Dragons are notorious creatures, but kings are a whole different story.
This story is sort of a midquel that takes place within Family of a LIfetime. Set during the year of bonding before Rainbow Dash and Indominus are married and three months after Indominus made his proposal at the Gala.
Scootaloo is close to getting the family she's always wanted. Ever since the Grand Galloping Gala, things have been looking up for the young filly. Indominus and Rainbow are getting along really well, and growing closer to each other. Scootaloo has become an incredible flyer, and is passing on her training to the dinosaurs. She even has a lover in Tyrannosaurus Rex, but the time for bonding is about to be put on hold. The dinosaurs are visited by the same dragons that helped them in the fight against Black Death. Their lord had heard of the dinosaurs' achievements and has requested an audience with them. Now Indominus, Tyrannosaurus and the raptor squad must travel to the land of the dragons. Unaware that they will be tested by a dragon who reigns supreme over all others. The Dragon King: Smaug.
Three months had passed since the Grand Galloping Gala had come to Canterlot and Indominus and Rainbow had made their agreement. Scootaloo was incredibly grateful that her hybrid savior and surrogate sister had put her before themselves. They had promised to get to know each other over the course of a year, and Indominus was glad for all the quality time. It truly gave him a look at what Rainbow Dash was really like. His pegasus fiance was something special alright.
Ever since the dinosaurs had gotten their powers back and had received their own pair of wings, Rainbow was determined to get them flying. She wanted all of them to be amazing flyers like Scootaloo and herself. Blue and her girls didn't see flying as something that could help them much, but they didn't want to hurt Rainbow or Scootaloo's feelings. Especially after the two of them had allowed the dinosaurs to live in their home. For Tyrannosaurus and Indominus however, learning to fly gave them more time with their beloved pegasi.
Tyrannosaurus learned under Scootaloo's tutelage, since she had learned everything from Rainbow Dash. Using the wings was still strange to him, but his little practice at the Gala had allowed him to get used to it more easily. He was able to get off the ground easily, and could keep pace with Scootaloo at moderate speeds. Unfortunately, he wasn't able to keep pace with her when she started going near Rainbow's speed.
"I don't know Scootaloo, how am I going to get fast like you and Rainbow Dash?" T-Rex asked after he landed and was panting from the training. Scootaloo put a hoof on Tyrannosaurus's shoulder.
"It's ok T-Rex, this is something that takes time to perfect. Believe me," Scootaloo said as she looked over at Rainbow Dash who was flying with Indominus. "I've been there myself."
Tyrannosaurus might've been having difficulty in going fast, but Indominus was having no such trouble. He had gotten used to flying more quickly than T-Rex, and was pushing himself as hard as he could every time Rainbow trained him. She was pushing the hybrid to use all the strength he could put into his wings. Rainbow Dash wanted to make Indominus into an incredibly skilled flyer, she knew he had the potential and wanted to see it. His determination to prove his worth to her kept him going, and it got Rainbow Dash to test his very stamina.
So with Scootaloo training T-Rex, she decided to take Indominus through a chase across plains, above the trees and over mountains.
"Come on Indominus, show me the flyer that lurks behind those scales," Rainbow called out to Indominus over the thunderous claps of his wings.
"I'll show you what I can do Rainbow!"
Indominus beat his wings and the sound of a thousand lightning strikes followed as Indominus pursued Rainbow Dash through a mountain pass. He followed after Rainbow Dash, maneuvering and weaving past every obstacle that came his way while following her rainbow trail. At one point, Indominus was able to bring his face right alongside Rainbow's so that they were flying completely parallel with each other. All the while, Scootaloo and the rest of the family were watching the race from above.
"Go Rainbow Dash!"
"Show her what you can do Indominus!"
Trying to keep pace with Rainbow was putting a tough strain on Indominus's body. The velocity he was struggling to maintain while flying through the pass and dodging the mountains was a taxing ordeal. The hybrid wasn't used to the intense speed Rainbow Dash was putting out. Everything around him was nothing more than a blur as he followed his fiance through the chase. Then Rainbow Dash began to pull ahead and gained a few feet on Indominus.
Her endurance was far greater than Indominus's in terms of flight. She could handle the turns and blinding speeds far more easily than her hybrid lover. His sheer determination was the only thing keeping him going and from giving up. She had to commend him for his bravery and guts to keep up the chase. Up ahead, Rainbow Dash spotted a massive mountain ahead of them. She called out to Indominus to get his attention.
"Heads up Indominus, we're about to go skyward!"
Indominus noticed the mountain ahead, and began to angle himself. Rainbow Dash was already angling herself at an upward incline to clear the mountain. It took Indominus just one giant flap to get into the same angle as Rainbow. Both of them strained to pull their bodies back as they worked their way up the side of the mountain. Indominus's tail smashed the tip of the mountain as he and Rainbow went right into the sky and cleared the area.
The chase didn't end there, Rainbow led Indominus into a deep dive that regained the speed they had lost in the climb. Both of them expanded their wings just above the tree tops, Indominus's foot claws shredded the trees as he got parallel with Rainbow again. This time, he was going to pull ahead of his fiance, and stay there. Against the extreme velocity, Indominus managed to flap his wings one more time, but this time he started spinning like a corkscrew.
The bizarre maneuver took Rainbow Dash by surprise, and incredibly, it allowed Indominus to pull ahead of her and he took over. Rainbow had to maneuver wildly to avoid Indominus's massive tail going in all directions as he led them into another climb. He looped back around and started heading back towards Scootaloo and the other dinosaurs. Rainbow could see the chase was coming to a close, and it was time to see which of them would arrive first.
Both flyers tried to make their bodies as aerodynamic as possible, anything to gain more speed. The slight lead that Indominus had gained over Rainbow Dash was being lost as she pulled up alongside his face. Both were waging back and forth against each other, gaining the lead again or going equal and parallel. As the dinosaurs and Scootaloo became more visible, Indominus and Rainbow pulled out their arms and legs in front of them to brace for the landing.
"Everyone, look out!" Scootaloo, T-Rex and the raptors scattered as the flyers smashed into the ground.
The area shuddered from the force of the impact, clouds of dust and debris shot up from the ground. It took a minute for the dust to clear and Scootaloo was astounded by what she was seeing. Indominus and Rainbow had touched down at the exact same time, and the force from their impact had created a massive crater in the ground. Both of them had sunk at least ten feet into the dirt because of how fast they were going. Rainbow flew out of the crater, a little shaken, but Indominus was having trouble.
He had to crawl out of the crater because his body had taken so much punishment from the intense flying. Going at the near supersonic speeds that Rainbow Dash had been pushing him against had taken a toll on Indominus. The hybrid's limbs were shaking and his wings were down and dragging on the ground as he managed to climb out of the crater. T-Rex and the raptors were worried he was going to give out and collapse. Then Scootaloo felt an 'aww' escape her mouth as she watched Rainbow Dash do something in an act of true companionship.
She increased her size, put her head underneath Indominus's and draped a wing over him. Rainbow had positioned herself so that Indominus wouldn't give out under the stress. She talked to him softly as he began breathing like crazy, trying to catch his breath again.
"It's alright Indominus, just breathe," Rainbow calmly said to her hybrid fiance. "You did amazing this time, you're making the same kind of progress that Scootaloo did when I was teaching her. The way you handled maneuvering at those speeds, that's something only me and the Wonderbolts could handle."
"The...Wonderbolts?" Indominus asked amidst his breathing.
"They're the best flyers in Equestria, and my personal heroes."
"Rainbow Dash became a reserve Wonderbolt about a few months before you guys came along," said Scootaloo. "Whenever a Wonderbolt can't perform, she gets to fill that spot."
"Really? We'd be up for meeting these heroes of yours someday Dash," said Blue.
"I'm not so sure Blue, Soarin is a member of the Wonderbolts. You all remember how he behaved at the Gala, right?"
"How could we not," Echo said angrily.
"He called us hideous mutants," Charlie added.
"Not to mention he tried to fight Indominus. No doubt he's probably been spreading lies and garbage about us." Tyrannosaurus said in disgust.
"Well I won't let that happen to any of you," Rainbow looked into Indominus's eyes after his body stopped shaking and ran a hoof across his face. "Especially you Indominus. I would sooner fight the Wonderbolts, than ever let them hurt you."
Indominus licked Rainbow's face and stood up on his legs.
"Thanks Rainbow Dash, I'd defend you to the very end if any of them tried to hurt you either."
Flying at high speeds and going on intense races was just one of the many ways that the new family bonded over the year.
The dinosaurs taught Rainbow and Scootaloo how to fight in exchange for their flight training, If the dinosaurs were going to learn from the pegasus' way of life, then they were going to learn from the carnivores' way of life. Scootaloo learned how to utilize the full extent of her strength and power from Tyrannosaurus, Blue and her sisters. They had helped shape her into a very capable fighter as much as she was a proud flyer. Indominus and Rainbow Dash took this training to a whole new level, and really got into the heat of a brawl.
Using a combination of flying and their newfound powers, Indominus and Rainbow Dash often turned their training into intense scuffles. Their blows created shock waves, the magnitude of their power shook the ground and frightened all in the area. Each time they trained, both dinosaur and pegasus learned and developed new fight tactics. Scootaloo, Rainbow Dash and the dinosaurs had all become strong and proud fighters that could live up to their reputation as Guardians of Equestria.
The bonding throughout the course of the year gave the dinosaurs plenty of time to bond with their new family. However, during one particular day, the dinosaurs would be called to a land that no pony could ever survive in. It would also bring some familiar creatures back into their lives that they thought wouldn't be returning so soon: dragons.
On that fateful day, the dinosaurs were enjoying a nice relaxing picnic in the fields with the Mane Six and their sisters. One of the best parts about no longer having to hide and being accepted into Ponyville was that the dinosaurs could go on peaceful get-togethers with the Elements of Harmony. It made all the trouble that Black Death and Scootaloo's parents had caused worth the effort. Anypony that saw the picnic would've described it as one big family.
Charlie was playing around with Applebloom and Applejack, and playfully chase them through the fields. Echo played with Sweetie Belle while Delta kept Rarity company. Blue chose to relax by Tyrannosaurus and Fluttershy and felt herself drifting in and out of sleep. Indominus was resting his head by Twilight, Pinkie, Rainbow and Scootaloo while enjoying some nice apples. They truly looked like a family that couldn't be torn apart.
"It's moments like these that make all the drama we've dealt with seem worth it, huh Indominus," Twilight said to the hybrid.
"Well Twilight, I have to admit I do miss getting to fight all the monsters that tried to attack Equestria. But here, we get to be with all of you."
"I don't think we would have it any other way, right Blue," T-Rex asked the calm raptor.
"You said it Rexy, this is the best life I could wish for."
"Just think, you and Rainbow Dash will be tying the knot someday," said Pinkie.
"I know, and then you'll have the family you've needed Scoots." Rainbow said while playfully ruffling Scootaloo's mane. Scootaloo just snuggled against her true sister in delight.
"Thanks Rainbow Dash, but this is already the family I've needed. We don't need any written document to prove it. Just as long as we'll be there for each other when it really counts."
"Always Scootaloo."
The afternoon continued to move along smoothly and pleasantly, when Twilight began hearing a distant beating of wings. She looked into the sky to see if any of the raptors were flying, but they were all on the ground. Then it sounded like the wing beats were slowly getting louder.
"Everypony, do you hear that?"
The others perked their heads up and heard the same wing beats that Twilight was hearing. Suddenly, the raptors all got up and began snarling at the air. Tyrannosaurus and Indominus tried sniffing to see if they could pick up what had alarmed Blue and her girls so much. Once they picked up on the scent, the dinosaurs all moved in a circle around the Mane Six.
"What's going on Indominus? What are all of you smelling?"
"Dragons Twilight, there are dragons heading this way."
The gang looked into the sky and spotted the black silhouettes of dragons heading their way. The dinosaurs prepared themselves for an all out brawl, but as the dragons drew closer, Indominus and Tyrannosaurus recognized them. As the dragons touched down in front of them, the dinosaurs knew exactly who they were. They were the exact same dragons that had helped them in taking down Black Death so many months ago.
Both dinosaurs and ponies relaxed once they recognized these particular dragons. The white, green and dark blue dragons all stepped forward calmly as the dinosaurs walked over to greet them.
"Long time no see brothers, it's been too long."
"I'll say it has." Hearing Indominus talk took all three dragons by surprise.
"S-Since when have you all been able to talk," the white dragon stammered.
"Since a few months ago," Blue answered. "So, what are you guys doing here?"
"Well for one, we're not here to eat your friends so they are welcome to join this conversation if they want," the dark blue dragon said.
Tyrannosaurus motioned for the ponies to join them. The all climbed onto T-Rex and Indominus's bodies to get a better look. Rarity and Applejack stayed close to Applebloom and Sweetie Belle, not taking any chances. Rainbow and Scootaloo stood atop their respective dinosaur's heads, and the dragons took notice.
"It's good to see all of you getting along so well," the green dragon said after noticing the sisters.
"We're a lot closer than you boys think." The green dragon's eyes went wide when he spotted the Arkenstone around Rainbow's neck.
"Did he really pick out that amazing ring for you?"
"I sure did, but that's besides the point. Why did you boys come all the way out here?"
"Oh right. The reason why we've come here is to give you all a message from our king."
"Your king!?" Indominus didn't think that dragons even had a king, so this was a surprise to him.
"The dragon Lord heard of how the dinosaurs defeated Black Death?"
"That is correct young alicorn, our king heard of their accomplishment and has asked us to bring them to our land."
The dark blue dragon spoke to Indominus and Tyrannosaurus next.
"He has requested an audience with all of you and wants to see your fighting prowess for himself."
The white dragon noticed that the dinosaurs were looking at the ponies nervously. He had a good idea of what they were thinking about. When Indominus spoke, his suspicions were confirmed.
"Will our friends be able to tag along and see what your king has in mind for us?"
"Why of course, I'll make it my personal responsibility that nothing happens to them. After all, we still owe you Guardians for giving us our freedom."
Blue and her sister leaped onto the rexes' backs to ask the Mane Six.
"What do you say girls? Will you accompany us to the land of the dragons?"
The girls thought about it, and even though they were sure that Fluttershy would try to back out, she agreed. Since the dragons had promised them safety, she felt reassured that nothing would happen to them. Thus the decision was unanimous, the Mane Six agreed to join the dinosaurs on their journey to the dragons' domain. The group took off with the three dragons guiding the way, neither the ponies nor the dinosaurs knew what would be waiting for them at the dragon lands. They would be meeting a king whose fighting prowess would put Black Death to shame.
As the dinosaurs followed the dragons to their domain, questions were going through their minds. What did the dragon Lord have in store for them? Why was he so interested in them after only hearing how they had defeated Black Death? But one question nagged at them all more than anything. What was this dragon king like, and was he more powerful than Black Death?
Their thoughts were put on hold when the terrain changed from grassy fields to rocky terrain, outcrops in the distance, and dragons brawling everywhere. The girls all had wide eyes at the sight before them.
"Uh Twilight, this is far more extreme than I remember," Rainbow Dash whispered.
"I've noticed, we'd better make ourselves invisible." Twilight cast an invisibility spell on herself and the girls as the dragons came swooping in at the sight of the dinosaurs.
All of them tried to get in close to get a good look at the Guardians, but the three dragons shoved them all aside.
"Back off!" The greed dragon bellowed at the crowd in anger. "They're not here for your amusement, our king requested an audience with them."
Upon hearing this, a bunch of hushed whispers and conversations were started amongst the dragons.
"Our lord wants to see them?"
"This is gonna be good. Our king doesn't have an audience with just anyone."
The trio led the dinosaurs across their land until they came to a massive lake that seemed to stretch for miles. In the distance, the dinosaurs and ponies could make out a giant shape of land that had an enormous black shape resting on it.
"What you all are seeing out there, that is our king."
"He'll look a great deal bigger when he touches down," the dark blue dragon said. He and the white dragon gave out bellowing roars to the black shape on the horizon.
Everypony watched with shocked looks on their faces as the shape began to rise and then took off on two giant wings. The echoes from each flap could be heard by every dragon in the area. They all scattered as the wing beats drew closer, the dinosaurs slowly backed up themselves as the massive dragon came closer. The white dragon hid the ponies in his wing as the wing beats stopped and the king glided towards the land. When he touched down, the dinosaurs and ponies couldn't believe how different the king was from his subjects.
Whereas most dragons stood upright, the dragon lord stood on all fours in an animal-like posture. His scales were a dark shade of red, and bore countless scars all over his body from many hard fought battles. It appeared that his front arms and wings were merged into one, for the dinosaurs noticed the leathery membranes that folded alongside him. His neck was long and twisted like a serpent's, and his head had spikes that flexed with his movements instead of horns. To top it off, his eyes burned with a golden yellow as he eyed the dinosaurs.
"Sire, we brought them here as you requested."
"Excellent, well done soldier," the amount of bass coming from the dragon lord's voice rattled the ponies and terrified them. The king raised his head so he could look down upon the dinosaurs that had been brought before him.
"So, these are the creatures that challenged Black Death and destroyed him?"
"That is correct." Tyrannosaurus's sudden response shocked all the dragons. None of them ever spoke to their king unless he said so.
The dragon lord lowered his head and looked T-Rex in the eyes.
"So, you all can talk too? Splendid, then we can get the introductions out of the way before I tell all of you why I summoned you here." The trio of dragons stood behind the dinosaurs as their king spoke. "I am Dragon Lord Smaug, I have ruled over these lands for many years and kept all the dragons in line. I never faced any rogues until Black Death came along. I was able to banish him from these lands after defeating him in battle."
The dinosaurs and ponies were hanging onto every word Smaug said.
"A few months ago, I find out from these survivors that he had been killed by a group of creatures that had overpowered and destroyed him. I want all of you to give me your names and what kind of animals you are, so I can get a good idea of how Black Death got killed."
Smaug moved his head towards Blue and her girls. The other raptors seemed intimidated by his massive size, but Blue stood her ground.
"We'll start with you little ones, what do you call yourselves?" Blue stepped forward and spoke to Smaug.
"We are called Velociraptors. Our name means pack hunters, I'm Blue and these are my sisters Delta, Echo and Charlie. We are all dinosaurs." Smaug took a minute to take in the info he had received.
"Hmm, hunting in numbers to take on bigger enemies, I like it. Judging by the weapons you all have, especially those claws on your feet, I can see how Black Death would have trouble with you."
"We gave him plenty of trouble alright," Echo said. "Sliced up his body and gave him a world of hurt." Smaug turned to eye the young raptor.
