength to mine, with our combined strength, we can end this destructive conflict, and bring order to the Worlds.", he tried to convince him but Skywalker angrily defied him, "I will never join you!". "Don't you see, Jason Skywalker? Only someone with my DNA in their body could have entered the Room Of Forbidden Knowledge. You could enter, just like me. I thought you were dead, but now I know. You are my son.", Morgenstern declared. > Chapter 87: Prelude To Destruction > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- As the duel continued, Celestia knew she and her sister where unprepared, and thanks to the heightened emotions, unable to defeat Lily and Caelum, the four of them locked into blade-lock. They needed to get Skywalker and get back to Equestria. Much to their horror, a Skywalker drained of nearly all his strength and physically and mentally a broken mess was thrown backwards through a wall, with Morgenstern calmly following him, one of Skywalker's lightsaber in his right hand, while he crushed the other one under his boot, holding his own Keyblade loosely in his left hand. "Why are you on their side?", Morgenstern asked, pointing the tip of his Keyblade to the hero, "Why fight for a doomed race who wanted to hunt and lock us up when they realized their reign is coming to an end? This is our time, our age. We are the future of the human race. You and me, we could reshape the Worlds into anything we want." "Your right... People are messy, awkward, sometimes selfish and cruel.", Skywalker said with difficulty standing up, much to the shock of Celestia and Luna. "But they're trying, and I believe, deep down, every human at their core are good and I'm going to make sure they have a chance.", despise being nearly unable to go on, he stood his ground, ready to fight. "If you won't be my knight, you will be my pawn.", Morgenstern said ready to strike. "Listen to me very carefully, my friend. Killing will not bring you peace.", Celestia said, staring into Lily's eyes, wondering why they had become the same as Morgenstern's. "Peace was never an option.", Lily said, breaking the blade lock and striking at Celestia, but the princess of the sun was taken into a white Rift, sending her back to Equestria. Caelum was also broken out of his blade lock because Luna was drawn into one of the white Rifts. Lily and Caelum looked around unable to follow them as the Rifts had closed behind them. Then they saw who had created the Rifts, Skywalker was holding up his hand, a white coming off it, having used his Element Of The World power. Seeing how outnumbered he is, Skywalker created a Rift behind him, quickly falling through it. As the rift closed Lily and Caelum came to stand next to their master, "Well done. You have not just injured them, but threw their heart into confusion as well.", he said to his followers, "Now Skywalker is confused and hesitant. And from those depths of confusion, shall he begin to hate even himself and by attempting to ignore his plight, he will sally forth with greater determination. Towards our future and his doom." He then held out his right hand, conjuring a orb made out of black mist, creating a raven like Corrupted from it, handing Skywalker's lightsaber to it. "Send this to Ragyo Kiryuin, send her my love.", he told it and the raven flew off into a dark portal. He then turned to his followers, "Prepare the fleet, we are going to finish this war, we are going to take Canterlot." With a loud thud Skywalker landed on the ground, not sure if he had made it back to Equastria, he heard people call his name, before he dropped to the floor. "Holy shit muffins!", the voice of McGrath said, sounding further and further away. "Who would eat muffins that taste like shit?", the voice of Pinkie asked as he finally slipped into darkness. A unknown amount of time later, Skywalker wakes up in his room, laying down on his bed. Sitting back up he saw Twilight and Fluttershy sitting next to his bed, Twilight was reading, while Fluttersy was sleeping while laying her head on his bed. "Jason!", Twilight said when she noticed him sitting straight up, "Are you alright? What happened, Celestia and Luna wouldn't say." Skywalker wasn't answering, he looked broken. As he looked over Fluttershy, he noticed a dried up tear marks. "Hey, what happened with Dashie?", Skywalker asked in a monotone voice. "She was pretty worried sick after you fainted. It took some time, but we managed to calm her down." Fluttershy woke up with a start and a gasp as she realized that she was back in reality and Skywalker were still in bed, just sitting near her. "Jason...", she whispered before crushing Skywalker in a death hug, Skywalker hug back, "I thought I lost you..." "Flutters, it's gonna take more than a omnicidal maniac to take me away from you." A few days later, Skywalker and Twilight were walk to the park to meet up with the friends. "I think it's so sweet that you and Fluttershy are going out together!", she exclaimed for the fifteen time or so, "I always thought that you and Fluttershy would be a perfect couple." Skywalker's heart skips a beat when he hears that, "Do you really believe that me and Flutters are the perfect couple?", he asked and his friend nodded, "To be totally honest, I thought that Fluttershy had no romantic interest in me at all." "You might