[Canterlot - E.A.T Colosseum - Third Person POV.]
"IT HAS BEEN A LONG AND GRUELING MATCH, BUT WITH THE 20 CONTESTANTS STANDING BEFORE US, THE PRELIMINARY ROUND HAS COME TO AN END. LET'S GIVE A BIG ROUND OF APPLAUSE TO THEM, FOLKS!" C.C. said as the spectators cheered wildly. Goku's group( that comprised of Spike, Big Mac, Zecora, and Ember) stood in a row with the other 15 fighters. Garble and his two dragon cohorts had advanced, much to Spike's chagrin. Rainbow Dash and Spitfire were the two remaining Wonderbolts that were still participating. Goku handed out the senzu beans to Soarin and Fleetfoot before the medical ponies took them whereas the only Ultra Bolt member was Lightning Dust. There were also a few unexpected contestants that had advanced as well. "NOW IT IS TIME TO DRAW SLOTS AGAIN TO FILL THE BRACKETS FOR THE NEXT ROUND," The fighters all lined up with Goku's group in front. As the Saiyan warrior went to draw his slot, he could hear the soft murmurs from the crowd.
"Hey, that's the stallion that beat King Iron Hoof?"
"You sure it was him,? There was a lot of fighting going on. Plus, he looks scrawny,"
"I saw him fighting the Minotaur King, but I think he got lucky,"
Up in private both, Twilight was still gauging the strengths of the remaining fighters. "Hmm, That's odd,"
"What's odd Twilight?" Cadence asked.
"Well, it seems as though Goku's power level is fluctuating erratically. Throughout the preliminaries, his power would either match those he was fighting or go just slightly above theirs," Twilight stated.
"Ok? But what's so odd about that?" Shining Armor chimed in.
"It's odd because he fought on par with Princess Luna," Twilight said as she gestured to the Night Princess. "It's strange because his strength rivaled that of Princess Celestia. So if we analyze all the facts, then we conclude that every one of his fights should have been over much faster! He, I don't know, toyed with them," She urged, the other's said nothing until a soft chuckle came from the Solar Princess.
"I believe you are putting too much stock into that little device, Twilight. As for your assessment of Goku's behavior, I do not believe he is toying with his enemies," Celestia said much to Twilight's confusion.
"Verily sister. We propose that Sir Goku is still withholding a great deal of his power. That he is simply matching his opponents' strength to enjoy himself more," Luna offered. A look of understanding flashed on the other's faces.
"So he's deliberately holding back to have more fun?" Cadence said.
"Makes sense, I guess. If you're that strong, I don't think going all out at the start would be very challenging," Shining Armor said as his eyes fell on Spike. "And I think that the only one that may give Goku a run for his bits would be Spike,"
"Indeed, Spike's tutelage under Goku has borne fruit today," Celestia said with a proud smile.
"I know. I hardly recognize Spike now," Twilight said as Goku finished drawing his slot. Spike quickly followed suit.
The Elements and Starlight watch the arena floor intently as they continued to hear the crowds varying opinions about their favorite drake.
"Hey look, it's that dragon,"
"Yeah, he helped take out a small battalion of Royal Guard ponies and a few Pegasi,"
"He doesn't look all that tough either, but he can fly without any wings as Scootaloo can,"
"My, my, Spike has certainly become the talk of the tournament," Rarity noticed. "It's hard to fathom that this is the same Spikey-Wikey that just six months ago had gotten another tummy ache from overeating ice cream,"
"It's hard trying to keep up with those new fancy move of his," Applejack stated.
"He does look good wearing that Gi. You have done a fantastic job, Rarity," Fluttershy complimented.
Rarity smiles as she bumps up her hair curls. "Why thank you, darling. It is some of my best work, and I wanted both Spike and Scootaloo to look as dashing as possible,"
"I think some mares will agree with you there," Starlight said. Rarity pause as she looks around the Colosseum to find that most of the mare's present is watching Spike lecherously. Rarity frowns as a slight heat burn at her cheeks.
"Something wrong, Rarity? Are you feeling kinda jealous that Spike is getting attention from a few admirers...?" Pinkie said saucily as she suggestively wiggles her eyebrows. Rarity shots a stern glare at Pinkie who in turn sends her a wide smile. The two stare at each other for a moment before Rarity huffs and turn away. Pinkie responds by hugging and nuzzling her disgruntled friend.
"I wish they'd hurry up and start this thing already," A very annoyed Garble said. Spike had finished drawing his slot and made his way back to the line. Garble scoffs at this as he crosses his arms.
"Hey Garble, me and Bone crusher were thinking of dropping out," A silver dragon with dark blue spines said. He stood next to another dragon that was a dark yellow with scarlet needles. Garble's head snapped around faster than the drake could think as he held a frown on his face.
"Why is that, Riptide? Don't tell me you two are cold-blooded," Garble said. This joke confused the other two dragons for a moment.
"Um, we are cold-blooded..."
Garble sighs as he rolled his eyes before he continued. "Whatever, why do you want to quit when we made it to the next round?!"
"Well, we didn't even want to come here in the first place, and you don't even want the wish," Crusher said tentatively.
"Yeah so?" Garble said with disinterest.