"Your determination speaks for itself, my dears. Very nice, now onto the next warrior."
The raptors joined the dragons as Smaug focused his attention on Tyrannosaurus Rex. He seemed rather impressed with T-Rex's stature and the golden glow from his eyes.
"Now you are a soul that could take any challenge and fears nothing."
"That is true Smaug, I have the power and prowess to take on any challenge." Smaug mover his neck so that he could look over Tyrannosaurus's body.
"Your body bares the many scars of battle, just like mine. What do you call yourself, powerful one?" T-Rex stood to his full height and looked Smaug right in the eye.
"I am called Tyrannosaurus Rex! My name means tyrant lizard, in my world I was the king of all other dinosaurs." T-Rex gave a proud roar to declare himself. The roar pleased Smaug immensely, and he appeared satisfied.
"What a grand name, and with all the strength you possess Tyrannosaurus, you are definitely worthy of that name. I can imagine that Black Death had to struggle against you quite a lot."
"I rammed him into mountains, crushed his bones, and tore off his arms half a dozen times." Hearing this caused Smaug's eyes to glow brightly.
"Truly superb, you and I will get along just fine Tyrannosaurus." Smaug was ready to address Indominus, but the moment his eyes fell upon the hybrid, the dragon's mood changed. "Well, this is quite a peculiar sight. I've never seen such a unique creature before."
Smaug's mouth curled into a strange smile as he made his way towards Indominus and began to circle his body. Indominus didn't know what to make of this and noticed that Smaug hadn't questioned him yet. The dragon lord was still eyeing him, like he was expecting something from the hybrid. Indominus took a guess and decided to mimic Smaug's walk and eyeing him too. The golden fire from Smaug's eyes glaring against the powerful crimson gaze from Indominus. All the other dragons were perplexed, they had never seen their king act this way before.
"What's going on? Why is he just staring at Indominus," Twilight asked from inside the white dragon's wing.
"We're not sure, we've never seen Smaug act this way around any dragon before. If I had to guess, I'd say that Indominus might've peeked his interest."
After what felt like an eternity, they finally heard Smaug speak.
"You seem so similar to the raptors and Tyrannosaurus, but yet, you are so much different. Your body is on a whole different level than theirs. Also, I'm picking up multiple scents on you, not just one solid scent. I can tell that a powerful fire lurks behind those slit eyes of yours. You are the first creature that has ever managed to arouse my curiosity with your uniqueness. Who are you, and what do you call yourself, strange one?"
Indominus tried to go for as deep a tone as he could, and spoke to Smaug very calmly.
"I am what some have come to define as, a hybrid."
"Hybrid!?" The word took Smaug by surprise, he had never encountered a hybrid in his life. He stopped circling Indominus and got to eye-level with him. "So just how many creatures were you born from?"
"I was born from at least ten different animals." Smaug's eyes shrunk after he heard what Indominus had said.
"You can't be serious, something like that isn't possible."
"If only I was pulling your leg."
"Well, that explains why you have so many scents on you, and so many odd features. What else do you claim to be?"
"My name is Indominus Rex."
"Indominus. Mmmm, I love the way that name rolls off my tongue. It's unique and befitting for you at the same time. Continue."
Indominus could see that he was getting Smaug's attention and continued.
"I've found that my name has two meanings. The first one is "the king with no master," but the second one is my preferred meaning. It's called the "untamable king.""
"Untamable?" Smaug said in delight once the word had escaped Indominus's jaws. "Now that is the most fascinating term I've ever heard. You are a rare creature indeed Indominus, but I have to ask you one thing. Where are your pony friends hiding?"
Inside Indominus, his heart stopped with a jolt. There was no way that Smaug could've known that the Mane SIx had tagged along.
"P-Ponies? There are no ponies in these lands, you've got that all wrong."
"Oh I don't think so, Untamable King. You have spent a great deal of time around them, and if I'm not mistaken, one of them appears to be your mate. You've spent so much time around this particular pony that her scent is practically engraved on you."
The hybrid felt his heart pounding wildly, this dragon knew that Rainbow Dash and her friends were nearby, and it scared him to think what might happen. But he couldn't show his fear in front of Smaug, so Indominus swallowed his fear and stood his ground.
"So what if I have a pony as a mate? What does it matter to you anyway? But I warn you Smaug, I don't tolerate any creature that hurts my girl, and I certainly will not let you hurt them."
Smaug barely flinched at Indominus's words, he just got right in the hybrid's face.
"I don't tolerate any creature that wanders into my kingdom Indominus, especially meddlesome ponies. However, given that one of them is your mate, if they are here it means that they wanted to see what I have in store for all of you. I won't hurt this particular group if they happen to show themselves, so you don't have to be so tense. I may be a dragon, but I'm not unreasonable."
Indominus relaxed his aggressive posture and Smaug gathered the dinosaurs in front of him. It was time to reveal the real reason why he had requested them to come to his kingdom.
"Now that introductions are over, time for me to explain myself. The reason I summoned all of you here is because I want to see you dinosaurs fight and show me the power that killed Black Death. After I heard about his death, I had to see if the rumors were true for myself. So I figured the best way for all of you to showcase your power to me is with a gauntlet."
"Gauntlet?" The dinosaurs all said in unison.
"That's right, a gauntlet. Each of you will fight against the best dragons in this land and prove to me that you truly live up to the rumor of slaughtering Black Death. If I like what I see, I may give a rare reward to you dinosaurs."
The dinosaurs could care less about what the reward was, but the promise of getting to fight again fueled their inner flames. However, there was just one question left that Delta chose to bring up.
"Where are you planning on having this gauntlet?"
"I'm glad you asked Delta, there is a special arena in this land that is perfect for a gauntlet like this."
Smaug took one of his long arms and pointed towards a large volcano in the distance. The sky around the volcano was always bright red, and the dinosaurs watched a huge geyser of lava erupt from within. Seeing that he had gotten their curiosity aroused, Smaug continued.
"That volcano holds a battle arena within its very crater. It's where every dragon in the land gathers to watch the boldest and most powerful dragons contest their skills and strengths in the heart of the volcano. That will be where the gauntlet shall be held."
Every dragon in the area roared in applause, they had witnessed battles held in that volcano before. Now it would be the center stage for the dinosaurs to showcase their prowess. Smaug led the way as he guided the carnivores towards the battle arena. The Mane Six were all nervous now, they weren't sure if the dinosaurs were going to come out of this battle with their scales intact. Out of all of them, Rainbow Dash was the most worried along with Scootaloo. They would have to watch their loved ones and guardians fight in the heart of a dangerous and volatile volcano.
The dinosaurs followed Smaug towards the massive volcano that would hold the gauntlet. On the way there, every dragon in the land followed behind them, each one eager for the battles that would take place. Rainbow Dash kept poking her head out to try and keep an eye on Indominus. She knew he could take care of himself, but there was just something about Smaug that Rainbow didn't like. The Dragon Lord had seemed interested in Indominus, and didn't sound in the least bit worried around the dinosaurs. Like he was completely confident that he could best them if he wanted.
Her curiosity was also aroused because Smaug had been sticking by Indominus during the walk. The two of them had been chatting almost nonstop, and it worried Rainbow about what they could be discussing.
"Rainbow Dash," Twilight whispered. "You can't keep on watching him like this, you'll give us away."
"I can't help it Twilight, there's just something off about the way Smaug is acting around Indominus."
"Maybe it's just because he sees a strong fighter in your fiance," said Rarity. "After all, he did call Indominus the most interesting creature he's ever seen."
"That doesn't mean I can't worry about him." Rainbow then felt herself being pulled back inside the wing. Pinkie and Fluttershy actually had to hold her to keep her from peeking back out. Scootaloo snuggled against her sister and whispered something important to her.
"Listen Rainbow, I've been around Indominus longer than you have, and I know he can take care of himself. After all, he, Tyrannosaurus and the raptors did save us from Black Death right?"
"Yeah they did but-"
"No buts. They are our guardians and I'm asking you to put some faith and trust in them."
"Ok Scoots. I'll try to take it easy."
Their attention was diverted when Applebloom and Sweetie Belle called them over.
"If it helps Rainbow, I think Blue and her girls are having a tougher time than you are."
"A couple of ugly dragons are givin' them a whole mess a trouble," said AppleBloom.
The Mane Six peeked out under the wing and Twilight, Rainbow and Rarity recognized the group immediately.
"Twilight, is that who I think it is?"
"Yep, that's Garble's gang alright."
"The very same dragons that bullied Spike and tried to make him steal from a phoenix nest?" Rarity asked after spotting the young, red dragon.
"I'm afraid so Rarity, now it seems they're going after the raptors."
It was true. Garble and his band of teenage dragons had spotted Blue and her squad of raptors. The dragon was giving Blue a hard time alright, but he wasn't bullying her. It was far more dangerous than that. Each member of his gang was trying to sweet talk the raptors into mating with them.
"Hey there doll, what's a couple of nice girls like you doing with beasts like these?" Blue couldn't believe what she was hearing.
"You've got to be kidding me," she turned to her sisters. "Girls, is this pitiful excuse for a dragon trying to court me?"
"Not just you Blue, he and his gang are trying to court all of us," Echo said after spotting the rest of Garble's goons alongside each of them.
"You girls deserve someone who can look after you, and give you what your bodies really want deep down."
The eyes of all the raptors shrunk after they heard the sentence from a white dragon named Puff's mouth. Blue and her girls spun around on a dime, and got right in the dragons' faces. Each raptor was snarling and baring their teeth at the cocky teenage dragons. Garble got uneasy at the sight of the razor teeth in front of him, and a bead of sweat rolled down his face.
"Listen to me you wretched excuse of a dragon." Garble couldn't utter a word against the fierceness in Blue's voice. "I would never choose some lowlife dragon whose only desire is to get what he wants and push around others that he feels are beneath him. The day I choose you as my mate, is the day that ponies go savage and come to tear you apart and dangle your eyeballs over their doors."
"The only thing you bums are good for is making yourselves look like idiots," the others raptors said in unison as they followed Blue and slapped the dragons in the face with their tails.
"Ooh, we've got us a bunch of wild cards here boys. I'm gonna break them and make them mate with us by the end of the gauntlet." Then a devious thought popped into Garble's head. "i'll use the gauntlet so that they'll have no choice but to be with us."
Garble was about to get his chance because they had finally arrived at the peak of the volcano.
They had finally reached the volcano where the gauntlet would take place. Smaug turned around and spoke to the whole crowd that had gathered.
"Welcome fellow dragons and dinosaurs, to the Final Destination!" The dragons shot forth fire into the sky in great applause. "This is where we will be holding a rare gauntlet, where a select few of you will get the chance to spar with these legendary creatures. In a minute, I will pick any volunteers that would like to test their skills against the dinosaurs of Equestria."
Smaug motioned for the dinosaurs to stand alongside him at the edge of the volcano.
"Take a look inside, there's a reason why I called this particular volcano the 'Final Destination.'"
The dinosaurs looked over the edge, down into the volcano and the fiery sight before them caused fear to sink into their hearts.
The inside of the volcano was for more massive than the outside. The walls expanded much further outwards, and there were small geysers of lava still erupting inside. What caught the dinosaurs' attention was the humongous platform in the very heart of the volcano. It covered nearly the entire perimeter of the volcanic inside, and was littered with rocky outcrops and piles of bones. Every now and then the lava would wash over part of the arena, and then harden over everything it touched. The dinosaurs turned their heads towards Smaug, who had a wicked grin on his face.
"The reason why this volcano is called Final Destination is because of how this arena is set up. The battlefield is set above the erupting lava to test a dragon's nerve and their stamina when under pressure. Once the battle begins, the dragons must try to win the fight before the timer runs out."
"What do you mean by 'timer?'"
"What I mean Tyrannosaurus, is that a winner must be decided before the volcano erupts. When the volcano blows, it claims the life of the weakest contender and swallows them into its core. There have been instances where this arena has claimed the lives of both contenders because they were too weak and worn out to escape the battlefield. Only the boldest and most confident dragons ever fight in this arena, for they know about the chance of dying by this volcano. For you guys however, I will have a dragon fly the winner out before the volcano erupts, so you shouldn't have to worry."
The dinosaurs didn't have to worry regardless, for they could just tap into their powers and fly out with their own wings if they had to. Before they had arrived at the dragon lands. all of them had agreed that they wouldn't use their power unless it was absolutely necessary. Smaug turned his attention back towards the crowd, ready to make his choice.
"So, which of you would like to spar with the velociraptors first?"
"Me and my boys would like to fight them!"
Smaug pointed his head down after hearing Garble talk. He didn't seem very amused.
"Garble, you are hardly a challenge for these dinosaurs. They are far beyond anything you could possibly muster."
"Just give us a chance Lord Smaug, give us a chance to prove our strength in battle."
Blue was getting fed up with Garble, she knew what he really wanted. But then, a devious idea popped into her mind. She talked amongst her sisters about the plan: they would accept Garble's challenge and make him an offer that he wouldn't be able to refuse. Then once the battle began, they would destroy him and his boys so they would never bother anypony again. It was a brilliant plan, so once the decision was unanimous, Blue stepped forward and got Smaug's attention.
"Actually Smaug, me and my girls talked it over and decided that we will take on Garble and his gang."
The dragon's neck turned so hard to the left that the others thought he had broken some bones. He looked at Blue like she had gone mad.
"Are you sure about this young raptor? There are thousands of dragons that could be a far better challenge for you and your squad."
"Trust me Smaug, you're going to like this as much as we will. We're going to give that punk and his gang everything that's coming to them." Smaug's eyes brightened at the teasing yet serious tone coming from Blue.
"Ooh, ominous, I like it. Very well Blue, you and your fellow raptors can face... ugh, Garble and his rag tag band of misfits." Garble and his crew stepped forward to meet with Blue, she and her sisters met the teen dragons just a few inches apart.
"So kind of you to accept me and my boys as your challenge. So how about we make the first round of this gauntlet more interesting?"
"Funny you should mention that, we have a proposition of our own that we would like to add to this fight. But you tell us your idea first, since you brought it up."
"Alright we will. Let's tell em boys." The dragons all took turns telling the raptors what the stakes were.
"If we win the fight-"
"You girls have to be our mates."
"That means you'll have to remain here with us forever."
"It also means that you'll have to bow to our will whenever we want to have our 'fun.'"
Twilight cringed hard at what Garble was implying. Yet Blue and her girls didn't even seem fazed, they weren't even concerned.
"Tell you what Garble, this is what we have in mind."
Charlie: "If you and your boys win the fight and get us out of the volcano before it blows,"
Delta: "Then you and your boys can mate with us."
Echo: "Right on the spot."
Blue: "In front of every dragon in the land."
The eyes of every dragon in the area went wide, even Smaug's. Blue and the raptor squad had just agreed to subject themselves to total submission and forced mating to Garble if they lost the gauntlet. In the heat of the moment, Twilight flew out from under the white dragon's wing, exposing herself to all the dragons.
"Blue you can't do something this crazy! You can't be tied down to a dragon like him!" It took Twilight only a moment to realize the grave error she had made. All the dragons had their eyes on her, especially Garble. Her friends came out to defend her, but it only whitened Garble's vicious temper.
"I remember you, you're the ponies that interfered with our egg hunt last time. Well this time, I'll take care of all of you myself."
Indominus saw that Rainbow and the others were in trouble. He and T-Rex were about to move in, but Smaug beat them to the punch. He put one of his massive hands in front of Garble, stopping the teen dragon dead in his tracks. Smaug lowered his head until he was at ground level and spoke in a deep and serious tone.
"No. You will not harm these ponies."
"What!? But sire they're ponies, we can't let them li-"
"I told you NO!! I WON'T TAKE ANYTHING ELSE FROM YOUR MOUTH! You're lucky that I'm even letting you challenge the raptors in the first place." Garble stood trembling before Smaug, and didn't utter a word.
Smaug turned his head towards the Mane Six, most of them and the CMC were terrified of the massive dragon before them. Rainbow Dash tried to remain strong and calm in front of Smaug as his eyes fell upon her. His golden eyes widened when he spotted the Arkenstone around her neck. Smaug was just as mesmerized by the stone as Indominus had been when he first saw it. Rainbow felt her body rattle when Smaug spoke to her.
"Tell me something pony, did Indominus pick out that ring for you?"
"Y-Yes, he did pick it out for me. He picked out the Arkenstone, because he loves me." Rainbow tried to not say anything that would aggravate Smaug.
"Well, I must say, he has excellent taste in stones. None of you have to worry, I promised him that no harm would befall any of you while you are here, especially to his mate."
"T-T-Thank you, Lord Smaug," Twilight and the others stuttered in gratitude. The dragon lord nodded his head, rose back to his full height and walked over to Indominus.
"That rainbow one with the Arkenstone around her neck, she is your mate?" Indominus stood tall in front of Smaug, ready to accept whatever Smaug had.
"Yes, she is my mate. She's really something once you get to know her."
"Well, I'd like to see her in action one day. She looks like she had plenty of potential." This surprised Indominus, he had expected Smaug to berate him.
"You mean you're not mad or angry?"
"I'm not one to judge, and to each their own. You obviously chose her because she has great power hidden within her. I kinda want to see what her potential really is."
"Maybe you'll get to see it while we're here. Now let's get this gauntlet underway Smaug. You have plenty of action to look forward to."
"That I do. Now let the gauntlet BEGIN!!"
The dragon lord roared into the sky of his domain, announcing that the gauntlet had officially begun. The first round was about to commence, Raptor Squad vs Dragon Gang. Before Garble walked over towards the edge of the volcano, Blue finished her terms with him.
"I forgot to mention what happens if we win."
"Alright, suppose you and your girls win, what do you get out of this?"
"If we win," Blue walked over to Garble's ear and whispered her answer. "We get to slaughter all of you in front of the crowd. Let that little possibility keep you on your toes." As Blue and her girls walked off, Garble was again quivering. Now he was beginning to realize just how high the velociraptors had razed the stakes for this fight.
The first round of Smaug's gauntlet commenced, Garble and his gang against Blue and her sisters. Smaug flew the raptors into the volcano and onto the battle stage. Garble and his boys flew down inside after them, and Smaug left as soon as he dropped the raptors off. Once he was out of the volcano, Smaug called to the raptors from the sky.
"Velociraptors, I hope you're ready for the start of the gauntlet!"
Once they were inside the volcano, Blue realized just how tough this fight was actually going to be. The air was very thick and the heat from the volcano only added to the pressure that would be put on the combatants. This wasn't going to be a regular fight, there was life and stakes riding on the outcome of this brawl.