be the Knight Of The Wind, Sky. But your still a guy.", Twilight said as the two of them finally get to the park and are greeted by the rest of the gang. "Hey there, Romeo.", Phoenix said, locking him into a head lock. "W-What are you talking about?", Skywalker asked trying to break free from his friend as he messed with his hair. "Arc Mage told us all about how you asked Fluttershy to be your lady!", a blush appeared on Fluttershy's face. "Did she now?", Skywalker said, looking at Twilight with a resentful glare. "Now, now, there's no need to be embarrassed, Jason and Fluttershy.", Rarity said, with a bright smile, "Why, I think it's rather sweet." "'Oh, Jason, I'd love to be the mother of your children! I've been waiting so long for you to ask me!'", Phoenix said, doing a very bad imitation of Fluttershy. They heard someone saying hallo to them in the distance. Out of a cloud of dark red mist, Mizuki appeared, startling everyone. Each of them took their fighting stance, but much to their surprise she held up her hands as if surrendering herself. "Please stand down, I have come in peace. There isn't much time.", she spoke looking around every now and then, "Morgenstern is going to press his final assault on Canterlot, before he is going to reshape the Worlds in his image." They weren't sure if they could trust her, but something in the urgency in her voice convinced most of them that she spoke the truth. A few minutes later, Mizuki was held under heavy guard as she began to explain her tale, "At first I believe in the cause Morgenstern was telling, he had raised me with the principle of Supremehuman superiority. I thought we would bring the Worlds under the control of us, restoring the natural order. What I didn't know was that his ideal World was one where everyone and everything is under his direct control, like he had done to Lily and Caelum. His ultimate goal is to rob everyone in the universe of happiness and free will, turning everyone into nihilistic, despairful mind-slaves whose only purpose in life will be to worship him.", she continued to speak. "He has mobilized New Genesis, from it he will rain down death on your armies and once he has taken the throne he will reshape the Worlds where it all began.", she finished, and everyone pondered what they should be doing now. Despise their preparation, they were no where near ready and now Morgenstern even without Force Calibur, even Skywalker wasn't a match for him. "Then we stand and fight.", Celestia spoke, refusing to give in to a tyrant, even if it was her former friend. "We will show him that Equestria won't go down without a fight." "Yeah, we have an army, let's use it!", Sutakira said, and everyone nodded, if they were going to die, they would die free and go out with a bang. And so the call was send out, the United Nations and Arendelle's army where on stand-by, ready to be deployed at any moment. That night, Skywalker was looking out of the window, thinking if it was true what Morgenstern had said, was this monster indeed his father? He was brought out of his train of thoughts when a knock was heard on the door before Fluttershy, having used magic to adopt her human form entered. "Jason, we need to talk.", she began, locking the door behind her, "This could be the last few hours of our lives, and I... I want to do it." "What do you mean, Flutters?", he asked as his girl walked to him, swaying her hips a little more than usual. "Oh, you're so cute when you're timid, Jason.", she said as she started to slowly unbuttoned her dress. Skywalker holds Fluttershy's hands, "Are you doing this because you want to, or because you think you should?" Fluttershy was slightly taken back by this, "I'm... I know what I'm doing. I'm not some child with a crush. I care about you. Don't you care about me?" Skywalker pulled her in a hug, taking in the scent of her hair before he spoke softly, "I do care about you. I will always be there for you, you do know that right?" Suddenly the voice of Morgenstern broke the silence of the night sky, the earth starting to quake, "People of Equestria, hear me and obey. I am Morgenstern. I have come to bring an end to all conflict, to forever seize your day and night. By dawn, all will be one in Morgenstern. This mighty body is my church. When I command your surrender, I speak with three billion voices. When I make a fist to crush your resistance. It is with three billion hands. When I stare into your eyes and shatter your dreams and break your heart, it is with six billion eyes. Nothing like Morgenstern has ever come among you, nothing will again. I am the revelation, there was a war in heaven. I won.", it spoke before the sky was ripped open, and a floating island, decorated by futuristic looking buildings, and billions of Corrupted rained down from the skies again. > Chapter 88: The Dark Messiah Descends > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Morgenstern's army clashed with the Alliance's straight on, the heroes greatly outnumbered. Despise this, the army managed to old the corrupted off, despise being only at 50% strength. That was until Morgenstern and his Inner Circle joined the battle, turning the battle around in the enemies favor. Making their way through the army, Morgenstern destroyed anything that came in his way. "Ever since I was a child, I