"So why are we even here?" Riptide asked. Soon enough, both dragons found themselves pulled into Garble's face as he grips their necks. He glared down at them as he asserted his dominance.
"We are here because that little purple shrimp of a dragon and his stupid pony friends have got in my way for the last time. I'm going to use this stupid tournament and end him right in front of all his namby-pamby pony pals. And you two are gonna help by making sure I fight him, GOT IT?!" Garble snarled out as he bared his teeth. The two drakes reluctantly and fearfully complied with his request. Garble maliciously smiles as he stared down Spike before drawing his slot. Despite witnessing Spike's new fighting prowess, he knew that he was still the same pathetic hatchling brought up by the weak little ponies.
"ALRIGHT FIGHT FANS. THE TIME HAS COME TO BEGIN THE SECOND ROUND OF THE ADULT DIVISION!" C.C. said as the crowd cheered. "THE BRACKETS HAVE BEEN FILLED AND NOW WE'LL SEE WHO WILL BE FIGHTING FIRST," C.C. said he shift through the slots. "FOR OUR FIRST MATCH IT SHALL BE BIG MACINTOSH FROM PONYVILLE VS - UM - SON GO-KU? THAT'S A PRETTY UNUSUALLY NAME. WILL THE REST OF THE COMPETITORS PLEASE EXIT THE ARENA," C.C. said as the other fighters began to file out, leaving only two figures behind. Goku and Big Mac walk towards each other, stopping just short of 10 feet.
"Look everypony. Mah brother is gonna fight Goku!" Applebloom exclaims.
"Alright!" Sweetie Belle said with excitement.
"Oooh, I hope Big Mac will be ok..." Cheerilee said with concern before she turned to Scootaloo. "Do you believe he can win against your mentor?" she asked.
Scootaloo rubbed the back of her head while she laughs sheepishly. "Um, Well, he has as much of a fair chance as anypony else so, yes?" She said with as delicately as possible, but she knew that it was extremely wishful thinking. Big Mac might have made far in this round, but he just had terrible luck fall on him his opponent being Goku.
"Hey Big Mac, try not ta mess up our best employee too bad. We still need him for harvest season," Applejack yelled out.
"No offense darling but given Goku feats that we witnessed, I sincerely doubt he can prevail here," Rarity informs her farm mare friend.
"Oh phooey, just y'all watch. Big Mac got a few surprises," Applejack said confidently.
"AHH, SO SON GOKU IS THE MYSTERIOUS NEWCOMER FROM THE PRELIMINARIES. AS FATE WOULD HAVE IT, HIS FIRST OPPONENT WILL BE THE VERY SAME MEMBER FROM HIS TEAM. THE DRAMA, THE CONFLICTING EMOTIONS, YOU WILL ONLY FIND IT HERE FOLKS!" C.C. said. Goku clasped his hands together and bowed his head as a sign of respect before he took his stance.
"Ok. I'm ready for you, Big Mac!" Goku said. Big Mac face was motionless as he appeared to be rooted in thought.
"FIGHTERS? ARE YOU READY?" C.C. asked.
"Yep," Goku said.
"Nope," Big Mac said flatly.
"ALRIGHT THEN, BEG-- WAIT, WHAT?" C.C. asked in confusion.
"What?" Goku said, equally confused.
"WHAAAAT?!?!" The audience yelled out as they turned to the country stallion for an explanation.
"ARE YOU SAYING YOU DO NOT WISH TO COMPETE AND YOU'RE FORFEITING THE MATCH?" C.C. asked for confirmation.
"Eeyup," Big Mac said.
"But why?" Goku questioned.
"Wouldn't be much of a match to fight a strong fella like you. Sometimes ya got to know when to back out when something's too big for ya," Big Mac said wisely. Goku nodded his head in understanding.
"Alrighty then, I'll see ya at the farm tomorrow," Goku said.
"Eeyup," Big Mac said.
C.C. recovered from his shock and continued announcing. "WELL, THERE YOU HAVE IT, FOLKS. BIG MACINTOSH AS FORFEITED THE FIRST MATCH. THE WINNER IS SON GOKU!" However, the spectators were not pleased with this outcome. Sounds of booing and jeering could be heard all around the Colosseum.
"So he just up and quits?! What a loser!"
"This is a total rip off!"
"I paid to see a fight. I want a refund!"
Applejack mouth fell agape at what she was hearing. "Why you no good varmints! Don't you go bad mouthin' mah brother!" she said. She was about to let loose on everyone had she not been restrained by Starlight and Rarity's aura.
"Looks like you were right, Applejack. Big Mac did surprise us," Pinkie said as Applejack huffs.
"BEGGARS CAN'T BE CHOOSER, FIGHT FANS. NOT ALL OF THE MATCHES TODAY WILL BE SPECTACULAR. STILL, BIG MAC SHOWED A LOT OF HEART OUT THERE, AND WE COMMEND HIS EFFORTS. BUT NOW WE SHALL MOVE ON TO THE NEXT MATCH. ZECORA OF THE EVERFREE VS BROADWING OF CANTERLOT SOLAR GUARD. WILL THE COMPETITORS PLEASE TAKE CENTER STAGE," C.C. announced. Zecora made her way to the arena with a female solar pegasus guard.