"Alright girls, are we ready to show these wannabes what us raptors can do?"
"You bet sister!" The raptors selected their targets amidst the sweltering heat and lined themselves up against the dragons they would fight. Delta picked the thin grey dragon with white horns. Charlie chose the white dragon with pinkish spikes that looked like a mane. Echo chose a chubby light purple dragon with light blue horns, and finally, Blue chose to fight Garble. With their opponents selected, the raptors bellowed challenging roars, charged towards their targets and the gauntlet was underway.
Up above, all the dragons had gathered around the entire perimeter of the volcano to witness the battle. The volcano was large enough so that every dragon could witness the brawl and no one would be left out. The Mane Six and CMC were also watching, with the dragon trio standing by in case anything happened. They could hear the shrieks and growls coming from within as dragons and raptors slashed and snapped at each other.
Charlie was outmaneuvering her target at every step. The white dragon couldn't lay a claw on her, Charlie's training with Indominus and Tyrannosaurus had taught her how to anticipate and counter attack. With every blow that he missed, Charlie scored slashes and drew more blood with each strike. Her sisters were faring just as well with their opponents.
Delta's opponent may have been agile in dodging most of her attacks, but he didn't have the brawn to score any decisive blows. He did feel every one of Delta's attacks, especially when she grabbed him behind the neck and threw him into an outcrop. She latched onto his back with her teeth and claws, and threw the punk dragon across the battlefield. He stood back up, gritting his teeth in anger and charged back towards Delta. Only to be stopped by an uppercut with her head.
Echo was slowly making her opponent wear himself out and bleed to death. Because the dragon she was facing was so massive, she had to deliver more attacks to weaken him. The purple dragon was too fat and couldn't grab at the more agile raptor, so she used that to climb onto his body and slash wherever she could. The sickle claws on her feet carved away at his stomach and caused his blood to spill everywhere. Echo added to the injury by pushing off the fat dragon's body and making him crash into an outcrop.
Blue was locked in a much more heated battle than her sisters were. She and Garble were going toe to toe with each other, and trying to gain the upper claw. Yet Blue was able to get in more savage bites around the neck while Garble nailed more punches in her stomach. The blows didn't slow her down any, because she wasn't about to let Garble have his way. The two predators were throwing slashes and bites at each other, turning the fight into a blood brawl.
Above the battle, Smaug was smiling and enjoying himself.
"You like what you see Smaug," Indominus said to the dragon lord.
"Oh, most definitely! The velociraptors are quite the vicious warriors. I think that Blue is going to kill Garble at this rate. Now I see what she meant when she told me I would enjoy this as much as she and her girls would."
"What did she tell you?"
"She told me that Garble was going to get everything that was coming to him. I believe that she set him and his boys up, now there is no way Garble is getting out of this fight alive. If the volcano doesn't kill him, then the raptors will."
Back in the volcano, Garble was getting incredibly frustrated after being unable to effectively attack Blue. She and her girls were making fools out of his gang, and slowly killing them at the same time. But the icing on the insult to injury cake, was the cheering that the raptors were getting from the Mane Six and the CMC.
"You show him Echo, slash him up good," Sweetie Belle called out.
"Go get em Charlie, show them what yer made of," Applebloom cheered out after Charlie slashed the white dragon across the face.
Blue received a nice cheer from Twilight after she rammed Garble's head through an outcrop.
"Oh yeah! Make him feel the pain Blue, show that bully who's boss." Her friends were staring at her with expressions that screamed "wow Twilight."
"That's it! Boys, it's time to fly!" Garble yelled out after taking so many aggravating blows.
His gang broke away from the raptors and went airborne. They began making diving attacks on the vulnerable raptors. Blue and her girls had gone from offensive to defensive, the dragons were moving too quickly with their dives to be attacked. Just after Blue dodged one of the dragons, she suddenly found herself lifted off the battlefield and being carried into the air by Garble.
"Now let's see how long you can keep your cool under the heat?" Garble began a steep dive towards the lava. Blue had a terrible idea about what he had in mind, and latched onto him with her teeth and claws.
Garble pulled out just barely above the boiling lava, Blue could feel the intense heat against her back as the teen dragon flew around the perimeter. The slightest dip in altitude and Blue would wind up in the lava, so she tried to make her body as small as possible. However, she was only doing what Garble was making her do just to avoid being hit by the lava.
"That's it baby. keep on wrapping those scales around me. This is what you'll be doing all the time after I win."
In anger at Garble's cockiness, Blue clamped down on the underside of his jaw and forced his head straight up. In response, his body was forced into an upward position, and he was forced to fly away from the lava. The bite had immobilized Garble so he couldn't throw Blue off himself. After he got back past the stage, Blue detached her teeth and pushed off his body so she landed back on the stage. Garble found himself smacked against the wall of the volcano and stared back angrily at the raptors.
"You will bow before me! I won't lose to a bunch of sneaky females!" Garble pushed himself off the wall and came charging back towards the raptors.
This time he unleashed a torrent of flame at them. The raptors barely managed to dodge the flames, but it was only a trick. The teen dragons used the flames to ambush the raptors and pinned them to the ground. Garble looked down on Blue and then an evil thought popped into his mind.
"You've made fools out of us, now we're going to make you suffer far worse pain. We're going to send a couple of your friends into the volcano, and their deaths will be on your heads." The raptors' eyes shrunk to thin blades, they looked back towards the ledge and were horrified by who Garble was targeting. He and his boys were going to attack the ledge and send the Crusaders plummeting into the volcano.
"Don't you even think about harming them, or you'll be begging for the lava to be your salvation," Blue said angrily.
"Oh please, none of you will be able to save them, and if you try you'll just get swallowed up by the lava yourself. Now time to let your torment and agony begin. Ready boys?" The dragons gathered fire within their mouths and pointed them at the raptors' heads.
Back above the fight, the ponies were worrying themselves to death. Seeing the predicament the raptors were in was driving them nuts.
"They're gonna get blasted at point blank range," said Fluttershy.
"But I don't understand why." All the ponies turned to look at Tyrannosaurus after hearing him.
"What do you mean T-Rex?"
"I mean Blue isn't taking this battle seriously. It's like she and the others are setting up the fight for the right moment to destroy those punks. I just hope that they know what they're doing."
Tyrannosaurus was right, but he had no clue what was going to happen next.
"FIRE!" The dragons all pointed their heads away from the raptors and unleashed their flame blasts towards the ledge. None of the spectators knew what was going on, but as they watched where the blasts were headed, the realization dawned on them all. The flame blast destroyed the part of the ledge that the CMC and Mane Six were standing on. Twilight and the others moved back in time, and Scootaloo simply flew up to avoid it, but Sweetie Belle and Applebloom weren't so lucky. The ground crumbled underneath them and they began to fall into the volcano. Rarity and Applejack were blinding by the flames and couldn't move in to save their sisters as they fell towards the lava.
"APPLEBLOOM!"
"SWEETIE BELLE!"
The cries of Rarity and Applejack got the raptors' attention. Charlie and Echo felt fear and anger seeping into their hearts as they watched the young crusaders falling towards the fiery lava below. The sight of them crying as they dropped further into the volcano filled the raptors with incredible strength. Using pure rage, the two raptors roared like mad and freed themselves using immense strength to push the dragons off their bodies. The dragons were shocked as they were blown away, and Echo and Charlie made a beeline for the edge of the arena.
All the dragons above gasped in shock as Charlie and Echo dove off the edge of the battlefield and headed towards Applebloom and Sweetie Belle. The raptors tried to make their bodies as aerodynamic as possible in order to gain speed. They were closing the gap between the crusaders, but also the lava. They had to get to the young ponies before time ran out.
"Now Echo!" The two raptors tapped into their hidden power and unfurled their wings. The power forced them past the crusaders, and the raptors scooped them into their claws, just clearing the lava.
Echo and Charlie went skyward and soared past everypony. Then they hovered high above the battlefield for a minute to catch their breath, and to check on the fillies.
"Applebloom?"
"Sweetie Belle?"
"Are you girls ok?"
The fillies opened their eyes after realizing they weren't in the volcano anymore. Each of them realized that they were being held in the comfort of the raptors' claws. The fillies were so overcome that they wrapped their front hooves around the raptors' necks and nuzzled against their scales.
"Thank you Charlie, ya saved us just in time," said Applebloom.
"You girls really are saviors," Sweetie Belle added.
"You're quite welcome girls," said Echo. "Now how's about we teach these punks not to mess with our friends."
"Ah'm not sure that we can be of any help to you girls. We'd only just get in the way."
"Not true, did you think T-Rex and Indominus were the only ones capable of sharing their power? We can do it just as well."
Applebloom and Sweetie Belle's eyes went wide with excitement.
"You mean we're gonna be strong like all of you?"
"Well, we won't give you two a whole lot. Just enough to make you strong and tough enough to help us fight those dragons. So, are you both ready?"
"You bet!"
Echo and Charlie opened their mouths and a small amount of their power came flowing out. The crusaders closed their eyes as the power flowed around them, and then got absorbed into their bodies. When they opened them, they found the same red aura flowing around their bodies. They even had similar red markings along their sides that were like the ones Indominus had. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle were overjoyed at the sight.
"Applebloom, the power has made you much stronger and you'll be able to lay a world of hurt on those punks," said Charlie.
"Alright!"
"As for you Sweetie Belle, your magic has grown to be more powerful than a full grown unicorn. Your blasts will be far stronger than normal. As a bonus, each of you can do the same trademark blasts that we had during the fight with Black Death."
"Awesome! Now let's go kick some dragon tail."
Sweetie Belle and Applebloom climbed onto the raptors' backs and stood on their hind legs like they were surfing on the Velociraptors. The dinosaurs nosed over and dove back into the volcano, with the fillies riding them like a surfboard. It was time for some much needed payback.
"Let's do this girls," Charlie called out to the her sister and the crusaders. The dragons stared at the raptors with boggled eyes. Garble was in a complete shock.
"H-H-How are they flying?"
"Same way we can fly, foolish rat." Blue pushed Garble off her body and brought out her wings in front of him.
Delta did the same with her opponent, now the tables had turned. The raptors had revealed their ace in the hole and now they had the advantage. Blue and her girls had lured Garble and his boys into a trap, now the raptors could tear them apart and fulfill their end of the deal.
"We've had this power for quite some time now, Garble. It helped destroy Black Death, turned him into a pile of ashes. Now we're going to use it to destroy you and your filthy gang of misfits. You never had a chance to beat us, there is no way out for you no. Either the volcano claims your pathetic life, or we get to tear you to pieces."
Garble charged towards Blue, but she easily flew up to dodge the attack. She came back down on his back and clamped down on his neck. Her sharp teeth dug into Garble's scales and savagely drew blood. Blue pulled away with a chunk of flesh in her mouth, Garble was bleeding from the wound but didn't back down. He snarled as he prepared to attack her again, the dragons had lost their edge in the fight.
Delta's opponent was even more helpless than Garble was. Now that she could showcase her power and skills properly, the thin dragon was flying for his life. Delta outmaneuvered him at every turn and sent him careening back into the dirt each time. The numerous blasts she unleashed upon his sorry hide had the dragon scrambling for his life. The poor fools were in deep trouble, and it was only getting worse.
Charlie and Echo were having the time of their lives dog-fighting their opponents in the air, with the help of their partners. Charlie got in close on her dragon, and Applebloom got the chance to deal some major blows. With the help of the power coursing through her, Applebloom's attacks struck harder and left the white dragon in agony. She sent him spinning away with a roundhouse kick to the face.
"Having fun Applebloom?"
"Oh ya know it Charlie."
Echo and Sweetie Belle were unleashing a barrage of blasts at the chubby purple dragon. He could hardly move anywhere in the sky without a blast almost careening into him. Sweetie Belle jumped off Echo's back and went right towards the dragon. Just as he spotted her, she opened her mouth and hit him dead center with a powerful red blast of energy. The filly landed on Echo again and they went after the dragon as he crashed into the ground. Before he could get back up, Sweetie Belle and Echo launched their blasts together and they combined as they exploded on the helpless teen dragon. His body was quivering in pain, and he had been pushed to the edge of the platform.
"Way to go Sweetie Belle."
"Thanks Echo." The girls were enjoying utterly destroying the dragons, but a reminder took away the fun.
All around them they felt the volcano rumbling and could see pieces of the inner wall falling off. Blue looked down and saw that the lava was slowly rising, and geysers were starting to erupt around the battlefield. In all of the fighting they had forgotten about the volcano and its time limit.
"Girls! We have to finish this quickly, the volcano is starting to erupt." Echo and Charlie joined up with Blue and coordinated a plan amidst all the noise.
"How are we going to end this quickly Blue?"
"Here's the plan girls. Get all of them near the edge of the battlefield, then we'll force all of them into the lava with one united blast. Then we'll grab Garble and fulfill our deal just like we promised."
The raptor smiled deviously amongst each other, as well as Applebloom and Sweetie Belle since they were going to be part of the plan. They dove back towards the battlefield in a tight formation and picked out the remaining targets.
Charlie dove towards the dragon that Delta was torturing.
"Ready Applebloom?"
"Go for it Charlie." Charlie tossed Applebloom right at the wounded dragon and called out to her sister.
"Delta fly!" The raptor turned around to see what was going on and instantly went airborne.
The dragon saw what was coming a moment too late. Blood spurted from his mouth as Applebloom nailed him with a strong kick to the face. The dragon was sent tumbling over and wound up on top of the fat purple dragon. Charlie flew under and scooped Applebloom back up and regrouped with Delta.
"How do you like having our power Applebloom," Delta asked.
"It's unbelievable, but we've gotta finish this fight at once." Charlie filled Delta in on what Blue had told them. She liked the idea just as much as her sisters did, but the increased rumbling of the volcano only made the situation more dire.
The geysers were becoming bigger and the volcano sounded like it was going to shake itself apart. The raptors flew back into the fight, ready to end it once and for all. Charlie and Echo went back to finish the white dragon while Blue and Delta focused their efforts on Garble. Their plan was being put in motion and it was time to make the teen dragons pay.
Charlie and Echo slashed up the white dragon badly while Applebloom and Sweetie Belle pummeled the heck out of his face. The dragon was so overwhelmed from the amount of force being used against him that he couldn't fly away from the attacks. The raptors tore away flesh from his neck, then gave the crusaders one last attack. They opened their mouths and let loose torrents of power at the bleeding dragon. He was devastated from the attack and crashed near his wounded and broken pals. That left only one dragon to take care of: their leader.
Blue and Delta were going at Garble with vicious attacks, but the spunky dragon was doing a good job of holding his own against them. They were doing damage, but not enough to cripple him. He fired a blast of flame at them, then grabbed Blue by the throat. He pulled the raptor in and put both claws around her neck.
"I won't go down in this fight without taking you with me. There's no way that I'm going to become a carcass in front of all those dragons. If I die by the volcano, then you're going to fry with me."
"You should know better than to talk to a guardian like that, scale boy." Garble was angered when he heard Sweetie Belle's comment. He turned up at the diving raptors and fired a blast up at them. Sweetie Belle positioned herself until she was right alongside Echo's head and the two fired a combined blast at the flame. Their attack cut through Garble's flame like it was nothing, and Blue seized the chance. She clamped down on the underside of his neck, and the attack caused him to release his grip. She took flight just as the attack collided with Garble and left him sizzling.
The raptors regrouped in the air and together with the fillies, they launched an intense barrage of blasts at Garble. The dragon felt like he was caught in the middle of an insane war zone with all the explosions and blasts around him. He was at the mercy of the raptors, and they had no intention of giving him any mercy. Blue dove into the fireball and fired a blast at point blank range into his face. Garble was sent flying into the pile with his battered and defeated gang, they had lost the battle.
The warriors flew together and aimed for the defeated group. The time for their final attack was now and all of them charged up one last blast. Blue, Delta, Echo, Charlie, Applebloom and Sweetie Belle fired their blasts at once and the dragons were blown into the wall of the volcano. All of them were unconscious, they peeled off the wall like flypaper and began falling towards the boiling lava. Blue and Delta swooped in and grabbed Garble's body as the eruptions reached their intensity peak.
The lava began climbing rapidly, and it swallowed up Garble's defeated gang. The bodies melted away as the lava claimed the former gang and reduced them to residue. The raptors zoom climbed out of the volcano and cleared the opening just as the lava erupted behind them. All the dragons scattered as the Final Destination claimed its first victims of the gauntlet. The lava cooled down and hardened after the eruptions passed.
Each of the raptors touched down, and bellowed their victory cries for all to hear. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle actually joined in on the victory celebration, even if it left their sisters a little worried. They climbed off the raptors' backs and stood in front to thank them.
"We can't thank you girls enough for looking out for us."
"We would've been cooked by that lava fer sure if ya'll hadn't been there to save us," Charlie and Echo nuzzled the young fillies in response.
"It was out pleasure girls. That's what family does, they look out for each other," said Charlie. Echo looked at her sister surprised.
"Wow Charlie, I didn't know you were poetic."
"Little something I picked up from being around Applejack and her family. Speaking of which, here come your sisters now."
Applebloom and Sweetie Belle got really nervous as their sisters approached. Both had unreadable looks as they stood before their siblings.
"Applejack I'm really sorry about doing this, but they were only-" Applebloom was cut off as Applejack and Rarity pulled their sisters in and held them tight.
"Ah was so worried about you little sis."
"We thought you were going to die in that volcano." Both sisters turned their attention to Echo and Charlie and motioned for them to join in. Charlie welcomed Applejack's hug, and Rarity pulled Echo close to her and Sweetie Belle.
"You girls continue to surprise us time and again Echo," Rarity said to the proud raptor.
"First ya save us from Timberwolves, and now ya save ma little sister from dragons. You are a true hero in this family Charlie." The young raptor felt touched by the compliments he was receiving. But there was one more matter that needed to be taken care of.
"Alright girls, we're sorry to do this, but we need to take the power back." The fillies understood and allowed the raptors to take the power back. Both ponies watched as the red marking and aura were pulled away from their bodies and down the raptors' throats. With the crusaders back to normal, the raptors turned their attention to the beaten dragon.
Garble finally regained his consciousness, only to find the raptors baring their teeth and drooling.
"You can't do this, you can't kill me." He looked at Smaug, hoping for some kind of escape. To his horror, Smaug only said one thing.
"You made a deal with them, now it's time to pay up." Blue closed in on the terrified dragon, Her voice sounded deep and deadly as she spoke.
