> My Little Pony: The Flurry Heart’s Story > by Arkogon > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Prologue > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Once upon a time, Equestria was home with many ponies and creatures through the ages ruled by the two sisters. The sisters controlled the Sun and Moon to balance the harmony of everypony, until the first alicorn became the ruler of the Equestria with the sisters’ magic. The alicorn princess was named Twilight Sparkle who made friends with other ponies in Ponyville. They became the Council of Friendships and soon became the Guardian of Friendships. I remember how their friendship has brought harmony and saved Equestria many times from evil and threats, but not from one who does not believe in them. The one who only sees the Truth from what Equestria has been ever since the ponies’ magic were stored in what the Princess have created called Unity Crystal ever since a threat who tries to overpower them. This is my story, this is how the day when creatures turn on us all. > Chapter 1: When the Unity united > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- In Ponyville, ponies were getting along just quite nice and peaceful. Friends to pony, and pony to friends. Then one pony who was in a hurry, a pink unicorn with a golden mane, was in a hurry to meet with her friends. She arrives just in time to see her friends, a Kirin, a griffon, a yak, and a pony. And they were happy she arrived. “At last, you finally came,” Sundance the earth pony said, happily she came. “We thought you would make it.” “Sorry,” She apologized. “I was trying out this new spell I learned back at Canterlot. So, did I miss anything?” “Not anything,” Ambrosia the griffon replied. “We were waiting for you like we were.” “You weren’t waiting, you were flying around Ponyville cause you were bored.” Said Hazel Garden the Kirin. “Okay,” She admitted. “But our Yak here too has been stopping around.” “Yak must keep himself not to be bored.” Baron the yak said. “Waiting for friends to come.” “And here we are. And Luster, what spell did you learn?” She asked Luster what spell she learned. Luster then showed them the spell she had learned from the School for Gifted Unicorns. “Now what and learn,” She said, and showed them the magic she learned. She transforms the apple into a pear, then into a cupcake. “A transformation spell, nice one.” Sundance said. Thanks,” She replied. “But I have more spells I learned today.” She did more spells, as her friends were amazed by what she learned today. And that’s all the spell she has learned. “Wow, pretty soon, you will have more spells to be awesome.” Ambrosia said aloud because she thinks she can be the greatest magical pony. “Actually, I only learn the easy magic.” She explained. “The hardest one I have to learn is when I master these spells.” “But you did master them, right?” Hazel asked and Luster shook her head. “No, not really. I only did a few of them.” “Few?” Baron exclaimed. “Luster can’t do a few? You must do more spells?” “I’m sorry, Baron.” She apologize. “It’s just that the school only gives out only easy magic that we can handle. Hard magic can be a problem we cannot control.” “But you're a unicorn.” Sundance said. “You can handle any magic like your mother used to do.” “Maybe, but she was older than me.” Luster explains. “She has been Twilight’s greatest mentor. She learned to teleport a long time ago, then learned more from her to make friends like her friends and Trixie.” “The Great and Powerful Trixie!” Hazel mimics what Trixie does. “Your mom’s best friend.” “Wait, I thought Sunburst was her best friend?” Ambrosia asked. “Sunburst is her friend,” He told them. “But also Luster’s father.” “Baron is confused, a friend or a husband?” Baron asked, confusing which are which. “Come on, you guys.” Luster tells them. “My mom and dad are friends and my parents. And Trixie is my aunt and a friend to my mother. She has many friends like the princess. And many friends will always come when you get to meet them.” “Like us,” Hazel said. “You met us when Twilight gave you the courage to make friends. And now, here we are. Just like Princess Twilight would say.” “Yeah…” She said knowing she has made new friends. “I wonder if I can make new friends.” She then trails off. “Maybe a friend who likes research spells or history, or-” But she bumps into somepony. “Oh, I’m so sorry.” She looks to see a light blue earth pony stallion. "That’s okay,” He said, but searching around. “But I dropped my glasses.” Luster quickly looked down and found his glasses as she levitated it with her magic. “Here.” As she places it, he can finally see. “Thank you so much. I would never ever lose them from my research.” “Research?” She asked. “Yeah,” As he shows her. “I’ve been researching Equestria History ever since I came to Ponyville. I just wanna learn more about it and help other ponies and creatures to be united.” “Wow, good for you.” said Luster. “I probably think you might help others like a friend.” “Sort of like that,” But he then recognized who she was. “Wait, are you Luster Dawn, Twilight Sparkle’s Mentor?” “Yes, but I’m her second Mentor.” “Oh, I thought-” “My mother was the first mentor. I’m the second.” She explains, giving him an understanding. “Sorry, I never knew your mother was the first one. But I’m glad I met you. Anyway, I better get going. We can meet again later.” He said before galloping off. “Wait, I didn't get to know your name!” She yelled but he was already far enough, as her friends saw she might’ve made another new friend. At Canterlot, an alicorn pony was in the garden looking at the roses glooming in the area. She picks one and smells it as she remembers what it’s like being outside of Canterlot. “Flurry Heart, what are you doing out here again?” A dragon who was watching her at the Canterlot Garden. “Uncle Spike, I'm just picking roses for my mom.” She told him. “She just loves how many roses I bring to her.” “Mm-hm,” As he does not believe. “You've been giving her roses very much every time you've been out here. And I have to keep an eye on you.” “Why watching me?” She said by giving examples she can handle herself. “I’ll be fine. Even these roses.” “Which they have thorns.” He gives out which she stops and sees horns around it. “Flurry, your mother is worried about your safety. Even for me and Twilight. Do you recall what happened when this alicorn tried to hurt you?” “I know what happened.” Flurry said, not to forget it. “But Auntie saved me right before she could drain your firing magic. I was only trying to save you.” “And you could’ve gotten hurt.” Spike said. “We don’t really know what she was gonna do but your aunt did what she had to do to save us.” “And what did she do?” She asked. “And what about the other alicorn, what happened to her too?” “Twilight handles that problem already.” Spike recalled. “She and the Council have decided and we won’t have trouble any more. That’s all we need to know for now.” Flurry Heart still wanna know what her aunt did to the alicorn and how she was stopped. But for her concern is not to know. “Uncle Spike, why can Luster be chosen?” She asked. Spike was confused about what she meant. “Luster Dawn, my auntie’s mentor and a friend? Why has she been chosen?” “Chosen for what?” “To be the next alicorn princess.” She said, clearing his mind. “What? Why would you say that? Of course she’s not gonna be an alicorn.” He confirms it. She then brings up other memory she remembers. “But Auntie Twilight became an alicorn because she was chosen by Celestia. And when Starlight Glimmer was chosen by Twilight, she didn’t become an alicorn. How’s that possible?” “Flurry, it’s just…. Celestia chose Twilight because she has the courage to be with her friends and become an alicorn princess.” He explained. “And Twilight chose Starlight because she wants to learn about friendship and to help others. Every alicorn is a princess.” “But the other alicorn, does that mean if she was a princess too?” “I…. I do not know. But she wasn’t a princess.” He said. “Not some who are a princess like her. But Twilight and her friends will do their best to protect us.” She wasn’t sure if they were protected but she wishes he should stop watching her for a while. So she used her little magic to transform the rose into a ruby heart. “Uncle Spike, I have something.” She waved it to him, and he was looking at it. “No, no,” As he knew. “I’m not gonna do it.” “Come on, just once.” She then tries to get him to accept. “I won’t get into trouble again. Perhaps maybe you can have your free time again. Or even meet Rarity again.” Spike thinks about it for a moment and can’t resist the ruby she’s holding. So he took it, accepting not to watch her, and ate it. And when he does, he starts to glow. “What the-?” He freaked out. “What did you do?” “I didn’t do anything.” She said she didn’t put a spell or anything on it. “I didn’t put anything on it.” Then Spike stopped remembering what it was and knew it was the Call by the Dragon Lord. “Oh, it’s a call from Ember. But it’s early. Seems like I will have to go to Dragon Land, other dragons will be waiting. Guess it’s your lucky day.” He spread his wings and was ready to fly. “But stay out of trouble. And tell Twilight I’m gone.” She promised, and Spike flew off to Dragon Land. As she was alone, Flurry now has a chance to do something. She teleports into Canterlot Castle and sneaks past the royal guards. Gallus was there but patrolled around the hallway. She sneaks into the throne room and sees something glowing on top. She flew to it and it was shining like a crystal. She was going to touch it but stopped by somepony who spotted her. “Stop!!!” Flurry Heart turned and saw Twilight Sparkle saw her closer to the crystal. “Flurry Heart, get away from it.” She listens and flies back down. “I’m sorry, auntie. I didn’t know what it was.” “It’s okay.” She put her hooves over her. “What you're seeing is a Unity Crystal. It stored many ponies’ magic within to keep friendship growing. Do you want to know how it was created?” Flurry nodded, as she tells. “The alicorn came to Ponyville and turned pegasus, unicorn, and earth pony against each other. And she came to Canterlot to seize control of all magic, but me and my friends stopped her. We created the crystal and she was defeated with magic and is now gone from her. And as for her, she was banished from Equestria never again to be seen anymore.” “What really happened to her?” She asked. “She’s gone. But we were okay. And we now became the Guardians of Friendship.” She then looks at Flurry. “And maybe you might become a Guardian as well. Just don’t tell Shining I said that.” Flurry giggle, as they both then look at it one more time again. At the Dragon Land, Spike arrive and see other dragons have arrived. He had no idea what’s going on but he asked one of them. “Hey, excuse me? What’s going on here?” “The Dragon Lord Ember has called us here.” He announced. Spike knows that but does not understand why, and Smolder is here too. “Smolder, what’s going on? What’s happening?” He asked. “I do not know, but my brother told me is someone he’s a big fan of.” She tells him, leaving him a question. Then the dragons gather and Ember appears with the bloodstone scepter. “Dragons of Equestria, hear me!” She roared. “You all call here today for the arrival of the return. Our dragon has returned from the faraway land, and is now ready to come home. Dragons, meet the Gladiator of the Champion Arena!” Then the black dragon reveals himself with leftover armor around him. “I give you….. Clipso!!!” > Chapter 2: The pony I met > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Dragons roared with his return, and Spike does not know who he is then asks Smolder. “Uh, can someone explain to me?” “That is Clipso.” She claimed. “The unbeatable gladiator no dragons can ever defeat. He has beaten many creatures at the Dragon Arena, and many of them try to beat him but he still stands. Even dragons wanted to take his place but none could. He became famous, and all of us wanted to be like him, including Garble. He always wanted to battle him.” Spike then looks at Clipso seeing he only has part of his armor missing like he's been battling somewhere with the greatest challenge. “I hope he’s prepared. Seems like he’s been through a lot.” As he predicted, the arena begins and Clipso has often beaten dragons who challenge to take his place as the new champion. Even Garble wasn’t strong and was on the ground. The dragons cheered for his name, and that was all the dragons who challenged. “The arena is over!” Ember shouted. “The Champion still stands, and all of you are not worthy to beat him. Another time for another day.” The dragons agree and leave the arena to do what they usually do. And Clipso spread his wings and flew away, as Spike never heard him from his history. “A dragon who cannot be beaten.” Spike rubs his chin. “I never heard of him. Why didn’t any dragons ever tell us about him.” “Cause we dragons only talk to each other, not ponies or creatures.” Smolder answered. “We used to talk about him because he’s the gladiator dragon we ever wanted to be. And wanted to be the Dragon Lord’s Champion.” He looks at many dragons who were beaten and injured from the arena. “Does any dragon ever beat him?” He asked. Smolder thinks about it and remembers if any dragon did beat him. But then remember none defeat him as she shook her head. And Spike was surprised no one beat him. “Can you take me to him? He asked Smolder. “Are you trying to challenge him, too?” She questions if he’s willing to challenge. “No, just wanna talk to him.” He said. “Talk to him?” She speaks in agony. “He does not talk to anyone. Those who talk to him are only given by his armor plate. A reminder they can be like him. Garble got his plate and wore it like a warrior. And if you think you can talk him over to a conversation, it’s not gonna work.” “Just take me to him.” And Smolder takes Spike where Clipso is. They both found him, he was near the lava pool just relaxing from the battle. Then Spike came to ask. “Uh, hi…..” Clipso did not respond back but only relaxed. “Uh, I know you're not a talking-talker. But I just wanna get to know you…” But Clipso then gave his armor plate to him as a reminder. “I told you so.” Smolder said. Spike put the plate down and asked again. “I’m not actually around here. I’m from Ponyville. I never heard anyone like you around Equestria or Dragon Land.” Clipso still does not respond, and he goes right in front of him. “I’m Spike, Twilight’s assistant. And I think maybe you know that by now.” He still has not responded. And Spike went back to Smolder. “He seems quiet.” “Like I said, he doesn't talk.” Smolder corrected him. “Well, I guess maybe if I talk about myself then he might know me better. That way, he could understand what I’m saying.” “I understand what you're saying Spike, Twilight assistant.” Clipso answered back. They both paused and looked at him, and Spike told Smolder. “See, I told you he talked.” Smolder rolls her eyes, and Spike then greets him. “Hi, I’m Spike. Please to meet you. You must be Clipso that every dragon talks about at the arena. I saw you beat other dragons including Garble.” “The red one?” He questions and replies. “Yeah, he was a little furious to challenge me but I managed to take him down. No dragons or creatures beat me. And if you are willing to challenge me, then just ask me.” “I’m not here for a challenge!” He backed. “I only just wanna talk. That’s all. So, are you willing to talk?” Clipso then smiled and nodded, accepting to talk. In Ponyville, Luster and her friends walk around greeting other ponies. Others were talking and talking, but Luster was looking around to bring attention to their friends. “Luster, are you okay?” Ambrosia asked as Luster quickly looked at her. “Me? Of course, I’m okay.” She said, exaggeratedly. “I was looking around if anypony needed help.” “But I thought we were heading to meet Li’l Cheese.” She answered. “Oh,” said Luster. “Right, gonna ask Pinkie if we can bring her along.” She then hurries as her friends follow. They arrive at Sugarcube Corner and enter, meeting Pound and Pumpkin Cake. “Luster,” Pound Cake said, happy to see her again. “Great to see you.” “And great to see you again,” said Luster. “We came to see Little Cheese? Is she here?” “She's here. She’s with Pumpkin making cupcakes.” Then Pumpkin and Lil’ Cheese came out with a fresh baked cupcake, and she spotted Luster and her friends. “Luster!” She pounced her onto the floor. “Li’l Cheese,” She said with a low tone. “Happy to see you, again. I see you getting big.” “Thanks.” As she said then Pumpkin levitates Li’l Cheese off from her. “Li’l Cheese, we talk about this.” She reminds her. “No tackling customers when they’re our closest friends.” “Aww, but I always wanted to meet my friend.” said Li’l Cheese. “Let her be, Pumpkin.” He told his sister. “Luster only came to see her again.” And she let her as she hugs Luster. Then she noticed somepony not here. “Where’s Pinkie Pie?” She asked. “Is she here too?” “Mom has to go to work. And father is brushing Gummy.” She told her. “So, what spell did you learn?” Luster shows her by transforming the cupcakes into fresh drinks of applesauce then reverting them back. “Cool, can you transform me into a stallion like Twilight did before?” She asked. “Uh, I think that can wait.” Luster said. “But we are heading to the School of Friendship. I have to show my parents what I learn.” “Okay, that sounds fun.” She hops around and heads outside. “Hold on, little lady.” Pumpkin stopped her with her horn. “You still need to help us with the frosting first.” “Aww, but I really want to go there.” Li’l Cheese said. “Look, I know we have a customer coming here but going there is a lot more fun.” “Sorry, Li’l Cheese.” Pound responded and looked at Luster and her friends. “We will be finished with them in just a minute.” “That’s okay.” She understands. “We'll be outside when she is ready to come with us.” They agree and hurry to finish the cupcakes. They were outside and Luster looked around seeing ponies. And it got her friends’ attention. “What is with you now?” Sundance asked, seeing her looking around to everypony. “Me?” She asked and pretended to know nothing. “Nothing. I was just….” “Looking around to see if anypony needs help?” Hazel Garden finished her sentence. “Seems like ponies already need help. What’s it with you anyway?” Then she remembered. “Hold on, is that pony you never knew his name before?” “No,” She replied. And her friends gave her the stern look and she gave up. “Okay, fine. I didn’t catch his name. He was in such a hurry and I didn’t really get to know him.” “Oh, so Luster wants to know who this pony she bumps into.” Baron said. “Well, yeah. But he seems not around here anymore. I wonder where he is?” Before she could search for him, Lil’ Cheese came out ready to go. “Okay, I’m ready.” She said ready to go with. So they went with her along, and Pound and Pumpkin waved for her to have a great day. And they arrive and see creatures and ponies making friends together. “This is so cool. I’m at the School of Friendships. And so many creatures and ponies.” She was about to leave but Luster caught her mane. “Hold on,” She grabbed her mane with magic. “Don’t get separated from us. We’re gonna meet my parents first, if they’re not busy.” Then she bumped into somepony again, but this time, it was the same stallion again. “You?!” They both said the same thing. “You’re a student at this school?” “Actually, I study at the other school for unicorns.” She responded. “You study here?” “Yeah,” He said and gathered his research together. “Let me help.” As she helps him and puts it into his pack. Then she picked up a book about artifact history. “Are you…. learning?” “Actually,” He said and took it. “Researching. I’m researching ancient artifacts to understand what they mean. I’m getting close to studying about this.” He shows it to her. “This artifact I’m researching, it’s a hippogriff stone. The researchers say the old hippogriff is ancient. But it’s not. And I’m gonna prove it.” “You really think?” Ambrosia said, thinking he’s studying too much. “I think you've been researching too much.” “Ambrosia. Anypony can research to prove it. They have a good heart in them.” Then she looks at him. “And you as well.” As she placed her hoofs on his chest. “Thank you,” He said with a smile. And then he left, and Luster forgot to ask his name. “Wait! I didn’t get your name.” But he couldn’t hear, as Luster watches never get to know him still. And her friends see her keep staring at him. “Uh, you do realize it is not polite to stare?” said Sundance. She got herself together and remembered she came to show her parents her spell she learned, as they entered the school. Meanwhile, Dragon Land, Spike have been talking with Clipso and learn about how his adventure of battling beast and monster. “You battle a giant basilisk without looking?” Spike was surprised. “But how did you-?” “My armor protects me from its venomous bite.” Clipso said, as he continued on. “And I scolded it with my fiery breath as it tried to strike me. I led it towards the cliff as it smashed to the wall, creating a tremble of rocks falling onto to be buried.” “Cool,” Smolder said. “You really still stand. No creatures ever beat you.” “Right,” He nodded. “I have never been beaten so easily. Because I was proven to be the greatest gladiator to the Dragon Lord. A dragon with a fierce strength against every creature who challenges me.” “Huh, I guess you really did come back here to have more challenges again.” She thought. “After all, you really sure did beat every dragon at the arena.” Then his smile started to fade and left the lava pool. They both did not know what just happened and asked him again. “Is it something I said?” Smolder asked, if she didn’t mean to upset him. “No,” Clipso responded. “Then what is it?” He asked. “I didn’t come back to challenge others for my place.” He answered to tell them why he returned here. “I return…. to warn them.” > Chapter 3: The Dragon’s Wrath > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- For a very last moment, Spike and Smolder did not understand what he meant; he returned to warn them. Until she laughed. “I’m sorry, it's just that you just said, you return to warn us.” Then notice he’s not really laughing. “You’re not joking?” “I’m not.” He said. “And you should be worried.” “Worried about what?” Spike asked. “You won’t understand.” He turns around. “None of the creatures will ever understand my words. Even if I tell them, they’ll just laugh at me and mock me as a fool.” Spike and Smolder look at each other and back at him, and Spike thinks he’s not a fool. “I don’t think you’re not a fool.” He said, believing he might be right about something. “You cannot be a fool to any creature. Look at you, you’re a gladiator, a champion, to Lord Ember. There's absolutely no way creatures just laugh at you cause you speak…. What were you speaking about?” “If I tell, then you won’t believe me.” Clipso said. “I only speak to them myself, alone.” He leaves, and they do not understand he speaks to himself. Then they follow to see him at the edge like he wanted the dragons’ attention. And it did, the dragons gather as he speaks to them all. “My dragons, I thank you all for the challenge you gave me.” The dragon cheers, as he still needs to speak. “But that’s not the reason why I’m here. I am here to bring you a dire warning.” They were confused and whisper what he meant, and Spike and Smolder wonder what warning he’s bringing. “A dark force is coming for us. An evil is uprising against all creatures of the Equestria, and the only way we can stop it is we must bring the revolution against them. We all must join forces to stop this prevention.” They all now began to worry what evil is coming and wanted to hear more, as one of them asked what evil they were fighting. “Excuse me,” one of them asked. “What evil is coming? Who are we fighting?” “If I tell you, you wouldn’t believe me.” He said. But the dragons wanted to know so he told them. “The evil we're facing is more powerful who control only just one creature of their race. Three will fall to one ruler. The Alicorn.” For a moment, everything went silent for them until they laughed that he was insane. Spike and Smolder didn’t cause more confusion than what he said. “Did you understand what he meant?” She asked and he answered. “Not really?” “I am telling you the truth. They are the enemy. They’re trying to manipulate us to believe them. We must not let them do it!” He said, loudly. But they all keep laughing and beginning to insult him. “I am trying to save us all. Believe me!” More laughter grew and their fiery breath just changed colors as it kept going. Until Ember silenced them all. “What is the meaning of this?” She