Broadwing unsheathed a broad sword and got into a stance. "You willingly live among wild animals and vermin? Disgraceful! I expected better from a shaman!"
"The Everfree is home to me. It holds great beauty that one cannot see scrutiny. I know words alone will not convince you, so I shall defeat you," Zecora said as she readies her staff.
"OK, FIGHTER'S READY? AND-- BEGIN!" C.C. said. Broadwing wasted little time closing the distance. She raised high sword high and brought down hard upon Zecora. The shaman reacted and used her staff to guide the blow away from her. Broadwing went for a horizontal slash aimed at Zecora midsection, but she once again deflected the blow while shifting to the left. "BROADWING UNLEASHES THE HURT LOCKER AGAINST ZECORA WITH A FIERCE OFFENSIVE. BUT THE CALM FOCUS AND NIMBLE STAFF WORK IS KEEPING ZECORA OUT OF HARMS WAY. WILL SHE BE ABLE TO COUNTER?" C.C. said.
As if on cue, Zecora steps forward after deflecting a thrust attack. Her staff glided along the length of the blade as she used the lower half of her team to swipe the solar guard up. However, Broadwing tucks into a roll to recover. She gets back into a standing position and readies her blade again. Zecora knew she had to be cautious or else the weapon Broadwing was wielding would snap through hers like butter. Broadwing charges forward still, only this time, she raised her left wing and gave it a sturdy flap. This act caused some of her feathers to shoot toward Zecora. She manages to block the feathers coming to her torso, but the rest scrapped past her arms and legs.
"OUCH!! WHAT A SURPRISING MOVE BY BROADWING. USING HER OWN FEATHER'S AS PROJECTILES TO CATCH ZECORA OFF BALANCE!" C.C. stated. Zecora winced as her wounds stung she looked up at Broadwing who had a smug grin on her face.
"You like my razor feathers? I file the unpreened feathers of my wings to a sharpened point. I may not be able to fly steadily for a while, but the pros outweigh the cons," Broadwing stated in an arrogant tone as she brought up both off wings this time. She gave them another mighty flap and doubled her projectile output. Rather than run away, Zecora dashes forward into the array of incoming feathers. She skillfully deflects them by twirling her staff in a large circle. Broadwing prepared to cut down the zebra as she got closer, but Zecora tosses her pole like a spear that forced Broadwing to defend. Her opponent launches the weapon into the air, and Broadwing attempts another horizontal attack. However, Zecora dodges by flipping over her body. While Zecora was still airborne, she hits Broadwing with some precise strikes to her neck and shoulders then lands in time to catch her staff. Broadwing stood still for a moment before collapsing to the ground.
"While your attack caused some stress; you lacked in finesse," Zecora chided the unconscious mare.
"AMAZING FIGHT FANS. YOU CAN SAY THAT ZECORA RUFFLED HER FEATHERS," C.C. joke but the audience merely groaned. "LET'S START THE COUNT. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10! AND THERE YOU HAVE FOLKS. ZECORA ADVANCES TO THE NEXT ROUND!" C.C. said. The crowd erupts into cheering as Zecora lightly bows her head.
"Truly, that was a battle well fought. I can expect no less from the child of Kwa-not," Chief Zombiyoy praises.
"Yes, that Zebra mare possesses some skill..." Queen Cream Puff said dryly. "But she won't hold a candle to Prance's finest warrior, En Grade!"
"I'm afraid the Warrior of Arabia shall claim victory here today," Shifting Sands said as Snake Charmer ate from a bowl of grapes.
"You're all mistaken if you think three elite members of the Griffin Claw will fail," King Squawk said confidently.
"My bets are on that Goku dude," Gilda said nonchalantly much to Squawk's surprise and everyone else bemusement.
"Gilda?!" Squawk said indignation, but Gilda merely shrugs her shoulders.
"Sorry but you're bad at picking winners," She said.
"ON TO THE NEXT MATCH, SPIKE FROM PONYVILLE VS IRON WILL FROM THE MINOTAUR KINGDOM!" C.C. announced and the crowd cheered wildly (specifically the minotaurs). As Spike stood in the arena, his arms dangle limply in front of him as he grimaced at the sight of his opponent. Iron Will stood opposite of him as he flexed his bulging muscle and kissed his biceps while pandering to the crowd.
"Iron Will is here today to dazzle you all with his amazing physical abilities," Iron Will said.
"ALRIGHT THEN, THE FIGHTERS ARE SET. READY-- WHA...? HEY GIVE THAT BACK!!" C.C. was about to start the match right before Iron Will Stole his microphone.
"IRON WILL LIKES TO THANK YOU ALL FOR COMING TO WITNESS THE START OF HIS NEW SEMINAR; MIGHT MAKES RIGHT! WATCH AS IRON WILL TAKES THIS PUNY DRAGON INTO A WORLD OF PAIN!!" He said as he tosses the mic back to C.C. He then lifts a piece of debris over his head and crushes it with his bare hands. Iron Will jumps down and heads back to the center as the crowd chants his name (again, mostly the minotaurs). Spike had to resist the urge to facepalm at this.