"You challenged us and lost, and now, we will devour you in front of all these dragons. You're going to make a nice meal for what you tried to do to these fillies."
All four raptors went into a feeding frenzy and began chomping away at Garble's body. The dragon screamed out in agony as the raptors ripped his limbs off, tore out his eyeballs, and spilled his blood all over the place. All the dragons around were amazed at the gruesome feeding taking place. Seeing a dragon eaten and dismembered in such a horrific way was a rare sight to them. The screams continued even after the raptors tore open the stomach, and began ripping the guts and intestines out. Garble finally fell silent after Blue tore his head off his neck and ate his face. Once the body had been completely eaten from the inside out, the raptor squad pushed the mauled body into the volcano.
Smaug walked over and spoke to the winners.
"Well done Velociraptors, that was quite an amazing fight indeed. I'll be speaking to all of you later about those wings of yours, but now it's time for the King of the dinosaurs to have his turn."
Tyrannosaurus stepped forward, ready to take on whatever dragon would be his opponent.
After the first round of the gauntlet had come to an end, Smaug began scanning the crowd for an opponent that would be worthy enough for Tyrannosaurus Rex. His golden eyes scanned over each dragon,seeing if any of them were up for the challenge. Plenty of them looked like they were ready to fight, but Smaug knew they were only bluffing and trying to look tough. Then his eyes fell upon a dragon in the back with searing yellow eyes, and jagged looking spikes along the back of his neck.
"Ah, he will do just fine. Step forward Predator." The dragon heeded Smaug's words and began to walk forward. Other dragons made way for him as he walked toward's T-Rex. When Tyrannosaurus got a full look at his opponent, his gaze intensified at the beast before him.
His opponent was a bulky, dark dragon with plenty of muscle, yet his arms and legs were sort of stubby compared to the other dragons. His underside had long tufts of fur jetting out from different spots, while his back mostly bristled with spikes. The most noticeable spikes were the red, jagged ones that spread out from his head like a twisted crown. His wingspan was wider than most of the other dragons, but what really caught Tyrannosaurus's attention was his eyes. This dragon's eyes were nothing but pure yellow, like there wasn't a soul lurking within them.
Seeing how perplexed T-Rex was with his opponent, Smaug proceeded to introduce the combatants.
"The dragon before you is known throughout these lands as Predator. He may not be as tall as the other dragons, but his ferocity more than makes up for that. He has fought in the Final Destination many times, and is one of the few dragons to ever withstand the eruption head-on. Predator has been in the volcano so many times that it's rumored he absorbed part of the lava during one of the eruptions. He is definitely a worthy opponent for you, Tyrannosaurus."
T-Rex stared back at the demonic look in the dragon's eyes with his own golden orbs. There seemed to only be savage, killer instinct buried in there that could match the dinosaurs at their absolute worst. Despite how terrifying this dragon looked, Tyrannosaurus feared no opponent. He didn't fear Black Death during their battle to the death, and he certainly didn't fear this monster. The others felt chills flow through their fur when the beast opened his mouth and talked.
"I'll see to it that your skeleton rots in the darkest part of the volcano." Tyrannosaurus might have been uneasy, but he wasn't going to let some killing machine talk down to him. So he responded with a clever comeback.
"I wouldn't count on it Predator. I'll show you why I'm called the King of the Dinosaurs."
The carnivores stared each other down as they made their way to the edge of the volcano. Before they made their way onto the platform, Smaug had a few more things to say.
"Before the second match begins boys, there are some things I need to address. For starters, I was quite surprised during the last match. Do all of you have your own set of wings? You might as well show me, since the cat's out of the bag."
Tyrannosaurus and Indominus unfurled their wings to display in front of all the dragons. Their mouths fell open at seeing the incredible wing spans before them. To wipe away any suspicions that Smaug might've had, they revealed their red auras just as the raptors had. The dragon lord had a satisfied smile on his face, he couldn't wait to see them in action.
"So you all had some tricks up your scales huh? Well I'll see all your power when your match begins, Indominus. Oh, one more thing. If any of your pony friends try to help again, I will send in additional dragons to fight them if they're so eager." None of the Mane Six were intending to step into the brawl. Sweetie Belle and Applebloom had only been part of the last fight because Garble had tried to kill them.
Predator spoke up and his statement startled everypony.
"I would actually prefer to have a little pony for an appetizer during the fight." His gaze fell upon Scootaloo, and a demented smile formed on his face. "I'll start with the little chicken among the group."
Hearing that word sent rage into Tyrannosaurus's heart, and he smacked Predator off the edge and into the volcano. The dragon quickly recovered from the attack and glided onto the platform. T-Rex looked over at Scootaloo before he joined the monster.
"I'll destroy him for calling you that name, Scootaloo."
"Go get him Rexy."
T-Rex nodded to his girl, spread his wings and flew down into the volcano. He landed hard on the battlefield and bared his teeth at the monstrous dragon. The stage was set for a fight between two savage predators, each one determined to claim victory. Smaug flew above the volcano and called down to the fighters.
"Carnivores, FIGHT!"
The beasts charged straight towards each other, bellowing deep roars and flashing their teeth. Predator went in for a deadly bite, but T-Rex ducked and dealt him an uppercut with his head. Seizing the opportunity with his opponent stunned, Tyrannosaurus clamped down on the underside of the monster's neck. The underside was all fur and had little to no protection, so T-Rex's bite instantly caused blood to leak out from where he had bitten. Unfortunately, the attack had left Tyrannosaurus vulnerable to the dragon's claws.
Because the dragon's neck was rather short, T-Rex had to get in close and it allowed the dragon to slash away at the dinosaur's body. Predator's claws dug deep, but T-Rex wouldn't release his grip. The tyrant lizard shook his head wildly and the dragon's blood splattered all over the battlefield. Predator stopped his slashing attacks, and instead, grabbed T-Rex from the underside of the neck. The force from the grab caused T-Rex to release his grip, and turned the tables on him.
Predator used the advantage to force T-Rex back, then pushed the dinosaur back and bit down on the underside of his neck. With T-Rex's arms being so short, he couldn't grip Predator and stop the attacks. Instead, he shifted his body in all directions and shook the dragon loose from under his neck. T-Rex had to stop to catch his breath again after being held in the vice grip. Predator got back up and resumed slashing at T-Rex's body, and Scootaloo was getting worried for her savior.
"He's in trouble, I've got to help him." Scootaloo was getting ready to fly down into the volcano, but Indominus put a hand in front of her to stop her.
"You can't interfere in this battle Scootaloo, this is something T-Rex has to handle himself. After all he said he would make that monster pay for insulting you."
"I know Indominus, but he's getting torn up."
"He'll be alright Scootaloo. Tyrannosaurus has been in tougher battles than this. He can take care of himself."
Tyrannosaurus used his wings to push Predator away, then clamped down on the dragon's face. The monster was caught off guard by the tough teeth piercing his face. Tyrannosaurus threw him off to the side, and blasted his body, sending the dragon towards the edge. Predator stood back up with blood leaking from his face, and anger written on his face. In retaliation to the damage dealt to him, Predator flew over, slammed T-Rex to the ground and used his arms to pin the dinosaur in place. With Tyrannosaurus pinned to the battlefield, Predator leaned forward and began taunting him.
"Ha Ha! So this is the great carnivore that helped take down Black Death? You're nothing but a waste of my time, I'll have to end this soon so I can get to devouring that little rat on the ledge." T-Rex snapped his head up and got right in Predator's face, ignoring the blood trickling onto his scales.
"What did you call her." he said in a deep and deadly voice. Predator leaned back in and repeated his taunt.
"I said she was nothing but a ra-" Predator didn't get to finish because Tyrannosaurus blasted him at point blank range in the face.
T-Rex's blast sent the dragon skyward and right out of the volcano. Tyrannosaurus rolled back onto his feet, unfurled his wings and zoom climbed after the dragon. All the dragons turned their heads to the sky as T-Rex flew past them and rammed Predator head on. The dragon was sent reeling from the collision with Rexy's head. The dinosaur flew a few feet apart from Predator and said in a powerful voice.
"Let's dance Bozo!"
The carnivores flew back and forth towards each other, nailing slashes and devastating bites on the opposing beast's body. Predator unleashed a fiery blast that looked more like lava than fire. Tyrannosaurus countered with his own blast and the two exploded on contact with each other. It was a teetering battle of attacks and explosions all across the sky. Down below, Smaug's eyes were wide with excitement at the display of sheer power.
"Now that's what I call a dogfight. Tyrannosaurus is a much more capable fighter and flyer than I thought."
"Well he did learn from some very gifted flyers, Smaug," Indominus said while glancing at Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo. The pegasi blushed at the compliment Indominus had given them.
"He's giving Predator far more trouble too. I wonder what triggered that much anger from him." Indominus didn't answer that particular question, because a shriek from above got his attention.
T-Rex had bitten down on the spikes around Predator's neck, and had broken several of them off. The beast had never fought an opponent that could deal such incredible damage, and outdo him in the air. The great dinosaur proceeded to deal several bone crushing attacks all across Predator's body, until the savage dragon was howling in pain. Scootaloo's training was working to T-Rex's advantage, and he was just getting started.
"I'm going to make you suffer now Predator. You're about to see what happens to those that insult my girl."
Tyrannosaurus broke off one of the long spikes near the dragon's face, but kept it held in his mouth. Predator tried slashing away at T-Rex again, but having wings had made Tyrannosaurus far more maneuverable and agile in the air. He dodged the beast's claws, and dealt him a smack across the face with his tail. Then T-Rex did something unexpected and incredibly violent. He took the spike he had been holding and rammed it through Predator's right eye.
Every dragon's eyes shrunk at what they had seen: to see one of their own impaled through the eye with one of his own spikes. They could see the blood spilling out of Predator and pouring into the volcano. The devastation only continued as they heard a deadly crunch and watched T-Rex bite down on Predator's neck. His head went limp and his wings were struggling desperately to keep him airborne. Tyrannosaurus had successfully crippled the dragon, and was letting him struggle with his own injuries.
Then T-Rex zoom climbed again until he was only a dot in the sky. None of the dragons were sure what he was planning. The dinosaur bellowed so that all the spectators could hear him.
"PREDATOR! I'M GOING TO FINISH YOU WITH THIS LAST ATTACK! THIS ONE'S FOR YOU SCOOTALOO!"
The Mane Six gasped as Tyrannosaurus dove straight for Predator, and made himself as aerodynamic as a comet. His speed began building rapidly, and as the mach cone began forming around him, Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash's eyes shrunk.
"Rainbow Dash, is he going to do what I think he's doing?"
"I think so Scootaloo, but I've never seen him pull one off. Tyrannosaurus has never even tried to perform one during our training sessions. This will be his first attempt, and he's going to use it to kill the dragon. There's just one problem."
"I can already see it. He won't be able to pull out from the dive, and he'll wind up...in the...volcano. It's a suicide move, I just hope he know's what he's doing."
"Rainbow Dash, what is Tyrannosaurus trying to do?"
"He's going to attempt the Sonic Rainboom Twilight." The others were instantly shocked.
"But if he does, he'll be swallowed by the lava with that kind of speed," said Rarity.
"He'll die once his body reenters the volcano," Pinkie said horrified.
"All we can do is hope that T-Rex has thought this through and knows how to get out of the dive."
Back in the air, Tyrannosaurus's speed was building and the mach cone was tightening around his face. The velocity was also rattling his body and making it harder to keep track of his target, but fortunately he had it all planned out. His earlier attacks had disabled Predator, who was still in agony, and he wouldn't be able to dodge the collision. Once T-Rex saw the mach cone form a spear around his snout, he did somethin unexpected. He shot forth a blast of energy that got caught in the mach cone, and traveled forward with him.
Then everyone heard it.
BOOOOM!!
Everyone saw the trademark circles spreading out after the explosion, and there were quite a few interesting differences about this one. It was just like Scootaloo's Rainboom, with orange and magenta, but with the red aura around the edges. It left the dragons confused on what had just happened, the Mane Six however, were overcome. The ponies were amazed that T-Rex had pulled off the feat, but the biggest difference was what had happened to Tyrannosaurus.
His body was completely enveloped in the energy that he had shot out in front before he had achieved the Sonic Rainboom. Now he looked like a demonic monster from Tartarus, even his eyes were glowing a fiery yellow. The dinosaur let loose a loud roar as he clamped down on Predator's face, and dragged the crippled dragon back towards the volcano. His momentum didn't even slow down with the weight from hauling Predator, and everypony shrieked in horror at what happened next. Tyrannosaurus plunged through the battlefield and dove straight into the lava with Predator in his jaws.
All the spectators leaned over the edge to see if they could spot anything after what had just happened. None of them could see any sign of T-Rex or Predator, all was completely silent. The ponies were all worried that Tyrannosaurus had just committed a suicide move just to make the dragon pay. Then they felt the ground shaking violently and noticed the lava was bubbling wildly. Smaug noticed it too, and yelled for everyone to take flight.
The green dragon scooped up the rest of the Mane Six and the CMC while Twilight, Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo flew up as the volcano released a colossal eruption. The lava went skyward like a rocket, and it forced the dragons to scatter to avoid the fiery liquid as it rained down on the landscape. Never had they seen the volcano react so violently, or release such a massive eruption. As the lava cooled and the dragons touched down again, Smaug was wondering what had happened to trigger the eruption. The fight hadn't been long enough for the volcano's timer to run out, something must've happened after T-Rex dove into the lava to trigger the eruption.
As the ponies got out of the green dragon's hands, they saw a fiery shape fly out of the volcano, and hover in the air.
One of the dragons called out, "what is that thing?" The shape touched down near the edge and the dragons watched as the energy dissipated. They were all shocked by the creature behind the energy.
Tyrannosaurus stepped forward and bellowed a grand victorious as the energy parted away from his body. Scootaloo was so overcome with joy that she ran forward and T-Rex bent down as she hugged him.
"You did it Rexy, you pulled off the Sonic Rainboom! I was worried you wouldn't make it out of that alive. How did you pull that off?"
"That's what I would like to know as well. How did you manage to survive an explosion of that caliber T-Rex? Smaug stepped towards T-Rex, looking surprised and pleased at the same time. Tyrannosaurus let Scootaloo climb onto his head as he gave his explanation.
"It's actually rather simple Smaug, before I performed the Sonic Rainboom, I shot a blast that coated my body in my own energy, The energy protected my body when I dove into the lava so I wouldn't be harmed. As for Predator, I blasted his face off while we were in the lava, my blast triggered the eruption and boiled the remains of his body within the lava. I really let him have it in there."
"Well done Tyrannosaurus, that was simple yet brilliant. I've never seen any creature employ such a creative attack on a dragon. You did all of that because Predator insulted the little pegasus on your head, am I right?" T-Rex nodded his head, yet none of the dragons were annoyed or troubled by it. "You hold her in the same regard that Indominus holds the rainbow one, right?" Again, T-Rex simply nodded his head.
"You're not mad at me Smaug?"
"Why would I be mad at a creature that absolutely destroyed an enemy for the sake of someone he cares about? That is one of the best motivators for any fighter, you are just as successful in fighting as the velociraptors, Tyrannosaurus Rex."
Both kings bowed their heads to each other in respect, and Smaug turned his head to the last dinosaur to fight in the gauntlet.
"I hope you're ready for your test Indominus."
"Send in your best dragon Smaug, I'm ready to show you what I'm made of."
The final round of the gauntlet was ready to commence. Indominus was the last one that had yet to test his strength and prowess in a fight. Smaug was looking forward to seeing the hybrid in action, and the others waited anxiously to see who he would pick next. Tyrannosaurus was relaxing by his friends and family after his battle with Predator. He was also curious as to who Smaug had in mind for fighting against Indominus.
After only a few minutes of scanning the crowd, Smaug turned back to Indominus. He had an eager look in his eyes. Indominus was chomping at the bit to see who his opponent was.
"So, who's going to be my opponent Smaug?" The dragon king only smiled back.
"You're looking at him, Untamable King." Every dragon in the crowd gasped in shock, their king was going to do battle in his own gauntlet. Indominus couldn't believe what he had heard.
"You are going to be my opponent Smaug?"
"That's right Indominus. because there is not another dragon here that can compete against you. Also, I've been wanting to battle against you ever since you boys arrived in this domain. From the moment I spotted you, I knew you were an interesting creature. I couldn't think of any dragon besides myself, that could bring out the best in you."
Indominus felt honored that Smaug wanted to fight him. This was a challenge that he couldn't possibly ignore: a chance to brawl with the dragon lord was a rare opportunity.
"I'll gladly fight against you Smaug, I just have one request to make first."
"A request huh? Well it's unusual for an opponent of mine to have requests before a battle, but given that you're the one I'm fighting, I can make an exception. So, what is your request Indominus?"
"My only request is that halfway during the battle, I get to bring in a partner to fight alongside me. Oh, and it won't be any of the other dinosaurs." The odd request left Smaug baffled, a partner that wasn't a dinosaur? He couldn't have been referring to any of the ponies, and there wasn't a dragon in the lands that could best Smaug in a fight. The dragon lord decided to put the matter on hold for now, Indominus would have to last long enough for the request to be carried out.
"Very well Indominus, if you can hold out in the fight for that long, then I will let you choose your partner."
"Thank you, now let's get this battle underway."
Before Indominus went into the volcano, the ponies gave him some encouragement.
"Go show em why ya rule Indominus," said Applejack.
"Knock his scaly butt into next week," said Rainbow Dash.
"Pound him dead."
"Show em what yer made of."
"Give him the fight of his life Indominus," Scootaloo said as she nuzzled her other scaly savior.
"Don't worry Scootaloo, I'll come out of this fight alive. After all, I can't leave you or my fiance behind. I still need to bring the family of your dreams together."
With that, Indominus unfurled his wings and he and Smaug dove down toward the battlefield.
All the dragons spread out around the full perimeter of the volcano, each of them eager to see the great battle that was about to begin. The warriors touched down on the worn platform, staring into each other's reptilian eyes.
"As I'm sure you know by now, I've been waiting for this Indominus. I have yet to come across an opponent that can bring out my best. I'm counting on you to push me to be my absolute best in this fight."
"I always give my best in a fight Smaug, but this should be interesting since neither of us are fighting for destruction. We both just want to prove our worth in this brawl."
"Precisely, I'm not a mindless animal like Black Death. I am capable of finding common ground and a fine line between being reckless and testing one's strength."
Up above, the ponies were noticing how calm Indominus was while squaring off against Smaug.