asked, furiously. Then she saw Clipso on the edge in front of everyone. “What’s going on here?” “I am helping us to bring the revolution.” He explained. “A revolution against the Alicorn.” “Princess Twilight? She’s a friend to all of us. Why would we stand against her?” She asked. “She is dangerous. She must be stopped.” He said, trying to convince her. “I’ve returned because she will control all of us. Creatures will be enslaved by her will and others will lose their magic. That's why I must warn you all about this. This evil is ready to rise.” Ember did not believe a word he said, and to think he went insane. So she had to remind him what he was. “Clipso, my father trusted you for a long time,” she said. “You were his champion, born to be a gladiator. You showed courage of becoming a warrior we dragon's want to be. But this is not what you must do. As your Dragon Lord, you will not bring revolution against Princess Twilight and the ponies. Do you understand?” He looks around seeing the dragons now began to mock him as a fool. So he stands down and settles his crisis. Then she tells them to leave and forget what has happened today, and Spike follows him. But when following, he was gone. He searched around until Clipso spoke behind. “I knew you would follow.” He said. “Sorry,” he apologized. “I didn’t mean to….” “I know.” He said. “And you wanted an answer from me, am I correct?” “Yes,” Spike answered. “Why are you accusing the alicorn as evil?” “You wanted to know why I’m against your alicorn. Because I discovered something that has been forgotten in Equestria.” He explained. “From my journey, I discovered something that made me see everything. Something that you cannot see. I saw Equestria fallen into evil. Ponies and Creatures enslave with their magic being taken. And one alicorn who would’ve done it to control their wills.” Spike then knew the alicorn who would do it to them all. But to his confusion, the alicorn they fought has already been defeated. He thinks maybe he must’ve mistaken her as the other alicorn who tried to overpower them all. “I think you mistook my friend as the other alicorn.” He said, believing he’s mistaken. “It's what you told me, “Mistaken your alicorn as the other one.” Clipso told him. “But I am not wrong. It’s the truth.” “Okay, listen.” He said. “Twilight Sparkle is not evil. And you just see things that aren’t real. Probably you're dreaming.” “I know what I saw. And I will prove it.” He said, angrily. “You will see, Spike. That I was right.” He walks away as Spike just stands there seeing him gone. And then Ember found him standing. “Spike, what are you doing here?” She asked. “I was asking him.” He tells her. “But I don’t believe Twilight is evil.” “That’s what I think. This has happened before.” She recalled and Spike looked at her, as she told him a story of Clipso. “Clipso was like us but different. Long time, a family dragon had a dark gray egg laid by the mother. The dragons were curious about it until it hatched, and a black dragon was born with three horns on his forehead. They were all shocked and called him a freak. But the parents didn’t and named him Clipso. He was not actually like us but more aggressive. When he was little, other dragons used to tease him of his three horns, but he challenged them in a fight. They laugh but he beats them and shows no fear of anything they brought. My father was impressed by his strength so he made him a gladiator at the arena, and every dragon challenged him but failed. He was indeed the perfect warrior to accompany my father. But Clipso did not attend to stay but set out to battle the strongest fierce creature all over Equestria. So he went and we all waited for his return, until now.” Spike looked in the direction where he went and asked himself if Clipso tried to convince them to join so he could challenge Twilight Sparkle. At Canterlot, Flurry Heart was excited her friends were coming for a visit. When they arrived, she saw Luster Dawn and her friends and came over to meet them. “Luster!” She said and hugged her. “Flurry,” she said, happy to meet her again. “Glad to see you again. How are you doing?” “Great,” she replied. “I have been having a great time. You guys?” “We visit Luster’s parents.” Baron said. “Starlight and Sunburst were really happy with her spell.” “Really,” she said, then asked. “Can you show me?” “I think it's better for later.” Luster replied. “But I’m happy to be here. So, anything you did around here?” “Well, I was with Auntie Twilight.” Flurry told her. “And you wouldn’t believe what I just found.” Her friends became curious and wanted to know what she found. “What is it you found?” Sundance asked and Flurry made them promise. “You promise not to tell anypony or creature?” “Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!” They all said it, and followed her where she led them. And they arrive, and see the Unity Crystal. They were amazed at how bright it was in the throne room. “That’s one brightest crystal.” Lil’ Cheese said, and tried to get closer. But Flurry Heart stops her. “Don’t get too close.” She warns her then Luster asks what it was. “What is it?” “That is the Unity Crystal.” She tells them. “It holds every ponies’ magic within to keep them all united and friendships.” “So wait, does that mean us creatures too?” Ambrosia asked, wanting to know if they’re part of it too. “No, no, only ponies.” said Flurry Heart. “Ever since the alicorn tried to become the powerful pony, Twilight and her friends created it to contain every magic from all of us. And she was defeated and banished from Equestria.” “But is she really defeated?” Hazel Garden asked. “I’m pretty sure she is.” She said, believing it also. “But we were finally happy in harmony.” As they all continued staring at it, they heard someone coming. So they hide, as someone enters the room. Twilight Sparkle and her friends, the Guardian of Friendship, came to a meeting. “Twilight Sparkle?” Luster whispers, then listens to what’s going on. “Well, that should really take care of the problem.” Applejack speaks. “But do we really have to do it? Exiling the alicorn?” “She was doing so much harm by hurting everypony!” Rainbow Dash said, reminding. “And she made them fight each other. She deserves it.” “But we could’ve helped her.” Fluttershy speaks nicely. “Maybe we should learn about her.” “But didn’t you see what she was doing to Spikey-wikey?” Rarity reminded them. “She was draining his fiery breath. That was horrible.” “And she was so evil!” Pinkie cried. “But do we really have to banish her?” “She deserves it!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “She is more than an evil pony we ever faced. But good thing Twilight took her magic away.” “But do you think we should’ve turned her into stone like the other villains better than being banished?” Applejack said, reminding them they could’ve done that earlier. “You’re right,” She agreed. “We should go find her and turn her into one.” “No, Rainbow Dash.” Twilight disagrees. “She has been trying to take over Equestria but she has no magic anymore. Her flames will not turn our ponies against one and another.” “But what about their magic? And ours?” Rainbow Dash comment. “We have to be more united in order for our magic to exist. And why Earth ponies have to be part of it, they don’t have magic.” “Whoa, hold on.” Applejack paused. “Earth ponies may not have one but we sometimes can be pretty useful.” “She's right.” She agreed. “Ponies cannot be divided as long as we are united. I was promised for all creatures and ponies to live in harmony. But we all must agree to protect the Unity Crystal from any creature who tries to use it for evil.” Her friends agree and will protect it when they are united. Then Spike arrives to see them and Twilight Sparkle. “Spike, good to have you back.” She hugs him. “So, any report from Ember?” “No, just a dragon.” He announced. “But everything seems okay around here.” “We are.” said Twilight. “Now, I must see my student. She and her friends should be arriving by now.” They all leave to meet Luster Dawn but not knowing she’s already here with them. Luster and her friends heard they’re conversation and came out of hiding. “Guess you guys better go. ”Before Auntie Twilight knew I brought you all here.” Flurry then looks at Luster. “Do you still know how to use teleportation spells?” She nodded and teleported herself and friends outside the courtyard, just before Twilight found them. “Luster,” She was surprised. “You arrive.” “Yeah,” She pretended, and so did her friends. “I was waiting for you. And here you are.” Twilight chuckled, and let her and friends enter Canterlot. Somewhere far away, inside where Clipso forged his armor with rage with many metals he had collected from Equestria. His eyes glow with many sparks he forged from his hatred. “They do not believe me.” He said to himself. “They cannot see cause they are blind by her magic. But mine will not.” He finished his last one and held it high. “I can see what she’s trying to do. I see what her plan is. I must stop it before we all fall to her will.” He placed his helmet in the circle where he completed his full armor, and began a ritual. He speaks in a ritual language as it starts to become active. “Hear my voice, my prophet.” He said. “Made me see what I must see through the Equestria. Help me to show the creatures what they must see. Give me strength for my armor, as my souls will become one with it. Free me from fear, as I will not suffer from pain.” With it, he was granted. He places his claw on his chest and slowly pulls his soul out, letting it flow to the circle. The armors levitate and are harvested into his soul, as it then returns into him. He felt a pain inside but started to change his appearance. The armor grew out of him from his body to everywhere. When it was done, he felt nothing but free from everything. He sees himself with armor he now wears and finally can see everything. “I… see EVERYTHING!!!” > Chapter 4: The Right thing > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Luster and Flurry hang out together after their friends went home. They walk down the hall and talk about their great day they learned today. “You manage to trick Spike with a ruby?” Luster asked, believing she got Spike out of her sight. “Yeah, but that “dragon glowing thing” got his attention,” said Flurry Heart. “I have free time to do anything.” “Good for you,” said Luster. “And he’s still busy. Guess we might do something around here.” Then she got an idea. “Wanna challenge with spells we each know?” Flurry smiles, as they both start to do spells they only know. They both teleport to any place and arrive at the Crystal Empire. Then a transformation spell, turning any object and back. And they fly around, as Luster levitates herself to follow her. They reach the bottom and arrive at the Crystal Heart. “So bright.” Luster said, staring at it. “Still intact and active.” “It is.” Flurry said. “I remember ever since I accidently broke it into pieces. But your parents found a way, and restored the Crystal Heart. That’s when I was given a name.” “Twilight and her friends have saved Crystal Empire, the second time. From the snow storm.” She recalled. “They didn’t do it alone, your parents were the heroes.” Flurry reminded her. “Without them, the storm wouldn't have buried the Crystal Empire into a deep snow. Or King Sombra to rise again.” Luster chuckled, then looked at the Crystal and stared for a moment. “You can look at it.” Flurry said, letting her stare at it. As she stares at it, she starts to see a glimpse at Canterlot. She was wearing a beautiful dress and standing on the balcony in front of ponies and creatures. It reveals she became an alicorn princess, and Princess Twilight was standing next to her and announcing Luster Dawn to take her place as the new ruler of Equestria. And she was crowned, and everyone applauded for her. Luster smiled, as Flurry figured something really made her happy. “I’m guessing something made you happy.” Flurry said, knowing that smiled. Luster chuckled until she noticed a pony on the street. Then she recognizes it’s the same stallion again. “It’s that pony again,” Luster said, and started to go after him. Flurry follows and wanna know what got her attention. The pony went to the library and inside, and Luster and Flurry followed until they lost sight of him. “Where is he?” She said, wanting to know his name still. And it caught Flurry’s attention. “So, Luster, anything you wanted to tell me?” “Well, I bump into him at Ponyville, then a school. And now here.” said Luster. “Is it because he’s so interested?” She said, sensing a feeling. “Your type, perhaps?” “No,” Luster jerks back, not to blush. “It’s that I need to know his name.” She looks around trying to find that pony. “We’re gonna have to split up.” “And once you know his name, you're gonna keep remembering his name?” She giggled as Luster shook her head. They look around to find that pony but many ponies are studying and researching. Luster went to the bookshelf if he was there until bumping into somepony carrying books. And it was the same stallion again, as they both looked at each other. “We've got to stop bumping into each other like this.” He said, as he picked up his books. She helps to pick up his books with her hooves, until they both touch the book together. Their hooves were together as they both stared and looked at each other. “Uh, your horn?” He said, saying she should use her horn. Luster totally forgot she has magic and levitates his books. “Sorry, I totally thought I was- I mean, I didn’t have magic.” They both laugh loudly until the librarian shushes them. And they chuckled quietly. Luster brought his research to the table, as they both sat together. “I’m guessing you always come here to do research.” She said, knowing what she meant. “Yes, I gather every book so I can research ancient texts.” He showed her the photo he was researching. “I still need to understand what these mean from the hipppgriff’s relics. But it’s very hard to describe these glyphs when you're studying.” As he still tries to figure out what the glyphs mean, Luster then thinks she could help him to study more so he can be right for certain about what it means. “Maybe I can help you.” She said, levitating his book to help. “Just tell me what to do and I can bring notes.” This made him happy and accepted her help. As they get started, she finally asks his name. “Also, I didn’t get your name.” “Argyle Starshine.” He responded. She smiled, and they both started researching. And Flurry Heart, she’s been watching them and sees she made a new friend. But knowing something in Luster made her happy. At Canterlot, Twilight was in the throne room with the Crystal. She was speaking to it as Spike’s barge in without knocking. “Oh, sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt you,” He apologized. “Not to apologize, I was just finishing my message.” She said, and finally ended it. “So, how does it go at Dragon Land?” “Well…” He said, with a low tone. “We were called to a Dragon Arena because the Dragon Gladiator returned.” “A Dragon Gladiator?” She asked. “I never heard of him. Is he part of the dragon group?” “He is, but he’s not.” He quickly replied. “His name is Clipso, he travels alone challenging creatures and monsters around Equestria. None of the dragons couldn't beat him, as he still stands as Dragon Lord’s Champion.” “Dragon Lord’s Champion…” She said, now wanting to know more about him. “Can I meet this Champion, Clipso?” Spike was but then stopped remembering what Clipso said. If he introduces her to him then the trouble will start. “He has to leave.” Spike replied, but not telling her what had happened. “But he’s not gonna return anymore.” “I was hoping I could meet him.” Twilight thought. “But I might as well wait when Ember calls you dragons back.” She levitates the Crystal back to the spot and walks towards the balcony. Twilight looks at ponyville and thinks of what it was ever since they still have magic within them. Pegasus flying in the sky freely, Unicron levitating anything with their magic, and Earth Ponies just pony. And to her thought, Earth Ponies don’t have magic and that could be the problem with others. “Spike, do you think I did the right thing for the ponies?” She asked. “You did the right thing.” Spike answer. “You and your friends save the ponies from hating each other. She was turning them against each other, and trying to overpower you. But you did what must be done.” He said, helping her understand. “She was gonna take everything from us. That’s why you made it. You and our friends made the Unity Crystal to unite ponies to stop fighting and bring harmony. Without it, then we wouldn’t be divided.” He was right, ponies are now united as in harmony. Twilight agreed, and she and her friends will keep ponies united. And will continue on with Luster Dawn. Before everything’s settled, Spike begins to sparkle again. “Not again,” he shook his head. “I’m guessing you're calling back.” She noticed after seeing him glow. “Yep, I have to see what’s calling us back.” He raises his wings and is ready to fly out. “I’ll be back soon. And don’t let Flurry eat all the cupcakes Pinkie made.” He left in a hurry, and then Twilight troll out of the throne into the library. Many books she loves as she starts to pick one and read. To her thoughts, she thinks about Earth Pony not having magic a moons ago. She thinks if they could’ve magic, something different, then ponies can be equal. Until an idea came up to her and started to do research for Earth Ponies. Meanwhile, Spike has arrived where all the dragons were waiting, and they do not know why being called here again for some reason. As they were whispering for being called, Spike then tried to find Ember and found her. “Ember,” he called. “Why did you call us again?” “I didn’t.” She said, showing she does not have the scepter. This put him in shock that it wasn’t her who brought them, until they heard dragons yelling. They rush out and see a dragon holding the scepter in its claw. Spike looks closely to see the dragon fully armored with red eyes. He can’t tell who but then it spoke. “Dragons of the Equestria,” he introduced. “You may not know me, you do not recognize me. But I am what you see now before you. I am Clipso, the new reborn dragon to your world.” The dragons were surprised to see the new look he became. Ember flies up to him and asks about his appearance. “Clipso, what has happened to you?” “My Dragon Lord,” he bowed. “I have reincarnated myself to become my true self. My soul and armor have become one with my hides and scales. I become… the Truth.” Then they laughed believing he went crazy with his new look. Clipso did not hesitate to laugh but speak clearly to them. “Dragons mock me of what I told them was the truth. They believe I am an insane dragon who travels far away, but do not see why I became this.” He began giving his words. “Those of you who do not believe or see cause you are blind with fierce and fiery breath of flame torches through our mind. But what you must see is from my eyes.” He looks at all of them as they keep staring at him. “Look into my eyes, and see what you see.” Soon, they keep staring at his eyes and see nothing. But staring too long, and start to see creatures type living freely with a happy life. Then something started to take away their powers. Griffons lose their flight, dragons lose their fiery breath, hippogriffs can’t transform into seapony, Changelings can’t change shape or transform, and yak can’t do any more stomps for some reason. Then ponies were bowing to their ruler of the Equestria, the alicorn princess. The Unity Crystal have stolen every magic from Equestria all because of the princess who was an alicorn they have trusted. The dragons were frightened and started to think it might be true, some believe and some don’t. “Is that… is that true we see?” “It can’t! But it felt real.” “It is.” Clipso answered. “I have given the truth to you all of what I see. The alicorn princess is not who you think. She is evil from what we now see.” Dragons start to believe and begin to say Twilight is evil. But Ember doesn’t believe as she tries to convince. “Hold on, we don’t know that.” She tells them. “We don’t really know if he’s telling the truth. We are probably seeing what he’s thinking from his mind.” “My mind is what you all see.” He revealed. “But what you see is the truth. Truth that you now see from what I discovered. Discovering is what you learn to understand what will happen.” The dragons were following his words and agreed with everything he said. Spike couldn't believe they’re trusting his words, as he continues on. “Do you believe she can protect us with her magic?” He speaks loudly. “Do you trust her to bring harmony?” Then he gave his truth. “I saw what she did to the ponies of Equestria. She stole their magic just to seize control of their freewill. Pegasus cannot fly, unicorns cannot use magic, and Earth ponies have to listen because they’re part of their race. They have strings attached to them, being controlled by the alicorn’s magic. She made them do friendships in order for them to regain their magic. But it will happen to all of us. We will have them on us, chains by her powerful magic, our fiery breath will be taken from us if we don’t do something to prevent it from happening. We must unite together for us and creatures.” “Enough!!” Ember shouted, retrieving her scepter. “We are not bringing revolution against Twilight and the ponies. They are friends to us and creatures. They help us understand about friendships.” “You are blinded by her words, but also blinded by your best friend.” As he said, he threatened her friends with the alliance to the alicorn princess. “Your friend has poisoned your mind with everything that the princess had taught him. He cannot be trusted, but an enemy he is. He was born and raised by the evil alicorn poisoning his mind. He’s no longer one of us, he’s one of them.” Ember wishes not to believe, but the dragons believe and see he’s right that Twilight poisoned the dragon’s mind. Spike can’t believe he’s making them trust him. “Don’t you see, this is what she’s trying to do.” He announced. “She poisoned him, as he tried to do the same to you. Do you really trust him as a friend, or the truth? The choice is yours, my Dragon Lord.” She looks at everyone as if Spike is truly a friend, or the truth. She wants them not to listen but they only want the truth. So she accepted the truth. This broke Spike’s friendship as he witnessed his friend betray him. Clipso then raises his wings mighty to give them his words. “I will lead you all to a better future. I will bring the truth for all of us to alliance with others so we can stop this Alicorn’s conquest.” Then he spoke some more. “Ponies will see, they will see, we will all see. Join me, together, we can save Equestria from these immortal ponies. No alicorn doesn't deserve to control Equestria! They don’t deserve to control our will! They don’t deserve to control everything!” Dragons cheer and roar fiercely to join his side to bring the revolution against the alicorn. Spike soon leaves and must warn Twilight about what’s gonna happen. As he left, Clipso knew he was there but let him go so the princess would know the revolution had begun. At Crystal Empire at night, Luster and Argyle become friends as they talk while walking through the city. “So, do you have anything you learned?” She asked. “Seems I do now.” He replied. “If I ever know how the relics really do connect to these lost ancient underwater, it is possible that seapony existed before the hippogriff. Thank you for helping me research.” “I do it to help a friend.” She said, reminded as a friend. “And I hope we meet again someday.” “We might.” He thinks. “Hey, maybe you can bring your friends along and come to my place if you like? It’s a special place where I used to go and do my research from time to time.” She is grateful, and he gave her the note to where they can meet and hurry home. As she stands there just staring, Flurry steps in from hiding and smiles. “So, you got his name, right?” “I did.” She replied. “Argyle Starshine. That’s his name. But do you think I should bring my friends?” “Didn’t you hear what he said, you can bring your friends along.” Flurry reminded her. “I’m sure he loves to meet them too.” Then she looked up at the night and knew it was almost midnight. “Seems like we both need to hurry home.” “You’re right.” She noticed how long she had been with him. “My parents will be expecting me to be home at midnight. I can still visit again.” Flurry agreed, and they both hugged and teleported themselves to different destinations. Flurry returns to Canterlot and finds herself in her room. “A place where I can sleep.” She jumps onto her bed and relaxes. “I just love teleportation spells, everytime.” And