"Hmph, I see that brute is as boastful as ever," Rarity comments.
"I swore they get one moment to shine and they milk it for all its worth..." C.C. muttered away from the mic. "NOW THAT WE GOT THAT OUT OF THE WAY. FIGHTERS, ARE YOU READY?"
"Let's just get this over with," Spike scoffs in an annoyed tone.
"BEGIN!" Iron Will immediately broke into a charge as Spike just stood there calmly, not bothering to take his stance. He had a blank expression on his face as Iron Will got closer by the second. Once Spike was in striking range, Iron Will hefted his meaty left arm. The veins in his arm protruded, and his fist clenched tightly. "WHOAH FOLKS. IRON WILL IS LOOKING TO KNOCK SPIKE'S BLOCK OFF WITH HIS IS MUSCULAR APPENDAGE!!!" C.C. said.
"IRON LARIAT!!!" Iron Will shouted as he brought his left arm down on a seemingly defenseless drake. However, Spike ducks under the offending hook and grabs Iron Will's wrist with his left hand. He then attacks at Iron Will's midsection with three solid elbow strikes from his right arm. The blows were so fast that no one could perceive them as but blurs. Iron Will's pupils shrunk to pin struck as he stumbles forward, taking shaky steps, and falls face first into the ground.
"WHOAH!! ONCE AGAIN, THIS LITTLE DRAKE CONTINUES TO IMPRESS. I HOPE IRON WILL GIVES OUT REFUNDS. NOW TO START THE COUNT 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. SPIKE ADVANCES." C.C. said. As Spike made his way back to the bleachers, He couldn' shake the fact that someone was watching him with malicious intent.
"T-That Dragon Urgh...!!!" Sombra grunts out as he gritted his teeth. His eyes began to admit the familiar purple haze as flashes of the events in the Crystal Empire replayed before his eyes. Hope placed a hand on his shoulder out of concern for her friend, but he shrugs it off and continues to glare hatefully at the young drake.
Back at the bleachers, Lightning Dust was sending scornful glares at her remaining rivals. She was leaning against the wall with her arms crossed. Her hooves tapped impatiently against the ground as Lightning Dust waited for her match to start. The sooner she dealt with any obstacle in her way, the sooner she would have her revenge. She sucks her teeth out of frustration. "Come on already!!!"
"FOR OUR NEXT MATCH, IT WILL BE LIGHTNING DUST OF CLOUDSDALE VS THE WARRIOR OF ARABIA. FIGHTER'S, PLEASE COME ON DOWN," C.C. said. A tan earth pony with a brown mane and tail, wearing baggy white pants, a blue sleeveless vest, and a sultan's hat appeared. He wielded twin cutlass in each hand. Lightning Dust shot to the arena and waited for the match to begin. "NOW THEN, FIGHTER'S READY? AND BEGIN!" C.C. said. No sooner did those words leave C.C. muzzle did the captain of the Ultra Bolts lived up to her namesake. She bolted toward the Saddle Arabian faster than he could follow and slammed her hooves right into his stomach. The force of the impact made him skid across the Colosseum floor before he finally slowed to a stop. Lightning returns to her previous position before she turned around and started walking back to the bleachers. "WELL, UH, I THINK A COUNT WOULD BE REDUNDANT THIS TIME. THE WINNER IS LIGHTNING DUST!!!"
"If she wasn't such a jerk then I might be impressed," Rainbow comment as she watched Lightning Dust's match.
"She definitely out to prove something here. Don't underestimate, Rainbow," Spitfire said.
"FOR OUR NEXT MATCH, IT WILL BE GARBLE FROM THE DRAGON LANDS VS MUTT FROM THE DIAMOND DOG BURROWS," C.C. said. Garble flew into the arena with an air of confidence around him. He landed and stared down his opponent. He bore a strong resemblance to that of a pit bull, and his fur was a mix of white and brown. "ARE YOU TWO READY?"
"Mutt will succeed," Mutt said.
"Succeed at being a loser? Thanks for stating the obvious," Garble mocks.
"BEGIN!" C.C. said.
Mutt burrows underground while Garble took to the skies. He hovered 10 feet from as he surveys the arena carefully. He saw the ground start to rise and waited for Mutt to surface. Unfortunately for Garble, what can up was a geyser of dirt and rocks. He spits and sputters as Garble got a face full of grime. He backed away from the hole for another dirt geyser to erupt below him. This process continued two more times until Mutt pops the ground and nails Garble in the gut. Garble hunched over and grimaced in pain. But his pain soon turned into anger at the diamond dog. As Mutt went back underground, Garble stood over the hole. He took a deep breath and spewed a torrent of fire into it. His flames quickly spread to the other holes since they were all connected. Sure enough, a tower of light shot from the ground with Mutt being launch into the air by the fire pillars. Mutt landed on the ground and ran in a circle to douse the fire burning at the tip of his tail. It as at that moment that Garble tail whipped him into the Colosseum walls, thus, knocking Mutt unconscious.