"Just look at Indominus," Twilight pointed out. "He's staring at Smaug like it's just another day in Equestria to him."
"If I didn't know better Twilight, I'd say he's enjoying the moment." Rainbow said. "This is the first time he's fought a dragon that's not trying to kill us."
"He must have something planned to be this confident." Blue said after hearing Indominus's request. Then everyone heard Smaug's voice from within the volcano, and knew the battle was about to begin.
"Alright Indominus! This is the last round of the gauntlet, so make it a fight to remember, Ready?" Indominus nodded his head once, and Smaug shouted "BEGIN!"
Indominus charged towards Smaug and prepared to launch his first attack. Smaug raised his right arm and swung it forward to punch Indominus. The hybrid spotted the attack and stopped in time to catch the winged hand in his claws. He pulled the arm forward and swung his right hand at Smaug's face, but the dragon raised his neck to avoid the attack. He forced his head down to bite down on Indominus's back, but the hybrid evaded the attack and managed to block Smaug's left arm. Smaug used the moment and struck Indominus across the face with his free arm. Remarkably, Indominus used the momentum from the attack to swing his tail and strike Smaug in the face.
Both predators staggered slightly from the blows and easily regained their balance. When they faced each other again, both were smiling. It was like the fight was thrilling for both combatants. Up above, all the dragons had open jaws and wide eyes. They had never seen an opponent that could land a decent blow on their king. What they had seen however, was just a taste of what was coming.
Indominus resumed the fight by once again, charging towards Smaug. The dragon lord figured that Indominus was going for a repeat attack and hoping he would get lucky.
"You're going to have to be more creative than that Indominus," Smaug called out as he raised his fist to attack the hybrid again.
This time however, Indominus didn't stop as he charged toward the dragon. Rather than blocking the fist, he deflected it with his arm and continued straight on until he plowed into Smaug and began forcing the dragon towards the edge of the platform. Smaug was taken aback by how much strength Indominus was packing to be able to move him so easily. Then the dragon felt his body being lifted off the battlefield as Indominus threw him off and towards the lava.
Smaug cranked his head down as he watched himself plummet towards the lava below. He easily expanded his massive wings and flew back around to the opposite end of the platform. He hovered in the air staring down at Indominus, who had a smug smile on his face.
"Sorry, but did honestly think that you were going to win that easily?"
"Ha. I won't fall for a cheap prank like that. I knew all along that it wouldn't be that easy to bring down a dragon like you Smaug." The dragon king landed back on the battlefield with a grin on his face too.
"I thought the situation called for a little joke, since you're not giving me your full potential like you promised."
"Hey you're holding back the lion's share of power just as well."
"Oh I will reveal how tough I truly am in due time, but I'm more curious to see your potential."
"Then why don't you come on over and see for yourself?"
"My pleasure!" Smaug charged towards Indominus and began throwing punches and bites wildly.
The hybrid was blocking every attack effectively, and trying to strike back with his own blows. Every time Smaug threw a punch, Indominus would block and attempt to counterattack with his own. Their heads collided a few times in attempts to stun the other, but both carnivores were too stubborn to quit. The spectators above still had the same expressions since they weren't used to seeing a fight this grand.
Just after Indominus grabbed one of Smaug's punches, he and the dragon locked eyes with each other. They both were giving content smiles during the entire exchange.
"You look like you're having the time of your life Indominus. Is this the first fight you've been in where the stakes aren't so high?"
"It's because you're the first opponent that I'm enjoying having the privilege of fighting. Every other foe I've faced has had some bloodlust for destruction and chaos. But humor me Smaug, are you saying that you're loving this fight too?"
"Heh heh heh, I do love a good fight every now and then. As for how much I enjoy them, that depends on who I'm fighting."
"In that case, I'll try not to disappoint you."
Indominus broke away from Smaug, then unfurled his wings and took to the air. He was tempting Smaug into an aerial battle, and the dragon took the bait. With two jumps, Smaug was airborne and climbing after Indominus. The two flyers took their little dogfight out of the volcano and into the skies so all the dragons could see them. It was remarkable to see the two fighters dueling in the sky.
Indominus and Smaug were trading bites and slashes against each other, just like Tyrannosaurus and Predator had done. Unlike Predator, Smaug couldn't use his arms to attack while in the air. They had to be used to maintain his flight, so his weapons were his teeth and fire breath. Indominus noticed Smaug's chest was glowing after one pass with the dragon. When they came back at each other, Indominus was caught off guard by the magnitude of fire emitting from Smaug's mouth.
The dragon released a torrent of fire that covered so much space that Indominus had to really maneuver to dodge the blast. Unfortunately, after Indominus dodged the blast he found himself set up into a well planned attack. Smaug came at him from behind the blast and nailed the hybrid in the face with his clawed feet. Indominus was sent falling back towards the ground, and Smaug came diving after him to give chase.
"I've got you now Indominus," Smaug yelled as he dove after the falling hybrid.
He was getting closer and built up his flame breath for another attack, but Indominus surprised him. The hybrid suddenly turned his head towards Smaug and unleashed his blast at the dragon. Smaug was too close to dodge and took the blast head on. The attack forced his head back and flipped him onto his back. Indominus flew back up and rammed a fist down on Smaug's chest, but instantly pulled it back in agony.
Smaug grinned in delight, then grabbed Indominus by the throat as they continued to fall back down into the volcano. When he felt they were close enough, Smaug threw Indominus back onto the platform. Indominus landed on his back, but quickly rolled over and got to his feet again. His hand was still stinging from the attack, but he didn't know why. Smaug touched down on the platform again, and seeing the hybrid's confused look, decided to reveal his secret.
"Surprised Indominus? Well I have a little perk of my own to use in battle." Smaug stood taller to reveal the full extent of his chest. Indominus was astounded by what he was seeing: thousands of jewels, diamonds and crystals were embedded into Smaug's body. They acted as a reinforced layer of armor, to protect him against attacks. "I spent a few hundred years sleeping on jewels to get this armor, now no opponent can penetrate my strongest defense."
"Oh yeah, we'll have to see about that." Indominus didn't get a chance to charge forward this time because Smaug was already making lunging attacks at him.
The Mane Six noticed that Smaug was beginning to force Indominus towards the edge of the battlefield again.
'It looks like the dragon lord is in control again," said Twilight.
"Yeah, he's got yer boy on the ropes Rainbow Dash," Applejack added.
"I don't understand why though." All the ponies looked at Rainbow Dash like she was crazy.
"What are you talking about Rainbow Dash? He's going to corner your fiance, burn him alive, roast his carcass, and that's all you have to say?" Pinkie Pie was going into a fit, but Rainbow Dash continued.
"What I don't understand is why Indominus isn't taking this battle seriously? He's been messing around with Smaug the entire time." The three dragons knew what Rainbow was talking about, and it clicked in their minds.
"It's simple girls, Smaug and Indominus are merely having sport with one another." The ponies all turned to look at the green dragon as he continued. "They're having a little bit of fun before things get serious. Since Indominus is so new to Smaug, our king is getting some fun out of him before he decides to really test out the hybrid's skills."
The ponies looked back into the volcano to see that Smaug had cornered Indominus against the edge. One more punch and he would be knocked into the lava. Smaug threw his punch forward, but stopped in shock as Indominus slowly disappeared in front of him. The hybrid had completely vanished from sight, none of the dragons nor Smaug could see where he had gone. Rainbow already knew what Indominus was doing, for she had seen this tactic before.
"Where did you go Indominus? I know you did not just teleport out of the fight." Smaug was about to regret his question, for at that moment a blast of energy collided with his chest and sent him reeling back. As the blast dissipated, Smaug got back down on all fours and spotted a sneak attack too late.
Indominus nailed him right across the face with a left hook. Gritting his teeth at the fact that he had been tricked, Smaug smacked Indominus across the face, grabbed him by the leg and threw him across the platform. Indominus stopped himself by digging his claws into the ground until he came to a stop. He stood upright and looked at Smaug with satisfaction written on his face.
"H-How did you do that? There was no way that you could've teleported away from the edge like that."
"I never left the area Smaug, I was still on that ledge the whole time." This surprised Smaug greatly, and made him even more curious.
"Then tell me how you made yourself disappear like that."
"It's one of the many abilities I was born with Smaug: the power of camouflage."
"Camouflage!? I didn't think an ability like that would be given to a creature like you."
"It's actually ingenious Smaug. I camouflaged my skin to look like the inside of the volcano, and remained perfectly still to make it appear that I had vanished from sight."
"I'm thoroughly impressed Indominus, not many creatures can effectively use an ability like that for an ambush. It worked quite well, and now I believe it is time to fulfill your request." Indominus was surprised that Smaug still remembered, he was sure the dragon would've forgotten about it. Yet Indominus had clearly proven himself to be a worthy opponent.
"I said you had to make it halfway through the fight and you have, so who do you have in mind for joining you in this fight?"
Every dragon leaned in, hanging onto every word that Indominus was saying as he explained himself to Smaug. Tyrannosaurus was wondering who Indominus had in mind for fighting against a dragon as tough as Smaug.
"It might sound a little crazy at first, but you'll understand soon enough. The fighter I'm about to name is about on par with me in terms of strength and skill. So if you like the challenge of fighting me at my best Smaug, you're going to like my partner just as much. Of course, you probably won't feel that way about us after we beat you."
All the dragons and the ponies were completely alarmed. Indominus was so confident in the fighter he was going to pick that he was sure that they would beat Smaug together. Even Smaug himself was taken aback by the bold statement.
"That's quite a bold statement Indominus. You seem to have a lot of confidence in this mystery fighter of yours. I only hope for your sake that your confidence isn't misplaced. Very well Indominus, say the name of the fighter that will join you."
"Gladly Smaug."
Indominus glanced back up at the hundreds of spectators looking into the volcano. Each and every dragon was waiting with baited breath, none of them had any clue who Indominus was going to pick. They watched as Indominus directed his gaze to the Mane Six, Rexy and the raptors.
"Guys, I could take Smaug down by myself, but I feel it would be perfect if I had someone fighting alongside me in this gauntlet. That someone is you....Rainbow Dash."
The others looked at Rainbow Dash like she was the center of the world. Out of all the possible choices, Indominus had chosen to have his own fiance fight in the gauntlet with him. Twilight and the others knew that Rainbow Dash was strong, but even with the power Indominus had given her, they weren't sure she could handle a beast like Smaug.
"Rainbow Dash, he wants you to fight with him? Has he even considered your opinion on this matter?" Tyrannosaurus was beyond ecstatic, he bellowed into the volcano at Indominus.
"INDOMINUS STOP THIS FOOLISHNESS! DO YOU EVEN REALIZE WHAT YOU'RE ASKING OF HER? IF RAINBOW DASH FIGHTS AGAINST SMAUG SHE WON'T COME OUT OF THE GAUNTLET ALIVE!" Indominus didn't seem fazed by the volume in T-Rex's voice.
"I know what I'm doing Rexy, just trust me on this."
"Indominus, with all due respect I have to agree with him. Give me a dragon as your partner and I'll gladly fight him. But a pony fighting against me, even if she is your mate it would only be a waste of my time."
Upon hearing what Smaug had said Rainbow angrily stomped a hoof into the ground.
"Did he just call me a waste of time?" The others tried to calm her down.
"Now Rainbow Dash, it's not worth getting ticked at the dragon lord. Just let your fiance handle this," said Rarity.
"Yeah, there's no need to go and fight a monstrous, giant, powerful dragon," Fluttershy said weakly.
"Don't try to stop me girls, if Smaug thinks I'm not worth it, I'll just have to show him how wrong he is."
The others were about to protest further, but Twilight stopped them.
"That's enough everypony, this is Rainbow Dash's decision. If she wants to fight, then let her fight alongside her fiance so they can be at their best."
"Thank you Twilight," Rainbow said as she gave her friend a quick hug. "Oh, before I forget." She took off the Arkenstone ring and handed it to Scootaloo. "Keep an eye on my ring for me until we're done Scoots?"
"You got it Rainbow, now show that dragon what you can do."
"Oh don't worry, I intend to give him my best." Rainbow Dash made sure to give Scootaloo a hug for support and reassurance that she would come back. With her mind set, Rainbow Dash flew down into the volcano.
Smaug was shaking his head in disbelief, he was going to have to fight a pony after all.
"Indominus, I don't know whether you're serious or just messing with my head but this isn't-" Smaug stopped himself once he saw Rainbow Dash touch down. She had grown to about the same size as Indominus while standing next to him. Hm, perhaps there is more to this mate of his than I thought.
"So this is our opponent huh Indominus?"
"That's right Rainbow Dash, ready to show him how we destroyed Black Death?"
"With all the pleasure in the world."
Smaug watched as Indominus and Rainbow took on aggressive stances as they continued to stand side by side.
"Hope you're ready Smaug, cause we're about to blow your mind."
The dragon lord's eyes went wide as he witnessed the red aura come forth and flow around both of their bodies. The dragons gasped in shock at what they were seeing: a pony with the same kind of power that the dinosaurs had. Smaug was going to be in for one heck of a fight, Rainbow and Indominus's powers were going to be turned loose in the final round of the gauntlet.
Oh my, this is definitely going to be a fight that will be worthy of my prowess. Indominus, you and your mate might be the greatest challenges I've ever faced, Smaug thought to himself as the warriors began to unleash their power and transform.
Smaug watched in awe as the powerful energy surged around Indominus and Rainbow Dash. The platform beneath them trembled from the sheer magnitude the lovers were emitting. Lightning strikes burst out in all directions within the volcano. The dragons above were rendered speechless, never had they seen such incredible power before in their lives. Twilight and the others were simply grinning at the display beneath them.
"Those two seem to be more in sync with each other since the battle with Black Death," said Twilight.
"Well considering all the time they've spent together, it's no wonder their power is stronger Twilight. They love each other so much that it fuels their inner strength," said Scootaloo. "I should know, I've seen the way they look at each other."
"Perhaps I was wrong Scootaloo." T-Rex admitted. "Bringing Rainbow Dash into the battle is actually bringing out the best in him."
"It's ok darling," said Rarity. "You're just looking out for your new family members, it's completely natural."
"Hush everypony, the lovers are about to transform," said Applejack.
Over the roar of their own power, Indominus and Rainbow Dash stared into each other's eyes. They both knew that this transformation was going to be more powerful than when they had scared Black Death out of his scales.
"Let's do this Rainbow. Time to show Smaug why we work so well together."
"I'll be with you every step of the battle Indominus."
The couple stared back at Smaug and prepared themselves for their transformation. Smaug's eyes widened as the energy started growing in intensity, then the moment happened. Indominus and Rainbow Dash bellowed menacing roars into the sky, and the energy completely enveloped their bodies. Both pegasus and dinosaur disappeared within the red aura as it grew in size and caused eruptions within the volcano. The lightning surged upward and out of the volcano as the column of energy burst upward in a brilliant explosion of red. The energy was so intense that it caused the volcano to erupt and the lava was carried with the energy.
All the dragons were frightened as the ground around them shook with fierce intensity from the lovers' powers. Seeing the erupting combination of the red aura, lava and lightning was far more than they could handle. They had been wrong to doubt Indominus's decision to include a pony in the gauntlet. The sound of the combined roars echoing across the lands only added to their fears. All of them thought that Smaug had just gotten in way over his head.
Inside the volcano the dragon lord was witnessing everything first hand. The aura surging all around him, the lightning strikes that veered past his body and struck the inner walls. The roars from Rainbow and Indominus were causing fear to seep into his hardened heart. Smaug had no idea what was going to happen once the transformation was over. His jaw dropped when he heard the roars reach their peak and watched the column of red power explode.
The energy exploded and blinded all in the area with flashing red light. No one could see anything as the transformation reached its completion. As the light began to fade and the aura went back down into the volcano, each dragon tried to get a peak at what had happened to Indominus and Rainbow Dash. Their eyes were quivering and their bodies rattled as they caught sight of the transformed couple. Smaug's reaction was far more shocked and surprised than any of the dragons looking down from above.
"W-W-W-What h-happened to y-your bodies?" Cold sweat was running down the dragon lord's face as the lovers reemerged within the red aura.
Indominus's row of red spikes, red jagged designs and increased muscles were definitely surprising, but his wings had taken on a change of their own. His wings had strange red patterns flowing across them, a new perk that had been given to them after he regained his power at the Gala. Rainbow's refined body with the bat-like wings, elongated ears, sharp teeth and red designs across her body scared Smaug just as much. Her slit pupils stared right into his, and a smile formed on her face.
"You're going to see why Black Death had so much trouble facing against us."
"Take a good look Smaug, for we are two of the Guardians of Equestria," Indominus announced in his deep voice.
Smaug had no comment, the transformation had truly shocked him to his core. He had no words for the first time in his life to describe the transformation. Seeing that they had surprised Smaug so much, the couple began advancing towards him. Everyone watched as Indominus and Rainbow Dash casually made their way over until they were only a few feet apart from the dragon lord. The three contenders looked into each other's eyes, Smaug still had sweat running down his face, but he was more anxious than scared now.
"Your move warriors."
"Of course."
Rainbow and Indominus dealt simultaneous punches right into Smaug's chest. He felt the air leaving his lungs from the amount of force and strength packed behind the blows. Indominus proceeded to drive his fist down on Smaug's head, and Rainbow followed up with an uppercut that sent him into the air. They flew behind the dragon lord while he was stunned and dealt two punches to his back that sent him careening back onto the battlefield. Rainbow dealt a coup de grace by firing a blast at Smaug as he collided with the battlefield. The explosion rocked his body and sent Smaug skidding across the worn platform as Indominus and Rainbow touched down.
They heard Smaug laughing as he got back on his feet. He was laughing despite being punched, slammed and blasted into the dirt. When he turned to face the warriors, he had a line of blood running down his mouth. He looked simply thrilled as he wiped away the blood with his hand.
"Incredible. Simply incredible, fantastic work warriors. I have finally found what seemed impossible: true competition. You were right to bring your mate into the gauntlet Indominus, she has unbelievable power."
Rainbow felt humbled by Smaug's comment, even though he had called her a waste of time before.
"So tell me Smaug, do you think I'm a waste of time now?"
"Oh quite the contrary my dear, I just had no idea that you had such an amazing power within yourself. I didn't mean to offend you in any way, I thought Indominus was going to put your life in danger. I didn't know that this was Indominus's reason for bringing you into the fight. Now I see that I was wrong to say you were a waste, you are indeed as much a warrior as Indominus. Before we fight I must know this, how did you achieve a power this grand and what is your name? I've never seen any creature show a power this radical, and I want to be as proper with you as I am with Indominus."