she sleeps, letting herself know the day just got better. > Chapter 5: Join me > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Next day at sunrise, Flurry Heart awakens from her bed and begins to get herself ready. She brushes her mane and wears her crown, then ready herself. She walked down the hallway of history stained glass and arrived where her parents were, waiting for her. “Flurry, there you are.” Shining Armor said, waiting for her. “Your mother and I have been waiting for you? Did you stay up all night?” “Sorry, dad. I was with Luster. I’m so sorry.” She apologized. He sighed heavily. “Look, we scheduled our return to Crystal Empire. Our citizens will be waiting for us. Do you want them to worry about us?” “Shining Armor,” Cadance speaks. “She only wanted to spend more time with her friends. That’s why we’re here.” “But the Crystal Empire…” “And I’m sure they won’t be worried for us.” She said help him not to worry. He smiled, forgiving his daughter for staying up late. Then they both embrace hugs as a family. Before they can go, the stallion guards approach them. “Your majesty, Princess Twilight, has requested you and Shining Armor for a meeting.” “But I thought we did.” She replied, thinking they did. “This one is important.” He recalled. She and Shining then have to go to a meeting, and Flurry stays as her parents enter the throne room. But she peek and listen to what they are saying. Twilight and her friends were there, as the conversation started. “I don’t understand, the Creature Revolution against us?” Shining replied. “Against all alicorn.” Spike answered. “He said, alicorns are evil for taking control of Equestria. I didn’t believe him but the dragons did. And now, they’re against every ponies and any creature who is with us.” “What?!” Rainbow Dash said, with an upset tone. “But he’s lying. He’s not really telling the truth.” “He is. I saw with my own eyes.” He explained. “When I looked into his eyes, I saw creatures’ magic being taken by an alicorn. It felt real, like I feel their pain without it.” Twilight and her friends then think the alicorn who will take magic could be the other alicorn. But Spike tells them it was Twilight Sparkle. “That’s not true.” Applejack said. “Twilight will never steal magic. What in the hay would he say that? He’s completely crazy.” “That's what I think. But the dragons just believe him.” Spike comment. “And Ember…. She just joined his side. How can she betray me?” “Cause she has no choice,” said Fluttershy. “She is a Dragon Lord, she cannot ban her Champion for what he speaks.” “And us?” Rarity asked, wanting to know more. “Is she gonna ban us from returning to Dragon land too?” “Well, whoever this Clipso. He’s gonna be very sorry once we meet him.” Rainbow Dash said, ready herself to meet him. But Twilight paused her and revealed they cannot barge in with force. “We cannot barge in just to convince him. We needed to show him we do not control Equestria. Even if he does not believe it, we can still find a way.” “She’s right,” said Pinkie Pie. “We help ponies and creatures find their way. We help them with their friendship. Maybe if we can give him a friend, he won’t have to hate you. And the rest of the alicorn.” “And what friend we’re gonna give him?” Applejack asked. “It’s not like a friend just pops out above us just to help.” Just as she predicted, a flashing light appears above them and Discord pops in thin air with a big smile. “I’m the friend you need.” He said, with a friendship tone. “No way,” said Applejack. “We’re not sending you to be friends with Clipso.” “Oh, come on.” He brings her closer. “I do anything to make friends. In Particular, I can be friends with the dragon who is against the alicorn.” “And how exactly are you gonna make him be your friend?” Cadance asked and he replied. “By showing him the greatest friendship he had ever had.” As he said, he snaps his fingers. “I’ll give him a tea party, then ask about his life. And we will become friends soon.” “Of course, with chaotic magic.” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “Now, hold on.” Fluttershy kindly said. “His magic can be helpful. He uses it for chaos, but can be used to remind Clipso he can do more than the truth.” “Yes,” Discord spoke. “I will help him to use the truth for good. But I require one thing.” “And what will that be?” Applejack asked. “Free chaotic magic for four days.” “What?” Spike cried. “No way we’re gonna let you do that.” “Deal.” Twilight finished as her friends were too surprised. “You’re not serious, are you?” Shining declined but Twilight replied. “If Discord uses his magic for good, then Clipso can use his for good also.” She announced. “Discord, as promised, you will use chaos to convince him to use the truth for the good of Equestria.” “And I will. Thank you, princess.” He said, bowing. Before she could say anything, he snapped and disappeared. The Mane Six and others really do not appreciate Discord to have free chaotic for a day. “Are you sure we can trust him?” Rarity questioning. “After what happened from the beginning.” “That was put in the past,” said Cadance. “But we have faith. As soon as Clipso finally realizes we’re not a threat, then everything will be over.” With everything settled, Flurry quickly stands outside pretending just waiting for her parents. “So, how was the meeting?” She asked. “Great,” Cadance lied. Then she and Shining leaves with Flurry from Canterlot. But she knows what’s going on. At Dragon Land, the dragons were getting ready to spread rumors about Clipso’s truth. He sees them finally understand his words, as Ember approaches, seeing he has their attention at last. “Guess you got what you wanted.” Ember figured. “You finally convince them all to join your side.” “Not join,” He replied. “The truth. I give them what I see, I show them what I see. I did what no creature can do. I just save our dragons before they can control us. But we must spread the truth if we wish to be free.” Then look at her. “Now, make sure our brothers and sisters will spread our message to others.” Ember has no choice but she must if she really wants dragons to her commands. So she left, leaving him to be alone time. But as he’s alone, he waits as a presence approaches. “So they sent you here. To convince me to use my magic for good.” “Hmm, you seem more smart than I thought.” Discord figures, floating in the air. “And you must be Clipso, the first dragon against Princess Twilight and other alicorn. I wonder why?” Then he snaps with a pop of tea and table for him and himself. “Tell me, and maybe I can help you.” As he swirls his tea. Clipso looks at the decoration and sees him just taking a sip. “A Friendship Lesson,” said Clipso. “They chose you cause you wanted to be chosen to help me.” Discord chuckled, “You knew I will make them choose me. And I can help you.” He pops a book of friendship. “The Book of Friendship. Written by Twilight Sparkle and her friends.” He flips a page and begins reading. “A way for a friend to a friend, is to talk about your feelings.” “I don’t have feelings.” Clipso answered. “I do not need friendship’s lesson. I know they’re trying to control my power. But I will never let them have everything.” Then he started to talk. “Do you ever wonder how Equestria used to be perfect just the way it was long ago? Have they ever told you that the Sun and Moon weren't theirs when they were born?” “Of course I know how that goes.” Discord said, explaining everything about how the two sisters first control the Sun and Moon. “And that’s how they became ruler of Equestria.” “Lies, lies,” said Clipso. “Equestria should be the one who controls them, not those sisters. What you've been told from those stories were just lies. I never believe in books.” He picked up a teacup. “From what I saw, Equestria has been free for moons ever since creatures were born. Dragons, yaks, griffins, hippogriffs, and ponies were happy because Equestria created us who we were. But creating an alicorn was a mistake. It brought evil into our paradise, spreading like a disease, turning us against each other like a plague. Then it created villains, like you, to be more evil to stop them. But it lost control, and they were free. There’s no place for evil like those who were born or created. Like the others, made with pure evil, just to embrace to conquer or destroy anything in their path. Can you imagine if you became evil then complete your vision?” “Me? Being evil? Pfft.” Discord disgust. “I am happy to be good. My chaos was too much, but I will use a little from my best friends. And the question is, are you planning to be evil?” “Not evil,” He replied. “Just the truth. I only help by speaking the truth, and make them speak it. Evil is what caused our home to be gone because they were evil. Those evil and aggressive to others must be punished and see what we see. And that’s why we are here today, you came to me because I am about to guide you.” “Guide me?” Discord asked. “Why would I be guided by a dragon who just turns every creature against the Ruler of Equestria?” “Because I wanted to help you.” Clipso said. “You have been good to Equestria for so long with your chaos. But not Twilight Sparkle, she is too dangerous to rule Equestria. She is evil.” “That’s what you think.” He said, not believing. “I help her and her friends. I’m part of their Friendship Councils.” “Really, is that what Twilight Sparkle told you?” Clipso persuade, and starts to twist his words. “Or is it just to take control of you like taking control of the other ponies whose magic were stolen into this Unity Crystal. Seems like the Twilight you knew is not who you think she is. The Alicorn sisters have poisoned her mind with their gifts to control the Sun and Moon, and Twilight is now one of them. She now possessed both powers including magic that she stole to control the ponies, including your best friend of the Equestria. Yes, I know the feeling inside of your best friend being controlled by her trusted friend. Such a shame she’s being controlled by Twilight Sparkle now. How much pain can she take without her wings to fly again. She loves to help animals by being kind to them, but without flight she cannot do anything because of the Alicorn taking control of her Kindness.” “But Fluttershy is not sad, she’s happy like her friends.” He believes. “That is what you think.” Clipso knocks the teapot from the table. “She and her friends are doing it because Twilight Sparkle made them do it to make us believe. Her pain is now in the string of the Alicorn Princess playing around like a puppet, chain to obey and serve her as slavery. I sense her sadness, her pain, her life being controlled by the Alicorn. This is what Alicorn will do when they try to control something that does not belong to them. Equestria should be free, not to be controlled.” “I don’t believe it. None of your words will ever convince me.” He said, not to trust him. “I’m not trying to convince you, Discord.” As he reveals. “I am revealing the truth. The truth about the Alicorn who will control us all creatures. I foresee the future that Twilight Sparkle steals all magic all over Equestria from every creature. Then she will control their will making them to be friends forever, repeating as a cycle of eternity. Fluttershy will be stuck in the loop of being friends and making new friends forever, as you will be making friends too, when she will steal your chaotic magic.” Discord looks at his chaotic magic and sees he made more chaos with his magic for fun. But imagine he will never have them anymore if Twilight takes it and controls his will. “Yes,” He said, finally getting him to understand. “You too will feel the same pain as Fluttershy. But you can stop it and save her, and the creatures of Equestria. Help me to guide our brothers, sisters, and creatures to freedom so we can stop the Alicorn Princess of Magic before she steals ours. And once we do, we can free the ponies’ magics and Fluttershy will be free from the control. She will be happy again thanks for your courage and trustworthy friend you are. So, interested in being a hero again? You two can be friends together again, and I will always be by your side as the Truth and Savior of the Equestria who banish evil from this world. Today, the Alicorn will have no creature to defend her because they see what she truly is behind that throne. It’s time we show her what we are and save Equestria together, freedom to all creatures of Equestria! Are you ready, Lord of Chaos?” Night at Twilight’s Castle, Luster was in her room not tired but still thinking if Argyle really appreciates her friends. She wonders if he meets them he may not like them. As she thinks, Starlight Glimmer came in to see her daughter being worried. “Luster?” “Mom,” she said, surprised. “I didn’t hear you knock.” “So sorry, but I heard you talking to yourself.” Starlight mention. “Is there a problem?” “No, no problem here.” Luster said, pretending nothing’s wrong and smiling wide. Starlight knows because of the big smile given away from her problem. “You know, sometimes a big smile means something is wrong.” Luster can’t smile since her mother figured it out so she let it out with a heavy sigh. “Okay, maybe there is a tiny problem I had.” “A tiny problem?” Starlight asked. “It’s….” she said, but couldn’t and did. “It’s a new friend I met earlier.” “Really?” Starlight smile. “That’s wonderful. Who is this new friend?” “His name is Argyle Starshine, he’s an earth pony.” She said, “And he likes me to bring my friends over to his place.” She sat on her bed. “But what if he sees they're not ponies? What if he dislikes them? Or my friends don’t like him? I don’t want them to be mad at each other.” Starlight understands and sat next to her. “Luster, you’re worrying too much. You made friends with them like they did. They became your friends because you met them.” “Last month,” Luster recalled. “And meeting him was more different. I’m beginning to worry if he really does like me and my friends.” “I’m sure he will,” said Starlight. “Do you remember when I started worrying that I can’t make friends?” “Yeah,” She remembers. “You were worried if you didn’t make another friend. Until you met Trixie, then Maud Pie.” She nodded, “That’s right. And I thank Princess Twilight for reminding me ever since I never had a friend for a long time.” “I remember how you told me about you and dad,” said Luster. “You enslave the village by removing their cutie marks. And dad failed at school. But you two finally learn it together.” “We did,” she said. “And we now became friends again. But our friendship got us closer, and finally, we have you. Our little Luster.” She hugs Luster. “Don’t be afraid of what he is going to think.” “Thanks, mom,” said Luster. “I will remember that.” With that, she smiles and kisses her forehead as a goodnight sleep for the next day. “Sleep well, Luster.” And she leaves her room. Luster sleeps and then looks at the moon behind Canterlot. She thinks how Twilight can still move it like Princess Luna. To her thought, maybe in her could be something of her learning about friendship. > Chapter 6: Finishing the Evil > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- As the sun rises, Princess Twilight was on the balcony still waiting if Discord succeeds in convincing the dragon not to turn creatures against her. She thought maybe he hadn't succeeded and she started to return to her throne. Before she was, Discord pops out of nowhere with firecrackers celebrating his success. “I made a friend!” He shouted. “I told you I can convince him to be my friend.” “But did he agree?” She asked. “He did,” said Discord. “I am Discord, Lord of Chaos. I can do whatever I want with my magic.” He snaps his finger and a celebration party pops out of nowhere. “He agrees no more revolution against you anymore as long as he trusts you.” Twilight couldn’t be sure how he did it but believe him. “Thank you, Discord. I guess we can trust you more than being a chaos. Fluttershy really supports you as a friend. After all, I’m your friend too.” Discord smiles, and Twilight returns to her throne. But his smile faded after what happened. Earlier that night, he joins his side and listens to what he must do to save Fluttershy. “If you wanted to save your best friend,” said Clipso. “We must slow down their resources if we ever want to save Equestria. By starting with their treasure they stored evil artifacts.” “Princess Twilight’s treasure-” “Don’t call her a princess,” he warned him not to call her that. “Okay,” he apologized. “Twilight Sparkle’s treasure room. Yes, she keeps all those… evil artifacts… at the only place my best friend Fluttershy told me.” “Then make sure you go there and do not get caught.” said Clipso. “But you won’t. I already see you will gain her trust. But as long as you help me, you and Fluttershy can finally be together again.” Discord agrees, and back to the present when he gains Twilight’s trust. But for a moment, she asks if he’s okay because of the way he’s doing. “Is there something wrong?” “No,” he responded. “Not at all, I’m Discord, Lord of Chaos. Nothing’s wrong with me.” He disappears with a snap, leaving Twilight wonders why. At Twilight’s Castle, Luster Dawn waits for friends to show. And they did, they arrived and sat back on what she had to say. “So, we’re gonna meet somepony?” Hazel Garden asked. “You sure he likes us to be invited?” “That's what he said, to bring my friends along.” Lusted said, “I just hope you guys can, you know, be normal and try not to embarrass yourself.” “Embarrass ourselves,” Ambrosia asked. “Luster, why would we be? We’re your friends, and you like us the way we were.” “She might have a point.” Sundance pointed out. “Remember the lesson we learn from Rarity. She once was too embarrassing in front of the royals with her friends. And when she told them, they actually love for her friends to join. Even if your new friend meets us, he might accept us as a friend also.” He was right, the lesson they learn from Rarity. No matter if you think you are embarrassed of yourself because bringing your friends along doesn’t mean you have to lie or change them to be what you want them to be. But being yourself is one way we can learn from each other. Luster accepts being herself and ready to bring her friends to meet her new friend. When ready to go, Discord pops in front of them with a surprise. “Discord?” She asked with surprise. “Oh, sorry, I didn’t realize somepony was here.” He said, then looked and saw her friends were there. “And creatures. Didn’t mean to surprise you all.” “Baron wasn’t surprised. He was never surprised.” He said, not to be surprised. “Anyway, we’re just gonna head out and meet a friend I met,” said Luster. “But why are you here?” “Oh, I just love coming here all the time.” He played out. “I have full days of doing my chaotic magic whatever I want.” As he snapped his finger, he made them wear ridiculous clothes and they laughed, but not Ambrosia. “Hey!!” She yelled. Then Discord snaps, returning them back. “Apologize, thanks Twilight for letting me free. I now can do anything.” Then he snapped another, popping out a celebration of his free chaotic time. Luster and her friends stare for a long time and decide to leave, letting him have his fun. “Well, I think it's time for us to go.” She and friends left. “Have chaotic fun!” As they left, he stopped and snapped everything away. He wanders around searching for the treasure room, and finds it. He remembers what Fluttershy told him about a barrier keeping anypony and creature out of it. But he knows how to break it, thanks to Clipso’s vision, he snaps when a note appears and reads it carefully. He said in a language spell as the barrier disappeared and entered to find artifacts around. Discord then snaps them all disappear and himself back to Dragon Land where Clipso was waiting. “Just in time you got them,” he said. I was wondering what’s taking you so long.” “I ran into some ponies and creatures.” Discord said, “But I got the artifact you asked for.” Clipso checks if he did bring every artifact. When checking, he found something he doesn’t like. He brought it out with the palm of his claw, revealing it to be the Alicorn Amulet. “That’s an Alicorn Amulet,” said Discord. Clipso looks directly at it and imagines from his mind hearing the destruction of what the alicorn can do with its power. “It was….” he said, then he closed his hand, squeezing it, until he stopped and revealed pieces of molten amulet. Discord was surprised, “How…?” “My magic isn't the same as theirs.” He said. “As you can see, my soul and armor are one with me, giving me the power of Equestria. I owe everything to it.” Then he scoured around the stuff and found the Staff of Sacanas. “The Sacanas staff, wielded by Storm King. Takes magic from ponies and creatures. It used to take the alicorns’ magic, and now, it holds the lightning storm magic.” “So we’re gonna use it to take away their magic?” he asked, thinking that's what they're gonna do. But then, he crushed it with his claw, destroying it. The staff was now shattered with pieces of remains. “I don’t use any evil artifacts compared to me. I am no evil.” He then returned back scouring the stuff and found the magical talisman. “The Bewitching Bell,” said Discord. He remembers how the main villains use it to drain his power. “And it still holds Grogar’s power.” Clipso recalled. “You pretended to be him but failed to let the villain take your powers. I see I cannot destroy it, according to the legend, it must be hidden somewhere that no one will be able to find it again.” He zaps it with his horns as it disappears from his palm. “Wait, what?” he asked, then Clipso answered his question. “I send it somewhere it can be hidden,” he said. “The bell will never be used by evil anymore. But I still need more artifacts to destroy. Find them, and bring them to me.” Then he walked away. “In the meantime, I have another problem.” “Problem?” Discord asked. “A threat will return soon, and I have to stop it.” He informed Discord. “Continue finding them, I will deal with them.” He spread his mighty wings and flew out from the ground, leaving Discord to snap his fingers and disappear to find more artifacts from Equestria. Somewhere around Equestria, Luster and her friends arrive at the hill and wonder where they are. “Okay, where are we anyway?” Ambrosia asked. “We literally follow all the way here to this cliff. You sure you’re reading it right?” “I am,” Luster replied. “This has to be the right way.” She looks at the note again. “It said here, “Head straight where the sun rises, keep moving up to the hill, and there, you will see the amazing scene.” As she said, she stops not knowing what it means. But her friends look up, staring at something that amazes their eyes. Luster wasn’t paying attention as Hazel lifted her chin letting her see the amazing scene. A beautiful ocean glint by the sun, as Luster and her friends were amazed by the sight. “That is the most beautiful sight I have ever seen.” Hazel said. “I never knew this place was so special.” “It is.” They look back and see Argyle arrive with his satchel bag. “You made it.” He said, then saw she brought her friends. “And these must be your friends.” “Yeah,” she was nervous then introduced them. “Guys, meet Argyle Starshine. Argyle, meet my friends. Ambrosia, Sundance, Hazel Garden, and Baron.” They introduced themselves, as he was glad to meet them. “Great friends. And it's great to see you all.” “Baron likes to meet you,” said Baron. “So great to meet another earth pony,” said Sundance. “Luster has been telling us about you.” “She did?” He asked. “She totally did.” Ambrosia answered. “She told all about you, you like researching.” “Mm-hm,” he nodded. “I spent a lot of time doing research. That’s why I carry them in my bag.” “So you're an architect,” Hazel asked. “You must’ve come here to continue studying alone in this beautiful ocean.” “Yes, but I spent my research at my place.” “What place?” She asked. “Come, I’ll show you.” He let them follow, as they wonder what place he’s taking them. And they arrived at his place. “Welcome to my lighthouse.” Luster and her friends were amazed by his lighthouse he used to research. They all went inside and saw many artifacts he had been researching. They were amazed and began looking at stuff. “So you collect junk just to do research?” Sundance asked. “Yup,” he replied. “I did these things that I found or bought from Equestria. But I’m getting close.” As he shows them what he had learned. “These things I collect I learn they were not from old time, but very old time from the beginning. If I understand where they came from, then the answer will be discovered.” The friends think he may be too carried away from his research, but Luster likes what he's been doing to learn of forgotten history. “If you guys can look around, you can. Just be