"I GUESS YOU CAN YOU SAY THAT WHEN YOU PLAY WITH FIRE, YOU'RE GONNA GET BURN. AH? AH? OH COME ON THAT WAS A GOOD ONE! ANYWAY-- LET'S START THE COUNT 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. MUTT IS UNABLE TO BATTLE; THE WINNER IS GARBLE!" C.C. said. Garble snorts and heads back at the bleachers. "ON TO THE NEXT MATCH, FLAM FROM -- HEY! WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING?!?!" The sounds of a struggle taking place made everyone in the Colosseum turn to C.C. They discovered that a cream-colored red-maned unicorn had "appropriated" his microphone.
"ATTENTION FILLIES AND GENTLECOLTS! I WANT TO THANK YOU PERSONALLY ALL FOR COMING TO TODAY'S DEMONSTRATION," A voice said. Many of the spectators were perplexed at this strange unicorn words. All expect one certain gamboge mare.
"...Oh no, not them..." Applejack groaned as she slumped in her seat.
"Hey, isn't that Flim and Flam down there?" Fluttershy asked, eliciting another groan from Applejack.
"NOW I KNOW WHAT YOU'RE THINKING- 'WHAT IS THAT DEVILISHLY HANDSOME UNICORN TALKING ABOUT?' - WELL, TURN YOUR ATTENTION TO MY BROTHER AT THE ARENA FLOOR!" Flam said.
"Will you give me back my mic?! I'm the ring announcer here!!!" C.C. stressed.
Back at the arena floor, the two competitors stood apart. One was a unicorn with a matching fur and mane color as the impromptu announcer, save for the large mustache. He was also carrying a suitcase. While the other was another unicorn with a dark purple fur coat and a silver-white mane wearing a fencer wardrobe while wielding a sword.
(This is En Grade's outfit and weapon)
"I SUPPOSE I SHOULD GET INTRODUCTIONS OUT OF THE WAY. I AM FLIM, AND THE EQUALLY HANDSOME UNICORN DOWN THERE IS FLAM. WE'RE HERE TO DISPLAY THE LATEST DEVELOPMENT IN FLIM/FLAM INDUSTRIES. I WOULD ALSO WANT TO INTRODUCE OUR VOLUNTEER, EN GRADE FROM PRANCE. NOW THEN BROTHER OF MINE. SHOW EVERYPONY HERE OUR AMAZING PRODUCT!" Flim broadcasts.
"Can do dear brother," Flam said as he threw the suitcase to the ground. He then hits a switch that caused the suitcase to open slight before kicking it open. Two gauntlets popped out, and he proceeds to grasp them. Flam then pulls the entire bag to his upper body. Metal leg braces snapped onto his forelegs. His torso and back were soon covered as well. Shoulder pads formed as fabric traced the length of his arm and attached to the gauntlets. Everyone stood in awe at the marvel of Flam clad in armor that grew out of nowhere. A green color emitted from the centerpiece in the armor's chest plate.
"BEHOLD FOLKS, THE FF BATTLE ARMAMENT MRK. 1. NOTE THE BRILLIANT CREAM AND RED COLOR SCHEME. NOTICE HOW IT PROTECTS THE VITAL AREAS WITHOUT LIMITING MOBILITY. I COULD GO ALL DAY HERE FOLKS, BUT ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS. PLEASE DEMONSTRATE OUR ARMORS CAPABILITIES, OH BROTHER OF MINE," Flim said.
"That tin clunker won't save you from my unparalleled skill at the art of fencing," En grade proclaimed as he dashed forward. He prepared a thrust attack and aimed it for the centerpiece on the chest plate. But, to his disbelief, his sword just bounced off his target. "W-What?"
"YOU'RE GONNA HAVE TO DO A LOT BETTER THAN THAT IF YOU WISH TO PENETRATE THE SLIK DESIGN OF OUR ARMOR. ATTACKS LIKE THAT WILL GLIDE OFF THE SMOOTH SURFACE," Flim informs. En grade changes tactics and attacks his opponent's unprotected face only for his attack to be thwarted by a dome shield. What was truly strange was the fact that Flam hadn't ignited his horn. Flam stood inside the dome with his hands on his hips and a smile on his face.
"PLEASE TAKE NOTE OF THE BATTLE ARMAMENT'S SELF GENERATING SHIELD. THAT'S RIGHT ALL YOU SAVY MAGIC USERS. THIS ARMOR MAKES DEFENSIVE SPELLS, SO YOU WON'T HAVE TOO," Flim pointed out. Many of the spectators were becoming very intrigued by this armor. En grade was not going to be bested by some flashy piece of attire. He lit his horn, and five more rapier constructs appeared. He then sent to strike at the shield from different angles. However, this too proved ineffective as the protection remained as strong as ever.
"ENOUGH OF THIS COWARDICE! I WILL USE MY STRONGEST TECHNIQUE TO DISPATCH YOU!" En grade said as the multiple rapiers disappeared. His weapon was cloaked in a red aura as he took a stance. "NOW FACE THE FULL POWER OF THE THUNDER LEGION!" En grade roars as he swung his sword and beams of magic followed. Flam looked unimpressed at the display and dropped his shield. He opened his arms wide as the beams collided against him. The rays pushed against his suit until the jewel at the center began to glow. Suddenly, all the magic that En grade launched at Flam started to shrink into his armor.