Rainbow was surprised by Smaug's sudden change in attitude, seeing them transform had caused him to see just how wrong he had been to judge the lovers. So Rainbow felt he deserved to have his question answered.
"Very well Smaug, first off my name is Rainbow Dash. Secondly, I was given this power by Indominus during our battle against Black Death. This is how we killed Black Death and stopped him for good."
Indominus gave his girl a proud look while listening to her telling Smaug how she got her incredible gift. Smaug was taken with how the two had bonded during their battle against the rampaging monster.
"Well done Rainbow Dash, now I see why you and Indominus are so connected with each other. Now show me how well you two work together in a fight."
"With pleasure, let's do this Indominus."
"You got it Rainbow."
The three warriors charged towards each other, and the best fight of the gauntlet was underway.
Smaug swung wildly at Indominus and Rainbow, trying to nail punches or get his claws on them. The lovers blocked all his attacks and countered with punches to the head and any vulnerable spot that was exposed after Smaug tried to attack. Rainbow Dash was using all the agility she had to avoid Smaug's massive teeth, his mouth was more than intimidating. Indominus was spending his agility trying to dodge Smaug's massive tail, but the dragon lord maneuvered his body with each attack and struck Indominus across the head. Rainbow retaliated by smashing her hoof into Smaug's face before he could attack again.
Both Indominus and Smaug were slammed into the dirt by the attacks, but Indominus was able to recover more quickly. Smaug wasn't used to the kind of strength that the couple was packing. As he got up, he grinned when he decided where he was going to take the fight next.
"Nicely done, now let's see how you two deal with my power."
Rainbow and Indominus grew curious as Smaug began to take flight. He hovered just beneath the entrance to the volcano, and they saw that his chest was starting to glow. Smaug was preparing his flame for another attack on the lovers.
"See if you have what it takes to handle this blast," Smaug called out before the massive torrent of flame escaped his jaws.
The blast seemed to grow as Smaug continued to unleash his power down on the warriors. Indominus and Rainbow countered with their own blasts, and the collision from the incredible attacks caused a huge explosion. Smoke and debris expanded all throughout the volcano, no one could see anything inside. Smaug's vision was clouded by all the smoke, but he quickly began dispersing it with his wings. Unfortunately for him, his wings also revealed a very unpleasant surprise that was right in his face.
"SURPRISE!" Indominus and Rainbow nailed a double uppercut on Smaug's face, then blasted him back onto the platform.
Smaug landed hard on the battlefield and the warriors were diving after him. They weren't going to give him the time to counterattack this time. They were within striking distance and were about to attack again when Smaug suddenly surprised them. He instantly turned around and struck Rainbow and Indominus across the face with a single punch. Both fighters were stunned from the surprising amount of force and strength that came from his thin wing arm.
"Rainbow Dash!"
"Indominus!" Everypony was startled from seeing both of them stunned by Smaug's attack. The dragon lord had only just begun to fight.
Smaug was throwing his punches and slashes as fast as he possibly could. Rainbow and Indominus were pounded and assaulted by the relentless barrage from the dragon lord. He was quickly turning the battle in his favor. As Smaug swung another hard punch, the warriors ducked at the last second and dealt a very strong double uppercut. The force from the combined punches was enough to send Smaug flying straight out of the volcano.
All the dragons were shocked beyond belief as they watched their leader skyrocket into the air from the punches. Immediately Indominus and Rainbow were flying up after him, their speed increasing as they pushed themselves. They were upon Smaug in only a few seconds and had their blasts ready to fire. Before they could blast him again, Smaug whipped his massive tail around and smacked them away which caused their attacks to be sent away as well. The warriors steadied themselves after recovering from the sneak attack. Rainbow could see the frustration in Indominus's eyes as he wiped away some blood from his mouth.
This wasn't like their battle with Black Death, Smaug was a truly skilled dragon. He didn't need any fancy abilities or tricks, his prowess and strength was more than enough to challenge the hybrid and his fiance. No matter how many times they countered or blasted him, the dragon lord was always able to come back from every attack. Indominus charged back at Smaug, who flew up to dodge him. Only to have to maneuver in the air again to avoid Rainbow's attack. The battle had taken to the sky and it was a flurry of attacks and misses.
Down below everyone could see the battle more clearly. Indominus and Rainbow continued to make speeding attacks at Smaug, who was pushing his prowess in the sky to keep up with them. The sky was not just Smaug's domain, it was also Rainbow's and she was in her element. She was getting close to nailing a decisive blow on Smaug, and she knew it.
Smaug had just ducked underneath one of Indominus's punches and saw Rainbow Dash get in his face a second too late. Rainbow rammed Smaug in the face, rather than punching him. After her attack she called out to her fiance.
"NOW INDOMINUS!"
Seizing the opportunity that his girl had given him, Indominus zoomed towards Smaug and punched him straight in the chest. Unlike the other attempts, this attack dealt some serious damage to Smaug. The spectators heard a loud, agonizing crack and cringed as Smaug's eyes bulged and blood burst from his mouth. The dragon lord was frozen in the air because the hybrid's attack had truly damaged both him and his defense. Indominus followed up with a roundhouse kick to the head, and Rainbow finished with a punch to the face.
Smaug just hovered away from the warriors as blood spilled from his jaws. He needed some time to collect himself after being dealt such a strong blow. Both Rainbow and Indominus were breathing slowly, the battle was starting to take its toll on the warriors and their stamina. Smaug had an extremely pleased smile as he looked at the warriors and watched the blood spill from his teeth.
"This is the most exciting fight I've ever been in Indominus. You and Rainbow Dash are definitely worthy of fighting a dragon of my supreme stature."
"Well thanks Smaug, we always try our best," Rainbow said to the dragon lord.
"I truly have to commend both of you for your supreme teamwork. I've never faced opponents that could outsmart me in the air, and crack my armor on top of that. It's a shame all the fights can't be this good."
"But we'll try to keep this one going for as long as we can, won't we Smaug," said Indominus. "Now let the epic struggle continue."
The great fighters roared at each other and resumed their thrilling battle.
Smaug startled Rainbow and Indominus by punching them in the air, The attack caught the fighters and spectators by surprise. Indominus didn't think that Smaug was capable of using his arms to attack while trying to stay airborne. Smaug dropped a few feet, but easily spread his wings out and was flying again.
"This dragon is just full of surprises," Rainbow said to Indominus after the sneak attack.
"He's definitely got more brains than Black Death ever did. Regardless, we'll still beat him."
With one beat of his wings, Indominus was going after Smaug again. The dragon lord swung another punch at him, but Indominus was ready for this one. The scaly fists collided against each other and sent shock waves echoing across the sky. While the spectators were being rattled by the collision, the dragon and dinosaur shared a smile at each other. They were both pleased with how the fight was going, and Indominus decided that his girl deserved a chance to show her strength.
Indominus pushed himself off of Smaug's body, and flew back as Rainbow Dash came speeding forward. Smaug saw the mare coming and zoomed towards her with another punch ready. This time Rainbow met the attack head on with her clawed hoof. Smaug was surprised when he got the same powerful shock waves after his fist collided with Rainbow's hoof. It amazed him how a pony could be just as powerful as a dinosaur hybrid. The dragon lord wanted to see what else the two lovers were capable of.
He flipped his body over and smacked Rainbow down with his tail. Smaug used the momentum to follow up with another punch as Indominus lunged at him. All three fighters were heading out of the sky and back down into the volcano. Smaug shut his wings to gain speed on the falling warriors, but Rainbow and Indominus were one step ahead of him.
The couple brought back their red auras, zoomed straight to the ground and then bolted skywards back towards Smaug. At the rate the warriors were going, there wasn't enough time for Smaug to dodge the attack. Rainbow dealt him an uppercut to the face and Indominus hammered his fist into the damaged chest armor. The force from the hits knocked more air and blood out of Smaug's mouth, and the dragon growled in frustration. As he struck the couple in retaliation, Smaug's attack left bleeding scratch marks across their faces as they hit the ground.
Indominus staggered back to his feet, feeling more dazed after the attack. As he walked over to Rainbow Dash, he felt his legs getting shaky and unsteady. Rainbow was also having trouble standing up, Smaug's blow had gotten them good. They turned their heads when they heard Smaug touch down on the platform.
"Looks like I've finally managed to get through your tough hides. While I can't transform like you two, I can increase my strength. That last attack will leave you both feeling rather weak for awhile."
"Oh you think so?"
Smaug was appalled by Indominus's retort, then stared in shock as the red auras returned and healed the marks his attack had left behind.
"We've still got a few tricks left Smaug, and being able to heal during a fight is one of them," said Rainbow. Smaug bellowed a very frustrated roar and charged towards the winded warriors. Rainbow was about to brace herself when Indominus stepped ahead.
"I got this one Rainbow, you take a minute to heal yourself."
"Alright, I trust you know what you're doing Indominus."
The hybrid barreled towards Smaug and began building up strength in his right fist. He had a feeling that Smaug was also gathering strength for another powerful punch. The dragon lord had a look of pure anger on his face, likely from all of his attacks being outdone no matter how hard he attacked them. The carnivores drew closer to each other and once Indominus was within striking range, Smaug drew his fist back and prepared to attack with all the strength he could build up. The dragon lord and hybrid swung their fists at each other, but the collision produced a rare and unexpected result.
As the fists collided, Smaug watched as golden flames erupted from in between his fist and Indominus's. Indominus witnessed the spectacle too, and was shocked as the flames began to circle and surge around his body. What astonished the hybrid most, was that the golden fire seemed to be focusing solely on him and not the dragon lord. Smaug had wide eyes and he was shaking at the sight before him; what he was witnessing was a legend he didn't think was possible.
The dragons above had bulging eyes and dropped jaws. Everything in the gauntlet had blown their minds, but this spectacle was the icing on the surprise cake. It was one thing for Indominus and Rainbow to be on par with Smaug, but to see the dinosaur with gold flames around him was far beyond what they had expected. The Mane Six were also in just as much shock, Twilight had never seen anything so astounding in her life.
"I've never seen anything like this before, this goes beyond anything they've ever shown," said Twilight.
"What in the ever lovin' apple barrels is happenin' to Indominus?"
"The flames around him are almost like the ones Philomena had. How is something like this even possible Twilight?"
"You're asking the wrong pony Fluttershy, I'm still wondering how the dinosaurs are able to transform in the first place."
"From the looks of it, Dashie is the one that seems the most surprised out of us all," said Rarity.
She couldn't have been more right, Rainbow Dash had the widest eyes out of everypony else. She had a front row seat to the action along with Smaug, and shakily stepped forward to get a clearer look at her fiance.
"Indominus, what's happening to you?" The hybrid slowly turned around and Rainbow's jaw hit the floor as she took in the hybrid's new look. She could see new, different marks within each of the flashes of golden flame that wrapped around her fiance. The hybrid didn't know what to think of the new change himself.
"I-I don't know," Indominus said as he looked at the gold flame that flickered around him. This is far different than the power you gave us against Black Death. I don't even understand how a power like this can be achieved." Smaug's shocked tone caught Indominus's attention away from his new look.
"Y-You...are...the one. Indominus, you have the potential to become a true legend."
"You know what's happening to me Smaug?"
"What you're seeing is only a glimpse of the form's true potential. I've seen it only one other time, but you are definitely on the right track. It's a form I call the Immortal Phoenix, and it's as rare as the stone you chose for Rainbow's ring." Smaug was so eager to see what Indominus could do with the flames around him, and he was about to get his wish.
"Well, let's see what this glimpse of true potential can do."
Indominus exploded off the ground and lurched forward at Smaug, the speed was blinding to him and before he knew it, the hybrid was going into the sky while carrying the dragon lord. It all happened so fast that the spectators only saw a flash as Indominus went past them. The hybrid quickly reversed direction and threw Smaug back onto the platform with incredible speed. The dragon crashed and landed on his back, Indominus touched down by Rainbow who was smiling at how fast her fiance had been.
"Phew, these flames are giving me more of a kick than I thought."
"I'll say, with those gold flames around you, you can move as fast as I can," Rainbow said happily. In fact, I have an excellent idea that'll put them to good use."
"I'm listening."
While Smaug was recovering from the speeding impact and getting back to his feet, Rainbow whispered her little plan of attack to Indominus. The hybrid hung onto his girl's every word and when she was done, he had a devilish grin on his face.
"That is such a wicked idea Rainbow Dash, I love it! Let's put it to the test."
Rainbow kick started her aura and she and Indominus prepared themselves for their surprise attack. Smaug had just gotten back on his feet when he saw Rainbow and Indominus speeding towards him again. They rammed his body and drove him against the wall of the volcano. They fighters then began forcing him up the wall and into the air, where they began dealing another volley of fists and blasts. Smaug swung his claws and tails all over the sky to hit them, but Indominus's new flames had made him much faster. He could block and intercept every attack the dragon lord threw at him.
Rainbow took advantage of the situation and nailed Smaug in the back. As he fell, the dragon lord grabbed Indominus by the leg and punched at him on the way down. Once they were back inside the volcano, Smaug chucked Indominus at the platform. This time however, the dinosaur landed on all fours and immediately bolted for the sky. He rammed Smaug head on, but continued to climb skyward. Rainbow followed after him until the two of them were golden yellow and red dots in the sky.
From their high point of view, Rainbow glanced at her fiance.
"Alright Indominus, we're about to find out if this works. If it doesn't, we'll most likely end up as splotches inside the Final Destination."
"I know Rainbow, but if it does work then we've won the gauntlet." Indominus took Rainbow's hoof and looked her dead in the eyes. Regardless of what happens, we'll still be together."
The two shared one kiss before they opened their jaws and began building energy within them. Everypony below could see the energy building and the lightning surging out of their mouths. Twilight's eyes went wide at what she thought Indominus and Rainbow had planned.
"Everypony! Be ready to move! Rainbow and Indominus are going to launch their blasts!"
Smaug heard what Twilight said and started to get nervous. If they unleashed their attacks from such a height, then the energy would ignite the volcano and engulf everything in the area. His common sense began telling him otherwise the more he thought the situation over.
"There's no way they would fire such devastating blasts from up there, those two would wipe out half the dragon lands if they did."
Rainbow and Indominus clamped down on the balls of power stored in their mouths and held them. They glanced at each other, nodded their heads once and began diving towards the ground. With the amount of power they had, their speed was building at an incredible rate. The Mane Six could see the mach cone already forming around Rainbow Dash, and the golden flames were forming a spear around Indominus. Scootaloo's eyes shrunk as she realized what her sister and savior had concocted.
"Everypony! We need to fly now!"
The dragons didn't hesitate this time, they took to the sky with the Mane Six and CMC and began putting as much distance as possible between them and the volcano. They still kept an eye on the diving warriors, who were becoming more engulfed by the power surrounding their bodies. This was going to be a Sonic Rainboom to end all Sonic Rainbooms.
Down in the volcano, Smaug was rooted to the spot. All he could do was watch as the warriors continued to gain more velocity. The red aura and golden flames had engulfed them completely, and he could hear the mach cones reaching their peak. Whatever they had planned was about to take place.
"Let's see what you and your mate have in store for me Indominus."
Then everyone heard the tremendous explosion.
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!!!!!!!!
The Sonic Rainboom was triple the size of an average one. The golden flames and red aura had both been added to the mix, giving the Rainboom a much more sinister appearance. What scared everypony most was that none of them could see Rainbow or Indominus. After the Rainboom happened, both fighters had disappeared from view. All they saw was a red and gold lightning flash that dove into the volcano and vanished.
Smaug had shrunken eyes and a dropped jaw upon seeing the spectacle. He had no idea where either of the fighters had gone. He had watched the whole thing, and they had simply disappeared from sight. He had no idea however, that disaster was waiting right in front of him. He heard two crashes on the platform and as he lowered his head away from the Sonic Rainboom, his heart sank.
Rainbow and Indominus were right in his face at point blank range. The orbs glowing in their mouths with hundreds of lightning flashes. There was nothing that could prepare Smaug for the devastation he was about to endure.
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!" Smaug's scream was drowned out by the roars of the warriors as the blasts erupted from their jaws.
The spectators all heard the thunderous roars and felt their hearts drop as a massive explosion burst from within the volcano. Tons of lava erupted with the blast and expanded along the entire width of the volcano. The volcano's crater was being expanded and destroyed by the sheer power that Rainbow and Indominus were pouring onto Smaug.
"They were capable of that kind of power!?" The green dragon was so shocked as he asked the Mane Six and CMC and witnessed the power destroying the volcano.
"I didn't think that their love for each other would be able to produce a blast of this caliber," said Scootaloo.
"There ain't no way in heck that Smaug will be able te walk away from an attack that strong," said Applejack.
Sweetie Belle added, "I'm wondering how they managed to pull off an attack that fast. I've never seen Rainbow Dash pull off a Sonic Rainboom that fast."
"I just hope they're alright," Fluttershy added.
"Looks like we're about to find out," said T-Rex.
The eruption died down and the spectators flew over to the widened crater to try and see what had happened. The inside was covered in black smoke and lightning strikes could be seen floating around the area. As the smoke cleared, they could make out two bodies that were glowing. The Mane Six had wide eyes and the CMC were astounded at the sight.
Indominus and Rainbow were panting heavily and their energy was continuing to surge around them. Indominus still had the little golden flames circling his body, and they seemed to have grown in numbers. They had done a serious number on Smaug, who was lying face down in the dirt as the smoke cleared up completely. The dragons were all mortified by what incredible damage had been dealt to their king.
Many of his scales had been peeled away from the force of the blasts. The skin near his wings was blistered badly and blood was spilling from his mouth and pooling around his face. Seeing that he wasn't budging or making any movements, it was obvious he had been truly devastated. Many of the dragons thought that Rainbow and Indominus had done the impossible: they thought the warriors had killed their king.
Each of the spectators held their breath nervously, hoping that their king would somehow be able to get up from the brutal attack.
Rainbow and Indominus finally got a decent look at their handiwork as the dust and smoke lifted from the volcano. Smaug was still not moving and after being dealt such tremendous attacks at point blank range, it was a wonder he hadn't been disintegrated.
"You were right Rainbow Dash, your plan worked. I doubt any of Smaug's previous battles could've prepared him for that. There's definitely a lot of smarts behind that rainbow mane of yours."
Rainbow Dash felt herself blushing at Indominus's compliment, and he loved how cute she looked despite her transformation.
"Oh please, it was just an idea I thought to test out the speed your new flames have given you."