knew I was not like the others... They called me freak, monster... I knew mine was a special existence... Am I, human? It makes no difference. I have been chosen to save the Worlds.", he thought before spotting the Wonderbolts flying overhead. Turning to his left, he looked at the young man, "Finish them.", he took off his hood, nodding excitedly. He was Morgenstern's old apprentice, Ventus. He features bright blue eyes, light body build, and golden blond spiky hair, at the front concentrates the spikes on the right side of his head as if windswept, and the back is smoother and more flaky. Summoning his Keyblade holding it in an reversed grip, calling forth a typhoon and began to ride on it after the Wonderbolts. In a moment of distraction, Soarin was hit by Ventus against his wing. Spitfire attempted to strike Ventus from behind as Soarin tried to regain himself, but was kicked towards the ground by Ventus as he swung around to face Spitfire. Lily immediately engaged 50 men in battle, all defended themselves well against her onslaught, however she drove them back before killing them all. Caelum unleashed a rapid series of successful attacks against the army, creating a path for his master. The Harmonic Heroes had joined their allies on the battlefield, trying to save as many lives as they could. Celestia, Luna, Cadance, Discord and Shining Armor were waiting in the throne room, waiting for Morgenstern. The doors were blasted open and in he strolled, not quite a strut, but a subtle, confident gait. His eyes blazing and Force Calibur in his hand. "Morgenstern! How did you got in here!?", Celestia asked, horrified and surprised that he made his way through their armies so quickly. "Well you see, your highness. These walls are made of stone, so it wasn't that difficult to...", Morgenstern started to explain, with the casually as if they were discussing the weather, before turning serious again, "Now, stand down, your Highness. I'm not afraid to hit a lady." "Good, neither am I.", Celestia shot back, seeking vengeance against this monster. "We take him together, sister you take him on the...", Luna started but Celestia's emotions overwhelmed her. "No! I'm taking him now!", she declared calling forth her Magic Sword and charged at Morgenstern, but he retaliate with a blast Azure Beams from his eyes, damage her left wing. "Are you alright?", Discord asked, but Celestia brushed him off. Morgenstern lunged at the group. In a moment of distraction, Discord is knocked to the side by a kick from Morgenstern in the stomach. Cadance attempted to blast Morgenstern from behind, but was knocked back by a round house kick as Morgenstern swung around to face her. He immediately engaged Luna, Shining Armor and Celestia in battle. Shining Armor defended himself for a limited time due to his mastery of a more defensive style of combat, but he was ultimately knocked down. "Even your inferior intellect should be able to deduce that there is no hope of defeating me. Now, back down." shoots a blast of red lighting at Celestia but with trouble, she to deflects it into a wall. "I don't think so!", the princess of the sun declared, earning a arrogant smirk from Morgenstern, retaking his fighting stance. Using the jump as a fulcrum for a vicious overhand, Morgenstern began a sudden flurry of blade work and drove Princess Celestia, Princess Luna and Shining Armor backward towards the wall. As they reached the end of the room, Shining Armor found himself with his back to the wall and attempted to rally, working his way around Morgenstern. However, Morgenstern easily held off Shining Armor's attacks and kicked him against the head, sending the commander flying. Shining Armor was able to recover and landed on his feet, and Morgenstern attacked, viciously driving the two princess back through a corridor. However, they where able to hold off Morgenstern brutal barrage with their own staunch defense. They entered a small antechamber outside the throne room, Luna attempted to take advantage of an opening in Morgenstern offense, pulling him into a blade-lock. Celestia blasted at the back of Morgenstern neck, but was unsuccessful, as Morgenstern managed to break the lock and bring his blade up to defend himself. Morgenstern renewed his attack, forcing the sisters to retreat through a small corridor into the throne room. Upon entering the room, a recovered Discord uses a telekinetic push to knock Morgenstern Force Calibur out of his hand, and Princess Luna attempted to use her Magic Sword against Morgenstern. Resorting back to his telekinesis, lightning and Azure Beams. The battle caused heavy damage to Canterlot Castle. Morgenstern took hold of Discord's wrist with one hand and his neck with the other, bending him back. Discord managed to push Morgenstern off him, but Morgenstern returned with a kick breaking his back. "I'm told that hurts.", Morgenstern said before Cadance encased in magic charged at him with blinding speed. Morgenstern respond by sidestepping and kicking her in the stomach. As Cadance flipped over and landed heavily on her back, Morgenstern summoned Force Calibur back to his hand and attempted to finish her with an overhand blow. Morgenstern was too late, as Luna charged with her Magic Sword and blocked the blow. As their duel resumed, their battle took them back into