"WHOO-HOO, YOU'RE IN FOR A TREAT NOW FOLKS. FLAM HAS ACTIVATED THE BATTLE ARMAMENTS SPECIAL ABILITY. NOT ONLY DOES THE FF BATTLE ARMAMENT HAS OUTSTANDING DEFENSIVE CAPABILITIES. BUT IT HAS AN ARRAY OF OFFENSIVE ONES AS WELL SUCH AS REFECTION," Flim said as the jewel started to grow brighter. Flam crossed his arm to his chest before thrusting them down and throwing his chest forward. A beam of the magic shot that was absorbed shot out of the centerpiece and impacted En grade. There was an explosion as Flam's opponent was blown into the air and fell to the ground in a smoking heap.
"AND THERE YOU HAVE IT, FOLKS. THIS RESULT CONCLUDES OUR DEMONSTRATION. LET'S ALL THANK OUR VOLUNTEER," Flim said as he claps for En grade who was groaning on the floor. "ISN'T HE A REAL TROOPER? THE BEST PART OF THE FF BATTLE ARMAMENT IS YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE A UNICORN OR MAGIC USER TO WEAR IT. SALES START ONE WEEK AFTER THE TOURNAMENT AT THE FLIM/FLAM INDUSTRIES VENUE AT LAST PEGASUS--"
"GIVE ME THAT! WE"RE AT A TOURNAMENT NOT AN ADVERTISEMENT MEETING. NOW- *AHEM* -DESPITE THE OUTSIDE INTERFERENCE, LET'S START THE COUNT. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, EN GRADE LAYS DEFEATED, THE WINNER IS FLAM,"C.C. said as the crowd cheers wildly.
"How in Equestria did they build that armor? It's amazing!" Starlight said in awe.
"A better question would be what do those two con ponies plan to do with it. Something like that could be dreadful in the wrong hooves," Rarity said.
"Whatever they're gonna do, you can bet you're sweet apples that they're gonna milk it for all the bits they can get. Somethin' a might fishy 'bout that fancy tin can," Applejack said as she narrows her eyes in suspicion.
"Oh, I hope that pony will be okay..." Fluttershy said with concern.
"Huh, I didn't think I would see power armor while I was here," Goku said as he recounted his encounters with mech suits.
"Hold on; you're saying you fought ponies in suits like that before?" Spike questions.
"Yeah, only they were a lot bigger. At least half the size of Torch," Goku said thoughtfully.
Before Spike could retort, C.C. began to speak. "ALRIGHT FIGHT FANS. TIME FOR THE NEXT MATCH. CAPTAIN SPITFIRE OF THE WONDERBOLTS VS DRAGON LORD EMBER OF THE DRAGON LANDS. FIGHTER'S, COME ON DOWN!"
"Um, Goku? Who do I root for?" Spike asked as Spitfire and Ember made their way to the battleground.
"Well, that's obvious. Root for Spitfire of course," Rainbow butted in before Goku could answer. "No offense to the Dragon Lord or whatever but Spitfire's got this hoof down," She said in unwavering support of her team leader.
"I know that she's good but..." Spike trailed off. He looks between the two combatants with uncertainty.
"ARE YOU READY FIGHTER'S?" C.C asked.
"I wish you the best of luck, Captain," Ember said as she readied the bloodstone specter.
"You as well, your highness," Spitfire replies as she flared her wings.
"BEGIN!"
Spitfire and Ember both took off to the skies as they circled each other. They leveled with one another before they charged. Spitfire started with a straight jab to Ember's face to which she blocks with her forearm. Ember retaliates by swiping at her with her right claw. But Spitfire dashed back and launched a kick to her stomach which Ember prevents with the specter. The two went back and forth as exchange blows with little to no result.
"FUR MEETS SCALES IN THIS HIGH FLYING DUEL OF SUPERIORITY. SO FAR, BOTH FIGHTER'S ARE EVEN. CAN EITHER OF THEM GAIN THE UPPER HAND?"
Spitfire was currently grappling the Bloodstone Specter as she pushed against Ember. The dragon lord huffs and spins around, causing Spitfire to lose her grip. The Wonderbolt captain righted herself as she rethought her strategy. 'She just as fast and agile as I am. Not to mention being a dragon makes her natural stronger. I need to wear her down to create an opening' Spitfire though. An idea came to her head as she dashes toward Ember again. Ember prepared herself, but Spitfire suddenly flew upwards. Ember shook the surprise and quickly followed. The two ascended higher and higher until the sun was beaming in their eyes. Spitfire turns and faces the dragoness with a smirk on her face.
"Was your plan to utilize the sun's rays and blind me? Because it wasn't very effective," Ember stated.
"You're half right..." Spitfire said before her form gave off a luminescent glow. Ember arches a brow as that glow turned bright yellow and outlined her entire body. "I planned to use the sun's rays to give myself a boost to take you down!" Spitfire darted at Ember, her speed double from what it was a moment ago, and slams into Ember's torso. Ember lets out a grunt as she's thrown back. Moreover, she felt the heat emitting from Spitfire and the blow she received.
"This is new? What would you call this form?" Ember asked as she grips her specter that glow softly.