Indominus gave her a light kiss on the cheek.
"Still, the plan was all yours. I love it when my girl shows her strength and brains in the best of ways."
Then they heard a struggled groan coming from Smaug's body, and watched as the dragon lord tried to lift his exhausted body off the ground. The dragons above were all grateful that their king hadn't been killed after all. However, they were worried about his physical state after the incredible blast had shook him up so badly. The Mane Six could see how the three dragons watching out for them were getting nervous for their king.
"Do you boys think Smaug will be able to keep going like this," Rarity asked the group.
"It's hard to say at this point," the dark blue dragon said. "Smaug has never encountered an attack that brutal before. He's been ravaged by the intensity of the attack, and his body is severely damaged."
"If this battle goes on, then he will surely die," the green dragon added.
Hearing this shocked all the dragons. Each of them knew that Smaug had always won his fights, but this could be the one time that he wouldn't be able to come out on top. His body was still bleeding and his arms were shaking slightly trying to hold him up. There didn't seem to be a way for him to survive his own gauntlet.
"Well it also depends on what Indominus and Rainbow Dash decide to do," Scootaloo said.
Everyone looked at the filly like she had the answer to the outcome of the fight.
"Just what do you mean?"
"I mean that neither of them were aiming to kill him. They could decide to spare him, this isn't like the fight with Black Death. Smaug has been very reasonable and understanding this whole time. It all comes down to what each of them decides to do next."
Th spectators turned their attention back down to the battlefield, noticing that Smaug was facing off against the warriors again.
He was breathing heavily from the attacks, and he looked terribly exhausted. The dragon lord was on the verge of losing his own fight unless he did something soon.
"Maybe now you can see how wrong you were to doubt us Smaug," Indominus called out to the weakened king. "When me and Rainbow Dash work together there's nothing we can't accomplish."
Smaug gave a slightly weak, but fully satisfied laugh. Despite what had happened to him, he looked truly pleased with the results. He slowly began to make his way towards Rainbow and Indominus. They got ready to take action in case he tried anything sneaky. Smaug just kept walking at a slow pace towards them and stopped when he was within arm's reach of the pair. Indominus could see the pleased expression on the dragon king's face.
"Well done Rainbow Dash and Indominus Rex. You two fight with much fire in your hearts. That was a truly shocking sneak attack, I never thought the flames could make you move at such blinding speeds Indominus. As for Rainbow Dash, that was a clever tactic to use the flames to your advantage and catch me off guard. You are one of the brightest ponies I've ever met."
Rainbow Dash couldn't help but feel humble again at his compliments. Smaug was far more compassionate than any other dragon she had seen. He had a perfect combination of ferocity and courtesy, something no pony ever expected in a dragon.
"Though I have to say Indominus, you were both right and wrong about what you told me before the fight."
"Right and wrong about what Smaug?"
"Before this fight began you told me I would love the challenge of facing your fiance, but you said I wouldn't feel that way after it was over. That is where you are wrong. I did enjoy the challenge of fighting both of you. Yet I still feel that way now considering you two have beaten me."
The dragons all gasped in surprise, they swore that they had misheard their king. Did Smaug just say that the warriors had beaten him? All of them watched in disbelief as Smaug extended his arm towards Indominus in a friendly gesture. Rainbow and Indominus relaxed upon seeing the gesture.
"For the first time ever in Dragon Land history, Final Destination will not be claiming a victim. Rainbow Dash, Indominus Rex, I concede to you. You two are the winners and champions of my gauntlet."
The Mane Six, CMC and dinosaurs all erupted in applause after hearing Smaug. The couple had proven themselves to be too much for the dragon lord to overcome. The dragons couldn't believe it, Smaug, the dragon lord had given up in a fight. At first they thought that Smaug had been outdone by someone that had been able to match him. Yet seeing how he looked at Rainbow and Indominus showed all the dragons that their king must've gained so much respect for them.
Every dragon roared into the sky and let loose their flames in congrats. Indominus gladly shook the dragon lord's hand, glad for being presented with such a courteous dragon. Both hybrid and dragon stared at each other with pleased looks in their eyes. When Smaug congratulated Rainbow Dash, he extended a fist for her instead.
"No hard feelings for what I said about you before Rainbow Dash?"
"No hard feelings Smaug," Rainbow said happily as she hoof bumped the scaly fist.
The three fighters then took flight and flew out of the volcano. Smaug was a little slower than the couple because his body was weakened so much. When they touched down on soft ground again, Rainbow's friends toppled her in a dog pile, once she returned to her normal size. T-Rex and the raptors nuzzled the heck out of Indominus, and were surprised that the golden flames did nothing to them when they were touching him.
Scootaloo said from within the dog pile "Rainbow Dash you were amazing!"
"Darling you were fantastic in that fight."
"Ah've never seen ya move like that before."
"All that quality time with the dinosaurs has shaped you into an amazing fighter."
"This new power of yours is something else Indominus. How did it happen?"
"I'm still trying to figure that out myself T-Rex. All I know is that after my fist collided with Smaug's, the flames formed from the impact and began surrounding me. Oh, that reminds me. We have something to take care of."
Indominus called Rainbow and Scootaloo over and told them that they had to thank Smaug for the incredible fight. All the ponies joined them as they walked over to the exhausted dragon lord. All the dragons were deeply concerned for him seeing how badly beaten he still looked. They parted when the dinosaurs had walked over to speak with their king.
"Smaug we can't thank you enough for giving us this chance to prove ourselves."
"We've never encountered a dragon that has accepted us and didn't try to kill us on the spot," said Blue.
"You're quite welcome warriors. That was the whole point of this gauntlet, for all of you to show me why Equestria has looked up to all of you. I witnessed all of it today during the fights, and now I finally understand why Black Death was killed. Before you all head back home, there is an offer I want to give."
"Before you do, we have something that we need to do for you Smaug." This statement caught Smaug and the others by surprise.
"Oh, and what would that be Indominus?"
"You see, I'm not the only one who can transform. Everyone in our family can, Tyrannosaurus, Blue and her girls, even Rainbow and Scootaloo can do it. We want to show you how we looked when we killed Black Death."
"Now this I must see."
Indominus looked at the others to see if they were ok with showing their forms.
"So girls, you don't mind if we show Smaug our power, do you?"
"Not at all Indominus," said Scootaloo.
"Sure, why not."
"Gladly."
"Let's do it."
With everyone's approval, the family gathered in front of Smaug to show him their true forms. The dragons braced themselves for what was going to happen. Indominus stood back as his family members began surging with power and the red auras returned. Every dragon had dropped jaws once again, seeing the transformed family members. Seeing Scootaloo's transformed state alongside Rainbow Dash's was extremely pleasing to Smaug.
"I can see you already have a prodigy in your life Rainbow Dash." Rainbow wrapped one hoof around Scootaloo as she looked at her with proud eyes.
"Yes, she's made me so proud for everything that she's accomplished. For all the trials she's endured and for helping stop Black Death, I'm proud to call her my sister."
The dragons couldn't help but admire the touching display. Despite how fierce and strong they were, the dinosaurs and ponies all cared deeply for each other. They had a family bond that could conquer any challenge.
"Now this is our way of repaying you for this opportunity Smaug."
"What are you-"
Smaug was cut off as the family began pouring the red tangible energy on him. The dragon lord didn't move as the energy covered his body. The others were shocked as they watched the marks and bleeding wounds on his body healing at an incredible rate. All the flesh wounds and slashes were healed and in no time at all, Smaug's body was completely healed. He couldn't believe what they had just done for him, the dinosaurs and pegasi had restored him. All the wounds on his body had vanished and his strength had even returned in the process.
"Wow. This feels amazing. Thank you very much Guardians." They all bowed to him in return, and returned to their original states.
When Indominus transformed back the golden flames disappeared. It was rather strange to be normal again, considering that those flames had helped him and Rainbow Dash win the gauntlet in the first place. Now it was time to hear what Smaug's offer was.
"Now what were you saying Smaug," Rainbow asked the dragon lord.
"I was going to offer you the chance to train with all of us if you'd like."
No one could believe what they had heard. Smaug was offering them a chance to train in the dragon lands with him. Rainbow thought about it for a while, but in the end she couldn't accept the offer. She had ponies back in Ponyville that depended on her, and she had Scootaloo to take care of.
"I'm sorry Smaug, I can't accept your offer. I already have somepony to keep on training so she can be the best and remain part of my family." Scootaloo snuggled against her sister as the other dinosaurs gave their answers.
"Sorry Smaug, my place is with Ponyville. I appreciate the offer though," said T-Rex.
"Me and my girls have Scootaloo to care for," Blue answered.
Indominus seemed to be having trouble making his decision. So he asked Smaug a few questions.
"What would I get from training with you Smaug?"
"I would take you under my wing, teach you everything that dragons know about fighting and make you my personal prodigy. I saw so much potential in you during the fight Indominus, and I want to sharpen your skills so that you can be just as good as during our fight. Except you probably wouldn't need the red aura after you've gone through my training. Also, I could show you how to unleash the true potential of the Immortal Phoenix and more importantly, how to control it."
Indominus had only one more question to ask before he could make his choice.
"Would I have to remain here forever?" Smaug could see the worried look in Rainbow's eyes after Indominus asked his question. He already knew what to say.
"No, you wouldn't have to stay here all the time. Your only requirements would be to train in these lands for one week of each month. Then when the winter comes to Equestria, you will face off against me in a fight, without transforming. It will be a way to show me how much you've improved, if you pass, then you will be my true prodigy and be able to awaken the Immortal Phoenix by the end of the fight. However, if you fail, you will have to repeat the training process again and again, until you can beat me one on one. Also as a side note, if your friends miss you that badly they can always visit to see your progress for themselves."
Indominus turned towards his fiance to see what she would say.
"Rainbow Dash, you wouldn't be upset if I trained here for a while, would you? I'm not cancelling the promise we made to each other, I just feel like this could make me a better Guardian and protector." Rainbow Dash spoke very clearly to her hybrid fiance.
"Indominus I can't force you to decide, the choice is all yours. Besides, you're not going to be here forever. You only have to train here one week each month until the winter comes around. Besides I can always come by to check on you, Smaug said I could. If you feel that this can make you a better dinosaur, then go for it."
"Rainbow Dash, I love you." Indominus kissed his girl for being so understanding, no other ponies in the world would be as understanding as her and Scootaloo. Indominus bent down to tell Scootaloo as well. "Are you ok with me being gone for a while Scootaloo?"
"You go get em Indominus. You'll still be my savior." The hybrid happily licked her in response, then he walked over to Smaug to give his answer.
"Smaug, I will accept your offer. I will train with you and all the dragons to be the best dinosaur I can be."
The dragons roared in delight, they were going to help train a fighter that could show them a thing or two. Smaug had a proud smile on his face.
"I should warn you, I can be a difficult teacher. I accept nothing but the absolute best from all who train under my wing."
"I believe I can handle it."
"Very good Indominus Rex, welcome to our world."
The dragon lord and hybrid dinosaur shook hands then threw their heads back and roared into the sky. It was going to be a little sad for Rainbow Dash, to be apart from her fiance even for a week. Twilight walked beside her.
"There now Rainbow Dash, you'll get to see him regardless."
"I know, but this'll be the first time we've been apart."
"Come now Rainbow, there'll be times like these," Indominus said as he walked back over. "You can't get too sappy on me, or others might think you're turning soft."
Rainbow shook away the thoughts from her mind and reminded herself that Indominus was right. The dragon lord asked the three dragons to bring Indominus back in one week for his training. As they got ready to head back home, Smaug had a task for Rainbow Dash.
"Rainbow while Indominus is back with you, make sure to test him every now and again to make sure he stays on track."
"You got it Smaug, I won't let you down."
The dragon lord even told the three dragons that had brought them to make sure to get him updated on Indominus's progress.
"You want us to keep going back to Ponyville? You're not mad at us for bringing the ponies here?"
"If you hadn't brought them here, I would've never seen Indominus or Rainbow's fighting potential in the first place. So yes, consider it a reward for bringing me such amazing fighters."
`With everything set and Indominus's training to begin in a week's time, the group bid farewell to the dragon lands and began making their trip home. Indominus was going to learn all the secrets of the dragons, and he would become a more capable dinosaur than he ever dreamed of.
The weeks of training that followed until the winter were far more difficult than Indominus had thought. The dragon lord put him through grueling training that pushed his limits in every aspect of fighting. Every week Indominus was tested in a different aspect of fighting, Smaug wanted to make sure the dinosaur could cover everything about fighting so he would have more tactics and strategies. During the sessions, Smaug forbade the hybrid from transforming in order to focus on strengthening his body more. Also so Indominus wouldn't feel like he had to resort to using his transformed state if a battle got to be too much. He did however, let Indominus use his wings and the blasts to train for better flying and for controlling the amount of power used in each blast.
Indominus's first week with the dragons focused on utilizing every weapon he had in his arsenal. The dragons taught him not to just rely on his claws or blasts, he had to make use of all the tools he had been born with. The hybrid faced many dragons during that week and the matches were relentless, but he learned quickly. By the time the week had ended, Indominus was able to hold his own and fight against five dragons at once. It warmed Smaug's scaly heart to see how much progress Indominus was capable of making, and how he was developing into an incredible fighter.
The other weeks focused on Indominus's flight speed, his combat prowess and energy control. Smaug had seen that Indominus was fast during the gauntlet, but he seemed to have difficulty with the higher speeds. Indominus was taught not to push himself too hard while in flight, because if he couldn't control himself in the air or sustain his flight, it could wind up with crashing into the ground. The hybrid did appreciate what Smaug was trying to teach him, but that area of training was best suited for Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo.
Covering Indominus's prowess as a fighter was a training session that involved him and Smaug spending so much of the day brawling with each other. The two carnivores got swept up in the thrill of sparing with each other that they often forgot about time altogether. It would be pitch black by the time the dinosaur and dragon had had their fill of sparing with each other. They would cap off their sparing session with a night hunt and enjoy the other's company while they chowed down on well earned meat. Those moments of training were a rare time for Indominus and Smaug to bond with each other as mentor and pupil.
Controlling the amount of power being put into each blast was a difficult area for Indominus to learn. He was so used to pouring as much power as he could into his blasts, but Smaug showed him that would only wear him out faster.
"You must be able to concentrate a certain amount into each blast. Otherwise you're just wasting your energy on the hope that you can kill your opponent with a single attack. Controlling the amount of energy will allow you to last much longer in a brawl, while maintaining your dominance over your foe."
Smaug's teachings were simple and brilliant to understand, and Indominus learned quite well from each lesson.
Smaug didn't just train Indominus til his bones broke, he was a stern yet understanding teacher. Halfway through each week of training, the dragon lord would give Indominus time to relax in the lava baths, provide him with plenty of meat and always gave the right amount of encouragement. The dragon lord found that the more time he spent training Indominus, the more fond he was becoming of the hybrid. The dragon lord had finally found a creature that could handle his way of fighting and was making him more proud with each day.
When he wasn't training in the Dragon Lands, Indominus had to keep up under Rainbow's watchful eye. Smaug had given her the task of making sure her fiance didn't slack off on his training, so at the end of every week the dragon trio gave her Indominus's training regime for that week. She could teach Indominus in the training of flying better than Smaug could, but had to transform for the combat parts. Rainbow and Scootaloo offered their support and help in keeping Indominus on track, but didn't put him through nearly as much training. He needed some much needed rest every so often after the constant training and sparing that would prepare him for his winter duel.
On the month before the winter duel, Smaug had a special training in mind for Indominus: tapping into the power of the Immortal Phoenix. Since Indominus had already tapped into the power during the gauntlet, Smaug was sure it would be easier to use over time. He couldn't have been more wrong, Indominus had been unable to trigger it since the gauntlet. Smaug knew the form could only be triggered by tapping into a pure, animal rage. Yet despite how intensely he and Indominus spared in hopes of triggering it, they didn't get any luck. When their strongest punches collided they got a few flames, but no significant results.
There didn't seem to be any way of getting Indominus angry enough to trigger the transformation. Smaug had one idea left, but he was going to save it for Indominus's final test in the winter.
When the time finally came for Indominus's test, the dragons returned to Ponyville once again to take the group to the dragon lands. They all made sure to bring extra gear because none of them knew how cold the Dragon Lands were in the winter. Tyrannosaurus and the raptors had the auras up the whole way because the brisk, cold air was more than they could handle. When they reached their destination, it was clear just how extreme the winter was for dragons.
The wind felt 20 degrees colder and the dragons that couldn't survive the cold were frozen solid. The snow was blowing so wildly that it was near impossible to see anything ahead. It was an insane level of cold that only the most durable creatures could handle. The ponies huddled close to the dinosaurs as Smaug descended out of the air. He touched down in front of Indominus, who had the most determined look in his eyes ever.
"So Indominus, are you ready for your final test?"
"Yes Smaug, I'll take it and prove my worth to you at last."
Smaug smiled at his pupil's determination. "That's what I like to hear. Now follow me."
The dragon lord led Indominus onto a frozen, barren battlefield for the final test. There was parched snow covered ground and mountains in the background, it was a grand setting for the hybrid's last test. Dragons began gathering alongside the dinosaurs to see how Indominus would fare. Everyone heard Smaug call out over the wind to Indominus.
"This is your final task: you must beat me in a fight without transforming, and make me bow before you with a roar. Not just any roar, the roar of a true dinosaur and king. The only way to achieve it is to awaken the Immortal Phoenix. If you can't awaken that power within yourself, then you are not even fit to walk among the ponies."
Indominus knew that he had to find a way to trigger the transformation, but if he couldn't change during the fight, how could he pull it off? There was a way, he would just have to find it before the fight got the best of him. He heard cheering coming from the ponies, but there was only one voice that truly stood out to him.
"Show him why you're my fiance Indominus. Prove to all of the dragons why you are the best they'll ever see!"
Indominus gave Rainbow Dash a nod and turned back towards Smaug.
"This I swear to you Smaug, I will come out on top in this fight. I will not LOSE!!!"
"Then let your last test begin. NOW FIGHT!!!"
The carnivores bellowed massive roars and charged at each other. As they got closer, Indominus was already planning his first attack. Smaug was wondering what Indominus had planned as he closed in on his student. When they were within striking range Smaug lunged forward and tried to bite Indominus. The hybrid's counterattack was far different than what Smaug had expected.