careful, they’re breakable.” They understand and look around, as he and Luster were alone time. “So, what do you want to do?” She asked. “Well, I do need help from this.” He showed her the pictures tag to the wall diagonal line and another. “It’s hard for me to learn what it all means. Perhaps I needed a assistance.” She smiled and will assist to help him out. Meanwhile, Clipso arrived at the Canterlot Courtyard at night. He looked around searching for something he knew what’s coming until he found it. The statue of the Mean Three, still there covered in vines and moss. “Found you,” he said, walking up to them. “I knew you’d be here. Even if you are still stone, but won’t be for long.” He concentrated his spell and horns began to sparks, as it zaps them. The statue started to crack and broke free the villains, as they were awakened from their prison. “Wooh,” Cozy Glow felt dizzy. “What happened?” “What do you think happened,” Tirek replied. “We were encased into statues by those two alicorn princesses and that draconequus. We should’ve destroyed them instead of keeping them alive. And whose fault is that?” He looks directly at Chrysalis, blaming her for prisoning Celestia and Luna. “Me?” She talked back. “I only need something to feast on. Cozy here think we should torture Twilight’s friends for fun but instead get us lose.” “Oh, come on!” Cozy startled. “Tirek was the one who got upset and set them free.” Then both started to complain until they stopped noticing he’s standing there listening to their argument. “Who are you?” Chrysalis asked, and he answered. “I am Clipso, I am the leader of the Creature Revolution against the alicorn. I have come to free you and end Twilight Sparkle and her friends.” “Leader of the Creature Revolution?” Tirek question. “Never heard of that. But I do love some creatures against the alicorn.” “I want in,” Cozy said, wanting to join. “I was so ready to get my revenge on those ponies again.” “Yes, revenge.” Chrysalis announced. “We will have our revenge, and finally take over Canterlot then Equestria.” Before they could all agree, strange magic captured them and were forced in the air. Clipso has them in his grip and won’t release, making them confused what's going on. “What is this?!” She asked, aggressive. “What in Equestria are you doing?” “I am no evil,” Clipso responded. “I only see to save Equestria from the alicorn. Including dealing with the threat of evil. I see you three will escape from your prison but I stepped in stopping you.” “Actually, you set us free.” Tirek explained. “You just free us from it. That’s how we escaped.” “You believe that because you see.” Clipso said. “But me, I see the both of you free and begin to turn others against each other. And steal their magic. But it won’t happen again, cause none of you will ever exist.” With that they don't understand, he opens a rift behind them leading to an unknown void. “What are you doing?” Chrysalis demands to understand what’s going on. “A void where you three will be,” said Clipso. “Forgotten, disappear into the eternity of this world forever. No creatures will ever remember your destruction and evilness of this. I will save Equestria, I will make sure they get the message of understanding I am no evil.” Then he cast them both into the unknown void where they would never threaten Equestria again. He walked away ready to leave, but stopped and looked at the Nightmare Moon statue. So he zaps it, destroying it just not liking them very much and leaves. Back with Luster, she and Argyle were doing research together as friends. But she was almost tired from learning, and he sees it. “Feeling tired?” He asked. “Almost,” She yawned. “I never knew you stayed up so late.” “I do sometimes,” he said. “Researching is my favorite thing in Equestria.” Luster chuckled, and later asked how research became part of his life. “So, how did you end up becoming an architect?” “Well,” he tells his story. “It started when I was in ponyville. My parents sent me to school to help me find my cutie mark. I was told to show my presentation but I didn't have any until I found a relic giving me to research. And when it’s time for the presentation, I present my research to them. But it got boring for them until my teacher appreciated my work. And with it, I got my cutie mark.” As he shows her his cutie mark, a shooting star of rainbow. “Wow,” Luster likes his cutie mark. “That rainbow shooting star, I guess it means….. Something.” “Yeah, I get that a lot.” He figured. “But I know it means to me. Say, do you want me to show you something?” “I love that, too. I mean, I like that.” She said, not to mention what she said. So he brought her up to the lighthouse and showed her the view at midnight. She was seeing the beautiful ocean with her eyes as she was amazed. “Do you always come here? Not at home?” She asked. “I do come home,” said Argyle. “But I always come here to look at the view. Because it reminded me there’s more mystery out there waiting to be discovered. And if anything out there I can research, and secrets will be revealed.” She smiles and continues to stare at the oceans, as he too stares. Then both were getting close to each other until their friends were watching. “Whatcha doing?” Ambrosia asked, with her friends smiling. “Nothing!” They both said it at the same time. And her friends chuckled and joined them. They all watch the night together and wait when they’re tired. At Crystal Empire, Flurry Heart continues watching the night as her father Shining Armor sees she still up. “Flurry, should be in bed,” he said. “I can’t,” said Flurry. “I’m not that tired to sleep.” “Well, you should.” Shining said, “You’re going to visit Auntie Celestia and Luna tomorrow if you stay up late.” “I don’t want to.” She said, “I don’t want to sleep in the middle of the night.” “Sweetie, you have to.” He said, “Your mother wants to make sure you're ready. I don’t wanna let you be tired without sleep.” Before he could get her to go to bed, she asked him about it. “Dad, are you sure we’re not that evil?” “What?” He was startled. “No, what in Equestria told you that?” As he paused, he soon realized she overheard them talking from the room. “Were you listening?” “Yes,” She admitted. “How could you keep this from me? Or everypony?” I’m sorry,” Shining exclaimed. “We can’t tell them what’s coming. If we do, then everypony will start freaking out and be scared.” “And what about me, your daughter?” Flurry asked. “Were you gonna tell me sooner or later?” Shining sighed and told her why no ponies know about this. “I was. Well, me and your mom. We were gonna tell you, but you’re not ready to learn it. But I guess you already know.” Flurry was mad at her father, and her mother, who did not tell her the dragons were no longer their friends anymore, but followers of Clipso. He tried to explain but heard a flapping sound from the sky. He looked at the sky and saw something big coming towards them, until it came into the light revealing to be Clipso. “What is he doing here?” Shining asked, confused why he’s here. He hurried and woke Cadance, telling her Clipso is here in the Crystal Empire. “What? Here? Why is he here?” “I don’t know,” he said. “But I don’t like what he's doing. We gotta make sure why he’s here.” She agreed and asked every guard to come with them. They meet outside and see him coming, as he's been waiting for them. “Hmm, Shining Armor and Princess Cadance, thought you came to meet me,” Clipso figured. “We did,” Cadance said. “What are you doing here, Clipso?” “I only came here to deal with your enemy,” he said. “Enemy?” Shining asked. “We don’t have an enemy. Not around in the Crystal Empire.” “That’s the reason.” Clipso added. “You and your princess do not focus on one thing that troubles you around here. But I do.” “And what are we not focusing on?” She asked. “The enemy who almost took control of your Crystal Empire.” He said, and they understood the enemy he was talking about. “King Sombra?” Cadance replied. “But Twilight and her friends defeated him. He’s no longer a threat.” “That’s when you're wrong.” Clipso added. “He’s still here. But not here yet. I am gonna bring him here and deal with your problem.” “Bring him here?” Shining startled. “Are you crazy? What kind of dragon will bring him back to the Crystal Empire after what happened?” “I know what happened here.” He recalled. “Twilight and her friends use the Elements of Harmony to defeat him, but fail and let him destroy the Tree of Harmony with the elements. And instead, they defeat him. But that wasn’t enough to get rid of him. If he comes back, he’ll just do it again and we’ll all be done for.” “Are you suggesting you gonna get rid of him?” Cadence asked. “It’s my opportunity to deal with evil.” He recommended it. “But the only thing that can bring him out from his hiding is to get rid of the Crystal Heart. So, if you let me do my part then evil will never again have to harm us anymore.” Shining and Cadance were afraid he’s gonna make a big problem, bringing Sombra back will bring devastated to Equestria. And Cadance asked, “And what if we refuse?” “Then I have to do it myself.” Before he heads to the Crystal Palace, Shining orders the guards to stop him. “Stop him! Don’t let him reach the crystal.” All of them tried to stop him but he did not feel like stopping. They use spells and cast on him but still nothing affects him. Cadence then tried to keep him away, and it got his attention and blasted her with his horns. This attention Shining as he hurried to help her, and Clipso kept moving forward to the palace but the guards shot out spells which got his attention. He tail whipped out of his path and continued onward. As Shining helps Cadance, she then tells him he has to stop him. “Shining, you cannot let him reach the crystal. Go!” He understands and hurries to stop Clipso. But he arrives and sees the Crystal Heart with his eyes. “Crystal Heart, you've been keeping evil away to protect this empire. But I will do this a favor.” And when he reaches it, Flurry appears and tries to back him off. “Don’t even touch it!” Clipso did not fear her but stared right at her. “Flurry Heart, the Daughter of Love. You have saved Crystal Empire and your family from a winter storm.” “You know who I am?” She asked. “I know everything, I know your friend Luster Dawn.” He speaks. “And your aunt Twilight Sparkle. I am here to clean her and your friends’ mess they left behind.” Flurry was startled and couldn’t move, but her father arrived and saw her with Clipso. “Flurry! Get away from him!” He rushes in to save her but Clipso smacks him with his tail to the wall, as they continue talking. “Don’t worry, I’m not gonna hurt him. No interrupt. As I said, I’m only rid of evil. I am not like King Sombra, I am something more like my brothers and sisters. I was reborn by Equestria, giving me a new life to be free from my chain. And you can be free if you let me do my part.” “Don’t listen to him!” Shining shouted. “He's trying to trick you!” “I’m not lying.” He said, speaking with his words. “I am telling the truth.” Then he stared at her eyes. “Tell me. If I were to lie, would I have said not to hurt your father? Is that what you think?” She couldn’t look away from his eyes but he was telling the truth. She sees he may be right, he can get rid King Sombra from Equestria if he must touch the Crystal Heart. That’s when she let him go, and he began what he must do. He grabbed the Crystal Heart from the pedestal and held it in his claw. Cadance arrives from her recovery and sees him holding it, but it seems he’s not doing anything but looking at it. With no thinking, Clipso crushed it with his claw and the heart was shattered into shards. “NOOO!!!” Cadance yelled and used spells on him, but he deflected it and blasted her to the wall. “Mom!!” She rushes over to her, and Clipso releases Shining from his tail. The family reunite, but a maniac laugh echoes around them as the darkness returns and a storm comes, King Sombra returns laughing as the Crystal Heart was destroyed. “At last, I have returned. And the Crystal Empire is mine.” “And it will never be yours, King Sombra.” He looked back, seeing Clipso waiting for him. “And you are?” “I am Clipso,” he answered. “And I am here to banish you from this world.” Then he laughed evilly. “You? Banishing me? Pathetic! I am King Sombra! And no creature banishes me, not even you are working with the princess.” “I do not work with princess! I don't served alicorn.” With rage, Clipso began striking him with a bolt of magic. But Sombra just dodges it then uses a spell to enter his mind. “Let’s see what's inside your mind.” As he searched, something went wrong. His evil smile went to terrified. “Your thoughts, you don’t have any thoughts.” “Of course I don’t.” He responded, not struggling. “I have no Fear!” Then he unleashes his rage, knocking Sombra to the floor. With him weakened, he was scared begging for mercy. “Wait, I won’t do any more evil. I’ll return to my darkness and never come back! Never show my face around Crystal Empire, or Equestria! “Evil must be banished,” said Clipso. “Evil will never again return to Equestria. And, evil always lies.” Sombra begs and pleads more, but Clipso doesn’t care and then sends him to the place where he never again returns to Equestria. Soon, he was now gone forever and the Crystal Empire was safe. But Crystal Heart was shattered and he doesn’t care then leaves. “Stop!” Shining shouted. “You destroy the Crystal Heart! You are placed under arrest!” “You still don’t get it, do you?” He said, speaking with his words. “You did not see what I just did. I have got rid of your nemesis because the Alicorn did nothing but control everything, just like I have to destroy that Crystal so your Alicorn will not force love to these ponies. Such a pity she can’t do it anymore.” An enraged Shining was about to attack him, but Cadance stopped him to let it go and confronted Clipso. “Clipso, we know your turning creatures against us. We do not control everything that you believe.” “You said that just to make me believe you are good.” He added. “Nothing will convince me of what I have seen. I’m the only one who foresaw the Alicorn’s controls. I freed myself from their chain, and I alone can free Equestria from everything that you and your Sister-in-law did to do what you all want. And once every creature joins with me, all of you will be alone with ponies you all enslaved.” He then spread his mighty wings and flew away, leaving them of what to do because the Crystal Heart has been destroyed and no ponies will be safe again. Shining Armor and Princess Cadance see the shattered crystal, then look at Flurry Heart who did nothing but trusted him. > Chapter 7: The Revolution Begin > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Princess Twilight has arrived at the Crystal Empire in a snowstorm. She hurried and saw everypony wanting to know and worried why the snowstorm had just appeared. She entered through the crowds, as everypony asked what’s going on. But she got through and entered the palace where Princess Cadance was waiting. “Cadance,” she said, seeing her sister-in-law, and they both embrace hug. “I heard what happened, is Flurry…?” “She’s okay,” Cadance replied. “But we do have a problem.” She takes her to the library and shows Flurry Heart trying to restore the Crystal Heart. “Twilight,” Shining Armor said, happy to see her. “We have been trying to restore it, but it seems we can’t.” As he said, Flurry has been trying to restore it but it still remains shattered. Twilight looks closely and understands it has no magic any more. “It has no magic,” said Twilight. “How did this happen?” “Don’t know, but it has something to do with his power.” Cadance figured. “It’s like he just destroyed it with a grip of his claw. I have never seen any creature that could destroy magic so easily.” Twilight thinks about how Clipso could have such power that never existed in Equestria for a long time. She wonders and confused why he would destroy the Crystal Heart. “Why would he do this?” “King Sombra,” Shining exclaimed. “It was to bring King Sombra back and banish him into a void. That's all he did.” “What void?” She asked. “I don’t know,” he said. “But he said, he’s here to clean you and your friends’ mess after defeating others.” “Others?” He nodded, haven’t figured what he meant. Twilight thinks back from the beginning with her friends. But too focus on Flurry, as she tries to fix the crystal. She walks up to her and sees she’s worried. “Flurry?” She asked but Flurry is too focused on the shatters. “Flurry, are you okay?” “I’m fine,” she said, frustrated. But stopped realizing her aunt. “Auntie Twilight, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to be frustrated.” “It’s okay,” Twilight said. “You were petrified when facing him.” “I wasn’t petrified.” She replied. “I was seeing him. I see through his eyes what he sees. I saw us, losing against the creatures he had united with him. I think he was telling the truth about us.” “Flurry,” said Twilight. “You can’t believe anything from him. He can’t predict the future from what he sees. He only manipulated you to believe everything he said.” “But he knew about my friend Luster,” said Flurry Heart. Twilight couldn’t believe how she believed everything he said. Before that, a message appeared with a blaze in the air. She unscrolled it and read, there’s some trouble in the courtyard at Canterlot. “I’m sorry, but there’s an emergency at Canterlot courtyard,” she said after reading the scroll. “I wish I could stay and help, but they need me back.” “That’s okay,” Cadance said. “We’ll find a way to calm the ponies outside of the empire.” She smiles, and both hug together as she uses a teleportation spell to travel back to Canterlot. Spike was waiting for her at the courtyard with the guards. “Spike, what’s going on?” She asked. “Well, let’s just say, something terrible happened here,” he recalled. He shows her the courtyard; it was a mess. It seems the Nightmare Moon statue was destroyed into pieces. And the statue of the Mean Three is gone. “Tirek, Chrysalis, and Cozy Glow are missing.” He said, worried. “They somehow escaped from their prison. How can they get out of their statue?” He can’t figure out how the villain escapes, and Twilight wonders if this has something to do with Clipso’s attacking the Crystal Empire. Then she understands what he meant, cleaning her mess and defeating others. “Clipso,” she figured. “He set them free, and banished them like King Sombra.” “What?” Spike asked. “It's all because he is cleaning our mess because we didn’t do anything with them," said Twilight Sparkle. “And now, he’s turning every creature of Equestria against us just because we’re controlling ponies’ magic.” “That’s wrong,” Spike said with disgust. “How could he think you control their magic?” Then he thought about it. “Oh, right.” Then he sees Twilight beginning to lose faith. “Twilight, you have to stop him. He’s gonna keep on doing this until you're surrounded by angry creatures. Is there anything you can make him stop?” “I did,” she said. “Discord volunteered to give him the friendship he needed, and he succeeded. But I don’t get it, he already helped him learn the value of friendship.” Spike thinks and wonders if Discord did not give Clipso the friendship lesson, and to believe he lied. “Twilight, do you think Discord really convinced him to be friends?” She doesn’t know if he did but she needs to know. “Don’t know, but I have a feeling we need to talk to him.” Meanwhile, Luster and her friends were with Argyle walking back to Ponyville when they arrived at the Sugarcube Corner and met Li’l Cheese, as she saw them back. “You’re back,” she happily hugs Luster. “And you brought friends.” The others were happy to meet her, as Pumpkin and Pound Cake came outsite to meet them. “Luster, welcome back. And you brought the pony you mentioned before.” “Uh, yeah,” she was kind of awkward. “Argyle, this is my friend Li’l Cheese, and the others are Pound Cake and Pumpkin. Li’l Cheese, this is Argyle Starshine, a new friend, or a pony I met earlier.” She looks at him and wonders what she was talking about. “So, this must be the pony you've been talking about.” “Pumpkin!” She said, not to be embarrassed. But her friends chuckled, including Argyle who was smiling. “Guess she has his type,” said Ambrosia whispering to them. “Hey, I’m a pony too,” Sundance added. Li’l Cheese brings them inside and introduces them with unicorn cupcakes. “Unicorn cupcakes? I made them myself.” “Don’t mind if I do,” said Hazel Garden as she took one. All of them take one and take a bite of it. “It’s my favorite style to make everypony happy,” said Li’l Cheese. “Even for creatures.” They all smiled and enjoyed the cupcake, until a pony came. “Excuse me, do you have what I want?” “Sure, I’ll go get it.” Pumpkin responded. “Pound, stay to watch our customer.” He nodded, as she went to go get the food. The pony was waiting until he saw creatures with Luster. “Hey, what are they doing here?” “Us?” Sundance asked, pointing to himself. “No, them!” He pointed at the creatures who aren’t like them. “Us?” said Baron. “Baron and friends came here with our friends.” “But a politician!” He exclaimed. “They’re one of those creatures who join with that mad dragon.” “Hang on, what politician?” Hazel asked. “I’m not telling you! You’re just like the other creature.” They do not know what he meant but it was cut short when Pumpkin came with the package. She was about to tell him the cost but he just placed his coin and left in a hurry. “What was that all about?” “I don’t know, but it seems he does not like them.” Pound said, showing that Luster’s friends are not part of them. Luster has no idea what’s going on but she believes there might be trouble at the Friendship School. “We need to go. Thanks for free cupcakes!” As she uses teleportation spells on herself and her friends. They arrive at the school and see crowds of creatures taking their kids away from here. “What’s going on?” She asked, but none of them replied and left in a hurry. Luster and her friends enter and see Starlight having problems with creatures’ parents. “Mom, what’s going on?” “Everything’s okay, sweetheart.” Starlight said, and having problems with creatures. “Just stay there and…. I’ll be right there.” She doesn’t know what’s going on but then the creatures came to take her friends. “Hold on, where are you taking them?” “Not letting her stay here,” said Ambrosia’s parents or legal guardian. “Me too,” Hazel’s mother said. “No yak will learn from this,” Baron’s parents said, taking him away. Her friends are being taken, as she doesn’t know what’s going on. Then she sees her father working on papers being written from creatures. “Dad, why are they taking my friends away?” she asked. “Sorry, sweetie. But I have other problems.” he said, busy with papers. As he leaves, Luster and her two friends do not know what’s going on but she needs to know. So she looks at creatures taking their kids away from school. Then she heard creatures whispering about something as she listened to what’s going on. “Have you heard, he said the ponies’ magic are controlled by the alicorn princess.” “I know, one of the dragons told us about it. We now finally see what they see. We should take our creatures out of this school before she steals theirs.” She wanted to know more but another creature spotted her overhearing the conversation. “Hey, what are you doing?” “I was just…” “Were you spying?” The griffin asked, furiously. “No, I wasn’t.” She tries to apologize. “You were,” said the hippogriff. “You’re Twilight’s mentor.” Luster tries to get away from their conversation but none doesn’t believe and only thinks she’s a spy for the princess. But were stopped by Sundance and Argyle. “Hold on, don’t hurt our friend,” said Sundance. “Let me guess, helping your unicorn friend cause she’s your pony friend?” As the griffin mocks them because they’re ponies. Then Argyle stood up. “Wait, she didn’t mean to overhear them. And yes, she is a unicorn pony does mean she’s our friend. But creatures and ponies are friends together, not enemies. And if you do not like being friends, then I agree.” With that, creatures then leave them alone as Luster and her friends were okay. “Thank you,” she said. “I couldn’t let them hurt you,” said Argyle. “Besides, we’re all friends.” He and Sundance are her friends and they will be by her side. But their friends were taken away from them, leaving only ponies, as Sunburst and Starlight now have ponies for a student. And Trixie was pretty upset about the creatures taking their students away. “Okay, who dares to take all the Great and Powerful Trixie’s students away from her greatest and powerful performance?” Trixie demands to know what’s going on. “I’m sorry, Trixie.” Starlight explains. “Every creature of Equestria has taken our students away.” “And every paper they have written is here,” Sunburst said, placing files on the table with his magic. “We gotta send these to Twilight Sparkle. She needs to know that all the creatures have taken our students away from school.” “Right, I’ll send them to her,” Starlight said, as she prepared to send them. “No, need!” Trixie said, as she stepped in her way. “The Great Trixie will send to Princess Twilight Sparkle.” She used the spell to send them but it seems it was sent to the swamp. Then it was sent back to them very wet. And Starlight heavily sighed, “Let me do it.” She sent the paper to Twilight perfectly without a mistake. “I hope Twilight will understand it.” “Hope so,” Sunburst added. “But I do not know why they would take them? It’s not like something made them so worried.” “I think something is making them worried,” she said, believing something is going on in Equestria. Before she could think, a scroll appeared above them with a blaze. Starlight unrolled and read what it said. “It seems I am needed at Canterlot,” she added. “Sunburst, can you look after the school while I’m gone? Including keeping an eye on Trixie?” Sunburst smiles and will keep an eye on her, as she uses the teleportation spell to Canterlot. Luster needs to know what’s going on as she needs her friends to stay. “You guys stay here, I need to figure out what’s going on.” She teleports herself to Canterlot and finds herself where Twilight and her friends are, including with Cadance and her mother. She hid so she could listen to their conversation, but she wasn’t the one who was listening as somepony almost gave her a jump. “Quiet,” she hushes her. “Flurry?” She said, seeing her here. “Why are you here?” “That’s the same question I was gonna ask,” Flurry said, then they both hear the conversation start as they listen to what's going on. “Of course he has to be stopped!