"Most pegasi have innate magic that can utilize according to the element they represent. As you can guess from my name and my looks, my alignment is with fire. This form is known as heat cloak. I can only use it when there is a high concentration of heat in the atmosphere," With her explanation done, Spitfire charged again and used her new found speed and strength to strike at the dragon lord from various angles — forcing Ember to defend. Except, this time, Ember was using her specter to block or deflect the incoming blows. Unbeknown to the captain, the scepter gradually glowed brighter with each hit. Spitfire launches her fist into Ember's stomach, but the Dragon Lord caught the blow with her palm. Spitfire went wide-eyed as Ember clutches her fist and slowly pulls it away.
"Surprised? I have a few abilities of my own. For example, my specter can absorb the magic from my enemies and store it for me to use any way I wish. This skill allows me to perform special moves or copy the moves of my foes..." As she said this, the yellow outline on Spitfire faded, and a blue one appeared on Ember. Spitfire was so baffled by what was happening that she barely felt Ember drive her knee into her abdomen. She coughs up spit before her eyes rolled back in her head. Ember then gingerly places the captain on her shoulder and flies back down to the Colosseum.
"IT IS DIFFICULT TO MAKE OUT WHAT'S HAPPENING FROM DOWN HERE BUT IT LOOKS LIKE ONE OF THE FIGHTERS IS LANDING," C.C. said as Ember touches down and set Spitfire on the ground. "WHAT A TURNAROUND FOLKS. CAPTAIN SPITFIRE OF THE WONDERBOLTS IS UNCONSCIOUS. TIME FOR THE COUNT 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. DRAGONLORD EMBER ADVANCES!" C.C. declares. The dragons in the audience let out a roar of triumph as Ember nodded. Spike watched her intently as she came back. They shared a glance before she sat down, but Spike could swear he saw an extra sway in her step.
"Congratulations Ember," Goku said.
"Thank you, Goku. It was a well-fought battle on the captain's part," Ember said as Rainbow grumbles.
"FOR OUR NEXT MATCH. RAINBOW DASH FROM PONYVILLE VS STEELWING FROM GRIFFINSTONE. COME ON DOWN," C.C. said.
"You all should get some sunglasses so my sheer awesomeness won't blind you," Rainbow said as she flew to the arena. Instantly, she recognized her opponent as a member of the elite Griffin claw. The toughest, fastest, and the boldest squad of tercel and hens in Griffin stone. This Griffin had the head of a sparrow bird with dark blue feathers and a jet black pelt. He wore a single should pad attached to a leather strap that ran vertically on his body, leading to brown leggings. He also had a pouch hanging off his hip.
"FIGHTER'S, ARE YOU READY?"
"The best group of the flyer's in Griffin stone vs. the best group of flyers in Equestria? I was born ready for this," Steelwing said.
"I'm glad you know that there won't be any hard feelings when you fail," Rainbow said with a coy smile.
"BEGIN!"
Steelwing made the first move by leaping straight toward Rainbow while letting out an intimidating shout. He aimed his talons and threw a barrage of swipes at the cyan pegasus. Rainbow, however, was able to avoid all of them with the greatest of ease. Steelwing went for a roundhouse kick, but Rainbow places both hands on his leg and vaults the attack. She lands on the ground and proceeds to buck the tercel right underneath his rib cage. Steel wing stumbles back and nurses the blow while Rainbow hovers in the air with a cocky smile.
"I think you and I have different ways to describe the word 'best,' huh?" Rainbow said.
"Pride comes before the follow, Rainbow. Besides, I'm hardly defeated," Steelwing said as he reached into his pouch. He then shot toward Rainbow while holding something in his grasp. Rainbow dodged again and went to taunt again until she turned face first into a cloud of purple dust. She coughs to clear her airway only for her vision to blur, and a sharp stinging sensation arises.
"IT LOOKS LIKE STEELWING WAS HARBORING PURPLE SAPPHIRE IN THAT POUCH. A COMMON GEMSTONE FOUND IN GRIFFIN STONE. IT'S HARMLESS ON ITS OWN IN GEM FORM. BUT, IF YOU GROUND IT INTO POWDER...WELL, LET'S SAY YOU DON'T WANT THAT STUFF NEAR YOUR REGINA!" C.C. comments.
"Aah?! What the buck?!! My eyes!" Rainbow said in a strained voice. The dust quickly became hard and crusty, which made it difficult to wipe away. It was becoming harder and harder to keep her eyes open, let alone on her opponent. Steelwing took this chance to drive his fist right into Rainbow's muzzle. She staggers back, and Steelwing flew behind her and slams into her with a dive kick. Rainbow hit the ground on all fours, groaning from the pain.
"Come on, Rainbow! You got this," Scootaloo shouted.
"HA! just what you would expect from a member of the lower bolts. All talk and no substance," Lightning Dust mocks. However, the combination of the support from her sister and condescending tone of her rival spurred Rainbow onward. Steelwing decided to end the match with a dive bomb. But before he could connect, Rainbow blasted off the ground and into the skies. With some effort, she managed to open her eyes slightly and spotted a cloud. With Steelwing hot on her tail, Rainbow bolted to the floating cumulus. The water trapped within the cumulous was able to clear away the crust in her eyes. The cloud also gave the prismatic speedster an idea.