Indominus fired a contained blast right in Smaug's face. The explosion sent the dragon reeling back, but he was able to stay on his feet. As he recovered from the attack, Smaug spotted Indominus lunging for him almost immediately afterwards. The dragon lord swung a fist out to stop him, but Indominus grabbed it and clamped down on the underside of Smaug's neck. Indominus had gotten himself at a perfect angle to attack Smaug, one which the dragon lord couldn't defend himself.
Indominus was too close to Smaug's body and with his neck in the hybrid's jaws the dragon lord couldn't maneuver for a clean shot. Because his arms were also his wings, they could only bend so far in and Indominus was too close for his free arm to reach. Smaug had to admit that Indominus was still surprising him, with a sneak attack and already drawing blood the hybrid was definitely a worthy creature. That didn't mean that Smaug was going to take it easy on him, he was the dragon lord for a reason and he was going to remind Indominus of it.
The hybrid noticed that Smaug's chest was lighting up, that meant Smaug was getting ready to unleash his fire. Even though Indominus had him by the underside of the neck, Smaug had a clear shot of the hybrid's back. If Indominus didn't move he would be blasted by the full force of Smaug's breath.
"Alright Untamable King, let's see you get out of this one."
Indominus reacted quickly by releasing his grip on Smaug's fist and neck and pushed himself off the dragon's body to put some distance between them. Unfortunately, Smaug was ahead of Indominus this time. As Indominus pushed himself off Smaug's body, the dragon used his free arm to seize the dinosaur by the leg and throw him into the ground. Smaug then pinned Indominus to the ground so there was no way for him to fly away.
The ponies on the sidelines were getting really nervous from seeing how Indominus was trapped. All except for Rainbow Dash, who was completely calm about the ordeal.
"Rainbow ain't ya in the least bit nervous about Indominus? He's about to be blasted in the face by Smaug."
"I'm not worried Applejack, because I helped train him for this moment. I know that Indominus can get himself out of this mess."
Applejack had never heard Rainbow put so much confidence and faith in somepony before. But Indominus was a very capable dinosaur, so Rainbow's faith in was more than justified, She then took notice that Indominus was concealing a blast within his mouth. It was only visible by small amounts of energy that were coming out of his mouth. Then the Mane Six watched as Smaug and Indominus opened their mouths and fired their blasts.
The attacks couldn't have been more than a few feet apart, and the explosion covered their bodies. Smaug was sent flying away as the smoke began to cover more of the area. He landed on his back as he recoiled from the force of the explosion.
"That was fast, how could he possibly block an attack that close? I was right in his face when I released the blast."
As the smoke began to fade, Smaug saw that Indominus's body was steaming. The attack had done some damage to him, he had just blocked the majority of the blast with his counterattack. As Indominus got back on his feet, he gave Smaug the first snide remark of his life.
"What did you think of that Smaug, am I becoming more than you expected?"
"What's this now, am I sensing an ego and some pride in you? I didn't think my attitude was rubbing off on you. I must admit that you're still surprising me Indominus."
The hybrid gave his mentor a smile from across the battlefield.
"It's because you're strong Smaug, I find that my toughest opponents bring out the best in me. Plus I thought using snide remarks in a fight could throw my opponent off their game."
"Well that is a good idea, but use them with the wrong fighter and you'll wind up in a world of hurt. Besides, you're still a long shot from beating me. Remember, you needed your fiance's help to bring me down last time." Smaug had his own bag of retorts to use, after all two could play this kind of game.
"Oh don't worry, I've trained to prove myself to you. I'll show you just how much stronger I am."
Good, cause I'm just getting started, Smaug thought to himself.
Then Smaug took two leaps and went airborne, Indominus unfurled his wings and gave chase after the dragon. In the blinding snow and strong wind it would've been impossible to spot Smaug in the sky. However, Indominus had been born with a very unique perk: being able to sense the heat signatures of other animals. So even with the snow blocking his normal vision, his thermal detection allowed him to see Smaug's body clearly against the elements.
Smaug turned back and saw the hybrid was still chasing him, and gaining ground. The dragon let loose a torrent of flame at Indominus and waited to see what the dinosaur would do. Indominus fired a blast of his own and it countered the attack. Smaug waited for Indominus to appear from within the smoke, but there was nothing after the smoke had cleared. Indominus had disappeared and Smaug knew that he was using his camouflage to try and ambush the dragon lord.
Smaug scanned the sky, trying to spot the hybrid's movements in the air. With the snow falling Indominus should've been given away, yet Smaug couldn't spot him or hear him. The sound of his wing beats couldn't even be heard and it had Smaug wondering how Indominus was managing to stay so quiet in the air.
Then all of a sudden.
"SURPRISE!!!"
Smaug felt teeth clamp down on the back of his neck and his arms were being held back. The dragon lord was plummeting toward the ground with Indominus on his back, weighing him down and restricting his flight. Indominus had flown above the explosion, glided in the air so Smaug couldn't hear him and successfully ambushed the dragon. Now they were falling back towards the snow covered ground, but Indominus had something else in mind. As they got closer to the ground, Indominus began charging more energy in his jaws.
When they were close enough to the ground, Indominus bellowed out, "see how you like this one?"
He fired a powerful blast at Smaug and flew back as he released it. Smaug was sent speeding right into the ground and collided with a mountain of snow. When he resurfaced the dragon looked back at his prodigy.
This isn't going anywhere, he's just using fancy moves and clever tactics. He'll never awaken the power of the Phoenix like this. I didn't want to do this, but it looks like I'll have to get him angry myself.
Smaug burst from the snow angrier than ever. He looked at Indominus with a fiery glare in his eyes and spoke with a deep voice that could've been mistaken for Death's tone.
"Is this how you intend to win this fight? Using all these fancy moves and not fighting me like the dinosaur that I faced in the gauntlet? Maybe it was a mistake to train you if THIS is how you're going to fight me."
That last statement got under Indominus's skin, it had been so long since someone had called him a mistake. Smaug could see a red glare in the hybrid's eyes and knew he was getting close to bringing out Indominus's inner fury. As the hybrid began walking towards Smaug, he responded with his own deep tone.
"I am no mistake. I'm the Untamable King, Indominus Rex. I'm not afraid to fight you like a true dinosaur, I will fight you tooth and claw and nothing else. If that's how you want this battle to go down, then so be it!"
Indominus put away his wings and charged towards Smaug with ferocity in his heart. The moment they met each other head on, both dinosaur and dragon went into a flurry of punches and slashes. They had disregarded their flight and blasts completely, and were just throwing punches at each other as hard as they could. Indominus was putting all his strength into each punch, and every attack produced more golden flame as his fists collided with Smaug's.
This pleased the dragon lord, knowing that he was on the right track in getting Indominus to awaken his potential, but it still wasn't enough. Brute force wasn't cutting it, even with both of them angry as possible, or so Smaug thought. Then he remembered how Indominus had protected Rainbow Dash so many times during the gauntlet, and then a horrible idea popped into his mind. He realized that the only way for Indominus to awaken the power of the Immortal Phoenix, was to attack the one pony that Indominus cared so much for. Such action would push Indominus's anger over the edge and awaken the power within him.
It was a risky plan, but Smaug didn't have any other choice. After he and Indominus separated from their fists colliding, he called out to the spectating dragons.
"DRAGONS! GRAB RAINBOW DASH AND HOLD HER FOR ME!"
The dragons obeyed Smaug's word and seized Rainbow Dash before she could transform. Scootaloo tried to help her, but the dragons outnumbered her and captured her as well. T-Rex and the raptors were surrounded by the others and couldn't move in to help their family. The Mane Six could only look on in horror as Smaug began charging towards Rainbow Dash. Indominus tried to stop him but Smaug just smacked him aside and continued dead ahead.
Smaug was almost within striking range when Indominus stood right between him and the captured ponies. The hybrid stood his ground and held Smaug's fists as the dragon lord continued to press further ahead. Indominus didn't understand why Smaug was suddenly resorting to lashing out with anger and going after the ponies.
"Why are you doing this Smaug? What have they ever done to you?"
"I'm going to do whatever it takes to make you angry and bring out your full power. If your family ends up dead in the process, then you can blame yourself for being so stubborn."
Indominus was hoping that he didn't just hear Smaug threaten his girl's life.
"You did not just say that."
Smaug continued to push Indominus back more as he was getting closer to reaching Rainbow Dash.
"So what if I did, it's not like you have the power to stop me. I'm going to slaughter your whole family, and you won't be able to do a thing about it."
Smaug was about to regret saying the few words Indominus hated to hear. The dragon lord suddenly found that he wasn't moving and couldn't push Indominus back any further. He then saw that more golden flames were starting to form around Indominus, and the hybrid hadn't done anything to trigger them. Suddenly Smaug found himself losing ground and was being forced back despite trying to fight against Indominus.
"You dare say that you will kill the pony I love more than anything!?" The deadly tone coming from Indominus sent chills down Smaug's spine. He had no idea what rage he had awakened within Indominus. "How dare you. HOW DARE YOU!!!!"
Suddenly Smaug felt himself being lifted off the ground and thrown with the strength of a thousand dragons. Indominus felt himself boiling over with anger and it was threatening to take over him. He was going to tear Smaug apart for making a threat against his family, but a voice brought his reason back.
"Remember Indominus, you can do this. Don't let Smaug tell you otherwise. You are my fiance and one of Scootaloo's saviors, there's nothing you can't accomplish."
"Thank you Rainbow Dash," Indominus said to himself before he threw his head into the sky and bellowed a roar that shook everything around him.
Lightning streaks burst from within his body and were arching in all directions. He had found a power greater than what Rainbow Dash had given him, and everypony was witnessing it firsthoof. Smaug watched in shock as golden flames came from within the hybrid's body and began to envelop him. The flames were also spreading out in shock waves, going over anything that was in their way. As his body began undergoing its new transformation, Indominus turned around to face the dragons that were holding Rainbow and Scootaloo.
"Let. Go. Of. My. Girls. NOW!!!! " The dragons immediately let go of the pegasi and backed away trembling at the authority in the transforming dinosaur. With his girls safe, Indominus turned his attention back to the dragon that had made the threat against their lives in the first place.
Smaug was stunned at the magnitude of power Indominus was emitting. The hybrid's wings unfurled and the gold flames instantly covered them. Indominus was being enveloped by the inferno, thousands of fiery tongues licking at his body and filling him with incredible power. The dragon lord had underestimated Indominus's rage, and now the dinosaur was going to kill him. Smaug immediately released a long torrent of flame as Indominus exploded off the ground mid-transformation, and bolted forward.
The fire breath flowed over the dinosaur, but it didn't even slow him down. Indominus was plowing through Smaug's blaze as if he didn't even feel the attack. Smaug continued to pour on the fire until he saw a clawed hand covered in golden fire come out from within the blast and smack him across the face. The force from that one attack sent Smaug reeling and drove his head into the ground. As he got up the dragon lord was paralyzed as he caught sight of Indominus's transformation as the dinosaur stepped out of the flame.
His body was covered completely by the golden fire, there wasn't a scale to be seen on him. Not even his eyes were visible, only glowing red patches were where his eyes should've been. The falling snow evaporated the moment it made contact with the flames. It looked like his entire body was made of golden fire, he no longer looked like a dinosaur. Indominus had finally become what Smaug had seen within him: the Immortal Phoenix was born. The transformed hybrid walked in front of Smaug and spoke in a demonic voice.
"You shouldn't have threatened my girl, now you'll see what happens to those who hurt my family."
Smaug felt his whole world turn on its head as Indominus punched his face with enough force to send the dragon lord crashing into a mountain. The attack happened so fast that Smaug didn't have time to react. All the spectators had wide eyes and dropped jaws at the unbelievable display. As Smaug got up from the attack he noticed something peculiar about Indominus.
The dinosaur seemed to be battling the anger within himself and trying to stay in control. He had experienced so much anger and now he was doing his best to keep it from getting control of his mind. The dragon lord had to commend Indominus for his perseverance and not let the rage control him.
"Excellent work Indominus. Now let's see what you can do as the Immortal Phoenix."
The carnivores flew back into their fighting frenzy, only this time it was far more intense. Indominus was punching at a faster rate than before and could easily block all of Smaug's blows without any trouble. The golden fire covering his body had enhanced all of his potential and made into a fighter beyond anything Smaug had encountered. Indominus was truly giving his best and Smaug was loving every minute of it.
The spectators couldn't make out much, all they could see were the lightning strikes and flashes of gold flames coming from Indominus's attacks. Rainbow was still amazed at how Indominus had transformed and the great creature he had become. This great dinosaur was going to be part of her life and she would get to see him in action with this new gift more often.
"Go Indominus! Kick his tail!"
The transformed hybrid seemed to hear Rainbow's cheer because he broke Smaug's flurry of punches and nailed an uppercut on his head. Indominus instantly followed up by grabbing Smaug's mouth, pulling his head in and nailing a right hook across his face. The dinosaur exploded off the ground and gave chase, easily catching up with the reeling dragon and catching him by the back of the head in his mouth. Without wasting a minute Indominus used Smaug's momentum to spin him around and throw him clear across the battlefield.
Indominus's speed and agility were far greater than when he fought Smaug in the gauntlet. While Smaug was still reeling from all the swift attacks, Indominus began dealing a wide array of fiery slashes and bone breaking blows. Smaug was helpless, against Indominus's fury he couldn't strike back at all. Indominus's new transformation had completely turned the tables on Smaug and now the dragon lord was getting what he had wanted.
Indominus finished his round of attacks by kicking Smaug into the sky and zooming past him. The spectators lost sight of them for a moment, but gasped in horror as a giant golden blast rained down from the air, with Smaug on the receiving end. The blast exploded into a flurry of fireballs and expanding flames as it made contact with the ground. When the fireworks died out, Smaug was lying face down in the dirt and steam was pouring off his body.
The dragon lord had one hand on his face as he struggled to get back up. He didn't think Indominus would reach a level of such an extreme caliber. He knew the Immortal Phoenix would make Indominus strong, but he never imagined that Indominus would be able to exceed him and render him unable to fight back. It was a rare moment for the dragon lord, he never expected to come across a creature that could outclass him entirely. However, he didn't have time to dwell on it as the golden dinosaur landed in front of him.
Smaug knew what Indominus was talking about and prepared himself for the roar that was going to be heard. He had no idea how much power Indominus's roar had until it escaped his jaws. The roar had so much magnitude that it shook the entirety of the Dragon Lands. All the dragons felt their bodies trembling and were forced into bowing. Smaug felt his own body tremble under the power and authority in the dinosaur, and was shocked as his own body was brought into submission by Indominus Rex.
Indominus Rex, the Untamable King, had completed Smaug's task and had truly defeated the Dragon Lord. Everypony was applauding for Indominus and the hybrid had a delighted smile on his face after having proven his worth to all of the dragons. Indominus could see a happy and extremely proud smile on Rainbow's face. He couldn't wait to hear what she had to say now that he was finished with his training. But first there was his mentor who had some praise of his own to give.
As Smaug got back up he too was applauding his prodigy. The dragon lord extended his arm to Indominus and despite the golden flames still surrounding him, Indominus gladly shook his mentor's hand now that he had won.
"Congratulations Indominus, you truly are my prodigy. I'm sorry about everything that I did during the fight, it was the only way I could bring out the Immortal Phoenix inside you."
Now that Indominus understood his mentor's methods, his frustrated mind relaxed.
"I see, well next time try to let me know ahead of time. If Rainbow hadn't given me some much needed encouragement I could've killed you."
"If you had known beforehand, you wouldn't have gone to such a degree to protect your girl. I'm amazed at how you've turned out because of it. This is the very same form that I've only seen one other time."
Now that the fighting was over, Indominus finally got a good look at his newfound power. Seeing the golden flames covering his body was startling at first, but he still liked how wicked he looked. It was so bizarre to see his body flowing with such power and to have control over it. One thought occurred to him that had him concerned, how was he going to change back?
"Uh Smaug, how am I going to change back?"
"You have to relax and allow the anger to seep out of your mind. Once your mind is calm and no anger is present, the flames will part away."
"I'm not good with that."
"I can help with that." Indominus and Smaug turned to see Rainbow Dash walking towards them, having increased her size and ready to help her fiance.
"Rainbow I'm not sure it's a good idea for you to be around me while I-" Indominus was cut off as Rainbow put her wing to his mouth. The flames didn't burn her at all, they felt very warm against her fur. Despite how Indominus looked, she wasn't afraid because Rainbow knew Indominus was still the same dinosaur that had helped save her and Scootaloo so many months ago.
"Let me help you as you've helped me Indominus. Now brace yourself big boy."
Indominus was taken aback as Rainbow Dash went and kissed him on the mouth. He hadn't expected her to be so bold, but he didn't care as his eyes closed from the warmth of his girl's kiss. The Mane Six were still marveled by how Rainbow Dash wasn't afraid to show her feelings around Indominus, but were shocked as the flames began to leave the hybrid's body. Her love was soothing Indominus's mind, and before long the golden flames had completely parted from her lover's body.
Unfortunately for Indominus, he nearly doubled over from exhaustion after he had changed back. Rainbow laid his head on her back to keep him from falling over, Smaug and the others rushed over to check Indominus and make sure he was ok.
"What's happening, why do I feel so weak?"
"Your body spent quite a bit of energy during the time we were fighting Indominus. It seems that while the form protects you from pretty much any attacks, it also drains your body of energy. I think it would be wise for you to practice with the form and limit how much time you spend using it. But only after you've given your body time to recover after this fight. After that I'll be looking forward to seeing you back here again."
Indominus's head perked up when he heard Smaug.
"You mean, you still want me to come back here? I thought that once the test was over I wouldn't be needed around here anymore."
Smaug brought his head alongside Indominus's and looked into the eye of his student.
"Indominus, you are my prodigy now. While you aren't required to come back, you are always welcome to seek me out for advice. There is still plenty about the Immortal Phoenix that you're not aware of, and that is where your next level of training will be. Now that you have obtained the Immortal Phoenix, you must learn to master and control it."
"Consider it done Smaug, I will continue to remain your prodigy."
The dragons all roared in great cheer, grateful that Indominus would continue to learn under their guide. With his test complete, Indominus and the others began making their way back to Ponyville. After the dragons had treated the dinosaur to some well deserved meat for all the work he had put into his training. On the way back Rainbow insisted on helping Indominus since his body was still drained, but by the time they were halfway home Indominus was feeling strong enough to walk on his own.
Training with the dragons, becoming the Dragon Lord's prodigy and gaining a new power, all just another part of Rainbow and Indominus's bonding over the year until they would be married. There would be plenty more adventures for the dinosaurs to have, and they had all the time in the world to explore them.