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “He’s causing so much problem around Equestria that we cannot connect or talk to each other.” “I do agree with Rainbow Dash,” said Rarity. “When Yona’s parents came, they took her away leaving Sandbar. They said ponies cannot be trusted because our magic is linked to the crystal. How could they know that?” “Well, duh!” Rainbow Dash said. “It’s all about Clipso. That’s how they knew. He needs to be put down.” “I agree,” said Applejack. “But will that make the creatures more mad?” Fluttershy said, thinking it’s wrong to put him down. “Maybe we should try and talk him out?” “I kinda agree,” Starlight added. “Even though he's more of a politician against the alicorn, I mean, us. But he did get rid of Tirek, Chrysalis, Cozy Glow, and Sombra. So that’s probably good.” “And what about us? Applejack asked. “He will stab us on our back and keep on doing this. He completely turned every creature to take our students away from school.” “He destroy the Crystal Heart,” Cadance added. “And there’s no magic within them anymore.” “And he completely ruined the happy smile from the creature I tried to smile,” Pinkie said, speaking aggressively. “Pinkie, you were scaring them away with too many surprises,” said Applejack. “I was only making them be more happy,” said Pinkie Pie. “Yeah, I don’t think it works anymore,” said Spike. Then he looks at Twilight. “Do you think we should talk to Discord about what happened?” “He said he’s not in the mood anymore,” Twilight said. “After all, I don’t think he’s not gonna respond.” “You did give him free chaos? Right?” Starlight asked. “I did, but this trouble is more focused on Clipso,” she said. “If this keeps on going, then the balance of harmony will be divided between ponies and creatures. He must understand what we do to unite everyone to join with magic. And to do so, we must travel to Dragon Land and confront him.” “Wait, what?” Rarity confused. “Twilight, going there means the rest of the dragons will be there,” said Princess Cadance. “And if he doesn’t agree with the term, he will keep on.” “Then we have to do what we must,” she said. “Use the spell to incase him.” “You mean, turn him into stone? Like them?” Fluttershy asked. “There’s no other way,” said Twilight. “We do it now.” The others agree, but not Fluttershy, Cadance, and Starlight. “Twilight, if you do that then the creatures will know what you did.” “I’m sorry,” she apologized. “But it’s the choice we make.” She and her friends then settle to go to Dragon Land, and Fluttershy follows. Luster and Flurry now know what’s going on and understand why creatures literally mean to everypony. “So Clipso is the one who is behind all this?” she asked. “Yeah, I can’t fix the crystal anymore.” Flurry Heart said. “I’m afraid our friends are no longer our friends anymore.” This broke her heart as she can’t believe this is happening. Then she teleports herself, leaving Flurry Heart alone not knowing why, as she returns to Argyle and Sundance. “Luster, what’s going on?” Sundance asked. “Do you know why our friends were taken?” She did not reply but went away, leaving them not understanding what’s going on. But Argyle thinks something is not right with creatures hating ponies. Twilight and the rest of the Friendship Guardian arrived at the place. Everything was quiet, too quiet for no dragons around. When they approached, they found him just standing there as they were behind. “Great appearance,” Pinkie said, surprised. They don’t know why he’s standing there but he doesn’t look back at them, as Twilight begins asking him. “Clipso, is it? We’re here for your politician.” He doesn’t reply, as Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “Hey, buddy! Don’t you hear! We only wanted for you to-” “I hear,” he spoke. They were totally silent as he continued. “You came to make a demand of my politician against you.” “Yes,” said Twilight. “We’re all here for it. We demand for the revolution to end. Tell every creature that we do not control Equestria with our magic. Ponies and creatures are meant to unite in harmony, not to divide.” “United by your words,” said Clipso. “But I believe what I can trust on. From what I see, I already know what will happen next.” “Wait,” Applejack asked. “How did you…?” “I foresee from my eyes that you and your friends come here to imprison me in case of stone,” he said. “Like the villains your alicorn princesses did.” “They did it because their powers were taken away, they deserved to be stone,” said Twilight. “So what am I?” He questions. “Am I the villain just like them? Or am I something who did good for us?” “Good for us?” She asked. “What do you mean?” “The good of Equestria.” He announced. “I helped it cause I was chosen to see what it saw. I became it’s eye as I am one who can see the truth. My soul and armor are one with each to grant me this freedom.” He powers his horns. “With it, I am free from the pain. I have no fear, I have no love, I am something that I couldn’t tell. But it helps others see what I see, I show them what they must be prepared for.” “Like King Sombra when you banished him,” Twilight asked. “And the rest of the villains we fought?” “Including the Pony of Shadow?” He reminded her. “Of course you almost forgot about him. You and your other ponies were trying to banish Stygian until he revealed the truth why he did it. And you remove the host from the darkness and send it into this place called Limbo. But I prefer it to be a void.” “Now listen here,” Rainbow Dash shouted. “We’re not here for your speech about what happened next, you… Demon Dragon!” “Demon Dragon?” Pinkie asked. “Would he prefer to be called Dragoni?” They do not understand what she means. “Dragoni, it’s a meaning of the name part Dragon and part Demon, but the demon is an oni. And when you put it together, you get Dragoni. Dra-go-ni.” None of them couldn’t understand what she meant, but Fluttershy tried to speak to him. “I don’t think you're evil. You do believe what you see, but perhaps maybe use it for good.” “Me? Use it for good?” He questions. “I'm already using it for good, pegasus. What about you? Do you use Kindness for good, or a string from your princess?” He said, with a scary tone. She got frightened, as her friends protected her. “Not nice,” said Rarity. “You’re right, I am not nice.” He agreed with her words. “Clipso, everything you're doing to make Equestria good is causing trouble. I wish not to say this but you have gone insane.” Twilight figured. “And you must be put down so we can end this revolution.” “And if that’s what you want, then I accept.” As he surrendered himself, “I will agree with your terms, princess.” They were confused on why he would surrender himself but they didn’t think about it and get on with it. “Then your punishment is to be imprisoned for the rest of eternity.” Twilight fuses her magic and puts a spell on him, turning him into a statue. And it was over. “Well, that was easy,” said Pinkie Pie. But before they could agree, something started to happen. The heat started to emerge from the Clipso’s statue, as it started to molten into magma. And then, it burst into pieces as Clipso was free from his stone. Twilight and her friends were completely shocked at how he could free himself so easily. “That was… unexpected,” Clipso said, cracking his neck. “But… how?” said Rainbow Dash. “No creatures can’t…..” “Perhaps you should’ve known me well,” he said. “I am free from everything that strings me. No magic or curse cannot hold me. My armor will always protect me cause I am one. So if you try anything on me, you will see who I really am.” Twilight sees him he’s not like his siblings but different. “If this is what I see you, then you truly are what we called you.” “Hold on,” Applejack paused. “We’re gonna let him go, not turning into a statue?” But she did not answer back and walked away from the scene, and her friends did not understand but followed. As they went away, Clipso tapped his claw as it brought the hidden creature from their hiding. They were listening and watching, and learned Princess Twilight is indeed a villain of how her friends agreed with her. “Yes, my brothers and sisters.” He claims. “You have finally seen she’s not like us but a conqueror of magic. If we ever want to stop her, we must act quickly to save our home. Prepare your brethren to stand against the ruler. It’s time.” The creatures trusted his words and hurried for their brethren for the Revolution. And for him, he was wondering if that name Pinkie just called him rather than just Demon Dragon. “Dragoni…. That’s a good name.” > Chapter 8: Dragoni King rising > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Meanwhile, Argyle Starshine was heading to Twilight’s Castle, and when he arrived he knocked as Trixie opened in front of him. “Who dares to interrupt the Great and Powerful Trixie from sleep?” she asked with a strong tone, as she looked to see who it was. “That’ll be you who should say your name.”   “Oh,” said Argyle. “Well, my name is Argyle Starshine. I’m a friend of Luster Dawn. Is she here?” “Why yes,” she replied. “She’s in her room and I do not understand what’s going on in there. She said she wants to be alone for a while.” He looks at what’s behind her and asks, “Can I come in?” “If you're a friend of Luster Dawn, then I will welcome you in.” She welcomes him in, and he enters and sees so many things made from crystals. “I'll tell your friend you're here.” As she trails off. He looks around his surroundings and walks down the hallway to see a door open. As he enters, he sees so many books lying on the floor like somepony has been doing research. He found something buried underneath as he scoured some books, only to find a scroll of research about plant life. But before he looks for more, Trixie interrupts. “Argy Starshine, Luster Dawn is here.” She announced, as Luster saw him. “Thanks, Aunt Trixie. But it’s Argyle, his name is Argyle.” “It’s a working title,” she smiled and walked away. As she left, Luster was pretty awkward of seeing him here in the library. “Uh, I didn’t expect you here.” “Trixie let me in,” he said, as he looked around him. “So many books.” “Aunt Twilight.” She replied. “She's been doing research on plants, don’t know why.” Then asked, “Why did you follow me here?” “I just wanna make sure you're okay,” said Argyle. “Did you learn something?” She doesn’t want to talk about what she knew but she must be honest to him as a friend. “I did, and it’s something that I wasn’t aware of. But can you promise to keep this a secret?” “I, Argyle Starshine, promise not to tell anypony. Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye,” he said, doing a promise. Luster sighed, “When I teleported where my mother was, I overheard them talking about this Clipso.” “Clipso?” As he was confused. “The armor dragon who wants revolution on Princess Twilight?” He shook his head not understanding. “Why him?” “You know him?” She asked. “I heard of him,” he answered. “But I have not seen him. There was an attack at Crystal Empire. What did they say about him?” “They…” She said, “They said they’re gonna incase him into a statue. I don't know if they did but I’m worried.” “Worried because our friends were taken from us?” “No, my mom is with them.” She concluded. “And so does my father. That’s why I came back here. They already went and left Trixie here to watch over me. What if something happened to them, and I’m alone? Cannot make friends again like last time?” As she was beginning to lose her friendship. Argyle sees this and tries to help her not to lose it again. “Luster, you already have friends. Our friends and others were taken away from us. But we did not lose them, they still always come back to us cause we're friends. Lil’ Cheese, Sundance, Ambrosia, Baron, Hazel Garden, and me. We’re all still friends cause we remember each other. They’re not gonna abandon you, or us.” Luster almost smiled, a little. Then he pulled something out from his satchel bag. “Here, I kinda made this on my own. It’s a necklace that I made to represent the Magic of Friendship.” As he gave it to her. Luster holds it with magic and puts it on, and loves it. “I love it, thank you. And maybe I could give you something.” She brings out the buttons of all Mane Six’s Cutie Mark. “These are from her friends that I volunteered for doing six elements. I think you deserve more than being just my friend.” She buttoned them on his bag, as he was amazed he got. “I do love it.” Then she hugged him in appreciation of her gift, and he was embarrassed as he smiled. As they were hugging, they heard someone speaking. They carefully peek and see Trixie talking to Thorax who has just arrived. “What do you mean, it’s time?” She asked. “He’s bringing every creature, including Ember and my brother Pharynx, to Canterlot.” He told her. “To confront Twilight and her friends.” This snapped Luster to know her parents are there with Twilight. And it means, the Revolution Creatures are heading there. At Canterlot, Flurry Heart was in the throne room staring at the Unity Crystal and worried about what was happening, as Princess Cadance found her there. “Flurry, there you are.” she said, worried. “Your father and I have been looking for you. Why are you here with it?” “I was…” As she stutters. “I was looking at it just to see if it has a connection to the Crystal Heart. If I can keep concentrating on it, maybe I can find the magic in me.” Cadance senses something is wrong with her as she asks if she’s okay. “Is there something wrong?” “No,” Flurry Heart responded. “Nothing’s wrong.” “I believe something is wrong,” As she knew something was on her mind. “You’re afraid of him. When you look directly into his eyes, you see our defeat. Creature joins his rebellion and turns on us.” “Yes,” she said. “But then I saw something else.” As she then tells her more. “I saw an alicorn, but not like us. This alicorn was a lot stronger and powerful like Aunt Twilight, but it had rage and hatred. Auntie Celestia and Luna try to stop it but….” Then she stops. “That’s what I remember.” She was scared not wanting to talk about it anymore, as Cadance put her wings to comfort her. “Sweetie, I think this Alicorn you've been seeing was the other one. The one with the fiery magic.” “Are you sure?” “Mm-hm,” she nodded. “There can’t be more alicorn around in Equestria. But if I see one, then I would believe it.” “You really think so?” Flurry asked. “Absolutely,” As she said, Flurry Heart embraced her mother with a hug. When everything was settled, the guards announced Princess Twilight and her friends had returned. Spike was waiting alongside Starlight and Sunburst, as the Guardian of Friendship arrived. “We were so worried,” said Starlight. “Did you do what you had to?” “We did,” Applejack said, and they were relieved. “But it didn’t go so well.” They became confused as Twilight told them. “I use the spell to transform him into a statue, but it has no effect on him.” “No effect?” Spike asked. “Everything has an effect. How come he doesn’t?” “Well, he broke free from being turned into a statue,” said Fluttershy. “Wait, wait!” Sunburst paused. “He broke free? That can’t happen.” “Yeah, when Twilight uses it on him he frees himself with magma coming out of him,” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “And the most confusing part, he surrendered himself to be turned into a statue,” said Pinkie Pie. “Why would he surrender himself?” Starlight asked. They didn't know why until they started to hear a marching sound coming from outside. They went to check it outside and saw many creatures marching towards the Canterlot. So many creatures from all over Equestria have alliances together with Clipso who is in the air with the dragons watching as his revolution has finally come. “I think we know why,” Spike figured. The creatures from outside Canterlot demand the Princess to free the magic, and the ponies from Canterlot never expected so many of them to be so angry. Friendship Guardian and their friends do not know how many of them are with Clipso. “Guess he must have planned everything for this,” said Sunburst. “Anything we could do to stop them?” None of them don’t know how to stop them, as Twilight has one but it was bad. “There’s one, but I will not use it.” “Then what is it?” Rainbow Dash asked. “I will not use it against them,” she said. “I must show them all I am not evil, or a magic stealer. And to prove it, I must go talk to Clipso.” She flies to the sky and confronts Clipso one last time. The dragons were gonna protect him but he stopped them, as both face-to-face. “So, you got them all here.” Twilight said, seeing many of his allies to his side. “This is what you want.” “I did,” he corrected. “I have made them see what you really are after what you and your friends did to me, Twilight Sparkle.” She soon realized him surrendering to turn into stone which was part of his plan. “You plan it right from the start.” “I didn’t,” he told her. “I knew you and your friends would come to imprison me. That’s why I surrender myself to help others to see what you really are behind your royal, Twilight Sparkle. Even if they knew my plan, they did believe me. Cause I am their truth.” Princess Twilight was losing her cool but controlled herself not to be mad. “You are the truth, but abused by your power. Who do you think you are if you lied about us?” “Like the one who lied about helping me to learn of Friendship?” As he twisted her words. “The one who told you he helped me to steal all of your dangerous artifacts you kept at your old castle?” As he said, “You know it’s true.” Twilight now knew Discord lied to her and helped Clipso to steal the artifact from her castle. But she knew this was part of his plan. She must focus and not let her anger cloud her mind. “I won’t let you turn any creatures to your side,” said Twilight. “You do not have the power to stop me.” “I don’t need power,” he revealed. “I needed the truth. If you think everyone can hide their truth, imagine Celestia hiding it from you not letting you know you were chosen for this reason. Perhaps I could visit her, and make her spill it in front of you with my claw to her neck.” That’s when she had enough and shot out magic at him, but it didn’t hurt him. And it made other creatures see she just attacked him. “Guess I saw that coming,” he added. Then all the dragons attack Canterlot, but it is protected by a barrier coming from Princess Cadance using the spell. Twilight returned to her friends and saw they were staring at her. “You just attacked him? After he talks about Celestia?” Applejack shouted. “What the hay were you thinking?” “I have to!” She responded. “He knew about Celestia. I cannot let him harm her or Luna.” “But you already upset the rest of his allegiance,” Fluttershy said. “How are we gonna calm them?” “Don’t worry, Fluttershy.” Rainbow Dash calms her. “The barrier is up and there’s no way they cannot come through.” But Clipso starts to use his horns and effect on the bubble. As he carefully finds the way, he punches it, shattering the barrier into pieces of glass falling down around Canterlot. The ponies were surprised, and including the friends, witnessed the event around them. “Did he just….” Rarity said, with a wide-eyed tone. “He did,” said Spike. Then the creatures engage into Canterlot, as the guards start not to do anything. But they then engage into the battle. As each of them fight, Clipso has them do the work as he watches to see many of them tear each other apart. “So many of them!” Spike shouted. “What do we do?” None of them don’t know, but Twilight knows what she must do and hurries inside, and her friends do not know what she’s doing but follows her. And Clipso sees them and knows where Twilight was heading. Somewhere near Canterlot, Luster and Argyle have arrived thanks to her teleportation. They see creatures and ponies in war, as she never expected so many of them have alliances of their own kind against ponies. “That’s a lot,” Argyle said, surprised. “How are we gonna pass through them?” Luster don’t know but heard somepony yelling from a distance. Trixie and Thorax arrive covered in seaweeds, and wet, almost closer to them. “Can’t believe you took us into a lake,” Thorax told her, drying himself. “I’m just getting used to it,” she replied. “But now, I got us here.” “Yeah, far away perhaps.” They were almost near Canterlot, as Trixie tried to cast the spell again. “Let me try this again.” Before she could, Thorax paused her. “Maybe we should try another way to enter Canterlot,” he added, leading her a way into the castle. They did not notice Luster and Argyle overheard them as they followed. Thorax leads her to the cavern on the side of the cliff as he reveals a secret passage, and Trixie wants to know how she never knew it existed. “How come I never seen it before?” She asked. “Spike told me Canterlot has many entrances that lead to the castle and the outside,” said Thorax. “And I know because he’s my best friend.” Trixie rolled her eyes, as they agreed to enter the cavern followed by Luser and Argyle. Meanwhile, Spike and the rest of the friends look for Twilight around the castle. But they found her, in the throne room, with the Unity Crystal. “Twilight,” Applejack asked. “What are you doing?” “If I use the crystal, I can put a stop to all this.” She tells them. “Every creature won’t have to turn against one another. It’s the only hope we can take.” “But the good from those creatures; dragons and yaks.” Fluttershy reminded her. “Or animals out there, they need magic to survive.” “And then what? Help him win?” As Twilight was starting to lose her stress. “Discord betrays us. And I’m not taking any chances.” Then she starts to look directly at it. “And if I do it, I can use it on him.” Her mind was in deep trance thinking she could use it to take away his magic. But Starlight stopped her not to. “Twilight. Don’t do it.” With her words, she stopped as her friends were relieved. But an explosion blasts them to the floor, and Clipso enters. He sees them separate from their princess as he soon sees the crystal near her. “So, you are gonna steal it from us?” He concluded. “A selfish act you ever made. Once I bring it out, they’ll know you will try to steal magic from us.” Before he can take it, Starlight blasts a spell getting his attention. He quickly recovers and knocks her out from his way. Her friends then jump in to stop him but something wraps them with curtains like they’re being controlled by someone. And it revealed it was Discord. “Discord?” They were all shocked he turned on them. “I must do to free you all,” He remarked. “Including you, Fluttershy. Don’t be sad. He will fix everything the way it is.” They couldn’t believe he was doing the same just like the last time, but Spike tackles him down until he disappears with a snap and ties him up. Clipso appreciated his help and began taking the crystal, but something sparks his claw as he backs away. Shining Armor threatens him to stay away, as he responds not to touch it. “Get away from it!” He shouted. Clipso angrily backs away then his eyes turn towards Flurry Heart hiding behind the corner. His attention caught Shining to look back but not on him, giving him the chance to swing with a tail. Flurry hurried and took the crystal, giving Clipso to chase after her. “Flurry Heart!” Twilight cried. Somewhere in the castle, a wall slid open and Trixie came out covered in webs. She sighed, “Finally, an exit.’ Then looks at Thorax coming behind. “And I thought you knew which way.” “It’s hard to remember. But hey, I got us here.” He added. Then somehow, Flurry dashes past them, angrily Trixie. “Hey! Nopony pushes the Great and Powerful Trixie from aside....” As she talks, Thorax looks behind and gets out of the way leaving Trixie keeps on talking but feels the rumble as she looks behind to see Clipso coming this way and knocks her to the ground. Thorax then checks and sees Trixie on the floor. “Does the Great and Powerful Trixie get run over by a dragon?” He asked. Trixie muffled, meaning maybe or not. Back with Flurry Heart, she was still being chased but she hit her wings on the column and fell to the ground. Clipso has already reached and finds her hurt. He chuckled, “You really have spirit, Flurry Heart. But I should take it.” He reached for it until another spell hit him. He looked back, Luster was there with her horn sparks fearless. “Step away from my friend!” Clipso did not but he attacked with his horns, and she dodge but was injured from the explosion behind. And then Flurry Heart used her magic to get his attention, but it made him angry and hit her against the wall. Luster hesitates but suddenly charges with the sparks of her horn. She blasts every spell she knows on him, then Clipso gets annoyed by her courage and grabs her. “You have spirit, little one!” He fiercely squeezed her. “But I would like to see from your eyes.” As he looked into her eyes, he paused with a stern look on his face. “You…?” Before he could see more, a magic hit him, releasing Luster from his grip. And he turns to see Starlight and Sunburst arrives in time. “Claws off of our pony!” Starlight said, and both use spells on him many times. “Starlight Glimmer and Sunburst,” he recalled. “So naive.” He blasts them away with a spark of horns. Once they were hurt, he focused on the crystal. “Now I’ll take it and show the world that the alicorn princess is not our ruler but evil.” As he’s about to take it, a flame is interrupted by Spike. And the Guardians and others join in and do what they can to stop him. “A miracle happened!” Pinkie shouted, helping her friends. Then Clipso has enough and blasts all of them away, leaving them defeated. “Alright, this time, no miracle happened!” As he quickly takes it and leaves the castle, showing the Equestria by holding it in the air to let them see the truth. Then Princess Twilight arrived, seeing them injured from the fight. But saw Clipso outside, and knew he cannot win as she flew outside and confronted him. “Enough! She shouted. “You will not divide Equestria from the truth!” “It’s already too late,” he added. “They finally see the truth. They finally see who you really are, Twilight Sparkle.” Then Twilight looks around and sees many of them staring at them, they begin to trust him even more after seeing what he has. “Now, I will break it, and never again use it on all of us.” Before he can do it, a magic hit him then Luster swipes it from his claw thanks to her levitation. Then she and Flurry levitate with their magic and face Clipso together, not afraid of him with his truth. “You will not turn every creature against us all, including our friends. They’ll never join your side.” “Then I will make them,” Clipso recharges his powerful magic horns. “I will get you both!” He shot out a magic beam at them, but they went around. They fly around, as he keeps on attacking everywhere they go. But that attack is attacking creatures and ponies on the battlefield. All of them run and get attacked, as other creatures and ponies start to help each other from the attack. But the attack has gotten Luster as she falls. “Luster!!! Flurry cried, as she flew and caught her. But both fall to the ground. Clipso had them in his sight and was furious for them having the Unity Crystal. “I finally have you both. Now give me the crystal!” He demands them, but they refuse. But then Argyle and their creature friends came to defend their two best friends. They came and made their stance. “All of you, betrayal to your race.” He growled. “You will be remembered as a traitor!” As he was about to destroy them, the creatures began to turn on him. They all see he just let his anger hurt many of them. Then he realized they turned the table on him, now he’s the one whose evil. “You trick me!” He pointed at Luster and her friends. “You play me out to turn my brothers and sisters against me!” “Bet you didn’t see through that,” Ambrosia said, revealing he’s not the Truth to them all. Clipso looks around them, all turning against him, and he knows his truth will never work anymore. Including Discord, cause he never sees anyone that will be chaotic. “It’s over, Clipso.” Twilight announced, when she and her friends had just arrived. “We now see you abuse your power too much. Give up, and we promise to spare your life for your power.” “Never!” He shouted. “I will  never surrender to an alicorn! I will make them see. If they see how destructive I am, then they will see!” He angrily uses explosion spells, spreading them apart, as he flies towards the sky and unleashes his wrath all over them. Every creature and ponies run around being scared, but Twilight sees many of them gonna be hurt if this has to end. And she knew she must end this tragedy. “I must end this, now.” “But we don’t have enough magic to do it,” said Luster, still holding the Unity Crystal. But it caught Twilight’s attention and she knew what she must do. She approached and said, “Luster, I have known you very much like your mother when you were a filly. And now, you must carry on the magic of friendship inside you. Never let it fail you.” And she takes it and flies to fight one more time. “Twilight!!!” Her friends tried to join, but she pushed them away. Twilight Sparkle confronted Clipso one more time, and he saw she was gonna use it. “You think you can take away my powers? It cannot be taken from any of your magic, Twilight Sparkle.” “I was never gonna take it,” she said, ready to use the crystal. She holds it with her magic and then gathers the magic within. It fuses into her as she feels every magic from ponies she never had before. Clipso laughed, “Is that your idea? Stealing magic from your little ponies?” But then, the magic began to create a giant magical barrier trapping them both inside, as he soon realized she was gonna do something. He tried to escape but it seems the magic was stronger than his resistance. Then Twilight’s friends came and tried to help but couldn’t get through. “Twilight!” Spike shouted. “What are you doing?!” “I’m doing to save you all,” said Twilight. “This is my fight I must finish. And Spike, thank you for being my best number one assistant that I could ever have as my little brother.” “No!!” Pinkie exclaimed. “Don’t say that, friends must work together! All of us must do this. You, me, Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy.” “I’m sorry,” she apologized with sadness. “But I cannot lose you all if he knows too much. This is where my story ends.” Her friends try to reason with her, but she denies and is ready to finish the battle once and for all. The battle starts as both try to destroy each other, Twilight still keeps on fusing herself too much from the crystal. “What is she doing?” Rarity asked, watching the battle. “She’s gathering all the magic in her,” Spike told them. “She can’t handle too much of it. She won’t survive from the magic.” “Twilight! Stop it!” Applejack shouted. “You’re gonna get yourself destroyed! Why won’t she listen?” “She’s doing it for us all,” Cadance answered. Twilight could not stop but kept on fusing, as Clipso began his hatred magic on her. “You are a fool, Twilight Sparkle. You cannot hold that many in you.”  “Not for me,” she added. And then Clipso blasted his magic and flames at her, but it didn’t consume her until she was ready now. “This is all for YOU!!!!”  She energized her magic straight at him, and it made right through his armor and into him. He started to feel the magic coursing into his vein, and cannot break free from it. “What are you doing?!” He screams in pain. “Let me go!!” “Never!” She doesn't, and continues fusing magic in him to corrupt his power. Everyone from the battlefield, including her friends, watch as she gives up her life. Clipso tried to resist but the ponies’ magic began to take control of his soul. And Twilight made her last magic and struck into his chest, as the magic overloaded them both into obliteration. The bright light in the sky shines all around Equestria, as the barrier completely vanishes. A billion tiny sparkles fall around them, making them see the alicorn sacrifice of saving their life. The Guardians and the rest of their friends hurry to find Princess Twilight and call for her name. “Twilight!” One of them called. “Twilight! Where are you?!” They kept on going until they found the crown and the Unity Crystal, separated into three pieces. Spike picked it up and held it, revealing she’s not here. Shining Armor disbelieves as he keeps calling for her name, but Princess Cadance and the others know she’s gone. And Luster and her friends were sad, the tragedy of Twilight Sparkle. > Chapter 9: Hoof to Heart > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Five Days Later Everypony and those creatures who they were friends with were at Twilight’s Memorial. They all came to honor Twilight’s sacrifice of saving them from Clipso's destruction. The Guardian of Friendships were sad for their lost friend, Ember and Thorax, and Luster and her friends, seated. As Cadance gives a speech. “Friends, and families, from all over Equestria. Today, we gathered here to remember the day we could not forget. That day, we will remember our friend, Twilight Sparkle. She was a princess, our friend, and my sister-in-law. She had helped us to learn about friendship, how we all help each other and work together. Princess Celestia knew her friendship had grown strong to bond with new friends. I won’t forget her magic, after what she did to help us remember we are strong as united. And now, our friend Starlight Glimmer would like to speak to those who remember her.” Starlight approaches and speaks about her. “Ever since I enslaved the village because I thought that cutie mark was just to take everything away, Twilight and her friends came to town freeing everypony from my corruption. I thought they had stolen everything because of friendship, but it wasn’t. It was me that was stolen. She made me realize it’s not the cutie mark that took Sunburst away, I lost my friendship because I thought nopony would be my friend. And she helped me to never lose it anymore. How she knew everything. Ever since she was a unicorn, Princess Celestia taught her to make friends at ponyville to help defeat Nightmare Moon. And when she finally had the magic, it was her time to be an alicorn princess. Everything she couldn’t do without her friends, and us all, cause we all have the Magic of Friendship inside us. We will keep it inside all of us to remember her value of friendship through Equestria.” Then she looks up in the sky. “Twilight, wherever you are, we will always remember you.” And everypony and several creatures rise and will keep the friendship within them. When it’s over, the Guardians join together at the castle and discuss what to do since they now have three separate Unity Crystals. “So now what are we gonna do?” Fluttershy asked. “Well, we can’t keep it here forever,” Applejack responded. “Who knows somepony, or creature, might wanna steal it.” “Can we just fix it, like put it all together?” Pinkie Pie added, thinking it could work. “Without magic, we can’t unite the three back together.” Starlight mentions it. “But we can protect them, if we must divide into each.” “You mean, we all must leave each other?” Rarity asked. “But… but we can’t!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed, not in the air since magic is gone. “Divide is the bad thing. We won’t remember each other forever.” “It's the only way,” Starlight concluded. “Evil will try and collect them all to steal ours. We all must possess them of one our own, until it passes down to another. One for the Pegasus, one for the Unicorn, and one for the Earth Ponies. Each of us will look after them until the time comes for us to unite again.” They wish not to be separate from each other but it’s the only option they must take. And soon, they hug together to be their last friendship, and with tears. “I’m gonna miss you girls.” “And we’re gonna miss you too, Starlight.” said Applejack. And with it, they both each take one. The green crystal for Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy, blue crystal to Rarity and Starlight Glimmer, and white crystal with Applejack and Pinkie Pie. Spike said goodbye to Rarity and will remain with Cadance and her family. Sunburst and Starlight find their daughter with Flurry Heart who's ready to farewell. “Gonna miss you, Luster Dawn.” Flurry Heart shed tears. “I wish you could stay with us but it has to be this way.” “I know,” Luster tears. “But we will see each other soon. My friendship will always be with me. Like all of us.” Then both hug together. “You know, we need something we can remember to be friends.” “You’re right,” she suggested. “Something we can remember when together.” As she thinks of a way for them to remember. “Hearts and Hooves?” “No, that's for the last season,” Luster added. “Maybe the other way around. Hoof to Hearts.” “Hoof to Hearts,” she thought. “I like it.” Then they both say it together. “Hoof to Heart.” With a last hug, they departed from each other. Luster met up with her friends, as they were ready to say their goodbye. “Good-bye, my friend,” said Hazel Garden. “I’m gonna miss you.” “Baron's gonna miss you too,” he sobbed. “He will remember you as a friend.” “Gonna miss you too,” said Luster. “Stay out of trouble, Ambrosia. And you too, Sundance.” “I will,” said Sundance. “I can keep that promise.” “You sure?” Ambrosia said, believing he might not keep that promise. “Because keeping out of trouble is a lot harder than you're gonna handle.” As they all said their goodbyes, they departed from the group. Then Lil Cheese hugs her tightly about going to miss her. “Luster! I’m gonna miss you so much!” She cried, sobbing she’s gonna miss her best pony. “I know,” Luster said, patting her head. “But it’s the way for us to be safe. Those who remain will stay with the princess. But I promise we will meet each other again. I will come visit you anytime. Even though I am always somewhere that may be far away but always returns.” She gave her last hug, and Lil Cheese smiled, as she gave a boop with a nuzzle. She returned to her parents, as Luster was gonna return with her parents. But was stopped when she saw Argyle Starshine. “Oh, Luster,” he said, surprised to see her again. “I didn’t see you. I was saying farewell to our friends, and then came looking for you.” “Oh,” she was surprised too. “Well, I was also looking for you too.” She said, not to blush. “I just wanna say… well… a goodbye.” “I too was gonna say it,” said Argyle Starshine. “And I wanna say thank you. No, no, I mean, goodbye. No, it’s just that….” As he tries to say something. “I appreciate all those things you have done for me since we met. I wanna say, I really do like you. Not mean, like you, I like you having around.” He was too embarrassed. Luster chuckled and smiled, “And I do really like you for being my friend. You know what I mean.” Then she saw her parents were ready to leave. “Anyway, I gotta go. Anyway, thank you.” Then she kissed him on the cheek and hurried to her parents. He froze for a bit and cannot believe he just got a kiss on the cheek. His heart beat with love around his head, having feelings for her. But Luster too had the same feeling, she was happy she kissed him. Both departed from each other but will soon see each other again. Flurry has been watching them and senses the love between them. She knew she had a crush on him and to think this is just the beginning. Many Moons Later Crystal Empire still remains now at peace with no storm, ever since somehow the magic is able to clear it away clean. Flurry Heart was waiting for an important moment, as the post pony arrived. “An envelope to Flurry Heart,” he said. As he brought it out. “That’s me!” She said, as she took it and headed to her room. “She opens and reads it, “Dear, Flurry Heart, It has been several moons ever since me and my husband came to visit you. Lil Cheese had grown to be a bakery with Pumpkin and Pound Cake. They were doing so great everypony started to like their cupcakes she made to make them smile. I wish my parents could see their bakery become famous. Even though the books you brought us, we’ve been researching on how we can bring magic back again. My parents have discovered something that no ponies have ever done. So I’m gonna keep on researching with Argyle until we find what it was. And if you need anything from us, you know where to find us. Hope to see you again, Hoof to Heart. Love, Luster Dawn.” She smiles and returns to the castle, Princess Cadance and Shining Armor were now the ruler of the Equestria and made everypony safe, happy, and loved. And then, Cadance sees her daughter happy with joy as she comes closer to her. “Your friend Luster wrote a letter?” She asked. “Yup,” she replied. “She and Argyle have made progress from her parents’ work. I sure wish her parents would see them finally together.” Cadance chuckled, “You knew they both would soon find love. I’m so proud of you.” She hugs her daughter. “If Twilight sees you how well you did.” Flurry smiled, then the guards came up to them about the arrival of their oldest friends. She agrees to let them in, as their visitor enters. The visitors were Celestia and Luna, they came to see them of their Crystal Empire. “Princess Cadance,” Celestia and her sister bowed. “It’s okay,” she responded. “You don’t have to bow. After all, we all know each other very much.” Celestia smiled, as they both were happy to see each other. Flurry was excited to see them again, and she saw the smile on her face. “Good to see you too, Flurry Heart.” She hugs her little alicorn. “I really miss you very much,” said Flurry Heart. “And you too, Aunt Luna.” “Like otherwise,” she rolled her eyes and gave a little hug, but Flurry instantly hugged her more. “Guess you really are like your mother.” “Cadance,” Celestia asked. “Can I speak with you alone?” She agreed, as both walked away to the crystal hallway leaving Luna with Flurry and Shining Armor. “So, you heard?” “Yes,” Celestia said, with a low tone. “We have heard of the war on Canterlot. Many creatures were lost to this dragon’s corruption. Some remain to believe us, but some do not. I never expect anything to happen when my sister and I retire.” “None of us knew this would happen,” she added. “We never look into the future of the devastation caused by Clipso. He was indeed pure hatred and completely lost his mind against our will. If he never knew what it's like to be allied with us.” “Felt sad for him,” Celestia said. “But it was his fate he chose.” Then she looks outside from the glass stained. “But this isn’t Clipso we talk about. It’s about Twilight Sparkle. She gave her life to ensure the unity for creatures and ponies. But now, several do not agree on unity.” Then she sighed, “I wish I could’ve done something. I should have been the one who used the Unity Crystal. Not Twilight. Everything wouldn’t happen if I use it. An alicorn princess of love who could’ve ended the crisis.” “You don’t need to be the one who does it,” Celestia advised. “Twilight saved us so we can live another time. Her friendships are now in us so we can help others to make friends. Even I remember what she told me with a scroll she told about the alicorn she faced with friends. And taking her magic away was the right way into the Unity Crystal.” Then she sighed. “She was like us many moons ago, but now she’s not. I could’ve told her about her existence.” “You didn’t even know she would be back,” she said. “You told me the story when you and your sister both were a filly. And she hadn't been seen a moons ago in Equestria. But now she’s not gonna be seen again.” Then they reach the courtyard and see the statue of Twilight Sparkle and her friends. “But our friends will be seen again. They’ll be a reminder of what true friends mean to us. Thanks to them we know we can work together when we are all united.” “You have learned very well,” Celestia sensed. “Guess you might be much like Twilight Sparkle.” “Oh, stop,” she laughed. And so did Celestia. Things are gonna be alright. Even though everything is gonna be okay for now. At night, somewhere in the Everfree Forest, the Timberwolves howl while wandering and sniffing around through the forest. When doing they’re things, they heard a branch break coming from the other direction. They growl of smelling a presence coming in their direction. They came closer and closer, and saw a red magic draining life from the ground. Before coming any closer, it attacks them draining their essences until they become a pile of dry branches. > Chapter 10: Reborn > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Flurry Heart was at the courtyard picking flowers as she saw Spike, who was staring at the statue. She walks up to him and asks if he’s okay. “Do you still miss her?” He sighed, “I do really miss her. Every time I see a unicorn who looks like her, it reminds me how she was there at Celestia’s school. It kept her focused and concentrated to find a way for everypony and friends. I always remember how I was there for her. I was like a little brother to her since I was born from her magic. She was organized, smart, and loves books.” Flurry chuckled, as he continued. “Books were her favorite indoor and outdoor activity.” “Guess that’s her favorite activity,” she added. “I remember when she was my babysitter, as my family went on a trip. I know she was all busy, busy, but she had a lot of time to understand me.” She looks in the sky. “I always wonder if she has many parts of her own to play.” “A lot,” said Spike. “A lot to play her part. She has tons to play hers each time when Equestria is in danger. But she still got it, with the help of her friends.” Flurry smiled, then she had a second thought. “Do you think I have more parts to play? I didn’t mean to mention it, but do I play my part as well?” “If I knew, maybe someday, you may play your part,” said Spike. He is right, she soon has her part to play. As everything went well, a burp of flame burst with a scroll, as he read about troubles at Everfree Forest. “Looks like something is wrong,” he marked. “I have to go see.” “Can I come?” She asked. “No, you're staying here.” As he told her. “Come on, please?” As she did puppy eyes. Spike sighed heavily but smiled. When they arrived, Shining Armor was waiting for him with the rest of the guards. “Spike, glad you came.” He hugs him, but then notices his daughter is here. “Flurry?” “Hi, dad,” Flurry said, smiling. “Sweetie, why didn’t you stay at the castle with your mother?” He asked. “Or with Celestia, or Luna?” “She wanted to come," he said. “I got your scroll. So, what’s going on here?” “We got a disturbance from the Everfree Forest,” Shining Armor concluded. “Princess Cadance, believe something is weakening it. So we’re gonna investigate.” Then he looks at Flurry. “And you, stay here with them.” “Dad,” she whined. “I’m this old now.” As she shows him how old she is with her hoof to length she is. “Yeah, I don’t know what it means,” said Spike. “But please stay there.” He tells her. Flurry hmph, as they enter the Everfree Forest. Then stayed with the guards but made a smirk looking back at the forest. Shining Armor and Spike wanders through the forest investigating the disturbance they do not know. They haven’t found anything, but notice something isn’t right around them. “You know, something is not right.” He said, looking around their surroundings. “There's no howling around us. It’s like the enchanted forest just became quiet again.” “You’re right,” he agreed. “Cadance may be onto something about the forest.” When looking around, they heard a rustle behind the bushes. “Okay, whoever you are, reveal yourself!” As he demanded, the figure came out of hiding and turned out to be Flurry Heart. And he was not happy. “Flurry! Didn’t you listen to us?” “Dad! I’m not little anymore,” she