"Alright jerk beak, payback time!" Rainbow said. She flew around the Colosseum - gathering all the clouds available the match around. Steelwing did not make the task an easy on as Rainbow had to evade him along the way. There was now a massive storm cloud hovering over the Colosseum as it crackled a small burst of electricity even so often. Rainbow then turns to Steelwing who finally notice the dark clouds above. "Hey, do you know what happens to a griffin that's struck by lightning?" Rainbow asked as held her fist up and pointed it to the cloud.
Steelwing swallowed down a lump in his throat as he hesitantly went to speak. "N-no, what?"
"The same thing that happens to everything else," Rainbow said as she lightly taps the cloud above, resulting in a lightning bolt to come barreling down upon the awestruck tercel. A bright flash and a loud boom that erupted within the vicinity. Everyone was momentarily blinded until they saw to figures on the arena floor. Rainbow Dash stood tall while Steelwing was laid out on the ground. His fur covered in soot and various smoke trails came off of him.
"AFTER THAT AMAZING LIGHT SHOW, STEELWING IS DOWN AND ITS TIME TO START THE COUNT. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. STEELWING IS UNABLE TO CONTINUE. THE VICTORY IS RAINBOW DASH OF PONYVILLE," C.C declares.
Rainbow performs a quick celebratory dance and heads back to the bleachers. "Nice work, Rainbow," Goku chirped.
"Yes, I'm so glad to see that you're still dragging your hooves. Having trouble keeping up with real athletes, Dashie?" Lightning Dust taunted.
"You know, I feel sorry for those stallions you suckered into joining your team. If they knew how you were, then they leave you in a heartbeat," Rainbow retorted.
"Just remember that I'm the only one that gets to beat you," Lightning said as she stormed off.
The rest of the tournament went by rather quickly. Much to the foreign leaders' dismay, all of the fighters they were banking on fell in between the preliminaries and the second round. These results were especially hard for King Squawk as Gilda was proven right with his inability to choose a capable fighter. King Iron Hoof had been cleared and rejoined his political acquaintances at the booth although he was now sporting a bandage wrapped around his head. The ten remaining contestants that would be advancing to the next round stood in a line and waited for the announcer.
"CONGRATULATIONS OUR TEN WARRIORS STANDING BEFORE US," C.C. said as the crowd applauded. "HOWEVER, BEFORE WE MOVE ON, WE WILL ALLOW OUR COMPETITORS AN INTERMISSION AT THE MESS HALL TO REJUVENATE THEMSELVES WITH THE FINEST FOOD CANTERLOT HAS TO OFFER. EVEN IF YOU ARE NO LONGER PARTICIPATING, THE MESS HALL IS OPEN TO ALL CONTESTANTS" C.C. said as everyone made their way to the mess hall
"Alright, I'm starving. Let's hurry before these guys take all the good stuff," Goku said.
"I'm more worried about you eat, Goku," Spike said.
"Last one there is a rotten egg," Rainbow said as sped past the other contestants with Goku close behind.
"Is she always so...entusastic," Ember said carefully.
"Try not to scold her. She is quite nice when one gets to know her," Zecora said with a giggle.
"So BlueBlood, are you ready to concede to our little wager? Ambassador Goku has already advanced to the semi-finals, and it doesn't appear anypony can beat him," Fancy Pants said in a smug tone. Fleur had to suppress a giggle at BlueBlood's irritated expression.
BlueBlood stood up from his seat in a huff. "Hmph, the 'Ambassador' has merely been lucky so far. Rest assured he will fail at the next round. Now if you both will excuse me, I am going to acquire some refreshments of my own," He said, although, his destination lost to them. 'It appears that I must take a more direct approach if I am to have my retribution!'
Meanwhile, back with Sombra's company, Hope had stood up and made her way down to the spectators stand. Sombra had visibly calmed down to prevent his cover from being blown but still festered and grunted in irritation. When Chrysalis questioned her on where she was heading, Hope simple said. "I believe I have found our first recruit" and quickly followed the contestants discretely.
At the mess hall entrance, The fighter's were all slowly filing in. There were some few stragglers in the line who were no doubt disappointed at their performance today. These individuals were the ones Hope wanted to meet. While their numbers were many, there was one in particular that stood out.
"Iron Will might have to move back with his mother after this," Iron Will said dejectedly. His hooves dragged against the floor.
"Really? That would be a shame since I wanted to speak with you..." A voice said. Iron Will looked around to spot a figure standing around the corner in a brown cloak.
"What would you want to speak to Iron Will about?"
"I found your idea of a seminar to be quite moving, and I wish to assist you in its development,"
Iron Will beamed for a moment before he stops and narrows his at the mysterious being. "What would Iron Will have to do to gain your support for his cause?"
Hope smiled under her hood and offered her hand to the bull. "I request that you merely offer your services to my colleagues and me in our cause. With your help, we can truly enforce 'Might Makes Right!'. Would you not agree?"
Iron Will looks at the extended hand for a time before he firmly grasps and shakes it. "Iron Will agrees!"