the Hall Of Stories, where they engaged in a swift flurry of swordplay. The two engaged in a blade-lock, Luna attempted to end the lock with a sudden Telekinetic push, but Morgenstern countered with his own Telekinetic Blast, beginning a vicious power-struggle. Eventually the air-pocket compressed ruptured and exploded, sending both duelists flying. Morgenstern recovered first, leaping across the hall slashing at Luna, who managed to evade the attack. But Morgenstern pines her down before breaking both her wings, putting her out of the fight. Celestia renewed her attack, but Morgenstern managed to direct one of her blows against the story glass. Celestia blasted Morgenstern back to give herself a moment to regain her composure. Morgenstern quickly charged again, driving Celestia, and a rejoined Cadance and Shining Armor out onto the exterior balcony. As they battled along the balcony, Morgenstern kicked Celestia hard in the face, driving her further back and breaking her horn. As the trio gave ground, Morgenstern started telekinetically blasting metal shards at them. Driven to the end of the balcony, Shining Armor leaped backward onto a pillar, Cadance and Celestia trying the same but Morgenstern hits Celestia wings with a Azure beam, taking her out of the fight. Cadance and Shining Armor retreating along the pillars with Morgenstern in close pursuit. Attempting to gain the offensive, Cadance attacked first, only to be driven back by Morgenstern relentless assault. Leaping off the pillar onto one of the collection arms below them, Shining Armor again attacked, though Morgenstern easily fended off his blows before knocking Shining Armor aside with a heavy backhand. Morgenstern again seized the offensive, viciously driving Cadance back along the arm, despite her's staunch resistance. Morgenstern raised his hand, calling forth massive pillars of Lava. Retreating to the relative safety of one of the stone walls, Cadance and Shining Armor watched as the heat and weight of the lava melted the castle, the combatants fled up along the length of a pillar. Following close behind, Morgenstern kept up his onslaught, driving Shining Armor and Cadance further up the pillar. After a quick bout of swinging attacks, Morgenstern struck Cadance horn, before blasting her into the ground with a stream of his lightning. "Cadance!", Shining Armor screamed out in horror, before turning to rage at Morgenstern, who was greatly enjoying his look. "See how weak you'r realy are? You can't even protect the one you love." "You pay for that!", Shining Armor declares as he began another bout of blade work with Morgenstern before breaking off. Morgenstern leaped above Shining Armor, attempting to take advantage of this and Shining Armor attacked, but Morgenstern defended himself and counter-attacked, beginning another flurry of swordplay. As Morgenstern leap at Shining Armor, blade angled for the kill, he left himself open, allowing Shining Armor to executed a vicious teleportation finishing move. Shining Armor teleported right in front of Morgenstern, his horn just touching his left eye ball, and blasting it with all the energy he had. As Shining Armor takes a moment to recompose himself, Morgenstern grabs his by his throat smashing him into a wall before looking Shining Armor in the eyes, struggling to breath. "I have never known pain, nor fear, nor weakness. I know only destruction.", Morgenstern declared, his right eye start to charge his Azure Beam as to Shining Armor's shock, Morgenstern left side starts to regenerate. As Morgenstern blast Shining Armor point bank range, he could barley conjure up his famous shield before taking the full blow. Morgenstern drops a barley alive Shining Armor on the ground, as he turns around around as he lifts them all up, dragging them towards the Throne room before taking a seat. "Be at peace. The struggle of life will soon be over for you.", Morgenstern said, slouching back into the throne. "J-Jason, Twily and the others will just blast you with the Elements' powers.", Shining Armor said, lifting his head slightly. "And do what? Turn me to stone or make me regress in age?", Morgenstern asked amused, a slight smirk on his face, but it disappeared when Shining Armor coughs up some blood. "Careful, you have a collapsed lung.", Morgenstern said using his own X-ray vision, a slight hint of worry in his tone. "Do not worry you have fought bravely. But I am smarter, faster and stronger. It ended the only way it could.", he then turned to Celestia, who was laying at his feet. "Anyways, Celestia. How do you feel? Knowing that Jason will soon be mine?", he asked. Celestia didn't answered, she couldn't fight, but she wouldn't give Morgenstern the satisfaction of letting him humiliate her. "A bit defiant, I see. Good, good. Otherwise this would be boring. Oh, by the way, I know about your attraction towards both Jason and Lily Skywalker.", Princess Celestia's eyes widened like dinner plates, "H-how did you!?..." "I didn't, you just confirmed it.", he spoke, "Jason loves you too, you know. One one hand, you had always been the mother to him he never had. On the other hand, he too had romantic feelings for you. Not strong enough to become a full fledged love. But he liked you in a romantic way.", the confused look on Celestia's face sealed it all for him.