added. “I’m old, so I do whatever I want now.” “But this is a job for me and Spike, not you.” He told her. “Now please return with the guards or I’ll have to take you to…” “Uh, Shining Armor?” He asked, trying to get his attention. He got his attention, and Shining looked to see a pile of dry woods. Not just piles, a bunch of dry woods lying around. Known to them, they found the forest was completely almost drained like their lifeforce was taken. “Who could have done this?” Spike asked, after seeing what had happened. Before they knew, Flurry Heart heard spething and went to check. She found animals being scared. “It’s okay,” she said. “I’m not gonna hurt you.” The animals were still frightened, as Spike and Shining Armor wondered why. “Something frightened them. Like they have seen something,” Spike concluded. “Might be,” Shining Armor figured. “We must return to the Crystal Empire.” Spike agreed, as they settled to leave. But Flurry started to sense a presence coming from the deep forest. Something was calling for her as she was in a trance to an anonymous magic. It was calling for her to come as she walked towards it, but was stopped by Spike’s words. “Flurry!” He called. “Don’t go into deep forest. Stay close to your father.” Then he looks at Shining Armor. “We should call this in.” Then Flurry looked back at the deep forest not sensing anything anymore. She felt like it was someone she knew before, but it wasn’t. She rejoins with her father, as they leave. After returning, Princess Cadance heard from them of what happened to the Everfree Forest. She has no idea who could have done to drain the life out of it. “I do not understand,” She said. “No creatures will ever be able to drain lifeforce from the Everfree Forest. It’s a mysterious place and home for creatures and animals. Who could’ve done that?” “We do not know,” Spike added. “But it's already happening. The animals are scared of something in the Everfree Forest. There’s no howling from the Timberwolves cause we found lying twigs all around drained.” “Did these animals know who did it?” She asked. He and Shining do not know who because they don’t understand what they said. She understands but needs to know what they’re facing. “Princess Cadance, should we report this?” Shining Armor asked. “No,” she replied. “But we can’t let anypony know about this. We have to find out who's doing it if we attempt to stop it.” “But our friends,” Spike added. “Should we tell them?” “We cannot,” she announced. “If they knew, they'd be facing a new threat we do not know. This is between the kingdom and the threat. We already lost some from the past moons, our magic hasn't come back ever since the sun and moon were now in control again. If we have it back, we can stop it from coming.” But she thought of something. “But we have our other friends who can help us.” Then she looks at Spike. “Spike, come. We must send this message at once.” “Wait,” Shining Armor stopped. “Other friends?” “Don’t worry,” she speaks clearly. “I know which pony could help us.” As she said, she began to write on the scroll. And when she was done, she let Spike breathe his flame to send it to their friend. Now they waited. “Now, we wait. Let’s hope the message gets to him.” She begins to worry that something out there is hurting Equestria, and Spike worries too. But they knew if something out there is trying to bring evil they will stop it no matter what. Meanwhile in Everfree Forest, every Timberwolves were running away as each one of them were attacked by a red magic draining their essence from their body. As every one of them were drained into a pile of leaves and twigs, the entity fled into shadow, leaving the scene as the whole forest begins to dry out with trees dying out with no life force to make it more magical. The animals and creatures that live there started to leave because it’s not safe anymore with an evil presence walking around. Meanwhile, Flurry Heart was writing a letter to her dear friend Luster Dawn. “Dear, Luster Dawn, I went with Uncle Spike and my dad to the Everfree Forest. And when we got there, animals and creatures who live there started to leave. I’m starting to get worried. My mom is trying her best to keep the Crystal Empire safe and Equestria calm, and my father is leading the guard to find out more about what's going on from there. I wish I could help but I have to remain in the castle until it’s safe to come out. And also, I had another nightmare again, but it was different. I dream of the same entity who fought different ponies while trying to open something it was doing. I don't know what it means but it might have something to do with Equestria. I hope you and Argyle are okay, I just worried if you two did find something that might help. Hope to see you again soon. From your best friend, Flurry Heart.” Then she was gonna take it to the post office as she bumped into Celestia. “Oh, I’m sorry, Auntie Celestia. I didn’t see you coming by.” Celestia chuckled, “Don’t be sorry, little one.” She smiles, “You were really excited to send this letter to a friend, were you?” “Mm-hm,” she nodded. “She lives with her husband, and I wanna make sure they're doing just fine.” “Hmm, have you ever visited them?” Celestia asked. She became silent and replied she had never visited them before. “Well, no. I have to remain in the castle for moons to learn more about friendship. They sometimes come to visit me here every time. But I always wanted to see them at their home if I ever wanted to go out into the world.” “I see,” she understands. “You really miss them. It’s been moons since everything changed. I never knew all of this would happen so fast. Ponies I knew have already passed away. Everypony's I have missed.” “Does everypony leave, ever since we’re immortal?” Flurry said, not wanting to ask that question but will. “Many of them may be gone,” she added. “But they’re still around us. Not all gone from Equestria doesn’t mean we’re alone. They still surround us with magic that binds us together.” Then she hugs Flurry. “I know you will soon see your friends again, I promise that.” “Thank you, Auntie Celestia.” Then she hurried and gave the letter to the delivery pony. As everything is alright, she sees a unicorn who she recognizes. “Stygian?” “Flurry Heart,” he greeted with Star Swirl’s hat. “It’s been so long since Equestria changed.” She agreed, as her mother then appeared behind her. “Stygian, you finally came.” And Stygian was grateful to see her too. “Shall we talk alone for a while?” He agreed, and both walked alone to the castle, leaving Flurry alone. But her mind starts to see him resemble her dream. Meanwhile with Stygian and Cadance, they were at the courtyard talking about the trouble at the Everfree Forest. “So, the trouble at the Everfree Forest?” He recalled. “What caused it?” “I do not know,” she said. “But something in the enchanted forest is causing havoc. I need you and your friends to check and see what is causing the trouble.” “Do not worry,” he added. “I've been trained by Star Swirl for a very long time. I was his apprentice for a while.” “He taught you well,” Cadance said. “I’m sure he’ll be so proud of you.” When walking, they met Luna who was alone in the garden. And she was surprised to see him again. “Ah, Stygian. Welcome back. It’s been so long since my sister and I have retired.” Then sees he wearing Star Swirl’s hat. “I see you're wearing it, it looks good on you.” “Thanks,” he tipped his hat. “And pretty soon, I might grow a beard as well.” She chuckled, as Cadance informed him it was getting late. He must go to the enchanted forest along with Shining Armor and Spike to find what is causing the Timberwolves to be scared. He agreed and headed to the Everfree Forest. Then Flurry Heart decided to follow him to help. After a walk to the Everfree Forest, he found Spike and Shining Armor waiting for him as they saw him arriving. “Stygian,” Spike greeted. “Great to see you again.” “And great to see you again, too.” He said, happy to see him. “Now, shall we?” The three of them enter the enchanted forest but not noticing Flurry was behind, as she pursues. They arrive at the scene where a pile of twigs and leaves, as Stygian investigates and believe its lifeforce were drained out from it. “These logs were drained out when they were formed together,” he concluded. “Their essence from this forest created these Timberwolves with spirit, but now drain from their twigs. Like Tirek’s Spell.” “But nopony couldn’t achieve that,” Shining Armor commented. “It has never been used ever since.” “Might be,” he agreed. “But who would use a spell to do this?” As they thought, they heard a snap as they turned to see the bushes moving. And Spike then suspects who would hide there. “Flurry Heart?” He guessed. And she came out of her hiding, as Shining was very disappointed. “Flurry! Did you follow him here?” He yelled. “Yes?” And he sighed, “Sweetheart, you can’t go out and follow into our investigation. You know it’s dangerous.” “I just wanna help,” said Flurry Heart. Before he could say anything, Stygian agreed to let her join their group. “I think she can help. Even though I do need extra hooves to collect these sticks to do research.” With that, Shining has to agree since she’s now involved. They have been collecting sticks through the night, as he needs more research to understand the cause. As they were collecting some, Flurry stops and drops some sticks on the ground. “Flurry?” Spike exclaimed. “He said collect them, not drop them.” But she was too distracted and headed to the deep forest, as Shining tried to stop her from going in there. “Sweetheart, stop! Do not go in there.” “I… I sense something.” She responded. “It’s the same magic I felt before.” As she continues on towards it. They do not know what’s happening but Stygian believes something is bringing her. So he follows her, then Spike joins to follow and so does Shining Armor. After a while, they stumble upon more sticks lying around. Flurry looks around until she sees something behind the forest as the figure leaves quickly. “Wait!” She shouted and chased after it. “Hold on! Flurry!” Stygian shouted, but she was too far. She was chasing the figure and arrived at the cave, then entered to see the alicorn had been here for so long. That’s when she finally realized who she was. “Auntie?” The purple alicorn did not respond but only repeated telling herself. “It’s not her. It’s not her. It’s not her. It’s not her.” “Auntie,” she cried. “It’s me, Flurry Heart.” As she comes closer. “Don’t you remember?” She does not listen and continues with the sticks she gathers. She was making stick ponies that resemble her friends, as Flurry understands she’s doing. “You’re friends,” she recalled. “Do you remember them?” Twilight looked at her and nodded, meaning she remembered them. “Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie. My friends…” “Yes, your friends.” she smiled. “Your friends from Ponyville. And Celestia, you remember her too.” “Yes,” Twilight responded. “I was her mentor.” “And my mother, and father? You remember?” “Cadance,” she remembering. “And Shining Armor, my brother. I remember.” Then she looks at her. “Flurry, is that you?” Flurry begins to shed tears and hugs her happily, as she returns the hug. The others have arrived and couldn’t believe their eyes, she’s alive. “Twilight Sparkle…?” Spike startled. “Sister?” Shining stunned. “I don’t believe it.” Stygian surprised. After returning to Crystal Empire, everypony was surprised she was alive. Celestia couldn’t believe she was alive all this time from the moons. “I never thought I would see you again,” said Celestia. “We all miss you,” Luna reminded. “All of us have missed you so much.” “It’s okay,” said Twilight. “It's been long since I remember anything.” “But there’s one question,” Stygian asked. “How did you survive? Cadance and the others saw you blew up with him?” “That's what you saw,” she answered. “But the magic of friendship has other ways.” She tells them everything about how it happened. “When I absorbed Equestria magic and used it on him, it saved me and brought me to the Everfree forest. That’s when I lost my memory. I haven’t been able to regain my memories until I remember your Flurry Heart. I remember everything.” Flurry smiled, as Shining hugged his sister. “Well, never again leave us. Cause you've been gone for moons.” “Okay, Shining Armor.” She slipped from his grip. “I know you all miss me. But perhaps I should rest for now. Need to have my strength back when returning to be a ruler again. Can someone show the way?” “Sure,” Spike replied. “As your assistant, I will escort you to the room.” She smiled, happy to see his smile again. As he led her, Celestia was grateful for her returning home. But not Stygian, he witnessed something wasn't right and told Cadance. “Something isn’t right,” he whispered. “What do you mean?” “Twilight just said someone, not somepony.” He added. “I don’t think she is not feeling well.” “It's probably because of memory loss,” said Cadance. “I’m sure she feels just fine.” He wasn’t sure but had a feeling something didn't feel right. It was night now, and Spike was helping her to feel comfortable in the room where she can rest to restore her strength and be ready to announce her return. “So, how do you feel?” He asked. “Feeling great,” she responded. “I never knew everything had changed since I was gone.” “Actually, I meant your friends.” He added. “Do you miss them after you were gone?” “Oh, that,” said Twilight. “Yeah, I miss them too. I never knew how long I was lost. I didn’t remember much about them, or anything of it. It’s still fuzzy with memories coming back. Perhaps you can let me rest for a bit?” “Sure,” he nodded. “Anything from my sister.” As he is about to leave, she asks one thing. “Spike, do you know where the library is? I want to check and see if anything I can remember.” “Sure,” he smiled, knowing she still likes books. Back with Flurry, she was so excited as she wrote a message to her friend. “Dear, Luster Dawn, You don’t believe who has returned. Twilight Sparkle is alive! She has been alive all these long. We might see each other once she regains her strength. And when she does, she can bring back magic for each pony kind and we can finally see each other again. I will be happy to see you and Argyle soon. Love, Flurry Heart.” When she is done, she hurries to find Spike so he can send it so early. But to her thought, maybe Twilight will like to send it on. Although she would like to know her mentor is alive. She went to Twilight’s room but found it empty. She searched around for her until she heard whispers coming from the library as she went there and saw Twilight Sparkle using magic gathering books all around her. “Auntie Twilight?” As she came close, and saw her magic have returned so quickly. “What are you doing here? And how is your magic returning so quickly?” Twilight chuckled, “Foolish, alicorn. Have you ever learned magic can never be gone so easily if you would’ve known much? How much time you lose it, and win it, no matter the cost.” “You're probably not feeling well,” she worried. “Your memories might be returning.” “They are returned,” she responded with a sinister voice. “I just wanted them to bring me here. Not to care about seeing you again, Flurry Heart.” Flurry back away, scared of what was happening to her. “Auntie, you're scaring me. What do you mean?” Then she stops, dropping books to the ground, as she looks back. “I have no love.” Just then, she hesitated to hear that before. “I…I heard that before,” she recalled. “Of course,” she turns around with a sinister smile. “You heard it before…. From me.” That’s when Flurry realizes she is not Twilight Sparkle, until Twilight reveals herself in red magic transforming into an evil armored alicorn with dragons wings and a dark cloak. And red eyes glow wide as it opens them. “I am Clipso…. I am reborn.” > Chapter 11: Revenge of the Soul King > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “It begins in my chamber, where I was born. It had resurrected me when the death of Twilight Sparkle as I crawled out from. I thought I escaped death, but she did something to me. I was reforming my body until I saw myself as an alicorn. That’s when I knew her magic poisoned my soul when I was eradicated along with her. Took me years to get used to the new body as I was weak to fight, until I found a solution to restore my strength. My eyes have brought me to the Everfree Forest to consume Timberwolves’ essence. They gave me strength as I continued to devour them all one by one, leaving the forest to die, but it wasn’t enough to satisfy me.” And back to the present. “And now, you found me, Flurry Heart. Because of you, you let me enter the Crystal Empire. You let them see me. And now, I will show them the truth… their real princess is dead!” He laughed maniacally, as Flurry was terrified for what she had done. “Now, time for revenge.” He angrily uses red magic on her throat. He started doing it until Spike saw him choking Flurry Heart. “Hey!” He shouted, getting Clipso’s attention. But he silenced him in a stiff while choking her to death. Then her parents came and saw the trouble. “Flurry!” Cadance yelled as she managed to hit him with magic. It releases Flurry as Shining caught her in mid air levitation, but Clipso regains back up and faces them. Then the guards and the sisters arrive and see him. They were shocked to see a real stallion alicorn standing in front of him. But he didn’t fight and escaped through the stained glass, to the night sky. They do not know who it was but were relieved Flurry was okay. “Sweetheart,” Cadance asked. “Are you okay?” Flurry nodded as a yes, and Celestia asked Spike who was that alicorn. “Spike, who was that alicorn?” “I don’t know,” said Spike. “But he was a stallion alicorn.” “That’s impossible,” Stygian added. “There’s no stallion alicorn that exists in Equestria.” “His name is Clipso,” Flurry remarked, getting their attention surprisingly. “He’s an alicorn now.” She has told them everything, Clipso was reborn and has been draining Timerwolves’ lifeforce and disguised as Twilight Sparkle. And Stygian knew something wasn’t right about her. “So Twily is gone?” Shining asked, feeling guilt. “I’m afraid so,” said Celestia. And he sobs with grief, learning Twilight is really gone. But they now must focus on Clipso now he is alive roaming around Equestria. “So where did that monstrous alicorn run-off to?” Luna asked, wanting to find him. “We do not know,” Stygian replied. “The guards searched all over Equestria but found no trace.” “And Flurry Heart?” she asked. “She’s okay. Cadance is with her now,” said Stygian. “But I do not understand why he would be at the library? Something he seems interested in. I’ll have to return to the library and figure out what he's been searching for.” As he heads back to the library, leaving them alone time. In Flurry’s bedroom, Cadance was worried if she’s okay after the choking. But Flurry was guilty of finding Twilight who turned out to be the entity. “Is there something wrong?” she asked. “It is,” Flurry responded. “I was foolish to think that was Aunt Twilight. But it wasn’t. I brought him into Crystal Castle and let him find what he was looking for. And everypony now sees Twilight’s gone, sad and hurt after learning the truth.” “It wasn’t your fault,” said Cadance. “He wanted to hurt us just because he believed it would work. But I know he’s using our emotions against us. He uses yours to convince you as he imitates her. And this time, we know the real Twilight who supports friendship.” She was right, Twilight Sparkle was their real ruler of the Equestria. And Clipso is just an entity pretending to act like her. He may have her form but he doesn’t know anything about her life. And when it settles, Spike comes into the room to inform her. “Cadance, we found it.” “You found Clipso?” She asked. “No,” he responded. “But we found what he’s been looking for.” In the library, Stygian found a book with torn pages about Windigos. “This is what he’s been looking for. Half of the pages are missing and I have no clue what it was.” “I think I've seen it before,” Spike commented. “In Hearth's Warming Eve, Twilight was reading about Windigos were the pages I saw.” “Do you know what it was?” Celestia asked. “I don’t remember,” he said. “But if I can remember what it was, I’m sure I can remember the page he took.” “Maybe I can,” said Stygian. “I’ve been learning from Twilight’s friend from another universe. She taught me how to read people- I mean, ponies thoughts, memories, and feelings. If I can use my magic, I can figure out what it was.” “But you don’t have magic,” Spike concluded. “And it will take a lot of it to see through my memory.” “Not if we grant our magic to him,” said Cadance. “I gave some of my magic to Shining Armor in case he needs it. We can give some to Stygian in order to find Clipso.” “Then we shall begin,” said Luna. As they prepared themselves, Stygian was ready to read through Spike’s mind. And the three alicorns shared their magic to him, as he is able to use it to read Spike’s memory. As he got through, he searched for the memory of Hearth's Warming and found it. He watches Spike as a little dragon walking up to young Twilight. And saw the page she was reading, a ritual site of how to summon the Windigos. But it was cut short when his magic was depleted, returning to the awakened world. “Stygian,” Shining responded, helping him up. “It's a ritual,” he cried. “He’s planning to open a rift for the Windigos to cross over.” “Oh dear,” Cadance worried. “Why would he open for them to cross over? Does he know they feed on fighting and hatred?” They don’t know, but Spike concludes it. “He’s not gonna release them to Equestria, he's planning to consume them. Remember what Clipso said to her, how he devours Timerwolves’ life force but wasn’t enough to satisfy his body. Perhaps he needed an unlimited source to regain his strength.” “And the only spirit he can do that is Windigos, “ said Celestia. “They are the winter spirits that have existed in Equestria for a long time. If he does it, then who knows what monstrous he can become.” “So how do we find him?” Shining asked. “He needed to be somewhere so he could start the ritual,” said Cadance. “But what place can he be at?” None of them knew until a unicorn guard came in a rush with an emergency. “Sir! Cerberus is running loose on the Crystal Empire.” Shining Armor hurries to the balcony and sees the three-headed dog running around, barking and crying. He ordered some guards to tame it, and they did, as he wanted to know what it was doing here. “Cerberus? What the hay is he doing here?” “Did he run off from his post again?” Spike asked. Then Cadance spotted a cut that she believed something must’ve happened. “Something must’ve attacked him at the Tartarus.” “But that’s impossible,” Luna declined. “There’s nothing in there. Every evil being has been cleaned out of there since… the….. Moons.” And that’s when they realize there can only one being who could’ve done it. “Clipso,” they all recalled. “If Cerberus is here, that means he’s there.” Spike concluded. “Then we better get there and stop him before it’s too late,” said Stygian. Before they can go, Shining needs Cadance to stay. “You have to stay here. Who knows it could be a trick to lead us away from here.” “He's probably right,” he agreed. “It might be a diversion to take us away from Flurry Heart. She still needs somepony to protect.” Princess Cadance understands, and Celestia and Luna will remain here with her in case he comes back again. So Stygian, and Shining Armor and Spike, bring several guards to aid as they all travel to Tartarus. In the Tartarus, Clipso was at Tirek’s spot writing hieroglyphs speaking in a ritual language. He continued on but was careful not to mess up his glyphs. And soon, he was done and ready to begin the rift. “At last,” he said, relieved. “I can finally strengthen my body again. When they come out from the rift, I will consume them and have myself to live again. And this time, I won’t be disturbed.” He starts the ritual by speaking in a spell language. Meanwhile, the heroes have reached the gates of Tartarus and find it was already open. “Seems like somepony made a mess around here,” Stygian added. “This must be his work.” “Then that’s settled,” said Shining Armor, turning towards his guards. “I need all of you to stay here. Keep an eye out for anything that moves.” They understand and stay guarded, as he and Spike and Stygian enter. They hurried to reach the prison chamber and spotted Clipso at the top of the peaks. “There he is!” Spike shouted. Shining Armor and Stygian rush and try to stop him, but are caught by a magic barrier. “What the-?” He was surprised. “What is this?” “It’s a spell barrier!” Stygian recalled. “Must be used to trap creatures and ponies when they step in. But how did he learn it?” And Spike knew. “Twilight’s magic. He’s using her magic to slow us down.” They try to break the barrier but it was too strong, and Clipso is getting closer to finishing the spell. They kept on trying until Stygian had an idea. “I got an idea, but it requires all our powers to do it.” The two listen to his plan and agree, as they all focus on breaking the barrier. They fuse their powers all at once and purge with all their might. But Clipso is almost finished, and they are almost able to break free. And then, the barrier was gone and they hurried to stop him. “Clipso! Stop!” They all each use their powers together right at him, but he manages to finish it. The ritual was complet, blasting them away to the ground, as the rift was open at last. Windigos were coming out of it, as Clipso had them right where he wanted. “Windigos,” he claimed. “I now see you.” But they felt his hatred and all gathered to feed on him. And when they did, they realize they cannot devour it out of him. “Too bad for you,” he chuckled. “I can feed on you.” His horns shot out red magic, capturing every single Windigos one by one and draining them into him. Then he dug deeper into the rift and consumed every last of them, feeling their spirits filling his hunger. And soon, he was done and the Windigos were no more. Spike and the others regain consciousness and saw Clipso have finally devoured the spirits and fully strengthened again. “It’s too late,” he said with a sinister look. “I am now full power. I thank you for inviting me to your library to look for the source. The Timberwolves weren’t enough to satisfy my body. But the Windigos…” He wipes his mouth. “They tasted perfectly.” “You bastard!” Stygian exclaimed. “You went all this just for Windigos. After what you have done, you use Twilight’s magic against us.” “Don’t be jealous of what I use,” said Clipso. “Besides, wearing that hat doesn’t mean you're like Starswirl. He’ll be a shame if you fail, like he was before.” This enraged him and fully shot out magic at him, but he clearly teleported himself behind them. He then collapses the ceilings, sealing them inside the chamber, as he walks away. But he stumbles across guards waiting outside, as they spot and try to stop him. The heroes were trapped behind some rocks, as Spike managed to headbut their way out. They made it outside and found several guards were beaten by his tentacles. “He has tentacles?” Spike asked, watching tentacles coming out from his back. “That  impossible!” “Doesn’t matter,” Shining Armor exclaimed. “He’s still an alicorn.” As he pursues to attack, Clipso's tentacles start to move towards him. Stygian used spells to wrap them around, and more came out of them and proceeded to catch him. Spike intervenes and burns several tentacles, but he becomes angry and unleashes his magic around them, putting them down. “You burn me,” said Clipso. “But it’s not enough to hurt me.” Suddenly, a sword pierce through his chest. Shining Armor has managed to kill him at last. “This is for Twilight,” he said, releasing the sword and letting him die slowly. For a moment, he coughs as if he was dying for his last breath but still stands like he was moving still. And then, he slowly pulled the sword out and the chest regenerated, as they were shocked he was still standing. “That was….” Clipso said, breathing while staring at the sword. “Disturbing.” “No,” said Shining Armor. “No!!!” He shouted, and tried to stop him. Clipso holds him still in magic as he reveals everything about how he cannot be killed. “Have you understood I cannot be killed with anything? I am dead, and I cannot be killed by a living unicorn who would have vengeance for his little sister.” Stygian regained consciousness and saw Clipso holding him as he hurried and picked up a sword. He leaps and tries to swing right to him, but Clipso sees it coming and quickly turns with a strike of his hooves into him. But his hooves was a blade which pierced Stygian, as Spike witnessed the tragedy. “You should’ve been Shadow Pony instead,” he said, pulling it out from Stygian and looking at his new blade. “This is new.” He released Shining Armor, as he hurried to hold dying Stygian in his arm. “Stay with me, Stygian.” He cried, putting pressure to the wound. “It's just a wound. You'll make it.” “I…” As he breathed. “I don’t think…. I can’t.” He coughs some more. “He got me.” “No, no, no,” Spike recalled. “You still have time. Gotta take you back. Cadance can heal you.” “Don’t.” He tells them. “It’s okay. At least I’ve redeemed myself after all.” As he spoke with his dying breath. “Starswirl will be proud of my sacrifice. I guess I can see him in the afterlife.” Then he gave Starswirl's hat to him. “Tell Cadance, it was an honor to be her friend.” With his last breath, he passed away leaving them to mourn their lost best friend. Clipso was busy staring at his new blade and then formed many things such as his own claws. “I can form weapons from my body,” he commented. “Guess Equestria has given me more purpose.” He chuckled and looked at them. “Tell your princesses, I’ll be coming for them.” He flew away to the air and disappeared, as the guards awakened and saw Shining and Spike cried to their lost friend. And they gather feeling sad for Stygian. Princess Cadance and the others were waiting for their return until they saw them. And when they came they found them deep sadness that’s when they saw what was behind. And soon, they saw him and grief. Flurry was in her bedroom and heard the crying from outside as she wanted to know. When she got there, she saw them sad as they saw her, and Cadance approached her and told her about Stygian. And when she did, she grieved and hugged her mother, as she quietly calmed her. Soon, everypony gathers for Stygian’s funeral. There they stand and honor his life, as Cadance gives a speech. “We all gather here to honor our good friend Stygian. Stygian was a kind of pony who bravely united our bravest heroes together to save the land from great evil. But his jealousy of their action made him into a living being Pony of Shadow. Until they save him and realize their mistake, making Star Swirl finally understand his action. And he let Stygian redeem himself by rejoining their group. Now we will honor him as Star Swirl’s apprentice and part of the Pillars.” Then they settle to let Stygian’s coffin to be buried, as the friends watch seeing their friend gone to the ground. And Cadance blame herself for bringing him along. After a while, all of them remain in the castle not knowing what to do but know Clipso is coming for them with new powers they have never expected before. “So, what do we have to do?” Spike asked, not knowing what to do. “Clipso is full power,” said Celestia. “And he’s coming for us. We must be prepared to defend ourselves if he ever shows up.” “But you have never faced him before,” he exclaimed. “He is like something we never expect him to be.” “We understand,” Luna agreed. “You literally pierce his back with a sword. He is just an immortal creature like us, but we can take it away if we have to face him again.” “Luna,” Cadance respond. “We don’t know if it could work. He may look like an alicorn but there’s nothing we can’t do. We cannot let anypony involves in this kind of battle.” “Cadance, what are you suggesting?” Shining asked. “I want all crystal ponies in Crystal Empire to evacuate and leave this city, and never again return,” she concluded. “That’s my final word.” With that, he accepts it and will have ponies to evacuate. Celestia and Luna watched as they were deeply sorry for the citizens of Crystal Empire. They have home there but now have to leave and cannot return due to Clipso’s arrival. And Flurry, she was now deeply sad cause not only the citizens will have to leave she cannot see her best friend again. So she decided to write a letter to her again one last time. “Dear, Luster Dawn…” She cannot think of anything to say but worried this might be the end for Crystal Empire and for them. Then her mother came into the room and found her with a letter. “Letter for Luster?” She asked. “Yeah,” she replied. “Just for once but I’m afraid I can’t. You ask my father to evacuate all our ponies away from the Crystal Empire. I won’t get a chance to see my friends again.” “Yes,” said Cadance. “Everyponies has to leave for their safety. Clipso will come for us, and I do not know what will happen. But from what I can tell, you won’t be able to see your friend again.” She calmly hugs her for a moment and has to head outside. “Now I will have to give my speech for the citizens. Hopefully they'll understand they might not return again.” As she leaves, she then gives orders to every guard to evacuate and ready to return to their families when the empire is clear. And Spike guided many ponies to their destination of their tribes, as the Crystal Empire was finally silent with no joy or happiness only to be left in forgotten. > Chapter 12: The Last Stand > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Moment passed, the Crystal Empire was left silent as it was in a ghost town. Ponies have left their home to reunite with their kind, and Cadance and the others are the only left who stay behind and confront Clipso once more. Flurry was in her bedroom writing a letter, the last letter she was gonna send. “Dear, Luster Dawn, I have to say something before anything happens to me. I wanna let you know, we may not see each other again. I needed you and your husband to stay away from the Crystal Empire. Everypony who lives here has been evacuated. And now, Uncle Spike, my mom and dad, Celestia and Luna, and I stay behind and can't leave. So I’m asking you, do not come and see us. Just be safe, my friend. I love you.” As she finished, she let Spike deliver it with his flames into the air. And Spike knows she’s gonna miss them cause everything is gonna to end very soon. “This is not the end,” he recalled. “We still have more to go.” “It’s already happened. Ponies gone, Stygian is gone, and he is coming,” said Flurry Heart. “Am I gonna die?” “No, of course not.” He exclaimed. “You’re Flurry Heart, I know you very well. You were always meant to rule the Crystal Empire like Cadance. This isn’t the end of all of us, we always have a choice. To live, or to fail.” “And how do you know that?” She asked. “Cause I believe something doesn't mean it’s going to happen.” He confirms. “Our stories will continue on whenever we decide. And a decision creates a path that could lead us to hope.” Maybe he’s right, believing something doesn’t mean their stories are going to end but make their own path. She touches his snout and accepts whenever they decide to survive their last stand. Cadance was overhearing them and knew she couldn't protect her for long. So she went to find her husband, and he was gearing himself to defend the castle. “Cadance,” he surprised. “I didn’t hear you coming.” “Sorry, it's just that I’m worried.” She said, feeling worried. “Clipso is coming. And we can’t protect our daughter. I’m worried I won’t survive this.” “Don’t say that.” He comforts her. “We’re gonna make it. We have Celestia and Luna with us now. They know more magic than we can. We’ll make our stand together. And we won’t lose her too. I promise we’ll make it through.” With it, they made their final kiss together till the end of their love. And when waiting, she felt a presence from the other side. They hurried to the balcony and saw a bright red approaching the palace. “He’s here,” said Cadance. Clipso has arrived and stands there staring at the castle. As he steps in, a magical barrier traps him in. He figures they will use magic on him but he breaks freely and continues onward. Then the Timberwolves attacked him to avenge their fallen, but he fend them off with many forms of weapons he made out of his body. He slaughters with each blade and consumes their essences. “They won’t hold them for long,” she said. “Is Celestia and Luna ready?” “They’re almost ready.” He told her. “They need to hold him much longer.” But every Timberwolves scattered into piles and was drained from their branches. And when there’s none, he marches and enters the castle. Cadance and Shining Armor hurry to get Flurry Heart and Spike, as they know he’s here inside. “We gotta move!” Cadance exclaimed. “What about Celestia and Luna?” She asked. “Don’t worry about them,” said Shining Armor. “They’re gonna help us escape.” She doesn’t know what they’re gonna do but it has something to do with Clipso's entering. As he was already in, he searches for them with a stomp of his hoof. He senses their presence knowing their close, as a magic has almost hit him. He looks and sees Celestia and Luna arriving in the air with their armor as they land to confront him. “You will not touch my family, Clipso.” Celestia said, standing along with her sister. “I have waited to challenge the Alicorn Sisters for a long time,” said Clipso. “But I won't spare your life.” “And we won’t spare yours,” Luna added. “You will stay dead as you were.” “I’m already dead,” he commented. “Besides, Twilight Sparkle is dead like her friends.” An enraged Luna ignites her magic at him, but he protects himself with his wings into a shield. They were stunning seeing his wings transform into metal shields, as he reverted his back and showed he has more than a shield. Then his cloak changes into tendrils and forms two weapons for him to battle, as Celestia and Luna won’t back down from his new power. “Your powers are more dangerous than I have ever expected,” Celestia confirms. “Me? Dangerous?” He asked with a sinister question. “You are dangerous, Celestia. I would not allow an alicorn to control the Sun all these years. I will not allow that to happen again!!!” He swings his blade at her, but she evades him with a sword to defend herself. And Luna struck him with a spear, and it got him. But eventually pull it out and break it, not feeling pain from it. They now see he is undead that cannot be harmed by anything, as he chuckled the way they were surprised but they continue to fight on till he’s dead. Meanwhile, Princess Cadance and Shining Armor led Flurry and Spike to the secret passageway in the throne room. “Okay, stand back.” She said, as she carefully uses dark magic revealing a spiral staircase in the center of the room. “Hurry!” But dark magic alerts Clipso as he knew they use it to open Sombra’s lair. So he closed it with his horns, locking them out. “What happened?” Spike asked, confused why it closed on them. “Clipso somewhere be able to close our escape route,” Cadance figured. “But how can he use dark magic like King Sombra?” “Let’s not jump to conclusions,” said Shining Armor. Then he tried to open it, but it didn’t. “My magic can’t either. He somehow put a spell to keep us from opening it. We need it to be open.” As they try, it cannot be open. Back with Celestia and Luna, they are still trying to hold him longer with any spells they can come up with. But nothing has any harm to him as he grew tired of their magic. He increases his red magic and blasts them against the wall. Luna was hurt, and Celestia then tried to defend her sister by throwing a spear at him, but he caught it with his claws and threw it back impaling her. Luna watches her sister, as Cadance feels it, and she falls to the ground. “Nooo!!!” She cried, angrily unleashing her magic. She launched a powerful magic that she had never done before, and it almost hurt him. And he witnessed the magic he now saw. “Dark Magic,” he commented. “It seems your anger unleashes your true self, Nightmare Moon.” “Don’t you ever say that name!!!” She shouted, fury with magic. Meanwhile with the others, they still try to open the passageway but it cannot be opened by their magic anymore. “It’s too strong,” said Shining Armor. “Clipso has made a protection spell against ours. We need powerful magic to disable it.” “Let me try,” Spike said, as he stepped in and firebreath the barrier. The barrier is still standing, as Cadance believes they need to use their magic to break through. “We need to use all our magic together.” So she and Shining Armor shared together and unleashed on the barrier. And the barrier started to weaken. With Luna, she is still enraged by her sister’s death and tries to kill him with the great amount of magic she had within. She was in the air and ultimately blasted her magic at him, but he slipped in the air with his dragon wings and did the same to her. Both struggle with their magic collide, as Luna keeps on at it and forces her magic on him. “You…. won’t…. Win!!” She said, struggling not to give up. But he fully uses two of his horns to empower his horn, unleashing an amount of magic at her. And she was blasting against the statue. “You could’ve beaten me if you were Nightmare Moon,” said Clipso. “But that’s disappointing.” He then brought down the statue on her, as she defended herself with her hooves. And when it did, she was buried by the crumbles with her hoof sticking out not moving. With both sisters gone, he continues to find two more. Princess Cadance, now knowing they’re gone, keeps on trying to break the barrier with Shining Armor, and Spike. But it was still resisting, and she sensed he was coming to them. “He’s still coming.” She tells them, and knows what she must do. “Keep on doing, I’ll try to hold him off.” “No,” Shining cried. “I’ll do it.” “Shining,” she said. “He’s coming for me. I can drive him away. Just keep going!” She quickly headed to slow Clipso down, as he was worried she wouldn't make it. But Spike encourages him not to, as they both continue to break the barrier. Then Flurry knows they won’t be able to get through so she joins in and uses her magic alongside them. Cadance arrive to the hallway and confront him one more time. “You won’t lay another hoof on her,” said Cadance. “You still do not understand,” he remarked. “I am not like them, or you.” “You’re right,” she agreed more. “You’re not like us, but a monster.” She brought out every spears and pointed at him, as he walked towards her. She strikes with everything to slow him down but nothing makes a dent on him. As she is about to use her magic, Clipso wraps around her neck and holds her with his tentacle. “You will lose….” She struggles from his grip. One last word, a snap came from her neck. At the throne room, the barrier was destroyed as they were finally able to get through. “Okay,” said Shining Armor. “Spike, look after Flurry Heart. I’ll have to go back to Cadance.” “Wait,” he stopped. “Are you sure it’s a good idea?” “I have to go back.” He said. “I won’t let her deal with Clipso.” “Dad!” Flurry worried, not wanting him to go. “Don’t worry, I promise to come back.” He said, hugging his daughter one last time and headed to help his wife. Spike and Flurry enter the passageway, as Spike closes it underneath them. Shining Armor hurries to find Cadance but cannot find her. And as he searched, he found her on the floor and became worried. “Cadance!” He cried and found her not moving. “Cadance.” As he lifts her. “I came back for you. I’m here.” He tries to wake her. “Please, Cadance, I’m here. Please.” And as he tried to wake her, he began to grief. “Cadance! Please! I can’t lose you!” He mourns her lifeless body, as Clipso approaches behind him seeing the pain in him. “She did deserve to die,” Clipso admitted. “Like others who would have joined her.” Shining Armor became enraged and looked at him. “You…” He stares at him. “You did this. You took her away from me.” “I did what I had to do,” he concluded. “Many alicorns stand in the way of Equestria. They don’t deserve to rule, only one rule.” “And who will that be?” He asked. “God,” said Clipso. “Gods will rule Equestria more than alicorns. Better than anything.” Shining Armor furiously picked up a sword and tried to kill him, but was caught by red magic around his neck and brought closer to him. “It's a shame she has to die without her husband,” he added. “But I’ll make sure she can see you.” With no words, he pierce Shining Armor with his blade. He let out a gasp and fell to the floor dying. And Clipso walks away, leaving him to die. Shining crawl to reach his wife and lay next to her feeling his lifeforce fading away. “Cadance,” he said with his dying breath. “I’m sorry. I couldn’t save you.” And he sees the light within his eyes. Clipso reaches the throne room and searches for the last alicorn. And he knows where the passage is as he blows it up and enters. He walked down the staircase and searched around but found no trace of her. “Where are you?” He angrily asked, echoing the cave. “I know you're here. Come out and I promise not to hurt you like the last time we met.” Flurry and Spike were hiding from him with Spike covering her with his wings. Clipso started to grow tired and give up looking. “Wherever you are, I will find you!” He shouted. “But you won’t be the problem for me. I will deal with you again sooner, at another time.” He spread his wings and flew away from the top leaving the destruction behind of not finding her and Spike. Days passed, Flurry and Spike waited for a long time in case Clipso came back. Spike checks the surface and carefully makes sure they aren’t alone. As they search around the castle, Spike finds them and tries to keep Flurry away. “Flurry, don’t look.” He said, not wanting her to look. But it was too late as she saw them and cried. “Mom! Dad!!” He kept her away from not looking at them, as she was crying of her lost parents. Soon, Spike and Flurry gave them a funeral for Celestia, Luna, Cadance, and Shining Armor at the courtyard. “Here lies our friends and family,” Spike spoke with a sad tone. “Celestia and Luna were our ruler of Equestria and a friend. Princess Cadance was our Princess of Love and the ruler of the Crystal Empire. And Shining Armor was a beloved father of Flurry Heart, and my big brother. They were a friend of Twilight, and a family to her. They love us for who we are, of every friendship we made from steps we learn together. And we will remember them for their sacrifice.” Flurry places the rose to her parents’ grave, as they both return to the castle. Spike was in the throne room still thinking of what to do since everypony won’t come back. But he noticed Flurry was still crying because she was now alone as he comforted her. “I’m sorry,” said Spike. “I’m sorry about them. I could’ve stopped him. He would’ve been saved.” “It wasn’t your fault.” She said, not to blame him. “I just miss them. I miss them alot. Twilight is gone, our friends are somewhere around Equestria, and we’re just the only two left. I’m not like my parents.” “You’re right,” he said. “You’re not like your parents, but I know you very well. You've been in Twilight’s family and friends for many moons. You wanted to help others to find friends or love, cause it was your part. We all play our part from the beginning of our story, as Twilight did. And now, what part do we take from this beginning?” He questions. Flurry does not know but she looks at the crown of Twilight and thinks of what she will do if everything is lost. Never lose your friendship, as she remembers what Twilight told her when she was a filly. She returns to the throne room and thinks of what her mother always does. She sat on the throne and made herself a new Princess of Love, as Spike became her Guardian to protect the Crystal Empire. Many Moons Later…. Flurry Heart was now an adult princess and remained in the Crystal Empire with Spike. She was at the tower with the statue of her parents as she placed roses next to Twilight’s crown. “Hey, Mom and Dad. I really miss you two still.” As she always still loves them. “I’m still the Princess of Love, like you always love me for who I am. And having Spike as my assistant is great, just like Twilight Sparkle.” She steps back and looks at them for a moment. “I better get back with Spike. He’s still helping me learn a few spells around Equestria.” She returned to her throne and seated as Spike, now a fully grown dragon, came to teach her more spells.  “So, how many spells have you learned from the beginning?” He asked, seeing she learned many more from past times. “A lot,” she said, looking at her new spells. “Pretty much everything I learn from. But perhaps somewhere we haven’t visited.” She looks at the map. “Many places we marked off after trying out spells I have used alerting these Dragoni.” “They must’ve had love tracking alicorn magic.” He chuckled, “But we should try some other time. Besides, they are still roaming around Equestria. So it’s better off if we lay low for a while.” Flurry agreed and headed to her library to do research on their next plan. “Spike, alert me if anything just comes up.” He will and let her go. And he heads outside to guard the Crystal Empire. But little did he know something was falling from the sky and landed into the snow with smoke. The End